Advertisement
PK-88 OPERATING MANUAL
4.2.1
'Connect' and 'Disconnect'
Packet radio contacts begin with a connect process that sets up the
'handshaking' between the two stations to insure error-free communications.
Contacts or connections are ended by a disconnect process that leaves both
stations free to start new contacts.
Packet connections can also use digipeaters - other packet stations that
automatically relay packets from one station to another over a specified route.
We are going to 'connect' the PK-88 to itself to see how this works. You have
already set up the PK-88 in loopback; therefore, the PK-88 will receive as well
as send packets.
4.2.2
LED Status and Mode Indicators
The PK-88's front-panel LEDs show you the operating mode and system status at
any moment. Each LED is marked with an abbreviated name.
CONV
Converse
TRANS
Transparent
CMD
Command
SEND
Send
DCD
Data Carrier Detect Lit when valid data signals received
STA
Status
CON
Connect
MULT
Multiple
PWR
Power
4.3
System Loopback Test Connection
This first test uses your own call sign. Type 'CONNECT (MYCALL)'
cmd:CONNECT (MYCALL)
*** CONNECTED to (MYCALL)
The LEDs change to show the PK-88 in Packet Mode, in CONNECTED state and in
CONVERSE Mode.
STATUS:
The PK-88 sends special packets to set up a connection. These packets are now
leaving the PK-88 on J3's Pin I and returning on Pin 4 without being
transmitted over your radio.
4.3.1
Connect Message
*** CONNECTED to MYCALL shows that the connection is established. The CON LED
is now lit; the cmd: prompt does not appear on the next line. You are connected
to yourself in Converse Mode, ready to begin. Try it. Type your message, ending
the line with a <CR>:
Hello, there.
Hello_ there. (Underscore here indicates received data)
Lit when in the Converse Mode
Lit when in the Transparent Mode
Lit when in the Command Mode
Lit when PTT line is active
Lit when unacknowledged frames exist
(Blinks when MailDrop has unread mail)
Lit when valid connection exists
Lit when multiple connection exists
(Blinks when receive buffer is full)
Lit when DC power is applied
CONV lit, CON lit
4-3
PACKET OPERATION
PK88-55
Advertisement
