Uniden PC78LTX CB Radio with SWR Owner’s Manual
DESCRIPTION
Your Uniden PC78LTX is a high-quality communications device designed for use in the Citizens Band Radio Service. It will operate on any of the 40 AM frequencies authorized by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The Citizens Band Radio Service is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Any adjustments or alterations which would alter the performance of the transceiver’s original FCC type acceptance, or which would change the frequency determining method, are strictly prohibited. Replacement or substitution of crystal, transistors, ICs, regulator diodes, or any other part of a unique nature, with parts other than those recommend by Uniden, may cause violations of the technical regulations in Part 95 of the FCC Rules or in violation of type acceptance requirements in Part 2 of the rules.
EMERGENCY OPERATIONS
- Set the switch to CH9 or turn Channel Selector knob to Channel 9.
- Press the microphone PTT switch and speak clearly.
- If there is no response, select an active channel and ask that party to relay your emergency broadcast on Channel 9.
All channels except Channel 9 may be used for normal communication. Channel 9 is reserved by the FCC for emergency communication involving the immediate safety of individuals or protection of property. Channel 9 may also be used to render assistance to others. This is an FCC rule and applies to all operators of CB radios.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
Carefully unpack your PC78LTX and check the contents against this list:
- PC78LTX CB 2-way mobile radio
- Microphone
- Mounting Bracket Kit
- DC Power Cord
- Owner’s Manual
- Part 95 Subpart D (FCC Rules)
If any items are missing or damaged, visit our website at www.uniden.com for further information. Never use damaged products!
FRONT VIEW
REAR VIEW
INSTALLATION
MOBILE INSTALLATION
Plan the location of the transceiver and microphone bracket before beginning installation.
- Select a location that is convenient for operating the radio, but does not interfere with the driver or passenger.
- Install bracket with self-tapping screws provided.
- Connect power cords (see page 9).
- Attach the microphone bracket to the side of the radio.
- Attach radio to bracket.
Mobile Antenna
WARNING! The antenna used for this radio must be installed at least 16.92 inches (43 cm) away from all persons. The antenna must not be collocated or used with any other antenna or transmitter.
CAUTION: Never operate your radio with no antenna or with a damaged antenna cable. This can damage the radio.
You must purchase an antenna to operate this radio. Because the maximum power output of the transmitter is limited by the FCC, the quality of your antenna is very important. To achieve the maximum transmission distance, Uniden strongly recommends that you install only a high quality antenna. You have just purchased a superior transceiver – don’t diminish its performance by installing an inferior antenna. Only a properly matched antenna system will allow maximum power transfer from the 50 ohm transmission line to the radiating element. Your Uniden dealer is qualified to help you select the proper antenna for your requirements. A whip style antenna may be used for automobile installation. A short ‘loaded’ whip antenna is easier to install on an automobile, but its efficiency is less than that of a full quarter-wave whip antenna.
Connecting the Power Cords
Uniden recommends connecting the power lead to the Ignition Switch Accessory Terminal. This way, the transceiver is automatically turned off when the ignition switch is turned off. As an alternative, the power cord may be connected to an available terminal on the fuse block or to a point in the wiring harness. However, take care to prevent a short circuit. If in doubt, contact your vehicle dealer for information. This transceiver may be installed and used in any 12-volt DC negative ground system vehicle.
Ground Information
Most newer U.S. and foreign made cars and small trucks use a negative ground system. Some older cars, and some new large trucks, use a positive ground system. With a negative ground system, the negative (-) battery terminal is usually connected to the vehicle motor block. If you cannot determine the polarity system of your vehicle, contact your vehicle dealer for information.
Negative Ground System
For negative ground systems, connect the red DC power cord from the transceiver to the positive (+) battery terminal or other convenient point. Then connect the black power cord to the vehicle chassis or negative (-) battery terminal.
USING YOUR PC78LTX
TURN PC78LTX ON/OFF
Turn the VOLUME knob clockwise until the unit turns on and the display backlight turns on. Turn the VOLUME knob counter-clockwise to turn the unit off.
CB MODE
Be sure that the power source, antenna, and microphone are properly connected before proceeding.
- Turn the unit on. Set the volume to a comfortable level.
- Set switch to CB.
- Turn the CH knob to select a CB channel.
- Set noise limitations switch to NB/ANL.
- Adjust squelch.
- Adjust SQUELCH knob fully clockwise so only strong signals can get through.
- Adjust SQUELCH knob fully counter-clockwise until you hear a hiss. Everything gets through – noise, weak signals, and strong signals.
- Slowly adjust SQUELCH knob back clockwise until the hiss stops. Only clearer signals get through. Set SQUELCH only when the radio is not receiving a strong signal.
- Press and hold PTT and check the multifunction meter. It will show the RF output power.
- Adjust RF GAIN knob set RF Gain sensitivity. Normally, the knob is turned clockwise to maximum.
- Set the brightness (BRT or DIM).
- Set meter switch to S/RF.
PA MODE
Using the PA mode requires an optional speaker.
- Switch to PA.
- Press and hold PTT to speak.
- Release when finished.
To prevent acoustic feedback, separate the microphone from the speaker when operating the PA at high output levels. If you are in PA mode but not pressing PTT, the radio receives CB transmissions and transmits them through the PA speaker. You cannot respond to the transmission.
HI CUT/OFF
The Hi Cut function reduces high frequencies. Switch to HI CUT to turn off higher frequencies.
TO TRANSMIT/RECEIVE
Perform a voltage Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) measurement prior to using the transmitter. An SWR ratio in excess of 2:1 may damage the transmitter. Be sure to read and understand Part 95, FCC Rules and Regulations before operating your transmitter.
- Select a channel.
- Adjust MIC GAIN.
- When the channel is clear, press the microphone PTT and speak.
- Release PTT when you are finished speaking to listen for the response.
MULTI-FUNCTION METER]
SWR Meter: Measures the standing wave ratio (SWR) of the antenna. Use this meter to check the antenna system or to adjust your antenna to the proper length.
To Measure SWR:
- Set the meter switch to CAL.
- Press and hold microphone PTT switch (Transmit).
- Calibrate meter with SWR CAL knob by adjusting the needle to the ▼ mark.
- Move the meter switch to the SWR position while pressing the microphone PTT switch.
- Release the PTT switch.
A reading less than two is acceptable. Higher readings indicate a problem in the antenna system. Problems may be caused by humidity, vibration, a mistuned antenna, or corrosion. Check both ends of the coaxial cable connector. Also check for damage to the cable or antenna. Tune the antenna according to the instructions that came with the antenna.
RF Meter: Measures RF Output Power for transmitter. To use, set the meter switch at S/RF. Press microphone PTT switch to read transmitting power.
S-Meter: Measures incoming signal strength. To use, set the meter switch at S/RF. The meter swings to indicate signal strength. i.e. S 3, S 5, S 7 . . .
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Every six months:
- Check the Standing Wave Ratio (SWR). See page 11.
- Be sure all electrical connections are tight.
- Inspect antenna coaxial cable for wear or breaks in shielding.
- Be sure all screws and mounting hardware are tight.
MAINTENANCE
The PC78LTX is designed to give you years of trouble-free service. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Except for the fuse in the DC power cord, no maintenance is required. To replace a blown fuse:
- Press ends of the fuse holder together. Twist to open.
- Carefully separate the two pieces.
- Remove the fuse and inspect. If blown, replace with the same type fuse. Use only the fuse specified for your PC78LTX. Failure to do so may void your warranty.
TROUBLESHOOTING
In the event of system malfunction, perform the following procedures:
If you do not get satisfactory results after performing these checks, visit www.uniden.com for information.
SPECIFICATIONS
RADIO CODE DEFINITIONS
10-CODES
The following list contains common “10-Codes” used by CB radio operators for faster communication and better understanding.
If you do not get satisfactory results after performing the above checks, visit www.uniden.com for further information.
FCC PART 15/IC INFORMATION
FCC COMPLIANCE
FCC Compliance Statement: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subjected to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void your authority to operate the equipment.
IC COMPLIANCE
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s).Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
ONE-YEAR EXTENDED WARRANTY
Important: Evidence of original purchase is required for warranty service.
WARRANTOR: UNIDEN AMERICA CORPORATION (“Uniden”)
ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants, for one year, to the original retail owner, this Uniden Product to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship with only the limitations or exclusions set out below.
WARRANTY DURATION: This warranty to the original user shall terminate and be of no further effect one year after the date of original retail sale. The warranty is invalid if the Product is (A) damaged or not maintained as reasonable or necessary, (B) modified, altered, or used as part of any conversion kits, subassemblies, or any configurations not sold by Uniden, (C) improperly installed, D) serviced or repaired by someone other than an authorized Uniden service center for a defect or malfunction covered by this warranty, (E) used in any conjunction with equipment or parts or as part of any system not manufactured by Uniden, or (F) installed or programmed by anyone other than as detailed by the owner’s manual for this product.
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