T6M Mobile Transceiver User Guide

Handbook Part Number: 31-36000TRM

Handbook Title: Handbook Part Number: Issue Number: Date of Issue: Published By:

T6M Mobile Transceiver User Guide 31-36000TRM 4-1 February 2001 Park Air Electronics Northfields Market Deeping Peterborough England From UK, 01778 345434 From outside UK, 44 1778 345434 From UK, 01778 342877 From outside UK, 44 1778 342877

Telephone: Fax:

Amendment 1 to Issue 4 of this user guide has been raised to clarify the receive specification (change note 4017 refers). The amendment was incorporated during April 2001.

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SAFETY

Warnings [Failure to comply with warnings can result in personal injury, fire, or electric shock.]

DO NOT operate this equipment with the antenna close to or touching eyes, face, or exposed body parts. DO NOT hold the transmit (PTT) switch in the ON position when not communicating. DO NOT operate equipment at filling stations. DO NOT operate equipment in vicinity of explosives or explosive atmospheres. DO NOT operate equipment at high volume levels. Hearing experts advise against continuous high volume operation. If you experience ringing in your ears, reduce the volume level, or discontinue use. The Power Amplifier Module used in the T6M mobile transceiver contains beryllium oxide, which is extremely toxic. No instructions within this user guide remove any of the transceiver's covers so users are not exposed to a potential beryllium hazard. If the transceiver is to be disposed of, users must be aware of current disposal regulations regarding equipment containing beryllium.

q q q

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Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. You are required to obtain a station licence before transmitting from your mobile equipment. This equipment is only licenced for operation on 25 kHz channel spacing. Operation on 8.33 kHz channel spacing is restricted to European customers. The mobile transceiver power output must not exceed the output necessary for satisfactory technical operation taking account of local conditions and the area to be covered. The mobile transceiver's frequency and parameters should be checked by authorized service personnel before use, and at least yearly thereafter.

Changes or modifications to the T6M transceiver that are not expressly approved by Park Air Electronics could void your authority to operate the transceiver.

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Foreword

This user guide describes the purpose, installation, and operation of the Park Air Electronics (PAE) T6M mobile transceiver. Read all instructions given in this user guide before operating the transceiver.

Trademarks
The following trademarks are used in this user guide. IBM Microsoft Windows Is a registered trademark of International Business Machines. Is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the USA and other countries. Is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the USA and other countries.

Software
Park Air Electronics takes every care to ensure that software supplied on magnetic media contains no viruses. Users are, however, advised to virus check disks and CD-ROMs before transferring software from these media to your computer equipment.

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CONTENTS SAFETY Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations Foreword Trademarks Section 1 - Overview About this User Guide Introduction to the T6M Mobile Transceiver Operating Modes Normal Mode Priority Mode Scan Mode Programming the Transceiver's Personality Section 2 - Specification General Dimensions and Weight Supply Receive Circuit Transmit Circuit Section 3 - Installation Introduction Unpacking Selecting a Mounting Location Installing the Transceiver Installing the Microphone Installing the Loudspeaker Power Cable Installation 13 14 14 15 16 16 17 11 12 12 12 12 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 3 4 5 5

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Installing the Antenna Fitting the Antenna to Fibreglass Vehicles Serviceability Check Section 4 - Operating Instructions Introduction Programmable Options Display Blanking Warning Beeps Key Beeps Transmit Inhibit Maximum Transmit Time Front Panel Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing Fault and Error Codes Switching On and Off (Ignition Sense not Connected) Switching On and Off (When Ignition Sense is Connected) Operating the Radio in Normal Mode Selecting Normal Mode Selecting a Channel Frequency Transmitting and Receiving Switching and Adjusting the Squelch Facility Operating the Radio in Priority Mode Selecting Priority Mode Selecting a Priority Channel Frequency Transmitting and Receiving Operating the Radio in Scan Mode Selecting Scan Mode Selecting a Scan Group Transmitting and Receiving

19 20 21

23 24 24 24 24 25 25 25 27 28 28 29 29 29 29 29 31 31 31 31 32 32 32 32

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Section 5 - Programming the Radio Introduction Programmable Options Display Blanking Warning Beeps Key Beeps Hold on Scan Installing the Programming Software onto a Laptop, or PC Creating a New Personality Saving a Personality Opening a Saved Personality Loading a Personality into the Radio Reading a Personality from the Radio Printing a Personality Report Section 6 - Spares Introduction List of Spares 45 45 33 36 36 36 36 37 37 37 42 43 43 43 44

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Section 1 - Overview
Section 1 gives a brief overview of the T6M mobile transceiver.

About this User Guide

This user guide describes the purpose, installation, and operation of the Park Air Electronics (PAE) T6M mobile transceiver. How to programme the required channel frequencies and operating modes using the optional programming kit is also fully described.

Introduction to the T6M Mobile Transceiver

The T6M multichannel mobile transceiver provides communication within the VHF aeronautical frequency band 118 to 136.9916 MHz. The transceiver provides a nominal 8 watt amplitude modulated (AM) output, and operates on both 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz spaced channel frequencies. Designed for installation within a vehicle, the transceiver operates from a +13.2 volt dc supply. For vehicles that use a 24 V dc system, or when there must be isolation between the battery and equipment, a suitable dc to dc converter must be used.

Operating Modes
Three operating modes are available: Normal, Priority, and Scan. Normal Mode In normal mode, any channel frequency programmed into the transceiver can be selected using the front panel keys. Up to 760 channel frequencies can be programmed into the radio's personality.

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Priority Mode Priority mode allows faster access to frequently used channels. Up to 15 of the channel frequencies that are available in Normal mode can be programmed into the priority list. Scan Mode If scan mode is selected, the radio scans a number of predefined channels searching for a busy one. When a busy channel is found, and depending on the programmed options, the radio remains tuned to that channel. Up to 15 scan groups can be set up, each group containing up to 15 channel frequencies.

Programming the Transceiver's Personality

The radio's personality is programmed into its internal memory and defines up to 760 channel frequencies, the required operating modes, and various secondary options. When a T6M is received from PAE, the personality is either:
q

A personality programmed to the user's specific requirements. or,

A default personality that covers the 760 channels (25 kHz spaced) available in the VHF aeronautical frequency band. No frequencies are allocated to the Priority list, and no scan groups are set.

A programming kit is available from PAE. This allows a new personality to be programmed into the radio at any time. The kit comprises software loaded on a CD-ROM or floppy disk, and a programming lead. An IBM compatible laptop, or Personal Computer (PC) running Microsoft Windows 95 or 98 must be available to reprogramme the radio. To order the programming kit, contact PAE quoting part number 70-T6MPMKIT.

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Section 2 - Specification
Section 2 gives the specification of the T6M mobile transceiver.

General
The general parameters of the T6M mobile transceiver are listed below. Operation Operating modes Channel bandwidth Channel increment Frequency range (at 25 kHz) Simplex VHF AM transmit and receive. Normal, priority, and scan. 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz. 8.33 kHz. Between 118 and 136.975 MHz.

Frequency range (at 8.33 kHz) Between 118 and 136.9916 MHz. Frequency stability Channel selection 1 ppm In Normal mode up to 760 channel frequencies can be programmed into the radio. The channels can have 25 kHz spacing, 8.33 kHz spacing, or a mixture of both. Priority mode allows up to 15 of the stored channels to be allocated to a priority list. Channel selection can then be limited to those frequencies in the priority list. In Scan mode, the radio can have up to 15 scan groups each containing up to 15 channel frequencies. Duty cycle (receive) Duty cycle (transmit) Continuous. 25% with a maximum transmit time of 5 minutes. Longer transmit times, or a higher duty cycle, reduces the output power by 6 dB. Between -20C and +55C. Between -40C and +70C. Can be operated in humidity up to 80%.

Operating temperature range Storage temperature range Humidity

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Dimensions and Weight

The dimensions and weight are: Width Height Depth Weight 177 mm. 50 mm. 228 mm. 1.75 kg.

Supply
The transceiver requires the following supply: Input voltage Current 13.2 V dc (nominal 12 V dc system). Receive: 1 A (nominal). Transmit: 5 A (nominal).

Receive Circuit
The specification of the receive circuit is listed below. Sensitivity Selectivity -102 dBm at 30% modulation depth for 12 dB SINAD (ITU - T). With 8.33 kHz spacing: <6 dB at 3 kHz; >60 dB at 8.33 kHz. With 25 kHz spacing: <6 dB at 8.5 kHz; >70 dB at 25 kHz. >70 dB.

Intermodulation suppression

Spurious response suppression >80 dB. Audio power output Distortion RF input impedance 4 W into 4 ohm loudspeaker (<10% THD). <10% THD for 90% modulation depth. 50 ohms.

Transmit Circuit
The specification of the transmitter is listed below. Nominal RF output power Spurious Harmonic outputs Distortion RF load impedance Adjustable between 5 and 12 W. Normally set at 8 W. <-46 dBm when more than 1 MHz from the carrier. <-36 dBm. <5% THD. 50 ohms.

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Section 3 - Installation
Section 3 gives the instructions necessary to install the T6M mobile transceiver into your vehicle.

Introduction
The mobile transceiver is designed to operate from a 13.2 V dc (12 V nominal) negative ground electrical system. This type of electrical system has the negative battery terminal connected directly to the vehicle chassis. For vehicles with a 24 V battery, or where there must be isolation between the battery and the equipment, a suitable dc-to-dc converter should be used. During installation, disconnect the vehicle's main positive dc supply cable from the battery to prevent damage from accidental short circuits during the installation. In some cases this may cause problems with the loss of engine management information or radio key codes. Check to see if this is the case before disconnecting the battery. Power saver devices are available that plug into the cigar lighter or accessories socket and prevent loss of memory information on vehicle systems.

Before the transceiver is put into operational service, the required personality information should be programmed into the radio. This information, includes channel frequencies and operating modes. When a T6M is received from PAE, the personality is either:
q

A personality programmed to the user's specific requirements. or,

A default personality that covers the 760 channels (25 kHz spaced) available in the VHF aeronautical frequency band. No frequencies are allocated to the Priority list, and no scan groups are set.

A programming kit is available from PAE. This allows a new personality to be programmed and downloaded. The radio does not have to be removed from its installed position to download a new personality. Note that operation using 8.33 kHz channel spacing is not currently allowed within the USA.

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Unpacking
Unpack the consignment and check the contents. The following items should be included: (1) (2) T6M mobile transceiver (quantity 1). Installation kit comprising,
q q q q q q q q q q q q

Mounting bracket for the transceiver (quantity 1). Loudspeaker (quantity 1). Microphone (quantity 1). Microphone rest (quantity 1). Fixing kit knobs (quantity 2). Rubber grip (quantity 2). Power lead (quantity 1). Fuse holder (quantity 1). Fuse 7.5 amp (quantity 1). Blue in-line crimp connector (quantity 1). Screw No. 6, inch long (quantity 2). Screw No. 8, inch long (quantity 6).

(3)

Whip antenna (complete with approximately 4.8 m of coaxial cable).

Selecting a Mounting Location

Choose a location for the radio's mounting bracket. Avoid mounting in small enclosed spaces (for example, glove lockers). To prevent overheating, the radio should have an unobstructed airflow space of at least 20 mm at the rear. Suitable mounting places include the dash, console or transmission hump. Ensure that the radio:
q q

Is easy to operate when seat belts are worn. Does not inconvenience driver or passengers when seated, or when entering or exiting the vehicle. Will not injure occupants if the vehicle suffers an impact. Does not interrupt the airflow from the heater or air-conditioning vents.

q q

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Installing the Transceiver

To install the transceiver: (1) Ensuring that the mounting bracket fixing screws will not damage any cables, brake or fuel lines, fit the bracket using the No. 8 self-tapping screws provided. Mounting bracket dimensions and fixing hole centres are shown below.

52 mm

189 mm Hole 4.5 mm diameter

48 mm

150 mm

Transceiver's Mounting Bracket

(2)

Fit the transceiver in the bracket using the rubber grips and fixing knobs included in the installation kit. The rubber grips can be fitted in two ways. One way locks the unit rigidly in the bracket; the other provides a friction mount allowing the unit to be tilted to the desired angle. This is illustrated on the next page. Note the orientation of the rubber grips that are fitted at each side of the radio.

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Alternative Mounting Arrangements

Installing the Microphone

Fit the microphone rest in a convenient location using the screws provided. Plug the microphone lead into the socket located on the underside of the transceiver. Fit the strain relief grommet into place.

Installing the Loudspeaker

Install the loudspeaker where it can be easily heard, using the mounting bracket and screws provided. The loudspeaker is connected after the power lead has been installed.

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Installation Connections

Power Cable Installation

The power cable comprises red and black cables that connect to the battery, a twin-wire loudspeaker connection (orange and violet) and a yellow ignition sense lead. All these wires are terminated on a Molex 8-way mini-fit connector. Note that the power cable supplied with some radios may also contain a green and a white wire. These wires are not used and should be tied back after the power cable is installed. To install the power cable, refer to the illustration shown above, and: (1) Route the power cable to the battery and cut it to the required length. If it is necessary to drill a hole in the firewall or bulkhead to route the cable through, then fit a grommet and seal it when the installation is complete. Fit the in-line fuse holder at the battery end of the positive (red) lead. The fuse protects against short circuits in the cable run, so must be located as close to the battery as possible. The fuse holder is fitted as shown in the illustration on the next page, and as follows:

(2)

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(a) (b) (c) (d)

When received the fuse holder's connecting wire forms a loop connecting input to output. Cut the black wire loop at the centre. Using the supplied blue in-line crimp connector, connect the end of the power lead's red wire to the fuse holder. Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the + battery terminal. Fit the 7.5 amp fuse and close the fuse holder's cover.

(BT6MBS-06)

Connecting the Fuse Holder

(3)

Connect the power lead's black cable to the negative (-) battery terminal connector. Notes: Both supply leads should be connected directly to the vehicle battery terminals. Connection to other points may result in increased interference from the vehicles electrical system and excessive voltage drop. If noise is still a problem, a dc noise filter should be fitted. In some cases a master isolation switch is fitted to the vehicle (for example, in the case of emergency vehicles) and it may be a legal requirement to wire to the switched side of the supply.

(4)

If required, connect the yellow ignition sense lead to the ignition switched supply on the vehicle. If this facility is not required, tie the yellow lead back using suitable tape. When ignition sense is connected, the radio switches on when the vehicle's ignition is switched on. The radio cannot be switched off while the ignition is on. When the vehicle's ignition is switched off, the radio remains on for two hours before switching itself off. The radio can, however, be manually switched off during the two hour period by pressing the PWR button.

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(5) (6)

Connect the loudspeaker to the power cable by mating the two halves of the loudspeaker cable's in-line connector. Plug the power cable into the power supply in-line connector on the radio, and reconnect the positive lead to the battery.

Installing the Antenna

The whip antenna is supplied with approximately 4.8 m of coaxial cable and terminated at the radio end with a BNC connector. For best all round performance the antenna should be mounted in the centre of the roof. Alternative positions give degraded performance, the numbers on the diagram below giving the order of preference. The antenna radiation patterns, shown on the next page, illustrate the difference between centre roof and wing mounting. Siting the antenna is a compromise between performance and practicality. If a sunroof is fitted to the vehicle, locate the antenna so that it will not be damaged when the sunroof is opened. Mounting at the front of a sunroof can cause annoyance due to wind noise from the antenna when the sunroof is opened.

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Antenna Radiation Patterns:

Centre Roof Mounting

Quarter (Wing) Mounting

To install the antenna: (1) Abrade the underside of the antenna hole with coarse emery cloth to remove paint and produce a clean, bright bare metal surface. This will provide a good contact for the antenna ground. Smear the surface lightly with silicone grease prior to tightening the antenna mount to prevent corrosion. Route, but do not connect, the antenna feeder cable to the radio. Check for low resistance (<0.1 W) between the centre pin of the coaxial connector and the antenna radiator. Check for high resistance between the centre pin of the coaxial connector and the vehicle chassis. Check for low resistance between the body of the connector and the vehicle chassis. Connect the antenna feeder cable to the transceiver.

(2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

Fitting the Antenna to Fibreglass Vehicles

A separate ground plane must be installed for fibreglass vehicles. This can take the form of a aluminum metal plate or close mesh. The ground plane must extend to at least a quarter of a wavelength in every direction. Alternatively two crossed aluminum strips can be used. Again the distance from the antenna mounting point to the end of each strip must be at least a quarter of a wavelength.

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Serviceability Check
When the radio, its accessories, and antenna are installed, carry out a serviceability check as follows: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) Connect a directional power, or VSWR, meter in series with the antenna feed. A Peak Envelope Power (PEP) meter should be used. Start the vehicle and switch on the radio. Check that the radio's front panel indicators light, and that the startup warble is heard. Allow the vehicle to idle for one minute to ensure that the battery voltage is at the correct level for testing. Select a suitable channel that can be used for test purposes and press the PTT to cause the radio to transmit. Measure the PEP and VSWR. PEP should be between 7 and 30 Watts, dependent on modulation, and VSWR less than 1.5:1. Carry out a functional check by setting up a voice call. Check that the received noise is acceptable. If not it will be necessary to carry out suppression of the vehicle electrical system.

It is important to check that the radio does not affect the operation of any vehicle systems such as lights, electronic ignition, engine management system and anti-lock brakes. Other electronic devices fitted to the vehicle, such as radio/cassette player or cellular telephone, should also be checked. Check that these systems still operate correctly when the radio is transmitting.

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Intentionally Blank

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Section 4 - Operating Instructions

This section gives the instructions for operating the T6M mobile transceiver after it has been correctly installed. Users should note that the facilities available to an operator depend on how the radio's personality has been configured.

Introduction
The mobile transceiver provides transmission and reception on any 25 kHz, or 8.33 kHz, spaced channel frequency within the VHF aeronautical frequency band between 118 and 136.9916 MHz. However, only those frequencies and operating modes that are pre-programmed into the radio can be selected. The radio can be reprogrammed at any time using the supplied software. Instructions for doing this are given in Section 5 starting on page 33. Three operating modes are available: Normal, Priority, and Scan. In Normal mode, any frequency programmed into the system can be selected using the radio's front panel controls. Priority mode is similar to Normal mode, but allows faster selection of up to 15 frequently used channels. In Scan mode, the radio scans a number of pre-defined channels searching for a busy one. When a busy channel is found, and depending on the programmed options, the radio remains tuned to that channel ready for use. Scanning can be resumed at any time.

When a T6M is received from PAE, the personality is either:

q

A personality programmed to the user's specific requirements. or,

A default personality that covers the 760 channels (25 kHz spaced) available in the VHF aeronautical frequency band. No frequencies are allocated to the Priority list, and no scan groups are set.

A programming kit is available from PAE. This allows a new personality to be programmed and downloaded. The radio does not have to be removed from its installed position to download a new personality. Note that operation using 8.33 kHz channel spacing is not currently allowed within the USA.

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Programmable Options
A number of options can be programmed into the radio's personality. The options are detailed in the following paragraphs. Display Blanking Display blanking is applicable only to Normal and Priority modes; not Scan mode. When display blanking is programmed, the radio's normal frequency display is replaced by a flashing bar if the radio is not keyed during the display blanking time period (between 10 and 300 seconds). Example, Display blanking is programmed Display blanking time is 60 seconds Selected channel frequency is 121.500 MHz. In this example, the display normally shows 121.500. If the transmitter is not keyed for 60 seconds, the display changes to a flashing bar. Normal frequency display is reinstated when the radio is keyed, or when the VOLs or VOLt button is pressed. Note that the display can be reinstated by pressing any other button, but doing so may also alter other settings. Warning Beeps When programmed, the following conditions cause a warning beep to be heard when an attempt is made to key the transmitter:
q q

The radio has a fault that prevents transmissions. Trying to key the radio on a channel frequency that has the Transmit Inhibit option set to Always Inhibit. Trying to key the radio on a busy channel that has the Inhibit if Busy option selected. Imminent transmitter time out.

The volume of warning beeps is set in the personality (a value between 1 and 7); the front panel volume control does not affect the beeps. Key Beeps This option, when programmed, produces a single beep whenever a button is pressed on the radio's front panel. The volume of the beep is the same as the Warning beep.

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Transmit Inhibit Any frequency programmed into the radio can be made receive only. To achieve this, the transmit function on the channel is always inhibited, or the transmit facility can be inhibited only when the channel is busy. If warning sounds have been set, a warning is heard when an attempt is made to key the transmitter. Maximum Transmit Time A maximum continuous transmit time can be programmed into the radio's personality. The options are:
q q q

No limit. A limit that can be set between 30 and 300 seconds. If a limit has been set, and warning sounds have been set, the radio produces warning beeps 10 seconds before the transmission time expires.

Front Panel Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing
When selecting an 8.33 kHz channel frequency, the displayed frequency differs from the actual channel frequency. Table 1 on page 26 shows the pattern used for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz spaced channel frequencies from 118.000 MHz to 118.1916 MHz. The pattern is the same for any frequency within the radio's frequency range. The display conforms to ICAO convention for 8.33 kHz operation. Note that operation using 8.33 kHz channel spacing within the USA is not currently allowed under FCC regulations.

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Table 1. Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing Actual Frequency (to 4 decimal places) 118.0000 MHz 118.0000 MHz 118.0083 MHz 118.0166 MHz 118.0250 MHz 118.0250 MHz 118.0333 MHz 118.0416 MHz 118.0500 MHz 118.0500 MHz 118.0583 MHz 118.0666 MHz 118.0750 MHz 118.0750 MHz 118.0833 MHz 118.0916 MHz 118.1000 MHz 118.1000 MHz 118.1083 MHz 118.1166 MHz 118.1250 MHz 118.1250 MHz 118.1333 MHz 118.1416 MHz 118.1500 MHz 118.1500 MHz 118.1583 MHz 118.1666 MHz 118.1750 MHz 118.1750 MHz 118.1833 MHz 118.1916 MHz Channel Spacing 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 25 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz 8.33 kHz Displayed Frequency at Radio's Front Panel 118.000 MHz 118.005 MHz 118.010 MHz 118.015 MHz 118.025 MHz 118.030 MHz 118.035 MHz 118.040 MHz 118.050 MHz 118.055 MHz 118.060 MHz 118.065 MHz 118.075 MHz 118.080 MHz 118.085 MHz 118.090 MHz 118.100 MHz 118.105 MHz 118.110 MHz 118.115 MHz 118.125 MHz 118.130 MHz 118.135 MHz 118.140 MHz 118.150 MHz 118.155 MHz 118.160 MHz 118.165 MHz 118.175 MHz 118.180 MHz 118.185 MHz 118.190 MHz

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Fault and Error Codes

A number of fault and error codes are shown on the radio's display if an internal fault is detected. The codes, their meaning, and remedial action are detailed in Table 2. Table 2. Fault and Error Codes Displayed Fault or Error Code

Title

Meaning

F1

Synthesiser failure

An internal fault on the synthesiser has been detected. Switch off the transceiver and switch on again after a few minutes. If the fault persists, the transceiver should be replaced with a serviceable spare. The faulty unit should be returned to PAE, or your authorized agent. An internal fault on the power amplifier has been detected. Switch off the transceiver and switch on again after a few minutes. If the fault persists, the transceiver should be replaced with a serviceable spare. The faulty unit should be returned to PAE, or your authorized agent. This condition may occur if the transmitter's duty cycle has been exceeded, or when transmitting for long periods. The fault should clear if the radio is not keyed and allowed to cool.

F2

Unstable output

F4

Over temperature

F16

Low supply voltage High supply voltage

F32

These two fault codes indicate the vehicle's battery supply is too high, or too low.

cErr

Critical error

This error is displayed when the radio is initially switched on and no, or a corrupted, personality is detected. Refer to Programming the Radio on page 33.

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Power Button

Mobile Transceiver Front Panel

Switching On and Off (Ignition Sense not Connected)

To switch on the radio when the ignition sense facility is not used: (1) (2) (3) Press the Power button for approximately one second until the display reads On. Then release the button. Check that a warbling sound is heard for a few seconds and then a channel frequency is displayed. The radio is now ready for use.

To switch off the radio, press the Power button until the display reads Off. Then release the button.

Switching On and Off (When Ignition Sense is Connected)

When ignition sense is connected (see Installation procedures) the radio switches on when the vehicle's ignition is switched on. The radio cannot be switched off while the ignition is on. When the vehicle's ignition is switched off, the radio remains on for two hours before switching itself off. The radio can, however, be manually switched off during the two hour period by pressing the PWR button until the display reads Off.

Before operating the transceiver, users must be conversant with the safety warnings given on page 3.

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Operating the Radio in Normal Mode

Operating the radio in Normal mode requires the following operations. Each operation is explained in following paragraphs. (1) (2) (3) (4) Select Normal mode if not currently selected. Select the required channel frequency. Transmit using the fist microphone, and receive through the loudspeaker. Adjusting, if necessary, the Squelch facility.

Selecting Normal Mode Normal mode is active when neither Priority mode or Scan mode is selected. If Priority mode is selected, the display shows P every few seconds; if Scan mode is selected, the display shows Scn. To select Normal mode if currently in Priority or Scan mode:
q

To select Normal mode if currently in Priority mode, press the CHs or CHt button. To select Normal mode if currently in Scan mode, press the SCN button.

Selecting a Channel Frequency To select the required channel frequency, press the CHs or CHt button to scroll up or down through the channel frequencies that are programmed into the radio. Release the button when the required frequency is displayed. In conjunction with the CHs and CHt buttons, the SELs and SELt buttons can be used to step 10 channels at a time. Transmitting and Receiving To key the transmitter press the fist microphone's PTT button. Check that the radio's Tx indicator lights, and then speak clearly into the microphone. Reception is heard through the loudspeaker. The volume is adjusted using the VOLs and VOLt buttons. When a signal is received, the radio's busy indicator lights. Switching and Adjusting the Squelch Facility The radio has an adjustable squelch facility that can also be turned on and off. The squelch facility, when correctly set, mutes unwanted background noise when no signals are being received. During normal use of the radio the squelch facility should be switched on. After initially setting the squelch level, there should be no reason to adjust it unless a problem is evident. The symptoms of an incorrectly adjusted squelch level are:

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Background noise is continuously, or intermittently heard when no signals are being received. If this is the case, the setting is too low. Weak signals (signals below the squelch threshold) are not being received. If this is the case, the setting is too high.

To Switch On the Squelch To switch on the squelch facility: (1) (2) (3) Press the SQL button. Check that the display shows an S and the current level (a number between 1 and 20). Check that after a few seconds the display changes to show the currently selected channel frequency. The squelch facility is now on.

To Switch Off the Squelch To switch off the squelch facility: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Press the SQL button. Check that the display shows an S and the current level (a number between 1 and 20). Press the SQL button while the display is showing S and the current level. Check that the display shows S OFF. Check that after a few seconds the display changes to show the currently selected channel frequency. The squelch facility is now off.

To Adjust the Squelch Level To adjust the squelch facility: (1) (2) (3) Press the SQL button. Check that the display shows an S and the current level (a number between 1 and 20). Press the VOLs button to increase the squelch threshold, or the VOLt button to decrease it. The squelch should be set to the lowest threshold setting (a number between 1 and 20) that eliminates background noise when no signal is being received. After the required setting is selected, press no more buttons and check that after a few seconds the display changes to show the currently selected channel frequency. The squelch facility is now set.

(4)

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Operating the Radio in Priority Mode

Priority mode allows faster access to frequently used channel frequencies. Up to 15 channel frequencies can be programmed into the radio's priority list. The Priority facility must be programmed into the radio before it can be selected, or used. Operating the radio in Priority mode requires the following operations. Each operation is explained in following paragraphs. (1) (2) (3) Select Priority mode if not currently selected. Select the required channel frequency. Transmit using the fist microphone, and receive using the radio's internal loudspeaker.

Selecting Priority Mode Select Priority mode by pressing the PRI button. When selected, the display shows P every few seconds. Selecting a Priority Channel Frequency To select the required channel frequency, press the SELs or SELt button to scroll up or down through the priority channel frequencies that are programmed into the radio. Release the button when the required frequency is displayed. Transmitting and Receiving To transmit, key the transmitter by pressing the fist microphone's PTT button. Check that the radio's Tx indicator lights, and then speak clearly into the microphone. Reception is heard through the loudspeaker. The volume is adjusted using the VOLs and VOLt buttons. When a signal is received, the radio's busy indicator lights. If the squelch facility requires adjusting, refer to To Adjust the Squelch Level on page 30.

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Operating the Radio in Scan Mode

In this mode the radio scans a number of pre-defined channel frequencies searching for a busy one. When a busy channel is found, the radio provides reception on that channel. The Scan facility must be programmed into the radio before it can be selected, or used. Note A channel is defined as busy when it is receiving a signal strong enough to override the squelch setting. What happens after a busy channel is found depends on how the radio is programmed. There are two possible options: Hold and Pause.
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If Hold is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel until the CHs button is pressed to resume scanning. If pause is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel for six seconds, then automatically resumes scanning (even though the channel remains busy). If during the six seconds the radio is keyed, or the CHs button is pressed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel; scanning does not resume until the CHs button is pressed again.

The radio can be programmed with up to 15 scan groups, each containing up to 15 channel frequencies. Squelch is automatically switched on when scan mode is selected. Display blanking does not operate in scan mode. Selecting Scan Mode To select Scan mode, press the SCN button. Check that the display shows Scn and a number between 1 and 15; the number corresponds to the currently selected scan group. Selecting a Scan Group When in Scan mode, the required scan group (a number between 1 and 15) is selected by pressing the SELs or SELt button. Transmitting and Receiving To transmit when the scan function is on hold, or pause, key the transmitter by pressing the fist microphone's PTT button. Check that the radio's Tx indicator lights, and then speak clearly into the microphone. Reception is heard through the loudspeaker. The volume is adjusted using the VOLs and VOLt buttons. When a signal is received, the radio's busy indicator lights. If the squelch facility requires adjusting, refer to To Adjust the Squelch Level on page 30. The squelch cannot be switched off in scan mode.

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Section 5 - Programming the Radio

This section describes how a personality is compiled and then downloaded into the radio's internal memory.

Introduction
During manufacture, the T6M transceiver is programmed with a default personality, or with a personality as per the user's requirements. Note A personality is the programme that defines the radio's channel frequencies, operating modes, and other options. A new personality can be compiled and loaded into the radio at any time using the programming kit (70-T6MPMKIT) available from PAE. The kit contains CD-ROM or floppy disk based software and a programming lead. A laptop computer, or PC, must be available to compile the personality. The following topics and procedures are detailed in this section:
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Programmable options (see page 36). Installing the programming software onto a laptop computer, or PC (see page 37). Creating a new personality (see page 37). Saving a personality (see page 42). Opening a saved personality (see page 43). Loading a personality into the radio (see page 43). Reading a personality from the radio (see page 43). Printing a personality report (see page 44).

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Table 3. Programming Options Option Display blanking Display blanking time Maximum transmit time Hold on scan mode Key beeps Range On or off 10 to 300 seconds 30 to 300 seconds, or 0 (unlimited) On or off Off Default Notes See Display Blanking on page 36. See Display Blanking on page 36. Limits the maximum continuous transmit time. See Hold on Scan Mode on page 37. See Key Beeps on page 36. See Warning Beeps on page 36. See Warning Beeps on page 36. A free format text string that defines the radios personality. Defines whether channel frequencies are to include descriptive strings. Selecting Yes for this option reduces the maximum number of channels that can be stored from 760 to 400. Squelch must be open for this time before a channel is considered to be busy.

60 seconds

180 seconds

On

On or off

On

Warning beeps Warning beep volume Personality description

On or off

On

1 to 7 46 character alphanumeric string

Empty string

Use channel strings

Yes or no

No

Busy on time

0.1 to 5 seconds

0.5 seconds

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Option

Range

Default

Notes When set to on, the radio scans for the strongest frequency within a 25 kHz channel. Always set to On. Enter this in ICAO format (see Table 1 on page 26); this format automatically defines the frequency and the bandwidth. Up to 15 channels can be defined as priority channels. Up to 15 channels can be assigned to each of 15 scan groups. A channel frequency can be included in more than one group. This option can be used to prevent the radio transmitting on any particular channel frequency. A free format text string that describes the channel frequency. Must be disabled for correct operation of the transceiver.

Offset channels

On or off

On

Frequency

118.000 to 136.9916 MHz

760 (25 kHz spaced) channels from 118.000 to 136.975 MHz

Priority channel

Yes or no

No

Scan group

1 to 15 or not assigned

No scan groups assigned

Transmit inhibited

Never inhibit Always inhibit Inhibit if busy

Never inhibit

Identification string

46 character alphanumeric string Enabled or disabled

Empty string

Base

Disabled

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Programmable Options
Display Blanking Display blanking is applicable only to Normal and Priority modes; not Scan mode. When display blanking is enabled, the radio's normal frequency display is replaced by a flashing bar if the radio is not keyed during the display blanking time period. Example, Display blanking is enabled Display blanking time is 60 seconds Selected channel frequency is 121.500 MHz. In this example, the display normally shows 121.500. If the transmitter is not keyed for 60 seconds, the display changes to a flashing bar. Normal frequency display is reinstated when the radio is keyed, or when the VOLs or VOLt button is pressed. Note that the display can be reinstated by pressing any other button, but doing so may also alter radio settings. Warning Beeps When enabled, the following conditions cause a warning beep to be heard when an attempt is made to key the transmitter:
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The radio has a fault that prevents transmissions. Trying to key the radio on a channel frequency that has the Transmit Inhibit option set to Always Inhibit. Trying to key the radio on a busy channel that has the Inhibit if Busy option selected. Imminent transmitter time out.

The volume of warning beeps is set in the personality (a value between 1 and 7); the front panel volume control does not affect the beeps. Key Beeps This option, when enabled, produces a single beep whenever a button is pressed on the radio's front panel. The volume of the beep is the same as the Warning beep.

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Hold on Scan When in scan mode, what happens after a busy channel is found depends on how the radio is programmed. There are two possible options: Hold and Pause.
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If Hold is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel until the CHs button is pressed to resume scanning. If pause is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel for six seconds, then automatically resumes scanning. If during the six seconds the radio is keyed, or the CHs button is pressed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel; scanning does not resume until the CHs button is pressed again.

Installing the Programming Software onto a Laptop, or PC

The programming software is supplied on a CD-ROM or floppy disk. The software should be installed onto a laptop computer, or PC, running Windows 95 or 98. To install the software: (1) (2) (3) Insert the CD-ROM or floppy disk into the computer's appropriate drive. From Windows Explorer, select the appropriate drive, and run the programme called Setup.exe. Follow the on-screen instructions. The programming files are stored in the directory C:\Program Files\PAE unless a different directory is specified during installation. Icons, and an uninstall programme are automatically created during installation.

Creating a New Personality

This procedure creates a new personality for use by the radio. The personality includes all channel frequencies, operating modes and programmable options that are required when the radio is in operational use. When the personality has been compiled, it can be loaded into the radio's memory by connecting the laptop (or PC) to the radio using the programming lead. To create a new personality: (1) At the laptop (or PC) run the PAE programmer software. Check that the General page (see page 38) is displayed. If the Frequencies page is displayed, select the General tab. From the menu-bar select File then New. This action resets all options to the default value and clears all entries, except one, in the frequency table.

(2)

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General Page [Note that the status line at the bottom of the page displays help messages when the mouse pointer is placed over a programmable option.]

(3)

Use Channel String. Decide if you wish to store descriptive text for any of the channel frequencies that will be programmed. If you do, use the mouse to ensure the box is checked. If you do not wish to use this facility, use the mouse to ensure the box is empty. Notes If the Use Channel Strings facility is selected, the maximum number of channel frequencies that can be stored is reduced from 760 to 400. Descriptive text is shown on the frequency list within this programme; it is not displayed at the radio.

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(4)

Maximum Transmit Time. This setting alters the maximum time the transmitter can be keyed. Key in a value between 30 and 300 (seconds), or if no limit is required, enter 0. If a limit has been set, and warning beeps are set, a warning is heard 10 seconds before the radio stops transmitting. Display Blanking. Display blanking is described on page 32. If you require this facility use the mouse to ensure the box is checked. If you do not wish to use this facility, use the mouse to ensure the box is empty. Display Blanking Time. Enter a number between 60 and 300 (seconds). This is the time used when the display blanking facility is selected to be active. Display blanking is described on page 36. Warning Beeps. Warning beeps, as described on page 36, can be set to on or off. To set them to on use the mouse to ensure the box is checked. To switch them off, ensure the box is empty. Warning Beep Volume. The volume of warning beeps (if used) is represented by a figure between 1 and 7. Enter the required value in the box. Hold in Scan Mode. This facility, which is only applicable to scan mode, is explained on page 37. When this box is checked, hold in scan mode is selected; if not checked, pause in scan mode is selected.

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8) (9)

(10) Busy On Time. This is the time a radio must be busy, when scan mode is selected, before the radio holds, or is paused. Enter a value between 0.1 and 5 seconds. (11) Key Beeps. When key beeps are enabled, a single beep is heard whenever a button is pressed on the radio's front panel. The volume of the beep is the same as the Warning beep. To enable this facility, check the box; to disable it, ensure the box is empty. (12) Base. This check box must always be left empty (unchecked). If it displays a tick (checked), the radio will not operate correctly. (13) COM1 or COM2 Selection. Either Com port 1, or Com port 2, can be selected from the drop-down menu. This selection determines which Com port on the laptop, or PC, the radio must be connected to when transferring the personality to the radio. (14) Offset Channels. The offset channels box should always be checked. This is one of the radio's internal characteristics. It does not refer to offset frequency channels as defined by ICAO. (15) Personality Description. A unique name for the personality can be entered here (maximum of 46 characters). (16) When all fields on the General page are correctly configured, use the mouse and click on the Frequencies tab. Check that the Frequencies page is shown (see next page).

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Frequencies Page

(17) When the Frequencies page is first selected there will be one default frequency shown. If this frequency is required leave it as it is; if not, click in the frequency box and change the frequency to that required. Note Enter frequencies in ICAO format. The software recognizes the frequency and appropriate channel spacing (Width). There is no need to manually enter the channel spacing. The ICAO format is illustrated on page 26. (18) If the frequency is required to be included in the Priority list, key in Y in the priority column. If not required, ensure the column reads No. (19) If the frequency is required to be included in a Scan group, enter the scan group number (between 1 and 15) in the scan group column. If the frequency is to be included in more that one scan group, enter the group numbers, separating each with a comma. Note that up to 15 frequencies can be included in each scan group.

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(20) The Tx Inhibit facility must now be set for the frequency. This facility determines when the radio can transmit. Three options are allowed:
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Never. Key in N. This means the inhibit function is never enabled. The transmitter can be keyed at any time, including at times when the channel is busy. Busy. Key in B. This means the inhibit function is enabled when the channel is busy. The transmitter can however be keyed at all other times. Always. Key in A. This means the inhibit function is always enabled. The channel is therefore receive only and the transmitter can never be keyed.

(21) If the Channel String option was selected from the General page, descriptive text (maximum of 16 characters) can be keyed into the Identity column. (22) One frequency channel entry is now complete. Further channels can be entered in the same way by clicking on the Add channels box. To delete any entered channel, highlight the frequency and click on the Delete channel box. When all the required frequency channels have been entered, click on the Verify and sort the table box. Any errors made when compiling the frequencies page are automatically identified to the user. (23) As an alternative to manually entering frequency channels, and when many channels must be entered, a range of frequencies can be entered. To do this, click on the Fill table box and check that the Add channels sub-page is displayed.

Add Channels Sub-Page

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(24) From the Add channels sub-page, enter the first and last frequencies in the required range. From the drop-down menu, select the channel spacing (bandwidth); this can be 25 kHz, 8.33 kHz, or both. From the drop-down menu select the Transmit inhibit condition (Always, Never, or Busy). When complete, click on the Add channels box. After the list of frequencies is displayed on the Frequencies page, any individual frequency can be amended, for example adding it to the priority list, as required. When all the required frequency channels have been entered, click on the Verify and sort the table box. Any errors made when compiling the frequencies page are automatically identified to the user. (25) When a lot of frequencies are entered and it is required to amend the entry, for example adding it to the priority list, a quick method of displaying the frequency is by clicking on the Find Channel box. This displays the Find frequency sub-page. Enter the frequency on the sub-page and click on Find it. The frequency is then displayed on the Frequencies Page. After amending the entry, click on the Verify and sort the table box. Any errors made are automatically identified to the user.

Find Frequency Sub-Page

Saving a Personality
When a personality has been compiled, it should be saved. To do this: (1) (2) (3) From the programming menu, select File, then Save As. When the Save As window is displayed enter a file name for the personality. The file name must have the extension .PER. Click on Save to store the personality. Before the save process, the personality is automatically checked for any errors. If errors do exist they are highlighted to the user. If the save is successful, the file name appears at the top of the programming window. At any time, the personality can be edited and saved using the same filename.

(4)

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Opening a Saved Personality

To open a previously saved personality: (1) (2) From the programming menu, select File, then Open. Select one of the personality files and click on Open.

Loading a Personality into the Radio

Use the following procedure to load a personality into the radio: (1) (2) (3) Switch off the laptop (or PC) and the radio. At the radio, disconnect the microphone from the transceiver. Replace it with the programming lead. Connect the other end of the programming lead to the laptop's (or PC's) Com port 1 or Com port 2. Note that the appropriate port is set in the personality. The connected port must match that stated in the personality. Check, and amend if necessary, Switch on the radio and the laptop. At the radio check that Pr is shown on the front panel display. Ensure the programming software is running and display the required personality on screen. From the programming menu-bar select Program radio and then Personality.

(4) (5) (6)

The programmer automatically verifies the personality is valid and downloads it to the radio. If it is not valid the nature of the error will be displayed. The progress of the programming operation is displayed on the status line at the bottom of the programming screen. When programming is complete, switch off the radio and laptop, remove the programming lead, and reconnect the radio's microphone.

Reading a Personality from the Radio

To read a personality from the radio: (1) (2) (3) Switch off the laptop (or PC) and the radio. At the radio, disconnect the microphone from the transceiver. Replace it with the programming lead. Connect the other end of the programming lead to the laptop's (or PC's) Com port 1 or Com port 2. Note that the appropriate port is set in the personality. The connected port must match that stated in the personality. Check, and amend if necessary.

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(4) (5) (6)

Switch on the radio and the laptop. At the radio check that Pr is shown on the front panel display. Ensure the programming software is running and display the required personality on screen. From the programming menu-bar select Read radio and then Personality.

The progress of the read operation is displayed on the status line at the bottom of the programming screen. When complete, switch off the radio and laptop, remove the programming lead, and reconnect the radio's microphone.

Printing a Personality Report

A personality can be printed as follows: (1) (2) (3) From the programming menu, select Report, then Generate. The programmer automatically verifies the personality is valid. If it is not valid the nature of the error will be displayed. A textual representation of the personality is displayed using the Windows Notepad programme. When Notepad displays the personality it can be saved as a text file, or printed.

Previously saved Notepad files containing personalities can be retrieved by selecting Report, then Open from the menu-bar.

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Section 6 - Spares

Introduction
The transceiver is manufactured using surface mount technology. Because of this, and the specialist test equipment required to set up the circuits, the transceiver has no user serviceable parts.

List of Spares
The following spares are available from PAE. When ordering, the part number should always be quoted. (1) (2) (3) (4) Programming kit (includes CD-ROM, or floppy disk,and programming lead) Whip antenna (complete with approximately 4.8 m of coaxial cable) Loudspeaker Microphone Part No. Part No. Part No. Part No. 70-T6MPMKIT 00-50000001 25F06000T6M 25F02000T6M

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