Computer Automation Technology CAT-250 User manual

Computer Automation Technology, Inc
7378 W. Atlantic Blvd. #239
Margate, Florida 33063
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Internet: http://www.catauto.com
CAT-250
Repeater Controller

Table of Contents
Chapter 1
Introduction and Specifications
Introduction
1-1
Specifications
1-2
Chapter 2
System Configurations
Repeater –Transceiver
2-1
Repeater –RLS-1000 Diagram (Three Transceivers)
2-2
Repeater –Transceiver –WX-250 Weather Receiver
2-3
Repeater –WX-250 Weather Receiver Diagram
2-4
Repeater –Repeater (Two CAT-250 Controllers)
2-5
Dipswitch Settings
2-6
Chapter 3
Repeater Control by DTMF Commands
Interrogation of Repeater Control Status
3-1
Changing Repeater Control Status
3-1
Zone Control Tables 1 through 4
3-2
Zone Control Tables 4 through 8
3-3
Zone 1 DTMF Control Definitions
3-4
Zone 2 DTMF Control Definitions
3-5
Zone 3 DTMF Control Definitions
3-6
Zone 4 DTMF Control Definitions
3-7
Zone 5 DTMF Control Definitions
3-8
Zone 6 DTMF Control Definitions
3-9
Zone 7 DTMF Control Definitions
3-9
Zone 8 DTMF Control Definitions
3-10
Chapter 4
Repeater Operation Features
Time-of-Day Message
4-1
DTMF Keypad Test
4-1
DTMF Access
4-1
Forced DTMF Entry
4-1
DTMF Muting Override
4-1
Repeater ID (AT Rest)
4-1
Repeater ID (Active)
4-1
Macro Execute
4-2
Link Disconnect
4-2
Link Connect
4-2
Link Receive Only
4-2
Voice Message Selection
4-2
Chapter 5
Repeater Programming by DTMF Commands
Initialization
5-1
Programming the Master Unlock Number
5-1
Unlocking the Controller By Radio
5-1
Locking the Controller By Radio
5-1
Internal Command Assignment Table
5-2
Program Scheduler Event Macros
5-4
Program User Macros
5-4

Event Macro Command Table
5-5
Program Event Macros
5-6
Event Macro Default Table
5-6
Set Clock
5-8
Program Forced Entry Command
5-8
Program Voice Messages
5-8
Voice Message Table
5-9
Program CW Identification
5-10
CW ID Message Table
5-10
Program Control Codes and Prefix Numbers
5-10
Program Timer Memory
5-12
Send Audio Test Tone
5-14
Program Courtesy Tones
5-14
Courtesy Tone Programming Table
5-14
Exit Programming Mode
5-15
DTMF Programming Command Table
5-16
Chapter 6
Interfacing to Other Equipment
Determining COR Logic
6-1
Connection to Repeater’s Receiver
6-1
Connecting to Repeater’s Transmitter
6-1
Connecting to CTCSS Decoder
6-1
Interface Review
6-1
Connector Kit
6-2
Power Supply
6-2
Audio De-emphasis
6-2
Audio Level Adjustment
6-2
Printed Circuit Board Layout
6-2
Connector Assignment Table (J2)
6-3
Connector Assignment Table (J1)
6-4
TS-64 CTCSS Wiring Diagram
6-4
Chapter 7.
RS-232 Computer Interface
ISP Loader For CAT-250 Firmware
7-1
ED-250 Windows Editor
7-2
Activation of RS-232 Port With Dipswitch #8
7-2
Activation of RS-232 Port By Radio
7-2
Chapter 8.
Vocabulary Word List Table
8-1
Chapter 9.
Drawings (PC Board Artwork)
9-1
Chapter 10.
Schematics (Four Sheets)
10-1
Chapter 11.
Parts List Table
11-1
REVISED 04/18/16 (V1.08)

1-1
Chapter 1 - Introduction and Specifications
Congratulations on your purchase of the CAT-250 Repeater Controller. Programming the CAT-250 is a
snap, with its carefully structured uniform programming commands. The manual is easy to follow and
the voice synthesizer interacts with you during control and programming operation. An optional
WINDOW EDITOR is available to program the CAT-250 controller.
Voice Synthesizer
A vocabulary base of 290 words is available to ID your repeater and make voice announcements.
CW ID
The controller will switch to CW when a repeater user talks over the voice ID. Or ID in CW only,
depending on how the CAT-250 is configured.
Digital Voice Clock
The digital voice clock will announce the time upon request, during repeater IDs, or on the hour
through the grandfather clock feature. Back-up power for the clock is supplied by a .47 Farad
capacitor. Once 12VDC is supplied to the CAT-250 three hours are required for the capacitor to reach
full charge. During power failure the capacitor will power the clock for approximately six hours.
Scheduler
An advanced [20] position scheduler fully automates repeater operation. Any command that can be
manually executed can also be scheduled to one-minute accuracy. Program the hours, minutes, day of
week, or day of month and month of year. The CAT-250 will do the rest.
Courtesy Tone
Separate courtesy tones denote repeater and link activity. Create up to eight custom courtesy tones
and assign their use by executing event macro 13 Port #1 input and macro 14 for Port #2 input.
Port Configuration
The CAT-250 is a dual port controller. Port #1 is a repeater port. Port #2 can be configured as a
simplex transceiver or duplex transceiver port.
User Function Output Switches
Six open DRAIN user function output switches control equipment at your repeater site. These switches
are controlled manually by DTMF commands or from within a macro. They can be made to turn OFF,
ON or momentarily change state.
User Function Inputs
Four inputs activated by a voltage change from other equipment at the repeater site, causes the CAT-
250 to activate a macro. Two macros are assigned to each logic input. Different macros are called when
the input goes high and low.
DTMF Keypad Test
A DTMF keypad test will read back the numbers decoded in a synthesized voice. This feature is
available on both ports one and two.

1-2
User Macros
The CAT-250 supports forty User Macros each containing sixteen commands. A user macro is a series
of commands, defined by the repeater owner. Macros permit the owner to customize certain aspects of
repeater operation. Once the CAT-250 decodes the macro number, the commands will execute in the
order they were stored within the macro.
Event Triggered Macros
An event macro is a series of commands, defined by the repeater owner. Event Macros are positioned
throughout the program to execute during certain prescribed operations. The CAT-250 supports fifty
event macros each containing sixteen commands.
Specifications
Microprocessor
P89C668
Memory
25C640 (64K)
Voice Synthesizer
Texas Instruments MSP53C391NI2D
Voice Vocabulary
290 Words
DTMF Receivers
(2) MT8870
Operating Temperature
-15 to +55 degrees C
Call Letter ID
(4) Buffer size VOICE (15) - CW (16)
User Function Outputs
(6) Switch 40VDC @ 50mA.
Logic Inputs
(4) 10K ohm input impedance
Low (0 to 0.8VDC) High (2.4 to 15VDC)
Logic Outputs
Open Collector Relay Driver (28VDC at 50mA)
Audio Input
Receiver 0.2 - 2VAC adjustable 10K ohms
Audio Output
Transmitter 2VAC adjustable 600 ohms
Power
+9 to +15VDC at 80mA
Size
4.5" X 7.0"
Warranty
Limited one year, parts and labor.
FCC Part 15 RF Interference
When installed in the RM-250 rack mount enclosure, the CAT-250 has been tested and found to meet
the standards for a Class A digital device, as specified in Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These specifications
are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference in a commercial installation.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

2-1
Chapter 2 - System Configuration
Repeater and Transceiver
In this configuration the CAT-250 supports a repeater on port #1 and a transceiver on port #2. Figure
2-1 shows the repeater connected to J2 the “25 Pin D” connector while the transceiver is connected to
J1 the “9 Pin D” connector. The transceiver port is also available on the “25 Pin D” connector to be
compatible with other CAT controllers.
CAT-250
CAT-250 REPEATER AND TRANSCEIVER CONFIGURATION
J2-6
J2-4
J2-25
J2-10
J2-11
J2-13
J2-1
COR #1
CTCSS #1
PTT #1
TX AUDIO #1
RX AUDIO #1
GROUND
USER INPUT #3
USER INPUT #4
USER INPUT #1
USER INPUT #2
J2-22
J2-21
J2-2
J2-15
J2-14
USER OUTPUT #3
USER OUTPUT #2
USER OUTPUT #1
J2-19
J2-20 USER OUTPUT #4
J2-17
J2-16 GROUND +12VDC OUTPUT
J1-1
J1-4
J1-3
J1-2 COR #2
TX AUDIO #2
PTT #2
CTCSS #2
RX AUDIO #2J1-5
J2-8 USER OUTPUT #6
GROUNDJ1-8
REPEATER
TRANSCEIVER
J2-7 USER OUTPUT #5
Figure 2-1

2-2
Repeater and Transceivers
In this configuration the CAT-250 supports a repeater and three transceivers. With an RLS-1000B
Remote Link Switch board connected to port #2 three transceiver can be added to the repeater system.
Three of the CAT-250’s user function switches are assigned to control the RLS-1000B’s transceiver
inputs.
CAT-250
RLS-1000B
J2-6
J2-4
J2-25
J2-10
J2-11
J2-13
J2-1
J2-22
J2-21
J2-2
J1-1
J1-4
J1-8
J1-9
J1-3
J1-2 COR #2
GROUND
+12VDC OUTPUT
TX AUDIO #2
PTT #2
CTCSS #2
J4-15
J4-14
J4-17
J4-22
J4-18
J4-13
J4-2
J4-1
J4-16
PORT #3 CONTROL
REPEATER COR
CTCSS OUT
REPEATER PTT
RX AUDIO
+12VDC INPUT
GROUND
PORT #1 CONTROL
PORT #2 CONTROL
COR #1
CTCSS #1
PTT #1
TX AUDIO #1
RX AUDIO #1
GROUND
USER INPUT #3
USER INPUT #4
USER INPUT #1
USER INPUT #2
REPEATER
CAT-250 - RLS-1000 THREE TRANSCEIVERS
J2-15
J2-14
J2-20 USER OUTPUT #3
USER OUTPUT #2
USER OUTPUT #1
USER OUTPUT #4
J2-19
J2-8 USER OUTPUT #6
USER OUTPUT #5J2-7
RX AUDIO #2J1-5
2
3
5
1
7
4
1
2
3
4
5
7
1
7
4
2
5
3
COR
CTCSS
PTT
TX AUDIO
RX AUDIO
GROUND
COR
CTCSS
PTT
TX AUDIO
RX AUDIO
GROUND
COR
TX AUDIO
RX AUDIO
GROUND
PTT
CTCSS
TRANSCEIVER
TRANSCEIVER
TRANSCEIVER
TX AUDIOJ4-11
PORT #3
PORT #2
PORT #1
Figure 2-2

2-3
Repeater With One Transceiver And Weather Receiver
In this configuration the CAT-250 supports a repeater, transceiver and weather receiver. The WX-
250 weather receiver mounts on the same 19-inch rack panel as the CAT-250. PTT and transmit
audio from the CAT-250 are connected to the repeater's transmitter through the normally closed
contacts of the double pole double throw relay located inside the WX-250. When a weather alert is
received, the relay will switch the weather alert audio to the TX audio input and provide a PTT signal to
key the transmitter.
CAT-250
J2-6
J2-4
J2-25
J2-10
J2-11
J2-13
COR #1
CTCSS #1
PTT #1
TX AUDIO #1
RX AUDIO #1
GROUND
J2-16
J2-17 +12VDC OUTPUT GROUND
J2-1
USER INPUT #3
USER INPUT #4
USER INPUT #1
USER INPUT #2
J2-22
J2-21
J2-2
J1-1
J1-4
J1-3
J1-2 COR #2
TX AUDIO #2
PTT #2
CTCSS #2
RX AUDIO #2J1-5
J2-15
J2-14
USER OUTPUT #3
USER OUTPUT #2
USER OUTPUT #1
J2-19
J2-20 USER OUTPUT #4
REPEATER
TRANSCEIVER
J1-8 GROUND
WX-250
PTT OUTPUT
PTT INPUT
J4-3
J4-2
J4-11
J4-10 TX AUDIO OUTPUT TX AUDIO INPUT
J4-4 WX ALERT DISABLE
WX ALERT ENABLEJ4-9
J4-1 PTT GROUND
J4-7
J4-6 WX ALERT START WX ALERT STOP
J4-8 GROUND
J2-8 USER OUTPUT #6
CAT-250 - WX-250 WITH REMOTE BASE CONFIGURATION
USER OUTPUT #5J2-7
GROUND
TX AUDIO
PTT
Figure 2-3

2-4
Repeater And Weather Receiver
In this configuration the CAT-250 supports a repeater and weather receiver. The WX-250 is
connected to the transceiver port of the CAT-250. When a weather alert is received, a relay inside the
WX-250 will switch the weather alert audio to the RX2 audio input of the CAT-250 and provide a COR
input signal to activate the repeater’s transmitter.
CAT-250
J2-6
J2-4
J2-25
J2-10
J2-11
J2-13
COR #1
CTCSS #1
PTT #1
TX AUDIO #1
RX AUDIO #1
GROUND
WX-250
J2-16
J2-17 +12VDC OUTPUT GROUND
REPEATER
PTT OUTPUT
PTT INPUT
J4-3
J4-2
J4-11
J4-10 TX AUDIO OUTPUT TX AUDIO INPUT
J4-4 WX ALERT DISABLE
WX ALERT ENABLEJ4-9
J4-1 PTT GROUND
J4-7
J4-6 WX ALERT START WX ALERT STOP
J4-8 GROUND
J2-8 USER OUTPUT #6
CAT-250 - WX-250 AUXILIARY RECEIVER CONFIGURATION
J1-1
J1-4
J1-3
J1-2 COR #2
TX AUDIO #2
PTT #2
CTCSS #2
RX AUDIO #2J1-5
J1-9 +12VDC OUTPUT
J2-1
USER INPUT #3
USER INPUT #4
USER INPUT #1
USER INPUT #2
J2-22
J2-21
J2-2
J2-15
J2-14
USER OUTPUT #3
USER OUTPUT #2
USER OUTPUT #1
J2-19
J2-20 USER OUTPUT #4
USER OUTPUT #5J2-7
Figure 2-4

2-5
Dual Repeater
In this configuration two CAT-250 controllers have their link ports cross-coupled. By connecting PTT
#2 of one CAT-250 to the COR #2 of the other CAT-250 and TX2 audio of one controller connected
to the RX2 audio of the other controller the two repeaters can be linked together. When port #2 is
turned off each repeater will stand-alone.
CAT-250
CAT-250
CAT-250 TWO REPEATER CONFIGURATION
J2-6
J2-4
J2-25
J2-10
J2-11
J2-13
J2-1
COR #1
CTCSS #1
PTT #1
TX AUDIO #1
RX AUDIO #1
GROUND
USER INPUT #3
USER INPUT #4
USER INPUT #1
USER INPUT #2
J2-22
J2-21
J2-2
J2-15
J2-14
USER OUTPUT #3
USER OUTPUT #2
USER OUTPUT #1
J2-19
J2-20 USER OUTPUT #4
J2-6
J2-4
J2-25
J2-10
J2-11
J2-13
J2-1
COR #1
CTCSS #1
PTT #1
TX AUDIO #1
RX AUDIO #1
GROUND
USER INPUT #3
USER INPUT #4
USER INPUT #1
USER INPUT #2
J2-22
J2-21
J2-2
J2-15
J2-14
USER OUTPUT #3
USER OUTPUT #2
USER OUTPUT #1
J2-19
J2-20 USER OUTPUT #4
J1-1
J1-4
J2-17
J2-16
J1-3
J1-2 COR #2
GROUND
+12VDC OUTPUT
TX AUDIO #2
PTT #2
CTCSS #2
RX AUDIO #2J1-5
REPEATER #1
REPEATER #2
J1-1
J1-4
J2-17
J2-16
J1-3
J1-2 COR #2
GROUND
+12VDC OUTPUT
TX AUDIO #2
PTT #2
CTCSS #2
RX AUDIO #2J1-5
J2-8 USER OUTPUT #6
J2-8 USER OUTPUT #6
J2-7 USER OUTPUT #5
J1-8 GROUND
GROUNDJ1-8
USER OUTPUT #5J2-7
Figure 2-5

2-6
Dip Switch
An eight-position dipswitch configures various functions of the CAT-250.
Switch 1 This switch determines Repeater COR input logic. Switch #1 should be ON if the repeater
receiver's COR is an active low and OFF if COR is active high.
Switch 2 This switch determines Repeater CTCSS input logic. Switch #2 should be ON if the
repeater receiver's CTCSS is an active low and OFF if CTCSS is active high.
Switch 3 This switch determines Link COR input logic. This switch should be ON if the link receiver's
COR is an active low and OFF if COR is active high.
Switch 4 This switch determines Link CTCSS input logic. Switch #4 should be ON if the link
receiver's CTCSS is an active low and OFF if CTCSS is active high.
Switch 5 This switch determines the operation of Port #2. Switch #5 should be ON for duplex
transceiver operation and OFF for simplex transceiver operation.
Switch 6 This switch places the CAT-250 in the cross band repeat mode. With transceivers on both
Port #1 and Port #2, enabled the link with the [5001] command. A signal received by the Port #1
receiver will only key the Port #2 transmitter and a signal received by the Port #2 receiver will only key
the Port #1 transmitter.
Switch 7 This switch is used to initialize the CAT-250. Set this switch to ON. Cycle the power OFF
and back ON. During power-up, the memory will be flushed and reloaded with default values. The
voice will say: "RESET SYSTEM OK." Set dipswitch #7 to the OFF position.
Switch 8 This switch is used to program a new MASTER un-lock number. Set switch #8 to ON. The
voice will say: "ENTER CONTROL." After the seven-digit master unlock number is entered, set switch
#8 to OFF. This switch is also used to activate the RS-232 port. Turn the power off set dipswitch #8 to
on and apply power to the CAT-250.

3-1
Chapter 3 - Repeater Control
The CAT-250 has eight control zones. These control zones can be manually controlled by DTMF
commands on the repeater input or by user and event macros.
Interrogation of Repeater Control Status
Key-up and send the control operator code [100] followed by the zone number and a zero. Un-key and
the voice will read back the channels that are turned on in that zone. Example: Read Zone 2 channel
status. If all the channels are turned off, the voice will say: "CLEAR."
Un-key and the voice will say: "ONE FOUR EIGHT"
Changing Repeater Control Status
To change the status of a channel, key-up and send the control operator code [100] followed by the
zone number, channel number and a [1] to turn the channel ON or a [0] to turn the channel OFF. Un-
key and the voice will read back the zone, channel number and control activity. The voice will say:
"ONE ONE ON." or "THREE FIVE OFF."
Example: With a control operator prefix of 100, turn Zone 2 Channel 1 ON.
Un-key and the voice will say: "TWO ONE ON."
Control of the CAT-250 is also available through the Port #2 receiver. The procedure is the same as
above except the default control operator code for Port #2 is [200].
Zone (2)
Control Operator Code Read Channel Status (0)
Key-up and send: 100 2 0
Zone (1 through 4)
Control Operator Code Channel (1 through 8)
Activity (0=OFF 1=ON)
Key-up and send: 100 2 1 1

3-2
Repeater Control Channels
Zone 1
Zone 2
Zone 3
Zone 4
1
PORT #1 TRANSMIT
ENABLE*
2
PORT #1 COR AND CTCSS
ENABLE
3
PORT #1 COR OR CTCSS
ENABLE
4
PORT #1 TURN ON DELAY
ENABLE
5
PORT #1 DTMF PAD TEST
ENABLE*
6
PORT #1 COURTESY TONE
ENABLE*
7
PORT #1 DTMF MUTING
ENABLE
8
PORT #1 TIMEOUT
ENABLE*
1
PORT #2 TRANSMIT
ENABLE*
2
PORT #2 COR AND CTCSS
ENABLE
3
PORT #2 COR OR CTCSS
ENABLE
4
PORT #2 TURN ON DELAY
ENABLE
5
PORT #2 DTMF PAD TEST
ENABLE*
6
PORT #2 AUTO-DISCONNECT
ENABLE
7
PORT #2 DTMF MUTING
ENABLE
8
PORT #2 TIMEOUT
ENABLE*
1
PORT #2 CONTROL OPERATOR
ENABLE*
2
PORT #2 MACRO CONTROL
ENABLE*
3
RESERVED
ENABLE
4
RESERVED
ENABLE
5
RESERVED
ENABLE
6
RESERVED
ENABLE
7
RESERVED
ENABLE
8
RESERVED
ENABLE
1
USER LOGIC INPUT #1
ENABLE*
2
USER LOGIC INPUT #2
ENABLE*
3
USER LOGIC INPUT #3
ENABLE*
4
USER LOGIC INPUT #4
ENABLE*
5
SCHEDULER
ENABLE*
6
TIME OF DAY REQUEST
ENABLE*
7
GRANDFATHER CLOCK
ENABLE*
8
GRANDFATHER CLOCK SLEEP
MODE
ENABLE

3-3
Zone 5
Zone 6
Zone 7
Zone 8
* During initialization these control channels are set to the enable position.
1
USER OUTPUT SWITCH #1
ENABLE
2
USER OUTPUT SWITCH #2
ENABLE
3
USER OUTPUT SWITCH #3
ENABLE
4
USER OUTPUT SWITCH #4
ENABLE
5
USER OUTPUT SWITCH #5
ENABLE
6
USER OUTPUT SWITCH #6
ENABLE
7
DTMF ACCESS
ENABLE
8
FORCED DTMF ENTRY
ENABLE*
1
REPEATER ID #1 (At Rest)
ENABLE*
2
REPEATER ID #2 (Active)
ENABLE*
3
SQUELCH TAIL MESSAGE
ENABLE
4
TRANSMITTER DROP MESSAGE
ENABLE
5
TIMED MESSAGE #1
ENABLE
6
TIMED MESSAGE #2
ENABLE
7
RESERVED
ENABLE
8
RESERVED
ENABLE
1
FAN CONTROL
ENABLE
2
CTCSS ENCODER LOGIC
ENABLE
3
ECHOLINK® CONTROL
ENABLE
4
TRANSMITTER HANG TIME
ENABLE*
5
RESERVED
ENABLE
6
RESERVED
ENABLE
7
RESERVED
ENABLE
8
RESERVED
ENABLE
1
RESERVED
ENABLE
2
RESERVED
ENABLE
3
RESERVED
ENABLE
4
RESERVED
ENABLE
5
RESERVED
ENABLE
6
RESERVED
ENABLE
7
RESERVED
ENABLE
8
RESERVED
ENABLE

3-4
1. Port #1 Transmitter Enable
This is the master repeater switch. This channel must be enabled for normal repeater operation. The
CAT-250 will continue to respond to control operator commands even when the Port #1 transmitter is
disabled. This channel will automatically be enabled after a dipswitch #7 initialization reset.
2. Port #1 COR and CTCSS Enable
When this channel is enabled, in addition to a COR input, an input from a CTCSS decoder at J2-4 must
also be present before Port #1 will activate. A COR input by itself will have no affect. To prevent loss of
control, DO NOT ENABLE THIS CHANNEL unless a CTCSS decoder is connected to J2-4.
3. Port #1 COR or CTCSS Enable
When this channel is enabled, the COR and CTCSS inputs will function as a (OR) logic input. This
means activity on either the COR or CTCSS inputs will cause the controller to key the Port #1
transmitter.
4. Port #1 Turn on Delay Enable
When this channel is enabled, a deliberate and sustained input on Port #1 must be present before the
controller will respond. A time delay of 0.1 to 9.9 seconds can be selected with the [*624*]
programming command. When the CAT-250 is initialized, this timer defaults to 1.0 seconds. This
channel is useful during periods when noise bursts are present on the repeater input.
5. Port #1 DTMF Pad Test Enable
When this channel is enabled, a repeater user is able to perform a test of their radio's 12 or 16-button
keypad through the repeater port. As the numbers are being decoded, they are stored in memory.
When the repeater user stops transmitting the controller will read back all the numbers that were
decoded. The Forced DTMF Entry key is defaulted to the [D] key. It must be entered last and it will
not read back during the pad test.
6. Port #1 Courtesy Tone Enable
When this channel is enabled, a courtesy tone will occur when the COR signal is lost. To eliminate the
courtesy tone, turn this channel OFF. The timeout timer will continue to be reset.
7. Port #1 DTMF Muting Enable
When this channel is enabled, anytime a DTMF tone is received, the audio will be turned off to the Port
#1 transmitter. The transmit audio will remain muted until a pre-determined time after the last DTMF
tone is received. During the mute period, cover beeps are transmitted each second to indicate repeater
activity. This feature prevents control commands from being repeated. It provides an extra measure
of security. There may be times when it is desirable to pass the DTMF tones through the repeater. To
temporarily disable DTMF muting, precede the DTMF string with a (#).
Zone 1 - Repeater Control Channels

3-5
8. Port #1 Timeout Enable
Port #1 time-out is user programmable with the [*601*] timer programming commands. When the
CAT-250 is initialized, this timer defaults to 3 minutes. When this channel is turned off, the repeater,
port #1 will not timeout.
1. Port #2 Transmitter Enable
This channel must be enabled for link operation. This channel will automatically be enabled after a
dipswitch #7 initialization reset.
2. Port #2 COR and CTCSS Enable
When this channel is enabled, in addition to a COR input at J2-5, an input from a CTCSS decoder at J2-
3 must also be present before the repeater will activate. A COR input by itself will have no affect.
3. Port #2 COR or CTCSS Enable
When this channel is enabled, the COR and CTCSS inputs will function as a (OR) logic input. This
means activity on either the COR or CTCSS inputs will cause the controller to key the repeater's
transmitter.
4. Port #2 Turn on Delay Enable
When this channel is enabled, a deliberate and sustained input on Port #2 must be present before the
controller will activate the repeater. A time delay of 0.1 to 9.9 seconds can be selected with the
[*624*] programming command. When the CAT-250 is initialized, this timer defaults to 1.0 seconds.
This channel is useful during periods when noise bursts are present on the transceiver input.
5. Port #2 DTMF Pad Test Enable
When this channel is enabled, a repeater user is able to perform a test of their radio's 12 or 16-button
keypad through Port #2. As the numbers are being decoded, they are stored in memory. When the
repeater user stops transmitting the controller will read back all the numbers that were decoded. The
Forced DTMF Entry key is defaulted to the [D] key. It must be entered last and it will not read back
during the pad test.
6. Port #2 Auto Disconnect Enable
When this channel is enabled, the link will disconnect automatically after a period of repeater inactivity.
The voice will say: “LINK TIME OUT”. A repeater or transceiver COR will keep the link activate until
the repeater returns to rest. A rest period of up to 29 minutes can be selected with the [*607*]
programming command. When the CAT-250 is initialized, this timer defaults to 10 minutes.
Zone 2 - Link Control Channels

3-6
7. Port #2 DTMF Muting Enable
When this channel is enabled, anytime a DTMF tone is received, the audio will be turned off to the Port
#2 transmitter. The transmit audio will remain muted until a pre-determined time after the last DTMF
tone is received. During the mute period, cover beeps are transmitted each second to indicate repeater
activity. This feature prevents control commands from being repeated. It provides an extra measure
of security. There may be times when it is desirable to pass the DTMF tones through the repeater. To
temporarily disable DTMF muting, precede the DTMF string with a (#).
8. Port #2 Timeout Enable
Link time-out is user programmable with the [*602*] timer programming commands. When the CAT-
250 is initialized, this timer defaults to 3 minutes. When this channel is turned off, the repeater link
port, will not timeout.
1. Port #2 Control Operator Enable
When this channel is enabled, the CAT-250 will accept control operator commands to change the
settings of the zone channels from the link side. The default code is [200]. This code can be changed
with the [*502*] programming command.
2. Port #2 Macro Enable
When this channel is enabled, the CAT-250 will accept user macro commands from the link side.
3. Reserved
4. Reserved
5. Reserved
6. Reserved
7. Reserved
8. Reserved
Zone 3 - Link Control Channels

3-7
1. User Logic Input #1 Enable
When this channel is enabled, an active high logic input on connector J2-1 will execute event macro #5
while an active low logic input will execute event macro #6.
2. User Logic Input #2 Enable
When this channel is enabled, an active high logic input on connector J2-2 will execute event macro #7
while an active low logic input will execute event macro #8.
3. User Logic Input #3 Enable
When this channel is enabled, an active high logic input on connector J2-21 will execute event macro
#9 while an active low logic input will execute event macro #10.
4. User Logic Input #4 Enable
When this channel is enabled, an active high logic input on connector J2-22 will execute event macro
#11 while an active low logic input will execute event macro #12.
5. Scheduler Enable
When this channel is enabled, all action by the scheduler will be executed per the times programmed in
the scheduler table. There may be times, during emergency net operations, when it is not desirable to
have channels change automatically. To suspend scheduler operation, turn this channel off.
6. Time of Day Request Enable
When this channel is enabled, repeater users can request a time of day announcement by entering the
time of day request number. This message will consist of up to 15 words selected from the voice
vocabulary table and is programmed with the [*3109*] command. When the CAT-250 is initialized,
this message defaults to: "THE TIME IS 7:15 PM."
7. Grandfather Clock Enable
When this channel is enabled, the CAT-250 will announce the time of day every hour on the hour. This
message will consist of up to 15 words selected from the voice synthesizer vocabulary table and
programmed with the [*3110*] command. When the CAT-250 is initialized, this message defaults to:
"CAT-250 REPEATER THE TIME IS 7:15 PM."
8. Grandfather Clock Sleep Mode Enable
It may be desirable to suspend the grandfather clock operation during the early morning hours. When
this channel is enabled, the last announcement will be at 11:00 PM. Time announcements will resume
at 7:00 AM the next morning.
Zone 4 - Miscellaneous Control Channels

3-8
1. USER Output Switch #1 Enable
When this channel is enabled, switch #1 is turned on. Connector J2 pin 14 will sink 50 MA to ground.
2. USER Output Switch #2 Enable
When this channel is enabled, switch #2 is turned on. Connector J2 pin 15 will sink 50 MA to ground.
3. USER Output Switch #3 Enable
When this channel is enabled, switch #3 is turned on. Connector J2 pin 19 will sink 50 MA to ground.
4. USER Output Switch #4 Enable
When this channel is enabled, switch #4 is turned on. Connector J2 pin 20 will sink 50 MA to ground.
5. USER Output Switch #5 Enable
When this channel is enabled, switch #3 is turned on. Connector J2 pin 7 will sink 50 MA to ground.
6. USER Output Switch #6 Enable
When this channel is enabled, switch #4 is turned on. Connector J2 pin 8 will sink 50 MA to ground.
7. DTMF Access Enable
When this channel is enabled, a DTMF Access number selected by programming command [*503*]
must be entered to activate Port #1. The repeater will continue to operate until a period of inactivity
occurs determined by the [*606*] sleep timer. Once the timer expires the next repeater user must re-
enter the DTMF Access number.
8. Forced DTMF Entry D Key
When this channel is enabled it is possible to force a DTMF command even while the port is active. To
force a DTMF command, end the command with a [D]. This key can be changed with the [*29x]
programming command.
Zone 5 - Miscellaneous Control Channels

3-9
1. Repeater ID #1 (At Rest) Enable
When this channel is enabled, repeater ID message #1 will repeat subject to the setting of the ID
timer. This ID will consist of up to 15 words selected from the voice vocabulary table and is
programmed with the [*3101] command.
2. Repeater ID #2 (Active) Enable
When this channel is enabled, the Repeater ID Message #2 will repeat subject to the setting of the ID
timer. This ID will consist of up to 15 words selected from the voice vocabulary table and is
programmed with the [*3102] command. When Repeater ID #1 and #2 are enabled, ID messages
selection will be determined by whether the repeater is at rest or a QSO is in progress.
3. Squelch Tail Message Enable
When this channel is enabled, the squelch tail message occurs when a repeater user un-keys their
transmitter. This message will repeat subject to the setting of the [*610*] squelch tail message timer.
This message will consist of up to 15 words selected from the vocabulary table and programmed with
the [*3103] command.
4. Transmitter Drop Out Message Enable
When this channel is enabled, the voice drop out message will occur just before the repeater
transmitter turns off. This message will repeat subject to the setting of the [*611*] drop out message
timer. This message will consist of up to 15 words selected from the voice vocabulary table and is
programmed with the [*3104] command.
5. Timed Message #1 Enabled
When this channel is enabled, the timed voice message will occur on a regular schedule subject to the
setting of the timed message timer. This message will consist of up to 15 words selected from the
voice vocabulary table and is programmed with the [*3105] command.
6. Timed Message #2 Enabled
When this channel is enabled, the timed voice message will occur on a regular schedule subject to the
setting of the timed message timer. This message will consist of up to 15 words selected from the
voice vocabulary table and is programmed with the [*3106] command.
7. Reserved
8. Reserved
1. Fan Control Enable
When this channel is enabled, user output switch #6 is converted into a Fan Control output. When PTT
#1 turns ON, user output #6 J2 pin 8 will turn ON. After PTT #1 turns OFF this output will remain ON
for an additional period of time determined by the [*612*] Fan Control timer. This timer default is 60
seconds. Use this output to control a fan relay to cool the repeater’s transmitter. When this channel is
enabled, Zone 5 Channel 6 will have no effect.
Zone 6 –Voice Message Control Channels
Zone 7 - Miscellaneous Control Channels