CB-Computer Interface

[DTB Radio]

I posted some of this in the Home-brew section, but that section doesn't get alot of traffic, so I'm posting it here, as well.

Some of you already know about this project from years back when I first started it as a DOS-based PC interface, and again when I first updated it for Windows 95-98 use. I've since revised the interface electronics to just 3 IC's and a handful of resistors and capacitors. Click Here to see details of the project.

As an update note, I just completed the interface data file for radios based on the newer RCI-8719 PLL chip. I converted a Galaxy DX959 and tested the file on that, and it works flawlessly. The split-frequency option of the software I wrote works especially well, as the PLL tracks in quickly to the TX frequency shift.

 

[DTB Radio]

There was a labeling and wiring error in the schematic, and it has now been fixed. The 7407's shown should have been 7406's. There were 2 wiring errors as well, and they have been corrected. If you downloaded the schematic, please download the updated version. The data files will not match the interface electronics if they were built according to the original schematic.

 

[C2]

Seeing as it's winter, and FISHING should be way down on the things-to-do list, you should consider expanding this idea to a full suite of control.

You could add switching for TX/RX, AM/SSB/FM, NB/ANL, even add audio interface with VOX options (that would invite some digital modes, perhaps you could even find a DSP software module...goodie).

Then you get even wilder and integrate some multiplexing, AD/DA converters and a DVM to get volume, squelch, clarifier, RF/Mic gain control, and RF/S-meter all on the PC screen.

Once you do all that, you can just loose the front panel all together in favor of a remote interface. You would probably have to go to a serial interface for all that though.

 

[C2]

BTW, where is the updated schema?

Your still showing the 7407 IC and Rev. A 1999.

 

[DTB Radio]

Oops. I forgot to actually upload it, lol! The schematic thats there is basically vorrect except for the IC part #.

As for developing a wider range of control, I thought about that, but I want to keep the system simple, and continue to use the printer port. With only a certain number of lines available on that port, adding options is limited. Also, with each added option, the radio conversion becomes more complex, and I want to keep that as simple as possible.