Realistic PRO-2004 Programmable Scanner
General Coverage AM/FM Monitor Receiver
Cat. No. 20-119
FEATURES
The Realistic PRO-2004 Programmable Scanning Receiver offers access to over 200,000 frequencies across nine action radio bands, including police, fire, ambulances, aircraft, ham radio operators, and transportation services, as well as FM broadcast, TV audio, and CB operators. It allows programming up to 300 channels for continuous monitoring.
Key features include:
- Custom-designed microprocessor for advanced functions.
- Front panel keyboard for easy frequency entry and changes.
- Automatic search function to locate active stations within user-defined frequency ranges.
- Priority key to ensure no calls on a designated channel are missed.
- Wide Frequency Coverage: 25-520 MHz and 760-1300 MHz.
- 300 channels for storing listening frequencies.
- 10 frequencies can be stored during search in the Monitor Bank.
- Up to 10 search ranges can be memorized.
- Direct search function from the displayed frequency.
- 10 scan banks, with the option to scan any or all banks.
- Lockout function to skip specified channels.
- Delay function to hold a channel for 2 seconds after transmission ends.
- Selectable scan and search speeds.
- Selectable modes: AM, NFM, WFM.
- Selectable search steps: 5 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 50 kHz.
- Selectable priority channel.
- Frequency delete function.
- Direct permanent-memory store in search mode.
- Memory backup.
- Battery alarm beep.
- Sound squelch function to eliminate noise between transmissions.
- Large multi-purpose LCD displaying channel status, operation mode, and more.
- AC and DC (negative ground) operation.
- Dimmer function.
- Zeromatic function in search mode.
SAFETY INFORMATION
CAUTION: The lightning flash with an arrowhead symbol within a triangle indicates dangerous voltage inside the unit that can cause electric shock. Do not open the enclosure.
The exclamation point within a triangle alerts the user to important operating and maintenance instructions found in the owner's manual.
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover or back. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
A QUICK LOOK AT YOUR PRO-2004
SCAN Key: Sets the PRO-2004 for automatic scan.
DELAY Key: Holds the receiver on a channel for two seconds after transmission ends. Press once to activate, again to cancel.
Multi-purpose Display: Shows channel, frequency, status (delay, locked out), and operation mode.
Headphone Jack: For private listening. Disconnects the internal speaker when headphones are plugged in.
OFF/VOLUME Control: Turns the unit on and adjusts volume.
SQUELCH Control: Eliminates background noise between transmissions. Adjust clockwise until noise disappears.
SOUND SQUELCH Switch: Maintains search function for frequencies with carrier only (no modulated signal).
DIMMER Switch: Controls the intensity of the LCD illumination.
PRIORITY KEY: Sets or clears the priority function. Calls up the priority channel in PROGRAM MODE.
MANUAL KEY: Sets the PRO-2004 for manual operation. Advances one channel with each press.
SPEED KEY: Selects scan and search speeds (fast: 16 ch/sec, slow: 8 ch/sec).
LIMIT KEYS: Set search range limits.
NUMBER KEYS: Used for entering channels, frequencies, and commands.
CLEAR KEY: Clears entries in various modes.
ENTER KEY: Enters a displayed frequency into a channel.
PROGRAM KEY: Enters the programming mode.
MONITOR KEY: Stores frequencies found during search into monitor channels.
DIRECT KEY: Initiates a direct search from the displayed frequency.
REAR PANEL
- EXT. SPKR Jack: For connecting an external speaker.
- TAPE OUT Jack: High-level output for connecting to a tape recorder.
- ATT Switch: Reduces cross-modulation when using an external antenna with strong nearby frequencies. Set to "10 dB" to minimize interference.
- ANTenna Connector: Connects the telescopic antenna. An outdoor antenna is recommended for superior reception.
- RESTART Switch: Resets the PRO-2004 if the display or key functions become erratic.
- AC Line Cord: Plugs into a 120V, 60 Hz AC power source.
- DC 13.8V Jack: For connecting an external 12V DC (negative ground) source.
- Memory Backup Battery Compartment: Install a 9-volt battery to preserve programmed frequencies during power loss.
Caution regarding AC plug: The power cord has a polarized plug (one blade wider than the other) designed to fit into an outlet in only one way. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature.
GETTING STARTED
Battery Installation
Loosen the screw on the battery compartment cover, remove it, and snap in a 9-volt battery (Radio Shack recommends 23-553 or equivalent). This battery backs up the scanner's memory during power outages. Replace the battery every six months for best results.
When the memory backup battery is weak or disconnected, the display shows BATT and an alarm beep sounds.
CAUTION: To avoid loss of programmed data, do not unplug the power cable while replacing the battery. Never leave a weak or dead battery in the unit, as it can leak damaging chemicals.
AC Power Operation
Connect the AC power cord to a standard AC outlet.
Car Battery Operation
The PRO-2004 can be operated from a 12-volt, negative ground vehicle battery using an optional DC power cable (Cat. No. 270-1534). Connect the cable to the DC13.8V jack and then to the vehicle's cigarette lighter socket.
Caution: Ensure the power cable does not touch metal parts in the vehicle. Connect the plug to the unit's jack before connecting to the cigarette lighter socket.
Antenna
Attach the telescopic antenna to the ANT connector, aligning the protrusion with the notch and securing it. Antenna length affects sensitivity; adjust as follows:
- 25 MHz – 300 MHz: Extend fully.
- 300 MHz – 520 MHz: Extend 3 segments.
- 760 MHz – 1300 MHz: Collapse fully (one segment only).
For optimal reception, use an external antenna. Radio Shack offers suitable antennas and mounting hardware.
WARNING: Exercise extreme caution when installing or removing outdoor antennas. If an antenna falls, let it go to avoid contact with power lines, which can cause electrocution. Contact the power company to remove a fallen antenna.
RESTART Switch
If the LCD display or any key function becomes erratic, press the RESTART switch with a ball-point pen. This will clear the current frequency and revert the unit to its initial mode, with some functions returning to their default settings (Priority: Channel 1, Monitor: Channel 1, Search Bank: Bank 1, Scan Bank: All on).
OPERATING YOUR PRO-2004
Turn on the PRO-2004 by rotating the OFF/VOLUME control clockwise. Adjust SQUELCH until the background noise stops while scanning resumes.
Understanding the Display and Keyboard
The LCD displays channel number, frequency, function status (delay, locked out), and operation mode. The keyboard is used for all programming and control functions.
TAPE Out
Connect a tape recorder to the TAPE OUT jack to record received signals.
BATT Indicator
When the memory backup battery is low, the [BATT] indicator appears, and an alarm beep sounds. Replace the battery promptly.
ERROR Indicator
An ERROR indicator and beeping sound occur when an invalid frequency is entered (e.g., outside the PRO-2004's range or with an incorrect decimal placement) or when a channel number is out of limits. Press [CLEAR] and re-enter the correct frequency or channel.
Banks
The PRO-2004 has 10 permanent-memory storage banks, each with 30 channels, allowing for a total of 300 stored frequencies. An eleventh bank, the MONITOR Bank, is used for temporary storage of newly discovered frequencies during search mode.
Operating Modes
The PRO-2004 has four operating modes: Programming, Manual, Scanning, and Searching.
Programming Frequencies
- Select the desired channel (e.g., channel 30).
- Press PROGRAM to enter programming mode.
- Enter the desired frequency (e.g., 162.55 MHz) using the keypad.
- Press ENTER to store the frequency.
Note: Radio Shack's "Police Call Directory Including Fire & Emergency Services" is a helpful resource for local frequencies.
Hints and Tips for Programming:
- Press CLEAR to correct entry errors.
- An ERROR message indicates a frequency outside the PRO-2004's band range.
- The scanner automatically rounds entered frequencies to the closest valid frequency based on the selected step (5 kHz or 12.5 kHz).
- The tuning range is fixed and cannot be altered.
- To change a stored frequency, simply enter the new frequency over the old one.
Manual Mode
In MANUAL mode, you can manually advance through programmed channels by repeatedly pressing the MANUAL key or directly access a channel by entering its number and pressing MANUAL. Locked-out channels or skipped banks can be accessed in manual mode.
Scanning Frequencies
The PRO-2004 automatically scans programmed channels, stopping when a signal is detected. Ensure SQUELCH is adjusted correctly to prevent continuous noise. Press MANUAL to stop scanning and select a specific channel.
Delay
Press the DELAY key to hold a channel for at least two seconds after a transmission ends, allowing you to hear both sides of a conversation. The DELAY indicator appears on the LCD. Press DELAY again to cancel.
Forced Scan
If scanning stops due to a signal, press SCAN to resume scanning immediately.
Speed Selection
Press the SPEED key to alternate between fast (16 channels/sec) and slow (8 channels/sec) scanning rates.
Locking Out Frequencies (Skipping Frequencies)
To skip channels during scanning:
- Press MANUAL to stop scanning.
- Navigate to the channel to be locked out.
- Press LOCK-OUT. The LOCK-OUT indicator appears.
To cancel lockout, repeat the process or use the LOCK-OUT REVIEW function.
Note: The last channel in a bank cannot be locked out, and each bank must have at least one non-locked-out channel.
Skipping Banks
To skip entire banks during scanning, press the corresponding bank number key (1-10, with '0' for bank 10) while in SCAN mode. The bank number indicator will disappear. Press the key again to restore the bank.
Priority
The PRO-2004 can monitor other channels while automatically switching to a designated priority channel when a signal is detected. Channel 1 is the default priority channel.
Programming the Priority Channel: Press PROGRAM, enter the desired channel number, and press PRI. The 'P' indicator confirms the priority channel. Press PRI again to revert.
Using Priority: Press PRI in scan or manual mode. The PRIORITY indicator appears. The receiver checks the priority channel and switches to it if a signal is present. Press PRI again to cancel.
Note: All settings (delay, lockout, speed, priority, step, skipped banks) are retained when the power is turned off.
SEARCHING WITH YOUR PRO-2004
Limit Search
To search within a specific frequency range:
- Press PROGRAM.
- Select a search bank (1-10) using the numeric keys.
- Press LIMIT.
- Enter the lower limit frequency and press ENTER.
- Press LIMIT again.
- Enter the upper limit frequency and press ENTER.
- Activate search by pressing [A] (upward search) or [F] (downward search).
Note: Adjust SQUELCH if the search does not start.
Press [SPEED] to adjust search speed.
Important: Ensure the difference between the upper and lower limits is greater than the selected step frequency to avoid search issues.
DIRECT Search
In MANUAL or PROGRAM mode, press [DIRECT], then [A] or [F] to search up or down from the currently displayed frequency.
Forced Search
If a search stops on an undesired frequency, press [A] or [F] to continue the search.
Band Mode and Frequency Steps
The PRO-2004 automatically adjusts mode (AM, NFM, WFM) and steps (5 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 50 kHz) based on the frequency range. These can be manually adjusted using the MODE and STEP switches. Press RESET to return to default settings.
Note: Improper mode/step settings can lead to poor reception. Use WFM for FM broadcast/TV sound and NFM for action bands. Use appropriate steps to avoid missing frequencies or stopping on sidebands.
Limit Search Break Frequency Memory
When a limit search is interrupted, the break frequency is memorized. The search resumes from that frequency unless the limits are changed, in which case it restarts from the new lower or upper limit.
Zeromatic Function
The Zeromatic circuit helps receive correct frequencies during search. For TV sound in VHF/UHF bands, set mode to WFM and step to 50 kHz, or use manual adjustment if sideband frequencies are received. The Zeromatic circuit may not function correctly with 5 kHz step searches in the 760 MHz to 1300 MHz band.
Using Delay (Search Mode)
Press DELAY to hold a frequency for at least 2 seconds after a transmission ends during search, allowing for two-way communication. Press DELAY again to cancel.
Storing Frequencies in Monitor Channels
During search, press MONITOR when a desired frequency is found. The frequency is stored in the next available monitor channel (1-10). Press [A] or [F] to resume searching.
Moving Frequencies from Monitor Channels to Permanent-Memory-Storage Banks
To transfer a frequency from a monitor channel to a permanent bank:
- Select the desired permanent memory channel (e.g., channel 9).
- Press PROGRAM, then the channel number, then PROGRAM again.
- Press MONITOR to display monitor channels. Navigate to the desired frequency.
- Press ENTER to store the frequency in the selected permanent channel.
To store frequencies directly into permanent memory during search:
- Select an open channel or one with unwanted data.
- Press [A] or [F] to start search.
- When a desired frequency is found, press MONITOR.
- Press ENTER to store the frequency and advance to the next channel. Repeat for additional frequencies.
Sound Squelch
The SOUND SQUELCH switch allows the scanner to resume scanning if a stopped frequency has only a carrier signal (no sound). When activated, if no sound is detected within 0.5 seconds, the scanner moves to the next frequency. If sound ceases, it holds for 5 seconds before resuming. Press the switch again to cancel.
Deleting Frequency
To delete a channel frequency display (show zero): Press PROGRAM → 0 → ENT.
Clearing Entire Memory
To clear all memories, press and hold CLEAR, then press the RESTART switch on the rear panel while the power is on.
Birdies
"Birdies" are internal signals that can interfere with reception. If you encounter a birdie, try adjusting the SQUELCH control or avoid programming those specific frequencies. A list of common birdie frequencies is provided.
Cross Modulation: Use the ATT switch to minimize cross-modulation when using an external antenna.
TYPES OF SIGNALS YOU WILL BE ABLE TO MONITOR
The PRO-2004 can monitor various radio services. It is important to check local regulations regarding the use of scanners in vehicles, as restrictions may apply.
GUIDE TO THE ACTION BANDS
The PRO-2004 covers a wide range of frequencies used by various services. To determine active frequencies in your area, consult local resources such as radio clubs, electronics repair shops, or volunteer emergency personnel. The manual provides general frequency ranges for services like Mobile Telephone, Air Navigation, Aircraft Communications, Police, Fire, Emergency Services, and Railroads.
Note: Radio Shack's "POLICE CALL RADIO DIRECTORY" is a valuable resource for detailed frequency listings.
TYPICAL BAND USAGE
This section provides an abbreviated listing of common radio services and their associated frequency ranges, including abbreviations for various organizations and types of transmissions. It helps users decide which frequency ranges to monitor.
Key Frequency Ranges and Services Mentioned:
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