BridgeComSystems ComLink CS-540 User manual

ComLink CS-540 Owner’s Manual
Version 1.5, November 2006

Copyright 2006 BY
Bridge Embedded Systems, Inc
Version 1.5, November 2006
All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America.
LTRis a registered trademark of EF Johnson Corporation
Windowsis a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation
For Technical Support, please contact:
BridgeCom Systems, Inc.
617 Liberty Road
Smithville, MO 64089
Tel: [phone]
[email protected]

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................ 5
WELCOME ........................................................................................................................ 5
CHAPTER 2: SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................... 6
FRONT PANEL DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................... 7
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION ..................................................................................................... 7
CHAPTER 3: INSTALLATION ............................................................................................. 8
INSTALLATION ................................................................................................................... 8
POWER UP....................................................................................................................... 8
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION .................................................................................................. 9
OPERATING MODES ............................................................................................................. 9
CHANNEL AND USER DATABASE ............................................................................................... 9
CHAPTER 5: REPEATER MODE......................................................................................... 10
OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................... 10
OPERATION..................................................................................................................... 10
CHANNEL SETTINGS........................................................................................................... 10
USER SETTINGS ............................................................................................................... 11
ERROR ALERTS ................................................................................................................ 11
CHAPTER 6: BASE STATION MODE.................................................................................. 12
OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................... 12
OPERATION..................................................................................................................... 12
BASE STATION SETTINGS .................................................................................................... 12
CHAPTER 7: AUXILIARY MODE ....................................................................................... 13
OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................... 13
AUXILIARY SETTINGS ............................................................................................................ 13
EXTERNAL CONTROLLERS ........................................................................................................ 13
CHAPTER 8: REMOTE PROGRAMMING............................................................................. 14
OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................... 14
ACCESSING REMOTE PROGRAM MODE............................................................................................. 15
COMMANDS ...................................................................................................................... 15
EXAMPLE 1: ADD A NEW USER AND MODIFY THE USER’S PROFILE ................................................................ 18
EXAMPLE 2: DEACTIVATE AN EXISTING USER .................................................................................... 20
CHAPTER 9: ALIGNMENT ................................................................................................ 21
OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................... 21
PARAMETERS ................................................................................................................... 21
RESTORING FACTORY DEFAULT ALIGNMENT................................................................................ 21
FINE-TUNING TRANSMITTER ALIGNMENT ......................................................................................... 22
CHAPTER 10: KEYPAD LOCK ........................................................................................... 23
OVERVIEW ....................................................................................................................... 23
PROCEDURE ...................................................................................................................... 23
CHAPTER 11: DUPLEXER INSTALLATION ........................................................................ 23
PROCEDURE ...................................................................................................................... 23
3

CHAPTER 12: BATTERY BACKUP/EXTERNAL DC IN ......................................................... 24
APPENDIX A: ACCESSORY CONNECTOR DESCRIPTION ................................................... 25
APPENDIX B: REMOTE PROGRAMMING QUICK REFERENCE ............................................ 26
APPENDIX C: TONE/CODE TABLES ................................................................................. 27
CTCSS TONES ................................................................................................................ 27
DCS CODES ................................................................................................................... 27
APPENDIX D: REPEATER SYSTEM RECORD SHEET .......................................................... 28
APPENDIX E: 120V AC ~ 240V AC CONVERSION ............................................................ 30
APPENDIX F: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS .............................................................. 30
APPENDIX G: LCD QUICK REFERENCE SHEET.................................................................. 31
WARRANTY AND SERVICE .............................................................................................. 32
FCC STATEMENTS ........................................................................................................... 33
4

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the ComLink CS-540 FM Repeater System. As part of the ComLink series, the CS-540 has been
developed to provide many of the features you, the communications user, have requested. The CS-540 gives you a feature
rich scalable repeater platform to grow as your system needs grow. The CS-540 integrates the RF power of a dual fan-
cooled 40-watt repeater with a high capacity ‘tone panel’ and a 16 channel base station. The CS-540 also provides a D-SUB
25pin accessory connector allowing for ease in interfacing your favorite external peripheral such as a Tone/DC Remote,
Telephone Interconnect, SCADA, or Telemetry fixture. We would also like to say The CS-540 repeater is 100% LTR
compatible and can be used with your favorite LTR trunking controller. This means the CS-540 provides DC access from
the receiver to the controller and from the controller all the way to the RF transmitter without causing sub-audible signal
degradation.
Features
• High Performance Specs: Temperature
Compensation Oscillator (TCXO) ensures frequency
stability and accuracy during ambient temperature
changes.
• Modular Design: The modular design of the CS-540
allows for ease and quick replacement of the internal
electronics at the site.
• Rack style design: The galvanized steel chassis
construction provides for a Heavy Duty housing that
can be mounted in a standard 19” rack or desktop
configuration taking up 3.5” of rack space. Standard
equipped rack handles provide for ease during 19”
rack installation.
• Internal duplexer (optional): The design of the
CS-540’s chassis allows for an internal duplexer to
be installed.
• Front panel display and controls: The front panel
of the CS-540 includes a LCD display and four LED
status indicators. Front panel controls include a five-
button keypad and speaker volume control.
• Windows-based programmer: The CS-540 can be
setup and maintained using the optional PGM-540
programming software. Programming is simple and
easy – one DB9 cable connects your PC to the CS-
540, no other interface modules are needed.
• Signaling capability: Built-in High capacity ‘tone
panel’ that supports up to 64 users per channel with
50 CTCSS tones and 112 DCS codes available per
channel. Cross tone/code encoding is available as
well.
• Battery Backup: The CS-540 can be powered from
a 12V battery and also provides a charging circuit for
maintenance free operation.
• External Speaker Out: Operate a high powered
external speaker by turning it on from the front
panel.
• Programmable I/O: Incorporates programmable
I/O lines that can be used to control external devices
remotely. Perfect for SCADA or Telemetry
applications. Doubles as programmable COS output.
• Integrated High-Efficiency Power Supply: The
CS-540 includes an internal 10A power supply with
MosFet-based switchmode technology for high
reliability, high efficiency and minimum size and
weight. It also provides 13.8V output for powering
external controllers, thus saving valuable site
resources.
• Dual Cooling Fans: The CS-540 incorporates two
cooling fans that can be programmed for continuous
operation or transmit only.
• Variable channel spacing: Each channel can be
individually programmed to use 12.5 kHz or 25 kHz
spacing making the CS-540 useful for years to come.
• Remote Programming via DTMF tones: In order
to save a time consuming trip to the site, the CS-540
provides for remote programming and maintenance.
• Accessory Connector and AUX Feature: The
internal controller can be disabled and the repeater
placed in an auxiliary mode where it can be used as
a slave to an external controller.
• Air-Time Logging: The CS-540 automatically logs
cumulative airtime on a per use basis. The airtime is
recorded in minutes and seconds and is accumulated
on per second basis. The air-time data is then
retrieved using the PGM-540 programming software.
• Keypad Lock: During operation at the site, the
keypad can be locked to prevent tampering with the
repeater settings.
• LTR Decoder: When the CS-540 is connected to an
LTR controller, this feature decodes and displays the
ID and home channel of the call being repeated
This Owner’s Manual will acquaint you with the features and specifications of the CS-540. Every effort has been made in
the preparation of this manual to ensure the accuracy of its contents. However, please note that one of the many features
of the CS-540 includes upgradable firmware. Firmware upgrades may modify existing features and/or introduce new
features not available at the time of this manual’s publication. Please read the accompanying documentation with any
firmware upgrade for any changes to this manual’s content.
5

6
CHAPTER 2: SPECIFICATIONS
General CS-540U CS-540V
Number of Channels: 16
Operating Voltage: 11 V DC Min / 13.8 V DC Nominal / 15 V DC Max
Channel Spacing: 5kHz/6.25KHz/Splinter
Current Drain: 12A Max
Weight: 18.5 lbs.
Weight w/ duplexer: 19.5 lbs.
Frequency Range: 450-480 MHz 148-174 MHz
Dimensions (W x H x D): 19.0” x 3.5” x 14.0”
Frequency Stability: +/- 1.0 ppm +/- 2.5 ppm
Operating Temperature Range: -22°F to +140°F (-30°C to +60°C)
Local Oscillator: Low-side injection High-side injection
Sensitivity (12 dB SINAD) < 0.25 µV @ 12.5 kHz < 0.25 µV @25.0 kHz
Squelch Threshold: Open 12dB SINAD/Close 8dB SINAD
Selectivity: 62dB @ 12.5kHz 72dB @ 25.0kHz
Spurious Rejection: 75dB
Intermodulation Rejection: 72dB @ 12.5kHz 72dB @ 25.0kHz
Antenna Connector: N-Type
Antenna Impedance: 50Ω
RF Output (w/o duplexer):
Programmable
450-470 @ 0-40W
471-480 @ 0-35W
148-174 @ 0-40W
Modulation: 160K0F3E, 11K0F3E
Maximum Deviation: +/- 5kHz (25 kHz) +/- 2.5 kHz (12.5 kHz)
FM Hum and Noise 36dB @ 12.5kHz 42dB @ 25.0kHz
Antenna Connector: N-Type
Antenna Impedance: 50Ω
Specifications per EIA standards. In our on-going commitment to quality specifications are subject
to change without notice.

Front Panel Description
1) Microphone input jack
2) Volume control knob
3) Alphanumeric and Icon LCD
4) 5 button keypad (▲,▼, BASE, MON, AUX)
5) Computer port DB9 Female
6) LED status indicators (BASE, RX, VALID, TX)
7) Internal Speaker
8) Lighted power switch
Rear Panel Description
1) Fan
2) Accessory Port: DB25 female standard on CS-540
3) TX Antenna N-type female panel mount or duplexer out
4) RX Antenna N-type female panel mount or vacant
5) Detachable AC cord receptacle
6) BATTERY BACKUP/EXT DC IN
7) 13.8V output
8) EXTERNAL SPEAKER OUT
7

8
CHAPTER 3: INSTALLATION
Upon opening the shipping carton, the following items should be present and undamaged:
• CS-540 FM Repeater System
• This CS-540 Owner’s Manual
• Detachable AC-line cord
• One strip of four rubber feet
The CS-540 is capable of producing HIGH-powered RF signals that require proper termination into
a suitable load. It is highly recommended the CS-540 be installed by a qualified technician with
experience installing FM repeaters and controller equipment.
Installation
The CS-540 provides 4 mounting holes on the front panel for installation into a 19” rack and 4 rubber feet for
placement in a desktop configuration. If installing the CS-540 in a 19” rack, use 4 rack screws (not supplied)
to securely fasten the CS-540’s front panel flush with the rack’s rails. If placed in a desktop configuration, it
is recommended the rubber feet be placed close to the four corners of the bottom of the chassis.
Optional accessories include a base station microphone, internal duplexer, and the PGM-540 programmer.
Please check with your dealer for more information about these optional accessories.
The CS-540 is shipped with or without an internal duplexer. If the unit is not equipped with an internal
duplexer, there will be an N-type female connector for RX and another for TX located on the rear of the unit.
If the unit is shipped with an internal duplexer, there will be one N-type female connector at the TX/Duplexer
Out port.
The internal power supply of the CS-540 is factory pre-set for 120V AC 60HZ operation to deliver 13.8 Volts.
To convert the internal power supply to 240V AC, see Appendix E. If the CS-540 did not come with a duplexer
installed, connect the received signal to the RX antenna port and connect the TX antenna port’s output to
where the powered signal is to be transmitted. If the CS-540 came installed with a duplexer, attach the
antenna cable to the duplexer out port on the rear of the unit.
Power Up
To power the unit, simply plug the detachable AC-line cord into the receptacle located on the back of the unit
and then plug it into an AC line source. Pressing the lighted power switch to the up position turns on the CS-
540. The power switch will illuminate indicating the unit is on. The CS-540 will cycle through a power-up
sequence illuminating the LCD and the LED’s. The model name will be displayed for approximately two
seconds followed by the version of firmware. If the CS-540 was ordered without being custom programmed,
the default personality will be loaded and HIGHPWR will be displayed for approximately 2 seconds and then
dashed lines. If the unit was ordered custom programmed, the name given to the first channel will be
displayed instead of HIGHPWR. If the CS-540 was ordered without being custom-programmed, you will have
to purchase the PGM-540 repeater programmer. Please reference the PGM-540 User’s Manual for learning
how to program your CS-540. Once programmed, the CS-540 will be reset and cycle through its power-up
sequence and default to repeater mode. Note: HIGHPWR is the name of the channel programmed. This
channel is configured at the factory to transmit 40 watts. Keep this in mind prior to attaching the repeater to
a service monitor. Depending on your test equipment setup, you may need to reduce the output power or
pad the TX output so as not to damage your test equipment.

9
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION
Operating Modes
The CS-540 has three different modes of operation: repeater mode, base station mode, and auxiliary mode.
By default, it operates in repeater mode unless you explicitly change modes. This chapter will give you a
brief overview of each of the modes. The individual modes are covered in detail in the chapters that follow.
Also in each of the various operating modes an external peripheral can be connected to the accessory
connector located on the rear of the unit. Through programming, the external peripheral can be made to
work in conjunction with the repeater. The CS-540 will ‘remember’ the mode it was in prior to powering the
repeater down. When powered back up, it will revert to the mode it was in prior to power down.
Repeater Mode: The CS-540 is a full-featured community repeater with programmable settings for channel
spacing, TX Timeout, and CWID broadcasting preferences. In repeater mode, the CS-540 will listen for calls
from any user that belongs to the currently selected channel. If it detects a CTCSS tone or DCS code of a
valid user, it will repeat the call with the appropriate CTCSS/DCS encoding. While in repeater mode, the CS-
540 can also be remotely programmed using a two-way radio capable of generating DTMF tones. For more
information on repeater mode, see “Chapter 5: Repeater Mode”. For more information on remote
programming, see “Chapter 8: Remote Programming”.
If an external peripheral such as a phone patch is used in conjunction with repeater Mode, the external
peripheral will gain control of the transmitter upon engaging the external PTT line. When the external PTT line
is engaged, the circuit is designed to break the connection between the RX Module and the TX Module so that
the external peripheral has control. The transmit options of the user in Slot 1 will be utilized. If
necessary, the repeater supports a programmable COS output on pin 17 to be interfaced with the peripheral.
Base Station Mode: The CS-540 is a full-featured base station with programmable settings for busy queuing
and busy channel lockout. By attaching an optional microphone, the CS-540 can communicate as any user on
the selected channel. For more information, see “Chapter 6: Base Station Mode.” If an external peripheral
such as a DC Remote is used in base mode the transmit options of the user in Slot 1 will be utilized
when the external PTT line is engaged.
Auxiliary Mode: AUX mode can serve many purposes. Placing the CS-540 in AUX mode disables the internal
controller and allows for the unit to be totally controlled by an external peripheral. During AUX mode, the
display illumination level may also be changed and the transmit RF power can be enabled/disabled, also, the
composite input feature can be enabled/disabled. For more information, see “Chapter 7: Auxiliary Mode”.
Channel and User Database
Before you begin reading about the various modes of the CS-540, it is helpful to know how the channel and
user database is constructed. You may program up to 16 channels for the CS-540 to use. At any time, only
one channel is active. You can select which channel you would like activated by scrolling through the list of
channels using the up () and down () keys on the CS-540’s front panel. Each of the 16 channels has
unique settings for broadcast ID, broadcast interval, Morse code rate, receiver frequency, transmitter
frequency, channel spacing, power, and TX Timeout time. These settings are explained in more detail in
“Chapter 5: Repeater Mode.” In addition, base station settings are determined on a per channel basis. Base
station settings include busy lockout, busy queuing, busy queue timeout, system hold time, and marked idle.
These settings are explained in more detail in “Chapter 6: Base Station Mode”. Each channel can support up
to 64 users. Each user is assigned a particular slot within the channel. User slots are numbered sequentially
from 0 to 63. Slot 0 is the System Operator, which is the only user with remote programming privileges. This
is explained in more detail in “Chapter 8: Remote Programming”. The remaining slots (1 through 63) are for
common users, and no preference is given to users based on their order within the slots.
Each of the 64 users has unique settings for user ID, status, RX signaling, TX signaling, courtesy tone, TX hold
time, and tone-in-tail. These setting are explained in more detail in “Chapter 5: Repeater Mode”.

CHAPTER 5: REPEATER MODE
Overview
In repeater mode, each of the CS-540’s 16 channels is capable of supporting 64 individual users. Each
subscriber may have one of 50 possible CTCSS tones or one of 112 possible DCS codes. While in repeater
mode, the CS-540 can be placed in remote programming mode and the selected channel’s properties and user
database can be changed using transmitted DTMF tone command sequences.
Operation
To place the CS-540 on a programmed channel, simply press the up () or down () buttons on the front
panel. This will allow for cycling through the possible channels. Once the desired channel is selected, the
channel name will be displayed for approximately two seconds and the LCD will revert to displaying dashed
lines. If this is the first time this channel is used, you must restore the factory default settings for
this frequency pair. See Chapter 9: Alignment. At this point the CS-540 is in an idle state waiting to
validate and repeat incoming calls. Upon receipt of carrier, the yellow RX LED will illuminate. When a valid
user’s signaling is decoded, the green VALID LED will illuminate and the user’s name will be displayed on the
LCD. The transmitter will then power up and repeat the call. At this point the red TX LED will illuminate and
the cooling fan will engage. When the call expires, the green VALID LED will go off and if carrier is no longer
present, the yellow RX LED will go off as well. The Transmitter may remain keyed for a programmed hang
time. When done transmitting, the red TX LED will go off, and the cooling fan may stop depending on
programming. At any point in time, the repeater audio traffic may be monitored. This is done by pressing the
MON button. Pressing-and-releasing the MON button will sequence through the possible speaker output
options. The sequence is thus: Internal Speaker, External Speaker, Both Internal and External, and both off.
The NOTE icon will visible to indicate internal, and the Sicon will be visible to indicate external.
NOTE: During repeater mode operation, it is not recommended that a passive or mobile-type
microphone be connected to the unit. A mobile-type microphone is always ‘hot’ and the repeater will
mix the mic audio with the repeated audio. A base station-type microphone is preferred.
Channel Settings
The behavior of the CS-540 while in repeater mode depends on various channel and user settings. Channel
and user settings are either pre-programmed by your dealer or by you using the PGM-540 programmer.
Some channel and user settings can be modified via remote programming commands, as described in
“Chapter 8: Remote Programming”. The following lists all of the channel settings.
Receiver/Transmitter Frequency: You must specify a
receive and transmit frequency, typically 5 MHz apart. If
you are working with the CS-540U (UHF model), you may
specify a frequency in the range of 450 to 480 MHz. If
you are working with the CS-540V (VHF model), you may
specify a frequency in the range of 148 to 174.5 MHz.
The repeater also handles the amateur region in both 2M
and 70cm.
Channel Name: The Channel Name is an eight-character
name. Legal characters are uppercase letters and
numbers. It is also the name that appears in the CS-
540’s LCD display when that channel is active.
Broadcast ID: Like the Channel Name, the Broadcast ID
is an eight-character name consisting of uppercase
letters and numbers. The Broadcast ID is transmitted in
Morse code at specified intervals to identify the repeater
on the air. By default, the Broadcast ID is the same as
the Channel Name. However, you have the option of
choosing a Broadcast ID that is different from the
Channel Name.
Channel Spacing: Each channel can be programmed for
either narrow (12.5kHz) or wide (25kHz) band. This
setting is applied to both the transmitter and the
receiver.
Power Setting: Each channel can be programmed for
either high or low power. Low power starts at 5 watts
and High power starts at 40 Watts. The TX power can be
adjusted from the alignment menu. The RF PA can also
be turned off. For more information about this feature,
see “Chapter 7: Auxiliary Mode”.
Broadcast Interval: The Broadcast Interval specifies
how often the Broadcast ID will be transmitted. It has a
range of 0 to 999 minutes. ‘0’ disables this feature and
the Broadcast ID will not be transmitted. The CS-540 is
designed to broadcast the ID if and only if it has actively
transmitted within the most recent time interval.
Morse Code Rate: Rate at which the Broadcast ID will
be transmitted: either 11 or 22 WPM (Words Per Minute).
10

11
COS Enable: By enabling the COS output feature (Pin 17
of the Accessory Connector) you can customize how COS
output will operate. The COS output can be made to
toggle when carrier is present on the receiver or when
valid signaling is determined. The polarity of the output
is selectable to meet the needs of the external peripheral.
If the COS is disabled, Pin 17 defaults as a general
purpose I/O that can be controlled remotely.
Cooling FAN Operation: The cooling fans can be made
to operate continuously or only during transmit.
CSQ Repeat: Selecting this option will cause the
repeater to repeat every instance of valid carrier. The TX
options transmitted will be that of those programmed in
for Slot 1 of the User Settings.
Tx Timeout: TX Timeout controls how long the CS-540
will keep the transmitter continuously keyed before the
RF Power Amp (RF PA) is automatically disengaged. The
maximum value of the TX Timeout feature is 999
seconds. To disable the TX Timeout feature, enter 0 in
the TX Timeout field.
Remote Access Code: The System Operator can
remotely program and manage the CS-540 Community
Repeater by using DTMF tone sequences. (See “Chapter
8: Remote Programming” for more information.) Before
making any modifications, the System Operator must
enter the Remote Access Code to gain access to the
system. The Remote Access Code is a four-digit number
that you specify on a per channel basis. The remote
code “5555” is reserved for remote rebooting, but all
other four-digit numbers are valid. If you want to disable
the Remote Access feature, simply don’t create a user in
the System Operator slot. Without a designated System
Operator, the Remote Access Code is irrelevant. For
more information on the CS-540’s remote programming
features, see “Chapter 8: Remote Programming”.
User Settings
User ID: The User ID is an eight-character name that
will be displayed in the CS-540’s LCD while that user’s
call is being repeated. Legal characters in the User ID
include uppercase letters, numbers, dashes, and periods.
By default, users are assigned the name “USER” plus a
two digit number corresponding to the slot of that user.
For example, the user in slot #8 will be assigned the
name USER08 by default. The user in slot 0 is assigned
the name “SYS-OP” to reflect its special role as the
System Operator, but you can change its User ID as well
if you prefer.
Status: Each user has a status of “Active” or “Inactive”.
By default, all users are “Active”. If you mark a user as
“Inactive”, their calls will not repeated, although all their
information will still be retained in the system. This
option is useful if you want to suspend the repeater
privileges of a user, without deleting that user entirely.
RX/TX Signaling: Each user must be assigned an Rx
Signal and a TX Signal. You may specify either a CTCSS
tone or a DCS code. If you select a CTCSS tone, you
must also specify one of 50 tones ranging from 67.0 to
254.1 Hz. If you select DCS code, you must also specify
one of 112 three-digit codes, inverted or non-inverted.
The Rx Signal and TX Signal are selected separately. The
per user TX signaling setting can also be made to
transmit carrier only (CSQ). The CS-540 is capable of
cross tone/code encoding. For example, if the CS-540
detects that it has received a transmit request with a
179.9 Hz CTCSS tone, it can then repeat the call with a
162.2 Hz CTCSS tone, or even with a DCS code. Cross
tone/code encoding can be useful when setting up
multiple repeaters at different locations that share the
same frequency.
NOTE: If you employ both DCS and CTCSS RX
squelch options for users on the same channel, we
recommend that you do not use an RX CTCSS tone
of 136.5 Hz for any users on that channel. Some
transmitting mobiles use a DCS turnoff code of
136.5 Hz that the repeater could misinterpret as a
valid incoming call.
Courtesy Tone: When a user has finished transmitting,
the CS-540 can emit a courtesy tone. The courtesy tone
can be set for 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 1500 Hz, or no courtesy
tone. The duration of the courtesy tone is fixed at 75
milliseconds.
TX Hold Time: After a user has finished transmitting,
the repeater can continue to transmit for a programmed
amount of hold time. TX Hold Time has a range of 0 to
65,535 ms. However, during remote programming, the
max number that can entered is 9,999 ms. If the user
has a courtesy tone, it is recommended that you set the
TX Hold Time to be at least 250 ms.
Tone-in-Tail: Without Tone-in-Tail enabled, the CS-540
will not encode the user’s CTCSS tone or DCS code when
that user has de-keyed, even though the repeater
continues to transmit for the duration of the TX Hold
Time. With Tone-In-Tail enabled, the CS-540 will encode
the user’s CTCSS tone or DCS code during the TX Hold
Time. Whether or not Tone-in-Tail should be enabled or
not depends on the requirements of your system
configuration.
Error Alerts
PLL Lock Error: The CS-540 supports monitoring the status of the PLL/VCO circuitry in both the Receive and
Transmit modules. In the event the receiver’s PLL is unable to lock due to a hardware failure, the CS-540 will
display RXPLLER. If the transmitter's PLL circuitry should fail, TXPLLER will be displayed. Upon detecting a PLL
error, the CS-540 will enter an error state. While in error state, the CS-540 repeater operation will be
suspended. The user may try to reprogram the channel by pressing the up/down buttons. In the event the
problem is unsolvable, the repeater may require servicing. Please contact your dealer or BridgeCom Systems,
Inc. technical support.

12
CHAPTER 6: BASE STATION MODE
Overview
In addition to its repeater features, the CS-540 can also be operated as a base station. While in base station
mode, the system operator can communicate with any user on the selected channel.
Operation
To switch from repeater mode to base station mode, simply press and release the button on the front panel
labeled BASE. The BASE LED will illuminate. The BASE LED will stay lit during base station operating mode.
The first time that base station mode is entered, the CS-540 will default to the user in Slot 1. Any subsequent
time that base station mode is entered, the user that was active the last time that the CS-540 was in base
station mode will be selected. The CS-540 will turn on the front panel speaker by default. The received audio
volume may be adjusted. The internal or external speaker may be turned on/off by pressing the MON button
to sequence options. The CS-540 will now only validate signaling received from the selected user. When the
base station operator initiates a transmission, it will be on the selected users transmit squelch option.
Different users on the channel may be selected by pressing the up or down buttons to scroll through the user
lists. Users deactivated in repeater mode will have the left-arrow icon (◄) illuminated in the upper left corner
of the display, however, during Base Station mode, it is permissible to transmit using a deactivated user’s
tone/code. In order to exit base station mode, simply press the BASE button again. The CS-540 will then re-
enter repeater mode.
Base Station Settings
The behavior of the CS-540 in base station mode depends on the various base station settings. Base station
settings are programmed by using the PGM-540 programmer. Remote mode cannot be entered during Base
station mode. It is also important to remember that all per user transmit options (courtesy tone, hang time,
and Tone-in-Tail) are inherited when transmitting to that user.
CSQ Unmute: By default the CS-540 will unmute the speaker only when valid signaling is decoded. Enabling
this feature defeats the selected squelch option so that sufficient carrier will cause the speaker to unmute.
Busy Lockout: This setting prevents the operator from transmitting while the selected channel is busy. If the
operator attempts to transmit while receiving a call, the CS-540 will not acknowledge the attempt.
Busy Queuing: This setting will cause the CS-540 to queue the TX request if the operator attempts to
transmit while the selected channel is busy. If the TX attempt is queued, the busy system queue alert (three
700 Hz tones) will sound and QUEUED will be displayed on the LCD. When the channel becomes free, the CS-
540 will attempt to access the channel. If successful, the busy system access alert (five 700 Hz tones) will
sound and the CS-540 will begin transmitting. The CS-540 will hold the channel for the programmed System
Hold Time. If the operator fails to PTT before the System Hold Time timer expires, the CS-540 will stop
transmitting and the system not accessed alert (a two second 500 Hz tone) will sound and QUEUED mode will
be exited.
Busy Queue Timeout: If Busy Queuing is enabled, this timer determines how long a TX request will wait in
queue. If Busy Queuing is not enabled, this timer has no relevance. The Busy Queue Timeout has a range of
0 to 65,535 milliseconds.
System Hold Time: If Busy Queuing is enabled, this timer determines how long the CS-540 will hold the
channel once the transmit request is processed. If Busy Queuing is not enabled, this timer has no relevance
and it will not be used. The System Hold Time has a range of 0 to 65,535 milliseconds.
Marked Idle: Marked Idle permits the operator to transmit even if the CS-540 is receiving a valid call. If
valid signaling is not present, the call attempt will be either rejected or queued. This means Marked Idle must
be used in conjunction with Busy Lockout, or both Busy Lockout and Busy Queuing. If Marked Idle is used
with just Busy Lockout, the TX attempt will be rejected if the channel is busy but valid signaling is not present.
If valid signaling is present, the user may transmit. If Marked Idle is used with Busy Lockout and Busy
Queuing, the TX attempt will be queued if valid signaling is not present. Otherwise, the user may transmit.

13
CHAPTER 7: AUXILIARY MODE
Overview
By entering auxiliary (AUX) mode, the repeater's internal controller is disabled and the CS-540 may be
controlled by an external peripheral. In addition, while in AUX mode, you can adjust the display illumination
level, enable/disable the TX power amplifier, enable/disable the front panel speaker, enable/disable the
internal LTR Decoder.
Auxiliary Settings
While in auxiliary mode, you have the option of adjusting the following settings:
LCD illumination level: To adjust the display illumination level simply press the up () button to cycle
through the varying degrees of illumination. Once the desired setting is achieved, press the AUX button to
exit and save the setting. Turning the illumination off will increase battery life in battery powered
applications.
TX power setting: The RF power out can be disabled. Pressing the down (▼) button for approximately two
seconds will toggle the RF power amp setting. If the RF PA has been disabled, a right arrow icon (►) will be
displayed in the LCD. This setting is stored immediately after pressing the button. Pressing AUX again will
return to repeater mode. Please note, if the RF PA is disabled, the cooling fan will be disabled as well.
LTR Decoder: For those who are using the CS-540 with an LTR controller, the CS-540 supports an internal
LTR decoder for diagnostic purposes. This feature is enabled/disabled by simply pressing the BASE button
while in AUX mode. The LTR Decoder is active when the LCD displays ‘d-------‘. The LTR Decoder will display
the home channel and ID of the call being repeated. For Example: ‘d-05-001’ indicates the CS-540 is
repeating user ID 001 whose home channel is 05. To deactivate the LTR Decoder, simply press the BASE
button and ‘AUX’ will be re-displayed.
Composite Input Enable/Disable: Certain external controllers may mix the data and voice. In the event
the CS-540 is required to transmit a composite data/voice input, it will need to be set up to support the
composite signal. The composite output from the external controller is to be connected to PIN 21 of the
ACCESSORY connector. While in AUX mode, press and hold the BASE button for approximately two seconds.
The left arrow icon (◄) will be displayed indicating the CS-540 is processing a composite input. Once this
input is enabled, make sure your controller is aligned for the proper TX data and voice deviations. To disable
the composite input, simply press-and-hold the BASE button for approximately two seconds. The left arrow
icon (◄) will disappear.
External Controllers
When in AUX mode the CS-540’s internal tone panel is disabled and total control of the repeater is
surrendered to an external peripheral such as an LTR controller or another tone panel. Please refer to
Appendix A: for the pin-out description of the CS-540 to help you make your custom cable. When AUX
mode is entered, the circuit path is set up to where the DATA or Composite output of the external
controller has DC access to the transmitter. The CS-540 requires the DC input of the DATA or
Composite output be centered at 2.5 V DC otherwise the external peripheral could cause a DC shift
to make the CS-540 transmit off frequency. To help achieve this 2.5 V DC input requirement, the
CS-540 incorporates a DC level shifting Trim Pot (P1) on the internal accessory board. Open the
unit to access the accessory board. This is the board the accessory connector is on. With your
external controller connected, use a DC voltmeter to measure the DC input voltage on TP1. (
Located in center of board) Preferably while the controller is sending data, Adjust P1 until 2.5
Volts DC is achieved.

14
CHAPTER 8: REMOTE PROGRAMMING
Overview
Many settings of the CS-540 can be remotely programmed using DTMF tone sequences. You can add and
delete users, as well as modify all individual user settings, such as TX/RX squelch options and courtesy tones.
In addition, many channel settings can be modified remotely as well, such as the broadcast ID interval and
the TX Timeout timer.
Before You Begin
Before you begin using the remote programming features, please go through the following checklist to make
sure that you meet all the requirements for remote programming.
 Some basic channel settings, such as the channel ID, remote access PIN, RX/TX frequencies must be
set up by your dealer or by using the PGM-540 programmer.
 A four-digit remote access PIN must be entered in order to access the remote program mode. Make
sure that you know the PIN for the channel that you wish to modify before you begin.
 You must have a handheld or mobile radio that can generate CTCSS tones / DCS codes and DTMF
tones simultaneously. The handheld or mobile must generate each DTMF tone for at least 40ms and
the duration between DTMF tones must be at least 40 ms.
 Every user belongs to a particular “slot”. There are 64 slots, numbered from 0 to 64. Whenever you
modify an individual user’s settings, you must enter their slot number, so make sure that you know
their slot number. Moreover, if you want to add users remotely, you must know which slots are free.
Try to keep an updated list of all the slots and their corresponding users. A blank template is provided
in Appendix D of this manual for this purpose. You can also export a list of users and their settings for
printing using the PGM-540 programmer.
 The user is Slot 0 is the designated System Operator. Only the System Operator may remotely
program the CS-540, so make sure that you have a user in Slot 0. The Slot 0 user settings must be
set up by your dealer or by using the PGM-540 programmer.
 You’ll want to try to keep remote programming sessions as short as possible. While in remote
programming mode, all other users are locked out of the system, so you’ll want to minimize the
repeater’s downtime. Another consideration to keep in mind is that the repeater will automatically
exit remote programming mode without saving the changes if it doesn’t receive a DTMF tone for 60
seconds. For these reasons, we highly suggest that you right down all the command sequences that
you would like to enter before you begin.

15
Accessing remote program mode
To access remote program mode, the System Operator must key the remote access PIN, followed by the
pound (#) symbol. Not just any user can enter the PIN – the repeater must also detect the presence of the
System Operator’s CTCSS tone / DCS code. If the System Operator’s tone/code is detected, then the repeater
will not repeat the call, so don’t worry about the PIN being transmitted to other users.
Once you enter the PIN and press the # key, the repeater will transmit 3 –1500 Hz tones to indicate that
remote mode was entered. The LCD will also display REMOTE.
Commands
Each commands is composed of a sequence of DTMF tones containing a two-digit command prefix, followed by
a series of command parameters, followed by the # key. The commands are executed once the # key is
received and the calling party de-keys their radio.
De-keying after each command is necessary so that the repeater can respond to each command with a series
if either success or failure tones. A response of four 1500 Hz tones indicates the operation was a success. A
response of four 500 Hz tones indicates the operation failed.
The table below is a list of the available tasks followed by their 2-digit command prefix:
Command Prefix
ENTER REMOTE MODE N/A
ADD USER 01
DELETE USER 02
ACTIVATE USER 03
DEACTIVATE USER 04
MODIFY USER TX SQUELCH OPTION 05
MODIFY USER RX SQUELCH OPTION 06
MODIFY USER TX DCS POLARITY 07
MODIFY USER RX DCS POLARITY 08
MODIFY USER TX HOLD TIME 09
MODIFY USER TONE IN TAIL 10
MODIFY USER COURTESY TONE 11
MODIFY CHANNEL ID INTERVAL 12
MODIFY CHANNEL MORSE RATE 13
MODIFY CHANNEL TX TIMEOUT 14
MODIFY RX MODULE OUTPUT 1 15
MODIFY RX MODULE OUTPUT 2 16
EXIT WITHOUT SAVE 98
SAVE AND EXIT 99
REBOOT 5555
The following pages contain a description of all the available commands. Throughout the descriptions, [0]
through [9] denotes a particular digit that must entered. [N] denotes a single digit that must be entered, the
value of which depends on your choice of settings. A [#] key must be entered after each command sequence
for the system to process the command.
Please note that for all multi-digit settings, you must enter the required number of digits, using zeroes as
placeholders where necessary. For example, if [N][N][N] is required and you want to enter 12, you must
enter 012.

ENTER REMOTE MODE: ACTIVATE USER:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][3]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
Field Digits
1) Remote access PIN [N][N][N][N]
• The remote access PIN is preprogrammed
on a per channel basis. You must know it
before you begin.
• All users are active by default. This
command is used only to reactivate a user
that has been previously deactivated.
• Only the System Operator may access
remote programming mode.
DEACTIVATE USER: Deactivate an active user.
• The four-digit code “5555” is reserved for
the REBOOT command. Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][4]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
• If you have successfully entered remote
programming mode, you’ll hear three 1500
Hz tones. If you weren’t successful, you
won’t hear any response.
• DEACTIVE USER is a good alternative to
DELETE USER when you want to
temporarily prevent a user from accessing
the repeater without deleting their profile.
ADD USER:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][1]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Tone/Code [N][N][N] 001 < NNN < 162
MODIFY USER TX SQUELCH OPTION:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][5]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Tone/Code [N][N][N] 001 < NN < 162
• See “Appendix C” for a table of available
tones/codes and their corresponding index.
• If you attempt to add a user to a slot that
is already occupied by an existing user
(active or not), then this command will fail.
You must first delete the existing user and
then add a new one if you wish to add a
new user in that slot.
• CTCSS tones are numbered from 1-50 and
DCS codes are numbered from 51-162.
See “Appendix C:” for a complete table of
available tones/codes and their
corresponding index.
MODIFY USER RX SQUELCH OPTION:
• By default, the same tone/code will be
used for both the TX and RX squelch
options. After adding the user, you can
modify the TX and RX squelch options
individually by using the MODIFY TX
SQUELCH OPTION or MODIFY RX SQUELCH
OPTION commands.
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][6]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Tone/Code [N][N][N] 001 < NN < 162
• CTCSS tones are numbered from 1-50 and
DCS codes are numbered from 51-162.
See “Appendix C” for a complete table of
available tones/codes and their
corresponding index.
DELETE USER:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][2]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
MODIFY USER TX DCS SIGNAL POLARITY:
• This command will delete the user’s profile
entirely and the slot will be considered
empty. If you want to temporarily disable
a user while preserving their profile, try
using the DEACTIVE USER command
instead.
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][7]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Polarity [N] 0 = inverted
1 = non-inverted
• You can not delete the user in Slot 0
(System Operator) or Slot 1. These users
can only be deleted by using the PGM-540
programmer.
• This command will fail if the user is not
using a DCS Code as the squelch option.
16

MODIFY CHANNEL ID INTERVAL:
MODIFY USER RX DCS SIGNAL POLARITY:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][8]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Polarity [N] 0 = inverted
1 = non-inverted
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][2]
2) Interval (minutes) [N][N][N] 000 < NNN
< 999
• If you set the broadcast interval to zero,
this feature will be disabled.
• This command will fail if the user is not
using a DCS Code as the squelch option. • The ID will be broadcast if and only if the
repeater was in use during the most recent
interval.
MODIFY USER TX HOLD TIME:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [0][9]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Hold Time (ms) [N] 0000 < NNNN
< 9999
MODIFY CHANNEL MORSE RATE:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][3]
2) Rate [N] 0 = 11 WPM
1 = 22 WPM
• TX Hold Time, measured in milliseconds,
determines how long the repeater will
continue transmitting after the user has
de-keyed.
MODIFY CHANNEL TX TIMEOUT:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][4]
2) Timer (seconds) [N][N][N] 000 < NNN
< 999
MODIFY USER TONE IN TAIL:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][0]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Tone in Tail [N] 0 = No
1 = Yes
• If you set the TX Timeout to zero, this
feature will be disabled.
• The TX Timeout timer controls the
maximum amount of timer that the
transmitter will remain keyed.
• The Tone in Tail setting determines
whether or not the user’s CTCSS tone or
DCS code is transmitted during the hold
time.
• This feature is useful to prevent a radio
with a “stuck mic” from keeping the
repeater transmitted keyed.
• Tone in Tail only has meaning if the TX
Hold Time is greater than zero. Although
the command won’t fail, Tone in Tail has
no meaning if the TX Hold Time is set to
zero.
MODIFY RX MODULE OUTPUT 1:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][5]
2) Pin Setting [N] 0-Low 1-High
MODIFY USER COURTESY TONE: • This command sets or clears the state of the
Output pin 16 on the accessory connector.
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][1]
2) User Slot [N][N] 00 < NN < 63
3) Courtesy Tone [N] 0 = None
1 = 500 Hz
2 = 1000 Hz
3 = 1500 Hz
MODIFY RX MODULE OUTPUT 2:
Field Digits Remarks
1) Command [1][6]
2) Pin Setting [N] 0-Low 1-High
• This command sets or clears the state of the
Output pin 17 on the accessory connector.
• The courtesy tone sounds for 75
milliseconds, after the user de-keys but
before the hold time begins.
17

REBOOT:
EXIT WITHOUT SAVE:
Field Digits
1) Command [9][8]
Field Digits
1) Command [5][5][5][5]
• Upon exit, the repeater will transmit the
exit remote mode alert, which is three
consecutive 600 Hz tones.
• This command remotely reboots the CS-
540 as if someone had manually toggled
the power switch. Although the CS-540
has been designed to be as robust as
possible, this command can save a trip to
the site in the rare case that the CS-540
fails to repeat calls or otherwise becomes
unresponsive.
SAVE AND EXIT:
Field Digits
1) Command [9][9] • You don’t need to be in remote
programming mode to issue the reboot
command. It can be used at any time.
Also, valid signaling is not required to issue
a remote reboot command.
• After this command is received, the
repeater will begin transmitting a series of
tones as it updates its internal memory.
• It is not necessary to reboot the CS-540
after making changes using remote
programming commands. If you ever do
need to remotely reboot, it should only be
to relieve an immediate problem.
• Upon exit, the repeater will transmit the
exit remote mode alert, which is three
consecutive 600 Hz tones.
• This command will not be followed by any
type of success or failure alert. After using
this command, wait 20-30 seconds for the
CS-540 to reset and then try using it
again.
Example 1: Add a new user and modify the user’s profile
Before you begin these examples, make sure that you have a two-way radio capable of transmitting DTMF
tones, and that this radio is set up to transmit the CTCSS tone / DCS code assigned to the user in Slot 0, the
System Operator. Because the System Operator’s calls are not repeated, the easiest way to confirm that the
System Operator can access the repeater is to have the System Operator press the PTT (push-to-talk) button
on their radio. Visually confirm that the repeater’s LCD displays the System Operator’s ID, which is by default
“SYS-OP”.
In this example, we will add a user to slot #30 with a DCS code of 223 and then modify its profile’s hang time
and courtesy tone. If Slot #30 is already occupied on your system, go through this examples using another
slot that is empty.
1) Enter remote programming mode
With the repeater turned on and in an idle state, the System Operator should push-to-talk, enter the
remote access PIN, press the ‘#’ key, and then release the PTT button. The repeater should respond
with the “remote mode entered” alert, which is a series of three 1500 Hz tones.
2) Add a user to slot #30 with DCS code 223
To add a user, we need to enter the ADD USER command prefix, the slot number, and the tone/code
index. The ADD USER command has a prefix of 01. We want to add the user to slot #30. From the
table in Appendix C, “CTCSS Tone / DCS Code tables”, we can see that that DCS code 223
corresponds has an index of 094.
18

In order to add a user, we need to enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[0][1]-[3][0]-[0][9][4]-[#]
Upon dekey, the repeater should respond with a success alert, which is a series of four 1500Hz tones.
If it failed, you’ll hear a failure alert, which is a series of four 500Hz tones. If this process fails, then
possible causes for this failure include: Slot #30 is already occupied, DCS code 223 is already being
used by another user, or the command was entered incorrectly.
3) Turn on tone-in-tail in the user’s newly created profile
To turn on a user’s tone-in-tail, we need to enter the MODIFY USER TONE IN TAIL command prefix,
the user’s slot number, and the tone-in-tail preference. The MODIFY USER TONE IN TAIL prefix is 10.
We are modifying the user in Slot #30. Because we want tone-in-tail to be on, we need to set the
tone-in-tail preference to 1.
In order to turn on tone-in-tail, enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[1][0]-[3][0]-[1]-[#]
Once you dekey, you should hear the success alert (four 1500 Hz tones.)
4) Set the user’s TX hold time to three seconds
To modify the TX hold time, we need to enter the MODIFY USER TX HOLD TIME command prefix, the
user’s slot number, and the number of milliseconds of the TX hold time. The MODIFY USER TX HOLD
TIME prefix is 09. We are modifying the user in Slot #30. We want to set the TX hold time to 3
seconds, which is 3,000 milliseconds.
In order to set the TX hold time to three seconds, enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[0][9]-[3][0]-[3][0][0][0]-[#]
Once you dekey, you should hear the success alert (four 1500 Hz tones.)
5) Add a courtesy tone of 1000 Hz to the new user’s profile
To modify the courtesy tone preference, we need to enter the MODIFY USER COURTESY TONE
command prefix, the user’s slot number, and the index of courtesy tone that we would like to select.
The MODIFY USER COURTESY TONE prefix is 11, the user’s slot number is 30, the index of the 1000
Hz courtesy tone is 2.
In order to add a courtesy tone of 1000 Hz, enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[1][1]-[3][0]-[2]-[#]
Once you dekey, you should hear the success alert (four 1500 Hz tones.)
6) Save and exit
When you finish making all the above changes, you need to save and exit remote programming mode.
To store the settings of the new user, all you need to do is enter the SAVE AND EXIT command prefix.
The SAVE AND EXIT prefix is 99.
In order to save and exit, enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[9][9]-[#]
The repeater will respond with a series of tones as it updates followed by a remote mode exited alert,
which is a series of three 600Hz tones.
19

Example 2: Deactivate an existing user
In this example, we will deactivate an existing user.
1) Enter remote programming mode
With the repeater turned on and in an idle state, the System Operator should push-to-talk, enter the
remote access PIN, press the ‘#’ key, and then release the PTT button. The repeater should respond
with the “remote mode entered” alert, which is a series of three 1500 Hz tones.
2) Deactivate the user in slot #30
To deactivate a user, we need to enter the DEACTIVATE USER command prefix and the user’s slot
number. The DEACTIVATE USER prefix is 04 and the user’s slot number is 30.
In order to deactivate the user in slot #30, enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[0][4]-[3][0]-[#]
Once you dekey, you should hear the success alert (four 1500 Hz tones.)
Upon de-key, the repeater will respond with an OPERATION SUCCESS ALERT.
3) Save and exit
When you finish deactivating the user, you need to save and exit remote programming mode. To
store the changes, you need to enter the SAVE AND EXIT command prefix. The SAVE AND EXIT prefix
is 99.
In order to save and exit, enter the following sequence (without the dashes):
[9][9]-[#]
The repeater will respond with a series of tones as it updates followed by a remote mode exited alert,
which is a series of three 600Hz tones.
At this point, the user in slot 30 will be deactivated. Attempts to access the repeater with code/tone
in slot 30 will be ignored by the repeater. To reactivate the user, go through same exact procedure
above, except that you need to use the ACTIVATE USER command prefix of 03 rather than the
DEACTIVATE USER prefix.
20