The RC210 Advanced Repeater Controller - More Controller For Less Dollars Than The Competition

(links to Manuals and Updates may be found at the bottom of this page)

rc210 newboard

Click on picture above for a closer look

The RC210 utilizes the latest, state-of-the-art components for reduced parts count, which means lower cost and higher reliability.

The RC210 uses FLASH EEPROM technology for fast and easy field upgrades, requiring nothing more than a computer with a serial port.

With thousands of RC210s in daily use around the world, don't you think it's time you put the RC210 to work for your repeater system too?

Why buy multiple controllers when one is all you need?

Now you can control up to 3 separate repeaters with only one controller. The RC210 provides 3 independently operating radio ports, each with its own timeout and hang timers, courtesy tone, ID's and dedicated DTMF decoder. With simple DTMF commands, you can intertie any port to any other port for links or other purposes, giving you unparalleled flexibility. Each port may also be defined as a half or full duplex link port. You also have a choice between DB9 or RJ45 connectors on each radio port.

Blazingly Fast

While most other controllers run at a clock speed of under 10 Mhz, the RC210 breaks the speed barrier by running at 16 Mhz! And since it uses a RISC CPU, speeds approaching 16 million instructions per second are achieved. What this all means is that the RC210 is hundreds of times faster than some of those older designs.

Flexible IDs

Each port has its own, individual Voice and CW ID's. Voice ID's may consist of words and phrases using the built-in vocabulary, DVR tracks or any combination. You can disable Voice ID's on a per port basis, for CW only IDs. Half-duplex programmed ports may be programmed to ID - very useful for properly identifying links.Generate dual-tone CW IDs!

Flexible Courtesy Tones

There are a total of 10 Courtesy Tones, which consist of 4 segments each and can have 2 tones each. These are true sine wave tones too (none of that cheap square wave stuff here!). Any of these 10 may be used on any Port and can even be used to indicate linked Port state. Or maybe you prefer to have Courtesy Tones with something other than tones? No problem, as you can also use DVR Tracks or even the built-in Vocabulary as your Courtesy Tone if you wish!

Real Human Speech

With an extremely useful, repeater oriented vocabulary and real human speech - not some 80's sounding synthesized voice - the RC210 not only works great, it sounds great!

Click here for a sample of RC210 speech

Click here for another sample of RC210 speech

On-Board Digital Voice Recorder

The built-in (not an option like the other guys!) DVR allows you to record own custom voice ID's and other messages, right over the air and then use them in any programmable message of your choice! Or use our RCP Programming Software and upload wav files directly into your RC210 for the highest quality!

Remote Base Operation Is A Snap

You may define any port to be a full or half-duplex remote base. Support is included for Icom, Kenwood and Yaesu HF/VHF/UHF radios equipped with a computer port, for a fully frequency agile remote base! Direct serial port support for the Kenwood TM-V7A / TM-G707/TM-271A/TM-471A/TM-V71A/TM-D710 mobile series of radio. No modifications of these radios are necessary, as all connections are made via the front panel packet jack (TM-G707/TM-V7A requires optional interface) ! (please refer to the Operations and Programming Manual for a complete list of supported radios). The Doug Hall RBI-1 Remote Base Interface is also fully supported.Full control of frequency, transmit offset, CTCSS Encode/Decode and CTCSS tone frequency is provided and Remote Base Memories allow for easy and fast changes.

Security Is #1, Yet The RC210 Provides Fully Programmable Codes

Each and every command is 100% programmable. You can assign only those functions to your general usership that you want, reserving the rest for your control operators or yourself. Multi-tiered command code structure is a snap to program with the RC210. And if you're replacing an existing controller with the RC210, you don't have to relearn your command codes - simply program your new RC210 with your existing codes.

Command Macros

The RC210 provides fully programmable Command Macros. This makes it a snap to control many functions with one, simple command. You can even store other macros in a macro! Each Command Macro has programmable priority, which allows you to specify which commands should have higher (or lower) priority in execution. This makes for extremely flexible operation. Command Macros may also be restricted to only work from any one, or combination of ports. This is very handy when using the RC210 to control more than one repeater. You can even program a subset of Command Macros and select them as a group. This allows for complete control over users who have access to which functions in your RC210.

Programmable Pre Access Codes

If needed, you can program a Pre Access Code (most often used as a "site prefix" in multi-controller systems).

True Zero Hangtime

Any port may be programmed for true zero hangtime, even non-repeating Ports. This is a necessity when using the RC210 for a hub controller.

Real Time Clock and Calendar

The built-in clock and calendar, in addition to being used for the Scheduler, may be used in ID's and other custom messages. Messages such as "Good Morning" Good Afternoon" or "Good Evening" may be automatically added to any message, including IDs and Tail Messages. Automatic correction may be applied to the clock's time. This ensures great accuracy over time.And lastly, the clock may be selected to readback the time in either 12 or 24 hour format. NEW - automatic Daylight Savings change

Scheduler

The built-in scheduler allows you to completely automate the operation of your RC210. The day of week, weekdays, weekends and day of month may be programmed for an event.  NEW! You may now program a Scheduled Event to happen only during a particular month (very handy for automating DayLight Savings Time adjustments)

Message Macros

Each is capable of storing any combination of vocabulary words or DVR tracks. Use them for any purpose you desire, be that in addition to IDs, informational messages, custom voice responses to commands or Tail Messages.

Tail Messages

Each port has its own 3 unique Tail Messages. They may be used with a "tail" counter or by Timer, or may be turned off completely.

Davis Instruments Weather Station Support

The RC210 supports most major Davis Weather Station features including readback of high and low readings over the past 24 hours.

DTMF Memories And Regeneration

The RC210 is capable of storing DTMF sequences in memory. Use them in macros to send DTMF down a link to control a remote repeater or for easy control of your IRLP or EchoLink node! "On the fly" DTMF Regeneration is also available.

Analog Inputs With Programmable Meter Faces

With 8 analog inputs, the RC210 gives you remote readback of everything from voltage to (with the proper sensors) SWR! Each meter channel has fully programmable high and low Alarms. Imagine being able to automatically protect against such things as PA overheating, high SWR and more!

Logic Control Outputs

7 outputs (expandable to 32) for controlling remote devices. Outputs are open drain JFET outputs for very low turn on resistance

Logic Inputs

Logic Inputs may be used for Alarm functions, to remotely monitor things such as doors being opened or a Weather Receiver with S.A.M.E. alerts

So Many Features, So Few Dollars

At only $225 for the kit version or $325 assembled and tested, the RC210 gives you so much for so little.

Computer Programming Software

Our RCP Programming Software allows you to to program your RC210's commands, timers and other operating parameters using any Windows© computer by providing an easy to use Graphical Interface. You can even program your RC210 remotely over the air! It also supports multiple databases for storing multiple RC210 configurations. Click here for details

Audio Delay Board

The Arcom RAD (Repeater Audio Delay) board simply plugs into the RC210 and gives you an adjustable audio delay to eliminate DTMF "blips" and squelch crashes. Available in 1, 2 or 3 Port versions

Intelligent AutoPatch

Our AP1 Autopatch Board provides 200 autodial memories, very flexible toll restrictions, reverse patch and more!

Rack Mount Enclosure

Our RC210R rack mount is only 1U high, saving valuable rack space. Click here for details

Flash-Programmable Memory

As firmware updates become available, you simply download them from the Web and install them into your RC210 using your computer. In only minutes you're ready to go! No waiting for new EPROMS, no having to spend extra money. This service is available free of charge for all RC210 owners.

Exceptional Warranty Protection

The RC210 comes with a 2 year parts and 1 year labor warranty (assembled and tested version). If you purchase the kit version, you receive one year protection on all parts.


The kit includes all parts including custom programmed microcontroller, high-quality silkscreened and soldermasked PC board, assembly, operations and programming manuals.

The fully assembled and tested version includes completed and tested PC board, operations and programming manual.

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The RC210 is fully compatable with our RAD Repeater Audio Delay Board. Click here for more info on the RAD

You can also join the RC210 Mail list if you have questions or want to keep up on firmware updates and other information. Click here to subscribe


Operational Features (Firmware Version 8.00)


Ports
· Three total - each port may be operated as an independent repeater port or as half/full-duplex link port
· Gated audio on all ports with selectable de-emphasis - you may tap directly off discriminator without regard for squelch action or de-emphasis
· Selectable polarity of COS and CTCSS signals on each port
· Each port has its own unique, programmable hang, timeout, activity, DTMF mute and kerchunk timers
· Selectable CTCSS/Carrier squelch modes (true "AND" operation) on each port
· Selectable CTCSS encode control output with programmable delay dropout for controlling external CTCSS encoder on each port
· Each port has its own dedicated DTMF decoder
· Selectable Enable/Disable of DTMF on each port and selectable mute on 1st or 2nd digit
· Each port may be defined to require CTCSS or not require CTCSS for DTMF operation
· 10 courtesy tones with up to 4 segments each (dual tone per segment) which may be assigned for use on any Port. Or use a DVR Track or Vocabulary word as a Courtesy Tone
· Any port may be used for a Control Receiver

 
Site Addressing
· Allows for multiple controller installations to have unique site addresses to maintain common code structure thoughout your network.


IDs
· Each port has 3 unique Initial Voice, 3 unique Pending Voice and 2 unique CW ID's.
· Automatic rotation with Initial and Pending ID algorythm
· Programmable Initial and Pending ID timers
· Voice ID's may be disabled on a per port basis for CW only identification
· All IDs may be completely disabled on a per port basis
· ID timers may be selected to start on receiver or transmitter activity
· CW IDs may be programmed with dual or single tones, as well as speed


Linking
· Any port may be linked to any other port on command
· Selectable Monitor Mute/Monitor Mix audio for each port when linked
· Programmable Inactivity timer automatically unlinks ports after a programmable amount of time (may be disabled)


Remote Bases
· Frequency agile HF/VHF/UHF remote base with support for most Kenwood, Icom, Yaesu radios as well as the Doug Hall RBI-1
· Any port may be used

DTMF Memories and Regeneration
· 20 DTMF (50 with optional RTC Module) Memories may be called to send predefined sequence to any combinition of Ports


Speech Messages
· Repeater operation oriented vocabulary in real human speech (not synthesized). May be used in programmable ID's or other messages
· 40 Message Macros (70 with optional RTC Module) for easy use of custom programmed phrases
· Any combination of Vocabulary or DVR tracks may be used in any message
· Programmable Tail Messages, based on Tail time, tail counter or both


Digital Voice Recorder
· On-board DVR for recording your own custom messages (DVR tracks may be used in any programmable message)


Command Macros
· 105 Command Macros for easy one command functions. May also call other Command Macros for unlimited functionality
· Programmable Pre Access Codes (may be used as Site Prefix Codes). May be disabled completely
· Programmable Macro Subset allows for restricting access to Command Macros. May be disabled completely
· Command Macros may be called by receiver activity (active or inactive)


Scheduler
· Fully automated operations based on time of day, day of week or day of month and also Month of Year

Davis Intruments Weather Station Suport
· Allows for voice recall of wind, temps and humidity including daily highs and lows


Serial Port
· RS232 port for use with remote base radios, controller programming and firmware updates


Analog Meters
· 8 analog to digital channels. Each channel is fully scaleable with 6 different meter faces
· Each channel has programmable high and low alarms
· Inputs protected against over or negative voltages


Logic Outputs and Inputs
· 5 digital Alarm inputs which are edge-triggered
· 8 digital outputs may be commanded high/low/pulse. (may be expanded to 32). Each output uses open drain JFETs for low on resistance


Auxilary Audio Inputs
· 3 auxiliary audio inputs for use with a weather receiver, autopatch or other external audio source (may also be used with Alarm Inputs to emulate addtional radio ports)


Hardware
· True sine wave microprocessor generated tones
· Use of low-noise, high-impedance JFET op amps for exceptional audio quality
· LED displays of controller status
· Automatic battery backup switchover
· Hardware watchdog timer
· Fan control with programmable shut off timer

Optional Accessories
· Rack Mount Enclosure
· Audio delay module (available in 1, 2 or 3 Port version)
· Battery backed-up Real Time Clock Module (in addition to the onboard one)
· Intelligent Autopatch module
· Windows© programming software

Electrical Specifications

  • Microprocessor Atmel ATMega2561 RISC microcomputer running at 16 Mhz
  • Program Memory 256K Bytes - Flash EEPROM
  • Running Memory 4K Bytes Non-Volatile Memory 5.5K Bytes
  • Speech Method ISD 4003 series VoiceCorder© IC
  • Logic Inputs: Low < .6 volts High: 5 to 15 volts
  • Logic Outputs: 100v @ 500 ma open drain JFET
  • Audio Inputs: High impedance >10K
  • Audio Outputs: up to 6 volts p-p
  • Power Requirement: 11.5 to 15V dc @ 70 ma (LEDs off).
  • Operating Temp.: -40 to +55 degrees C
  • Size: 9.3 x 5.2 inches including connectors(PC board)
  • Connectors: DB-25 analog and digital I/0, Phoenix 4 pin power connector (mating plug included), choice of DB-9 female or RJ45 for radio ports
 

 

The RC210 Operations and Programming Manual (Firmware 8.03) may be found here (in pdf format)

The RC210 Hardware Manual for board revision 4.0 may be found here (in pdf format)

The RC210 Assembly Manual for board revision 4_0 may be found here (in pdf format)

Firmware Updates

Updater (used to upload new firmware to the RC210)