[Elecraft] Preventing unexpected transmissions when using FTDI devices

[Bob Wilson, N6TV]

Elecraft K3 MCU version 5.33 added the new "USB SAFE" option as a default
(CONFIG:PTT-KEY, Tap '1'), which prevents unexpected transmissions when you
restart Windows or reconnect an FTDI adapter.

This works fine when controlling a K3 or K3S via USB, but it doesn't help
when using an FTDI USB-to-Serial adapter for CW / FSK / PTT keying on a
separate serial port.

I've published a 2-page document online, with screen shots, describing
step-by-step how to use the Windows Device Manager to correct the default
"Serial Enumerator" and "Modem Control" options set by the FTDI drivers,
options which Windows unfortunately enables every time you connect a new
FTDI adapter.  Every FTDI port must be independently configured at least
once.

The short link to the online document is here:

https://bit.ly/FTDItip


These FTDI settings are also recommended when using the S-BOX-USB
<https://bit.ly/S-BOX> with a K3 or K3S, especially when used with the
RemoteHams "Use RTS as Power" option.

If anyone on this list uses a MAC or Linux box with an FTDI adapter or FTDI
KUSB cable, and the macOS offers the equivalent device options, please send
me the screen shots (.PNG format preferred), and I'll add them to the
document.

Thank you!

73,
Bob, N6TV
https://bit.ly/S-BOX