AOR AR-210 User manual

MODEL AR-210
TERMINAL NODE CONTROLLER
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
AOR, Ltd.
Radio Communication Products & Systems

AR-210 Manual I
Page 2
FCC NOTICE
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and
used in accordance with the instruction manual, had cause interference to radio communications.
This equipment has been tested and found to well exceed the limit for a Class A computing device
pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protec-
tion against such interference when operated in a commercial environment. If this equipment does
cause interference to radio or television reception, which you can determine by turning the equip-
ment off and on, try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Move the computing device away from the receiver being interfered with.
Relocate the computing device with respect to the receiver
Re-orient the receiving antenna.
Plug the computing device into a different AC outlet so that the computing device and receiver
are on different branch circuits.
Disconnect and remove any I/O cables that are not being used.
(Unterminated I/O cables are a potential source of high RF emission levels.)
If you need additional help, consult your dealer or ask for assistance from the manufacturer. You
may also find the following booklet helpful: "How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference
Problems". This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.
AR-210 Operating Instructions
Copyright © 1992, AOR, Ltd. Tokyo Japan
by Toshi T. Totsuka
All Rights Reserved.
Credits
Portions of this manual was copied from the model HK-21 TNC operating manual under the accep-
tance and courtesy of the Heath Company, Benton Harbour, MI., U.S.A.
Portions of this manual was copied from the TAPR TNC-2 operating manual under the acceptance
and courtesy of the Tucson Amateur Packet Radio Corporation.
Trademarks
IBM, PC, XT, AT and PS/2 are registered trade marks of International Business Machines Corporation.
PC DOS is a registered trademark of the International Business Machines Corporation.
Apple and Apple Macintosh are registered trade marks of Apple Computer, Inc.
CompuServe is a registered trademark of CompuServe, Inc.
GEnine is a trademark of General Electric Corporation.
Hayes is a registered trademark of Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc.
Procomm and Procomm Plus are registered trademarks of Datastorm Technologies, Inc.
Microsoft, MS and MS-DOS are reistered trademarks, and Windows is a trade mark of Microsoft Corporation.
VT-100 is a trade mark of Digital Equipment Corporation.

AR-210 Manual II
Page 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................... 4
SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................................. 5
1. INSTALLATION
Computer Connections ............................................................ 6
Software Requirements .......................................................... 9
Radio Connections ................................................................. 10
Power Source ........................................................................ 12
NiCad Battery ........................................................................ 13
2. OPERATIONAL TESTS AND ADJUSTMENT
Preliminary Tests .................................................................... 14
Adjustments .......................................................................... 14
Audio Level Adjustment .......................................................... 15
PTT Line Adjustment .............................................................. 15
3. OPERATION
General ................................................................................ 16
Terminal Characteristics ........................................................ 18
Getting Started ....................................................................... 18
Operating Modes ................................................................... 21
Flow Control ........................................................................ 22
Display Options .................................................................... 23
Editing Commands ................................................................ 25
Special Operating Configurations ............................................ 25
Packet Timing Functions ......................................................... 28
Monitor Functions .................................................................. 30
Using the Bulletin Board Feature ............................................ 31
4. COMMAND AND MESSAGES
Command List & Command Syntax ....................................... 34
5. IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY ........................................................... 37
APPENDIX – List of Commands and Defaults .................................... 37

AR-210 Manual III
Page 4
INTRODUCTION
The AOR Model AR-210 Terminal Node Controller is designed as a link between your radio trans-
ceiver and a simple data terminal (or personal computer). This Terminal Node Controller (TNC) al-
lows you to operate new computer-based communications mode – "Packet-Radio". You will find
this unit convenient and easy to use.
The most unique and important feature of Packet-Radio transmissions, unlike RTTY, is that they are
virtually error free. Information that you intend to transmit is first made into digital groups, or
packets. Confirmation of correct reception of these packets is then returned to the originating sta-
tion by the destination station. If the originating station does not receive confirmation, it automati-
cally resends the packets until the correct information is confirmed, or the contact is terminated.
A modem (modulator / demodulator) that can operate at very high baud rates is included in the
unit. This results in very short transmissions by each station and allows several stations to use the
frequency at the same time. Also, due to the choice of operating parameters, you are not aware of
the presence of other stations on frequency.
The unit also functions as an automatic repeater. You may use it as an unattended repeater, a bea-
con or a "mailbox" with the appropriate computer and software. You may also use it with a FSK or
AFSK FM station on the VHF and UHF bands.
 In addition to your radio equipment, you will need either an ASCII data terminal or a personal
computer that has an RS-232C output and uses a terminal emulator program. Such programs are
widely available for connecting your computer to a modem like the Hayes Smart modem. They are
often used to access CompuServe, GEnine o other computer telephone service.
The demonstration terminal software supplied with the AR-210 package is for the IBM PS/2,
PC/XT/AT and compatible computers.
A 9 pin straight computer cable supplied with the AR-210 is for the IBM AT or compatible comput-
ers, but you may need a different cable and connectors if the supplied cable does not fit your com-
puter.

AR-210 Manual IV
Page 5
SPECIFICATIONS
Processor Z80A, soft-compatible Application Specific Integrated Circuit.
TMPZ84C015BF-6
Memory Backup Lithium battery.
Serial Port RS-232C interface to terminal or computer
Baud rates 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 and 19200.
The default, or reset, baud rate is 1200.
Commands TAPR TNC-2 up-load compatible.
Modem Port 1200 baud FSK
Protocol AX.25 Level 2, Version 1.1.4TE
Power Requirements External 10 to 13.8 VDC at 200 mA.
(55 mA from internal 4.8 volt 120 mAh NiCad battery.)
Input Level 20 mV to 2 V peak to peak, 18 Ω.
Output Level 0 to 300 mV (variable).
Push-to-talk 30 V maximum at 100 mA
Overall Dimensions 2½" W × 1" H × 1¼" L
Net Weight 3.3 oz.
AOR, Ltd. reserves the right to discontinue products and changes specifications at without incur-
ring any obligation to incorporate new features in products previously sold.

AR-210 Manual 1-1
Page 6
1. INSTALLATION
Before you can perform the "Operational Test and Alignment", which follows in this section, you
will have to properly connect your AR-210 (thereafter called TNC) to a terminal or a computer and
run the proper terminal emulation program.
In addition, you will have to connect the TNC to you radio equipment, read and comply with the
following information that pertains to your situation under "Computer Connections", "Software Re-
quirements" and "Radio Connections".
If you use a computer you will need a terminal emulator or communications program such as Pro-
com, Procomm Plus or accessory terminal program that comes with MS Windows.
A sample terminal program supplied with the TNC can be used for the IBM PS/2, PC, XT, AT and
compatible computers running under MS DOS.
 Since these programs allow a computer to operate like a terminal, the following information
will use the term "Computer" to refer to a computer or a terminal.
The TNC communicates with your computer through a serial port using signals that correspond to
the RS-232C standard. Most computers that are available today either incorporate an RS-232C
style serial port, or have one available as an accessory. If you have already been using your com-
puter with an RS-232C modem, you can use this TNC the same way.
COMPUTER CONNECTIONS
Table 1-1 shows the minimum connections that are required between the RS-232 I/O connector on
the rear of the TNC and your computer. These minimum connections do not permit hardware flow
control. DO NOT connect any wires other than pins 1 through 8 and 20 if your computer I/O is a
DB-25 style connector. Pins 17 through 19 and 21 through 25 are reserved for future use.
The supplied cable i for the IBM PS/2, AT and 100 % compatible computers with DB-9S asynchro-
nous communication port (serial port) connector.
You may also consider using a 9-to-25 pin adaptor for connecting to a 25-pin serial port computers
such as the IBM PC, XT and compatibles.
 IMPORTANT: Whether you purchase a ready-made cable or make your own, make sure that it
is a SHIELDED cable.
Pin
Signal Name
Description
2
Receive Data
Data from AR-210 to computer
3
Transmit Data
Data from computer to AR-210
5
Signal Ground
Common ground for both data lines
Table 1-1
It is beyond the scope of this manual to show you how to connect your TNC to every brand and
model of computer. It does however, provide you with information for several common computers.
If your particular computer is not listed, you can probably adapt the information that is presented
to suit your needs.

AR-210 Manual 1-2
Page 7
IBM
Table 1-2 and 1-3 shows the proper cable connections for IBM PS/2, AT and compatible computers
using 9-pin serial port. Use a 9-to-25 pin adaptor for connecting IBM PC, XT and compatible com-
puters with a 25-pin serial port.
AR-210
Signal name
9 WAY IBM COMPUTER RS232
2
Receive Data
2
3
Transmit Data
3
5
Signal Ground
5
7
Ready To Send
7
8
Clear To Send
8
Table 1-2
AR-210
Signal name
25 WAY IBM COMPUTER RS232
2
Receive Data
3
3
Transmit Data
2
5
Signal Ground
7
7
Ready To Send
4
8
Clear To Send
5
Table 1-3
APPLE MACINTOSH
Table 1-4 shows the proper cable connections for an Apple Macintosh computer. This computer
uses an RS-422 serial port. It will operate properly with your TNC. Altough Pin 1 is not connected
inside the computer, we recommend that you connect pin 1 to the main ground of the computer.
AR-210
Signal name
APPLE MACINTOSH
1
Carrier Detect
7
2
Receive Data
9
3
Transmit Data
5
4
Data Terminal Ready
6
5
Signal Ground
3
5
Chassis Ground
1
Table 1-4
OTHER COMPUTERS WITH 25-PIN RS-232C PORTS
If your computer has a 25-pin RS-232C port, refer to its manual to determine the transmit data,
receive data and signal ground pins. Follow the manufacturers recommendations for connecting
the serial port to a modem.

AR-210 Manual 1-3
Page 8
Your TNC is configured as Data Communications Equipment (DCE), while most computers are con-
figured as Data Terminal Equipment (DTE). If this is true of your particular computer, you can
probably connect pins 2, 3 and 5 of your TNC to pin 3, 2 and 7 respectively of your computers RS-
232C port.
If your computer is configured as DCE, you will have to cross the wires between pins 2 and 3 of
the TNC. In other words, connect pin 2 of the TNC to pin 2 of he computer and pin 3 of the TNC
to pin 3 of the computer. The signal ground is the same (pin 5 of the TNC to pin 7 of the com-
puter).
Some computers may require that you connect pin 5 of the serial port connector to an appropriate
signal. Others may require connections to pin 8 and 20. You can use the computers output signals
on pin 4 and 6 for this purpose as shown in table 1-5.
AR-210
Signal Name
Computer
2
Transmit Data
3
3
Receive Data
2
5
Signal Ground
1 / 7
Jumper Pin 4 and 5
4 / 5
Jumper Pin 6, 8 and 20
6 / 8 / 20
Table 1-5
OTHER COMPUTERS WITH NONSTANDARD SERIAL PORT
Computers with non standard serial ports must meet the following conditions:
1. The signal levels should be RS-232C compatible. The TNC requires that the voltage levels that
come from the computer be greater than +3 volts in one state and less than 0 volts in the
other state.
2. The polarity of the signals must conform to the RS-232C standard. A lower voltage state must
correspond to a logical "1" and a higher voltage state to a logical "0".
3. The computer must be able to correctly receive a signal which meets the RS-232C specifica-
tion. The TNC supplies signals that meet this specification.
Make or purchase a cable that provides the necessary connections. The serial port common pin
must be connected to the TNCs serial port connector at pin 5. The data line that sends data FROM
the computer must be connected to the TNCs connector at pin 3. The line that your computer uses
to RECEIVE data must be connected to the TNCs connector at pin 2.
If your computer requires any other signals, you must find ways of providing them. The documen-
tation provides with your computer or its accessory serial port should specify any special require-
ments of your particular port.

AR-210 Manual 1-4
Page 9
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
Any software package that enables your computer to act as an ASCII terminal with an ordinary te-
lephone modem should work with your TNC. If you have a program that you have successfully
used with a telephone modem, and you are familiar with its operation, use that same program to
communicate with the TNC.
WINDOWS TERMINAL
The Windows terminal in the Windows version 3.0 or higher will work properly with your TNC. In
the accessory group, chose the Terminal icon.
From the Setting menu, choose Communications, the communications dialog box should appear.
Select the options according to the following list. Then choose the OK button.
Baud Rate
1200
Stop Bits
1
Parity
Even
Flow Control
Xon/Xoff
Connector
COM 1 or COM 2
APPLE MACINTOSH
The MACTERM program will work properly with your TNC. Load this program and set the options
as follows:
Compatibility
Terminal
1200 baud
VT-100
7 bits/character
ANSI
Even parity
UNDERLINE
Handshake Xon/Xoff
US
Modem connection
80 Columns
Telephone port
ON LINE
AUTO REPEAT
RADIO SHACK
The Radio Shack model 100 and 200 has a built-in terminal program in ROM. Set the TELECOM pa-
rameters by typing [F3]57E1ENN[]. Refer to TELECOM Manual supplied with Model or 200 for
further information.
OTHER SOFTWARE FOR TNC
There are some ham radio groups or individuals who wrote some unique software for packet com-
munications. In particular, the Tucson Amateur Packet Radio Corporation (Non-Profit Research and
Development Corporation) where the TNCs original protocol was created, offers a variety of infor-
mation and software for Packet-Radio users. For further information of the TAPR, contact: Tucson

AR-210 Manual 1-5
Page 10
Amateur Packet-Radio - P. O. Box 12925 Tucson, AZ 85732 Phone [phone], Fax 602-749-
5636. You may find some interesting topics from Packet Status Register, the quarterly newsletter
from TAPR.
SAMPLE TERMINAL SOFTWARE
If you do not own any terminal software, use the sample diskette supplied with the AR-210. This
sample software works under MS-DOS or PC-DOS only. The diskette also contains source code for
a sample terminal program written by the MS QBasic which can be run through the QBasic pro-
gram comes with MS-DOS 5.0
SAMPLE TERMINAL SOFT OPERATING PROCEDURE
1. Turn ON your computer.
2. Insert the diskette into drive (A or B).
3. From the computer prompt, type TERM [].
If you use a Hard Disk, from the C:\ prompt, type A:TERM [].
4. The communication screen should appear.
5. The default parameters are 1200 baud / 7 bits / Even Parity / One stop bit. Hit [P] while hold-
ing [Alt] key. Use the ARROW key to change the parameter.
RADIO CONNECTIONS
Refer to Figure 1-1 while you read the following information. Depending upon your particular ra-
dio, you can either use the RADIO socket or the SP IN and MIC/PTT sockets. In general, the
RADIO socket is for connection to a base or mobile station and the SP IN and MIC/PTT sockets are
for hand-held transceivers that use a combination audio and PTT cable.
Figure 1-1
AR-210 Front Panel

AR-210 Manual 1-6
Page 11
Figure 1-2 shows the connections for the RADIO socket. A cable that has a matching connector on
one end fit this socket is provided. You will have to adapt the other end of the cable to fit your
particular radio.
AR-210
RADIO
Pin No.
Color
Signal Name
1
Brown
AFSK Output

MIC
2
Red
Ground

Ground
3
Orange
PTT

PTT
4
Yellow
Modem Input

Speaker
5
Green
NC
6
Blue
NC
E
Shield
Shield

Ground
Figure 1-2
Miniature DIN style connector
Two cables are provided for use with hand-held radios. One of these cables (for the SP IN socket)
has miniature phone plugs on each end and the other cable (for MIC/PTT socket) has subminiature
sockets on each end. These cables should interface properly with many of the popular hand-held
radios that are currently available.
TRANSCEIVER WITH MINIATURE & SUB MINIATURE JACKS
Most of the portable hand-held transceivers which have miniature phone jack (SPEAKER OUTPUT)
and sub miniature (MICROPHONE INPUT) should work with the TNC with no special modifications.
(Except portable transceivers manufactured by YAESU. – Refer to the adjustments section of this
manual.)
Connect the cable that has the miniature phone plugs (the larger plugs) between the SP IN socket
on the controller and the speaker output socket on your transceiver.
Connect the cable that has the sub miniature phone plug (the smaller plugs) between the MIC/PTT
socket on the controller and the microphone/Push-to-talk socket on your transceiver.
Some transceiver use a miniature jack for MIC/PTT socket and a sub miniature jack for speaker
output. In this case, you must furnish your own cable.
Typical Connections
Example: ICOM, KENWOOD, ALINCO
YAESU (Modification on the TNC is required.)

AR-210 Manual 1-7
Page 12
Example: YAESU (Mobile radio. - Some model requires Diode instead of pull-up resistor)
Example: Mobile and Portable transceivers with multi-pin jack.
Example: Portable transceiver with stereo type jack, ALINCO (Some portables)
POWER SOURCE
To power your TNC, you will either need the NiCad battery pack or an external power supply. An
external power supply must be able to provide 10 to 13.8 VDC at 100 mA. If you install the NiCad
Battery pack and wish to charge its battery from your external power supply, the power supply
should be able to provide at least 200 mA. The plug which comes with the AC power adaptor
should be the matching plug and polarity. Refer to Figure 1-3.
Figure 1-3

AR-210 Manual 1-8
Page 13
NiCad Battery
The AR-210 is designed to operate on a 4.8 V NiCad battery pack. The following steps show you
how to install the optional NiCad Battery pack in your TNC:
1. Turn the controller off and disconnect any external power supply.
2. Refer to Figure 1-4 and remove the screw from the bottom of the unit. Then carefully remove
the bottom cover.
3. Plug the socket coming from the NiCad Battery pack to the connector on the circuit board. The
socket is keyed to fit only one way.
4. Insert sponge between the battery and circuit board.
5. Use the screw you removed earlier to reinstall the bottom cover.
Figure 1-4

AR-210 Manual 2-1
Page 14
2. OPERATIONAL TESTS AND ADJUSTMENT
This section of the manual describes some operational tests you can perform to make sure your
TNC is connected and operating properly.
PRELIMINARY TESTS
Make sure you have the TNC connected to a suitable power source. Also make sure you have the
TNC connected to your computer as described in the "INSTALLATION" section of this manual.
1. Turn the computer on and boot up any necessary terminal emulation program.
2. Turn the POWER switch ON. The PWR LED should light. Some of the other LEDs may light
briefly and then extinguish.
If your computers data rate is set to 1200 baud, you will see the following messages:
AOR data controller AR-120
AX.25 Level 2 Version 2.0
Message board Ver 1.28E
Release 15-Mar-92
Checksum $ F4
cmd:
 If your computers baud rate is set to something other than 1200 baud, you will see meaning-
less characters.
ADJUSTMENTS
The following steps check the basic operation of the controller.
1. Make sure your radio is connected to the controller as described in the "Operation" section of
this manual.
2. Type MY W6YEY followed by a [], substituting your call sign in place of the one shown. Your
monitor should reply with
cmd: W6YEY
MYCALL was NOCALL
3. If your radio had a squelch control, un-squelch your receiver.
4. Advance the receivers volume control until DCD LED (Green LED) on the controller just lights
when no signal is present. This is the proper initial setting of the receivers volume control.
5. Turn the radios squelch control until the DCD LED just extinguishes.
6. Listen for packet activity and readjust the receivers volume control as necessary until you re-
ceive packets properly.
 The output level from the controller has been factory set at 150 mV peak-to-peak, which
should be satisfactory for most radios. If however, you find that this not correct for your radio, per-
form the steps as described on the next page.

AR-210 Manual 2-2
Page 15
AUDIO LEVEL ADJUSTMENT
1. Remove the screw from the bottom of the controller. Then carefully remove the cabinet bot-
tom.
2. Refer to Figure 2-1 and locate control VR3 on the circuit board near the TCM-3105 modem
chip. Then adjust this control as necessary for proper output level.
3. Reinstall the cabinet bottom on the controller.
PTT LINE ADJUSTMENT
If during the operation of your TNC you find that the TNC does not operate your radios PTT circuit,
carefully remove the cabinet bottom as discussed here and remove two screws from the PC board.
The refer to Figure 2-1 and apply a small amount of solder to short the tiny foil solder pads. Rein-
stall the PC board and cabinet.
Figure 2-1
AR-210 CIRCUIT BOARD
(1) BATT: Connector for an optional NiCad Battery.
(2) JPC2: Disable Battery Back-up (Hard Reset).
(3) JPC2: Remove this jumper to output DCD voltage at Connect state.
(4) TC1: Adjustment for internal clock.
(5) VR3: AFSK output adjustment.
SOLDER BRIDGE (For YAESU etc.)

AR-210 Manual 3-1
Page 16
3. OPERATION
Figure 3-1 shows the front panel of your TNC and briefly describes each LED, switch and connec-
tor. The following pages describe the operation of the unit and how to use the TNC to receive and
transmit "packets".
Before you attempt to use the TNC, be sure you are thoroughly familiar with your communications
equipment and its operation. This equipment should either be crystal-controlled or synthesized to
ensure excellent frequency stability, which is important for packet radio operation. Be sure the
transmitter you use has the ability to handle "key down" operation. Also, be sure you are familiar
with your computer terminal or computer (used in the terminal mode) and its operation.
 1. After the TNC types the sign-on message on your terminal, you are ready to operate.
2. You can use your computer to emulate a terminal by running a terminal emulator program.
A terminal emulator program makes the RS-232C port on your computer appear as a termi-
nal input to the TNC.
GENERAL
Your TNC uses AX.25 software (built into ROM) and has following operating modes:
Commend Mode – In this mode, everything you type is interpreted as instruction for the TNC.
These instructions are in the form of command lines that terminated by a RETURN ([]). The com-
mands allow you you to change the TNC operating parameters, perform special functions or
change modes. If your TNC receive packets while it is in the Command Mode, you will see it
printed on the display screen. To send packets, you must direct the TNC to enter the data mode.
Data Modes – Two data modes are available; the Converse Mode and Transparent Mode. In these
modes the information you type to the TNC is assembled into packets and transmitted on the ra-
dio.
The remainder of this section first describes the terminal you will use. It then explains how to use
the commands to configure the TNC to suit you and your station and how to get started talking to
other stations on packet radio.

AR-210 Manual 3-2
Page 17
Figure 3-1
RADIO Jack Socket connection of a base or mobile radio.
SP IN Jack Input connector for receiver audio from hand-held radios.
MIC / PTT Jack Audio output and PTT connector for hand-held radio.
CON LED Lights when the TNC is connected to another station.
STA LED Lights when the TNC still has data to transmit.
PTT LED Lights when the TNC is sending transmit data.
DCD LED Lights when the TNC receives a signal.
PWR LED Lights when the TNC is turned on.
PWR Switch Power On/Off switch.
DC INPUT Jack For connection of an external power supply or a charger.
RS-232C Jack For a connection of a computer or terminal.
RESET Switch Hard reset switch.

AR-210 Manual 3-3
Page 18
This is not intended to be an exhaustive description of every command, but rather a discussion
about how the various commands are related and how you may use them. An alphabetical catalog
of commands that describes the format and parameter of each is provided in the document file in
the attached diskette. Refer to section 4. "COMMANDS AND MESSAGES" of this manual to access
the disk file.
TERMINAL CHARACTERISTICS
Baud Rate Selection – Most terminal use serial communications. In this mode, each 7- or 8-bit
character is sent in sequence over the same wire. Serial data must be transmitted at a predeter-
mined bit-per-second rate called baud rate. there are many standard baud rates. Unless the TNC
and the terminal use the same baud rate, they will not be able to communicate. This TNC supports
the following standard baud rates: 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 and 19.200.
Word Length/Parity/Stop Bits – In addition to the data rate, there are three other characteris-
tics of serial data which should be the same of TNC and the terminal. These are word length, par-
ity and number of stop bits. Use the commands AWLEN and PARITY to set these characteristics.
Serial data may represent ASCII data, which has seven data bits per character, or binary data,
which has eight data bits per byte. Unless you operate in the Transparent Mode, the TNC will ig-
nore the extra bit if you use 8-bit characters. This means that the eight bit is set to 0 before data
is assembled into a packet.
If you change any of these configurations, the new values do not take effect until you perform a
reset by turning the power off, or type RESTART.
I you start the TNC in the default-parameter mode, the serial port is initialized at 1200 baud, even
parity, 7-bit characters and one stop bit. A message is then typed at 1200 baud.
GETTING STARTED
After you have your TNC and terminal set up properly, you should see the TNC sign on with a mes-
sage, followed by the command prompt:
cmd:
When you see this prompt, first set your call sign. To do this, type MY and you call sign as shown
below:
cmd: MY W6YEY[]
A lithium battery inside the TNC enables it to remember any changes you make in the default pa-
rameters.
Once you set your call sign, you are ready to send a packet. First type the command CONVERS and
press [] to enter the converse mode. Then type a message you wish to transmit as a packet:
THIS IS A TEST!
Press the [] key to end your message. If you watch the LEDs on the front of the TNC when you
do this, you should observe the following:

AR-210 Manual 3-4
Page 19
1. The STA LED will light, indicating that the data is received from the computer. The PTT LED
may also light briefly at beginning of the transmission.
2. When the transmission stops, the PTT LED will extinguish.
The message you just transmitted was sent to the address specified by the UNPROTO command.
This address is set to CQ when you first turn the TNC on or type RESET.
To find out which stations in your area use packet radio, make sure the monitor function is turned
on. To do this, first type [CTRL-C] (press and hold down the control key while you press the c
key) to return to the command mode, if this has not already been done. Then type each of the fol-
lowing commands:
cmd: M ON[]
cmd: MA ON[]
 Refer to "4. COMMANDS AND MESSAGES" beginning on Page 4-1 for information about these
commands.
Any packet that your TNC receives should now appear on your screen.
To make full use of the TNCs capabilities for reliable data communications, you should establish a
connection with another station.
This causes everything you type in the Converse Mode to be automatically addressed to the other
station and packets sent between your station and the other station will automatically acknowl-
edged by the recipient.
The sending station will continue retransmitting the message, a preset number of times, until it
has been received properly. To connect to DC7XJ, for example, type [CTRL-C] followed by a [] to
return to the Command Mode (if this has not already been done). The type:
cmd: C DC7XJ[]
If DC7XJ is on the air, tuned to your frequency and within range of your transmissions, you should
see a message coming back to your TNC. If you have a speaker as well as your TNC connected to
your radio, you will hear the packets. Whether you have a speaker connected or not, you should
see the DCD LED light with each incoming packet. When you request a connect (the packet your
TNC sent) is acknowledged, the TNC will display the following message:
*** CONNECTED TO DC7XJ
The TNC will then switch to the Converse Mode. If you now type a message, it will be formed into
a packet and stored in memory until you press the [] key. At that moment, it is sent to DC7XJ.
After you complete the conversation, either you or the operator of the other station may initiate a
disconnect. To do this, return to the Command Mode (by typing [CTRL-C] and type the following
command:
cmd: D[]

AR-210 Manual 3-5
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After an exchange of packets, you will see the message:
*** DISCONNECTED
This message indicates that your disconnect request packet was acknowledged by the station you
were connected to.
 You must send a disconnect request to the station you are communicating with before you can
connect to other stations or hear them (if your monitor functions are set to off).
When you become familiar with packet radio, you can learn how to use the STREAMSW command
to connect to more than one station at a time.
If you are ready to receive messages from other packet stations and you wish to let them know
that you are active on packet radio, you can use the TNC as an automatic repeater (or beacon) to
transmit this fact at preset intervals.
You must first decide how often you wish your station to send the desired message and then store
it in RAM inside your TNC. If, for example, you wish to send it every 30 minutes (or every 1800
seconds), type the following after the command prompt:
cmd: B E 180[]
 You must divide the number of seconds by 10 before you enter the desired time.
The TNC will respond with a message similar to:
was EVERY 0
If no number was previously entered in RAM, or the number that corresponds to the number you
may have entered earlier.
The type BT followed by the message you wish to send.
Example: BT W6YEY LOS ANGLES CALIFORNIA
The TNC will respond with a message similar to:
was
 In this case, no text message was previously entered. If a message was previously entered, it
would follow the word 'was'.
If W6WNE, for example, "hears" your beacon and wishes to contact you, he will type:
C W6YEY[]
When your TNC acknowledges his connect request, it will display the following message:
*** CONNECTED TO W6WNE