Selcom Security ST 401 CAYMAN User manual

PORTABLE
NONLINEAR JUNCTION DETECTOR
ST 401 CAYMAN
OPERATING MANUAL

CONTENTS
pg.
1. Description 3
1.1. Purpose 3
1.2. Delivery package 3
1.3. Main Technical Specications 4
1.4. Principles of Operation 5
1.5. Operation Modes 5
1.6. Structure 6
1.6.1. Antenna Module 6
1.6.2. Main Unit 8
2. Use 9
2.1. Preparation 9
2.2. Adaptive Mode 10
2.3. Operational check with test dummies 10
2.4. Manual Gain Control 11
2.5. Listening (Audio Mode) 33
2.6. Program Updates 15
3. Power Supply 15
4. Operating Restrictions 16
5. Storage and Transportation 16
6. Warranty 16
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This operating manual contains important technical information and guidance on proper use
of the product. Please read the manual before using ST 400 Cayman.
1. Description
1.1. Purpose
ST 401 CAYMAN is intended to detect and locate
• eavesdropping electronics
• mobile phones and SIM cards
• any other devices utilising semiconductor technology
ST 401 allows detecting electronic devices, whether active or not, as well as nding
their exact location. It also enables one to distinguish between return signals from real
semiconductors and other kinds of responses, such as those given by corrosion or metal-oxide-
metal structures.
1.2. Delivery package
ST 401 comes in a shockproof case NANUK-915, The delivery package includes the
following.
Item Quantity No. in Fig.1
ST 401 ‘Cayman’ NLJD 1 1
Accumulator Battery (type 18650) 4 2
Electric Charger 1 3
Charger Power Adapter 1 4
Headphones 1 5
Semiconductor Imitating Dummy (marked red) 1 6
MOM-Structure Imitating Dummy (marked blue) 1 7
Case 1 8
Operating Manual 1not shown
in gure
Fig. 1
3

Range of radiated frequencies 2–3GHz
Max. peak radiated power < 2W
Antenna polarisation elliptic
Operation modes SEARCH
AUDIO
ADAPT
Sensitivity range in manual mode 40dB (5 values with 8dB increment)
Response indication
– visual three 16-segment gauges
– aural internal speaker or headphones
Power supply two 3.7V Li-ion batteries (type 18650)
Time of operation on one battery charge 3–4 hours, depending on operation mode
Battery charging time < 3 hrs
Operating conditions
– working temperature range +5...+40°С
– relative air humidity up to 85 percent (at 25°С)
Weight (with batteries) 0,85kg
Dimensions (length×width×height) 340х130х160mm
Weight of full set in case 3,7kg
1.3. Main Technical Specications
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1.4. Principles of Operation
ST 401 ‘Cayman’ is a nonlinear junction detector, or NLJD. Instruments of this type employ
active detection, i.e. they emit probing signals and analyse the return. Their primary search targets
are electronic devices, and those typically consist of circuit plates with conductive elements and
various semiconductor parts connected to them, such as diodes, transistors, and microchips.
The probing electromagnetic radiation induces variable electromotive forces in these loops, and
electronic components with a non-linear current-voltage curve transform the initial signal into its
higher frequency harmonics, which come back to the NLJD’s receiver.
Higher harmonics can also be re-radiated by corroded metal or the so-called MOM-diodes,
metal-oxide-metal structures brought about by contacting metal surfaces. However, these
formations return somewhat different spectra than semiconductors.
With ST 401 one can distinguish with high probability between responses given by real
semiconductors, and those ‘faked’ by MOM-structures or corrosion. Another important advantage
is a condent detection of search targets behind partially shielding obstacles, which is achieved
by simultaneously radiating several frequencies within the 2-3GHz band and analysing the
composite picture of the reection spectrum.
1.5. Operation Modes
The NLJD ST 401 ‘Cayman’ has the following modes of operation:
Primary operation mode: SEARCH
Secondary operation mode: AUDIO
Service mode: ADAPT
The main operation mode named SEARCH is meant for detecting nonlinear targets and
identifying them, based on the response levels as indicated by 16-segment bars.
The auxiliary operation mode named AUDIO allows demodulating the response and listening
to it through the built-in speaker or headphones. Use this mode upon detecting a response in the
SEARCH mode.
The service mode named ADAPT is used to optimise the parameters in a given electromagnetic
environment and thus maximise the effectiveness of search. Engaging this mode is necessary
every time the device is switched on. It is advisable to pause during searches from time to time,
to repeat this procedure. During adaptation, the antenna must be pointed away from electronics
and large metal objects.
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1.6.1. Antenna module
The antenna module comprises a receiver-transmitter unit, a control-display unit, and an
aerial, all of which are assembled on a single platform and incorporated in a single body.
The antenna module is connected with the handle through a hinge joint that allows adjusting
the incline within the vertical plane, as shown in Fig. 3. Loosen the hinge screw (2, Fig. 6) to
change the incline, then tighten the screw again.
Fig. 3
1.6. Structure
Structurally, the ST 401 ‘Cayman’ NLJD consists of the antenna module and the main unit
connected by way of a hinge joint. The general appearance of ST401 is shown in Fig. 2, the
numbers standing for:
1 – antenna module
2 – main unit
Fig. 2
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Fig. 4
On the surface of antenna facing operator, there are an indicator panel, a socket for the power-
and-control cable, and a USB port for computer connection (Fig. 4). The numbers in Fig. 4
stand for the following:
# in Fig. 4 description colour subscript on
indicator panel
116-segment led gauge of threat-type response
levels
red 1
216-segment led gauge of MOM-type
response levels
blue 2
316-segment led gauge of reection levels white 3
4Power-on led indicator red POWER
5SEARCH mode indicator yellow SEARCH
6AUDIO mode indicator yellow AUDIO
75-segment tuning bar* yellow TUNING
8socket for power-and-control cable CONTROL
9USB port USB
* the TUNING segment bar has two functions:
– in the SEARCH mode, it shows the selected sensitivity of the receiver (SEN)
– in the AUDIO mode, it shows the selected frequency combination (CH 1..5)
The boresight directions of the receiving and transmitting antennas are shown in Fig. 5.
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1.6.2. Main Unit
The main unit of ST 401 ‘Cayman’ consists of a battery compartment, a control panel, and
mechanical parts that form the bearing structure. The appearance of the main unit and the location
of its components are shown in Fig. 6.
Fig. 6
The numbers in Fig. 6 stand for:
1 – bracket mount for the antenna module
2 – lever handle of the clamp
3 – power-and-control cable with plug
4 – headphone socket
5 – power and volume knob
6 – battery compartment
Fig. 5
7 – control panel
8 – grid of the built-in speaker
9 – ID plate
10 – battery compartment cap
8

A three-button control panel is located in
the upper part (Fig. 7).
The MODE button (1, Fig. 7) is used
to set the operation mode of the device. A
short press of this button alternates between
SEARCH and AUDIO; holding it down for a
few seconds will set the device to the ADAPT
mode.
The other two buttons marked with arrows
and (2 and 3, Fig. 7) are for tuning the
device. Depending on the mode, they allow:
– in the SEARCH mode, increasing
and decreasing the receiver sensitivity,
respectively.
– in the AUDIO mode, setting the desired
frequency combination. Fig. 7
The main unit has a battery compartment for 2 type 18650 accumulator batteries. Those are
enclosed with a screw cap (10, Fig. 6) that also serves as the negative contact.
Fore of the handle are the headphone socket (4, Fig. 6) and the power and volume knob
(5, Fig. 6). In the lower part there are a speaker grid (8, Fig. 6) and an ID plate (9, Fig. 6) that
indicates:
– product name
– serial number
– logo, and name of the manufacturer company.
2. USE
2.1. Preparation
Take the device and 2 batteries out of the case. Examine the antenna module, handle, cable
and socket for mechanical damage. Examine the batteries for mechanical damage and electrode
corrosion. Do not use the device if any such defects are found! To replace the batteries, do the
following:
Fig. 8
• unscrew the battery compartment cap;
• insert two accumulator batteries as
shown in Fig. 8, making sure you
observe the polarity;
• screw the cap back in place.
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Make sure the power switch (5, Fig. 6) is in its leftmost position (OFF). Insert the power-and-
control cord plug (3, Fig. 6) into the socket (8, Fig. 4) on the antenna module. Activate the device
by rotating the knob clockwise. The device status will be displayed on the antenna module as
shown in Table 1 below.
Table 1
legend colour light indication interpretation
POWER red continuous The antenna module is powered
properly.
blinking The battery is discharged and needs
to be replaced.
TUNING
SEN
yellow continuous This displays receiver gain. At
startup the gain is automatically set
to maximum, which is signalled by
all the 5 indicator segments being lit.
SEARCH yellow continuous This displays the operating mode.
The SEARCH mode is selected
automatically at startup.
Upon activation of the device one or more segments of the signal level gauges (1..3, Fig. 4)
may light and go out spontaneously. This would mean that the device should need to be adjusted
to the electromagnetic environment using the adaptive mode.
2.2. Adaptation mode
To activate this mode, press and hold for 3-4 sec the MODE button (1, Fig. 7) on the control
panel. The antenna must be directed away from large metal objects and anything that is presumed
to contain nonlinear elements (it is often best to point the antenna at either the oor or ceiling).
The adaptation takes 10–15 seconds, with all the indicators but TUNING lit in the meantime
on the antenna module. The TUNING indicator will be showing a consecutive lighting of
segments. The user can check if any of the indicator LEDs are dead.
Upon adaptation the device status will be displayed in accordance with Table 1.
Upon activation of the device one or more segments of the signal level gauges (1..3, Fig. 4)
may light and go out spontaneously. This would mean that the device should need to be adjusted
to the electromagnetic environment using the adaptive mode.
2.3. Operational check with test dummies
For that purpose select an area free of responses from nonlinear elements or reecting
surfaces, and place the dummy that is marked red.
Press button (3, Fig. 7) repeatedly to set the receiver gain at 3 lit segments of the
TUNING indicator, which corresponds to medium sensitivity.
Point the antenna at the test dummy and nd the distance at which all the 16 segments of the
INPUT LEVEL Gauge bar 1 light up. For a device that is in proper working order and has self-
tuned properly, this distance should be no less than 0.8 m.
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Repeat the procedure using the dummy with the blue marking. In doing so, nd the distance
at which all the segments of the INPUT LEVEL gauge bar 2 will be lit. For a properly working
device that has been adjusted to the environment, this distance should be no less than 0.3m.
If either distance is found to be smaller than the respective value above, it is advisable to
engage the self-tuning routine anew (see 2.2) and repeat the checks as described above.
If both distances exceed the required minimums, the device is functional and operation-ready.
2.4. Manual Gain Control
Once ST 401` Cayman has been prepared and proven functional as described above in 2.1 –
2.3, it can be put to use. When activated, the device starts up in SEARCH mode, and the receiver
gain is by default set to maximum, which is displayed by 5 lit segments of the TUNING indicator.
The SEARCH mode is the primary operation mode for ST 401. The operator can change the
receiver gain at his discretion, thus increasing or decreasing the detection range.
The gain can be varied discretely with an 8dB increment, over 5 values in a 40dB range; each
increment corresponds to one LED segment of the TUNING indicator. Thus, if all ve are lit, the
gain is equal to 40dB, providing maximum detection range. If all are dimmed, the gain is 0dB,
with minimum detection range. The gain can be brought a step up or down by a single pressing of
the TUNING buttons or (2 and 3, Fig. 7).
Levels of return signals from a target area are shown in the three INPUT LEVEL multi-
segment LED gauge bars (1-3, Fig. 4).
INPUT LEVEL led gauge bar 1 (16 red LEDs) displays the levels of return signals from
semiconductor material. The indication is accompanied with an alternating sound alarm.
INPUT LEVEL led gauge bar 2 (16 blue LEDs) displays the levels of return signals from
MOM (metal/oxide/metal) structures.
INPUT LEVEL led gauge bar 3 (16 white LEDs) displays the levels of return signals from
reecting surfaces (most likely, metal).
The greater the response of a certain type, the more LEDs will light up in the corresponding
INPUT LEVEL gauge bar.
Recommendations
With an NLJD one typically probes
• enclosing structures (walls, ceilings, oors)
• different parts of the interior
• various objects that are not supposed to contain semiconductor material
Items known to contain semiconductor components (electronic instruments, ofce and home
equipment, communication devices, etc.) are checked by other means.
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When running checks on enclosing structures, it is important to set a suitable receiver gain. If
excessive, it may well cause detection of objects behind the walls, which may be a problem when
there is no access into the adjoining spaces. On the other hand, if the gain is too small, targets of
interest with a weak response may remain undiscovered in the structure under scrutiny.
While scanning walls and other large vertical structures, it is recommendable to move the
antenna from top to bottom in a serpentine fashion, as is shown in Fig. 9.
Fig. 9
The antenna head should be held at a distance of 5-15 cm from the surface.
If a potent response is registered (all LEDs in an multi-segment LED gauge bar light up),
the gain should be decreased in order to establish the exact location of the responding target.
The primary task for an NLJD is the discovery of eavesdropping devices, whose giveaways
are the signals returned by semiconductor-containing electronic components and by MOM-
structures on casings, at junctures, etc. Therefore, particular attention should be paid to scanned
areas where responses have been observed on the red multi-segment LED gauge bar alone, and
on both red and blue INPUT LEVEL gauge bars. The nature of each such response should be
determined and its source identied.
A strong, off-scale response on one of the multi-segment LED gauge bars may be accompanied
by a much weaker one on another. As a rule, the former is a true response and the latter a false one;
it is advisable to decrease the gain or move away from the target until there is no scaling-off.
Small-sized objects should be checked at locations where no response is observed on any of
the three INPUT LEVEL multi-segment gauge bars, preferably away from large metal structures,
pillars, cabinets, safes, etc.
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2.5. Listening (AUDIO mode)
The AUDIO mode is primarily intended for analysing target responses by listening to the
demodulated signal output. This should give the operator ample information to identify the
response type.
To switch from SEARCH to AUDIO, press MODE. The SEARCH led (5, Fig. 4) on the
antenna head will then go off, and AUDIO led will light up (6, Fig. 4).
When the AUDIO mode is on, the device status will be displayed on the antenna module as
described in Table 2 below.
Table 2
legend colour light indication meaning
POWER red continuous The antenna module is powered properly.
blinking The battery is discharged and needs to be
replaced.
TUNING yellow continuous* The 5-segment bar displays the selected
probing frequency combination.
AUDIO yellow continuous AUDIO mode on.
INPUT
LEVEL 3
white varying numbers of
lit LEDs
The 16-segment bar displays the levels
of returned signals. Note: in the AUDIO
mode this gauge bar shows a sum total of
responses, regardless of their type.
*Upon switching to AUDIO, none of the TUNING bar segments are lit, which corresponds
to #0 frequency combination.
The ST 401 ‘Cayman’ NLJD makes it possible to listen to demodulated signals while probing
with six different frequency combinations. Each combination, indicated by LEDs on the TUNING
bar, is suited to deal with a particular category of nonlinear objects. Upon activation of the AUDIO
mode, frequency combination #0 is set by default; it is meant for probing semiconductor content
and, as a rule, gives good results in identifying active radio-transmitting and sound-recording
devices.
Frequency combination #1 is used to analyse return signals from MOM (metal/oxide/metal)
structures.
The remaining four combinations are auxiliary. Their use is advised when responses have been
observed in the SEARCH mode on the red INPUT LEVEL bar, yet probing with combination #0
has rendered no denitive ndings.
Table 3 shows correspondence between frequency combinations and responses observed in
the SEARCH mode.
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Table 3
indication on TUNING bar
freq. combination # 0 1 2 3 4 5
gauge bar # in SEARCH mode 12 1 1 1 1
Use buttons and to change probing frequency combinations (2 and 3, Fig. 7).
Table 4 shows typical results of analysing targets with nonlinear properties.
Table 4
Type of probed
target
Optimum frequency
combination
Sounds when
subjected to
mechanical impact
or test sound
Sounds in the
absence of
mechanical impact
or test sound
MOM-structure 1crackling, creaking none
active electronic
devices (unencoded
transmission channel)
0 (2–5) audible response to
tapping or test sound
sounds of the
environment
active electronic
devices (encoded
transmission channel)
0 (2–5) peculiar signals
caused by the
operation of
the device and
independent of
sounds in the
environment
peculiar signals
caused by the
operation of
the device and
independent of
sounds in the
environment
inactive electronic
devices
0 (2–5) none none
active electro-
mechanic or
mechanic appliances
0-5 crackling, creaking peculiar signals
caused by the
operation of
the device and
independent of
sounds in the
environment
When listening to demodulated signals, it is recommended to use headphones. Sound volume
is adjustable with a variable resistor (5, Fig. 6).
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Recommendations
Any response observed on the red bar (or on both red and blue bar simultaneously) should be
analysed in the audio mode with the use of a test sound source. If a response has been observed
on the blue bar, it is advisable to perform audio analysis with the frequency combination #1,
subjecting the target area to mechanical impact (tapping). While probing, it is advisable to change
gradually the distance between the antenna and target within 5–100 cm range.
Push the MODE button to switch from the AUDIO mode to SEARCH.
2.7. Program Updates
ST401 Cayman has a processor that operates in accordance with the program rmware that
is pre-installed by the manufacturer company. Over time the rmware gets rened and newer
versions get released, that can be installed through the USB port.
‘What is my rmware version?’
In order to nd out what rmware version is currently installed on your ST401, set it to
SEARCH, then press and hold it for 3 seconds. The three INPUT LEVEL bars (4, 5 and
6, Fig. 4) will light up, with the number of lit LEDs indicating the current version in the format
‘R.B.W’ (red, blue, and white). For example, if 1 red, 2 blue, and 5 white LEDs are lit up, then
the current version is 1.2.5.
Press any button to exit this mode.
Firmware update procedure
The newest rmware version, with issues sorted out or features added, can be downloaded
from http://spymarket.com/ (‘ST 401 CAYMAN’ section) and installed through the USB port
with the installer enclosed with the update les.
In order to update the ST 401 Cayman rmware, do the following:
– turn off the device (if activated)
– using a thin object, open the USB socket cover on the antenna panel (9, Fig. 4)
– connect ST401 Cayman to the computer using a USB cable
– turn on the device
– when the POWER led (4, Fig. 4) lights up, within 5 seconds briey press ; after 5
seconds the power-on LED will go dim to indicate that the device is now in the updating mode
– turn off the device
– follow instructions in the README le that comes with the update.
WARNING! Once the updating process has started, ST 401 Cayman can only be switched
into operation again upon completion of the update installation.
3. POWER SUPPLY
ST 401 Cayman is powered by two Li-ion rechargeable batteries (type 18650). 4 batteries are
included in the delivery package. The total run time on one battery charge is from 3 to 4 hours,
depending on the modes employed; the most demanding in terms of power consumption is the
AUDIO mode.
The batteries is housed in the battery compartment at the back of the main unit. Battery
replacement is described in 2.1 above.
ST 401 Cayman monitors its battery charge status. A continuously lit power-on led (4, Fig.4)
on the antenna head means that the battery charge is sufcient. A low battery charge will be
signalled by blinking of the power-on LED and a warning sound. If the charge goes below the
critical threshold, the device will switch off automatically.
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Accumulator batteries can be charged with the charger included in the delivery package. The
charging time of a fully discharged battery is 3 hours. As these batteries are free of memory effect,
incomplete charging is acceptable, but the running time will then be shorter.
The following is not allowed:
– long-term storage of discharged batteries
– long-term storage of batteries at low temperatures
– short-circuiting battery contacts
– subjecting batteries to strong shock
– transportation of the device with installed batteries.
4. OPERATING RESTRICTIONS
Use of the device is subject to safety regulations for equipment incorporating UHF
transmitters. The following must be observed at all times:
• Avoid long exposure of people to the antenna beam (the main lobe of the polar diagram) at
distances less than 1m.
• Do not point the antenna at people’s eyes at distances less than 1m.
If the device has been transported at temperatures well outside the service temperature range,
make sure to keep the device indoors at service temperature for 2 hours before use.
5. STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION
The device must be stored in heated storage facilities pursuant to GOST V9.003–80 (ГОСТ
В9.003–80). The following conditions must be maintained:
1) ambient temperatures from + 0 to 50°С;
2) relative air humidity 80 percent at 30°С;
3) atmospheric pressure from 630 to 820 mmHg;
4) absence of acidic, alkaline, or other aggressive vapours.
The device can be transported in standard packaging by any suitable means of conveyance
(in a pressurised module, if transported by plane) as long as it is protected from atmospheric
moisture. While transporting the device, avoid dropping or otherwise subjecting it to strong
impacts. During transportation, the mechanical conditions must comply with medium level
requirements per GOST В20.57.310–76, while the ambient conditions must correspond to those
specied by GOST В9.003–80 for open-air storage.
6. WARRANTY
The manufacturer guarantees compliance of every manufactured item with all the requirements
as per technical specications, within 12 months of the date of purchase.
During the warranty period, the manufacturer guarantees free of charge repairs of the device,
its auxiliary components and accessories, up to full replacement.
Free repairs or replacement can only be claimed if the user has observed all the rules of
operation, transportation, and storage of the device, and on condition that the device itself and
its ancillary parts are free from mechanical damage, and upon submission of a properly lled out
warranty coupon.
Upon expiry of the warranty period, post-warranty servicing is available from the manufacturer.
The warranty does not cover batteries.
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