User's Manual

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Table Of Contents

Table of Contents

1.Your new Argonaut VI 539..............................................................................................................................................3

1.1.Unpacking Argonaut VI Model 539..........................................................................................................................3

1.2.About this Manual......................................................................................................................................................3

1.3.Accessory package.....................................................................................................................................................3

1.4.Connection to Antenna & Power Supply...................................................................................................................4

1.5.A word about grounding............................................................................................................................................4

1.6.Philosophy of design..................................................................................................................................................5

2.Easy Operation Guide.......................................................................................................................................................6

2.1.Front Panel Indicators................................................................................................................................................6

TX/ALC LED.............................................................................................................................................................6

S-Meter / SWR Meter.................................................................................................................................................6

2.2.Front Panel Controls..................................................................................................................................................7

2.3.General Operations....................................................................................................................................................8

Power Switch (1)........................................................................................................................................................8

AF Gain Control (1)...................................................................................................................................................8

RF Gain Control (2)...................................................................................................................................................8

BW (3) Bandwidths..................................................................................................................................................9

PBT (4) Pass Band Tuning.......................................................................................................................................9

Band (7).....................................................................................................................................................................9

Split (8)......................................................................................................................................................................9

AGC (9)......................................................................................................................................................................9

A/B (10).....................................................................................................................................................................9

RIT (7).....................................................................................................................................................................10

POWER (7).............................................................................................................................................................10

Mode (10).................................................................................................................................................................10

Headphones (20 on rear panel)................................................................................................................................10

Tuning Steps and VFO LOCK (8)...........................................................................................................................10

PRE (8)....................................................................................................................................................................10

Recalling A Stored Memory (9)...............................................................................................................................11

Storing a Frequency to Memory (8)........................................................................................................................11

NR/NB (9) Noise Reduction/Noise Blanker..........................................................................................................12

2.4.SSB Mode Operation...............................................................................................................................................13

Monitor Level (3, 5, 7).............................................................................................................................................13

Speech Processing (3, 5, 8)......................................................................................................................................13

Auto Notch (9)..........................................................................................................................................................13

MIC Connector ........................................................................................................................................................14

Mic Gain and Line Gain(10)....................................................................................................................................15

2.5.CW Mode Operation................................................................................................................................................16

Internal Keyer CW Speed Setting............................................................................................................................16

Internal Keyer Weighting / Dit Spacing & Curtis Mode A/B..................................................................................16

CW Sidetone Frequency...........................................................................................................................................16

CW Sidetone Level..................................................................................................................................................16

QSK Delay...............................................................................................................................................................16

CW Keying and Wiring............................................................................................................................................17

2.6.AM Mode Operation................................................................................................................................................17

2.7.Digital Mode Operation...........................................................................................................................................17

2.8.Interfacing to a computer for Firmware Update Mode and PC Control/Logging Purposes....................................18

2.9.Power Up Modes......................................................................................................................................................19

Configuration Menu (PWR(7))................................................................................................................................19

Master Reset (SPL(8) )............................................................................................................................................19

Firmware Update Mode (A/B (10))..........................................................................................................................20

2.10.Optional Filter Installation.....................................................................................................................................21

2.11.Extended Feature Access via USB/Serial..............................................................................................................22

2.12.Retaining User Settings..........................................................................................................................................22

539 / Argonaut VI Users manual Release 0.10 – November 13, 2012

Part #74479

Printed in USA 1

Summary of content (33 pages)

PAGE 1
Table of Contents 1.Your new Argonaut VI 539..............................................................................................................................................3 1.1.Unpacking Argonaut VI Model 539..........................................................................................................................3 1.2.About this Manual................................................................................................................................................
PAGE 2
3.Argonaut VI Rear Panel..................................................................................................................................................23 ANT (11)..................................................................................................................................................................23 AUX (12)..............................................................................................................................................................
PAGE 3
Argonaut VI Figure 1-1 539 Front Panel 1. Your new Argonaut VI 539 1.3. Accessory package 1.1. Unpacking Argonaut VI Model 539 Examine the Argonaut VI transceiver for signs of shipping damage. Should any damage be apparent, please contact Ten-Tec Service (865) 428-0364 to handle the claim. 1.2. About this Manual A complete description of the features and functions on the Argonaut VI Model 539 are included within the pages of this manual.
PAGE 4
1.4. Connection to Antenna & Power Supply The Argonaut VI is designed for use with any antenna system providing a 50 Ohm resistive impedance at the desired operating frequency. Every effort should be made to ensure the impedance of the antenna system is as close as possible to the specified 50-Ohm value. Note: that the “G5RV” type antenna and some Windom’s do not provide 50-Ohm impedance on all HF Amateur bands, and an external wide-range antenna coupler will be needed.
PAGE 5
1.6. Philosophy of design With the Model 539 Argonaut VI, Ten-Tec has created a QRP transceiver combining simplified controls and ease of operation with the excellent performance of a low first IF ham-band architecture in a compact, mobilefriendly structure. The analog portion of the radio is double conversion with IF frequencies of 9.0018 MHz and 22.5 kHz. A third conversion to zero-frequency IF is accomplished in the DSP processor.
PAGE 6
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 2 1 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) 2. Easy Operation Guide 2.1. Front Panel Indicators TX/ALC LED The “o” in the ToT Logo includes an LED. The primary purpose for this LED is to identify when the Argonaut VI is transmitting approximately 80% or more of the selected power setting. For CW mode, this should be active during the entire dit or dah transmit cycle. For Voice modes this will be when transmit voice is 80% or greater than the selected power level.
PAGE 7
8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) 2.2. Front Panel Controls This section provides a very brief overview of the front panel of the Argonaut VI, more details on each control is given later in this manual. Two Dual Concentric POTS (1, 2, 3, 4) The Argonaut VI front panel provides two dual concentric multi -function pots. One for AF/RF Controls, and the other for BW/PBT controls.
PAGE 8
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) 2.3. General Operations RF Gain Control (2) This section of your Argonaut VI Manual will discuss the button operation and adjustments common to all modes on the Argonaut VI. It is important to read this general operations section prior to operating the Argonaut VI because the BW Pot (3) and the state of the “TMB” three position switch (5) change the function of the four push buttons (7, 8, 9, 10).
PAGE 9
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 2 1 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) BW (3) Bandwidths Band (7) Adjusting the BW control will allow you to select the DSP filtering of your choice. This will increase the selectivity of receive and helps remove close in unwanted signals. Be sure TMB switch is in Middle position. To change bands or toggle through the Ham bands press the BAN button and the next Ham band will be recalled. BAN will only toggle through the Ham bands in one direction.
PAGE 10
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) Remember, AM mode will not be displayed or active unless EaD has been selected within RIT (7) the configuration menu. Be sure TMB switch is on the Bottom position. The RIT can now be toggled on and Headphones (20 on rear panel) off by pressing the RIT (7) button. RIT will now be displayed on the front of the screen.
PAGE 11
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) Storing a Frequency to Memory (8) Recalling A Stored Memory (9) Both mode and frequency can be stored in 1100 memories within the Argonaut VI. To store a frequency in memory be sure the TMB switch is on the Bottom. Select your desired frequency and mode then press the MR (NR) button. One beep will sound. MEM will appear to the bottom left side of your front screen.
PAGE 12
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) Exit by toggling the NR button until the NR/NB or both disappear from the screen NR/NB (9) Noise Reduction/Noise Blanker Be sure the TMB switch is in the Middle position. By pressing the NR button once you will toggle the noise blanker on. NB will be shown on the top left side of the screen. Pressing the NR button a second time will turn off the noise blanker and turn on the noise reduction.
PAGE 13
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) 2.4. SSB Mode Operation Speech Processing (3, 5, 8) Be sure the TMB switch is in the Middle position. To begin SSB operation toggle the MOD button to either the LSB or USB for the mode of you wish to operate. The Argonaut VI will display the last mode you have selected when toggling through the bands.
PAGE 14
for use for mic negative signal and chassis ground as shown in Figure 2.4-2 MIC Connector Front panel jack used for connection of a microphone. The Argonaut VI features the common 8-pin microphone jack used in many amateur radio transceivers. Most dynamic or Electret Microphones can be used. When adapting a microphone, please refer to the wiring diagrams in Figures 2.4-1 and 2.4-2 Figure 2.4-1 Transceiver Microphone Jack Front View Figure 2.
PAGE 15
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 5 4 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) Mic Gain and Line Gain(10) Be sure TMB switch is in the Bottom position and the Argonaut VI is in either LSB or USB mode. Press USR (MOD) button until you see (mI CgAIn) on the front display. Use the VFO knob to adjust the microphone gain until the ALC light flickers on voice peaks when speaking into the microphone. This is the LED light within the Ten-Tec logo. Once set just press the USR (MOD) button once more to exit.
PAGE 16
7 8 Argonaut VI 9 10 6 1 2 3 4 5 Figure 2-1 539 Front Panel- (with indexes) CW Sidetone Frequency 2.5. CW Mode Operation Setting Up CW Parameters (3,5,7,8,9,10) Ensure that the Argonaut VI is in CW Mode. When finished, rotate the Bandwidth back to the desired value. Internal Keyer CW Speed Setting Ensure that the bandwidth control is pointing to 12 o'clock. Switch the TMB switch to the bottom and press the USR (MOD) button until the screen displays (SPEEd).
PAGE 17
CW Keying and Wiring The rear panel on the Argonaut VI has a 1/8” stereo jack for connection of a key paddle. See Figure 2.5-1 for proper wiring. common To operate the Argonaut VI in AM mode you must have the 6 KHz filter installed and you must select EA d in the configuration menu. The peak modulated carrier level will be set automatically for the power level you choose. 2.7. Digital Mode Operation Key or dit dah Figure 2.
PAGE 18
2.8. Interfacing to a computer for Firmware Update Mode and PC Control/Logging Purposes The software interface for the Argonaut VI utilizes standard Windows driver supplied with Windows versions XP through Windows 7. An installation program is available for download at the TenTec download webpage for the Argonaut VI. Start at www.tentec.com, and follow the links until you get to the Argonaut VI’s Download page. Look for the latest instructions entitled “USB to UART driver Installation….”.
PAGE 19
2.9. Power Up Modes Configuration Menu (PWR(7)) When optional items are ordered with your Argonaut VI, then these optional items will already be installed and configured at the factory in the Configuration Menu. This includes additional roofing filters and whether or not AM mode is enabled.
PAGE 20
Firmware Update Mode (A/B (10)) To upgrade your transceiver, visit the TenTec web site (www.tentec.com) and download the installer for the latest firmware version. A link will be available on the 539 Downloads page. This link will be titled with the available version number of the firmware. Example: “Firmware Version 1.585”. The Date of the file will also be shown. Here is the sequence of steps to follow once the .exe file has been downloaded from the Downloads web page for the Argonaut VI/539.
PAGE 21
2.10. Optional Filter Installation The Argonaut VI has three filter slots: Filter Slot 1 (F1), Filter Slot 2 (F2), Filter Slot 3 (F3). The Argonaut VI comes standard with a 2.9KHz filter installed in Filter Slot 2 (F2). Optional filters are available for the Argonaut VI as follows: Filter Part Number Slot for Filter 6 KHz 2003 F1 2.9 KHz Standard F2 700 Hz 2006 F3 Table 2.10-1 Optional Filters Optional Filter Installation Optional Filters can be installed in the 3 filter slots as described below.
PAGE 22
2.11. Extended Feature Access via USB/Serial There are more features available for the Argonaut VI that are not accessible via the front panel controls. For this purpose, the USR button, MR button, and MW button are able to be programmed with new functionality using a PC. The USB interface also permits changing various settings that cannot be mapped to front panel control buttons. This includes features such as VOX, AN, etc. 2.12.
PAGE 23
FUSE 7.5A AUX 11 ANT – TEN-TEC, INC. SEVIERVILLE, TN MADE IN USA WWW.TENTEC.COM ACC 1 17 16 DC IN + 14 USB DC OUT MODEL 539 15 13 12 18 .5A MAX KEY PHONES 20 19 Fig 3-1 Argonaut VI Rear Panel 3. Argonaut VI Rear Panel DC OUT (16) ANT (11) The ANT connector is an SO-239 jack used for connection of a coaxial fed transceiver antenna, nominal impedance 50 ohms, for use on any band the Argonaut VI covers.
PAGE 24
ACC 1 (18) The Argonaut VI is equipped with an 8 pin accessory connector. Refer to following figure for the pin definitions as viewed from the rear panel. Figure 3-2 ACC1 Pin out The pin out and function are listed in the following table: Pin Name / Usage Direction 1 Line In / Line level Audio input from Input an accessory device (like a TNC or sound card for digital mode operation.) Selected using the front panel MIC button.
PAGE 25
Keying a Linear Amplifier Pin 8 on ACC-1 will provide an open collector output for keying a linear amplifier. The Argonaut VI provides a 17 ms closure delay before RF is supplied to the linear amp. Refer to Figure 3-2 for wiring to this connector. Remember to use shielded cable for making this connection. The amp key line is NOT a relay similar to those found on many older transceivers. It is a transistor switch rated for a maximum of 24 volts and 250 mA from the key line of your amplifier.
PAGE 26
5. Specifications 5.1. Transceiver Specifications GENERAL Microphone Connector: 8-pin on front panel Headphone Jack: 1/4” stereo, accepts mono or stereo on rear panel External CW Key Jack: 1/8” stereo, accepts mono or stereo on rear panel Aux DC Output Connector: RCA 0.5A max connected to DC Power Frequency Range TX: 1.795-2.005 (160M), 3.495-4.005 (80M), 6.995-7.305 (40M), 10.095-10.155 (30M), 13.995-14.355 (20M), 18.063-18.173 (17M), 20.995-21.455 (15M), 27.995-29.705 (10M).
PAGE 27
RECEIVER SSB Sensitivity: Better than 0.7uV (0.5 Typ), 2.4Khz, 10 db SINAD, preamp off AM Sensitivity: Better than 4 uV, (2.0uV Typ) 30% Mod, 6Kh BW, 10 dB SINAD, preamp off Selectivity IF1: 2.9khz standard, 9.0018 MHz, 2 optional filter positions Selectivity IF2: 30 KHz Lowpass filter Selectivity, DSP IF: 100 built-in DSP filters from 100-6000Hz BW. Third Order Intercept Point (IP3): IMD3 Dynamic Range: 20dBm@20Khz tone separation/2.
PAGE 28
TRANSMITTER RF Power Output: Adjustable, 1-10 W, +/- 1 dB CW, SSB, AM, AFSK,PSK Duty Cycle: 100% for up to 10 minutes @ 10 watts CW/SSB TX Bandwidth: 2.
PAGE 29
539 / Argonaut VI Users manual Part #74479 Printed in USA 29 13.8 V ANT Release 0.10 – November 13, 2012 160M 15M 10M REV AF/RF POT BOARD BW/PB T PPTC 500 MA POT A/D 5V T FIL TX 160M 15M 10M BACKLIGHT ENCODER KEYPAD LCD DISPLAY LCD DRIVER LL TX R I L MIC EEPROM PIC VGA SPU TCXO LINE IN/OUT DSP DDS R LO2 9.024 T R AGC L I SPEAKER AMP REC AUDIO CODEC ÷4 SYNTHESIZER MIC AUDIO MIC AMP USB T R ROOFING FILTERS (9.0015 MHz) F3 F2 TX/R F1 X LO1 10.
PAGE 30
FCC Compliance Note: 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 instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
PAGE 31
6. In Case of Difficulty While we cannot cover every possible problem, here are some hints for dealing with some potential difficulties. Check the obvious. Is your dc power source okay? Check power supply, cable and connector(s). Is the 25 ampere fuse loose or missing? Antenna problems? Try a dummy load.
PAGE 32
Problem: Transceiver power shuts off while transmitting The Argonaut VI is equipped with a siliconcontrolled rectifier that opens if the PA current draw exceeds an instantaneous power of approximately 30 amps. This will shut off power to the transceiver. Excessive current draw can indicate a problem with excessive SWR due to antenna or feedline problems. Power to the radio can be restored by cycling the power switch and off or the 13.8 Vdc source on and off. Manager.
PAGE 33
7. Warranty & Return Policy Warranty policy for Ten-Tec products is covered in the gold color page located on the last page of this manual. FOR EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURED BY TEN-TEC: Ten-Tec factory built radio equipment is sold under a 30-day risk-free trial period. Any piece of equipment manufactured by Ten-Tec may be returned, undamaged, within 30 days of purchase for a full purchase price refund, less shipping charges (customer pays shipping both ways).