[Elecraft] KX3 KXUSB vs KXSER interface

[Mike Heitmann]

All the programming/CW/PTT cable discussions prompted me to pass along this tip 
someone else gave me:
On  the recommendation of someone I met in Dayton this  year, I've made several 
radio programming/CAT/CW/PTT cables using these devices:
http://www.ftdichip.com/Products/Cables/USBRS232.htm

They  terminate to bare wires so you can put whatever connector you need on  the 
end. It's also easy to slip a copper braid over the wire for  shielding if that 
is required. I've had no issues using them on Windows  or Linux.

Mouser sells them:
http://www.mouser.com/Search/m_ProductDetail.aspx?FTDI/USB-RS232-WE-1800-BT_50/&qs=D1/PMqvA100CRKe9cg4TXA==


This model is RS-232, but they have them with TTL an RS-422 as well if you have 
a requirement for those interfaces.

I'm  using them for radio CAT/PTT/CW keying with my K2 and IC-706. The '706 CAT 
cable is connected homebrewed CIV circuit covered  with black heat shrink 
tubing. The PTT/CW keying cables are connected to homebrew single transistor 
keying circuits specific for the radio it's intended for, also covered with heat 
shrink tubing. It makes a nice, compact set of cables. I use a separate cable 
for programming/CAT and keying/PTT. 


Off topic a bit, but I also use these cables for radio programming and low speed 
data with my D-STAR radios.

Mike Heitmann, N0SO