[Elecraft] Remote rig versus homebrew challenges

[Mitch Wolfson DJØQN]

Hi Keith,

That is a very broad set of questions. I have successfully ran remote 
stations using computer control only for several years, but have 
migrated almost everything to the RemoteRig hardware. This brings a 
number of advantages and disadvantages, for example:

  * Advantages over traditional remote control methods:
      o Embedded device - set and forget. User can not mess-up the
        interface such as they can on a PC running Windows.
      o No PC needs to be running at the remote site
      o Small size and low power consumption (2.2 watts using 13.8 volts)
      o No issue with installing and running in a rough environment such
        as a mountaintop
      o High quality audio (using SIP protocol) with selectable CODEC's
      o Extremely low latency (about 20 ms). I know of users that use
        RemoteRig for QSK CW at 40 WPM over the internet
      o Built-in CW keyer allowing the use of a paddle
      o Two built-in serial port servers for e.g. CAT and one other
        device (e.g. rotator or amplifier)
      o Support for multiple locations (profiles) to switch between
        remote station locations on the fly
      o Support for a virtual FSK COM port, and/or the operator can use
        digital modes (e.g. AFSK, PSK31, etc.) by connecting an audio
        cable to the control RRC box
      o When using a transceiver that has a separate control head, such
        as the TS-480, or the twin concept, such as the K3 Twin (2x K3's
        or a K3 + K3/0), one can use the control head or other rig at
        the remote location as if the rest of the transceiver is also
        local. This makes for a better user experience than being
        dependent upon using only PC software for transceiver control.
  * Disadvantages over traditional remote control:
      o Cost is about $500 per set (would however save money if a PC is
        not installed remotely)
      o Requires some networking knowledge to make the initial set-up,
        after that essentiall "plug and play"
      o Cost of 2nd K3 or K3/0 if you wish to have the "K3 Twin" experience


As far as your problems are concerned:
- You can pass CAT over COM2 on the RRC's and just run that on your 
local PC, HRD or whatever software you wish to use.
- You can pass the rotator over COM1 on the RRC's and just run a 
software control over the internet

So yes, I believe that this will solve your problems.

--> You need to first decide if you will go the "Twin" route, or just 
run computer control on the control side

You need to buy:
- The set of 2x RRC's
- If going the Twin route, then either a 2nd K3, or the K3/0
- The appropriate cable set depending upon the hardware configuration used

If you have any further questions, just drop me a mail.

73,
Mitch DJ0QN


On 05.03.2012 17:36, Keith Heimbold wrote:
> I'm trying to figure out the best way to do remote and I'm really struggling with trying to homebrew remote with HRD and other application Skype included. I'm seriously considering spending $500 for getting the remoterig. I've been messing around with the programs for months I can't seem to get everything to work right.
>
> I'm using an i5 laptop with four gigs of RAM any USB to four serial port converter. HRD continuously locks up and digital modes I doesn't work for the rotator. Will transitioning to Remote rig take care of this issue or is something wrong with my configuration will not be resolved with Remote rig. At this point I just want something seamless to use that I can plug-and-play. With all the hours I spent on this I'm certainly utilized much time as I would spending for the remote rig.
>
> I like to know which model number I should purchase with PC control and eventually the KX3.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Keith
> AG6AZ
>
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse typos
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> Mitch Wolfson
> DJØQN / K7DX
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