Motorola APCO25 User Manual

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Basic Operation
This section is your main reference for using the scanner once you have programmed
conventional and trunked systems. Note that there are some slight differences to some
functions depending on whether you are trying to affect conventional operation or trunked
operation. Be sure to refer to the appropriate section depending on the mode you are using.
Turning On the Scanner
Turn the VOLUME control clockwise out of the detent position. The scanner automatically
starts scanning. Since there are no frequencies programmed in your scanner initially, you
may not receive any signals. Once you set the squelch and program some frequencies, you
will begin hearing conversations regularly.
Setting the Squelch
To set the squelch, you must be in the hold mode, and you should not be receiving a signal
on your scanner.
1. Press 
/HOLD until you do not hear a signal.
2. Make sure that the VOLUME is set to a comfortable listening
level.
3. Think of the Squelch Control as a gate. Turn the SQUELCH
control fully counterclockwise. This raises the “Squelch Gate” so
high that only very strong signals can get through.
4. Turn SQUELCH clockwise until you hear a hiss. This lowers the
“Squelch Gate” so that everything gets through – noise, weak
signals, medium signals and strong signals.
5. Turn SQUELCH back counter-clockwise just until the hiss stops.
Now the “Squelch Gate” allows only clear signals through.
Note: For Trunk Scanning, a good squelch setting is critical. The
recommended setting is midpoint. If you set the squelch too
high, the scanner might not reliably stop on the control
channel.
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STRONG SIGNALS
MEDIUM SIGNALS
WEAK SIGNALS
NOISE
STRONG SIGNALS
MEDIUM SIGNALS
WEAK SIGNALS
NOISE
STRONG SIGNALS
MEDIUM SIGNALS
WEAK SIGNALS
NOISE