[Elecraft] PSK 31

[Stephen M. Shearer]

First, I have SignaLink and microHAM as interfaces between rig and computer.
I like microHAM because it also reads the rig mode and frequency without
needing a second USB port.  (I also have older microHAM units that need a
separate sound card port)
I patch direct (now) with my KX3 to the laptop.
I do PSK31 and low level modes like JT65.
Something to think about if you want to do the low level modes is how GOOD
is the sound card.  24 bit and 48K with >100db SNR would be good for JT65
(not required).
Keeping system sounds away from the rig is important.
I just purchased another sound card ~$25 (USB) for the laptop and JT65 so I
CAN also hear (system sounds) the announcements for JT65 Alerts when NEW
countries "pop" up...  Specs were weak but I am hoping it is 24 bit...
You CAN turn OFF all the system sounds and use a single sound port.  Useful
IF the computer is single use.

73, steve WB3LGC

-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Rick Bates
Sent: 27 July, 2013 1:36 AM
To: 'william wade'; elecraft at mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] PSK 31

First let's explain what Wayne meant:  If you use a secondary sound
card/device, you won't accidentally transmit an operating system sound (many
of which are musical).  You also won't have to constantly twiddle with
levels as you switch from OS to the radio.  And it allows you to have the
computer alert you to DX or whatever you have it set to do, without
transmitting that sound, while you're operating in a digital more (the
computer is quite capable of having two or more sound cards at the same
time).

I use a SignaLink (Tigertronics).  But there are far cheaper and expensive
options, including one I recently saw at another shack that cost a whopping
$5.78 after tax and shipping.  It failed from structural weakness (SMD
connector broke from the board, overstressed) but it did work before that.

So between $5 and whatever the fanciest device costs is what you'll pay.
They all work, but you'll likely want a little more quality than the
cheapest.

Jim Brown has done a study of several models and can list some potential
watchouts (poor bonding, pin one issues etc) so maybe he'll chime in here.

The bottom line (to me) is that you have a serious radio, you're building a
serious station, why diddle around with being cheap on a critical part, the
sound card by trying to multiuse the computer sound card.  That's like
putting retread tires on a sports car.  ;o)

73,

Rick wa6nhc

-----Original Message-----
From: william wade

Hello all: Getting ready to set up PSK31 on my K3  following the operating
tips outlined by Wayne. He states: "It is usually best to use a second sound
card for...digital modes". Is he referring to something like Tigertronics?


73

Bill, Ai4PF

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