Transcript West Mountain Radio

Presents
The
Wonderful World
of
Soundcard
Software
Copyright West Mountain Radio 2001
Why Soundcard Modes?
• An alternative to CW
• Ability to get through QRM
– Many modes use forward error correction
– Code Design
– Better signal strength at receive end
• Ability to transmit large volumes of data
accurately, consistently
– This varies by mode
Why Use the Soundcard?
• A common component to most computers
• No need for an expensive TNC or SSTV
controller
• Interface between computer and radio is
simple
• The computer is much more powerful than
any stand alone TNC
Soundcard Modes
Keyboard to Keyboard
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RTTY
Stream
MT63
Hellschrieber
– PSK31
– Packet
– Amtor
– APRS
Check
ModestHigh-speed
our
Hot
Station
web
Newsite
Requirements
Mode
FSK
for the Link
Soundcard Modes
Visual
– SSTV
• Color
• B&W
– Fax
– WX Fax
• receive only
– Hellschrieber
And this is just the beginning!
New modes are developed regularly.
But its Not Just for Data!
• Voice Keying
• Announcements
• Repeater
Control
– Simplex
– Duplex
– Autopatch
What do I Need??
Transceiver
Computer and Software
Interface
What Rig?
• Must have these qualities
– capable of SSB and/or FM
– stable oscillator
• Most modern rigs will work
• Some specifically designed for digital
– Warbler from NJ-QRP
– PSK20 from Small Wonder Labs
PSK-80 “Warbler” from NJ-QRP
Design by NN1G
PSK-20 from Small Wonder Labs
Design by NN1G
What Computer/OS?
• Software Dependent
– Most programs need a 100-133mhz Pentium or
better
– Some will run on a FAST (66mhz+) 486DX
– Most require a 16bit soundcard
• Standard for Pentium
– Most require Windows 95 minimum
• A few will run on Windows 3.1
• Fewer still are DOS programs
What Software?
• Single Mode
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winPSKse
DigiPan
W1QSL PSK
MMTTY
Chromapics
• Mutlimode
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HamScope
RadioCom
JVcomm32
TrueTTY
Too many to mention here.
Check out all the software listed on the
West Mountain Radio Links page
What makes an good Interface?
• Isolation of computer audio from
transceiver
• Attenuation of speaker/line level output
• Matching audio to mic level
• Push to talk keying via COM port
• Isolation of all grounds
• Easy to hook up
Who Makes a Great
Interface?
Tips for Good Output
• Learn your Windows Audio Control
– Separate Play and Record Settings
– Some programs will change the settings
• Let ALC be your guide
– Adjust output so that audio is just
below the ALC trigger level
– Drive too hard and folks will complain
Know Your Controls
This Your Output
This Your Input
Access this screen by
clicking on OPTIONS
RIGblaster
The Elegant Solution for
Your Interfacing Needs
General Features
• PTT control via a serial line
• Prevents ground loops
• Matching of computer speaker/line level output to
mic level input
• Plug and Play installation
– plugs directly into the mic jack on your transceiver
– uses existing jacks on computer and rig
• Can be used with almost any brand and model of
radio.
General Features
• PTT override of digital transmission
– (RIGblaster and Plus only)
• RF bypassing through out the audio circuit
• Solid heavy gauge precision punched metal case
• PC board made to ASTM 610 standard
NOMIC
• Replaces your microphone
• Requires no external power
• Ideal for portable operations
• Not suited for
• SSTV Legal issue
• Voice Keying
RIGblaster
• Goes in-line with your mic
• Allows seamless changes from voice to
data
– ideal for voice keying and SSTV
• Proven design with over 10,000 units
sold and in use
RIGblaster Plus
• All the same features of our other
products PLUS
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direct CW keying via serial line
direct FSK keying via serial line
PTT foot switch jack
1/4” headphone jack on front panel
directed RTS, DTR, TXD serial control
helper LEDs to confirm serial performance
This presentation was brought
to you by:
Dan N1ZZ
Del K1UHF
Ned KA1CVV
Ed K3EIN
John N1OLO
Home of the RIGblaster
For Ordering Information
Please Contact Us
www.westmountainradio.com
or call
(203) 853-8080