AURSINC MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The AURSINC MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board is a versatile digital radio hotspot module designed to support various digital modes including DMR, YSF, P25, NXDN, DSTAR, and POCSAG. This board offers high efficiency, low power consumption, and stable performance thanks to its high-quality TCXO. It is compatible with a range of single-board computers such as Raspberry Pi (3B, 3B+, ZERO), NanoPi NEO, and Orange Pi, and can also be used with BlueDV software. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board.

2. Features

• High efficiency, low power consumption, and stable performance with a high-quality TCXO, ensuring low Bit Error Rate (BER).
• Wide compatibility with Raspberry Pi 3B, 3B+, Pi ZERO, NanoPi NEO, and Orange Pi.
• Supports multiple digital modes: DMR, YSF, P25, NXDN, DSTAR, and POCSAG.
• Supports online firmware upgrades.
• User-friendly design with dedicated locations for optional OLED displays and Nextion screens.
• Reserved space for additional Bluetooth module installation.
• Supports UHF and VHF frequency ranges: 144MHz-148MHz, 420MHz-475MHz, and 842MHz-950MHz (subject to ADF7021 and TCXO, and amateur radio brand license restrictions).
• Compatible with BlueDV software across Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux platforms for DSTAR, DMR, and Fusion (YSF, FCS - DN mode only).
• Supports MMDVMhost/MMDVMcal on Linux/Windows for testing BER, DMR, and TX check TCXO offset.

3. Package Contents

The package includes the following items:

• 1x MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Motherboard (UHF/VHF)

4. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to set up your MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board:

1. Physical Connection: Connect the MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board to your compatible single-board computer (e.g., Raspberry Pi) via the GPIO pins. Ensure proper alignment to avoid damage.
2. Identify Key Components: Familiarize yourself with the board's components as shown in Figure 2. This includes the Reset button, Update switch, and USB Serial port.
3. Update Switch (A/B):
   • Position A (OFF): This is the normal operating mode. The device will function as a hotspot.
   • Position B (ON): This is the firmware update mode. When in this position, the device will initiate a firmware update and will not function as a hotspot until the update is complete and the switch is returned to position A.
4. Firmware Update (if necessary):
   • If your Raspberry Pi fails to connect to the hotspot board, a firmware update may be required.
   • Set the Update switch to position B (ON).
   • Connect the board to your computer via the USB Serial CH340X port. Ensure the CH341SER driver is installed (available at www.wch.cn/downloads/CH341SER_EXE.html).
   • Execute the appropriate firmware update command:
   • Linux: sudo stm32flash -v -w xxx.bin /dev/ttyAMA0
   • Windows: sudo stm32flash -v -w xxx.bin /dev/comx (replace 'comx' with your COM port number)
   • After the update, return the Update switch to position A (OFF).
5. Initial Raspberry Pi Firmware Update (if connection issues persist): If the Raspberry Pi still struggles to connect, try updating the hotspot board's firmware directly from the Raspberry Pi using the command: sudo pistar-mmdvmhshatflash hs_hat-12mhz

5. Operating Instructions

Once the board is properly set up and connected to your host device, you can begin operation:

1. Mode Selection: The MMDVM Hotspot supports various digital modes including DMR, YSF, P25, NXDN, DSTAR, and POCSAG. Configure your hotspot software (e.g., Pi-Star) to select the desired operating mode.
2. BlueDV Compatibility: The USB HAT board is compatible with BlueDV software. You can use BlueDV on Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux for DSTAR, DMR, and Fusion (YSF, FCS - DN mode only) communications. Ensure your host device has the necessary USB-to-TTL or Bluetooth model if required for BlueDV.
3. Testing and Monitoring: Utilize MMDVMhost/MMDVMcal software on Linux or Windows to test the hotspot's performance. These tools allow you to check parameters such as Bit Error Rate (BER), DMR functionality, and TX check TCXO offset.
4. Resetting the Hotspot: If you need to restart the hotspot without power cycling the entire system, simply press the 'RST' button on the board (refer to Figure 2).

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board:

• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply the latest firmware updates for your MMDVM board. Refer to the 'Setup Instructions' section for details on how to perform a firmware update. Updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the board in a clean, dry environment. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, or dust, which can affect electronic components.
• Physical Inspection: Periodically inspect the board for any signs of physical damage, loose connections, or corrosion.

7. Troubleshooting

Here are solutions to common issues you might encounter:

• Raspberry Pi Fails to Connect to Hotspot Board:
  • Ensure the MMDVM Hotspot USB HAT Board is securely seated on the Raspberry Pi's GPIO pins.
  • Verify that the 'UPDATE' switch on the board is in position A (OFF) for normal operation. If it's in position B (ON), the board will be in firmware update mode and will not function as a hotspot.
  • Try updating the firmware of the hotspot board. Refer to step 4 of the 'Setup Instructions' for detailed steps. Specifically, you can try running the command: sudo pistar-mmdvmhshatflash hs_hat-12mhz on your Raspberry Pi.
• BlueDV Connection Issues:
  • Ensure the correct USB-to-TTL or Bluetooth model is being used if required by your BlueDV setup.
  • Verify that the CH341SER driver is correctly installed on your operating system if connecting via USB.
• General Instability or Unexpected Behavior:
  • Press the 'RST' button on the board to perform a soft reset.
  • Check your power supply to ensure it provides sufficient and stable power to your Raspberry Pi and the HAT board.
  • Review your hotspot software configuration (e.g., Pi-Star settings) for any incorrect parameters.

8. Specifications

9. User Tips

• Always ensure all physical connections are secure before powering on your device to prevent short circuits or damage.
• When performing firmware updates, ensure a stable power supply to avoid interruptions that could brick the device.

10. Warranty and Support

For any technical assistance, troubleshooting beyond this manual, or warranty inquiries, please contact the manufacturer or your point of purchase. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.