[Elecraft] Computer interface programming

[Leigh L Klotz, Jr.]

I have some python command-line routines that I should publish for K2 
and SteppIR control.  They won't add much more to your understanding if 
you already have other code, but if you are considering a Linux UI, you 
might want to try writing it in Python instead of C.  It may be quicker 
and easier to maintain, and can be ported to Windows as well.  (WSJT for 
example is done this way).

Also, Dave W1HKJ wrote a configurable rig interface for fldigi that uses 
an XML-based config file format.  I contributed the K2 file and help a 
small amount on the XML design.  One idle project for me is a second 
implementation of the rig control interpreter outside of fldigi, perhaps 
in Python or Java.  The hope is that this rig control format can be 
shared among many programs.

Hamlib is OK for many purposes, but the infrastructure in it is complex, 
and the difficulty of adding new features is high.  Plus, given its 
monolithic nature, it is hard for individuals to make small 
contributions.

The configurable approach Dave has taken has the advantage here, though 
it remains to be seen how it will be extended to deal with rigs that 
require some computation that it can't currently express.

73,
Leigh/WA5ZNU