Timewave PK-96 User manual

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PK-96
Operating Manual
TimewaveTechnology Inc.
58
E. Plato Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55107
http://www.timewave.com
July 1997

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
iiI PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing an Timewave/AEA product! Before you go any further, please fill out and
return the enclosed Warranty Registration Card. From time to time, Timewave offers updates
to its
products-we can only tell you about these updates if we have your warranty card on file, so send it
in
if you haven't already done so.
FCC Regulations
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. These rules are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interfer-
ence will not occur in a particular installation.
If this device does cause harmful interference to radio
or television reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user is encour-
aged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the device and receiver.
• Connect the device into
an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer will void the user's authority to
operate the device.
You must use shielded cables for all device connections, then tie all grounding wires/shields to a
single point, normally the radio.
You need an effective station ground or you'll have problems when
RFI infiltrates your equipment and causes all kinds
of unexpected problems.
Disclaimer
As part of its continuing program of product improvement, Timewave reserves the right to make
changes in this product's specifications or documentation. Timewave also reserves the right to incor-
porate and issue any information thus supplied in whatever manner it deems suitable, without incur-
ring any obligations whatsoever.
Copyright
©1997 by Timewave Technology Inc. Ail rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this manual can't be reproduced in any form without prior written perrnis-
sion from Timewave Technology Inc. No patent liability is assumed, however, with respect to the use
of the information contained herein.
This manual may contain errors, omissions or "typos." Please send your comments, suggestions and
corrections
to: Timewave Technology Inc., 58 E. Plato Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55107.
APRS is shareware and is a copyrighted product
of APRS Software, Bob Bruninga. APRS is his
trademark.
E
r---

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96
Operating Manual
TimewaveTechnology Inc.
58
E. Plato Blvd.
St. Paul,
MN 55107
http://www.timewave.com
July 1997

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
iii PK-96 Packet Controller Operat1ng Manual
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing an Timewave/AEA product! Before you go any further, please fill out and
return the enclosed Warranty Registration Card.
From time to time, Timewave offers updates to its
products-we can only tell you about these updates if we have your warranty card on file, so send it
in if you haven't already done so.
FCC Regulations
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. These rules are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. 11lis device generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interfer-
ence will not occur in a particular installation.
If this device does cause harmful interference to radio
or television reception, which can be detennined by turning the device off and on, the user is encour-
aged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient
or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the device and receiver.
• Connect the device into
an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer
or an experienced radio!IV technician for help.
Changes
or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer will void the user's authority to
operate the device.
You must use shielded cables for all device connections, then tie all grounding wires/shields to a
single point, normally the radio. You need an effective station ground
or you'll have problems when
RFI infiltrates your equipment and causes all kinds of unexpected problems.
Disclaimer
As part of its continuing program of product improvement, Timewave reserves the right tn make
changes in this product's specifications
or documentation. Timewave also reserves the right to incor-
porate and issue any information thus supplied in whatever manner it deems suitable. without incur-
ring any obligations whatsoever.
Copyright
©1997 by Timewave Technology Inc. All rights reserved.
Under the copyright laws, this manual
can't be reproduced in any form without prior written permis-
sion from Timewave Technology Inc.
No patent liability is assumed, however, with respect to the use
of the information contained herein.
This manual may contain errors, omissions
or "typos." Please send your comments, suggestions and
corrections to: Timewave Technology Inc., 58 E. Plato Blvd, St. Paul,
MN 55107,
APRS is shareware and is a copyrighted product
of APRS Software, Bob B.runinga. APRS is his
trademark.

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual/ iii
Table of Contents
FCC Regulations.................................................................................................................... ii
Introduction...................................................................................................................... ix
Typographical Conventions................................................................................................... ix
Abbreviations used throughout the manual ..........................................................................x
1. The PK-96 ................................................................................................................... 1
Capabilities & Features..........................................................................................................1
What
Did-and Didn't-Come In the Box .............................................................................1
Your Radio ............................................................................................................................2
... and Computer....................................................................................................................2
A Tour
of the PK-96.........................................................................................................2
2. Power Supply and Computer Installation ............................................................. 4
Connecting Power...........................................................................................................4
Turning it On ...................................................................................................................4
Re-lnitialization ...............................................................................................................5
Connecting Your Computer to the PK-96 ........................................................................5
The Cable...............................................................................................................................
s
Apple Computers ...................................................................................................................6
Dumb Terminals .....................................................................................................................6
The Computer .................................................................................................................6
Other Computers with RS-232 Ports .....................................................................................6
Other Computers with Non-Standard Serial Ports ................................................................7
Peripherals and IRQ Conflicts in PC Compatibles ..........................................................7
The Software ..................................................................................................................8
PC Compatible Computers ....................................................................................................8
Macintosh...............................................................................................................................9
System Start-up and Loop-back Test ..............................................................................9
3. Radio Installation .....................................................................................................12
If You Just Want to Listen ...................................................................................................12
To Transmit and Receive....................................................................................................12
Radio
Connection Requirements .................................................................................. 12
Connections for Specific Transceivers .......................................................................... 13
Basic Connections and Adjustments ............................................................................ 13
Transceiver Adjustments ............................................................................................... 15

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
ivI PK-96 Packet Controller Operatmg Manual
Radio Connection Requirements for 9600 bps Operation ............................................16
Adjusting the PK-96's Deviation .......................................................................................... 16
Radio Connections .............................................................................................................. 16
Other Radios.................................................................................................................18
Crystal-Controlled FM Transceivers ..............................................................................18
"Mod" Notes for Specific Radios ...................................................................................19
Packet Parameters........................................................................................................23
4. You're in Command .................................................................................................25
Parameters and Arguments ..........................................................................................25
Boolean ................................................................................................................................ 25
Numeric................................................................................................................................25
Text or String Arguments .....................................................................................................25
Changing Commands ...................................................................................................26
List of Commands .........................................................................................................26
Host Mode Abbreviations..................................................................................................... 26
PK-96 Command List....................................................................................................77
5. Packet Operation ..................................................................................................... 80
The Packet Modes ........................................................................................................80
Tuning
in Packet Stations- VHF/UHF .........................................................................80
What It Means...................................................................................................................... 81
Who's Out There? ................................................................................................................82
Talking to Yourself .........................................................................................................83
Connecting...........................................................................................................................83
CTEXT .................................................................................................................................84
ConnecVDisconnect Notification (CBELL) ..........................................................................85
Setting Up for Transmitting............................................................................................85
Calling CQ ............................................................................................................................ 85
Going On the Air..................................................................................................................85
I'm Having Trouble Connecting ............................................................................................86
More Packet Features ...................................................................................................86
Nodes and Node Operation ..........................................................................................86
Operating Your Node ...........................................................................................................87
Digipeating ...........................................................................................................................89
Are
You a Digipeater? ..........................................................................................................90
Identifying as a Digipeater...................................................................................................90
Time-stamping Packets and Messages...............................................................................
SO
Multiple Connection Operation ..................................................................................... 91
Setting Up ............................................................................................................................ 91
The Channel Switching Character....................................................................................... 91
CHCALL ...............................................................................................................................92
Checking Your Connect Status with CSTATUS ...................................................................92
Packet Meteor Scatter Extension ..................................................................................92
Intermediate and Advanced Commands ......................................................................93

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual/ v
1200/9600 bps Operation ....................................................................................................93
Monitoring Other Stations ....................................................................................................93
Monitoring the Packet Networking Switches .......................................................................93
Selective Monitoring ............................................................................................................93
MFILTER ..............................................................................................................................94
Monitor Without Call Sign Headers .....................................................................................94
Beacon Operation ................................................................................................................94
Packet Transmit Timing ........................................................................................................94
Packeting Through Voice Repeaters ...................................................................................95
Packet
Formatting and Editing ...................................................................................... 95
(RETURN)'s and Linefeeds .................................................................................................95
Cancelling Lines and Packets .............................................................................................95
Redisplaying Text .................................................................................................................95
The
PASS Character............................................................................................................95
Packet Protocol
Basics .................................................................................................96
Connected Packets ..............................................................................................................96
FRACK and RETRY .............................................................................................................96
PACLEN and MAXFRAME ..................................................................................................96
Reducing Errors through Collision Avoidance.....................................................................97
DAMA ...................................................................................................................................97
CHECK and RELINK ...........................................................................................................97
Transparent Mode ................................................................................................................98
Full-Duplex Operation ..........................................................................................................98
Morse 10 in Packet...............................................................................................................98
The QRA Feature.................................................................................................................98
Packet Mail.................................................................................................................... 98
6. MailDrop Operation .................................................................................................99
Mail Drop Memory .........................................................................................................99
Setting
Up Your Mail Drop .............................................................................................. 99
Accessing and Commanding Your Mail Drop ...............................................................100
Monitoring Your Mail Drop ............................................................................................100
Mail
Drop Prompts and Operation ............................................................................... 101
MailDrop Command Summary ..........................................................................................1 01
Sending Mail ...............................................................................................................1 04
From the Console Operator ...............................................................................................104
Sending Other Types of Messages ...................................................................................104
From the User's Point
of View............................................................................................105
The Console operator's Point of View ...............................................................................106
Message Numbers.............................................................................................................107
Forwarding and Reverse-Forwarding ................................................................................107
Settings for Auto-Forwarding .............................................................................................108
Entering a Message for Reverse Forwarding ....................................................................108

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vi/ PK·96 Packet Controller Operattng Manual
7. GPS Operation ........................................................................................ 109
Overview ............................................................................................................................109
Why do GPS
in the PK-96? ...............................................................................................109
Hardware Configurations ............................................................................................110
Installing APRS ...........................................................................................................112
To install APRS on your hard drive....................................................................................112
Getting Started ..................................................................................................................112
Setting Up the PK-96 for
GPS Operation ....................................................................112
Stand Alone
Tracking Device Set Up .................................................................................112
Connecting the
GPS receiver to the PK-96 ......................................................................113
APRS Hardware Single Port Mode Set Up .......................................................................114
APRS Dual Port Mode Set
Up ...........................................................................................115
Building your own APRS adapter cable ......................................................................115
Schematic Diagram for the
APRS Adapter Cable .......................................................116
PK-96/Uitimeter
II Stand Alone Weather Station Set Up .............................................116
Wireless Data/Location Tracking Applications ............................................................117
Configuring the TNC ..........................................................................................................117
Connecting the GPS Adapter Cable to the TNC...............................................................119
8. Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................... 120
A Troubleshooting Primer............................................................................................120
The Power Supply..............................................................................................................
121
The Power Supply Cable ................................................................................................... 121
The PK-96 ..........................................................................................................................122
Cable from PK-96 to Computer .........................................................................................122
Computer/Software ............................................................................................................122
Cable
From PK-96 to Radio...............................................................................................122
Radio ..................................................................................................................................122
If
You Need to Call for Help .........................................................................................122
General Error Messages.............................................................................................123
Packet Error Messages...............................................................................................124
MaiiDrop Error Messages ...........................................................................................125
PK-96 Status and Error Messages .............................................................................126
Out-of-the-Box Problems ............................................................................................126
Computer
to PK-96 Problems .....................................................................................127
Radio to PK-96 Problems ...........................................................................................128
MaiiDrop Problems .....................................................................................................128
Packet Problems .........................................................................................................129
PK-96 Problems..........................................................................................................133

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual I vii
Appendix A: Radio Connections............................................................................. 134
Radio Connection Notes .............................................................................................134
Radio Listings .............................................................................................................135
Radio Connection Diagrams .......................................................................................139
Appendix B: Parts List, Schematics, and Pictorial Diagram ......................... 144
Appendix
C: Specifications .......................................................................... 149
Modem Characteristics ...............................................................................................149
Processor System.......................................................................................................149
lnpuVOutput Connections ...........................................................................................149
Controls and Indicators...............................................................................................149
General .......................................................................................................................149
Appendix 0: Upgrading the PK-96 ........................................................................ 150
Appendix
E: Understanding High Speed Modems............................................ 151
PK-96 connections...................................................................................................... 151
More on TX and RX 'Audio'........................................................................................ 151
Some audio basics first.....................................................................................................151
1200 bps ............................................................................................................................152
Theory of Operation for the Demodulator...................................................................153
9600 bps .....................................................................................................................153
Appendix F: Limited Warranty ................................................................................ 155
Appendix G: PK-96TheNet Node Option.................................................... 156
Index ............................................................................................................................. 157

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viii I PK-96 Packet Controller Opera!mg Manual
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PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual/ ix
Introduction
Overview
The PK-96 is a 1200/9600 baud, packet-only controller that sets a new standard in the amateur radio
world. As a new owner, however, you're probably bewildered by its scores
of commands and their
functions, besides wondering what all those lights on the front panel do or mean.
Take heart:
You don't need to be a rocket scientist to understand how to hook up your PK-96 and op-
erate it, but you do need to have an understanding of basic electronics so you can make the necessary
(and correct) connections
to your station equipment. You also need to have a working knowledge of
your computer's software, hardware and operation.
Just
as a car's owner's manual isn't written W teach you how to drive, this one won't go into the elec-
tronics, operation, or theory behind the modes that are available with the PK-96. Many fine books are
available describing packet operation in detail, so please refer to them
if your interest in the PK-96's
operating modes extends beyond their practical application.
Here are some excellent sources for reading more about packet and packet operation:
• The Radio Amateur's Digitial Communications Handbook by Jonathan Mayo, KR3T; TAB Books,
ISBN 0-8306-8362-3 (hardback.) and 0-8306-3362-6 (pbk.).
The ARRL Operating Handbook and Your Packet Companion by Steve Ford.
Both of the above are available from the ARRL. 225 Main Street, Newington, CT 06111-1541 or
your local ham radio dealer.
Typographical Conventions
To set off special text, this manual uses the following typographical conventions:
This kind of type identifies variables for which you enter values (for example, MYCALL
WF7A).
This kind of type indicates a section of importance.
This kind of type identities text generated by your PK-96. Examples include screen menus,
prompts, and error messages.
This kind of type identifies characters you type and controller commands.
Example: DISP Z
Combinations of keystrokes are joined by a minus sign(-). For example, if you're instructed to press
the Control (CTRL) key and the letter "Z" at the same time, the keystroke will
be shown as
(CTRL-Z). Release all keys simultaneously.

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xI
PK-96
Packet
Controller
Operat1ng
Manual
Key
names
like (ENTER), (RETL'RN), (SHIFT), (CTRL),
and
(SPACE
BAR)--when
used as a
verb--mean
press
the key. After entering any command into
your
PK-96,
you'll
always press the (RE-
TURN)
or (ENTER) key. So, whenever the word "enter"
is
used,
it
means
to
enter a command
or
text
from
your keyboard, then press the (ENTER)
or
(RETIJR:'l) key; Throughout this manual
we'll
refer
to this key
as
(RETURN).
Abbreviations
used
throughout
the
manual
ack
call
CTRL
DCD
ESC
FSK
HF
LF
mS
n
nack
PTT
UHF
VHF
Acknowledge
Call
sign
control
Data
Carrier Detect
escape
Frequency Shift Keying
High Frequency
Line
feed
Milli-second
A variable which you substitute a
number
or
letter
Not Acknowledge
Push-To-Talk
illtra
High Frequency
Very High Frequency

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual/1
1. The PK-96
Overview
The PK -96 was designed to provide you with a superior packet operating platform when connected to your
computer and a
VHF or UHF transceiver.
Capabilities & Features
AX.25 levels I & 2, 1200/9600 bps packet operation in the Command, Host and KISS modes.
• 18K mailbox (expandable to
lOOK with upgrade option, see Appendix D).
• Gateway for node operation.
Can be a 1200/9600 bps component in a TheNet node stack with Timewave's TheNet upgrade.
• GPS firmware which is remotely programmable, can
be remotely polled, and is compatible with GPS,
Loran,
ARNA V,andilltimeterII. OptionalAPRSAdapterCableavailable. TheGPS firmware alsoallows
for Stand Alone Tracking and automatically detects GPS receivers at power-up.
• Software included: PC PakRatt
LiteTM the packet-only, DOS conttol program, and APRSTM the GPS
mapping and tracking program developed by Bob Bruninga, W4APR.
• Compatible with many terminal control programs, including Timewave's own PC PakRatt II for DOS,
PC PakRatt for Windows 2.0.
• Hardware "true DCD" state machine so you can open the squelch and hear weak signals.
• Hardware HDLC controller guarantees accurate protocol conversion at 9600 bps.
• Modem disconnect header for installing even faster modems.
• Separate external 1200/9600 transmit level controls.
•
DAMA support for master/slave node communications.
Enhanced MHEARD function identifies TCP!IP, NET/ROM, and <The-Net> stations.
•
EXPERT command included to ease the learning process--only the most common commands will be
usable until the EXPERT mode is enabled.
• Independent operation--onceyourPK-96 is up and ruuning, you can turn off yourcomputeroruse it to
do something else; the PK-96 will independently accept connects, receive and forward mail, and act as
a node as long as power is supplied to it and your radio is on.
What Did-and Didn't-Come In the Box
Besides this manual, the following items are enclosed:
A cable to connect your
PK -96 to a radio.
• A computerdiskcontaining
PC PakRattLiteTM and APRSTM software. (Information on howto install PC
PakRatt Lite is written in Chapter 2. Information on how to install APRS is written in Chapter 7.)
• An audio cable.
• A power cable.
Here's what isn't enclosed:
•
An RS-232 Serial Cable with DB-25 connectors (pins 1-8 and 20 connected).
• A microphone connector for your radio.

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
21 PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual
• A power supply.
• A computer and a radio.
The PC PakRatt Lite software included with the PK-96 is for those who have no other tenninal control
program
to use. The PK-96 will work with practically any telephone modem or terminal emulation pro-
gram that your computer can run, as long
as it uses the full ASCH character set. PC-Pakratt-II, and PC-
Pakratt for Windows are more powerful programs than PC Pak:Ratt Lite offered by Timewave and are tai-
lor-made for its controller products. These programs offer
mauy operating niceties and utility features that
simply aren't found
in typical modem or third-party controller programs.
We didn'tenclose a mike connector because we don't know which brand or model of radio you plan to use
with your PK-96.
Finally,
we didn't include a power supply since many owners simply connect their PK-96 to the same sup-
ply that powers their radio and station accessories. Ifyou want
to operate your PK-% from a "power cube"
that plugs into your
wall outlet, you can purchase one locally or you can purchase the Timewave AC-1
power supply directly from Timewave or tbrough our dealers. (Jle recommend using a regulaled, stand-
alone power supply for the PK-%
to avoid possible ground loop or insufficient power problems associated
with using your station's main power supply.)
Your Radio ...
We presume that you have an operating radio transceiver that you'll use with your PK-%. (Specific trans-
ceiver connections are described in Appendix
A) In the amateur bands, roost of the VHF packet activity
occurs
on the 2- meter FM band, with "backbone" systems residing in the 1.25- meter and 70cm bands.
Most radios require modification for sending packet at 9600 bps, and some radios can't operate at 9600
bps. Check Chapter 3 -
Radio Connection Requirements for 9600 bps Operation for a brief list ofradios
that we know (at press time) work at 9600 bps.
If your radio isn't listed there, call your radio's manufac-
terer
for possible modification instructions.
... and Computer
You'll need a computer ordumb terminal that has an RS-232 serial communications port so it can commu-
nicate with your
PK -%. The most popular computers are PC compatibles, laptops, and Apple"' computers
like the Macintosh, Powerbooks, and Petformas.
Forthe sake
of brevity in this manual, instead of using "dumb terminal" and "computer" interchangeably
we'll just use one word, "computer~'
A Tour of the PK-96
Before you leap ahead into the next chapter to see how to hook up your PK-96, you should read this sec-
tion
to ±ind out what all those LED's, switches and connectors are and what they do. Iftheir functions or
terms sound cryptic to you
now, don't worry about it--they'll be explained fully in later chapters.
First, carefully remove the PK-96
from its protective bag and inspect it for signs ofdamage that may have
occ!liTed during shipment If there's any visible damage, please contact the dealer or shipper immediately.
Don't install or use a damaged controller.
Now, set it on the table or hold it in your hands and spend a few minutes here to take a gnided tour of your
controller sta!ting from the front, left-hand side. (Refer to the illustration
on the next page)

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18 I PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual
Other Radios
Transmit audio is injected through a 5 to lOmF, non-polarized capacitor through a 5KW resistor into the
modulator.
'This is typically a varactor diode in a transmit oscillator stage.
The schematic symbol for a varactor diode is
-!Jt-. which makes them pretty simple to find by tracing for-
ward in the radio's schematic from the microphone.
Crystal-Controlled FM Transceivers
NOTE:
True FM multimode radios using varactor modulation in a crystal oscillator stage seem to work best-
they tend to have a slightly wider IF filter (i.e., the CFW455E) andpass data with less distortio,. (Fortu-
ntltely, most synthesized radios can be made to work with extremely simple mods.) However, ifyour radio
is crystal comrolled, it can be made to work ifit uses true FM: it's simply a matter of connecting directly
to the FM modulator-which will always be in a crystal oscillator stage.
If your crystal-controlled rig is true f<M (varactor modulator in an oscillator stage), inject transmit audio
from the PK-96 into the cathode of the varactor diode. However, many crystal-controlled rigs are phase
modulated
and need a varactor modulator added to the transmit crystal oscillator.
Use an abrupt junction type varactor diode, such as the MV2105
from Motorola, and adjust the capaci-
tance in the crystal circuit to compensate for the additional capacitance
of the varactor. If there are fixed-
value capacitors, remove or "pad" them. If not, change the trimmer to one of a lower minimum value.
You'll need to bias the varactor. I've used the transmit oscillator V ~and a 20K\V trimpot to ground, feed-
ing bias through two
lOK\'1 to 47Kw fixed resistors, feeding the TNC's transmit audio through a 5mF to
lOmF capacitor to the center junction of these, and feeding the free end to the cathode of the varactor. The
bias needs
to be adjusted for best received eye pattern on a service monitor or receiver. See the following
diagram:
Transmit
Oscillator
Vee
100K
TNCTX
lAudio
5JJF
20K~~-4~7~K~~~47~K~.-------~-o
Pot
toTCXO
XTAL
1000pF
MV2105 4-20 pF
Note: Capacitors are non-polar
Resistors are 1/4W, 5%
toTCXO
ground

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operating Manual I 19
"Mod" Notes for Specific Radios
It's almost embarrassing to call some of these "mods"-you're only bringing out terminations of existing
signals; bringing out these connections from your FM transceiver is a "nondestructive" modification
to
your transceiver, except for the ALINCO DR-1200 and the !COM IC-22A modifications-these radios
will
be dedlcated to 9600 bps data radios after their modifications are perl'ormed.
ALINCO DR-110, DR-112, DR-1200
This mod uses the microphonejack for both 9600 bps transmit and receive. As you read in the preceding
paragraph about the DR-1200, after the mod
you won't be able to transmit FM voice, but you'll still be
able
to receive FM voice.
Receive: Disconnect the pink wire that goes to the DATA OUT pin of the mic connector on the circuit
board, then reconnect it
to pin-2 of the IF board's connector. Tiris connects the received audio from the mic
plug to the radio's discriminator.
Transmit: Remove resistor R31 on the main board-thisis a chip resistor located on the solder side of the
main PC board. (Note: if you de-solder the part and resolder it so that only one edge of it is still connected
to the board, you can more easily return the radio to 1200 bps-and FM voice-{)peration if needed.) Re-
move chip capacitor C40, then resolder it to the circuit board so that one end of the capacitor is cmmected
to the pin-7 of the VCO board and the other end is straight up in the air. Connect ajumper wire between
the free end
of C40 and the "hot" end---the end not grounded, or the end electrically furthest away from
ground-{)f C35. (Note that C35 is next to the resistor R31 you removed earlier.) The mic input is now
connected to the VCO for 9600 bps operation.
GE Phoenix and GE PSX-200 (courtesy of William N. Goodman, K3ANS and K3HKZ)
These radios have a Data In jack, J-301. It is next to the data level control, R-212, midway on the right side
of the radio looking with the top up, from the front ofthe radio. Run a thin 22 guage wire from J-301 to
pin 5 of J-911 on the back. Remove the W-910 jumper from hole 85 to hole 86. This removes the mike
high input through the mike audio preamplifier. This enables the radio to work with 9600 bps.
ICOM 22A (courtesy of Mike Curtis, WD6EHR and Dave Shalita, W6MIK)
This is one of the more difficult rigs to modify. It converts your IC22A into a dedicated 9600 bps packet
radio. Components with an asterisk are added to the crystal board.
l. Remove the trimmer capacitor for the transmit crystal socket you'll be using for 9600
bps. Replace
with the above circuit The 4pP-
20 pP trimcap should be a good quality ceramic or other low-drift
trimmer. (Sorry, Radio Shack doesn't have anything suitable.)
2. Connect two IOKW resistors to C53 (both sides) and tie the other ends together. This junction is
where you'll pick offyour receive audio.
3. Turn R67 (deviation control next to P-1 and P-2) fully counterclockwise-this kills any signals that
may get into the phase modulator.
4. Using a service monitor, or oscilloscope connected to the detector of a receiver, adjust the varactor
bias for the best eye
pattern.
ICOM IC290AIH
Receive audio may be obtained at IC12, pin 9, on the main board. Transmit audio can be injected at D3's
cathode
on the main board. If you still have the mating ACC cotmector plug, connections can be added to
it.

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
20 I PK-96 Packet Controller Operatmg Manual
ICOM IC28AIE/H
Receive audio may be obtained from ICl, pin 9, on the RF unit. Transmit audio may be injected at R-45,
at the end notconnected to trimpot R-100. Use a 33KW resistor in series to correct signal levels.
ICOM IC3200AIE
Receive audio may be obtained at ICl pin 9 (main boatd)-this is a common receiver chip for both bands.
Transmit audio may be injected at D3's cathode (VHF) and Dl 's cathode (UHF).
KENWOODTM221,TM321A, TM421
Receive audio may be obtained at IC!, pin 9 (IF board). Transmit audio may be injected atconnection #7
on the VCO assembly on the TX1RX unit.
KENWOOD TM621, 631 and 721 (courtesy of Jeff Angus, WA6FWI)
Receive audio is taken from the discriminator output. Look for the 3.3KW resistor coming off pin 9 of the
last IF
stage. Cormect a I Kl'\1 series resistor from the modern RX input to the junction of the .OOlrrF ca-
pacitor
and the 3.3KW resistor.
PTT is taken from pin 2 on the microphone connector. Transmit audio is fed through a lK!• series resistor
to the top of VR3 (the deviation control).
NOTE:
77zis method has been tested and works quite well on 440 MHz and 220 MHz. The mods h<tven 'tfully been
tested on the 2-meterportion of the radio.
As with any modifications, take reasonable care-the mdio is full of surface mount components.
KENWOODTR751
Receive audio may be obtained at IC2, pin 9 on the RX unit. Transmit audio may be injected by way of the
cathode D21.
KENWOODTS-790 (courtesy James Miller, G3RUH & Sueo Asato, JA6FTL)
These mods work well with 9600 bps U0-14 and CBBS operntion. (Refer to G3RUH's notification on
FI736Rfor more details.
RX!IX mod suitability remains the same as his notes.)
Receive: Detected and ampli:fied/boffered FM direct from the receiver discriminator
is available from Pin
9, ICI (Sub) or
IC8 (Main). I use ICl (Sub) for reception.
Transmit: Inject your transmit audio at the cathode side of diode D81 with a !KW resistor in series. (You
can find D81 near Q73 in your IF UNTf diagram.)
KENWOOD TW-4000 (courtesy of Mike Curtis, WD6EHR)
The radio's filters look good, although digitally optimized filters such as MuRata SFG-4550 orSFH-4550
would allow a tighter passband. The radio also uses a separate transmit oscillator connnon to both 144 and
430 MHz for generating FM----a crystai, inductor, and a varactor to prodoce uice, linear FM-and hetero-
dynes up from there to
the respective bands.
The mods for transmit audio and receive audio are:
Receive: Tack a 4.7KW resistor to IC-1, pin 17. Transmit: tack a 6.8Kw resistor to the cathode ofD16
Gunction of C125-R95-D16).
L

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operat1ng Manual/21
If the received eye pattern from a known good transmitter is jittery, try changing C155 (associated with
Q19) from .OlmF to something like .005mF to.OOlmF. It also might be necessary to change Cl25 from
.0022mF to .OO!mF if the transmit waveform is jittery.
MOTOROLA MICOR (courtesy of Dan Meredith, N7MRP)
The MICOR was modified for stand-alone operation (without a control head). On P901 (the big connector
in the front), pin 11 is jnmpered to pin 1 (Ground), pins 8, 3 & 22 are connected tngether and tn a 2A fuse
connected to the big A+ feed through going into the PA. All these jumpers are done on the control (inter-
connect) board, except
for mounting the fuse itself. Unless you want to listen to speaker audio, there's no
need tn install volume or squelch pots; the audio amps are not used inthis application.
We performed a few mods that seemed to help prevent problems: add a capacitor (at least 20mF-I use
220mFJ across C903 on the control board (this is the tubnlar electrolytic locatedjust to the rear ofthe 9.6V
regulator transistor heatsink),
and add a diode (IN4001 or better) from P901 pin 16 to any of the A+ pins
(3, 8, 18) with the banded end to the A+ pin. (This is a "spike" suppression diode.)
On the Audio/Squelch board, replace C203 with a 1:nF to 1 OmF electrolytic/tantalum. I recommend at least
a 20V rating-this improves the
low frequency end of the diS<-'riminator's audio.
If your radio has a CTCSS encode board plugged into the exciter, remove it. Install JU304,
which is lo-
cated immediately adjacent
to the encoder board connection on the exciter. Depending on which exciter
you have, the encoder will have either 7 or 11 pins-in either case, the pin you will use tn inject transmit
audio
is the one adjacent to the big square bole towards the outside edge of the radio (pin 6 for 7-pin, or
pin 10 for 11-pin ones). Connect a shielded lead from this
pin to an unused pin on P901 (I use pin 7:1). On
the exciter, tra<;e the land from the pin you just connected to and you \.\ill find an 82Kl'IT resistor-replace
it with a lOKW resistor (l/4W, 5%) and a lOmF capacitor in series. (Some exciters already have a 6.8rnF
capacitor in series-if you are sure yours has the capacitor, you don't need to add another!)
On the receiver RFIIF board, remove the two crystal mrer "cans" that come after the IF amp IC (¥103 and
Yl04), and replace them with 1000pFdisc capacitors (value not critical). Note that the caps don't connect
to the center ground pin. (This mod is crucial to making the receiver work at 9600.)
Connect the transmit aodio
to whichever pin you connected thejumper to; receive audio (discriminator) is
on pin 20, PTI' is pin 16, and 12V goes to the two big pins in the middle (pins A aod B).
It is advisable to obtain a service manual for these radios if you plan on using them-it's Motnrola part
#68P81015E70, and
you should be able to order one through any Motorola setvice shop.
MOTOROLA MITREK (courtesy of Jim Wooddell, WA60FT)
The Motorola Mitrek is one ofthe bost radios to use for general amateur packet at 9600 bps. This mod will
allow 9600 bps packet with the G3RL'H type of modems, although other moderns may work as well.
1. Locate the transmit audio amp/splatter section on the transmitter section of the schematic, then locate
the Active Splatter
filrer.
NOTE:
The last transistor, Q504 on the VHF version, may have a different numberfor the other frequency bands.
2. Locate the transmit channel elements and pin 4 on channel element #1 and the line going to pin 4 of
element
#1 to the collector of Q504. This is the direct FM modulator input. Cut this tra<;e at the chan-
nel element.
3. Solder one side ofthe lmF electrolytic cap to pin 4 ofthe channel element. The other side of the cap
is now the modulation input from your modem or TNC. Run it into the radio using shielded wire.

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
22 I PK-96 Packet Controller Operat1ng Manual
4. Install a .lrnF capacitorbetween pin 3 and pin I of the channel element.
5. Locate pin
II on Jl-this is the plug on the front of the radio. Make your receive audio connection
there. You shouldn't need to make any mods to the receiver.
(If you don't have any real good test
equipment,
don't make any receiver mods-it will work okay.)
6. Install a .lrnF capacitor between pins 1 and 3 on receiver channel element.
NOTE:
At first, setyour TNC's TXD argument to 200mS. If all works well, start lowering the TXD value-you'll
probably end up with a TXD of7, or 70mS. 11ze capacitors on the channel elements'pins really don't af
feet 9600 bps operation, but they do reduce the local oscillator leak that emits out of these radios which is
about 20 dB (very important on hilltops).
TEKK KS-900
For the TEKK KS-900, the needed transmit level is in the 50 mV range; the level adjust is fairly sensitive
in this range, so it may
be desirable to use a resistive divider to reduce the level from the 9600 bps modem
board. This is simply a
470W resistor in series and a 39W resistor across the TEKK's transmit input and
ground.
YAESU FT-211-RH (courtesy of Chris Lorek from SMC)
The Ff-211RH has been shown to be suitable for 9600 bps packet operation. Just two shielded leads are
required, one for receive audio and the other for transmitter audio. They are connected as follows:
Receive: On the RX IF Uuit (sub board F2869104), connect the shielded inner conductor to the TK10420
IC, pin 9, with the shielded wire to pin 15. Caution should
be taken to solder these if they are to be sol-
dered to the underside of the board.
Transmit: On the rear of the main PCB is a small potentiometer-this is the peak deviation adjustment
pot. Unsolder the leg nearest to the rear
of the set, then connect the inner conductor of the shielded TX
leads to this point and the outer shield to the circuit board's ground plane adjacent to this point. To ensure
that the 9600 bps modem is tenninated with the required impedance, it's essential that a suitable tenninat-
ing resistor
be placed across the shielded lead inner/outer (such as a 560W resistor); this can be done at the
Ff-211RH's potentiometer connection.
YAESU FT-726 (courtesy of Rick Meuse, N1 HID)
Tap offbetween R45 and R96 for the receive, and between R22 and Cl6 for the transmit end. You'll have
to change the receive filter to a wider one (CFW-455D) which I haven't done yet.
YAESU FT-736 (courtesy of James Miller, G3RUH)
These notes tell you where to get at the FM receive audio direct from the discriminator and where to modu-
late the FM TX varactor directly. These mods are nondestructive and take no more than a few minutes. The
signals bypass the "DATA" socket for high-grade
FM operation.
The receive mod is suitable for:
UOSAT-D 9600 bps downlink and terresttiallinks
• 1200 bps AFSK/FM standard packet
The transmit mod is suitable for:
• F0-20/PACSAT uplink (1200 bps Manchester FM)
• UOSAT-D 9600 bps uplink direct
FSK and terresttiallinks
• 1200 bps AFSK/FM standard packet

From The N3UJJ.COM Document LibraryFrom The N3UJJ.COM Document Library
PK-96 Packet Controller Operat1ng Manual/23
Receive: Detected I'Mdirect from the receiver discriminator is available from the RX UNIT atthe junction
of R91 and C83. These components are shown in the top, right-hand corner of the schematic.
Proceed
as follows:
1. Disconnect power and all cables from the Fl736 for safety.
2. Remove the top eover only.
3. Ihe RX unit is the vertical module on the left.
4. Locate
R91 whlch is about 25mm from the top, and 50mm from the rear of the radio; the resistor is
"on-end"
and near a couple of glass diodes.
5. Scrape any paint offR91 's free end and wet with solder.
6. Yonr RX audio lead should be a fine, shielded cable (such as RG-174); connect the inner conductor
to R91 and the outer shield wire to a ground point (e.g., "can" of T0-09).
7. Route the cable out through
any convenient opening in the case.
8. The discriminator sensitivity (FM Normal) is about 6 KH7Jvolt.
Narn:
Some Fl736 receivers arefitted with an LFH12-S IF filter for FM. (CFOJ at the topfront of the RX Unit.)
This is a 12 KHz bandwidthfilter which is a little narrow
for 9600 bps operation It's recommended you
change this to I5 KH;:;, or better still for UOSAT-D use, a 20KHz bandwidth which will allow more toler-
ance
for Doppler shift and gives a far better "eye." Suitablefilters are: lFH-15S or CFW455E, alld LFH-
205 or CFW455D. Thefirst set of these is a Yaesu spare part and is often alreadyfitted. Try the standard
first
and see what happens-these filters have moderate part to part variations.
Transmit: Inject transmit audio at the junction of R32 and C29 on the TX Unit. The signal level at this
point should be 800 mY... and will give ±3KHz deviation-don't exceed this level. Set the Mic gain on
the front panel to its minimum setting.
Proceed as follows:
1. Disconnect power and all cables from the FI736 for safety.
2. Remove the top cover only.
3. The TX Unit is the module flat on the left (not the one tucked down the side vertically).
4. R32 isjust to the left ofthe rectangular shielded enclosure. The resistor is "on end." Scrape off any
paint from the free leg and wet with solder.
5. The transmit audio lead should be a fine, shielded cable (such as RG-174); connect the inner conduc-
tor to R32 and the outer braid to the adjacent enclosure.
6. Route the cable out through any convenient opening in the case.
7. 9600 bps FSK modem: Adjust transmit audio level with VR-1.
Packet Parameters
The AX.25 parameters we all know and love at 1200 bps don't work very well at 9600 bps. These are what
we've
found work well at 9600:
TXDelay Set between 8 and 15 for best throughput.
RESPtime lOOmS seems to have better results than 0.
FRack 8 seconds on a busy channel; but never less than 5 seconds.