PLJ-096OLED-L1 OLED Frequency Display Module Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The DykbRadio PLJ-096OLED-L1 is a high-precision frequency counter module designed for RF measurement applications, including ham radio transceivers. It features a 0.96-inch OLED display, a stable TCXO reference oscillator, and supports a wide measurement range from 1 kHz to 100 MHz. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your module.

2. Key Features

• 100MHz Measurement Range: Capable of measuring frequencies from 1 kHz to 100 MHz.
• High Stability: Equipped with a ±2.5ppm KDS/EPSON VC-TCXO reference oscillator for accurate readings.
• Dual IF Offset: Features independent ±99.9999MHz offset with 100Hz step for intermediate frequency calculations.
• OLED Display: Utilizes a 0.96-inch, 8-digit high-visibility OLED screen for clear frequency readout.
• Low Power Consumption: Operates efficiently at 30mA @5V, including an electronic power switch.
• UART Interface: Provides a TTL serial port for data logging and integration into other systems.
• Precision Measurement: Incorporates an adaptive gate control algorithm (non-interrupt timing) and trailing digit blanking (3-digit suppression option).
• User Convenience: Simple dual-button control interface and EEPROM settings retention.
• Real-time Monitoring: Offers a 0.64s refresh rate for dynamic frequency observation.

3. Technical Specifications

Note: The positions of the sensitivity adjustment potentiometers are different. The data in the table may vary slightly. The data in this table is for reference only.

Table 1: Technical Specifications

Table 2: Test Data of Agilent 8648C

4. Package Contents

Ensure all items are present upon unpacking:

• PLJ-096OLED-L1 Module ×1
• IPEX-to-SMA(M) Cable (15cm) ×1
• XH2.54-2P Power Cable (15cm) ×1

5. Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your PLJ-096OLED-L1 module:

1. Power Connection: Connect the provided XH2.54-2P power cable to the [PWR] interface on the module. Connect the other end to a 4.5-9V DC power source (5V recommended).
2. Signal Input: Attach the IPEX-to-SMA(M) cable to the [RF IN] port on the module. Connect the SMA end to your RF signal source.
3. Serial Output (Optional): If you require data logging or system integration, connect a TTL serial interface to the [UART] pins (TX, RX, GND). The UART output format is "FREQ:xxxx.xxx kHz\n".
4. Electronic Switch (Optional): The module includes an electronic switch. To disable it, short-circuit the J1 pins.

Figure 1: Module Top and Bottom Views with Power and Signal Input

Figure 2: PCB Back View with Component Labels (Serial Port, VC-TCXO, Adjustment Keys)

Figure 3: Side View of the Module

6. Operating Instructions

The PLJ-096OLED-L1 module is designed for straightforward operation with its dual-button interface and clear OLED display.

6.1 Basic Operation

• Once powered on, the module will immediately begin measuring and displaying the frequency of the signal connected to the RF input.
• The 0.96-inch OLED display shows an 8-digit frequency reading.
• The refresh rate is approximately 0.64 seconds, providing near real-time updates.

6.2 Button Functions

The module features two buttons, K1 and K2, for configuration:

• K1 (Setting/Confirmation Key): Used to enter settings menus and confirm selections.
• K2 (Adjustment Key): Used to navigate through options or adjust values within the settings menus.

6.3 Dual IF Offset

The module supports dual intermediate frequency (IF) offset modes, allowing for precise frequency calculations in various applications:

• You can configure two separate IF values (IF1 and IF2) with a range of ±99.9999MHz in 100Hz steps.
• These IF settings are stored independently and do not interfere with each other.
• The default IF setting is 0, providing a direct frequency readout.

6.4 Display Options

• Trailing Digit Blanking: For signals above 1MHz, it is recommended to enable trailing zero blanking for a cleaner display.
• Gate Time Selection: You can select between a 0.64s gate time (10Hz resolution) or a 1.0s gate time (1Hz resolution) depending on your precision requirements.

Video 1: PLJ-096OLED-L1 Frequency Measurement Demonstration

Figure 4: PLJ-096OLED-L1 Displaying 100.00000 MHz

Figure 5: PLJ-096OLED-L1 Displaying 29.600000 MHz

7. Calibration

The PLJ-096OLED-L1 module comes with a factory-calibrated VC-TCXO (Voltage Controlled Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator) which provides an accuracy of ±2.5ppm at 25°C.

For field recalibration, adjustments can be made via the test point labeled TP1 on the module's PCB. Refer to Figure 2 for the location of the frequency fine-tuning component.

8. Applications

This versatile frequency display module is suitable for a variety of applications, including but not limited to:

• Ham radio transceivers
• RF test equipment frequency readout
• Oscillator calibration systems
• Educational lab instruments

9. User Tips

• Minimum Frequency: The module is designed to measure frequencies from 1 kHz. It is not intended for direct measurement of frequencies below 1 kHz, such as 1 Hz.
• Connections: Ensure both power (4.5-9V DC, 5V recommended) and the RF signal are properly connected for the module to function.
• Display Clarity: For frequencies above 1 MHz, enabling trailing zero blanking can improve readability on the OLED display.
• Data Output: The UART serial output provides frequency data in the format "FREQ:xxxx.xxx kHz\n" for easy integration with microcontrollers or data logging systems.

10. Troubleshooting

• No Display/Power: Check power connections and ensure the voltage is within the 4.5-9V DC range. Verify the electronic switch (J1) is correctly configured if used.
• Incorrect Readings: Ensure the RF input signal is within the 1 kHz to 100 MHz range. Check the signal strength (sensitivity is -10dBm typical). Verify IF offset settings if applicable.
• No Serial Output: Confirm UART connections (TX, RX, GND) and ensure the baud rate is correctly configured on your receiving device.

11. Warranty and Support

For any technical assistance or warranty inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.