[Kenwood] RM-1 Controller

[Bud Hippisley, K2KIR]

There is no front-panel way to run CW or voice messages on the TS-950SDX.  There _is_ such ability on the TS-850 -- at least for CW; I can't vouch for voice.

Rus Healy's review of the TS-950SDX in QST a decade or so ago specifically noted that the 950SDX was the first instance he knew of where the remote control provided (message) functionality not available on the front panel of the HF transceiver.

And yes, although the manual is not real clear on this point, you always get the CW message capability with a stock 950SDX -- but you must add the DRU-2 option to get voice message capability.

There is nothing magical about an RM-1.  It's basically a few switches and a bunch of precision resistors.  The switches switch different resistor values onto the hot lead of the shielded audio cable going from the RM-1 back to the jack on the rear of the transceiver.  A simple A/D conversion circuit inside the 950SDX changes those different DC voltages into a variety of logical commands (one at a time, of course -- you can have only one DC voltage on the cable at a time).  You can build up an RM-1 out of your junkbox parts or after a quick visit to Radio Shack.

Bud, K2KIR