before operation is setting the Morse ID to the operator’s callsign. This is done with the C1 command.
A remote transmitter can be used, or the radio connected to PicCon. To use the connected radio,
PTT will need to be pressed by hand to generate DTMF tones. Most radios will send the DTMF tones
out the radio’s earphone jack when it transmits them, so PicCon should be able to use them. To
program the Morse ID, send DTMF “C”, then DTMF “1”, followed by a number of two-digit codes,
each representing a letter or number in the desired callsign. The letter “A” is entered with the code 01,
“B” with 02, and so on. The numerals 0 to 9 are entered as DTMF “3” followed by the DTMF of the
numeral itself. The callsign entry is completed with a DTMF “#”. For example, to enter the callsign
N6BG, send the following DTMF digits: “C1 14 36 02 07 #”. Modify the example and enter the correct
callsign now. After the callsign is entered, operations can begin by pressing SW1 or sending a DTMF
“1”. This will start PicCon transmitting with the default tone sequence and transmission sequence and
timing. It can be stopped by pressing SW1 again. Operation can be then further controlled and
configured with the commands below.
Computer Configuration
The PicCon settings can be configured
via DTMF tones or with a USB serial
cable and the Windows MicroFoxConfig
program version 1.97 or later. The
cables and software are available from
http://byonics.com/piccon PL2303 USB
drivers can be found at
www.prolific.com.tw. The configuration
program can only be used within 3
seconds powering the PicCon.
The default settings that appear when
the configuration program is started are
recommended for a basic hunt with the
PicCon transmitting tones for 15
seconds, and then a Morse code ID. It
then will stop transmitting, and repeats
every 30 seconds. The only setting users must change is the Morse Code ID text to be their assigned
amateur radio callsign.
The TX Frequency, RX Frequency, and Disable RX settings are not applicable to the PicCon, as the
RF frequencies are set on the connected radio. The Calibration option is available in the Config
program but not via DTMF commands. It can be used to tweak the long term timing of a PicCon.
Positive calibration numbers make the unit run faster. If you determine that the PicCon is running
0.03% slow, set the calibrate to +0.03% to correct.
The PicCon will work with a TTL or RS232 serial cable. The cable must be connected to J2 via a
2.5mm plug, or J3 via a 1x4 0.1” pitch header in the following order:
