ATV Caption generator kit

The caption generator was originally designed as a project for CQ-TV and was published in issue 201. When published obsolete analogue satellite receivers were in abundance and it is from these that the OSD chip and several other components were obtained. Several years have passed so most of these old receivers are now lying at the bottom of the tip. The Chinese like to hoard obsolete devices, I have obtained a few making a this kit possible.

The unit will overlay text over incoming video which could be callsign , talk-back frequency etc., this is very useful for ATV enthusiasts. Text is written using a PS2 type keyboard and stored in an EEPROM; the EEPROM has an 8 page capacity.

Please note that this design is for PAL systems only.

Features
  • Superimposed or full screen text
  • Coloured background when in full screen mode
  • Internal sync when no video input present
  • Text entered via directly connected PC type keyboard
  • 8 Pages of text stored in eeprom (no backup batteries)
  • Push button for changing viewed page when keyboard isn't connected
  • Video bypass switch
  • 8-15V supply @ 80ma (plus keyboard power)

Downloads

Updated article from CQ-TV 201
Article from CQ-TV issue 201, this is revised to include recent changes.

PCB design files
For use with Easy-PC from Number One systems, the demo will allow you to view, edit and print design but not save it.

Assembler files
Download and modify for your own use. This will require the installation of MPLAB, download from the Microchip website free of charge.

M50555 Data sheet

The data sheet in PDF format is not available, I managed to obtain an old copy and have scanned it in - sorry about the quality! The original character set is missing from my copy so I interrogated the chip and produced an excel file as a "Font table".

Pages 1-9
Page 10-21
Font table

 

Kit Contents

The kit contains all PCB mounted components including switches and knobs. The builder will need to provide a suitable case.

How to order

Payment can be accepted by PayPal, direct bank transfer, Western Union or by a Sterling cheque from a UK bank. For details on payment by Western Union or direct transfer please contact us for our banking details.

Probably the easiest way to pay is by PayPal, below are a series of "buttons" - select the appropriate one(s) and when finished click "View Cart", once payment has been made you should get an e-mail from PayPal confirming payment - we will send you an e-mail (to your Paypal e-mail address) normally within 12 hours advising on delivery etc.

UK orders can be made by cheque or postal order, HERE is an order form with up-to-date pricing for UK delivery.

Note that PayPal prices include postage, not included are any import taxes which may be charged by your customs (non EC countries); YOU are responsible for these. We can not enter "sample" or "gift" in the customs form so please don't ask
 
Posted to the UK £35.00
 
Posted to European continent (EC, Russia, Norway etc.)
£36.00

ATV Caption Generator kit without case
 
International post (USA, Canada, Indonesia etc.)
£37.00
 
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