Appendix E. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below is a list of questions we have been asked over and over again, together with the standard answers supplied.
1.My converted FM1200 does not generate tones, how come?
Step through the Status Menu
2.Is it possible to omit the tone PROM, it seems such a hassle to mount!
Sure, but you will be unable to use any of the functions that require tone processing (DTMF, CTCSS,
3.Can I use the FM1200 70cms for 9k6 packet radio?
We are not packet radio users but we're told that 9k6 is not possible because the
4.Other stations tell me my deviation is too low, how can I adjust it?
They are probably listening in 25 kHz bandwidth. If yours is an 'S' FM1200, (examine the type number) then you can rely on it that the peak deviation has been accurately set to ±2.5 kHz by the factory, as required for 12.5 kHz channel
spacing. Similarly the 'R' radio will produce ±4.0 kHz peak deviation, and may in rare cases require some reduction if used on 12.5 kHz spaced nets. Open up the microphone and check electret microphone front is clean and element is properly seated in its holder.
5.Does your conversion defeat the Philips PDP and CDP programming tools?
Yes. Having converted the radio it will no longer recognize the PDP or CDP.
6.Is your firmware and displayware suitable for
No, it is not. The E0 band version of the FM1100/1200 radio is extremely rare in the Netherlands. An update may be developed in the future.
7.Is your firmware and displayware suitable for FM1000's with a 'basic' or 'standard' console?
No, it is not. The text and graphics used by the conversion exceeds the capacity of the 'standard' head, which only allows a number of fixed symbols to be used and does not have a numeric keypad. The 'basic' console does not even have a display so its use is out of the question. We suggest upgrading the radio by getting your hands on a numeric keypad head.
8.Where can I obtain the complete documentation of these wonderful radios?
A documentation package is available, consisting of (1) FM1100 Service manual, (2) Numeric Keypad Manual and (3) FM1200/1300 Service Supplement. The lot weights approx 1 kg. Price Euro 20 incl. P&P. Please contact Jan, PE1CSI on email pe1csi@amsat.org.
9.On my radio, the display test does not work to start with. I'm getting solid black blocks only.
This problem may be caused by a faulty or incorrectly fitted display EPROM, or LK4 (A15 jumper) in the display console being set to the wrong position. If the display EPROM is an 27C128 or 27C256, the centre pad of LK4 should be connected to +5V
10.I have just acquired an FM1000 radio at a local rally. Can I use it with your conversion? This is the most annoying question we get. There is no such thing as an 'FM1000'. The designation FM1000 refers to a family of more than 50 different transceivers rather than an individual type. First do your homework by analysing the type code printed on the label at the rear of the radio. Use Appendix B for reference.
11.I have available a boxful of FM1000 parts and other Philips PMR bits, what should I do with it?
Contact Jan Buiting, PE1CSI, proprietor of the Philips Mobile Radio Collection, on email pe1csi@amsat.org. Jan will give you a Freepost address so you can turn your surplus into a donation to the Collection and pay no postage.
12.Is your firmware and displayware suitable for VHF or UHF FM1100's?
Not completely. Watch for postings in the [FM1000] Newsgroup, or [uk.amateur.radio].
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