Elecraft

K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Classic

List

Threaded

15 messages Options

Frank O'Donnell

K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time, using
a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.

Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running
multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9 and
WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who is using
VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the Settings > Radio
pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably stumble my way through, but
some pointers would undoubtedly make faster progress.

Thanks and 73,

Frank K6FOD

______________________________________________________________
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]

Barry K3NDM

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Frank,
I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK, FT8, and
FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default setting that came
with the radio. I just set the line in to 20 and adjust the power slider
in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th flickering on the K3s's ALC
readout. Nothing fancy! One caution: watch your PA temperature. It will
definitely rise.

73,
Barry
K3NDM

------ Original Message ------
From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

>I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time, using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.
>
>Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9 and WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who is using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the Settings > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably stumble my way through, but some pointers would undoubtedly make faster progress.
>
>Thanks and 73,
>
>Frank K6FOD
>
>
>______________________________________________________________
>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]

______________________________________________________________
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]

Frank O'Donnell

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Barry,

Thanks. I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's Settings
> Radio page:

-- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?

-- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so is
anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits, DTR/RTS,
etc)?

-- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected as PTT
method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split Operation?

Thanks again,

Frank

On 1/28/20 11:20 AM, Barry wrote:

> Frank,
> I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK, FT8,
> and FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default setting that
> came with the radio. I just set the line in to 20 and adjust the power
> slider in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th flickering on the K3s's
> ALC readout. Nothing fancy! One caution: watch your PA temperature. It
> will definitely rise.
>
> 73,
> Barry
> K3NDM
>
> ------ Original Message ------
> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
> To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
> Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
> Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>
>> I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time,
>> using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.
>>
>> Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running
>> multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9 and
>> WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who is
>> using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the Settings
>> > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably stumble my way
>> through, but some pointers would undoubtedly make faster progress.
>>
>> Thanks and 73,
>>
>> Frank K6FOD
>>

Richard Ferch-2

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

In reply to this post by Frank O'Donnell

Your first posting said that you had been using WSJt-X for a fairly long
time using the USB cable for both audio and CAT control. If the only change
you want to make is to use VOX instead of PTT, the only thing you need to
change in WSJT-X is the PTT setting - change it from CAT to VOX.
Everything else can stay the same.

However, you also said you wanted to run multiple instances of WSJT-X.
That's a different matter, and PTT/VOX is only a small part of it. If you
try to run more than one instance of WSJT-X, only the first instance will
be able to use CAT control. Any other instances will not be able to open
the serial port used to control the radio, so they will not have CAT
control of any kind, including not only PTT control, but also frequency and
mode control.

JT9 uses CAT control not only for PTT, but also for frequency control
(split operation, and/or specific frequencies for different modes on
various bands). The instance you use for JT9 and similar modes should
probably have full CAT control. WSPR, on the other hand, does not really
need CAT control once you have tuned the transceiver to the correct
frequency for the band. So I'd suggest creating a second instance of WSJT-X
that does not have CAT control implemented at all, with PTT using VOX and
Split Operation set to None. Use that second non-CAT instance for WSPR.

73,
Rich VE3KI

K6FOD wrote:

I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's Settings
> Radio page:

-- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?

-- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so is
anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits, DTR/RTS,
etc)?

-- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected as PTT
method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split Operation?
______________________________________________________________
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]

Barry K3NDM

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

In reply to this post by Frank O'Donnell

Frank,
Do use the K3 description on the radio page. This will allow the
software to change the radio frequency as you change bands and modes.
Once, you are on the band, frequency is a matter of the tone that is
generated. And, VOX does the rest. Pretty straight forward. It all
becomes really clear after your 3rd or so contact. :-) Have fun.

73,
Barry
K3NDM

------ Original Message ------
From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
<[hidden email]>
Sent: 1/28/2020 3:00:01 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

>Barry,
>
>Thanks. I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's Settings > Radio page:
>
>-- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?
>
>-- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so is anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits, DTR/RTS, etc)?
>
>-- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected as PTT method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split Operation?
>
>Thanks again,
>
>Frank
>
>
>On 1/28/20 11:20 AM, Barry wrote:
>>Frank,
>> I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK, FT8, and FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default setting that came with the radio. I just set the line in to 20 and adjust the power slider in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th flickering on the K3s's ALC readout. Nothing fancy! One caution: watch your PA temperature. It will definitely rise.
>>
>>73,
>>Barry
>>K3NDM
>>
>>------ Original Message ------
>>From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
>>Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
>>Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>
>>>I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time, using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.
>>>
>>>Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9 and WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who is using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the Settings > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably stumble my way through, but some pointers would undoubtedly make faster progress.
>>>
>>>Thanks and 73,
>>>
>>>Frank K6FOD
>>>
>

Frank O'Donnell

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Thanks. After I set mine up the same, when I press Tune or transmit in
WSJT-X I can see audio going out to the USB Codec output in the Windows
audio system. However, no sign of any action on the K3S. Besides
toggling VOX on with the button at the upper left of the K3(s)'s front
panel, is there anything else you need to set on the rig to make this work?

On 1/28/20 6:57 PM, Barry wrote:

> Frank,
> Do use the K3 description on the radio page. This will allow the
> software to change the radio frequency as you change bands and modes.
> Once, you are on the band, frequency is a matter of the tone that is
> generated. And, VOX does the rest. Pretty straight forward. It all
> becomes really clear after your 3rd or so contact. :-) Have fun.
>
> 73,
> Barry
> K3NDM
>
>
> ------ Original Message ------
> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
> To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
> <[hidden email]>
> Sent: 1/28/2020 3:00:01 PM
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>
>> Barry,
>>
>> Thanks. I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's
>> Settings > Radio page:
>>
>> -- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?
>>
>> -- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so is
>> anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits,
>> DTR/RTS, etc)?
>>
>> -- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected as
>> PTT method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split Operation?
>>
>> Thanks again,
>>
>> Frank
>>
>>
>> On 1/28/20 11:20 AM, Barry wrote:
>>> Frank,
>>> I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK, FT8,
>>> and FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default setting that
>>> came with the radio. I just set the line in to 20 and adjust the
>>> power slider in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th flickering on the
>>> K3s's ALC readout. Nothing fancy! One caution: watch your PA
>>> temperature. It will definitely rise.
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Barry
>>> K3NDM
>>>
>>> ------ Original Message ------
>>> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>> To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
>>> Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
>>> Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>>
>>>> I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time,
>>>> using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.
>>>>
>>>> Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running
>>>> multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9
>>>> and WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who
>>>> is using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the
>>>> Settings > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably stumble
>>>> my way through, but some pointers would undoubtedly make faster
>>>> progress.
>>>>
>>>> Thanks and 73,
>>>>
>>>> Frank K6FOD
>>>>
>>
>
>

Barry K3NDM

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Frank,
My read of your comments is that it is all OK. If you are getting
power out, you're on the air. Nothing to do but operate. Pick some
strong station calling CQ and give him a call. And, see what happens.
There should be nothing else on the rig to fiddle with at this time.

73,
Barry
K3NDM
------ Original Message ------
From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
<[hidden email]>
Sent: 1/29/2020 1:11:53 AM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

>Thanks. After I set mine up the same, when I press Tune or transmit in WSJT-X I can see audio going out to the USB Codec output in the Windows audio system. However, no sign of any action on the K3S. Besides toggling VOX on with the button at the upper left of the K3(s)'s front panel, is there anything else you need to set on the rig to make this work?
>
>On 1/28/20 6:57 PM, Barry wrote:
>>Frank,
>> Do use the K3 description on the radio page. This will allow the software to change the radio frequency as you change bands and modes. Once, you are on the band, frequency is a matter of the tone that is generated. And, VOX does the rest. Pretty straight forward. It all becomes really clear after your 3rd or so contact. :-) Have fun.
>>
>>73,
>>Barry
>>K3NDM
>>
>>
>>------ Original Message ------
>>From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
>>Sent: 1/28/2020 3:00:01 PM
>>Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>
>>>Barry,
>>>
>>>Thanks. I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's Settings > Radio page:
>>>
>>>-- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?
>>>
>>>-- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so is anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits, DTR/RTS, etc)?
>>>
>>>-- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected as PTT method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split Operation?
>>>
>>>Thanks again,
>>>
>>>Frank
>>>
>>>
>>>On 1/28/20 11:20 AM, Barry wrote:
>>>>Frank,
>>>> I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK, FT8, and FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default setting that came with the radio. I just set the line in to 20 and adjust the power slider in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th flickering on the K3s's ALC readout. Nothing fancy! One caution: watch your PA temperature. It will definitely rise.
>>>>
>>>>73,
>>>>Barry
>>>>K3NDM
>>>>
>>>>------ Original Message ------
>>>>From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>>>To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
>>>>Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
>>>>Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>>>
>>>>>I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time, using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.
>>>>>
>>>>>Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9 and WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who is using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the Settings > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably stumble my way through, but some pointers would undoubtedly make faster progress.
>>>>>
>>>>>Thanks and 73,
>>>>>
>>>>>Frank K6FOD
>>>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>

Bob McGraw - K4TAX

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Are you in Data A mode and do you have anything plugged into the Line IN
on the rear?

Line Gain on the radio is typically is set for 30 to 40 using the MIC
control on the front panel. And with the others, set the ALC bargraph
to show 4 to 5 bars and then set the PWR value on the radio to that
which you desire to operate. The PWR slider on WSJT-X is set in the
upper 3/4 of the scale, depending on SPKR level set on the computer. I
use 30 to 35 for SPKR level on the computer.

73

Bob, K4TAX

On 1/29/2020 10:38 AM, Barry wrote:

> Frank,
>     My read of your comments is that it is all OK. If you are getting
> power out, you're on the air. Nothing to do but operate. Pick some
> strong station calling CQ and give him a call. And, see what happens.
> There should be nothing else on the rig to fiddle with at this time.
>
> 73,
> Barry
> K3NDM
> ------ Original Message ------
> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
> To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
> <[hidden email]>
> Sent: 1/29/2020 1:11:53 AM
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>
>> Thanks. After I set mine up the same, when I press Tune or transmit
>> in WSJT-X I can see audio going out to the USB Codec output in the
>> Windows audio system. However, no sign of any action on the K3S.
>> Besides toggling VOX on with the button at the upper left of the
>> K3(s)'s front panel, is there anything else you need to set on the
>> rig to make this work?
>>
>> On 1/28/20 6:57 PM, Barry wrote:
>>> Frank,
>>>     Do use the K3 description on the radio page. This will allow the
>>> software to change the radio frequency as you change bands and
>>> modes. Once, you are on the band, frequency is a matter of the tone
>>> that is generated. And, VOX does the rest. Pretty straight forward.
>>> It all becomes really clear after your 3rd or so contact. :-) Have fun.
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Barry
>>> K3NDM
>>>
>>>
>>> ------ Original Message ------
>>> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>> To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
>>> <[hidden email]>
>>> Sent: 1/28/2020 3:00:01 PM
>>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>>
>>>> Barry,
>>>>
>>>> Thanks. I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's
>>>> Settings > Radio page:
>>>>
>>>> -- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?
>>>>
>>>> -- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so
>>>> is anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits,
>>>> DTR/RTS, etc)?
>>>>
>>>> -- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected as
>>>> PTT method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split
>>>> Operation?
>>>>
>>>> Thanks again,
>>>>
>>>> Frank
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> On 1/28/20 11:20 AM, Barry wrote:
>>>>> Frank,
>>>>>     I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK,
>>>>> FT8, and FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default
>>>>> setting that came with the radio. I just set the line in to 20 and
>>>>> adjust the power slider in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th
>>>>> flickering on the K3s's ALC readout. Nothing fancy! One caution:
>>>>> watch your PA temperature. It will definitely rise.
>>>>>
>>>>> 73,
>>>>> Barry
>>>>> K3NDM
>>>>>
>>>>> ------ Original Message ------
>>>>> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>>>> To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
>>>>> Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
>>>>> Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>>>>
>>>>>> I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long time,
>>>>>> using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT control.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable running
>>>>>> multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same band (JT9
>>>>>> and WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could anyone who
>>>>>> is using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how they have the
>>>>>> Settings > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can probably
>>>>>> stumble my way through, but some pointers would undoubtedly make
>>>>>> faster progress.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Thanks and 73,
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Frank K6FOD
>>>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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]

Frank O'Donnell

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Bob,

First, let me back up and say that I'm operating with the K3S in
transverter mode on 630m with an external power amp. I've successfully
used CAT control with WSJT-X on a MacBook Pro to tx/rx JT9 and WSPR. My
objective now is to use the K3S in VOX mode with a Windows 10 desktop
running two instances of WSJT-X, and one instance each of SlowJT9 and
JS8Call. I'm told that a number of ops do this with other brands of rigs
to allow the decoders to rx simultaneously, and to tx with any of them
without any reconfig necessary (though obviously only one app can be
used to transmit at any given time). At this point, I have all the
decoders running simultaneously and successfully decoding incoming
signals. Now I'm just working on getting VOX mode working to transmit.

As things stand now, when I click Tune or enable transmit in WSJT-X, the
Windows audio system indicates that audio is going out to the USB Codec.

To answer your questions, nothing is plugged into the Line In on the K3S
rear panel. When I started working on this, the K3S was in split mode
with Data B selected. In order to get into Data A, I first needed to
disable split mode. I then enabled VOX. The levels you mentioned all
appear to be set appropriately.

Now, if I click Tune or enable transmit in WSJT-X, the K3S reenables
split mode and switches to Data B. The red transmit light never comes on.

Undoubtedly there's another setting I need to do something with?

Thanks and 73,

Frank K6FOD

On 1/29/20 8:45 AM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote:

> Are you in Data A mode and do you have anything plugged into the Line
> IN on the rear?
>
> Line Gain on the radio is typically is set for 30 to 40 using the MIC
> control on the front panel.   And with the others, set the ALC
> bargraph to show 4 to 5 bars and then set the PWR value on the radio
> to that which you desire to operate. The PWR slider on WSJT-X is set
> in the upper 3/4 of the scale, depending on SPKR level set on the
> computer.   I use 30 to 35 for SPKR level on the computer.
>
> 73
>
> Bob, K4TAX
>
>
> On 1/29/2020 10:38 AM, Barry wrote:
>> Frank,
>>     My read of your comments is that it is all OK. If you are getting
>> power out, you're on the air. Nothing to do but operate. Pick some
>> strong station calling CQ and give him a call. And, see what happens.
>> There should be nothing else on the rig to fiddle with at this time.
>>
>> 73,
>> Barry
>> K3NDM
>> ------ Original Message ------
>> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>> To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
>> <[hidden email]>
>> Sent: 1/29/2020 1:11:53 AM
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>
>>> Thanks. After I set mine up the same, when I press Tune or transmit
>>> in WSJT-X I can see audio going out to the USB Codec output in the
>>> Windows audio system. However, no sign of any action on the K3S.
>>> Besides toggling VOX on with the button at the upper left of the
>>> K3(s)'s front panel, is there anything else you need to set on the
>>> rig to make this work?
>>>
>>> On 1/28/20 6:57 PM, Barry wrote:
>>>> Frank,
>>>>     Do use the K3 description on the radio page. This will allow
>>>> the software to change the radio frequency as you change bands and
>>>> modes. Once, you are on the band, frequency is a matter of the tone
>>>> that is generated. And, VOX does the rest. Pretty straight forward.
>>>> It all becomes really clear after your 3rd or so contact. :-) Have
>>>> fun.
>>>>
>>>> 73,
>>>> Barry
>>>> K3NDM
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> ------ Original Message ------
>>>> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>>> To: "Barry" <[hidden email]>; "[hidden email]"
>>>> <[hidden email]>
>>>> Sent: 1/28/2020 3:00:01 PM
>>>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>>>
>>>>> Barry,
>>>>>
>>>>> Thanks. I was specifically wondering about entries on WSJT-X's
>>>>> Settings > Radio page:
>>>>>
>>>>> -- At the top of the page, is anything filled in for "Rig"?
>>>>>
>>>>> -- The lefthand side of the page has the heading "CAT Control," so
>>>>> is anything entered here (serial port, baud rate, data/stop bits,
>>>>> DTR/RTS, etc)?
>>>>>
>>>>> -- On the righthand side of the page, I assume "VOX" is selected
>>>>> as PTT method. What choices are selected for Mode and for Split
>>>>> Operation?
>>>>>
>>>>> Thanks again,
>>>>>
>>>>> Frank
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> On 1/28/20 11:20 AM, Barry wrote:
>>>>>> Frank,
>>>>>>     I use VOX for all of my digital operation to include AFSK,
>>>>>> FT8, and FT4. I really haven't done anything to the default
>>>>>> setting that came with the radio. I just set the line in to 20
>>>>>> and adjust the power slider in WSJT-X to get the 4 bars with 5th
>>>>>> flickering on the K3s's ALC readout. Nothing fancy! One caution:
>>>>>> watch your PA temperature. It will definitely rise.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> 73,
>>>>>> Barry
>>>>>> K3NDM
>>>>>>
>>>>>> ------ Original Message ------
>>>>>> From: "Frank O'Donnell" <[hidden email]>
>>>>>> To: "[hidden email]" <[hidden email]>
>>>>>> Sent: 1/28/2020 1:22:43 AM
>>>>>> Subject: [Elecraft] K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?
>>>>>>
>>>>>>> I've successfully used WSJT-X with my K3S for a fairly long
>>>>>>> time, using a single USB cable for both audio transfer and CAT
>>>>>>> control.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Currently I'm interested in trying VOX in order to enable
>>>>>>> running multiple instances of WSJT-X simultaneously on the same
>>>>>>> band (JT9 and WSPR on 474.2 kHz, if it's of any interest). Could
>>>>>>> anyone who is using VOX for WSJT-X with a K3/K3S tell me how
>>>>>>> they have the Settings > Radio pane in WSJT-X configured? I can
>>>>>>> probably stumble my way through, but some pointers would
>>>>>>> undoubtedly make faster progress.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Thanks and 73,
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Frank K6FOD
>>>>>>>
>>>>>

Frank O'Donnell

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

In reply to this post by Richard Ferch-2

Rich,

I don't think CAT control is necessary in this case, because in this
configuration, all of the tx/rx is on one band (630m) and one frequency
(474.2 kHz, used by JT9, WSPR and other digital modes, unlike HF bands
where they are on different frequencies). I haven't yet found anyone
else with a K3/K3S operating in this configuration on that band, but a
number of ops with other brands of rigs set things up this way, with
several decoders running all in VOX mode. I assume there must be a way
to do this with the K3S.

Thanks and 73,

Frank K6FOD

On 1/28/20 1:52 PM, Richard Ferch wrote:

> However, you also said you wanted to run multiple instances of WSJT-X.
> That's a different matter, and PTT/VOX is only a small part of it. If you
> try to run more than one instance of WSJT-X, only the first instance will
> be able to use CAT control. Any other instances will not be able to open
> the serial port used to control the radio, so they will not have CAT
> control of any kind, including not only PTT control, but also frequency and
> mode control.
>
> JT9 uses CAT control not only for PTT, but also for frequency control
> (split operation, and/or specific frequencies for different modes on
> various bands). The instance you use for JT9 and similar modes should
> probably have full CAT control. WSPR, on the other hand, does not really
> need CAT control once you have tuned the transceiver to the correct
> frequency for the band.

Don Wilhelm

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

In reply to this post by Frank O'Donnell

Frank,

Although several others have had success with VOX, I find the most
reliable is to use PTT via CAT command. Set it in the application and
you will have no problem.

If your problem is related to audio levels, refer to my website
www.w3fpr.com. Scroll the left column to the last article and click to
open the page. No matter whether you are operating from the transverter
mode or the normal antenna, you must have 4 bars solid with the 5th bar
flashing on the ALC meter.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 1/29/2020 9:35 PM, Frank O'Donnell wrote:
> Bob,
>
> First, let me back up and say that I'm operating with the K3S in
> transverter mode on 630m with an external power amp. I've successfully
> used CAT control with WSJT-X on a MacBook Pro to tx/rx JT9 and WSPR. My
> objective now is to use the K3S in VOX mode with a Windows 10 desktop
> running two instances of WSJT-X,
______________________________________________________________
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]

Frank O'Donnell

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

Don,

Thanks for the comment.

CAT has always been the PTT method I've used with WSJT-X, and it's been
very successful. It would normally be my first choice.

However, I just ran across this interesting configuration that some
number of 630m ops are using, using other brands of rigs. Since all of
the digital modes on 630m are based off the same frequency of 474.2 kHz,
they set their rigs to that frequency and then use VOX control to allow
several decoders on the same PC to rx simultaneously, and tx one at a
time without any reconfiguration. I gather this couldn't be done if the
decoder apps used CAT, as only one app can have CAT control of the rig
at any time.

So I wanted to give this a try. So far I have several decoders receiving
simultaneously from the K3S, and it's nice to have JT9, WSPR, SlowJT9
and JS8 all being decoded at the same time. I'm just having challenges
getting transmitting to work with VOX. I know the PC is sending audio
out the USB Codec when I hit the Tune button in WSJT-X, and I know VOX
works on my K3S because I use it for CW. Just trying to knit the final
details together.

73,

Frank K6FOD

On 1/29/20 6:59 PM, Don Wilhelm wrote:

> Frank,
>
> Although several others have had success with VOX, I find the most
> reliable is to use PTT via CAT command. Set it in the application and
> you will have no problem.
>
> If your problem is related to audio levels, refer to my website
> www.w3fpr.com. Scroll the left column to the last article and click
> to open the page. No matter whether you are operating from the
> transverter mode or the normal antenna, you must have 4 bars solid
> with the 5th bar flashing on the ALC meter.
>
> 73,
> Don W3FPR
>
> On 1/29/2020 9:35 PM, Frank O'Donnell wrote:
>> Bob,
>>
>> First, let me back up and say that I'm operating with the K3S in
>> transverter mode on 630m with an external power amp. I've
>> successfully used CAT control with WSJT-X on a MacBook Pro to tx/rx
>> JT9 and WSPR. My objective now is to use the K3S in VOX mode with a
>> Windows 10 desktop running two instances of WSJT-X,
>

Robert Cunnings

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

In reply to this post by Frank O'Donnell

What is your VOX gain setting?

Bob NW8L

On Wed, 29 Jan 2020, Frank O'Donnell wrote:

> Bob,
>
> First, let me back up and say that I'm operating with the K3S in transverter
> mode on 630m with an external power amp. I've successfully used CAT control
> with WSJT-X on a MacBook Pro to tx/rx JT9 and WSPR. My objective now is to
> use the K3S in VOX mode with a Windows 10 desktop running two instances of
> WSJT-X, and one instance each of SlowJT9 and JS8Call. I'm told that a number
> of ops do this with other brands of rigs to allow the decoders to rx
> simultaneously, and to tx with any of them without any reconfig necessary
> (though obviously only one app can be used to transmit at any given time). At
> this point, I have all the decoders running simultaneously and successfully
> decoding incoming signals. Now I'm just working on getting VOX mode working
> to transmit.
>
> As things stand now, when I click Tune or enable transmit in WSJT-X, the
> Windows audio system indicates that audio is going out to the USB Codec.
>
> To answer your questions, nothing is plugged into the Line In on the K3S rear
> panel. When I started working on this, the K3S was in split mode with Data B
> selected. In order to get into Data A, I first needed to disable split mode.
> I then enabled VOX. The levels you mentioned all appear to be set
> appropriately.
>
> Now, if I click Tune or enable transmit in WSJT-X, the K3S reenables split
> mode and switches to Data B. The red transmit light never comes on.
>
> Undoubtedly there's another setting I need to do something with?
>
> Thanks and 73,
>
> Frank K6FOD
>
>

Bill Frantz

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

In reply to this post by Don Wilhelm

VOX is a lot easier to configure for digital modes than is is
for voice because, all the digital modes -- at least that I know
about -- are either on or off. None of them use different volume
levels to encode data. This means that you just have to find a
setting between zero volume and full volume, and it will work
well for keying the radio. If use VOX for voice, the same
setting should work for digital.

73 Bill AE6JV

On 1/29/20 at 9:59 PM, [hidden email] (Don Wilhelm) wrote:

>Although several others have had success with VOX, I find the
>most reliable is to use PTT via CAT command. Set it in the
>application and you will have no problem.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill Frantz | Airline peanut bag: "Produced | Periwinkle
(408)348-7900 | in a facility that processes | 150
Rivermead Rd #235
www.pwpconsult.com | peanuts and other nuts." - Duh |
Peterborough, NH 03458

______________________________________________________________
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]

Bob McGraw - K4TAX

Re: K3S, VOX and WSJT-X?

The major issue I've found in using VOX for data modes lies in the fact
that any noise {hum, buzz, clicks, broadband noise, Windows sounds,
RFI, etc.} coming out of the computer can and will trigger the VOX.
This is specially true if the VOX gain is too high. Also, the VOX delay
does affect turn-a-round time and must be set to minimum. That in
itself then requires the operator to change VOX gain and Delay when
reverting to SSB. Of course if one doesn't use VOX for SSB it is a non
issue. And if in digital modes the VOX Gain is high and such that the
system is driven into distortion, VOX audio chain, that will affect the
delay time.

I agree with Don in that I find CAT is the better and most assured mode
for transitioning between RX and TX.   As to CW using VOX with the K3S,
that is totally internal to the radio. A very different condition than
one running an external application.

At the same time, I am not exactly clear on using multiple decoders. I
presume from what I've read, then each decoder has the option to
transmit. Thus the issue of conflicts with port assignments will likely
arise.   Me, I prefer to keep life simple and use one mode at at time,
running the application from the base application and not from within
other applications.   I find life to be simpler and much less stressful
but more reliable, thus not having to frequently determining what
changed and why it doesn't work today.

This is totally independent on running one application and one decoder
or multiple applications and decoders.   It is not a race, it is a
hobby.   Thus coming in first has little merit.

Just remember, we are all going to get to the same place at sometime in
the future. The mortuary cooling slab could likely be one place.

73

Bob, K4TAX

On 1/30/2020 9:32 AM, Bill Frantz wrote:

> VOX is a lot easier to configure for digital modes than is is for
> voice because, all the digital modes -- at least that I know about --
> are either on or off. None of them use different volume levels to
> encode data. This means that you just have to find a setting between
> zero volume and full volume, and it will work well for keying the
> radio. If use VOX for voice, the same setting should work for digital.
>
> 73 Bill AE6JV
>
> On 1/29/20 at 9:59 PM, [hidden email] (Don Wilhelm) wrote:
>
>> Although several others have had success with VOX, I find the most
>> reliable is to use PTT via CAT command. Set it in the application
>> and you will have no problem.
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------------
> Bill Frantz | Airline peanut bag: "Produced | Periwinkle
> (408)348-7900 | in a facility that processes | 150 Rivermead Rd
> #235
> www.pwpconsult.com | peanuts and other nuts." - Duh | Peterborough, NH
> 03458
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> 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]