[1000mp] FT1000MP CAT control via a Ethernet Terminal Server

[w3sz]

Hello, All,

I have a CAT FT1000MP MkV question regarding problems in getting the MP to  
work with remote com ports using Ethernet [Serial] Terminal Servers.  Here  
is the background:

I have had my MP running fine with CAT control using a variety of  
computers [all Intel-based] and OS's [Win98, Win2000, WinXP, various  
flavors of Linux] over the past several years.

I have had success remote controlling the FT1000 over both a LAN and a  
wireless link using the trial versions of some of the Ham Software  
packages with client/server capability.

I have managed to gain remote control using Ethernet [Serial] Terminal  
Servers over a LAN [and over a 4.45 mile wireless link] of my K2, M2  
Rotors, RigBlaster, GPS Software, and WinKey.  Controlling things in this  
way obviates the need for a running computer at the remote end.

But the Ft1000MP is being pesky.  The CAT refuses to see or be seen when  
placed on a serial server com port, even though all of the other devices  
mentioned are happy with this approach.  I am setting the FT1000's serial  
server com port for 4800,8,n,2 but get no response from the CAT.  Not  
directly related to my stated problem, but perhaps of some help  
diagnostically, I also find that using a KeySpan USB / Serial Adapter com  
port prevents the CAT from working.  But it works fine with direct COM  
port connection to a computer, of course.

I tried varying the delay-timer, polling-timer, and TRCVR pacing in  
FT1000MP Super-Control, but still get no CAT function with a com port  
accessed via the Network [Serial] Terminal Server.

I was forwarned by the third part of G3UEG's remote control article in the  
October RadCom that he was unable to get the FT1000MP to work with a  
serial server.  This is exactly my problem.

I am guessing that this is some sort of timing or latency problem.

But it is vexing that the MP works neither on the USB/serial adapter or on  
the serial server, when every other piece of gear here with a serial port  
does so, including the Elecraft K2.

Does anyone have any thought as to
1.  What it is that makes the FT1000MP act this way and
2.  Whether there is away to coax it to work with a serial server?

I can always go with the alternative of just having the Radio Software  
running at the remote site and using a client/server approach, but the  
serial terminal servers are really nice as they can be cycled off/on very  
quickly if anything goes wrong [via separate radio link or phone link] and  
come right back up ready for action.

Thanks in advance, and

73,

Roger Rehr
W3SZ

-- 
Roger Rehr
W3SZ
http://www.qsl.net/w3sz