Ramsey Electronics MR6 - Manual (Page 12)

MR6
• 12
CONGRATULATIONS
You have just completed your MR6 model rocket tracking unit. Take a well
deserved break now. Give your eyes a rest. When you return, be sure to
check over your work on the entire circuit board. Energizing the circuit board
with solder “bridges” or misplaced components can damage your kit.
MR6 SET-UP AND TESTING INSTRUCTIONS
ˆ 1. Tune a scanner, two meter ham rig or other such receiver to 146 MHz.
ˆ 2. Install the 3 volt “button” type battery into the battery holder, be sure to
observe the proper polarity when inserting the battery.
ˆ 3. You should hear the MR6’s carrier signal. Adjust the frequency of the
receiver slightly for best signal. You may find the actual received signal 5
to 50 KHz different from 146.000 MHz (146.00 to 147.00 KHz).
ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS
The antenna consists of a length of enameled wire soldered to the antenna
connection. It may be as short as 5 inches to give satisfactory results.
Maximum range will be achieved by a length of 17 to 20 inches.
TROUBLESHOOTING HINTS
While we had hoped that it wouldn’t come to this, if you are having trouble
with your transmitter, here are a few suggestions:
Use a methodical, logical troubleshooting technique. Most problems can be
solved using common sense. A volt-ohm meter and a clear head are usually
all that are needed to correct any problem. For example, all the NPN
transistors have the emitter leads grounded, so the base lead should be at
0.7 VDC. Is there voltage present at the collectors of all transistors? The
crystal oscillator is operating in a frequency range easily picked up by a
nearby shortwave radio, see if you can receive it. Please understand that it is
nearly impossible to “troubleshoot” by phone, any specific questions should
be documented and sent to us by mail.
PLEASE READ THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The MR6 operates in the 2 meter Amateur radio band and should be used
by or under the direction of a properly licensed ham operator.