OpenTNC v0.8 Development Kit: A DIY Packet Radio Project

For the Radio Amateur Who Loves to Build, Tinker, and Experiment!

Dive into the world of digital communications with our development kit for the OpenTNC v0.8. This is your opportunity to build a modern, open-source Terminal Node Controller (TNC) from the ground up. If you're an early adopter who enjoys the process of building and even a little bit of troubleshooting, this kit is for you.

The OpenTNC, designed by David Platt (AE6EO), is a versatile, microcontroller-based TNC. It allows your computer to communicate over amateur radio using the AX.25 protocol, opening the door to a variety of applications including:

• APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System): Track your location, send messages, and see other operators on the map.
• Packet Chat: Engage in real-time, keyboard-to-keyboard conversations.
• BBS (Bulletin Board System) Access: Connect to amateur radio mailboxes.
• KISS Mode: Interface with a wide range of software for more advanced networking and experimentation.

This is a Development Kit

Please note: This kit is based on the beta version (v0.8) of the OpenTNC. It’s a fantastic project, but as an early version, it has a few quirks perfect for the hands-on hobbyist.

• BOM Note: The v0.8 Bill of Materials (BOM) specifies a trimmer pot and resistors in the TX audio filtering stage that, while functional for many radios (like our Kenwood test bench), may need to be swapped for the updated values for optimal performance with your specific transceiver.

• Case Fitment: The LED spacing on the v0.8 board is different from later revisions. The included 3D-printed case is designed specifically for this v0.8 layout if using the static LEDs instead of the RGB LEDs.

This kit is ideal for hams who are comfortable with a soldering iron and are not afraid to experiment to get their station on the digital airwaves.

Difficulty Level: 3 out of 5

This is a straightforward build for anyone with basic through-hole soldering experience. All assembly documentation and schematics are available on the official OpenTNC GitLab repository. We will not be providing separate documentation.

What's in the Box:

• OpenTNC v0.8 bare printed circuit board (PCB)
• All required electronic components for the v0.8 build
• Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller board
• A custom-designed, 3D-printed case for the v0.8 board

What You'll Need to Provide:

• A standard Micro-USB cable for power and computer connection.
• A radio connection cable. The board provides both DB-9 and DIN-5 connectors; you will need to build a cable to match your radio's accessory port. Pinouts are available in the GitLab documentation.
• Basic soldering tools and knowledge.

Custom 3D-Printed Case Included!

We'll print a custom case for your OpenTNC on-demand. After you place your order, simply reply to the confirmation email with your color choice.

Available Colors:

• Black, White, Red, Yellow, Green, Blue
• Fluorescent Yellow, Fluorescent Orange
• Glow-in-the-Dark Yellow