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The EI-160 has arrived!
This Interface controller has improved audio processing to compensate for variations in audio sources.
In short the EI-160 will take care of a wide range of audio input levels automatically. Aside this new feature, all the features found in the EI-151 are implemented too.
Click at the image to the right to get a closer look at the PCBA. The EI-160 uses mixed technology with Surface Mount being the dominating technology. There are only four trim potentiometer on the entire board. Two trim pots take care of the in /out audio level. This should be a very easy task to accomplish if ever needed. The other two trim pots allow you to adjust the audio quality by cutting or boosting the treble/bass.
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EI-160 PCBA
Fig.1 EI-160 assembled PCB
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The EI-160 has gone through the testing phase and found to be fit to be offered for sale The cost for the base unit is $129.95 in a Black anodized extruded enclosure. All connections are to the back of the unit to keep it clean looking. The front panel has colored indicator for POWER ON, PTT , DTMF and COR status.
Check here, if you want to purchase a product.
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Fig. 2 EI-160 Production Unit
Interface in black enclosure, no cables included. $129.95 ea.
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More in depth feature Summary:
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Front panel Indicator for Power, COR, DTMF and PTT
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All connections are made to the back of the unit.
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A 9-13.8 Volt DC source is required at only 50mA although Supplies with higher current capability can be used. The current needed is about 35mA when all LED's are lit.
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A 16 MHz main clock is used to achieve 4 MIPS (4 Million Instructions per Second)
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All parameters are stored non volatile, so they are current, even after a device reboot.
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The Audio ALC circuitry raises the audio input and output level to 0dBm.
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Audio tone adjustments can be performed on the Internet path.
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Selectable / Programmable Time Out Timer in 0.5 Min. steps or disable it completely for VoIP nets.
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DTMF mute timer, mutes tones to the Internet. The time that audio is muted can be selected / programmed in 100 ms steps up to 5 seconds.
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Distant node timeout flag, the EI-160 sets a flag to signal a timeout from a distant node. This may give you a chance to disconnect the distant node if needed. The local RF carrier drops on timeout and thereby allowing to send disconnect commands. Once the distant node un-keys the Interface resumes normal operation.
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Sound board level input can be manually adjusted to satisfy a wide range of sound input levels. Some soundboard's are very sensitive.
The Microphone level to the radio can also be manually adjusted to match the needed level.
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The Radios audio is galvanically isolated to the computer.
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Supports Echo-Link® for Windows™ and SVXLINK for LINUX.
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As an option, If not used for Echo-Link, it can work almost any Digital Software mode. Software not included! There are many downloads for free, but it cannot be included legally with hardware.
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Small footprint by using Surface mount technology.
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Uses standard Mini DIN, off shelf hookup cable. (Except RS232)
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Could be used as very simple repeater controller with special firmware or when used with SVXLINK.
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Fig.3 Proto Type EI-160
EI-160 for SVXLINK (LINUX) or Echo-Link (Windows™).
The WindowsTM Programming utility for the EI-160 can
be downloaded here. (soon available)
The EI-160 Manual can be downloaded here.
Note: The Manual is in PDF format.
Bernie, N6NF has been for several years providing short, easy to comprehend quick guides for a vast variety of Radio Transceiver. His latest publication talks in depth about the operation of Echo-Link and a lot more!
Visit his web-site to find more information.
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