KPC-3+ Packet Communicator
| Features | Specifications | App Notes | Accessories |
View/Download (PDF format):
KPC Brochure
(200k) KPC-3+ Port
Pinout (46k) KPC-3+ Manual
(1976k)
Overview
The Kantronics KPC-3+ is engineered for dependable and versatile digital communications. This unit reflects many years of Kantronics experience and is built with an eye toward emerging applications. The KPC-3+ can fill a variety of roles. In use around the world, Kantronics Packet Communicators set the standard by which others are measured!
As a single-port radio modem/TNC compatible with the characteristics of UHF/VHF transmission bands, the KPC-3+ can be paired with a UHF/VHF radio to serve the following functions and applications:
- "Keyboard to keyboard" communications
- Digipeater
- Personal Mail Box
- Local area node
- Remote control devices
- Remote access of telemetry
- Network node operation (requires optional K-Net™ firmware)
- BBS operations and message forwarding
- GPS position transmitting and tracking (requires external GPS receiver with NMEA-0183 data output)
- Data storage and retrieval
- EMWIN Weather Information (additional software required)
You can carry a KPC-3+ into the field with a radio to form a mobile data terminal, or (with the addition of an external GPS receiver) a GPS mobile "tracker". Its flexible power requirements (6 ~ 25 Vdc) allow for maximum versatility. You can achieve many hours of use by installing a 9 volt battery inside the KPC-3+. Battery life can be extended by disabling the LED displays through a simple keyboard command.
KPC-3+ Features
- "NEWUSER" mode provides a quick start for packet newcomers
- Large capacity internal mailbox and mail forwarding feature
- GPS operation mode allows use with APRS® or other geolocation software
- Remote Control and telemetry functions with two A/D inputs and two control line outputs
- Low power requirements (9 volt battery power capability)
- Network node functions with standard "KA" Node or optional K-Net™ firmware
- Optional K-Net node network firmware retains regular TNC functions
- BBS, KISS, XKISS, HOST, TERMINAL, GPS and MODEM operating modes
- "Online" HELP feature
- Upgradeable as new firmware is released
- Digital control of audio drive level -- set from keyboard or by remote control
- Motorola® HC11 central processor
- 128k memory standard; 512k optional
- Comes with data connector, data wire, coaxial power plug, detailed manual & software
- Usable with base, mobile or hand-held radios
KPC-3+ Specifications
| Dimensions (H×W×D) | 0.8"×5.2"×5.2" (21 mm × 133 mm × 133 mm) without projections |
|---|---|
| Weight | 11 oz (0.32 kg) |
| Power Requirements | |
| Voltage | DC 6 V to 25 V |
| Current | < 30 mA (LEDs on, unit active) < 15 mA (LEDs off, unit inactive) |
| External Power Connector | 2.1 mm coaxial, center pin positive |
| Internal Power Connector | Circuit board accommodates user-installed 9 V battery connector |
| External Signal Ports | DB-9 female (radio port) DB-25 female (computer/data terminal) |
| Watchdog Timer Period | approx. 2.5 minutes |
| External Carrier Detect | Pulldown to ground |
| Analog Measurement Inputs (A/D Converter) |
Two inputs; 0 V to +5 V, 8-bit accuracy |
| Data Rate (radio port) | 1200 bps (default); 300, 400, 600 |
| PTT Output | Open drain, max +50 V dc, max 200 mA |
| Audio Output Level | Continuously adjustable from 1 mV p-p to 4 V p-p |
| Audio Output Impedance | 600 Ohm, AC coupled |
| Modulation | 1200 bps FSK full duplex CCITT V.23 |
| Audio Input: | 1300 Hz/2100 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 5 mV p-p |
| Dynamic Range | 70 dB |
| Input Impedance | Unbalanced, 10 kOhm (600 Ohm with jumper J 3 installed) |
| Max Audio Input Voltage | ±12 V dc; 35 V p-p sinusoidal |
| Operating Modes | Packet, WEFAX, KISS, XKISS, HOST, GPS, MODEM (RX only) |
| LED Indicators | Power, Xmit, Rcv, Connected, Status, Mail (user option on/off) |
| Remote Control Access | All controller functions, user-defined password |
| External Reset | Pulldown to ground |
| Operating Protocols | AX.25 Levels 1 and 2 (user-selectable) |
| Compliance | FCC Class B; Europe - CE Conformity |
Specifications subject to change without notice or
obligation.
APRS® is a registered trademark of Bob
Bruninga, WB4APR.
All registered trademarks remain the
property of their respective owners.
