The G4JNT Programmable Beacon Keyer
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Beacon keyer with Audio tone output. This one [KEYER5] generates a pre-programmed CW message that is user-programmable via a COM port interface of either polarity and a chirp waveform for testing and setting up links. An audio tone from a manual key input with one of eight user selectable tones with CW keying shaped using a raised-cosine ramp for a smooth sound and no keyclicks.
AudioKeyerCode.zip Source code for the PIC 12F617 device is included so users can customise their own version

If a blank CW message is entered, the message sent is replaced with a sequence of three tones at frequencies of 494, 523 and 587Hz sent repeatedly at roughly 1/3 second intervals.

Another alternative, DirectKeyer replaces the CW Beacon Keyer with on/off output, but using the same PCB and PIC type. Direct CW TTL output or, with the addition of an extra FET and a bit of board modification, On/off switching.  CW message functionality and programming is the same as the AudioKeyer

A PCB with a programmed chip mounted is available for £25 each.  You supply and fit the rest of the components, most of which can be obtained free of charge from the UK Microwave Group Chip bank (for members of UKuWG).  
Keyer modules can be purchased fully built, (and even pre-programmed with a message of your choice if required) for  £35.   Prices are for UK addresses only.

 

Contact me at this email address for your requirements, overseas orders, pricing for bulk  and special requirements etc.
IF USING PAYPAL F/F DON'T FORGET TO INCLUDE YOUR DELIVERY ADDRESS !!!!!.

 

These prices include an element for donation to SCRBG to support the Bell Hill Beacons,


PREVIOUS DESIGNS  

CW Beacon Keyer with on/off output

12F629 PIC based beacon module offering CW messages, Programmable pauses, Tx/Rx control.
The module can be re-programmed over an RS232 link so a PIC programmer isn't needed to alter the message data.

User Manual for standard and analogue input versions

New QRSS (SlowCW) Option now available PIC Code for both is included within the archive

Beacon Keyer with Analogue Input

Using a 12F675 PIC with internal A/D converter. A voltage in the range 0 - 5V is measured and can be sent back in the CW message in a number of different formats offering user-defined accuracies and complexity. The reading can be embedded anywhere within the CW message and can be sent at any speed.
Use, for example, to allow a beacon to transmit its own measured RF power as a user confidence check.

Full Archive Of User Manual (standard and analogue versions) and Programming instructions - with PIC Code Circuit diagram and PCB for DIYers

This module or its PCB is no longer supplied, but the audio keyer hardware above can be programmed to do the same as this beacon keyer, and has a few enhancements (like selection of either polarity serial lead for programming).  The  DirectKeyer option.  See appendix A of  Beacon keyer with Audio tone output.  Contact the email shown for details.


Time Stamped Message Keyer
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A completely new beacon keyer using a 16F628A PIC, has the same functionality as the standard keyer but also generates a cryptologically secure time-stamp. This is appended to the message as a three character triad, a pronounceable 'pseudo word', so that listeners will be able to prove they heard the signal at a particular point in time. A sort of Electronic QSL

Full details of the Time Stamp Algorithm. BeaconTimeStamp.pdf
Module description.
KeyerTimecode.pdf
Support Software and PIC code for DIY builders. TmStmpCode.zip


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