TigerTrak Frequently Asked Questions


  1. Do I need to learn "Programming" to use the TigerTrak?
  2. What cables and connectors will I need?
  3. Can I power the TM-1 from the radio's mic connector?
  4. Can the TM-1 supply power to my GPS receiver?
  5. What NMEA string does the TM-1 require for tracking?
  6. Will the TM-1 work with my Tripmate GPS receiver?
  7. Is there a DOS configuration program available?
  8. Is there any easy way to attach to the mic circuit?
  9. What is the main difference between a TM-1 and TM-1+?
  10. Can my TM-1 ever be upgraded to a TM-1+?
  11. Can I get a firmware upgrade for new features?
  12. How do I remove the TigerTrak software from my computer?
  13. How do I get Technical Support?



Do I need to learn "Programming" to use the TigerTrak?

Absolutely Not! While the TigerTrak is technically "programmable", it comes with a simple to use Windows configuration program that does all the work for you! Programming or "Configuring" the TM-1 is very easy. For example: To configure the TM-1 for APRS® tracking, all you have to do is enter your callsign, digi path and transmit timer interval. Then just click the "Write" button. Thats all there is to it!



What cables and connectors will I need?

The TM-1 is supplied with a radio cable. One end of the cable already has a connector installed that plugs directly into the TM-1. The other end of the cable is unterminated. You will need to install whatever connector is appropriate for your particular radio on the open end. Exactly what connectors you'll need will depend on your radio and your specific application. In installations where the TM-1 is used for both voice and data (ie: APRS®), you will need some kind of junction box or splice that will allow the unit to be connect in parallel with the microphone lines. In data only applications (telemetry, etc.), you can plug directly into the mic connector. On radios that do not have speaker audio available on the mic connector, you will also need to plug into the radios external speaker jack.

Your GPS receiver or other data source must be plugged into the "Data / Control" connector on the rear of the TM-1 using a female DB-9 connector. This connector is not supplied with the TM-1. The pin-out of the Data/Control port is unique to the TM-1. If the device you are connecting already has a connector, then you may have to rewire it or make an adapter cable. Refer to the TM-1 Installation Manual for detailed wiring info.

Powering the TM-1 is normally done through a 2.1mm coaxial power plug on the rear panel. A plug is supplied with the unit, but the user must provide wiring and a fuse. On radios that have accessory power available on the mic connector, it may be possible to power the TM-1 from that source. Refer to the power section of the Installation Manual for further details.




Can I power the TM-1 from the radio's mic connector?

Yes, if adequate voltage and current is available. The TM-1 requires 8 to 15 VDC at about 45 milliamps for operation. If your radio can supply this power, then you can power the TM-1 from it. You will need to check your radio's manual to verify power availability. WARNING: Overloading the mic connector power supply will damage your radio!




Can the TM-1 supply power to my GPS receiver?

The TM-1 and TM-1+ can both be configured to supply power to a GPS receiver through pin #9 on the Data/Control connector. The power is supplied directly from the 2.1mm power jack on the rear of the TM-1. The voltage at pin #9 will be about 1 volt less than the applied voltage, because of a series protection diode. The power at pin #9 is limited to 250 ma by a self-resetting PTC circuit breaker. In the TM-1+ (ONLY) the power to pin #9 is controlled by a solid state switch that turns on with the front panel switch. This feature allows power to the GPS to be controlled by the TM-1+. This is an especially attractive feature if you are using an OEM receiver like the Garmin GPS-25. Refer to the Installation Manual for additional information.




What NMEA string does the TM-1 require for tracking?

Both the TM-1 and TM-1+ require the NMEA "GPRMC" string for Tracking Mode. This string MUST be available from your GPS for Tracking Mode to work! There are very few GPS's receivers that can not be configured to provide this string.




Will the TM-1 work with my Tripmate GPS receiver?

In order to work with any tracker, the Tripmate must undergo a simple modification. Information on this modification can be found at numerous locations on the Internet. One such location is: Tripmate Tracker Modifications.




Is there a DOS Configuration Program available?

Currently there are no plans for a DOS version of the Configuration Program. Commercial users requiring software for a special application are invited to contact us for availability or a quote on custom software.




Is there any easy way to attach to the mic circuit?

Getting attached to the mic lines, while keeping the mic connected, can be a surprisingly difficult project! In response to many requests for ideas, Tigertronics has just introduced a "Mic Adapter Kit". This is a small and inexpensive unit that plugs in-line between the mic and radio. It works with both 8-Pin and RJ-45 type mic connectors and greatly simplifies connecting the TM-1 tracking applications. Refer to our product listing for further information.




What is the main difference between a TM-1 and TM-1+?

The TM-1 only supports Tracking Mode, while the TM-1+ supports tracking and several additional modes. The TM-1+ also has solid state switching to control power to the GPS.




Can my TM-1 ever be upgraded to a TM-1+?

There are both hardware and firmware differences between the TM-1 and TM-1+. However, it is possible to upgrade. The cost will be slightly more than the original cost difference between the two units. Contact our Technical Support for the exact upgrade cost and procedure.




Can I get a firmware upgrade for new features?

Even though the TM-1 has no plug-in "EPROM", it can be easily upgraded with the latest features. The TigerTrak uses advanced memory technology called "FLASH". The Flash memory can be reprogrammed to provide new features many thousands of times before it has to be replaced, so the cost of an upgrade is very low. Upgrade notices will be posted on our web site. If you see something that interests you, contact our Technical Support Department to schedule the upgrade.




How do I remove the TigerTrak software from my computer?

To remove the TigerTrak software from your computer, do the following: Click on the "Start" button and select "Control Panel" from the "Settings" menu. When the Control Panel window opens, double-click the "Add/Remove Programs" icon and select "TigerTrak TM-1 Configuration Program" from the files list. Click the "Add/Remove" button to remove the program.




How do I get Technical Support?

It is not very likely that you will need to contact us if you read your Installation Manual and this web site. However, if you have a problem that you can't resolve, feel free to call our Technical Support Department for help. The procedure for doing that is available on our Technical Support page.




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