[MarinTeams] Digital Communications with an FT-60R

[Bill Smith]

For those of you who might be interested in assembling a Packet Digital station using a laptop computer with a Yaesu FT-60R handheld transceiver, QST has published an article indicating that an electronics supply company called Digi-Key is selling the special plug that is used with the FT-60R.  The part number is CP-354S-ND.  More information is at www.digikey.com.

To build a cable for the FT-60R, you will need the following components:

DIGI-KEY
PART NO.            QTY            DESCRIPTION                                        PRICE

CP-354S-ND           (1) CONN CABLE ASSY 3.5MM 4COND 6'                  $6.09
209FER-ND            (1) CONN DB9 FMALE SOLDER CUP TIN                   $1.19
A9001-ND               (1) CONN BACKSHELL DB9 PLASTIC                        $3.36
4N33M-ND              (1) OPTOCOUPLER PHOTODARLINGTON 6DIP          $0.62
CP-3502-ND            (2) CONN 3.5MM MALE STEREO PLUG           $1.04  $2.08
            
Additional shielded cable, resistors, capacitors, and shrink tubing will be supplied.  Note, this parts list is only valid for a Yaesu Model FT-60R.  If you have another model radio, please contact me to determine the parts needed for your model radio.

If your laptop does not have a serial port, you will need to obtain a USB to Serial Port adapter.  One is available from 
http://www.hamradioexpress.com         (1) BUXCOMM Model USB2SC  USB to Serial Port Adapter   $24.95

Bill