This document is a service manual for the Panasonic RQ-345 Mini Cassette Recorder, covering models for various regions including Europe (excluding the UK), USA, and Canada. It provides detailed information for servicing, including specifications, component locations, disassembly instructions, schematic diagrams, and parts lists.
The Panasonic RQ-345 is a portable mini cassette recorder designed for both recording and playback. Its primary function is to capture audio using a built-in microphone and play back recorded content through an integrated speaker or headphones. The device is compact and suitable for on-the-go use, powered by either AC current or batteries.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Requirement:
- European Model (RQ-345 Z): AC 220V, 50 Hz with an optional AC adaptor RD-9496S. Battery power is supplied by 6V (four UM-3, "AA" size batteries).
- Original Model (RQ-345 M - USA/Canada): AC 120V, 60 Hz with an optional Panasonic AC Adaptor RP-63. Battery power is supplied by 6V (four "AA" size dry batteries). An optional Panasonic car adaptor RP-698 allows for car battery operation.
- Motor: Mechanical governor motor.
- Power Output: 700mW.
- Tape Speed: 1⅞ ips (4.8cm/s).
- Frequency Response: 300 – 4,000 Hz.
- Track System: 2-track, monaural recording and playback.
- Jacks:
- DC In: 6V (Standard Type).
- Monitor: 8Ω, φ3.5.
- Speaker: 1⅝" (4.0cm) PM dynamic speaker (6Ω).
- Dimensions: 3⅞"(W) × 6⅛"(H) × 1½"(D) (99 × 155.5 × 39mm).
- Weight: 13.7 oz (390g), without batteries.
- Battery Service Life (UM-3/AA-size batteries): Approximately 4 hours of recording (EIAJ) and approximately 4 hours of playback (EIAJ) with volume set at the center position. These figures are measured according to EIAJ conditions and serve as a reference, as actual service life may vary with operation and environmental conditions.
Usage Features:
The RQ-345 features a straightforward control layout for ease of use:
- Built-in Microphone (MIC): For direct audio recording.
- Stop Button (■ STOP): To halt playback or recording.
- Record Button (REC): To initiate recording.
- Rewind/Review Button (◄◄ REV): For rewinding the tape and reviewing audio during playback.
- Fast Forward/Cue Button (►► CUE): For fast-forwarding the tape and cueing audio during playback.
- Playback Button (▼ PLAY): To start tape playback.
- Eject/Pause Button (▲ EJECT/II PAUSE): To open the cassette compartment for tape insertion/removal or to temporarily pause playback/recording.
- Monitor Jack [MONITOR (8Ω)] φ3.5: Allows connection of headphones for private listening.
- Volume Control (VOLUME): To adjust the audio output level.
- DC Input Jack (DC IN 6V): For connecting an optional AC adaptor or car adaptor.
- Cassette Compartment: Houses the mini cassette tape.
- Battery Compartment: Located at the rear, it holds four "AA" size batteries.
Maintenance Features:
The service manual provides comprehensive instructions for maintenance and repair:
- Disassembly Instructions: Detailed steps for disassembling the unit, including removing the rear cabinet, circuit board, cassette compartment, motor, and flywheel assembly. This involves specific screw removal (e.g., 2.6×30mm for the rear cabinet, 2.6×8mm for the circuit board and flywheel assembly, 2.6×7.5mm for the motor).
- Schematic Diagram: A circuit diagram for the RQ-345, including the connection diagram for the circuit board and wiring, which is crucial for troubleshooting electrical issues.
- Measurements and Adjustments: Instructions for checking and adjusting various parameters, such as head azimuth, monitor jack output, and setting volume control to 6V DC. It emphasizes ensuring sure heads are clean and pressure rollers are clean.
- Mechanism Parts Location: Diagrams illustrating the location of various mechanical components, including springs, screws, and other parts, with corresponding part numbers.
- Cabinet Parts Location: Diagrams showing the placement of external cabinet components, such as the front and rear cabinets, cassette compartment, speaker, and battery compartment, along with their respective part numbers.
- Parts Comparison Table: A table highlighting the differences in part numbers between the original RQ-345 (M mark areas) and the RQ-345 for Z mark areas (European models), particularly for operating instructions and gift boxes.
- Replacement Parts List: A comprehensive list of replacement parts for both cabinet and mechanism components, including screws, springs, knobs, and accessories, with specific part numbers for different regions (U.S.A., Canada) and colors (Gray, Black, Silver).
- Notes for Circuit Board and Wiring Connection Diagram: Provides important information regarding the "PLAYBACK" position for the record/playback switch, monitor switch, DC voltage measurements, battery current consumption, and maximum output playback.
- Service Manual Updates: The document explicitly states that it indicates the main differences between the original RQ-345 and the RQ-345 for Z mark areas, and should be used in conjunction with the primary service manual for model No. RQ-345 (order No. GAD8604548C1). This ensures that technicians have access to all relevant information for both regional variants.
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