74479 539 MANUAL V1.01
Contents
1. 26 4 2 Using the 712 USB Soundcard Interface ssseseseseeseeseseesesseseesesreseesesstseesesreseesestesessessesessestestsrestesestesessesstssessee 26 4 3 Using the Model 418 100 Watt Solid State Linear Amplifier 26 5 A E A dee cate E E 27 e E E E E E 27 5 2 Transceiver alee DIT ke Ta a EEA E E E 30 SM PE DEA 5 E E ET E E E E A ERE 32 AEn eA ado Te AAE E E E EE AA E E E E 34 8 Reyision a e on ee a E EE EN 35 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 2 RF 888 888 88 aa AM CW LSB USB RIT MS BW 888 88 2 2 5 3 BW PBT Figure 1 1 539 Front Panel 1 Your new Argonaut VI 539 1 1 Unpacking the Argonaut VI Examine the Argonaut VI for signs of shipping damage Should any damage be apparent notify the delivering carrier immediately stating the full extent of the damage Retain all damaged cartons Liability for shipping damage rests with the carrier We recommend that you keep the carton and fillers in the event that storage moving or shipment becomes necessary The hardware and accessories listed in Figure 1 3 1 come standard with your Argonaut VI Make su2. EE EE E EE EEEE 14 Auto Notch 9 14 MIC Connector ev dein ta 15 Mice Gain and Line Gaiti l Q ae e o a E E E E ge Ok ha eek Ue ee es ee 16 2 930 W Mode Operations 28 ag A eee 17 TntemallKeyer Cw Speed reich tines te nde weet Raveena este ce es 17 Internal Keyer Weighting Dit Spacing amp Curtis Mode 17 CW Sidetonie Frequency Cee eR eee eed tee es eee i ccs 17 CW Sidetotie lelabded 17 ae 17 CW Keying and died 18 2 6 Operations E A A 18 2 7 Digital Mode 18 2 8 Interfacing to a computer for Firmware Update Mode and Control Logging 19 2 9 Power Up Modes deat A datevatt desioraniasedec ieee ndee eR A Give eee 20 Configuration Menu 7 sieeccvschaseescesidedecsbegeiveeevscdecsvacavsdeus EREE E A EEEE E i 20 Master Res t SPL 8 Jenco enei E E A EE A A E EREE 20 Firmware Update Mode 10 ccccescesseessesseeseesseesecesecseeesesseeesec
3. 100 Watt Solid State Linear Amplifier All measurements are typical Specifications are subject to change 7 4 Ft DC Cable 86095 7 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 29 iagram 5 2 Transceiver Block D LNO NI JNT OIN ZHIN 6 8 0 1959 Jl ZHING 669 1JAOW Release 1 01 January 28 2013 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 30 Printed in USA FCC Compliance Note This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions may cause harmful interference to radio communications However there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit d
4. The Argonaut VI operates the same as most modern TenTec rigs do with regards to the ability to retain user settings through a power reset For various reasons user settings are not immediately written into the non volatile memory every time that the user changes a setting When a user setting is changed this value will be stored 15 seconds after the user has made his last change to any user setting Example Change Main Frequency to 14 02 This starts the 15 second user value store timer 2 seconds later change Mode to CW This resets the user value store timer back to 15 5 seconds later change AGC to Slow This resets the user value store timer back to 15 Finally do nothing for 15 seconds and all of the above values will be stored If changes are made and the unit is turned off before the 15 second timer has expired then all of those changes made since the last store point will be lost 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 23 2 12 Adjusting The Levels of the Backlight colors The intensity of the three colors Red Green Blue of the Color Display on the Argonaut VI is adjustable The adjustments are via three potentiometer located inside the Argonaut VI covers behind the front panel This procedure should be performed while the Argonaut VI is powered up so that changes in the different color levels is visible To adjust the levels 1 Remove the 4 cover screws 2 on each side of the Argona
5. During the update process the TX ALC LED will flicker showing active communications The update program will confirm that lines are getting sent programmed 11 When finished the 539 Argonaut VI will restart and run the new firmware 12 Sometimes Windows doesn t like the transition of the radio from firmware update mode to radio mode so it is suggested that once the radio is back up and running showing the tuned frequency turn the rig back off wait a few seconds then turn it back on This helps Windows find the USB COM port easier Release 1 01 January 28 2013 2 10 Optional Filter Installation The Argonaut VI has three filter slots Filter Slot 1 1 Filter Slot 2 F2 Filter Slot 3 F3 The Argonaut VI comes standard with a 2 9KHz filter installed in Filter Slot 2 F2 Optional filters are available for the Argonaut as follows Slot for Filter 700 poos RB Table 2 10 1 Optional Filters Optional Filter Installation Optional Filters can be installed in the 3 filter slots as described below To install new filters 1 Remove the 4 cover screws 2 on each side of the Argonaut VI 2 Carefully raise the top cover 3 Ifnecessary unplug speaker cable located on the left side of the main board 4 Set the top cover aside 5 Remove the two screws that hold down the Fitler cover over F2 and F3 and set it aside 6 You now see the standard 2 9KHz Filter installed in Filter Slot
6. Multi Function Buttons 7 8 9 10 There are four buttons on the front panel to change different operational features within the Argonaut VI These buttons perform multiple functions The Primary Function for the buttons on the Argonaut VI is screened directly on the button Notice the four buttons have text printed above the button on the button and below the button The location of the TMB switch identifies the function as stated by the T op row of text above the button or the M iddle row of text printed on the button or the B ottom row of text printed below the button These buttons also take on a fourth meaning when the BW pot is adjusted fully counter clockwise and the switch clicks to the CW position The functionality is described in the following sections Release 1 01 January 28 2013 OOD ood oo an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So 2 25 3 BW PBT PWR SPL AGC ARIT MW MR USR ig 59 70 Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes 2 3 General Operations This section of your Argonaut VI Manual will discuss the button operation and adjustments common to all modes on the Argonaut VI It is important to read this general operations section prior to operating the Argonaut VI because the BW Pot 3 and the state of the TMB three position switch 5 change the function of the four push buttons 7 8 9 10 AF Gain Control And Powe
7. AF RF Gain Control Usage Tips One way to make a noisy band easier to listen to and pull out weaker signals is to decrease the RF Gain to the point where the audio is difficult to hear then increase the AF Gain Balancing these two controls in a TenTec transceiver helps one pull out signals and helps decrease the band background noise to a level that is much more enjoyable and reduces contest fatigue Release 1 01 January 28 2013 an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So 2 25 3 BW PBT O PWR SPL AGC A Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes BW 3 Bandwidths Adjusting the BW control will allow you to select the DSP filtering of your choice This will increase the selectivity of receive and helps remove close in unwanted signals The range of the DSP filters is 100hz to 2500hz in 25hz increments When the optional 6kHz filter is installed this permits 4k 5k and 6k DSP bandwidth selections When dealing with crowded band conditions and close in adjoining signals one will find this control very useful as you begin to narrow the filter to eliminate close in unwanted signals This control will automatically select the correct roofing filter ahead of the DSP filtering provided a specific roofing filter is installed PBT 4 Pass Band Tuning Verify that the PBT control is at 12 O clock to begin listening in all modes The PBT control wi
8. TenTec download webpage for the Argonaut VI Start at www tentec com and follow the links until you get to the Argonaut VI s Download page Look for the latest instructions entitled USB to UART driver Installation Download and follow the instructions If at any time you need to see what port the Argonaut VI is connected to go back into Device Manager expand the Ports COM amp LPT selection and you should see USB to UART COMx Note the x in the COMx that is reported by Device Manager You will use this number when running Logging or Control programs the Flash Update Utility ete If required you can change the actual port number being used to a lower number if required Sometimes the update program on some computers will require a port number lower than 10 To do so double click the USB to UART COMx text go to port settings select advanced and select a different COM Port Number from the pull down box It may display a warning message if it does confirm ok the change Click OK Confirm etc until all windows are closed Disconnect the Argonaut VI wait a few seconds reconnect the Argonaut VI and you should see the new port number in Device Manager 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 19 NOTE when you plug the USB cable into a different USB port on the PC it will most likely get a new COMx port number defined Be aware of this when reconnecting the USB cable
9. also be shown Here is the sequence of steps to follow once the exe file has been downloaded from the Downloads web page for the Argonaut 1 539 1 Turn Transceiver OFF 2 Turn Transceiver ON to verify that the Argonaut VI has appropriate power E g the Argonaut VIs front panel display shows the normal indicators and frequencies 3 Turn Transceiver back OFF 4 Connect a PC to the transceiver using a standard USB cable Note if already connected disconnect for a second or two then reconnect helps computers that don t disconnect the USB driver unless it is physically disconnected 5 Be sure the TMB button is on Top Turn the Transceiver ON while holding down the MOD button When the Argonaut VI starts up in flash update mode you will see the TX ALC LED flash on for a second then back off then back on for a second IF the USB Cable is connected and the drivers are working properly in the PC then the TX ALC LED will turn back off If the TX ALC LED remains lit and does not shut back off then check your USB cable and ensure that the drivers are installed before proceeding 6 Start the Update program 7 Select the COM port to which the Transceiver is attached 8 Choose UPDATE under the PROCESS menu 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 21 9 Select the RUF file under the Process Menu 10 The program will update the radio and report any errors encountered
10. available programs user manuals programmers reference etc for future reference on their Windows based computer Running the MasterLibrary539 installation program will also generate Start Menu links in Windows with shortcuts to the various programs and user files in pdf format Setup539 Setup539 is a GUI designed to interface with the Argonaut VI via the USB port for setup and button definition It permits the user to customize the functions of the three Software Defined Buttons SDBs It also permits the user to save and restore setup configurations for a quick and easy way to setup for one s 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 6 favorite operating setups E g one can save a setup for the CQ WW RTTY contest or to quickly go to one s favorite net Running the setup539 setup program does require that the USB drivers are installed first See the section titled Interfacing to a computer for Firmware Update Mode and PC Control Logging Purposes for more information on the interface before attempting to run setup539 This process also shows what the actual comm port number is allocated by Windows When setup539 is launched it will ask for the Radio Definition File RDF to use The default RDF file is defaults539 rdf The first thing to do is to change to the proper comm port number used with the Argonaut VI and then save the defaults539 file The comm port is selected in setup539 using a dro
11. be found in the ARRL Handbook A good ground system can contribute to the station efficiency in a number of ways including minimizing the possibility of electrical shock and minimizing RF currents flowing on the shield of the coax cable causing interference to electrical equipment and transceiver accessories It is critical that the power supply the Argonaut VI and other equipment in the station be properly grounded to an Earth ground Improper grounding can lead to various issues including RFI ground loops or even death Therefore it is extremely important to refer to the Local and National Electrical Codes and ARRL Handbook with regards to grounding Release 1 01 January 28 2013 1 6 Philosophy of design With the Model 539 Argonaut VI Ten Tec has created a QRP transceiver combining simplified controls and ease of operation with the excellent performance of a low first IF ham band architecture in a compact mobile friendly structure The analog portion of the radio is double conversion with IF frequencies of 9 0018 MHz and 22 5 kHz A third conversion to zero frequency IF is accomplished in the DSP processor Refer to the Block Diagram the Specifications section for the following discussion Receive signals are routed to a T R switch at the input of the BPF Preselector board This board also contains the bandpass filter selected for the band in use and a switchable 12dB receive preamplifier On the TX RX
12. board output from the preamplifier is mixed with the first Local Oscillator to 9 0018 MHz and routed to one of the three roofing filters After selectivity roofing IF amplification is provided by a variable gain amplifier which also develops the high level AGC Finally the 9 0018 IF signal is mixed with the second LO to develop a 22 5 kHz low IF for the Signal Processing Unit SPU Based on a 36 096 MHz temperature stable reference the Oscillator board generates first and second LO s with a DDS circuit and fixed frequency division The SPU samples the low IF at 96K samples per second and applies the resulting data to a digital signal processor Numerical algorithms running in the digital processor accomplish additional selectivity filtering low level AGC and demodulation The resulting audio appears at the speaker and line outputs The PIC processor in the front panel CPU module executes firmware stored EEPROM to perform housekeeping functions such as synthesizer programming tuning 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 5 signal switching and front panel display and control input Based on the control inputs from the front panel or remotely via the USB interface the writes display information tunes the LOs adjusts selectivity and chooses both receiver detection and transmit emission modes Transmit operation is basically the reverse of receive Audio or CW signals are generated at zero freq
13. button This toggles the AN setting There is no indication on the front panel for Auto Notch When you press the NR 9 button 1 beep indicates that Auto Notch is disengaged and 2 beeps indicates that Auto Notch is engaged Auto Notch state is not remembered during a power cycle and it will default to Off upon power up Release 1 01 January 28 2013 MIC Connector Front panel jack used for connection of a microphone The Argonaut VI features the common 8 pin microphone jack used in many amateur radio transceivers Most dynamic or Electret Microphones can be used When adapting a microphone please refer to the wiring diagrams in Figures 2 4 1 and 2 4 2 Figure 2 4 1 Transceiver Microphone Jack Front View Pin 2 9 Vdc need only be connected if the microphone element in use is an electret condenser requiring a polarizing voltage Chassis ground and mic signal ground are separated to reduce the possibility of introducing stray hum or RFI into transmit audio signal We recommend that the case of the microphone also be tied to chassis ground on the transceiver via a shielded cable to pin 5 This is to help assure stray RF does not have a path to be coupled into transmit audio The cable carrying mic signal and mic signal ground should be shielded This prevents the cable itself from acting as an antenna and coupling RF back into mic audio NOTE Some aftermarket microphones are not wired with separate microphone signal gr
14. in becomes the sound card that all windows sounds and video sounds will go through Meaning when the 712 detects audio from the PC eg a Windows Notification Tone such as the DING that is heard when you close or open a Window or connect a USB device this DING will put the Argonaut VI into transmit 4 3 Using the Model 418 100 Watt Solid State Linear Amplifier The 8 pin din cable supplied with the 418 helps ease usage of the 418 when connected directly to an Argonaut VI The cable provides a way for the Argonaut VI to tell the 418 what band it has changed to so that band switching is performed seamlessly Refer to the 418 user manual for further usage and benefits The exact protocol used on the clock data enable pins generated by the 539 are defined in the specification Using the Argonaut VI Band Switching available at the TenTec Website Release 1 01 January 28 2013 5 Specifications 5 1 Transceiver Specifications GENERAL Microphone Connector Headphone Jack External CW Key Jack Aux DC Output Connector Frequency Range TX Frequency Range ACC Din Connector DC Power Connector Fuse Tuning Step Size Frequency Stability Antenna Impedance Antenna Connectors Modes Memories Supply Voltage Operating Temp Range Dimensions HxWxD Weight Construction PC Control Port Display Display Backlight 8 pin on front panel 1 4 stereo accepts mono or
15. or will appear on the screen providing for the next vacant memory A numeric channel number will appear below the mode Rotate the main VFO knob to select your desired vacant memory location Press and hold MW PRE until you hear one beep then quickly release the MW PRE to lock in that memory location Use the main VFO knob to scroll through 100 different memories available and view which memory locations are vacant You may re write to an existing memory location by scrolling to that memory number To exit MEM mode without saving any changes quickly tap the MW PRE button to exit back to your VFO frequency and mode 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 12 To clear a memory channel be sure the TMB switch is on the Bottom Press down the MW PRE to enter the memory mode Rotate the main VFO knob to select the desired memory location Next press and hold the MW PRE for 2 3 seconds or until you hear four quick beeps Any frequency which has been entered will now be removed Upon release of this button the MEM will also disappear from the screen Recalling A Stored Memory 9 To recall a stored memory be sure the TMB switch is on the Bottom then press the MR NR button MEM will appear to the bottom left side of your front screen A previously inserted memory frequency or will appear on the screen numeric channel number will appear below the mode where the VFO B frequency normall
16. stereo on rear panel 1 8 stereo accepts mono or stereo on rear panel RCA 0 5A max connected to DC Power 1 795 2 005 160M 3 495 4 005 80M 6 995 7 305 40M 10 095 10 155 30M 13 995 14 355 20M 18 063 18 173 17M 20 995 21 455 15M 27 995 29 705 10M 1 795 2 505 160M 3 495 5 005 80M 6 995 7 305 40M 9 995 10 155 30M 13 995 15 005 20M 18 063 18 173 17M 20 995 21 455 15M 27 995 29 705 10M Specifications apply within Amateur Radio bands Only 8 PIN DIN Connector Line in Line out Aux PTT Ext Key Clock Data Enable Ground AMP MATE N LOCK 2 pin Automotive Blade Style 7 5 A 32V 10 100 1000 speed sensitive VFO Lock 0 5 PPM over operating temperature 50 Ohm nominal 1 x SO 239 USB LSB CW AM optional 100 9 5 14 Volts DC 0 50 degrees Celsius 2 25 6 5 x 7 6 excluding knobs and connectors 3 6 Ibs Molded plastic front panel aluminum chassis and Textured painted steel covers USB using CCS USB to UART Driver Custom FSTN monochrome LCD Variable Red Blue Green internal settings All measurements are typical Specifications are subject to change 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA Release 1 01 January 28 2013 27 RECEIVER SSB Sensitivity AM Sensitivity Selectivity IF1 Selectivity IF2 Selectivity DSP IF Third Order Intercept Point IP3 IMD3 Dynamic Range Blocking Dynamic Range LO Phase Noi
17. the bandwidth control is pointing to 12 o clock To adjust how aggressive the noise blanker operates press the NR button 1 beep Press and hold the NR button one more time 1 beep You will now see nb displayed on the screen with a numerical value just left of the SWR PWR meter Use the main VFO knob to change to the required value Press the NR button one more time to set the desired value to the Argonaut VI To set how aggressive the noise reduction feature works toggle the NR button until just the NR appears on the left side below PWR Follow the directions above to set the desired value to the Argonaut VI 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 13 Exit by toggling the NR button until the NR NB both disappear from the screen The Noise Blanker function is used in removing pulsing ignition type noise It should not be used all of the time unless there is a very specific need e g the neighbors electrical fence or in mobile operations in a vehicle The Noise Reduction function is used to help reduce the audible level of the noise floor It is a very aggressive noise reduction system In order for the noise reduction to work there must be signal and noise and the noise must be 6 dB above the noise If there is signal and no noise and the NR is engaged then the NR will attack the signal as noise and cause the signal to distort A very specific tool for a very specific band condition NOT a fun
18. 2 F2 and two more filter slots 7 The 6 kHz AM filter must be installed in slot due to the height difference and speaker arrangement The 700Hz filter should be installed in slot F3 8 Locate the Fl F2 F3 slot to insert the specific filter Refer to Figure 2 10 1 This is according to the filter slots on the circuit board text The order is shown on the circuit board as F1 F2 F3 going from right to left toward the center of the radio The ground pins are easily distinguished 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 22 10 11 12 Release 1 01 January 28 2013 by the way the pins and outer case connect together The ground pins will be inserted into the left holes as you face the front of the radio If your filter comes with the vibration barrier attached to the bottom just temporarily remove this cover to identify the ground location and re install vibration barrier Reinstall the Filter Cover using the two screws If you disconnected the speaker in step 3 then reconnect it now Reinstall the top bottom covers with the 4 screws from step 1 Take care not to pinch any wires between the top cover and the filter cover or any of the brackets Refer to the section the Configuration Menu on how program the Argonaut VI firmware to use this Filter Setup Front of Radio Figure 2 10 1 Filter Location Showing Ground Orientation 2 11 Retaining User Settings
19. E EE A 9 BW 3 Bandwidth 10 PBT 4 Pass Band Tuning 5 2 10 tees E EA EREA E 10 8 10 AGC QO etisalat dens a A Ea aa EE NES EE ET 10 PLB 11 he ete ee ates 11 POWER 11 11 Headphones 20 on rear panela inina e a a a 11 Tuning Steps and VFO LOCK 8 11 Ke D AT E 12 Storing Frequency to Memory 8 12 Recallmg A Stored Memory 9 12 NR NB 9 Noise Reduction Noise 13 2A SSB 14 Motor LEvel GS EE EA EEEE 14 Speech Processing 3 55 8
20. So 2 25 3 BW PBT O PWR SPL AGC ARIT MW MR USR ig 59 70 Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes 2 2 Front Panel Controls This section provides a very brief overview of the front panel of the Argonaut VI more details on each control is given later in this manual Two Dual Concentric POTS 1 2 3 4 The Argonaut VI front panel provides two dual concentric multi function pots One for AF RF Controls and the other for BW PBT controls Using the AF knob rotating the knob fully counter clockwise removes power from the Argonaut VI Rotating the AF knob clockwise will apply power to the Argonaut VI and increase AF Levels Using the BW knob rotating fully counter clockwise enables the adjustment of further mode dependent features More on this later in the manual Rotating the BW knob clockwise will increase or widen selected DSP Bandwidth Three Position Switch TMB 5 There is a three position switch on the front panel with text T M and B next to it These refer to the position of the switch T op M iddle and B ottom which identifies which function the four multi function buttons will perform Main Encoder for various adjustments 6 There is a single Main Encoder on the front panel that is used primarily for adjusting the tuned frequency It also serves the adjustment on various other features 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 8
21. T mode be sure TMB switch is in the Top position Press SPL PRE button The word SPLIT will appear between VFO A and VFO B VFO B will show the transmitted frequency in smaller font To exit SPLIT mode press the SPL PRE button one more time turning off the word SPLIT AGC 9 Be sure TMB switch is in the Top position Press AGC NR button will toggle the AGC between fast medium and slow The letter F M or S will appear below the last digit on VFO A Fast works best for CW and Slow works best for voice modes Release 1 01 January 28 2013 OOD OOO OO aea 7 spur CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 BW PBT 2 3 4 05 Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes A B 10 Be sure TMB switch is in the Top position When you press and hold the A B MOD button you will now be able to set B VFO to equal VFO A A quick press of the A B MOD button will reverse both A and B VFO RIT 7 Be sure TMB switch is on the Bottom position The RIT can now be toggled on and off by pressing the RIT 7 button RIT will now be displayed on the front of the screen As you rotate the main VFO knob you will notice a or sign appearing to the right of the RIT A numerical value at the bottom center of the screen indicates each 10 Hz above or below the main VFO frequency If you toggle the RIT 7 button again after setting the RIT up or down it will automatically reset
22. Table of Contents NEW Arzona 395 E E aE cata cee 3 Ll Unpacking the Argonaut dh cava E EE E N E AEREE 3 123A bout this Manual v2 5 9 e tte ates a aaa a 3 TS ACCESSOTY PACKAGE T 3 1 4 Connection to Antenna amp Power Supply 4 152A word about groumdin Gis 4 1 6 E aes 5 E7 Software for the Argonaut 6 he ieee nee Mae A ee ee BA BE 6 6 2 Easy Operation oh ese ee ee 7 2 1 Front Panel Indicators s 08 tea nh a eats ee had ain aves 7 ALOAGED iea eat aye heh ei nc cee eer nye eth ele ada neat 7 S Meter SWR Meter ie e ee E ERRER RE eevee EE EA EEE Aetna ie 7 2 2 Front Panel E a dle cick E T EEE RENA A EARE EEEE aey 8 2 3 General Operations seni a A O E es es 9 Power Switch 1 ER EEA EE e AE GA E ERE 9 AF GainControl Dense i prir nE E EE E E EE EEA E EAER A E tees 9 RFE Gain Control 2 a E E EEEE AE deans E E TE
23. allation for more 07 700Hz information on physical installation of each filter alid options are 6kHz or nO Default is nO Same as 1 Same as 1 alid options are 2 9kHz or nO Default is 29 for the 2 9KHz filter as 6 0KHz filter can only be inserted in slot Default is OFF Table 2 9 1 Configuration Menu Items Master Reset SPL 8 Master Reset is used when you want to bring the radio settings back to factory default This includes user settings and user memories To perform a master reset to the Argonaut VI be sure that the TMB switch is in the T op position Now simply press and hold down the SPL 8 button at the same time you turn on the power Continue to hold down the SPL 8 button until the screen says reset You have now performed a reset to the Argonaut VI which will also clear all memories and settings you have placed in your transceiver Performing a reset means you will need to enter the Configuration menu described in Advanced Settings to program your filter positions and AM enable Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Firmware Update Mode 10 To upgrade your transceiver visit the TenTec web site www tentec com and download the installer for the latest firmware version A link will be available on the 539 Downloads page This link will be titled with the available version number of the firmware Example Firmware Version 1 585 The Date of the file will
24. amount will be displayed on the bottom center of the screen 0 means no Monitor output and non zero means that will be added to the speaker and headphone outputs The level is still active whenever a non zero value is used and will be heard in voice transmit modes when transmitting regardless of whether the monitor is in the adjustment mode or not 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 14 Speech Processing 3 5 8 Be sure the Argonaut VI is in the USB or LSB mode To turn the Speech Processor on be sure the TMB switch is on the Bottom Rotate the bandwidth control until switched to the CW position Press the MW PRE button The screen will display SP PrOC Adjust the desired amount of processing with the main VFO knob 0 9 When set at zero the procesor will be turned off Any setting from 1 9 will be active and remain on all the time when in side band modes To exit simply press MW PRE and the main frequency display will be brought back on screen Remember When you are finished making adjustments to Monitor Level and Speech Processing values turn BW clockwise from the CW position to return the Argonaut VI to normal operational_ modes Auto Notch 9 The Argonaut VI provides an Automatic Notch feature for Voice modes It is used to remove heterodynes in the passband It can be turned on off in Voice modes Rotate the bandwidth control until switched to the CW position Press the NR 9
25. and turn off the RIT control returning it to zero POWER 7 Be sure TMB switch is in the Top position The power can now be adjusted by pressing the PWR 7 button As you toggle this button you will notice PWR will begin to flash on the left side of the screen While PWR is flashing Rotate the main VFO knob up or down to display the output power desired Pressing the PWR 7 button one more time will turn off the flashing PWR and lock in the desired output of the radio Using a power setting of 0 will create no output and can be used for Code Practice 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 11 Mode 10 Be sure the TMB switch is in the Middle position Pressing the MOD button will toggle the modes to your desired choice The Argonaut VI will change modes each time the button is pushed The desired mode is displayed in the middle of the Argonaut VI screen between VFO A amp B The Mode setting utilized in a given band will be recalled when that band is used again Remember AM mode will not be displayed or active unless EaD has been selected within the configuration menu Headphones 20 on rear panel Headphones using a 4 mono or stereo connector can be plugged into the jack 20 located on the rear of the Argonaut VI Headphone Impedance from 8 32 ohms will offer adequate audio levels When plugged into the Argonaut VI the main speaker will be deactivated Tuning Steps and VFO LOCK 8 To select tuni
26. ay now adjust the dit spacing with the main VFO knob Note Values will appear on the lower section of the screen Press the USR MOD button a second time and your display now shows nnOdE You may now select either Curtis Mode A or B with the main VFO knob The value selected is shown in the VFOB frequency area A value of 0 means Curtis Mode A will be used when the internal keyer is used A value of 1 means Curtis Mode B will be used when the internal keyer is used Press the USR MOD button a third time will return to regular VFO mode and your settings are stored 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 17 CW Sidetone Frequency Ensure that the bandwidth control is rotated fully counter clockwise in the CW Clicked position Switch the TMB switch to the bottom and press the MR NR button to set the side tone frequency st fr Adjust the side tone frequency with the main VFO knob and the frequency in hz is shown in the VFOB frequency area Press this button a second time to store the side tone frequency CW Sidetone Level Ensure that the bandwidth control is rotated fully counter clockwise in the CW Clicked position Switch the TMB switch to the bottom and press the MW PRE button to adjust the side tone level st 1v1 Adjust the side tone level with the main VFO knob and the value in is shown in the VFOB frequency area Press this button a second time to store the side tone level QSK Delay Ensure
27. ction to turn on and leave all the time It is more appropriate and successful to utilize a lower RF Gain setting to lower noise floors and adjust AF Gain up to increase copy ability of CW and Voice signals THEN use NR where required Release 1 01 January 28 2013 RF me 88 88 er AM CW LSB USB RIT AS 8 5 2253 BW 9 PBT OFF cw Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes 2 4 SSB Mode Operation Be sure the TMB switch is in the Middle position To begin SSB operation toggle the MOD button to either the LSB or USB for the mode of you wish to operate The Argonaut VI will display the last mode you have selected when toggling through the bands Note Remember to set the PBT 4 control to the center of rotation so the side band signal is centered in the desired filter This results in a starting point for proper side band audio Monitor Level 3 5 7 To monitor your SSB audio input levels or Speech Processing level a built in monitor can be heard best with a set of headphones connected to the Argonaut VI To activate the monitor feature you must first set the Argonaut VI into either LSB or USB Be sure the TMB button is in the Middle Rotate the bandwidth control until switched to the CW position Press the BAN button and you will see nnon LUL on the screen The level can be adjusted from the main VFO knob and a level
28. e as possible to the specified 50 Ohm value Note that the GSRV type antenna and some Windom s do not provide 50 Ohm impedance on all HF Amateur bands and an external wide range antenna coupler will be needed Any antenna to be used with the Argonaut VI must ultimately be fed with 50 Ohm coaxial cable The Argonaut VI transceiver requires a source of well filtered and regulated DC voltage The supply voltage for the Argonaut VI 15 9 5 14VdcVdce nominal to allow for mobile and battery operation The voltage source must be capable of supplying 5 7 amperes continuous duty We recommend using the included DC power cable P N 86095 This radio will operate down to 10 volts with reduced output power Note Always enable the power source first and then the transceiver If a generator or battery connected to a charger is used to supply the DC source always turn off the transceiver before starting or shutting off the DC source equipment These recharging devices often generate large voltage spikes that can damage the transceiver 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 4 1 5 A word about grounding A good ground system is essential for optimum operation of any HF transmitter The best solution is to connect all the station equipment to a single ground connection Refer to Local and National Electrical Codes before making any connections with the Argonaut VI Another source of information on grounding can
29. ed for a maximum of 24 volts and 250 mA from the key line of your amplifier Many older amplifiers using an AC relay or relay voltages exceeding the limits of the Argonaut VI must use an amplifier interface relay such as the model 318 sold through the Ten Tec company When using the Ten Tec model 418 solid state linear sold separately the proper interface cable is provided with the amplifier for both keying and band changing the 418 4 Accessory Devices 4 1 List of Optional Accessories For The Argonaut VI The Argonaut VI permits the usage of several optional accessories At the time this manual was printed the list includes the following items Item IPart Model Number 6 KHz Filter 700 Hz Filter poos adapter Interface Linear Amplifier Table 4 1 1 Optional Accessories 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 26 4 2 Using the 712 USB Soundcard Interface To use the 712 soundcard interface for digital modes connect the 712 device between the ACC 1 connector and the USB port on your Windows computer Audio generated from your favorite digital programs be used with the Argonaut See the section Digital Mode Operation for directions on how to set up the the line input for digital mode operation The 712 USB Soundcard Interface should only be connected to the Argonaut VI when the setup is intended to be used for Digital modes via the PC Remember the USB Soundcard when plugged
30. h may need more gain Ten Tec has provided a hardware microphone Figure 2 4 3 HW Mic Gain Control gain control See Figure 2 4 3 Setting the microphone gain around 35 50 and then adjusting the trim pot on the right side of the transceiver until proper ALC is accomplished will help make the Argonaut VI flexible with a multiple of different style microphones 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 16 OOD ood oo an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So 2 25 3 BW PBT O PWR SPL AGC ARIT MW MR USR ig 59 70 Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes 2 5 CW Mode Operation Setting Up CW Parameters 3 5 7 8 9 10 Ensure that the Argonaut VI is in CW Mode When finished rotate the Bandwidth back to the desired value Internal Keyer CW Speed Setting Ensure that the bandwidth control is pointing to 12 o clock Switch the TMB switch to the bottom and press the USR MOD button until the screen displays SPEEd Use the VFO knob to adjust the speed 5 50 words per minute Press this button a second time to set your desired speed into the internal keyer Internal Keyer Weighting Dit Spacing amp Curtis Mode A B Ensure that the bandwidth control is rotated fully counter clockwise in the CW Clicked position Switch the TMB switch to the bottom and press the USR MOD button until the screen displays 1 sp You m
31. ifferent from that to which the receiver is connected Consult Ten Tec service for technical assistance 865 428 0364 NOTE THE GRANTEE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS NOT EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLIANCE SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 31 6 In Case of Difficulty While we cannot cover every possible problem here are some hints for dealing with some potential difficulties Check obvious Is your dc power source okay Check power supply cable and connector s Is the 7 5 ampere fuse loose or missing Antenna problems Try a dummy load Is a proper antenna connected Is any external antenna switch connected and properly set Have you double checked the Argonaut VI s many control settings including those in the Configuration menu for your intended mode of operation Have you checked how the optional Filter s are installed and confirmed their installation order within the Configuration Menu One problem that results in no audio or poor audio is the fact that sometimes you make an adjustment to a setting and subsequently nothing seems to work properly anymore The method that resolves setting issues that you just can t find is to perform a Master Reset This was discussed in the General Operations section of this manual Prob
32. iguration menu The peak modulated carrier level will be set automatically for the power level you choose 2 7 Digital Mode Operation For most audio derived digital mode operation you will either be in USB or LSB To set up the Argonaut VI for digital communications using the 1 rear connector you must first turn on the ACC 1 line input To set the LINE GAIN be sure the TMB switch is in the bottom position and the radio is in LSB or USB press and hold the USR MOD button down until the screen displays LinEgAIn and adjust the level with the main VFO To exit simply press the USR MOD button one more time It is important to note that you will see different audio levels from different software programs so remember which favorite programs will need more gain levels than others Windows audio controls will also need to be set within the specific programs you will be using This is usually found under the SETTINGS on your digital mode programs A proper audio level occurs just as the ALC light flashes slightly when in transmit If the ALC light is on continuously you probably have too much audio into the Argonaut VI Release 1 01 January 28 2013 2 8 Interfacing to a computer for Firmware Update Mode and PC Control Logging Purposes The software interface for the Argonaut VI utilizes standard Windows driver supplied with Windows versions XP through Windows 7 An installation program is available for download at the
33. l Part 74479 Printed in USA 25 The pin out and function are listed in the following table Pin Name sage Direction 1 LineIn level Audio input from Input an accessory device like a NC or sound card for digital mode operation Selected sing the front panel MIC 2 Ground Grounding 3 Aux PTT In Voice Modes when Input grounded this pin will key he radio and begin ransmitting In CW Mode his pin can be used as a keying input for an external device such as an external keyer or a computer running a CW generator program Output Output Amplifier Control Model 418 Const Modet 418 Output Amplifier Control Model 418 Output Amplifier Control Model 418 Amp Key Used to key an external Line device such as an Amplifier Occurs 17ms before RF is generated Table 3 1 Pin out External devices can utilize the clock data enable to identify band changes The protocol is defined in the Programmers Reference Guide for the 539 Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Keying a Linear Amplifier Pin 8 on ACC 1 will provide an open collector output for keying a linear amplifier The Argonaut VI provides a 17 ms closure delay before RF is supplied to the linear amp Refer to Figure 3 2 for wiring to this connector Remember to use shielded cable for making this connection The amp key line is NOT a relay similar to those found on many older transceivers It is a transistor switch rat
34. lem No Receive Audio Is the AUDIO AF turned up Is RF GAIN turned down Is the speaker wire internal to the rig broken or disconnected Have you pulled the covers off recently Try headphones to see if audio returns Is NR off Under some circumstances noise reduction can cover band noise completely leading the user to think no audio is coming from the speaker 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 32 Problem Distorted SSB transmit or Perceived RFI in the shack Be certain the mic gain is set properly The ALC LED should flash on voice peaks but not remain continuously lit in SSB modes Check the setting of the speech processor An excessively high setting can reduce audio quality A frequent cause of a distorted SSB signal is inadequate RF grounding resulting in RF feedback Common RF grounding problems are no ground connection or too long a lead to a good ground Many problems relate to the lack of an station ground as contrasted with a safety ground connection We recommend bonding all equipment chassis together with short heavy metal braid or strap Make these connections from chassis ground lug to chassis ground lug and connect the last piece in the chain feeding the antenna to a good earth ground This lead needs to be as short as possible Lengths near 5 wavelength on any band used be particularly troublesome when the far end is connected to earth It is very important
35. ll allow you to move the passband back and forth across the desired signal It is beneficial in dropping QRM out of one side or the other of the passband or it can simply be used to improve the quality and intelligibility of the signal An excellent experiment for digital communications is to work the PBT control along with the BW bandwidth control for the greatest selectivity and interfering signal rejection BW PBT Control Usage Tips When tuning through the CW bands crank the BW all the way open Full Clockwise and start with the PBT in the center position 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 10 When you come upon a signal zero in and then crank the BW just tight enough to clean up the signal If necessary tweak the PBT This technique along with proper RF AF Gain Control usage should be performed before engaging any DSP related sound improvement feature such as AN or NR This method also improves the NR effectiveness Band 7 Be sure TMB switch is in Middle position To change bands or toggle through the Ham bands press the BAN button and the next Ham band will be recalled BAN will only toggle through the Ham bands in one direction When the band is changed the A Frequency the B Frequency and the Mode are recalled from the last time the band was used Since the Mode is recalled the Tuning Rate and the AGC will also be recalled from the last time that Mode was used Split 8 To operate SPLI
36. lti tone IF DSP adjustable IF DSP adjustable 550 milliamps All measurements are typical Results will vary based on different Test Environment Tools and Test Methods Specifications are subject to change 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA Release 1 01 January 28 2013 28 TRANSMITTER RF Power Output Adjustable 1 10 W 1 dB CW SSB AM AFSK PSK Duty Cycle 100 for up to 10 minutes 10 watts CW SSB TX Bandwidth 2 9kHz Filter AM TX Bandwidth 6kHz Optional Filter Microphone Input Impedance gt 10 k ohms at 1 kHz Microphone Sensitivity 1 mV RMS for full power output internal gain adjustment 9v dc power for electret elements AUX Level Input variable 200mV nominal SSB Carrier Supression gt 60 dB Unwanted Sideband Suppression gt 60 dB at 1 kHz T R Switching PTT on SSB AM QSK on CW CW Keyer Type Internal Curtis Mode A or B Selectable CW Rise and Fall Times 5ms CW Offset adjustable CW Keyer Speed 5 50 WPM adjustable weighting Current Drain 3 amps at 10 watts Third Order Intermod Better than 30dB below peak SSB Generation DSP Generated of DSP generated TX bandwidths 2 built in DSP filters automatically selected based on mode 2 9 kHz for CW and SSB 6 kHz for AM option Note the optional 6KHz filter is required for AM transmit OPTIONS Item IPart Model Number KHz Filter 4 pole 00 Hz Filter 4 pole 2006 SB Soundcard adapter Interface 8
37. ng steps of 10Hz 100Hz or 1kHz be sure TMB button is in the Middle Press hold the PRE button The Argonaut VI will beep when the step size changes One Beep means 10hz steps Two beeps means 100hz steps Three beeps means 1000hz steps Four beeps means the main VFO encoder is now locked and is indicated by a L in front of the VFO A display To exit the Locked state press hold the PRE button until the desired step size is shown again Release 1 01 January 28 2013 OOD ood oo an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So 2 25 3 BW PBT PWR SPL AGC ARIT MW MR USR ig 59 70 Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes PRE 8 The preamplifier in the Argonaut VI is designed to give you a 12dB increase in signal strength Be sure the TMB switch is in the Middle position Pressing the PRE button will toggle the receiver Preamp on or off When the Preamp is on PRE is shown on the left side of the display The S Meter reading will not change when the Preamp is engaged Storing a Frequency to Memory 8 Both mode and frequency can be stored in 1 100 memories within the Argonaut VI To store a frequency in memory be sure the TMB switch is on the Bottom Select your desired frequency mode then press the MW_ PRE button One beep will sound MEM will appear to the bottom left side of your front screen A previously inserted memory frequency
38. ould be active during the entire dit or dah transmit cycle For Voice modes for proper ALC LED action the MIC Gain should be adjusted until the ALC LED is on during most of the time transmitting voice peaks This LED is also used in the firmware update mode S Meter SWR Meter The meter on the Argonaut VI offers two functions 1 S Meter in receive mode the meter shows the signal strength 3 5 7 910 30 Figure 2 1 1 Meter Signal Strength 2 SWR Meter while transmitting and the MOD button is pressed the meter shows the SWR as calculated on the in the Argonaut VI 3 5 7 9 10 30 115 2253 HIGH Figure 2 1 2 Meter VSWR 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 7 When in transmit the bar graph meter will display your power output peaks When you wish to view the SWR ensure that the three position switch 5 labeled with TMB is in the middle M position transmit and then press the MOD button while you transmit The meter will now display your SWR When the MOD button is pressed again the SWR graph disappears and the power output will be displayed It is recommended that the rig be held in transmit continuously prior to pressing MOD to view the SWR It is not advisable to try to view the SWR when sending a stream of CW Release 1 01 January 28 2013 OOD ood oo an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88
39. ounds and chassis ground We recommend separate pins for use for mic negative signal and chassis ground as shown in Figure 2 4 2 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 15 MIC ELEMENT Figure 2 4 2 Transceiver Microphone Jack Recommended Cable Wiring Release 1 01 January 28 2013 pwr B an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So 2 25 3 7 BEB BBS BS eC 7 BW _ PBT Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes Mic Gain and Line Gain 10 Be sure TMB switch is in the Bottom position and the Argonaut VI is in either LSB or USB mode Press USR MOD button until you see mI CgAIn on the front display Use the VFO knob to adjust the microphone gain until the ALC light flickers on voice peaks when speaking into the microphone This is the LED light within the Ten Tec logo Once set just press the USR MOD button once more to exit To set the LINE GAIN press hold the USR MOD button down until the screen displays LinEgAIn and like before adjust the level with the main VFO knob Once the line gain and microphone gain have been established both levels will remain unless a master reset is done To toggle between microphone input and Auxilliary Line input simply press the USR MOD button once for microphone gain or hold down this button for Line Gain Hardware Mic Gain Adjust POT AN H V If other microphones are used with the Argonaut VI whic
40. pdown box in the upper left corner of the setup539 menu From then on it is a matter of changing the Software Defined Buttons and Sending the buttons or the entire configuration to the Radio The configuration of the radio can also be retrieved There are two log windows that show the raw serial traffic between the PC and the Argonaut VI There is a button on the setup539 display that can be used to Copy Logs To Clipboard so that it can be pasted into any text file or email application This is useful for future reference It can also help aid in diagnosing problems with the Argonaut VI remotely A log can be pasted into an email application and sent to TenTec to possibly help diagnose problems in a given Argonaut VI remotely Note Ensure that the proper USB drivers are installed first before running setup539 and also Ensure that you know what comm port the Argonaut VI is connected to Release 1 01 January 28 2013 an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So 2 25 3 888 88 CoO Gee 910 BW _ PBT O ARIT MW 8 A Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes 2 Easy Operation Guide 2 1 Front Panel Indicators TX ALC LED The o in the ToT Logo includes an LED The primary purpose for this LED is to identify when the Argonaut VI is transmitting approximately 80 or more of the selected power setting For CW mode this sh
41. possible that the USB port was used previously and for some reason Windows has not released it for use In this instance disconnect the USB cable at either the computer end or the Argonaut VI end exit the program you are trying to use wait a few seconds then reinstall the cable and then re start the program you were trying to use If the above do not solve your problem please consult with our service department 865 428 0364 or service tentec com 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 33 7 Warranty amp Return Policy Warranty policy for Ten Tec products is covered in the gold color page located on the last page of this manual FOR EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURED BY TEN TEC Ten Tec factory built radio equipment is sold under a 30 day risk free trial period Any piece of equipment manufactured by Ten Tec may be returned undamaged within 30 days of purchase for a full purchase price refund less shipping charges customer pays shipping both ways If you want to return a piece of equipment purchased from Ten Tec please call the sales department at 865 453 7172 from 8 a m to 5 p m Eastern time Mon Fri and obtain a return merchandise authorization number Calling in advance for an RMA number allows us to quickly process your return and refund once your item arrives Ship return items with letter enclosed inside the box noting the RMA number and your name address and telephone numbe
42. r Return items are shipped to Ten Tec 1185 Dolly Parton Pkwy Sevierville TN 37862 USA 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 34 8 Revision History Change Version Date Description Number 1 1 01 01 29 13 Corrected Section on page 12 Storing a Frequency to Memory 8 to show the proper button to press to store a frequency to memory as MW PRE not MR NR 2 1 01 01 29 13 Improved wording on page 12 Recalling a Stored Memory 9 to help make the process easier to understand 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA Release 1 01 January 28 2013 35
43. r Switch 1 The inner knob 1 of the AF RF knob provides two functions Power control for the rig and the AF Gain control Power Switch 1 To turn on the Argonaut VI rotate the AF Gain control 1 clockwise The LCD screen will display the current firmware version and unit serial number for three seconds The LCD screen will then display the last band frequency and mode used To turn off the Argonaut VI rotate the AF Gain control 1 counter clockwise until power is removed and the LCD display turns off To place the Argonaut VI in any of the special power up modes see the section on Power Up Modes for more information AF Gain Control 1 This control adjusts the volume of the internal speaker and also for the headphones if one is plugged into the rear jack Rotating the AF Gain control clockwise will increase the volume to a maximum of 100 at full clockwise rotation 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 9 RF Gain Control 2 The outer ring 2 of the AF RF knob provides the RF Gain feature Adjusting the outer ring RF Gain control clockwise increases RF Gain action up to 100 at the full clockwise rotation Adjusting the outer ring RF Gain control counter clockwise decreases RF Gain action down to 0 at the full counter clockwise rotation Depending on signal strength you may find a more pleasing signal to noise ratio by turning the RF gain control down to a comfortable listening level
44. re that you have not overlooked anything 1 2 About this Manual A complete description of the features and functions on the Argonaut VI Model 539 are included within the pages of this manual The latest version of the Argonaut VI manual is also available to view in pdf format located under the download tab on the Argonaut VI Transceiver via www tentec com You may also find firmware updates plus a full set of schematic diagrams at this same web location 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 3 1 3 Accessory package The additional hardware and accessories listed in Table 1 3 1 come standard with your new Argonaut VI Look over the items listed and refer to the 5 digit Ten Tec part number and description should you find the need to replace an accessory To purchase additional accessories and parts or to report an item missing from this list please contact Ten Tec Service Qty Part Description 74020 74244 Standard Warranty Sheet 74479 Manual for 539 Argonaut VI 74450 do become Ten Tec Ambassador 74480 Argonaut Quick Start Guide Table 1 3 1 Argonaut VI Packing List Release 1 01 January 28 2013 1 4 Connection to Antenna amp Power Supply The Argonaut VI is designed for use with any antenna system providing a 50 Ohm resistive impedance at the desired operating frequency Every effort should be made to ensure the impedance of the antenna system is as clos
45. se Noise Floor IF Frequencies IF Rejection 1st IF Image Rejection 2nd IF Image Rejection Other Spurious Response Birdies Pass Band Tuning PreAmp Audio Output RIT range RIT Step size S Meter Reference TX gt RX Recovery Time RX Headphone Output AUX Audio Output Auto Notch RX Noise Reduction Noise Blanker RX Current Drain Better than 0 7uV 0 5 2 4Khz 10 db SINAD preamp off Better than 4 uV 2 0uV Typ 30 Mod 6Kh BW 10 dB SINAD preamp off 2 9khz standard 9 0018 MHz 2 optional filter positions 30 KHz Lowpass filter 100 built in DSP filters from 100 6000Hz BW 20dBm 20kKhz tone separation 2 9 kHz roofing filter 20dBm 2kHz separation 700Hz Roofing filter 55 method preamp off Typical 98dB 20kHz 98dB 2kHz 500 Hz BW calculated 2 3 IP3 Noise Floor preamp off 138dB 20kHz 140dB 2kHz 600 Hz BW RF Gain 12 o clock preamp off 124 dBc Hz 20 kHz 114dBc Hz 2 kHz Typical 138dBm 500Hz BW Preamp on 128dBm 500Hz BW preamp off 1st 9 0018 MHz 2nd 22 2 kHz 3rd 0Hz DSP Typical 74 dB Typical 59 dB Typical 69 dB Rejection gt 80dB Typically less than 100dBm equivalent no more than 5 birdies greater than 100dBm equivalent 2 1 2 5Hz steps Small dead zone for centering Nominal 12 db 1 3 Watts into 8 ohm lt 3 THD 8 2 kHz 10Hz 59 50 uV RMS lt 20 ms Designed for 16 32 ohms impedance headphones Usable at 8 ohms 500 mv IF DSP mu
46. seeesecseeeaecaeesseceeecaecesecaeseaeceeeeseceeeaeeseeseeneseatens 21 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Part 74479 Printed in USA 1 211 User Settings ev IE he es Ba eee 23 2 12 Adjusting The Levels of the Backlight 23 VI Rear A 24 ea Sie a ate ale eae tees ad 24 AUX he cutee days eet tte hada 24 ee 24 Dn 24 GROUND TERMINAL I5 een nnana na ele i eR UE ARS 24 DC OUT LO arent ie eee eRe ea ee Gare ol Mai 24 USB 17 i han Gama aes 24 KEY 19 sian cash iene ee Aa aoe e a pe a a oe eee es etn 24 EXTERNAL HEADPHONES 20 24 ead ia an es eA 25 Linear 1 26 4 ATE E E E TEE E EE R EEEa aa EEES 26 4 1 List of Optional Accessories For The Argonaut
47. that the external power supply and the transceiver and all equipment with grounding lugs are properly grounded Another potential cause of distorted SSB arises when the station is in the near field of the antenna This is a problem many apartment dwellers face Distorted SSB transmit can result from chassis ground and signal ground from the microphone being tied together to a common connection This is a common problem with third party microphones Assure the chassis ground and signal ground from the microphone is separated RF can also be induced into the transceiver on any unshielded wires Release 1 01 January 28 2013 Problem No transmit receive OK Are you trying to transmit outside of the Ham Band Is the gain setting correct for the microphone input or ACC 1 jack as appropriate Is the POWER control turned all the way down Press PWR and check If no transmit in digital modes are you sure a PTT signal is being sent from your TNC or computer to the appropriate jack on the Argonaut VI Problem Get a PORT in use when trying to run logging or computer control program or when trying to update the firmware Have you confirmed the proper port number in Device Manager Remember that when connecting the USB cable to the USB port on the computer every time you connect the USB cable into a different USB port on the computer it will have a different COM port number You can verify this in Device Manager It is
48. that the bandwidth control is rotated fully counter clockwise in the CW Clicked position Switch the TMB switch to the bottom and press the RIT BAN button to adjust your amount of QSK Delay dELAY This is the time from when the transmit signal ends until when the receive audio returns A setting of 0 means full QSK break in and a setting of non zero means more delay Press this button a second time to store your desired QSK Delay into memory QSK Delay is used when the ham does not want to hear receive audio during CW transmits Release 1 01 January 28 2013 CW Keying and Wiring The rear panel on the Argonaut VI has a 1 8 stereo jack for connection of a key paddle See Figure 2 5 1 for proper wiring common Key or dit dah Figure 2 5 1 CW Key Wiring A straight key bug or external keyer can be used with the Argonaut VI Simply plug a 1 8 mono style connector wired to your device into the rear apron of the Argonaut VI see Figure 2 5 2 When power is turned on the Argonaut VI will detect that mono device automatically If you should forget and plug it in after power has been applied simply toggle the mode button once through all modes and back again to CW common Figure 2 5 2 1 8 Mono Connector Wiring 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 18 2 6 AM Mode Operation To operate the Argonaut VI in AM mode you must have the 6 KHz filter installed and you must select EA d in the conf
49. to the computer so that you can set it properly in the computer program that you are using to communicate with the Argonaut VI Release 1 01 January 28 2013 2 9 Power Up Modes Configuration Menu PWR 7 When optional items are ordered with your Argonaut VI then these optional items will already be installed and configured at the factory in the Configuration Menu This includes additional roofing filters and whether or not AM mode is enabled If you as an owner need to configure the Argonaut VI start with the Argonaut VI powered off switch the TMB switch on the front panel to T TOP press the PWR 7 button and continue to hold the PWR 7 button while powering up the Argonaut VI Release the PWR 7 button The front panel display will show F1 nO which indicates no filter has been installed To select a different value for a given Configuration Menu item press the PWR 7 button again and use the VFO knob to scroll through the choices Once the correct choice has been made advance to the next Configuration Menu item by pressing the PWR 7 button Once the settings in the Configuration Menu have been set to the desired values press any key on the front panel except the PWR 7 button to exit the Configuration Menu The items contained in the Configuration Menu and their options are shown in the following table 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 20 Optional Filter 29 2 9KHz Inst
50. uency baseband in the DSP frequency shifted to the 22 5 kHz low IF and output to mixers on the TX RX board for conversion to the operating frequency The signal then travels in the reverse direction through the selected Bandpass Filter to the low level drivers and Power Amplifier then finally through the Lowpass Filter to the antenna The Argonaut VI is designed to cover the following hambands 160M 80M 40M 30M 20M 17M 15M 10M Whereas the Argonaut VI will only transmit in the above listed bands the receive frequencies include some WWV stations Refer to the Specifications section for the exact frequency range covered for receive and transmit separately Release 1 01 January 28 2013 1 7 Software for the Argonaut VI Software programs for Windows based PCs are available at the TenTec com website for the Argonaut VI The programs will run on Windows XP through at least Windows 7 based computers running either the 32 bit or 64 bit versions These programs add additional functionality to the Argonaut VI facilitate firmware upgrades etc but are NOT required for operation of the Argonaut The list of available programs includes the following e MasterLibrary539 e setup539 Firmware Release Installer MasterLibrary539 MasterLibrary539 contains all files pertinent to the Argonaut VI It is recommended that owners download and run MasterLibrary539 so that they will have a complete set of
51. ut VI 2 Carefully raise the top cover 3 If necessary unplug speaker cable located on the left side of the main board 4 Set the top cover aside 5 To adjust the specific color you want refer to the drawing below for the location of the specific POT for that color 6 Adjust the POT until the desired intensity of the color is reached 7 If you disconnected the speaker in step 3 then reconnect it now 8 Reinstall the top bottom covers with the 4 screws from step 1 Take care not to pinch any wires between the top cover and the filter cover or any of the brackets i e Front of Radio Figure 2 12 1 Location of Color Intensity Adjustment Potentiometers Release 1 01 January 28 2013 O AUX FUSE 7 5A 20O 13 ANT DCIN O 14 DC USB MODEL 539 OUT ACC 1 KEY PHONES TEN TEC INC 1 7 Q15 06 7 z WWW TENTEC 19 Fig 3 1 Argonaut VI Rear Panel 3 Argonaut VI Rear Panel ANT 11 DC OUT A6 The ANT connector is an SO 239 jack used The Argonaut VI is equipped with one DC for connection of a coaxial fed transceiver output connectors to power various antenna nominal impedance 50 ohms for use on any band the Argonaut VI covers AUX 12 The Argonaut VI provides internally a location where 9MHz IF can be brought out from the radio This is the access hole for this 9MHz IF data stream for use with external panadapters It is advisable to
52. utilize an external panadapter with a buffer amplifier FUSE 13 Auto Style 7 5A DC IN 14 Power line for the Argonaut VI It is an AMP MATE N LOCK 2 pin GROUND TERMINAL 15 The wing nut equipped post is for connection of station ground or counterpoise See Section A Word About Grounding The ARRL also offers excellent information in the ARRL Handbook concerning station grounding 539 Argonaut VI Users manual Part 74479 Printed in USA 24 accessories The output power is limited to 0 5 Amp maximum USB 17 The rear panel on the Argonaut VI has a Standard B type USB connector This connector is used for connecting to a PC to perform updates of the firmware or for logging or control via various available computer programs KEY 19 The rear panel on the Argonaut VI has a 1 8 stereo jack for connection of a key paddle See Figure 2 5 1 and 2 5 2 for proper wiring EXTERNAL HEADPHONES 20 This jack is for connection of an external headphones When connected using a standard 1 4 phone plug the internal speaker in the Argonaut VI is disabled Tip of the 1 4 phone plug is audio sleeve is ground Release 1 01 January 28 2013 1 18 The Argonaut VI is equipped with an 8 pin accessory connector Refer to following figure for the pin definitions as viewed from the rear panel AMP KEY ENABLE LINE _IN LINE_OUT GND Figure 3 2 ACC1 Pin out 539 Argonaut VI Users manua
53. y is displayed Rotate the main VFO knob to scroll through the memories Memories that are not defined will show up with in the VFO A frequency When a valid memory is shown you will see the frequency of that memory in the VFO A location To exit without making any changes do a quick single press of the MR NR button To exit and use the Memory contents press and hold the MR NR button until the VFO B frequency reverts back to showing the VFO B frequency Release 1 01 January 28 2013 an AM CW LSB USB RIT 5 BW 888 888 88 So BW PBT O PWR SPL AGC 2 25 3 Figure 2 1 539 Front Panel with indexes NR NB 9 Noise Reduction Noise Blanker Be sure the TMB switch is in the Middle position By pressing the NR button once you will toggle the noise blanker on NB will be shown on the top left side of the screen Pressing the NR button a second time will turn off the noise blanker and turn on the noise reduction Pressing the NR button a third time will turn on both the noise blanker and the noise reduction Both NR and NB will appear on the left side of the screen when toggled on or off To adjust the how aggressive of either the noise blanker or the noise reduction follow these steps Begin by turning both NR amp NB off so you can begin setting these features independently Ensure that the TMB switch is in the Middle position Ensure that
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