ACECO FC3001 User manual

Introduction
The Aceco FC3001is the latest advance in hand-held radio frequency finder. It excels at finding frequencies for secure
monitoring applications. It automatically and instantly tunes ICOM CI-V or AOR receivers to the frequency it finds. It is
compact, truly pocket-sized and is designed for ease of use and reliable performance. It comes complete with internal
NiCd pack, AC wall charger, 7 section telescopic antenna and interface cable.
Specifications
Frequency range: 10 MHz - 3 GHz
Weight: 210 g
Size: 80 mm high x 68 mm wide x 31 mm deep
Impedance: 50 Ohms (BNC Socket)
Case: Stamped aluminum with black anodized finish
Battery: Internal 4 x AA 600 mAH NiCd pack
Power: 9 VDC 300 mA
Timebase: Less than 1 PPM at room temperature
Features
l7digit Liquid Crystal Display
lLow power consumption (Average 6 hour battery life)
lSupplied with NiCd pack, AC wall charger, telescopic antenna and interface cable
lAutomatically holds and tunes ICOM CI-V or AOR receivers
lFilter prevents display of random noise
lHold switch to lock display
lLow battery indicator
lUltra sensitive synchronous detector 16 section bargraph to show RF signal strength
lHigh speed counter with 1 KHz resolution
Controls
1. Power Switch. This slide switch turns the RF finder on which also initiates a 2 second self-test.
2. Com Switch. This slide switch selects either the ICOM CI-V receivers or the AOR receivers.
3. Filter Switch. Slide the switch to turn the filter on and off.
4. Hold Button. This holds the current display and stops the RF finder from counting.
5. Function Button. This selects the frequency or period. This button has four settings. One each for displaying
frequency or period as these are received, and two settings for automatic hold and tune of the first frequency or
period found.
6. Calibration. The calibration adjustment opening is located on the front panel of the RF finder. This allows access to
the trimmer capacitor that provides about a 10 PPM adjustment range of the time base oscillator. This is not usually
necessary but to do so read a signal of aknown frequency before adjusting the trimmer for correct frequency display.
If you calibrate at 4.1943 MHz or above then the RF finder will be more accurate.
Warranty
Aceco Electronics, Corp. guarantees the RF finder and its accessories for one year against defects in manufacture. This
warranty does not cover items that have been modified, subject to unauthorized repairs, misuse or abuse. This warranty
does not cover damage caused by excessive power levels applied to the signal input. Never make any kind of connection
between the RF finder and a transmitter.
ACECO FC3001
RF FINDER

Hints and Tips
1. NiCd Operation
This RF finder can operate for up to six hours from its fully charged NiCd batteries. They are charged when the unit is
plugged into the supplied AC/DC adapter. Full recharge will occur over 12 to 16 hours. Before recharging the batteries you
should be deep cycled occasionally by allowing them to completely discharge to maintain maximum battery capacity. The
NiCd batteries should last for several years. However, it is a good idea to check them every twelve months for signs of
corrosion or leakage. Always replace the whole set if any one cell fails.
2. Signal Input
When using the RF finder with an antenna for signal pick up, random frequencies may appear on the display. This is quite
normal and is caused by the high gain of the receiver circuits, which amplify noise in the absence of a strong readable
signal. Never get the unit too close to a transmitter as internal damage will result.
3. Antenna Selection
The supplied telescopic antenna is best for general purpose use. This is because its length can be adjusted to suit the
frequency required. Usually you will want a shorter antenna for UHF and a fully extended one for VHF / HF.
4. Reception Distance From Transmitter
The distance from which you will be able to receive frequencies will depend upon the type and location of the transmitting
antenna, transmitter output power and the frequency in use.
Some typical distances are:
Cordless Phone 0.6 meters
Cellular Phone 6 - 20 m
CB radio 4 - 8 m
VHF Two Way Radio 6 - 30 m
UHF Two Way Radio 6 - 30 m
Input Sensitivity ( Typical )
Amplifier: 50 Ohm
Impedance: 50 Ohm VSWR less than 2:1
Range: 10 MHz - 3 GHz
Sensitivity: less than 2 mV at 100 MHz - 1.2 GHz
Max. input: 15 dBm
RF Signal Strength Bargraph
Frequency 1st Segment Full Scale
27 MHz 7 mV 100 mV
150 MHz 5 mV 90 mV
800 MHz 10 mV 200 mV