Serial Programmer

The "Serial Programmer" project is still in the experimental stage at this point, and will NOT program a radio yet. So, if you're looking for something that can actually *program* a radio, you'll want to look under "X2212 Programmer" or find a person with a Niles or suitcase programmer.

The Phoenix, PSX and MLS radios can be programmed through their rear connectors using the Panasonic URP (suitcase) combined with the TQ2311 or TQ2347 programming cable. A serial protocol is used to transfer data to and from the radio. The same scheme is also used to program 950/990 control heads, and possibly other radios.

Note: Even though this is called the "Serial Programmer", it uses a computer parallel port.

I've been experimenting a fair bit with my Phoenix SX in attempts to read a ROM image out of the radio, however to date I haven't managed to get the radio to do anything very useful. There is possibly a code sequence required to unlock the radio and put it into programming mode.

Anyway, the serial protocol is not known at this point.

Current interface:

LPTx                     Phoenix, PSX or MLS


12 -----+ (diode is a 1N914)
        |
2  --|<-+-------3 3----- J911-7 (Ch. sel / Data)
3  -------------4 4----- J911-2 (PTT / Clock) 
4  -------------5 5----- J911-6 (Reset)
5  -------------1 1----- J911-8 (Store)
6  -------------2 2----- J910-9 (CG disable / Control)
18 -------------6 6----- J910-6 (GND)
DB25M        DB9F DB9M

This is the interface that I am currently using to experiment. I have a short length of cable soldered inside my Phoenix which 'simulates' a TQ2311 programming cable. It also tucks neatly inside the case with the cover on. On the computer end I'm using a DB25 male to DB9 female cable, to 'simulate' a suitcase programmer.

Programs:

PROGTEST.BAS - This is the program I'm currently using to experiment with the Phoenix. It lets you set the programmer's lines high and low, and read the data line. You can potentially screw up your radio using this program, so be careful. You can't set STORE low unless you uncomment a line in the program, which I'd advise against doing.

SELFTEST.BAS - This program puts a Phoenix into self test mode.

Self test mode on the 16ch Phoenix is engaged by holding down DATA and CLOCK simultaneously, and turning on or resetting the radio. You can manually perform this self test by holding down the "Channel up" button, holding down PTT on a microphone (don't worry, it won't TX) and turning the radio on - it should show "2" and give a tone.