[Elecraft] RE: K2 Front Panel Extension, K2/PC

[Andrey Stoev]

Hey guys,



here are some thoughts about a front panel extension:



There is a special type PC out there called Mini-ITX ( also is known as 
CarPC) - this type PC is extremely small in size, some models are powered 
with 12V DC and in some solid state media (CF card) is used instead of a 
hard drive.

There are models which are even fanless.

Here are few links:

http://www.mini-itx.com/

http://www.mini-box.com/s.nl/sc.8/category.101/.f

http://minipc.aopen.com/Global/





Perhaps an enclosure can be made, something like a "docking station" where 
K2 will be installed along the side of such MiniPC. The actual front panel 
of the K2 will be fully accessible and next to it a 7 or 8 inch Touch-screen 
LCD will be showing the Ham Radio Deluxe interface. Griffin PowerMate will 
take care of the VFO control for added convenience.

I think HRD + touch-screen LCD will make a nice virtual control panel with 
all of the buttons needed, and the overall dimensions of such combo will not 
exceed the standard rack-mountable form factor.



One can also use touch screen LCD with an existing PC - there are many 
models of  7-8-10 inches touch screens for car installations which will do 
nice job. ( http://www.avdeals.com/xenarclcdmain.htm )



Another way to do it is with the so-called Tablet PCs - there are many 
models available even on ebay - some used ones are very inexpensive. That 
way an all-in-one virtual control panel interface utilizing HRD can be used 
with different rigs.



73s

KB1FZA