[Elecraft] [K3] - Digital Modes Interface - Working Split

[Joel Black]

I started this email with another thought in mind. The more I typed, the 
more I thought I may be wrong about what I was thinking.

First, let me emphatically state that I *know* the K3 will just let you 
plug into a computer sound card - I get that. I like something between 
my radio and computer; something other than the default sound card if 
for no other reason than to eliminate the odd beeps and boops over the 
air. I have used a SignaLink USB and am currently using an E-MU 0204.

Now for this disclaimer, I am only a *very* casual contester. In the WPX 
RTTY contest last weekend, I only operated about 10 hours and that was 
spread out over 44 hours of the contest (the contest is 48 hours). Most 
of that was on Saturday. I am a QRS CW operator who prefers manual 
keying but will use the macros in RUMPed for contest exchanges. I 
operated for about an hour in the ARRL DX CW contest last night and will 
probably operate a few more hours on and off through the duration of the 
contest. I am no where near hard core and I operate in S & P mode. I get 
serious for one "contest" and that is Field Day (I know, I know, it's 
not a contest. Really? Why do we keep score then?) where I will sit for 
hours. I already have CAT control with a GearMo USB-to-4port serial adapter.

The reason I ask is that I have lately been using an E-MU 0204 for sound 
card modes. I've been thinking about purchasing either a Navigator or a 
microHAM Digi Keyer II. This is where I think I may be wrong in my 
thinking - the SignaLink USB has only mono receive capability. When 
working split, is there any reason why I have to be able to decode both 
the DX (or split station [i.e. W1AW/x]) and the calling station?

Even if I were to make the decision to purchase a Navigator / microHAM 
interface, I'm on a budget so I'd have to sell both the SignaLink USB 
and the E-MU 0204. The E-MU 0204 can also be used to interface with the 
I / Q output of my KX3. So, I'm reluctant to sell the 0204.

Now, some things on my wish list (way down the road) and I cannot really 
see how to hook all this up with either the Navigator or a microHAM 
interface (before you ask, I like lemonade flavored Kool-Aid):

P3 SVGA adapter - okay, I know that just goes in the P3 and doesn't have 
anything to do with the Navigator / microHAM
KPA500
KAT500
W2 wattmeter

I know this list has an august crowd and I know what I'm asking when I 
ask for opinions ;) but that's what I need. Then I can make a better 
decision.

73,
Joel - W4JBB