All the programming/CW/PTT cable discussions prompted me to pass along this tip someone else gave me: On the recommendation of someone I met in Dayton this year, I've made several radio programming/CAT/CW/PTT cables using these devices: http://www.ftdichip.com/Products/Cables/USBRS232.htm
They terminate to bare wires so you can put whatever connector you need on the end. It's also easy to slip a copper braid over the wire for shielding if that is required. I've had no issues using them on Windows or Linux. Mouser sells them: http://www.mouser.com/Search/m_ProductDetail.aspx?FTDI/USB-RS232-WE-1800-BT_50/&qs=D1/PMqvA100CRKe9cg4TXA== This model is RS-232, but they have them with TTL an RS-422 as well if you have a requirement for those interfaces. I'm using them for radio CAT/PTT/CW keying with my K2 and IC-706. The '706 CAT cable is connected homebrewed CIV circuit covered with black heat shrink tubing. The PTT/CW keying cables are connected to homebrew single transistor keying circuits specific for the radio it's intended for, also covered with heat shrink tubing. It makes a nice, compact set of cables. I use a separate cable for programming/CAT and keying/PTT. Off topic a bit, but I also use these cables for radio programming and low speed data with my D-STAR radios. Mike Heitmann, N0SO ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
