VHF FM Mobile Transceiver DR-135T DR-135E Instruction Manual Thank you for purchasing your new Alinco transceiver. This instruction manual contains important safety and operating instructions. Please read this manual carefully before using the product and keep it for future reference.
NOTICE This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Contents Before operating the transceiver ...................................... 3 Introduction ........................................................................ 3 1. New and Innovative Features ........................................ 4 2. Standard Accessories .................................................... 5 3. Initial Installation ............................................................ 6 For a base station set up .......................................................................
Contents 7. Advanced Operations .................................................. 26 SCANNING FUNCTION ...................................................................... 26 [VFO Scan] ............................................................................. 26 [Memory scan] ........................................................................ 26 • Program scan ....................................................................... 27 • Tone Scan .................................................
Before operating the transceiver Attention • Do not remove the case or touch the interior components. Tampering can cause equipment trouble. • Do not use or keep the transceiver where it is exposed to direct sunlight, dusty places, or near sources of heat. • Keep the transceiver away from TV's or other equipment when it interferes with reception. • When transmitting for long periods of time at high power, the transceiver might overheat.
1 . New and Innovative Features Your new radio features some of the most advanced functions and reliable engineering available anywhere. The ALINCO design philosophy is focused on developing innovative usable features, including the following: • Three different styles of display are available on a large LCD panel including frequency, channel number or 7 digit alphanumeric label. The dimmer (bright/dim) makes it easier to read the display at night.
2 . Standard Accessories Carefully unpack to make sure the following items are found in the package in addition to this manual: • DR-135 • Microphone EMS-53 or EMS-56 (with DTMF keypad) • DC power cable with fuse holder (UA0038) • Mobile mounting bracket. (FM0078Z) • Alarm cable A (with wire) (UX1259) • Hardware kit for bracket • Alarm cable B (extension use) (UX1260) • Theft Alarm stickers 2pcs. (PR0454) • Instruction manual (PS0349) Black screws (M4*8mm) 4pcs.
3 . Initial Installation Connect the microphone to the front panel of the transceiver. Microphone connector Connect antenna port to a 50 ohm antenna that covers the two-meter band, using good quality 50 ohm coaxial cable. Microphone External speaker (if used) Antenna DR-135 (rear panel) For a base station set up The Transceiver requires a 12-13.8VDC negative grounded power source. Use a regulated power supply capable of providing continuous current of 12A or more.
3. Initial Installation For a mobile station set up Location The transceiver may be installed in any position in your car, where the controls and microphone are easily accessible and it does not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle or the performance of the set. If your vehicle is equipped with air bags, be certain your radio will not interfere with their deployment. If you are uncertain about where to mount the unit, contact your vehicle's manufacturer.
3. Initial Installation External power supply control & power lamp functions ACC terminal Cigar-Plug connection Ext. Power jack Battery DC cable Be sure the vehicle has a negative-ground, 12VDC electric system before installation. Connect the provided DC cable directly to the battery as shown below to minimize any possible ignition noise. Be sure the vehicle has a large capacity battery as the use of the transceiver may overload the electric system of the vehicle.
4 . Part Names and Functions Front Panel 10 2 11 1 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 3 •Primary Functions No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Key PWR Volume knob Dial FUNC/SET V/M/MW MHZ/SHIFT TS/DCS/LOCK CALL/H/L SQL/D DATA Terminal TX Light indicator Mic. Connector Function Power turns ON / OFF whenever switch is pressed. Adjusts the volume level. Changes the frequency, memory channel and scan direction. Sets the function mode to access additional settings. Switches between VFO mode and memory mode.
4. Part Names and Functions • Functions that can be activated while pressing the FUNC Key No. 1 5 6 7 8 9 Key PWR V/M/MW MHZ/SHIFT TSDCS/LOCK CALL/H/L SQL/D Function Reset to factory default settings. Erase the memory. Switches to wide / narrow mode reception. Sets the auto dialer. Accesses the clone function mode. Accesses the power supply voltage indication mode. • Functions that require continuous pressing to be activated. No.
4. Part Name of Functions Display 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 1 9 2 5 3 6 7 8 4 No. Key 1 SQL 2 M 3 Function Appears when setting the squelch level. 4 .Decimal point 5 .Decimal point 6 .Decimal point 7 Appears when setting the theft alarm function. Appears when setting the skip level. 8 Appears when a signal is being received. Appears when in memory mode. Indicates the memory channel number in memory mode. Indicates the decimal point of frequency and the scanning function.
4. Part Names and Functions Microphone DR-135T No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Key UP DOWN PTT DTMF DTMF ON/OFF Lock Switch MIC DR-135E Function Increase the frequency, memory channel number, or setting value. Decrease the frequency, memory channel number, or setting value. Press the PTT(Push-To-Talk)key to transmit. DTMF tone keys Switches DTMF mic key illumination ON/OFF Locks out the UP and DOWN keys. Speak here during transmission. Mic.
5. Basic Operations Turning the unit on and off PWR key Press the power switch or turn the ignition key to ACC or ON position according to the option selected during installation. Press the power switch again or turn the ignition key to OFF position to turn off. Audio Volume level setting Minimum volume Maximum volume Rotate the VOL knob clockwise to increase the audio level, counterclockwise to decrease. Set it at the desired level.
5. Basic Operation VFO mode VFO tuning is set as a default mode at the factory. VFO (variable frequency oscillator) allows you to change the frequency in accordance with the selected channel step as you rotate the main dial or by using the UP/DOWN keys on the microphone. VFO mode is also used to program the data to be stored in the memory channels or to change the parameter settings of the transceiver. 1. Identify the current mode by checking the display.
5. Basic Operation Changing the channel step 1. Be sure the unit is in VFO mode. Refer to page 21 to enter into the SET mode. 2. Select the channel step parameter setting using the tuning knob. The current channel step will be displayed as below. STP-5 （5 kHz） STP-83 （8.33 kHz） STP-50 （50 kHz） 3. STP-10 （10 kHz） STP-30 （30 kHz） Display for channel step STP-125 （12.
5. Basic Operation CTCSS / DCS setting Many repeaters require a CTCSS tone or a DCS code encode setting as a “key” to access the system, so-called “selective-calling”. Sometimes, CTCSS or DCS decode features are used on the output of a repeater so they can be used as a squelch. In this mode, regardless of the main squelch status, the audio can be heard ONLY when the matching tone/code signal is received.
5. Basic Operation Memory Mode The memory mode on this transceiver provides up to 100 channels (0-99), 1 call (quick recall ch) and a pair of program-scan “edge memory” channels for quick, easy access to the preprogrammed frequencies with different parameter settings. 1. Press V/M key. M icon appears on the display to indicate that the unit is in the memory mode. Repeat to switch the mode between VFO and memory. 2.
5. Basic Operation 4. While F icon is on the display, press MW key. The VFO settings are copied to the memory channel and a beep will sound. The memory channel can be over-written if a previously programmed channel is selected (the memory channels shown with a stable M icon). 5. To program the CALL channel (quick recall) select the channel shown with CH-C on the display. Save Ch99 to store the setting used for the Alarm operation, which will be explained later.
5. Basic Operation CALL mode This is a memory mode that allows the DR-135 to quickly recall the assigned memory channel by simply pressing the CALL key, regardless of the current status of the unit. The default CALL frequency is 145.00 MHz. 1. Press CALL key. The C icon appears on the display and the transceiver enters the CALL mode. In this mode, the main dial or the UP/ DOWN keys cannot change the frequency or memory channels. 2. Press CALL key again or press V/M key to exit CALL mode. 3.
5. Basic Operation To transmit 1. Select the desired frequency. Be sure that you are authorized to operate on the selected frequency. Check the system and monitor the frequency to make sure that you are not going to disturb any ongoing communications. 2. Select the output power. Press FUNC key and then press CALL key while F icon is on the display. As the CALL key is pressed, the output power changes among 3 levels. The Lo icon stands for LOW power setting, Mi for MEDIUM power.
6 . Parameter Setting Mode IMPORTANT: Please read the following pages thoroughly prior to the change of any parameters. THE PARAMETERS CANNOT BE SET WITHOUT ENTERING THE SET MODE. By entering the Parameter Setting mode, some of the radio’s operating parameters can be changed to suit your application. The following is the Selectable Parameters’ Menu. Note: The Alphanumeric Channel Tag setting will not appear in the menu until memories have been programmed first! To use the Parameter Setting mode 1.
6. Parameters Setting Mode Channel Step setting: This is to select the channel step to be used in the VFO mode. Refer to the chart below for the relation of the actual step frequency and how it is displayed. STP-5 （5 kHz） STP-83 （8.33 kHz） STP-50 （50 kHz） STP-10 （10 kHz） STP-30 （30 kHz） STP-125 （12.5 kHz） STP-25 （25 kHz） Scan Type This is to select the scan resume condition. TIMER setting allows the radio to resume scanning after 5 seconds, regardless of the signal receiving status.
6. Parameters Setting Mode Time-Out-Timer The TOT feature is popular in repeater systems. It prohibits the users from transmitting on the repeater after a certain period of time has elapsed. By setting this function and activating it according to the repeaters’ requirement, the radio alerts the user by a beep 5 seconds prior to time-out. When the time is expired, transmitting stops and the transceiver automatically returns to receiving mode. This avoids the repeater going into its TOT mode.
6. Parameters Setting Mode APO-Auto Power OFF This feature will automatically shut off the transceiver. It is useful for mobile operation to avoid draining the car battery. If there is no activity or use of the radio, it will turn off automatically after 30 minutes followed by a beep sound. 1. Default is APO-OFF. 2. Rotate dial to select APO-ON to activate the function.
6. Parameters Setting Mode Alphanumeric Tag The memory channels stored in the memory-mode can be displayed with an alphanumeric tag instead of the default frequency display. Program the memory channel first. There are 67 characters available including A-Z, 0-9. 1. Enter the set mode while the unit is in memory mode. 2. Select alphanumeric tag setting by rotating the main dial or pressing the UP/DOWN keys. The display shows [A ] flashing. 3. Rotate the main dial to select a character.
7. Advanced Operations Your transceiver offers different features for advanced operations. SCANNING FUNCTION Use this function to automatically search for signals. 6 different scan types are available in the unit. In parameter setting mode, choose Timer mode or Busy mode to determine the desired resuming condition. If the CTCSS(TSQ) squelch or DCS squelch is set, the audio can be heard only when the tone/code matches the incoming signal. Otherwise, scanning stops but no audio will be heard.
7. Advanced Operations •Program Scan This is a type of VFO scan, but by setting the frequency range of the VFO into PH and PL channels, it only scans between those frequencies. With setting the PH and PL properly, up to 3 Program scan ranges will be available. The Highest band edge Range (a) PH (b) PL (c) 1. Enter the VFO mode and set the PL and PH frequency into the designated memory channels. Refer to Memory setting for the proper sequence. 2. Return to VFO mode by pressing V/M key.
7. Advanced Operations •DCS scan Same as previous, but for DCS code search. 1. Press TS/DCS key to enter DCS setting mode. 2. Press UP/DOWN key for more than 1 second but less than 2 seconds to start. It searches the 104 DCS codes in order. 3. The 1 MHz order decimal point will flash. 4. The scan stops when the matching code is detected. 5. The scan won’t resume until the operation is repeated. 6. Press any key (other than UP/DOWN keys) to exit.
7. Advanced Operations AUTO-DIALER This will automatically transmit pre-programmed DTMF tones. DTMF (Dual-Tone-Multi-Frequency) are the same tones used in the telephone system, and they are often used to remote control electronic devices or AUTOPATCH phone systems available on some repeaters. To program tones in the Auto-dialer memory: 1. Press FUNC key and TS/DCS key at the same time to enter the setting mode. Default display is 0 on the right end of the display.
7. Advanced Operations THEFT ALARM This alert uses a beep sound when the unit is about to be removed in an improper manner. This function is useful when the unit is installed in a vehicle. DC power cable Alarm cable A Battery Handle of the car etc. DR-135 Alarm cable B NOTE: Remove wire from steering wheel before attempting to drive vehicle. [Operation 1] Setting: Connect the DC cable direct to the battery. 1. Connect the provided alarm cable to the DATA jack on the front panel as shown.
7. Advanced Operations [Operation 2] Choose this operation when a delay period is desired. 1. Enter the Parameter setting mode as described previously and select SCR-DLY. Follow the previous instruction to set. 2. Turn off the unit. Display will disappear but the LCD illumination stays on. After 20 seconds TX LED lights up, illumination dims, and alarm functions. The system won’t work during the 20 second “DELAY” period. 3. The alarm sounds under the same condition as described previously.
7. Advanced Operations CABLE CLONE This feature will copy the programmed data and parameters in the master unit to slave units. It copies the parameters and memory program settings. Connection Make a cable using 3.5 mm stereo-mini plugs as shown below. Make a master unit by setting and programming it as desired. Turn off both units. Connect the cable between the DATA jacks on both master and slave. Turn both radios on after the connection is made. Master Slave stereo plug 3.5plug process GND 3.
8 . PACKET OPERATION Packet mode is high-speed data communication using a personal computer. The use of a Digital repeater network (Digi-peaters), including satellites, offers communications with distant stations. In order to operate in the packet mode, it is essential that the station is equipped with a personal computer with appropriate packet software, 9 pin RS-232C cable, optional EJ-41U TNC unit or external TNC (terminal node controller).
8. PACKET OPERATION 3. Place the cushion sticker on the VCO shield case (a metal housing on the circuit board). W1 DSUB-9 W2 DA TA Bottom side TX CN107 VCO case Packet Mode Setting 1. Press FUNC key. While F icon is on, press SQL key. [ ] appears on the LCD display and the transceiver enters packet mode. Repeat the same sequence to exit from packet mode. 2. Use the computer keyboard to send designated commands from your PC to enter the packet network and start operation.
8. PACKET OPERATION [To operate packet using an external TNC] Use the DSUB-9 connector to connect the radio and the PC. The pin allocation for the DSUB-9 on the back of the unit is as follows: DR-135 1200 bps FM Packet TNC DATA IN GND DATA OUT PTT GND Packet RX OUT 1200 bps RS-232C Packet TX IN 1200 bps EXT. PTT Input Personal Computer DR-135 9600 bps FM Packet TNC GND DATA IN DATA OUT PTT GND Packet RX OUT 9600 bps Packet TX IN 9600 bps RS-232C EXT. PTT Input Personal Computer 1.
8. PACKET OPERATION •1200bps Connect Pins 4, 5, 7, 9, and 1 and 8 also depending on the requirement. It enables a conventional 1200bps packet mode. •9600bps Connect Pins 2, 3, 5, 7, and 1 and 8 also depending on the requirement. Press FUNC key, while F icon is on, press SQL. [ ] appears on LCD and enables 9600bps packet mode. NOTE: • Never connect a PC directly to the DSUB-9 connector if EJ-41U is not installed. It may cause the unit to malfunction.
8. PACKET OPERATION [SET UP] Please refer to the previous chapter for the set up and installation of the EJ-41U unit, TNC and PC. See below for the connection of a GPS receiver. It requires a 3.5mm stereo plug to connect to the DATA Terminal on the radio's front panel. See the chart for plug connections. Program the EJ-41U by using commands from the PC in the same way as in the packet mode. The PC can be removed from the transceiver once the EJ-41U is configured. EJ-41U will hold the settings in memory.
9. Maintenance / Reference Reset Resetting the transceiver returns all programmed contents to their factory default setting. If any problems persist, resetting may overcome them and return the transceiver to normal operation. Reset Procedure While holding the FUNC key down, turn the power on. All segments of the LCD will be displayed, then default settings are displayed. All LCD segments Note: Take special care when resetting because all settings are initialized. Factory Default Settings DR-135T 145.
9. Maintenance / Reference Trouble Shooting Please check the list below before concluding that the transceiver is faulty. If a problem persists, reset the transceiver. This can sometimes correct erroneous operation.
10. Optional accessories • EMS-56 DTMF microphone (standard on T version) • EJ-41U TNC unit • EDC-43 Cigar-plug cable (as above: for Cigar-plug connection) • EDC-36 Cigar-plug cable with filter (as above: for Cigar-plug connection. Recommended in case other Alinco handheld transceivers may be used in the vehicle, as this cable can also power the handheld units.
11.Specifications General Frequency range T :TX RX E :TX RX TA :TX RX RX 144-147.995 MHz 118-135.995 MHz (AM) 136-173.995 MHz 144-145.995 MHz 144-145.995 MHz 136-173.995 MHz 118-135.995 MHz (AM) 136-173.995 MHz Operationg mode 16K0F3E (FM) /8K50F3E (Narrow-FM), F1, F2, F3 Frequency resolution 5, 8.33, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 50 kHz Memory channel 100 channels + 1call channel Ant. impedance 50 ohm unbalanced Frequency stability +/-5 ppm Microphone impedance 2 k ohm Rated voltage 13.
Appendix TNC Commands List The commands supported by the built-in TNC are list below. You must enter a space between a command name (or short-form) and a parameter, or between two parameters; ex.AU OFF. Command Name form Short Default Parameters Description AUTOLF AU ON ON/OFF When ON, sends a line feed (LF) to the PC after each carriage return (CR). BEACON B EVERY 0 EVERY/ AFTER n ( n=0 - 250 ) If set to EVERY, sends a beacon packet at intervals of the specified period (n).
Appendix Command Name form Short Default Parameters Description FIRMRNR FIR OFF ON/OFF The other station sends a notice (packet) to you if it is not ready to receive data. When ON, receiving such a notice causes the TNC to suspend transmission until it receives a “ready” notice. FLOW F ON ON/OFF When ON, starting key entry causes the computer to stop displaying received packets. FRACK FR 3 0 - 250 Specifies the interval from one transmission until retry of transmission.
Appendix Command Name form Short Default Parameters Description RESET RESET - - Restores the default status for all the commands. RESPTIME RES 5 5 Specifies the acknowledgement packet transmission delay. The unit of the parameter is 100 milliseconds. RESTART RESTART - - Causes the TNC function as if it is switched OFF then ON. RETRY RE 10 10 Specifies the number of transmission retries.
ALINCO,INC. Head Office: "TWIN21" MID Tower Building 25F 1-61, 2-Chome, Shiromi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 540-8580, Japan Phone:06-6946-8150 Fax:06-6946-8175 E-mail:export@alinco.co.jp U.S.A: 438 Amapola Avenue, Suite 130, Torrance, CA 90501, U.S.A Phone:310-618-8616 Fax:310-618-8758 http://www.alinco.com/ Germany: Eschborner Landstrasse 55, 60489 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Phone:069-786018 Fax:069-789-60766 P.O. Box 422 N-4067 Stavanger, Norway Telephone: +47 51709888 Telefax: +47 51709877 http://www.nsias.
