[Elecraft] KX3 Computer Interface for digital modes

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

 > The SignaLink uses the radio's PTT on the mic connector to switch
 > from rx to tx.

The "PTT" is nothing more than a diode, capacitor and NPN transistor
that forms a crude VOX circuit and can be added to the $9.99 USB
audio dongle for about $2.00 by any competent amateur.

That "PTT" does nothing to provide early PTT to switch amplifiers or
preamplifiers, etc. that the EME folks require (and what W7GJ is
trying to accomplish).

> So, I'd say your characterization is a bit off.

No, my characterization is dead on the money - overpriced, and under
performing in many aspects - particularly if one needs serial or USB
control of K3 or KX3 frequency and positive computer controlled PTT
for amplifier/preamp switching.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 7/27/2012 8:10 PM, k3ndm at comcast.net wrote:
> Joe,
> The SignaLink uses the radio's PTT on the mic connector to switch from rx to tx. That is all that is really required. However, it does have a built in sound card that does work better than the one in my laptop. All power is taken from the USB connection to the computer. It's a complete, easy to set up and use package. With the additional sound card, I can do other things. So, I'd say your characterization is a bit off.
>
> 73,
> Barry
> K3NDM
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Joe Subich, W4TV" <lists at subich.com>
> To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net
> Sent: Friday, July 27, 2012 4:32:59 PM
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KX3 Computer Interface for digital modes
>
>
> Signalink USB is nothing more than a repackaged $10 USB audio dongle.
> It does not provide any USB to serial functions and no access to TxD,
> RxD, DTR, RTS. Lance specifically needed TxD and RxD for computer
> logging and RTS for advanced PTT.
>
> The alternative to the WestMountain Radio Nomic is a Buxcomm Rascal
> with a custom serial cable that splits RxD/TxD to the rig and DTR/RTS
> to the Rascal then to the rig.
>
> 73,
>
> ... Joe, W4TV
>
>
> On 7/27/2012 4:05 PM, Barry LaZar wrote:
>> Tigertronics is peddling the SignaLink. I've been using it for a long
>> time on my TS-50 with the idea to use it on my KX3. I checked last night
>> and found that they have the cables and the KX3 jumper plug. I've really
>> been happy with this unit and suggest that you have a look. I paid $100
>> which included the cable I needed.
>>
>> 73,
>> Barry
>> K3NDM
>>
>> On 7/27/2012 2:57 PM, Lance Collister, W7GJ wrote:
>>> Knowing that there are a number of KX3 owners who are interested in an computer
>>> interface that does not rely on VOX mode to transmit CW or digital modes from the
>>> computer, I have outlined the interface that I am using here:
>>>
>>> http://www.bigskyspaces.com/w7gj/KX3.htm
>>>
>>> Good luck and happy DXing! VY 73, Lance
>>>
>>
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