MFJ ENTERPRISES, INC.
Model MFJ-1278
Multi-Mode Data Controller
Revision
SYSTEM MANUAL
Third Edition
9
1990
(c) Copyright 1990,
*****+*
This MFJ-1278 System Instruction Manual (Third Edition) is
for
If you have the MFJ-1278 with Revision
board and your MFJ-1278 has not been
aware that some features and information mentioned in
Instruction Manual may not apply to your MFJ-1278.
Pre-revision
Inc.
installable on certain board revisions.
MFJ-1278 with Revision 9 and later mother board.
for
upgrade information. Some new features may not be
Important Notice: Please Read
9
MFJ-1278 owners may contact MFJ Enterprises,
MFJ
Enterprises, Inc.
8
or
upgraded,
earlier mother
**+***
please be
this
TNC
2 SOFTWARE SOURCE
Copyright
Systek
CODE
(c)
and
1985
TNC
FIRMWARE
MFJ-1278 SOFTWARE SOURCE
Copyright
MFJ
Enterprises, Inc.
All
rights reserved.
or
Reproduction
translation
that permitted by Sections
States Copyright
express permission
Act
(or
of
the copyright owner
as noted below. Requests
of
107
its
for
further information should be addressed to
Inc.
The
carefully checked and
However,
MFJ
any product
P.
0.
Sox
494,
Yississippi State,
information contained in this document has been
is
believed to be entirely reliable.
no
responsibility
Enterprises,
Inc.
to
improve reliability, function
reserves the right to make changes to
without obligation to purchasers
MFJ
Enterprises, Inc. does not assume any liability arising
out of the application
or
use of any product
described herein; neither does
its
patent rights to others.
CODE
(c)
and FIRMWARE
1989
any part of this work beyond
or
108
of
the 1976 United
legal successor) without the
is
unlawful except
permission to copy
MFJ
Enterprises,
39762,
USA.
inaccuracies.
is
assumed
MIS
for
or
of
previous equipment.
or
it
convey any license under
or
for
design
circuit
TABLE
OF
CONTENTS
CHAPTER
Introduction
Acknowledgments
MFJ
Terminal Software Starter Packs
Serial Port Signals
Computer with Specific Serial Interfaces
Apple Macintosh
Commodore C64/Cl28
IBY PCjr
Radio Shack Color Computer
Radio Shack Model
IBM
PC/XT/AT and compatibles & other with RS-232C Port2-6
Other Computers with Nonstandard Serial Ports
Software Requirements Requirements
Apple Macintosh
Apple 11.
Commodore C64. C128
IBM PCjr
IBM PC/XT/AT & Compatibles
Radio Shack
Radio Shack Model
MFJ-1278 Serial Port Pin Functions
Computer Baud Rate
Autobaud
Changing Terminal Baud Rate
Verifying Serial Port Operation
Parallel Printer Port
Printer Port Connection
Printer Consideration
Printer Port Test
...........................................
........................................
CHAPTER 2 COMPUTER INTERFACING
....................................
.....................................
............................................
.....................................
II+.
IIe.
...........................................
Color
.....................................
............................................
I
INTRODUCTION
....................
...............
or
VIC-20
.........................
..........................
100
and NEC
8201
..................
.....................
IIc
..............................
or
VIC-20
.......................
.........................
Computer
100
and NEC
.........................
8201
..................
....................
by
SET
Menu
........................
.................................
............................
..............................
..................................
.......
2-10
2-10
2-10
2-10
2-11
2-12
2-12
.............
2-12
2-13
2-14
2-14
2-15
2-16
1-1
1-2
2-1
2-2
2-4
2-4
2-4
2-5
2-6
2-6
2-7
2-8
2-8
2-9
2-9
CHAPTER 3 RADIO INTERFACING
MFJ-1278 Radio Ports
Radio Ports Connection
Handheld Radio Connection
...................................
.................................
..............................
3-1
3-2
3-3
.
.
Radio Interfacing Methods
Method
Transmit Audio Level Adjustment (17
Setting the Receiver Audio Input Level
Method
Transmit Audio Level Adjustment
Receiver Audio Setting
Harmonics Interference
Monitor Speaker Connection
CW
Installation
DC
Key Paddle Connection
1:
Direct Connection to Micro hone and Speaker
2:
Accessory Jack
.......................................
Keying Connection
..............................
or
Interface
.............................
................................
............................
................................
...............................
(11)
..
................
.............
Box
Connection
..
................
3-10
3-11
3-11
3-12
3-12
3-12
3-4
3.4
3-5
3-6
3.7
3-9
CHAPTER 4 BASIC
First Steps
Basic Parameters Setup
Serial Port Configuration
Parity and Word Length
Ethos
New Lines and Line Wrapping
The MFJ-1278 Multi-Mode Modem
Operation Mode
Verifying Operation Status
Mode Switching with the MODE Command
Radio Port Switching
Memory Buffers
Loading Memory Buffers
Memory Buffers Transmitting
Buffer Serial Number
Memory Repeat & Buffer Repeat Time
Chaining the Memory Buffers
Tuning Indicator
Operation: Packet
Basic VHF Packet
A
Digipeating
Unsuccessful Connections
Monitoring Channel Activity
Your First Packet
Special Input Characters
Basic
HF Packet Operation Hints
Operation:
Receiving CW
Transmitting CW
Transmitting from Memory Buffers
CW Weighting
............................................
...............................................
.........................................
.........................................
......................................
.....................................
...................................
Connecting and Disconnecting Exercise
.....................................
Starting the
Digipeating
Monitoring on the Air
HF
Packet
CW
.........................................
QSO
..................................
....................................
.......................................
....................................
....................................
OPERATION:
..............................
..............................
..............................
.........................
..........................
..........................
................................
..............................
.........................
................................
......................
........................
QSO
...........................
.............................
........................
........................
.......................
ALL
MODES
................
..................
.........
.....................
................
4-1
4-2
4-2
4-3
4-3
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-6
4-6
4-8
4-8
4-8
4-8
4-9
4-9
4-10
4-10
4-12
4-12
4-12
4-14
4-15
4-16
4-17
4-18
4-19
4-19
4-20
4-23
4-24
4-25
4-27
4-28
4-29
4-29
iv
Radio Tune
Random Code Generator
Setting Up
Operation: CW Contest Memory Keyer
Sending CW with External Key Paddle
Operation: Modulated CW
Operation: Baudot
Setting
RTTY & ASCII Receiving
RTTY & ASCII Transmitting
Operation: AMTOH
Mode A "ARQ"
Mode A 'IARQ" setup
Mode A "ARQ" Operating
Mode A IrARQ1' Monitoring
Mode B "FEC"
Setup
Operating Mode
Mode S "SELCALL'I
AVTOR Status LED Indicators
Operation: Navtex
Navtex Stations and Frequencies
Navtes Operation
Operation: FAX
FAX Formats
FAX Frequency
FAX Operation Installation
FAX Printer Connection
Receiving FAX
FAX Printing to Printer
Display FAX on Computer Screen & Save to Disk
Two Levels FAX Pictures Format
Multi-level FAX Pictures Format
Terminating FAX Printing
Transmitting FAX
Two Levels FAX Transmitting
Multi-level FAX Transmitting
Creating FAX Pictures
Operation: SSTV
SSTV Formats
SSTV Installation
Printing Connection
Receiving
SSTV Printing to Printer
SSTV Printing to the Screen
Saving
Terminating SSTV Printing
Transmitting
Creating SSTV Pictures
.........................................
..............................
for
Code Practice
...............................
Up
for
ASCII and RTTY Operation
ASCII
........................
RTTY
&
.............................
..........................
......................................
.......................................
..............................
..........................
.........................
.......................................
for
Mode
B
................................
B
................................
...................................
........................
.....................................
...................................
........................................
.........................................
......................................
.........................
.............................
......................................
.........................
...................................
for
Transmitting
.......................................
.......................................
..................................
.............................
SSTV
Pictures
............................
........................
SSTV
Pictures
............................
.......................
SSTV
Pictures
.........................
.............................
....................
....................
................
............
....................
...............
..............
.....................
.....................
....................
.............
.....................
...
4-30
4-30
4-31
4-33
4-35
4-34
4-35
4-35
4-36
4-36
4-38
4-38
4-39
4-39
4-40
4-40
4-40
4-40
4-41
4-41
4-43
4-43
4-44
4-46
4-47
4-48
4-49
4-49
4-49
4-50
4-51
4-52
4-53
4-54
4-54
4-54
4-55
4-57
4-58
4-59
4-59
4-59
4-60
4-60
4-63
4-64
4-64
4-64
4-66
V
CHAPTER
5
ADVANCED
OPERATION : PACKET
Packet Special Characters
Packet Operating Modes
Command Mode
Entering Data-Transfer Nodes
Converse Mode
Transparent
Flow Control
XON/XOFF Flow Control
Hardware Flow Control
Type-in Flow Control
Detail
Detail HF Packet Operation
MFJ-1278 Host Mode
KISS
VHF Packet Operation
Station Identification
Automatic Operations
Unattended Operations
Packet Formatting
Commands Affecting Protocol
Packet Timing Functions
'Transmit Timing
Packet Timing
Radio Baud Rate
Special Protocol Times
Monitor Functions
Real-Time Clock and Time Stamping
Multi-Connect Guide
Setting the MFJ-1278
How
to
Easy-mail Mailbox
Setting Up
Mailbox Operation
Mailbox
Slotting and Acknowledgment Priority
Description
New
Parameters
Other Related Parameters
Initial
What to Expect
Packet Picture Transfer
Receiving Packet Picture on Printer
Using PKTPIX
Packet Pictures Transfer to the Computer Screen
Radio Setup
Operating
Interface for TCP/IP
........................................
.......................................
Mode
....................................
...........................................
..................................
...................................
..................................
Invoke Multi-Connect
Your
Messages
Easy-mail Mailbox
.....................................
..................................
Parameter
..................................
..................................
for
HF Packet
HF
Packet
&
TNC-2
.............................
.................................
........................
...............................
...............................
................................
...........................
.............................
...............................
..............................
........................
............................
.................................
.................................
..........................
................................
to
Normal Operation
.................................
...............................
................................
........................
Setting Summary
...........................
............................
..........................
................................
Mode
.......................
.............................
..................
........
.....................
...............
...............
...............
............
..
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-5
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-9
5-10
5-10
5-11
5-12
5-12
5-13
5-13
5-13
5-14
5-15
5-17
5-17
5-18
5-19
5-19
5-19
5-21
5-21
5-23
5-26
5-27
5-27
5-29
5-32
5-33
5-34
5-36
5-36
5-35
5-36
5-38
5-38
5-42
5-49
5-50
vi
CHAPTER 6 OPERATION COMMANDS
Entering Commands
Command Explanation
Command
Default
Commands
Packet Messages
Mailbox Messages
Command Mode
Link Status Messages
1278 Specifications
General Description
Detailed Circuit Description
Oscillator
Dividers
CPU
Serial Interface
Watch-dog
Modem
Power Supply
RS-232C Handshaking Protocol
Jumper Functions
Parallel Printer Port Pin Function . 512
External
Multi-Level Interface Connector
External Modem Interface Connector
Modem Disconnect . 54
HF
Tuning Indicator
List
Command Name
Parameters
............................................
and Baud-rate Generator
Complex
Timer
...............................................
1/0
Interface Port Pin Function
......................................
....................................
........................................
.....................................
..........................................
.......................................
CHAPTER 7 MESSAGES
........................................
....................................
Error
Messages
.........................
................................
CHAPTER 8 HARDWARE
....................................
....................................
...........................
..........................................
....................
.........................................
....................................
.....................................
........................................
...........................
.......................................
.
513
.................
.
514
.................................
...................................
..............
.
CNI
........
..............
6-1
6-2
6-2
6-2
6-2
6-2
6-5
7-1
7-2
7-3
7-5
8-1
8-2
8-3
8-3
8-3
8-4
8-4
8-5
8-6
8-6
8-7
8-8
8-10
8-10
8-11
8-11
8-12
8-15
CHAPTER 9 TROUBLESHOOTING
General
Step
Step 2: Obvious Problems
Step
Step
Specific Symptoms
Tests
1:
3:
4:
..........................................
Power Supply
Assembly Problems
Cabling Problems
......................................
...............................
...........................
..........................
...........................
vi
i
9-1
9-1
9-2
9-2
9-2
9-2
Symptom: MFJ-1278 appears dead
Oscillator and Reset Circuits
Digital Logic Lines
Symptom: Modem won't calibrate or key transmitter
Symptom: Uncopyable transmitted or received packet
Terminal Interface Troubleshooting
Symptom: MFJ-1278 won't sign on to the terminal
Symptom: MFJ-1278 appears to be signing
Symptom: MFJ-1278 signs on but won't accept commands
Symptom: MFJ-1278 appears
..............................
to
.....................
....................
.....................
on
but
have
"lock-up"
........
..
.
....
.....
9-3
9-3
9-3
9-4
9-4
9-5
9-5
9-6
9-6
9-6
CHAPTER
Explanation of Protocol
Physical Layer
Data Link Layer
HDLC Frames
AX.25 Level Two
Channel Use and Timing Functions
Channel Flow Control
Appendix
Appendix
Appendix C
Appendix D
Appendix
Appendix
Appendix
Appendix
...........................................
A
.
Hookup for Specific Radios
B
.
Modulator and Demodulator Calibration
.
Audio Output Adjustment
.
HF Radio Alignment
E
.
Converting to "Like-TNC
F
.
2400
G
.
Jumper Functions and Location
.
Command Summary
H
10
PACKET RADIO PROTOCOL
...............................
.....................................
....................................
.......................................
..................................
APPENDIXES
.....................
Packet Operation
........................
......................
.............
...
................
2"
.............
..................
..........
10-1
10-2
10-2
10-2
10-3
10-6
10-8
APX-1
APX-2
APX-17
APX-19
APX-21
APX-23
APX-25
APX-28
viii
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig .
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
Fig
.
2.1
2.2A
2.2
2.3
3.1
3.2
3-
3-
3.5
3.6
3.7
E.1
E.2
(3.1
FIGURES
.
Serial port
.
TTL
port wiring
.
Serial port wiring for Radio Shack Color
Computers
Serial port wiring with jumpers
.
auxiliary signals
Radio Ports
.
.
Radio Port
HT
3
4
.
.
.
.
.
.
Special Keying Circuit
JMP L and
Method One Interconnect
Accessory Jack Interface
External Interface Box
Header U27
Header U28
Jumper Connector Location
wiring
for
Apple Macintosh
for
Vic.20. C64 and C128
...............................
.......................
1
and Radio Port 2 Connector
Cable
with Connector
...................
JMP
K
Location
....................
.....................
....................
......................
...............................
...............................
................
TABLES
......
....
for
....
.............
APX-21
APX-22
APX-27
2-4
2-5
2-6
2-7
3-1
3-2
3-3
3-3
3-4
3-7
3-8
Table 2.1
Table 2.2
Table 2.3
Table
Table 2.5
Table
Table 4.2
Table
Table
Table
Table 4.6
Table
Table
Table 4.9
Table 10.1
Table
2.4
4.1
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.7
4.8
A.1
Serial port signals required
.
.
Computers
instructions
.
MacTerm
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
MFJ-1278
RS-232C Pin Designations
Parallel Printer Port Pin Functions
Modem and Operation Modes
Tones & Shifts Produced by the MFJ-1278
Modem
Mode Command Codes and Baud
CW
Prosigns and Punctuations
NAVTEX
FAX
Formats
FAX
Station Frequencies
FAX/SSTV Multi-Gray Pixtones
SSTV Formats
AX.25 Control Codes
.
Hookup for Specific Radios
wii3
specific
serial
............................
option settings for operation
................................
......................................
Stations & Frequencies
...............................
..............................
.......................
by
interfacing
..................
..................
Rates
..............
.............
...................
..............
...............
MFJ-1278
with
.......
..........
...
2-11
2-15
4-26
4-43
4-47
4-48
4-57
4-59
APX-1
2-3
2-3
2-9
4-5
4-5
4-7
10-5
ix
MFJ-1278 Instruction
Manual
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Welcome
Communications. By choosing the MFJ-1278, you have chosen
the most versatile and powerful Multi-mode Data Controller
manufactured for the Amateur Radio Service.
The MFJ-1278 interfaces your radio
computer that has an RS-232
terminal program.
work, WFJ recommends the
who have
computers. With an
terminal program
mode that
pictures.
This compact versatile controller employs the genuine TAPR
TNC 2 AX.25 protocol packet
tures
CW,
level board gives you
multi-gray level FAX and
1278
MFJ-12'78 also
The MFJ-12'78 also
Mailbox. This mailbox
messages
You also get MFJ's 20-segment,
Indicator that makes
that
indicator
modes of operation,
tuning methods for different modes.
to
IBM
to receive and transmit
ASCII,
lets
are
require precise tuning easy. This unique tuning
the exciting world
or
TTL level
While
or
compatible, Macintosh or Commodore C64/128
IBM
gives
lets
you transmit and
most communications programs
use
of MFJ Starter Pack for those
or
compatible computer, the MFJXFER
you a new Packet Picture Transfer
firmware
RTTY,
you monitor the new and growing NAVTEX system.
not limited
has
Facsimile,
the
a
Contest
gives
tuning
also
provides a uniform tuning method
so
you don't
VHF
and
ability
SSTV
to
pictures. In addition,
Memory Keyer mode.
you
the
has
soft-partitioned memory
a
certain number
for HF Packet and other modes
of
packet, HF packet, AMTOR,
SSTV.
to
Amateur
with
any personal
Serial
receive
plus many added
The new SSTV multi-
receive
EGA
and transmit
Digital
Port and
and
will
fea-
MFJ-
new Easy
10
Hz Precision Tuning
have
to remember different
Mail
of
Personal
characters.
for
CGA
all
a
so
In
addition,
has
ignore background noise while
a
features
installed. This new technology helps prevent many packet
collisions inherent in the current packet protocol.
A
as
device
been optimized for HF packet.
valid data
--
new
IC
the new MFJ Picture Perfect Digitizer
socket type
is
not designed specifically for your type computer.
the
advanced new
carrier.
Prioritized Acknowledgments and Slottime
New
1/0
Port
Chapter
DCD
circuit
It
still
"packet collision prevention''
lets
being able to respond to
you add peripherals such
I
Page
1
can
in
the MFJ-1278
be
adjusted to
--
even
if
are
the
MFJ-1278
You
also get a Key Paddle jack
as
an
memory buffers
function. In addition you also get contest serial numbering
and
a
A
speaker jack
transmit
received and transmitted by your MFJ-1278. Speaker output
also provides packet connect signal alarm.
A
Centronics compatible parallel printer port (DB-25)
you
printing received
Instruction Manual
Iambic Keyer
random code generator.
and receive audio and
are
lets
or
Memory Keyer. Ten user-programmable
provided
you plug in a speaker and monitor
so
for
you can
the
contest memory
CW
side
INTRODUCTION
use
your YFJ-1278
tone
as
keyer
it
is
lets
directly interface your printer to the MFJ-1278 for
text,
Packet,
FAX
and
SSTV
pictures.
Dual
once in any combination. Independent transmit audio output
adjustment
You
demodulator filter
The MFJ-1278T has a 2400 modem installed.
does not have the 2400 modem installed,
separately (MFJ-2400) and installed by the user.
2400
and 2400 packet. The only difference between
and the MFJ-1278T
installed.
Your MFJ-1278 package includes the following
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Radio Ports for
is
provided
also
modem installed, your MFJ-1278 can operate
One
One
Two Radio Port cables
One 8-pin connector the
One
get
MFJ-1278 Multi-Mode Data Controller
AC
adapter Power Supply
MFJ-1278 Instruction Manual.
a
HF
and
VHF
let
you connect 2 radios at
for
each radio port.
Threshold control for optimizing your
for different modes
is
that the MFJ-1278T has the 2400 modem
for
with
TTL
5-pin
port.
of
llOV
AC.
DIN
it
male
operation.
If
your MFJ-1278
can
be
300,
the
items:
connectors.
purchased
With
XFJ-1278
the
1200
6.
One
MFJ-1278 Fast-Start Manual.
Chapter
1
Page
2
MFJ-1278 Instruction
Manual
INTRODUCTION
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
MFJ Enterprises, Inc. wishes to thank the following persons
who contributed to the development of the MFJ-1278:
Howard Goldstein, N2WX, who wrote the firmware for the
1278.
Jim
Criffith,
MFJ-1278 and his suggestions for improving HF packet and
RTTY
Eric Gustafson, N7CL, who helped make the MFJ-1278 modem
superior to all others. He also helped in documenting
sections
HF
Lyle Johnson, WA7GXD, who helped us with the MFJ-1278
schematic
Dan Morrison,
1278
Buck Rogers,
the new innovations and firmware for the MFJ-1278 and its
packet picture standard and make operation
mode in the MFJ-I278 more powerful and easier than ever.
contributions to the development of the MFJ-1278.
modes.
of
Packet operation.
.
CW
and Contest Memory Keyer modes the best ever.
supporting software.
Bob
Slomka,
Also
to countless unnamed others for their various
WA5RAX,
this instruction manual: Modem calibration and
KV'IB,
K4ABT,
WD4MNT,
for
his hours spent beta testing the
whose suggestions helped make the MFJ-
who has spent hours in beta testing all
whose software innovations establish the
of
every digital
MFJ-
Finally, to you, the user,
the air and furthering the cause of digital communication
ham radio. Our greatest thanks go to you!
Chapter
for
putting another MFJ-1278 on
1
P8gr
3
in
MFJ-1278
Inrtruotion Manual
COMPUTER INTERFACING
You
are
now ready to attach your MFJ-1278 to your station
or
computer
the
term
use to communicate with your MFJ-1278.
terminal. Throughout this manual
"computer" to
refer
to the computer
COMPUTER
INTERFACINO'
we
or
terminal you
will
use
The MFJ-1278 communicates with your computer through
serial
called RS-232C. Why
computer in production today either incorporates an RS-232C
style
available
manufacturer
In addition to the RS-232C port, the MFJ-1278 has
in
TTL
In order to use the MFJ-1278 with your computer, the
computer must have an RS-232C
port
program
emulator,
Since there
impractical for this chapter to provide detailed
instructions for each computer. Detailed information
given for some of the popular models
United States. Also provided
Information.
port using signals corresponding to
an
RS-232C interface? Nearly every
serial
as
TTL
port to allow interfacing with computers which need
signals such
and
a
will
port
an optional accessory, either from the computer
or
from a manufacturer of computer accessories.
program to support the
typically be called
or
communications program.
are
as
a
standard feature,
as
the Commodore
so
many computers on
C-64,
serial
serial
C-128
port,
a
the
or
modem, terminal
market
or
TTL
a
or
or
the VIC-20.
a
TTL
port. The
today,
available
is
general computer interfacing
standard
has one
a
built-
serial
in the
it
a
is
is
Chapter
2
Page
1
MFJ-1278
MFJ
Starter Packs
Instruction
Manual
COMPUTER
INTERFACINQ
MFJ Enterprises, Inc. offers
most popular computers.
terminal
program
and a
cable
your computer. The Starter Packs
a
Starter Pack
These
for
Starter
connecting
available
for
Packs
the
are
some of the
contain
a
MFJ-1278 to
as
follows:
MFJ-1282: Commodore VIC-20, C64, C128 in 5-1/4" diskette.
MFJ-1283: Commodore VIC-20, C64 in tape.
MFJ-1284:
MFJ-1284M:
MFJ-1287: Apple Macintosh, in 3-1/2"
Computer
If
you are using one
the cable provided to connect
computer. Follow the instruction manual provided
Starter
the MFJ-1278 to your computer.
1278 to your computer you can then proceed to
Baud
Rate"
IBM
IBM
Interface
Pack
to operate
section in
PC/XT/AT
&
clones in 5-1/4"
PC/XT/AT & clones in 3-1/2"
diskette.
with
of
MFJ
the
the
this
Starter Pack
MFJ
Starter
the
Pack, you should use
MFJ-1278 and your
terminal program and to connect
After
connecting
chapter to continue installing
diskette.
diskette.
the
with
the
the
MFJ-
"Computer
the MFJ-1278.
Computer
Interface
without
MFJ
Starter Pack
If
you
are
not using one of
the
MFJ Starter Packs then you
should follow the following instruction in
computer interfacing.
Serial
The
panel and
available
standard normal operation.
such
operations, you may want to
case,
Port Signals
serial
port connector on
is
at
this
as
binary
see
MFJ-1278
marked
your
*'SERIAL.'' There
MFJ-1278
connector. You won't need
For
file
transfer
Serial
some special applications,
or
use
more
Port Pin Functions in
are
some Bulletin Board
of
chapter.
The pins
-
must be
MFJ-1278
on the
connected
serial
are
connects to
port connector
shown in
a
computer exactly
Table
of
2-1. Note that the
as
this
is
chapter
on
the
for
rear
several signals
all
of
them.
them
In that
for
this
the MFJ-1278 that
if
the
MFJ-1278
MFJ-1278
Instruction
Manual
COMPUTER
INTERFACINO
were
used your computer
MFJ-1278 in the
ordinarily
If
fic
MFJ-1278 to your computer.
a
standard RS-232C modem.
use
Table
Pin Signal
2 Transmit Data Serial data
3
7
your computer
2-1. Serial port signals required by MFJ-1278.
Receive
Signal Ground The common ground for both
information in the following sections to connect your
Table 2-2. Computers with specific
Manufacturer
Apple Macintosh (tm)
Commodore VIC-20
I
BM
Radio Shack Color
NEC
with
to communicate with the modem.
is
a telephone modem, hook
same
Name
Data Serial data
listed in Table 2-2,
interfacing instructions.
way.
Mode
Apple II,II+,IIe,II-gs(tm)
C-64
C-128
PCjr,
most compatibles
1000,
1
Model
8201
(tm)
200,
If
Use
Description
computer
to your computer.
-
data
lines.
1
(tm)
(tm)
PC-XT,
Computer (tm)
IOOOHD,
2000,
100/102
you have successfully
whatever program
to
the MFJ-1278.
from
refer
it
up to the
from
the
to the speci-
your
MFJ-1278
serial
PC-AT
IOOOEX,
3000HL,
(tm)
and
clones
3000
IOOOSX,
you
Many computers require
cards incorporate the circuitry necessary to add
the
port to
are
Radio Shack computers, and the Sanyo
have one
If
should skip
your computer has a 25-pin RS-232C
section
Otherwise
dard Serial Ports.
-
the
you have another computer
computer. Some popular models in
Apple
of
on
refer
I1
series,
these computers with
to
one of the sections on "other computers.Il
Other Computers with 25-pin RS-232C
to the section Other Computers
a
serial
the
IBM
Chapter
2
port adapter card. These
Personal Computer,
MBC-55X
an
I1add-int1
we
haven't mentioned,
serial
Page
3
series.
serial
port,
an
this
refer
with
RS-232C
category
many
If
you
port,
or
you
If
to the
Ports.
Nonstan-
MFJ-1278 Instruction
Manual
COMPUTER INTERFACING
Some computers have no
cially available. Such computers
with the MFJ-1278.
Computer with Specific
Apple
The Macintosh
it
1278.
MFJ Enterprises, Inc. offers
the Macintosh.
Inc.
interface cable for connecting the MFJ-1278 to the Macintosh
and a terminal program. The Starter Pack for Macintosh
MFJ-1287.
a
Macintosh
will
or
cable
Mac
8
serial
work fine with the RS-232C
It
any MFJ dealer. The Starter Pack includes an
If
you wish to
wired
int
pin DB-25P DB-9P DB-25P
0s
as
h
shown in
serial
Serial
port
can be purchased from MFJ Enterprises,
port and no adapter
are
not suitable for use
is
commer-
Interfaces
is
an RS-422 compatible port, but
serial
an
optional Starter Pack for
port on your MFJ-
is
use
your own cable, you
Fig.
MFJ- 1278 Macintosh
2-1.
will
MFJ-
1278
need
Fig. 2-1. Serial port wiring for Apple Macintosh.
Note that pin
inside the Macintosh
serial
shield and connect pin
digital ground on the MFJ-1278
circuit
the
Commodore
The MFJ-1278 has
with the Commodore C64, C128
do not need a RS-232C converter to interface with the MFJ-
1278.
An
can
cable,
board pad
serial
connector.
C64,
optional Starter Pack for the
be purchased from MFJ Enterprises, Inc.
1
which
is
C128
a
of the DP-9P connector
or
the MFJ-1278.
we
recommend, connect both pin Is to the
1
of
the MFJ-1278
circuit
provided for this purpose near pin
and
VIC-20
built-in TTL-level port for interfacing
or
the VIC-20 computers.
C-64,
Chapter
2
Page
is
not connected
If
you use a shielded
serial
board.
C-128
connector to
A
or
the VIC-20
or
from
4
printed
1
You
any
of
MFJ-1278
Instruction Manual COMPUTER INTERFACING
MFJ
from
Commodore computer.
dealer.
the
The Starter Pack includes an interface
MFJ-1278
TTL
port to the
A
terminal program
user
1/0
is
port on the
also included.
To order, specify MFJ-1282 for software on disk
for software on tape.
If
you wish to construct your own cable,
as
follows:
MFJ-1278 Mnemonic
5-51,
Pin#
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
*C-128
++Pin
referred
Fig.
The
pin connections for
left
of
to right
these
RXD
DCD
GND
RT
S
TXD
DSR Data Set Ready
CTS
is
used in
E
is
not
to in
2-2A
this
TTL
as
you look
connections
terminal program.
connected. Programs
routines
will
probably use
Name
Receive
Data
Data
Carrier
Ground (Frame and Signal)
Ready To Send
Transmit
Clear
the
C-64 mode for
needed
Data
to Send
when using terminal program
chapter for
port wiring for VIC-20, C64 and C128
the
TTL
port
at
the
back
are
The
which
not necessarily
MFJ-1278 needs
utilize
RTS
and
Detected
the
file
the
information
these
connections.
Commodore computers.
(5-5)
of
are
the
MFJ-1278.
RXD,
numbered from
used
TXD
transfer and printer
CTS
as
well.
your software documentation.
cable
or
MFJ-1283
is
C-64
/
1
28+,
VIC-20 Pin#
B?C
H
N
E"*
M
L
K
All
by your
and
GND
Consult
-
IBM
PCjr
The
PCjr
interface; however,
uses standard RS-232C voltage levels
the
connector
used
is
not readily available from electronic supply
out information for
this
connector
is
given in
Technical Reference Manual.
IBM
Devices" for converting
RS-232C terminal connector. This
between
female
dealers
the
sell
the
MFJ-1278 and the PCjr.
inches long, however,
RS-232C extension cable,
"IBM
PCjr Adapter Cable for Serial
the
connector on PCjr to a standard
cable
so
you may want to obtain a male-to-
which
atsaches
It
is
should
available.
Chapter
2
Page
5
for
its
serial
non-standard and
dealers.
the
IBM
PinÂPCjr
directly
only about
be
readily
3
MFJ-1278
Radio Shack Color Computer
---
Instruction Manual COMPUTER INTERFACING
The Color Computer
Computer) uses
interface.
your MFJ-1278 to a Color Computer.
should be available from Radio Shack dealers.
Fig.
Radio Shack Model 100/102
---
These computers have built-in standard RS-232C
that are compatible with the MFJ-1278. You
standard male-to-male RS-232C extension cable to connect the
computer to the MFJ-1278.
-
IBM
PC/XT/AT compatibles Computer
"Include other computers with 25-pin RS-232 Ports1#
If
your computer
you should have a serial port
ctor.
cable
You
with
the correct gender on each end
a
Wire
Color Computer DB-25P
2-2.
may used a standard
series
4-pin DIN-style connector
a
cable as shown in Fig. 2-2 to interface
Serial port wiring
Color Computers.
is
a
IBM
(except
g&
NEC
PC/XT/AT
with
for
for
8201
or
standard DB-25 pin conne-
IBM
the Micro Color
for
All
a
PC/XT/AT
necessary parts
Radio Shack
compatible
of
its
serial
will
serial
the
cable.
need
or
serial
ports
a
clone,
modem
MFJ Enterprises, Inc. offers optional Starter
1284)
Starter
for
For other computers with a 25-pin RS-232C port, you should
consult your computer manual
which pins
which pin
manufacturer's recommendations
port to a modem. You may also find the technical informaÂtion in this section
Your MFJ-1278
(DCE),
ters
this
able
for
the
IBM
PC/XT/AT
Pack
connecting your MFJ-1278.
the technical
are
is
to
simply
is
supplied with the computer connecting cable
it
uses
is
used
is
configured
the case
to send and
for
configured as Data Communications Equipment
for
wire
signal common. Follow the computer
useful.
term
for
as
Data
your computer, you
pin 2
of
Chapter 2 Page
or
compatible computers. The
or
accessory manual to
receive
for
an RS-232C modem. Most compu-
Terminal
the MFJ-1278 connector to pin
data on,
connecting the serial
Equipment
will
6
Pack
(MFJ-
see
as
well
(DTE).
probably be
as
If
2
MFJ-1278 Instruction Manual
of
your computer's RS-232C port, pin 3 to pin 3 and pin 7 to
pin
7.
You can provide these connections with a standard
wire male-to-female
depending on whether your computer has a DB25S
connector.
If
your computer is configured as DCE, you will have to wire
2
pin
and pin
1278.
pin
require that pin
connected to an appropriate signal. Others may require
connections
computer's output' signals on pins
of your MFJ-1278 to pin
2
of the computer connector to pin 3 of your MFJ-
Pin 7 of the computer connector will still connect to
7
of your MFJ-1278 serial port. Some computers may
for
or
5
of
uin
male-to-male RS-232C extension cable,
3
of
the computer serial port connector be
8
and Din
4
COMPUTER
INTERFACING
3-
or
DB25P
the computer connector,
20.
You can use the
and 6 as shown in Fig.
2-3.
MFJ-1278
RS-232~
Computer
2
3
7
4
5
6
8
4
Fig.
Other Computers
Computers with nonstandard serial ports must meet the fol-
lowing conditions.
First, the signal levels should be RS-232C compatible. The
MFJ-1278 requires that the voltage levels sent from the
computer be greater than about
less than about
$econd, the polarity of the signals must conform to the
232C standard. This means that the low voltage state must
correspond to a logical
logical
lr0l1.
2-3.
Serial port wiring with jumpers
auxiliary signals.
with
Nonstandard Serial Ports
+3
+1
volt in the other state.
lrlll
and the high voltage state to a
volts in one state and
for
RS-
Third, the computer must
signal which meets the RS-232C specification. The MFJ-1278
$upplies signals that meet this specification.
Chapter
be
able to correctly receive a
2
Page
7
MFJ-1278
Instruction Manual
COMPUTER INTERFACING
?lake
The computer serial port common pin must be tied to
1278
data from the computer
connector pin
data on must
or
buy a cable that provides the following connections.
serial
port connector pin
must
2.
be
tied
The
to
pin on
the
iqFJ-1278
7.
be
which
The
data
tied
line that sends
to
the
your computer receivgg
connector pin
the
MFJ-1278
3.
If your computer requires any other signals, you must
MFJ-
ar-
range to provide them. The documentation provided with your
computer
or
its
accessory serial port should clarify any
special requirements of your port.
Terminal Software Requirements
Any software package that enables your computer to
ASCII
with
used successfully with
familiar
MFJ-
terminal
your
1278.
with
NIPJ-12'78.
with,
an ordinary telephone modem should work
If
you have
a
telephone inodein and that you are
use
that program to communicate
3.
program that you have
If you are using a terminal program provided by
Starter Pack, proceed
in
this
chapter. Follow
to
the
"Computer Baud Rate" section
the
instruction provided by the
act
with
the
as an
your
YFJ
program.
Tf
you are not using a
with the instruction for your type
KFJ
terminal program, then proceed
of
computer.
Note: Some tarminal ?rograms (such
Serial
any
pin
Card)
characters.
1
and
2
of
requires
If
,JYP
1.
DCD
this
The
to
is
be
the
DCD
asserted
LED
case,
as
the
Apple
before they receive
place
on
a jumper across
the
front panel
function normally indicating received packets.
Apple
MFJ
terminal program and a
Macintosh.
such
Macint_o_sh_
Starter Pack for
If
as
MacTerm
you should want to use a terminal program
set
the options according to Table
the
Macintosh
cable
to connect the
Chapter
2
Page
(MFJ-1287)
MFJ-1278
8
11+
Super
will
includes a
to the
2-3.
MFJ-1278
Instructfon
Manual
COMPUTER
INTERFACING
Table
Apple
For
party
Pro,
1278.
MFJ-1278, but have not been tested.
Commodore C64,
The
be purchased from
dealer. Starter Pack includes an interface cable from the
NFJ-1278
computer.
specify MFJ-1282 for software on disk
software on tape.
II,
the
Hayes Smartcom
optional Starter Pack for the C-64, C-128 and VIC-20 can
2-3.
7
even parity
Handshake Xon/Xoff
modem connection
II+,
Apple
serial
There
TTL
MacTerm
Compatibility Termina
1200 baud
bits/character ANSI
t
e 1 e
p
hon e po
IIe,
I1
interface cards, you may
are
--
C128 and VIC-20
port to the
A
terminal program
option settings for operation
with MFJ-1278
1
VTI
00
UNDERLINE
us
80
Columns
r
t
ON
LINE
AUTOREPEAT
IIc
family
others which may be compatible with the
MFJ
of
computers with Apple
IIe
and Datacapture
Enterprises, Inc.
user
1/0
port on the commodore
is
also included. To order,
use
4.0
or
or
or
third-
ASCII Express
for
the MFJ-
from any
MFJ-1283 for
MFJ
If
you do not
BASIC communications program
Reference Guide published by Commodore.
listing
ASCII format internally.
MFJ-1278
computers.
NOTE:
"COMMODORE"
program. Also line
for
When using the above program, you
have
"true
at
300
key to shift to lower
the
MFJ
ASCII,"
baud
Starter
as
You
on
200
Pack
is
given in the Programmer's
these computers
will
the
probably want to run your
serial
case
should read
64:TP(J)=J:NEXT.
When making the connecting cable from
to
the
1/0
1278
the wiring information given on page
However, do not
port of the Commodore computer you may
use
pin E connection for this program.
Chapter
2
Page
then you may
Use
the program
use
port with these
must
before using this
first
For
TTL
port of the MFJ-
2-3
in this chapter.
use
a
modified
use
J=O
9
the
the
to
use
MFJ-1278 Inetruction Manual
IBM
PCjr
-
COMPUTER
INTERFACINO
The
cartridge. Start this program by typing
your PCjr BASIC manual
best
faster
-
IBM
The optional Starter Pack
the
prises, Inc.
includes
for
program allows you to receive FAX
display on the screen.
disk
stored
printers.
You may also use many commercial, "shareware'! and public-
domain terminal programs for
and clone computers. Special program written
radio and packet bulletin board service can also be used
with
not support printing of graphics to the computer
Radio Shack Color Computer
--~
IBM
results
PC/XT/AT
compatibles and clones can
connecting the
PCjr
than
a
for later viewing. You may also print any pictures
on
the
MFJ-1278.
has
a
built-in terminal program in the BASIC
TERM.
for
details on this program. For
with PCjr, do not run the
1200
graphics terminal program, and a connecting cable
disk to
baud.
and
Compatibles
or
from any
(NFJ-1284)
MFJ
MFJ-1278
It
will
an
EPSON
Note that
be
purchased from
dealer. This Starter Pack
to your computer.
also store
or
the
IBM
these
MFJ-1278
for the
or
SSTV
the
IBM
graphics compatible
PC/XT/AT, compatible
type
of
Refer
serial
IBM
programs
PC/XT/AT,
MFJ
pictures and
pictures on
for
Enter-
MFJ-1284
packet
screen.
to
port
will
There
Computer. You
gram (rather than writing your own)
has
Some of the terminal programs available
AUTOTERM and
XTERM
-~-
Radio Shack Model
These
Consult your computer's documentation
their use.
are
several
terminal
will
probably want to
programs available
use
since
a "software UART"
RICKEYTERM
for
0s-9.
computers have built-in terminal programs
that
100/102
is
(for
difficult to program in BASIC.
COCO
NEC
111).
8201
for
Chapter 2 Page
10
for
a
commercial
the
Color Computer
are
Others
the Color
COLORCOM
are
WIZ
in
instructions in
pro-
64,
and
ROM.
MFJ-1278 Instruction
Manual
COMPUTER INTERFACING
MFJ-1278
This
232C serial port connector.
special applications requiring hardware handshaking. This
information should not
Serial
section
Table
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Frame
the
(computer
feedthrough on the MFJ-1278
serial
else
Transmit
attached device sends
Ground
MFJ-1278 and the chassis of the attached device
or
connector.
on
the
Data
Port Pin Functions
describes
2-4,
#
Mnemonic
TXD
RXD
RT
DSR
DCD
---
---
is
provided
terminal). This pin
MFJ-1278
It
is
an input line to the MFJ-1278 on
the pins used on the MFJ-1278 RS-
It
be
needed by most users.
RS-232C Pin Designations
FG
S
CTS
SG
Frame Ground
Transmit Data
Receive Data
Request To Send
Clear
Data Set Ready
Signal Ground
Data
+
-
for
attachment to the chassis
is
not electrically connected anywhere
circuit
data.
board.
is
intended
Name
To
Send
Carrier
12V unregulated reference
12V unregulated reference
is
PC
board near pin 1 of the
for
users with
Detect
brought out to
which
of
a
the
Receive
the
Request To Send
attached
Clear
attached
MFJ-1278.
Data
attached device that
Signal
between
Data
attached device
device requesting clearance
To Send
device
This
Set
Ground
the
is
an output line from the MFJ-1278 on which
is
is
an output from the MFJ-1278 signaling the
to send
line
Ready
MFJ-1278 and the attached
is
is
the common,
receives
an input line to
or
is
used for hardware flow control.
an output from the MFJ-1278 telling the
the
Chapter 2 Page
data.
refrain
MFJ-1278
or
the
MFJ-1278 which the
to
transmit.
from
is
return, path for all signals
sending
operational.
device.
11
data
to the
MFJ-1278 Inetcuctlon Manual
COMPUTER
INTERFACING
Data Carrier
normally configured,
It
is
true when an
1278
and another station;
exists. This configuration
Detect
AX.25
is
an output from the
DCD
reflects
the
connection
it
is
false when no connection
is
useful when the
MFJ-1278.
status of the
exists
between your
CON
MFJ-1278
As
LED:
MFJ-
is
used with a telephone style Bulletin Board system, since the
AX.25
telephone, indicates the presence of a user. Shorting pin
and
connection, analogous to
2
of
JMPI
on
the
MFJ-1278
a
board
modem signal on the
will
cause this output
1
to always be true.
Computer Baud
Rate
Autobaud
The
executed upon each power on of the
command
When
with the user's terminal baud
will
keyboard.
key on initial power up until the
AUTOBAUD
sets
is
user selectable.
AUTOBAUD
wait
its
until
User
baud
command routine installed in
MFJ-1278.
AUTOBAUD
is
ON,
it
MFJ-1278
detects
will
rate.
a
attempt to synchronize
Upon power
carriage return from the
the
MFJ-1278
is
defaulted to
on
AUTOBAUD
ON.
MFJ-1278
should repeatedly strike the carriage return
rate
to match the terminal baud
MFJ-1278
recognizes and
rate
of your
is
computer before signing on.
Once
the
iJIFJ-1278
If
AUTOBAUD
is
baud rate which
on without you having to strike the return key. In
AUTOBAUD
baud rate
to
match
of
your terminal program to match the baud
the
MFJ-1278
to
reset
will
will
restore
also
reset,
to
OFF,
is
the
new baud
the battery back-up
be
it
will
on after receiving
has signed on, user may
set
to
OFF, NFJ-1278
it
signed on to last,
will
set
AUTOBAUD
store the terminal
so
YFJ-1278
will
setting
you should
changed, then
rate.
or
you may remove
all
parameters to the default values.
reset
to
ON.
remember
MFJ-1278
that
will
no longer be able
if
the terminal
You must change the baud
rate
JMP
5
RAM.
When
on the
Once
MFJ-1278
MFJ-1278
reset,
is
powered
you
set
the
MFJ-1278
AUTOBAUD
on
attempt to match the new baud rate and sign
the
striking of
the
return key by the
OFF.
sign
rate
for
board
after
user.
Changing Terminal Baud Rate
After
the
MFJ-1278
is
signed on, you can change the
terminal baud rate by using the
SET,
display the SET
or
If
upon display of the
MENU.
9600
can
be
you change
selected
the
terminal baud rate
CMD:
A
baud rate of
command prompt.
from the
Chapter 2 Page 12
SET
SET
MENU.
300,
menu.
of
the
MFJ-1278
To
do this, type:
MFJ-1278
1200,
2400,
MFJ-1278,
will
4800
you
MFJ-1278
must also
MFJ-1278
AUTOBAUD
baud rate
on your terminal program.
terminal baud rate which you wish to operate your
on, you should
is
Instruction Manual COMPUTER INTERFACING
set
the terminal program baud rate to match
baud rate. Otherwise, upon each sign-on thru
turned
routine,
back
to whatever the terminal baud rate
OFF,
the
MFJ-1278
We
suggest that once you
set
AUTOBAUD command to
the
MFJ-1278
will
will
change
OFF.
its
Once
automatically sign-on
terminal
is
set
select
MFJ-1278
AUTOBAUD
without you having to press the "Return" key. This
important
when power
that if
rate does not match
once
until you
rate. Once
and
it
the
return key.
on
the
if
the
the
MFJ-12'78
will
main
power outage occurs, the
is
on again.
AUTOBAUD
reset
the
reset,
is
the
One
is
the
OFF.
MFJ-1278
turned
MFJ-1278
MFJ-12'78
important thing to remember
And terminal program baud
computer baud rate, then
off,
or
the
will
it
sign on upon power up and
The
PC
board
MFJ-1278
of
the
can be
XFJ-1278.
MFJ-12'78
will
not sign on again
will
sign-on
terminal program baud
default
with
reset
AUTOBAUD
a
few
to
strikes
by removing JYP
Verifying Serial Port Operation
the
the
to
a
is
is
ON
of
5
Now that you have a terminal program and
for connecting the
to
verify that
1.
Turn on your computer. Load and run the terminal
MFJ-1278
MFJ-1278
to your computer, you
will
communicate
program.
2.
Set
the
parameter
o
word length: 8 bits
o
o
o
o
3.
will
4.
Turn on your
be
If
duplex:
parity: none
stop
baud rate:
lit.
the
full
bit:
YFJ-12'18
program parameter, the
CON
(*)
time.
match
to execute
LEDs
or
will
extinguish.
other meaningless characters on the screen at this
This
the
is
because the
parameter
the
AUTOBAUD
of
the terminal program as
1
390,
1.145-1278.
1200,
2400,
4900
Note that
or
PWR,
terminal parameters match your terminal
MFJ-1278
of
your terminal program. You
will
If
not, you
NFJ-1278
sign on and
will
has not been
routine.
the
with
9600
STA and
hook-up cable
are
ready
your computer.
follow:
CON
LEDs
the
STA and
see
an asterik
set
will
need
to
Chapter 2 Page
13
MFJ-1278
5.
Execute the
few times in succession on your computer. The
execute the AUTOBAUD routine and set itself to the terminal
program parameter. Your computer screen will display the
sign-on message:
Instruction Manual COMPUTER INTERFACING.
AUTOBAUD
routine by pressing the
MFJ-1278
RETURN
will
key
+:J
bbRAM:LOAD WITH DEFAULTS
IA
MFJ
ENTERPRISES,
MODEL
AX.25 LEVEL 2 VERSION
RELEASE
CHECKSUM
cmd
MFJ-1278
XXXXX
XXX
:
INC.
(date)
2.0
-
32K
RAM
After sign-on the
extinguish.
If the sign-on message fails to appear, you should check the
connecting cable between and the computer and the
When you have successfully read the sign-on message from the
MFJ-1278,
type:
STA
and
CON
on the
MFJ-1278
MFJ-1278.
will
DISPLAY
followed by a carriage return. You should see a lengthy
list of items on your screen. This verifies the ability of
the
MFJ-1278
computer. Your serial interface
Printer Port Connection
The parallel printer port is located on the left side
MFJ-1278.
compatible parallel port.
end and a
end should be used. You may use a standard
printer cable instead of trying to wire your own.
cable
Centronics compatible printer
Enterprises, Inc. Model
for
to accept and respond
The printer port
A
36
pin Centronics male connector
connection
from
No.
the
is
is
now working.
is
configured for a Centronics
cable with male
MFJ-1278
is
available from
MFJ-12.
to
input
for
printer port to a
from
of
DB-25
the printer
IBM
on one
parallel
A
Printer
your
the
MFJ
If
you are using a terminal program which supports graphic
printing from the computer to the printer, then you should
connect the printer to the computer printer port and not to
2
Chapter
Page
14
MFJ-1278
the MFJ-1278 printer port.
If
your terminal program does not support graphic printing
to the computer screen and you want to print graphic:
Packet,
printer to the MFJ-1278 printer port. In this case the
printer must be either EPSON or IBM graph’ic compatible in
order
Instruction
SSTV
to
insure successful graphic receiving to the printer.
or
Manual
FAX pictures, then you should connect the
COMPUTER
INTERFACING
Table
IrIFJ-1278
Printer Port
Pin
Printer Consideration
The MFJ-1278 printer port will work with any printer that is
compatible with EPSON, IBM graphics. Printers which are not
EPSON
FAX
or
or
IBM
MFJ-1278 to print FAX and
2-5
Parallel Printer Port Pin Functions
DB-25
Name
#
Strobe
Data Bit
Data Bit
Date Bit
Data Bit
Data Bit
Data Bit
Data Bit
9
10
11
thru
12
thru
18
or
SSTV
graphics compatible printers which will allow the
17
25
IBM
graphics compatible may not be used to print
pictures. The following are some of the EPSON
Data Bit
Acknowledge
Busy
No connection
Ground
SSTV
pictures.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
o
Canon PW-1156A
o
Citizen MPS-25
o
Epson FX-80, FX-85, LQ-800, MXIII, RX-80, FX-86e
o
Printer Plus
o
Seikosha IOOOA, 1200AI
o
Star Micronics- Gemeni
o
other printer: C. Itoh 8510P/NEC
If your printer
not listed, you may just try it to see if it will
printers have both EPSON and IBM graphics mode.
NLQ
is
EPSON
IOX,
NX-10, NX-1000
8023A
or
IBM graphics compatible and is
Chapter 2 Page
and compatible
15
work.
If
Some
your
MFJ-1278 Instruction Manual COMPUTER INTERFACING’
printer has both
EPSON
and IBM graphics mode, you should try
both modes to see which mode give you the best results.
In addition to being able to print weather FAX, FAX and
pictures, the printer connected to the
MFJ-1278
printer
SSTV
port
can also print incoming text in all modes as it is received
on the screen. This means that you can keep a log
your
9SOs.
To print text to the printer, you will
of
all
need to connect an IBM compatible parallel printer to
the
MFJ-1278
printer port. Printers without Epson
compatible graphics will not be able to print Weather FAX,
FAX
or
SSTV.
Printer Port Test
After properly connecting your printer to the
may
1.
--
verify its compatibility as follows:
MFJ-1278,
Turn on your computer. Load and run the terminal prog-
you
ram.
Turn on the
2.
NFJ-1278.
The
MFJ-1278
should sign-on with
the cmd: prompt sign.
3.
Type:
PRINTTES
If the printer
compatible, it will print a string
<CR>
is
connected correctly and
of
is
223
characters. Again this only shows that the printer
connected can print text. It does not necessarily
indicate that your printer can print graphics
or
IBM
unless it is Epson
graphics compatible.
4.
If the printer
compatible, then it should print
is
connected correctly and is
a
string
of
characters. Printing will start with ASCII SPACE
(value
32
decimal) and end with the value
255
decimal
which is not an ASCII character but may be a graphics
character.
5.
This completes the printer test.
Once the printer has completed the printing, the
1278
will return to cmd: prompt sign.
If
the printer test was
satisfactory, proceed to connect your radios to the
1278.
The above test is only valid
the
MFJ-1278
if
the printer is connected to the computer.
parallel port. This test can not be performed
Chapter
if
your printer is connected to
2
Page
16
223
MFJ-
MFJ-
MFJ-1278
Instruction
Manual
RADIO INTERFACING
RADIO INTERFACING
Computer interfacing, covered
only half
ing your MFJ-1278
MFJ-1278
Interfacing the MFJ-1278
the
following signals
pin outs
the
interfacing
to
your radios.
Radio
of
Ports
Radio Port 1 and Radio Port
task.
to
your radios involves connecting
at
Radio Port 1 and Radio Port
3-1.
Fin 1 Microphone audio,
transmitter.
2
Pin
Fin 3 Fush-to-talk, to
Pin
Pin 5 Squelch input (optional)
Ground, audio and
transmitter.
4
Receive audio, from your receiver to the MFJ-
1278.
to detect activity on
PTT
allow
in
the previous chapter,
The
from
other
the
half
2
are
MFJ-1278
shown in Fig.
common.
the
MFJ-1278 to key your
to
allow
a
shared-mode channel.
the
is
connect-
2.
to
MFJ-1278
is
The
your
Fig.3-I Radio Port
Chapter 3 Page
2
1
and
Radio Port 2 Connector
1
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