Timewave PK-232 MBX User manual

PK-232 MBX
Operating Manual
MODEL PK-232MBX DATA CONTROLLER
Timewave Technology Inc..
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
Reproduction, dissemination or use of information contained herein for
purposes other than operation and/or maintenance is prohibited without
written authorization from Timewave Technology Inc.

9/99 VA.02633
PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PREFACE
8/91 P/N 040-061-1

PREFACE TO THE PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL
Please read this preface in its entirety. It contains information about how to
receive warranty service from Timewave and Timewave's software update policy.
RF Interference Information To User
This PK-232 has been certified under Subpart J of Part 15 of the FCC rules.
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy. If not installed and
used properly, in strict accordance with AEA's instructions, it may cause
interference to radio and TV reception. It has been type-tested and has been
found to comply with the limits of a Class B digital device in accordance with
the specifications in Part 15 Subpart J of the FCC rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference in a residential
installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to
radio or TV reception, which can be determined by turning the PK-232 on and off,
the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference using one or more of
the following measures:
o Re-orient the antenna of the device receiving interference.
o Relocate the PK-232 or computer with respect to this device.
o Plug the PK-232 into a different outlet so the PK-232 and the device are on
different branch circuits.
If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for additional suggestions. The user may find "How to Identify and
Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems", a booklet prepared by the FCC, helpful.
YOU MUST USE SHIELDED CABLE FOR ALL CONNECTIONS
As part of its continuing program of product improvement, AEA reserves the right
to make changes in this product's specifications or documentation.
There may be inaccuracies or typographical errors in this document. Please
address comments and corrections to AEA Incorporated, PO Box C2160, Lynnwood, WA
98036-0918. AEA reserves the right to incorporate and issue any information
thus supplied in whatever manner it deems suitable without incurring any
obligations whatsoever.
Copyright Timewave Technology Inc., 2001. All rights reserved.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means
without prior written permission from the copyright owner.
12/01 I

Welcome
Congratulations!! You've purchased another fine Timewave product.
PLEASE, before we go any further, may we ask you to FILL OUT AND RETURN the
Warranty Registration Card, which has been packed with your PK-232 system.
Product Update Policy
From time to time Timewave may make available updates to the design of its
products.
We can only tell you about these updates if we have your warranty card on file.
PLEASE SEND IT IN if you have not already done so.
In Case of Trouble
Application and troubleshooting assistance may be had by calling Timewave from
9:00-12:00 A.M. or 1:00-4:00 P.M. in St. Paul, MN. Ask for the Technical
Support Department. The phone number is 651-489-5080. Please have your
PK-232's serial number and version date of the software available. The version
date is on the first screen that comes up when you turn on the PK-232. We will
also need to know the nature of any other equipment connected to the PK-232.
You may wish to attempt to solve problems locally, using other hams or an
Timewave dealer. With over 100,000 PK-232s in use, a helpful Amateur with
equipment similar to your own may literally be just around the corner.
Substituting another PK-232 that you know is working properly for your
questionable one is a diagnostic technique that will check out the rest of your
station. You may also try running your PK-232 in another station if possible.
Timewave provides Technical Support for its line of amateur radio equipment by
way of your personal computer and modem on the internet! Timewave's email
addresses for serice and tech support are mailto:[email protected] and
[email protected].
If you call for assistance, please have your PK-232 up and running beside the
phone. Our Support technician will likely ask you to perform certain keyboard
routines to aid in diagnosis. If you have a voltmeter handy, you might have the
PK-232 open so you can report measurements to the Support technician.
Many of the Timewave products that are sent to us for repair are in perfectly
good order when we receive them. There is a check-out charge of $40 for units
returned to us in working order. Please perform whatever steps are applicable
from the installation sections of this manual.
PLEASE DO NOT RETURN THE PK-232 TO US WITHOUT CONTACTING US FOR PERMISSION AND
AN RMA NUMBER. WE WOULD LIKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO TROUBLESHOOT THE PROBLEM OVER
THE PHONE FIRST, SAVING YOU BOTH TIME AND MONEY.
If the unit must be sent in, we will give you a Return to Manufacturer
Authorization (RMA) number over the telephone. This number allows us to track
your unit and provide you with its status. Please write this number on the
outside of the box so we may process your unit as quickly as possible.
9/99 ii

Timewave address is:
Timewave Technology Inc.
501 W. Lawson Ave.
ST. Paul, MN 55117 USA
Attn. Service
RMA # ????????? obtain by telephone or email from Timewave)
We will need YOUR street address for UPS return - be sure to send it. Please
include your daytime telephone number in case we need to contact you for further
information.
UPS Surface (Brown Label) takes 5-6 days, Blue takes 2-3 days. Red is an
overnight service and is expensive. Send the PK-232 in a way that it can be
traced if we cannot verify receipt of shipment. We suggest UPS or insured
postal shipment.
If the PK-232 is still under the original owner's warranty, Timewave will pay the
cost of the return shipment to you. The current policy is that it will be
returned UPS Brown. If the owner wishes to PK-232 to be returned Blue, Red or by
other overnight service he must furnishes the return cost for the method he
selects.
If the PK-232 is out of warranty, it will be returned by UPS Brown COD unless:
1) It was received UPS Blue/Red in which case it will go back UPS Blue COD, or
2) If you designate billing to VISA or MASTERCARD or American Express, or 3) you
prepay the service charges with a personal check, or 4) you specify some other
method of return.
Typically, we will service the product in five to ten working days after it has
arrived at Timewave if we have all the facts. If we must call you, it may take
longer. PLEASE include a letter stating the problem and where you can be
reached by telephone. If you can be reached by phone in the evening on the East
Coast, let us know the number. Our current rate for non-warranty service of the
PK-232 is a flat rate of $75 which includes return shipping. Timewave is not
responsible for damage such as caused by lightning, nonprofessional alterations,
poor storage/handling, etc. We will make note of any shipping damage upon
receipt. See the inside back cover for Warranty information.
Should your warranty card not be on file at Timewave, you need to send the proof
of purchase date to receive warranty service. Typically a copy of your bill of
sale from an Timewave dealer will suffice.
The warranty is for the original owner only and is not transferable.
9/99 iii

PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION
Paragraph Page
1.1 Overview................................................... 1-1
1.1.1 Capabilities.......................................... 1-1
1.1.2 Included Components................................... 1-1
1.2 Computer or Computer Terminal Requirements................. 1-2
1.3 Station Requirements....................................... 1-2
1.3.1 System Transmitter-Receiver Performance Requirements.. 1-2
1.4 PK-232 Specifications...................................... 1-3
1.4.1 Modem Characteristics................................. 1-3
1.4.2 Processor System...................................... 1-3
1.4.3 Input/Output Connections.............................. 1-3
1.4.4 Controls and Indicators............................... 1-4
1.4.5 General............................................... 1-4
CHAPTER 2 - COMPUTER INSTALLATION
2.1 Overview................................................... 2-1
2.1.1 Equipment Required.................................... 2-1
2.2 Unpacking the PK-232....................................... 2-1
2.2.1 Connecting Power...................................... 2-2
2.3 Connecting Your Computer or Computer Terminal.............. 2-3
2.3.1 IBM-PC/XT/AT and Compatibles.......................... 2-3
2.3.2 Apple Macintosh Series of Computers................... 2-4
2.3.3 Commodore 64 and 128 Computers........................ 2-4
2.3.4 Computer Terminal..................................... 2-4
2.4 Setting Up Your Communications or Terminal Software Program 2-4
2.4.1 Terminal Programs for IBM-PCs and Compatibles......... 2-5
2.4.2 Terminal Programs for the Apple Macintosh............. 2-5
2.4.3 Terminal Programs for the Commodore 64, 64C and 128... 2-6
2.5 System Startup and Loop-back Test.......................... 2-6
2.6 Detailed RS-232 Connections for Other Computers............ 2-10
2.6.1 Other Computers with RS-232-C Ports................... 2-11
2.6.2 Other Computers with Non-Standard Serial Ports........ 2-11
2.7 Terminal (Modem) Software for Other Computers.............. 2-12
CHAPTER 3 - RADIO INSTALLATION
3.1 Overview................................................... 3-1
3.1.1 Equipment Required.................................... 3-1
3.2 Receive-Only Radio Connections............................. 3-1
3.3 Transmit and Receive Radio Connections..................... 3-2
3.3.1 Transceiver's Microphone or Accessory Connector?...... 3-2
8/91 TOC-1

CHAPTER 3 - RADIO INSTALLATION (Continued)
Paragraph Page
3.3.2 Connections for Specific Transceivers................. 3-2
3.3.3 Check Your Transceiver's Operating Manual............. 3-3
3.3.4 Specific Connection Points............................ 3-3
3.3.5 Begin Assembling your Radio Cable..................... 3-4
3.3.5.1 Prepare the Radio Cable.......................... 3-4
3.3.5.2 Verify the Connection Points with Your Manual.... 3-4
3.3.5.3 Prepare the Connector............................ 3-4
3.3.5.4 Wire the Connector............................... 3-4
3.3.6 Wiring Your HF Transceiver for Direct CW Keying....... 3-6
3.3.7 Connections for Direct FSK Operation on RTTY.......... 3-6
3.3.8 Connections for an Oscilloscope....................... 3-7
3.4 PK-232 Configuration Jumpers and Connections............... 3-8
3.4.1 Push-To-Talk (PTT) Configuration...................... 3-8
3.4.2 PK-232 Connections.................................... 3-8
3.5 Transceiver Adjustments.................................... 3-9
3.5.1 FM Transceiver Final Adjustments...................... 3-9
3.5.2 SSB Transceiver Final Adjustments..................... 3-10
CHAPTER 4 - PACKET RADIO
4.1 Overview................................................... 4-1
4.1.1 Getting Started....................................... 4-1
4.1.2 Making the Loopback Connection........................ 4-1
4.2 Packet Introduction........................................ 4-2
4.3 VHF/UHF Packet Operation................................... 4-4
4.3.1 What You Should See................................... 4-5
4.3.2 What It Means......................................... 4-6
4.3.3 What Happens When You Connect......................... 4-8
4.3.3.1 Standard TNCs.................................... 4-8
4.3.3.2 Mailbox Message Systems.......................... 4-8
4.3.3.3 Packet Switches.................................. 4-9
4.3.4 Who Can I Talk To?.................................... 4-11
4.3.5 Your First Real Connect............................... 4-11
4.3.6 I'm Having Trouble Connecting......................... 4-12
4.4 More Packet Features....................................... 4-13
4.4.1 LED Status and Mode Indicators........................ 4-13
4.4.2 Automatic Greetings................................... 4-13
4.4.3 Beacon Operation...................................... 4-13
4.4.4 Digipeater Details.................................... 4-14
4.4.4.1 Are You a Digipeater?............................ 4-14
4.4.5 Monitoring Other Stations............................. 4-15
4.4.5.1 Monitoring the Packet Networking Switches........ 4-15
4.4.5.2 Monitoring Other Stations While Connected........ 4-16
4.4.5.3 Selective Monitoring............................. 4-16
4.4.5.4 The MFILTER Command.............................. 4-16
4.4.5.5 Monitor Without Callsign Headers................. 4-16
4.4.5.6 MSTAMP - The Monitor Time-Stamp Command.......... 4-16
4.4.6 Packet Connects....................................... 4-17
4.4.6.1 Time-Stamping Connects........................... 4-17
4.4.6.2 Connect Alarm.................................... 4-17
4.4.7 Packet Formatting and Editing......................... 4-17
4.4.7.1 Carriage Returns and Linefeeds in Packets........ 4-17
4.4.7.2 Canceling Lines and Packets...................... 4-18
8/91 TOC-2

CHAPTER 4 - PACKET RADIO (Continued)
Paragraph Page
4.4.7.3 Redisplay........................................ 4-18
4.4.7.4 The PASS Character............................... 4-18
4.4.8 Packet Transmit Timing................................ 4-18
4.4.8.1 TXDELAY and AUDELAY.............................. 4-18
4.4.8.2 AXDELAY and AXHANG............................... 4-19
4.5 Packet Protocol Basics..................................... 4-19
4.5.1 Unconnected Packets................................... 4-20
4.5.2 Connected Packets..................................... 4-20
4.5.3 FRACK and RETRY....................................... 4-20
4.5.4 PACLEN and MAXFRAME................................... 4-20
4.5.5 Reducing Errors Through Collision Avoidance........... 4-20
4.5.6 CHECK and RELINK...................................... 4-21
4.6 Multiple Connection Operation.............................. 4-21
4.6.1 Multiple Connection Description....................... 4-21
4.6.2 The Channel Switching Character....................... 4-22
4.6.3 Will You Accept Multiple Connects..................... 4-22
4.6.4 Display Multiple Connected Callsigns.................. 4-22
4.6.5 Doubling Received CHSWITCH Characters................. 4-22
4.6.6 Checking Your Connect Status with the CSTATUS Command. 4-22
4.6.7 The MULT LED.......................................... 4-22
4.7 HF Packet Operation........................................ 4-23
4.7.1 Where to Operate HF Packet............................ 4-23
4.7.2 PK-232 HF Packet Settings............................. 4-23
4.7.3 HF Receiver Settings.................................. 4-23
4.7.4 Tuning In HF Packet Stations.......................... 4-23
4.7.5 Transmitter Adjustments............................... 4-24
4.7.6 Going On The Air...................................... 4-25
4.8 Advanced Packet Operation.................................. 4-25
4.8.1 Transparent Mode...................................... 4-25
4.8.2 Sending 8-bit Data in Converse Mode................... 4-25
4.8.3 The ALTMODEM Command.................................. 4-26
4.8.4 The CFROM Command..................................... 4-26
4.8.5 Operating in Full-Duplex.............................. 4-26
4.8.6 Identifying as a Digipeater........................... 4-26
4.8.7 Digipeater Alias Callsign............................. 4-26
4.8.8 Morse ID in Packet.................................... 4-26
4.8.9 Sharing Packet Channels With Voice Operation.......... 4-26
4.8.10 Disabling Transmit Operation.......................... 4-26
4.9 Seldom Used Commands....................................... 4-26
4.10 Packet Lite HF Packet Protocol Extension................... 4-27
4.10.1 Enabling Packet Lite.................................. 4-27
4.10.2 Compatibility With Standard AX.25 Stations............ 4-28
4.10.3 Packet Lite Protocol Enhancement Summary.............. 4-28
CHAPTER 5 - MAILDROP OPERATION
5.1 Overview of PakMail Operation.............................. 5-1
5.1.1 RAM Space for Message Storage......................... 5-1
5.1.2 System Commands....................................... 5-1
5.1.3 Your MailDrop Callsign................................ 5-1
5.1.4 Start and Stop MailDrop Operation..................... 5-1
5.2 Local Logon................................................ 5-1
5.2.1 Monitor MailDrop Operation............................ 5-2
5.2.2 Caller Prompts........................................ 5-2
5.3 SYSOP MailDrop Commands.................................... 5-2
8/91 TOC-3

CHAPTER 5 - MAILDROP OPERATION (Continued)
Paragraph Page
5.4 Remote User MailDrop Commands.............................. 5-3
5.4.1 A (ABORT)............................................. 5-3
5.4.2 B (BYE)............................................... 5-3
5.4.3 E (Edit #)............................................ 5-3
5.4.4 H (HELP).............................................. 5-4
5.4.5 J (JLOG).............................................. 5-4
5.4.6 K n (KILL n [Mine])................................... 5-5
5.4.7 L (LIST [Mine])....................................... 5-5
5.4.8 R n (READ n [Mine])................................... 5-5
5.4.9 S callsign (SEND callsign)............................ 5-5
5.4.9.1 Sending Other Types of Messages with SEND........ 5-6
5.4.10 V (VERSION)........................................... 5-7
5.4.11 ? (HELP).............................................. 5-7
5.5 Sample MailDrop Session - The Remote User's Point of View.. 5-7
5.5.1 Connect and Logon..................................... 5-7
5.5.2 LIST Messages......................................... 5-7
5.5.3 READ Messages......................................... 5-8
5.5.4 KILL Messages......................................... 5-8
5.5.5 SEND Messages......................................... 5-8
5.5.6 Log Off and Disconnect................................ 5-9
5.6 Sample MailDrop Session - MailDrop SYSOP's Point of View... 5-9
5.6.1 Message Numbers....................................... 5-10
5.7 Forwarding and Reverse Forwarding with the PK-232 MailDrop. 5-10
5.7.1 MailDrop Settings for Auto-Forwarding................. 5-11
5.7.2 Entering a Message for Reverse Forwarding............. 5-11
CHAPTER 6 - BAUDOT AND ASCII RTTY OPERATION
6.1 Overview................................................... 6-1
6.2 Where to Operate Baudot and ASCII RTTY..................... 6-1
6.2.1 PK-232 Baudot RTTY Parameter Settings................. 6-1
6.2.2 HF Receiver Settings.................................. 6-2
6.2.3 Tuning in Baudot and ASCII Stations................... 6-2
6.3 Transmitter Adjustments.................................... 6-3
6.3.1 Going On The Air...................................... 6-3
6.4 A Typical Baudot RTTY Contact.............................. 6-4
6.4.1 Calling CQ............................................ 6-4
6.4.2 Answering a CQ........................................ 6-4
6.5 Baudot RTTY Operating Tips................................. 6-5
6.5.1 Changing Speed........................................ 6-5
6.5.2 Entering Your Auto-AnswerBack......................... 6-5
6.5.3 Formatting Your Transmitted and Received Text......... 6-6
6.5.4 Sending a Synchronous Idle or DIDDLE.................. 6-6
6.5.5 Echoing Transmitted characters As Sent................ 6-6
6.5.6 Sending Only Complete Words........................... 6-6
6.5.7 Operating on the Wrong Sideband....................... 6-6
6.5.8 UnShift-On-Space (USOS)............................... 6-6
6.5.9 Operating at Commercial or VHF Wide RTTY Shifts....... 6-7
6.5.10 The CODE Command for International RTTY Compatibility. 6-7
6.5.11 Copying Encoded RTTY Transmissions.................... 6-7
6.6 ASCII RTTY Operation....................................... 6-7
6.6.1 Starting ASCII Operation.............................. 6-7
6.6.2 ASCII RTTY Operating Tips............................. 6-8
6.6.3 Changing ASCII Baud Rates............................. 6-8
6.6.4 Other RTTY Commands for ASCII Operation............... 6-8
8/91 TOC-4

CHAPTER 7 - AMTOR AND NAVTEX OPERATION
Paragraph Page
7.1 Overview................................................... 7-1
7.2 Where to Operate AMTOR..................................... 7-1
7.2.1 PK-232 AMTOR Parameter Settings....................... 7-1
7.2.2 Entering Your SELective CALling Code (MYSELCAL)....... 7-1
7.2.3 Entering Your SELective CALling Code (MYIDENT)........ 7-2
7.2.4 Enter the AMTOR Mode.................................. 7-2
7.2.5 HF Receiver Settings.................................. 7.2
7.2.6 Tuning in AMTOR Stations.............................. 7-3
7.3 Transmitter Adjustments.................................... 7-4
7.3.1 Going On The Air...................................... 7-4
7.3.2 Calling CQ in FEC AMTOR............................... 7-4
7.3.3 Answering an FEC AMTOR CQ............................. 7-4
7.3.4 ARQ AMTOR Operating Fundamentals...................... 7-5
7.3.5 Ending an ARQ AMTOR Contact........................... 7-5
7.3.6 LED Status and Mode Indicators........................ 7-6
7.4 AMTOR Operating Tips....................................... 7-7
7.4.1 ARQ Break-In (ACHG Command)........................... 7-7
7.4.2 Entering Your Auto-AnswerBack (AAB)................... 7-7
7.4.3 Speed Change Not Permitted............................ 7-7
7.4.4 Echoing Transmitted Characters as Sent (EAS).......... 7-8
7.4.5 Sending Only Complete Words (WORDOUT)................. 7-8
7.4.6 Operating on the Wrong Sideband....................... 7-8
7.5 Monitoring ARQ AMTOR Contacts with ALIST................... 7-8
7.6 AMTOR MailDrop Operation................................... 7-9
7.6.1 Special Operating Considerations...................... 7-9
7.6.2 Settings For AMTOR MailDrop Operation................. 7-9
7.6.3 Starting AMTOR MailDrop Operation..................... 7-9
7.6.4 Local Logon to the MailDrop........................... 7-10
7.6.4.1 Remote Logon to your AMTOR MailDrop.............. 7-10
7.6.5 Caller Prompts........................................ 7-10
7.6.6 Monitor MailDrop Operation............................ 7-11
7.6.7 SYSOP MailDrop Commands............................... 7-11
7.6.8 Remote User MailDrop Commands......................... 7-11
7.6.8.1 A (ABORT)........................................ 7-11
7.6.8.2 B (BYE).......................................... 7-11
7.6.8.3 H (HELP)......................................... 7-11
7.6.8.4 J (JLOG)......................................... 7-12
7.6.8.5 K n (KILL n [Mine]).............................. 7-12
7.6.8.6 L (LIST [Mine]).................................. 7-12
7.6.8.7 R n (READ n [Mine]).............................. 7-12
7.6.8.8 S callsign (SEND callsign)....................... 7-12
7.7 AMTOR Switching-Time Considerations........................ 7-13
7.7.1 Suggested AMTOR Operating Settings.................... 7-13
7.7.2 Possible Areas for AMTOR Performance Improvement...... 7-13
7.8 NAVTEX Operation........................................... 7-14
CHAPTER 8 - MORSE OPERATION
8.1 Overview................................................... 8-1
8.2 Where to Operate Morse..................................... 8-1
8.2.1 PK-232 Morse Parameter Settings....................... 8-1
8.2.2 HF Receiver Settings.................................. 8-1
8.2.3 Tuning in Morse Stations.............................. 8-1
8/91 TOC-5

CHAPTER 7 - AMTOR AND NAVTEX OPERATION (Continued)
Paragraph Page
7.6.5 Caller Prompts 7-10
7.6.6 Monitor MailDrop Operation 7-11
7.6.7 SYSOP MailDrop Commands 7-11
7.6.8 Remote User MailDrop Commands 7-11
7.6.8.1 A (ABORT) 7-11
7.6.8.2 B (BYE) 7-11
7.6.8.3 H (HELP) 7-11
7.6.8.4 K (JLOG) 7-12
7.6.8.5 K n (KILL n (Mine)) 7-12
7.6.8.6 L (LIST (Mine)) 7-12
7.6.8.7 R n (READ n (Mine]) 7-12
7.6.8.8 S callsign (SEND callsign) 7-12
7.7 AMTOR Switching-Time Considerations 7-13
7.7.1 Suggested AMTOR Operating Settings 7-13
7.7.2 Possible Areas for AMTOR Performance Improvement 7-13
7.8 NAVTEX Operation 7-14
CHAPTER 8 - MORSE OPERATION
8.1 Overview 8-1
8.2 Where to Operate Morse 8-1
8.2.1 PK-232 Morse Parameter Settings 8-1
8.2.2 HF Receiver Settings 8-1
8.2.3 Tuning in Morse Stations 8-1
8.3 Going On The Air 8-2
8.3.1 A Typical Morse Contact 8-2
8.4 Morse Operating Tips 8-3
8.4.1 Speed Change (MSPEED) 8-3
8.4.2 Echoing Transmitted Characters As Sent (EAS) 8-3
8.4.3 Sending only Complete Words (WORDOUT) 8-4
8.4.4 Speed Lock (LOCK) 8-4
8.5 Special Morse Characters 8-4
8.6 Morse Code Practice 8-4
CHAPTER 9 - FACSIMILE OPERATION
9.1 Overview 9-1
9.2 Finding FAX Frequencies 9-1
9.3 System Setup 9-2
9.3.1 HF Receiver Settings 9-2
9.3.2 Tuning In HF Facsimile Stations 9-2
9.3.3 PK-232 Facsimile Parameter Settings 9-3
9.4 Receiving Facsimile Broadcasts 9-3
9.5 Facsimile Operating Tips 9-4
9.5.1 Setting PRTYPE for Your Printer 9-4
9.5.2 Printing Direction (LEFTRITE) 9-5
9.5.3 Inverting Black and White (PAXNEG) 9-5
9.5.4 Printing Density 9-5
9.6 Printing Other Services 9-5
9.7 Transmitting FAX 9-5
9.8 Adjusting the PK-232 4.0 MHz Master Oscillator 9-6
2/93 TOC-6

CHAPTER 10 - SIGNAL IDENTIFICATION AND TDM OPERATION
Paragraph Page
10.1 Overview 10-1
10.2 SIAM Operation 10-1
10.2.1 Tuning In FSK Narrow and Wide Stations 10-1
10.3 Using the SIAM Mode 10-2
10.3.1 Copying Encoded RTTY Transmissions 10-3
10.3.2 The CODE Command for International RTTY Compatibility. 10-3
10.4 TDM Receive Operation 10-4
10.4.1 TDM Parameters 10-4
10.4.2 Monitoring TDM Signals 10-4
10.4.3 Where to Find TDM Signals 10-4
CHAPTER 11 - Pactor OPERATION
11.1 Overview 11-1
11.2 Where to Operate Pactor 11-1
11.3 PK-232 Parameter Settings 11-2
11.3.1 Entering Your Callsign (MYCALL) 11-2
11.3.2 Entering the Pactor Mode 11-2
11.4 HF Receiver Settings 11-3
11.5 Tuning in Pactor Stations 11-3
11.6 Operating on Pactor 11-4
11.6.1 Going On the Air 11-4
11.6.2 Calling CQ in Unproto Mode 11-4
11.6.3 Answering an Unproto Pactor CQ 11-5
11.6.3.1 Ending an ARQ Pactor Contact 11-6
11.6.4 Long Path Contacts 11-6
11.6.5 LED Status and Mode Indicators 11-7
11.7 Pactor Operating Tips 11-8
11.7.1 ARQ.Break-In (ACHG Command) 11-8
11.7.2 Entering Your Auto-Answer Back (AAB) 11-9
11.7.3 Operating Pactor on Other Modem Frequencies and Shifts 11-9
11.7.4 Automatic Speed Change 11-9
11.7.5 Echoing Transmitted Characters As Sent (EAS) 11-9
11.7.6 Sending Only Complete Words (WORDOUT) 11-9
11.7.7 Operating on the Wrong Sideband 11-10
11.7.8 Little Used Pactor Commands 11-10
11.8 Monitoring ARQ Pactor Contacts with PTL 11-10
11.9 Pactor MailDrop Operation 11-11
11.9.1 Special Operating Considerations 11-11
11.9.2 Settings For Pactor MailDrop Operation 11-11
11.9.3 Starting Pactor MailDrop Operation 11-12
11.9.4 Local Logon to the MailDrop 11-12
11.9.4.1 Remote Logon to your Pactor MailDrop 11-12
11.9.5 Caller Prompts 11-12
11.9.6 Monitor MailDrop Operation 11-12
2/93 TOC-7

Table of Contents
CHAPTER 11 - Pactor OPERATION (Continued)
Paragraph Page
11.9.7 SYSOP MailDrop Operation 11-13
11.9.8 Remote User MailDrop Commands 11-13
11.9.8.1 A (ABORT) (Remote Only) 11-13
11.9.8.2 B (BYE) 11-13
11.9.8.3 H (HELP) 11-13
11.9.8.4 J (JLOG) 11-13
11.9.8.5 K n (KILL n [MINE]) 11-13
11.9.8.6 L (LIST [MINE]) 11-14
11.9.8.7 R n (READ n [MINE]) 11-14
11.9.8.8 S callsign (SEND callsign) 11-14
11.9.8.9 V (VERSION) 11-14
11.9.8.10 ? (HELP) 11-14
11.10 Pactor and Packet MailDrop operation 11-14
11.11 Pactor Switching Time Considerations 11-15
11.11.1 Suggested Pactor Operating Settings 11-15
11.11.2 Possible Areas For Pactor Performance Improvement 11-15
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A PK-232 COMMAND SUMMARY
APPENDIX B PK-232 SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
APPENDIX C PK-232 PARTS PICTORIAL
APPENDIX D PK-232 PARTS LIST
APPENDIX E SPECIFIC RADIO CONNECTIONS
2/93 TOC-8

PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview
The PK-232 was designed to provide a complete digital operating
position when coupled with a Personal Computer or Computer Terminal.
The PK-232 couples your HF or VHF (or both) voice transceivers to your
computer or terminal so you can use its keyboard and display to "talk”
to other Amateurs.
1.1.1 Capabilities
The PK-232 allows you to transmit and receive all legal Amateur digital
modes that are popular on both HF and VHF. In addition you can send
and receive black-and-white Weather FAX. The PK-232 can receive other
modes such as TDM, NAVTEX and bit-inverted Baudot RTTY. These
capabilities together with SIAM (Signal Identification and Acquisition
Mode) make the PK-232 ideal for the digital signal Short Wave Listener
as well.
The PK-232 with your Computer or Terminal allows you to transmit and
receive the following modes:
•AX.25 Packet, both HF and VHF (Chapter 4)
•Packet MailDrop Operation (Chapter 5)
•Baudot and ASCII RTTY (Chapter 6)
•AMTOR/SITOR CCIR Rec. 476 and 625 (Chapter 7)
•Morse Code (Chapter 8)
•HF Weather FAX (Chapter 9)
•Pactor (Chapter 11)
In addition the PK-232 receives the following modes:
•NAVTEX marine broadcasts (Chapter 7)
•TDM (Time Division Multiplex) signals (Chapter10)
•Bit-inverted Baudot RTTY (Chapter 10)
The PK-232 also has the following special features:
•SIAM for SWLing (Chapter 10)
•PakMail Packet/AMTOR/Pactor * MailDrop Message Handling
•KISS mode for TCP/IP and special Packet applications
•HOST mode for Host application programs
1.1.2 Included Components
Your PK-232 Data Controller package contains the following items:
•One PK-232 Data Controller
•PK-232 Operating Manual (this manual)
•Cables to connect your PK-232 to two separate radios
•Connector package to help setup your PK-232
•RS-232 Serial Cable with DB-25 connectors (pins 1-8 and 20)
8/91 1-1

1.2 Computer or Computer Terminal Requirements
You will need a Computer or Computer Terminal to "talk to" or control
your PK-232. If you are using a Computer, you will need a
Communications Program or Terminal Program as it is sometimes called.
The most popular computers are the IBM-PC and its compatibles, the
Apple Macintosh and the Commodore-64/128. These computers can all be
made to work with the PK-232.
Timewave has terminal programs for IBM PC compatible computers using
Windows 3.1 and Windows 95/98/NT operating systems. If you other types
of computer or operating systems, you must supply your own terminal
program.
The Computer or Computer Terminal you plan to use must have an RS-232
Serial Communications port. You will also need a Communications
Program that allows your computer to communicate over the RS-232 port
using the ASCII character set. Details for connecting many computers
can be found in Chapter 2 of this manual.
1.3 Station Requirements
We presume that you already have an operating radio transceiver or
Short-Wave receiver to which you will connect your PK-232. In the
Amateur bands most of the VHF activity occurs on the 2-meter FM band,
while most of the HF activity occurs on the 20-meter band. An HF
receiver or transceiver must be capable of SSB operation. While no
specific brand of transceiver is required, we recommend that a modern
transceiver (built in the last 20 years) capable of operation on one
of the two frequency bands mentioned above be used. Specific
transceiver connections are described in Chapter 3 of this manual.
1.3.1 System Transmitter-Receiver Performance Requirements
Most modern radio transceivers are capable of excellent performance
in Morse, Baudot and ASCII RTTY, AMTOR and packet radio. Although
AMTOR Mode A (ARQ) operation imposes more demanding switching speed
requirements than the other operating modes, most radios will operate
in both AMTOR modes without any modifications. Radio switching times
are less critical in packet radio operation. See the AMTOR operating
section for further details on timing requirements.
Your PK-232 provides software-controlled timing variations that
permits operation with nearly all the HF and VHF/UHF radios in general
use today.
4/91 1-2

1.4 PK-232 Specifications
As part of its program of product improvement, AEA reserves the right
to make changes in this product's specifications. Changes may also be
made to the information in this document and incorporated in revisions
to this manual. Prices and specifications are subject to change
without notice or obligation.
1.4.1 Modem Characteristics
Demodulator: Limiter-discriminator type, preceded by
an eight-pole Chebyshev 0.5-dB ripple
bandpass filter
Receive Band-pass: Automatically switched by operating mode
VHF packet: Center frequency 1700 Hz,
bandwidth 2600 Hz
HF (except CW) Center frequency 2210 Hz,
bandwidth 450 Hz
CW Center frequency 800 Hz,
bandwidth 200 Hz
Modulator: Low-distortion AFSK sine wave function
generator, phase-continuous AFSK
Output Level: 5 to 100 millivolts RMS into 600 Ohms,
adjustable by a rear-panel control
1.4.2 Processor System
Protocol conversion: Zilog Z-80 microprocessor
RAM: 32 kilobytes
ROM: Up to 128 kilobytes of ROM may be used
Hardware HDLC: Zilog 8530 SCC
1.4.3 Input/Output Connections
Radio Interface: Two five-pin Molex connectors,
selectable on the front-panel
Input/Output Lines Receive audio
Transmit audio
+/- Push-To-Talk (PTT) (+25 / - 40 VDC)
External squelch input
Ground
External modem connector Five-pin Molex- TXD, RXD, DCD, PTT and
Ground (TTL levels)
Direct FSK Outputs Normal and reverse
Oscilloscope Outputs Mark (Stop) and space (Start)
CW keying Outputs Positive: +100 VDC max, at up to 100 mA
Negative: -30 VDC max, at up to 20 mA
Terminal Interface: RS-232-C 25-pin DB25 connector
Input/Output RS-232-C with full handshake (hardware
and software)
USE WIRES 1 THROUGH 8 AND 20 ONLY.
Terminal Data Rates Autobaud selection of 110, 300, 600,
1200, 2400, 4800 and 9600 BPS. TBAUD
COMMAND adds 150, 200 and 400 BPS.
4/91 1-3

1.4.4 Controls and Indicators
Front Panel Controls: Power Switch
Radio Selector Switch
Threshold Adjust Potentiometer
Indicators: Ten-segment discriminator-type bargraph
indicator for HF tuning.
DCD LED (Data Carrier Detect)
Status and Mode Indicators: Mode Group Status Group
BAUDOT STBY
ASCII PHASE
PKT IDLE
MORSE ERROR/CONV
SELFEC OVER
FEC TFC/TRANS
ARQ RQ/CMD
MODE L CON
STBY STA
MULT
SEND
1.4.5 General
Power Requirements: +13 VDC (12 to 16 VDC) at 800 mA
Mechanical: Overall, 11" x 8.25" x 2.5"
(279.4 mm X 209.6 mm X 63.5 mm)
Weight 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms)
4/91 1-4

PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMPUTER INSTALLATION
CHAPTER 2
COMPUTER INSTALLATION
2.1 Overview
In this chapter we will connect the PK-232 to the RS-232 Serial port
of your Computer or Computer Terminal. After the Serial connection
has been made we will perform a quick check of the PK-232 internal
software. Finally we will check the PK-232's internal modem by
performing a Packet "loop-back" test. When you have completed this
chapter, you will be ready to connect the PK-232 to your receiver or
transceiver and begin using it on the air.
2.1.1 Equipment Required
You will need the following for this chapter:
o your PK-232 Data controller;
o a 13.6-volt DC, 1-amp (or greater) regulated power supply such as
those sold by Radio Shack (or an AEA AC-4);
(the power supply must be able to supply at least 12 VDC to the
PK-232 while it is operating under load)
o the included PK-232 DC power cord unless the AC-4 is used;
o your Computer or Computer Terminal;
o a Communications or Terminal Emulation program for your computer;
o the included RS-232 cable with 25-pin "D" connectors on each end;
(do not use a 3rd-party RS-232 cable with more than pins 1-8 and
20 connected)
o one of the included 5-pin shielded "Radio cables";
(note that the radio cables may arrive as a single 10-ft. cable
which should be cut in half producing two 5-ft. cables.
o wire cutters and strippers or a small pocket knife, a small
straight-blade screwdriver and a medium phillips-head screwdriver.
2.2 Unpacking the PK-232
Carefully remove the PK-232 from the box and its plastic bag.
Inspect the unit for signs of damage that may have occurred in
shipping. If there is visible damage, please contact the dealer or
shipper. Do not attempt to install or use a damaged PK-232.
We will be discussing some of the Controls, Indicators and Connections
in this installation so take a few moments to familiarize yourself
with them. The figures on the next pages may help with their
locations.
4/91 2-1

2.2.1 Connecting Power
MAKE SURE YOUR POWER SUPPLY IS OFF AND UNPLUGGED BEFORE WIRING
o Locate the PK-232 Power Cable in the accessory bag. Strip off
just enough insulation from the ends to connect it to your 12-14
Volt DC regulated power supply.
o The Center pin of the coaxial power plug is POSITIVE. Connect
the lead with the White stripe to the POSITIVE (+) lead on your
power supply. Check this with an Ohm-meter if you have one.
o Connect the solid Black (GROUND) lead to the NEGATIVE (-) lead of
your power supply. (The AEA AC-4 Wall Transformer is already
wired correctly.)
o Connect the Coaxial power plug to the 13 VDC Power Receptacle on
the left rear of the PK-232. DO NOT CONNECT YOUR COMPUTER YET.
o Plug in your power supply or AC-4 and turn on power. Turn on the
PK-232 by depressing the Power Switch on the front of the unit.
WATCH CLOSELY FOR THE FOLLOWING:
At power-on the four LEDs on the left of the PK-232 should light
for 1 second and the BAUDOT LED should then light and remain lit.
If this occurs, then switch OFF the PK-232 and move on to section
2.3.
If no LEDs light then re-check the above steps to insure that 12-14
VDC is available at the power plug and the center pin is POSITIVE.
If any LEDs other than the BAUDOT LED light then the PK-232 has
probably been initialized. If the PK-232 has been initialized it is
ready to communicate with a computer or terminal at a specific baud
rate (probably 300, 1200, 2400, 4800 or 9600 bits/sec). If you know
what this baud rate is then you should continue with the installation
at section 2.3 keeping this in mind.
If you do not know what baud rate the PK-232 has been initialized to
then you should remove the Lithium battery jumper JP1 from the Berg
posts which will reset the PK-232. To do this, do the following:
o Disconnect power and all cables from the PK-232 and turn the unit
upside down.
o locate the hole immediately behind the RADIO-1/RADIO-2 switch.
o With needle-nose pliers or a tweezers gently lift the shorting
jumper up off the Berg Posts.
o Wait approximately 2 minutes to insure that the memory has
"forgotten" the old parameters.
o Carefully replace the jumper over the posts.
If the above did not restore proper operation of the PK-232 front-
panel LEDs, then contact Timewave Technical Support Department as
described in the front of this manual.
4/91 2-2

PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMPUTERINSTALLATION
2.3 Connecting Your Computer or Computer Terminal
MAKE SURE THE PK-232 AND YOUR COMPUTER ARE SWITCHED OFF
o Locate the PK-232 Serial Cable. Connect the 25-pin Male
connector to the RS-232 I/O connector on the rear of the PK-232.
If you are not using an AEA RS-232 cable, make sure that the
cable you are using has no other pins than 1-8 and 20 connected.
o Connect the other end of this cable (Female DB-25) to the RS-232
Serial Port of your personal computer or Computer Terminal.
Details on connecting to common machines are listed below.
NOTE: This cable was designed to connect directly to a 25-pin IBM-PC
compatible RS-232 port. Many machines on the market today support
this configuration. Some less-common machines are listed in section
2.6. Please make certain you have properly connected the PK-232 to
your RS-232 computer or Computer Terminal then proceed to section 2.4.
2.3.1 IBM-PC/XT/AT and Compatibles
IBM compatible 25-pin RS-232 serial ports should connect directly to
the supplied serial cable. Some IBM compatible machines are equipped
with a 9-pin serial port. For these machines a DB-9 to DB-25 adapter
should be obtained from a Radio Shack store or a computer dealer.
4/91 2-3