|
|
| Line 1: |
Line 1: |
| | + | == Overview == |
| | + | The current 1999 SCANDATA.FAQ article (updatd by WJP in 2000) was originally produced by Bill Cheek of COMMtronics Engineering in 1996. |
| | + | |
| | + | Bill Cheek was a scanner enthusist and author of several books and articles on the hobby. This article was a compilation of the various aspects of the scanner hobby dealing with [[discriminator output]] or baseband audio; explainting what it was, how to use it to decode a variety of signals, where to find it in a number of scanners of the day and also how to identify the various chips that it might appear on if your scanner was not listed. |
| | + | |
| | + | It also explains the use of a and how to construct a 2-level FSK interface (data slicer) and a 4-level FSK interface. Note that some of the parts used and specified in the instructions may no longer be avaialable; however, these circuits have been updated several times and can be found with specifications of currently available parts in several places on the WWW including the [[Data Slicers]] article in this Wiki. |
| | + | |
| | + | == Revisions == |
| | + | As this article, in its native text form, is a bit lenghty, we have broken it up into natural divisions so that it will more easily fit with the Wiki style of articles. Please note that we are leaving the text of the article intact in its entirety, but are dividing it up into logical sections. Also please note that the various URL's supplied in the article are probably not valid anymore as Bill Cheek died in 2000. |
| | + | |
| | + | == SCANDATA FAQ Article == |
| | + | === Introduction === |
| | <pre> | | <pre> |
| − | Mar 27, 1999 SCANDATA.FAQ 03/27/1999 | + | Mar 27, 1999 SCANDATA_faq 03/27/1999 |
| | Updated 09/23/2000 WJP | | Updated 09/23/2000 WJP |
| | | | |
| Line 26: |
Line 38: |
| | following additional FAQs: | | following additional FAQs: |
| | | | |
| − | 1. Scanner Modifications FAQ: SCANMODS.FAQ | + | 1. Scanner Modifications FAQ: SCANMODS_faq |
| − | 2. Scanner Data Decoder FAQ: SCANDATA.FAQ <--- This FAQ | + | 2. Scanner Data Decoder FAQ: SCANDATA_faq <--- This FAQ |
| − | 3. Scanner Performance FAQ: SCANPERF.FAQ | + | 3. Scanner Performance FAQ: SCANPERF_faq |
| − | 4. Scanner S-Meter FAQ: SCANSMTR.FAQ | + | 4. Scanner S-Meter FAQ: SCANSMTR_faq |
| − | 5. Scanner Radios FAQ: SCANRADS.FAQ | + | 5. Scanner Radios FAQ: SCANRADS_faq |
| − | 6. 4-Level FSK Decoder FAQ: 4LFSK.FAQ | + | 6. 4-Level FSK Decoder FAQ: 4LFSK_faq |
| − | 7. Administrative FAQ: ADMIN.FAQ | + | 7. Administrative FAQ: ADMIN_faq |
| | | | |
| | You can grab the latest of any of my FAQs directly from my | | You can grab the latest of any of my FAQs directly from my |
| Line 38: |
Line 50: |
| | | | |
| | http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/bcheek/faqs.htm | | http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/bcheek/faqs.htm |
| − |
| |
| | ============================================= | | ============================================= |
| | Bill Cheek's Scanner Data Decoding | | Bill Cheek's Scanner Data Decoding |
| | Frequently Asked Questions File | | Frequently Asked Questions File |
| | ============================================= | | ============================================= |
| | + | </pre> |
| | | | |
| − | Contents
| + | === Contents === |
| − | =========
| |
| − | | |
| − | 01: What is a 'Discriminator Output' and 'baseband audio'?
| |
| − | 02: How can I find the Discriminator Output in my scanner?
| |
| − | 03: How do I connect to the Discriminator Output?
| |
| − | 04: How do I build or acquire a SIMPLE decoder interface?
| |
| − | 05: How do I build or acquire a BETTER decoder interface?
| |
| − | 06: So how do I decode digital data from the airwaves?
| |
| − | 07: How can I decode CTCSS, DPL, and DTMF from the airwaves?
| |
| − | 08: Is it possible to "TrunkTrack" without a TrunkTracker?
| |
| − | 09: What if I don't want to build my own Data Decoder Interface?
| |
| | | | |
| | Questions and Answers | | Questions and Answers |
| | | | |
| − | ==========================================================
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q1 | Q1]]: What is a 'Discriminator Output' and 'baseband audio'? |
| − | 01: What is a 'Discriminator Output' and 'baseband audio'?
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q2 | Q2]]: How can I find the Discriminator Output in my scanner? |
| − | | + | * [[scandata_faq_q3 | Q3]]: How do I connect to the Discriminator Output? |
| − | There is a growing interest in tapping the baseband audio
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q4 | Q4]]: How do I build or acquire a SIMPLE decoder interface? |
| − | out of various scanners for decoding of a variety of
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q5 | Q5]]: How do I build or acquire a BETTER decoder interface? |
| − | esoteric signals, including CTCSS, SCA, FSK, RTTY, FAX,
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q6 | Q6]]: So how do I decode digital data from the airwaves? |
| − | Pager data, and trunked system control data, etc.
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q7 | Q7]]: How can I decode CTCSS, DPL, and DTMF from the airwaves? |
| − | | + | * [[scandata_faq_q8 | Q8]]: Is it possible to "TrunkTrack" without a TrunkTracker? |
| − | By and large, such signals cannot be taken from TAPE REC
| + | * [[scandata_faq_q9 | Q9]]: What if I don't want to build my own Data Decoder Interface? |
| − | jacks, headphone jacks, and EXT SPEAKER jacks because of the
| |
| − | voice-band filters that are between the signal source and
| |
| − | these output jacks.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Therefore, it is necessary to tap the wider "baseband audio"
| |
| − | directly at the output of the NFM discriminator chip in your
| |
| − | scanner. This is the first step to successful data decoding
| |
| − | from the airwaves.
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | ===============================================================
| |
| − | 02: How can I find the Discriminator Output in my scanner?
| |
| − | | |
| − | Table 1 shows a list of scanners, the discriminator chip(s)
| |
| − | used in the scanner, circuit symbols of those chips, and the
| |
| − | baseband audio (discriminator output) pin.
| |
| − | | |
| − | If your scanner isn't listed in Table 1, then refer to Table
| |
| − | 2 to find its discriminator chip. The chips listed in Table
| |
| − | 2 are all known Discriminators used in scanners and wide
| |
| − | coverage receivers.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Between Tables 1 and 2, you should be able to find the NFM
| |
| − | discriminator and its output pin for any reasonably modern
| |
| − | scanner.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Corrections and additions to these lists are requested. See
| |
| − | my email and other addresses at the end of this file.
| |
| − | | |
| − | TABLE 1: SCANNER NFM DISCRIMINATOR CHIPS & PINS
| |
| − | Updated 03/27/99 09/23/00
| |
| − | | |
| − | DISCR/DET CKT BASEBAND
| |
| − | SCANNER CHIP TYPE SYMBOL AUDIO PIN
| |
| − | ============== ============== ======= =========
| |
| − | unknown MPS5071 n/a 9
| |
| − | AR-1000 TA-7787AF IC-4 9
| |
| − | AR-2002 MC-3357P IC-4 9
| |
| − | AR-2500 TA-7761P IC-13 9
| |
| − | AR-3000 MC-3357P ? 9
| |
| − | AR-800 MC-3361N IC-200 9
| |
| − | AR-900 MC-3361N IC-201 9
| |
| − | AR-950 MC-3361N IC-201 9
| |
| − | AR-8000 NFM TK10489M or-85M U1 11
| |
| − | AR-8000 WFM/AM TA7792F U3 8
| |
| − | BC-20/20 NB5310-1 ? 9 *
| |
| − | BC-60XLT-1 MC3361BD IC-1 9
| |
| − | BC-70XLT LSC1359P IC-1 9 *
| |
| − | BC-80XLT MC3361B0 IC-101 9
| |
| − | BC-100XL MC-3359P IC-1 10
| |
| − | BC-100XLT TK-10421M-2 IC-401 11
| |
| − | BC-120XLT MC3361BD IC-1 9
| |
| − | BC-140XLT MC-3359P IC-1 10 *
| |
| − | BC-200XLT TK-10421M-2 IC-401 11
| |
| − | BC-205XLT TK-10421M-2 IC-401 11
| |
| − | BC-210 SC8780P/MC3357P IC-2 9
| |
| − | BC-220 SC8780P/MC3357P IC-2 9
| |
| − | BC-220XLT MC3361BD IC-1 9 *
| |
| − | BC-235XLT MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | BC-244CLT MC3361CDR2 IC-101 9
| |
| − | BC-245XLT MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | BC-248CLT MC3361CDR2 IC-101 9
| |
| − | BC-250 SC8780P/MC3357P IC-3 9
| |
| − | BC-350A NJM-3359D-A IC-3 10
| |
| − | BC-400XLT NJM-3359D-A IC-1 10
| |
| − | BC-560XLT NJM-3359D-A IC-1 10
| |
| − | BC-700A NJM-3359D-A IC-3 10
| |
| − | BC-760XLT NJM-3359D-A IC-2 10
| |
| − | BC-780XLT MC3371D IC-6 9
| |
| − | BC-800XLT MC-3359P IC-1 10
| |
| − | BC-855XLT TK-10421M-2 IC-401 11
| |
| − | BC-890XLT NJM-3359D-A IC-3 10
| |
| − | BC-895XLT MC3371D IC-3 9
| |
| − | BC-950XLT NJM-3359D-A IC-2 10
| |
| − | BC-2500XLT TK-10930VTL IC-201 12-FM 13-AM
| |
| − | BC-3000 NFM/AM TK-10930V IC-202 12-NFM 13-AM
| |
| − | BC-3000 WFM TK-10489M IC-203 11
| |
| − | BC-8500XLT MC-3361BP IC-9 9
| |
| − | BC-9000XLT MC3361B0 IC-8 9
| |
| − | BC-9000XLT WFM TK10489-MTL IC-9 11
| |
| − | BC-9000XLT AM LA1600A IC7 8 or 9 (?)
| |
| − | BCT-7 MC3361BD IC-2 9
| |
| − | HX-1000 TK-10420 U-201 9
| |
| − | ICF-SC1PC TA3116FN IC-401 9
| |
| − | ICF-SC1 TA3116FN IC-401 9
| |
| − | Icom IC-2SRA MC-3372 ? 9 *
| |
| − | Icom R-1 NFM TK-10487 DET-A IC-1 11
| |
| − | Icom R-1 WFM TA-7787AF DET-B IC-1 9
| |
| − | Icom R100 NFM MC3357P 9 (Near Bottom of radio)
| |
| − | Icom R7100 Said to be "top of R230 on main PCB" *
| |
| − | MR-8100 NJM-3359D-A IC-3 10
| |
| − | MX-5000 MC-3357P IC-4 9
| |
| − | MX-7000 MC-3357P IC-4 9
| |
| − | Maxtrac (Mot) 79G05 QLMD9035 6 (Behind the channel-up button)
| |
| − | PRO-2002 MC-3357P IC-101 9
| |
| − | PRO-2003 MC-3357P IC-104 9
| |
| − | PRO-2004 NFM/AM TK-10420 IC-2 9 (TP4)
| |
| − | PRO-2004 WFM KB4419A IC-1 6 (TP3)
| |
| − | PRO-2005 NFM/AM TK-10420 IC-2 9 (TP2)
| |
| − | PRO-2005 WFM KA2243N/HA12413 IC-1 10 (TP1)
| |
| − | PRO-2006 NFM/AM TK-10420 IC-2 9 (TP2)
| |
| − | PRO-2006 WFM KA2243N/HA12413 IC-1 10 (TP1)
| |
| − | PRO-2011 TK-10420 IC-1 9
| |
| − | PRO-2020 MC-3357P IC-101 9
| |
| − | PRO-2021 TK-10420 IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-2022 MC-3361N IC-1 9
| |
| − | PRO-2023 NJM-3359D-A ? 10
| |
| − | PRO-2024 MC-3361N IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-2025 NJM-3359D-A IC-1 10
| |
| − | PRO-2026 NJM-3359D-A IC-7 10
| |
| − | PRO-2027 MC-3361N IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-2028 NJM-3359D-A IC-2 10
| |
| − | PRO-2030 NJM-3359D-A IC-3 10
| |
| − | PRO-2032 MC-3361 IC-2 9 (TP5)
| |
| − | PRO-2035 NFM/AM TK-10420 IC-2 9 (TP2)
| |
| − | PRO-2035 WFM KA2243N/HA12413 IC-1 10 (TP1)
| |
| − | PRO-2038 NJM-3359DA IC-3 10
| |
| − | PRO-2039 NFM KA3361 IC-2 ( use TP6)
| |
| − | PRO-2040 MC3361BP IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-2041 MC3361N IC-301 9 *
| |
| − | PRO-2042 NFM/AM TK-10420 IC-2 9 (TP2)
| |
| − | PRO-2042 WFM KA2243N/HA12413 IC-1 10 (TP1)
| |
| − | PRO-2048 MC3361CDR2 ? 9
| |
| − | PRO-2050 MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9 *
| |
| − | PRO-2052 MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-2067 KA3361BD/-CD/-ED IC-301 9
| |
| − | PRO-23 MC-3361BD IC-1 9
| |
| − | PRO-24 MC3361BP IC-2 9 *
| |
| − | PRO-26 NFM/AM TK-10930V IC-14 12-NFM 13-AM
| |
| − | PRO-26 WFM TK-10489M IC-16 11
| |
| − | PRO-31 TK-10420 IC-1 9
| |
| − | PRO-32 TK-10420 IC-101 9
| |
| − | PRO-34 TK-10420 IC-101 9
| |
| − | PRO-35 TK-10421M-2 IC-401 11
| |
| − | PRO-36 TK-10420 IC-101 9
| |
| − | PRO-37 TK-10420 IC-101 9 (TP103)
| |
| − | PRO-38 MC-3359P IC-1 10
| |
| − | PRO-39 MC-3361N IC-201 9
| |
| − | PRO-41 MC-3359P IC-1 10
| |
| − | PRO-42 MC-3361N IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-43 TK-10427/-10420 IC-301 9
| |
| − | PRO-44 MC-3361N IC-201 9
| |
| − | PRO-46 TK-10421M-3LT IC-401 11
| |
| − | PRO-49 MC3361BP IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-51 MC3361BD IC-1 9
| |
| − | PRO-60 TA31136FN IC-301 9
| |
| − | PRO-62 KA3361 IC-301 9 *
| |
| − | PRO-64 MC3361N IC-301 9
| |
| − | PRO-66 MC3361N IC-2 9 (TP3) *
| |
| − | PRO-71 MC3361BD IC-1 9
| |
| − | PRO-74 MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-79 KA3361CD/-ED IC-3 9
| |
| − | PRO-89 KA3361CD/-ED IC-4 9
| |
| − | PRO-90 MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-91 MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | PRO-92 KA3361BD/-CD IC-301 9
| |
| − | PRO-94 MC3361CDR2 IC-2 9
| |
| − | R-1600 NJM-3359D-A IC-2 10
| |
| − | R-4030 TK-10421M-2 IC-401 11
| |
| − | SR-15 TK-10421D-2 IC-1 9
| |
| − | StandardCCR708A TK-10420D Q602 9 *
| |
| − | TurboScan 2 3130-6056-502 U-201 10 or 16
| |
| − | WiNRADiO NFM MC-3372D U2 9 TP20
| |
| − | WiNRADiO AM/WFM TA-7640AP U5 9 TP29
| |
| − | WiNRADiO SSB LM324M U6 1
| |
| − | Yaesu FRG-9600 MC-3357P ? 9 *
| |
| − | =====================================================
| |
| − | * Not personally verified by me
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | TABLE 2
| |
| − | DISCRIM OUTPUT
| |
| − | CHIP PIN
| |
| − | ========= ======
| |
| − | KA3361 9
| |
| − | MC3357P 9
| |
| − | MC3359P 10
| |
| − | MC3361 9
| |
| − | MC3371 9
| |
| − | MC3372D 9
| |
| − | MPS5071 9
| |
| − | NJM3359DA 10
| |
| − | TA3116FN 9
| |
| − | TA7640AP 9
| |
| − | TA7761P 9
| |
| − | TA7787AF 9
| |
| − | TA7792F 8
| |
| − | TK10420 9
| |
| − | TK10421D 9
| |
| − | TK10421M 11
| |
| − | TK10427 9
| |
| − | TK10485M 11
| |
| − | TK10487 11
| |
| − | TK10489M 11
| |
| − | TK10930V 12
| |
| − | CXA1111N 21 AM/WFM Only
| |
| − | HA12413 9 WFM Only
| |
| − | KA2243N 9 WFM Only
| |
| − | KB4419A 6 WFM Only
| |
| − | | |
| − | Once you locate the discriminator in your scanner, you have
| |
| − | to make its output conveniently available on the exterior
| |
| − | chassis, much like a headphone or tape recorder jack.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Figure 1 below shows how to determine the pin numbering
| |
| − | system for most integrated circuits. Looking at the marking
| |
| − | side of the chip, there is either a notch or nook at one
| |
| − | end, and/or an embedded "dot" off to one side at one end.
| |
| − | The notch, nook, or dot signifies the end that starts with
| |
| − | Pin #1 and ends with whatever the highest numbered pin
| |
| − | happens to be. Most IC's have 8, 14, 16, or 18 pins.
| |
| − | | |
| − | FIGURE 1
| |
| − | TYPICAL NFM IC CHIP PINOUT
| |
| − | NFM DISCR
| |
| − | 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 10uF/16v Baseband
| |
| − | | | | | | | | |----+[|------> Audio Out
| |
| − | +------------------------+
| |
| − | | | /-------> Ground
| |
| − | | TOP VIEW | |
| |
| − | Notch \ LABEL | |
| |
| − | / Dot SIDE | ^
| |
| − | | O | Scanner
| |
| − | | | Ground
| |
| − | +------------------------+
| |
| − | | | | | | | | |
| |
| − | 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
| |
| − | | |
| − | NOTE: Figure 1 shows the baseband audio tap on Pin 9,
| |
| − | though the pin number will vary from one chip
| |
| − | to the next.
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | ==============================================================
| |
| − | 03: How do I connect to the Discriminator Output?
| |
| − | | |
| − | HOOKUP PROCEDURE
| |
| − | ================
| |
| − | | |
| − | If you need the raw NFM Discriminator baseband audio signal
| |
| − | for external purposes, the best way to access it is via a
| |
| − | jack installed in a convenient, unobtrusive location on the
| |
| − | scanner. Use Figure 1 as a general guide.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 1A BASE SCANNERS: Install an RCA or other jack in a desired
| |
| − | place on the scanner's external case, typically the rear
| |
| − | panel.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 1B HANDHELD SCANNERS: If you can find the space, use a
| |
| − | standard monaural 1/8" phone jack or a 3/32" mini phone
| |
| − | jack. Some scanners are so cramped inside that even
| |
| − | these won't fit. In that case a strip of 3 pinline
| |
| − | sockets can be melted into the plastic case and wires
| |
| − | soldered to the inside protrusions.
| |
| − | | |
| − | The middle pinline socket is not connected to anything;
| |
| − | it's just there as strength and support for the pinline
| |
| − | plug you make, with the shield ground soldered to one
| |
| − | end and the audio- center soldered to the other end:
| |
| − | | |
| − | GND---o o o---NFM DSCR (audio)
| |
| − | | |
| − | "Break-apart" pinline plugs/sockets are available from
| |
| − | Mouser, DigiKey, and Hosfelt.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Digi-Key: p/n A208-ND (800) 344-4539
| |
| − | Hosfelt: p/n 21-274 (800) 524-6464
| |
| − | Mouser: p/n 151-5520/5530 (800) 346-6873
| |
| − | | |
| − | These little puppies are good for a lot of hacker needs,
| |
| − | so get a supply!
| |
| − | | |
| − | 2. Connect the shell or outer frame part of the jack to
| |
| − | scanner chassis ground. (Use one end socket for pinline
| |
| − | connections)
| |
| − | | |
| − | 3. Connect the (+) leg of a 10-uF tantalum capacitor (Radio
| |
| − | Shack #272-1436) to the Discriminator output Pin. (Capacitor
| |
| − | should be tantalum, but can vary in value from 2.2-uF to
| |
| − | 10-uF at a voltage rating of 16-35 vdc.)
| |
| − | | |
| − | 4. Connect the center conductor of a shielded coax (RG-174,
| |
| − | etc) or shielded mic cable to the (-) leg of the
| |
| − | capacitor. NOTE: if the distance from the NFM tap to the
| |
| − | jack is less than 3", then a single unshielded hookup
| |
| − | wire will do fine.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 5. Connect the shield of the cable at this end to a nearby
| |
| − | PCB ground trace or spot.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 6. Connect the center conductor of the other end of this
| |
| − | cable (or single hookup wire) to the center or hot lug
| |
| − | of the jack.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 7. Connect the shield of the cable at that end to the
| |
| − | ground lug of the jack.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 8. Fabricate or buy a shielded patch cable with one end to
| |
| − | mate with the new jack on the rear of the scanner at
| |
| − | that end....and the other end to mate with whatever jack
| |
| − | is on the tape recorder, processor, decoder, or whatever
| |
| − | device is to be connected at the other end.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Now you are ready to connect a data decoder interface to the
| |
| − | baseband audio output jack. See Figure 1 above.
| |
| − | | |
| − | =================================================================
| |
| − | 04: How do I build or acquire a simple decoder interface circuit?
| |
| − | | |
| − | If you want to decode trunk control, MDT, some pager, fax and/or
| |
| − | other digital signals, you will need to build or buy a simple
| |
| − | 2-Level FSK Interface to go between the NFM Discriminator/
| |
| − | Baseband Audio of the scanner and a standard PC serial port.
| |
| − | | |
| − | See Question #5 for a more sophisticated 4-Level FSK Interface.
| |
| − | | |
| − | If you are not capable of building your own, or if you
| |
| − | don't have the time to mess with it, I can supply either
| |
| − | a Kit of all essential parts and detailed instructions,
| |
| − | and you build it yourself, OR I can supply an assembled/
| |
| − | tested Decoder Interface, built inside a DB-25 shell and
| |
| − | connector with a 3 ft shielded cable terminated with an
| |
| − | RCA plug. See Question #9 for details.
| |
| − | | |
| − | The DB-25 shell connects directly to a DB-25 comport on the
| |
| − | PC, or, if your comports are DB-9's, you can get a
| |
| − | DB25-to-DB9 adapter for it. You should, however, be able to
| |
| − | make your own following the below instructions.
| |
| − | | |
| − | This is a tried and true Data Interface circuit that's good
| |
| − | for everything we've tried, including a wide variety of
| |
| − | scanners. External power is not required. This circuit
| |
| − | draws its power from the comport. It is similar to the
| |
| − | "Hamcom" and "data slicer" interfaces, but is optimized for
| |
| − | more scanners and more applications.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 2-LEVEL DATA DECODER INTERFACE SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
| |
| − | Copyright (c) 1998 Bill Cheek <Revised 12/04/98>
| |
| − | | |
| − | Note 4 COM2
| |
| − | Computer
| |
| − | Serial Port
| |
| − | Scanner |<------circuit----------------->| DB25 DB9
| |
| − | ==== ===
| |
| − | Note o----o--|<--------o----->20 DTR 4
| |
| − | 5 Note 1 | | 1N4148 |
| |
| − | NFM 10-uF |\ | o--|<--------|--o--> 4 RTS 7
| |
| − | >-----+|[------o----|2 \ | | | |
| |
| − | DSCR | | \ o--+|[-->>> | | Note 9
| |
| − | 100k | |LM 7 \ 10-uF | |
| |
| − | >--o--/\/\/----o |741 6 >----------o---|--|--> 5 CTS 8
| |
| − | GND | | / | | |
| |
| − | o--/\/\/--o------|3 4/ Note 2 | | |
| |
| − | | 3.3k | | / | | | |
| |
| − | | Note 8 | |/ | Note 3 | | |
| |
| − | | o-----------|----/\/\/----o | |
| |
| − | | | 100k | |
| |
| − | | | | |
| |
| − | o---------------------|-----------------|--|--> 7 Gnd 5
| |
| − | | | | |
| |
| − | | o-------->|-------o | o-<2 TxD 3
| |
| − | | 10-uF | 1N4148 | |
| |
| − | o-------------+|[-----o-------->|----------o |
| |
| − | | |
| |
| − | | Circuit |
| |
| − | o--->>>Ground o--------------------------o
| |
| − | | |
| |
| − | - -|- - - - - - - - -|- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
| |
| − | | o-------------o
| |
| − | | |
| |
| − | | | Optional for TrunkFollower
| |
| − | | | Control of a second scanner
| |
| − | ^ ^ (See Note 10 and Q&A #8)
| |
| − | Gnd RxD
| |
| − | COM3
| |
| − | or other
| |
| − | port for Trunk
| |
| − | Follower control
| |
| − | | |
| − | LEGEND:
| |
| − | | |
| − | |
| |
| − | --o-- = soldered connection/junction
| |
| − | | |
| − | --o = turn of the trace in the drawing
| |
| − | |
| |
| − | | |
| − | --|-- = crossover (no connection)
| |
| − | +|[ = capacitor, polarized (note the +)
| |
| − | >| = diode (anode->|-cathode)
| |
| − | |< = diode (cathode-|<-anode)
| |
| − | -/\/\/- = resistor
| |
| − | -->>> = ground
| |
| − | | |
| − | NOTES:
| |
| − | 1. Use tantalum capacitors, +|[ polarity as shown
| |
| − | | |
| − | 2. Radio Shack's LM-741 op-amp works fine. Others might not!
| |
| − | | |
| − | 3. Use 1/4 or 1/8 watt resistors to conserve space
| |
| − | | |
| − | 4. Build circuit on a trimmed and fitted piece of perf
| |
| − | board inside a DB-25 shell for max efficiency and space
| |
| − | savings. DB-25 connects to PC's comport and a shielded
| |
| − | cable from the scanner goes to the input; shield is
| |
| − | ground and center is audio.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Hi-res laser printed Instruction Sets available with precise
| |
| − | schematics, drawings, perfboard layout, graphics, wiring,
| |
| − | and solder points. Inquire: bcheek@cts.com or see:
| |
| − | | |
| − | http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/bcheek/decode.htm
| |
| − | | |
| − | 5. Many handheld scanners have no space to install a phone
| |
| − | jack for the NFM Discriminator Output. For such tight
| |
| − | spaces a strip of 3 pinline sockets can be melted into
| |
| − | the plastic case and wires soldered to the inside
| |
| − | protrusions. The middle pinline socket is not connected
| |
| − | to anything; it's just there as strength and support
| |
| − | for the pinline plug you make, with the shield ground
| |
| − | soldered to one end and the audio-center soldered to
| |
| − | the other end:
| |
| − | | |
| − | GND---o o o---NFM DSCR (audio)
| |
| − | | |
| − | 6. For base scanners, install a female RCA jack on rear
| |
| − | panel.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 7. For handheld scanners where there is space, use a 3/32"
| |
| − | mini or a 1/8" standard monaural phone plug.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 8. 3.3k is an optimized value for most scanners. If the
| |
| − | baseband audio output measures less than 0.350-V AC, with a
| |
| − | voltmeter set to AC-volts at a 1v range, you should decrease
| |
| − | the 3.3k resistor to 2.2k, or even 1k if if the measurement
| |
| − | is under 0.250v AC.
| |
| − | | |
| − | I measured 0.150v AC out of the baseband audio tap in a
| |
| − | Sony ICF-SC1PC handheld scanner. The required resistor
| |
| − | from U1 Pin 3 to ground worked out to 1k.
| |
| − | | |
| − | The NFM baseband audio signal of most scanners should
| |
| − | show 0.400v AC or higher, in which case the 3.3k resistor
| |
| − | is just right.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 9. Connect the interface to a comport on the PC. Plug the
| |
| − | input cable in to the scanner's NFM Discriminator
| |
| − | Output Jack. Tune to a desired signal and run the
| |
| − | decoder software of your choice.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 10. If you are interested in using the "data decode"
| |
| − | scanner to control or "TrunkFollow" a second scanner,
| |
| − | then run a pair of wires off the Data Decoder Interface
| |
| − | from unused TxD (Pin 2) and Ground (Pin 7) out the back
| |
| − | of the circuit. This pair of wires will feed the RxD
| |
| − | and Ground pins of another COMport on the PC.
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | =================================================================
| |
| − | 05: How do I build or acquire a BETTER decoder interface?
| |
| − | | |
| − | First, understand that you may not need or want a "better"
| |
| − | decoder interface. The 2-Level Data Decoder Interface given
| |
| − | just above is ample for most everything except "FLEX" and
| |
| − | ReFLEX" pager signals. There may be other exceptions, but
| |
| − | they are few and far between. In most cases, the simpler
| |
| − | 2-Level FSK Data Decoder Interface will be all you need.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Secondly, understand that the more sophisticated 4-Level
| |
| − | FSK Data Decoder Interface cannot and does not replace the
| |
| − | simpler 2-Level version. If you want the 4-Level interface,
| |
| − | that's fine, but you'll need the 2-Level, too.
| |
| − | | |
| − | If you are not capable of building your own, or if you
| |
| − | don't have the time to mess with it, I can supply either
| |
| − | a Kit of all essential parts and detailed instructions,
| |
| − | and you build it yourself,
| |
| − | | |
| − | OR
| |
| − | | |
| − | I can supply an assembled/ tested 4-Level Data Decoder
| |
| − | Interface, built inside a project box with a DB-9 output
| |
| − | jack on one end and an RCA jack on the other end. You
| |
| − | will need to provide your own shielded cable terminated
| |
| − | with an RCA plug on one end to mate to the box and
| |
| − | whatever connector on the other end to connect to the NFM
| |
| − | Discriminator Baseband Audio Output on your scanner.
| |
| − | | |
| − | You will also need to provide a shielded straight-thru
| |
| − | 9-cond serial cable with a male DB9 plug on one end to
| |
| − | mate to the 4LFSKDDI box and whatever connector on the
| |
| − | other end to mate to the chosen PC serial port.
| |
| − | | |
| − | You may also have to provide your own +/- dual polarity
| |
| − | power supply. (Two 9v batteries can suffice.) See
| |
| − | Question #9 for more details.
| |
| − | | |
| − | I'm not sure yet how to present the 4-Level FSK Data Decoder
| |
| − | Interface circuit as a plain ASCII schematic like shown above
| |
| − | for the simpler 2LFSKDDI circuit. So for now, I have to refer
| |
| − | you to the Web Sites that support this circuit with graphics,
| |
| − | text, and/or software support. You should research these sites:
| |
| − | | |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Horizon/6063/
| |
| − | http://www.qsl.net/pa3eik/4lev_fsk.htm
| |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Launchpad/4039/
| |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Launchpad/4039/PINFO.HTM
| |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Launchpad/4039/IINFO.HTM
| |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Launchpad/4039/POCFLEX.ZIP
| |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/Lab/9339/
| |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Network/8916/4levelm.gif
| |
| − | | |
| − | I now have available a detailed Instruction Set on the
| |
| − | 4LFSKDDI for those who find the above sites a little too
| |
| − | technical to handle. I can also provide Kits of essential
| |
| − | parts, less enclosure and power supply. See Q&A #9.
| |
| − | | |
| − | ==================================================================
| |
| − | 06: So how do I decode digital data from the airwaves?
| |
| − | | |
| − | First, you tap the Discriminator Output in your scanner.
| |
| − | Then build the desired Data Decoder Interface and connect
| |
| − | it to the Discriminator Output. Then connect the other
| |
| − | side of the Decoder Interface to a com/serial port on your
| |
| − | PC. Lastly, run the software that decodes the particular
| |
| − | type of signal that you want to decode.
| |
| − | | |
| − | In general, it takes different software for different
| |
| − | kinds of signals, and I can't possibly cover them all
| |
| − | here. I will suggest that you start out with a free
| |
| − | program called TRUNKER that decodes the control data of
| |
| − | Motorola trunking systems. This is one of the easiest
| |
| − | to set up and get working; therefore, it makes a good
| |
| − | test "platform" to prove up all your work before you
| |
| − | venture into bigger and better things. Motorola trunk
| |
| − | systems are fairly common now.
| |
| − | | |
| − | TRUNKER and a good set of documentation and limited
| |
| − | support for it can be found at the following Web Sites:
| |
| − | | |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Lab/1060/beta.htm
| |
| − | | |
| − | or
| |
| − | | |
| − | http://web2.airmail.net/lblant1/dfw/digital.htm
| |
| − | | |
| − | Apparently it is possible to decode certain kinds of data
| |
| − | from the airwaves without a decoder interface - just
| |
| − | software! For info on decoding MDT signals with nothing
| |
| − | more than a Windows PC and a sound card, check out:
| |
| − | | |
| − | http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/Facility/7646/
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | =============================================================
| |
| − | 07: How can I decode CTCSS, DPL, and DTMF from the airwaves?
| |
| − | | |
| − | That is strictly up to specialized hardware and/or
| |
| − | software that kind of goes beyond the scope of this FAQ.
| |
| − | Lots of software is out and about that will do it, and
| |
| − | there are even possibilities for "roll your own"
| |
| − | hardware decoders.
| |
| − | | |
| − | But the first thing you'll need is the "baseband audio"
| |
| − | output that is described in Questions/Answers #1-3
| |
| − | above. The Data Decoder Interface described in Q/A #4 is
| |
| − | good ONLY for trunking and pager types of data; not
| |
| − | CTCSS, DPL, and DTMF, unfortunately.
| |
| − | | |
| − | In fact, it takes specialized hardware and/or software
| |
| − | to decode each of CTCSS, DPL, and DTMF; and each is as
| |
| − | different as night and day.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Some scanners come equipped for CTCSS decoding, but most
| |
| − | do not. And none come equipped for DPL or DTMF that I
| |
| − | know of.
| |
| − | | |
| − | For more information about retrofitting CTCSS and DPL
| |
| − | decoders to your scanner, contact:
| |
| − | | |
| − | Communications Specialists, Inc.
| |
| − | 426 West Taft Avenue
| |
| − | Orange, CA 92865-4296
| |
| − | (800) 854-0547 Fax (800) 850-0547
| |
| − | (714) 998-3021 Fax (714) 974-3420
| |
| − | WEB: http://www.com-spec.com/
| |
| − | | |
| − | For a low-cost "roll-your-own" DTMF Decoder (hardware)
| |
| − | there is a nice project done up in great detail in one
| |
| − | of the back issues of the monthly WORLD SCANNER REPORT
| |
| − | newsletter, V3N10. Backissues are always available at a
| |
| − | nominal cost. See:
| |
| − | | |
| − | ftp://ftp.cts.com/pub/bcheek/products/prodinfo.zip
| |
| − | | |
| − | There are other hardware and software solutions for
| |
| − | decoding DTMF that I may include here later as I get the
| |
| − | information verified and added.
| |
| − | | |
| − | The WiNRADiO Digital Suite is awesomely capable of
| |
| − | decoding CTCSS and DTMF. See: http://www.winradio.com
| |
| − | | |
| − | For scanners in general, though, it all starts with a
| |
| − | tap to the "baseband audio" point, so read over Q&A 1-3
| |
| − | above for the details.
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | =============================================================
| |
| − | 08: Is it possible to "TrunkTrack" without a TrunkTracker?
| |
| − | | |
| − | It didn't used to be, but times change and YES! It is
| |
| − | now possible to track the trunks without a 'real'
| |
| − | TrunkTracker Scanner, and better, for that matter!!!
| |
| − | | |
| − | Like the other subjects in this FAQ, it all begins with
| |
| − | a Data Decoder Interface. See Q&A #4 and Note 10 in that
| |
| − | answer for the tiny extra addition you need to make to
| |
| − | the Decoder Interface.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Next, you need a PRO-2004, PRO-2005, or PRO-2006
| |
| − | scanner, although we hope to add other scanners to the
| |
| − | list in due time. For now, it's one of those three.
| |
| − | | |
| − | NOTE: It is possible to track the trunks with a
| |
| − | AR-8000 and perhaps with one of the Opto
| |
| − | Interfaces, but these are specialized situations
| |
| − | where detailed info must be found elsewhere.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Then you need a CE-232 Scanner/Computer Interface (or
| |
| − | its predecessor, the HB-232). You will also need the
| |
| − | hot, new Windows program for the CE/HB-232 called
| |
| − | Pro-Turbo.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Lastly, you need one fairly modern computer, Pentium 133
| |
| − | or better, for the easiest way to track the trunks, but
| |
| − | there is another way almost as easy, if you have two
| |
| − | computers, one a 486DX2/66 or better and the other, a
| |
| − | PC-386 or better.
| |
| − | | |
| − | There are other requirements, too, but the above are the
| |
| − | main ones. It is beyond the scope of this FAQ to spell
| |
| − | out all the details, but the V8N9 issue of the monthly
| |
| − | World Scanner Report tells it all. You can order this
| |
| − | or any other back issue of the World Scanner Report
| |
| − | since Jan-91, including 6-mo and 1-yr subscriptions.
| |
| − | | |
| − | You can also download a more detailed text file on
| |
| − | TrunkFollowing with the PRO-2004/5/6 from my FTP site at:
| |
| − | | |
| − | ftp://ftp.cts.com/pub/bcheek/ce-232/trnkscan.txt
| |
| − | | |
| − | For more information on the Pro-Turbo software for the
| |
| − | HB/CE-232, contact:
| |
| − | | |
| − | Paul E. Turton
| |
| − | RR # 3; Wainfleet, Ontario Canada L0S 1V0
| |
| − | E-mail: pturton@iaw.on.ca or jabba@iaw.on.ca
| |
| − | Web: http://www.iaw.on.ca/~jabba/pro-turbo.htm
| |
| − | | |
| − | For more information on the CE-232 Interface, you can
| |
| − | download a file called PRODINFO.ZIP from:
| |
| − | | |
| − | ftp://ftp.cts.com/pub/bcheek/products
| |
| − | | |
| − | or you can view and download all the individual files
| |
| − | from the \CE-232 directory. Or, you can ask for it as
| |
| − | an e-mail file attachment from: bcheek@cts.com
| |
| − | | |
| − | or see the information in my signature box below.
| |
| − | | |
| − | But yes, it is now possible to track the trunks without
| |
| − | a TrunkTracker scanner, and do it better than any of the
| |
| − | "real" TrunkTracker scanners! The cost can be a lot
| |
| − | less than the cost of a real TrunkTracker, too. The cost
| |
| − | largely depends on what you already have, or can
| |
| − | scrounge up, but at worst, it's well within the budget
| |
| − | of many scannists.
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | ================================================================
| |
| − | 09: What if I don't want to build my own Data Decoder Interface?
| |
| − | | |
| − | See further below if you are intested in a 4-Level Data
| |
| − | Decoder Interface. First is info on the 2LFSKDDI:
| |
| − | | |
| − | 2LFSKDDI
| |
| − | ========
| |
| − | | |
| − | There isn't much of a technical obstacle to "rolling your
| |
| − | own 2-Level Data Decoder Interface, but if lack of time,
| |
| − | tools, or access to the parts is an obstacle, then you can
| |
| − | acquire one in either of two ways:
| |
| − | | |
| − | NOTE: We can supply the 2LFSKDDI detailed Instruction Set
| |
| − | alone for $5, ppd, USA and $7, ppd, foreign.
| |
| − | | |
| − | 1. Kit of essential parts (you build it): $15 + $8 S&H
| |
| − | | |
| − | Includes:
| |
| − | 3 ea Capacitor; tantalum; 10-uF/16v:
| |
| − | 1 ea D-sub Plastic Hood/shell; DB25
| |
| − | 1 ea DB25 connector; female; solder pin
| |
| − | 2 ea Resistor; 100-k; 1/4-watt
| |
| − | 1 ea Resistor; 3.3-k; 1/4-watt
| |
| − | 4 ea Diode; silicon; 1N4148
| |
| − | 1 ea Op-amp; LM741CN; 8-pin DIP
| |
| − | 1 ea Perfboard; pre-cut, notched, trimmed to size
| |
| − | 1 ea Shielded cable; 3-ft; w/RCA plug
| |
| − | 1 ea Detailed printed instruction set, complete with
| |
| − | graphics, photos, tables, and "what if's"...
| |
| − | 1 ea 3.5" floppy disk w/shareware & freeware decoder
| |
| − | programs and utilities.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Optional upgrade or add-on items:
| |
| − | | |
| − | * A. Shielded cable; 6-ft; w/RCA plug + $2.00
| |
| − | * B. Shielded cable; 12-ft; w/RCA plug + $4.00
| |
| − | C. Port Adapter; DB25 male-to-DB9 female + $7.50
| |
| − | (adapts 25-pin Interface to 9-pin comport)
| |
| − | | |
| − | * Instead of the standard 3-ft cable w/RCA plug
| |
| − | | |
| − | -=OR=-
| |
| − | | |
| − | 2. Assembled/tested 2-L Decoder Interface $40 + $8 S&H
| |
| − | | |
| − | Includes:
| |
| − | 1 ea Data Decoder Interface built into a DB25 shell
| |
| − | with standard 3-ft shielded cable w/RCA plug.
| |
| − | 1 ea Detailed printed instruction set, complete with
| |
| − | graphics, photos, tables, and "what if's"...
| |
| − | 1 ea 3.5" floppy disk w/shareware & freeware decoder
| |
| − | programs and utilities.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Optional upgrade or add-on items:
| |
| − | | |
| − | A. Built with 6-ft shielded cable and RCA plug + $2.00
| |
| − | B. Built with 12-ft shielded cable and RCA plug + $4.00
| |
| − | C. Port Adapter; DB25 male-to-DB9 female + $7.50
| |
| − | (adapts 25-pin Interface to 9-pin comport)
| |
| − | D. Custom enhancements/designs per your specs +$10/up
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | 4LFSKDDI
| |
| − | ========
| |
| − | | |
| − | CAVEAT: It may be illegal to decode certain 4LFSK signals.
| |
| − | You must determine that for your self and cease
| |
| − | interest in the subject if not legal in your area.
| |
| − | | |
| − | If you are intested in a 4-Level FSK Data Decoder Interface
| |
| − | we have a detailed Instruction Set ready to go, as well as a
| |
| − | Kit of Essential parts, less enclosure and power supply.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Assembled and Tested units are not ready yet, but.....I may
| |
| − | have available some built/tested prototype units that have
| |
| − | been proved fit for consumption.
| |
| − | | |
| − | One or more of the following may be available:
| |
| − | | |
| − | 1. Instruction Set Only - you build from it.
| |
| − | 8-pages of hi-res laser printed text, charts,
| |
| − | photos, drawings, and detailed, hand-holding
| |
| − | guidance: Price: $5, ppd, USA; $7, ppd, foreign
| |
| − | | |
| − | 2. Kit of Essential Parts, plus detailed Instruction Set
| |
| − | from (1) above, less enclosure and power supply. See my
| |
| − | 4LFSK.FAQ file for details, or the following web site:
| |
| − | | |
| − | http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/bcheek/4lfsk.txt
| |
| − | | |
| − | Price: $20 + $8 S&H, USA; $20 + $15 S&H foreign
| |
| − | | |
| − | 3. Kit of Essential Parts, incl power supply. Price: TBA
| |
| − | 4. Assem/Tested 4LFSKDDI, no power supply: Proto: $125 + $8S&H
| |
| − | 5. Assembled/Tested 4LFSKDDI, incl power supply. Price: TBA
| |
| − | | |
| − | | |
| − | TO ORDER: Use e-mail, fax, or postal mail per the
| |
| − | information in my signature box below. MC/VISA or
| |
| − | M.O. preferred. Personal and company checks okay,
| |
| − | but shipment delayed until bank clearance. No
| |
| − | COD's and no shipments to PO Boxes or mail drops.
| |
| − | Alaska, Hawaii and foreign shipping extra.
| |
| − | | |
| − | TERMS: All sales are final; no returns-no refunds. 30-day
| |
| − | Performance Warranty on the Assembled/ Tested
| |
| − | Decoder Interface is strictly limited to Motorola
| |
| − | SmartNet trunked data signals using TRUNKER.EXE
| |
| − | despite that it will work on many other kinds of
| |
| − | data, too. We just can't support it all. Repair
| |
| − | or replacement at our option during that 30-day
| |
| − | period. No warranty on Kits.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Not responsible/liable for illegal use of this
| |
| − | information and/or these products; nor for any
| |
| − | consequences thereof. You must determine
| |
| − | lawfulness of these products for your applications
| |
| − | and region and not use them, if illegal.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Use of this information and/or these products is
| |
| − | 100% exclusively at your own risk.
| |
| − | | |
| − | You must determine suitability and fitness of
| |
| − | purpose of these products to your needs. I will
| |
| − | not accept responsibility or liability for any
| |
| − | damage or loss that results from use of these
| |
| − | products, nor for damage or loss that results from
| |
| − | connecting these devices to a scanner and/or a
| |
| − | computer.
| |
| − | | |
| − | You must determine all risks and accept all
| |
| − | consequences of any damage to hardware and/or data
| |
| − | stored in the computer.
| |
| | | | |
| | + | === Conclusion === |
| | + | <pre> |
| | ============================================================ | | ============================================================ |
| | That's it for now. I will keep this FAQ updated. If you | | That's it for now. I will keep this FAQ updated. If you |
| Line 905: |
Line 94: |
| | ========================END OF FILE=========================== | | ========================END OF FILE=========================== |
| | </pre> | | </pre> |
| | + | |
| | + | [[Category:Modifications]] |