OSCOR OSC 5000 Owner's Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. OSCOR Manuals
  4. Control Systems
  5. OSC 5000
  6. Owner's manual

OSCOR OSC 5000 Owner's Manual

Omni spectral correlator
Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
O
S
C
O
R
O
S
C
O
R
O
S
C
O
R
™
™
™
OMNI SPECTRAL CORRELATOR
O
S
C
-
5
VER 5.0
0
0
0
O
S
C
-
5
0
0
0
O
S
C
-
5
0
0
0
OWNERS GUIDE

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the OSC 5000 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

kobus
May 27, 2025

Can an REI OSC 5000 block/ detect military grade signal jamming equipment

0
1 comments:
Mr. Anderson
May 27, 2025

The OSCOR OSC 5000 is designed to detect a wide range of RF signals from 10 kHz to 3 GHz using various antennas and detection modes. However, detecting military-grade signal jamming equipment depends on the jammer's frequency range, power, and modulation techniques. The OSCOR may detect strong or unusual RF activity caused by jammers, but it is not specifically designed to block or counteract military-grade jamming. Therefore, it can potentially detect some jamming activity but cannot block it.

This answer is automatically generated

0

Summary of Contents for OSCOR OSC 5000

  • Page 1 ™ ™ ™ OMNI SPECTRAL CORRELATOR VER 5.0 OWNERS GUIDE...
  • Page 2 Serial Number _____________________ Program Key Version _______________ Kernel Version _____________________ OSCOR serial number and version Numbers may be obtained from OSCOR by pressing SHIFT, then press F1. NOTE: The overall effectiveness of any technical surveillance countermeasure is directly dependent on the level of threat and the users ability to properly deploy the appropriate countermeasure.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    UICK TART XERCISES Exercise 1 – Listen To A Radio Station............15 Exercise 2 – Analyze A Bugging Device............19 Exercise 3 – Basic Methods To Detect Threat Transmitters......21 SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION............. 27 ) ............27 WEEP PECTRUM NALYZER UNCTIONS Receiver Bandwidths ..................29 Adjusting the Frequency Display..............30...
  • Page 4 IDEO HREATS Identifying a Video Signal................65 Using a Separate Video Monitor ..............65 Analyzing Video Formats and Demodulation ..........66 OSCOR 2.4GHz Video Search..............66 SECTION 4: OSCOR AUTOMATIC OPERATION ..........69 ..............71 EMORY ANAGE ................72 PTIONS Input Spans for Automatic Operation ............74 Output Options ..................76...
  • Page 5 Testing for Hot Phones or Hook-Switch By-Pass Bugs ........104 Testing the Telephone Lines for Carrier Current ..........105 Testing Telephones for RF Transmitters ............105 SECTION 7: SUMMARY OF OSCOR SPECIFICATIONS ........107 INDEX......................109 OSCOR QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE ............... 113 ....................113...

  • Page 7: Table Of Figures

    FIGURE 6 OSCOR KEY .................. 7 FIGURE 7 STORAGE COMPARTMENT ............8 FIGURE 8 OSCOR OPENING SCREEN AND DEFAULT SWEEP DISPLAY ..12 FIGURE 9 BACK LIGHT DISPLAY ..............12 FIGURE 10 OSCOR HELP INDEX..............13 FIGURE 11 RESET BUTTON................13 FIGURE 12 SYSTEM SET UP MENU..............
  • Page 8 TABLE OF FIGURES FIGURE 43 OTL LOCATION SCREEN ............. 64 FIGURE 44 VIDEO SIGNAL WITH NEGATIVE SYNCH PULSE ......66 FIGURE 45 AUTOMATIC MODE CONFIGURATION MENUS......69 FIGURE 46 AUTOMATIC MODE MAIN MENU ..........70 FIGURE 47 AUTO MODE MEMORY AND DATA MANAGE MENU ....71 FIGURE 48 CONFIGURE AUTO MODE MENU ..........

  • Page 9: Section 1: Introduction And Equipment Description

    This manual is provided for the operational control of the OSCOR – 5000E unit. It contains background information and step-by-step instructions on how to perform the OSCOR functions. It is arranged to learn the functions, and then to learn how to use the functions together to perform a sweep.

  • Page 10: Oscor Equipment Description

    SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION AND EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION OSCOR EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION This section provides an overview of the equipment and features of the OSCOR. It does not cover OSCOR operation. Main Panel FIGURE 2 OSCOR CONTROL PANEL OSC-5000E...
  • Page 11 16. Video Output - provides standard video signal for monitors. 17. Serial Communications - USB Computer Interface for use with OPC software. 18. Expansion Module Port - supports OTL (OSCOR Triangulate and Locate option) and the OSCOR Microwave Downconverter MDC-2100.

  • Page 12: Function Buttons

    Input Attenuators - selected when high RF or Audio levels are encountered. Function Buttons The OSCOR has 4 function buttons (F1 to F4) and a MENU button. These buttons are multi-use buttons and the functions are always labeled on the OSCOR display screen.

  • Page 13: Antenna Panel

    5. Status Indicators - shows the antenna currently selected. 6. AC VLF (not shown in picture) - OSCOR AC power cord is also a probe (called AC VLF probe). It is used to test wiring for carrier transmitters. It can test any pair of conductors for carrier current (provided the voltage level is less than 250 volts).

  • Page 14: Power System

    SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION AND EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION Power System Power is obtained in one of three ways: 1. AC power of 115/230 VAC 2. Internal Rechargeable 12 VDC Battery 3. External 12-18 VDC input : Whenever possible, it is best to use AC power to keep the battery charged and NOTE to allow the AC VLF to scan for carrier current eavesdropping devices.

  • Page 15: Program Key

    : To ensure desired information is retained, leave the program key inserted NOTE in the OSCOR after the power is off. Also, in case of program error, the key may be used as a system reset. OSC-5000E...

  • Page 16: Storage Compartment And Accessories

    The Audio Patch Cord with 3.5 An audio micro-cassette recorder mm male-to- connects directly into the connector male tray to use the OSCOR audio connectors is recorder functions. used with the Balanced Audio Coupler, Mini Microphone, or inputs to the EXT REF audio input.
  • Page 17 The VLF strength input that the adapter is connected to OSCOR converts to a the OSCOR AC power variable frequency tone (a cord (while OSCOR is higher tone implies closer running on battery) and proximity).

  • Page 18: Optional Accessories And Upgrades

    The OSCOR must be sent to REI for installation. OSCOR Base Bound Output (OBB-5000) The OSCOR Base Bound Output provides an external RF output which takes the signal directly out of the demodulator circuit. The bandwidth of this option is 250 kHz and is primarily used to feed a signal into an oscilloscope and perform an FFT Frequency spectrum analysis.

  • Page 19: Section 2: Getting Started

    SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED The best method to becoming proficient with the OSCOR is to study the manual while using the equipment and to attend REI training classes. Information about training classes is provided at www.reiusa.net.

  • Page 20: Setting Up The Oscor Unit

    2. Note: the bottom of the screen reads: “Press any key to continue”. 3. Pressing F1 will toggle through two additional start-up screens. Pressing “MENU” will direct the OSCOR to the Auto Mode Set-up Screen. Pressing “MENU” again will enter the default Manual Mode Control.

  • Page 21: Help Menu

    Reset Button A reset button is built into the OSCOR connector tray. This reset button is a small white button on the right side of the connector tray. By disconnecting the OSCOR from AC power and pressing this button for 5 seconds, the OSCOR firmware will be completely reset to all factory defaults and all memory will be erased.

  • Page 22: System Set-Up Menu

    SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED System Set-up Menu Each OSCOR unit has default settings for most standard operations. These settings are adjusted in the “SYSTEM SET UP MENU”. This menu addresses several default settings. To enter the “System Set Up Menu” from the SWEEP mode: •...

  • Page 23: Quick Start Exercises

    This section is intended to provide some short excercises to familiarize the user with some of the basic OSCOR functions and capabilities. These excercises are provided with minimal explanation and assume that the unit is turned off before starting. Detailed explanations of OSCOR functions and procedures are provided in later sections.
  • Page 24 RF/WhipH”. This indicates that the OSCOR is still sweeping across the frequency spectrum, but the cursor is simply pointing to the desired signal of interest. If you turn up the volume at this point, you will hear and see the OSCOR receiver sweeping across the frequency spectrum.
  • Page 25 SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED Exercise 1b. – Listen to a radio station using OSCOR frequency controls. This exercise assumes that the OSCOR is again turned OFF. Press the AUTO/MANUAL button to turn on the unit. Press the MENU button twice to skip set up...
  • Page 26 SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED Press SWEEP/ANALYZE button and turn up the volume knob to listen to the radio station. Using the techniques of this exercise you should be able to quickly go to any signal for which the frequency is known. To practice, it is recommend that you look at several different signals throughout the frequency spectrum such as pager transmissions, television signals, cellular phone signals, etc..

  • Page 27: Exercise 2 - Analyze A Bugging Device

    This exercise makes the following assumptions: • The OSCOR is turned on in the default sweep mode. • The transmitter is turned on and located about 6ft (2m) from the OSCOR • The transmitter is an AM or FM modulated audio signal and the transmit frequency is known.

  • Page 28: Figure 13 Reference Microphone

    SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED Press the SPECT button and observe the screen as you talk, whistle, and make other noises. (The screen to the right shows someone whistling.). You may also wish to try this with a radio station. Press the CORR button to enter the Correlator mode.

  • Page 29: Exercise 3 - Basic Methods To Detect Threat Transmitters

    SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED Exercise 3 – Basic Methods To Detect Threat Transmitters The purpose of this exercise is to introduce locating threat signals using the OSCOR Spectrum Display Modes and to get an introduction into Automatic Mode Operation. This exercise has two parts: 3a.
  • Page 30 SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED At this point take the OSCOR back into the target environment. Turn on an analog testing device. The same device described in the previous exercise is recommended. Press the AUTO/MANUAL button to return to the main Auto Mode set-up menu.
  • Page 31 This exercise assumes that the Loading Friendly portion of the previous exercise has just been completed up to the point where the OSCOR is brought back into the target environment. With the OSCOR in the target environment, turn on an analog testing device.
  • Page 32 Press the RECALL button to view the Adjust the volume and signal. listen to the signal. As the volume is increased, you should hear feedback. At this point you can utilize other OSCOR functions such as CORR or SPECT to further analyze the signal. OSC-5000E...
  • Page 33 SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED This completes the quick start excercises. There are many other OSCOR functions that are covered in this manual. These exercises were intended to provide the user with a basic working knowledge of some of the more important OSCOR functions. The sections later in the manul provide a more detailed explaination of these functions.

  • Page 35: Section 3: Oscor Manual Operation

    3. Deciding if the signal is suspicious enough to try and locate it. 4. Locating the source of the transmitted signal. The OSCOR has 4 basic modes of operation, which correspond to the basic steps described above. 1. SWEEP Mode – Provides basic spectrum analysis functions which allow the user to look at the frequency spectrum in real time.

  • Page 36: Figure 14 Oscor Control Panel

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION FIGURE 14 OSCOR CONTROL PANEL The SWEEP/ANALYZE button, located just below the rotary dial, alternates between swept spectrum (Sweep Mode) and demodulated analyze (Analyze Mode) modes. In this screen, the following functions are available: F1 - sequentially steps through the available antennas (including the IR detector and the power cord carrier current input).

  • Page 37: Receiver Bandwidths

    97.9 MHz to 98.1 MHz (Note: 1,000 kHz = 1 MHz). Therefore, when the OSCOR is tuned to a frequency of 98 MHz and the IF bandwidth is 250 kHz, the OSCOR is actually receiving everything from 97.875 MHz to 98.125 MHz. The OSCOR bandwidth of 250 kHz provides adequate bandwidth for the normal radio signal with some margin to accommodate tuning inaccuracies.

  • Page 38: Adjusting The Frequency Display

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION Adjusting the Frequency Display In both the Sweep Mode and the Analyze Mode, the frequency display indicates both start and stop frequencies, as well as the frequency span, sweep frequency, and cursor frequency. The frequency parameters are indicated using arrows on the screen.

  • Page 39: Figure 18 Sweep Mode Screen Display With Wide Bandwidth

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION This is an example of an individual signal can easily be viewed by narrowing the frequency span and adjusting the frequency display. FIGURE 18 SWEEP MODE SCREEN DISPLAY WITH WIDE BANDWIDTH Furthermore, the narrow 15 kHz and 6 kHz are designed primarily for narrow band FM and AM signals.
  • Page 40 3. Press ENTER. Receiver Attenuator Since the OSCOR is a highly sensitive receiver, it is possible for very strong signals to have an overloading effect on the antenna pre-amplifiers. Receiver overload is evidenced by strong signals (such as FM broadcast radio stations) appearing at harmonic frequencies.

  • Page 41: Rf Spectrum Trace Display Modes

    The Friendly and Peak Trace display modes are stored in RAM memory in the OSCOR. This data is retained in OSCOR memory even if the unit is turned off. This data is only reset if the OSCOR memory is reset or if the individual memory buffer is reset. This procedure is further described later in this section.
  • Page 42 The paragraphs below describe these display modes in greater detail. Friendly Trace Display Prior to conducting a sweep, it is highly recommended that the OSCOR be taken out of the sweep environment and a Friendly Trace be loaded into memory. This provides a stored image of the frequency spectrum in known and safe location.
  • Page 43 SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION Trace Display Mode. In this mode, the OSCOR will display the peak signal that occurs at each frequency as it continuously scans. The Peak Signal function combines the peak signal from each continuous sweep. Therefore, if the OSCOR is allowed to sweep across the spectrum for several minutes, the envelope of all transmissions will be recorded.

  • Page 44: Figure 21 Averaged Spectrum Display Example

    NOTE display is altered. Difference Trace Display The OSCOR provides the ability to compare two different sets of trace data. The possible difference combinations may be displayed from the Real-Time, Friendly, Peak, and Averaged spectrum traces. To Display a Difference Trace: 1.

  • Page 45: Figure 22 Difference Mode Display

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION 4. Press F2 to select Trace 2. Press F3 to select the type of difference trace. The most useful of these difference combinations is the Peak minus Friendly Spectrum trace. This display provides a very quick view of the difference between the Frequency Spectrum of two different locations, and is a very reliable method for detecting sophisticated transmitters that are not continuous transmitters.

  • Page 46: Analyze Mode

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION ANALYZE MODE The Analyze Mode changes the operation from a sweep function to a single frequency signal analysis. Specify the frequency of interest with the cursor (controlled with the rotary dial) or the numeric keypad. The Analyze Mode will demodulate a signal to audio, display a refreshed signal profile, and indicate specific conditions prior to correlation.

  • Page 47: Figure 26 Volume And Squelch Knobs

    The center of the Analyze Screen displays the following information: Relative signal strength Signal Lock status (when the OSCOR tunes to the center of a signal, the AFC (Audio Frequency Circuit) will prevent signal drift). Battery voltage display (Battery voltage display is an optional display that must be selected using the System Set Up Menu.)

  • Page 48: Demodulators

    Technical Notes: DEMODULATING NARROW DEVIATION FM WITH A WIDE 250 kHz FILTER: The OSCOR will sufficiently demodulate narrow deviation FM signals when operating in the wide 250 kHz bandwidth. The automatic gain control will continuously adjust the audio level to the correlator or headphones for optimum results.

  • Page 49: Auto Fine Tune

    (AFT) operation. This is a particularly useful mode when manually tuning a signal because the OSCOR will automatically lock on a signal and if the signal drifts in frequency, the AFT function will track the signal. The AFT function is identified on the ANALYZE screen by the LOCK indicator between the two graphs.

  • Page 50: Snuggle Bug Analysis

    To access the Snuggle Bug Analysis: 1. Ensure that the OSCOR is in the Analyze Mode and that the desired signal is locked. 2. Press the MENU button labeled ANLZ.

  • Page 51: Data Functions (Store/Recall)

    Discone input. This image is not of significant concern, except that it can cause some confusion when analyzing signals in the Discone frequency band. To access the Harmonic Frequency Analysis: 1. Ensure that the OSCOR is in the Analyze mode and that the desired signal is selected. 2. Press the MENU button labeled ANLZ.

  • Page 52: Figure 28 Example Signal List Screen Display

    Declared threats are also ignored in the Automatic Sweep Mode. The OSCOR signal storage is an easy way to reduce the time required of the automatic sweep process. For example, if all local radio and TV stations are entered as friendly signals, they will be ignored in subsequent automatic sweeps, unless their power level changes by greater than 5%.

  • Page 53: Figure 29 Signal List Menu

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION To recall stored signals: 1. Press the RECALL button to toggle between the normal Analyze Mode and the Signal List Mode. 2. Use the rotary dial or the UP/DOWN buttons to select various signals in the database.

  • Page 54: Figure 30 Sweep Span Display

    6. Press F1 to confirm the deletion process. Sweep Span Storage The OSCOR has 6 pre-programmed input frequency spans covering the available range of the electromagnetic spectrum. Up to 70 additional frequency spans may be added to the memory for rapid manual recall of stored span or for use in the Automatic Mode (see page 74 Input Spans for Automatic Operation).

  • Page 55: Figure 31 Sweep Span Menu

    The first column of the Sweep Span list screen displays the enable status for Automatic Mode operation. For further details on Automatic Mode operation (see page 69 SECTION 4: OSCOR AUTOMATIC OPERATION). The second column indicates the antenna being used as an input source.

  • Page 56: Audio Functions

    The following sub sections describe these audio functions. Reference Audio System For the correlator to work properly, the OSCOR must have a reference audio signal. In the Correlate Mode, the OSCOR constantly compares the audio arriving through the receiver system with the reference audio signal. If the two audio signals are similar (which means that they correlate) there is a very high probability of a bugging device.
  • Page 57 While listening to the speaker or using the headphones, if you hear the reference sound source, you have verified that the OSCOR is in the correct mode. If there is nothing plugged into the EXT REF jack and the OSCOR is placed in the MONITOR/REFERENCE Mode, the speaker will have a feedback ringing because the built-in microphone is being fed directly to the speaker.
  • Page 58 : When connecting external sources that do not have their own speakers, be sure NOTE the volume on the OSCOR loudspeaker is loud enough to be detected by any eavesdropping device that may be in the room. : The headphones must be unplugged to patch an external sound source through NOTE the OSCOR speaker (see page 50 Headphones).
  • Page 59 SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION • Sets the signal threshold when using the locator probe. In this mode, the OSCOR generates an audible tone, where the pitch corresponds to the strength above the squelch threshold of the signal. This is used to find an RF transmitter (see page 59...

  • Page 60: Oscilloscope Analysis (Audio Spectrum Analysis Screen)

    In this mode, high frequency, digital signals may have very little signal level due to the limited sampling frequency of the OSCOR microprocessor. To enter the Audio Spectrum Analysis Screen, press the SPECT button.

  • Page 61: Acoustic Correlator System (Manual)

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION Acoustic Correlator System (Manual) The acoustic correlator system allows the OSCOR to recognize a signal as an eavesdropping device. It compares complex sound patterns arriving from the reference audio system and received audio channels. In a typical environment, there are many passive sounds such as talking, music, and air-conditioner.

  • Page 62: Strip Chart Plotter

    The plotter is primarily a WYSWYG (What You See is What You Get) style printing function. In other words, to get a print of the OSCOR display, simply press the “PLOT” button. : Video monitor is automatically turned off when the printer is being used.
  • Page 63 2. The plotting process can be canceled by pressing MENU. Signal Listing Another useful plot is the signal listing. All the signals stored in the OSCOR database can be plotted (see page 43 Signal Storage). All signals are plotted in ascending frequency order.

  • Page 64: Miscellaneous Functions

    Freeze Screen There are many cases when you may wish to freeze the OSCOR display. In most of the normal operation modes (sweep, oscilloscope analysis, etc.), this may be performed by one of the following methods.
  • Page 65 The OSCOR can also be configured for remote recording in Automatic Mode (see page 77 Auto Tape Recording of Threat Signals). : There are many tape recorders that will work equally well for this option.

  • Page 66: Locatinga Threatening Transmitter

    For this reason, it may be a better idea to rely on other equipment to find low frequency devices such as an NLJD (ORION) or a broadband detector (CPM-700). However, the OSCOR does provide the capability to search for low frequency signals. These types of signals often emit from video cameras (15kHz) or the low frequency magnetic signals emitted from tape recorders with bias oscillators.

  • Page 67: Locating Rf (500Khz To 3Ghz) Transmitters

    SECTION 3: OSCOR MANUAL OPERATION : It is important to remember that if the OSCOR speaker is used to broadcast the NOTE buzzing sound, the unit is not covert. To use the loop antenna in a covert mode, the headphones can be used in conjunction with the loop antenna.

  • Page 68: Locating Infrared Transmitters

    There is not a separate locator probe for locating infrared threats. It is important to note that infrared signals must be in line of sight between the OSCOR detector and either the infrared transmitter or a reflection from the transmitter. The OSCOR infrared detector is...

  • Page 69: Oscor Triangulate And Locate Option

    To defend against this type of threat, it is necessary to take the OSCOR unit outside and carry it around the perimeter of the building while scanning for IR threats. On sunny days, the OSCOR IR probe should be shaded from direct sunlight or bright reflections to prevent overload from the Sun (direct sunlight will not damage the IR detector).

  • Page 70: Figure 39 Otl-5000 Probe

    Since the method relies on sonic ranging, the most accurate results are achieved when the eavesdropping device is in line of sight to the OSCOR and on the exterior side of the deployed antenna panel.

  • Page 71: Figure 41 Triangulate And Locate Positions

    OTL-5000 device is pointing in the direction of the microphone. The OSCOR in this mode displays the range to the bug. The spikes on the screen represent the sound of the clicking being received by the bug. The multiple spikes are the echoes from the clicking.

  • Page 72: Figure 42 Otl Ranging Screen

    10. After all measurements have been made, press the MENU button (labeled LOCATE) to view the position of the microphone. The positions indicated on the screen are referenced to the OSCOR connector tray expansion port connector. The accuracy of the triangulated position may vary depending on the consistency of the range measurements and the position of the eavesdropping device.

  • Page 73: Detecting Video Threats

    (such as an empty room) will have a constant vibrating sound. Once a video transmitter is detected, the OSCOR locator probe can be used to locate the video transmitter using the same method as an audio transmitter, or by simply studying the picture.

  • Page 74: Analyzing Video Formats And Demodulation

    High-quality video transmitters typically contain an audio signal in the same format as a TV signal. Since the OSCOR is designed to detect audio bugs in the Automatic Mode, the OSCOR will detect a video/audio signal by locking in on the audio portion.
  • Page 75 TECHNICAL NOTE: Some video cameras emit a low-power, magnetic field at 15 kHz. In this case, the OSCOR loop antenna may be removed from the antenna panel and used as a locator probe (see page 58, Locating Low Frequency RF (10 kHz - 500 kHz)).

  • Page 77: Section 4: Oscor Automatic Operation

    The OSCOR can automatically scan all programmed inputs (antennas) and frequency bands. The best method for using the automatic mode is to run the OSCOR away from the threat environment in a “Load Friendly” mode. This will store ambient environment frequency spectrum data in OSCOR memory.

  • Page 78: Figure 46 Automatic Mode Main Menu

    The following menu will appear: FIGURE 46 AUTOMATIC MODE MAIN MENU To review the current OSCOR memory utilization, Press the F1 button labeled MEMORY & DATA MANAGE. This provides a detailed view of the signals and traces that are currently stored in the OSCOR.

  • Page 79: Step 1 Memory And Data Manage

    F3 is used to Delete the Peak Trace Data. F4 is used to Delete all Trace data and all Database data. : the above figure will have “0” for all data when the OSCOR has no data stored in NOTE memory.

  • Page 80: Step 2 Set Up Auto Options

    F2 – VIEW NOTES – The ability to view Notes about this sweep that were created using OPC. These can only be created using the OPC software. You cannot create them from the OSCOR keypad. The Figure below shows the screen with no notes entered.

  • Page 81: Figure 51 Auto Mode Setup Options

    Alert tone, threat signal plotting, automat ic audio recording of threat signals, and status of the OSCOR display. FIGURE 51 AUTO MODE SETUP OPTIONS F4 – CORRELAT OPTIONS – Sets up the Correlator operation in the automatic mode.

  • Page 82: Input Spans For Automatic Operation

    This allows the user to program multiple frequency windows within the same input device. The OSCOR has 6 pre-programmed input frequency spans that include the available range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The bandwidths used for automatic operation are covered in the Figure below.
  • Page 83 “false” signals that are nothing more than deceptive noise signals. Trace – directs the OSCOR to update the trace data for this span, but it does not search and log individual signals. It is important to note that most bugging signals will be somewhat powerful if you are in the room in which the bug is located.

  • Page 84: Output Options

    FIGURE 54 AUTO MODE OUTPUT OPTION MENU Automatic Mode Audible Alert Using this option, the OSCOR will provide an audible alert when a threat is detected in the Automatic Mode. A signal is classified as a threat when its level exceeds the threat level threshold (see page 78 - Acoustic Correlator System (Automatic).)
  • Page 85 1 Line, 2 Line, BLOCK, CHART, and OFF. Auto Tape Recording of Threat Signals Using this option, the OSCOR will provide a timed tape recording of each received signal exceeding the specified threat level. Refer to page 57 Tape Recorder Controls for more information about the tape recorder.

  • Page 86: Correlate Options - Acoustic Correlator System (Automatic)

    53 (Acoustic Correlator System (Manual)). The correlator operation is configured for the Automatic Mode using the Automatic Mode Set Up Menu. : With the OSCOR in the Automatic Mode, each signal detected is stored in the NOTE OSCOR memory.
  • Page 87 Passive Correlation In the Passive Mode of correlation, the OSCOR is completely covert and relies on passive sounds in the environment for correlation. To increase the speed and accuracy of the correlation when operating in the Passive Mode, the OSCOR will systematically tune to each signal and perform two types of correlation: 1.

  • Page 88: Step 3 Load Friendly Database

    Pressing the F3 button in the Automatic mode main menu starts the load friendly process. In this mode, the OSCOR first updates the Friendly Trace Spectrum and then begins search through the frequency range to store continuous wave signals. This mode is to be used away from the target sweep environment so that the OSCOR can be pre-loaded with the majority of the ambient environment signals.

  • Page 89: Step 4 Start Auto Mode

    Pressing the F4 button in the Automatic mode main menu starts the automatic mode. See “Figure 56 AUTO MODE START MENU” above. In this mode, the OSCOR will evaluate every detected “non-friendly” signal for correlation. This mode is used in the target sweep environment specifically to look for bugging devices.

  • Page 91: Section 5: Detecting Sophisticated Transmitters

    AM, FM, and Sub-carrier modulated signals are easily logged automatically, but a Burst Transmitter, a Frequency Hopper, and many Spread Spectrum signals will not be logged in the OSCOR automatic mode because there is no stable carrier frequency for the OSCOR firmware to lock onto. Therefore, an additional procedure using the OSCOR Peak Display is required.

  • Page 92: Some Sophisticated Transmitter Types

    It should also be noted that the OSCOR Peak Display mode stores frequency information at 50kHz resolution throughout the frequency band. Therefore, when the display is zoomed in to view a signal, the Peak display graph may appear to have coarse steps, but the main evidence of transmission will be maintained.

  • Page 93: Sophisticated Transmitter Detection Method

    To Search for Spread Spectrum Transmitters and other Digital modulations not easily detected automatically. 1. Place the OSCOR (or OPC software) in the Peak minus Friendly display mode so that any evidence of RF spectrum differences will be displayed. 2. Use the EXPAND or NARROW buttons to examine any suspicious trace data.

  • Page 94: Peak Display Examples

    SECTION 5: DETECTING SOPHISTICATED TRANSMITTERS PEAK DISPLAY EXAMPLES Below are various examples of certain types of transmitters when viewed using the Peak display options. Pager Example While a pager is certainly not a sophisticated transmitter, it is provided mainly to explain the concept of the Peak Display mode.

  • Page 95: Spread Spectrum Example

    SECTION 5: DETECTING SOPHISTICATED TRANSMITTERS Spread Spectrum Example Spread Spectrum technology spreads the transmitted energy over a wide frequency spectrum, making the transmitter more elusive. Due to the method of digital encoding in the spread spectrum signal, there may appear to be multiple low-level signals that are frequency hopping.

  • Page 96: Burst Transmitter Example

    In the example below, a graphic is provided simply to indicate that at any given sweep (meaning the receiver sweep across the frequency spectrum), the OSCOR may only capture a portion of the transmission as indicated below. However, on multiple sweeps (passes through the spectrum) the entire envelope of the transmission may be filled in as indicated by the Peak Display.

  • Page 97: Frequency-Hopping Example

    Figure 66 Peak Display Frequency Hopping Example. 2. Allow the OSCOR to sweep for several minutes to fill in the hopping channels. 3. Press the PLOT button to print the frequency spectrum, and label the plot with the physical location or room in which it was produced.
  • Page 98 The important thing to understand is that to have a good probability of detection, using the previously described method, the OSCOR only needs to intercept some energy from any one of the channels to indicate a potential threat.

  • Page 99: Section 6: Conducting A Sweep

    This section provides a general guide for conducting sweeps; however, the methods outlined are not the only ways the OSCOR may be used. This section is not intended to be comprehensive. However, it presents possible methods and procedures that may enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of a sweep.

  • Page 100: Scheduling A Sweep

    SECTION 6: CONDUCTING A SWEEP The sweep is performed after hours, but the eavesdropping equipment is activated only during business hours. The sweep equipment is the wrong equipment or is not used properly. There are many bug detectors on the market that are merely toys with lights and knobs, and not all expensive equipment will necessarily meet your specific needs.

  • Page 101: Basic Procedure For A Sweep

    Basic suggested procedure for a dedicated sweep: 1. At least ½ mile (.8 km) from the target building, run the OSCOR in a Load Friendly mode. Ensure that the memory has been erased for all signal database data as well as trace data (see page 80 Step 3 Load Friendly Database).

  • Page 102: Loading A Friendly Database

    SECTION 6: CONDUCTING A SWEEP 6. Set up the OSCOR in the Automatic Mode to search the WhipLo, WhipHi, and Discone Frequency inputs. Check desired settings and activate Auto Mode. Allow Automatic mode to run through at least 2 passes for increased reliability.

  • Page 103: Secure The Area

    Most buildings have an intercom system or speaker system that may be used to flood the environment with sound. : If a radio or TV signal has not been pre-loaded as a friendly signal, the OSCOR NOTE will provide a false threat warning when the signal is detected, because the audio signal will correlate with the sound source.

  • Page 104: Considerations For Infrared And Laser Threats

    If a built-in speaker system is used to flood an entire area (several offices, a floor of a building or an entire building), the OSCOR will correlate on threats that may be located anywhere in the area as long as the bug’s transmitted signal is of sufficient strength.

  • Page 105: Manually Sweeping Selected Inputs

    There are very few friendly signals that exist in some inputs, such as infrared, RF Loop, AC VLF, and MDC. Rather than allowing the OSCOR to search these inputs, it is faster to select these inputs in the Manual Sweep Mode, and manually tune to any signals for verification.

  • Page 106: Considerations For Automatic Operation

    When searching for threats using the Automatic Mode, the OSCOR should be allowed to operate for at least two passes. While the OSCOR is in the Automatic Mode, a physical search of the area can be performed to increase sweep efficiency. Using the OSCOR in this manner provides two important functions: 1.
  • Page 107 SECTION 6: CONDUCTING A SWEEP Also the OSCOR can be taken outside, 200 ft from the building, to investigate the signal strength in the outside environment. If the signal is still strong, then the signal is common to the environment and probably not an eavesdropping device. If a signal is unique to a building, it is important to determine the signal origin.

  • Page 108: Figure 67 Unintentional Radiator Table

    As previously stated in this manual, it is very important to understand that the OSCOR automatic mode is NOT guaranteed to detect and log all types of transmitters. Further, the OSCOR automatic mode will not log transmitters such as Spread Spectrum, Burst, and Frequency hoppers.

  • Page 109: The Physical Search

    THE PHYSICAL SEARCH The best counter surveillance equipment will always be the human eye. While the OSCOR is operating in the Automatic Mode, the best way to spend your time is physically searching the environment for surveillance devices. The root of successful counter surveillance is the physical search.
  • Page 110 (even with very low sound), they should be disconnected at the speaker or removed. After the OSCOR has completed at least one pass through every input, each signal that exceeds the specified squelch level will be stored in the OSCOR memory. Reliability is increased with multiple passes through each input.

  • Page 111: Monitoringa Meeting I N Progress

    (in the case of drop ceiling), under the door or even through the wall. The OSCOR will function as if it were located in the target environment. During the meeting, the OSCOR can be locked in a closet, running in the...

  • Page 112: Testing Telephones With Oscor

    This coupler and patch cord are used with the OSCOR’s built-in audio amplifier to extract line audio. They can also be used for direct correlator reference as used in testing for telecom “hot mikes,” hook- switch bypass, infinity bugs, and electronic triggers.

  • Page 113: Testing The Telephone Lines For Carrier Current

    RF transmitter when the phone is both on and off the hook. To test the telephone for an RF transmitter: 1. Place the telephone very near the OSCOR unit; it also works well to wrap the telephone cord that connects the handset and the base unit around the OSCOR whip antenna.

  • Page 115: Section 7: Summary Of Oscor Specifications

    SECTION 7: SUMMARY OF OSCOR SPECIFICATIONS SECTION 7: SUMMARY OF OSCOR SPECIFICATIONS RF System: Audio System: RF Receiver Type: Quad Conversion Super Frequency Response: 50Hz-15kHz Heterodyne with 3 phase locked loop Voiceband Filter: 300Hz-3000Hz - synthesizers 18dB/Octave RF Frequency Coverage: 10kHz-3GHz...

  • Page 117: Index

    INDEX INDEX Correlator AC VLF, 5 Automatic, 78 Acoustic Correlator (Automatic), 78 Manual, 53 AFT, 41 Correlator Mode AM, 40 Active, 79 Analyze Mode, 38 LD FRND, 94 Auto Fine Tune, 41 Passive, 79 Demodulators, 40 Verify, 79 Harmonic Frequency Analysis, 42 Cursor, 41 Plots, 55 Screen Refresh, 39...
  • Page 118 STORE, 44, 46 Oscilloscope, 52 Subcarrier, 40 OSCOR Video Patch Cord, 8 Suspicious, 98 OTL-5000, 61 Sweep Mode, 27 OTL-5000 OSCOR Triangulate and Locate, 8 Sweep Span Editing, 47 Outputs, 76 Sweep Span Listing, 55 Sweep Span Storage, 46 OSC-5000E...
  • Page 119 INDEX SWEEP/ANALYZE, 28, 38 Signal Storage, 43 Sweeps, 91 type, 92 Conducting, 91 Threat Signals, 102 Environment, 92 Time Clock, 14 Planning, 91 Tone Ringer System, 51 Scheduling, 92 Trace Review, 71 Securing the Area, 95 Triangulate and Locate Option, 8, 61 Sound Source, 95 Units, 14 Tape Recorder, 8...

  • Page 121: Oscor Quick Reference Guide

    OSCOR QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE OSCOR QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE SHIFT FUNCTIONS SHIFT, TONE Silence Confirmation Tone. SHIFT, TAPE Set Tape Remote Out Off. SHIFT, FEED Reverse Feed Plotter Paper. SHIFT, PLOT Print Short Test Plot. SHIFT, FILTER Mute Speaker, Filter to Un-mute.

Table of Contents