Vastelec V-FTM212R: Difference between revisions

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==The FM Transmitter with DIY possibilities ==
==The FM Transmitter with built-in RDS and USB connectivity ==
[[Image:FM02_beauty_shot.jpg|FM-02]]
[[Image:Vast V-FTM212R.jpg|V-FTM212R]]
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[[Image:Fm02_beauty_shot_2.jpg|thumb|right|click on the picture for a larger version]]
[[Image:Fm02_beauty_shot_3.jpg|thumb|right|click on the picture for a larger version]]




The FM02 is a two board FM transmitter. It accepts a stereo audio source and outputs a stereo FM broadcast signal on the frequency shown on the LED display.  It comes just as shown in the picture above.
The V-FTM212R is unique in the realm of FM transmitters. It was designed specifically for connection to a MS Windows based PC.  The V-FTM212R is connected directly to the PC via a USB port.  The sound that is transmitted by the V-FTM212R is transmitted over the USB connection.  Optionally, and simultaneously, RDS information is also transmitted over this same connection.  It comes just as shown in the picture above.<br>
<br>
One of the neat things you can do with this unit is have VIXEN send out RDS information that is synchronized with the name of the song you are playing.
A how-to document is attached below.


It is rated at 30mw (that's milli-watts) of transmission power.  For most Christmas DIYers this is a nearly perfect amount of power.  It will transmit a clear signal for about 2 blocks or 1/4 mile.  Why is this good?  Because it is illegal in the USA to transmit other then very low amounts of FM radiation without an FCC license.
<p>
Skip to this section for more details: [[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Vastelec_FM02#Why_you_should_care_about_the_power_of_your_transmitter FCC Rules]]


</p>
[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/images/3/36/Updating_the_Vast_V-FMT212R%27s_RDS_using_Vixen_2_x.pdf How to send RDS text]
<p>
</p>
The FM02 is not a complete unit ready for use.
Instead, it bridges the gap between an out-of-the-box solution, and a build-your-own unit that starts with a bare PCB and a bag of parts.
<p>
The FM02 is very small, but packs in a nice set of features. </p><p>
Key to these is the use of PLL (Phase Locked Loop) technology.  PLL keeps the transmitter locked into the designated transmitting frequency without it drifting up or down.  This frequency drift WILL occur on other FM transmitters without PLL as the temperature around the unit goes up or down.
</p><p>
The second key feature is the fact that the transmitting frequency is maintained even after power is turned off and back on.
</p><p>
 
The FM02 is a very sophisticated assembly.  Building a unit of this capability and size would be nearly impossible for most DIY'ers.
</p><p>
So, to create a usable FM transmitter, the FM02 needs some help.  The builder of the transmitter will take the FM02 and use it as the corner stone of a complete transmitter.
</p><p>
You will need the following items added to your FM02:</p><p>
- Power.  For details, see the POWER section below.  100ma is enough current.</p><p>
- An Antenna. Never power your unit without an antenna.</p><p>
- A mounting enclosure.  You will need to mount the FM02 boards somewhere safe and dry.
- Connection to a stereo Audio Source.  The FM02 has a 3.5mm audio jack.</p>

Latest revision as of 02:22, 23 October 2013

The FM Transmitter with built-in RDS and USB connectivity

V-FTM212R


The V-FTM212R is unique in the realm of FM transmitters. It was designed specifically for connection to a MS Windows based PC. The V-FTM212R is connected directly to the PC via a USB port. The sound that is transmitted by the V-FTM212R is transmitted over the USB connection. Optionally, and simultaneously, RDS information is also transmitted over this same connection. It comes just as shown in the picture above.

One of the neat things you can do with this unit is have VIXEN send out RDS information that is synchronized with the name of the song you are playing. A how-to document is attached below.


How to send RDS text

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