REI mesa 2.0 User manual

User Manual
MOBILITY ENHANCED SPECTRUM ANALYZER
Research Electronics International, LLC

MESA® 2.0 DELUXE CASE CONTENTS
1. MESA Unit*
2. (2) Lithium-Ion Batteries*
- Stored under unit
3. Visible Light/Infrared Probe
- Stored under Locator Probe
4. Locator Probe
5. VLF Loop*
6. Ultrasonic Probe
7. Audio Transformer
8. Directional Antenna
- Stored under Down Converter
9. Down Converter Antenna
10 Multi-Carrier Probe (MCP)
11. Whip Antenna*
12. Battery Charger
- Partially stored under Down Converter
13. Power Plug with International adapters
14. GPS Adapter
15. Fixed Dipole Antenna*
16. Headphones (2)*
- In pocket
17. (2) Powered QMA antenna cables
(2) Non-Powered QMA cables*
18. Acoustic Leakage Detector
19. Accessory Cables, screen cleaner*,
data storage thumb-drive
*Item included in the MESA Basic, but case location
may vary.
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This document is intended to provide guidance and instruction on using the MESA 2.0 –Mobility
Enhanced Spectrum Analyzer for finding hidden electronic devices.
This manual contains proprietary information intended solely for use with the MESA 2.0 product.
The overall effectiveness of this product, and of any surveillance countermeasure, is dependent on the
threat level and the user’s ability to properly use the appropriate equipment.
REI offers the world’s largest commercially available Technical Security training facility. Training courses
include classroom instruction and hands-on exercises where students perform sweep exercises in “live”
environments utilizing target-rich project rooms. The progressive course curriculum is designed for the
beginner or the seasoned Technical Security Technician.
Regularly scheduled courses are taught monthly; visit REI’s website (www.reiusa.net) or contact REI
([email protected]et) for training dates.

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Revision 2.3
© COPYRIGHT RESEARCH ELECTRONICS INTERNATIONAL
REI products are designed and intended for legal commercial applications. However, because laws
and regulations vary from state to state and country to country, it is the sole responsibility of the
purchaser and user/operator to check and comply with all applicable laws and regulations for the
possession and operation of this equipment before and after making a purchase.
Information contained in this manual including product operation and specifications is subject to
change without notice.
Any product or brand names contained in this manual are used only for identification purposes and are
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
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.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one
or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
- Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver isconnected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The Serial Number of each MESA is located on the back of the unit. Please record this number and
refer to it whenever you contact your dealer or Research Electronics International concerning this
product. Note: Removal or alteration of the serial number automatically voids all warranties of this
product.
SERIAL NUMBER:
Research Electronics International, LLC
455 Security Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506
U.S.A. [phone] (US Only)
[phone]
www.reiusa.net

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Contents
Warnings and Cautions...........................................................................................................................6
Equipment Description .................................................................................................................................8
MESA®2.0 Unit..........................................................................................................................................8
Cleaning and Maintenance .........................................................................................................................10
Operation....................................................................................................................................................10
Setup & Use ............................................................................................................................................10
Inserting the Battery...............................................................................................................................11
Power Control and Charging...................................................................................................................12
MESA®2.0 Packages................................................................................................................................13
Probes, Antennas, and Accessories ........................................................................................................13
Audio Transformer Batteries ..................................................................................................................18
Connecting the Antenna & Probes .........................................................................................................19
Powered Connector Cable (only included with the MESA 2.0 Deluxe) ..............................................19
Manual Selection of Probes ................................................................................................................20
Display.....................................................................................................................................................21
Status Bar................................................................................................................................................22
Mode Settings Menu...........................................................................................................................22
Volume Control...................................................................................................................................22
Screenshot ..........................................................................................................................................22
Help.....................................................................................................................................................22
GPS Location .......................................................................................................................................23
Network Status and Setup ..................................................................................................................25
Battery Life..........................................................................................................................................25
Setting the Time Zone, Date, and Time ..............................................................................................26
Attenuator/PreAmp............................................................................................................................27
Modes .....................................................................................................................................................27
Mode Menu ........................................................................................................................................27
Spectrum Mode ..................................................................................................................................27
SmartBars™.........................................................................................................................................44

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Mobile Bands ......................................................................................................................................53
Wi-Fi....................................................................................................................................................63
Bluetooth ............................................................................................................................................77
Additional Features.................................................................................................................................81
Signal List Window..............................................................................................................................81
Image Viewer & Audio Player .............................................................................................................88
Locked Monitor Mode ........................................................................................................................90
Network Configuration .......................................................................................................................91
VNC Operation ....................................................................................................................................94
Down Converter Directional Antenna Operation ...............................................................................98
Universal RF Antenna Input ................................................................................................................98
Updating Software............................................................................................................................100
System Menu ........................................................................................................................................101
Brightness..........................................................................................................................................101
Version ..............................................................................................................................................101
Image Viewer ....................................................................................................................................101
Audio Player......................................................................................................................................101
Network Settings...............................................................................................................................101
Prefix Settings ...................................................................................................................................101
ITU Region.........................................................................................................................................102
Power-Down Cache Setting ..............................................................................................................102
Snap-to-Peak Setting.........................................................................................................................102
Save Settings.....................................................................................................................................103
Factory Reset ....................................................................................................................................104
MESA 2.0 Specifications........................................................................................................................105
Receiver.............................................................................................................................................105
Features ............................................................................................................................................105
Power................................................................................................................................................105
Mechanical........................................................................................................................................106
Environmental...................................................................................................................................106

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Warnings and Cautions
MESA 2.0
CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by REI could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
The MESA is for professional use only.
For your safety do not use the MESA if:
oThe MESA cables or plugs become frayed or otherwise damaged.
oThe MESA housing is cracked or otherwise damaged.
oYou suspect that the unit requires servicing.
Only use REI-approved power sources, batteries, chargers, and accessories. The supplied power
supply is REI #R-00021 (Front Power #A481-1503000I). The supplied battery pack is REI #R-
00001 (RRC Power Solutions #RRC-2040), a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery.
The slots in the housing of the unit are vents and are part of the ventilation system. Do not block
these vents during the operation of the unit.
The fan that is visible from the back of the unit is part of the ventilation system. The fan does
not operate constantly but only as needed to reduce the internal temperature of the unit. Do
not forcibly stop or disrupt the operation of the fan.
Equipment is to be serviced by the manufacturer only. There are no serviceable parts inside.
Contact your dealer or Research Electronics International, LLC for repairs. Opening the unit will
void the warranty.
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified in this manual, the protection of the
equipment may be impaired.
For your safety do not use the AC power adapter or the included USB cable if:
oThe cable becomes frayed or otherwise damaged.
oThe power adapter plugs are damaged.
oThe power adapter housing is cracked or otherwise damaged.
oThe power adapter is exposed to rain, liquid, or excessive moisture.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
CAUTION: RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE. DISPOSE OF
USED BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS.
For your safety do not use any MESA battery if:
oThe battery case is cracked or otherwise damaged.
oThe battery is excessively hot or warm for any reason.
Avoid shorting the battery, immersing in water, or exposing to fire. Also, avoid excessive
physical shock or vibration.
Only use the specified REI battery chargers or products to charge REI batteries.
There are no serviceable parts inside the battery. Contact your dealer or Research Electronics
International, LLC for repairs. Opening or puncturing the unit can be dangerous and may result
in injury.

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Using the Lithium-Ion batteries in a manner not specified by this user’s guide may override the
equipment’s built-in protection mechanisms.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Dispose of Lithium-Ion batteries in accordance with local regulations.

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Equipment Description
MESA®2.0 Unit
1. Touch Screen Display - user interface for MESA
2. Battery Door (on the bottom of the unit) - conceals battery compartment
3. Speaker (on the back of the unit) - used to output audio from the unit
4. Fan - used for cooling unit

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5. Power Button - turns the unit off and on
6. Power input - for AC adapter (only use REI-supplied AC Adapter)
7. Ethernet connector - Used to access the MESA unit remotely using VNC (Virtual Network
Computing) 3rd party software
8. Audio Input - for connecting the Acoustic Leakage Detector and the Audio Transformer to test
for the presence of audio. The Acoustic Leakage Detector and the Audio Transformer are
included with the MESA 2.0 Deluxe package from REI.
9. Headphone Jack - for connection of headphones to monitor audio from the unit.
10. USB Port - for saving files from the MESA and for possible future use as probe/accessory control.
Note: Only a single USB thumb drive (see pg. 100 for compatible formats) at a time is supported.
Even if a USB hub is connected, only a single storage USB drive is supported.
11. QMA Connector (RF Input) with Quick Disconnect - for connecting the included REI antennas or
other RF antennas
12. Hand Strap - to help support holding the MESA unit
13. Probe Grip - for clipping probe handles to the MESA unit

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Cleaning and Maintenance
To prevent electrical shock, unplug the MESA from AC power and remove the battery.
For the display, wipe gently with a soft cloth. A small amount of ethyl alcohol or a neutral detergent may
be used. Please exercise caution when handling hazardous chemicals.
For general cleaning and decontamination, use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution. For more
thorough decontamination, a small amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol could be used.
Operation
The MESA 2.0 has been designed for quick and easy deployment. Depending on the application, some
adjustments to the default setting may be needed.
The MESA 2.0 is a swept spectrum analyzer featuring a bar graph representation of the spectrum and is
used to locate transmitters by monitoring the RF signal strength. When searching for unknown
transmitters, it is advised to remove or disable any known transmitters from the target sweep area (i.e.,
unplug, turn off, or remove any wireless transmitting devices including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices,
laptops/PCs, mobile phones, wireless transmitting devices, etc.), as any transmitting devices can hinder
detection of unknown transmitters.
Setup & Use
A hand strap is provided on the side of the MESA. When using the product in a hand-held manner, hold
the unit securely by sliding a hand under the hand strap and gripping the side of the unit. The hand strap
and probe grip can be swapped if preferred.
A built-in stand is provided to allow for hands-free support on a tabletop or surface. To release the
stand, pull the bottom of the stand away from the MESA unit until it releases from the built-in clips.
Continue extending the stand to its furthest position. Place the MESA on a sturdy, level surface resting
on its back edge and the stand.

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Inserting the Battery
The battery-operated MESA provides for truly hand-held, portable spectrum analysis. To insert a
battery:
1. Locate the battery door latch on the rear of the MESA near the bottom edge of the unit.
2. Supporting the MESA unit with both hands, place a thumb on the battery door latch.
3. Simultaneously press on the battery door latch while sliding it away from the unit.
4. Once the battery door is lifted, place a thumb under the edge of it and open it up fully.
5. Slide the battery into the battery slot observing proper contact alignment. Press until the
battery is fully seated. Do not force the battery into the slot; resistance may indicate improper
battery alignment.
6. Close the battery door until the edge lines up with the lip on the battery door latch. Then place
fingers and thumb on both the battery door and the latch and press them close together.

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Power Control and Charging
To turn on the MESA unit, ensure that a charged battery is in the unit or connect the supplied AC
adapter and press and hold the power button (see page 8) until it begins flashing. During operation, to
turn off the MESA unit, press and hold the power button until the "Power Off" graphic appears on the
screen.
Press and hold the power button for 8 seconds or more to perform a firmware reset. This method
should only be used if the unit has locked up and the normal shutdown method is not functioning.
The MESA unit has a built-in battery charger. The MESA
unit will automatically begin charging an inserted battery
if the AC adapter is connected. Plug the AC Wall adapter
into the power outlet and then plug the connector into
the port labeled "Power" on the top of the MESA.
Note: If the operating temperature of the unit is elevated,
above 37 degrees C, the battery charging will not begin
until the temperature drops below 37 degrees C.
Note: It is recommended that the MESA battery be
recharged regularly during extended periods of storage (3
months or more) to prevent damage to the battery.
Additionally, when storing the MESA for long periods (1
month or more), it is recommended that the battery be
removed from the unit and placed in the storage
compartment in the case. Storing the MESA with the
battery in the unit can deplete it more rapidly, potentially
shortening the life of the battery.

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MESA®2.0 Packages
The MESA 2.0 is available in two packages (Basic and Deluxe) with varying probes, antennas, and
accessories. Below is a chart showing which probes, antennas, and accessories are included in each
package (note that this is subject to change). Additional information can be found in the Probes,
Antennas, and Accessories section on the following pages.
Probes/Accessories
MESA 2.0 PACKAGES
BSC
DLX
Fixed Dipole Antenna (85 MHz - 6 GHz)
X
X
Whip Antenna (30 MHz - 6 GHz)
X
X
MCP Multi-Carrier Probe (100 kHz - 60 MHz, 5 MHz - 2 GHz)
X
X
VLF Loop Antenna (10 kHz - 30 MHz)
X
X
Batteries (2)
X
X
Down Converter Antenna (500 MHz - 12 GHz)
X
Directional Antenna (70 MHz - 500 MHz)
X
Locator Probe (20 MHz - 6 GHz)
X
Visible Light / Infrared Probe (10 kHz - 50 MHz)
X
Ultrasonic Probe (15 kHz - 80 kHz)
X
Audio Transformer (300 Hz - 20 kHz)
X
Acoustic Leakage Detector (300 Hz - 20 kHz)
X
GPS Adapter
X
Probes, Antennas, and Accessories
Fixed Dipole Antenna (85 MHz - 6 GHz)
The Fixed Dipole Antenna is a versatile, omnidirectional antenna that connects directly to the MESA unit
without the need for cables.

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Whip Antenna (30 MHz - 6 GHz)
The Whip / Dipole is a versatile, omnidirectional, near-field probe used for locating RF transmitters up to
6 GHz.
MCP Multi-Carrier Probe (100 kHz - 60 MHz, 5 MHz - 2 GHz)
The MCP (Multi-Carrier Probe) extends the functionality of the MESA
with the addition of different connectors to allow for the analysis of
suspicious signals: an AC power plug and coaxial connectors.
To use the AC power plug, the "MCP (AC Carrier Current)" option
must be selected in the Input Info window (see page 20). To use the
coaxial connectors, the "MCP (Coax)" option must be selected in the
Input Info window.
The MCP can be used to test for carrier current signals on any pair of
conductors less than 250 volts. Before testing an unidentified pair of
power conductors, a voltmeter should be used to measure the voltage across the conductors. If this
voltage exceeds 250 volts, do not test with the Carrier Current Probe. Two power plugs are included for
connection to US-style or Euro-style outlets. The included alligator clip cable assembly should only be
used on 50V or less. Measurements can be made with three different pair configurations using the
switch on the front of the carrier current probe: Hot/Neutral, Neutral/Ground, and Hot/Ground.
Due to power line noise and the broad frequency range that MESA searches, every outlet in an area
should be inspected.
The coaxial connectors on the MCP can be used to test for suspicious signals on coaxial cables. The MCP
can be used to make both in-line measurements and single-ended measurements. For in-line
measurements, connect one side to the Coax Input. The same signal will be output at the Coax Output
connector. For single-ended measurements, connect to the Coax Input connector.

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VLF Loop Antenna (10 kHz - 30 MHz)
The VLF Loop Antenna is an omnidirectional antenna used for locating low-frequency signals below 30
MHz.
Down Converter Directional Antenna (500 MHz - 12 GHz)
The Down Converter Antenna is a directional antenna that operates in 2 user-selectable bands:
Band 1: 500 MHz - 6 GHz
Band 2: 6 GHz - 12 GHz
When using Band 2, the Down Converter Antenna converts signals occurring above the standard 6 GHz
threshold so they can be detected and displayed on the MESA. For details on operation, see page 98.

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Directional Antenna (70 MHz - 500 MHz)
This flag-shaped antenna provides directional coverage for lower-frequency signal detection. It is a
powered probe and must be used with one of the powered connector cables (see page 19).
Locator Probe (20 MHz - 6 GHz)
The Locator Probe is omnidirectional and is attenuated for use in high RF environments and for locating
an RF signal to within a few inches.
Visible Light / Infrared Probe (10 kHz - 50 MHz)
The Visible Light / Infrared Probe can be used for detecting the presence of IR or visible light. This probe
is a powered probe and must be used with one of the powered connector cables (see page 19).

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Ultrasonic Probe (15 kHz - 80 kHz)
The ultrasonic probe detects sound waves operating above the upper limit of human hearing
capabilities. The ultrasonic probe is a powered probe and must be used with one of the powered
connector cables (see page 19).
Audio Transformer (300 Hz - 20 kHz)
The Audio Transformer is a balanced audio coupler to provide
electrical isolation for audio testing. A 3.5 mm stereo to 3.5
mm stereo cable is included with the MESA to connect the
audio transformer to the MESA. Two push buttons provide a
positive and negative bias voltage to the two banana jacks on
the audio transformer. The control knob on the audio
transformer adjusts the level of the applied bias voltage from
0 to 22 volts. An included set of banana jack test leads with
bed-of-nail alligator clips allow the audio transformer to be
used on 66 blocks or other wires.
Acoustic Leakage Detector (ALD) (300 Hz - 20 kHz)
With the Acoustic Leakage Detector, the operator can determine the
vulnerability of acoustic leakage by placing the probe against structural objects
such as walls or windows. The Acoustic Leakage Detector connects to the
Audio Input on the MESA.

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GPS Adapter
The GPS Adapter is used to obtain GPS coordinates. If the GPS Adapter is connected and enabled, the
MESA will tag saved files with the GPS coordinates and will store GPS coordinates for the signals in a
signal list. For additional information on storing GPS information, see page 23.
Audio Transformer Batteries
The audio transformer, which is an accessory probe included with the MESA 2.0 Deluxe package,
requires two A23C batteries, which are customer replaceable.
To replace the audio transformer batteries:
1. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the two screws from the back of the audio
transformer.
2. Locate the two A23C batteries and replace, being careful to observe the polarity marked on the
unit.

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Connecting the Antenna & Probes
The MESA 2.0 Basic and Deluxe packages include connector cables for connecting probes and antennas.
Powered Connector Cable (only included with the MESA 2.0 Deluxe)
The powered connector cable is included with the MESA 2.0 Deluxe package and is required to operate
the flag-shaped Directional Antenna (70 MHz - 500 MHz), the Down Converter Antenna, the visible light
/ infrared probe, and the Ultrasonic probe. Other passive probes included with the MESA 2.0 Deluxe will
also work with the powered connector cable. The powered connector cable has a pin on each end that
transfers power to the powered probes. When connecting the powered connector cable to the MESA
2.0, it is important to align the power pin on the cable with the power contact pad on the MESA 2.0 for
the connector to snap into place.
Note: When disconnecting the powered connector cable, pull from the cable release for leverage. Do
not pull from the cable. Doing so could damage or shorten the life of the cable. It is not necessary to
power off the MESA 2.0 when changing probes/antennas. The MESA 2.0 provides a quick-release
mechanism to help with removing cables. Press down on the quick-release lever while simultaneously
pulling from the cable release for leverage.