Technisonic Industries Limited TFM-138 User manual

MODEL TFM-138 SERIES
Airborne VHF FM Transceivers
Technisonic VHF FM Airborne Transceivers
Technisonic TFM-138 series airborne VHF/FM transceivers utilize state of the art frequency synthesis
techniques to provide FM communications on every currently available channel within the VHF/FM High
Band. These radios cover the entire band from 138 to 174 MHz in 2.5 KHz increments. Data entry and
function control are via a front panel 12 button keypad. Operating frequency and other related data are
presented on a 48 character two line LED matrix display which is available in either green or red.
Technisonic FM transceivers can be operated in the Direct Entry or Simplex mode by simply keying in the
desired operating frequency, or can function without restriction on any split frequency pair within the band.
The TFM-138 features 100 preset memory positions each of which is capable of storing a receive
frequency, a transmit frequency, a separate CTCSS tone for each receive and transmit frequency and an
alpha numeric identifier for each channel. The TFM-138B features similar storage capability, but provide for
120 channels of preset memory, and offer the additional capability of allowing for DPL (Digital Private Line)
or DCS (Digitally Coded Squelch) operation. The TFM-138 and TFM-138B allows either 25 kHz wide band
or 12.5 kHz narrow band operation on any or all their preset memory channels. Data can be easily entered
into any of the preset non-volatile memory positions for both main and guard channels via the front panel
keyboard. Information stored in memory is available for instant recall by keypad entry, or by pressing the
UP or DOWN button which allows the operator to scroll through all preset channels. Technisonic FM
transceivers feature a synthesized two channel guard, receiver, a DTMF encoder for signaling during
transmit, and a scan function which will scan any or all of the frequencies stored in the preset memory
positions.
TFM-138 series transceivers are panel mounted (Dzus mounting) and are completely self contained in a 8.0
x 3.0 x 5.75 inch chassis weighing just 3.1 pounds. Front panel controls are MAIN for main channel
volume; GUARD for guard channel volume; MON for squelch test; a MN/GD switch provides for main or
guard transmitter selection; a G1/G2 switch selects guard 1 or guard 2 receive and transmit; and a HI/LO
switch allows for control of transmitter power output. Hi power is 10 Watts output, low power is 1 Watt
output, which is necessary to comply with Marine harbor environment rules. These transceivers offer 28
volt DC backlighting, which is controlled by the aircraft dimmer bus. Display brightness is controlled from
the front panel keypad. The small size and light weight of TFM-138 series transceivers make them ideally
suited to helicopter installations Technisonic FM transceivers are compliant with RTCA DO-160C
categories relating to Vibration, Overpressure, Humidity, Temperature and Altitude, Magnetic Effect, Power
Input, Voltage Spike, Decompression, and RF emission (including Section 21, Category Z)

General Specifications
Model Designation TFM-138 TFM-138B
Frequency Range 138.000 MHz to 174.000 MHz 138.000 MHz to 174.000 MHz
Tuning increments 2.5 kHz 2.5 kHz
Operating Mode F3E simplex or semi-duplex F3E simplex or semi-duplex
Channel spacing 25 kHz or 30 kHz as per applicable 12.5 kHz, 25 kHz or 30 kHz as per
FCC and DOC specifications applicable FCC and DOC spec.
Memory positions 100 channels 120 channels
Physical dimensions Approx. 8.0 in x 3.0 in x 5.75 in Approx. 8.0 in x 3.0 in x 5.75 in
Weight 3.1 Lbs. (1.4 Kg) 3.1 Lbs. (1.4 Kg)
Temperature range -45oC to +700C-45
oC to +700C
Altitude 50,000 ft 50,000 ft
Power requirement 28 VDC 28 VDC
Receive - 600 ma Receive - 600 ma
1 Watt transmit - 1.3 amps 1 Watt transmit - 1.3 amps
10 Watts transmit - 2 amps 10 Watts transmit - 2 amps
Certification FCC and DOC Type approved FCC and DOC Type approved
Environmental Categories RTCA DO-160C (B2,D1)XXX(B,M,N)XXXXXXZBBXXXZXXX
Guard receiver 2 channel synthesized 2 channel synthesized
CTCSS squelch capability encodes/decodes all 63 available tones encodes/decodes all 63 available tones
DPL/DCS capability not available encodes/decodes all avail digital sq. codes
DTMF encoder All standard DTMF tones available All standard DTMF tones available
Audio output 500 mw into 600 Ohms 500 mw into 600 Ohms
Speaker output 2.5 Watts into 4 ohms 2.5 Watts into 4 ohms
Back lighting 28V (standard) or 5V (specify) 28V (standard) or 5V (specify)
Display Green (standard), red (optional) Green (standard), red (optional)
Minimum Performance Specifications
Main receiver
Sensitivity at 12 dB SINAD Better than 0.35 microvolts Better than 0.35 microvolts
Adjacent channel -78 dB for 25 kHz -78 dB for 25 kHz, -70 dB for 12.5 kHz
Spurious attenuation -90 dB below carrier -90 dB below carrier
Third order intermod -70 dB -70 dB
Image attenuation -80 dB -80 dB
FM acceptance + 6 kHz + 6 kHz
Hum and noise Better than 50 dB Better than 50 dB
Audio distortion Less than 5% Less than 5%
Ant conducted emission Less than -70 dBm Less than -70 dBm
Guard receiver
All specifications identical to main receiver
Transmitter
RF power output 1 Watt or 10 Watts 1 Watt or 10 Watts
Output impedance 50 Ohms 50 Ohms
Maximum deviation Limited to 5 kHz Limited to 2.5 kHz for 12.5 kHz channels
and 5 kHz for 25 kHz channels
Spurious attenuation -90 dB below carrier level -90 dB below carrier level
Frequency stability +0.0005% +0.00025%
Microphone circuit Carbon or equivalent Carbon or equivalent
Sidetone output 500 mw (max) into 600 ohms 500 mw (max) into 600 ohms
Harmonic attenuation -65 dB below carrier level -65 dB below carrier level
FM hum and noise -40 dB -40 dB
Audio input 50 mV at 2.5 kHz into 200 ohm circuit 50 mV at 2.5 kHz into 200 ohm circuit for
for +3.5 kHz deviation, adjustable +3.5 kHz deviation (25 kHz mode).
50 mV AT 2.5 kHz into 200 ohm circuit for
+2.0 kHz (12.5 kHz mode), adjustable
Audio distortion Less than 5% Less than 5 %
Specifications subject to change without notice
DPL is a trademark of Motorola Corporatrion
Technisonic Industries Ltd.
240 Traders Blvd, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 1W7 Canada
Ph: 905 890-2113 Fax: [phone] www.til.ca

VHF/FM
AIRBORNE TRANSCEIVER
MODEL TFM-138
(s/n’s 1540 and up with F10-B Software)
Installation and
Operating Instructions
Til Document No.
98RE229
Rev. A
Issue 2
AUGUST 2010
Technisonic Industries Limited
240 Traders Boulevard, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 1W7
Tel:[phone] Fax:[phone]
web site: www.til.ca

CAUTION
This unit contains static sensitive devices. Wear a grounded wrist strap and/or conductive gloves when
handling printed circuit boards.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for
a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC ules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user
will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Warning:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Technisonic Industries could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
The odel TF -138, VHF/F Transceiver is under warranty for one year from date of purchase. Failed
units caused by defective parts, or workmanship should be returned to:
Technisonic Industries Limited
240 Traders Boulevard
ississauga, Ontario
Canada L4Z 1W7
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
A Page

Summary of DO-160C Environmental Testing for Technisonic Model TFM-138, VHF Transceiver
Conditions Section Description of Conducted Tests
Temperature and Altitude 4.0 Equipment tested to categories B2 and
D1.
Vibration 8.0 Equipment is tested without shock mounts
to categories B, M and N.
Magnetic Effect 15.0 Equipment is class Z.
Power Input 16.0 Equipment tested to category B.
Voltage Spike 17.0 Equipment tested to category B.
RF Emission 21.0 Equipment tested to category Z.
Installation Approval Note
Presently no TSO standard exists for airborne F transceivers. To make it easier for installation
agencies to provide their customers with an approved installation supported by an effective
Airworthiness Approval, Technisonic has secured Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Approvals (both
US and Canadian) on its Airborne F products for many helicopters currently being delivered in the
US and Canada as well as a number of single engine fixed wing aircraft. The above referenced DO-
160C test data is also on file and available from Technisonic to support approval requirements in
airframes for which Technisonic does not possess an STC.
Approved aircraft types are listed in the attachments to the formal STC documents. These STC's are
the exclusive property of Technisonic and require the written authority of Technisonic for their use.
To assist Factory Authorized Technisonic Dealers in the certification process, we have placed copies
of our Canadian and US STC's on our web site along with a letter of authorization for their use. These
documents may be downloaded and used as support for the technical submission to FAA or Transport
Canada. Only factory authorized dealers/installers are permitted to download and make use of these
documents on behalf of their customers (end users) in support of regulatory agency approval. Please
refer to the Technisonic web site www.til.ca for the latest issue of available STC’s and letter of
authorization for use.
B page

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paragrap Title Page
SECTION 1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.1 Introduction ............................................... 1-1
1.2 Description ............................................... 1-1
1.3 Purpose of Equipment ........................................ 1-1
1.4 odel Variation ............................................ 1-1
1.5 Technical Summary.......................................... 1-2
SECTION 2 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 Features ................................................. 2-1
2.2 Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.3 Programming Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.4 Scanning Function .......................................... 2-4
2.5 Priority and Selective emory Channel Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.6 Direct Frequency Entry ode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.7 Receive Frequency Simplex Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.8 Keyboard Lockout Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.9 Variable Frequency ode Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.10 LED Display Variable Dimming ode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.11 90 Second Transmitter Time Out Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.12 Quick Guard Programming Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.13 Programming CTCSS Tones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.14 PC emory/Programming Download Capability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
SECTION 3 INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
3.1 General .................................................. 3-1
3.2 Equipment Packing Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.3 Transceiver Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.4 Installation Kit - Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.5 Antenna Installation ......................................... 3-1
3.6 Installation - Pin Locations and Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.7 Wiring Instructions .......................................... 3-3
3.7.1 ain Power +28VDC ........................................ 3-3
3.7.2 ain Ground .............................................. 3-3
3.7.3 PTT (Ground Keying) ......................................... 3-3
3.7.4 Front Panel Back Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.7.5 Audio Outputs (600 and 4 Ohms) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.7.6 Audio Output Ground ........................................ 3-5
3.7.7 ic Signal Input ............................................ 3-5
3.7.8 emory Up/ emory Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.7.9 Data Input ................................................ 3-5
3.8 Internal Programming Enable/Disable Jumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.9 Transmitter Power Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.10 Transmitter icrophone Level Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.11 Transmitter Sidetone Level Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.12 ain and Guard Squelch Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.13 Transmitter Deviation Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.14 Guard Receiver Audio Limit Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
i

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS - APPENDIX
Post Installation E I Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
LIST OF TABLES
Table No. Title Page
3-1 15-Pin D Connections ........................................ 3-3
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure No. Title Page
2-1 Operator's Switches and Controls - TF -138 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2-2 TF -138 Transceiver PC Download Cable - Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
3-1 Outline Drawing for TF -138 Transceiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3-2 Wiring Connections for TF -138 Transceiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3-3 Interal Enable/Disable Jumper and TX High/Low Power Adjust Locations . . . . . 3-6
3-4 icrophone and Sidetone Level, ain and Guard Squelch Adjustment Access . 3-8
3-5 Deviation Adjustment Potentiometer Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
ii

TFM-138
SOFTWARE CHANGE NOTE
This document covers operation of the Technisonic TF -138, s/n 1540 and onwards which have been
delivered from the factory with version F10-B software capable of wide/narrow band operation. For
TF -138’s with s/n 1539 or less, TiL Document 95RE177 should be referred to.
This document does not cover the operation of older version TF -138’s with s/n 1539 or less.
iii

1-1
SECTION 1
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This publication provides operating and installation information on the TF -138 (with version
F10-B software), Transceiver manufactured by Technisonic Industries Ltd. The version F10-B
software is factory installed in TF -138's with s/n F1540 and onwards. The unit offers an
extended frequency range with selectable channel spacing and is intended for use (in the U.S.)
only by government agencies or contractors thereto, who have obtained licensing for operation
in the 138-150 Hz portion of the band. If the TF -138 transceiver is used in CANADA,
operation is restricted to the following sub bands: 138-144, 148-148.99, 149.005-150.005
and 150.05-174 Hz.
1.2 DESCRIPTION
The TF -138, Transceiver is a frequency agile, fully synthesized airborne transceiver
capable of operating in the 138.000 Hz to 174.000 Hz frequency range in 2.5 kHz
increments with either 25 kHz or 12.5 kHz channel spacing. The Transceiver can operate
without restriction on any split frequency pair in the band and also incorporates a two channel
synthesized guard receiver.
The TF -138 Transceiver provides 100 operator accessible memory positions, each of which
is capable of storing a transmit frequency, receive frequency, transmit frequency CTCSS tone,
receive frequency CTCSS tone, an alphanumeric identifier for each channel and (in t e TFM-
138 s/n 1540 and up only) wideband (25 kHz) or narrowband (12.5 kHz) channel spacing
assignment. Operating frequency and other related data are presented on a 48 character, two
line LED matrix display. Data entry and function control are performed via a 12 button keypad.
Preset channels may also be scrolled and scanned through keypad function activation. Data
may also be entered via a PC computer with the provided software and optional PIB-100
programming interface box or via an older computer and PC Up/download cable, P/N 943165-
4.
1.3 PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT
The TF -138, VHF/F Transceiver is designed to provide secondary airborne communications
to facilitate operations which are typically performed in a low altitude environment. The
transmitter section of this unit has a minimum of 8 watts and does not exceed 10 watts
output power, which may be reduced by a front panel switch to 1 watt, in order to reduce
interference to land based systems.
1.4 MODEL VARIATION
There are four variations of the odel TF -138 Transceiver. All units offer identical features
and performance except for the following differences:
TFM-138, P/N 921012-1 GREEN display and 28 Volt bac lighting.
TFM-138, P/N 921012-1 (5V) GREEN display and 5 Volt bac lighting.
TFM-138, P/N 921012-2 RED display and 28 Volt bac ligting.
TFM-138, P/N 921012-2 (5V) RED display and 5 Volt bac lighting.
Both P/N's 921012-1 and 921012-2 are always provided with 28 Volt back lighting unless a
specific request is made for 5 Volt AC operation.

1-2
1.5 TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Specification Characteristic
GENERAL
odel Designation: TF -138, s/n 1540 and up
Frequency Range: 138.000 to 174.000 Hz
Tuning Increments: 2.5 kHz
Operating ode: F3E simplex or semi-duplex
Channel Spacing: 25 or 12.5 kHz
Physical Dimensions (including heatsink): Approx. 8.0" X 3.0" X 5.75"
Weight: Approx. 3.1 Lbs (1.4 Kg)
ounting: Panel ount via Dzus fastners
Operating Temperature Range: -45EC to +70EC
Power Requirement:
Voltage: 28.0 Vdc, ± 15%
Current: Receive - 0.7 A ax.
1 Watt Transmit - 1.3 A ax.
8-10 Watt Transmit - 2.0 A ax.
Frequency Selection: 100 memories programmed with:
a) Tx Frequency/Rx Frequency
b) Tx/Rx CTCSS tone
c) 9 character alpha numeric title
Guard Receiver: 2 channels programmed with:
a) Tx Frequency/Rx Frequency
b) Tx CTCSS tone
c) 9 character alpha numeric title
CTCSS squelch/encoder: All CTCSS tones available
DPL digital squelch/encoder: (Not available in TF -138)
DT F encoder: All standard DT F tones
Audio Output: 0.5 Watts into 600 ohms
Speaker Output: 2.5 Watts min. into 4 ohms
Back Lighting: 28 Volts (standard) or
5 Volts (specify)
Display Colour: Green (standard) or
Red (specify)
DPL is a trademark of Motorola Corporation

1-3
1.5 TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
MAIN RECEIVER
Sensitivity at 12 dB SINAD Better than 0.35 µV
Adjacent Channel Selectivity -70 dB (25 or 12.5 kHz)
Spurious Attenuation -90 dB
Third Order Intermodulation -70 dB
Image Attenuation -80 dB
F Acceptance ± 6 kHz
Hum and Noise Better than 50 dB
Audio Distortion less than 5%
Antenna Conducted Emission less than -70 dBm
GUARD RECEIVER
All specifications identical to main receiver
TRANSMITTER
RF Power Output 1 watt or 10 watts
Output Impedance 50 ohms
aximum Deviation ±5 kHz (25 kHz mode)
(In narrowband mode) ±2.5 kHz(12.5kHz mode)
Spurious Attenuation -90 dB below carrier level
Frequency Stability ± 0.0005%
icrophone Circuit Carbon or equivalent
Sidetone Output 0.5W (max) into 600S
Harmonic Attenuation -65 dB below carrier level
F Hum And Noise -40 dB
Audio Input 50 mV at 2.5 kHz into
200 S input circuit for
±3.5kHz deviation, adjst.
Audio Distortion Less than 5%

2-1
SECTION 2
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1 OPERATING FEATURES
The equipment has several important operating features which provide maximum flexibility,
performance and versatility. These features are outlined below. New features provided in
TF -138 units of s/n 1540 and up with F10-B software are indicated by an “*”.
1. 100 memory positions* which can each be programmed with a transmit and receive
frequency with 25 or 12.5 kHz channel spacing*, Tx/Rx CTCSS tones and a 9-
character alphanumeric title.
2. 2 guard channels which can each be programmed with a Rx frequency with 25 or 12.5
kHz channel spacing*, CTCSS Tx tone and a 9-character alphanumeric title.
3. Scanning of preprogrammed memories with selective memory scanning*.
4. Priority scan of memory channel 1, if desired.
5. Direct frequency entry mode.
6. Receive frequency simplex function.
7. Switchable RF output power between 1 watt and 8-10 watts.
8. Lockout of keyboard to prevent inadvertent entries.
9. Variable frequency mode to manually scan up and down in 2.5 kHz steps.
10. LED display variable dimming mode.
11. Selectable 90 second Tx time out feature.
12. Quick download* of any of the 100 memory positions to the guard memories.
13. PC emory download capability. (Does not upload memories from the transceiver).
2.2 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS (See Figure 2-1)
1. Switch power on by turning the main volume clockwise. The last programmed
frequencies will be displayed. The transceiver is now in normal operating mode.
2. Adjust the audio level by adjusting the main and guard volume knobs.
3. Pressing the squelch defeat button will open both receivers to confirm they work.
4. The top display line will indicate which memory is selected followed by a "+" if the
memory position is in the scan list, an alphanumeric message, and the frequency of the
main receiver. A small "n" before the frequency indicates 12.5 kHz narrowband
channel spacing is in effect on this memory position. In the receive mode, the
frequency is followed by an "RT" if a RX CTCSS tone is programmed, or an "RX" if no
Receive tone is programmed. Similarly, in the transmit mode either a "TT" or "TX" is
shown after the frequency. The bottom line indicates guard receiver information.

2-2
FIGURE 2-1 Operator's Switc es and Controls - TFM-138, (F10-B software)

2-3
5. Only TX CTCSS tones may be programmed for the guard receiver. At the beginning
of each line, an LED indicates open squelch.
6. Set the N/GD switch to main or guard transmit frequency.
7. Set the G1/G2 switch to the desired guard channel.
8. Set the HI/LO switch to the desired RF output power.
9. Select the desired memory by using the .UP and .DN buttons, or the RCL button
and a three digit number followed by ENTER.
10. To transmit DT F tones, use the keyboard keys while holding the PTT button on the
microphone. The keyboard returns to its normal function when the PTT is released.
The display always shows the status of both receivers and the transmitter. The light at the left
of the top and bottom line indicates which receiver is receiving. The display also indicates
which memory channel is in use and which guard channel is in use.
A "TX" (no TX CTCSS toneprogrammed) or "TT" (TX CTCSS tone programmed) on the
right side of the display indicates whether the guard or main channel is active when
transmitting. The transmit frequency is also shown. In the receive mode the display shows
“RX”beside the receive frequency if no RX CTCSS tone is programmed and “RT” if a CTCSS
tone is programmed.
When the transceiver is in either of the operating frequency or CTCSS tone programming
modes and you must respond to a call, click the microphone PTT once (the radio will not
transmit during this click). This will cause the transceiver to revert back to the normal
operating mode and communications with the caller can proceed in the usual fashion.
2.3 PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
To program one of the 100 memory channels in the TF -138:
1. Press the FUNC key. The display will show the function prompt.
2. Press the PROG key. The display will show the current receive frequency with a
flashing curser on the second digit (The first digit is always a one <1>).
3. Type in the desired receive frequency. If you type in a frequency which is not a 2.5
kHz step, the nearest valid frequency will be automatically selected.
4. The curser will return to the second digit. You can now retype the frequency if you
made an error or press ENTER to continue.
5. The transmit frequency will be displayed with the curser on the second
digit. Follow the same method as in step 3 and 4.
6. The channel spacing increment of either 25.0 or 12.5 kHz is now displayed. Use the
M.UP and M.DN keys to select the desired channel spacing for the memory position,
then press ENTER.

2-4
7. The alpha-numeric title is now displayed. Use the M.UP and M.DN keys to scroll
through the alphabet, numbers and symbols. When the desired character is displayed,
press ENTER to advance to the next character.
8. Keep repeating step six until the last space is set. The display will show SCAN or
LOCKOUT to enable this memory position as part of the scan list or lock it out of the
scan list. Use the M.UP and M.DN keys to toggle between these functions (for details
see paragraph 2.5). Once the desired condition has been selected, press ENTER. The
TF -138 display will now show a "+" beside the memory channel number if scan is
enabled.
9. The display will now show the current memory number. Type in the 3-digit number of
the memory you want to save to (if different from displayed one) and press ENTER.
1 or 2 digit memory numbers must be entered as 3-digits with zeroes preceding them.
10. You now have the option to program the guard frequencies by pressing FUNC or press
ENTER to return to normal operating mode.
11. If you pressed FUNC to program the guards, guard"1" transmit frequency will be
displayed with the flashing curser on the second digit. Enter the frequencies for
guard"1" receive/transmit and guard"2" receive/transmit as in step 3 and 4.
12. The alphanumeric labels for guard"1" and guard"2" are entered the same as in step 7
and 8. When the last character is entered, the radio returns to normal operating mode.
If the guard is to be programmed for 12.5 kHz narrowband operation, use the QUICK
GUARD PROGRA ING FEATURE described in paragraph 2.12. A memory position
must be programmed to the 12.5 kHz mode then the contents can be quickly
downloaded to GD1 or GD2 memory positions.
Programming of memory is disabled when the internal entry disable jumper is set. Alternatively
any transceiver can be programmed by an IB PC or compatible computer. See section 2.14
PC Memory/Programming Download Capability.
2.4 SCANNING FUNCTION (5 second talkback delay)
1. To start scanning of the memory channels, press FUNC then SCAN.
The radio will scan through all the preset memory positions (see next paragraph for priority
and selective scan features) and will lock on to the first active channel in the scan sequence.
It will remain on the channel until it becomes inactive. Scanning will resume again after five
seconds of inactivity. To exit the scan mode, press the SCAN key. This will cause the radio
to revert back to the normal operating mode.
Therefore if while scanning, you hear a call for you:
1. Respond to the call within 5 seconds. When scanning is interrupted by an
incoming signal, the channel will remain open for five seconds before resuming
scanning.
2. During communications the five second timer is reset from the last Rx or Tx
signal experienced.
The radio resumes scanning once the Rx or Tx activity has ceased for more than five seconds.
The SCAN key must be pressed to exit the scan mode.

2-5
2.5 PRIORITY AND SELECTIVE MEMORY CHANNEL SCANNING
The priority memory channel is always memory position number 1. The priority memory
channel is scanned every other step (ie. 121314151...) to ensure that no incoming messages
are missed. The priority channel can be locked out, which will result in the normal scanning
of the other memory positions.
Selective memory scanning allows the user to select which of the 100 memory channels are
to be scanned or locked out when the scan function is invoked. To use this feature, follow
the PROGRA ING INSTRUCTIONS found in paragraph 2.3. Once the screen displays SCAN
or LOCKOUT, use the M.UP or M.DN keys to toggle to the desired condition and press ENTER.
In normal operating mode the display of the TF -138 will later show a "+" beside the memory
channel number if scan is enabled.
2.6 DIRECT FREQUENCY ENTRY MODE
This mode is designed to facilitate quick frequency selection during emergency and other
operational conditions requiring direct operating frequency selection. This operating mode is
disabled along with the programming mode when the internal disable jumper is set.
1. When the transceiver is in the normal operating mode, press FUNC and the desired
operating frequency ie/ 153.275.
Please note in the above operation, after FUNC and "1" are entered, the LED display will
show memory channel "000" and then the remaining digits in the desired frequency are shown
as they are entered. No alphanumeric message can be entered in this mode. Operation on the
new frequency occurs in both transmit and receive (simplex only) modes. If RX or TX CTCSS
tones are required they must be programmed on.
2.7 RECEIVE FREQUENCY SIMPLEX FUNCTION
The receive frequency simplex function allows you to quickly change the transmit frequency,
when operating on a split pair (repeater/semi-duplex mode), to the receive frequency to allow
direct communications. ie/ If you are transmitting on 152.000 Hz and receiving 152.555
Hz, press FUNC then UP to transmit on 152.555 Hz. To return to the split pair condition,
you must recall the memory channel again. This is quickly done by pressing M.UP for one step
up, then back down one step with the M.DN key.
2.8 KEYBOARD LOCKOUT FUNCTION
The keyboard can be locked out so that accidental pressing of keys does not change
frequency, etc., unknowingly to the operator. To lock the keyboard, press FUNC then LOCK.
This will disable all keyboard functions (except keyboard unlock) in the receive mode. The
DT F function during transmit will not be affected. To unlock the keyboard, press and hold
the LOCK key for two seconds until the display indicates "UNLOCK".
2.9 VARIABLE FREQUENCY MODE FUNCTION
To enter variable frequency mode, press RCL, 0,0,0, then ENTER. The memory channel that
you were just in will still be valid but now you can manually adjust the frequency with the
M.UP, M.DN, UP and DN keys. The UP and DN keys will make the frequency count up or
down in steps of 2.5 kHz. The M.UP and M.DN keys will make the frequency count up or
down in steps of 1 Hz. You can not change the label. The frequency in this mode can not
be stored in memory. To exit this mode, recall one of the 100 memory channels (ie.
RCL,0,0,1). Variable frequency mode is disabled when the internal entry disable jumper is set.

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2.10 LED DISPLAY VARIABLE DIMMING MODE
1. With the transceiver in normal operating mode press the UP or DN keys to increase or
decrease the intensity of the LED display.
2. Once maximum intensity of the display is acheived, the UP key no longer functions.
Conversely once minimum intensity is reached, the DN key ceases to function.
2.11 90 SECOND TRANSMITTER TIME OUT FEATURE
A selectable 90 second transmitter time out feature is provided to prevent accidental
continuous transmission in the event of a faulty PTT switch. With this feature enabled the
transceiver will stop transmitting after the PTT is engaged continuously for 90 seconds. The
timer is reset by releasing then re-engaging the PTT switch.
Press the FUNC then the M.UP key. Use the M.UP and M.DN keys to select 90 SEC, which
enables the feature, or NONE which disables it.
2.12 QUICK GUARD PROGRAMMING FEATURE
A quick download of any of the 100 memory positions to either of the guard memory positions
can be accomplished. Select the memory position whose contents you desire to download to
a guard memory. Select either GD1 or GD2 memory channel as desired. Press FUNC then 7.
The guard memory channel will now contain all the same information as the selected memory
position.
2.13 PROGRAMMING CTCSS TONES
NOTE: The TF -138 supports only CTCSS tone functions. DPL code functions are not
supported.
CTCSS tones (PL tones) can be assigned to each memory channel. The guard receiver squelch
will operate only on carrier detection, but guard 1 and 2 transmit tones can be programmed.
To program a CTCSS tone to a memory channel:
1. Use the M.UP and M.DN keys to select the memory channel that you want to assign
a CTCSS tone.
2. Press the FUNC key then the TONE key. The display will show "RX TONE:" and the
current tone number, as well as the tone frequency in Hz.
3. Use the M.UP and M.DN keys to select the tone number you require. The following
is a list of the available CTCSS tones:
Number Tone Number Tone Number Tone
01 67.0 26 162.2 51 177.3*
02 71.9 27 167.9 52 183.5*
03 74.4 28 173.8 53 189.9*
04 77.0 29 179.9 54 196.6*
05 79.7 30 186.2 55 199.5*

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2.13 PROGRAMMING CTCSS TONES/DPL CODES - continued
06 82.5 31 192.8 56 206.5*
07 85.4 32 203.5 57 210.7*
08 88.5 33 33.0* 58 218.1*
09 91.5 34 35.4* 59 225.7*
10 94.8 35 36.6* 60 229.1*
11 97.4 36 37.9* 61 233.6*
12 100.0 37 39.6* 62 241.8*
13 103.5 38 44.4* 63 250.3*
14 107.2 39 47.5* 64 No Tone
15 110.9 40 49.2* (carrier squelch only)
16 114.8 41 51.2* (The tones marked with * are
17 118.8 42 53.0* nonstandard tones).
18 123.0 43 54.9*
19 127.3 44 56.8*
20 131.8 45 58.8*
21 136.5 46 63.0*
22 141.3 47 69.4*
23 146.2 48 159.8*
24 151.4 49 165.5*
25 156.7 50 171.3*
4. Press ENTER. "TX TONE" appears on the display. Repeat step 3.
5. Press ENTER. "G1 TONE" appears on the display. Repeat step 3.
6. Press ENTER. "G2 TONE" appears on the display. Repeat step 3 and press ENTER.
CTCSS tone programming of t e TFM-138 is now complete.
2.14 PC MEMORY PROGRAMMING UP/DOWNLOAD CAPABILITY
The Technisonic Data Programmer ( ulti-TDP) Windows based software is supplied on a CD
with the TF -138 transceiver or is available for download from our web site www.til.ca. This
software will allow anyone with a standard personal computer (PC) and the PIB-100
programming box to send or retrieve data from a connected TF -138 transceiver for editing,
sorting and sharing with other Technisonic transceivers.
The ulti-TDP programmers are 32 bit Windows applications that will work under Windows
95, Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0 and Windows 2000. Documentation for each of the
respective programmers is available from the pull down "Help" menu at the top of the
programmer display. To use the Windows based program with the TF -138, a PIB-100
programming interface box, P/N 001108-1must be purchased from Technisonic or other re-
seller.
The CD supplied with the transceiver also contains a DOS based download program that can
be used with the TF -138 and no interface box. However changes in operating systems and
PC hardware that have occurred since the release of our DOS compatible software, prevent
it from working with most modern computers. Computers with 486 processors or some early

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Pentium type processors of 200 Hz or less running S DOS seem to work the best. Please
check the “Programmer downloads” link on our web site www.til.ca for further information
regarding PC programming information for users of single band transceivers like the TF -138.
Please note that the TF -138 and not the TF -138B must be selected in the ulti-TDP
software package. See paragraph 2.14.4, item 8 below.
The user instructions for the Windows based ulti-TDP software and then the DOS based
software follow below:
2.14.1 Windows Program Requirements:
1. PC compatible computer running Windows 95/98/NT/2000/ E. CD RO drive and an
available serial port.
2. Bench power supply of 28 volts DC.
3. PIB-100 Programming Interface Box (p/n 001108-1) - use cables that are provided with
the PIB-100 programming interface box. Do not use cable p/n 943165-4 which is for
use with the DOS program only.
2.14.2 Windows Program Installation:
1. Insert the CD into the drive.
2. Open the CD with windows explorer.
c. Open the MultiTDP directory and double click the MultiTDP_Install.exe file.
d. Follow on screen instructions.
2.14.3 Connections:
1. Follow the connection instructions supplied with the PIB-100.
2. Do not turn on the 28 volt power supply until all connections have been made.
2.14.4 Running t e Windows Program:
1. On the computer, click the Start menu button.
2. Select Programs from the Start menu.
3. Select Tec nisonic from the Programs menu.
4. Select MultiTDP.
5. The program will start. The ultiTDP program is used for almost all of Technisonic’s
transceivers, therefore it has to be set up specifically for your TF -138.
6. Pull down the File menu and click Select Radio.
7. Click the TFM-30/138/138B/403 line.
8. The display will configure itself for the PIB-100. Click the dot beneath TFM-138.

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9. Pull down the Com Port menu and select the com port that you have connected the
PIB-100.
10. The software is now ready to use. To get a full instruction manual, pull down the Help
menu and select Documentation in PDF format.
2.14.5 Helpful Hints:
When uploading or downloading, a message box will appear asking you to press FUNC and
then 7 on the radio. Press these keys before clicking the OK button in the message box.
2.14.6 DOS Program Requirements:
1. PC compatible computer with:
C200 Hz or less
C486 or early Pentium one processor
CPrinter port (LPT1)
CCD drive - If not, you can copy the software on another computer to
a floppy disk.
CColour monitor is preferred as some of the text is colour coded.
2. Bench power supply of 28 volts DC.
3. PC Download cable (p/n 943165-4) see figure 2-2.
2.14.7 DOS Program Installation:
1. Insert the CD into the drive.
2. Create a directory on your hard drive called \TIL.
3. Copy everything from the \PCDLN directory on the CD to the \TIL directory on the hard
drive.
2.14.8 Connections:
1. Connect the PC download cable (p/n 943165-4) to the radio.
2. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer port on the computer
3. Connect the red and black leads to the power supply.
2.14.9 Running t e DOS Program:
1. Turn on the 28 volt power supply.
2. Turn on the radio. The channels on the radio may start scrolling - this is normal.
3. Change to the \TIL directory and type PCDLN and enter. The radio should stop
scrolling. Do not use older DOS software (\PCDL) for TF -138’s that have F10
firmware (s/n 1539 and less that have 25 memories). It is not compatible with DOS
download software for TF -138’s with F10B firmware. Your frequency information
will become corrupted as it is downloaded to a TF -138 with F10B firmware. Similarly
do not use DOS download software designed for the TF -138B which includes
/PCDLB and /PCDLB2. It is not compatible with the F10B firmware in the TF -138.