V3.10 Object files for General Release:

Updated 11/17/2007

FF-800 beta release of the v3.10 FLASH update files (FF310E.ZIP)

(Users who have the FFLASH V3.85 (or higher) can download here)

V3.xx README Notes:

v3.10E

• Fixed an obscure scheduler problem.
• Added support for xmodem/crc. Xmodem transfers now work with hyperterm.
• Added machine alert enable/disable command: cntl456 ; (0/1). cntl4560 disables, while cntl4561 enables.
• Added config unlock mode command: cnfg511 ; (0/1). cnfg5110 allows config unlock any time, while cnfg5111 allows config unlock only if control security in unlocked.
• Added elapsed time indicators (ETI). Use the ETI serial command to interrogate. "ETI 0" clears all of the ETIs. "ETI n" clears ETI #n. Serial port only!

v3.10D

• Fixed an obscure RBADJUST problem (RB would timeout if a TR command was issued on initial keyup).
• Added support for a blank serial password. If the password is blank, the serial port is always open.
• CTCSS slave modified to match manual.
• PL Mode modified to match manual.
• Added power on message enable/disable command: cntl 458 ; (0/1). cntl4580 disables, while cntl4581 enables.

v3.10C

• Fixed display "gas-gauge".
• Added a command to key/unley select TX Port (645) for use in macros.
• Added CODELISTA and CODELISTB to list control and config DTMF commands.
• Added delay until true (593) and delay until false (594) macro commands to delay a specified time until the specified flag is true or false.
• Fixed RB Adjust operation to prevent temporary hang-up if no COS changes occur.
• Modified LOAD commands to leave FFLASH firmware bank alone.
• Added FFLASH and XFFLASH commands to allow user update of FFLASH firmware.

v3.10

• Added display "gas-gauge" status indicator for LOAD/SAVE/VERIFY functions.
• Updated ASSIGN command to list all 99 functions.
• Added xmodem (128 byte, checksum only) load, save, and verify (XLOAD, XSAVE, and XVERIFY).
• Fixed bug in date set that prevented updates of the day of week.
• Added "PL Always" to the CTCSS Selective Encode feature. Also added a 200ms delay from deactivation of PL to TX drop to eliminate squelch burst on tone encoded radios.
• Added "Remote Base Warning" message to Remote Base Adjust feature. Will send warning message at 30, 20, and 10 seconds before adjust action occurs.
• Added serial port command to list the current DTMF prefix settings (CODELIST).

v3.08/3.09 beta

• Changed serial "INGET" command to "LOGON".
• Fixed a bug with SDMESSAGE that prevented access of speed dial messages 240-249.
• LEVP/LEVC now list port names for user reference.
• Serial LOAD command was modified to support an error buffer that holds up to 40 of the last errors encountered during a configuration load. If there are errors, a user prompt is displayed that querries the desired action: A)bort, R)etry, or F)actory default. Automatically performs factory initialization if there is no response to the querry after 120 seconds.
• Modified LOAD so that it will not overwrite the time clock or serial password.
• Configuration files may now have comments to hold user notes. Any line that begins with a semi-colon is ignored by the LOAD command.
• VERIFY is a new serial command that verifies the integrity of a SAVE file. This is used to verify a newly saved file has been captured properly (it doesn't compare any data stored in the controller). Verify works just like LOAD except that it doesn't alter the controller configuration.
• DIS1 and DIS2 are new serial commands that allow snapshot interrogation of the controller I/O status.
• Modified the factory initialization routines to key all TXs and announce "Base Start Complete" at the conclusion of the initialization procedure. Allows users with no local speaker to know when the initialization is finished.
• Fixed a bug in the R B Adjust message that would mute the message if a COS was active.
• Forced pulse width to a minimum value of 1 to prevent random timing problems that resulted from a setting of 0.
• Modified the code that uses the day of the week (scheduler, time interrogate, etc...) to filter unused bits that can be inadvertently set causing problems with weekly scheduler events.
• Fixed a bug in the DTMF output level configuration command.
• Modified the BCD Output command (user166) to use the output level settings when accessing the internal outputs.
• Added the BCD Width command to restrict the bits affected by the BCD Output command. The syntax is cnfg 506 ; n where n = 1 to 8 bits. The width is always aligned with the lowest bit.
• Added a Message pre-assign command to assign each "ff" message function to its corresponding message number. cnfg555AAAA
• Added TIME and DATE serial commands. Time clock now supports century and year and automatically calculates the day of the week.
• Modified DTMF set time command to accept either 2 or 4 digit year entries. 2 digits leaves current century unmodified. Also automatically calculates the day of the week.
• Added a 24 hour mode to the time interrogate commands, cntl41112 sets 12 hour mode, cntl41124 sets 24 hour mode. Set time is still always in 24 hour format.
• Added a new feature called COS over patch. This feature allows a control operator on a control autopatch session to use the repeater as though they were on a transceiver. Once configured, the control operator uses a DTMF digit to "key" (keydn) the repeater at which point they are transmitting on all enabled ports. Another, different, DTMF digit is used to "unkey" (keyup) the repeater at which point they are monitoring the repeater output. Note that this feature uses command trigger #1. If this input is used, it must be moved to another trigger input before the CAPCOS feature can be utilized.
  • CAP Monitor mode must be on (cntl4061) to use "key down" and "key up".
  • New configuration command to enable CAP COS mode: cnfg855 ; 1/0. 1 = on, 0 = off.
  • New configuration command to set the monitor level: cnfg855* ; 0/1/2. 0 = max level, 2 = min level.
  • New configuration commands to set the DTMF "key" (cnfg854 ; d) and "unkey" (cnfg864 ; u) digits. d = key down DIGIT, u = key up DIGIT. NOTE: d & u digits MUST be different for the feature to work correctly.
  • New control command that allows a control patch to be initiated from a DTMF command port. cntl404 is used after an autopatch command (and also after the control unlock command). once executed, the controller will enter control patch mode at which point the answering party will have 13 seconds to enter the control patch logon command.
  • The APO Cancel modification is recomended when using the CAP COS mode. The APO Cancel modification is a retrofit module that plugs into the sockets for U17 and U18 that reduces the DTMF interference that can occur while in CAP Monitor mode. Contact Joe Haas at joeh@rollanet.org for details.

v3.07

• Fixed a latent bug that could cause lock-up problems with the controller. While rare, it was possible to lock-up the controller while entering DTMF digits at a high rate. While the exact cause isn't clear, the problem was actually with the tone generation software and was caused by the DTMF cover tones overlapping (indivdual mode). Modified the tone software to be fault tolerant thereby removing the lock-up mechanism.

v3.06test

• Re-fixed RBI-1 memory support. This was fixed in V2.19P, but was lost in the V3.00 translation.
• Fixed the SDM command to take all 250 speed dial slot numbers.
• Changed Set Baud command to allow immeadiate baud rate update (previously, a reset was reauired to update the new rate). To make update immeadiate, use (pfx) * (r), where (r) = rate digit.

v3.05test

• Added new macro flags (40:lclrx, 41:lcltx, 42-45:MacTimer1-4, 46:Autopatch timer, 47:Reverse Patch wait timer). The timer flags test true if timer = 0.
• Modified scheduler system to improve operation. Added ability to queue coincident events. The scheduler will execute up to 4 coincident events (duplicate macros are excluded).
• Added Macro Timer Set command (cnfg595) to allow timer driven macros. This allows a macro to be executed after an elapsed time (not tied to clock). Syntax: cnfg595mmt..t mm = macro#, t..t = time in seconds to macro execute. The time is measured from the BEGINING of the Interrogate message.

v3.04test

• Added OUTlock (cfg513) to allow the logic outputs to be security locked. This allows the sysop to require config security before a logic output can be changed. Applies to all commands that control outputs. The internal and external ports are controlled separately.
• Added fauxRAP (cfg640).
• Added ability to page speed dial message on reverse patch (151). by adding a speed dial slot# as a parameter to the 151 command, the controller announces the speed dial message for that slot. MSG speaks even if no speed dial is programmed.

v3.03test

• Fixed teen speak, was inserting an random word in the output speech for teen numbers.
• Modified TR Mode (TRCONF) to support LCL port. Syntax: cnfg5421x, x = 0 to interrogate, 1 for RX, 2 for TX, 3 for OFF.
• Added DTMF LEVC command cnfg545, allows COS active level to be modified from DTMF ports.
• Added DTMF LEVP command cnfg547, allows CTCSS active level to be modified from DTMF ports.
• Added hex->out command to store decimal value as hex code to the logic outputs, user166. This command uses msg#94 for telemetry msg. Syntax: 166 interrogates, 166xxx sets code for 'xxx', 166* interrogates external outputs, 166*xxx sets code for 'xxx' on external port
• Added CTCSS->out command to store mx165 tone code settings to outputs[5:0], user165. Uses same PL codes as for the RBI-1 CTCSS command. 165 interrogates, 165xx sets PL# 'xx', 165* interrogates external port, 165xx sets PL# 'xx' on external port. The external port supports the FF-Tone CTCSS encode/decode module.
• Added several ctcss features and config commands:

  1) cnfg544: slave PTTs to any CTCSS (per port).

  2) cnfg548: designate output# for encode enable output register. This allows a CTCSS encoder to be selectively enabled during COS, ID, etc... Output #9 = FF-Tone.

  3) cnfg549: encode output options 1) follow cos, 2) follow cos w/hangtime, 3) follow command telem, 4) follow IDs, 5) follow autopatch

v3.01test

• Fixed error in SIMTEK store/recall functions.

v3.00test

• Reformatted object code to use extended memory.
• Added word-number to serial WORD command. Lists word number (used in DTMF message edits) with each word.
• Added SDMESSAGE command to allow serial command edits of speed dial messages. Each speed dial message now has an individual 8byte speech message that may be programmed (requires expanded U5 RAM).
• Speed dial memories support double length storage (expanded U5 required). Banks 1 & 2 are now 14 digits, bank 3 is 20 digits, and bank 4 is 60 digits. This was implemented in v2.19n, but may be new to those of you who haven't upgraded in a while.
• Modified LOAD and SAVE commands to support expanded U5 RAM. These commands now save/restore all available non-volitile storage. LOAD is still compatible with pre-v3.xx configuration data.

There are six (6) files in the ZIP package:

• FFftp3xx.htm ... (this file)
• FACT.S19 ... the factory configuration file for the expanded U5 memory
• U3.S19 ... U3 object file
• U4LO.S19 ... U4low object file
• U4HI.S19 ... TI speech data (U4hi)
• V305FIX.S19 ... Initializes new memory locations.
• V3xx.DOC ... Word for windows (V6) file that covers V3.xx updates. Add to Appendix F of your manual.

Instructions for FFLASH users ({ret} = Carraige Return, Enter, or Return key on your keyboard):

NOTE: The "checksum error" that is displayed after some of the following programming operations is expected and can be ignored.

Expanded U5 device is NOT required to run V3.xx. Features that require expanded U5 are disabled until you install the new memory.

• If you wish to upload the FFLASH V3.85 upgrade, do so now. NOTE: You can not upgrade the FFLASH unless you have a U5 upgrade installed.
• !IMPORTANT! Download your controller's system configuration (SAVE) before re-programming your FF-800!
• Download update files and unzip them into a directory of your choice.
• Use the following procedure to place the FF-800 into FFLASH operating mode:
  • Flip the FFLASH toggle switch to PROG (from the chassis rear, PROG is to the right).
  • Press the reset switch on the FFLASH.
  • Send a BREAK from your PC. ({cntl}-BREAK on most PCs).
  • Repeat the RESET-BREAK sequence up to three times until the FFLASH start message is displayed. Ignore any other messages. if the message is not displayed, your PC's terminal program may not be sending a break. Hyperterm and PCPLUS both use -BREAK, but other programs may not. Check your terminal program documentation to verify the correct BREAK sequence.
• Once you have the FF-800 bootloader message displayed, type "FLER ALL {ret}" and wait for the command prompt (*TWO* OK message will be displayed!).
• After the devices are erased, type "D U4H {ret}" to select U4 High. Type "XW {ret}" and select your terminal program's XMODEM (checksum) and upload the U4HI.S19 file.
• Type "D U4L {ret}" and then "XW {ret}". Use XMODEM to upload the U4LO.S19 file.
• Type "D U3 {ret}" and then "XW {ret}". Use XMODEM to upload the U3.S19 file.
• When finished, return the system to controller mode (flip the FFLASH switch to NORM and press reset ... IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A U5 UPGRADE, then you should turn off the FF-800, wait 10 seconds, and re-apply power). NOTE: Due to some uninitialized memory locations, your controller may exhibit some erratic behaviour at this point. This is not a concern AS LONG AS YOU CAN ACCESS THE SERIAL PORT! If you can not access the serial port, it may be necessary to re-load the .S19 files.
• Use the LOAD command on your FF-800 and send the V305FIX.S19 file. After this load, the controller should behave normally.
• If you have a previously installed U5 upgrade AND this is your first V3.xx upgrade, then you should also LOAD the FACT.S19 file at this time. NOTE: Once the FACT.S19 file is loaded, you should not need to re-load on future V3.xx upgrades.
• Your installation is complete!

Instructions for NON-FFLASH Users:

• !IMPORTANT! Download your controller's system configuration (SAVE) before re-programming your FF-800!
• Download update files and unzip them into a directory of your choice.
• Program U3, a 27C256 or equivalent, with the U3.S19 file. You must use an address offset of -$008000.
• Program U4, a 27C1001 or equivalent, with the U4HI.S19 File. You must use an address offset of $010000.
• Program U4 with U4LO.S19, address offset = $000000.
• Install the new EPROMs in the FF-800 at their respective sockets. NOTE: Due to some uninitialized memory locations, your controller may exhibit some erratic behaviour at this point. This is not a concern AS LONG AS YOU CAN ACCESS THE SERIAL PORT! If you can not access the serial port, it may be necessary to re-load the .S19 files.
• Use the LOAD command on your FF-800 and send the V305FIX.S19 file. After this load, the controller should behave normally.
• Your installation is complete!

U5 Expanded Memory Upgrade

Alternately, a Dallas Semiconductor NVRAM may be used if the SIMTEK parts are not available. The part number is DS1230Y-120 and can be ordered direct from Dallas Semiconductor or from Allied Electronics (allied part# 671-0162).

Be Sure to note the orientation of the existing U5 before replacing it with the new device. The SIMTEK parts are half-wide, so the U5 socket actually consists of three rows of equally spaced socket pins. This arrangement allows a normal width part such as the DS1230Y to be used in place of the narrow SIMTEK part. The SIMTEK device should be installed so that it occupies the two socket rows closest to U4.

After installing the new device, you should perform a factory initialization sequence as described below.

FFLASH users:

• !IMPORTANT! Download your controller's system configuration (SAVE) before re-programming your FF-800!
• Using the serial command port, sent the command: "WR B7FD 01 {ret}" (enables new U5 device).
• Remove the chassis power and open the chassis. Remove the existing U5 device (STK11C68).
• Install the new U5 device (STK11C88 or DS1230Y).
• Remove the P28 FFLASH connector (located adjacent to the DIP switch) -- Be sure to note its orientation.
• Set the DIP switch so that positions 1-4 are all off (this should be its current setting).
• Apply power. The FF-800 will begin an initialization sequence. When complete, the controller will key TXA and send the standard reset announcement which indicates that the initialization is complete.
• Remove Power. Re-install the FFLASH connector at P28.
• Leave the DIP switch so that positions 1-4 are all off.
• Replace the chassis lid and return the chassis to its operating position.
• Reapply power.
• Log on the serial command port and LOAD your configuration data. Also, you should LOAD the FACT.S19 file at this time. NOTE: You should only load the FACT.S19 file once, it should not be needed for future upgrades.
• Your installation is complete!

NON FFLASH users:

• !IMPORTANT! Download your controller's system configuration (SAVE) before re-programming your FF-800!
• Using the serial command port, sent the command: "WR B7FD 01 {ret}" (enables new U5 device).
• Remove the chassis power and open the chassis. Remove the existing U5 device (STK11C68).
• Install the new U5 device (STK11C88 or DS1230Y).
• Set the DIP switch so that positions 1-4 are all off.
• Apply power. The FF-800 will begin an initialization sequence. When complete, the controller will key TXA and send the standard reset announcement which indicates that the initialization is complete.
• Remove power.
• Set the DIP switch so that position 1 = on, and 2-4 = off.
• Replace the chassis lid and return the chassis to its operating position.
• Reapply power. <
• Log on the serial command port and LOAD your configuration data. Also, you should LOAD the FACT.S19 file at this time. NOTE: You should only load the FACT.S19 file once, it should not be needed for future upgrades.
• Your installation is complete!