PC68XL.qxd

2/25/99

10:06 AM

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Contents
Unpacking.1 Description.2 Elimination of Licensing.2 Emergency Operation.2 Controls and Functions.3 Installation.5 Mobile Station Installation.5 Mobile Station Antenna.5 Marine Installation.5 Connection the Power Cords.6 Ground Information.6 Negative Ground System.6 Positive Ground System.6 To Receive.7 To Transmit.8 Function Meter.8 Preventive Maintenance.9 Maintenance.9 Troubleshooting.10 Servicing Your Transceiver.10 Specifications.11 Two-Year Warranty.12 Radio Code Definitions.13

Unpacking

Carefully unpack your PC68XL and check the contents against this list:

s s s s s s s

PC68XL CB 2-way mobile radio Microphone Mounting Bracket Kit DC Power Cord Reference Guide Part 95 Subpart D (FCC Rules) Product Registration Card
If any items are missing or damaged, contact your place of purchase immediately. Please be sure to complete and mail your Product Registration card. 1

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Description
Your Uniden PC68XL represents the highest 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.

Elimination of Licensing

The FCC has ruled that CB Radio Service operators are no longer required to obtain an FCC License to operate their CB equipment. In doing so, the FCC also decided to permit CB station operation without station identification. Elimination of individual station licenses does not reduce the operating privileges or responsibilities of CB users. An operator of a CB radio station is still required to comply with the Communications Act and with the rules of Citizens Band Radio Service.
Uniden is a registered trademark of Uniden America Corporation.
Features, Specifications, and availability of Optional Accessories are all subject to change without notice.

Emergency Operation

1. Set the switch to CH9 or turn Channel Selector knob to Channel 9. 2. Press PTT switch on microphone and speak clearly. 3. 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 communications involving the immediate safety of individuals or protection of property. Channel 9 may also be used to render assistance to a motorist.
This is an FCC rule and applies to all operators of CB radios.

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Controls and Functions
FRONT VIEW 1. Microphone Jack 2. ON/OFF -VOLUME: Turns radio on or off; adjusts speaker volume. 3. SQUELCH: Reduces background noise when there is no incoming signal. 4. RF GAIN: Improves reception in strong signal areas. 5. MIC GAIN: Adjusts microphone sensitivity. 6. Channel Knob: Selects transmission and reception channels. 7. Channel Display: Displays current channel selection. 8. RX/TX Indicator: Red-transmitting; green-receiving. 9. CH 9 Indicator: Red-Channel 9 switch is on. 10. Dynamic Squelch Control (DSC): Automatically sets Squelch to optimal level for stronger signals. 11. CH9/OFF: Turns Channel 9 on or off. 12. BRT/DIM: Adjusts the brightness of LED Channel Display and Indicator and RF Signal Meter. 13. CB/PA: Selects the PA (Public Address) or CB (Citizens Band). Do not use PA function unless an external speaker is connected. 14. NB/ANL: Reduces external noise and interference from vehicle ignition systems. 15. Function Meter: Measures RF and S signal strength. 3

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REAR VIEW 16. ANT.: Connects antenna cable to transceiver. 17. PA SP: Connects optional external 8-ohm, 4-watt speaker for use as a public address system. To prevent acoustic feedback, separate the microphone from the speaker when operating the PA at high output levels. 18. EXT. SP: Connects an 8-ohm 4-watt speaker to remotely monitor the receiver. When the external speaker is plugged in, the internal speaker is off. 19. POWER: Connects DC power to transceiver. All channels, except Channel 9 may be used for normal communication. Channel 9 is reserved by the FCC for emergency communications involving the immediate safety of individuals or protection of property. Channel 9 may also be used to render assistance to a motorist. This is an FCC rule and applies to all CB operators.

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Installation MOBILE STATION INSTALLATION
Plan the location of the transceiver and microphone bracket before beginning installation. 1. Select a location that is convenient for operating the radio, but does not interfere with the driver or passenger. 2. Install bracket with self-tapping screws provided. 3. Connect wiring. (See instructions for Connecting the Power Cords). 4. Attach the microphone bracket to side of the radio. 5. Attach radio to bracket.

MOBILE STATION ANTENNA

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, we strongly recommend 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. However, the efficiency of the short whip antenna is less than that of a full quarter-wave whip antenna.

MARINE INSTALLATION

Consult your dealer for information regarding marine installation. It is important to adequately ground the system and to prevent electrolysis between the fittings in the hull and the water.

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CONNECTING THE POWER CORDS
We recommend 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. Or, the power cord may be connected to an available terminal on the fuse block, or, to a point in the wiring harness. However, caution must be taken to prevent a short circuit. If in doubt, contact your vehicle dealer for information.

GROUND INFORMATION

This transceiver may be installed and used in any 12-volt DC negative or positive ground system vehicle. 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

If you have a negative ground system, 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.

Positive Ground System

If you have a positive ground system, connect the black DC power cord from the transceiver to the negative (-) battery terminal or other convenient point. Then, connect the red power cord to the vehicle chassis or the positive (+) battery terminal.

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To Receive
Be sure that the power source, antenna, and microphone are properly connected before proceeding. 1. Turn unit ON. VOLUME Control to a comfortable level.

2. Select CHANNEL.

3. Set switch to NB/ANL.
Dynamic Squelch Control automatically sets Squelch to the optimal level for stronger transmission and signal clarity. To scan for weaker signals, turn off Dynamic Squelch Control and perform the following steps:
4. Turn SQUELCH fully clockwise so only strong signals can get through. 4b. Turn SQUELCH fullY counterclockwise until you hear a hiss. Everything gets through - noise, weak signals, and strong signals. 4c. Turn SQUELCH back clockwise until the hiss stops. Only clearer signals get through. Set SQUELCH only when the radio is not receiving a strong signal.

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5. Adjust RF GAIN knob (small) to optimize reception in strong signal areas.
6. Adjust MIC GAIN knob (large) to adjust microphone sensitivity.

To Transmit

Perform a voltage Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) measurement prior to using the transmitter. A 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. 1. Select a channel. 2. Adjust MIC GAIN.
3. When the channel is clear, press the microphone PTT switch and speak.

Function Meter

RF Meter: Measures RF Output Power for transmitter. Press microphone PTT switch to read transmitting power. S-Meter: Measures incoming signal strength. The meter swings to indicate signal strength. i.e. S 3, S 5, S 7.

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Preventive Maintenance

Every six months: 1. Check the Standing Wave Ratio (SWR). 2. Be sure all electrical connections are tight. 3. Inspect antenna coaxial cable for wear or breaks in shielding. 4. Be sure all screws and mounting hardware are tight.

Maintenance

The PC68XL 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: 1. Press ends of the fuse holder together. Twist to open. Carefully separate the two pieces.
2. Remove the fuse and inspect. If blown, replace with the same type fuse. Use only the fuse specified for your PC68XL. Failure to do so may void your warranty.

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Troubleshooting
In the event of system malfunction, perform the following procedures: Problem Unit does not power up Suggestion Check the ignition key position. Check power cord connections. Check fuse. Check vehicle electrical system. Check microphone connection. Set CB/PA switch to CB. Check VOLUME and SQUELCH. Check antenna. Check antenna connection. Set RF GAIN to MAX Check VOLUME and SQUELCH. Be sure antenna SWR is normal. Set RF GAIN to MAX. Set CB/PA switch to CB. Check microphone connection. Check MIC GAIN and adjust to MAX. Check MIC GAIN and adjust to MAX.

u u u u

No reception

u u u u u u

Poor Reception

No Transmission

Low Transmission
If you do not get satisfactory results after performing the above checks, call the Uniden Customer Service Center at 1-800-297-1023, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday.
Servicing Your Transceiver
Technical information, diagrams, and charts are provided on request. It is the user's responsibility to see that this radio is operating at all times in accordance with the FCC Citizens Radio Service regulations. We highly recommend that you consult a qualified radio/telephone technician for servicing and aligning this CB radio product. Please refer to the WARNING information on page 2 of this Guide. When ordering parts, be sure to specify the correct model number and serial number of the unit. 10

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Specifications

GENERAL

Channel: Frequency Range: Frequency Control: Antenna Impedance: Power lnput: Current Drain TX: RX: Operating Temperature: Accessories: 40 26.965 - 27.405 MHz PLL Synthesizer 50 ohms 13.8 VDC AM Full Modulation 2.2 A max) Squelch 25 A -30C to 60C -10C to +60C (DSC on) DC Power Cord Microphone Microphone Hanger Mounting Bracket 160 mm x 55 mm x 217 mm 3 Pounds 4 watts 6A3 Better than 40 dB 0.002% 100% -70 dB 50 ohm, unbalanced 0.5 V 0.5 V 0.5 V 50 ohms 1000 V 100 V 5 watts 4 watts 7 kHz 60 dB 70 dB 16 ohm 80 ohms.375 A 4 watts
Size (W x D x H): Weight:

TRANSMITTER

Output Power: Emission Type: Hum and Noise: Frequency Tolerance: Modulation Percentage (Peak): Spurious Rejection: Output Impedance:

RECEIVER

Sensitivity at 10 dB S+N/N: Sensitivity at 500 mW Audio Output: Squelch Threshold: Antenna Impedance: Squelch Tight: Signal Meter S-9: Audio Output Power (max.): Audio Output (10% Dist.): Selectivity @ 6 dB Down: Adjacent Channel Rejection: Image Rejection: Internal Speaker Impedance: External Speaker Impedance: Current Drain @ No Signal (max):

PUBLIC ADDRESS

Output Power at 10% Distortion:
Specifications shown are typical and subject to change without notice.

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Two-Year Extended Warranty
Important: Evidence of original purchase is required for warranty service.
WARRANTOR: UNIDEN AMERICA CORPORATION (Uniden) ELEMENTS OF WARRANTY: Uniden warrants, for two years, 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 two years 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 owners manual for this product. STATEMENT OF REMEDY: In the event that the product does not conform to this warranty at any time while this warranty is in effect, warrantor will either, at its option, repair or replace the defective unit and return it to you without charge for parts, service, or any other cost (except shipping and handling) incurred by warrantor or its representatives in connection with the performance of this warranty. Warrantor, at its option, may replace the unit with a new or refurbished unit. THE LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH ABOVE IS THE SOLE AND ENTIRE WARRANTY PERTAINING TO THE PRODUCT AND IS IN LIEU OF AND EXCLUDES ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR ARISING BY OPERATION OF LAW, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER OR PROVIDE FOR THE REIMBURSEMENT OR PAYMENT OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow this exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. LEGAL REMEDIES: This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. This warranty is void outside the United States of America. PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING PERFORMANCE OF WARRANTY: If, after following the instructions in the owners manual you are certain that the Product is defective, pack the Product carefully (preferably in its original packaging). The Product should include all parts and accessories originally packaged with the Product. Include evidence of original purchase and a note describing the defect that has caused you to return it. The Product should be shipped freight prepaid, by traceable means, to warrantor at: Uniden America Corporation Parts and Service Division 4700 Amon Carter Blvd Fort Worth, TX 76155 (800) 297-1023, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Central, Monday through Friday

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Radio Code Definitions
The following list contains common 10-Codes used by CB radio operators for faster communication and better understanding. Code
10-1 10-2 10-3 10-4 10-5 10-6 10-7 10-8 10-9 10-10 10-11 10-12 10-13 10-16 10-17 10-18 10-19 10-20 10-21 10-22 10-23 10-24 10-25 10-26 10-27 10-28 10-29 10-30 10-32 10-33 10-34

Meaning

Received poorly Receiving well Stop transmitting OK, message received Relay message Busy, stand by Out of service, leaving air In service, subject to call Repeat message Transmission completed, standing by Talking too rapidly Visitors present Advise Weather/ Road conditions Make pickup at Urgent business Anything for us? Nothing for you, return to base My location is Call by telephone Report in person to Stand by Completed last assignment Can you contact Disregard last information I am moving to channel Identify your station Time is up for contact Does not conform to FCC rules I will give you a radio check EMERGENCY TRAFFIC Trouble at this station
10-35 10-36 10-37 10-38 10-39 10-41 10-42 10-43 10-44 10-45
Confidential information Correct time is Wrecker needed at Ambulance needed at Your message is delivered Please turn to channel Traffic accident at Traffic tie up at I have a message for you All units within range please report 10-50 Break channel 10-60 What is next message number 10-62 Unable to copy, use phone 10-63 Net directed to 10-64 Net clear 10-65 Awaiting your next message/assignment 10-67 All units comply 10-70 Fire at 10-71 Proceed with transmission in sequence 10-77 Negative contact 10-81 Reserve hotel room for 10-82 Reserve room for 10-84 My telephone number is 10-85 My address is 10-91 Talk closer to microphone 10-93 Check my frequency on this channel 10-94 Please give me a long count 10-99 Mission completed, all units secure 10-200 Police needed at

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