TBOX N6MBR Tone Box User's Manual Release 1.5 August 20, 1992 TBOX is a Hidden Transmitter Controller. The Microcontroller based board generates audio tones, controls PTT and IDs the transmitter in Morse Code during a hidden Transmitter Hunt. TBOX is programmable using the RS-232 port. Programmable options include text for CW identification, CW speed, Intermittent signal on and off periods in minutes and seconds, and mode of operation. An optional on-board DTMF decoder allows the Tone Box to be controlled by a remote radio. Audio input is fed to the TBOX from the speaker jack of either the Hidden Transmitter or an HT tuned to a different band. DTMF codes could be sent to the TBOX while it is operating to change its configuration. Also as an option is the SmartWatch timer. This IC when placed in the SRAM socket location can be used to program the TBOX to turn on at any date and time. This feature is useful when setting up multiple Transmitters to be turned on at the same time. On-board memory includes a 128 bytes EEPROM where all configuration variables and callsign are stored while the power is turned off and removed from the unit. Whenever any configuration change is made, the EEPROM is updated. The radio connection is made via a 9 pin D-SUB connector and is compatible with the Kantronics TNC radio connector. So if you have a cable already made for your TNC/Radio it will work with the TBOX. If you need to make a cable, Audio, PTT and ground are supplied on the following pins: Pin 1 - Audio output to the transmitter Pin 3 - PTT Pin 5 - Audio input for DTMF decoding Pin 6 - GND If you are connecting the TBOX to an HT, two jumpers provide proper audio/PTT resistive values for ICOM and Yeasu HTs. Programming is done by connecting a cable from the 9 pin RS-232 connector on the TBOX to the RS-232 port of the computer. No handshaking is provided. The RS-232 cable only needs XMIT, RECV and GND to be connected. Commands are entered using most terminal emulation programs with the Baud rate set to 300, 1200, 2400 or 4800, 8 data bits and no parity. Disable hardware and software handshaking and set the terminal software to one of the above Baud Rates. When the board is powered on for the first time, the Baud rate is automatically detected by holding the Space Bar until the main menu is displayed. If for some chance that the EE-PROM has and BAUD rate value from the above options, you may not get the AUTO-BAUD sequence. In this case try each baud rate until you get a response. N6MBR Tone Box Command Menu [V1.5] A - Set Current Date and Time B - Set BAUD Rate C - Set Callsign D - Memory Dump N - Set Transmitter ON Time F - Set Transmitter OFF Time G - Start Tone Sequence H - Help M - Set Mode R - Random Tone Speed S - Display Status T - Set Time to Turn on Transmitter U - Set Time to Turn off Transmitter W - Set CW Speed in Words per Minute Z - SRAM Memory Test cmd: Command Descriptions Commands are entered with a single keystroke. You do not need to press the Enter key after pressing a command key. A note to Procomm users: do not use the ALT-O chat mode to talk to the TBOX. This is a line oriented mode and will not work. M - Set Mode This commands selects the mode of operation. The mode indicates what type of tone sequence is to be transmitted. Once the TBOX is turned on, depending on the mode set, the TBOX will start transmitting. Possible modes to select from by executing the "M" command: Tone Sequence Mode: 1 - ID only - No tones 2 - Cute tones and ID’s after ON time 3 - Random tones and ID’s after ON time 4 - Oscillating Scales and ID’s after ON time 5 - Audio Repeat 11 - Same as 1 above with programmed Execution 12 - Same as 2 above with programmed Execution 13 - Same as 3 above with programmed Execution 14 - Same as 4 above with programmed Execution Mode: Mode 0 - This will cause the TBOX to enter command mode once turned on. Commands can then be entered via the RS-232 port. If any of the other modes are used, the command mode can be entered by pressing the enter key. You may need to wait till the current tone sequence finishes before the command mode can be entered. Mode 1 - This will repeat the callsign over and over again. Each of the modes use the ON and OFF variables. After transmitting for the ON period of time the transmitter turns off for the OFF time. Mode 2 - This will send a cute tone sequence for the ON period of time after which the callsign will be sent. Then the transmitter will turn off for the OFF period and then repeats the sequence. Mode 3 - This is the same as mode 2 except that a random tone sequence is used. Mode 4 - This is also the same as mode 2 and 3 except that an oscillating scale tone sequence is used. Modes 11,12,13,14 - Are the same as 1,2,3,4 with the added feature of using the SmartWatch IC for a timed execution of the TBOX. C - Set Call sign Up to 20 ASCII characters can be entered. No checks are made on the validity of the call-sign. It is your responsibility to make sure that your T is being identified properly. S - Status This will display the status of the Tone Box. The following is a typical Status Display: Tone Box Status: N6MBR T-Box V1.5 Callsign is set to: DE N6MBR/T Mode is set to: 014 Transmitter ON Time in Minutes: 000 Transmitter ON Time in Seconds: 015 Transmitter OFF Time in Minutes: 000 Transmitter OFF Time in Seconds: 020 CW Speed in WPM: 015 Relative Speed of Random Tone Sequence: 067 Transmitter Auto Turn ON Time: 08/05/92 10:00:00 Transmitter Auto Turn OFF Time: 08/05/92 13:00:00 The Current Time and Date is: 07/28/91 16:35:31 Baud Rate is set to AUTO cmd: R - Random Tone Speed This will change the length and speed of the random tones. You may enter a number between 1 and 128. The smaller the number the faster the speed. G - Go This will cause the currently selected program to be executed. To enter the command mode again, simply enter a carriage return. The BIOS checks for RS-232 input before each tone sequence. W - CW Speed This allows you to enter the speed of the Morse Code generator. You may enter any number between 5 and 18. This is a relative value and may not be exact. N - Intermittent ON Time Two values are entered, one for minutes and the other for seconds. These indicate the time period that the Transmitter will be ON for. F - Intermittent OFF Time Again, two values are entered, minutes and seconds. This is the time period the transmitter will be off. Basically the transmitter is turned on and stays on for the "ON" time. Then the T will go to sleep for the "OFF" time. The T will then go back on repeating the sequence. A - Set the current Time This feature only applies to those that have the clock/calender SmartWatch IC installed. Use this command to set the current date and time in the IC. Enter the Current Date and Time: Year: 92 Month: 7 Date: 28 Hour: 15 Minute: 5 Second: 55 T - Schedule the TBOX The TBOX can be scheduled to start executing at any date and time in the future. This allows the hidden transmitter to be set in place prior to the hunt and then automatically start executing at T-HUNT time. Also useful when placing multiple "T"s miles apart, all to start up at any programmed time. When you execute the "G" command the TBOX will display a message indicating that it will wait till the current date and time matches the programmed date and time. Enter Date to Turn the Transmitter ON: Year: 92 Month: 7 Date: 28 Hour: 15 Minute: 7 Second: 15 cmd: g TBOX is Waiting for Programmed Turn-On Time U - Schedule Auto-Turn-Off Time This allows the TBOX to be automatically turned off at a programmed time. This is for hunts that last exactly for some predetermined time. These parameters are entered just as the Turn on Time, except seconds are not entered. To disable this feature, enter a 0 for the year. B - Set BAUD Rate This allows the user to set the BAUD rate to either 300, 1200, 2400, or 4800. The first time the board is powered up with this version EPROM, an AUTO-BAUD sequence will occur. The TBOX will try each BAUD rate looking for a Space Bar to be pressed. When it detects a valid baud rate the main menu will be displayed. If you want the baud rate to be set and to ignore the AUTO-BAUD sequence when the board is powered up, set the BAUD Rate with this option. The AUTO-BAUD sequence does not write the BAUD configuration to EEPROM, you must execute this command. Baud Rate options: 0 - AUTO Detect 1 - 300 BAUD 2 - 1200 BAUD 3 - 2400 BAUD 4 - 4800 BAUD DTMF Programming New for version 1.4 is the ability to remotely program the TBOX using DTMF codes. This is done by connecting the audio input to the headphone jack of a radio. This radio most likely is on a different band of that of the T, although it could be the same as the hidden T, and can be programmed during sleep periods. The codes are 4 digit sequences, a 2 digit command followed by a 2 digit parameter. Some commands only have a 2 digit command with no following parameter. The # key is the final delimiter. Think of it as the ENTER key on you computer's keyboard. You must type this key to finish the command. The TBOX will then transmit an "R" in morse code indicating that it understood and executed your request. The following table shows the supported commands: 40xx# Minutes ON 41xx# Seconds ON 42xx# Minutes OFF 43xx# Seconds OFF 44xx# Mode 45xx# Random Speed 46xx# WPM 47# Display Status Audio Repeat You can now transmit through the hidden transmitter using the Remote-DTMF radio. This allows you to remotely talk through the T from your HT, allowing the hunters to hear any comments you may have (given that they can hear the T). Simply change to Mode #5 and the TBOX will stop its current tone sequence and enter Audio Repeat Mode. To exit Audio Repeat, change to another mode. BIOS Software Updates I will place a copy of the latest version of the BIOS on the my Landline BBS. The number is (818)597-0641. Look for a file named TBOXnn.ZIP where nn is the version number. You will need PKUNZIP to unzip the file. The file will contain a binary image file fit for EPROM programming, and the documentation file. If you are unable to program your EPROM, I can send you the latest version EPROM for $10. Please note that the LLBBS is no longer up. You can find updates on my web page: http://centcon.com/~ron or my ftp site ftp2.centcon.com. Printed Circuit Boards Kits are available which includes a double sided printed circuit board with plated through holes, a programmed EPROM with the latest version of the software. I also include a manual with schematics. The manual includes assembly instructions. The price for the above kit is $35 (price subject to change without notice) and can be ordered from me. My address is noted below. What's New? Version 0.4 Status display is in decimal instead of hexadecimal The Mode command has been reconstructed. Mode 0 enters the menu at power up. A random tone sequence has been added. All modes can be used as intermittent or continuous mode by using the OFF parameter. A delay was included before sending the ID after keying the PTT. this prevented the first CW character from being corrupted. Version 0.7 Baud Rate changed from 4800 to 2400. Version 0.8 SmartWatch support for timed start-ups. This allows the TBOX to start executing at a programmed date and time. Modes 11,12,13 and 14 were added to support this feature.Keyboard interrupting from mode 2 improved. Mode 4 was added for a different tone sequence. The Callsign text has been reduced from a maximum of 40 characters to 20 characters. Version 1.1 The introduction of Revision A PCBs. No new software features. The new board has many improvements over top the rev N/C board. Here is a list of Rev A enhancements: Improved Audio circuit DTMF Decoding and Encoding General purpose I/O (antenna switching, alarm, etc) Heat Sink for 5V regulator Power connector Audio repeat from another receiver Transmit LED Fast/Slow baud rate selection (1200/9600) Note that we have many new features listed here but have not yet supported them in the EPROM. Look for the new BIOS updates. Version 1.2 Fixed a bug in the clock calendar code. If the box was turned on after the programmed time has occurred, the TBOX would hang. This is now fixed. Version 1.4 Rev B boards released Improved audio level adjustment Jumpers that were required in Rev A boards are no longer needed DTMF Decoding is now supported in Firmware Audio Repeat SRAM Memory Test Version 1.5 Fixed a bug when a invalid Command Character is enter via the keyboard the TBOX will hang. Seconds were added to the Auto-Turn-On Time. An Auto-Turn-Off Time was added for predetermined T-Hunt times. BAUD Rates of 300, 1200, 2400 and 4800 now supported. AUTO-BAUD detection added. Fix excessive pause after CW "Q" What's Coming? I always keep a list of new features that I'm working on. I try my best to get them implemented in new releases of the BIOS. I'm by no means promising that these features will make it into the BIOS, but just letting you know what may be in the future. If you have a neat idea please write me. DTMF Encoding will allow two or more TBOX's to talk to each other. The typical FOX-HUNT has multiple transmitters each taking a turn to transmit. With DTMF signalling, one TBOX can turn off and signal the next one on to turn on. This eliminates the complicated setup of synchronizing multiple transmitters. Front panel switch that selects one of two Modes. For example if you have the TBOX all set up for intermittent operation, this will allow you to switch to a continuous tone so that the hunters can take initial bearings. TTL outputs for switching transmitters or antennas. TTL input for either an alarm or push button signaling. Extended length ASCII CW text. The SRAM will be used to hold a long ASCII text string that can be used to replace the simple and short CALLSIGN. Programmable tone sequences. I'm thinking that it might be possible for the user to enter a customized tone sequence into the battery-backed SRAM. PARTS LIST for the N6MBR TONE BOX (REV B) QTY COMP LOCATION DESCRIPTION 1 PCB E80159 REV B Board (N6MBR) 1 80C31 U1 MicroController 1 7805CTH U7 5V REGULATOR 1 74HCT373 U2 1 74HCT14 U10 1 MAX232 U6 Maxim 232 RS-232 interface 1 27C128 U3 EPROM (27128) 1 EEPROM U5 93C46 1 LM358N U21 1 XTAL X1 VAL=12MHZ 1 DB9PR J1 9pin Male Sub-D Right Angle (ALLIED #512-5900) 1 DB9SR J2 9pin Female Sub-D RA (ALLIED #512-5905) 2 SPDT SW1 SW3 SW3 NOT USED (ALLIED #676-1815) 2 LED L1 L2 L1=RED, L2=GRN 1 NPNEBC Q1 VAL=2N2222A 1 COAX J3 POWER CONNECTOR (MOUSER #?) 2 CAP C3 C2 VAL=22PF (CERAMIC) 7 CAP C9 C11 C12 C13 VAL=.1UF (C9 METALIZED FILM all others CERAMIC) C14 C15 C16 1 CAP C10 VAL=.001UF 2 CAP C19 C23 VAL=.01UF 1 CAP C24 VAL=2200PF 4 CAP C21 C18 C22 C25 VAL=.22UF 6 POLCAPH C1 C4 C5 C6 C7 VAL=10UF (TANTALUM) C17 2 POLCAPV C98 C26 VAL=1UF (TANTALUM) 1 RES R6 VAL=8.2K ALL 1/4 WATT 1 RES R13 VAL=1MEG 1 RES R12 VAL=3.9K 1 RES R11 VAL=2.2K 1 RES R30 VAL=2.7K 9 RES R16 R18 R19 R22 VAL=1K R9 R8 R5 R26 R34 R35 1 RES R23 VAL=33K 6 RES R10 R24 R27 R28 VAL=10K R33 R36 1 RES R7 VAL=4.7k 1 RES R15 VAL=100K 1 RES R32 VAL=47K 1 RES R25 VAL=1.3K 1 TRMPOT POT1 VAL=4.7K (RADIO SHACK) 1 DIODE D1 VAL=1N914B 1 DIODE D2 VAL=1N4001 1 84256 U4 STATIC RAM AND BATTERY/CLOCK CHIP 12 SHUNT JA JE JB JC JUMPER AREAS-GOLD POSTS WITH SHUNTS ICOM YEASU JD OR JUST SOLDER WIRES AS NEEDED BAUD A B D E 1 PIN20A P1 20 PIN BREAK-AWAY CONNECTOR FOR EXTERNAL I/O (OPTIONAL - ALLIED # 512-1822) 1 40 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4639 2 28 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4638 1 20 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4635 1 18 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4634 3 16 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4633 3 14 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4632 2 8 PIN SOCKET ALLIED # 512-4621 EXTERNAL AUDIO REPEAT OPTION 1 C4066B U22 1 TRMPOTV POT3 VAL=1K (RADIO SHACK) DTMF OPTION 1 SSI75T202-IP U9 DTMF DECODER (ALLIED) 1 TP5088 U11 DTMF ENCODER 2 74HCT595 U14 U13 SHIFT REGISTERS 1 74HCT165 U12 1 XTAL X2 VAL=3.579545 (COLOR BURST) 1 SRAM 8Kx8 U4 LOW POWER VERSION SmartWatch Option 1 DS1216C U4 Dallas SmartWatch (ALLIED) Most parts that are not available at Radio Shack can be bought from the following mail order outlets by calling their 800 numbers: JDR Micro Devices Mouser Electronics Allied Electronics 800-538-5000 800-346-6873 800-433-5700 2233 Branham Lane 11433 Woodside Ave. 401 E. 8th Street San Jose, CA 95124 Santee, Ca 92071-4795 Fort Worth, TX 76102 Tone Box Assembly Notes Assembling the board is fairly simple. I will try to point out the difficult areas: 1. First purchase the parts in the first part of the parts list. Use CMOS type of parts (74HCT or 74HC) for low power consumption. Any pin-compatible type of parts may be used. 74LS can be used but this will make the TBOX run HOT. 2. You can either buy the right type of switch or solder wires from the PCB to a panel mounted switch. 3. Use sockets as much as possible. It allows for easy replacement of bad parts. 4. Solder the parts into the board. 5. There is an area above to EPROM that selects the type of EPROM used on the board. Install a jumper to select either a 128 or 256 EPROM. I ship 128 EPROM with the kit. Jumper at D selects a 27256 EPROM Jumper at E selects a 27128 EPROM. 6. I tried to give you a source for all parts. You should be able to get all parts from Radio Shack and JDR. The only part that I did not have a source for is the EEPROM. I will supply a 93C46 to all that buy the PCB from me. 7. Once you are ready to fire it up, check for a 5v to GND and 12v to GND shorts. 8. Connect the RS-232 port to a computer with a Terminal Emulation program (Procomm or like) running at 2400 baud. 9. Turn it on, and you should get the menu displayed on the computer screen, if not check your baud rate, RS-232 cable and of course the component locations and solder joints. 10. Once you have the menu displayed, you should have a cmd: prompt. If not, turn the power off and while turning the power on press the space bar. This should give you the prompt. 11. Now all of the variables need to be programmed. Go through each command to program the variables. Note that you must have the EEPROM installed on the board if you wish to turn the unit off and still retain the status of these variables. 12. If you want the SmartWatch option, install a socket at location U4. Install the Dallas 1216C into that socket. Program the current and schedule times. 13. On REV A boards, a couple of mods needs to be done. a. Install a 1k resistor between pins 1 and 14 of the 74HCT14 (U10). b. Install a jumper between pins 7,9,11, and 13 of U10. This grounds all unused inputs of the device. c. For the DTMF part of it, Lift pin 7 of U11 and install a jumper from U11-6 to U9-11. 14. On all non-polarized capacitors, it is best to use metal film types. If these are difficult to come by you can use ceramic. 15. Install your TBOX into a metal box. Use shielded cables for the TBOX to radio connections. In some cases I have found that a rubber duck near the TBOX will cause it to reset. An external antenna always fixes this problem. 16. I did not draw it in the schematic, but it is a good idea to put a fuse in the power supply cables. 17. The tone sequence audio level can be adjusted by turning POT1. POT3 will adjust the Repeat Audio level. 18. For DTMF control, you will need to install the Static RAM at location U4. Also install a jumper at location B. You may need to adjust the audio level of the receiver for proper DTMF decoding. 19. If the DTMF Decoder IC (SSI202) is not installed, you must place a jumper between U10-5 and U10-7. If U10-5 is left floating the processor may hang. If you still have problems, I can be reached at home after 6:00pm PST. Ron Seese 1535 Thornhill Ave. Westlake Village CA 91361 805-495-5707 ron@chrislin.com Happy T Hunting!