[Elecraft] K4 and remote operation?

[VE6WZ_Steve]

Hi David,

I spoke with Elecraft on the phone 2 months ago about the remote functionality of the K4 and it was made clear they do not yet have an “in-house” PC remote user software interface.
There are some third party solutions available but that did not interest me.  I cancelled my early pre-order and received a refund.

I’m sure they will eventually develop the software for full remote connectivity, but I expect the focus was on getting the radios out the door.

I am 100% remote operation and I have the K3s-K3/0 mini setup with the remoterig boxes, but my main radio of choice is now the Flex 6600.  I am a low-band 160m CW op mostly. I love the K3s for its weak signal CW capabilities, but the Flex 6600 is much more ergonomically friendly and the waterfall/spectra display is too much to give up.  I will never go back to using a radio without a pan-adapter.
I will be the FIRST in line for the K4 when they develop a PC based user interface that emulates sitting at the radio like the Flex does.  But I will need to see it first.

Here is a YouTube video I made showing my control operating position, and I talk about the benefits of the Flex PC software compared to operating the K3 with the remoteRig boxes.
https://youtu.be/fd6DkobdlK4 <https://youtu.be/fd6DkobdlK4>

Here are some other videos I made showing other aspects of my remote set-up:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLipJSm0KKo3Am6fTn5MllmAO0Ivj23SS1 <https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLipJSm0KKo3Am6fTn5MllmAO0Ivj23SS1>

73, de steve ve6wz


> On Dec 3, 2020, at 12:39 PM, David Winarsky <david at winarsky.com> wrote:
> 
> Hi folks, I’m wondering whether anyone has an update or insight into the plans with the K4 and remote operation?  I’m currently building a remote station and deciding whether I should invest in the K4 route.  I have a K3s at my local station and it’s not clear what type of setup would be required to integrate with the K4.
> 
> Will the K4 work with RemoteRig?  Will I be able to use my K3s to control the K4?
> 
> I’m mainly a CW operator so my focus will be on efficient CW operation.
> 
> Appreciate any info!
> 
> David K6ZD
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