PK-88 OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
2 - 1
PK-88 - 17
CHAPTER 2 – INSTALLATION
2.1
Preliminary Information
This section contains instructions for a 'generic' installation and system checkout to install
and verify the PK-88's operation with both VHF-FM and HF SSB radios.
2.1.1
Equipment Required
A complete PK-88 Packet Controller system consists of the PK-88 and a 12 to 16-volt DC
power supply, a computer, a terminal emulator or communication program for the com-
puter, a radio transceiver or receiver-transmitter combination and its power supply.
Your PK-88 Packet Controller is furnished with the cables required for connection to your
radio and to an external power supply. You must add the microphone connector required
by your radio, the power supply and the RS-232 cable that connects the PK-88 to your
computer.
RAM battery backup is provided by two internal AA batteries. (user supplied and installed)
2.1.2
Precautions
We strongly recommend that all RS-232 cables and connectors be made with the best
commercial quality shielded materials, and that careful and correct grounding and bond-
ing procedures be observed in the installation of the radio equipment being used with the
PK-88.
2.2
Installation
The following sections describe the connectors and their connections to your computer and
your radio.
2.2.1
Power Connections
Power is connected to the PK-88's rear-panel coaxial power receptacle from any well regu-
lated 12-volt DC power supply (12 to 16 VDC) capable of supplying at least 600 milliam-
peres. An optional wall adapter power supply can be used.
o
Be sure your power supply can furnish the required current with a ripple voltage of
less than one volt peak to peak.
o
Be sure you connect the positive voltage to the center pin of the coaxial power
plug.
o
Check the supplied cord to determine which lead is positive.
If you accidentally invert the power cable, an internal fuse will open to protect the PK-88
from reverse-voltage damage. Note that the 0.1 µF bypass capacitor C1 may be damaged.
If polarity reversal does occur, open the PK-88, replace the internal fuse and capacitor C1
with identical components.