[Elecraft] KAT100 and KIO2-like interfaces

[Wayne Burdick]

Rich (and others),

Yes, it would be possible to roll your own minimal interface to go from the K2 Control
board, to a DB9 in the top cover, and then to the KAT100. 

A major reason for the existence of the KIO2 is to get signals like the AuxBus safely in
and out of the K2. It has all of the connectors required to do this cleanly, and is
well-shielded and decoupled. Any interface you substitute should meet the same criteria,
or you could end up with a lot of RF on the AuxBus line during transmit.

73,
Wayne


Rich Lentz wrote:
> 
> Are you sure that the KIO2 is needed to control the KAT100???  It may be
> the easiest way to explain, in a hurry, however it would be much easier
> and cheaper without it.
> 
> I have not tried it without the KIO2 (Don't have the KAT100), however,
> looking at the schematics for the KPA100, K2, KIO2, etc. the pins on the
> DB9 that go to the computer are not used on the other modules. The
> signals used on the other modules are passed through the KIO2 with no
> modification (other than RF filter/suppression).  So, it appears to me
> that with the necessary control-board modifications (made with or as
> described in either the KIO2 or KPA100 manuals) and installation of a
> DB9 connector with these same control signals (on the correct pins) and
> minus the PC/CAT signals (as the KIO2 is not installed).  Thus you would
> only wire out to pins 6, 7, 8, & 9 on the DB9 (with RF
> filter/suppression as shown on the KIO2/KPA100 diagram). Then a cable
> connecting the K2 to the KAT100 would properly control the KAT100.
> 
> Rich - KE0X
>