ZBM2 BlueCAT User manual

BlueCAT
Yaesu FT-8x7
Operating Manual

Introduction
Please note BlueCAT is designed for Android and PC/Mac s. Due to
restrictions by Apple BlueCAT will NOT work with Apple
iPhones/iPads.
Thank you for purchasing your new BlueCat module. We hope you enjoy
many years of service. Please read the following instructions to help you
get the most from your BlueCAT. For any uestions not answered below,
please visit http :// www . zbm 2. com / for further assistance.
Overview
BlueCAT is an interface device, which allows you to connect the CAT
(Computer Aided Transceiver) port of your radio, wirelessly, to Bluetooth
enabled devices. It replaces the serial cable (for example YAESU CT62)
you may have used to connect to your laptop, and provides new
connectivity options, for mobile phones and tablet computers.
BlueCAT was developed to allow the RepeaterBook app for Android to
connect wirelessly to a FT8x7 radio, allowing a simple touch of a repeaters
entry to instantly setup the radio for that repeater.
However, it has proved versatile, and can also be used to wirelessly
connect a FT8x7 to laptop computers (with Bluetooth) running many types
of logging and computer control software.
Please check the website http :// www . zbm 2. com / for a current list of
supported devices and applications, and Google Play to download the
latest version of the RepeaterBook app.

Physical specifications
Dimensions:
60x35x15mm (excluding cable)
Cable 45 cm long
Electrical:
Supply voltage – Derived from Radio, no external power re uired.
Standby Current 7mA
Working Current (only whilst communicating) 25-70mA
Radio:
Bluetooth Class 2, 2.402-2.480 GHz, 2.5mW, ~10m range
Interface:
Yaesu CAT port, 8 pin mini-DIN, 38400 Baud*
Operating environment:
-5°C to +55°C, 5% to 95% humidity (non-condensing)
Sealed to IP42 – Use indoors only, protect from rain
Compatibility:
BlueCAT connects to the CAT port of your Yeasu FT-817, FT-857 or
FT-897. If you have purchased the 4800 Baud option, it will also
connect to the ‘Computer’ (CAT pass-through) port of an
LDG YT100 Autotuner.
*(4800 baud optional)

Setup
Please read through these instructions before setting up.
Please switch your radio OFF
Locate the ACC/CAT port on the rear of your radio.
It is an 8 pin Mini-DIN socket. Carefully line up the plug of the BlueCAT,
and insert. Do not force the plug in, as this may damage it, and your
radio. Do not twist the plug! Please check carefully that you are
connecting to the correct socket.
If you are unsure as to the location of your CAT port, please consult your
radio owner’s manual. If you purchased the 4800 baud option, and wish to
use BlueCAT with an LDG YT100 Autotuner, please connect BlueCAT to the
port marked ‘Computer’ on the YT100, and connect the YT100 as normal.
Switch your radio ON
For the FT-817

Select menu 14 [CAT RATE]
This sets the transceiver's circuitry for the CAT baud rate.
Options available are 4800/9600/38400 bps
Set it to 38400 bps.
N.B. If you purchased the 4800 baud option, set it to
4800bps
For the FT-857 and FT-897
Select menu 020, [CAT/LIN/TUN]
This selects the device which is connected to the CAT/LINEAR jack
on the rear panel.
Options available are CAT/LINEAR/TUNER
Set it to CAT
Select menu 019 [CAT RATE]
This sets the transceiver’s circuitry for the CAT baud rate to be
used.
Options available are 4800 bps/9600 bps/38400 bps
Set it to 38400 bps.
N.B. If you purchased the 4800 baud option, set it to
4800bps
Select menu 059 [MIC Sel]
Options available are NOR/CAT/RMT used.
Set it to NOR.
Select menu 085 [Tuner/ATAS]
Options available are Tuner/ATAS/OFF
Set it to OFF.
The BlueCAT should now be showing a flashing light, and you are ready to
proceed to the next step.

Connecting
When you first switch on you radio, the indicator light inside BlueCat will
flash. Once a Bluetooth connection has been made to the unit (pairing)
this light will stay permanently lit or change pattern. This shows that the
unit has successfully connected to your bluetooth enabled device (Laptop,
phone etc.). This is analogous to correctly connecting a CT62 RS232 Cable
- the basic link is in place, and that’s half the job done.
Once this connection is established, you must instruct your device to
contact the radio using the CAT Data Protocol.
For Android Mobile Phones running the RepeaterBook app:
Start the RepeaterBook app
Press menu (Top right)
Select 'Settings' and scroll down to BlueCAT Configuration
Select 'Radio' then chose your Yaesu radio from the list.
Return to the main app screen (Back button)
Press menu (Top right)
Select BlueCat from the menu
Select 'Connect'
Select ‘Scan for BlueCAT’
Select your BlueCAT from the list of devices
Enter the PIN 1234 (If re uested)
When connected the titlebar will change to a blue background
Now you can just touch a Repeater and your radio will be set.
Once everything has been successfully connected you can select '
Auto Connect' from settings and the phone will automatically
attempt to reconnect to your radio when it app starts.

Troubleshooting
For the latest updates, help and information, visit http :// www . zbm 2. com /
Problem Possible Cause Solution
BlueCAT does not
light up, no
response
No power Ensure Radio is supplied with
correct operating power, as
specified by manufacturer.
Radio switched
off
Switch Radio ON before attempting
to use BlueCAT.
Message asking for
PIN shows on
device
Re uest to pair
device with
BlueCAT
Enter the PIN 1234
Unable to pair with
BlueCAT
Pairing process
has times out
after a couple of
minutes
Switch BlueCAT off and back on and
try connecting again.
Not connected Ensure plug is fully inserted into
correct port.
Broken pins Check plug for broken pins, contact
service centre.
Blown internal
fuse in radio
Check voltages at CAT socket,
contact radio service centre.
BlueCAT light
flashes, no
response
Out of range Move the device you wish to
connect closer to BlueCAT.
BlueCAT should work up to ~10m.
Signal blocked Remove RF blocking obstructions
between BlueCat and device you
wish to connect.
Signal corrupted Remove sources of interference.
BlueCAT operates between 2.402-
2.480 GHz.
BlueCAT light
steady, but no
communication
Radio CAT baud
rate incorrect
Check baud rate setting matches
your unit. 38400bps, unless
optional 4800bps unit purchased.
No re uest for
Bluetooth PIN
number is
displayed
Pair BlueCAT for the first time using
the phone's Bluetooth options.
CAT/LIN/TUN
incorrect
Ensure CAT is selected in menu 020
Connecting
device settings
incorrect
Check the baud rate of the device
you wish to connect matches the
setting on your radio and unit.
38400bps, unless optional 4800
unit purchased.
Yaesu Radio Incorrect radio In the app settings ensure you have

displays key lock
symbol
selected selected the correct radio. Manually
clear the display lock.
YAESU, and the CAT logo are trademark Vertex Standard Co., LTD
BlueCAT is a trademark of ZBM2 Ltd.
© 2012-2020 ZBM2 Ltd. All Rights Reserved