[Elecraft] K3-FPGA Network interface proposal

[Rick WA6NHC]

Some years ago, in an email exchange with Wayne (it's so cool to chat 
with the company owner/s) I suggested the following.  In order to 
'encourage' development, I'll now make the suggestion publicly (hey, it 
worked for the KPA1500 after all!).

Proposal:  Since the K-pod uses the previously unused (by the consumer) 
plug under the from panel of the K3, I submit that it could also be used 
for creating a network interface board to make the K3 a network device.  
I suggested an FPGA with an audio section for those older K3 without the 
newer interface boards; or it could be incorporated into a new(er) K3IO 
board.  That could standardize the audio interface; removing the need 
for an audio device (SignaLink being popular), simplifying the overall 
wiring as well.   Upgrading to Wifi (even less wires, BONUS!) is 
possible too.

If the K3-FPGA (or another IO board) was made, with the addition of the 
KPA1500, the entire K line could more easily be remoted via the network 
(and Internet) and managed with the appropriate software or apps for 
tablets/phones; withOUT requiring a computer to manage them at the 
station (one less common point of failure, less energy used).  It could 
be in essence, a QRO version of the, uh, another known brand.

Existing software (HRD being popular) could be updated to include IP 
addressing instead of COM ports (HRD would be simple, it's already IP 
based) and device apps for tablet/phones could follow.

Yes, one can go the route of a K3/0 if one required knobs to turn, but 
having the complete K line network capable means less to pack (or lose), 
less weight when traveling (or if operating from another room).  Making 
it network capable also means one could put the station in a closet or 
more easily in an RV compartment and still have a functioning station 
(XYL approved, peace survives in the house).

In the meantime, I use TeamViewer and Skype (via the SignaLink USB) AND 
a station computer to manage things remotely.  While it works and is 
awesome, I've had some issues with USB in an RF environment, which 
includes the SLUSB.  Those issues are a challenge to tame so a network 
based interface really appeals to me (I operate remotely, often and QRO).

Caveat:  There may be a better/simpler way to get this done than an FPGA 
board, but I'd bet a network interface device (with audio) would be 
cheaper than a K3/0 for those willing to shed knobs and buttons.  The 
wizards and Elecraft are much more informed and capable than I'll ever 
be, so let's be hopeful of this path.

73,
Rick WA6NHC