[GreenKeys] Dovetron Tempest version

Sun, 29 Feb 2004 20:03:03 -0600

Well, Richard, I don't see you getting flooded with reply emails, so I'll
give some of it a go from here.  I haven't received my Dovetron yet (it's on
the way), so remembering some from 15 years ago and the one I had wasn't
Tempest model, so I might be off a bit.  I got my power connector from one
of our list members, Robert Downs, [email protected] .  No business interest
there, just have bought several items from Bob with good results.  I'll have
to provide the cord and AC plug for powering the Dovetron.  The audio cables
should be BNC to whatever suits your rig.  Likely you'll need to "homebrew"
them. TNC's like the PK-232, KAM, etc have firmware installed to do the RTTY
functions, so all that is required is a "dumb terminal" program to run them.
The Dovetron doesn't contain that firmware, therefore requires a software
program in the computer you use to do the RTTY tasks.  RS-232 hookup should
be a cinch, but you need something to take care of the ASCII to Baudot
interpretation, etc.  I used to use a fine program on IBM compatable DOS
computers made by Glen Wellman, but haven't found a good Windows programs at
all for our older TU's.  I haven't seen any "new" programs from Mr. Wellman
since that one I mentioned.  The sound card I think would be difficult to
interface with the Dovetron, you need to look into an RS-232 interface.  I
think Gil is working on a board presently.  Keep tuned for results from
that.  Hope this sheds a little light, and will answer anything else I can.
Hope others will chime in as well.  Also give us your comments on available
software!
73,
Don, WB5HAK
----- Original Message -----
From: "Richard" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, February 29, 2004 3:06 PM
Subject: [GreenKeys] Dovetron Tempest version


> Greetings from a newbie.  I have the opportunity to purchase a
> Dovetron Tempest version.
> It appears to be in good working condition.  No cables of any sort are
> included with the unit.
> I was able to power it on at the owners location using rudimentary power
> sources.
> Beyond that, I know very little.
>
> I am experienced in using RTTY as part of my job in the military
> (a la CV-2460, URA-17's,
> UGC-6's (and later on NST's) and various cryptographic devices).  Having
> said that, I am a
> newbie when it comes to the world of amateur radio RTTY.
>
> I have read some of your posts concerning power cables, audio
> cables, etc, and
> I have a few questions:
>
> Where (or who) can I contact to obtain power and audio cables for this
> Dovetron?
>
> Or must I homebrew my own cables?
>
> I do not own (or desire to own) a Teletype unit.
>
> Accordingly, what sort of software is used with the Dovetron?
> Do you utilize a 'dumb terminal' program?
> Has there been a program written for the Dovetron?
> Can the Dovetron be used with a sound card or must it be connected via
> RS-232?
>
> Thanks in advance for your help.
>
> 73 DE Richard, KG6STS
>
> _______________________________________________
> GreenKeys mailing list
> [email protected]
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/greenkeys
>