Pioneer FM1200 - Manual (Page 11)

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Appendix E. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below is a list of questions we have been asked
over and over again, together with the standard
answers supplied.
1. My converted FM1200 does not generate
tones, how come?
Step through the Status Menu (
H -5). If you see:
'Tone CPU not active', you have either made an
error in mounting the tone system PROM (32-pin
PLCC 27C256R), or the wire link next to the tone
CPU is not set to the 'ground' position. Check
your solder work carefully using a continuity
tester.
2. Is it possible to omit the tone PROM, it
seems such a hassle to mount!
Sure, but you will be unable to use any of the
functions that require tone processing (DTMF,
CTCSS, 5-tone calling, 1750 Hz, etc.).
3. Can I use the FM1200 70cms for 9k6 packet
radio?
We are not packet radio users but we're told that
9k6 is not possible because the varicap-based
automatic RF tracking system inside the FM1200
will faithfully counteract any frequency change
beyond normal deviation caused by modulation
signals. 1k2 packet radio is possible without
problems using a modem hooked up to the
microphone connector.
4. Other stations tell me my deviation is too
low, how can I adjust it?
They are probably listening in 25 kHz bandwidth.
If yours is an 'S' FM1200, (examine the type
number) then you can rely on it that the peak
deviation has been accurately set to
±
2.5 kHz by
the factory, as required for 12.5 kHz channel
spacing. Similarly the 'R' radio will produce
±
4.0
kHz peak deviation, and may in rare cases
require some reduction if used on 12.5 kHz
spaced nets. Open up the microphone and check
electret microphone front is clean and element is
properly seated in its holder.
5. Does your conversion defeat the Philips
PDP and CDP programming tools?
Yes. Having converted the radio it will no longer
recognize the PDP or CDP.
6. Is your firmware and displayware suitable
for 4-metre (E0-band) FM1000's?
No, it is not. The E0 band version of the
FM1100/1200 radio is extremely rare in the
Netherlands. An update may be developed in the
future.
7. Is your firmware and displayware suitable
for FM1000's with a 'basic' or 'standard'
console?
No, it is not. The text and graphics used by the
conversion exceeds the capacity of the 'standard'
head, which only allows a number of fixed
symbols to be used and does not have a numeric
keypad. The 'basic' console does not even have a
display so its use is out of the question. We
suggest upgrading the radio by getting your
hands on a numeric keypad head.
8. Where can I obtain the complete
documentation of these wonderful radios?
A documentation package is available, consisting
of (1) FM1100 Service manual, (2) Numeric
Keypad Manual and (3) FM1200/1300 Service
Supplement. The lot weights approx 1 kg. Price
Euro 20 incl. P&P. Please contact Jan, PE1CSI
on email [email protected].
9. On my radio, the display test does not work
to start with. I'm getting solid black blocks
only.
This problem may be caused by a faulty or
incorrectly fitted display EPROM, or LK4 (A15
jumper) in the display console being set to the
wrong position. If the display EPROM is an
27C128 or 27C256, the centre pad of LK4 should
be connected to +5V (left-hand position). If a
27C512 is used, LK4 should be connected to A15
(default position, right-hand).
10. I have just acquired an FM1000 radio at a
local rally. Can I use it with your conversion?
This is the most annoying question we get. There
is no such thing as an 'FM1000'. The designation
FM1000 refers to a family of more than 50
different transceivers rather than an individual
type. First do your homework by analysing the
type code printed on the label at the rear of the
radio. Use Appendix B for reference.
11. I have available a boxful of FM1000 parts
and other Philips PMR bits, what should I do
with it?
Contact Jan Buiting, PE1CSI, proprietor of the
Philips Mobile Radio Collection, on email
[email protected]. Jan will give you a Freepost
address so you can turn your surplus into a
donation to the Collection and pay no postage.
12. Is your firmware and displayware suitable
for VHF or UHF FM1100's?
Not completely. Watch for postings in the
[FM1000] Newsgroup, or [uk.amateur.radio].