Simple beacon controller
Detailed here within is a simple beacon transmitter controller. Originally developed to be integrated into either a 2m or 70cm FM transmitter for use as an aid to propagation investigations, or as part of a hidden transmitter i.e. FOX hunts.
The beacon controller presents a keyed 600Hz tone at a level suitable for direct connection to the microphone input of most modern commercially built transceivers, a closing contact for transmitter keying, and three indicator LED's to show the controllers current operational status.
Design concept:
The design concepts primary goals were as follows:
Identification by callsign in morse code at 12wpm, at the beginning and end of each period of transmission.
Transmission period of two minutes, followed by an eight minute pause prior to the next transmission period.
All signalling and keying to be generated on board.
Low power consumption.
A small and compact.
Simple to build, and easy to set up.
Easy to replicate design, using readily available components.