The following Frequently Asked Questions are the most
common questions we get in the Technical Assistance Center.
How do I upgrade my radio modem's firmware?
On occasion, new revisions of firmware and software are released
to provide additional features or to improve the performance of your
radio modems. We recommend that you upgrade your firmware to take
advantage of these features. If you wish to upgrade your firmware
and software, click here.
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How can I improve the performance of my radio modems?
To get the best performance from your radio modems, keep the following
basic rules in mind:
Rule #1 - Antenna positioning is critical to good performance. Radio
waves cannot penetrate through the earth, so place your antennas
as high as possible to provide the best line-of-sight condition. A
telescoping tripod antenna mast is useful in positioning your antenna
for best performance. Also, make sure that your antenna is properly
tuned for the frequency you are using.
Rule #2 - Maintain your equipment in good condition. Field failures
are most often caused by broken cables and connectors. Inspect cables
and connectors frequently. Replace worn cables and damaged antennas
before they shut you down in the field. It is always a good idea
to have spares available.
Rule #3 - Avoid interference through monitoring
the available frequencies prior to using your radio modems. For
the RFM96 product family, we
recommend you use a radio scanner, available from Radio Shack or
others, to monitor the frequencies. With the PDL product family,
use the patent pending AutoBaseTM technology to select the best channel.
Press the channel button until the small "b" is displayed.
The PDL will scan all available channels, and select the channel
with the lowest interference level. Please note that the AutoBaseTM
algorithm takes one minute per channel analyzed.
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How do I license my radio modem system?
For those of you operating in the United States, prior to operating
your radio modems, you must obtain a license from the FCC. Licensing
is a simple and affordable process, and is absolutely required. Operating
an unlicensed radio transmitter is punishable by fine and possible
confiscation of equipment.
We recommend that you use licensing service to help you apply for
a license. These services are very knowledgable regarding all the
proper forms and submission requirements for expediting the licensing
process. Many of our customers call Josie Lynch of Professional Licensing
Consultants, Inc. Her number is 301-309-2380.
Users outside the U.S. may also be required to license their radio
system prior to transmission. Please contact your in-country dealer
for information concerning the requirements in your country.
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I am a new user and my radio system is not working! What is wrong?
Please check the following, and if you continue to have a problem,
contact our technical assistance center:
Port configuration - Devices (GPS receivers etc.) that are connected
to the radio modems may have differing default port configurations.
The settings of the port on the device must match the settings of
the port on the radio modem. Please ensure that the baud rate, parity,
and other settings match those of the radio modem. Use RFMCONF or
PDLCONF to view and change settings as necessary.
Batteries - Charge the batteries prior to the first usage, and maintain
the batteries in a charged state. Batteries that do not maintain
a charge should be replaced. Note that the PDL Rover battery charger
only works when the unit is turned on.
Antennas - Poor range may indicate that you have an antenna problem.
Inspect your antenna, antenna cable and connectors for damage. Never
operate a transmitter without an antenna connected as this will likely
damage the transmitter. Also, check the position of the RF output
power switch on units equipped with one - the switch must be in the
ON position (toggle up) for high power output. The front panel LED
indicates the setting of the switched (on for high power).
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I understand that the FCC closely regulates the operation of the
radio data links. Where can I learn more?
You are right. Operation of your radio system obligates you to
understand the rules and regulations with regard to the use of your
equipment. Unfortunately, the rules are subject to change, so keeping
up to date can be difficult. You can view the rules and regulation
online by clicking here. The rules specific for your use are contained
in Part 90.
First and foremost, get a license (see the FAQ above). Operation
without a license is illegal. Make sure to enter your callsign into
the appropriate field using PDLCONF. Auto-identification is a requirement.
Remember that in most cases, your operation is secondary to voice
operation. If there is a conflict, you will be required to change
frequencies. Always monitor a frequency before beginning to broadcast.
You can do this by observing the RX LED. If the RX LED indicates
a co-channel user, avoid the frequency. If all channels show usage,
pick the channel with the least interference.
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How do I contact the Pacific Crest Corporation Technical Assistance
Center?
Your success in using our equipment is important to us. If you need
technical assistance, please contact us directly by phone, fax, e-mail,
or the web site. Our technical support staff is available to help
you Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Toll Free support in the U.S. and Canada: (800) 795-1001
Direct Line for Calls Outside the U.S. and
Canada: (408) 653-2070
Fax: (408) 748-9984
E-Mail Address: support@pacificcrest.com
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