[Elecraft] KX3 Computer Interface for digital modes

Barry LaZar k3ndm at comcast.net
Sat Jul 28 12:36:58 EDT 2012


I see. The real issue is amplifier turn on timing. As I don't use an 
amplifier as QRO to me is a 100 Watts. I can't address the issue from 
experience. However, I suspect that there is an easy fix since all high 
power users face the same issue, particularly on CW. Someone needs to 
check to see is there is a delay built in to the PTT function the allows 
the amplifier to turn on when the PTT is keyed in proper sequence. I 
know this is not an issue with my Orion II, and I infer from those who 
do operate at the full legal limit around my neighborhood that this 
issue is a non-issue; a lot of them are using FT-1000s and K3s

After mulling this over as I write this response, I come away with the 
idea that a parameter in the transmitter keying menu has not been 
changed to account for the amplifier turn on delay. Someone should check 
that.

73,
Barry
K3NDM


On 7/27/2012 9:03 PM, Lance Collister, W7GJ wrote:
> As usual, Joe is RIGHT ON THE MONEY! If I had a dime for every EMEe'r 
> who was had troubles created by trying to use a Signalink, I would be 
> sending this email from the beach in the Carib!  I NEVER recommend 
> them to anyone who is serious about running any kind of power on 
> digital modes because of the cheap and dirty way they try to claim 
> that they have PTT control, when all they really have is VOX. What I 
> was talking about, and what most EME'ers and serious VHF'ers require, 
> is an ADVANCE PTT command (which is very thoughtfully provided by WSJT 
> programs) so that everything can be switched and settled into place 
> BEFORE any signals are generated by the transmitter.    If all you do 
> is HF QRP, then the Signalink is probably all you will ever need.  If 
> you ever go QRO, it will pay you to do it right the first time and get 
> a fully capable interface!   GL and VY 73, Lance
>
> On 7/28/2012 12:10 AM, 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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