|
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV <ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Guys, I have a simple question. Our Club has had a Peet Bros 100 and a WX Trax running for several years (K4PAR-1). I believe that several years ago I also had a TT4 running as a WX station (Peet Model 100) and as a digipeater at the same time on my home station. Recently, some of our Club members have asked about a digipeater. Can I use a TT4 for both, replacing the TT3 WX Trax?
Tnx,
Old Hal, K6DPL
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV <ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via groups.io <vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Sounds like either a power issue or RF issue which is causing the unit to constantly reset. Two things to try here: ?? Connect to a dummy load and see if the behavior changes.?? ?????? For these brief transmissions, you could probably get away with a 2W 50 ohm resistor,? ?????????? but 2x 2W 100 ohm would be better.?
?? Make sure your power supply has enough voltage and current
I don't have an MT-AIO, but I have used "surrogate" equipment to make changes to settings when there appears to be a hardware issue.? I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the specific equipment you plan to use as a "surrogate".
The 3 most important things: 1. Make sure the "surrogate" equipment uses the EXACT same chip. ??? Power ground, etc. match
2. Make sure the serial interfaces match (if the serial pins are different). ??? Make sure the computer cable connects to pins 2 (Tx) and 3 (Rx w/ voltage divider) of the chip in both cases.
3. Make sure you use the configuration software that matches the chip and not the "surrogate" hardware.
BECAUSE of these 3 things, I will repeat: I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the "specific equipment" you plan to use as a "surrogate".
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 11:03:38 AM EST, Joe N7IV <ferrara@...> wrote:
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via groups.io <vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Joe,
There is no problem replanting the PIC in a TT3 to try to configure it. If I understand your statement about the function of the unit, and it transmits about once per second after powering it on, the most likely problem is high SWR. Typically, this can happen when someone swings the unit around like a cat from it's tail, and the right angle SMA antenna connector breaks internally. Its still screwed to the Pelican case, but the internal connection is broken or intermittent. The easiest test for this is to turn the PWR ( power) control trimmer all the way off (CCW) which will prevent the amplifier from making enough power to make the unit reset due to excessive SWR. If you measure across the center conductor of the SMA connector to it's ground shield, you should see a 10K resistance. This is the static bleeder resistor there to protect the MOSFET amplifier.?
I, like many others, am actively working to sell my home and defect from California to the Midwest. If you don't mind waiting until I have an address for you to send the unit in my new location, I will be happy to test your AIO when my shop gear catches up to me in March.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 08:03:38 AM PST, Joe N7IV <ferrara@...> wrote:
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via groups.io <vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
What he said! Some TT3's and some old AIO's use a PIC16F644. Newer versions use a PIC16F1827. The newer chips are drop-in compatible with older gear, but not the other way around, as the 644 used a 10MHZ resonator to control it's clock. The 1827 PIC's use a Byonics bootloader that will let you install new firmware ( Even if it is not compatible with your hardware) Like the WX, Tinypack, etc, and any firmware/software updates that may come along.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 08:34:06 AM PST, Rob Giuliano via groups.io <kb8rco@...> wrote:
Sounds like either a power issue or RF issue which is causing the unit to constantly reset. Two things to try here: ?? Connect to a dummy load and see if the behavior changes.?? ?????? For these brief transmissions, you could probably get away with a 2W 50 ohm resistor,? ?????????? but 2x 2W 100 ohm would be better.?
?? Make sure your power supply has enough voltage and current
I don't have an MT-AIO, but I have used "surrogate" equipment to make changes to settings when there appears to be a hardware issue.? I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the specific equipment you plan to use as a "surrogate".
The 3 most important things: 1. Make sure the "surrogate" equipment uses the EXACT same chip. ??? Power ground, etc. match
2. Make sure the serial interfaces match (if the serial pins are different). ??? Make sure the computer cable connects to pins 2 (Tx) and 3 (Rx w/ voltage divider) of the chip in both cases.
3. Make sure you use the configuration software that matches the chip and not the "surrogate" hardware.
BECAUSE of these 3 things, I will repeat: I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the "specific equipment" you plan to use as a "surrogate".
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 11:03:38 AM EST, Joe N7IV <ferrara@...> wrote:
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via groups.io <vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Thanks! ?It¡¯s up and working like new. ?There were multiple issues and you folks named all of them.
73,
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Jan 24, 2024, at 11:09 AM, vhsproducts via < vhsproducts@...> wrote:
What he said! Some TT3's and some old AIO's use a PIC16F644. Newer versions use a PIC16F1827. The newer chips are drop-in compatible with older gear, but not the other way around, as the 644 used a 10MHZ resonator to control it's clock. The 1827 PIC's use a Byonics bootloader that will let you install new firmware ( Even if it is not compatible with your hardware) Like the WX, Tinypack, etc, and any firmware/software updates that may come along.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 08:34:06 AM PST, Rob Giuliano via < kb8rco@...> wrote:
Sounds like either a power issue or RF issue which is causing the unit to constantly reset. Two things to try here: ?? Connect to a dummy load and see if the behavior changes.?? ?????? For these brief transmissions, you could probably get away with a 2W 50 ohm resistor,? ?????????? but 2x 2W 100 ohm would be better.?
?? Make sure your power supply has enough voltage and current
I don't have an MT-AIO, but I have used "surrogate" equipment to make changes to settings when there appears to be a hardware issue.? I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the specific equipment you plan to use as a "surrogate".
The 3 most important things: 1. Make sure the "surrogate" equipment uses the EXACT same chip. ??? Power ground, etc. match
2. Make sure the serial interfaces match (if the serial pins are different). ??? Make sure the computer cable connects to pins 2 (Tx) and 3 (Rx w/ voltage divider) of the chip in both cases.
3. Make sure you use the configuration software that matches the chip and not the "surrogate" hardware.
BECAUSE of these 3 things, I will repeat: I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the "specific equipment" you plan to use as a "surrogate".
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 11:03:38 AM EST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via < vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Joe,
Just out of curiousity, what was the issue? At any rate, I am glad your old unit is back in service!?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10:35:19 PM PST, Joe N7IV <ferrara@...> wrote:
Thanks! ?It¡¯s up and working like new. ?There were multiple issues and you folks named all of them.
73,
On Jan 24, 2024, at 11:09 AM, vhsproducts via < vhsproducts@...> wrote:
What he said! Some TT3's and some old AIO's use a PIC16F644. Newer versions use a PIC16F1827. The newer chips are drop-in compatible with older gear, but not the other way around, as the 644 used a 10MHZ resonator to control it's clock. The 1827 PIC's use a Byonics bootloader that will let you install new firmware ( Even if it is not compatible with your hardware) Like the WX, Tinypack, etc, and any firmware/software updates that may come along.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 08:34:06 AM PST, Rob Giuliano via < kb8rco@...> wrote:
Sounds like either a power issue or RF issue which is causing the unit to constantly reset. Two things to try here: ?? Connect to a dummy load and see if the behavior changes.?? ?????? For these brief transmissions, you could probably get away with a 2W 50 ohm resistor,? ?????????? but 2x 2W 100 ohm would be better.?
?? Make sure your power supply has enough voltage and current
I don't have an MT-AIO, but I have used "surrogate" equipment to make changes to settings when there appears to be a hardware issue.? I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the specific equipment you plan to use as a "surrogate".
The 3 most important things: 1. Make sure the "surrogate" equipment uses the EXACT same chip. ??? Power ground, etc. match
2. Make sure the serial interfaces match (if the serial pins are different). ??? Make sure the computer cable connects to pins 2 (Tx) and 3 (Rx w/ voltage divider) of the chip in both cases.
3. Make sure you use the configuration software that matches the chip and not the "surrogate" hardware.
BECAUSE of these 3 things, I will repeat: I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the "specific equipment" you plan to use as a "surrogate".
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 11:03:38 AM EST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via < vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
|
Nothing that you guys didn't mention, mostly operator error.?
1. I was using the wrong driver for the cable. 2. I tried to use my good old RealTerm software with the Trippel Esc protocol. 3. It was set to full power with weak batteries. 4. The program was set up for very frequent "arping."?
Thank goodness its antenna wasn't broken!
73, and thanks again.
Joe, N7IV? ?
On Sun, 28 Jan, 2024 at 10:36 AM, vhsproducts via groups.io <vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
Just out of curiousity, what was the issue? At any rate, I am glad your old unit is back in service!?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 10:35:19 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
Thanks! ?It¡¯s up and working like new. ?There were multiple issues and you folks named all of them.
73,
On Jan 24, 2024, at 11:09 AM, vhsproducts via < vhsproducts@...> wrote:
What he said! Some TT3's and some old AIO's use a PIC16F644. Newer versions use a PIC16F1827. The newer chips are drop-in compatible with older gear, but not the other way around, as the 644 used a 10MHZ resonator to control it's clock. The 1827 PIC's use a Byonics bootloader that will let you install new firmware ( Even if it is not compatible with your hardware) Like the WX, Tinypack, etc, and any firmware/software updates that may come along.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 08:34:06 AM PST, Rob Giuliano via < kb8rco@...> wrote:
Sounds like either a power issue or RF issue which is causing the unit to constantly reset. Two things to try here: ?? Connect to a dummy load and see if the behavior changes.?? ?????? For these brief transmissions, you could probably get away with a 2W 50 ohm resistor,? ?????????? but 2x 2W 100 ohm would be better.?
?? Make sure your power supply has enough voltage and current
I don't have an MT-AIO, but I have used "surrogate" equipment to make changes to settings when there appears to be a hardware issue.? I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the specific equipment you plan to use as a "surrogate".
The 3 most important things: 1. Make sure the "surrogate" equipment uses the EXACT same chip. ??? Power ground, etc. match
2. Make sure the serial interfaces match (if the serial pins are different). ??? Make sure the computer cable connects to pins 2 (Tx) and 3 (Rx w/ voltage divider) of the chip in both cases.
3. Make sure you use the configuration software that matches the chip and not the "surrogate" hardware.
BECAUSE of these 3 things, I will repeat: I recommend asking Allen or Byon about the "specific equipment" you plan to use as a "surrogate".
On Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 11:03:38 AM EST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
Allen,
Thanks for the great advice!? That all made sense.? I downloaded (and installed) the proper driver and program from Byonics.? Then I wiggled/pushed the plug quite a bit.? Still no joy.??
This unit was bought by one of our club members (W0OVX) at a hamfest and when Bob couldn't make it play, he donated it to one of our club's silent auctions.? ?John (AB0KZ) bought it.? He couldn't make it play and brought it to me for a cure.? YIKES!?
I'm beginning to wonder if its sickness might require more than reprograming.? When turned on, it transmits cyclically every second (or so).? When I used the scope on my IC-9700 to look at its signal, I found that it's not transmitting an APRS packet at all.? It just keys the transmitter, generates a wide key-click, returns to receive, and repeats.? So, I'm thinking that it may be more than a programming and communication issue.? In any case, it didn't work.
Unless you tell me it's a dumb idea, I'm going to pull the chip from the unit and drop it into an unused TT3.? Then I'll connect the TT3 and read the chip using my standard com port/null modem to see if the chip is the root of all evil.? At the very least, I can make sure that it's programmed properly and then attack any remaining problems.?
Best Wishes and thanks for your help... Like I said, you made sense!
Joe, N7IV? ? ?
On Tue, 23 Jan, 2024 at 5:02 PM, vhsproducts via < vhsproducts@...> wrote: ?
Joe,
You cannot program the MT-AIO with a terminal program; you will need to use the TT3 config program:?? Also, you will need to download and install the Prolifics USB Drivers from the Byonics website to use that USB programming cable. Other Prolifics drivers, and Windows Versions older than 10 may require a great deal of heartache and tears. One of the most common difficulties with configuring the AIO is that the serial jack's on units that have not been used a fair bit, may be very tight. Make sure you push the plug in firmly, even having the plug a tiny bit out of battery can deny your serial connection.
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 02:53:58 PM PST, Joe N7IV < ferrara@...> wrote:
I¡¯m working with an older version of the micro trak AIO (version 1.4.4 on circuit board) trying to change the callsign in its program using ¡°Real Term,¡± and I have a failure to communicate.?
I¡¯ve been using the stereo plug to USB adaptor that came with unit.? I¡¯ve identified the proper com port, set the baud rate at 19,200, and turned flow control off.? When I turn on the unit, and hit ESC thrice, no joy.? I¡¯ve not had this problem with either TT3s or TT4s.?
What am I doing wrong?
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Good luck with your move Allen. If you come across some gear that is a bit less than retail quality that you don't want to drag cross country let us know. I love the AIO you sold me (and all the TT3s, the RTG, and the as yet unused TT4 I have purchased previously) and am always looking for a good deal on something I can tinker with.
? I too gripe about California, even though I worked for the State of Confusion for 35 years and have since retired from them/that/there. 79¡ã here yesterday (Jan. 26) after spending WFD in Barstow at 40¡ã-- I'm not moving to a cold place! Best wishes to you and yours Allen!
|
Thanks! My house here in Napa is in escrow, and we are getting an apartment in Union, MO, while we house-hount in Washington, MO. One thing about the area is that many or most homes seem to be associated with HOA's...Joining an HOA is about as repugnant to me as joining the Nazi Party and becoming a multi-level marketer....But maybe they are not as bad as California's HOA's, where War Criminals can generaly find employment...If they don't let me put up antennas, I will be in deep Kimchee. Remember the Twilight zone episode where the fake St. Peter won't let the guy into heaven with his dog? (Because it was actually hell) I guess that will be my litmus test! I will be retiring from my Private Investigative business in California. I doubt they need what I do there very much in Washington, Missouri! But I plan to keep working with Byon and Byonis until I die of old age!?
Most of the questionable returns and repairs around the shop have either been thrown away or packed up...this means they are going to be living in PODS until I find a new shop. Stay in touch and I will let you know if I find anything in the bins when I set back up. Anything special you are looking for? I am glad you like your new AIO! I am pretty happy with the new version, and so far, no one has burst into flames frome standing too close to it when they run at "full military power" ( 20-ish Watts) Maybe I need to make a 30 Watt version :)
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Monday, January 29, 2024 at 07:45:43 AM PST, Robert AD6XJ <91710robert@...> wrote:
Good luck with your move Allen. If you come across some gear that is a bit less than retail quality that you don't want to drag cross country let us know. I love the AIO you sold me (and all the TT3s, the RTG, and the as yet unused TT4 I have purchased previously) and am always looking for a good deal on something I can tinker with.
? I too gripe about California, even though I worked for the State of Confusion for 35 years and have since retired from them/that/there. 79¡ã here yesterday (Jan. 26) after spending WFD in Barstow at 40¡ã-- I'm not moving to a cold place! Best wishes to you and yours Allen!
|
On 01/29/2024 11:10 AM, vhsproducts via groups.io wrote: One thing about the area is that many or most homes seem to be associated with HOA's. I live in central Indiana. Most of the new houses being built in my area are in HOAs. The town I live in makes creating an HOA a condition on approving a developer's plans for a new subdivision. I think HOAs are just another layer of government with taxing authority through their dues. I earned Worked All States on 20m and 40m using phone and RTTY and I earned DXCC both using antennas that fly under the HOA's radar. All that said, I'm on the board of my HOA. <grin> Read the covenants carefully and put on your thinking cap. You may be able to find a way to put up adequate antennas. Bob...
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Robert,
Roger that. However, I am leaving California to avoid repression, not to find new ways of deceiving it. Ideally, I would like a house just a little way from civilization, realizing that this comes with its own issues. I would love to be able to work on a project that I have had tabled for some time, using APRS on 10 Meter, SSB. Its not impossible to make a low-key,10 Meter base antenna, but it may take some work, and hiding my experiments may be hard if there? are intrusive neighbors. Worst case, I can find a separate builiding in a commecial area to set up a new shop, but working from home is pretty convenient, and my network of informants tells me that the snow in MO occasionally makes the roads impassable.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Monday, January 29, 2024 at 10:47:45 AM PST, Bob Burns AK9R <ak9r.lists@...> wrote:
On 01/29/2024 11:10 AM, vhsproducts via groups.io wrote:
> One thing about the area is that many or most homes seem to be
> associated with HOA's.
I live in central Indiana. Most of the new houses being built in my area
are in HOAs. The town I live in makes creating an HOA a condition on
approving a developer's plans for a new subdivision. I think HOAs are
just another layer of government with taxing authority through their dues.
I earned Worked All States on 20m and 40m using phone and RTTY and I
earned DXCC both using antennas that fly under the HOA's radar.
All that said, I'm on the board of my HOA. <grin>
Read the covenants carefully and put on your thinking cap. You may be
able to find a way to put up adequate antennas.
Bob...
|
I¡¯m in Iowa, your future neighbor to the north. My new house was built in 1996 with restrictive covenants on the deed that said no outdoor antenna¡¯s, exposed trash cans, etc. ?20 years after the original construction,?the developer didn¡¯t renew the CC&Rs and no HOA was ever established so I got lucky and they were allowed to expire. My realtor and our new neighbors had no idea the neighborhood was now free from oppression. Hopefully you can read the actual documents find a similar situation down there.?
Welcome to the Midwest!
|
Clint,
My wife is a native of MO, so I will have a translator and someone to explain the the local tribal customs. She is not as opposed to HOA's as I am. I am studying the collective knowledge-base of YouTube and elsewhere to look into HOA-thwarting stealth antennas, just in case! Flagpole antennas seems to pretty much be an HF thing, and things like Ventenna's, although not optimal, look pretty adaptable is my house is not in the bottom of a valley. Ideally, I would live on the top of a hill, where I can plant any antenna I want, and stand on my back porch and fire rounds off .22 rounds at the squirrels without a SWAT team showing up. I am not sure that a place like this actually exists in America anymore.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 07:31:53 AM PST, Clint Miller <isuforester@...> wrote:
I¡¯m in Iowa, your future neighbor to the north. My new house was built in 1996 with restrictive covenants on the deed that said no outdoor antenna¡¯s, exposed trash cans, etc. ?20 years after the original construction,?the developer didn¡¯t renew the CC&Rs and no HOA was ever established so I got lucky and they were allowed to expire. My realtor and our new neighbors had no idea the neighborhood was now free from oppression. Hopefully you can read the actual documents find a similar situation down there.?
Welcome to the Midwest!
|
Those places "DO" exist in America, but typically not anywhere close to civilization.
In today's world, almost all "subdivisions" have HOA.? Some more strict than others.
? ?Subdivision, typically means any group of lots that are 2 acres or less on a common set of streets.
? ?
Where I live, most HOAs have become quite tolerant of outside antennas after the FCC's OTARD ruling.
Although it is relatively easy to tell a Diamond x510 from a TV Yagi - which is more unsightly?
I sure wish that years ago someone would have taken this whole HOA thing to court on the basis that almost every HOA restrictions was based on prejudices.? They may not have been directly based on ethnicity, but they were certainly trying to keep certain clients out of the neighborhood.
-------
Robert Giuliano
KB8RCO
|
Allen, you can always use a .22 air gun.? sorry, no help on the
antennas.? Cliff K6CLS
On 1/31/24 08:29, vhsproducts via
groups.io wrote:
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
Clint,
My wife is a native of MO, so
I will have a translator and someone to explain the the local
tribal customs. She is not as opposed to HOA's as I am. I am
studying the collective knowledge-base of YouTube and
elsewhere to look into HOA-thwarting stealth antennas, just in
case! Flagpole antennas seems to pretty much be an HF thing,
and things like Ventenna's, although not optimal, look pretty
adaptable is my house is not in the bottom of a valley.
Ideally, I would live on the top of a hill, where I can plant
any antenna I want, and stand on my back porch and fire rounds
off .22 rounds at the squirrels without a SWAT team showing
up. I am not sure that a place like this actually exists in
America anymore.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 07:31:53 AM PST, Clint
Miller <isuforester@...> wrote:
I¡¯m in Iowa, your future neighbor to the north. My
new house was built in 1996 with restrictive covenants
on the deed that said no outdoor antenna¡¯s, exposed
trash cans, etc. ?20 years after the original
construction,?the developer didn¡¯t renew the CC&Rs
and no HOA was ever established so I got lucky and
they were allowed to expire. My realtor and our new
neighbors had no idea the neighborhood was now free
from oppression. Hopefully you can read the actual
documents find a similar situation down there.?
Welcome to the Midwest!
|
I may have an airgun or two around somewhere...In Missouri, you can also own a "silencer", which you can put on an air rifle or pistol too. ( Still have to pay for the unit plus a $200.00? "Tax Stamp") Until we find a house, I will be living in an apartment. where I suspect that overt antennas and gunshots will be frowned upon, so I am hopeful that no one needs to send me any repairs that require more than a computer, a pair of pliers, and a hammer!
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 11:03:16 AM PST, Cliff Sojourner K6CLS via groups.io <cls@...> wrote:
Allen, you can always use a .22 air gun.? sorry, no help on the
antennas.? Cliff K6CLS
On 1/31/24 08:29, vhsproducts via
groups.io wrote:
Clint,
My wife is a native of MO, so
I will have a translator and someone to explain the the local
tribal customs. She is not as opposed to HOA's as I am. I am
studying the collective knowledge-base of YouTube and
elsewhere to look into HOA-thwarting stealth antennas, just in
case! Flagpole antennas seems to pretty much be an HF thing,
and things like Ventenna's, although not optimal, look pretty
adaptable is my house is not in the bottom of a valley.
Ideally, I would live on the top of a hill, where I can plant
any antenna I want, and stand on my back porch and fire rounds
off .22 rounds at the squirrels without a SWAT team showing
up. I am not sure that a place like this actually exists in
America anymore.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 07:31:53 AM PST, Clint
Miller <isuforester@...> wrote:
I¡¯m in Iowa, your future neighbor to the north. My
new house was built in 1996 with restrictive covenants
on the deed that said no outdoor antenna¡¯s, exposed
trash cans, etc. ?20 years after the original
construction,?the developer didn¡¯t renew the CC&Rs
and no HOA was ever established so I got lucky and
they were allowed to expire. My realtor and our new
neighbors had no idea the neighborhood was now free
from oppression. Hopefully you can read the actual
documents find a similar situation down there.?
Welcome to the Midwest!
|
Sounds like a plan
>? I suspect that overt antennas and gunshots will be frowned upon, so I am hopeful that no one needs to send me any repairs that require more than a computer, a pair of pliers, and a hammer!
Ooooh, tell us about the repairs that require gunshots!?? Ha ha, just kidding.
On January 31, 2024 1:05:25 PM PST, "vhsproducts via groups.io" <vhsproducts@...> wrote:
I may have an airgun or two around somewhere...In Missouri, you can also own a "silencer", which you can put on an air rifle or pistol too. ( Still have to pay for the unit plus a $200.00? "Tax Stamp") Until we find a house, I will be living in an apartment. where I suspect that overt antennas and gunshots will be frowned upon, so I am hopeful that no one needs to send me any repairs that require more than a computer, a pair of pliers, and a hammer!
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 11:03:16 AM PST, Cliff Sojourner K6CLS via groups.io <cls@...> wrote:
Allen, you can always use a .22 air gun.? sorry, no help on the
antennas.? Cliff K6CLS
On 1/31/24 08:29, vhsproducts via
groups.io wrote:
Clint,
My wife is a native of MO, so
I will have a translator and someone to explain the the local
tribal customs. She is not as opposed to HOA's as I am. I am
studying the collective knowledge-base of YouTube and
elsewhere to look into HOA-thwarting stealth antennas, just in
case! Flagpole antennas seems to pretty much be an HF thing,
and things like Ventenna's, although not optimal, look pretty
adaptable is my house is not in the bottom of a valley.
Ideally, I would live on the top of a hill, where I can plant
any antenna I want, and stand on my back porch and fire rounds
off .22 rounds at the squirrels without a SWAT team showing
up. I am not sure that a place like this actually exists in
America anymore.?
73,
Allen AF6OF
On Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 07:31:53 AM PST, Clint
Miller <isuforester@...> wrote:
I¡¯m in Iowa, your future neighbor to the north. My
new house was built in 1996 with restrictive covenants
on the deed that said no outdoor antenna¡¯s, exposed
trash cans, etc. ?20 years after the original
construction,?the developer didn¡¯t renew the CC&Rs
and no HOA was ever established so I got lucky and
they were allowed to expire. My realtor and our new
neighbors had no idea the neighborhood was now free
from oppression. Hopefully you can read the actual
documents find a similar situation down there.?
Welcome to the Midwest!
|
Clint Miller
Cliff Sojourner K6CLS