Does the KXUSBa (USB to 3.5mm) Have a Level Converter Inside?

[Ken Alexander-2]

Hi All,

I'm thinking of using a KXUSB cable for CAT control of an FT-817ND. The
817 apparently cannot use RS232 straight from a computer (as the K2
couldn't as I recall) and requires a level converter.  However, I have a
handful of KXUSB cables now and was wondering if using one with my 817
will be as simple as making an adapter to go from the 3.5mm plug to the
8-pin mini-DIN that plugs into the 817.

So, long story short; can I go straight from a KXUSB to an FT-817
without a level converter or do I need to add one inline.  I'd prefer
not to find out the hard way!  :-)

Many thanks,

Ken Alexander
VE3HLS
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[Don Wilhelm]

Ken,

I do not know the signalling voltage developed by the KXUSB.  I do know
that the KX3 (and other devices using the KUSB cable) are capable of
receiving the full RS-232 levels, but will only send a 5 volt level.
The KXUSB FTDI chip is powered from the USB 5 volt source, so it is a
possibility that the voltage will not exceed 5 volts.

HOWEVER, I would suggest measuring the voltage levels at the plug of the
KXUSB to be certain before connecting it to your FT-817.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 8/27/2016 2:39 PM, Ken Alexander wrote:

> Hi All,
>
> I'm thinking of using a KXUSB cable for CAT control of an FT-817ND.
> The 817 apparently cannot use RS232 straight from a computer (as the
> K2 couldn't as I recall) and requires a level converter.  However, I
> have a handful of KXUSB cables now and was wondering if using one with
> my 817 will be as simple as making an adapter to go from the 3.5mm
> plug to the 8-pin mini-DIN that plugs into the 817.
>
> So, long story short; can I go straight from a KXUSB to an FT-817
> without a level converter or do I need to add one inline.  I'd prefer
> not to find out the hard way!  :-)
>
> Many thanks,
>
> Ken Alexander
> VE3HLS
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]
>

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