Sam zrobiłem już TinyTrak i użylem starego radia CB (nie trzeba zezwolenia i nikt nie ściga na tych częstotliwościach , chciaż CB jest powiedzmy sobie prawnie ustosunkowane jedynie do transmisji głosowych). Jako odbiornik komp z linux'em i modemik Baycom własnej roboty na FX614 (FX614 można dostać w DELTA TECH z Otwocka www.deltatech.republika.pl ) A i jeszcze ważna jedna sprawa nie bawcie się w 3 wersje Tiny Trak. Najlepsza jest otwarta 1.4 lub 1.6 przerobiona by działał smart beaconing tak jak w TT3. Nie dajcie się naciąć w sklepach na PIC16F84A-04/P - nie nadaje się do tego ... bo max 4 Mhz musi być PIC16F84A-20/P lub PIC16F84-10/P lub PIC16LF84-04/P. Ten ostatni może działać z prędkością od 4 Mhz do 10 Mhz w zależnosci od napięcia na VCC (jeśli nie pozostanie wam nic innego jak rozwiązanie z tym ostatnim PIC'iem w specyfikacji PIC16F84A , którą można znależć na google w postaci pliku pdf jest wykres zależności zegara procesora od V , tak aby ustawić na 10 Mhz , bo taki mamy tam kwarc .. w TT 1.X) NAPRAWDE POLECAM I NIE TRZEBA ŻADNEJ LICENCJI !! (mam 17 lat i nie był to problem by to zrobić :) ) Tak podejżewałem iż panowie i panie zza kółka samochodowego się tym zainteresują :) W zalączniku daje schematy i instrukcje do baycom'a i TT1.6 Oraz przejściówke DIP do SOIC dal FX614 pliki brd i sch sa plikami darmowego programu EAGLE (schemat i płytka) W schemacie baycom'a R7 jest jedynie dla radji ręcznych "handie" z połaczonym PTT z sygnałem wyjściowym z radia
TinyTrak www.byonics.com/tinytrak tinytrak@byonics.com 4/16/2000
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This software is available only for non-commercial amateur radio
or educational applications. ALL other uses are prohibited.
This software may not be distributed by anyone other than the
author. Contact the author for information on commercial licenses.
(c)Copyright 1999-2001, Byon Garrabrant, N6BG. All rights reserved.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Version 1.0.2 Notes:
This version contains an updated PDF documentation which provides
hints and troubleshooting section. The Digi-Key potentiometer
part numbers were changed because Digi-Key stopped carrying the
older one. Also included is the latest message board web page.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Version 1.0.1 Notes:
This version contains an updated PDF documentation which provides
more details and corrects the D1/D2 confusion. Also included is
a more detailed photo.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Version 1.0 Notes:
This version is the same as versions 0.4 and 0.5
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Byon Garrabrant N6BG
TinyTrak Message Board
This message board is devoted to TinyTrak, to ask questions, leave comments,
and see how others are using TinyTrak.
Byonics responses are shown in green.
You can also send questions eMail to byon@byonics.com
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Wed Jun 14 08:25:41 2000
has anybody used a kenwood TH-D7E hand held tranceiver to receive signals from a tiny trak,iam thinking of buying such a tranceiver,and would like to know how they got on. thanks and 73's
From:
Joel Black
(K2SAT) on Sat Jun 10 18:31:29 2000
I *cannot* make the TinyTrak work. I cannot decode packets. I have tried adjusting the deviation all the way down until you can barely hear the data. I have used all calibration values. I getting disgusted!
You do not want the deviation too low. It should be just below maximum discernable by ear. If you are using a Kantronics TNC to listen, try CD internal instead of CD software.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Sat Jun 10 11:14:54 2000
Back Order Update: I just filled and mailed all orders placed or post-dated before June 1. I hope to have all remaining orders shipped within about 2 weeks. Thanks for your patience.
From:
Bertus Wijck.
() on Fri Jun 9 11:24:45 2000
Hello to you all,
I search for a simple DOS/WINDOWS NMEA LOGFILE PLAYER true TINYTRAK. So we having a small TT simulator. Is there anyone who is willing to give me a hand or two ?
I've been using a serial program called TTermPro. You can have it send a text file, with a delay between each line. This may help.
From:
Jim Korenz
(N8PXW) on Fri Jun 9 06:51:02 2000
Great Gismo !! Got mine talking to a Motorola PVT-6 and a Magellan Meridan GPS. I have the same problem as Peter PE7PH. My unit talks to an MFJ TNC-2, but my Kenwood D7-A ignors the packets. Your previous advice was to adjust the calibration value. I am using a 10 MHz crystal. Do I still need to " fudge " the value ? Or is this a problem with the Kenwood's TNC ? Thanks, for a great little project. I could write a simple DOS setup program, for those who want to run a simpler system. 73's JimK
If you are having decoding problems, especially if it works on some TNC's and not others, you should adjust the calibration value.
From:
Hans
() on Thu Jun 8 14:51:08 2000
GREAT TIP James !
Specialy for city area's.
From:
James Vincent
(G1PVZ) on Thu Jun 8 10:45:28 2000
An update on the Magellan NAV5000 and TinyTrak interfacing. A simpler solution instead of adding a MAX232 is to connect a 12k Ohm (approx) across the output of the Magellan data lead (pin 2 and pin 9). Then connect pin 2 to the Tinytrak input and pin 9 to the TinyTrak 0 V line. The GPS will then work with the TinyTrak. It is because Magellan provide a current source rather than a voltage source for the NMEA output. It complies with the earlier issues of the NMEA standard. A suggestion - without bloating the design too much would it be possible to increase the beaconing rate as the GPS position changes more rapidly. i.e position reports are more frequent with increasing velocity ?
Regards,
James
I do have " Smart Beaconing " on the ToDo list. Thanks for the Magellan suggestion!
From:
Markus Fackler
(DL1GFM) on Thu Jun 8 10:45:01 2000
Does TinyTrak work with a 0-5V input from a gps ? I have to send +-12V into the PIC to decode my RMC signal...
Is this normal ?
If the GPS sends 0-5Vs, and it is readable by a PC, it should be readable by TinyTrak. If it send -/+ 12 volts, it should also work. Both are normal.
From:
Mike Connors
(KI7AB) on Tue Jun 6 20:15:54 2000
There is a picture of my completed TinyTrak and enclosure at the NWAPRS (Northwest APRS Website).
http://www.nwaprs.org/tinytrak.htm
73, Mike
Thanks! any others with pictures out there?
From:
Joel Black
(K2SAT) on Tue Jun 6 11:20:58 2000
Put mine together in an evening. Tested next day and couldn't get 5V out of the regulator. This morning, I looked at it again and noticed some solder had shorted two traces. Didn't see that before. Anyway, got it configured, now to interface it to my FT-8100 and in an enclosure. Anyone have any good enclosure ideas?
73 de Joel, K2SAT
From:
terry@wireless.force9.co.uk
(G4CDY) on Mon Jun 5 14:16:46 2000
Super design Byron, save me a lot of effort. I am going on a charity walk in two weeks involving walking up the three highest mountains in the UK. Intend to take a TT with homebrew 20w radio and GPS120. What I need is a simple way of changing the beacon text as I walk. I will take a HP95 palm top which has a terminal emulator or I could write a simple DOS program (only a 80C86). Have you published the commands to program the beacon text?
73 de Terry
Thanks. I have not published the configuration protocol, but will be happy to share it with those who need it.
From:
Rich Morrall
(G8ZHA) on Mon Jun 5 03:41:52 2000
Can the DCD input be used digitally from a radio that has a squelch output - if so what polarity?
I think that would work. Just remove R9 & C2, and pin 10 should be grounded during carrier, and floating or 5V when quiet.
From:
Ray Rischpater
(KF6GPE) on Sat Jun 3 23:21:55 2000
Nice kit! Just finished up my first TinyTrak for my father, WD6DVG, and his RV. Stuffed it into a little Radio Shack box, with the lights on the top and jacks along the sides. Works great; plan on getting a couple more and buidling them up as gifts for other ham friends. Good luck & 73 de KF6GPE
From:
Gerhar Paul
(DF6SW) on Sat Jun 3 13:14:56 2000
If I buy a Tiny Track Kit, do I still need a PIC16F84 programmer?
No, the kit comes with a programmed chip.
From:
Mike Pischel
(kb0tiy) on Sat Jun 3 07:44:38 2000
OK, I've gotten biten by the Tiny Trak bug! Now It's my turn to build several of these. First of all, Is everyone happy with the performance? This project is creating alot of excitement around here!
Best of 73's to everyone!
Mike
From:
Chris
(N1UOC) on Fri Jun 2 23:01:55 2000
Is the a DOS Config Program? Instead of Windows. I use an old 286 laptop.
Not currently. Would anyone like to write one, I'll provide the Windows source.
From:
Jeff
(kc8ffv) on Wed May 31 12:23:13 2000
The unit is alive, but I am having a problem with the transmit locking up on the radio. Also I am not sure if the unit is actually transmitting the data out. but this could be caused from the tx lock up?
Try the capacitor on the PTT transistor, and mentioned earlier.
From:
Jim Hopper
(K5IWK) on Wed May 31 03:26:09 2000
With regard to the need for power to program the Tiny Trak. Could I get the 12v from the computer on the serial port plug?
I haven't tried it, and don't recommend it, but it might be possible.
From:
Jim Hopper
(K5IWK) on Tue May 30 18:44:34 2000
I just finished the Tiny Trak and have a Rand McNally GPS to hook to it. It transmits the Beacon ok but sends " Error " because the GPS isn't attached.
1. How do I get voltage to the GPS? Which pins do I use?
2. Do I need a " Null Adapter " to hook it up? I already have the male to male.
I removed both connectors on my RM GPS. Connect 5 or 12 volts to the red wire, ground to the shield, and the white wire to the TinyTrak.
If you do not remove the connectors, you will need a NULL modem/gender changer if you use the supplied female DB-9 on TinyTrak.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Mon May 29 23:40:30 2000
To send a position after unkeying on voice, wire the mic audio and ground directly to the radio, and wire the PTT through a 1N4148 diode as shown. The mic end should connect to TinyTrak PTT IN, and the radio end to TinyTrak PTT OUT. I will be adding this information to the manual. I've noticed that with the current version of the firmware (1.0), there is a short unkeyed pause between releasing PTT, and TinyTrak re pressing PTT and sending the data. I hope to have a new firmware version to fix this soon, and will need some volunteers with PIC programming ability to help beta test it. Thanks.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Mon May 29 18:24:43 2000
When running the Win32 program, the TinyTrak DOES need to have power applied.
From:
Lou Roux
(W6UR) on Mon May 29 16:02:52 2000
Just completed my TinyTrack. When I run TinyTrackConfig.EXE (and choose the proper COM port, etc.) " check version " says TinyTrack not found. Does the TinyTrack have to have power applied to load the configuration file?
Yes, it does require power during configuration.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Mon May 29 14:39:16 2000
Paolo: Put in the 0.1uF cap between the transistor and ground, as someone mentioned in previous messages. It really helps with the RF lockup problem.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Mon May 29 14:38:28 2000
Trimble SV6: Yes, if you set it to NMEA mode (instead of TAIP or TSIP), then it only puts out $GPGGA and $GPVTG sentences. I have two of those units myself, and hope to either modify the TinyTrak S/W to do $GPGGA, or else put in another 8-pin PIC chip to do the translation for me. On the TinyTrak home page though it mentions GGA support on the TODO list.
From:
Brian
(VK4BBS) on Mon May 29 04:31:38 2000
To All
Hi Folks
I have a Trimble SVEE SIX GPS but am unable to get it to send RMC messages.
I do have both the GPSSK and TSIPCHAT software but still unable to get those RMC messages.
Wonder if anyone else has experienced the same problem.
Regards Brian VK4BBS
The current version only decodes RMC, but GGA should be coming in the future. I also belive the SVee Six uses TTL serial, instead of RS232, which should require the need for an inverter/transistor.
From:
Paolo ANGELA
(IK1HSO) on Mon May 29 04:31:10 2000
Great TinyTrak!. It's OK at the first step. .... but with the car I had a few problems with RF. Right for the use of SW2: two messages it will be right. Sorry for my english. 73 de Paul.
From:
Hans
() on Sun May 28 14:41:10 2000
TO BYON: We cant get the MIC-E function to work.When possible to update the diagram or some feetback getting stuck here, please.
Added above.
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Sun May 28 11:50:26 2000
TO ALL,does the tiny-trak have a 9 pin femail socket on it or a male socket?also i have lots of 16f84-04/p ,pics in circuit boards from work.can i reprogram them,i do have a simple pic programmer but i dont know how to erase the original program on the chip many thanks as iam considering the peekpack project
It has a female socket, but it can be left off or replaced with a male. TinyTrak must be clocked at 10 Mhz, and the -04 chips are not rated for that speed. However, I have heard reports that it does work.
From:
Simard Normand
(ve2lhs) on Sun May 28 09:07:32 2000
I cannot communicate with my TinyTrak an a COM 1 Please help m. After a burn a 16F84 with the firmware TinyTrak, the message indicate the COM 1 is not disponible. Welcome VE2LHS and sorry for my English
Double check your solder joints. Perhaps try a different computer. Make sure you have no other software trying to use COM1 at the same time.
From:
Mike Connors
(KI7AB) on Sat May 27 20:29:54 2000
I finished my TinyTrak last weekend. I put it inside one of the Radio Shack boxes. I mounted a coaxial power jack, a small slide switch and 9 pin DIN connector on the outside of the box for easy access to programming and transmission rate changes and convenient power hook-up. It worked out great! Instead of using the metal cover that came with the Radio Shack box I simply cut out a cover from a clear plastic bakery container so that the LEDs are visible. Great job Byon!
Thanks. If you or other users would like to show pictures of your TinyTrak's, I'd be happy to link to them.
From:
Bob Morehouse
(KB7ADO) on Sat May 27 19:44:50 2000
Byon, just wondering if you have any plans to attend the ARRL Northwest Div. Convention in Seaside, OR, the first weekend in June with some of your products. There will some people from the NWAPRS group with a demo table and at least one APRS seminar, so it would be another opportunity to show off your TinyTrak. APRS activity is picking up in this part of the country, with numerous inquiries on our sig about the TT. I'll probably be putting in an order for one in the near future.
No, I wasn't planning to. Sorry.
From:
Bill Vodall
(WA7NWP) on Fri May 26 21:36:24 2000
It lives. Even survived a shorting of
the power leads. Now for a box. The
TinyTrak board has mounting holes. Any
chance it's designed to fit one of the
stock Radio Shack boxes?
It wasn't designed to, but a few users have used them.
From:
Rick Bandla
(VE3CVG) on Fri May 26 07:11:25 2000
Sorry. Found the info on Ludipipo & Pix on your PeekPack page. For the slower folks (like me) you might wanna put a link to those pgms from your TinyTrak page. Great site by the way. 73. Rick
From:
Rick Bandla
(VE3CVG) on Fri May 26 05:45:45 2000
Byon,
You used to have some sample programmers in a file at
http://www.byonics.com/pic/picprogimg.zip
It's not there anymore, have you still got it around or do you know of anyone else who has a page dedicated to this info? 73. Rick (VE3CVG)
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Thu May 25 22:53:57 2000
TinyTrak BackOrder Update: I received parts to fill many orders today, but it was still not enough to fill all of them. I currently have filled all PayPal, check, and Dayton orders, and all CCSLIDE orders placed before May 12. I hope to fill all remaining orders in about 10 days. Sorry for the delay, and thanks for your understanding.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Thu May 25 12:10:02 2000
$GPGGA: No, not currently supported. It parses the $GPRMC sentence right now. Byon mentions on his main page that he might add that (I want it too). A friend of mine was working on it a bit also. It's not difficult, just a time issue. Regarding the vhf-link, yes, a TinyTrak will work with a transmitter to send your position out, but you'll need something other than a TinyTrak to receive the signal, like perhaps a Kantronics KPC-3 or KPC-3+ TNC, or actually ANY packet radio TNC should receive the stuff just fine. We use 1200 baud AFSK for this APRS stuff. A TinyTrak is basically a transmit-only TNC. No receive capability.
From:
Markus Fackler
(DL1GFM) on Wed May 24 21:38:55 2000
Hi to all.
I want to use TinyTrak with a PGS-Board that sends out the GPGGA data.
Will this GPS work with TinyTrak or not ?
73 de DL1GFM
Not currently, but the feature is being added.
From:
Bo Andersen
(OZ1CPP) on Wed May 24 19:32:16 2000
Hey Guys !!
I´m new to this stuff , but is TinyTrak the unit I need to be able to transfer the posiition from my GPS to my home computer via a vhf-link ( I suppose that I need two TinyTraks ) ???
Yes, but you do not need two TinyTraks, just the one in the field. At home you should have a TNC / radio / computer. Or, if you live in an area with an IGATE, all you need at home is a computer connected to the internet. Take a look at
www.findu.com
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Tue May 23 08:07:48 2000
does anyone have an estimation of how long it will take to get comformation of my tiny-trak order thanks and 73's
I normally ship within a two days of receiving an order. If you have any questions about your order, feel free to eMail me at
byon@byonics.com
From:
Hans
() on Tue May 23 02:15:31 2000
ALL: Other thing i found out.
When using calibration mode, lower value is 36 and no lower value is possible, upper will go up to over 200.
Why is this ?
( i like find upper/lower level where TNC is decoding TT data )
These are the limits of the calibration algorithm.
From:
Hans
() on Tue May 23 02:12:39 2000
ALL: How das the MIC-E function is working in TT ? I connect mic PTT wire to go in DIODE and leave other connections, like normal using TINY on this radio. But Radio is not key up for TX.
Radio is Kenwood, PTT go to ground.
How come ?
See the schematic above for more information.
From:
Peter
(PE7PH) on Mon May 22 01:13:51 2000
I have a problem reading the tt signal on kenwood equipement D & and D700, only after the signal is repeated by a tnc-pc station the signal is accepted by kenwood??? any idea 73 peter
It sounds like the timing may be off, and can be decoded by some TNCs, but not your Kenwoods. Try tweaking the calibrate value around.
From:
Peter
(PE7PH) on Mon May 22 01:11:40 2000
Is it possible to use tt in combination with a Davis weathermonitor2 as a stand-alone WStation???
Currently, TinyTrak only reads a GPS, but I hope to add a weather version soon.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Sun May 21 18:03:33 2000
Wire your microphone PTT into the diode that goes into the PIC chip. Wire the TinyTrak outputs to the radio. When you push the PTT button, the TinyTrak keys up your radio for you, and when you let go, the TinyTrak does a position blip and then unkeys the radio. You'll have to break the PTT wire between the MIC and the radio to do this. I haven't tried it yet, but I asked Byon earlier and he mentioned that it should work.
From:
Vincent Endter
(KF6WAV) on Sun May 21 11:30:05 2000
How do I wire my Tiny Trak so it transmits after keying the mic instead of a given number of seconds?
See the schematic above for more information.
From:
jim scott
(n8orj) on Sat May 20 10:17:48 2000
1) what is the size of the finished board?
2) will the tiny trak accept the inverted ttl data from your gst-2 chip via the marvin gps?
The PCB is 2 x 1.6 in, a little longer with the DB9 connected. And yes, you can use the inverted TTL output of the GST-2.
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Fri May 19 08:30:25 2000
thanks for the reply mark,the gps was only going to transmit when the free flight plane has ran out of fuel and landed. i would like to build a more modern version of the wood and douglas 2 meter transmitter i built about 18 years ago any sugestions ?
From:
Lee Devlin
(K0LEE) on Fri May 19 05:35:59 2000
I just wanted to follow up to an earlier problem I reported. I was unable to get the PC to communicate with the TinyTrak. It turned out that a trace smaller than a human hair was shorting pins 3 and 1 on the PIC. I don't know if this was a result of a scratch on the board artwork, or a thin wire getting plated on to the board. It was nearly invisible except under a magnifying glass. I scraped it away and everything began working.
Thanks for the update.
From:
Mark Phillips
(G7LTT) on Thu May 18 11:16:35 2000
Ian; I don't suggest you use APRS on 2mtrs from your plane as that would be contrary to your licence conditions. I would do it using one of those new 4440Mhz handhelds which run off a few AAA cells. As I understand it they are licence free. How are you gonna deal with the weight of a gps, TinyTrak, radio and RC control kit in your plane though?
From:
Mark Phillips
(G7LTT) on Thu May 18 11:10:59 2000
What about CW ident for us non US stations?
Is this for legal reasons? Is the callsign in packet not sufficient?
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Wed May 17 11:38:44 2000
just ordered a tinytrak to locate my model aircraft any suggestions?
From:
Hans
() on Wed May 17 10:15:04 2000
Hello to you all,
We in PA0 country using 10 mhz. Xtals only.Das anyone want to share there upper and lower calibration values, please.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Wed May 17 08:43:12 2000
Daqarta works like a champ! I'm very impressed with it, particularly 'cuz it runs on DOS and is cheap(er) shareware. I checked the tones on all three TinyTrak's last night and they're all up to snuff now.
From:
Vince Endter
(KF6WAV) on Tue May 16 19:04:43 2000
It works! I finished my Tiny Trak today and tested it with a Rand McNally GPS. I am using 4 NiMh batteries to power both the Tiny Trak and the GPS. Current draw is about 160 mA. That should give me about 8 hours of operations, which is plenty for my purpose (hang gliding).
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Tue May 16 08:57:20 2000
Sorry, that was www.daqarta.com. Shareware spectrum analyzer software for DOS that can use soundcards. Looks like it's worth a shot anyway. Anyone have a simple cheap method for setting deviation?
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Tue May 16 08:54:28 2000
Regarding calibrate & 10 Mhz Crystal: I had to drop the calibrate value down a bit from the default 63. I think I used 49 on one. I transmit to another TNC and adjust the cal value either direction until it DOESN'T work, then set it for the middle. I'm going to check out www.deqarta.com to see if I can do an FFT to get things set more accurately.
From:
Hans
() on Tue May 16 06:44:20 2000
About 'start the car' problem.
We in NL found same problem.
Use small caps but not salve this irri problem, yet !
From:
Guy Beaumont
(G7BWP) on Mon May 15 23:11:33 2000
Has anyone else had problems with the timing parameters being corrupted if the TinyTrak is on when I start the car! Typically I set it to tx every 30secs. After the voltage has dropped due to starting the car it seems to become 1390 secs. Not quite so useful with 23mins between txing. I'll have to look at adding some caps to the 5v supply for the PIC.
I've been running TinyTrak in the car, and have not seen this problem. Others?
From:
Carl Davies
(M1ELR) on Mon May 15 10:39:10 2000
Hello all, Can any one tell me how much I would have to adjust the calibrate value is it +/- 1 or 10 or 20, I have used a 10MHz crstal instaed of resonator..
I've heard reports that settings in the 50 range well. Try a few differnt values.
From:
Don McPherson
(KK7MJ) on Wed May 10 13:29:50 2000
Does anyone have experience with hooking TinyTrak to a Kenwood G71 HT?
I cannot get the unit to key the radio no matter how I try. Any help or pointers would be appreciated. I am using an MFJ TNC cable with it.
From:
Lee Devlin
(K0LEE) on Mon May 8 22:08:44 2000
Does anyone have any suggestions when the tinytrakconfig.exe program cannot find the tinytrak? The tinytrak powers on OK, flashes the grn/amber LEDs twice and the PTT once and will trigger the PTT every 90 seconds, but I cannot program it via the serial port. The serial port works fine with other devices. I am not using a laptop. Thanks, Lee, K0LEE
Double check for soldering problems. You can run a terminal program at 4800 N81, and send ESC V to test the serial link. The version should be sent back.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Mon May 8 14:52:00 2000
1) I highly recommend the 0.1uF cap that Sylvain Mercier (VE2SIL) suggested: Tinytrak is not locking up with 50W transmitter next to it.
2) Calibration value is critical and must be adjusted for each TinyTrak. Find the highest/lowest calibration values that allow decoding on another TNC, then average the values.
TinyTrak's #2 and #3 didn't work for me until I did that. 3) Anyone have a true-DCD squelch circuit yet?
Very good point. All users should adjust calibration if they have problems decoding TinyTrak transmissions.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Fri May 5 23:45:35 2000
I received more orders than expected, and ran out of parts. I just got more in today, and am filling all the back orders as I type this. Sorry for the delay.
From:
Rory Dowler
(VE3RRY) on Fri May 5 16:15:16 2000
I ordered a TinyTrak online through
ccslide.com last week (April 25-26).
I had hoped I would see a confirmation
of my order by now.
I do not think CCSLIDE will send a confirmation when you place an order. However, when I ship the order, and charge the credit card, a confirmation it sent.
From:
Carl Davies
(M1ELR) on Fri May 5 12:40:25 2000
I have just built a Tinytrak and I can't praise it enough I now have a TNC free to use for other projects.
Many thanks for such a good project.
From:
Jon Wetterholm
(KD6BPE) on Thu May 4 17:27:41 2000
Where can I get one of these that is already built?
Jon
I am currently not supplying pre-built TinyTraks.
From:
James Jefferson
(KB0THN) on Wed May 3 06:17:09 2000
Hello everyone - I received my TinkTrak last night and had it built in about an hour. I'm going to give to a friend so he can get started in APRS, but I'd would like to put it in some sort of enclosure first. I've used NEMA 4 die-cast aluminum enclosures before and I would like to do something like that again, but I am looking for any case suggestions.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Tue May 2 03:46:43 2000
My Mods: Leave off all LED's for lower power consumption -or- install only the GPS valid data detect LED -or- put GND of some LED's to another switch so they can be turned off. Added 5.1V zener and schottky diode from GND to CPU pins for both serial pins, 390 ohm resistor from serial out pin to connector. This protects the inputs (see spec sheet for IC). Changed pinout of connector to look like PC so that GPS's interface easier. A null modem adapter is then needed only to program the TinyTrak. Changed to 10 Mhz xtal and caps instead of resonator. Changed to LM2931? regulator instead of 78L05 (lower quiescent current/low dropout). Will try PTT fix listed below as that's happened to me. Anyone have a fix for using unsquelched audio with a TinyTrak? The backoff circuit doesn't seem to work with unsquelched audio. Am also thinking about putting the 2.2k resistor on a switch so I can change between HT and Mobile rigs easier. Made the radio connector a DIN-5 in a TAPR-2 pinout so all of my radio cables will work with each TinyTrak. Oh yea, I was also using a programmer that did not automatically program the EEPROM. This gave me startup problems (TinyTrak's didn't want to talk to the PC). Finally started programming the EEPROM's as a separate operation and each TinyTrak came up fine.
These are some great ideas, Thanks Curt!
From:
Bob Weybrecht
(N2QEW) on Sun Apr 30 19:04:44 2000
Regarding James Vincent's problem: It's possible that the 10 MHz clock is far enough off frequency to cause the software UART in the PIC to occasionally mis-interpret a character. Uploading the config to it may work because it's a short message, or because the uart in pc the is closer to the rate that the software uart is operating at - not necessarily more accurate, just closer. If you can capture NMEA strings into the pc from the GPS, try sending them back to the tinytrak a line at a time. Also, the GPS may be sending the messages too close together to allow the tinytrak to digest each message before the next gets to it. With no specific information about how they handle the cal value, and the clock, but general info about past experience regarding the PIC and serial comms. Those would be my guesses. I've not built one of these yet, but it looks interesting. Check the frequency of the clock, get it really close to 10 MHz - replace the resonator with a crystal with a 22 pf cap from each lead to ground if necessary, and set the cal value to the default. I made a suggestion previously that they add the ability to send a known frequency audio tone that could be measured so that the cal value can be accurately adjusted. Triggering it could be done via the programming program, or by an I/O pin. Seems to me that these guys have accomplished an amazing thing, now we get to suggest the bells and whistles.
From my experience, serial can deal with timing errors of up to about 5%. The accuracy of the ceramic resinator is much better than this.
From:
Paul Jacques
(WB6IWT) on Fri Apr 28 10:51:18 2000
How about modifying the firmware and configuration software so that
a fixed posit can be entered, thus eliminating the need for a GPS at a fixed station?
This can be done somewhat by sending a NMEA string into TinyTrak with the position. As long as power remains, it will beacon that position. I will add a better solution to the wish list.
From:
James A Vincent
(G1PVZ) on Wed Apr 26 11:56:37 2000
Hello,I have finally constructed a TinyTrak. I had to use a crystal rather
than ceramic resonator as I couldn't get a 10 MHz ceramic resonator easily in the UK !
Unfortunately I have a problem !
My TinyTrak can be programmed via the Win95 configuration program and my Standard handheld radio is keyed at the specified intervals.
The carrier detect circuitry is not yet connected to the handheld's rx audio output. But by twiddling the pot you can illuminate the carrier detect LED and tx is inhibited and by moving the pot the
other way (to simulate no rx audio) the LED goes out, then flashes once and the transmitter is re-enabled.
I have tried connecting two different Magellan GPS to the TinyTrak but I don't get any response from the GPS data validity LED. It remains off ! I checked the the NMEA 0183 (4800 Baud) data from the first GPS (ProMark X) by connecting the GPS data lead direct
to a pc serial port and monitoring it using HyperTerminal. On HyperTerminal I could see what looked like valid NMEA
sentences. I also monitored the GPS NMEA input at the TinyTrak pin 3 with a scope and I could see approximately one second bursts of data.
I then tried a NAV5000 GPS which allowed the selection 0f NMEA
180, 0183A, 0183B and 0183C again none of these selections resulted in any output from the GPS status LED.
I monitored the received TinyTrak VHF transmission off air with a packet program and I got the following AX25 message-
18:18:52 G1PVZ-1 & gt; ER%OR!,APRS,WIDE,WIDE Port=1 :NàGPS & gt; /(g1pvz@arrl.net)
So I suppose most of the system is working- apart from the Tracker's positon !
I would be really most grateful if ayone could give me some advice on
what I am doing wrong - I have doubled checked my wiring and stripboard lay-out. I have even built a single transistor inverting and non-inverting buffers (clamped to +5V) but using either buffer on the GPS serial output doesn't make the TinyTrak work ! I think it is significant that the TinyTrak will
accept data from the pc (for configuration) but not from a GPS for
positioning.
Thanks for designing TinyTrak- I am frustrated at very nearly having
your elegant circuit working !
Regards,
James G1PVZ
It turns out that the Magellan NAV 5000 GPS RS-232 interface lead was not in fact RS-232 at all. Adding a MAX233 corrected the problem.
From:
Sylvain Mercier
(VE2SIL) on Tue Apr 25 10:56:46 2000
Tinytrak is a beautiful project!
If you have a problem with Tinytrak:PTT LOCK ON STONG RF SIGNAL TX,put a .1mfd. 50v. capacitor directly on ptt transistor (Q1) BASE AND EMITTER
73 de Sylvain
Thanks for the great tip! I'll add it to the Hints section of the manual.
From:
Johan Hansson
(SM0TSC) on Tue Apr 25 01:23:06 2000
Byon!
My tip regarding future enhancments. Add the possibility to change STATUS via switches!! Is it possible. The MIM have it thou it uses another PIC!
/SM0TSC
It's on the wish list. Thanks!
From:
Mike Robinett
(KE4UVQ) on Mon Apr 24 18:39:15 2000
Im using the Rand McNally ($79.00 from their site) I just ordered a Tinytrack, Im wanting to build the smallest tracker I possibly can (arent we all?)
Should be fun! Thanks Byon!
From:
Vince Endter
(KF6WAV) on Mon Apr 24 16:13:30 2000
What is the smallest and cheapest GPS that will work with the TinyTrak?
I don't know the smallest and cheapest, but as long as it sends $GPRMC at 4800 baud, it should work.
From:
Alex
(KG4ECV) on Mon Apr 24 10:54:36 2000
Hi there,
I'm a newbie when it comes to trackers, so forgive my ignorance on the subject. I was wondering if SW2 be used to switch between messages...for instance between " In Service " and " Emergency! " , or would that be of no use?
73, de Alex
It could, though I'm not sure how interested people would be in this. I will add it to the wish list. Thanks!
From:
Bob Weybrecht
(N2QEW) on Sun Apr 23 20:01:52 2000
A couple of suggestions...
Switches: Allow changes in path via the switch (or switches) I realize EEPROM space in '84 is limited, but R or W or other characters that aren't commonly used in a path could function as Relay, Wide or other common paths. I suggest this because in traveling, I've found that there is still no real standarization in the path to the net.
Calibration: I don't know how temperature stable a resonator is, but a trick I use in some of my designs with internal oscillator pics is to generate a known frequency tone on a pin, measure it, and alter the cal (osccal in my case) value up or down to make the tone be the correct frequency. You could trigger this with a serial command, or by an I/O pin. If you did 2200 Hz, you could accomodate the deviation setup request I saw in this forum with the same code, although a higher frequency oscillator calibration tone would be more accurate.
From:
Jeff King
(WB8WKA) on Sun Apr 23 17:46:41 2000
Larry:
If you change the linear regulator to a switching regulator, you should be able to cut power consumption in half. Also, I haven't looked at the source yet, but you might be able to use the sleep command in the PIC to further reduce power consumption. As a example of how this could be done, is the serial port could come in on one of the port B's. So when the data is coming in, it wakes the PIC, then decodes the data. Then the PIC decides if anything needs to be done (like transmit) then if not, goes to sleep until the next GPS sentence comes in. If the only sentance being sent is the $GPRMC one, then you should be able to reduce power consumption another 33% or so.
Then again, 6.6ma is not a whole lot,
especially compared to the transmitter
you'll be driving. So you can break your head trying to get the PIC down to under a 1ma, but that 1000ma transmitter kind of makes things moot.
-Jeff
From:
Larry Mcdavid
(W6FUB) on Sun Apr 23 16:32:54 2000
What is the current drain with 12 vdc input? Was anything done to minimize this current drain? I'm thinking of an application requiring very small, battery-powered and free standing units.
TinyTrak, without LEDs, draws 6.6ma. Each LED with a 1K draws 3ma, so with an average of 2 on, the draw is 12.6ma. If you switch the LED resistors to 10K, they will only draw 0.4ma each, but will be dimmer. They can also be left off completely.
From:
Tyson S.
(n7zmr) on Sat Apr 22 20:29:18 2000
Hello! I am very new to this APRS stuff and am wondering if this unit will work as a tracker in conjuction with Delorme Tripmate GPS? I plan on using a small handheld radio to make a tracker and use a kantronics KPC-3 at home. Am I in the right mode of thinking?
Yes!, you are on the right track. TinyTrak should work fine with a Tripmate and an HT. BTW, it would NOT work with an Earthmate, unless you also used a GST-1.
From:
Graham Le Good
(G4GUN) on Sat Apr 22 14:36:15 2000
Got my Tinytrak v 1.0 going this pm. Hassle was building the PIC programmer! Quite a few UK stations are now starting to use these.
Well done.
It might help if in test mode a steady tone could be sent out to enable the TX deviation to be adjusted.
Good idea, I'll add that to the TODO list.
From:
Dan Dicke
(KE6NYT) on Thu Apr 20 23:05:27 2000
Great Board! The board and the direction have made this kit so easy even I did it in less than an hour and I have never built a kit before. It works very well. I have already got 10 orders for them from our BOD for Sulphur Mountain Repeater Association so that we can free up ten TNCs that we are using as trackers for ARES/RACES.
Great job to Byon and the rest of the design team.
73
Dan Dicke
KE6NYT
Ventura County Deputy District Emergency Coordinator
Ventura County ARES/RACES Digital Communications Coordinator
From:
Nick Baas
(VK4TMC) on Thu Apr 20 22:41:46 2000
What ia the purpose of switch 1 and ??
!73 de Nick
SW1 is used to switch between the primary and secondary report rates. If you hook it to your auto ignition, you can make it report every 5 minutes while driving, and every 30 minutes when the car is off. SW2 is not currently used. Any ideas?
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Thu Apr 20 00:15:19 2000
Hi, and thanks for stopping by the TinyTrak message board. You can leave messages to me and others here regarding questions, problems, ideas, praise, or whatever. 73, Byon
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
TinyTrak Message Board
This message board is devoted to TinyTrak, to ask questions, leave comments,
and see how others are using TinyTrak.
Byonics responses are shown in green.
You can also send questions eMail to byon@byonics.com
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
From:
Curt
(WE7U) on Sat Aug 12 18:32:56 2000
Michael: I'm not sure what the trouble is, but be careful with using a " Y " cable. You can end up with two RS-232 transmitters driving the same receive line (they can fight each other), and can also have one transmitter driving two receivers, which may lose bits. If you had the problem BEFORE you hooked up the " Y " cable, then I'm not sure how to help. I've built three TinyTrak's (from scratch, not from the kit), and they all work fine. I think versions 1.0.1/1.0.2 are really the same. There was a documentation change.
From:
Michael Pendley
(K5ATM) on Thu Aug 10 21:20:53 2000
OK, I got the TT built and all seems to work well EXCEPT the firmware seems to transmit the wrong lat! Lon. is transmitted just fine. My coordinates are 35d 5m N by 106d 29m W but the TT transmits 85d 52 min by 106d 29m. Is this a software bug?
I have the TT connected to a laptop with a Y cable and all data from the GPS (a Tripmate) looks good and Street Atlas reports a good 3-D fix
Looking at the download page, version 1.0.2 is advertised but version 1.0.1 is what comes down the wire.
Anyone have any ideas?
Thanks in advance
-Mike
The only difference between 1.0.1 and 1.0.2 was the documentation. The firmware is the same on both.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Thu Aug 10 13:23:41 2000
Klaus: The extra addresses appear to be the EEPROM. I had the same sort of trouble, but the programmer I was using had an extra option to program the EEPROM. Thinks started working after I did that.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Thu Aug 10 13:20:52 2000
Rick: If the config program is written correctly you should only need 2/3/5 connected through for the DE-9 null-modem and a TinyTrak. If it's not written correctly, you might need to jumper CTS/RTS together, and DTR/DSR/CD together at the PC end (no need to take those wires through to the other end). I think I got those correct. On a DB-25, I wire 4/5 together, and 6/8/20 to make a PC think that something is connected.
From:
ALESSANDRO
() on Thu Aug 10 06:54:10 2000
Dear Sir, i should to say your fax number for an eventually buy of tinytrack.
Have you another office in Europe ?
Many thanks, Alessandro Limina
Italy
I have no fax number, but will gladly take questions at
byon@byonics.com
From:
Klaus
(DL4TL) on Wed Aug 9 05:48:33 2000
How i can program a 16F84?
Wenn i look at the addresses in the tinytrack.hex file, i found addresses above 3ff? My programmer did not programm this file. Please any help.
I use topic and pp875 as programmer
Those addresses are for the EEPROM data. Most PIC programming software should deal with them properly.
For programming PIC chips, I recommend LudiPipo and PIX.
From:
McCoy
(N5YAV) on Wed Aug 9 05:02:52 2000
The Tiny Trak kit came today. Hope tp have it together in a week or so,,,,,my schedule is pretty tight right now, so I have to squeeze in some put together time somehow. Thanks for shipping so promptly,Byon.
73-McCoy-N5YAV
From:
rick
(hr2kos) on Tue Aug 8 19:49:39 2000
hi all, i installed a male db-9 on my TT (reversing lines 2 and 3) because my gps has a female db-9 on it. i'm in the process of constructing a db-9 null modem adapter so i can program the TT but am not sure if all 9 pins are needed. i know i must wire up pins 2, 3 and 5 but how about pins 1, 4, 6, 7, 8 and 9? any help is appreciated. 73 de rick
Only pins 2, 3 and 5 are needed on the TinyTrak serial connector.
From:
Hans
() on Tue Aug 8 13:42:49 2000
Zachary: PTT Q, use small C between base and ground.Works fine no RF.
From:
Chuck Morris
(N7DQS) on Mon Aug 7 08:54:46 2000
Another satisfied customer. Took about a hour and fifteen minutes to assemble the unit being very careful to select the right components - 57 year-old eyes and small resistors. It did not program on my laptop computer as your documentation predicted, but the desktop PC worked exactly as advertised. Tracker worked the first time everything was connected.
Thanks, Chuck.
From:
Zachary Michael
(KB9UQQ) on Sun Aug 6 17:41:36 2000
Hello all... Just for everybodies information the TinyTrak will work with a Packard Bell computers. But, for some reason it will not work with most Compaq Presarios. I think it has something to do with the DB-9 wiring. I am also having problems with RF getting into the PTT. For some reason it gets into the PTT and keeps the transmitter keyed. You can solve this by putting about a foot of space between the radio and the TT. And if anyone needs information on wiring the TT to a TH-G71A you can E-Mail me. Great project!
73's Zach, KB9UQQ
From:
Art.van.Esch
(VK4GO) on Sun Aug 6 04:09:08 2000
Is there anyone who have the tinyTrack working with Trimble SVeeSix engine,
I have trouble with the old hex file and still waiting for a updated HEX file..
Also Peter VK4BPR have the same problem.
Cheers all de Art
I should have a new version to beta test soon.
From:
Hans
() on Sat Aug 5 01:24:38 2000
ERIC: Yes same problems overhere. Try to solve it but cant get it to run proper/stable.It seem TT look to the first/second timer settings.But not clear (yet) how it works.Try set ALL timers to 10 sec. and see how that is working !
From:
Zachary Michael
(KB9UQQ) on Fri Aug 4 13:00:31 2000
Just got my TT. Going to start putting it together tonight. Thanks Byon. Great project. 73's Zach, KB9UQQ
From:
Eric Raub
(KI0Mi) on Tue Aug 1 16:03:18 2000
Have the TT operational and decided I want a " beacon on demand " feature without setting up as traditional MIC- E using the microphone. Tried setting up the PTT IN with a simple push button switch, but have had no success. There is 5 volts on pin 11 and I have this wired as in the MIC E diagram below. Any others have the same problem with this feature not working?
You should only need to ground the PTT IN pin, and it should transmit upon release. Make sure you set the secondary transmit rate to something low, like 10 seconds. You could also use the SW1 input.
From:
Harry
(M1BYT) on Tue Aug 1 11:11:16 2000
Hi Byon,
There seems to be some confusion over software versions. It went from v1.0.1 to v1.0.2, then after updating your webpage, it reverted back to v1.0.1 again?
Thanks, it is fixed now.
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Tue Aug 1 08:54:05 2000
Rick: It checks for noise on the channel (even white noise will make it hold off). If you have audio coming in to the PIC chip and the pot set right, it should back off roughly the number of seconds that you specified in the config program. If you put 3 seconds, it tries to wait for a clear channel for 3 seconds before it'll transmit. Note that this won't work with unsquelched audio because it will always think the channel is busy.
From:
Earle
(VK2TEK) on Mon Jul 31 14:53:59 2000
Hi everyone.
I have ordered a Tiny Trak from this website about 2 weeks ago.I am in Sydney Australia i was wondering how long it takes or who is the best person to talk to about the delivery.
If someone could email me direct i would appreciate it.
Thanks Regs Earle
For order questions, you can contact
byon@byonics.com
From:
Rick Aldom
(KB7YEE) on Mon Jul 31 07:57:21 2000
Does this device listen before sending or does it just blast out packets on a fixed rep. rate?
Thanks
Rick
If wired to a receiver, it will holdoff transmissions when it detects audio. You must set the squelch properly, or it may never transmit.
From:
Zachary Michael
(KB9UQQ) on Sun Jul 30 19:57:24 2000
Byon I would like to know if the TinyTrak will work with a Magellan GPS-300 unit. I would also like to know if it would work with an MFJ-8621X2 APRS data radio.
I am not familiar with that GPS, but if it outputs 4800 baud $GPRMC strings readable by a computer, it should work.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Sun Jul 30 19:48:50 2000
I just updated the web page, and am checking to see if the message board still works. Please let me know if you notice any problems.
From:
Mike Robinett
(KE4UVQ) on Fri Jul 28 18:40:49 2000
Im using the Radio Shack Enclosure (part number 270-1802) fits great! It had a cutout marked on the lid so I rerouted the DB-9 there instead of the board itself. Ill try to send pictures when completed...73s all!
From:
Curt Mills
(WE7U) on Wed Jul 19 21:39:47 2000
Susan: No, it won't work with a Palm
Pilot, either for programming or for
receiving. It is currently a transmit-only TNC, and the config software for it is for win32 only.
From:
John Scott
(N0HZN) on Wed Jul 19 16:37:46 2000
Byon, great kit. It took me about an hour to put it together and if I would have followed the instructions on how to connect to the radio I would have had it running in about 30 mins. Well after correcting MY mistakes it works great. Very easy to put together and the program is easy to use. Our club is looking at building 6 to 10 units and will order as soon as we decide on what to do on the gps and radio. Great job!!!!
Thanks
John
From:
Ted McArthur
(Kb7pab) on Fri Jul 14 17:34:01 2000
I ordered a tiny track last sunday have not seen any comfirmation that the order went through. is that normal or do I need to do something else.
I ship USPS, within a day or tow of receiving an order. If anyone would like to check on the status of an order, please contact me at
byon@byonics.com
From:
Susan Askew
(KD0JE) on Thu Jul 13 10:46:49 2000
Will the Tiny Trak work with a Palm Pilot?
Tnx.
If you mean configuration, No, but if someone would like to write a config tool, please contact me.
If you mean can it receive TinyTrak transmissions, I believe so, using PocketAPRS and a TNC.
From:
Bo
(OZ1CPP) on Tue Jul 11 21:19:48 2000
Hans : thanks
From:
Hans
(NL) on Tue Jul 11 12:13:20 2000
Bo: NO.
From:
Bo Andersen
(OZ1CPP) on Tue Jul 11 07:04:25 2000
Hi again !!
Here comes another question :
Once the TT is programmed with callsign and so on , do you need to do every time after you apply power to TT to be able to get it to transmit. ????
No, configuration data is stored in EEPROM, and will persist even when power is removed.
From:
Phil Royce Palm Beach Trackers Society
(ke4pwe (clubcall)KG4DWJ) on Sun Jul 9 15:13:55 2000
Byon what a great kit..took very little time to assemble, the other makeups took more time. (Explain)Set up the tiny with an Earthmate GPS so that meant to use a GST-1, worked great lol need power, made a power interface for that ..lol..GST-1 also needs power added power to serial port, put all this into a RadioSHK long box due to nullmodem and mod-ed gender conn. Added ultrabright blue TX LED for night use, reduced wattage leds for the rest. Ran it for 20minutes and had a yuk mess the hot glue from the power supplys added into the kit box created to much heat...grin..added a Pentium CPU heatsink and fan. Cool as IceTea in the summer..We did an APRS Demo at Field Day and it ran all day just like clockwork...thanks again for the effort.. We'll have photo on http://www.qsl.net/kg4dwj shortly.
73 de ke4pwe Palm Beach Trackers Society
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Sat Jul 8 09:04:08 2000
I have just updated the User's Manual with a Hints and Troubleshooting section. This can be downloaded and found in TINYTRAK.ZIP.
From:
Hans
(NL) on Thu Jul 6 00:46:06 2000
CLAY: All garmin GPS work without any problems on TT.Some other GPS need to be inverted (TTL ouput) or put a 10K resistor in line with TT gps input.
From:
Hans
(NL) on Thu Jul 6 00:38:45 2000
RICK: Tip ! From a 9pin SUB-d NULLMODEM adapter we made a interface.Inside this adapter we reverse the pins 3 & gt; 2 2 & gt; 3.Itse simple Hi.
From:
Rick
(hr2kos) on Wed Jul 5 21:05:25 2000
hi all, i just got my kit today and am i excited...byon you rock! one question though: i bought the Rand McNally gps. if i reverse pins 2 and 3 on the TT's RS-232 conector so that the Rand McNally gps can plug straight in then how can i program the TT since the conector won't be compatible with the computer 9 pin serial port conector anymore? 73 - rick
If you modify TinyTrak to plug directly into the RM GPS, you will need a NULL modem / gender changer cable or adaptor to connect to the PC to configure TinyTrak.
From:
Bruce Coates
(VE5BNC) on Tue Jul 4 20:34:22 2000
There a few minor modifications needed to connect the Rand McNally GPS to the TinyTrak. First, both of these devices are wired as DCE devices so you will need to reverse pins 2 and 3 on the RS232 connector. I chose to change the connections at the board and use a male DB9 connector so I could just plug the GPS right into the TinyTrak. You will alo need to supply power to the GPS. I chose to install a PS/2 mouse connector in the cabinet I used for the TinyTrak. Don't try to use the 5v supply on the TinyTrak to power the GPS because the regulator on the TinyTrak was never designed for the extra load. Since the RandMcNally PS is rated to 15v, I just use the same 12v battery to power both the TinyTrak, the GPS and a hand held radio. It works great! Good luck. 73 Bruce
From:
Clay Bartholow
(W0LED) on Tue Jul 4 19:45:44 2000
Hi Byon - Maybe I'm just puttsie when I put a kit together - I spent a couple of hours doing the assembly. To all those who built this kit in an hour all I can say is WOW! Only two problems so far - first, I found a hairline short on the PCB between base and emitter of Q1 so the TT wouldn't key my 02AT - fixed that - second, with all of my adapters for RS232 I couldn't come up with anything to interface my GPS12 to the TT. Oh, well, I'll make a new cable tomorrow. Otherwise, it works great! Running on a 9-volt battery for now, it draws somewhere between 5.8 and 7.1 mA. I left the POWER LED off and used 10 Kohm resistors for the others - plenty good for basic troubleshooting and doesn't seem to add too much to the power budget.
From:
Bo Andersen
(OZ1CPP) on Mon Jul 3 22:50:20 2000
Does anybody know if the signals generated by Tinytrak interfaces with Oziexplorer .
Thanks
Bo
From:
Steve Brockwell
(KC5TTY) on Mon Jul 3 05:21:46 2000
Built the first of two tinytrak kits and I'm trying to configure them using the software on Windows 3.1. Is this a problem? I'm getting a quick flash on the screen and no configuration window. The software seems to work at the office (windows NT). Do I need to get newer Windows at the house or is there some kind of compatibility problem?
Good kit by the way. 3 small solder trace gaps but I realize that with many boards made a few may have small problems. I will buy more.
Steve
I have only used the software on Win98. Anyone else using Win95?
From:
Jeff Kodysz
(KB8YSV) on Sun Jul 2 18:17:31 2000
HI. I just finished building my TinyTrak and so far so good. Couple of questions: first, (Since I missed out on the $20 GPS and they're sold out :p) I plan on using the Rand McNally GPS unit. Anyone know if there are any mods which need to be made to this GPS or is it plug-and-play? Second, does anyone know of a small xmtr kit for 2 meters? Kantronics made one (in fact, they donated one to my club's hamfest), but I can't find any of them anywhere! My goal is to build a small tracking box with a radio board, TT and GPS with a NiCD to use for our club's functions (bike races, Skywarn etc...).
Thanks for a Great Kit!
Jeff
I cut both connectors off my RM GPS, and connected red to +12, shield to ground, and white to TinyTrak serial input and it worked great.
From:
Hans
() on Fri Jun 30 12:35:43 2000
Byon: When the new firmware come availeble for betatests ?
Like calibration mode and new MIC-E func.
I will annouce it here when I am ready for testers.
From:
Bruce Coates
(VE5BNC) on Fri Jun 30 08:57:26 2000
Byon,
I just wanted to mention how happy I am with your TinyTrack kit. I put it all together, connected it up to my Rand McNally GPS and radio, tuned the audio level and was on the air just in time for field day. The other club members at field day were suitably impressed with your kit and all rushed home to take a look at this web site. :-)
Great kit.
Bruce
Thanks, Bruce.
From:
Bob Morehouse
(KB7ADO) on Wed Jun 28 21:14:07 2000
Byon, re: the carrier detect circuit, I meant to say I had turned R9 just to the point where the light was on steady, then backed it off, but it still doesn't come on when there's other traffic on the frequency, and will transmit on top of other signals.
OK, make sure your receiver volume is at a maximum.
From:
Ian Templeton
(GM0JQE) on Wed Jun 28 15:18:08 2000
Hi Byon,
Just a quick one to let you know I received the parts yesterday (27th), built it in about an hour and it's working a treat with Aisin $20 GPS and Standard C510 H/H.
73 - Ian
From:
Pauline Moldon
(G7SPT) on Wed Jun 28 06:03:22 2000
The OM is building a Tiny Trak, but we were wondering how to connect it to a Kenwood TH78E Handheld?
Can anyone please help
PS we are also using the Asin $20 GPS
73
Pauline
Remeber that you will need a protocol converter, like the GST-2, to use the Aisin GPS with TinyTrak.
From:
Rick (hr2kos) on Tue Jun 27 18:37:31 2000
ok, i'm starting to like this! but, will TT work with a Magellan 310? specs only
say it has a NMEA data output and PC interface capabilities...whatever that really
means! i'm ordering a TT anyway! 73 - rick
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Tue Jun 27 11:37:40 2000
hi jack (KE4LWT) the top connections you metioned are correct,but the 7 holes in a row are from left hole1(switch1) hole2(switch1) hole3(ptt,input) hole4(audio,in) hole5(audio,in-screen) hole6(o volts)hole7 (+ volts) hope this helps 73,s
From:
Jack Smith
(KE4LWT) on Tue Jun 27 08:31:38 2000
Got mine yesterday, and after about an hour, had it up and running! Haven't interface to my radio yet, because the silke screening on my board seems to have " slid " a bit. Just need some confirmation on what holes do what.
Looking at the board with J1 a the top, the four holes in the upper left corner are (L to R) #1 Audio -, #2 Audio +, #3 & #4 PTT out. Is this correct?
Now, going to the holes just above D4, starting with the leftmost of the long straight row, #1 is SW1, #2 is SW2, #3 is Audio In, #4 ??, #5 & #6 V-, #7 V+. What is #4, and am I correct on the remainder?
Byon, Could you publish an enlarged silk screen mask for those of us with less than perfect eyesight?
The top four, left to right, are: Audio Out - (ground), Audio Out +, PTT Out +, and PTT Out - (ground).
The lower seven holes, left to right, are: SW1 in, SW2 in, PTT In, Audio In +, Audio In - (ground), Power In - (ground), and Power In +.
I'll try to get a silk-screen from FAR Circuits, and put it up on the web page.
From:
kevin Deckert
(ve7whk) on Sun Jun 25 20:00:36 2000
put the tiny trak together and am having trouble getting audio out will key the yaesu ft416 but no data.I have tried it with the capacitor/resistor in mike wire and also tried it without, any suggestions?
If you can, check the audio out on a scope. Perhaps feed the audio out into a TNC input to see if it decodes. Other than that, double check the PCB solder joints, and your cable.
From:
Bob Morehouse
(KB7ADO) on Sun Jun 25 19:39:55 2000
Got my TT on Friday, worked on it Sat night, boxed it up today with connectors, got it to talk to the computer the 1st time! Had a problem with not being able to get a good 2d sat fix for a long time, though; when I finally did, the green light went steady, just like it should; I was surprised that it transmits without having a valid GPS position, though, as TigerTrak & KPC3+ don't; also, can't seem to get the carrier detect circuit to work, I adjusted R9 until it stayed on steady, still didn't help; I was showing around the bag of parts yesterday before assembling it & have several other people interested in getting one, so going to be some more business coming your way, Byon!
You need to adjust R9 so that it just turns OFF, rather than ON steady. Thanks for the orders!
From:
Mårtn Persson
(SM7SYX) on Thu Jun 22 12:31:32 2000
A site in the SWEDISH language is found at
http://www.algonet.se/~sm7syx
It contains more ham related stuff as well.
Thanks! I welcome any other TinyTrak related URLs here also.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Mon Jun 19 21:15:03 2000
Backorder Update: As of today, all orders recieved (except for those CCSLIDE orders mentioned below) have been shipped. I should now have enough stock to turn all future orders over within a couple days. Thank you for your patience.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Mon Jun 19 19:13:31 2000
Due to a recent problem at CCSLIDE, all orders placed there between June 9 and June 18 have been lost. Credit cards were not charged or compromised. If you placed an order between those dates, please replace your order. PayPal orders were not affected. Contact me if you have questions. Sorry for the inconvenience.
From:
Dave Walmsley
(VK2XPX) on Mon Jun 19 02:45:55 2000
Warren,
Since the LED's flash (3 times?) at power on, the PIC outputs, LED's and resistors are OK. The Serial input/output must be OK since the PC can talk to it.
I'd be guessing a bit, but it must be either the baud rate from the GPS (like I found), a cable problem (you need a crossover and sex change compared to the PC connection), or the wrong NMEA sentences (I think it likes $GPRMC).
good luck.
Dave
Good suggestions, Dave
From:
warren holcomb
(wr0s) on Sat Jun 17 12:01:33 2000
this is a repeat message I am having same trouble as Dave Walmsley the puter
can write and read tiny trak and the test sequence completes itself ok but we cannot get a flashing, or solid green led to light up. We tested his reciver with a known good tiger trak and it works fine, is there a possibility of a defective ic in this kit can u send a new one or if you come up with our answer please let us know.
thanks for an easy to assemble kit and 73 Warren wr0s
wholcomb@gcnet.com
mmiller@sunflower.net
Try sending the GPS data from a PC terminal program into the TinyTrak and see if you can get the LED to light. I don't think it is a defective chip, but I would be happy to test it and send you a replacement.
From:
Warren Holcomb
(wr0s) on Sat Jun 17 11:15:23 2000
hello having trouble with recieving data and getting green led to light
any suggestions?? thanks
Can you receive your GPS data on a computer at 4800 baud? Does it send $GPRMC? Is the GPS data getting into PIC pin 3? Does the LED flash upon TinyTrak powerup?
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Fri Jun 16 23:29:45 2000
WELL! WELL! what can i say,built tiny-trak in 45mins and its up and working.super quality pcb as well thankyou FAR also excellent building instructions this has got to be the best kit ive ever bought,nice one BYON 73,s
Thanks Ian!
From:
Dave
(VK2XPX) on Thu Jun 15 04:59:13 2000
Hi Byon,
I just got it... had to change GPS speed to 4800.
CU
Dave
From:
Dave Walmsley
(VK2XPX) on Thu Jun 15 04:50:37 2000
Hi Byon,
Thanks I got the kit and have completed it. In testing I'm not sure if it's accepting NMEA from my GPS (the LED flashed on power up, but not when the GPS's connected). Anyone got experience using an Eagle/Lowrance GlobalNal 12?
The GPS valid LED is a good hint the the status of the GPS. If it is on solid, GPS data is received and locked, If it is flashing, GPS data is being received, but it is not locked onto satellites. If the LED is off, no GPS data is being received. GPS data must be 4800 baud N81 $GPRMC sentences.
From:
Willie Peloquin
(N8MDY) on Wed Jun 14 12:17:00 2000
I just received the TinyTrak and it certainly looks sweet. I am going to put it together before I leave work. A great feature would be smart beaconing similar to the HamHUD II,
http://www.c2-tech.com/~steveb/hamhud/smartbeacon.html
. I would rather just utiilize a TinyTrak, I don't think I would use most of the functionality of a HamHUD to it's fullest capacity. Although it is a neat toy!
Smart Beaconing is on the ToDo list.
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From:
Andrea Selva
(IK2PTN) on Sun Feb 4 08:22:24 2001
Byon, just another idea: why not connecting a Hg-switch to SW2 for moving detection ? If you do not see transitions on pin 13 for a while, you switch to " alternate timing " . When transitions reappear, switch immediately to " standard timing " . In this way you can set i.e. 30 sec interval which automatically reduces to 15 minutes when stopped for at least 1 minute... 73 de Andrea.
The TinyTrak II will have SmartBeaconing, which adjusts your
transmit rate to your speed. When you stop moving, it sends
much less often.
From:
Arnie Johnson
(N1BAC) on Sun Feb 4 05:16:50 2001
Hi Byon.
The new PIC fixed my problem. Thanks. Additional info: 1) When programming the TT, use a good filtered power device for the TT. I used a wall wart that I thought was okay, but wasn't and caused me a day of thinking that my computer's comm port had a problem. 2) Don't be afraid of using a larger TXD to start with and slowly adjusting it lower as time goes on. It makes a difference with different radios.
Arnie, N1BAC
From:
David Hoffman
(KE4FGW) on Thu Feb 1 11:11:27 2001
I just ordered my second Tinytrak and see that a newer version of the PIC may be available. Has this new version been released yet? If not, can I have it changed out when it does become available?
If you are referring to TinyTrak II, it is not yet ready, but when it is,
you should be able to purchase a new chip to drop into your existing
hardware.
If you are referring to TinyTrak v1.3, it is available. I can send you
the code if you can burn a chip, you can send my your chip for re-
burning, or you can purchase a new chip for $10.
From:
Dale Collier
(ko5z) on Wed Jan 31 19:09:53 2001
Byon, just got the TT and the gst1. I am using an Earthmate gps. When I hook everything together I cannot get the green led to blink execpt at startup. I have data going inand out of the GST-1 but It seems it's not going into the TT. Have you any idea? Thanks D.C.
You probably are not be getting power to the GST-1 when
connected to the TinyTrak.
On the female GST-1 connector, apply +12V to pin 6 relative to pin 5. DO
NOT APPLY +12V to pin 9 or you will damage your Earthmate.
From:
Junius Fox
(w5hir) on Sat Jan 27 16:03:33 2001
I have nothing to offer at this time, but want to know how others are using the device.
You can get an idea from reading these messages.
Also, a request on
TAPR's APRSSIG
or the
eGroups / Yahoo! Groups TinyTrak list
might get you more information.
I use mine in my car (N6BG-9), for my short commute between
home and work. It works with an ADI 2m 5W HT, and a Rand McNally GPS.
From:
Ed Flinn
(WA6YVX) on Wed Jan 24 20:56:30 2001
For those of you using APRS+SA with Tinytrak, Brent recently fixed a bug dealing with the SSID routing of Mic-E type data not decoding properly. The new version, 1.99YH can be downloaded from:
http://www.tapr.org/~kh2z/aprsplus
From:
Ed Locklear
(KF4CHG) on Wed Jan 24 12:56:14 2001
Hi Bryon,
Please disreguard the Jan 16,2001 email about pin 8 on the HTX-252 being MIC/PTT. Not to keep everyone wondering about the pin outs (how selfish of me), here are the correct pin outs per Radio Shack SM.
1) MIC / PTT
2) SCAN / PRI
3) DOWN / UP
4) +5 Vdc
5) LOCK / SHIFT
6) CALL / STEP
7) F / MHZ (F = Function)
8) GND
Enjoy! 73's de Ed KF4CHG
From:
Paul Wardell
(N5PYD) on Tue Jan 23 14:51:53 2001
can I connect a trimble lassen sk8 gps receiver (outputs inverted TTL level NMEA 0183 on second port) directly to the gps input of the tinytrack without inverting and converting the TTL levels to RS232 levels?
Yes, you can. The TinyTrak actually uses inverted TTL, and that
seems to work fine with most RS-232 devices, but it should work
perfectly with another inverted TTL device. Just make sure the data comes
in on pin 3 (both on the DB-9 and the PIC chip), and that it is 4800 baud.
From:
luciano
(PU2XVD) on Tue Jan 23 04:39:17 2001
I want buy this Bionic, but I can't speak im English. Can you speak im Portuguese?
Luciano
I do not speak Portuguese, but perhaps you can use an internet tool like
babelfish.altavista.com
which can translate web pages and text between English and other languages.
From:
Bob Hollister
(N7INK) on Sat Jan 20 20:59:24 2001
Byon, I am troubleshooting a new problem on my original Tiny Trak.
It now seems to be cutting off the
first digit of the Westing. Instead
of receiving 11015.03W, I am receiving
01015.03W. I am using a Garmin 48
and when hooked directly to the computer
map program (SA 7) it puts the icon in the right place. Suggestions?
PS it worked fine a couple months ago
so I am confused.
It sounds like the WinAPRS 2.4.6 bug. If a computer running
WinAPRS version 2.4.6 hears you, it will rebroadcast you with the
100s digit turned off. If they upgrade to 2.4.7, or downgrade to
2.4.5, the problem will go away.
From:
Peter Westerhof
(VK1NPW) on Sat Jan 20 15:49:30 2001
Byon, bought one and works like a charm. Keep up the good work and thanks for the quick delivery to downunder.
Thanks Peter!
From:
Gary Barker
(VE6UQ) on Sat Jan 20 15:48:15 2001
I am having trouble with the TinyTrak NOT keying the TX. Has someone got some troubleshooting procedures to use on this? I am assuming that R8 is not required for the models involved here and so PTT OUT is used. I have disconnected pin 10 so audio noise should not be a factor in preventing the transmit circuit from enabling.
The first unit tried was a Kenwood TR2500 handheld. I went by the pinout shown in the MFJ-1270C/1274C manual which indicates the sleeve of the mic jack is PTT and the tip is mic audio.
The second unit is a Maxon mobile which requires a ground on its PTT line to transmit.
There were no errors indicated in the software reading and writing. D3 lights up every 10 seconds as per the way the PIC was programmed. At times the GPS signal will fade and so D2 flickers but D3 always lights up every cycle.
The TinyTrak caues the radio to transmit by shorting the PTT line
to ground. I would test your radios by shorting the PTT line to
ground and seeing if they transmit. Then I would test the TinyTrak
PTT out line with a ohm meter/continuity tester to see if the PTT
line is grounded when the RED TX LED comes on.
From:
Hugh Duff
(VA3TO) on Fri Jan 19 11:30:23 2001
I'm looking for another one or two of the Aisin GPS engines. If anyone has or knows of a source (perhaps your buddy
bought one and hasn't done anything with it), please contact me.
Thanks...Hugh VA3TO
From:
Mike Christie
(WA1ZFB) on Thu Jan 18 22:05:58 2001
Sir I received the Tiny Trak today and put it together. It works but I cann't program the PIC. Everything works fine on it but I can't interface it with the computer. I've tried several computers and none with work. Is there something we've doing wrong. I've checked the com ports. we've tried Hyper terminal still nothing. Check the pin conections and power and everything seems to be fine. Any help would be helpful.
Thanks
Mike
If it flashes the LEDs at powerup, and sends data over the radio,
the chip is working. Have you tried to hook it up to a GPS, to see
if the GPS Valid LED turns on? You should confirm you see serial
data on PIC pin 3. Use a scope if you have access to one. Triple
check your solder joints between the serial connector and the PIC
chip. Make sure use do not use a NULL modem when you
connect to the computer. If you hook it up to hyperterm at 4800
baud, and send ESC V, you should get the version string.
From:
Larry Hoover
(kh7cq) on Thu Jan 18 15:03:39 2001
Byon:I would like to purchase a chip with the latest firmware version to replace my v1.0. How?
Thanks, Larry.
You have three options.
- If you can program PIC chips, I can send you the firmware, and you can burn it into your existing PIC chip.
- You send me the old chip, and include a SASE, and I'll reprogram it and return it.
- You can purchase a replacement chip for $10.
From:
Dung Ngo
() on Wed Jan 17 00:04:38 2001
Hello Byon,
I'm very interested in building a vehicle tracking system using Tiny Track and other equipments. I'm very new at this and do not have any knowledge regarding these subjects: ham radio, GPS...
Would you please give me some directions on how to build such a system? I'm really appreciate it.
Sicerely yours,
Dung Ngo
The TinyTrak kind of depends on the Amateur Radio APRS
infrastructure set up for hams. I'm afraid it might not be as useful for
you unless you have access to radios with a reasonable range. Of course,
you could always consider becoming a ham. It's not hard.
You can find more information on APRS at
www.tapr.org ,
www.aprshelp.com , and
www.aprs.net
From:
Ed Locklear
(KF4CHG) on Tue Jan 16 20:50:58 2001
Hi Byon,
Just wanted to let you know that I have built 3 of your TT's that are being used
on at least 5 different radios, including the new Radio Shack HTX-252. I
had to pysicaly ring this one out with a
DVM to get the correct pin outs and make a schematic. I had to build this TT as if it where a HT because PTT and MIC are on the same pin (8)!
Ed de KF4CHG
Thanks for the update. Glad to hear they are working well on the various rigs.
From:
/\/\ark
(M1AJG) on Tue Jan 16 17:40:28 2001
Just purchased the TT...excellent delivery time to the UK..all up & running no problem :-) Just cant find out what S1 and S2 do..I did read it somewhere a long while back but cant seem to stumble across it when I need it..anyone help please..Cheers..
SW1 is used to switch between primary and secondary
transmission rates. SW2 is not currently used.
From:
Robert Henry
(WB4OOV) on Tue Jan 16 07:57:55 2001
Hi Byon: I have one TT up and running but the recent one that I received has the same problem as mentioned by Wayne Heil as mentioned in his Jan. 15 message. Also, the # of chip in the TT that is up and running ends in 10 but the newer that I cannot get to work ends in 20. Any significant? Keep up the good work. 73 Bob
The -20 will work just as well as the -10. The only difference is that the -20
is rated to run at 20 Mhz. Since the TinyTrak runs at 10 Mhz, both will work.
I'll send you a replacement chip.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Mon Jan 15 23:47:43 2001
It seems a few recently shipped kits contained a non-functional PIC chip. If your new TinyTrak kit does not flash the CD and GPS LEDs at powerup, and you have clean solder joints, and power at PIC socket pins 4 and 14, and ground at 5, you may have a bad PIC chip. Please contact me to make arrangements for a replacement. Sorry for the trouble.
From:
Wayne Heil
(KG6OQJ) on Mon Jan 15 19:12:51 2001
I have just finished building the TT but the PC doesn't seem to communicate with the TT. When trying to check version an error pops up saying " TinyTrak not found " .
I have double-checked the soldering. How can I check that the chip is OK? Does it have a power-on test (e.g.LEDs flashing etc.)? When connecting power just the power-LED comes on.
Sounds like a bad chip. I'll send you a replacement.
From:
Lloyd Mitchell
(KD4HTW) on Mon Jan 15 11:40:57 2001
Byon, How soon before the new version is ready for the masses? I am chomping at the bit for it...
I'm working on it this weekend. I'm hoping to have it ready for beta
in about 2 or 3 weeks. Just a few more features to add.
From:
trevor taylor
(ve3tlt) on Mon Jan 15 09:35:30 2001
will your unit work with a magellan gps315, and a two meter mobile with out a tnc...- main concern is with the magellan..
I'm not familiar with that GPS, but if the GPS puts out the NMEA
$GPRMC sentence at 4800 baud, then, yes, it will. You can test
it by hooking up to a terminal program on your computer.
From:
Zachary Michael
(KB9UQQ) on Sun Jan 14 18:47:38 2001
Since I have seen numerous problems decoding the TinyTrak packets with a TH-D7A, here is a tip. Make sure that the battery saver is not on. This will shut off the receiver for the time set, which in other words, means that if you have it on, then when TinyTrak transmits, it is not going to decode it, if the receiver is off. I figured that I would give this a try, so I tried it both ways. With the battery saver on, no it won't decode it, but with battery saver off it will.
From:
John Glenn
(K7RJR) on Sat Jan 13 13:07:01 2001
TT works fine with the RM GPS. Just put a null modem adapter and gender changer on the db9 connector from the GPS and plug it into the TinyTrak.
From:
Renato Strauss
(PY2EMI) on Sat Jan 13 12:58:50 2001
if its possible to use the Tiny Trak with the Rand Mcnally GPS for PC???
Yes, it is, and they work great! I cut the end off the GPS cable,
and ran the red and shield wires to 12V power, and the white wire
through a 10K resistor to the GPS input on the TinyTrak.
From:
Evelyn Gauzens
(W4WYR) on Sat Jan 13 04:06:33 2001
I plan to order five Tiny Trackers for prizes at the Tropical Hamboree, Feb. 3-4, 2001. Is your production up to date and can they be shipped to arrive between Jan 22 and Jan 30?
Also, winners would not be downloading software until after Feb. 4th...would that be a problem?
73 and Sincerely,
Evelyn W4WYR
General Chairman
Tropical Hamboree/
ARRL Florida State Convention
Kits are in stock, I can have them shipped in that time frame, and downloading should be no problem.
From:
Mike Bergen
(KC8PUK) on Fri Jan 12 12:39:57 2001
Would there happen to be a pin out image available. I don't want to let the smoke out.
There is a schematic in the documentation ZIP file.
From:
Frank Valdor
(DH5JG) on Fri Jan 12 01:09:18 2001
Just built the TT but the PC doesn't seem to communicate with the TT.
When trying to check version an error pops up saying " TinyTrak not found " .
I tried 4 different PC with same results.
I also double-checked the soldering.
How can I check that the chip is OK?
Does it have a power-on test (e.g.LEDs flashing etc.)?
When connecting power just the power-LED
comes on.
Yes, the chip should flash the yellow and green LEDs twice when
power is applied. If it does not, and all your soldering joints appear
to be good, and you confirm there is 5V at PIC pins 4 and 14, and
ground at pin 5, then the chip may be bad. If so, I will send you a
confirmed working chip.
From:
Hans
() on Thu Jan 11 15:01:32 2001
View TINYTRAK MOBILE beacons on streetmap CDROMS.
Small receive system using TT and CDrom software. Dutch and German page still is under construction but look promissing.
http://members.tripod.lycos.nl/aprsmobielnl/ROUTEUK.HTM
From:
ian hamilton-douglas
(G6VND) on Wed Jan 10 14:10:02 2001
i just thought i might add to anyone putting a tinytrak in a case that i found fitting the 4 led,s on the otherside of the pcb made install simple the led,s poking through the bottom of the box then any future access to the trimmers or the pic was just a case of removing the lid which became the base of the box,one of my tinytrak,s if fitted inside a small plastic box with a garmin 25, upgraded the reg on tinytrak with a 7805 input to box is 12 volts it gets warm in the box but no problems after 6 months of 24-7 use.
From:
Robert E. Greene
(KB7USN) on Wed Jan 10 12:38:17 2001
Byon. Seems I solved my problem written about yesterday concerning corruption of TT parameters. Guess the problem was due to excessive RF as well as gremlins that don't like me!TNX.
From:
Scott Anderson
(VE7OLF) on Tue Jan 9 21:52:38 2001
I'm not clear on the option of installing R8 and not wiring PTT. If I do this, will it work for both cases (mobile/KenwoodHT's & most other HT's), or do I need to decide on one or the other??
It might work for both cases, but probably not.
It you want to use the TinyTrak with both mobiles and non-
Kenwood HTs, you should leave R8 off and wire it into the interface
cable for the HT. The interface cable for the mobile can use the
PTT line directly.
From:
Robert E. Greene
(KB7USN) on Tue Jan 9 20:01:43 2001
Have just done my 2nd TT. When put into operation HT stays keyed up. TT is then disconnected and program parameters are checked. Turns out that parameters have been corrupted. Call sign changed from KB7USN-9 to KB. Path changed from RELAY,WIDE,WIDE to USN9,EAY0WI,EW1-9,E0X,71-1. Most other parameters also changed. Any suggestions as to my problem. TNX
Sounds like it could be RF or a bad EEPROM in the PIC chip. Can you try it with a dummy load?
From:
Scott Anderson
(VE7OLF) on Tue Jan 9 02:37:13 2001
Byon, I thought you mentioned once that you built the mounting holes into the TinyTrak PCB to fit a standard case, but I couldn't find one that fit at Fry's the other day. Am I mistaken?
No, the holes on the TinyTrak PCB are not designed for any
particular case.
From:
Bill Hutchins
(KM4UO) on Mon Jan 8 23:18:04 2001
I am buildiing a fixed APRS weather station. It needs no GPS, but I need a radio interface from the Davis weather station. Will TinyTrak do this job? If not, what do you suggest?
No, TinyTrak only receives data from a GPS. I think some TNCs,
like a KPC-3, may be able to handle your need.
From:
Robert L. Hollister
(N7INK) on Mon Jan 8 11:41:18 2001
Thanks for your quick response.
I am not powering the GPS through the Tiny Trak. It is getting it's power off a direct line from a charged 12V Gel Cell.
Does the CD LED flash one per second even with the GPS disconnected?
Even with the radio disconnected? With both disconnected?
From:
Robert L Hollister
(N7INK) on Sun Jan 7 09:28:00 2001
On my recent Tiny Trak I am experiencing a problem. The Carrier Detect light cycles on/off about every second even when I do not see a carrier detected on the radio itself. Consequently, the radio will not transmit location. I have adjusted the Resistor effecting the levels and it seems to be functioning as it can be backed off so that the LED varies from steady on to flashing. Recommendations?
Make sure the voltage level is stable into the
PIC. If you are driving the GPS with the TinyTrak's voltage
regulator, the GPS could be dragging down the voltage divider used
for the carrier detect, and with every serial burst, once a second, it
falsely detects a carrier.
From:
John Atkin
() on Fri Jan 5 11:21:58 2001
I've been trying to get my Tiny-Trac to work for about a week now with no success. The data transmission seems very short and sounds distorted compared to other APRS transmissions. I've tried adjusting the audio output level and calibration which didn't help any. I've used both an FT-51R and FT-90 as my transmitting radios on multiple frequencies without change. I'm using a TM-700A as the recieving station. I've also noticed that sometimes the information on the tiny track gets changed. IE. when I use it for a while trying to make it work then read back the parameters to change the calib or something they may have changed. Occasionally some of them dissappear or are just garbled letters. I have also tried switching the PIC out of my second tiny trac which I haven't built yet but this didn't help either. I did get one successful transmission right after I assembled it but since then the audio sounds differant and I haven't been able to recieve any data on the other radio. Thanks in advance.
John
I too have noticed that receiving on a D7/D700 is very picky. Have
you tried it with another receiving TNC? Normally, the calibration
resolves decoding problems. Also, try setting you TXD level high
(500). As for the parameters changing, can you try it with a
different computer? Maybe the serial levels are marginal.
I would also suggest building your second one, to see if there may
be a problem with the first board. If we determine there is a
problem with the PIC chip, I will send you a new one. Also,
perhaps sending you one with the latest firmware may make an
improvment.
From:
Rick
(KH7O) on Wed Jan 3 22:05:49 2001
Fantastic, no problems with operation,
see my initial setup using the tinytrack
http://www.qsl.net/kh7o/aprs.html
From:
Byron
(w3wkr) on Wed Jan 3 18:49:05 2001
Just signing in.
From:
John Stern
() on Wed Jan 3 11:34:24 2001
Can anybody tell me where I can buy a miniature transmitter (the size of a coin) that sends out a very simple " beep " .
From:
Stéphane GRANDGIRARD
(F1SRX) on Wed Jan 3 04:24:02 2001
Hello, i'm using tiny with UI View, but with a GPS, the position appears like compressed; How do do ? Thanks and happy new year. 73.
TinyTrak sends the compressed binary MIC-E format only, not a
human readable text format. I believe UIView can handle decoding
that format.
Read more messages
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
TinyTrak
TinyTrak is a GPS position encoder which, when connected to a GPS and a radio,
will transmit its location at an adjustable rate.
TinyTrak is a construction project providing an inexpensive way to build a
mobile tracker without the need for a full TNC.
TinyTrak is configured by connecting to a computer's serial port, and running a
simple configuration tool which allows setting of all user options.
There is a message board devoted to TinyTrak,
where users can ask questions, and see how others are using TinyTrak.
The latest TinyTrak software and documentation is available for
download .
TinyTrak kits can be purchased
for $25 US + shipping, and include a printed circuit board,
a microcontroller programmed with the TinyTrak firmware, and all components
excluding cables.
TinyTrak Message Board
This message board is devoted to TinyTrak, to ask questions, leave comments,
and see how others are using TinyTrak.
Byonics responses are shown in green.
You can also send questions eMail to byon@byonics.com
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
From:
Tim Smith
(N1BTQ) on Tue Oct 10 18:34:01 2000
What is the maximum current the PTT line can switch? Just ordered two kits.
73,
Tim N1BTQ
It is switched with a 2N2222A transistor. If more current capability it needed, you can interface a relay.
From:
Jim Hopper
(K5IWK) on Tue Oct 10 09:25:54 2000
Release date for TT2???
It is looking like beta will start in December, and release a month or two after that.
Also, it looks like I may be able to use the 18 pin PIC16CE625, which would work in the
existing hardware.
From:
Ken Baremore
(w0krb) on Tue Oct 10 08:02:25 2000
I have a Kenwood TM-V7A, a laptop computer with Street Atlas 7 and the Earthmate GPS receiver.
I need to know what is needed besides the tinytrak to have an operational aprs system. I heard of some adapter that will change the rockwell data from the earthmate to usuable data for the tiny trak.
What is it? Where can I find it?
What else is needed to hook up to the laptop and my radio?
Can I use one band of the radio for APRS and still use the other side for normal communications? Will this hook to the data port on the V7A?
The GST-1 will allow use of the Earthmate with APRS. To build a tracker, you need a TinyTrak, or a TNC, your radio, and a NMEA GPS, or an Earthmate and GST-1.
To monitor APRS, you need your laptop, and an Internet connection, or laptop, a radio and a TNC.
From:
Espen
(LC3ZBT) on Mon Oct 9 01:51:05 2000
My first TT works great, and am about to order two more units. Then i see a tt Mk 2 is in progress. Do i wait??
Any information about price, features, etc??
It will probably be a couple months away. Features should include all the TinyTrak features, plus
altitude reporting, smart beaconing, time slotting, 9600 baud, WX support, and more.
From:
Brian Klier
(N0QVC) on Sun Oct 8 18:20:36 2000
If anyone is interested in looking at the TinyTrak inside a Delorme TripMate, go to
http://kliernetwork.net/aprs/tinytrak
- Just made up a quick page for people to look at. Once again, the TinyTrak is a great product!
From:
Charlie
(KB8PXM) on Sun Oct 8 11:53:22 2000
Help with using a Delorm Tripmate with the TinyTrack.. I have modified the tripmate to initialize on power up, works on the computer. The Tinytrack works with my Garman gps.
Switched pins 2 and 3 from the gps. Any Ideas on what to do next?
Thanks!
Try to confirm that the serial data is getting into PIC pin 3. Use a scope or a logic probe.
Also, try sending GPS data from a computer terminal program to the TinyTrak.
From:
Roger Sewing
((ZL/)N6TNF) on Sat Oct 7 03:05:02 2000
Greetings: I am currently living in Gisborne, New Zealand, and am trying to promote interest in APRS here. I would like to order a Tiny Trak but need to know the shipping costs/methods and payment arrangments (other than putting the credit card over the net). One ham here had a Tiny Trak brought back from Europe (with Dutch instructions). The unit works great but is having difficulty programming the parameters. (the ham who brought it back has HIS callsign on it) What parameters can you change? I suppose my unit should have all the info included. Also, do you program the " chips " and sell them alone (without the kit itself)- it is possible this ham's " chip " may be no longer any good due to some drastic programming measures. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks for your time. 73!! Roger Sewing, ZL/N6TNF
You can use CCNow for on-line ordering. If you do not wish to use a credit card, a check in $US can be sent to my address on the ordering page.
With the config software, you can adjust callsign, digi path, transmit rate, txd time, quiet time, calibration, beacon text and rate, and some mic-e settings.
If the chip is damaged, replacement chips can be ordered by contacting me.
From:
Hans
() on Fri Oct 6 04:02:58 2000
STEPHEN: We having seem problem. We mention this several times to Byon.
From:
Hans
() on Fri Oct 6 03:59:00 2000
TINY-TRAK NOT TRANSMITTED HEIGHT!
we found out TT is not transmitting height information in his beacon.
Das anyone know why not?
We use the BETA 1.2 VERSION.
And also report Byon several just after BETA release, about this problem.
TinyTrak does NOT send altitude data. Version 1.2 decodes the position information from the GGA sentence only.
TinyTrak II is in development, and will send height.
From:
Werner
(oe9fwv) on Fri Oct 6 01:09:27 2000
Does the Tiny Trak transmit height?
I have a Garmin III+ and Tinytrak Firmware version 1.0
Any comment welcome...
73!
Werner
No, it does not.
From:
Michael Pendley
(K5ATM) on Thu Oct 5 10:47:45 2000
Gerald,
http://www.qsl.net/kd4rdb/tripmate.htm
should answer any Tripmate question you may have --
From:
Gerald Peklar
(DK7XE / OE6DLD) on Wed Oct 4 09:27:04 2000
both TT's i received and built up are working fine! but now i need help: i want to supply power to my delorme-tripmate via the 9pin connector of the TT. does anyone have information about ?? which pin do i have to use for +5V??
- another thing: some guy's had problems with setting the transmitting audio-level. i replaced the 10k pot with an 5k fine tuning one and add an 5k6 serial. now setting the level works!
From:
Stephen H. Smith
(WA8LMF/6) on Mon Oct 2 15:35:34 2000
Just finished assembling the kit I received about 3 weeks ago. The automatic beacon mode works perfectly but I CAN NOT get the PTT-triggered Mic-E mode to work at all. I saw the diagram below on this BBS (that was missing from the documentation) showing the added diode so that mic PTT can key both the radio and the input to the TT. What is the reference to setting S1 to the alternate mode about. Is there some beacon interval value that says don't beacon on a timed basis at all but respond to PTT instead?? All I seem to get is automatic beacon at either the " normal " rate or the " alternate " rate depending on the switch... Is there some other setting I need to make??
SW1 should be left unconnected (floating) for MIC-E mode. Set the primary time to 600 seconds, and the secondary time to 10 seconds. If PTT IN pin is grounded when the mic is keyed, then, when it is released, if it has been at least 10 seconds since the last beacon, a burst will be sent. When you stop sending voice, a position will be sent every 10 minutes. I've had this working. If anyone else has also, please let me know.
From:
Mike Killian
(kc7jgc) on Thu Sep 28 20:04:42 2000
I am looking to get into tracking. I have 2 meter equipment (Yaesu ft11 and ft2500 and Icom 2000). I have not TNC's yet, but discovered the www.aprs.net web site. Oh, I also have a Garmin GPS II. Will your unit interface to these?
Yes, TinyTrak should work with your equipment.
From:
Mike Huffstetler From Kit Builders in Watsonville. Ca
(wa6ouw) on Wed Sep 27 14:05:16 2000
Was talking to Doug Mckinney at Mckinney Technology and he said you might be interested in having your kits assembled. I build through hole as well as surface mount (0805/1206)with references from Doug , Dave Benson/Small Wonder Labs, etc. Pls advise. 73's Mike/Kit Builders
From:
normans simard
(ve2lhs) on Mon Sep 25 18:18:00 2000
I WONT TO PLUG MY GPS RANDMCNALLY ON MY TINYTRACK HELP ME
I'd recommend cutting off the DB9 and PS/2 connector, connect the red wire to 5V, the shield to ground, and the white wire through a 10K resistor to DB9 pin 3. Do not use the yellow wire.
From:
SIMARD NORMAND
(VE2LHS AND DIGI VE2LHS-3) on Sat Sep 23 18:33:39 2000
sorry for my english.
I SEARCH THE PIN OUT FOR MY RANDMCNALLY GPS FOR CONNECT WITH MY TINYTRAK.
WELCOME FROM qUEBEC 73 VE2LHS SINCE 78
From:
Hans
() on Sat Sep 23 16:44:08 2000
GUY: I notice the same. Not possible to set exactly on freq....but still works oke here.
From:
Mike
(KB0TIY) on Sat Sep 23 10:53:32 2000
Thanks for the reference to Digi-Key there in MN. Found all the parts I need
and look forward to operating the device
for tracking.
73's
From:
Ted McArthur
(AC7II) on Thu Sep 21 19:29:30 2000
I built the TT a few months ago and it has been working fine but in a hurry to get it set up in another vehicle for a bike race it got reverse power (not good) the 7805 went bad i think the pic smoked too. So I had a pic-e from tapr and I down loaded the hex prog sent in your download file and it looked like it programed. but after replacing the regulator and pic I don't get the flashing lights only power and when trying to verify with your config prog it says it isn't connected. do you think it didn't prog right or did something else also go.
If you don't get the flashing LEDs, it is not programmed correctly. Make sure the PIC is receiving power at pin 14.
From:
Ken Bording
(W5KNB) on Tue Sep 19 17:17:15 2000
What is the max distance the LEDs can be remoted from the PC board? Also, can any of the Radio Shack LEDs (designed for panel mounting) be substitued? I'd like to have the LEDs visble from outside my tracker cases.
Thanks in advance.
Ken
They are just standard LEDs, so any ones will work. You can probably remote them a couple feet away.
From:
M. Baratta
(K3NMR) on Mon Sep 18 06:28:50 2000
Is the Tiny Trak compatible with Trimble's " Acutime " (GPS receiver/antenna) that outputs TSIP (Trimbles protocol) using Rockwell's binary format?
No, only with GPSs that will output the standard NMEA-0183 format ($GPRMC)
From:
Earl S. Garber
(N3EG) on Sun Sep 17 17:07:33 2000
I got to see a TinyTrak recently - it was small, but I'd still like to see something smaller...I have a Tripmate and already have a 5 watt radio which would fit inside with a smaller unit...any plans yet for a SMD version? I'm up to the challenge of assembling it.
I've been thinking about it, but made no progress yet.
From:
Guy Beaumont
(G7BWP) on Sun Sep 17 07:04:40 2000
Having tried both 1.1 and 1.2 betas, I have found 1.1 is more accurate with regard to tx tones. Using a measured 10.000080 mhz clock for the pic, cal value of 61 output tones are 1197 and 2204 hz. The 1.2 beta gives 1202 and 2254 hz. Otherwise it works superbly. The individual tone selection allows easy setting up of the unit.
The 1.2 version may not have more accurate tones, but should decode on TNCs better, especially Kantronics in Software CD mode.
From:
John Scott
(N0HZN) on Sat Sep 16 19:34:30 2000
For those of you that have been trying find a way to combine a TT with a GPS to make a low cost tracker, I have a possible solution. I mounted the TT inside a Delorme Tripmate GPS. The total cost was about $85 to $90. Add a radio and you're all set to go. I've created a web page to go take a look at what I have done with pictures and short desrciption.
http://members.aol.com/n0hzn
Go take a look.
From:
Mark Stappenbeck
(N0PWZ) on Sat Sep 16 16:12:38 2000
I've received the tinytrak and I've yet to build it (unfortunately). The troubleshooting section of the construction manual states that, " the only NMEA-0183 GPS string recognized by TinyTrak is $GPRMC " . I currently have a Trimble Flightmate GPS that outputs a number of different formats including what is referred to as " RMC " format. I suspect that this is the same format, but I don't know for sure. Does anyone have the specific format of this sentence that the Tinytrak accepts?
Yes, I believe that GPS will work with TinyTrak.
TinyTrak expects sentences like :
$GPRMC,201050,A,3610.9912,N,11516.4034,W,0.0,005.2,240799,013.7,E*67
From:
Bill Engelke
(AB4EJ) on Sat Sep 16 12:59:38 2000
At what baud rate does tinytrak send packets? 300, 1200 or 9600? I have tried various settings on my TNC and have not yet gotten successful decode. I can try changing the calibration setting, but want to make sure I have the right baud rate first.
TinyTrak sends 1200 baud packet.
From:
Doug Leach
(VE3XK) on Sat Sep 16 11:14:54 2000
Hi Byon
Kit arrived last week. I saw the plastic bag of parts and the manual so threw out the envelope. I was just getting ready to assemble the kit when I discovered there is no PCB in the plastic bag. If it was supposed to be in there it was not. If it was separate in the outer bag I must not have noticed it. The garbage was picked up Thursday so it is long gone. Can I previal on you to send me another board by mail to Doug Leach - VE3XK, 683 Richmond Rd., Ottawa, ON K2A 0G6 CANADA. It can just go in a mail envelope. No cover letter, invoice etc required. Let me know by e-mail what I owe you.
Vy 73
Doug VE3XK
No Problem.
From:
Karl Geng
(N1DL) on Sat Sep 16 05:56:56 2000
Byon:
the replacement PIC did the trick - all is back to normal. Have used TT now in car, yacht and last week on my plane.
Any chance for altitude mode in the future? 73 Karl
PS WX permitting I'll fly up to Orlando
TinyTrak II will support altitude.
From:
shamim khan
() on Wed Sep 13 16:42:11 2000
what is the smallest size of the tracker, i have heard that they build a tracker that can even track a small fly so how small that would be,can u give me more information on that.
thannks.
From:
Victor Luis Quintili
() on Wed Sep 13 05:24:08 2000
I need information of GPS equipment to produce in my countries.(Argentina)
From:
Jim Hopper
(K5IWK) on Tue Sep 12 17:19:17 2000
If I change R5 so I can use it with a mobile rig, can I still turn the deviation down enough to switch back to a hand-held? I tried it on an Azden PCS-3000 but not loug enough. Am using it on a Kenwood TH25AT now.
Yes, changing the resistor to a lower value will give more adjustment range, but you will still be able to set to the original range.
From:
Joe LaGreek
(N0OTM) on Tue Sep 12 14:08:02 2000
Used 3 TT for our MS-150 last weekend. All worked perfectly. Thanks Joe
From:
Scott Currie
(KJ7QY) on Tue Sep 12 10:48:57 2000
Saw the TT at the NWAPRS Summer Gathering. Mine is on order! Any chance TT will support weather data sometime soon? Sure be nice to have a TT sending the home station and weather data and let me use the TNC for other stuff. Regards, Scott
Yes, TinyTrak II will support weather stations. I am looking for current WX users to beta test. Please contact me if interested.
From:
Greg Lane
(k7sdw) on Sun Sep 10 08:41:56 2000
Got the tiny trak assembled.
I take it you can not access the tiny track without the radio attached?
When I power mine up all I get is the pwr led lit and everything else blank.
The program will not talk via my com port. Is there an error on the board for a trace or pad ? I checked against the blank board (bought 3 kits) and recheck the components and alignments of parts. Made measurements at the voltage reg, 4.98. and hope to see what serial data will show up on a scope. The varb resistors were a bit tough to get through the holes to make a good solder connection.
Any ideas would be appreciated.
Greg
If you are not getting the LEDs flashing, then there is a problem with the chip or the traces/soldering on the PCB.
Check the soldering for cold joints and bridges. Try jumpering 5V to the PIC socket for the LED to see if it lights.
If you think the chip is bad, I will replace it.
From:
Bob Hollister
(N7INK) on Wed Sep 6 14:18:53 2000
Great package. I used it last weekend and seems to be working well with IC281H 2 mtr & Garmin 48XL GPS. Toshiba laptop used for setup, no problem.
Is it supposed to report elevation?
Using the same GPS unit(Garmin XL48) with the KPC-3+, Elevation was also reported. Tiny Trak does not seem to provide that data. I use WIN APRS 2.4.3 for monitoring.
Has anyone used TT with Yaesu/Vertex 150 HT?
Altitude is not sent. Watch for TinyTrak II to add the feature.
From:
Bill
(N5ZTW) on Wed Sep 6 04:43:54 2000
Beta testing of V1.1 firmware and config looks good! GPGGA now supported & working! Tone generation great for tweaking with O-scope. Super improvements.
From:
Hans
() on Mon Sep 4 12:25:52 2000
BYON: We will upload a small/simple diagram for PIC programmer on homepage soon.
Needed 2xR 1xC 1xD this will do the trick.
From:
Jim Fonte
(K9FI) on Mon Sep 4 05:43:15 2000
The TinyTrak is really a FB(!) product!!
I built and installed the TT inside a self-start-modified DeLorme TripMate (removed the battery case, and used that location). The green GPS-acqusition LED & the red TX led is mounted on the TM-case, along with a bullet-type DC jack, three 3.5mm, 3-conductor closed-circuit jacks (one for TX-out, one for GPS-data out, and one for TT! programming.
The TT!/TM combo-package serves an ICOM IC-2AT + RS 30W amp (packaged in a small, plastic case.
Byon...you and your associates did a wonderful job developing a very useful tool for amateur radio --- I appreciate the quality of your collective crafting!
I look forward to your next projects!!
VERY 73!
Jim, K9FI
From:
Markus Fackler
(DL1GFM) on Sun Sep 3 01:58:32 2000
Hello Byon,
The new firmware works fine with the $GPGGA data form my GPS. Thanks for the good work. markus
From:
Chris Verbil
(N5CV) on Fri Sep 1 14:33:14 2000
Byon, my kit went together quickly but I am having difficulty talking to the PIC through the DB9 comm port.
When powered up, the TinyTrak does the expected LED light dance and the PTT LED illiminates every two minutes as if it is sending (I don't have the radio hooked up yet, though). So it would appear to me that the microprocessor is alive and functioning normally.
When I use the TinyTrak configuration utility, it does not find the board. I have tried multiple PC's, swapped cables, comm ports, etc. but no luck. I even checked with a null modem in line but your documentation seems to tell me that is not required. When I put a protocol analyzer on the port there is no traffic coming out pin 2 of the comm port.
I have checked the board traces extensively and find everything is as it should be.
Any ideas?
Do you see data entering the PIC at pin 3 when you attept to find it with the software?
If you hook up a GPS, does it read it, turn on the GPS LED and send the position?
From:
Vince Staffo
(WB2FYZ) on Wed Aug 30 12:47:30 2000
Byon,
Has anything further been done to enhance the firmware in Tiny Trak to operate as a stand alone fixed position
tracker without a GPS unit attached? I
have a 16F84 programmer and I would be willing to test firmware for this when I get my Tiny Trak up and running.
TinyTrak II should have enough room to hold a stationary position beacon.
From:
Michael Pischel
(KB0TIY) on Mon Aug 28 18:30:04 2000
I bought a Tiny Trak and now need to buy a connector for the header? Where is everyone buying these? I tried Newark's and found I bought the wrong type...
Any help is great!
Mike KB0TIY
From:
Ted McArthur
(AC7II) on Sun Aug 27 20:06:30 2000
I have been using TT for about2 months now its been working great. I prevously had put together a PIC-E had all sorts of bad luck with it. I took the TT to a APRS conference this week evcerone feel in love with it. Any plans in the future to make one that you can have a computer output for running like winaprs with.
The TinyTrak hardware cannot decode packet, so probably not.
From:
John
(N6NHJ) on Sun Aug 27 18:31:55 2000
Oh yea, what other adjustments can I make to make it more accurate for receiving TNC's?
Try different calibration values to find which ones decode best on TNCs
From:
John
(N6NHJ) on Sun Aug 27 18:29:41 2000
Byon, I received my tiny trak last month or so. Great little unit! I have been using it all the time. I have noticed that the packet does not get captured about 50-60 percent of the time while I travel. I just checked the deviation with an IFR, and cannot get it to go below 4 khz, but the signal looks clean. If I turn the pot any further, it just goes to zero. It seems that the pot keeps it at 5 khz most of the range, until just before the limit at one end, where it goes to 4 khz, then drops off to zero. Also, my red power on LED has never worked. What can I do to get the deviation to 3 khz? I am using it with a Radio Shack HTX 202 radio.
If you change R5, you should be able to get more or less range from the pot.
Doubling R5 will give half the range on the pot (finer control), Halving R5 will give double the range (but less control.)
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Sun Aug 27 16:20:41 2000
I have a beta version of the next TinyTrak firmware ready for testing. This version allows generating test packet tones for calibration and deviation setting. Also included is support for $GPGGA sentences. eMail me if you have a PIC programmer and would like to test this version. Thank you.
From:
Byon Garrabrant
(N6BG) on Sun Aug 27 16:18:25 2000
Due to CCSLIDE no longer accepting international orders, I have switched to CCNow for accepting credit cards. I will still accept PayPal and checks.
From:
Vince Fero
(AA7JB) on Sun Aug 27 11:16:24 2000
Corrected the problem I had with my icon not showing on my maps. Byon got me going in no time. I was running WinAprs 2.46 and apparently there is a glitch in that version that drops the 1st number in the longitude (my icon was in Morocco). I loaded WinAprs 2.45 and it tracks Tinytrack fine.
From:
Lloyd Mitchell
(KD4HTW) on Sat Aug 26 16:50:46 2000
Will the TinyTrak work with a unsquelched radio or in DCD configuration? This unit along with a MFJ 8621 would be great! email answers direct.
No, but if APRS activity is low in your area, you may be alright just leaving the audio input unconnected.
From:
Vince Fero
(AA7JB) on Thu Aug 24 17:12:14 2000
Got the Tinytrack last week and it was a breeze to put together. Mounted it in an Altoids mint box with the DB9 out the side. I have one problem, it does not show an icon on the map for my station. I tried different symbols. I am running Winaprs and the tinytrack is in the heard list with the correct location but nothing on the maps. I have no problem seeing other stations.
..Vince..
It seems this may be a bug in WinAPRS 2.46
From:
Karl Geng
(N1DL) on Thu Aug 24 12:16:02 2000
I put the Tinytrak together and it worked right away but when I handled it a few times it gave up its ghost.
I believe I killed the microprocessor.
Can you send another one and charge my credit card again or bill be and I send a check.
Tks Karl N1DL
Karl Geng, 695 Embassy Ct, Marco Island, FL 34145
Fax 941-430-2063 Tel 430-2015
Users that need replacement parts can contact me at
byon@byonics.com
From:
Mike Pendley
(K5ATM) on Wed Aug 23 20:16:49 2000
I hate to keep putting Byon on the spot via this list (he is really a nice guy) but here goes anyway. Does anyone else have problems with data being transmitted when the valid lamp is off? When I first start up my system my Tripmate is often not locked in before the first packet is sent. As a result my first APRS data point is far away from where I really am. The Tripmate is usually locked in by the next cycle and I appear to race at warp speed to the correct location. I am thinking about ANDing PTT and Valid with a simple diode AND gate but don't want to bother if this is a local APRS support issue. You can see my TT/Tripmate combo (I installed the TT inside the Tripmate) at
http://www.rt66.com/~mycall/TTT.jpg
-Mike
I'll add the ability to holdoff transmissions during invalid data to the wish list.
From:
Mike Pendley
(K5ATM) on Wed Aug 23 19:59:06 2000
Regarding calibration. Byon -- I was wondering if you would be willing to post a simple program for the TT. All it would do is assert PTT and output a continuous mark (or space). A simple frequency counter (like the one in my Fluke multi-meter) could then be used to fine-tune the calibration value (with no radio connected). Deviation would be easier to measure with a continuous signal to work with as well. I bet you could just take your current software and put the " output a mark subroutine " in an infinite loop.
-Mike
The next version of the TinyTrak firmware will have this feature. Beta testing begins soon.
From:
Mike Pendley
(K5ATM) on Wed Aug 23 19:47:30 2000
Regarding my position problem (see below). Byon was very quick to respond. We exchanged e-mail all weekend trying to understand and resolve my problem (Thanks Byon!). Not sure I understand all the issues. All I know is if I leave the PATH pick list as " conventional " and put wide3-3 in the path at the top -- every thing seems to work just fine.
-Mike
From:
Brian Klier
(N0QVC) on Tue Aug 15 19:49:42 2000
First of all, I'd like to say what a simply amazing little device. I placed my order on Saturday, and received a little package on Tuesday!!! The Assembly Instructions were very straightforward and easy to follow. It's a fun project for an evening...
I am posting a message today primarily to ask a question. The 78L05 that came with my kit is non functional. The TinyTrak works fine hooked directly to +5 using the connections provided. If I try using +12 through the regulator, I get +12 at the Input of the reg., and 0 Volts at the output. How can I go upon getting a replacement for the 78L05?
I would be happy to send a replacement 78L05, or, if you can't wait, you can pick up a 7805 from Radio Shack.
From:
Curt
(WE7U) on Tue Aug 15 09:30:01 2000
A pic huh? Prepare to be scared at what I've done:
http://wetnet.wa.com/~we7u
Click on the " ruggedized " link and picture links are at the bottom. Site is down right now so I'll tell you: 2 " I.D. ABS plastic tube, 20 " long. Contains batteries, tinytrak, Trimble SveeSix GPS. Added a 3 " I.D. extension temporarily to house ICOM IC-2AT HT. Will remove it when I find 2-meter transmitter board that'll fit the 2 " tube. Ruggedized packaging for search & rescue. Fun stuff.
From:
Espen
(LC3ZBT) on Tue Aug 15 04:02:16 2000
Suggestion: would it be possible for the byonics site to house a few pictures from users of TT, to show other people mods and others tecnical solutions. Wold bee great to see how others are " doing it " .
My TT works great, the sad thing is that i am the ONLY in my town to do APRS and not a digi in sight
I'd be happy to. Send me any pictures or URLs you have.
From:
Hans
() on Mon Aug 14 15:22:28 2000
McCOY: Cali set around 60 will do the trick using normal xtal, and connect a GPS to it who having view at 3 sats, otherwise nothing is happening in TT.
From:
McCoy
(N5YAV) on Mon Aug 14 10:44:55 2000
Thanks Curt,,,I'm in the process of trying all of your suggestions till something works. I'm hoding my breath each time I plug or unplug TT to/from computer that TT doesn't break. Guess I should run to town to buy a cable. I have added a second DB9M with pins 2 and 3 crossed on a short cable to make the Garmin III hook up a bit easier. Not to bother, I don't intend to hookup computer and GPS at same time. I'll keep the group informed of developments.
From:
Curt
(WE7U) on Mon Aug 14 08:56:38 2000
McCoy: On three different TinyTraks I had to adjust the calibration value to three different values. See my other messages below for details on a spectrum analyzer program for DOS that works with soundcards. You can use it to walk your tones in to where they should be. Also crank your transmit delay way up until you get packets decoding, then start cranking it down. In my experience the audio should sound QUIETER than most of the rigs on the air when you have the audio level set properly. Most people are overdeviating. A LOT!
From:
McCoy
(N5YAV) on Sun Aug 13 15:57:52 2000
To Byon or anyone who can help.
I got the Tiny Trak together and it's working, but not putting out packets that my TNC will decode. I have tried adjusting the audio out pot to many different positions, but it made no difference. I'm using AEA PK232 TNC and winAPRS. I can copy many stations with this setup, but it doesn't hear the Tiny Trak. When I monitor the receive audio from Tiny Trak, it sounds OK. I'm thinking of maybe adjusting the keyup delay or the resonator calibration or both. All suggestions for help is welcome. Thanks--McCoy
It sounds like you should try adjusting your calibration setting.
Read more messages
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
TinyTrak Owner's Manual
Version 1.0.2
Overview................................................................................................................................................................................1
Acknowledgments ..............................................................................................................................................................1
Construction...........................................................................................................................................................................2
FAR Circuits PCB...............................................................................................................................................................2
Parts List ............................................................................................................................................................................2
Schematic ..........................................................................................................................................................................2
Programming the chip........................................................................................................................................................3
Firmware Revision Notes ...................................................................................................................................................3
Assembly Instructions ........................................................................................................................................................3
Required Components ...................................................................................................................................................3
Optional Components.....................................................................................................................................................4
Assembly Completion.....................................................................................................................................................4
Interfacing ..........................................................................................................................................................................5
Power .............................................................................................................................................................................5
Serial ..............................................................................................................................................................................5
Transmitter .....................................................................................................................................................................5
Receiver .........................................................................................................................................................................5
Mic Input .........................................................................................................................................................................5
Switch 1 ..........................................................................................................................................................................5
Switch 2 ..........................................................................................................................................................................5
Operations .............................................................................................................................................................................6
Configuring User Options...................................................................................................................................................6
Callsign...........................................................................................................................................................................6
Path ................................................................................................................................................................................6
Timing.............................................................................................................................................................................6
Beacon ...........................................................................................................................................................................6
APRS/MIC-E...................................................................................................................................................................7
Programming..................................................................................................................................................................7
TinyTrak Adjustment ..........................................................................................................................................................7
Testing ...................................................................................................................................................................................8
Hints, Tricks, Notes, & Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................8
Overview
TinyTrak is a small, inexpensive radio controller designed to receive and broadcast position reports from a GPS receiver.
It removes the need for a full TNC (terminal node controller) in an APRS tracker. When combined with an NMEA-0183
compatible GPS receiver, and a radio transmitter, TinyTrak will key the radio at user-defined intervals, and transmit the
GPS’s current position.
Acknowledgments
TinyTrak was developed with the help of many individuals who deserve recognition. Randy Holland (KO6KC), Dave Lee
(W6ZL), Ken Mirabella (KM6YH), Marty Mitchell (N6ZAV), Luc Bodson (ON9AAV), Walter Crauwels (ON4BCB), Vesa
Kauppinen (OH4EA), Barbaros Asuroglu (TA2CBA), Klaus Hirschelmann (DJ7OO), Mårten Persson (SM7SYX), Sylvain
Mercier (VE2SIL), James Gutshall (N7VHF), Anders Richardsson (SM7WGG), Allan Gibbs (G7GFU), James Gorr
(N3TOY), David Inkster (ZL2BLI), Ron Graham (VK4BRG), Robert Stessel (K1WXY), Jacob Tennant (KB8QIR), Hans
Meijer (PA1PG), Mike Palmer (K8LG), Alfons Wittoeck (ON4AWT), Wes Johnston (KD4RDB), Peter Mulder (PE1IEE),
David Andersen (K0RX), Ernie Howard (W8EH), Bert van Dalen (PA0DAL), Ed Newman (VK4JEN), Curt Mills (WE7U),
Brian DeYoung (KE4HOR), Harry Bloomfield (M1BYT), Ulrich Stolz (DJ9XB), Johan Hansson (SM0TSC), Fred Reimers
(KF9GX) of FAR Circuits, and Lara Garrabrant (KD6AYO). Thanks go to all these people for helping make TinyTrak all
that it is.
Construction
FAR Circuits PCB
A printed circuit board is available for TinyTrak from FAR Circuits under the name “Garrabrant TinyTrak Board”. The price
is $4.00 each plus $1.50 shipping per 4 boards. Visa and MasterCard accepted with $3.00 service charge. To contact FAR
Circuits, e-mail farcir@ais.net or browse to http://www.cl.ais.net/farcir/ . Voice and Fax number is (847) 836-9148 and the
address is FAR Circuits 18N640 Field Ct. Dundee, Il. 60118.
Parts List
Part
U1
Description
PIC 16F84-10/P microcontroller
(programmed with TinyTrak Firmware)
Y1
10 Mhz ceramic resonator
Q1
2N2222A NPN transistor
Q2
78L05 +5V voltage regulator
R1
8.2K ohm resistor (gry-red-red)
R2
3.9K ohm resistor (org-wht-red)
R3
2K ohm resistor (red-blk-red)
R4,R10,R11,R12,R13 1K ohm resistor (brn-blk-red)
R5
220K ohm resistor (red-red-yel)
R6,R9
10K trimmer potentiometer (103)
R7,R14
10K ohm resistor (brn-blk-org)
R8
2.2K ohm resistor (red-red-red)
C1,C2,C3,C4
0.1 uf capacitor (104)
D1
Yellow T1-3/4 LED
D2
Green T1-3/4 LED
D3,D4
Red T1-3/4 LED
D5
1N4148 diode
J1
DB9 female connector
18 pin dip socket
Schematic
Digi-Key Part Number
PIC16F84-10/P
X906
PN2222ADICT
NJM78L05A
8.2KQBK
3.9KQBK
2.0KQBK
1.0KQBK
220KQBK
D1AA14
10KQBK
2.2KQBK
1210PHCT
67-1111
67-1108
67-1102
1N4148DICT
209F
A9318
Programming the chip
The TinyTrak kit is shipped with a programmed microcontroller, so programming the chip is not necessary if you have this
kit. If you do not already have a programmed TinyTrak microcontroller, you will need to burn the firmware into a blank chip.
You will need a copy of the TinyTrak firmware (TINYTRAK.HEX), a Microchip PIC16F84-10/P microcontroller, and the
necessary hardware and software to program the firmware into the chip. The latest firmware can be found at
http://www.byonics.com/tinytrak. The PIC chip need not be blank, since it is an EEPROM, and can be erased during
programming. There are several options for programming equipment, including a PicStart Plus and Microchip's MPLAB
software, a LidiPipo programmer or TAPR PIC-E and PicProg or PIX software, or a Tait-sytle programmer and
corresponding software. Follow the specific instructions included with the programmer to program the chip.
Firmware Revision Notes
Version 1.0 was the first official release of TinyTrak.
Assembly Instructions
TinyTrak is a fairly simple construction project that can usually be built in less than an hour. It can be built on perf-board,
or using wire wrap equipment, but it will be easier to build on the FAR Circuits PCB. These instructions are meant to aid
PCB users. You will need a low wattage pencil-type soldering iron with a small tip, some thin solder, a pair of diagonal
cutters, and a pair of needle nose pliers. The microcontroller (U1) is static sensitive, so use standard precautions. For
each item, insert on the component side (blue silk-screen side), then turn the board over and solder the leads to the pads
on the trace side. Be sure to only solder the correct pad, and do not let any solder touch any other pad or trace. Trim any
excess leads with diagonal cutters after soldering each component. The following checklist will be useful to insure all
components are properly assembled.
Required Components
! " Install the 18-pin IC socket for U1. Be sure to align the notched end of the socket with the marked end on the silk
screen. Do not insert the chip into the socket at this time.
! " Install ceramic resonator Y1, which provides the clock oscillation for the chip. Direction does not matter.
! " Install resistors R1 – R5 which create the 4–bit digital to analog resistor ladder. For each resistor, bend one of the
leads 180 degrees at the bulb of the resistor so that both leads are parallel and 0.1 inch apart. Install vertically on the
board. Polarity does not matter. Bend the leads apart once inserted to hold in place. See parts list for color coding
and identification.
! " Install potentiometer R6, which adjusts audio output level.
! " Install capacitor C1, which smoothes and de-biases the audio output. Polarity does not matter. Leads may need to be
bent to fit holes.
! " Install resistors R7 and R14. Use instructions for resistors above.
! " Install transistor Q1, which provides Push-To-Talk (PTT) for the radio transmitter. Be sure to orient flat side to match
the long flat side shown on the silk-screen pattern (labeled QT on some boards).
Optional Components
The following component is used to interface to a computer for configuring, and to a GPS for operations. It is expected
that most users will install this component, but if serial interfacing is desired via some other method, the three holes near
J1’s traces can be used instead,
! " Install female DB-9 connector J1. Wedge the board in between the two rows of solder cups, with the 5 pin side
aligned with the 5 pads on the PCB. Solder all five cups to the pads.
The following 3 components provide the circuit with 5 regulated volts when provided with 7-35 volts input. It is expected
that most users will install these components, but if the board will be supplied with 5V directly, they will not be needed.
! " Install voltage regulator Q2. Be sure to orient flat side to match the long flat side shown on the silk-screen pattern.
! " Install bypass capacitors C3 & C4. Use instructions for capacitors above.
The following component provides current keying through the mic line, as needed by some HTs. This option is usually not
needed for Kenwood radios, or mobile radios. If this option is used, you should not wire PTT OUT to the radio.
! " Install resistor R8. Use instructions for resistors above.
The following 2 components are needed to read audio input level for carrier detection. This should help prevent unwanted
transmissions over other existing transmissions. It is not used to decode incoming packet data, just detect its presence. If
installed, carrier detect LED (D1) should also be installed. If these components are installed, be sure to adjust correctly, or
all transmissions may be disabled.
! " Install potentiometer R9.
! " Install capacitor C2. Use instructions for capacitors above.
The following component is used for reading the microphone Push-To-Talk state. This can allow for position transmission
on a voice channel after the microphone in un-keyed, as used with the TAPR MIC-E and PIC-E devices.
! " Install glass diode D5. The black strip should be furthest from the PIC.
The following components are used to show TinyTrak operation state via LEDs. For each one, install both the LED and
corresponding resistor. Be sure to align the flat side of the LED with the stripe on the silk-screen. Colors are only
recommendations, and can be changed.
! " Install Carrier Detect LED D1 (yellow) and resistor R10. This LED will light when audio is detected from the radio
receiver. R9 and C2 are also required.
! " Install GPS State LED D2 (green) and resistor R11. This LED will light constant when receiving good (locked) GPS
data, and flash when receiving bad (unlocked) GPS data. It will be off when no GPS data is received.
! " Install PTT LED D3 (red) and resistor R12. This LED will light when the radio is keyed via PTT.
! " Install Power Display LED D4 (red) and resistor R13. This LED will light when device is powered.
Assembly Completion
After all components have been installed, inspect the solder side of the board for poor or cold solder joints. All pads
should be shiny and smooth. Inspect for any undesired solder bridges. If the board looks ready,
! " Insert programmed microprocessor U1. The rows of pins may need to be bent slightly. Be sure to align the notch on
the chip with the notch on the socket, as well as the notch on the silk-screen (nearest connector J1). An improperly
inserted chip may be permanently damaged.
Interfacing
There are a few interface points for the TinyTrak PCB which must be connected before operation. Some of them are
optional
Power
If Q2, C3, & C4 were installed on the board, power can be applied via the Vin + and – points. The voltage regulator can
handle 7-35 volts. At 12 volts, current draw is 6.6ma + 3ma for each LED lit.
If Q2, C3, & C4 were NOT installed on the board, 5V power can be applied via the +5 and GND points near the LEDs.
Only 5V can be applied at this point.
Serial
TinyTrak must be connected to a computer for configuration of call sign and other operating parameters, and then
connected to a GPS to receive position data. J1 pin 2 is used to transfer serial data from the TinyTrak to the computer. J1
pin 3 is used to transfer serial data from the computer or GPS to the TinyTrak. J1 pin 5 is serial ground. If female DB-9
connector J1 was installed on the board, the TinyTrak can be plugged directly into a computer 9-pin serial port, either with
or without a serial extension cable. Due to the voltage levels used, some laptop computers may not be able to
communicate with the TinyTrak. If the GPS to be used normally can plug directly into a computer’s serial port, both a
gender-changer (male-to-male) AND a null-modem adapter will be needed to interface the GPS to TinyTrak. If the GPS
does not connect directly into a computer’s serial port, an interface will need to be built. The GPS should have a male DB9 with GPS serial data out wired to pin 3, and ground to pin 5. GPS serial input is not required. If J1 was not installed on
the board, interface serial via the three holes near J1.
Transmitter
To transmit the positional packet beacon, a transmitter must be connected to TinyTrak via the AUD OUT and optionally
PTT OUT points. If the transmitter transmits (PTT) when the Microphone input is grounded (most handheld (HT) radios,
except the Kenwood brand), resistor R8 must be installed, but PTT OUT will not need to be connected to the transmitter.
For all other transmitters, PTT OUT will be needed. Connect AUD OUT, Ground, and PTT OUT if needed to the
transmitter microphone / PTT input. Refer to the transmitter’s manual for more information, and look for a section on
installing a terminal-node controller (TNC) for packet operation.
Receiver
If R9 & C2 carrier detect components were installed on the board to prevent transmissions over other stations, TinyTrak
must be interfaced to a radio receiver. Connect the receiver’s audio out (earphone) jack to the AUD IN and Ground points
near R10.
Mic Input
When sending position beacons after unkeying on a voice channel is desired, the radio microphone input should be
interfaced to this point. The line should be grounded when PTT is active, and floating at other times.
Switch 1
This switch input will select the alternate timing settings when grounded. It should be left floating, or at 5V at other times.
This could be useful to change transmission rates when a car’s engine is not running.
Switch 2
This switch input is not currently used.
Operations
Configuring User Options
To set user options, such as call signs and transmit rates, use the TinyTrakConfig.EXE. First, connect TinyTrak to a
computer serial port. Launch TinyTrakConfig.EXE, and select the connected serial port. Click “Check Version” to confirm
the TINYTRAKCONFIG program can configure the TinyTrak options. If a firmware version number is reported, the
software and circuit are communicating. If not, re-check all previous steps. Click Read Configuration to upload the current
configuration, edit all fields for desired options, and click Write Configuration to download options to the chip. Reading the
Configuration is always performed twice and compared in the program to insure correct data. Writing the configuration is
always followed by a read and compared to insure correct data. If either process fails, it will be retried. A dialog will notify
the user when the read or write is complete, and if it was successful. Detailed information about each configuration
parameter is included below.
Callsign
This is the identification of the transmitting station. It can each be an amateur radio call sign such as KD6BCH, or a
tactical call such as SHUTLE. No more than 6 characters (excluding SSID) may be used. If a tactical call is used, an
amateur radio call sign should be included in the beacon for FCC identification requirement compliance. As with normal
packet radio, an optional SSID between 1 and 15 can be included, such as KD6BCH-9 or SHUTLE-15.
Path
This optional path will allow the transmission to be repeated by digipeaters. It should be entered in the form or call signs or
aliases with optional SSIDs, separated by commas, such as RELAY,WIDE,WIDE . The number of call signs in the path is
limited by the length of the beacon message.
Timing
The timing parameters affect when and how the transmissions occur. There are two sets of timing parameters, primary
and secondary. Primary parameters are used for normal transmissions. Secondary parameters are used for manual, aftervoice transmissions (MIC-E style), and for the alternate transmissions triggered with switch 1.
KeyUp Delay (TXD)
This sets the delay in milliseconds after the transmitter is keyed, until the data begins. During the key-up delay, the AX.25
flag byte (0x7E) is sent. It is similar to the TXD setting in most TNCs. A value of 100 ms would be equal to 1/10 second.
Transmit Every
This setting controls how often, in seconds, a position transmission will occur, rounded to 10 seconds. Valid range is
between 10 seconds and 2550 seconds ( 42.5 minutes ).
Quiet Time
This setting controls the delay in seconds that must occur after the receiver squelches, before a transmission will occur. It
can keep transmissions from occurring on a busy channel. It requires the carrier detect components to be included (R9,
C2, D1, R10 )
Calibration
This setting is included to help compensate for inaccuracies in the ceramic resonator. By adjusting the value, packet rates
can be sped up or slowed down. A value or 63 represents no correction. Experiment with different values to see which
has the best results on a receiving TNC.
Beacon
TinyTrak can send a text beacon message after periodic location transmissions. The following two fields control the
beaconing.
Message
This setting sets the beacon text. The length of the beacon message is limited by the number of digipeaters in the path.
Beacon Every
This setting controls how often a beacon is sent, in units of normal position transmissions. A setting of 1 would send the
beacon with every position transmission, a setting of 2 would beacon with every other position.
APRS/MIC-E
The following four settings set special APRS settings which were introduced by the Tucson Amateur Packet Radio (TAPR)
Mic-Encoded (MIC-E). For additional information about these settings, refer to TAPR’s web page at www.tapr.org.
Message
This setting selects one of the 8 pre-assigned MIC-E messages. Caution should be used when selecting this setting, as
beaconing with the “Emergency!” setting will alert most APRS receiving users to your emergency.
Path
This setting selects of the 16 pre-assigned MIC-E paths. In order to use the path entered above, this should be set to
“Conventional”.
Symbol
This setting sets the symbol most APRS programs with display when this beacon’s position is received. A symbol setting of
‘ & gt; ’ will display a car, ‘k’ will display a truck, ‘v’ will display a van. Other symbol characters can be found in the APRS
documentation.
Alternate Table
This setting will modify the meaning of the Symbol selected above to reference icons from the APRS Alternate Symbol
Table. For normal use, it should not be checked. Refer to APRS documentation for more information on this setting.
Programming
This section controls communication with the TinyTrak, and will allow the setting selected above to be configured into the
TinyTrak.
Com Port
This setting selects which communication port the TinyTrak is connected to during configuration. Currently only the first
four serial ports are supported.
Check Version
This button will get the current firmware version from the connected TinyTrak. This is a useful, simple test to confirm the
computer and TinyTrak can communicate.
Write Configuration
This button will download all configuration settings entered above into the TinyTrak. The settings are stored in non-volatile
memory, so they will persist when power is removed fro TinyTrak.
Read Configuration
This button will upload all configuration settings from the connected TinyTrak into the setting fields above. This step is
useful to change a single setting on the TinyTrak configuration.
TinyTrak Adjustment
There are only a few adjustments required for proper operations of TinyTrak. The transmit audio level should be adjusted
at R6 for proper deviation. You can listen on a separate receiver, and start the resistor at maximum drive. When
transmitting, lower the drive until there is a noticeable change in the receiver. It may help to temporarily set a long transmit
delay (TXD) during this step in order to have more time to adjust the level. Overdriving the transmitter is a common cause
of failure to decode. The other adjustment point is R11, which is used to adjust the carrier detect base level. This should
be adjusted such that Carrier Detect LED is usually off, but turns on when the radio opens squelch. Radio receiver volume
should be set to maximum, and the radio can NOT have a constantly open squelch.
Testing
After setting the desired configuration options, TinyTrak should be connected to a radio, GPS, and power supply, and will
be ready for use. When power is applied, the carrier detect and valid LED should flash three times to show proper
firmware operation. If a radio is connected, it should transmit periodically and a packet burst should be heard on a
receiving radio. When the receiver’s squelch is opened, the carrier detect LED should light, and all transmissions will be
delayed. If a radio receiver and TNC is available, packets should be able to be monitored. The data is not sent in human
readable form, but instead in compressed MIC-E form. It should look something like this:
N6BG-9 & gt; S8PRPY,RELAY,WIDE:'2+ " !r,j/] " 4K}
This compressed form contains position, speed, and bearing. More information about this format can be found in the
APRS documentation.
Hints, Tricks, Notes, & Troubleshooting
• The TinyTrak uses inverted TTL levels (0 & 5 volts) for serial communication, rather than true RS-232 levels (-12 & +12
volts). This may cause communication problems with some GPS receivers and computers, especially laptops. A RS232 level converter, such as a MAX232, may be used, but the TTL levels will need to be un-inverted, with transistors or a
TTL inverter chip.
• Currently, the only NMEA-0183 GPS string recognized by TinyTrak is $GPRMC. Any GPS to be connected to TinyTrak
must be configured to output this string, if possible. GPS data must be sent at 4800 baud, N81.
• If the TinyTrakConfig.EXE program cannot communicate with the TinyTrak, it may be possible to test the serial link by
running a terminal program, such as HyperTerm, configuring for 4800 baud, N81, and sending ESC followed by 'V'.
These two keys should cause TinyTrak to respond back with the firmware version number. If serial communications are
still failing, monitor the PIC pin 3 with a meter or an oscilloscope to check for incoming serial data.
• TinyTrak was designed for hand held radios. Some mobile radio require more audio drive than TinyTrak puts out. If
audio levels are too low, even with the R6 pot set to maximum, consider replacing the 220K R5 with a 100K resistor.
This should allow for about double the audio range.
• The current draw for TinyTrak, fed with 12 volts, is approximately 6.6 ma + 3 ma for each LED lit. If desired, the 4 1K
LED resistors can be replaced with 10K resistors, which will cause the LED to only draw about 0.5 ma each, or the LEDs
and resistors can be left of switched off completely.
• TinyTrak is configured as a DCE with a female DB-9 connector to allow simple connection to a PC for programming. If a
DTE configuration with a male DB-9 is desired, this can be accomplished by placing a DB-9 male connector of the PCB
edge, but shifted one pin over, so the old DB-9 female pin 2 pad mates with the new DB-9 male pin 3, the old pin 3
mates with the new pin 2, and the new DB-9 male pin 5 is not mated with any pad, but is instead just past the old pin 1.
Then, jumper the new DB-9 pin 5 to ground. This configuration should allow simple connection to a DCE GPS, but will
require a gender changer and NULL modem to connect to and configure with a PC.
• If TinyTrak keys a transmitter, sends a packet burst, but then fails to un-key the transmitter, it may be due to local RF
energy. Lowering power output, or moving the transmitting antenna further away from the TinyTrak can resolve this. If it
doesn’t, place a 0.1uf capacitor across the base and emitter of PTT transistor Q1 (ground and center).
• On powerup, LEDs D1 and D2 should flash twice, then the radio should send a test transmission, if carrier is not
detected, and so LED D3 should light for about a second. LED D4 should always be lit. If the LEDs light this way, it will
confirm that the LEDs are wired properly, and that the firmware is correct and running.
• If the radio keys up upon connection to TinyTrak, even before power is applied to TinyTrak, it could be that the radio
does not key via current through the mic line (most mobile and Kenwood radios), and resistor R8 should be removed.
• If higher current is desired from the TinyTrak’s voltage regulator in order to provide 5 volts to a GPS, the supplied 100ma
78L05 can be replaced with a 1 amp 7805. A heat sink may also be required.
• TinyTrak’s carrier detects circuit detects all audio energy, not just packet audio tones. Therefore, it will not transmit over
received voice audio. Be sure NOT to run an open squelch, as this will prevent all transmissions. The receiver should
be set for maximum volume.
• If carrier detect, MIC-E style PTT input, SW1, or SW2 are not desired, the components normally connected to these pins
can be left out. Unconnected microcontroller pins will float to the default correct behavior.
• For the 4-bit digital to analog resistor ladder, it has been determined that neither high precision resistors (1%) nor perfect
powers of 2 resistors (1K, 2K, 4K, 8K) are required.
• TinyTrak can be mounted in a case with a GPS, with a single DB-9 jack for PC configuring. To do this, wire the GPS
serial output through a 10K resistor before connecting to the solder side of pin 3 of TinyTrak’s DB-9 connector. This
way, with no PC connected, the GPS serial data will feed into the TinyTrak, but when the PC is connected, the PC will
over-power the GPS during configuration.
TinyTrak Message Board
This message board is devoted to TinyTrak, to ask questions, leave comments,
and see how others are using TinyTrak.
Byonics responses are shown in green.
You can also send questions eMail to byon@byonics.com
Return to the main TinyTrak page.
From:
Alex Pinheiro Machado Rodrigues
(PT2VHF) on Sun Dec 31 10:40:52 2000
There is a egroups list called tinytrak.
To post: TinyTrak@egroups.com
To subscribe: TinyTrak-subscribe@egroups.com
73!
Alex, PT2VHF
From:
Carl Davies
(M1ELR) on Sun Dec 31 04:46:25 2000
Hi Byon, I have been using the tinytrak I built for some time and find it to great, I have also just finished a SMT version fitted internaly in a Kenwood portable, I would like if possible to try your new version of software, I can program my own PIC, Many thanks..
Sure, I'll send you the latest.
From:
Graham Phillips
(g0krb) on Sat Dec 30 13:21:27 2000
I can get everything working OK, but when it transmits, the data isn't resolved using UI-VIEW or Winpack. By ear, the transmission sounds OK. I have tried two radios - Kenwood TH78E & Pye Westminster. Both work fine with a Baycom modem, so they seem OK.
The transmission seems pretty short, so am not sure what data is being sent.
I am loathe to change the calibration from 63 as this is another variable which may, or may not, be causing the problem.
Any thoughts? Many thanks.
You should try adjusting the calibration. You will probably find that
a different value will decode better. Also try raising your TXD level,
and make sure the audio is not over deviating. If you can't get it to
work, version 1.3 will probably work better. I can send it to you if you can
burn chips.
From:
David Snyder
(w4sar) on Fri Dec 29 09:03:09 2000
My TT does not indicate receipt of data from my Garmin GPS. I have checked the cables, and even dumped data from my GPS to computer to check for correct parameters, all are okay. TT power up self test seems correct, and read/write to computer is good. Strange thing is that when GPS is on and TT power is off, LED's D1, D2 and D4 pulse in time to data bursts sent from GPS. Has this been seen before, and if not does it indicate what the problem may be? Thanks.
If the computer can upload and download configuration, that means
the PCB and serial lines are all good. Did you use a NULL modem
when you connected the GPS? Can you see serial data present
on PIC pin 3? If you capture the GPS data on the computer with a
terminal program, can youy send it back to the TinyTrak and have
the GPS valid LED come on?
I haven't seen the flashing lights thing with power off
before, but I haven't tried it. If the TinyTrak sends packets, and can
talk to the computer, it should not have a problem.
From:
Mike Schlabach
(KB7YVM) on Thu Dec 28 16:17:14 2000
Hi gang,
I received the two kits I ordered. I do have a problem, however. As I mentioned before I need the Tiny Trak to key at the end of a voice transmission. We are using Motorola radios for Search & Rescue. The mic connector on the Motorola handheld is only two conductor. Apparently the mic element is connected in series with the PTT switch. How do I connect Tiny Trak to this set-up and get the mic-E function to work?
Second question: If we get the appropriate gender DB9 connector to plug in to the Tiny Trak (we are using Garmin), why do we need a null modem gizmo? (for that matter, what IS a null modem gizmo?). The GPS units work fine directly hooked up to the PC. Help!
Best,
Mike
I think it will be very tricky to use TinyTrak with a mic that keys this way.
It might be better to get a different mic with a separate PTT line for
interfacing for MIC-E burst after voice mode.
A computer is considered a DTE device.
Everything that a computer plugs into serially is a DCE device.
This includes modem, TNCs, TinyTrak (since by default, you can
plus it right into a computer), and your GPS. Whenever you want
to plug a DCE device into another DCE device, you will need a null
modem adaptor and usually a gender changer. The null modem
device changes one of the DCE devices into a DTE device. That
way, you always are connecting a DCE to a DTE.
The Null modem device swaps pins 2 and 3, the serial in and out
pins, so the out of one DCE now goes to the in of the other.
From:
Jack Chomley
(VK4JRC) on Thu Dec 28 16:15:27 2000
Where can I buy Tinytrak kits in Australia?
Jack Chomley VK4JRC
I do not have an Austrailian distributor, so you can only buy them from me via ccNow on the ordering page.
From:
Karel Kebert
(OK1DNH) on Thu Dec 28 04:27:21 2000
Perfect, version 1.3 works with Kenwood TH-D7 absolutely reliably, without necessity change presetting calibration. Good idea has been supplement program possibility manual start transmission tone 1200 and 2200 Hz. Thank`s for TINYTRAK....
73 Karel
Thanks for the feedback. Glad to hear it is working well.
From:
Mark Olson
(N7WHW) on Wed Dec 27 22:05:11 2000
DO YOU KNOW IF THERE IS ANYONE THAT CAN BIULD A TINY TRAK FOR ME
I HAVE BOUGHT TWO TINY TRAK BUT BOTH WONT WORK HELP HELP!
From:
mike killian
(kc7jgc) on Tue Dec 26 20:35:37 2000
I have a TinyTrak that works great. Problem is I just bought a Kantronics KPC-3+ and I would like to receive the tracker data and display it on WinAPRS. Well, it seems to display all trackers EXCEPT mine fine. Mine gets displayed if it goes through the internet. I " think " it might be related to the MIC-E formatted message. Is there anyway to disable that and send the uncompressed message?
Oh, BTW I also think I found a bug. If the secondary transmit time is less than the primary time, the PTT sometimes locks up (actually, quite often), This is on the V1.3. If the secondary time is longer, it seems to work fine.
It is not possible to change the output format to text, but I do not think
that that is the problem, unless you are using WinAPRS 2.4.6.
Try setting TXD high (500),
lowering your transmit audio level, and try different calibrate
values. Also, try changing your KPC-3 from CD SOFTWARE to
CD INTERNAL.
As for the bug, do you have SW1 wired up, or PTT IN? Because if
they are left floating, secondary timing is not supposed to ever be
looked at.
From:
Clay Bartholow
(W0LED) on Tue Dec 26 15:41:39 2000
Just wanted to say that I have assembled another TT and it works great! I'm running 1.2.beta with no problem. I integrated this one into a Tripmate and, except for the gray cord coming out instead of the original black one, it looks pretty much stock. I wired out one small green LED and press-fit it into a small hole I drilled in the lower half of the case so I can watch the GPS status (it also serves as Power ON and Reset indicator.)
Question: do you plan to use the AD inputs on the 16F876 in the TTII?
I am currently planning on using the 16CE625 for TinyTrak II, which has no AD inputs, but will fit in existing TinyTrak PCBs.
From:
Chris
() on Tue Dec 26 12:11:30 2000
Hi, I have a Kenwood kdc-7009 that I got with my car that I bought, There is a security code on it, the person who I bought the car from told me the code but they didn't know what but had to be pressed. How do I turn the security off, or how do I reset the cd player so that I don't have to type in a code
Thanks,
Chris
From:
PETER
(SV3FUO) on Tue Dec 26 07:30:38 2000
I AM NOT USE A CARD HOW CAN I BUY
TINY TRAK
You can send a check for $29 US to my address on the ordering page.
From:
Kostas
(SV2EVB) on Sat Dec 23 01:42:48 2000
Where can i find another version than 1.0 whitch i have.Can you send me one.I can burn the PIC myself.Many thanks Kostas
Currently, all other versions are in Beta. If you would like to try the latest version, and send me some feedback, let me know.
From:
Bill Miller
(AA2AZ) on Wed Dec 20 18:14:55 2000
I would like to combine the SiRF II GPS receiver chip with the TinyTrak. Any ideas?
I am not familiar with that particular GPS,
but if it outputs NMEA-0183 $GPRMC or $GPGGA sentences,
it should work fine.
From:
George Atkins
(WA6GAH) on Wed Dec 20 09:28:27 2000
Have built the tiny tracker and it works great with WINAPRS but, APRSPLUS does not show the correct location. The displayed location is not even close. Has anyone used tiny tracker with APRSPLUS?
The TinyTrak outputs in a format similar to the Kenwood D7 & D700.
Do you know if positions from those radios are working with APRSPLUS?
Also, check that you are using the latest version of APRSPLUS.
From:
Hugh Duff
(VA3TO) on Mon Dec 18 20:20:45 2000
Can the Tiny Track be connected to the
Aisin GPS without the GST-2 ?
Please e-mail your reply.
P.S. An e-mail contact on your web page
would be great.
No. The TinyTrak only works with NMEA-0183 GPS data,
and the Aisin GPS does not output NMEA-0183 without adding a device like the GST-2.
You can contact me via eMail at byon@byonics.com
From:
Roger Basford
(G3VKM) on Mon Dec 18 12:30:31 2000
I'd like a price for shipping two TinyTraks to the UK please. Alternatively, is there a UK or European agent?
TIA,
Roger Basford, G3VKM
Shipping price is $4 US for International orders, and will be added when you order from ccNOW.
I do not have a UK agent, but I do have agents in Germany, France, the Netherlands. Contact me for details.
From:
Bob Morehouse
(KB7ADO) on Sat Dec 16 12:48:38 2000
Byon: While you're working on the next TT version or change in program software, how about adding some new parameters to SW1 settings? I was thinking it would be nice to have the ability to program a different MIC-E status and symbol, with an LED to indicate when SW1 is on (in case it gets bumped accidently), this way it could be programmed for Emergency, at a different txmt rate, without effecting the main settings; also, how about setting it up to inhibit txmt unless it has a valid position string from the gps?
I've been working on TinyTrak II off and on, and hope to get the
majority completed by the end of the year. I plan to switch MIC-E
message and icon with SW1 with TTII. I suppose the end user
could add an LED to the switch if they desired. I also will have an
option to not transmit data unless it is valid. (Actually, this code is
already written).
Please keep an eye on the web page for a request for TinyTrak II
Beta testers! Thank you for your input and ideas!!
From:
Steve Daleo
(KG6AGU) on Thu Dec 14 20:20:59 2000
I'm having a bit of a problem. The transmitter is keying and it appears data gets sent (at least there's a waveform). But, the receiver doesn't decode anything.
Looking at the output pin of the PIC, the waveform period is about 450us and rail to rail. I am assuming it should be about 1200 baud (833us).
The waveform at the R5 end of R1,2,3,4 is the same frequency, but very sinusoidal (not a surprise given what it's driving). The frequency within a burst seems to be more variable than I'd expect. I'm getting about a 30mV P-P amplitude on the waveform.
A few questions:
What should the oscillator frequency be and is there a convenient place to look at a driven derivative of it?
Why are the values of R1,2,3,4 all different?
Any suggestions about what's wrong?
By the way everything programs fine and the receiver definitely sees the carrier when the transmitter keys.
The oscillator should be 10Mhz at pin 15 or 16. Measure with a high impeadence probe.
The R1,R2,R3,R4 values basically convert the 4 bits at pin 9,8,7,6 to a number
(0-15) that linearly converts to a voltage between 0 and 5V. Perfect
values would be 1K,2K,4K,8K, but the ones I have are close
enough. It is sota like an R-2R ladder, but different.
First thing I'd try is raise TXD to something high (500). You can
drop it once it is working. Next, set the audio deviation level (R6)
to a value that doesn't distort the audio. I'd recommend starting it
high, and dropping it until you notice a difference by ear.
Then try adjusting the calibration value. Try 50,55,60,65,70 and
see which decode the best. Then test finer values. If 50 fails, and
55 works, try 51,52,53,54 and find the low end that works. Then
find the high end and set to the average. If you are decoding with a
KPC-3, try setting CD INTERNAL instead of CD SOFTWARE.
Lastly, if none of the above work, I have a new beta version of the
code that may decode better. If you send me your chip, I will re-
burn it and return it. Or, I can send you a new chip for about $10.
From:
Christian BERARD
(F6DHI) on Tue Dec 12 02:28:15 2000
... Hello... is it possible to use Squelch info in place of Audio ??? Mni Tnx 73 Chris
If it is the correct sense, yes. When the Audio In PIC pin is low, it
holds off the transmission. When it is high or floating (it has
internal pull-ups), transmissions will occur.
From:
Mike Killian
(KC7JGC) on Mon Dec 11 09:53:10 2000
I wonder if you can help me. I have a TT and it seems to work sometimes but not always. Also, it doesn't seem to work reaching distant RELAY stations (that I " think " I should be able to reach). Do you know the best way to test and adjust the " calibration " number (default 63) AND also the best way to test and adjust the audio output?
Thanks
KC7JGC
What I have done is set up a receiving radio, and then try
calibration values 55, 60, 65, 70, 75 and see which ones work.
Then, if 55 failed, but 60 worked, try 56, 57,58, 59. When you find
the high and low that decode well, set it to the average of the two.
Also, make sure your TXD is set high for testing (400). Once it all
works, you can dial it down.
The audio level should be less than white noise (open squelch). I
normally start it at the max, and then dial it down until I notice a
level drop by ear.
Lastly, I have a newer, beta version of the firmware (1.3) that might work
better. I can send it to you if you can burn a chip, or you can send
me your chip for re-burning, or you can purchase a new chip.
From:
Jari Sivula
(OH6SJ) on Mon Dec 11 05:33:34 2000
Hello!
Just built Tiny Track and tested with success. One featul might be usefull in some cases. If beacon period is long (60 mins or so, would it be possible to get a pin to go up 3-5 mins before sending beacon? To save power in car or boat rig and GPS could be powered just to get fix and go off after sending the beacon and go on again few minutes before next one.
If I groud the PPT IN and release it, my tracker don't send a packet. Is there something wrong with parameters or have I damaged the PIC? Everything else works just fine. It seems to be a little sensitieve on RF, but good grounds solved it...
I will consider the save power mode for future versions. Thank you!
To transmit on PTT release, you need to set your secondary timing (to something short like 10 seconds).
From:
Luis Briones
(LU6VG) on Sun Dec 10 17:20:45 2000
When I use the TT and radio with the same power and the GPS with internal power, all work OK. But if I use the GPS, TT and Radio with the same power I listen in another radio a lot of QRM form GPS. If I turn off the GPS the QRM disappear. I have a Garmin GPS II.
Any idea?
Perhaps use a regulator for the GPS power. Also, consider
shortening and shielding your GPS serial line as much as possible.
From:
Christian BERARD
(F6DHI) on Sun Dec 10 02:55:51 2000
HI !!! I've bild a Tiny TRAK, and connected to my E-TREX, I've an output sentence very short, with curious caracters for GPS info... is there somebody trying this GPS receiver, or having such problem ???
73 Chris
This is the MIC-E format. It is binary, and not human readable, but
the decoding software should work fine with it. It is the same
format the Kenwoods use. You can learn more about it at
http://www.tapr.org
From:
Jeff King
(wb8wka) on Sun Dec 10 01:23:09 2000
Azelio:
Sounds like you already made up a GPS simulator, but here is a freeware
software simulator you might want to add to your toolkit:
http://www.sailsoft.nl/software2.htm
-Jeff
Thanks Jeff, This looks great. I will probably use it for TinyTrak II development.
From:
Mike Schlabach
(KB7YVM) on Fri Dec 8 17:29:37 2000
I wish to configure the Tiny Trak to transmit Garmin GPS data only when the microphone is manually keyed (i.e. at the beginning of each voice transmission). Is this possible?
Thanks and best regards,
Mike
Yes, it is. You must wire the mic PTT into the TinyTrak and the
radio, and the TinyTrak PTT output also to the radio. Then you set
up the secondary timing with when you want the TinyTrak to key
up, and it should key after releasing PTT.
You can see a schematic of this on the right, and read a bit more about it in the manual and elsewhere on this message board.
From:
Petr BARTOVSKY
(OK1MAB) on Thu Dec 7 17:42:54 2000
Does anyone why tinytrack signal isnt readable with Kenwood TH-D7?
You shold be able to get better Kenwood decoding by adjusting the calibration.
Also, if you would like to try beta version 1.3, or wait for TinyTrak II
(still in development), they should work better with the Kenwoods.
From:
KOSTAS
(SV2EVB) on Thu Dec 7 01:27:05 2000
Thanks for answer but were can i find tinytrak II, and the software?
I am still creating it. I hope to start beta testing in January. Stay tuned on this message board for further updates.
From:
KOSTAS
(SV2EVB) on Wed Dec 6 22:45:19 2000
I think that the time of trasmitions must depents of the velocity of the car. Is this possible by an other version of tinytrak software. I have 1.0.2. Many thanks,sv2evb
Thank you for the suggestion. Unfortunately, TinyTrak is out of firmware space to add this feature.
However, in TinyTrak II, I do plan on implementing " Smart Beaconing " as used in the HamHUD, which does exactly this, and more.
From:
Mike Hasenfratz
(WA6FXT) on Wed Dec 6 11:02:12 2000
I just purchased a GPS-25 from TAPR and wonder if you plan on having a version that accepts the '$PG...' string in place of the '$GP...' string?
I just received my TinyTrak a couple of
days ago. (thanks)
The GPS-25 puts out $GPRMC sentences, I believe. It should work fine with the all versions of TinyTrak.
From:
Robert Hollister
(N7INK) on Tue Dec 5 18:42:34 2000
What's the current shipping time for credit card purchases? I have two on order for about 3 weeks and would like to check status
Normaly, I ship out about 2 days after receiving an order. I ship US Postal Service First Class.
It looks like your order was not placed correctly. Your credit card was not charged. Please re-order.
From:
Jimmy Hopper
(K5IWK) on Tue Dec 5 18:42:23 2000
Wondered about the status on the upgrade. Have a Merry Christmas.
I've made some changes to TinyTrak firmware, now version 1.3, in Beta. Let me know if you would like a copy to test.
Progress on TinyTrak II has been a bit slow these past few weeks. I hope to get enough done over the holidays to start beta testing in January.
From:
High Power Rocketry
() on Wed Nov 22 12:46:31 2000
Attention Ron Rogers. I received your email following my posting here re. Tiny Track in HPR. Your return email address was garbled. Can you contact me again by email?
Jim Sutton jim.sutton@mindspring.com
From:
Lorin Kintrea
(kb7tfw) on Tue Nov 21 21:47:25 2000
What would cause the packets to be broadcasted in a much shorter time frame?
It almost sounds like the packet tranmition is being cut off in less then 1/4 second?.
Possibily your TXD. Try setting it at 500, and then lowering it if it works.
Also, make sure your battery is fully charged, and the receiver does not
have battery saver mode on.
From:
Azelio
(IW2DMO) on Mon Nov 20 17:29:24 2000
Built a TT, hooked up to a GPS simulator for telemetric purpose: works great! GPS simulator made by a PIC12CE674 with two analog inputs. It outputs the analog values as SPEED and COURSE in the GPRMC sentence.
From:
Tommy Ellison
(K4TWE) on Sat Nov 18 21:35:25 2000
I have built four of the TTs so far and have ordered four more boards. My APRS buddies really like the idea. I put one in a TripMate and it really turned out great. The only external give away that it is not an orginal TM is the four LEDs and a DB-9 connector. Very handy for an emergency tracker. The only problem I have encountered is when it fires its position and the frequency is busy, and we have a very active local APRS network,it does not transmit that position. Keep up the good work.
Thank you! As for the transmitting on a busy channel, have you wired up the audio input line?
From:
Steve Coffin
(KB7QKC) on Sat Nov 18 10:09:44 2000
I think I have seen reference to a tinytrack firmware version that transmits the whole '$GPGGA' NEMA string instead of the MIC-E encoded version. Is this true? Can I get it? It would be cool if you could do on or the other, perhaps by switching SW2 on or off.
Thanks
Version 1.2 reads in the GGA string, but the output is still
the MIC-E format. The GGA version is only needed for those with a
GPS that doesn't output RMC.
I hope to add NMEA and/or text output for the TinyTrak II, switched via the config program.
From:
Zachary Michael
(KB9UQQ) on Wed Nov 15 16:31:49 2000
FYI: Every time I take the TT apart, it seems that it needs to be reprogrammed. I don't lose any of the stuff already programmed in the chip like my call and unproto path. It seems that it just needs the software to refresh the PIC.
That is pretty strange. Anyone else noticing this?
From:
Keith Thompson
(KD7EOW) on Mon Nov 13 20:15:46 2000
I had my Tiny Track working and it was going OK for about a week then I noticed that it quit functioning. Both the red LEDs came on and stayed on Even when turned on and off the only thing that happens is the LEDs stay on. I belive that the chip is gone. I cannot talk to it or verify it. Is there a way to get a replacement PIC. Thanks.
The most likely problem is the EEPROM data got corrupted somehow,
and the device locks up when it tries to send the corrupted data.
Here is how to fix it:
Turn the Carrier Detect Pot (R9) to the extreme, such that the CD
LED turns on when you cycle power. This will prevent the TinyTrak
from transmitting with the corrupted EEPROM when first powered
up, and thus keep it from locking up. Now you should be able to
run the Config tool to upload in new data. You probably shouldn't
read in the bad data first, just type in your new data and download
the configuration.
If this doesn't fix it, and the chip it faulty, I will replace it.
From:
Arnold Harding
(KQ6DI) on Mon Nov 13 18:23:15 2000
CALIBRATION: To all. Getting the calibration to work (and the TinyTrak also) wasn't difficult at all. Everything seems to be hearing it just fine considering the amount of aprs traffic in the SF Bay Area (CM86). Starting on the second one now...
From:
Arnold Harding
(KQ6DI) on Sun Nov 12 15:37:45 2000
HOW DO I USE CALIBRATION: How much does each one step of the #63 counter change the transmit audio frequency. The resonator is at 10.05 MHz as heard with a HF radio. The audio frequencies sounds high. Is there a calibrate command or some better way of setting this parameter?
Time to go and play, but I'd like something better than trial-and-error.
Unfortunately, it is currently trial and error. Changing from 63 to 60 is a very
small change, probably less than 1%. I've found it best to just
watch on a receiving TNC, and try different values to narrow in on
what works the best.
From:
Larry Ryan
(VE7CFF) on Fri Nov 10 22:47:50 2000
Just finished assembling my TinyTrak. Can't access the unity with the configration software. Have powered up the unit, with the LEDs operating as they should. Have performed continuity checks on DB9. The config software states that com port not available. Have tried different baud rates from 1200 up to no avail. Any ideas.
If the com port is not available, that means it either doesn't exist, or
that something else is using that com port. Perhaps you can try
another. You shouldn't have to adjust baud rates.
From:
Luc
(on1lvl) on Thu Nov 9 12:39:10 2000
My TT works great! I read you have a new
code for the PIC. I can program the chip, please can you send as email ?
73's and TNX de Luc
Yes, I will.
From:
Corey
(K5GTO) on Wed Nov 8 12:50:24 2000
Has anyone undergone the task of integrating the TT into a Rand McNally GPS? I would assume that there is room for this to be accomplished assuming you remove the battery pack. I need to know if the Rand McNally is a good option since the Delorme Tripmate is getting harder to find as time passes. If someone could verify room, and voltage availability, I would be glad to have at it and post a picture of my results.
Thanks!
Have a look at
http://kliernetwork.net/aprs/tinytrak ,
http://members.aol.com/n0hzn/ ,
http://www.rt66.com/~mycall/TTT.jpg , and
http://www.qsl.net/kd4rdb/tripmate.htm .
From:
Jose Duran
(hk4-dvd-w4) on Mon Nov 6 12:37:25 2000
Can I connect the tinyTrak to any frecuency radio?
Thankyou
Any radio that will pass 1200 and 2200 Hz audio tones, and is legal to send tones over.
From:
James Jefferson
(KB0THN) on Sun Nov 5 14:52:42 2000
Re: Unkeying of transmitter
Try replacing the transistor with a 4N25 optoisolator. I have had excellent luck with these parts.
From:
Bill Newcomb
(KC7GXN) on Fri Nov 3 11:05:13 2000
I need to order two of your programmed TinyTrak microcontrollers (U1) and two of your 10MHZ resonators (Y1). If you can give me a price, I will return the money.
73
I normally do not sell partial kits, but
please eMail me ( byon@byonics.com ) to discuss any special orders.
From:
andy
(andy) on Fri Nov 3 08:47:20 2000
Does anyone have the C code to run on a PC so as a pic can be feed data via the serial(rs232) port??
From:
Jerry Moll
((812) 663-2585 #1403) on Fri Nov 3 08:29:36 2000
I am very interested in learning more about the TinyTrak. I have sme very pecific questions. Is there a number I can call to speck with you in person?
Thank You!
Sure, just eMail me ( byon@byonics.com ) and I'll get in contact with you.
From:
Jim SUTTON
() on Thu Nov 2 20:01:22 2000
Amateur Rocketry application
Myself and a couple rocketry friends have been investigating APRS for the purpose of locating high power rockets that have floated away under parachute in high winds. Perhaps similar application to Fox Hunting or Balloon locating.
Has anyone put together a very small, light weight package? Maybe something like a TT board, Garmin Gps-35 and a scratch built transmitter?
We have been investigating micro-transmitters as used by Wildlife
researchers for tracking or similar
to Fox Hunting Transmitters used by Hams. Getting a GPS position report
from the downed rocket would be even better.
I just this past weekend lost a
3 inch diameter, 7 foot rocket that I
probably had $400. invested due to high winds and an apogee deployment of the parachute.
Ideas, suggestions, thoughts - all appreciated! Thx, Jim [jim.sutton@mindspring.com]
From:
Wes Johnston
(kd4rdb) on Thu Nov 2 18:01:02 2000
My MFJ data radio keys and won't unkey, but I found that better grounding solved the problem. Ground everything you can.
From:
oscar nuñez mori
(977600 ) on Thu Nov 2 16:32:05 2000
please i need to find a good a simple pic programmer for 16f876 with software freeware write to oscarnm@latinmail.com sending me the possible address
thanks a lot everybody
Try searching the net for ICPROG. I've used it for the 16F876 with my Tait and LudiPipo programmers.
From:
Mike Connors
(KI7AB) on Thu Nov 2 05:47:41 2000
I just built my second TinyTrak and I am curious whether anyone else has seen a simular problem. I have only seen this while using a Radio Shack HTX-212.
The TinyTrak appears to be working as it should except when the TinyTrak keys the transmitter the HTX-212 will not un-key. I have checked the PTT line with an ohm meter and the resistance goes to zero when the TinyTrak keys the PTT then back to about 10K ohms as it should. But for some reason the HTX-212 will not un-key.
Any feedback would be appreciated.
73,
Mike KI7AB
It sounds like the TinyTrak is getting RFed. Does the problem
persist on low power, with a dummy load, with a remoted antenna,
or with no antenna? There is a solution involving putting a
capacitor across the PTT transistor you can read about it in the
notes at the end of the documentation and on these messages.
From:
Larry Ryan
(VE7CFF) on Wed Nov 1 22:38:51 2000
Our group South Westminster Amateur Radio Group Society has just ordered several kits. Looking forward to receipt of same, and assembly. Will put mine to work with a Garmin II+ and an Alinco DJG5
From:
MArk
() on Wed Nov 1 15:50:17 2000
HEy
I know you guys are on to transceivers, but maybe you could help me. I have laptop computer that has extenal audio and video output in order for me to hook it up home appliances like my TV and VCR.... Besides That in my car i have Kenwood KDC-7009 pro model Cdplayer/radio with a DIN connector(female) for a external cd changer. My question is, can convert somehow my din connector in a external RCA outputs jack in order for me to attach my laptop on my car radio. If you can find this anser to this question, i've been asking myself for mouths now, it would greatly apreciated.
thank you Mark
From:
Bill Engelke
(AB4EJ) on Mon Oct 30 14:22:25 2000
With considerable effort, I got TinyTrak working with GPS well enuff that my home station copies about one out of four position reports. What can I do to improve this ratio? Or is the high rate of ignored packets something to be expected?
Try increasing the TXD, adjusting the calibration for best decoding, and adjusting the audio transmit level (R6)
From:
Robert E. Greene
(KB7USN) on Mon Oct 30 06:25:05 2000
New TinyTrak when powered up sometimes acts as it should:Led 1 & 2 flash, go off, LED3 lights for a second, LED4 stays lit. Config program is accessed & shows I have version 1.0. However, entered data does not download. Although LED 3 flashes every 120 sec(default) no data transmits. Sometimes on powerup LED1 & 2 stay lighted-they dont go out. Any suggestions. Thanks.
Robert told me that increasing the TXD fixed the problem.
From:
Zachary Michael
(KB9UQQ) on Sat Oct 28 20:24:42 2000
How do you burn the new firmware into the chip? I would like GPGGA support.
You need a PIC programmer and software to drive it. I will send the beta firmware to those that would like to try it.
From:
Hans
() on Thu Oct 26 16:35:46 2000
Hello, some hams in NL use TINYTRAK for new way of APRS with help of a GSM/CELLULAR phone. Looks nice, to view moving car all over EU via the internet.
http://members.tripod.lycos.nl/aprsmobielnl Hope you understand Dutch....hi.
From:
Hans
() on Tue Oct 24 11:51:08 2000
TIM/BYON:
For PTT we change TT diagram and use a BS-170 to switch PTT line.NO relay needed, try the same and works better as 'old' 2N2222A.
From:
John Scott
(N0HZN) on Mon Oct 23 07:47:21 2000
Byon, having a small problem with mmy TT's. I have it up and running and it seems to work well. The problem seems to be I don't get every report on the recieving station. I see it transmit but I miss 1 or 2 out of 5,sometimes more. I have adjusted the gain and the calibration to what I think are the best settings. Any suggestions? By the way the 2 stations are only 5 feet apart. Others across town see the same problem. Thanks in advance!!
Try adjusting the TXD value. Start it at 500 ms, and move it down once you get it working.
From:
Craig
(N7TSZ) on Sat Oct 21 06:38:02 2000
Byon-
I just finished the TT last night & tried it out. It works ok with the exception of outputting 022... instead of 122 for my longitude position. I find myself with a lot of other people out in the ocean. Also do you have an easy way to update the version (1) to the latest with the GGA string capability? or do I need to reburn the PIC chip.
73
Craig
N7TSZ
The dropping of the 100s digit from the longitude is due to a bug in WinAPRS version 2.4.6.
If you get version 2.4.5 or 2.5.7, the problem goes away. If you are seeing the problem on the
Internet, then a local IGATE must be running WinAPRS 2.4.6
To get the GGA version, the PIC chip must be re-burned with the new firmware.
From:
Joel Black
(K2SAT) on Fri Oct 20 06:57:52 2000
This is an update to my previous problem. Apparently, the Eagle/Lowrance GlobalMap 100 does not output true RS232. I tried a Magellan 2000XL and all is well. Voltage levels for the Eagle were about 1.8VDC on pin 3 whereas the Magellan were about 2.2VDC. 0.4VDC difference - WOW! Now to get all this in an enclosure.
From:
Joel Black
(K2SAT) on Thu Oct 19 16:20:05 2000
I have constructed the TinyTrak and configured it; however, I am having an odd problem. I cannot make the GPS LED light with the GPS connected. When I turn the TinyTrak on, the LEDs " do their thing " so I'm sure the LEDs are wired correctly. I have checked the output of the GPS, it is outputting GPRMC (along with GPRMA and GPRMB) NMEA sentences. It is at 4800 8N1. I can detect data at pin 3 thru a null-modem cable all the way to the IC. Once there, I loose it as I don't know where it is output. I suppose it would be in the output of the PIC to the radio. I have not yet connected it to my radio as I'm trying to make it work before I get it there. Oh yeah, the GPS is an Eagle/Lowrance GlobalMap 100. I have used this GPS with a PicoPacket TNC in the past. Anyone have any suggestions?
I would imagine the problem is due to incompatable serial voltage levels. One way to confirm
this is to send the GPS data ($GPRMC) from a PC terminal program at 4800 baud into the TinyTrak.
If this works, the data format is fine, and the voltage levels are probably the problem.
You may be able to correct the voltage problem using a MAX232 chip and an inverter.
From:
Bruce
(wb9woz) on Wed Oct 18 08:55:51 2000
Does anyone know, if I ordered a kit today, whats the typical delivery time?
I usually ship kits within 1 or 2 days of receiving an order.
Occasionally, when I am out of stock, there can be an extra week delay.
From:
Alan Hill
(N5BGC) on Sun Oct 15 18:53:42 2000
I received the TinyTrak kit last week and put it together this weekend. I was impressed by the quality of the parts but, I had poor results. I only got one transmission from it before I " killed " the chip. When I apply power, the yellow and green LEDs flash and the PTT LED stays on.
The chip must have taken a dump. Can I get just the chip? If so, how?
Alan
Yes, I will send you a replacement chip.
From:
Lee Ciereszko
(N4TCW) on Fri Oct 13 11:12:23 2000
An idea for SW2: Be able to choose 2 different statuses. Just ordered 2 units and have my iron warmed up. Good meeting you at DCC 2000 Byon. Good work and thank you.
From:
Art
(VK4GO) on Thu Oct 12 16:52:25 2000
Please tell me is there a new hex for the Tinytrack that works with the Trimble SVeeSix engine ?
Yes, there is, version 1.2. It is in beta phase currently, but I can send you a copy. Note: TinyTrak will not
send altitude information with this, or any previous version. It is just to add support for
those GPSs that do not output GPRMC. Also note: I believe the SVeeSix uses TTL rather than RS232
serial voltage levels, so an inverter / transistor will probably be needed.
From:
John
(KG4EXY) on Wed Oct 11 13:28:05 2000
Please disregard my last message. RTFM strikes again. I could swear the answer was not in the docs before sending. ;)
From:
John
(KG4EXY) on Wed Oct 11 13:19:27 2000
I see that the digipeater path string is optional. Does TinyTrak make use of generic digipeating via the destination address SSID if no path is given? If so, which mode does it use -- that is, what is placed in the SSID? Thanks!
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