[Elecraft] K3 Computer control

wayne burdick n6kr at elecraft.com
Sun Apr 29 01:52:36 EDT 2007


David Fleming wrote:

> Does the K3 use the same command structure as the
> K2 (SW; DS; IF; etc) ?

Yes, with many new commands. Initially it will emulate the K2, and 
we'll grow the command set as time permits.


> Are you using encoders rather than pots for RF
> and AF gain?

Everything is controlled by encoders except main/sub AF gain, RF gain, 
and squelch. But these pots are read by the computer, so the 
remote-control interface can "capture" all of the parameters. The pots 
would take control only if rotated again by the operator.


> Will menu navigation  be better supported than on the K2
> (if only the annunciator byte would follow the menu)?

Yes, but the details aren't settled yet.


> Will you
> publish the commands necessary to do firmware updates or will that be
> proprietary?

All command details will be published.


> I second (or third) the vote for "wake on serial".

Right now it's "turn-on by grounding the /POWER-ON line". This will 
require a logic line or contact closure from the computer. Wake-up on 
serial requires that the MCU be powered, or that the I/O card have a 
powered comparator. Maybe in a future hardware revision -- can't 
guarantee it for first shipments.

But hey, the K3 is modular for just this sort of reason  :)


>
> I'm curious if you developed the  psk, tty decode/encode software in
> house?

Yes.


> I'm sure that was a challenge. I've been researching the topic
> and hope to eventually build that functionality into my K2 control
> software. Most challenging indeed, for me.

It's a combination of DSP and MCU code in the K3, and works very well. 
A lot of hair was lost in Belmont CA and Mt. Vernon WA during this 
process  ;)


>
> Congrats on the new release! I'm sure these are exciting times for all
> of you at Elecraft. I wish you much success..

Thanks!

Would you like to write a Mac version of the K3 Downloader, presently 
written in Microsoft C-sharp?

73,
Wayne
N6KR


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