ZETRON 280 User manual

Model 284 Digital Tone Remotes
Product Manual
025-9346N

©Zetron, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. This publication is protected by copyright; information in this document is
subject to change without notice. The Zetron logo is a registered trademark of Zetron Incorporated. Other company
names and product names may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. This publication
may not be reproduced, translated, or altered, in whole or in part, without prior written consent from Zetron, Inc.
Software License
The Zetron software described in this manual is subject to the terms and conditions of Zetron's Software License Agreement,
a copy of which is contained on the product distribution media or otherwise provided or presented to buyer. Installation and/
or use of the Zetron software constitutes acceptance of Zetron's Software License Agreement.
Limited Warranty
Buyer assumes responsibility for the selection of the Products to achieve buyer's or its customer's intended results obtained
from the Products. If buyer has provided Zetron with any requirements, specifications or drawings, or if Zetron provides
buyer with such materials, such materials are provided solely for buyer's convenience and shall not be binding on Zetron
unless agreed in writing by the President of Zetron. ZETRON DOES NOT WARRANT THAT THE PRODUCTS OR ITS
CUSTOMER'S REQUIREMENTS OR SPECIFICATIONS OR THAT OPERATION OF THE PRODUCTS WILL BE
UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR FREE. SUBJECT TO THE LIMITATIONS SET FORTH BELOW, Zetron warrants that all
Zetron Products and Zetron Accessories will be free from material defects in material and workmanship for one year from
date of shipment (except where indicated otherwise in the Zetron Price Book). For buyer's convenience, Zetron may purchase
and supply additional items manufactured by others. In these cases, although Zetron's warranty does not apply, buyer shall be
the beneficiary of any applicable third party manufacturer's warranties, subject to the limitations therein. Zetron's warranty
covers parts and Zetron factory labor. Buyer must provide written notice to Zetron within the warranty period of any defect. If
the defect is not the result of improper or excessive use, or improper service, maintenance or installation, and if the Zetron
Products or Zetron Accessories have not been otherwise damaged or modified after shipment, AS ZETRON'S SOLE AND
EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY AND BUYER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY, Zetron shall either replace or repair the
defective parts, replace the Zetron Products or Zetron Accessories or refund the purchase price, at Zetron's option, after return
of such items by buyer to Zetron. Shipment shall be paid for by the buyer. No credit shall be allowed for work performed by
the buyer. Zetron Products or Zetron Accessories which are not defective shall be returned at buyer's expense, and testing and
handling expense shall be borne by buyer. Out-of-warranty repairs will be invoiced at the then - current Zetron hourly rate
plus the cost of needed components. THE FOREGOING WARRANTY AND THE THIRD PARTY MANUFACTURER'S
WARRANTIES, IF ANY, ARE IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED, IMPLIED OR
ARISING UNDER LAW, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY, NON-INFRINGEMENT AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Limitation of Liability
Zetron makes no representation with respect to the contents of this document and/or the contents, performance, and function
of any accompanying software.
ZETRON SHALL NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE LIABLE TO BUYER OR ANY THIRD PARTY FOR ANY
INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INDIRECT LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING OUT OF OR
CONNECTED WITH BUYER'S PURCHASE OR USE OF PRODUCTS OR SERVICES, INCLUDING WITHOUT
LIMITATION, LOSS OF USE, LOSS OR ALTERATION OF DATA, DELAYS, LOST PROFITS OR SAVINGS, EVEN IF
ZETRON HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES AND EVEN IF THE LIMITED
REMEDY ABOVE IS FOUND TO FAIL OF ITS ESSENTIAL PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ZETRON'S
LIABILITY (WHETHER FOR NEGLIGENCE OR OTHER TORT, IN CONTRACT OR OTHERWISE) EXCEED THE
PRICE PAID TO ZETRON FOR THE PRODUCTS.
IP networks by their nature are subject to a number of limitations, such as security, reliability, and performance. Anyone using
non-dedicated IP networks, such as shared WANs or the Internet, to connect to any Zetron Products or systems should
consider and is responsible for these limitations.

3
Regulatory Compliance
FCC Class A User Information
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required
to correct the interference at his own expense.
EMC Compliance Standards
This product meets the requirements of the standards listed below.
• FCC Part 15 - Radiated & Conducted Emissions (USA) ICES-003 - Radiated & Conducted Emissions (Canada)
Regulatory Compliance Markings
• FCC Part 15 (USA)
Products and batteries with the symbol (crossed-out
wheeled bin) cannot be disposed as household
waste. Old electrical and electronic equipment and
batteries should be recycled at a facility capable of
handling these items and their waste byproducts.
Contact your local authority for details in locating a
recycle facility nearest to you.
Proper recycling and waste disposal will help
conserve resources whilst preventing detrimental
effects on our health and the environment.
Notice: The sign “Pb” below the symbol for
batteries indicates that this battery contains lead.
Information on Disposal of Old Electrical and Electronic Equipment and
Batteries (applicable for EU countries that have adopted separate waste
collection systems)

4025-9346N
Safety Summary
• Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the equipment or included in documentation.
• Only technically qualified service personnel are permitted to install or service the equipment.
• Be aware of and avoid contact with areas subject to high voltage or amperage. Because some
components can store dangerous charges even after power is disconnected, always discharge
components before touching.
• Never insert objects of any kind through openings in the equipment. Conductive foreign objects
could produce a short circuit that could cause fire, electrical shock, or equipment damage.
• Remove rings, watches, and other metallic objects from your body before opening equipment.
These could be electrical shock or burn hazards.
• Ensure that a proper electrostatic discharge device is used, to prevent damage to electronic
components.
• Do not attempt internal service of equipment unless another person, capable of rendering aid
and resuscitation, is present.
• Do not work near rotating fans unless absolutely necessary. Exercise caution to prevent fans
from taking in foreign objects, including hair, clothing, and loose objects.
• Use care when moving equipment, especially rack-mounted modules, which could become
unstable. Certain items may be heavy. Use proper care when lifting.
Change List for Rev K, February 2015
• Changed the content of the Programming kit P/N 950-9449 to reflect the new modular cable and
USB adapter in Part Numbers on page 13.
• Changed the instructions in Installing the ZIPR Software on page 47 and Serial Interface on
page 48 to reflect the changes made to the Programming kit P/N 950-9949.
Change List for Rev L, April 2015
• In the Programming Chapter changed all instances of a “serial port interface adapter” to “USB-
TTL adapter”.
Change List for Rev M, November 2015
• Fixed an error in the AC/DC power requirements in the Power and DC Standby specifications
on page 14.
Change List for Rev N, August 2016
•Fixed Table 1, Table 2, and Table 3 jumper settings for 2 and 4-wire systems.
Warning! For your safety and the protection of the equipment, observe these
precautions when installing or servicing Zetron equipment:
STOP

Contents
5
Contents
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Parallel Status Indication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Digital Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Automatic Audio Leveling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Reliable Audio Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Paging Encoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Operator Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Liquid-Crystal Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Programmable Key Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Privacy Mode and Supervisory Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Call Decoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Part Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Programmable Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Paging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Tone Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Call Decoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Switch Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Function Tones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Power On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Volume Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
In-Use Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Call Decoder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Paging Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Contents
6025-9346N
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Required Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Generic System Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Setup Mode Switch Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Paging Encoder Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Unselect Volume Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Installation of System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Wall Mounting of the Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Power Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
External Audio Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Supervisor Takeover Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Line Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Level Setting of System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Setting TX Audio Level Using External Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Single Remote - No External Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Multiple Remotes - No External Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Setting the Transmit Deviation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Adjusting the Equalization Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Controls and Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Terminal Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Key Cap Labels (Master Sheet) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Installation of Key Switch Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Installing the ZIPR Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Tips on Using the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Feature Set Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Programming a Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Programming Specific to the Model 284 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Paging Format Data Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

General
7
Introduction
General
The Model 280 and Model 284 Digital Tone Remotes contain all the unique features and
audio performance required to handle critical communications in the public safety and
utility market segments. It is designed to provide the highest quality audio and most
dependable operation to fully support the rigorous demands of emergency, multi-operator
applications.
This family of Digital Tone Remotes is programmable so that they may be customized to
meet the needs of any dispatch center. They are EIA-compatible and interface seamlessly
to the most popular brands of base stations and repeaters, such as those from Motorola,
General Electric, and E.F. Johnson. They all support both 2-wire simplex and 4-wire
duplex operation. The Model 284 can support lines to four separate base stations or
repeaters.
Parallel Status Indication
Most tone remotes only display the last command sent by that particular remote. This
creates confusion in multi-operator applications where several remotes control the same
base station. This can be crucial for public safety dispatchers who need to know the exact
configuration of the base station without guesswork.
With the Model 280, however, the display of each remote can be updated when any remote
in the system sends a command to the base station. A Model 280 will show the latest base
station frequency as well as other parameters such as intercom and privacy.
The Model 284 is also capable of parallel status indication, and can provide parallel status
for all four base stations. Whenever the operator switches from one line to another, the
remote will update its display with the current status for that base station.

Introduction
8025-9346N
Digital Audio
The digital processing of voice audio is a major innovation in the performance of tone
remote controllers. It not only provides clean and sharp audio at the speaker, but it also
makes the remote easier to use.
An operator can begin speaking immediately upon pressing the transmit button. With
other tone remotes, it is necessary to wait first for the function tones to be sent to the base
station; otherwise, the initial syllables of the operator's words are clipped off because the
station was not keyed yet. The Models 280 and 284 include an innovative, momentary
digital delay that buffers the voice audio while the remote is sending the function tones.
This supports critical communications by always allowing the dispatchers to speak
instantly, instead of having to force themselves to remember to wait a second to let the
remote catch up.
The capability to speak immediately makes the Models 280 and 284 ideal for upgrading
dispatch centers where the operators are accustomed to using DC remotes. They can
transition to the new tone remote equipment without having to develop a new set of habits
when they go to transmit.
The Model 280 and 284 have the capability to mute all incoming guard and function tones
from parallel remotes. A tone detector combined with a momentary audio delay allows for
complete tone muting.
Automatic Audio Leveling
Most remote-controlled radio systems require control from multiple points. The various
audio levels are thus often quite different, depending upon their point of origin and the
path taken back to the base station. Mobile radios, parallel remotes, and distant remotes
may all sound different to the operator. The Zetron Digital Tone Remotes address these
issues through the use of high-quality, digital audio processing similar to that used in CD
players. Even if a given audio level fluctuates on a daily basis, these remotes detect the
change and compensate for it.
Reliable Audio Quality
Other tone remotes use analog filters and tone generators that require precise adjustment
and ongoing maintenance. If these designs are not serviced regularly, they will degrade
with time and temperature, and eventually become unreliable and offer poor quality audio.
The circuits in the Digital Tone Remotes, on the other hand, are crystal-controlled for
stable operation over the specified temperature range. The audio quality does not drift and
suffer with age. The remote even performs a self-test every time it is powered up to verify
proper operation.

9
General
Paging Encoder
The Digital Tone Remote is equipped with a versatile, built-in, paging encoder. This
provides an easy method of selecting specific field radios and pagers for receiving alerts
and voice pages. The encoder supports Two-Tone (both 100- and 1000-call), DTMF (all
16 tone pairs), Five-Tone signaling (EIA, CCIR, ZVEI tone groups), and Pulsed-Tone
Dialing. Since it is built-in to the remote, it saves desk space in the dispatch area and
eliminates extra wiring and interface problems during installation.
One of the most unique features of the encoder is a page-by-name database. As soon as a
pager code is entered, the name of the person assigned to that pager appears on the display
to verify the selection. If the operator does not know the pager code to begin with, he or
she can quickly scroll through the whole list of names in the database until the right choice
is found. The encoder is ergonomic and easy-to-use even during emergencies.
To further support emergency applications, up to 10 fixed paging stacks can be pre-
programmed into the Digital Tone Remotes. Like a telephone speed-dial number, a stack
page is a sequence of pages (up to 10 pager codes) sent one after the other, which is
initiated with no more key strokes than an individual page.
Operator Interface
An operator has two ways to transmit. The operator may simply press the TRANSMIT
key on the deskset and begin talking. The Digital Tone Remote picks up his or her speech
on its built-in electret microphone and an automatic level-control maintains proper gain.
The operator will hear the receive audio from the base station over the deskset's built-in
speaker.
For more private conversations, the operator can use the handset. Lifting the handset out
of its cradle automatically mutes the deskset speaker and microphone, and shifts those
functions to the handset. The TRANSMIT function is also shifted to the press-bar on the
handset. Everything is automatically shifted back to the deskset when the handset is
returned to its cradle. One exception to this automatic control swapping is the PAGE
function. Pages can only be made using the TRANSMIT button on the deskset, regardless
of whether the handset is off hook or not.
The Digital Tone Remotes also provide connections inside the deskset to support
applications requiring external desk microphones, or headset/footswitch combinations.
Liquid-Crystal Display
A high quality LCD display provides for both ease-of-use and makes the maximum
amount of information available to the operators. For quicker and more secure frequency
selection, each frequency can be displayed with an accompanying text string. For page-by-
name purposes, text strings can be assigned to individual pager codes.
To provide a visual indication that the system is operating at adequate volume levels, VU
meter is included on the display for both receive and transmit levels. For further

Introduction
10 025-9346N
convenience, a battery-backed clock is included on the display which can be programmed
for either the 12- or 24-hour format. This clock can also be disabled during setup for
dispatch centers that require the use of a central, master clock.
Programmable Key Functions
The Zetron Digital Tone Remotes have been specifically designed to support being
customized to fit the exact needs of the end user. The installer simply plugs in a PC and
selects which functions are to be assigned to the programmable keys on the remote. Once
the installer has programmed a single remote, the configuration can be saved and then
quickly uploaded into other units, allowing the installer to quickly clone as many parallel
remotes as the system requires.
The assignable functions include the following:
Since the programming is done in software, there is no need to spend time moving
jumpers or making other tedious adjustments. Adding capability to existing units is a snap
since a unit does not have to be opened to make operational changes. Adding frequencies
or pagers is as simple as editing the system programming file on a PC, so no messy, time
consuming hardware changes are required.
An additional advantage of the Digital Tone Remotes being programmed from a PC is that
the programming software can print out complete hard copy of how a remote is
programmed. This makes it easy to do the right thing and document the system setup for
future reference.
Privacy Mode and Supervisory Control
A privacy feature may be implemented during multi-remote applications. This allows an
operator to silence and lock out other, parallel Model 280s or 284s in the system. The
other operators will not be able to initiate any functions until the privacy mode is released,
however, their displays will still indicate the true status of the radio station.
• Single frequency selection
assigned to each key (F1 - F8)
• Coded/Clear
• Double frequency selection
assigned to the top row of keys
(F1/F2, etc.)
• Privacy • Intercom
• Second receiver mute On/Off • Repeat On/Off
• Mute • PL1, PL2, PL3, PL4
• Wild I, Wild II • Monitor
• 1 kHz Alert • Supervisor takeover
• Siren Alert • 5-beep Alert
• High/Low Alert • Fast Siren Alert
• Off-hook Speaker Mute • Instant Call
• Unselect Mute • Hook Disable
• Call Decoder Mute

11
General
An output is provided for supervisory takeover control. In an emergency situation a
supervisory operator can cut off other remotes to seize immediate control of the system.
The remote used by this supervisor would be wired in the system such that, electrically
speaking, it was the closest remote in the system to the base station termination panel. The
output on the deskset is an open-drain FET that can be used to operate an external, user-
supplied relay. When operated, this relay would be used to break the connection to the
other remotes in the system, and would supply the needed 600  termination to the line.
Call Decoder
The call decoder feature works in conjunction with a Zetron HEAR Decoder and allows
field radios to alert a specific remote or group of remotes. This is useful for cases where
the remote operators wish to hear only those transmissions intended for themselves and
not hear all traffic on the channel. When an incoming call is decoded, the alerted remote
(or remotes) will unmute audio, flash an LED, and (optionally) send an audible alert tone
out the speaker.

Introduction
12 025-9346N
Features
Options
• Programming kit including cable, adapter, and PC software (P/N 950-9449)
Feature Model 280 Model 284
Base Stations (number of lines) 1 4
Frequencies F1 to F8 F1 to F8
Keys 9 programmable,
transmit, keypad for
paging
9 programmable,
transmit, 4 line select,
keypad for paging
Alphanumeric display of channel names yes yes
Unselect audio no yes
Parallel status yes yes
Parallel function tone muting yes yes
Instant transmit (talk during function tones) yes yes
Privacy mode yes yes
Intercom mode advanced advanced
Clock standard standard
VU meter for transmit and receive level yes yes
Paging encoder yes yes
4-wire line interface, full duplex audio yes yes
Handset, speaker, front panel mic yes yes
Line operated Transmit light yes yes
Programmable hook switch functions yes yes
Accessory audio port yes yes
Selectable dynamic range and mic gain yes yes
Alert tones yes yes
Call Decoder yes yes

Overview
13
Specifications
Overview
This section of the manual lists all of the physical and electrical specifications of the
Zetron family of Digital Tone Remotes. Whenever an item applies only to, or specifically
excludes, a particular model of remote, this will be noted.
Part Numbers
Item Part Number
Model 280 Digital Tone Remote 901-9479
Model 284 Multi-Line Tone Remote 901-9498
Model 284 Multi-Line Tone Remote with
Paging - Kenwood
901-9714
Switching power supply 802-0692
Programming kit, includes the following:
• Zipr Configuration Utility
• 6-Conductor modular cable
• USB to 5V TTL Adapter
950-9449
395-0082
709-8060
802-0096

Specifications
14 025-9346N
General
Power 8.5 - 11 VAC or 11.0 -15.0 VDC, draws 650 mA maximum, 300 mA nominal,
Optional wall transformer
DC Standby Connection for standby power, 11.0 - 15.0 VDC, 650 mA maximum
Connections Power supply, standby power, line interface (2- or 4-wire), PTT open drain output,
supervisor open drain output, external PTT input, external audio input, external
audio output, ground. Uses screw terminal connectors.
Temperature Range 0° - 60° Celsius, 95% relative humidity at +50°C (non-condensing)
Size / Weight 8.3"W x 4.4"H x 9.5"D
3 lb. (the Model 284 is 4 lb.)
Adjustments Line Transmit level trim, the Model 284 has control for each line
Display 2-line by 16-character LCD indicates station status, time of day, transmit and
receive VU level, paging capcode entries, and operating prompts (paging, talk,
etc.) Alphanumeric labels (names) up to 16 digits may be assigned to each
frequency of each line [Model 284 = (F1 to F8)(4 lines) = 32 labels] The Model
284 has VOX, Select, Transmit, and LOTL indications for each line
LEDs Transmit, Monitor, and programmable LEDs per switch function
Controls Volume, Transmit, Monitor, 16-digit keypad for paging, Clear, and nine
assignable keys
Configuration Done via PC with adapter, cable, and PC software (programming kit is optional)
Data Retention Nonvolatile EEPROM
Functions Assignable function tone frequencies from 650-2050 Hz; Single frequency select
(F1-F8), Double frequency select (F1/F2), Coded/Clear, Intercom, Privacy,
Repeat on/off, Rx2 Mute on/off, PL1, PL2, PL3, PL4, Wild I, Wild II, Supervisor
takeover, Mute, 5-beep Alert, High/Low Alert, Siren Alert, Fast-Siren Alert,
Steady Alert, Instant Call, Off-hook speaker mute, Hook disable, Call Decoder
Mute, and Monitor. The Model 284 has Unselect Mute.
Selective Calling Two-Tone, DTMF, Five-Tone, and Pulsed Tone Dialing. Includes leading digit
multiformat selection, strapped digits, alert tones, tone-only or tone & voice per
format, gain and equalization curves selectable per format
Filters Tx notch filter removes guard tone components from microphone audio; Rx notch
filter removes guard tone from speaker and handset audio. Intelligent audio
processing may be enabled so that parallel remote function tones are not heard
Tx Audio Delay Selectable on/off to delay microphone audio during guard and function tone
transmission
Rx Audio delay Selectable on/off to delay speaker and ear piece audio so that parallel remote
function tones may be detected and muted
Line Type 2-wire, or 4-wire, leased line voice grade audio circuit, or copper connection
Line Connector Screw terminals
Audio Input 600  or 6000  impedance, accommodates line losses up to 20 dB
Audio Output Adjustable up to +12 dBm into 600 
Distortion < 2% at full output, Signal-to-noise > 50 dB, Hum and Cross-talk all -50 dB at full
output
Frequency Response -3 to +1 dB from 250-3000 Hz. (except for the guard tone notch)

15
Programmable Items
Programmable Items
Compression Input level increase of 30 dB above knee of compression causes < 3 dB output
increase
Guard Tone 2100, 2175, 2325, 2600, 2800, 2970 Hz. Guard tone notch will follow
High Level Guard Tone
Duration
120 mSec default, selectable 0-900 mSec. Tx audio delay will follow
Low Level Guard Tone
Duration
Continuous during transmit
Function Tone Duration 40 mSec default, selectable 0-250 mSec. Tx audio delay will follow
Clock Display On/Off, 12/24 hour format, time set, Displays Hours:Minutes
VU Meter Display On/Off, two styles available, Normal or Precise
Function Frequencies 650, 750, 850, 950, 1050, 1150, 1250, 1350, 1450, 1550, 1650, 1750, 1850, 1950,
or 2050 Hz
Monitor Frequency Any function frequency
PL Strip Frequency Any function frequency
Function Keys 9 programmable keys may be assigned specific functions, the 4 keys in the top
row include green and red LEDs to indicate selected status, they would typically
be used when more than four frequencies (F1-F4) are required, the 4 keys in the
second row include single red LEDs to indicate status, different function tones
may be sent "toggle" keys such as Coded/Clear, the LED shows the current
selected function
Programmable Keys #1
through #4
Can be programmed as: No function, Single Frequency select (F2), Double
Frequency select (F3/F4), Coded/Clear, Intercom, Privacy, Repeat On/Off, Rx2
Mute On/Off, PL1, PL2, PL3, PL4, Wild I, Wild II, Supervisor takeover, Mute, 1
kHz Alert, 5-beep Alert, High/Low Alert, Siren Alert, Fast-Siren Alert, Instant
Call, Off-hook Speaker Mute, Hook Disable, Call Decoder Mute, Unselect Mute
(Model 284 only)
Programmable Keys #5
through #8
Can be programmed the same as keys 1-4, except that they cannot support Double
Frequency select.
Programmable Key #9
(located above Transmit
key)
Can be programmed as: Monitor, Page Send, or any other non-Frequency select
function
Line Select Keys The Model 284 has four line select keys located between the programmable
function keys and the paging keypad. Each key has both a green and a red LED for
status indication. Green is the selected line on that remote. Flashing red indicates
Vox activity on a line. Rapidly flashing red indicate the Call Decoder has been
triggered. Solid red indicates that the station controlled by a line is actually in
transmit.
Rx Audio Delay On/Off. Mute function tones from parallel remotes
Tx Audio Delay On/Off Allows user to begin speaking while the function tones are sent

Specifications
16 025-9346N
Paging
Tone Levels
Call Decoder
Alphanumeric Labels 16 character names for each frequency select (F1-F8), the Model 284 has a full set
of programmable labels for each line controlled
Speaker Audio Programmable as to whether the speaker is muted or active when the handset is
off-hook
Mute Timeout Programmable from 0 to 240 seconds
Unselect Audio The Model 284 can provide combined select and unselect audio at its speaker.
Audio from unselected lines is summed at individually programmable levels. If
line 4 is not used to control a station, it may be used to drive an external, amplified
speaker with separate unselect audio.
Database 50 entries maximum, 10-digit capcodes, 16-character display labels
Stack Page Up to 10 stacks of up to 10 capcodes each
Formats 2-tone (100-call and 1000-call), DTMF (1-8 digits), 5-tone (up to four digits can
be strapped), Pulsed Tone Dialing
Tone & Voice Talk Time 0 to 60 seconds, programmable
Instant Calls Individual or Stack pages may be initiated with a single key press.
High Level Guard +3 dB relative to maximum audio level (typically 10 dBm)
Low Level Guard -30 dB relative to high level guard tone (typically -20 dBm)
Guard Notch -50 dB, removes guard tone from Tx audio
Function Tones 10 dB below high level guard tone (typically 0 dBm)
Tone Accuracy 0.5 Hz
Decoder Enable Selectable per line
Individual Call Any function frequency
Group Call Any function frequency
Decoder Mute Any function frequency
Audible Call Alert Programmable 0 to 240 second duration

17
Operation
Overview
This section discusses the normal operations of the remote deskset. It will cover how to
operate the controls and the indications that should be observed by the operator as he or
she uses the unit.
Power
Earlier models are powered once the power supply is connected. Later models have a
power switch at the back/top of the unit.
Switch Functions
Refer to Figure 1 while reviewing the switch function descriptions for the Digital Tone
Remotes.
Transmit
The TRANSMIT button is located in the lower right corner of the unit. Pressing and
holding this button will cause the remote to send the keying tone sequence to the
transmitter. When the handset is taken off hook, this control function is automatically
transferred to the PTT bar on the handset, and returned again when the handset is replaced
in its cradle. If an external desk microphone or foot switch is interfaced to the remote, then
their PTT function will be in parallel with the controls in the remote.
The second function served by this button is the sending of pages. The PTT bar on the
handset, an external foot switch, or an external microphone PTT can only be used to send
voice transmissions, not pages. The TRANSMIT button can be programmed to have no
other function than sending pages if the end users want it that way.
Monitor
Typically, this function will be assigned to the button in the lower right corner of the
remote just above the TRANSMIT button. Pressing the MONITOR button will unsquelch

Operation
18 025-9346N
the receiver for channel monitoring. Pressing TRANSMIT will return the receiver to the
squelched condition.
Clear
The CLEAR button is located on the right hand side of the remote, the top button in the
column of three that has the TRANSMIT button in it. This button is primarily used to clear
paging entries made from the keypad. It is also used in the SETUP mode. This button has
no indicator LED associated with it since its effect will be seen in the LCD display
window.
Figure 1: Digital Tone Remote Controls
0 # D
UpDown
7 8 9 C
4
1
5 6 B
2 3 A
RPTR
ON/OFF
F5
F6
F3
F4
F1
F2
ALERT
1
ALERT
2
UNSEL
MUTE
MUTE
Maintenance
11:38
Volume
-20-15-10 -7 -5 -3 -1 0 +1 +2
dBm
Model 284
Multi-line Tone Remote
TX
CLEAR
LINE
4
LINE
3
LINE
2
LINE
1
MON
Prrogrammable
function keys F1
through F8
Base station
line select
keys
Programmable
function key F9
Keypad for
optional
paging

19
Line Select Keys
This row of keys only exists on the Model 284, Multi-line Tone Remote. One of these
keys would be programmed for each one of the base station control lines interfaced to the
remote. Each of these keys has two LEDs associated with it, a green and a red. The green
LED indicates the currently selected line for this remote. The red LED is used to indicate
activity on the other, unselected base station lines. A flashing red LED indicates VOX
activity on the associated line, and a solid red light indicates that base station currently
being held in transmit. If the Call Decoder feature is enabled, a rapidly flashing red LED
indicates that and incoming call has been decoded.
The Model 284 keeps track of the control tones used on each line interfaced to it.
Whenever a new line is selected, the remote will automatically update its LCD display to
show the current status for that base station.
Programmable Keys
The Digital Tone Remotes have eight programmable buttons arranged in two horizontal
rows of four, just below the LCD display. The first row of four are dual function buttons.
These buttons are normally used for channel selection and can have either one or two
frequencies assigned to each button. The buttons in the top row can also be used for any of
the other programmable functions (except Monitor and Page Select).
The second row of programmable buttons are single function buttons. The second row of
buttons can be used for channel selection (single channel only), or for such functions as
intercom, privacy, mute alert tones, etc.
There is a ninth programmable button just above the TRANSMIT button. This is usually
programmed to be the MONITOR button, however, if the end user does not need the
monitor function, then this button can be programmed for any other function except
channel select.
Aside from the first button in the top row, the rest of the programmable buttons on the
deskset can be disabled if they are not going to be assigned a function.
Paging Keypad
The Model 280 and 284 remotes have a 16 button keypad to support paging entries. Pages
can be entered in two ways. The operator can enter the capcode of the pager directly on the
keypad, or the list of programmed pagers can be stepped through by using the “*” and “#”
keys as up/down scrolling keys. Once the desired capcode is displayed, the operator
presses a button to send the page. This Page Send function can be programmed for either
the TRANSMIT button or the button just above it.
When the operator enters a digit, the deskset looks in its database to see which paging
format, if any has been assigned to that leading digit. As the operator continues to enter
digits, the deskset will look in the user portion of the database to see if the entire entry
matches any of the 50 paging users. If it does, then the name of that user appears in the
display. If no match is found, then the entry is tested to ensure that it at least conforms to
the capcode rules for the paging format selected. If the leading digit has no paging format

Operation
20 025-9346N
assigned to it or the complete entry is not a valid capcode under the rules for the format in
use, then the remote will return an error message and prompt the operator to try again.
Paging entries can be canceled or cleared either before or after a page is made by pressing
the CLEAR button which is next to the upper right hand corner of the paging keypad.
When the function of the TRANSMIT button is tied to paging, pressing TRANSMIT will
result in a re-transmitting of the last page entered as long as it remains in the display. The
operator should press the CLEAR key to return the TRANSMIT button to supporting
voice transmissions.
One of the attributes that can be programmed on an individual basis for paging users is
whether or not a “talk-time” comes after the page. If a talk-time is assigned then the
remote will keep the transmitter keyed and pass voice audio to it for the programmed
duration. If the operator wishes to extend the talk-time, this can be done by pressing and
holding any of the PTT controls at the remote (it doesn't have to be the TRANSMIT
button). If the operator wishes to cancel the talk-time before it would normally expire,
then momentarily “tapping” any of the PTT controls will cancel the rest of the talk-time.
Indicators
Refer to Figure 1 while reviewing the display descriptions for the Digital Tone Remotes.
Transmit
The TRANSMIT button has a red LED inside it that is used to indicate when the base
station is in transmit. The remote turns this indicator on and off based on whether or not it
is detecting low level guard tone on the system. This means it will indicate properly
regardless of which remote in the system has sent the keying tone to the transmitter.
Monitor
The red LED inside the button programmed for the Monitor function will be lit when ever
the remote (or any other remote in the system) has unsquelched the receiver. If another
function has been assigned to this key, the LED will be lit whenever that function is
selected.
Programmable Keys
The top row of programmable buttons all have two LED's associated with them, a green
and a red. The green LED being lit would indicate the first frequency being selected and
the red indicates that the alternate frequency is selected when the button is programmed
for two channels. The second row of programmable buttons only have a single red LED
each. This LED being lit indicates that the button's function is selected.
LCD Display
The Digital Tone Remotes are equipped with a two line by sixteen character LCD display.
This display is used to provide general status information and specific information about
pages being made. The top line is used to show the channel selected (F1, F2, ...etc.) and