DIY599 LiNK500 Multi Standard TNC with Standalone APRS Tracker Instruction Manual

The LiNK500 is an all-in-one wireless digital interface designed
for seamless communication with leading transceivers. It offers
Bluetooth connectivity for wireless operation, multi-vendor
support, KISS TNC compatibility, super low power consumption, and
integration with theQRPstation/PA500.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Contents and Ports

The front panel features a USB-C connector for connection to an
external host like a PC and an additional USB-A port for extra
equipment with USB connection. The rear panel includes jumper
configurations and protective internal circuits such as reverse
polarity protection diode and overcurrent fuses.

2. USB Configuration (Windows)

Ensure the COM port number listed in the device tree matches
your computer. For Bluetooth configuration, select the device with
the specified symbol.

3. Configuration and Wiring

TX500 Menu Settings

Use DIG mode
Set DIG-Level to 90% (menu09)

CAT config: 9600,n,8,1
Rig: Kenwood TS-2000

Turn off any AGC setting for the LiNK500 audio device on the
Windows PC

ICOM IC-705 Menu Settings

Refer to the specific menu settings for ICOM IC-705
transceiver.

Xiegu G90/G106/G5105 Menu Settings

Use DIG mode
CAT config: 19200,n,8,1

Rig: ICOM IC-7100
Turn off any AGC setting for the LiNK500 audio device on the
Windows PC

FAQ

Q: Can I use the LiNK500 without an amateur radio
transceiver?

A: No, the device requires an amateur radio transceiver to
operate.

Q: What is the primary purpose of the LiNK500?

A: The LiNK500 serves as an all-in-one wireless digital
interface designed for seamless communication with leading
transceivers.

Q: How do I configure the Bluetooth connection on Windows?

A: Ensure you select the device with the specified symbol for
Bluetooth configuration on Windows.

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DIY599.com
multi standard TNC with standalone APRS Tracker
LiNK500 INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Version 2.7 / Revision 7 The device requires an amateur radio transceiver to operate.
This device is for use by licensed radio amateurs only
© 2024 DL4KA
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Table of Contents
Introduction and Overview …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3 Important configurations (PLEASE READ) ………………………………………………………………………….. 4 Jumper configuration ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6 LiNK500 Protective internal circuits………………………………………………………………………………….. 6 LiNK500 USB configuration (windows) ……………………………………………………………………………… 7 LiNK500 BT configuration (windows)………………………………………………………………………………… 7 Configuration and Wiring……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8 Transceiver connection in general………………………………………………………………………………….. 14 Radio Data-Port audio amplitude setup ………………………………………………………………………….. 14 safety instructions ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16 device specifications……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 17 GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING ………………………………………………………………………………………. 18 AFTER-SALES SERVICE POLICY ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 19 Device LABEL and ID location ………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 REGULATORY INFORMATION………………………………………………………………………………………… 20 WARRANTY LIMITATIONS …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23 Note Amateur Radio Operation …………………………………………………………………………………….. 23 WARRANTY TERMS …………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23 DISCLAIMER of LIABILITY ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 24

Document changes

Manual Version / revision
V2.3 / 1 V2.3 / 2 V2.3 / 3 V2.3 / 4 V2.7 / 6 V2.7 / 7

changes
1st draft Manual refers to PCB version 2.3 Add Elecraft KX3 cable wiring Add Kenwood TS-480 cable wiring typos GPS DATA is readable through an extra UART Port. (from HW Rev 2.7) USB configuration (device tree list example)

This draft refers to the Instruction Manual and Command Description for the Teensy RPR TNC and the SCS Tracker from SCS GmbH, Hanau (Germany). The original of the document to the Teensy Tracker is created and maintained by SA7SKY and DM4RW. This Document is created and maintained by DL4KA. Instruction Manual to set up Teensy RPR TNC Module: Teensy-RPR-TNC-Manual
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Introduction and Overview
Introduction This technical introduction presents the LiNK500, a groundbreaking unit in emergency communication designed to support Winlink and APRS for global email and messaging. Seamlessly compatible with leading transceivers from Lab599, ICOM, and Yaesu, the LiNK500 boasts a compact, lightweight, and energy-efficient design for enhanced portability. A key feature is its integration with WoAD and APRS Droid on Android devices, enabling Bluetooth connectivity to your HF rig via your phone. This presentation will explore the setup, usage, and troubleshooting of the LiNK500, alongside its technical specifications, providing a comprehensive understanding of how this innovative unit significantly improves coordination and communication for first responders in critical situations.
Overview
Primary Purpose: The LiNK500 serves as an all-in-one wireless digital interface, designed to facilitate seamless communication with leading transceivers. It supports:
· WoAD (Winlink on Android Devices) · WinLink Express (Winlink client for Windows devices) · APRSdroid (Automatic Packet Reporting System for Android) (Init string: %0D%1B%40K) · PinPoint (for location tracking and messaging) · APRSIS32 (for location tracking and messaging) This makes it ideal for amateur radio operators and those using digital communication protocols in various applications. Secondary Purpose: The LiNK500 also functions as an interface for connecting to a PC, allowing users to engage with software applications such as: · FT8 (a popular digital mode for weak signal communication) · JS8Call (a digital mode based on FT8 that allows for text messaging) · VARA (a robust digital mode that provides improved performance over traditional methods)
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LiNK500 Key Features
1. Bluetooth Connectivity: o Enables wireless communication with devices, allowing flexible operation without the clutter of cables.
2. Multi-Vendor Support: o Compatible with a variety of transceivers and software from different manufacturers, enhancing versatility and usability.
3. KISS TNC Compatibility: o Supports the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) protocol for terminal node controllers, making it easy to integrate with existing systems and software.
4. Super Low Power Consumption: o Designed for efficiency, the LiNK500 consumes minimal power, making it suitable for portable and solar operated setups.
5. theQRPstation/PA500 Integration: o Seamlessly integrates with the theQRPstation and PA500, providing a cohesive experience for users looking to enhance their low-power operations. more detailed information about the “theQRPstattion” please visit: www.theQRPstore.com
Important configurations (PLEASE READ)
For APRS Tracker applications like APRS.fi or APRSDriod the APRS path MUST BE SET TO WIDE1-1 ONLY. No other expansions like WIDE1-2 or others are allowed on shortwave for that reasons. If you use the ICOM-705 Radio please read section IC-705 Menu Settings, especially the SP Jack Function and DATA MOD settings are important. If the internal audio device is used via USB from a Windows system. The AGC in the windows audio device setting needs to be turned OFF. Currently all applications on iOS need a KISS mode configurated LiNK500. Please use the KISS-Tools (downloadable on the website) to change the configuration. Alternatively, a manual configuration via a terminal application can be made (ESC@KP1 and ESC%ZS). Currently all applications on Android need a Terminal mode configurated LiNK500. Please use the KISS-Tools (downloadable on the website) to change the configuration. Alternatively, a manual configuration via a terminal application can be made (ESC@KP0 and ESC%ZS). This Mode is a default mode when the unit comes from DiY599.
4

LiNK500 Contents, LEDs, Ports, and Jumpers
Fron Panel
The USB Interface type for a connection to an external Host like a PC is a USB-C Connector. An additional USB-A Port (5V / 100mA) is for additional equipment like a Radio with an USB connection.
Rear Panel
5

Jumper configuration

LiNK500 Protective internal circuits

protective circuits
Reverse polarity protection Diode f. Ext. Power
Resettable 100mA Overcurrent fuse for the 5V USB-A voltage
Resettable 20mA Overcurrent fuse for 3.3V Interface voltage

function
Protect the LiNK500 to reverse voltage polarity
Protect the LiNK500 USB-A port in case of overcurrent
Protect the LiNK500 Interface port in case of overcurrent

LiNK500 USB configuration (windows)
The COM port number listed in the device tree might be different on your computer.
LiNK500 BT configuration (windows)
Please make sure you’re selecting the device with that Symbol:
7

Configuration and Wiring
TX500
TX-500 Menu Settings
Use: DIG mode Set the DIG-Level to: 90% (menu09) CAT config is: 9600,n,8,1 Rig is: Kenwood TS-2000 turn off any AGC setting for the Link500 Audio device on the Windows PC
8

ICOM IC-705
IC-705 Menu Settings
For RPR WinLink or APRS operation via USB-cable or BT: Set to USB-D (upper side band DATA) AF Gain 50%, MIC Gain 50%, AGC setting = fast compression = off, notch filter = off, noise blanking = off, noise reduction = off DATA MOD = MIC,USB [Menu->SET->Connecors->MOD Input->DATA MOD] SP Jack Function = Phone (L+R) [Menu->SET->Connecors->SP Jack Funktion] For FT8, JS8Call, Vara, VaraC operation via USB which use the LiNK500 USB-PnP Audio feature: Set to USB-D (upper side band DATA) AF Gain 50%, MIC Gain 50%, AGC setting = fast DATA MOD = MIC,USB [Menu->SET->Connecors->MOD Input->DATA MOD] SP Jack Function = Phone (L+R) [Menu->SET->Connecors->SP Jack Funktion] compression = off, notch filter = off, noise blanking = off, noise reduction = off PTT control is available via RTS control of an additional USB-UART port turn off any AGC setting for the Link500 Audio device on the Windows PC
9

Xiegu G90/G106/G5105
Xiegu Gxxxx Menu Settings
Use: DIG mode CAT config is: 19200,n,8,1 Rig is: ICOM IC-7100 turn off any AGC setting for the Link500 Audio device on the Windows PC
10

Yaesu FT817/818/857/891/710/DX10
turn off any AGC setting for the Link500 Audio device on the Windows PC
11

Elecraft KX2
turn off any AGC setting for the Link500 Audio device on the Windows PC The LiNK500 needs the RS232 hardware configuration (Jumpers) to work with the KX2 Radio
12

ICOM IC-7100,IC-7200,IC-7300,(IC-7400), IC-703,IC-706 Kenwood TS-480
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Transceiver connection in general
Due to the variety of radios, connecting the LiNK500 TNC to the radio is a bit more complicated. Robust-Packet uses differential phase modulation (DPSK) as the modulation type, which leads to a very narrow spectrum. To maintain this favorable property on the band, careful adjustment of the transceiver is required. Overdriving the transceiver will greatly broaden the spectrum. Amplitude adjustment is also very important. The Robust-Packet modulation scheme has nothing to do with simple frequency shift keying (FSK) and therefore cannot be generated using an FSK modulator integrated into the transceiver! The Robust-Packet signal must always be modulated onto the RF carrier via the SSB detour. This is not a disadvantage as long as the transceiver is not overdriven! Here are some useful tips for adjusting your radio: · If possible, use a 500 Hz wide IF filter for HF packet radio. Do not use a narrower IF filter! Wider IF filters (SSB filters) are not a problem. The filtering by the DSP in the TNC is always optimal. However, it is always better if interference does not reach the TNC in the first place. · Do not use any audio processors. Speech compressors in the radio interfere with the signal just as much as external DSP audio filters. These external DSP audio filters have a significant signal delay. This is more disruptive than helpful. The TNC filters the signal optimally through its own DSP. · Noise blankers and notch filters on the radio must remain off.
Radio Data-Port audio amplitude setup
The output amplitude of the TNC is set with the %X command. The level range is 30…3000 mV pp. %X sets all levels for all modulations at the same time to the value given as argument. %XF sets the 9k6 / 19k2 (G3RUH) FSK level. %XA sets the 300 / 1200 baud AFSK level. %XR sets the output level for the Robust HF Packet modulation. The TNC’s output amplitude has to be adjusted very carefully to the connected transceiver. If you don’t pay attention on this item a corrupted signal much too wide will be the result! The audio input sensitivity of most transceivers mainly designed for voice operation is adapted to the output voltage of a common dynamic microphone. 100% modulation is reached at low mic gain settings with 200 mV (peak to peak) input voltage. It is not recommended to use very high output values and compensate this by lowering the mic gain setting, because this may already overdrive the first amplifier stages which are very sensitive and located in the signal path before the mic gain controlling device. We recommend for the first approach to use the default output values and then regulate the output power with the mic gain setting (if available) and watching the ALC meter in case of an SSB transmitter. The ALC level should not exceed the admissable range. To do this connect the TRX to a dummyload resistor capable to dissipate the power or to an antenna with good SWR (take care that the frequency being used is not already occupied). Start a terminal program that allows direct input of TNC commands (e. g. HyperTerm). Select the desired operating mode (%B command) and then adjust the corresponding %X(A/F/R) setting to an appropriate starting level (default settings: %XA=200, %XR=300, %XF=600). Make sure that the I-Parameter (“Mycall”) is set to your callsign. (If the “mycall” is still set to “DSP TNC”, transmitting will be generally inhibited.) Now your TNC is ready for sending “Unproto” data packets through the virtual TNC channel 0 (also called “monitor channel”). Data received by the TNC on virtual channel 0 from the serial port (USB) and terminated with a will be sent out as unproto packets. In fact, every time pressing (=sending a to the TNC) a short transmission burst will be triggered. You can use the mic gain knob to increase the transmitting power until the ALC voltage reaches the allowed limit. For all modes using FM instead of SSB (usually 1200 Bd AFSK and DirectFSK) you need to measure the FM deviation for optimum results. In practise (no deviation meter available) start with fairly low %XA/XF signal levels, connect a nearby digipeater and increase the TX audio level until no or almost no “retries” are requested. Increase the signal level by another 20 %.
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Don’t overdrive the TRX because in this case the signal will be broadened and corrupted! Don’t be confused, as many modern SSB transceivers only display the peak envelope power. If it is necessary to set the MIC-Gain value to more than half of its maximum, it is recommended to increase the output level of the DSP TNC. This for example can be done entering %XA 300 or %XR 400 . If no MIC-Gain potentiometer is available, the proper output amplitude setting has to be evaluated with only using the %XA or %XR command. On Robust-PR, with proper settings, the SSB peak envelope power will nearly be equal to the maximum output power of the TRX. In this case the average power will approximately be the half of the maximum power, so also continuous operation will not cause problems at all. On constant amplitde modes (e. g. 300 Bd AFSK), to prevent damage from the transceiver at continuous operation, we recommend to limit the output level to half of the maximum possible power, that means 50 W if the transceiver is made for 100 W at max.
15

safety instructions
EM interference
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the defined limits for amateur radio equipment. This device is tested in a laboratory, all measurements were applied with suitable measuring devices. The device itself does not emit radio frequency energy to the antenna without a connected amateur radio transceiver. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy when it’s connected to an amateur radio transceiver and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
· Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. · Increase the separation between the equipment and effected receiver device. · Reduce the output power until the device no longer interferes. · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this device, not expressly approved by DIY599 could void your authority to operate this device under compliance regulations.
This device is for use by licensed radio amateurs only
grounding and ESD protection
A connected transceiver should be connected to ground to provide some protection against lightning and damage due to electrostatic discharge (ESD). When used in a building, the connected transceiver should also be connected to other building grounds.
if the connected transceiver is not grounded, high voltage can be present on the chassis during RF transmission.
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device specifications
NF-Input impedance NF-Input Level
NF-Output impedance 2.5mm Jack NF-Output impedance DATA-Port NF-Output Level 3.5mm Jack and DATA-Port
NF-DSP processing Working temperature range
Power supply dimensions (HWD) in mm
weight in kg/lbs

LiNK500
50 KOhm 0 mVss2Vss
27KOhm 100 Ohm max. 3 Vss configurable in 1 mV steps Teensy 4.0 Plattform Module -10°C – +40°C 7-18V (100mA @13V) 25mm x 88mm x 56mm
20g /

GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING

fault description

Possible reasons

solution

AFTER-SALES SERVICE POLICY
If this kit is bought in the European union, this product has a limited two-years warranty effective from the date of purchase. This warranty covers only manufacturing and parts defects. It does not cover damage caused by lightning, excess voltage on the power supply, accidental damage or purposeful damage or misuse. If the product needs warranty repair within two weeks of receiving the product, DIY599 will pay for the shipping both ways. After two weeks DIY599 will pay only for return shipping. If the product is not covered under warranty, the customer pays for shipping both ways plus the cost of the repair.
Device LABEL and ID location
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REGULATORY INFORMATION
United States of America
Contains FCC ID:A8TBM78ABCDEFGH This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. · Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. · Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Canada
Contains transmitter module IC: 12246A-BM78SPPS5M2 This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement. Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication. Conformément à la réglementation d’Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une antenne d’un type et d’un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l’émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l’intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d’antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas l’intensité nécessaire à l’établissement d’une communication satisfaisante.
20

Europe
The RN4678 module is Radio Equipment Directive (RED) assessed, CE marked, and has been manufac tured and tested with the intention of being integrated into a final product. The RN4678 module has been tested to RED 2014/53/ EU Essential Requirements mentioned in the following European Compliance table.
The ETSI provides guidance on modular devices in “Guide to the application of harmonised standards cov ering Article 3.1b and Article 3.2 of the Directive 2014/ 53/EU RED to multi-radio and combined radio and non-radio equipment” document available at: http://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_eg/203300_203399/203367/01.01.01_60/eg_203367v010101p.pdf From ETSI Guidance Note EG 203367, Section 6.1, non-radio products are combined with a radio product: If the manufacturer of the combined equipment installs the radio product in a host nonradio product in equiva lent assessment conditions (i.e., host equivalent to the one used for the assessment of the radio product) and according to the installation instructions for the radio product, then no additional assessment of the combined equipment against Article 3.2 of the RED is required. Hereby, Microchip Technology Inc. declares that the radio equipment type RN4678 is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the EU declaration of conformity for this product is available at: https://www.microchip.com/wwwproducts/en/RN4678 (available under Documents > Certifications).
Japan
Integration of this module into a final product does not require additional radio certification provided installation instructions are followed and no modifications of the module are allowed.
Korea
The RN4678 module has received certification of conformity in accordance with the Radio Waves Act. Integration of this module into a final product does not require additional radio certification provided installa tion instructions are followed and no modifications of the module are allowed.
21

Taiwan
UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed)
The RN4678 module is a UK conformity assessed radio module that meets all the essential requirements according to CE RED requirements.
Hereby, Microchip Technology Inc. declares that the radio equipment type RN4678 is in compliance with the Radio Equipment Regulations 2017. The full text of the UKCA declaration of conformity for this product is available (under Documents > Certifica tions) at: https://www.microchip.com/enus/product/RN4678
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WARRANTY LIMITATIONS
Any of the following will void the warranty applicable to the product and its accessories: A. Modification-, removal-, or maintenance of the internal circuitry, without permission and authorization. B. Unauthorized change of product’s embedded software. C. Immersion in liquid or signs of external damage. D. Warranty period expired. E. Product’s serial number is missing, torn or blurred so we cannot determine if the radio is under warranty. F. Product was not bought from DIY599 or authorized distributor of DIY599.
None of the following conditions, are covered by the warranty: A. Damage caused by improper use by the user.
B. Damage caused by an accident.
C. Damage due to incorrect testing, maintenance, debugging, or other changes. D. Damage is not caused by the material or the quality of production. E. Damage to the shell or other external components due to improper use.
Contact us for service: service@DIY599.com
Note Amateur Radio Operation
DIY599 is obligated as a manufacturer of devices for Amateur Radio to draw attention to the following legal provisions: The following restrictive conditions apply: This device is intended for use by radio amateurs within the meaning of the law on amateur radio in the valid amended. During operation of the device, the amateur radio law and supplementary laws and regulations must be observed.
WARRANTY TERMS
For amateur radio LiNK500 TNC legal guarantee determinations apply only if the device is operated in a manner corresponding to its intended use. This includes the compliance with the operating limits mentioned in this manual.
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DISCLAIMER of LIABILITY
All LiNK500 specifications and descriptions are based on the latest information available at the time of this document’s printing. As we are always striving to improve and update our products, ALL PRODUCT, PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AND DATA ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE and DIY599 reserves the right to make changes and improvements at any time without further notice or obligation to notify any person or organization of such revisions or changes, made in order to improve the reliability, function, quality and design and/or performance of the LiNK500 device. Further, this Manual is provided “as is” and DIY599 shall not be liable for possible errors contained herein.

If there are any questions, please contact DIY599.com as follows:

by Email: by Phone: by Mail:

info@DIY599.com +49(0)33763-21484-0 Oliver Harms Gross Koeriser Str. 1b 15741 Bestensee

Documents / Resources

DIY599 LiNK500 Multi Standard TNC with Standalone APRS Tracker [pdf] Instruction Manual
LiNK500, LiNK500 Multi Standard TNC with Standalone APRS Tracker, Multi Standard TNC with Standalone APRS Tracker, Standard TNC with Standalone APRS Tracker, TNC with Standalone APRS Tracker, Standalone APRS Tracker

References

User Manual