REI ANDRE Owner's manual

Brand: REI

Model: ANDRE

Type: Owner's manual

Research Electronics

International, LLC

455 Security Drive, Cookeville TN

38506 U.S.A. (800)-824-3190 (US Only)

+1 931 537-6032

 Copyright Research Electronics International LLC

User Manual

This document is intended to provide guidance and instruction on using the ANDRE Near-field Detection Receiver

for finding hidden electronic devices.

This manual contains proprietary information intended solely for use with the ANDRE product.

The overall effectiveness of this product, and of any surveillance countermeasure, is dependent on the threat level

and the user’s ability to properly utilize the appropriate equipment.

REI offers the world’s largest commercially available Technical Security training facility. Training courses include

classroom instruction and hands-on exercises where students perform sweep exercises in “live” environments

utilizing “target rich” project rooms. The progressive course curriculum is designed for the beginner or the seasoned

Technical Security Technician.

Regularly scheduled courses are taught monthly; visit REI’s website (www.reiusa.net) or contact REI

([email protected]et) for training dates.

Revision 2.5

REI products are designed and intended for legal commercial applications. However, because laws and regulations vary from

state to state and country to country, it is the sole responsibility of the purchaser and user/operator to check and comply with

all applicable laws and regulations for the possession and operation of this equipment before and after making a purchase.

Information contained in this manual including product operation and specifications is subject to change without notice.

Any product or brand names contained in this manual are used only for identification purposes and are trademarks or

registered trademarks of their respective holders.

Warning: This is a CE class A product, pursuant to EN 55022. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio

interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

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 to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Patents Pending

Owner’s Record

The serial number of each ANDRE is located on the back of the unit. Please record this number and refer to it whenever you

contact your dealer or Research Electronics International concerning this product. Note: Removal or alteration of the serial

number automatically voids all warranties of this product.

Serial Number:

Research Electronics International, LLC

455 Security Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506 U.S.A.

(800) 824-3190 (US Only) • +1 931-537-6032

www.reiusa.net

Table of Contents

CASE CONTENTS ......................................................................................................................................................... 6

PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................................................................................................ 7

EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................................................................... 8

ANDRE Unit ............................................................................................................................................................ 8

ANDRE Packages .................................................................................................................................................... 9

Probes, Antennas, and Accessories ..................................................................................................................... 10

Whip / Dipole Antenna (30MHz - 6 GHz) ......................................................................................................... 10

Concealed Antenna (750 MHz - 6 GHz) ............................................................................................................ 10

Locator Probe (20 MHz - 6 GHz)....................................................................................................................... 11

VLF Loop Antenna (10 kHz - 30 MHz) ............................................................................................................... 11

Acoustic Leakage Detector (ALD) ..................................................................................................................... 11

Audio Transformer (300 Hz – 20 kHz ............................................................................................................... 12

Carrier Current Probe (100 kHz to 60 MHz) ..................................................................................................... 12

Log Periodic Antenna (500 MHz – 6 GHz) ........................................................................................................ 13

Directional Antenna (70 MHz- 500 MHz) ......................................................................................................... 13

Down Converter Directional Antenna (500 MHz – 12 GHz) ............................................................................. 14

Ultrasonic Probe (15 kHz – 80 kHz) .................................................................................................................. 14

Nitecore Dual Bay Battery Charger .................................................................................................................. 15

Operation ................................................................................................................................................................. 15

Battery Usage ....................................................................................................................................................... 16

Audio Transformer Batteries ............................................................................................................................... 17

Display Screens .................................................................................................................................................... 18

Display Screen Layout ...................................................................................................................................... 18

Chart Screen (Search) ....................................................................................................................................... 20

Signal List Screen .............................................................................................................................................. 22

Audio Screen .................................................................................................................................................... 25

Additional Features .................................................................................................................................................. 27

Connecting to a PC ............................................................................................................................................... 27

Covert Mode ........................................................................................................................................................ 27

IR/VR Sensor ........................................................................................................................................................ 28

Connector Cable ................................................................................................................................................... 29

Powered Connector Cable (only included with ANDRE Deluxe) .......................................................................... 29

Down Converter Directional Antenna Operation ................................................................................................ 30

Ultrasonic Probe Operation ................................................................................................................................. 30

Data Logging......................................................................................................................................................... 31

Setup ........................................................................................................................................................................ 32

Atten/Gain ........................................................................................................................................................... 32

Input Source ......................................................................................................................................................... 33

Trigger .................................................................................................................................................................. 33

Frequency Gate .................................................................................................................................................... 33

Brightness ............................................................................................................................................................ 34

Chart Audio .......................................................................................................................................................... 34

Audio Demodulation ............................................................................................................................................ 34

Haptic Style .......................................................................................................................................................... 35

Covert Mode Options ........................................................................................................................................... 35

Date/Time ............................................................................................................................................................ 36

ITU Region ............................................................................................................................................................ 36

Auto Restore ........................................................................................................................................................ 36

Max Signals .......................................................................................................................................................... 37

Merging ................................................................................................................................................................ 37

Data Logging......................................................................................................................................................... 38

File Prefixes .......................................................................................................................................................... 38

Image Viewer ....................................................................................................................................................... 39

Software Update .................................................................................................................................................. 39

Storage ................................................................................................................................................................. 39

Factory Reset ....................................................................................................................................................... 39

Screen Lock .......................................................................................................................................................... 40

USB Low Power .................................................................................................................................................... 40

Contact ................................................................................................................................................................. 41

Version ................................................................................................................................................................. 41

SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................................................................... 42

APPENDIX ................................................................................................................................................................. 43

QT License ............................................................................................................................................................ 43

GNU Lesser General Public License ...................................................................................................................... 43

Preamble .......................................................................................................................................................... 43

CASE CONTENTS

ANDREab - unit, wall charger, int’l adapter, and

USB

Powered Connector Cable 60” (1.5 m) or

Connector Cable 48” (1.2 m) ab

Concealed Antennaa

Down Converter Antenna or Log Periodic

Antennaa

Directional Antenna

Acoustic Leakage Detectora

Modular Phone Adapter & Cablea

Ultrasonic Probe

VLF Loopab

10.

Locator Probea

11.

Whip/Dipole Antennaab

12.

Lithium-Ion Batteries and Chargerab

13.

Carrier Current Probeab - unit, int’l adapter, and

cables

14.

Audio Transformera - accessory cables

15.

Neck and Wrist Lanyardsab

16.

Tripod with Mount

17.

Headphonesab

18.

Connector Cablesa

19.

Extender Pole

aIncluded in the ANDRE Advanced Kit,

but case location may vary

bIncluded in the ANDRE Basic Kit, but case

location may vary

PRECAUTIONS

ANDRE

 CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by REI could void the user’s authority to

operate the equipment.

 The ANDRE is for professional use only.

 For your own safety do not use the ANDRE if:

o The ANDRE cables or its plugs become frayed or otherwise damaged.

o The ANDRE housing is cracked or otherwise damaged.

o You suspect that the unit requires servicing.

 Only use REI-approved power sources, batteries, chargers, and accessories. The supplied power

supply is REI #R-00013 (Group West #10FA3-05200U). The supplied battery is REI #R-00012 (Nitecore

#NL189), a rechargeable Lithium Ion 18650 Cell, rated 3.7V, 3400mAh, 12.6Wh.

 The slots in the housing of the unit are vents and are part of the ventilation system. Do not block these

vents during the operation of the unit.

 The fan that is visible from the battery compartment is part of the ventilation system. The fan does not

operate constantly but only as needed to reduce the internal temperature of the unit. Do not forcibly

stop or disrupt the operation of the fan.

 There are no serviceable parts inside. Contact your dealer or Research Electronics International, LLC for

repairs. Opening the unit will void the warranty.

 For your own safety do not use the AC power adapter or the included USB cable if:

o The cable becomes frayed or otherwise damaged.

o The power adapter plugs are damaged.

o The power adapter housing is cracked or otherwise damaged.

o The power adapter is exposed to rain, liquid or excessive moisture.

Lithium-Ion Batteries

 CAUTION: RISK OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS REPLACED BY AN INCORRECT TYPE. DISPOSE OF USED

BATTERIES ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS.

 For your own safety do not use any ANDRE battery if:

o The battery case is cracked or otherwise damaged.

o The battery is excessively hot or warm for any reason.

 Avoid shorting the battery, immersing in water, or exposing to fire. Also, avoid excessive physical shock

or vibration.

 Only use the specified REI battery chargers or products to charge REI batteries.

 There are no serviceable parts inside the battery. Contact your dealer or Research Electronics

International, LLC for repairs. Opening or puncturing the unit can be dangerous and may result in injury.

 Using the Lithium-Ion batteries in a manner not specified by this user’s guide may override the

equipment’s built-in protection mechanisms.

 Keep out of the reach of children.

 Dispose of Lithium-Ion batteries in accordance with local regulations.



EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION

ANDRE Unit

1) TOUCH SCREEN DISPLAY - user interface for ANDRE

2) BATTERY DOOR (on the back of the unit) - conceals battery compartment

3) SPEAKER (on the back of the unit) - used to monitor audio from the unit

4) HEADPHONE JACK - for connection of headphones to monitor audio from the unit

5) POWER BUTTON - To power on, press and hold until POWER LED flashes. To power off, press

and hold until the Touch Screen Display indicates that the unit is powering off.

6) POWER LED - the power led uses different colors and patterns (e.g., solid vs flashing) to indicate

the status of the ANDRE unit.

With the unit on:

Solid Green — Battery fully charged; brightness is proportional to the remaining charge

Flashing Yellow — Battery below 30% remaining

Flashing Orange — Battery below 20% remaining

Flashing Red — Battery below 10% remaining

With the unit off (or on with AC power connected):

Flashing Green — Battery is charging, flash rate is proportional to charge level

7) USB PORT - for connecting AC adapter to supply power or charge the batteries in the ANDRE.

This is also used for connecting the ANDRE to a PC for software updates or for retrieving

screenshots or signal list files saved on the ANDRE.

8) AUDIO INPUT - for connecting the Acoustic Leakage Detector or the Audio Transformer to test for

the presence of audio. The Acoustic Leakage Detector and the Audio Transformer are included

with the Advanced ANDRE package from REI.

9) IR / VISIBLE LIGHT SENSOR - for detecting the presence of IR or visible light. (See page 28)

10) QMA CONNECTOR (RF Input) - for connecting the included REI antennas or other RF antennas.

ANDRE Packages

The ANDRE is available in three packages (Basic, Advanced, and Deluxe) with varying probes, antennas, and

accessories. Below is a chart showing which probes, antennas, and accessories are included in each package (note

that this is subject to change). Additional information can be found in the Probes, Antennas, and Accessories

section on the following pages.

Probes, Antennas, and Accessories

Whip / Dipole Antenna (30MHz - 6 GHz)

The Whip / Dipole is a general-purpose, omnidirectional, near-field probe used for locating RF transmitters up to 6

GHz.

Concealed Antenna (750 MHz - 6 GHz)

The Concealed Antenna is omnidirectional and is used for covert detection of devices. When the concealed antenna

is connected, the ANDRE will automatically switch to Covert Mode. This mode could be used to conduct a covert

search by connecting the concealed antenna and then hiding the unit in, for example, a jacket pocket while walking

around the room and relying on the haptic feedback for alerts. Covert mode automatically disables any alerting

features. It turns the speaker off, enables haptic feedback mode, and shuts off the display and the power LED.

Locator Probe (20 MHz - 6 GHz)

The Locator Probe is an omnidirectional probe and is attenuated for use in high RF environments and for locating an

RF signal within a few inches.

VLF Loop Antenna (10 kHz - 30 MHz)

The VLF Loop Antenna is an omnidirectional antenna used for locating low-frequency signals below 30 MHz.

Acoustic Leakage Detector (ALD)

With the Acoustic Leakage Detector, the operator can determine the vulnerability of acoustic leakage by placing the

probe against structural objects such as walls or windows. The Acoustic Leakage Detector connects to the Audio

Input on the ANDRE.

Audio Transformer (300 Hz – 20 kHz)

The Audio Transformer is a balanced audio coupler to provide electrical

isolation for audio testing. A 3.5 mm Stereo to 3.5 mm Stereo cable is

included with the ANDRE to connect the audio transformer to the

ANDRE. Two push buttons provide positive and negative bias voltage to

the two banana jacks on the audio transformer. The control knob on the

audio transformer adjusts the level of the applied bias voltage from 0 to

22 volts. An included set of banana-jack test leads with bed-of-nail

alligator clips allow the audio transformer to be used on 66 blocks or

other wires.

Carrier Current Probe (100 kHz to 60 MHz)

The Carrier Current Probe can be used to test for carrier current signals on any

pair of conductors less than 250 volts. Before testing an unidentified pair of

power conductors, a voltmeter should be used to measure the voltage across

the conductors. If this voltage exceeds 250 volts, do not test with the Carrier

Current Probe. Two power plugs are included for connection to US style or Euro

style outlets. The included alligator clip cable assembly should only be used on

50V or less. Measurements can be made with three different pair

configurations using the switch on the front of the carrier current probe:

Hot/Neutral, Neutral/Ground, and Hot/Ground.

Due to power line noise and the broad frequency range that ANDRE searches,

every outlet in an area should be inspected.

Note: the frequency counter is disabled when using the Carrier Current Probe

and the operator should rely on the detected signal strength when using the

carrier current probe. No frequency will be displayed while using the Carrier

Current Probe, nor will any signals be added to the signal list.

Log Periodic Antenna (500 MHz – 6 GHz)

The directional antenna is a log periodic antenna that can be used for improved detection in the 500 MHz to 6GHz

range.

Directional Antenna (70 MHz- 500 MHz)

This flag-shaped antenna provides directional coverage for lower-frequency signal detection. It is a powered probe

and must be used with one of the powered connector cables (see page 29).

Down Converter Directional Antenna (500 MHz – 12 GHz)

The Down Converter Antenna is a directional antenna that operates in two user-selectable bands (see page 30):

 Band 1: 500 MHz – 6 GHz

 Band 2: 6 GHz – 12 GHZ

When using Band 2, the Down Converter Antenna converts signals occurring above the standard 6 GHz threshold so

they can be detected and displayed on the ANDRE. For details on operation, (see page 30)

The down converter antenna is a powered probe and must be used with one of the powered connector cables (see

page 29).

Ultrasonic Probe (15 kHz – 80 kHz)

The ultrasonic probe detects sound waves operating above the upper limit of human hearing capabilities. The

ultrasonic probe connects to the ANDRE with the provided audio patch cable. For details on Ultrasonic probe

operation (see page 30).

Nitecore Dual Bay Battery Charger

The Dual-Slot Battery Charger allows the user to externally charge two of the ANDRE Lithium-Ion batteries for high-

speed charging.

Note: The Dual Bay Battery Charger is available with the ANDRE Advanced and Deluxe models. It can also be

purchased separately by contacting REI or an Authorized REI reseller.

1) Connect the USB micro end of the cable to the port on top of the charger. Connect the USB-A end to an AC

power adapter, a PC, or another standard USB output port.

2) Insert the batteries to be charged being sure to observe the polarity markings on the charger.

3) After battery installation, the charger will run a quick battery test before charging. If a problem is detected

(for example, the batteries are installed backward), charging will stop, and "EE" will be displayed on the LCD

to notify the user.

4) Battery charge progress and completion are indicated on the screen.

Operation

The ANDRE has been designed for quick and easy deployment. Depending on the user's application some

adjustments to the default setting may need to be made.

The ANDRE is a broadband RF detector and is used to locate transmitters by monitoring the RF signal strength.

When searching for unknown transmitters, it is advised to remove or disable any known transmitters from the

target sweep area (i.e., unplug, turn off, or remove any wireless transmitting devices including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

devices, laptops/PCs, mobile phones, wireless transmitting devices, etc.), as any transmitting devices can affect the

RF noise floor and hinder detection of unknown transmitters.

Also, the process of connecting a probe or changing the settings on the ANDRE may cause inaccurate signal levels or

other abnormal behavior and may result in the addition of unwanted, invalid signals to the signal list. REI

recommends the following process for using the ANDRE in a sweep:

1) Configure the ANDRE for use (set attenuation/gain, adjust trigger level, set chart audio, set haptic style,

etc.).

2) Connect a probe and confirm correct input source.

3) Clear the signal list (see page 22) and data log (if enabled) (see page 31).

4) Begin sweep.

Battery Usage

Lithium-Ion rechargeable batteries have been included with the unit. The ANDRE will operate with just one charged

battery inserted; however, use two batteries for the longest run time.

To insert or switch out a new battery:

1) Locate the battery door on the back of the unit.

2) Using both thumbs, slide the battery door open in the direction of the arrows engraved in the plastic. The

battery door will slide open just a couple of millimeters but can then be flipped up.

3) Labels inside the battery compartment indicate the correct polarity of the batteries.

4) After inserting the batteries, close the battery door by flipping it back down and sliding the battery door

back in the opposite direction of the arrows.

The ANDRE has a built-in battery charger. To charge the battery in the unit:

1) Locate the included AC adapter and USB cable. Connect the USB cable to the AC adapter.

2) With the battery already inserted in the unit, connect the AC adapter to an AC source and the USB cable

end to the USB Port on the ANDRE. The battery will begin charging. Charging is automatic; it will stop

when the battery is fully charged. While the battery is charging, the power LED will flash green; the

flash rate will be proportional to the charge level.

Note: To keep the batteries in good working condition, they should be removed from the ANDRE for long-term

storage of 90 days or more. Even when powered off, the operating system of the ANDRE continues to use a low

stand-by current that in some cases could cause a deep discharge and possible damage to the battery, preventing a

normal recharge. To extend battery life it is recommended that the batteries are charged every three months when

unused for long periods.

Audio Transformer Batteries

The audio transformer, an accessory probe included with the ANDRE Advanced and Deluxe models, requires two

A23C batteries, which are customer replaceable.

To replace the audio transformer batteries:

1) Remove the two screws from the back of the audio transformer

using a Phillips head screwdriver.

2) Locate the two A23C batteries and replace them, being careful to

observe the polarity marked on the unit.

Display Screens

Display Screen Layout

Although several different screens are available for the ANDRE, they all use a common layout.

Screenshot — Tapping the camera icon in the status bar will take a screenshot and save it to the unit in .png format

using an automatically generated file name based on a header specified by the user (see page 38). The captured

screenshot can be viewed on the ANDRE using the Image Viewer (see page 39) or the file can be accessed directly

by connecting the ANDRE to a PC (see page 27).

Mute/Volume Control — Tapping this icon will bring up the mute and volume controls. Tapping the mute control

on the left will toggle the audio. Dragging the adjustment control on the right will increase or decrease the volume.

The controls will disappear after a few seconds if there is no activity.

Status Icons — This area of each screen contains status icons indicating the current condition of the ANDRE unit.

Battery status and current time are displayed here.

Input Select - The input select button allows the user to manually select the signal source - either RF Input (QMA

connector), Audio Input, or IR/Visible Light Sensor. If an REI probe or antenna is connected to the currently selected

input source, this button will also display the name of the probe and the frequency range.

Detected Frequency — The ANDRE contains an internal frequency counter. This frequency counter detects ambient

signals based on their detected signal strength (a function of both the signal’s power and its proximity to the

ANDRE). The ANDRE will lock on to the strongest signal and the estimated frequency will be displayed here. If no

signal is strong enough to be detected by the ANDRE, no frequency will be displayed and dashed lines will indicate

this. This function is affected by the frequency gate setting. (see page 33).

Note: Lower frequencies (below 100 MHz) may not be as accurate or reliable as frequencies above 100 MHz.

Weaker target signals may also be less accurate, so it is a good practice to rely on the detected signal strength to

locate the source of the RF energy (get close to the target) and then use the Detected Frequency information to

evaluate the energy.

Gain Control - This button allows the user to change the attenuation or gain level of the ANDRE. Four levels are

available: +15 dB, 0 dB, -10 dB, -20 dB. Gain control is not available when the selected input source is the IR/Visible

Light sensor because gain is forced to -20 dB in this mode.

Main Area - The content of this area will vary depending on which screen is currently selected.

Navigational/Function Icons - The icons in this area are for navigating to the various available screens, accessing

setup controls, or performing a reset.

RESET - The operation that occurs when the RESET Button is pressed will vary

depending on what screen the user is on when the reset button is pressed. The

dialog screen that appears when the RESET button is pressed will provide

information on what items will be reset.

SETUP MENU - The ANDRE unit can be configured for multiple situations and use

cases. Most settings changes are handled through the SETUP MENU.

CHART SCREEN - The chart screen provides a time-based history of the ambient RF

Level and is the main operating mode of the ANDRE, where the ANDRE is used as a

near-field detector with the user in motion walking around the target area.

SIGNAL LIST SCREEN - The signal list screen provides an automatically generated list

of signals that have crossed the trigger level established by the user on the chart

screen.

AUDIO SCREEN - The audio screen allows the user to listen to audio from the audio

input, listen to live demodulated signals from RF sources, record live audio input or

demodulated audio, or playback previously recorded audio files.

Chart Screen (Search)

By default, the Chart Screen is the initial screen shown after the ANDRE is powered on. The chart screen can also be

selected, if it is not the currently displayed screen, by pressing the "Chart" icon that appears at the bottom of each

screen. The chart screen provides a time-based history of the ambient RF Level and is the main operating mode of

the ANDRE, where the ANDRE is used as a near field detector with the user in motion walking around the target

area.

Zoom — The chart is normally displayed with a vertical range of 90 dB. Pressing Zoom displays a 30 dB

segment of this full range. The 30 dB range displayed will be automatically selected based on the ambient signal

level at the time that the zoom button is pressed. The reduced scale will enable the user to more easily see small

changes in signal level. Press the Zoom button again to return to the full vertical scale chart.

Trigger Level — If the RF level goes above the adjustable trigger level the ANDRE will alert the user in various ways

depending on the current settings. The user is visually alerted when the color of the RF Level History graph changes

from green to red. Haptic alerts are available (see page 35) as well as audio alerts (see page 34). The trigger level

can be adjusted manually by pressing on the trigger level marker and dragging up or down. It can be adjusted by

tapping within the top two-thirds of the chart area, as described below. It can also be adjusted automatically (see

pg. 33).

Decaying Peak Level — The red line on the bar graph is a decaying peak level indicator for the ambient RF level.

Ambient RF Level — the bar graph on the chart screen displays the current instantaneous ambient RF level.

Trigger Level Set — Tapping anywhere within the top two-thirds of the chart area will adjust the trigger level to the

current ambient RF level

RF Level History — This area provides a visual history of recent RF levels. The graph is normally in green, but

changes to red anytime that the RF level crosses the set trigger level.

Note: The RF Level history is red if the RF level is above the trigger level or if it is increasing above the trigger level. It

is green if the RF level is below the trigger level or decreasing below the trigger level. So there will be portions of

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