[Elecraft] Antenna Rotator

[Mike Reublin]

Ron,

It's not a matter of the rotor being compatible with the K3. 

To control it from the shack, it needs to have an interface  to the computer, normally a serial (RS232) port. Idiom Press (http://www.idiompress.com) sells an add-on kit for Yaesu and Hy-Gain rotors. I can tell you from experience, the Yaesu is easier to install.

Green Heron (http://www.greenheronengineering.com/RT_Overview.php?) and MDS (http://www.mds-ham.com/RC1-Y-Digital-Rotor-Control.htm) both sell a digital control box.

Then you'll need some software to run it. Most logging programs have rotor control capabilities, but not all do. 

You'll need two cables, one for the K3, the other for the rotor. If your' puter  doesn't have real serial ports you may be able to add them. If not, you'll need USB/serial converter cables. Be sure they use the FTDI chip set. Elecraft sells them, there are plenty of other sources also.

GL & enjoy!

73, Mike NF4L

On Nov 12, 2012, at 9:09 PM, Ron Midwin <ronmidwin.mo at gmail.com> wrote:

> I'm considering a Hex Beam antenna with the rotator at the bottom of a 30
> foot mast.  The Hex Beam company recommends a Yaesu G450 A rotator or
> equivalent.  Since I've not used a rotator before, I'm looking for
> recommendations on one that might be more compatible with my K3?
> 
> This is regarding controlling the rotator from the shack.  Any comments
> would be appreciated.
> 
> -- 
> Ron Midwin
> AE6RH
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