1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Timewave Manuals
  4. Controller
  5. PK-232 MBX
  6. Operating manual

Timewave PK-232 MBX Operating Manual

Data controller
Hide thumbs Also See for PK-232 MBX:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
PK-232 MBX
Operating Manual
MODEL PK-232MBX DATA CONTROLLER
Timewave Technology Inc.
.
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
Reproduction, dissemination or use of information contained herein for
purposes other than operation and/or maintenance is prohibited without
written authorization from Timewave Technology Inc.

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the PK-232 MBX and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Timewave PK-232 MBX

Summary of Contents for Timewave PK-232 MBX

  • Page 1 PK-232 MBX Operating Manual MODEL PK-232MBX DATA CONTROLLER Timewave Technology Inc. PROPRIETARY INFORMATION Reproduction, dissemination or use of information contained herein for purposes other than operation and/or maintenance is prohibited without written authorization from Timewave Technology Inc.
  • Page 2 9/99 VA.02633 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PREFACE 8/91 P/N 040-061-1...
  • Page 3 Please read this preface in its entirety. It contains information about how to receive warranty service from Timewave and Timewave's software update policy. RF Interference Information To User This PK-232 has been certified under Subpart J of Part 15 of the FCC rules.
  • Page 4 If you have a voltmeter handy, you might have the PK-232 open so you can report measurements to the Support technician. Many of the Timewave products that are sent to us for repair are in perfectly good order when we receive them.
  • Page 5 We will make note of any shipping damage upon receipt. See the inside back cover for Warranty information. Should your warranty card not be on file at Timewave, you need to send the proof of purchase date to receive warranty service. Typically a copy of your bill of sale from an Timewave dealer will suffice.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION Paragraph Page Overview........... 1-1 1.1.1 Capabilities.......... 1-1 1.1.2 Included Components........1-1 Computer or Computer Terminal Requirements....1-2 Station Requirements........1-2 1.3.1 System Transmitter-Receiver Performance Requirements.. 1-2 PK-232 Specifications........1-3 1.4.1 Modem Characteristics.........
  • Page 7 CHAPTER 3 - RADIO INSTALLATION (Continued) Paragraph Page 3.3.2 Connections for Specific Transceivers....3-2 3.3.3 Check Your Transceiver's Operating Manual..... 3-3 3.3.4 Specific Connection Points......3-3 3.3.5 Begin Assembling your Radio Cable..... 3-4 3.3.5.1 Prepare the Radio Cable......3-4 3.3.5.2 Verify the Connection Points with Your Manual..
  • Page 8 CHAPTER 4 - PACKET RADIO (Continued) Paragraph Page 4.4.7.3 Redisplay........4-18 4.4.7.4 The PASS Character....... 4-18 4.4.8 Packet Transmit Timing........ 4-18 4.4.8.1 TXDELAY and AUDELAY......4-18 4.4.8.2 AXDELAY and AXHANG....... 4-19 Packet Protocol Basics........4-19 4.5.1 Unconnected Packets........4-20 4.5.2 Connected Packets........
  • Page 9 CHAPTER 5 - MAILDROP OPERATION (Continued) Paragraph Page Remote User MailDrop Commands......5-3 5.4.1 A (ABORT)..........5-3 5.4.2 B (BYE)..........5-3 5.4.3 E (Edit #)..........5-3 5.4.4 H (HELP)..........5-4 5.4.5 J (JLOG)..........5-4 5.4.6 K n (KILL n [Mine])........5-5 5.4.7 L (LIST [Mine])........
  • Page 10 CHAPTER 7 - AMTOR AND NAVTEX OPERATION Paragraph Page Overview........... 7-1 Where to Operate AMTOR........7-1 7.2.1 PK-232 AMTOR Parameter Settings....... 7-1 7.2.2 Entering Your SELective CALling Code (MYSELCAL)..7-1 7.2.3 Entering Your SELective CALling Code (MYIDENT)..7-2 7.2.4 Enter the AMTOR Mode........7-2 7.2.5 HF Receiver Settings........
  • Page 11 CHAPTER 7 - AMTOR AND NAVTEX OPERATION (Continued) Paragraph Page 7.6.5 Caller Prompts 7-10 7.6.6 Monitor MailDrop Operation 7-11 7.6.7 SYSOP MailDrop Commands 7-11 7.6.8 Remote User MailDrop Commands 7-11 7.6.8.1 (ABORT) 7-11 7.6.8.2 (BYE) 7-11 7.6.8.3 (HELP) 7-11 7.6.8.4 K (JLOG) 7-12 7.6.8.5...
  • Page 12 CHAPTER 10 - SIGNAL IDENTIFICATION AND TDM OPERATION Paragraph Page 10.1 Overview 10-1 10.2 SIAM Operation 10-1 10.2.1 Tuning In FSK Narrow and Wide Stations 10-1 10.3 Using the SIAM Mode 10-2 10.3.1 Copying Encoded RTTY Transmissions 10-3 10.3.2 The CODE Command for International RTTY Compatibility. 10-3 10.4 TDM Receive Operation...
  • Page 13 Table of Contents CHAPTER 11 - Pactor OPERATION (Continued) Paragraph Page 11.9.7 SYSOP MailDrop Operation 11-13 11.9.8 Remote User MailDrop Commands 11-13 11.9.8.1 A (ABORT) (Remote Only) 11-13 11.9.8.2 B (BYE) 11-13 11.9.8.3 H (HELP) 11-13 11.9.8.4 J (JLOG) 11-13 11.9.8.5 K n (KILL n [MINE]) 11-13...

  • Page 14: Chapter 1 - Introduction

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Overview The PK-232 was designed to provide a complete digital operating position when coupled with a Personal Computer or Computer Terminal. The PK-232 couples your HF or VHF (or both) voice transceivers to your computer or terminal so you can use its keyboard and display to "talk”...

  • Page 15: Computer Or Computer Terminal Requirements

    These computers can all be made to work with the PK-232. Timewave has terminal programs for IBM PC compatible computers using Windows 3.1 and Windows 95/98/NT operating systems. If you other types of computer or operating systems, you must supply your own terminal program.

  • Page 16: Pk-232 Specifications

    PK-232 Specifications As part of its program of product improvement, AEA reserves the right to make changes in this product's specifications. Changes may also be made to the information in this document and incorporated in revisions to this manual. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

  • Page 17: Controls And Indicators

    1.4.4 Controls and Indicators Front Panel Controls: Power Switch Radio Selector Switch Threshold Adjust Potentiometer Indicators: Ten-segment discriminator-type bargraph indicator for HF tuning. DCD LED (Data Carrier Detect) Status and Mode Indicators: Mode Group Status Group BAUDOT STBY ASCII PHASE IDLE MORSE ERROR/CONV...

  • Page 18: Chapter 2 - Computer Installation

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMPUTER INSTALLATION CHAPTER 2 COMPUTER INSTALLATION Overview In this chapter we will connect the PK-232 to the RS-232 Serial port of your Computer or Computer Terminal. After the Serial connection has been made we will perform a quick check of the PK-232 internal software.

  • Page 19: Connecting Power

    "forgotten" the old parameters. Carefully replace the jumper over the posts. If the above did not restore proper operation of the PK-232 front- panel LEDs, then contact Timewave Technical Support Department as described in the front of this manual. 4/91...

  • Page 20: Connecting Your Computer Or Computer Terminal

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMPUTERINSTALLATION Connecting Your Computer or Computer Terminal MAKE SURE THE PK-232 AND YOUR COMPUTER ARE SWITCHED OFF Locate the PK-232 Serial Cable. Connect the 25-pin Male connector to the RS-232 I/O connector on the rear of the PK-232. If you are not using an AEA RS-232 cable, make sure that the cable you are using has no other pins than 1-8 and 20 connected.

  • Page 21: Apple Macintosh Series Of Computers

    Whether you are using an Timewave program or one of your own choosing, see the section below for the particular type of computer you plan to use.

  • Page 22: Terminal Programs For Ibm-Pcs And Compatibles

    Timewave recommends PK-TERM for Windows from CSS (www.cssincorp.com) which provides many features not available in "telephone modem" programs. If you already have the a Timewave terminal program, follow the program manual and install the software on your computer. You should also read through the PACKET OPERATION chapter of the manual.

  • Page 23: System Startup And Loop-Back Test

    Follow the installation directions that come with the Terminal program you wish to use. Once installed on the computer, you should start the program and set the communication parameters for the following: COMPATIBILITY: 1200 bauds, 7 bits/character, even parity, Handshake XON/XOFF, FULL-DUPLEX, Modem connection, "telephone"...
  • Page 24 Turn on your computer. Load and run your communications program. If you are using Timewave program, follow the program instructions to enter the Packet mode, then skip to step 11. If you are using another Terminal Program or a Computer Terminal, Set your computer's terminal program to: 1200 bauds (if available);...
  • Page 25 HF modem by turning the VHF Parameter OFF, then set the radio baud rate HBAUD to 300. If you are using a Computer Terminal or a non-Timewave terminal program, the following will setup the HF mode of the PK-232: Type <CONTROL-C>.
  • Page 26 AAA, leaving the DCD LED on which inhibits transmit, not having the green-and-white wires connected, or not setting the AFSK level to 50% rotation. If you still have problems, leave your PK-232 ON and contact Timewave's Technical Support Department as suggested in the front of this manual. 4/91...

  • Page 27: Detailed Rs-232 Connections For Other Computers

    Detailed RS-232 Connections for Other Computers If the type of computer you plan to use with the PK-232 was not mentioned in the beginning of this chapter, you may find specific connection information in the sections below. You will also need a Communications program to use with your computer which AEA can not provide.

  • Page 28: Other Computers With Rs-232-C Ports

    2.6.1 Other Computers with RS-232-C Ports If your computer has an RS-232 port, consult your computer manuals to see which pins are used for Transmit-Data, Received-Data and Signal- Ground. Read the manufacturer's recommendations for connecting the serial port to a modem and connect your PK-232 in the same way. Your PK-232 is configured as Data Communications Equipment (DCE) which receives data on pin-2.

  • Page 29: Terminal (Modem) Software For Other Computers

    If your computer requires any other signals, you must arrange to provide them. The PK-232 has the standard hardware handshake lines available. As a default the PK-232 provides XON/XOFF software flow control to the computer or terminal. The command XFLOW can be turned OFF disabling software flow control and enabling hardware handshake if your computer requires it.

  • Page 30: Chapter 3 - Radio Installation

    PK-232 Data Controller, computer or Computer Terminal and software as discussed in Chapter 2 of this manual; • Timewave-supplied shielded cable for each radio you wish to connect; your radio and its power supply; microphone or accessory-plug connector(s) required by your radio;...

  • Page 31: Transmit And Receive Radio Connections

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL RADIO INSTALLATION Figure 3-1 Receive audio connection to the PK-232. If you are using an HF transceiver or Short-Wave receiver you should consult Chapter 10 for information on the Signal Identification mode. Chapters 4, 6, 7, 8 and 9 talk specifically about some of the modes you may encounter on the HF and Short-Wave bands.

  • Page 32: Check Your Transceiver's Operating Manual

    3.3.3 Check Your Transceiver's Operating Manual Locate the Operating Manual for your transceiver and turn to the page describing the connector to which you will attach your PK-232. Even if you found the exact model of your transceiver in APPENDIX E, it is a good idea to verify that your transceiver's manual agrees with the information in the appendix.

  • Page 33: Begin Assembling Your Radio Cable

    3.3.5 Begin Assembling your Radio Cable Assemble all the tools, PK-232 Radio cable and connectors you will need for each radio you wish to connect. You will probably also need a small soldering iron (20-40 watts) and solder at your work area. 3.3.5.1 Prepare the Radio Cable Locate one of the 5 ft.
  • Page 34 Connect the Shield/Drain wire (Silver wire with no insulation) to the Microphone GROUND connection if your transceiver has one. If your transceiver does not have a separate Microphone or Audio- In Ground connection, then this wire should connect to the single Ground along with the Brown wire.

  • Page 35: Wiring Your Hf Transceiver For Direct Cw Keying

    3.3.6 Wiring Your HF Transceiver for Direct CW Keying The PK-232 can directly key CW with HF and VHF multi-mode transceivers. This requires that a cable be wired from the CW KEY OUT jack on the PK-232's rear panel to your CW keying input of your transceiver.

  • Page 36: Connections For An Oscilloscope

    Connect the FSK lines from the PK-232 to your radio's FSK input in accordance with your radio's requirements. See Figure 3-4 below. Figure 3-4 Connector J7 FSK Connections NOTE: When using FSK, the same power and duty cycle limits apply as cited earlier for AFSK operation.

  • Page 37: Pk-232 Configuration Jumpers And Connections

    PK-232 Configuration Jumpers and Connections Before operating the PK-232, you must first make sure it is correctly configured for your radio's PTT. After this has been checked you should then connect the cables you constructed in the above steps. 3.4.1 Push-To-Talk (PTT) Configuration Before you connect the Radio cable(s) you just made to the PK-232, consult your transceiver's manual for Push-To-Talk keying polarity.

  • Page 38: Transceiver Adjustments

    Figure 3-6 below. Figure 3-6 Radio-to-PK-232 Connections If you are using a Timewave or AEA program such as PC-PAKRATT II, COM-PAKRATT or MACRATT, you must enter the Dumb Terminal mode to access the CALIBRATE Mode as described below. Enter the Calibrate mode by typing: "CAL <Enter>."...

  • Page 39: Ssb Transceiver Final Adjustments

    Listen to the monitor receiver; turn the PK-232's rear- panel AFSK Output Level adjustment screw clockwise (CW) until you hear no increase in output level in the monitoring receiver. Rotate the AFSK Output Level adjustment screw counterclockwise (CCW) until the audio signal on the monitoring receiver is slightly but noticeably reduced from the maximum level.
  • Page 40 If a current reading isn't available, set the meter to indicate power output. If you are using an Timewave or AEA program such as PC-PAKRATT II, COM-PAKRATT or MACRATT, you must enter the Dumb-Terminal mode (see program manual) to access the CALIBRATE Mode described below.
  • Page 41 EXAMPLE: If the manufacturer's plate/collector current specification for CW operation is 200 mA, set the AFSK Output Level control and your microphone gain control so that the plate/collector current indicates approximately 75 mA. If you have not connected and calibrated an FM transceiver to the PK-232 and do not plan on doing so, then complete the following: Rotate the microphone gain control clockwise (CW) approximately in the one-quarter ON position.

  • Page 42: Chapter 4 - Packet Radio

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PACKET RADIO CHAPTER 4 PACKET RADIO Overview In the last several years Packet Radio has grown to become perhaps the most popular digital mode found on the amateur bands. Although Packet can be found on HF (primarily on the 20 meter band) it is most popular on the VHF and UHF FM bands.

  • Page 43: Packet Introduction

    Turn on your computer. Load and run your communications program. If you are using an Timewave or AEA PAKRATT Program, follow the program manual to enter the Packet mode and then skip to step 4. If you are using another Computer program or a Terminal, set the communication parameters as done in Chapters 2 and 3.
  • Page 44 If you are using an Timewave or AEA program follow the instructions to CONNECT in packet mode to your own callsign (the one you just entered in MYCALL). If you are using a Computer Terminal or a non-Timewave program, entering the following after the "cmd:" command mode prompt will cause the PK-232 to Connect to yourself: CONNECT (your callsign) <Enter>...

  • Page 45: Vhf/Uhf Packet Operation

    You have just done the three things necessary in any Packet QSO. You started the QSO (with yourself) by CONNECTing. (Step 6) You sent some information (to yourself) and then received the information that you sent. (Step 7) You then ended the QSO by DISCONNEcting. (Step 8.) Repeat steps 6, 7 and 8 above until you feel comfortable with Connecting, exchanging information and Disconnecting.

  • Page 46: What You Should See

    1-1/4 meter (220 MHz) band: 223.40 MHz, 223.42 MHz, 223.44 MHz, 223.46 MHz, 223.48 MHz 70 cm (440 MHz) band: 440.975 MHz, 441.000 MHz, 441.050 MHz, 441.025 MHz, 441.075 MHz You know you've found a packet channel when you hear the characteristic "Braaaaaap"...

  • Page 47: What It Means

    4.3.2 What It Means There are different types of packets that will mean different things to your PK-232. Your PK-232 keeps track of and knows what to do with all these packets and so the user does not have to worry about them most of the time.
  • Page 48 The following packet is a data packet from N7ALW to WA7GCI. N7ALW*>WA7GCI: Hi Bob, how are you this evening? Remember that in the first example we saw the two stations Connect. Now that they are connected, they may exchange data packets. The following packet is a Beacon packet from KD7NM.

  • Page 49: What Happens When You Connect

    Other systems are small like the personal MailDrop built into your PK-232 MBX. Large systems are often called Packet Bulletin Board Systems (PBBS) since they serve as electronic message centers for a local area.

  • Page 50: Packet Switches

    If you get something like this when you connect to another station, try typing an "H" or a "?" to get a help list as shown below: A(bort) Stop Read or List B(ye) Log off H(elp) Display this message J(log) Display stations heard K(ill) K #: Kill message number #...
  • Page 51 NET/ROM, developed by Software 2000, quickly became a standard that others imitated. Many networking "Nodes" today use a similar if not identical set of commands. We will discuss the "Typical" NET/ROM commands you will likely encounter when connecting to a packet switch. When you connect to a NET/ROM Node you will not initially get any prompt.

  • Page 52: Who Can I Talk To

    Choose one of the stations with an asterisk displayed in YOUR MHEARD list, or a friend that you know is "on the air" near to you. If you are using an Timewave or AEA PAKRATT program, follow the instructions to CONNECT in packet mode to the callsign you chose above.

  • Page 53: I'm Having Trouble Connecting

    TXDELAY 64 for a long delay. If this solves the problem, decrease TXDELAY to the smallest value that works all the time. If none of the above allow you to connect to other stations, then you should contact Timewave Technical Support before proceeding. 4/91 4-12...

  • Page 54: More Packet Features

    More Packet Features Now that you have worked a few packet stations, it is time to learn a little more about the other packet capabilities of the PK-232. Rather than explain all the features in detail, we will leave the specifics to the command descriptions in the Command Summary Appendix.

  • Page 55: Digipeater Details

    4.4.4 Digipeater Details You may wish to connect to a packet station that is beyond your direct radio range. If a third packet station is on the air and both you and the station you want to talk to are in range of that third station, the third station can relay or "digipeat"...

  • Page 56: Monitoring Other Stations

    4.4.5 Monitoring Other Stations Use the MONITOR parameter to determine what kinds of packets you will see when you are NOT connected to any another station. "MONITOR" takes a numerical value between "0" (zero) and "6." Each higher number adds more detail to your monitoring. As the value of the MONITOR setting is increased, additional functions are included in the monitoring sequences.

  • Page 57: Monitoring Other Stations While Connected

    If you are hearing packets that sound strong but are not displayed on your screen, setting MONITOR to 6 and MPROTO ON should show them. If you are curious about the packets that do not print, you may find the command WHYNOT useful.

  • Page 58: Packet Connects

    4.4.6 Packet Connects When you turn your PK-232 on and enter your callsign, anyone can Connect to you. If you are at your terminal or computer when this occurs you will see a message like the one shown below: *** CONNECTED to N7GMF When a packet connection occurs, the PK-232 automatically switches to the Converse mode so what you type on the keyboard will be sent to the connected station.

  • Page 59: Canceling Lines And Packets

    4.4.7.2 Canceling Lines and Packets Most of the time, the Backspace key (or the Delete key on some machines) is all that is needed to edit a line before it is sent. Occasionally it may be helpful to cancel the line, or the entire packet you are entering with one key stroke.

  • Page 60: Axdelay And Axhang

    Find another station who can reliably digipeat your signals. Set your UNPROTO path to TEST via the callsign of the station who can digipeat your signals. Set the MONITOR command to at least 1. Go to CONVERSE mode and send a few packets by pressing the <Enter>...

  • Page 61: Unconnected Packets

    4.5.1 Unconnected Packets In order to allow amateurs to send message beacons and to call CQ, the AX.25 protocol has the ability to send packets that are intended for more than one specific packet station to see. Since all packets must have a destination "callsign", the PK-232 sends Unprotocol packets TO the callsign of CQ.

  • Page 62: Check And Relink

    The first attempt to avoid collisions was through the use of the DWAIT and RESPTIME timers. DWAIT forced the TNC to delay the transmission of any packet except for digipeated frames by the time selected. This fixed timer helped, but packet was still plagued by collisions. RESPTIME was added to help with large file transfers.

  • Page 63: The Channel Switching Character

    4.6.2 The Channel Switching Character The logical channels are selected with the CHSWITCH character. must choose a CHSWITCH character that you do not normally type such as the vertical bar "|" (ASCII $7C), or the tilde "~" (ASCII $7E). Once this has been selected and entered into the PK-232, you may initiate multiple connections with others on your radio channel.

  • Page 64: Hf Packet Operation

    HF Packet Operation HF Packet is much trickier than operating on VHF. In this section we will assume you have as completed section 4.2 of this chapter and at least read section 4.3 and the MONITORING sections of 4.4. If at all possible, get some experience with VHF packet before trying packet on Although this is not absolutely required, the experience will help you make HF packet contacts.

  • Page 65: Transmitter Adjustments

    Make certain your HF receiver is either in LSB or FSK depending on your PK-232 set-up. Turn any IF-Shift and Passband-Tuning controls to the Center or OFF position. Tune your receiver to 14.103 MHz (or another frequency where you know there is HF packet activity) and listen to the packets. Slowly vary VFO tuning knob on your receiver and look for a display on the PK-232 tuning indicator like the one shown below.

  • Page 66: Going On The Air

    4.7.6 Going On The Air Make sure your transmitter and antenna are tuned and adjusted for the band and operating frequency you are using. On HF there are two ways you can go about talking to another station. First, you can look at the packets you have just MONITORED (or in your MHEARD list) and choose one of them to connect to.

  • Page 67: The Altmodem Command

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PACKET RADIO 4.8.3 The ALTMODEM Command The PK-232 has the ability to connect an optional 2400 bits/sec DPSK modem that can be factory installed. This command is ONLY used to select this modem if it has been installed. 4.8.4 The CFROM Command If you ever want to limit the number of stations or exclude certain...

  • Page 68: Seldom Used Commands

    Packet Lite does not solve HF packets problems, but it should provide some throughput improvement on HF where it is desperately needed. Timewave’s engineering department is interested in hearing from Packet Lite users with any comments or suggestions on improving the protocol.

  • Page 69: Enabling Packet Lite

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PACKET RADIO Second, all Packet Lite connections emulate AX.25 version 2.0 (RR polling instead of retrying I-frames). This is necessary for the 10 minute identification described below. Also, the main reason version 1 continues to be used on HF is that on a retry a (RR,P) polling frame is BO long that one might as well just send the I-frame again.

  • Page 70: Packet Lite Protocol Enhancement Summary

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PACKET RADIO 3. WAlABC>WB2XYZ [C, P] 01 3E 38 58 32 {Packet Lite attempt} … In this case, the non-Lite station notices the non-standard bytes following the control byte but sends no response at all. If this occurs, you must turn the command LITE OFF and try to connect again to the distant station.
  • Page 71 At the end of the connection, the two stations must once again identify using both long and short addresses. Timewave firmware supporting Packet Lite also contains code that permits monitoring of Packet Lite and extended AX.25 frames. Packet Lite Shortened Address Technical Details The Packet Lite address field consists of 26 bits distributed over 4 bytes (or 'octets', as the AX.25 Spec calls them).
  • Page 72 JKLM = (byte 3 XOR byte 6 XOR SSID) Timewave firmware derives the second group of bits N-Z the same way. Other implementations are free to select any combination of 26 bits when setting up the short address in either the initial SABM frame or its UA response.
  • Page 73 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL PACKET RADIO The packet timing of the Master station is critical for proper Meteor Scatter operation. In a normal AX.25 packet connect, the FRACK timer counts down until it reaches zero and then a Retry of a poll frame is sent.

  • Page 74: Chapter 5 - Maildrop Operation

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL MAILDROP OPERATION CHAPTER 5 MAILDROP OPERATION Overview of MailDrop Operation The PK-232's MailDrop is a small, personal mailbox that uses a subset of the well-known WORLI/WA7MBL packet BBS commands to allow messages to be automatically sent and received. The MailDrop operates in the Packet, AMTOR and Pactor modes.
  • Page 75 The number "18396 free" is the RAM available for MailDrop messages. While you're "logged on" to your MailDrop, a connect request from another station will cause the PK-232 to send the "BUSY" frame to the distant station. When you are finished using your MailDrop, type "B" (BYE) to "log off"...
  • Page 76 Log off the MailDrop EDIT Edit a MailDrop message KILL Kill or delete messages LIST List the message directory READ Read a specific message SEND Send a message Remote User MailDrop Commands When a remote user has logged on to your MailDrop the following commands will be available to the distant station: A, B, H, J, K, L, R, S, V, ?.
  • Page 77 Shows the following short help file: msg# msg# B/T/P msg# Y/N/F msg# >/</@ callsign E 12 Shows message 12's info line E 23 > W0RM Sets "W0RM" as message 23's destination E 35 < WH1Z Sets "WH1Z" as message 35's source E 48 @ N7ML Sets "N7ML"...
  • Page 78 5.4.6 K n (KILL n [Mine]) The "K n" command (Host abbreviation K1) deletes message number "n" from the MailDrop. As SYSOP, you can kill any message. A calling station can kill only messages addressed to or from that station. Messages are killed by number, not call sign.
  • Page 79 Enter a short (up to 27 character) description of the subject of the message. The MailDrop will then send the message prompt: "Enter message, ^Z (CTRL-Z) or /EX to end" After entering the message there are two ways to end the message. Either the <CTRL-Z>...
  • Page 80 The PK-232 MailDrop also supports BIDs (Bulletin IDs). This support is required for Reverse Forwarding (see below). The BID begins with a "$" character and is sent and received in the Send command line: S N7ML @ K6RFK < N6IA $345_KB7B With the PK-232 MailDrop you may also use just the "$"...
  • Page 81 {The LIST command} {The MailDrop responds} Msg# Size To From @ BBS Date Time Title 6 PN 184 WX1AAA WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 20:15 Hello Joe 5 BY 287 ALL WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 18:42 Question 4 BY 178 QST WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 17:30 Mailbox 1 BY 56 ALL WX2BBB...
  • Page 82 Now, type "S [callsign]" to SEND a message to the MailDrop's SYSOP. If you omit the call sign, the MailDrop will address the message to the MYMAIL or MYCALL call sign. Messages sent with the S command are considered Private unless they are sent to "ALL" or to "QST". S WX2BBB {The "SEND callsign"...
  • Page 83 Msg# Size To From @ BBS Date Time Title 6 PN 184 WX1AAA WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 20:15 Hello Joe 5 BY 287 ALL WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 18:42 Question 4 BY 178 QST WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 17:30 Mailbox 1 BY 56 ALL WX2BBB 01-Jun-90 10:22 APLINK [AEA PK-232M] 16508 free...
  • Page 84 Forwarding and Reverse Forwarding (or simply Auto-Forwarding) can be an advantage in a local area. The community BBS can be set to connect to your MailDrop at times when local traffic is low, such as late at night. This can spread out the traffic volume on a packet frequency which can become quite heavy in the "prime time"...
  • Page 85 Use the Edit command to set the Forwarding flag for each message that will be Reverse Forwarded to HOMEBBS. This is described in the Edit command section above. For example the following will mark message number 53 for Reverse Forwarding. E 53 F (Sets Reverse Forwarding for message 53.) Log off your MailDrop with the B (Bye) command.
  • Page 86 PK-232 Baudot RTTY Parameter Settings First you must enter the Baudot mode of the PK-232. If you are using a Timewave or AEA PAKRATT program, follow the instructions in the program manual to enter the Baudot mode. If you are using a terminal, simply type "BAUDOT" or "BA" from the Command Mode followed by the <Enter>...
  • Page 87 6.2.2 HF Receiver Settings Set your HF receiver (or transceiver) to Lower Sideband (LSB) unless you connected your PK-232 through the direct FSK keying lines. this case, you should select the FSK operating mode. Adjust the volume to a comfortable listening level. 6.2.3 Tuning in Baudot and ASCII Stations Tuning in Baudot and ASCII stations properly is critical to successful...
  • Page 88 Adjust the PK-232's THRESHOLD control so that the DCD LED lights when a properly tuned RTTY station is being received. HINT: If you adjust the THRESHOLD control so the DCD LED goes out when no station is being received, you will prevent garbage characters generated by noise from printing on your screen.
  • Page 89 A Typical Baudot RTTY Contact As with most amateur operating modes, you can start a contact either by "calling CQ" or by answering a "CQ" call by another station. 6.4.1 Calling CQ To call CQ first you must tell your PK-232 to start transmitting. Type "X"...
  • Page 90 Baudot RTTY Operating Tips The PK-232 can automatically determine the speed of the received signals with the SIGNAL IDENTIFICATION (SIAM) mode. However, you can manually step through all the available RTTY receiving speeds with the RBAUD command. The following "Function Keys" and immediate commands are included for Baudot RTTY operating convenience.
  • Page 91 6.5.3 Formatting Your Transmitted and Received Text The default configuration of the PK-232 RTTY parameters are designed for natural conversation and traffic. Sometimes it is desired to alter how your typed text looks on the screen of the station you are talking to.
  • Page 92 Some commercial, weather and utility RTTY services send groups of numbers separated by spaces. When receiving such non-amateur signals, USOS should be OFF to prevent displaying LETTERS-shifted characters when the originator may have intended the data to be FIGURES-shifted. 6.5.9 Operating at Commercial or VHF Wide RTTY Shifts Most commercial stations found in the non amateur Short Wave bands operate with a wide Frequency Shift keying of either 425 or 850 Hz...
  • Page 93 The following parameters are the most common settings for HF ASCII operation. Check the parameters and make sure they are set as follows: ABAUD 110 (or whatever speed you wish) RXREV TXREV WIDESHFT Some VHF Bulletin Boards and MSOs use ASCII at 110 and 300 bauds, most commonly on two meters.
  • Page 94 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL AMTOR AND NAVTEX OPERATION CHAPTER 7 AMTOR AND NAVTEX OPERATION Overview The PK-232 provides AMTOR operation in accordance with FCC Part 97.69 and CCIR Recommendations 476-2/476-3 and 625 for Mode A (ARQ) and Mode B (FEC) modes. AMTOR is an adaptation of the SITOR system used in high-seas ship telex, which provides error detection and correction.
  • Page 95 See the MYSELCAL command in the Command Summary if you are interested in more information on the translation process. Because the same call sign sequences are assigned in ten districts, it is possible that your SELCALL could be used by another station. you think a station in another call district is also active on AMTOR and is using the same SELCALL, see the MYSELCAL command for information on how to change your Selcall.
  • Page 96 7.2.6 Tuning in AMTOR Stations Tuning in AMTOR stations properly is critical to successful operation. Since HF AMTOR stations use either 170 Hz or 200 Hz Frequency Shift Keying to send data, tuning accuracy is very important. Follow the procedure below for the best results. Make certain your HF receiver is either in LSB or FSK depending on your PK-232 set-up.
  • Page 97 Transmitter Adjustments Make sure your PK-232 is adjusted for your SSB transmitter as described in section 3.5 and 3.5.2 of this manual before transmitting. These are very critical adjustments. If your PK-232's AFSK level and transmitter microphone gain are not adjusted properly, other stations will not be able to copy your signals.
  • Page 98 If you are using an Timewave PAKRATT program, check the program manual for instructions on starting an ARQ AMTOR contact. If you are using a terminal simply type "ARQ NNML<Enter>" to start a CCIR 476 ARQ contact, or "ARQ VTMFFFF<Enter>" to start a CCIR 625 ARQ contact.
  • Page 99 Type <CTRL-D> to stop sending when the transmit buffer is empty. <CTRL-D> breaks the link and returns your PK-232 to Command Mode. 7.3.6 LED Status and Mode Indicators All the LEDs on the front of the PK-232 are there to help give you the units status at a glance.
  • Page 100 AMTOR Operating Tips The following "Function Keys" and immediate commands are included for AMTOR operating convenience. Immediate Commands from the Command Mode: "ARQ <SELCALL>" Starts Mode A selective call and forces Converse "FEC" Starts Mode B transmission and forces Converse "SELFEC <SELCALL>"...
  • Page 101 7.4.4 Echoing Transmitted Characters As Sent (EAS) EAS has special significance in ARQ AMTOR. If EAS is on, you will see characters echoed to your screen only after your partner in the AMTOR link, has validated them. With EAS ON, the characters appear on your screen three at a time.
  • Page 102 AMTOR MailDrop Operation The PK-232 now allows AMTOR access to the Packet MailDrop described in Chapter 5 of this manual. Messages that originate in Packet can now be accessed remotely in AMTOR and messages that originate from a remote AMTOR station can be accessed by Packet users of your MailDrop. Make sure that you understand MailDrop Operation in Chapter 5 and the basic AMTOR operation described earlier in this chapter before putting your AMTOR MailDrop on the air.
  • Page 103 7.6.4.1 Remote Logon to your AMTOR MailDrop The AMTOR maildrop user interface is slightly different from the packet interface due to the differences between the two modes. When CODE is set to 0 and the ITA#2 alphabet is used in AMTOR, only UPPER case characters are sent.

  • Page 104: Monitor Maildrop Operation

    7.6.5 Caller Prompts The command prompt that the MailDrop sends the remote user in AMTOR is shortened from that used in the Packet mode and is shown below: WX7BBB DE WX7AAA GA+? TMPROMPT is the AMTOR MailDrop message prompt sent to a remote station by your MailDrop.
  • Page 105 7.6.8.4 J (JLOG) (Remote only command) The "J" command sent by the distant station will cause the MailDrop to send the list of stations who have logged in to your AMTOR MailDrop. 7.6.8.5 K n (KILL n [Mine]) The "K n" command deletes message number "n" from the MailDrop as described in Chapter 5.
  • Page 106 AMTOR Switching-Time Considerations For operation in AMTOR Mode A (ARQ), your transceiver or transmitter- receiver combination must be able to change between transmit and receive within 20 milliseconds. Most semiconductor-based radios can easily meet this specification. Many older tube-type radios that use electromechanical relays operate very well in AMTOR Mode A (ARQ).
  • Page 107 NAVTEX Operation NAVTEX is an international system which stands for NAVIGATIONAL TELEX. It is a direct printing service designed to distribute navigational and meteorological warnings and other urgent information to ships. To enter the NAVTEX mode, simply type "NAVTEX" at the command prompt. The ARRL has also adopted this format for transmitting bulletins.
  • Page 108 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL MORSE OPERATION CHAPTER 8 MORSE OPERATION Overview The PK-232 will both send and receive International Morse Code. computer based Morse operator can use the PK-232 to send "perfect" code at much higher speeds than are typical of hand sent code. When a computer is used to send and receive Morse Code, you can also maintain record of your contacts.
  • Page 109 When you find a station, slowly vary VFO on your receiver and look for a display on the PK-232 tuning indicator as shown below when the station is "keyed down". Tuned In (KeyDown) When the station is not "keyed down" or there is no station on frequency, the tuning indicator should look like the one below.
  • Page 110 To call CQ first you must tell your PK-232 to start transmitting. Type "X" to key your transmitter and start the PK-232 sending. Type in your CQ message (use YOUR callsign) such as the one below: CQ CQ CQ CQ CQ CQ DE YOURCAL YOURCAL YOURCAL CQ CQ CQ CQ CQ CQ DE YOURCAL YOURCAL YOURCAL CQ CQ CQ CQ CQ CQ DE YOURCAL YOURCAL YOURCAL K <CTRL-D>...
  • Page 111 8.4.3 Sending Only Complete Words (WORDOUT) Some Morse users like to have their words sent out only when they are complete. This allows the word you are currently typing to be edited as long as you have not typed a <Space> character. Turning WORDOUT ON activates this feature.
  • Page 112 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL FACSIMILE OPERATION CHAPTER 9 FACSIMILE OPERATION Overview Weather Facsimile (WEFAX) is transmitted throughout the Short-Wave radio spectrum, primarily to provide information to ships at sea. Typical stations you may find broadcast weather maps showing current as well as predicted weather conditions and satellite photographs showing the cloud cover over a large area.

  • Page 113: Hf Receiver Settings

    System Setup If you own CSS HF Wefax program, you have the ability to display weather FAX on the screen of your personal computer. DO NOT USE AN AEA "Y" CABLE WITH THE PK-232/DSP or PK/232PSK! This manual refers most often to printing FAX on your printer, but the ideas and commands are similar for using CSS HF Wefax program.
  • Page 114 The PK-232 uses the 1,000 Hz wideshift filters which have a center frequency of 1.7 KHz for copying facsimile transmissions. As a result, you must tune 1.7 KHz lower than the frequencies listed in Table 1 when using Upper Sideband. Similarly; in Lower Sideband, one must tune 1.7 KHz higher than the frequencies listed in the table.
  • Page 115 The following section contains tips and information on FAX reception for those printing directly to a graphics printer. If you are using Timewave HF Wefax or AEA PAKRATT WITH FAX program, consult the program manual for more information and helpful hints. 9.5.1...
  • Page 116 Transmitting FAX The PK-232 does support FAX transmission, but attempting to do this without a Timewave HF Wefax or n AEA's PC-PAKRATT II WITH FAX program is difficult. We recommend you consider this program if FAX transmission is desired.
  • Page 117 Adjusting the PK-232 4.0 MHz Master Oscillator If you ever observe the received FAX from a Commercial station does not print or display straight up and down the page, your 4.00 MHz oscillator inside the PK-232 has probably drifted off frequency. If you have a frequency counter with a high-impedance input, you may do the following: Step 1: Open the PK-232 by removing the six screws that hold the gray...
  • Page 118 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL SIAM AND TDM OPERATION CHAPTER 10 SIGNAL IDENTIFICATION AND TDM OPERATION 10.1 Overview As you tune across the High-Frequency bands these days you find an ever increasing number of digital signals. These signals range from the simple Murray Baudot code, to ASCII and even packetized data. With the large number of speeds, formats and shifts now in use, it is difficult to say the least, to determine what kind of signal you are listening to.
  • Page 119 When you find a station, slowly vary VFO tuning knob on your receiver and look for a display on the PK-232 tuning indicator like the one shown below. Tuned In If the tuning indicator looks like the one below, the frequency from your speaker is too low for the PK-232 to copy the signal.
  • Page 120 After another 15 seconds or so, the PK-232 should respond with one of the following signal classes and tell whether or not the signal is reversed by giving the status of the command RXREV: ASCII AMTOR ALIST Baudot Unknown noise 6-bit TDM The complete information from the PK-232 signal analysis will look something like the following: 0.47...
  • Page 121 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL SIAM AND TDM OPERATION 10.4 TDM Receive Operation The aforementioned SIAM mode will recognize and decode TDM signals for receive only. The TDM receive mode can be entered directly simply by typing TDM at the PK-232 command prompt. TDM is an immediate command that places the PK-232 in the TDM receive mode.
  • Page 122 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION CHAPTER 11 Pactor OPERATION 11.1 Overview Pactor is a relatively new Amateur data communications mode. It was developed in Germany by Hans-Peter Helfert, DL6MAA and Ulrich Strate, DF4KV. Pactor combines some of the best features of both AMTOR and packet as well as providing a few new features.
  • Page 123 11.3.2 Enter the Pactor Mode If you are using the Timewave PAKRATT for WINDOWS program, follow the instructions in the program manual to enter the Pactor mode. If you are using a terminal or computer with a terminal emulation program, simply type "Pactor"...
  • Page 124 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION 11.4 HF Receiver Settings Set your HF receiver (or transceiver) to Lower Sideband (LSB) unless you connected your PK-232 through the direct FSK keying lines. If you are using a transceiver with a RTTY or Packet mode and you have the PK-232 connected for direct FSK, keep in mind that Pactor uses 200 Hz shift.
  • Page 125 If you plan to make a CQ call, you must do so in the unproto Pactor mode. This is required since an ARQ Pactor transmission requires another station to 'Link-up" with. If you are using a Timewave terminal program, see the program manual to place the PK-232 into unproto transmit. If you are using a terminal or terminal emulation program, the following will place your PK-232 and transceiver into the transmit mode.
  • Page 126 Let's assume you hear N7ML calling CQ. To answer, do the following: • If you are using the Timewave or AEA PAKRATT for WINDOWS program, check the program manual for instructions on starting an ARQ Pactor contact. • If you are using a terminal or terminal emulation-program, simply type “PTC N7ML<Enter>"...
  • Page 127 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION <CTRL-Z> is the character defined by the PTOVER command that switches your system from being the Information Sending Station (ISS) to the Information Receiving Station (IRS) and switches the distant system from being the information receiving station to the information sending station.

  • Page 128: Led Status And Mode Indicators

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION 11.6.5 LED Status and Mode Indicators The front panel LED display provides mode and status information at a glance. This is especially useful in Pactor operation. The following describe typical STATUS indications you will see. Type "PTCONN (CALLSIGN of distant station)”.
  • Page 129 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION 11.7 Pactor Operating Tips The following 'Special Function characters" and immediate commands are included for Pactor operating convenience. Immediate Commands from the Command Mode: 'PT" Selects the Pactor mode "PACTO" Selects the Pactor mode as above "PTConn <CALL>"...

  • Page 130: Entering Your Auto-Answerback (Aab)

    Pactor OPERATION 11.7.2 Entering Your Auto-AnswerBack (AABI Timewave Pactor allows you to request the identity of the station you are conversing with by sending your PK-232 a <CTRL-E>. This causes the PX-232 to send an inquiry Who aRe YOU (WRU) request to the other station.
  • Page 131 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION 11.7.7 Operating on the Wrong Sideband Pactor, like packet, is mark-space polarity independent although the reason for this is somewhat different. specific header blocks define the mark-space sense for each Pactor information block and during linked operation, the mark-space sense is alternated.

  • Page 132: Special Operating Considerations

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION Monitoring two linked Pactor ARQ stations does not provide the error correction enjoyed by the linked stations. Since your PK-232 is not part of the 'handshake" you do not generate the request for repeat. Your PK-232 will check for the correct CRC error check and will not display messages with errors.

  • Page 133: Local Logon To The Maildrop

    PX-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION 11.9.3 Starting Pactor MailDrop Operation Remote access to your Pactor MailDrop is controlled by the command TMAIL which is short for TOR MAIL. The TMAIL command controls remote access to the Pactor and AMTOR MailDrop in the same way that the MAILDROP command controls remote Packet access.

  • Page 134: Sysop Maildrop Commands

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPEPATION 11.9.7 SYSOP MailDrop Commands The MailDrop commands that you the SYSOP have access to are the same as those described in chapter 5 of the manual on MailDrop Operation. 11.9.8 Remote User MailDrop Commands When a remote user has logged onto your MailDrop the following commands are available to the distant station: A, B, H, J, K, L, R, S, V, ?.

  • Page 135: R N (Read N [Mine])

    PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION 11.9.8.6 L (LIST[mine]) The "L" command shows the remote user only a list of the messages he or she may read as described in chapter 5. The "LM” command lists only those messages addressed to the user. 11.9.8.7 R n (READ n [mine]) The "R n"...

  • Page 136: Pactor Switching Time Considerations

    11.11.1 Suggested Pactor operating Settings If you have trouble synchronizing with another Pactor ARQ station, try some of the following operating tips before calling Timewave or deciding that your radio equipment needs modifications: • Try to work the distant station on the unproto mode to establish that the other station's system is fully functional.
  • Page 137 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL Pactor OPERATION The rest of this page is blank 2/93 11-16...
  • Page 138 A.1.1 Entering Commands Timewave Software for the PK-232 such as PC-PAKRATT has menus and even on- line help for commands. If you are using a Timewave program, please consult the Program manual for instructions on entering commands.
  • Page 139 A.2.2 Default Values Almost all commands have initial or default values that are loaded when the PK-232 is first turned on. The PK-232 assumes these default values to be best suited for the "average" amateur station operation. There is no rule that says "you must keep the defaults". You can (and should) change the default values as required for your individual operating needs, type of equipment, or local customs.
  • Page 140 A.3.3 Text or String Parameters A text parameter such as the CTEXT message (your Connect-TEXT message) can hold most any ASCII character including UPPER and lower case letters, numbers, spaces, and punctuation. Some commands such as CONNECT require call signs as parameters. These parameters are usually call signs, but may be any string of numbers and at least one letter up to six characters in length.
  • Page 141 Whenever you change one of the PK-232's parameters, both the previous value and the new value are displayed. bbRAM scanned, checksum failed! This message indicates there has been an error in the battery backed RAM. A low lithium battery is the likely cause for this. ERROR: Subroutine, Bank, Addr This message indicates a program error has occurred.
  • Page 142 ?too long You typed a command line that is too long. For example, if you type a BTEXT or CTEXT message that is too long you'll receive this message. ?need ALL/NONE/YES/NO This message indicates you have forgotten the ALL, NONE, YES or NO parameter in the CFROM, DFROM or MFROM commands.
  • Page 143 ?VIA You typed more than one call sign for the CONNECT or UNPROTO commands without the VIA keyword. ?channel must be 0-9 You typed an invalid channel character after the CHSWITCH character. ?different connectees You tried to CONNECT to more than one station on the same channel. ?already connected (or attempting connection) to that station You tried to CONNECT to a station to which you're already connected.
  • Page 144 *** Connect request: call1 [via call2[,call3...,call9]] Your PK-232 has received but not accepted a connect request from a distant station. *** DISCONNECTED: (call sign) Your PK-232 has switched to the disconnected state. This message may be preceded by a message explaining the reason for the disconnect. *** Retry count exceeded *** DISCONNECTED: <call sign>...
  • Page 145 _____________________________________________________________________________ 3Rdparty ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet/MailDrop Host: 3R _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The MailDrop will handle third party traffic. The MailDrop will only handle mail to or from MYCALL or MYMAIL. _______________________________________________________________________________ If 3RDPARTY is ON, then remote MailDrop users may leave messages for any station. _______________________________________________________________________________ 5Bit Immediate Command...
  • Page 146 _______________________________________________________________________________ 8Bitconv ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet/ASCII Host: 8B _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The high-order bit IS NOT stripped in Converse Mode. The high-order bit IS stripped in Converse Mode. _______________________________________________________________________________ 8BITCONV permits packet and ASCII transmission of 8-bit data in Converse Mode. When 8BITCONV is OFF (default), the high-order bit (bit seven) of characters received from the terminal is set to 0 before the characters are transmitted.
  • Page 147 MFJ SLOTMASK AEA_PERSIST Remarks Disables slotting Default setting Very busy channel Extremely busy channel Timewave products calculate the TAPR ACKTIME value based on the setting of HBAUD. The TAPR DEADTIME command is analogous to the Timewave SLOTTIME command. 4/91 A-10...
  • Page 148 _______________________________________________________________________________ ACRDisp "n" Default: 0 Mode: ALL Host: AA _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 0 to 255 specifies the screen width, in columns or characters. 0 (zero) disables this function. _______________________________________________________________________________ The numerical value "n" sets the terminal output format for your needs. Your PK-232 sends a <CR><LF>...
  • Page 149 _______________________________________________________________________________ ADDress "n" Default: $0000 Mode: ALL Host: AE _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" Zero to 65,535 ($0 to $FFFF) setting an Address in the PK-232 memory. _______________________________________________________________________________ The ADDRESS sets an address somewhere in the PK-232's memory map. This command is usually used with the IO, MEMORY and the PK commands.
  • Page 150 Some terminals and computers use special characters to clear the screen or perform other "special" functions. Placing these characters in the MFILTER list, and turning AFILTER ON will keep the PK-232 from sending them. Exception: When ECHO is ON, and the terminal or computer sends a filtered character, the PK-232 will echo it back to the terminal or computer.
  • Page 151 _______________________________________________________________________________ ALFRtty ON|OFF Default: ON Mode: Baudot/ASCII RTTY Host: AR _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ A line feed character <LF> IS sent after each carriage return <CR>. A <LF> is NOT sent after each <CR>. _______________________________________________________________________________ If ALFRTTY is set ON when transmitting Baudot or ASCII RTTY, a line feed character is added and sent automatically after each <CR>...
  • Page 152 _______________________________________________________________________________ AMtor Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: AM _______________________________________________________________________________ AMTOR is an immediate command that switches your PK-232 into the AMTOR mode. Your PK-232 is automatically placed in ARQ Standby condition. Your station is then available for automatic access by and response to any AMTOR station that sends your SELCALL.
  • Page 153 ARQE Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: As ARQE is an immediate command that switches the PK-232 into the ARQ-E receiving mode. ARQ-E is similar to 1-channel TDM, except that the 7-bit code is different. Like TDM most ARQ-E stations send idle signals for long periods of time. PK-232 can only phase on ARQ-E signals that are idling so this is not a problem.
  • Page 154 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY Ascii Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: AS ASCII is an immediate command that switches your PK-232 into the ASCII mode. ASCII is the proper mode to use if you wish to use RTTY to transmit text, data or other information containing lower case and special characters not present in the Baudot/Murray and ITA #2 alphabets or character sets.
  • Page 155 _______________________________________________________________________________ ASPect "n" Default: 2 (576) Mode: Host: AY _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 1 to 6, specifying the number of FAX scan lines the PK-232 prints out of every 6 lines received. _______________________________________________________________________________ ASPECT controls the aspect ratio of the length to the width of a FAX image by controlling the number of lines the PK-232 prints out of each 6 received lines.
  • Page 156 _______________________________________________________________________________ AUdelay "n" Default: 2 (20 msec.) Mode: Baudot, ASCII, FEC, FAX and Packet Host: AQ _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 0 - 120 specifies in units of 10 msec. intervals, the delay between PTT going active and the start of the transmit AFSK audio tones. _______________________________________________________________________________ In some applications it may be desirable to create a delay from the time that the radio PTT line is keyed and the time that audio is produced from the PK-232.
  • Page 157 _______________________________________________________________________________ AWlen "n" Default: 7 Mode: All Host: AW _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 7 or 8 specifies the number of data bits per word. _______________________________________________________________________________ The parameter value defines the digital word length used by the serial input/output (I/O) terminal port and your computer or terminal program. AWLEN will probably be set properly by the PK-232 Autobaud routine.
  • Page 158 _______________________________________________________________________________ AXHang "n" Default: 0 (000 msec.) Mode: Packet Host: AH _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 0 to 20 specifies voice repeater "hang time" in 100-millisecond intervals. _______________________________________________________________________________ AXHANG allows you to increase efficiency when sending packets through an audio repeater that has a hang time greater than 100 milliseconds. When the PK-232 has heard a packet sent within the AXHANG period, it does not add the repeater keyup delay (AXDELAY) to the key-up time.
  • Page 159 _______________________________________________________________________________ Beacon EVERY|AFTER "n" Default: EVERY 0 (00 sec.) Mode: Packet Host: BE _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ EVERY Send the beacon at regular intervals. AFTER Send the beacon after the specified time interval without activity. "n" 0 to 250 sets beacon timing in ten-second intervals. "0"...
  • Page 160 _______________________________________________________________________________ BText text Default: empty Mode: Packet Host: BT _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ text Any combination of characters up to a maximum length of 120 characters. _______________________________________________________________________________ BTEXT is the content of the data portion of a beacon packet. The default text is an empty string (no message).
  • Page 161 _______________________________________________________________________________ CANline "n" Default: $18 <CTRL-X> Mode: All Host: CL _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 0 to $7F (0 to 127 decimal) specifies an ASCII character code. _______________________________________________________________________________ The parameter "n" is the ASCII code for the character you want to use to cancel an input line.
  • Page 162 _______________________________________________________________________________ CBell ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet/AMTOR Host: CU _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ Three BELL characters <CTRL-G> ($07) are sent to your terminal with the "*** CONNECTED to or DISCONNECTED from (call sign)" message. BELLS are NOT sent with the CONNECTED or DISCONNECTED message. _______________________________________________________________________________ Set CBELL ON if you want to be notified when someone connects to or disconnects from your station in Packet, or upon establishing a link in AMTOR.
  • Page 163 When CHCALL is OFF, the monitored activity looks like this: :0hi John hello Mike how goes it? :1*** CONNECTED to N7GMF :1must be a dx record. ge John When CHCALL is ON, the same contact has the additional underlined information: :0:N7ML:hi John hello Mike how goes it? :1:N7GMF:*** CONNECTED to N7GMF...
  • Page 164 Your PK-232 tries to prevent this sort of "lockup" from occurring depending on the settings of AX25L2V2 and RECONNECT, by using the CHECK timer as follows: If a Version 1 link is inactive for (CHECK times 10 seconds), your PK-232 tries to save the link by starting a reconnect sequence.
  • Page 165 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY The same Command Mode entry character COMMAND (default <CTRL-C>) is used to exit Transparent Mode, although the procedure is different than from Converse mode. Three Command Mode entry characters must be entered lose than On'. times 10 seconds apart, with no intervening characters, after a delay of 'n' times 10 seconds following the last characters typed.
  • Page 166 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY CODE "n" Default: (International) Mode: Baudot RTTY, Morse, AMTOR Host: Cl Parameters: “.n" — 0 to 6 specifies a code from the list below. CODE Meaning Morse Baudot AMTOR PACKET International RX/TX RX/TX RX/TX US teleprinter RX/TX RX/TX Cyrillic...
  • Page 167 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY CODE 1: US Teleprinter In Morse, this has no effect; the unit will use the International Morse Code and NOT the American Morse code. In Baudot and AMTOR, the US teleprinter character set shown below is used. Users of CODE I should be aware of the following: The US teleprinter code (CODE 1) makes the “1”, “$”, “,”...
  • Page 168 NULL characters at strategic times. An Timewave PK-232 using CODE 2 in QSO with a unit in CODE 0 (or any other equipment) will exchange data in upper case only, with no adverse effects.
  • Page 169 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY CODE 4: Katakana Katakana is the-phonetic character set used in Japan for spelling out words of foreign (to Japan) origin. The Japanese also use Katakana for Morse and some computer communication. There are about 5O Katakana characters. CODE 4 translates the Katakana Morse code into an 8-bit extended version of ASCII.
  • Page 170 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY COMmand "n" Default: 03 <CTRL-C> Mode: All Host: CM Parameters: "n" 0 to $7F (O to 127 decimal) specifies an ASCII character code. COMMAND changes the Command Mode entry character (default <CTRL-C>). Type the COMMAND character to enter Command Made from the Converse or Transparent Mode. The Command prompt (cmd:) appears, indicating successful entry to Command Mode.
  • Page 171 _______________________________________________________________________________ CONPerm ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet Host: CY _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The connection on the current channel is maintained. The current channel can be disconnected from the other stations. _______________________________________________________________________________ When ON, CONPERM forces the PK-232 to maintain the current connection, even when frames to the other station exceed RETRY attempts for an acknowledgment.
  • Page 172 _______________________________________________________________________________ CRAdd ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Baudot RTTY Host: CR _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ Send <CR CR LF> in Baudot RTTY. Send <CR LF> in Baudot RTTY (default). _______________________________________________________________________________ The CRADD command permits you to set the PK-232's "newline" sequence so that an additional carriage return is ADDed automatically at the end of each typed line.
  • Page 173 For those applications that can not take advantage of the UBIT command, the following CUSTOM features are available in this release of the PK-232 MBX. Bit 0, position $0001: If bit 0 is set to 1 (default), the PK-232 will discard a received packet if the signal is too weak to light the DCD LED.
  • Page 174 Bit 7, position $0080: If bit 7 is set to 0 (default), the PK-232 prints the ..-- Morse character as ^. If bit 7 is set to 1, the PK-232 decodes ..-- as a carriage return. Bit 8, position $0100: If bit 8 is set to 0 (default), MORSE will configure the PK-232 filters for CW as before.
  • Page 175 _______________________________________________________________________________ CWid "n" Default: $06 <CTRL-F> Mode: Baudot/ASCII RTTY/AMTOR/FAX Host: CW _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The CWID command lets you change the "send CWID" control character typed at the end of your Baudot and ASCII RTTY dialogue. When the PK-232 reads this character embedded in the text or keyboard input, it switches modes and sends your call sign in Morse code, at the keying speed set by MSPEED.
  • Page 176 _______________________________________________________________________________ DCdconn ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet/AMTOR KISS and RAWHDLC Host: DC _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ RS-232 cable Pin 8 follows the state of the CON (or DCD) LED. RS-232 cable Pin 8 is permanently set high (default). _______________________________________________________________________________ DCDCONN defines how the DCD (Data Carrier Detect) signal affects pin 8 in the RS-232 interface to your computer or terminal.
  • Page 177 _______________________________________________________________________________ DFrom all,none,yes/no call1[,call2..] Default: all Mode: Packet Host: DF _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ call all, none, YES list, NO list. list of up to eight call signs, separated by commas. _______________________________________________________________________________ DFROM determines how your PK-232 responds to stations trying to use your station as a digipeater.
  • Page 178 _______________________________________________________________________________ DISPlay [class] Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: Not Supported _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ class - Optional parameter identifier, one of the following: (A)sync display asynchronous port parameters (B)BS display AMTOR and Packet MailDrop parameters (C)haracter display special characters (F)ax display Facsimile parameters (I)d display ID parameters (L)ink...
  • Page 179 8/91 A-36b...
  • Page 180 cmd:disp b 3Rdparty FREe 18480 KILONFWD MAildrop MDMon MDPrompt Subject:/Enter message, ^Z (CTRL-Z) or /EX to end MMsg MTExt Welcome to my AEA PK-232M maildrop. Type H for help. MYMail none Command names are shown with UPPER-CASE letters indicating the minimum number of characters required for the command.
  • Page 181 _______________________________________________________________________________ Echo ON|OFF Default: ON Mode: All Host: EC _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ Characters received from the terminal ARE echoed by the PK-232. Characters are NOT echoed. _______________________________________________________________________________ The ECHO command controls local echoing by the PK-232 when in Command or Converse Mode.
  • Page 182 _______________________________________________________________________________ FAXNeg ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Host: FN _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The white and black senses are reversed The white and black senses are normal _______________________________________________________________________________ One might use FAXNEG ON when receiving an image consisting mostly of black, as in a satellite photo.
  • Page 183 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY FRack “In” Default: 5 (5 sec.) Mode: Packet Host: FR Parameters: “n” — 1 to 15, specifying FRame ACKnowledgment timeout in 1 second intervals. FRACK is the FRame Acknowledgment time in seconds that your PK-232 will wait for acknowledgment of a sent protocol frame before "retrying"...
  • Page 184 FRICK n, where n is large enough to allow the other station time to send the start of an acknowledgement frame Note; This is an experimental mode and we welcome any comments or suggestions you might have. Please make them in writing and direct them to the Timewave Engineering Department. Thank You. 2/93...
  • Page 185 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY FSpeed "n" Default: 2 (120) Mode: FAX Host: FS Parameters: “n” — 0 to 4 selects the FAX horizontal scan rate from the table below: 1 line/Second 60 lines/Minute 2 lines/Second 120 lines/Minute 3 lines/Second 180 lines/Minute 4 lines/Second 240 lines/Minute...
  • Page 186 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY FUlldup ON/OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet Host: FU Parameters: Full duplex mode is ENABLED. OFF - Full duplex mode is DISABLED. When full-duplex mode is OFF (default), the PX-232 makes use of the DCD (Data Carrier Detect) signal from its modem to avoid collisions.
  • Page 187 FSPEED, 8" width (narrow) FSPEED 13" width (wide) Dot Density _______________________________________________________________________________ HBaud "n" Default: 1200 bauds Mode: Packet Host: HB _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" values specifying the data rate in bauds from the PK-232 to the radio. _______________________________________________________________________________ HBAUD sets the radio ("on-air") baud rate only in the Packet operating mode. HBAUD has no relationship to your computer terminal program's baud rate.
  • Page 188 ______________________________________________________________________________ Help Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: Not Supported _______________________________________________________________________________ While in Command Mode, type the command "H" to read the abbreviated on-line HELP file. Your monitor displays the following brief list: Help: AMtor PAcket AScii Connect BAudot AList Disconne MOrse MHeard DISPlay...
  • Page 189 HOST command, HOST ON is equivalent to HOST $01 described above. However programmers must note that HOST now returns a numeric value and not ON or OFF as before. See Timewave's PK-232 Technical Manual for full information on Host Mode. 8/91 A-44...
  • Page 190 _______________________________________________________________________________ HPoll ON|OFF Default: ON Mode: Host Host: HP _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The HOST Mode program must poll the PK-232 for all data (default). The HOST Mode program must accept data from the PK-232 at anytime. _______________________________________________________________________________ When HPOLL is ON (default) the HOST Mode program must poll the PK-232 (using the <CTRL-A>...
  • Page 191 _______________________________________________________________________________ IO ["n"] Default: none Mode: All Host: IO _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" A hexadecimal value used to access the PK-232's memory and I/O locations, or read values stored at a specified ADDRESS. _______________________________________________________________________________ The IO command works with the ADDRESS command (ADDRESS $aabb) and permits access to memory and I/O locations.
  • Page 192 Host to TNC Communication: STA LED illuminated. TNC to host Communication: CON LED illuminated. HOST OFF (3 <CTRL-C>s) will force KISS OFF. Details on the use of KISS TNC protocol are contained in Timewave's Technical Manual for the PK-232. 8/91 A-45...
  • Page 193 _______________________________________________________________________________ KISSAddr "n" Default: 0 Mode: Packet Host: KA _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" Is a number from 0-15 signifying the KISS address of the TNC's radio port. _______________________________________________________________________________ Radio port addressing is available in the high nibble of the KISS command byte. The PK-232 compares the high nibble of the KISS command byte to KISSADDR only if extended KISS mode is enabled.
  • Page 194 _______________________________________________________________________________ Lock Immediate Command Mode: Morse/Baudot/AMTOR/FAX Host: LO _______________________________________________________________________________ AMTOR and Baudot: LOCK is an immediate command used to force a LETTERS shift in the received data. This can be helpful if noise has garbled the LTRS character causing FIGURES to be displayed. FAX: This is a manual start command for FAX.
  • Page 195 _______________________________________________________________________________ MAXframe "n" Default: 4 Mode: Packet Host: MX _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 1 to 7 signifies a number of packet frames. _______________________________________________________________________________ MAXFRAME limits the number of unacknowledged packets your PK-232 permits on the radio link, and the number of contiguous packets your PK-232 will send in a single transmission.
  • Page 196 MBX NONE (Default) All monitored frames are shown with their headers. MBX ALL Only the data fields in the I-frames and UI frames are shown. Data from retried frames will be shown each time such a frame is monitored. The MFROM and MTO commands are active. MBX CALL 1 Only the data in the I and UI frames to or from CALL 1 are shown.
  • Page 197 _______________________________________________________________________________ MDCheck Immediate Command Mode: AMTOR Packet/MailDrop Host: M1 _______________________________________________________________________________ MDCHECK is an immediate command which allows you to log on to your own MailDrop. After logging on, you can EDIT, LIST, READ, SEND or KILL MailDrop messages. To use the MDCHECK command, and your PK-232 must not be connected to or linked to any packet or AMTOR stations.
  • Page 198 _______________________________________________________________________________ MDPrompt text Default: (see text) Mode: Packet/MailDrop Host: Mp _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ text Any combination of characters and spaces up to a maximum of 80 bytes. _______________________________________________________________________________ MDPROMPT is the command line sent to a calling station by your MailDrop in response to a Send message command.
  • Page 199 MFROM determines what packets are monitored. To monitor all packets, set MFROM to ALL. To stop any packets from being displayed, set MFROM and MTO to NONE. To display packets from one or more specific stations, type MFROM YES followed by a list of call signs you WANT to monitor packets from.
  • Page 200 _______________________________________________________________________________ MMsg ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet/AMTOR MailDrop Host: MU _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The stored MTEXT message is sent as the first response after an AMTOR link or Packet connect to the MailDrop is established. OFF - The MTEXT message is not sent at all. _______________________________________________________________________________ MMSG enables or disables automatic transmission of the MTEXT message when your AMTOR or Packet MailDrop links with another station.
  • Page 201 _______________________________________________________________________________ MProto ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet Host: MQ _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ Monitors all I and UI frames as before. Monitors only those I and UI frames with a PID byte of $F0. _______________________________________________________________________________ This is in response to NET/ROM, which sends frames that have a PID of $CF, and that contain Control characters.
  • Page 202 The MSTAMP command activates time stamping of monitored packets. When your PK-232's internal software clock is set, date and time information is available for automatic logging of packet activity and other applications. Remember to set the date and time with the DAYTIME command. When MSTAMP is OFF, the packet header display looks like this: W2JUP-4*>KA2EYW-1>AI2Q <I;2,2>: When MSTAMP is ON and DAYSTAMP is OFF, the display looks like this:...
  • Page 203 _______________________________________________________________________________ MWeight "n" Default: 10 Mode: All except Packet Host: Mw _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 5 to 15, specifies roughly 10 times the ratio of one dot length to one inter-element space length in transmitted Morse code. _______________________________________________________________________________ A value of 10 results in a 1:1 dot-space ratio. A setting of 5 results in a 0.5:1 ratio, while a setting of 15 (maximum) results in a 1.5:1 ratio.
  • Page 204 _______________________________________________________________________________ MYcall call [-"n"] Default: PK232 Mode: Packet Host: ML _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ call Your call sign "n" 0 - 15, indicating an optional substation ID, (SSID) _______________________________________________________________________________ Use the MYCALL command to load your call sign into your PK-232. The "PK232"...
  • Page 205 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY MYMail call[-“n”] Default: none Mode: Packet/MailDrop Host: Me Parameters: Call The Call Sign you wish to use for the MailDrop. “n” Numeral indicating an optional substation ID (SSID) or extension. Call is the call sign of the MailDrop, default -none. “Call”...
  • Page 206 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY KYSelcal ease Default: none Mode: AMTOR Host: MG Parameters: sees - Specifies your SELective CALling code (SELCALL) Use the MYSELCAL command to enter the SELCALL (SELective CALLing) code required in AMTOR ARQ (Mode A) and SELFEC operating modes. MYSELCAL is a unique character string which must contain four alphabetic characters and is normally derived from your call sign.
  • Page 207 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY This page is blank 2/93 A-58b...
  • Page 208 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY NAVStn all, none, Yes/No (letters) Default: All Mode: NAVTEX Host: NS Parameters: Letters — all, none, YES List, NO List. List of up to 13 letters which may or may not be separated by spaces, commas or TABS. The NAVSTN command uses letter arguments to determine which NAVTEX transmitting stations the PK-232 will print.
  • Page 209 ______________________________________________________________________________ NOmode ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: All Host: NO _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The PK-232 switches modes only upon explicit command. The PK-232 changes modes according to NEWMODE. _______________________________________________________________________________ When NOMODE is OFF (default), your PK-232 switches modes automatically according to NEWMODE. When NOMODE is ON your PK-232 never switches from Converse or Transparent Mode to Command Mode (or vice versa) by itself.
  • Page 210 _______________________________________________________________________________ Nums Immediate Command Mode: Baudot, AMTOR, TDM Host: NX _______________________________________________________________________________ In Baudot, AMTOR and TDM receive, the NUMS command, or "N" will force the PK-232 into the FIGS case. _______________________________________________________________________________ Immediate Command Mode: SIGNAL Host: OK _______________________________________________________________________________ OK normally follows the SIGNAL command after it has determined the class and speed of the received station.
  • Page 211 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY PACTime EVERY/AFTER -n- Default:AFTER 10 (1000 msec. Mode: Packet Host: PT Parameters: "n" - 01 to 250 specifies 100-millisecond intervals. EVERY - Packet time-out occurs every “n”' times 100 milliseconds. AFTER - Packet time-out-occurs when “n” times 100 milliseconds elapse without input from the computer or terminal.
  • Page 212 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY PASs "n” Default: $16 <CTRL-V> Mode: Packet, ASCII and Pactor Host: Parameters: 0 to $7F (O to 127 decimal) specifies an ASCII character code. PASS selects the ASCII character used for the "pass' input editing commands. parameter “n”...
  • Page 213 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY The rest of this page is blank 2/93 A-62b...
  • Page 214 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY PASSAll ON/OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet Host: PK Parameters: -Your PK-232 will accept packets with valid or invalid CRCS. -Your PK-232 will accept packets with valid CRCs only. PASSALL turns off the PK-232's packet error-detecting mechanism and displays received packets with invalid CRCS.
  • Page 215 When your computer has queued data for transmission, the PK-232 monitors the DCD signal from its modem. When the channel clears, the PK-232 generates a random number between 0 and 255. If this number is less-than or equal to "PERSIST", the PK-232 transmits all frames in its queue.
  • Page 216 _______________________________________________________________________________ PRType "n" Default: 2 (Epson) Mode: Host: PY _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 0 to 255, specifying a code for the type of dot graphics sequences used by your printer. _______________________________________________________________________________ The following is a list of the different printer graphics types the PK-232 supports.
  • Page 217 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY PT200 ON/OFF Default: ON Mode: Pactor Host: PB Pactor uses an adaptive data rate selection scheme. The normal data rate is 100 baud. If conditions permit, the data rate will be shifted to 200 baud automatically.
  • Page 218 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY PTHUFF “n” Default: 0 Mode: Pactor Host: pH "n" — 0 to 3, specifying a type of compression that may be used in Pactor. To enhance the effective data rate in Pactor, a data compression scheme called may be automatically enabled.
  • Page 219 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY PTSend – “n, x” Default: 1,2 Mode: Pactor Host: PD Parameters: ”n” - 1 or 2 selects the transmit baud rate. - 1 to 5 selects the number of times the data is repeated. “n, x” initiates an unproto Pactor transmission. To end the transmission, type <ctrl-D>.
  • Page 220 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY The rest of this page is blank 2/93 A-65d...
  • Page 221 The RAWHDLC command enables the PK-232 to bypass the AX.25 packet implementation and communicate directly with the hardware HDLC (Z8530). HOST mode must be ON to communicate with the PK-232 in the RAW HDLC mode. See Timewave's PK-232 Technical Manual for full information on Raw HDLC Mode. _______________________________________________________________________________ RBaud "n"...
  • Page 222 _______________________________________________________________________________ REDispla "n" Default: $12 <CTRL-R> Mode: All Host: RD _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" 0 to $7F (0 to 127 decimal) specifies an ASCII character code. _______________________________________________________________________________ REDISPLA changes the redisplay-line input editing character. Parameter "n" is the numeric ASCII code for the character you'll use when you want to re-display the current input line.
  • Page 223 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY RESTART Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: RESTART is an immediate command that reinitializes the PK-232 while retaining the user's settings. The effect of the RESTART command is the same as turning the PK-232 OFF, then ON again. RESTART does not reset the values in bbRAM.
  • Page 224 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY RFRame ON/OFF Default: OFF Mode: Baudot and ASCII RTTY Host: RG Parameters: ON Check received Baudot and ASCII characters for framing errors. OFF Print received Baudot and ASCII characters regardless of errors. When RFRAME is OFF (default), Baudot and ASCII modes operate as always, that is characters are copied based on the presence of the DCD signal.
  • Page 225 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY The rest of this page is blank 2/93 A-68b...
  • Page 226 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY SAmple “n” Immediate Command Mode: Command Host: SA “n" — 20 to 255 specifies the sampling rate in baud. This is a new operating mode with the Summer 1991 PK-232 firmware release for advanced users interested in decoding unknown synchronous data transmissions. SAMPLE is similar to the SBIT and 6BIT modes, but operates on synchronous data, whereas 5B1T and 6BIT are used on signals known to be asynchronous.
  • Page 227 _______________________________________________________________________________ SELfec aaaa[aaa] Immediate Command Mode: AMTOR FEC Host: SE _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ aaaa Specifies the distant station's SELective CALling code (SELCALL). _______________________________________________________________________________ The SELFEC command starts a SELective FEC (Mode Bs) transmission to a specific distant station when you enter that station's SELCALL (SELective CALLing) code. The SELFEC command must be accompanied by a unique character sequence (aaaa) that contains four or seven alphabetic characters.
  • Page 228 _______________________________________________________________________________ SQuelch ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet Host: SQ _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ Your PK-232 responds to positive-going squelch voltage. Your PK-232 responds to negative-going squelch voltage. _______________________________________________________________________________ Normally, your PK-232 uses its CSMA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access) circuit to decide whether or not it is clear to transmit on a packet channel. If there are non-packet signals on the channel you're using (such as voice), you will want to use true RF-carrier CSMA by monitoring the squelch line voltage from your radio.
  • Page 229 _______________________________________________________________________________ TBaud "n" Default: 1200 bauds Mode: All Host: TB _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ "n" Specifies the data rate in bauds, on the RS-232 serial I/O port. _______________________________________________________________________________ TBAUD sets the baud rate you are using to communicate with the PK-232 from your terminal or computer.
  • Page 230 1-channel: No effect. 2-channel: 0 and 2 show Channel A. 1 and 3 show Channel B. 4-channel: 0 shows Channel A. 1 shows Channel B. 2 shows Channel C. 3 shows Channel D. _______________________________________________________________________________ Immediate Command Mode: TDM Host: TV _______________________________________________________________________________ TDM is an immediate command that places the PK-232 in the TDM receive mode.
  • Page 231 _______________________________________________________________________________ TMail ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: AMTOR Host: TL _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ The PK-232MBX operates as a personal AMTOR BBS or MailDrop. The PK-232MBX only operates as a normal CCIR 476 or 625 controller. _______________________________________________________________________________ The PK-232's MailDrop is a personal mailbox that uses a subset of the W0RLI/WA7MBL PBBS commands and is similar to operation of APLINK stations.
  • Page 232 Packet: The TRACE command activates the AX.25 protocol display. When TRACE is ON all received frames are displayed in their entirety, including all header information. The TRACE display is shown as it appears on an 80-column display. The following monitored frame is a sample: W2JUP*>TESTER <UI>: This is a test message packet.
  • Page 233 When TRFLOW is ON, the type of flow control used by the computer RECEIVING data in Transparent Mode is determined by how START and STOP are set. When TRFLOW is OFF, only "hardware" flow control (RTS, DTR) is available to the computer RECEIVING data from the PK-232 in Transparent Mode.
  • Page 234 _______________________________________________________________________________ TXFlow ON|OFF Default: OFF Mode: Packet Host: TF _________________________________ Parameters: _________________________________ Software flow control for the PK-232 is activated in Transparent Mode. Software flow control for the PK-232 is disabled in Transparent Mode. _______________________________________________________________________________ When TXFLOW is ON, the setting of XFLOW determines the type of flow control used in Transparent Mode by the PK-232 to control TRANSMITTED data.
  • Page 235 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY Listed below are the UBIT functions and the default state that presently have been assigned. The default state of each UBIT is always shown first. UBIT 0: The PX-232 will discard a received packet if the signal is too weak to light the DCD LED.
  • Page 236 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY UBIT 10: OFF: polling in the HOST mode is subject to HPOLL and must be done for all changes in status. ON: Status changes (e.g., Idle to Tfc) in AMTOR, FAX, TDM or NAVTEX causes the PK-232 to issue the following host block: SOH $50 n ETB where n is $30-36, the same number that the OPMODE command furnishes.
  • Page 237 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY Ucmd “n” [x] Default: 0 Mode: All Host: UC Parameters: “n” - 0 to 4 specifying a User command that may be set. The UCMD command is similar to the UBIT command. UCMD allows seldom used commands that take numeric arguments (rather than ON/OFF) to be set.
  • Page 238 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY Unproto call1 [VIA call2[,call3 .., call9]] Default: CQ Mode: Packet Host: UN Parameters: Call1 — Call sign to be placed in the TO address field. call2-9 — Optional digipeater call list, up to eight calls. UNPROTO sets the digipeat and destination address fields of packets sent in the unconnected (unprotocol) mode.
  • Page 239 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY ON/OFF Default: ON Mode: Packet Host: VH Parameters: — Packet tones are shifted 1000 Hz. — Packet tones are shifted 200 Hz. Use the VHF Command for immediate software control of the PK-232's modem tones. Changing components or switch settings is not required.
  • Page 240 PK 232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY Wideshft ON/OFF Default: OFF Mode: Baudot/ASCII RTTY/AMTOR/Pactor Host: Parameters: — RTTY tones are shifted 1000 Hz. — RTTY tones are shifted 200 Hz (emulates 170-Hz shift). The WIDESHFT command permits the use of the PK-232 on VHF or HF with either wide (1000 Hz) or narrow (200 Hz) shifts.
  • Page 241 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY XBaud "n" Default: 0 Mode: ASCII/Baudot Host: XB Parameters: ”n” — Specifies an exact baud rate used in receiving ASCII and Baudot RTTY. XBAUD enables hardware decoding of ASCII and Baudot signals using the PK-232's 8530 Serial Communications Controller IC.
  • Page 242 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND SUMMARY Xmit Immediate Command Mode: Baudot/ASCII/Morse and FAX Host: XM XMIT is an immediate command that keys your radio's PTT line and prepares the radio to receive outbound data and Morse characters from the PK-232. The XMIT Command can only be used from the Command Mode.
  • Page 243 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL APPENDIX B 4/91...
  • Page 244 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL APPENDIX B 4/91...
  • Page 245 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL APPENDIX C APPENDIX C PARTS PICTORIAL DISPLAY BOARD 4/91...
  • Page 246 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL APPENDIX D PARTS LIST AEA P/N REF. DESIG. DESCRIPTION AEA P/N REF. DESIG. DESCRIPTION 110-103 C20,C21 CAP MY 103P R149,R161,R144 110-104 C18,C41,C45 CAP MY .1UF R145,R169,R177 110-473 CAP MY 473P R182,R183,R180 110-562 CAP MY 562P 210-473 R127 RES 1/4W 47.00K 111-103...
  • Page 247 DS16-DS20 763-001 FUSE 1 AMP- AGC 314-302 DS10,DS11 LED GRN KEYER 779-001 JP1,JP4,JP5 SHORT PLUG .10 JP6,JP7,JP8 320-001 Q6,Q7,Q10,Q11 XISTOR NPN 2N3904 JP9,JP2,JP3 Q13,Q14 320-010 XISTOR NPN MPSA42 320-011 XISTOR NPN MPS6521 320-012 XISTOR NPN MPS6560 320-202 Q1,Q2 XISTOR PFET VN10LM 320-501 Q4,Q9,Q12 XISTOR PNP...
  • Page 248 APPENDIX E - SPECIFIC RADIO CONNECTIONS This appendix provides radio connection information from your AEA data controller to approximately 400 different models of amateur transceivers. Each radio listed references a connection figure and possibly a note on connections. Notes are below on this page.
  • Page 249 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL APPENDIX E SPECIFIC RADIO CONNECTIONS ALINCO Figure Note ICOM Figure Note ALD-24T IC-02 SERIES ALR-22HT IC-03 SERIES ALR-22T IC-04 SERIES ALR-72T IC-12 DJ-100 IC-120 DJ-120T IC-1201 DJ-160T IC-1271 SERIES DJ-162T IC 1275 SERIES DJ-180T IC-12G SERIES DJ-200 IC-2 SERIES DJ-500 IC-20...
  • Page 250 IC-3200 SERIES IC-765 IC-3210 SERIES IC-765 IC-3220 SERIES IC-781 IC-3230 SERIES IC-781 IC-375 SERIES IC-901 IC-37A IC-970 IC-38A IC-D1A IC-3S SERIES IC-P2 SERIES IC-4 SERIES IC-P3 SERIES IC-402 IC-P4 SERIES IC-449 SERIES IC-U2 SERIES IC-45 SERIES IC-U4 SERIES IC-451 IC-V21 SERIES IC-47 SERIES IC-W21 SERIES IC-471 SERIES...
  • Page 251 TM-421 TS-520 TM-431 TS-530 TM-441 TS-60 TM-531 TS-60 TM-531 TS-670 TM-541 TS-680 TM-621 TS-680 TM-631 TS-690 TM-631 TS-690 TM-641 TS-700 TM-701 TS-701 TM-721 TS-711 TM-731 TS-711 TM-731 TS-780 TM-732 TS-790 TM-741 TS-790 TM-742 TS-811 TM-941 TS-811 TM-942 TS-820 TR-2200 TS-830 TR-2300 TS-850 TR-2400...
  • Page 252 All W/ 4-PIN AMP FT-41 ALL W/.25” PLUG FT-411 ARGONAUT II FT-415 DELTA II FT-416 PARAGON FT-470 UNIDEN Figure Note FT-4700 FT-480 HR-2510 FT-5100 HR-2600 FT-5100 WILSON Figure Note FT-5200 MARK II FT-530 MARK IV FT-6200 WE-800 FT-650 YAESU Figure Note FT-690 MK I CPU-2500...
  • Page 257 9/99 E-10...
  • Page 258 PK-232 OPERATING MANUAL INDEX 3RDPARTY, 5-1, 5-5, A-8 BAUDOT, 6-1, A-19 5BIT, BBSMSGS, 4-26, A-19 6BIT, BEACON, 4-7, 4-13, 4-15, 4-19, A-6, 8BITCONV, 4-25, A-9, A-16, A-28 A-20, A-21, A-49, A-53, A-75 AAB, 6-5, 6-8, 7-7, A-9, A-33, Bells, 4-17, A-23, A-27, A-38, A- A-43, A-78 ABAUD, 6-8, A-9, A-61, A-68, A-75...
  • Page 259 4-25, 6-4, 7-1, 7-4, 8-2, ESCAPE, A-25, A-38, A-73 8-3, A-39, A-75 CRADD, 6-6, A-31 Farnsworth, A-54 CRC, 4-19, A-63 FAX, 9-1, A-38 CSTATUS, 4-22, A-31, A-43 FAXNEG, 9-5, A-39 CTEXT, 4-13, 4-18, 5-2, A-3, A-5, FCC, i, 6-7, 7-1, 7-5, 7-7 A-26, A-31 FEC, 7-1, 7-3, 7-4, 7-6, 7-7, 7-...
  • Page 260 I-frames, A-49, A-53, A-75 MAILDROP, 4-8, 5-1, A-5, A-7, A-8, A- IBM, 1-2, 2-3, 2-4, 2-5, 2-10, 2-12 36, A-47 4-5, 4-7, 4-26, 5-6, 6-3, 7-5, Mark, 1-3, 3-7, 3-9, 3-11, 4-2, A-36, A-43, A-44, A-52, A-56, A-57, 5-10, 7-5, A-58 A-21, A-68, A-75 Idle,...
  • Page 261 NAVSTN, 7-10, A-59 Priority, 4-21, A-10, A-52, A-55 NAVTEX, 1-1, 7-1, 7-10, A-33, A-38, Prosigns, 8-4 A-43, A-58, A-59 Protocol, 4-9, 4-18, 4-19, 4-20, 4- Network, 4-3, 4-7-4-11, 4-14, 4-15, 21, 7-1, 7-4 4-20 PROUT, A-64 NEWMODE, 4-17, A-59, A-60 PRTYPE, 9-2, 9-4, A-41, A-65 Node,...
  • Page 262 SLOTTIME, 4-21, 4-23, A-10, A-63, A- Transmit-Audio, 64, A-69 TRFLOW, 4-25, A-73, A-74 SmartWatch, A-34 TRIES, 4-20, 5-10, 7-6, A-74 Space, 1-3, 3-7, 3-9, 3-11, A-21, TXDELAY, 4-12, 4-18, 4-19, A-6, A- A-68, A-75 17, A-18, A-74 SQUELCH, 1-3, 3-2, 3-3, 3-4, 3-5, 3- TXFLOW, 4-25, A-75 10, 4-5, 4-12, 4-26, 7-9, A-70...
  • Page 263 PK-232 MBX OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND LIST COMMAND DEFAULT FUNCTION 3Rdparty Enables 3rd party MailDrop messages 5bit Immediate Command Starts copying special 5 bit stations 6sit Immediate Command Starts copying special 6 bit stations 8bitconv Enables 8 bit data in packet/ASCII CONVERSE...
  • Page 264 Immediate Command Sets/shows the Last maildrop message number LEftrite Sets left-to-right Scan direction for FAX LIte Enables Timewave's Packet Lite HP protocol Lock Immediate Command Locks Morse speed/ forces lower case in RTTY MAildrop Enables the Packet MailDrop for remote users MARsdisp Translates received LTRS &...
  • Page 265 PK-232 MBX OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND LIST COMMAND DEFAULT FUNCTION MDCheck Immediate Command Allows you to check into your own MailDrop MDigi Monitors packet frames that you digipeat MDMon Monitors stations using your MailDrop MDPrompt (see text) Sets an 80 character MailDrop message prompt...
  • Page 266 PK-232 MBX OPERATING MANUAL COMMAND LIST COMMAND MNEMONIC FUNCTION RWWhdlc Starts Raw HDLC mode RBaud 45 bauds (60 WPM) Sets the Baudot RTTY baud rate selection Rcve Immediate Command Selects the receive mode Morse/RTTY/AMTOR RECeive $04 <CTRL-D> Selects the Receive character used in text REDispla $12 <CTRL-R>...

Table of Contents