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LCD Display and Encoder Usage

This section covers the LCD display information and encoder operation for your WSPR Beakon system.

System Startup Sequence​

Initial Boot Process​

When power is applied to the assembly, the following sequence occurs:

  • "Connecting Wifi" message appears on the LCD. If it cannot connect to any of the preconfigured WiFi networks, it will proceed to check the GPS signal
  • "Reading GPS" message appears on the LCD. The system will alternate between both messages until it achieves a valid synchronization result
GPS Signal Acquisition

GPS signal acquisition can take several minutes. For optimal performance:

  • Position the assembly in a clear area with a wide view of the sky
  • If using the integrated GPS antenna and the assembly is inside an enclosure, ensure the enclosure is made of non-metallic material

Connection Status Messages​

  • "Wifi Connected" + "Reading GPS": Indicates a WiFi network is connected but has no internet access, preventing time calibration via WiFi
  • "Time not synced": Appears when the assembly has been trying to synchronize for more than half an hour without success via either WiFi or GPS

Signal Testing Phase​

Once a valid WiFi network or GPS signal is detected:

  • LCD displays "Testing signal"
  • Equipment begins a 30-second test transmission

Normal Operation Display​

Information Display​

After the test transmission, the LCD shows:

Upper Line: Scrolling message containing:

  • Callsign
  • Locator
  • Frequency
  • Band
  • Transmitted power (in dBm)
  • Configured time interval between transmissions

Lower Line: Numerical countdown showing time remaining until next WSPR transmission

Transmission Sequence​

  1. 30 seconds before transmission: System starts transmitting a warm-up carrier to stabilize the RF module temperature and frequency
  2. During WSPR transmission: LCD displays "Transmitting WSPR message"
  3. After transmission: Returns to scrolling information display and countdown timer

Encoder Operation​

Band Selection Process​

The rotary encoder is used to change bands and can only be operated during transmission rest periods:

  1. Press the encoder - "Select Freq" message appears
  2. Rotate the encoder - Navigate through available bands in either direction
  3. Press the encoder again when desired band is displayed - "Frequency Set" message appears and new band is selected
Critical Reminder

Always remember to insert the appropriate filter for the new band after changing frequency!

Band Memory​

  • The last selected band is stored in memory when power is removed
  • The system will start on the same band when power is restored

Display Message Reference​

MessageMeaning
"Connecting Wifi"Attempting to connect to preconfigured WiFi networks
"Reading GPS"Attempting to acquire GPS signal
"Wifi Connected" + "Reading GPS"WiFi connected but no internet access
"Time not synced"Synchronization failed after 30+ minutes
"Testing signal"Performing 30-second test transmission
"Transmitting WSPR message"Active WSPR transmission in progress
"Select Freq"Band selection mode active
"Frequency Set"New band has been selected

Troubleshooting Display Issues​

If the display shows unexpected behavior:

  • Ensure proper power supply voltage
  • Check LCD connections
  • Verify encoder wiring
  • Confirm system has been properly initialized after firmware upload