Radio Shack Marine Radio TRC 446 User Guide

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Cat. No. 21-1574  
OWNER’S MANUAL  
Please read before using this equipment.  
TRC-446  
Deluxe 4 Watt 40-Channel  
Mobile CB Radio  
with Weather Alert and ACE  
 
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Noise Blanking — reduces the noise  
occasionally generated by nearby elec-  
trical motors or automotive ignition sys-  
tems.  
FCC INFORMATION  
The Federal Communications Commis-  
sion (FCC) does not require you to have  
a license to operate this CB. However,  
the FCC does require that you read and  
know Part 95 of FCC Rules. These rules  
apply to the operation of a Class D CB.  
We have provided a copy of these regu-  
lations with your CB.  
CB/WX/PA Switch — lets you quickly  
select among normal CB operation,  
weather mode, or public address mode.  
RX/TX Indicator — shows whether the  
CB is transmitting or receiving.  
Warning: Do not open your CB to make  
any internal adjustments. Any internal  
adjustments can be made only by an au-  
thorized service technician.  
S/RF/SWR/CAL Switch — lets you  
quickly change the display of the RF/  
Signal Meter to show radio input/output  
signal strength, the standing wave ratio  
of the antenna, or SWR calibration data.  
Unauthorized internal adjustments and/  
or modifications can lead to illegal oper-  
ation as defined by Part 95 of FCC  
Rules. Such illegal operation can lead to  
very serious consequences. To be safe  
and sure:  
Universal Mounting Bracket — lets  
you mount your CB securely in your ve-  
hicle.  
Note: To use this CB, you need a mo-  
bile or base station antenna (not sup-  
plied). Your local RadioShack store has  
a wide variety of antennas. For more in-  
formation, see “Installing an Antenna”  
on Page 7.  
• Never open your CB's case.  
• Never modify your CB.  
Your CB might cause TV or radio inter-  
ference even when it is operating prop-  
erly. To determine whether your CB is  
causing the interference, turn off your  
CB. If the interference goes away, your  
CB is causing it. Try to eliminate the in-  
terference by either moving your CB  
away from the receiver or contacting  
your local RadioShack store for help. If  
you cannot eliminate the interference,  
the FCC requires that you stop using  
your CB.  
We recommend you record your CB's  
serial number here. The number is on  
the CB's back panel.  
Serial Number__________________  
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CONTENTS  
Installation ............................................................................................................... 5  
Mounting the TRC-446 ....................................................................................... 5  
Connecting the Microphone ................................................................................ 6  
Installing an Antenna .......................................................................................... 7  
Selecting an Antenna ................................................................................... 7  
Connecting an Antenna ............................................................................... 7  
Using Vehicle Battery Power .............................................................................. 7  
Using the CB as a Base Station ......................................................................... 8  
Connecting Optional External Speakers ............................................................. 8  
External CB Speaker ................................................................................... 8  
Public Address Speaker ............................................................................... 9  
Adjusting the Standing Wave Ratio .................................................................... 9  
Standing Wave Ratio Guidelines ...................................................................... 10  
Standing Wave Ratio Performance ............................................................ 10  
A Quick Look at the Controls ............................................................................... 11  
Operation ............................................................................................................... 12  
Changing Channels Using the Controls on the Microphone ............................. 13  
Listening to Weather Broadcasts ...................................................................... 13  
Weather Alert .................................................................................................... 14  
Using the Public Address Function ................................................................... 14  
CB Operation Tips ................................................................................................ 15  
Business Uses .................................................................................................. 15  
Personal Uses .................................................................................................. 15  
CB Courtesy ..................................................................................................... 15  
Using Common 10-Codes .................................................................................... 16  
Maximum Range .............................................................................................. 17  
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................... 18  
Care and Maintenance .......................................................................................... 19  
Specifications ........................................................................................................ 21  
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INSTALLATION  
N
W
O
D
L
K
C
LO  
NE  
N
A
H
C
UP  
C
H
-9  
M
IC  
S
/R  
F
C
B
V
C
O
H
-1  
L
U
9
M
E
N
F
B
C
L
A
L
A
S
C
Q
E
U
E
PA  
C
H
OF  
S
W
TRC  
W
R
C
CH  
A
O
-44  
-9  
L
F
F
MIC  
6
T
X
S/RF  
/R  
X
R
F
G
X
A
/A  
CB  
IN  
L
VOLU  
E
R
CH-19  
T
ME  
W
NB  
E
A
CAL  
SQUELCH  
T
H
ACE  
E
R
PA  
OFF  
CAL  
SWR  
TRC-446  
OFF  
TX/RX  
RF GA  
WX/ALERT  
IN  
WEATHER  
• the CB is not directly in front of heat-  
ing vents  
MOUNTING THE  
MICROPHONE HOLDER  
Cautions:  
Using a Philips screwdriver and the sup-  
plied screw and washers, attach the  
supplied microphone holder to the CB's  
left or right side, either horizontally or  
vertically (depending on how you plan to  
use it).  
• If you use the TRC-446 in a vehicle,  
mount it securely to avoid damage  
to the CB or vehicle or injury to any-  
one in the vehicle during sudden  
starts or stops.  
• Do not mount the CB where it could  
damage or interfere with the proper  
operation of any passive restraint  
safety device (an air bag or seat  
belt).  
MOUNTING THE TRC-446  
The most common mounting location for  
this CB is under a vehicle’s dashboard.  
If you use the TRC-446 as a base sta-  
tion, you can place it on a desk, shelf, or  
table (See “Using the CB as a Base Sta-  
tion” on Page 8).  
Follow these steps to mount the CB us-  
ing the supplied hardware.  
1. Select a location that provides  
secure mounting.  
When mounting the CB in a vehicle,  
choose a location where:  
Caution: Be careful not to drill into  
anything behind the mounting sur-  
face.  
• you can easily reach the CB  
2. Using the slots in the mounting  
bracket as a template, mark the  
positions for the screw holes.  
• wires and cables are routed away  
from the vehicle's pedals or other  
moving parts  
3. In each marked location, drill a hole  
slightly smaller than the supplied  
• all wires and cables can reach their  
connection points  
mounting screws.  
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4. Using a Phillips screwdriver, attach  
the mounting bracket to the mount-  
ing surface with the supplied large  
mounting screw and star lock wash-  
ers.  
inside the MIC jack, then fully insert  
the plug into the jack.  
2. Secure the plug by turning the plug's  
locking nut clockwise.  
3. Slide the microphone onto the  
microphone holder.  
5. Attach the CB to the mounting  
bracket using the supplied rubber  
washers and mounting knobs.  
To disconnect the microphone, unscrew  
the locking nut and gently pull out the  
microphone plug.  
CONNECTING THE  
MICROPHONE  
Caution: Always grasp the connector  
body when you are disconnecting the  
microphone. Never pull on the micro-  
phone cable.  
1. Align the slot on the top of the  
microphone plug with the ridge  
EXT SP  
PA SP  
POWER  
13.8V DC  
+
-
ANTENNA  
PSP EXT SP  
ANTENNA  
13.8 DC Power Supply  
POWER  
-
+
13.8V DC  
R
CAT NO.: 21-1574 TRC-446 FCC ID: AAO21-1574  
CUSTOM MANUFACTURED IN THAILAND FOR RADIOSHACK,  
A
DIVISION OF TANDY CORPORATION  
FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76102  
0000001  
SERIAL NO.:  
Base Station Power Setup  
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• Do not run the cable through a vehi-  
cle's engine compartment or other  
areas that produce extreme heat.  
INSTALLING AN  
ANTENNA  
Caution: To prevent damage to your  
CB, do not attempt to transmit without  
an antenna attached.  
USING VEHICLE  
BATTERY POWER  
Selecting an Antenna  
You can power this CB from your vehi-  
cle's battery or from standard AC power  
with an optional DC power supply. For in-  
formation on using AC power, see “Using  
the CB as a Base Station” on Page 8.  
When you decide on an antenna and its  
location, consider these points:  
• The antenna should be positioned  
as high as possible.  
Follow these steps to power the CB from  
your vehicle's battery.  
• The antenna and the antenna cable  
should be routed as far as possible  
from any source of electrical noise  
such as ignition systems, electric  
gauges, and motors.  
1. Plug the single-connector end of the  
power cord into POWER 13.8V DC  
on the CB's back panel.  
Your local RadioShack store sells a vari-  
ety of CB antennas for both mobile and  
base-station use. Choose the one that  
best meets your needs.  
2. Connect the black wire to your vehi-  
cle’s negative (–) battery terminal or  
to a metal part of the vehicle's frame  
that is not insulated from the frame  
by a plastic part.  
Connecting an Antenna  
3. Connect the red wire, with its in-line  
fuse, to a source of voltage that  
turns on and off with the ignition  
switch, such as a spare accessory  
terminal in your vehicle's fuse box.  
This assures you that power to the  
CB is turned off when you turn off  
the ignition.  
Follow the mounting instructions sup-  
plied with the antenna you choose.  
Route the antenna cable to the CB, then  
thread the PL-259 antenna cable plug  
into ANTENNA on the back of the CB.  
Cautions:  
4. Connect the orange wire, with its in-  
line fuse, to a source of voltage that  
supplies constant positive (+) power  
(regardless of the ignition switches  
position) or directly to your vehicle's  
positive (+) battery terminal. This  
enables the radio to “remember” the  
last channel you tuned to when you  
turn the radio back on.  
• Do not run the cable over sharp  
edges or moving parts that might  
damage it.  
• Do not run the cable next to power  
cables or other CB antenna cables.  
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3. Plug the single connector end of the  
power cord into POWER 13.8V DC  
on the CB's back panel.  
USING THE CB AS A  
BASE STATION  
Although this CB is designed for mobile  
use, you can also use it as a base sta-  
tion. For base-station installation, you  
need a regulated 12-volt DC power sup-  
ply, such as Cat. No. 22-504 available at  
your local RadioShack store.  
4. Connect the black wire to the DC  
power supply's negative (–) termi-  
nal.  
5. Connect the red wire and orange  
wires, with in-line fuses, to the DC  
power supply's positive (+) terminal.  
Caution: Most 12-volt DC power sup-  
plies plug into a standard AC outlet to  
produce DC power. Before connecting  
your CB to a 12-volt DC power supply,  
read and follow the instructions included  
with the power supply.  
Note: Due to the lack of a constant  
12VDC, as in an automotive installation,  
if you turn off the DC power supply, the  
CB “remembers” the last channel you  
tuned for only a few minutes. When you  
turn on the CB and the DC power supply  
again, the radio automatically tunes to  
Channel 9.  
You also need a base station antenna  
and coaxial antenna cable and connec-  
tors. Your local RadioShack store also  
carries a wide selection of suitable an-  
tennas, cables, and connectors.  
CONNECTING OPTIONAL  
EXTERNAL SPEAKERS  
Follow these steps to install the CB as a  
base station.  
You can connect an external CB or PA  
speaker to your CB. The larger, external  
speaker provides greater clarity. A PA  
speaker lets you take advantage of the  
amplifier and mic to use the CB as a  
public-address system.  
1. Mount the base station antenna as  
described in its owner's manual.  
Warning: Use extreme caution  
when you install or remove a base  
station CB antenna. If the antenna  
starts to fall, let it go! It could contact  
overhead power lines. If the antenna  
touches the power line, contact with  
the antenna, mast, cable, or guy  
wires can cause electrocution and  
death. Call the power company to  
remove the antenna. DO NOT  
attempt to do so yourself.  
External CB Speaker  
To connect an external CB speaker,  
use a speaker rated at 8-ohms and ca-  
pable of handling 3–10 watts of power  
(such as Cat. No. 21-549). Simply plug  
1
the speaker cable's /8-inch plug into  
EXT SP. Connecting the external speak-  
er automatically disconnects the inter-  
nal speaker.  
2. Route the antenna cable to the CB,  
then  
connect  
the  
cable  
to  
ANTENNA on the back of the CB.  
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points to CAL on the upper SWR  
scale.  
Public Address Speaker  
To connect a PA speaker to the CB, use  
an 8-ohm speaker capable of handling 5  
or more watts of power and equipped  
4. Release the microphone's talk but-  
ton.  
1
with an /8-inch connector on the cable.  
5. Set S/RF/SWR/CAL to SWR.  
Contact your local RadioShack store  
for a selection of suitable speakers.  
Plug into PA SP. See “Using the Public  
Address Function” on Page 14 for oper-  
ation instructions.  
6. Press the microphone's talk button  
again and note the actual SWR  
measurement on the upper SWR  
scale. See the chart on Page 10 for  
help in interpreting the SWR meter  
readings.  
ADJUSTING THE  
STANDING WAVE RATIO  
The SWR value takes into account the  
actual frequency of the RF signal trans-  
mitted. Therefore, you will get a different  
SWR reading from one CB channel to  
another. Almost all the CB transmis-  
sions usually fall within an acceptable  
range. However, for optimum radio per-  
formance, we recommend that you fine  
tune the antenna's system based on the  
channel you use most. If you have no  
particular channel preference, set your  
antenna's SWR for maximum perfor-  
mance on Channel 19.  
Most antennas are factory adjusted.  
However, you can usually improve per-  
formance by matching the characteris-  
tics of your antenna system to the CB's  
RF output power using the built-in SWR  
meter. The impedance of a CB’s output  
compared to the impedance of the an-  
tenna and the antenna cable is typically  
slightly mismatched. By adjusting this  
impedance ratio to be as close to 1:1 as  
possible, you maximize the efficiency of  
your system.  
After you have properly installed the an-  
tenna and routed its cable, follow these  
steps to adjust the standing wave ratio  
Note: The SWR on some mobile and  
base-station antennas cannot be  
changed.  
1. Turn on the CB by turning OFF/VOL-  
UME clockwise until it clicks.  
2. Set S/RF/SWR/CAL to CAL.  
3. Hold down the microphone's talk  
button and adjust SWR CAL so the  
SWR/RF signal meter's needle  
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STANDING WAVE RATIO GUIDELINES  
The ideal standing wave ratio (SWR) is 1:1, or a meter reading of 1 on the SWR  
meter's top scale. This reading, however, can only be obtained under laboratory con-  
ditions. A SWR ratio of 1.5:1 to 2:1 is excellent for most mobile CB antenna applica-  
tions. This chart helps you interpret the different readings you might see.  
Standing Wave Ratio Performance  
Ratio  
Rating  
Evaluation  
1:1 – 1.5:1  
Superior  
Perfect match between the an-  
tenna/cable and the RF output of  
the CB.  
1.5:1 – 2:1  
2:1 – 3:1  
Excellent  
The antenna/cable system is an  
outstanding match to the trans-  
mitter’s RF output. Ideal for most  
CB installations.  
Good  
The antenna/cable system will  
perform to specification under  
most normal conditions.  
Higher than  
3.1:1  
Inefficient  
Indicates a need to inspect the  
system, the mounting of the  
antenna and all pertinent hard-  
ware.  
Prolonged exposure to salt spray, humidity, weather-induced corrosion, or vehicle vi-  
bration can cause antenna performance to degrade with a subsequent rise in the  
SWR. Anytime you notice that the SWR reading is greater than 3:1, check the condi-  
tion of the antenna, the antenna cable and all antenna connectors and hardware.  
10  
 
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A QUICK LOOK AT THE CONTROLS  
Channel Display  
CB/Weather Alert/Pub-  
lic Address Switch  
Channel 9-NOR-  
Channel 19 Switch  
RF Meter/SWR/  
Calibrate Switch  
Noise Blanking On/Off  
Switch  
Weather Alert  
Indicator  
Audio Clarity  
Enhancer On/Off  
Switch  
SWR Meter  
RF Meter  
Transmit/Receive  
Indicator  
Hand-Held MIC with  
Channel Up/Down  
Control  
Squelch  
Control  
Rotary Channel  
Tuning Dial  
RF Gain  
Control  
Volume /  
Power Switch  
NOAA  
Weather  
Channel  
Selector  
Standing Wave Ratio  
Calibration Control  
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OPERATION  
Before you start using your CB, you  
should know how to use it effectively  
and courteously. “CB Operation Tips” on  
Page 15 contains information that will  
help you get more enjoyment from using  
your CB.  
6. To manually tune channels, turn the  
tuning control beneath the display to  
select a channel. The selected  
channel number appears, and the  
SWR/RF/Signal Meter shows the  
signal strength.  
To quickly tune to Channel 9 or 19,  
set CH-9/NOR/CH-19 to CH-9 or CH-  
19. 9 or 19 flashes.  
TURNING ON THE CB AND  
RECEIVING  
TRANSMISSIONS  
Important: Always give emergency  
communications priority on Chan-  
nels 9 and 19. Your CB provides for  
fast selection of Channel 9 and 19  
for that reason.  
1. Turn SQUELCH fully counterclock-  
wise.  
2. Set CH-9/NOR/CH-19 to NOR, S/RF/  
SWR/CAL to S/RF (send and  
receive), and CB/WX/PA to CB.  
Notes:  
• Selecting either Channel 9 or 19  
overrides the manual channel  
selection control.  
3. To turn on the CB, turn OFF/VOLUME  
clockwise until it clicks and you hear  
a hissing sound. TX/RX lights, the  
CB displays the last-tuned channel  
number, and the SWR/RF/Signal  
Meter lights.  
• All channels, with the exception of  
Channels 9 and 19, by agree-  
ment, are available for general  
communications. Channels 9 and  
19 are reserved for motorist  
assistance and for reporting  
emergency situations, hazardous  
road conditions, and the like.  
4. Turn SQUELCH clockwise until the  
hissing sound stops.  
Note: If the CB picks up unwanted,  
partial or very weak transmissions,  
continue to turn SQUELCH clockwise  
to decrease the CB's sensitivity to  
these signals. Turn SQUELCH coun-  
terclockwise if you want to listen to a  
weak or distant station.  
7. If necessary, turn RF GAIN clockwise  
to boost the strength of a signal.  
8. If you hear low-level popping-type  
noise, set NB/OFF to NB to turn on  
the noise blanking circuit.  
9. To improve communication quality,  
set ACE/OFF to ACE. This enables  
the ACE circuit.  
5. Adjust OFF/VOLUME to a comfort-  
able listening level.  
10. To turn off the TRC-446, turn OFF/  
VOLUME counterclockwise until you  
hear it click.  
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4. To turn off the TRC-446, turn OFF/  
VOLUME counterclockwise until you  
hear it click.  
Changing Channels Using the  
Controls on the Microphone  
To tune to the next higher or lower chan-  
nel, press UP or DOWN on the micro-  
phone.  
LISTENING TO  
WEATHER BROADCASTS  
To quickly change channels in either di-  
rection, hold down UP or DOWN until you  
reach the desired channel.  
The TRC-446 can receive seven pre-  
programmed weather channels which  
have been allocated by the Federal  
Communications Commission (FCC) for  
use by the National Oceanographic and  
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  
NOAA broadcasts your local forecast  
and regional weather information on one  
or more of these channels in your area.  
To prevent accidentally changing the  
channel with UP or DOWN, press LOCK.  
Press LOCK again to restore the UP or  
DOWN operation.  
TRANSMITTING  
Your TRC-446 receives these weather  
service frequencies:  
Note: We recommend you try receiving  
transmissions before you transmit.  
Frequency  
Channel  
(MHz)  
1. Follow Steps 1–9 under “Turning On  
the CB and Receiving Transmis-  
sions” on Page 12.  
162.400  
162.425  
162.450  
162.475  
162.500  
162.525  
162.550  
WX2  
WX4  
WX5  
WX3  
WX6  
WX7  
WX1  
2. Hold down the microphone's talk  
button and speak into the micro-  
phone in a normal voice from about  
2–3 inches away. TX/RX turns red,  
and the SWR/RF/signal meter indi-  
cates the strength of your transmis-  
sion.  
Note: Do not speak too loudly when  
transmitting. It does not make your  
signal any stronger, and might dis-  
tort your transmission.  
3. When you finish transmitting,  
release the microphone talk button.  
TX/RX turns green. The TRC-446  
can now receive transmissions.  
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To listen to one of the seven available  
weather channels, set CB/WX/PA to WX,  
then rotate WEATHER to choose a chan-  
nel for your listening area. The channel  
display and the SWR turn off. Readjust  
OFF/VOLUME if necessary.  
However, WX/ALERT turns off if you  
turn to WX or move out of the range of  
that NOAA channel. To turn off the indi-  
cator you can also turn power off, then  
on.  
The orange indicator means switch to  
WX to hear special severe weather in-  
formation and warnings.  
Note: When the CB radio is set to CB or  
PA, and you enter a NOAA broadcast ar-  
ea, the state of the WX/ALERT indicates  
three possible situations:  
USING THE PUBLIC  
ADDRESS FUNCTION  
OFF — No weather signal on the  
selected weather channel. Check  
another channel.  
1. Connect a PA speaker to the TRC-  
446 (see “Connecting Optional  
External Speakers” on Page 8).  
GREEN — Normal weather signal.  
No emergecy broadcast.  
ORANGE — Weather alert broad-  
cast on the selected channel. Turn  
to WX to listen to information or  
power off then on to clear the alert.  
2. Turn OFF/VOLUME fully counter-  
clockwise.  
3. Set CB/WX/PA to PA. The meter and  
TX/RX turn off.  
4. Hold down the microphone talk but-  
ton and speak into the microphone  
in a normal voice. Be sure the  
microphone is as far from the PA  
speaker as possible to reduce the  
possibility of audio feedback or  
howl.  
Weather Alert  
In the event of severe weather condi-  
tions, the National Weather Service  
broadcasts a special 1050 Hz tone. The  
TRC-446 sounds this tone if it is turned  
on and CB/WX/PA is set to CB or WX.  
The tone does not sound if the radio is  
set to PA. When the radio receives this  
signal tone, WX/ALERT lights orange  
regardless of the position of CB/WX/PA.  
5. Adjust OFF/VOLUME as needed to  
adjust the PA's volume.  
NOAA transmits this tone for 5 to 10  
seconds. If the TRC-446 is set to CB or  
PA, the orange light remains on even af-  
ter transmission ceases. You do not  
have to be present when the signal is re-  
ceived to be aware of an alert.  
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CB OPERATION TIPS  
Like most activities, CB radio users have  
customs and courtesies. The following  
tips will help you get the most enjoyment  
out of your CB.  
• Contact friends or neighbors — find  
out “what's happening” or plan a  
get-together.  
• Ever have car trouble or run out of  
gas on the highway? With your CB  
you can have peace of mind know-  
ing you can call for assistance.  
TYPICAL USES  
FOR A CB RADIO  
• Camping, fishing, and other sports  
are more fun with a CB. Keep in  
touch with a buddy or find out  
“what's cooking” back at camp.  
Business Uses  
Truck drivers and delivery personnel  
can learn road and traffic conditions  
and get assistance in locating desti-  
nations. A CB is also good company  
on these “long hauls.”  
CB Courtesy  
• Wait for a pause in someone else's  
transmission before you ask for a  
break.  
• Used by construction crews, a CB  
quickly pays for itself when you are  
calling for additional materials or  
coordinating the activities of differ-  
ent work crews.  
• If you do not receive an answer to  
your call after a second attempt,  
sign off and wait several minutes  
before trying again.  
• For security officers, a CB is more  
than a convenience — it is a must  
for both safety and efficiency.  
• Do not hold down the microphone  
talk button, called “dead keying”,  
when you are talking.  
• Assist callers with directions, infor-  
mation about road conditions, and  
any other reasonable requests.  
Personal Uses  
• Keep in touch with home while driv-  
ing to work, to the store, or to a  
social activity. Let your family know  
you are tied up in traffic or that you  
will stop by the store on the way  
home.  
• If you are a two-or-more car family,  
CBs are great for inter-car communi-  
cations while family members are  
going places.  
15  
 
21-1574.fm Page 16 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
USING COMMON 10-CODES  
Citizen's band operators have largely  
Code  
Meaning  
adopted the following 10-codes for stan-  
dard questions and answers. These  
codes permit faster and more precise  
communication in noisy areas. This ta-  
ble lists codes adopted by the Associat-  
10-21  
10-22  
10-23  
10-24  
10-25  
10-26  
Call______by telephone.  
Cancel last message.  
Arrived at the scene.  
Assignment complete.  
Meet______________.  
ed  
Public-Safety  
Communications  
Officers (APCO).  
Code  
Meaning  
Estimated time of arrival  
is___  
10-1  
10-2  
10-3  
10-4  
Your signal is bad.  
Your signal is good.  
10-30  
10-31  
10-33  
Use caution.  
Pick up.  
Stop transmitting.  
Emergency traffic. Clear the  
channel.  
Message received and under-  
stood.  
10-34  
10-41  
10-62  
What time is it?  
10-5  
10-6  
Relay information to ______.  
I am busy or are you busy?  
Out of service.  
Switch to Channel –  
Cannot understand.  
10-7  
10-8  
In service.  
Note: Although this table lists the 10-  
codes’ meanings in the form of a state-  
ment, they can also be phrased as  
questions (10-6: Are you busy?, 10-20:  
What is your location?).  
10-9  
Repeat last message.  
Negative (NO).  
10-10  
10-11  
10-12  
10-13  
____________in service.  
Stand by.  
Report road/weather  
conditions.  
10-14  
10-15  
10-16  
10-17  
10-18  
10-19  
10-20  
Information.  
Message delivered.  
Reply to message.  
En route.  
Urgent  
Contact_______  
What’s your location?  
16  
 
21-1574.fm Page 17 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
If you suspect engine noise as a source,  
turn off the engine and operate the CB  
with the ignition set to ACC. If most or all  
of the noise stops, the problem is in ve-  
hicle's ignition or electrical system.  
MAXIMUM RANGE  
The maximum range and quality of CB  
transmissions vary depending on the fol-  
lowing typical conditions:  
• The type and quality of antenna  
used.  
The following few hints can help you re-  
duce or eliminate such noise.  
• The height of the antenna's mount-  
ing location — the higher the  
antenna, the greater the signal's  
range  
• Replace old ignition wires with new,  
high-voltage,  
wires.  
noise-suppression  
• Install noise suppressors on your  
spark plugs, or install new spark  
plugs that have built-in suppressors.  
• The surrounding terrain — moun-  
tains and tall buildings limit the  
range.  
• Be sure that the black wire ground  
connection is securely attached to  
either your vehicle’s battery's nega-  
tive (GND) terminal or to a good  
electrical chassis ground.  
• Weather conditions.  
• The number of nearby CBs operat-  
ing on the same channel.  
If problems persist, check your alterna-  
tor or generator, voltage regulator, and  
any stand-alone gauges. Noise from  
these sources can be reduced or elimi-  
nated using bypass capacitors at vari-  
ous output voltage points.  
REDUCING NOISE  
The audio clarity enhancer (ACE) circuit  
uses compander (compressor and ex-  
pander) technology to improve commu-  
nication quality. The circuit maintains  
the dynamic range while increasing the  
signal-to-noise ratio as the gain is auto-  
matically controlled according to the in-  
put signal level. This results in a  
reduction in wide band noise.  
Your local RadioShack store has a wide  
selection of noise-suppression accesso-  
ries.  
The noise blanking (NB) circuit helps  
keep background noise to a minimum.  
However, strong sources of electrical  
noise, generated by spark plugs or the  
ignition of your car, or another radio,  
might be more than the circuit can com-  
pensate for.  
17  
 
21-1574.fm Page 18 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
TROUBLESHOOTING  
If your CB is not working as it should, follow the suggestions below to see if you can  
eliminate the problem. If the problem persists, take the CB to your local RadioShack  
store for assistance.  
Symptom  
Check That:  
OFF/VOLUME is turned on.  
Reception difficulties  
CB/WX/PA is set to CB  
OFF/VOLUME is at a sufficient listening level.  
RF GAIN is set to the correct level.  
The microphone is securely plugged into MIC.  
The antenna cable is securely plugged into ANTENNA  
on the rear of the radio and attached securely to the  
antenna at the other end.  
Transmission difficulties The CB is turned on.  
OFF/VOLUME is at a sufficient listening level.  
The microphone is securely plugged into MIC.  
All connectors (microphone, antenna, speakers) are  
tight and secure.  
When transmitting, you are fully pressing the micro-  
phone talk button.  
The antenna is properly mounted and not obstructed or  
grounded.  
No channel selection or CB/WX/PA is set to CB  
only Channel 9 or 19  
can be selected.  
CH9/NOR/CH-19 is set to NOR  
No operation at all.  
The power supply and in-line fuse are functioning  
(“Replacing the Fuses” on Page 20)  
18  
 
21-1574.fm Page 19 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
CARE AND MAINTENANCE  
Your RadioShack TRC-446 Deluxe 40-Channel Mobile CB is an example of supe-  
rior design and craftsmanship. The following suggestions will help you care for  
your TRC-446 so you can enjoy it for years.  
Keep the CB dry. If it gets wet, wipe it dry immediately. Liquids might  
contain minerals that can corrode the electronic circuits.  
Use and store the CB only in normal temperature environments. Tem-  
perature extremes can shorten the life of electronic devices, and distort  
or melt plastic parts.  
Keep the CB away from dust and dirt, which can cause premature  
wear of parts.  
Handle the CB gently and carefully. Dropping it can damage circuit  
boards and cases and can cause the CB to work improperly.  
Wipe the CB with a damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking new. Do  
not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents to  
clean the CB.  
Modifying or tampering with the CB’s internal components can cause a malfunction  
and might invalidate its warranty and void your FCC authorization to operate it. If  
your CB is not performing as it should, take it to your local RadioShack store for  
assistance.  
19  
 
21-1574.fm Page 20 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
REPLACING THE FUSES  
The TRC-446's 2-amp fuses help pro-  
tect your CB from power surges and  
short circuits.  
If the red wire's fuse is blown,  
replace it with a 2-amp, fast-acting  
glass fuse, such as Cat. No. 270-  
1007.  
If the orange wire's fuse is blown,  
replace it with a 1-amp, fast-acting  
glass fuse, such as Cat. No. 270-  
1005.  
Follow these steps to replace each fuse.  
1. Make sure the power source and CB  
are both off.  
2. To open the fuse holder, push the  
fuse holder ends together, then turn  
either end counterclockwise and  
release it.  
3. If the fuse is blown, replace it.  
Caution: Do not use a fuse with rat-  
ings other than those specified here.  
Doing so might damage your TRC-  
446.  
4. Close the fuse holder by pushing the  
fuse holder ends together, then turn  
either end clockwise.  
20  
 
21-1574.fm Page 21 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
SPECIFICATIONS  
GENERAL  
Channels ................................................................................................. 40 Channels  
Frequency Range ........................................................... 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz  
Power Requirements ........................ .. 13.8V DC (12–16 Volts DC, Negative Ground)  
Dimensions (HWD) ............................................................... .. 21/4 × 71/4 × 77/8 Inches  
(57 × 184 × 200 mm)  
Weight ................................................................................................. 3.1 lbs (1.4 kg)  
RECEIVER  
Sensitivity .............................................................. 0.5 µV or better for 10 dB (S+N)/N  
Adjacent Channel Rejection ......................................................... 50 dB (at 10 kHz)  
Audio Output ............................................................................ 4.5 Watts (Maximum)  
Frequency Response ............................................................................ 450–2500 Hz  
Intermediate Frequency ............................................................... 1st IF: 10.695 MHz  
2nd IF: 455 KHz  
Cross Modulation ............................................................................................... 50 dB  
Squelch ..................................................................... Adjustable from 0.5 µV to 1 mV  
TRANSMITTER  
Output Power ...................................................................... 4 Watts (FCC Maximum)  
Type of Modulation .............................. AM Double-Sideband, Full Carrier Modulation  
Modulation Capability ........................................................................................ ±90%  
Spurious Emission ......................................................................... Less than –70 dB  
Frequency Tolerance ...................................................................................... ±200 Hz  
Antenna Impedance ....................................................................................... 50 Ohm  
Current Drain ....................................... (13.8-volt supply) 1 Amp with No Modulation  
1.6 Amps with 80% Modulation  
21  
 
21-1574.fm Page 22 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
PUBLIC ADDRESS  
Output Power ............................................................................ 4.2 Watts (Maximum)  
Current Drain (at maximum power) .............................................................. 1.2 Amps  
WEATHER RADIO  
Frequency Coverage (MHz) ........................................................................... 162.400  
162.425  
162.450  
162.475  
162.500  
162.525  
162.550  
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to  
change and improvement without notice.  
22  
 
21-1574.fm Page 23 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
NOTES  
23  
 
21-1574.fm Page 24 Thursday, May 13, 1999 4:03 PM  
Limited Ninety-Day Warranty  
This product is warranted by RadioShack against manufacturing defects in material and workman-  
ship under normal use for ninety (90) days from the date of purchase from RadioShack company-  
owned stores and authorized RadioShack franchisees and dealers. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED  
HEREIN, RadioShack MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES,  
INCLUDING THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,  
ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE DURATION OF THE WRITTEN LIMITED WARRANTIES  
CONTAINED HEREIN. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED HEREIN, RadioShack SHALL HAVE NO LIABIL-  
ITY OR RESPONSIBILITY TO CUSTOMER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY WITH RE-  
SPECT TO ANY LIABILITY, LOSS OR DAMAGE CAUSED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY USE  
OR PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS WAR-  
RANTY, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM INCONVE-  
NIENCE, LOSS OF TIME, DATA, PROPERTY, REVENUE, OR PROFIT OR ANY INDIRECT,  
SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EVEN IF RadioShack HAS BEEN AD-  
VISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.  
Some states do not allow the limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion of in-  
cidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.  
In the event of a product defect during the warranty period, take the product and the RadioShack  
sales receipt as proof of purchase date to any RadioShack store. RadioShack will, at its option, un-  
less otherwise provided by law: (a) correct the defect by product repair without charge for parts and  
labor; (b) replace the product with one of the same or similar design; or (c) refund the purchase  
price. All replaced parts and products, and products on which a refund is made, become the prop-  
erty of RadioShack. New or reconditioned parts and products may be used in the performance of  
warranty service. Repaired or replaced parts and products are warranted for the remainder of the  
original warranty period. You will be charged for repair or replacement of the product made after the  
expiration of the warranty period.  
This warranty does not cover: (a) damage or failure caused by or attributable to acts of God, abuse,  
accident, misuse, improper or abnormal usage, failure to follow instructions, improper installation or  
maintenance, alteration, lightning or other incidence of excess voltage or current; (b) any repairs  
other than those provided by a RadioShack Authorized Service Facility; (c) consumables such as  
fuses or batteries; (d) cosmetic damage; (e) transportation, shipping or insurance costs; or (f) costs  
of product removal, installation, set-up service adjustment or reinstallation.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from  
state to state.  
RadioShack Customer Relations, 200 Taylor Street, 6th Floor, Fort Worth, TX 76102  
04/99  
We Service What We Sell  
RadioShack  
A Division of Tandy Corporation  
Fort Worth, Texas 76102  
937485  
Printed in Thailand  
05A99  
 

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