OE8WOZ

"GenSeq", a generic sequencer board

Genaue Beschreibung im DUBUS 4/2018! Detailed description in DUBUS 4/2018!
Title: Little helper for various control tasks / Kleines Helferlein für vielfältige Schaltaufgaben
  • Low cost using standard components - for the PCB with parts about 10...15 Euro.
  • DIY friendly using only through-hole parts.
  • Standard supply ~9...15V. Low disturbances as uC is in sleep mode when not switching.
  • Configurable for latching (bistable, common + or -) and failsafe (monostable) SPDT switches or relais (~500mA).
  • Power output (~10A, depending on PMOS) for PA stages.
  • Additional output (~500mA) for LNA stages.
  • Configurable fast (min. 40ms) or slow (min. 160ms) switching times.
  • Configuration does not need any programmer tool, just 3 LEDs and 2 switches.
  • Plattform for own developments with ISP connector (example C code on reqest).
Following setups are possible with the default firmware, measured w/o load on the PA output.
First wave is control in/out, second is PA output, third is REL1 out, fourth is REL2 out.
Units shown are Volts and Seconds.
Latching, common -, slow
Latching, common -, fast
Latching, common +, slow
Latching, common +, fast
Failsafe, slow
Failsafe, fast
(press right mouse button on a picture and then select "show picture" or similar in your browser for a bigger view)

Get here the PDF with a basic description (German): download
Here a PDF with the description for configuration of the GenSeq V1 firmware (English): download
I still have some PCB left of the final V1 and can sell them with a pre-programmed ATTINY13A for 5€ plus packaging and shipping costs (depends on your country). No other parts included (as they are easy to get from any local electronics supply store). I pre-configure the ATTINY to one of the above settings and check on a test board.
No boards left, sorry I sold the last few at the Hamradio 2019 in FN. I can order more on request, but will take at least ~3 weeks to get them produced and send them to you. / Ich habe leider keine Boards mehr, die verbliebenen habe ich auf der Hamradio 2019 in FN verkauft. Ich kann noch bei Bedarf welche anfertigen, dauert aber mindestens 3 Wochen um sie fertigen zu lassen und zu versenden.
I also have a few prototype boards which look quite similar (and are fine either w/o the PA output, or some pull-up R can be still soldered on the back - I can provide the information) I can give away for 4€ plus package/shipping.
Special versions on request, eveything is based non-commercial use "according to ham-spirit", I do this in my free time and w/o commercial interest/profit. Contact me for details. Please be patient if I do not immediately come back to you.

Project code:

Here is the actual FW release as Intel HEX file for updating your sequencer board. It can be flashed using any Atmel ISP hardware and software to the GenSeq board. Note, the processor on the board is running on 5V supply. PLEASE DISCONNECT ANY LOADS FROM THE BOARD BEFORE FLASHING!
Hier findet sich die aktuelle FW release als Intel HEX Datei um das Sequenzer-Board zu aktualisieren. Es kann mit jedem Atmel ISP Werkzeug auf die GenSeq Platine eingespielt werden. Achtung, der Prozessor läuft mit einer 5V Versorgungsspannung. BITTE ALLE LASTEN VOM BOARD VOR DEM PROGRAMMIEREN ABSCHLIESSEN!
The files on this web page are provided "as is", without any warranty. You accept that you use them at your own risk and to use it for non-commercial purposes only. / Die Dateien werden "wie sie sind" angeboten, ohne jede Gewährleistung. Du akzeptierst sie auf eigenes Risiko und nur für nicht-kommerzielle Zwecke zu verwenden.
I accept / Ich akzeptiere:
Download is only allowed when accepting my conditions and disclaimer above.
Here are the GERBER files I use for production, so you can produce PCBs yourself if you like.
Hier sind die GERBER Dateien die ich für die Produktion verwendet habe, damit kannst Du eigene Platinen produzieren.
The files on this web page are provided "as is", without any warranty. You accept that you use them at your own risk and to use it for non-commercial purposes only. / Die Dateien werden "wie sie sind" angeboten, ohne jede Gewährleistung. Du akzeptierst sie auf eigenes Risiko und nur für nicht-kommerzielle Zwecke zu verwenden.
I accept / Ich akzeptiere:
Download is only allowed when accepting my conditions and disclaimer above.
Here are the sizes of the actual board (in mm):           /ownpics/GenSeq_Sizes.JPG
 

Usecase / Example source code:

activator / contact cleaner
/ownpics/Activator_Usecase.JPG
You can use the GenSeq HW with a special software to re-activate RF switches or relais which were stored for a long time. The idea is to switch them first several times w/o load (for mechanical re-activation), then apply some current ans switch again several times. Using the processor, this can be automated and the number of cycles limited so you can do something else while "cleaning" the parts. There is no guarantee that it works, but a good chance to reduce the risk by "killing" it when directly used in an application where higher power needs to be switched.
Of course it should not be performed too often on a part, as it also causes a wear-off as well... I can provide a binary here on request, which can be used for all types of relais/switches. For now I use it optionally with my prototype test board, I don't need it very often...
I'll release the source code here especially as a "template" code for own developments using the GenSeq v1 hardware on request.
 

"GenSeq V2", the big brother

This variant is described in CQDL 6/2019 (link to the DARC web page).
Genaue Beschreibung im CQDL 6/2019 (Link auf die DARC Webseite).
  • Low cost using standard components - scaling of first variant.
  • DIY friendly using only through-hole parts.
  • Standard supply ~9...15V. Low disturbances as uC can be in sleep mode when not switching.
  • Variable configuration - up to 4 highpower + 4 lowpower outputs down to 8 lowpower outputs.
  • Highpower output depends on used PMOS (e.g. 10A).
  • Lowpower output ~500mA.
  • Plattform for own developments with ISP connector (example C code on reqest).
  • Mounting hole between the driver IC to fix a heatsink or at least a some plate (basically the heatsink can "bridge" both IC and is fixed in the middle)
  • High-power transistors can be mounted with a single heatsink at the back side (transistors must be all isolated).
Important Note: Please use a L4931-5.0 from ST in TO-92 case (link to datasheet) instead of the 78L05. It is not more expensive and also easy to find in well assorted shops. Also replace C7 by a small 2.2µF/10V (or more) capacitor, required for stability (or solder it additionally between +5V and GND on the left UART connector). This will provide enough reserves (250mA instead of 100mA up to 20V input voltage) for the 5V domain with the ATTINY and the L293 drivers, especially while experimenting.
Here a comparison of the small v1 version (for 1 switch and 1 PA) and the more flexible board for multiple switches / PA:
I also have a few boards left I can give away for 5€ plus package/shipping (depends on country). Ich habe noch ein paar Boards "herumliegen" die ich bei Bedarf abgeben kann (5 Euro/Stück plus Versand).
No boards left, sorry. I can order more on request, but will take at least ~3 weeks to get them produced and send them to you. / Ich habe leider keine Boards mehr. Ich kann noch bei Bedarf welche anfertigen, dauert aber mindestens 3 Wochen um sie fertigen zu lassen und zu versenden.
Special versions on request, eveything is based non-commercial use "according to ham-spirit", I do this in my free time and w/o commercial interest/profit. Contact me for details.
 

Project code:

You can do many things with this board, so I only provide a template source file you can adapt and extend to your needs.
This example template source code requires Atmel Studio to be compiled.
Dieser Beispielcode benötigt das Atmel Studio um es zu kompilieren.
The files on this web page are provided "as is", without any warranty. You accept that you use them at your own risk and to use it for non-commercial purposes only. / Die Dateien werden "wie sie sind" angeboten, ohne jede Gewährleistung. Du akzeptierst sie auf eigenes Risiko und nur für nicht-kommerzielle Zwecke zu verwenden.
I accept / Ich akzeptiere:
Download is only allowed when accepting my conditions and disclaimer above.
Here are the GERBER files I use for production, so you can produce PCBs yourself if you like.
Hier sind die GERBER Dateien die ich für die Produktion verwendet habe, damit kannst Du eigene Platinen produzieren.
The files on this web page are provided "as is", without any warranty. You accept that you use them at your own risk and to use it for non-commercial purposes only. / Die Dateien werden "wie sie sind" angeboten, ohne jede Gewährleistung. Du akzeptierst sie auf eigenes Risiko und nur für nicht-kommerzielle Zwecke zu verwenden.
I accept / Ich akzeptiere:
Download is only allowed when accepting my conditions and disclaimer above.
Here are the sizes of the actual board (in mm):           /ownpics/GenSeq_V2.jpg
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

"GenSeq SMD", same as version 1 - but smaller!

Details about this project can be found in Funkamateur 3/2021 (pg. 213).
  • 12 V or 24 V operation (must be adapted on board)
  • has the size of a conventional SMA RF switch (33x33 mm)
  • mounting fits to the outer switch holes
  • PA highside-switch with 5mOhms resistance
  • can switch a PA with ~10A w/o cooling
  • as usual two configurable channels for monostable or bistable switches (C+ or C-)
  • 40/160ms sequencing time as default
 
/ownpics/GenSeq.jpg
 
 
 
 
I set up a simple demo glued with double-sided adhesive tape on a bistable RF switch and connected a 50W halogen lamp. No external components required beside the switch, a LED and a lamp to run the demo. The voltage regulator gets warmer than the MOS switch Cool...
 First prototype are distributed to several OM for testing.
 
Usage guide for 12V, bistable C+, 160ms:  download PDF
Usage guide for 12V, bistable C-, 160ms:   download PDF
I build them using a standard stencil to get the solder paste on the board, place all parts at once and then solder them in a reflow oven. This is usually not found in most ham radio lab. I made myself a programming adapter using an edge connector connected to a professional programmer, so I don't need to solder the ISP pins but can program in-circuit again and so some basic tests. Meanwhile I also use a SMD-testclip I directly put in the ATtiny. Here some pictures:
Page 1 of 3

Once programmed, they can't be configured anymore with the method explained above with the very first version by just connecting some switches and LEDs. I also configure using the edge connector or test clip and my programmer. This is a bit of a disadvantage when going this small. But usually this step is anyhow done only once.
All details to the project (PCB and schematics design v1.3 and the firmware source code v2, which are the latest versions) can be found on the Funkamateur download site. Look for: "Vielseitiger Eigenbau-Sequenzer im Miniaturformat", FA 3/21, S. 213. Yes, the article in the magazine mentions that you can find the data here, but I didn't want to put the same file on two sites. The download link provided really will lead to the latest version of the Target3001 project, which allows you also to generate your own production files according to your needs.
The firmware can be also used for the "classic" GenSeq project, where also more details about the firmware was published. In principle, these two projects are compatible (besides some electrical details, of course).
 

 PLL Configurator

As the Arduino boards are quite large (see my ADF4153 Master project) I decided to create a small board using an AVR Tiny processor to fit directly into the NORT module.
Genaue Beschreibung im DUBUS 1/2020! Detailed description in DUBUS 1/2020!
The idea was to ensure I don't need to modify the module, but just solder the configuration board to it. Furthermore I want to be able to configure the SPI commands on the board while it is mounted in the NORT module.
/ownpics/PCXL_Kleinstserie.png
The result is a small board which can be easily used with any PLL which is configured with 3.3V a three-wire SPI interface.
It has its own power supply, so it can be connected directly to a voltage source between 5V and 26V. The regulator is powerful enough to supply even more 3.3V components, e.g. the digital domain of the PLL chip.
/ownpics/PCXL_Connect.PNG
Configuration of SPI commands is done via a simple serial protocol with 9600 BAUD.
The photo gallery below shows the production of my first boards as well as the application of the board in a NORT PLL module. I made a configuration software in JAVA, which can directly upload the SPI settings to the module equipped with this board.
The board can be used for own projects as well. In this case, the SPI settings can be configured with an ordinary terminal program like "Putty". See documentation for details.
Page 1 of 4

I made also a variant with a smaller voltage regulator. This one is mainly intended to supply only the microcontroller on the board, you should not take to much current from the 3V3 pin.
Alternatively to the Arduino "Master" Project for PLL boards as you can find on these pages, it is also possible to use this boards and mount them directly underneath the PLL board. This also shows the smaller board I made:
  /ownpics/Nano-PCXL-ChinaPLL_1.PNG  /ownpics/Nano-PCXL-ChinaPLL_2.PNG

Documentation:

The documentation contains both board variants, with the stronger and the smaller voltage regulator setup. I am planning to publish an article about this project soon, I'll add the information here as well as soon as it is done.

Project code:

The files on this web page are provided "as is", without any warranty. You accept that you use them at your own risk and to use it for non-commercial purposes only. / Die Dateien werden "wie sie sind" angeboten, ohne jede Gewährleistung. Du akzeptierst sie auf eigenes Risiko und nur für nicht-kommerzielle Zwecke zu verwenden.
 
I accept / Ich akzeptiere:
 
Download is only allowed when accepting my conditions and disclaimer above.
 

"Andiamo" - the compact red-light/laser transceiver

  • Handheld (incl. 9V battery) and stationary version (12V)
  • LED based (for Kids and QSO training) or laser based (for DX amateurs)
First field test in ÖVSV activity contest 2018
(handheld LED version and stationary laser version):
 
/ownpics/Andiamo_Handheld.jpg
 
I just used a simple, cheap laser-pointer laser and a
optics used for mobile phone cameras. It worked!
Handheld version - in a case and just
the pre-assembled PCB (ready for a case):
 
/ownpics/Andiamo_First_Field_Test.jpg
 Mike, speaker, everything included. A small
on-board µC allows using the transceiver also
as light-beacon!
 
More details coming soon!
 

PTT-Control via ZF on a Yaesu FT-817ND for transverters from DB6NT, LZ5HP, DL2AM

The FT-817ND (and probably the FT-818 as well) can be simply modified to support RX/TX switching directly using the ZF connection to the transverters. There are several solutions available, I decided to use a very simple one which works out really well now for my second season using this modiciation for all my transverters I have from the mentioned OM (from 23cm to 122Ghz).
This is a simple mod and provides ~5V on the BNC connector. This is fine for all these commercial transverters (tested myself and by other OM: LZ5HP for 13/23cm, DL2AM for 47/76/122GHz and DB6NT for all transverters starting at 9cm up to 76GHz). It may not work with other circuits, especially these expecting 12V on the RF line on TX. I don't offer a circuit for that as it requires more circuitry, it is often easier to mod the non-working external device to accept a lower voltage on TX...

This is implemented by using the TX5 line within the FT-817ND and connect them via a 10kOhms resistor to the BNC connector of the rig. For DC decoupling the original HF line is connected via a high quality 10nF capacitor. If you are concerned of HF on this supply, you may add a small inductor in series to the resistor as well. I didn't do that and have not noticed any issue yet.
Some other transverters may need a higher voltage than 5V to work reliably, due to whatever reasons. So you either need to fix the transverter, if possible, or use a more complex circuit to level-shift the TX5 signal to ~12V, which would be also available on the FT-817.

Not a lot to say about, see the pictures how I have done the mod. Of course, do this at your own risk, you can easily damage your FT-817ND or potentially also your transverter(s)! So if it does not work, don't try over and over again but do some simple measurements: do the parts you soldered have the right value? Disconnect everything and measure the resistor value and capacitor with an RLC meter. In operation, press PTT shortly and check if one side really shows the 5V voltage while you are on transmit (with a proper 50 Ohms load connected, of course). I guess latest to this point you should be able to identify the problem.
(press right mouse button on a picture and then select "show picture" or similar in your browser for a bigger view - the schematic and PCB snippets I marked are (c) Yaesu Musen Co. Ltd.)

I could not find the actual service manual of the FT-817ND, so newer versions use even more SMD parts on the PCB. Nevertheless it is rather easy to map this pictures to newer versions of the rig.
Short note: I saw that some OM took my pictures and posted them on their web site w/o any reference or credit. Regardless of the value of this work, I just call it bad ham spirit. I can proof that this pictures are mine, as I own still the equiment I used to make the photograph...
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