[PCR-1000] RE: pcr1000 mods

[e cummings]

microcontrollers ROM's are often mask-programmed or burned with the 
"security bit" enabled to prevent extraction of the microcode (however it 
can be done with very expensive microprobing equipment.)  odds are the 
PCR-1000 uses a custom microcontroller anyway, so even if you had the 
microcode it's doubtful you'd be able to get your hands on one or be able 
to program it.

-ec

At 10:05 PM 1/14/02 -0500, you wrote:
>It has been said that the difference in recent serial numbered American
>units is the processor chip on the control board. The CPU in my radio (S/N
>5634) does not say "icom" on it. Rumor has it the program has been changed
>in these units such that there is no external means to prevent them from
>"knowing" they are "FCC-USA" types (the program ignores the jumpers and the
>EEPROM location contents).
>
>If one could obtain the microprogram from an "unlocked" radio and burn it
>into one of these chips, and assuming he could remove his existing CPU
>without damaging the board. and install the replacement without risking
>same, it would probably work. But as Eric indicated, what's to listen to?
>Digital noise?