Writing K3 Control Add-in for Windows4P3 and need some advice

[tomb18]

Hi,

This all started with wanting to add a easy way to change the receive equalization on the K3 in my Windows4P3 program.  But, as I was at it I thought it might be good to add some additional buttons.
Next thing you know, I decided to put "a lot" of control.
The idea is that this control program will work with Windows4P3 (VA2FSQ.COM) so you don't really need a way to change the frequency like in most control programs...you use the markers, span etc.  I thought it would be really nice to be able to have some of the in-depth functionality of the K3 available in a easy to use way so I broke out categories of functions such as "Band", "Mode" "RF In" "Main Receiver (this is where the equalizer is)", "Transmit", Noise Blanker" etc, etc.
So, I have a user interface developed and would like to get feedback from you other K3 owners.  In particular, can you see anything missing? I'm not a CW operator so I might be missing something there...
Any other categories?
Here is a JPG of the interface...\
http://va2fsq.com/wp-content/uploads/K3Control.jpg

Thanks a lot for your feedback.

[Bill W]

Hi,
You may want to consider adding the "Delay" adjustment.
I use mine in CW depending on whether I operate  QSK or not.
Of course it also is used to adjust VOX delay I believe.
Also the "Mon" (monitor) function might be of value.
Good Luck
Bill - W0BBI

[tomb18]

Ok...
Looks like almost everything is going to be there...need to buy a 30"monitor lol

[Ed]

Tom

I would think you will find the VOX on/off and gain controls useful.  There are some of us that rely on them in remote operation.

I use an "IP Power" switch to control the AC.  This gives you the ability to power up/down the entire station from the remote location.  To power up the K3 I have a momentary relay on the output of the power supply for the K3.  You turn the power supply on and the relay bumps the on pin in the accessory socket.  Works great and is automatic.  A crude R/C circuit accross the coil does the job.

To power down the K3 takes a short data command, as you know.  I have tried several remote control programs.  A couple of them send this command automatically whey you shut the program down.  Very cool.  Together this takes the hassle out of turning the K3 on and off.  The only drawback is that you must power down the power supply before you can turn the K3 back on, using the IP Power switch.  

Ed
K6ED

[k5oai]

Ed wrote

Tom

I would think you will find the VOX on/off and gain controls useful.  There are some of us that rely on them in remote operation.

Ed
K6ED

if Vox on/off & gain is included, then please also AntiVox is also a much needed inclusion. for some reason I have to change the Vox and AntiVox depending on the band/antenna I am on.

[Ed]

I think what will happen here is if you start looking at a competent remote control program is that all controls would be required at some point.  This includes the Configuration menus.  Of the different programs I have looked at none is 100%, but I probably haven't seen all that are available.

As far as the stability of the VOX controls, I have found them to be very stable.  Set and forget, and that is the way they should be.  However there are times you may want to make changes.  Like when you leave the house and forget to set things up beforehand.  If you are having trouble with your VOX settings you may want to start looking for an outside cause, like the effects of RF, or something.  The K3 is known as having an excellent VOX system.

73
Ed




On 3/26/2013 10:10 AM, k5oai [via Elecraft] wrote:

Ed wrote

Tom

I would think you will find the VOX on/off and gain controls useful.  There are some of us that rely on them in remote operation.

Ed
K6ED

if Vox on/off & gain is included, then please also AntiVox is also a much needed inclusion. for some reason I have to change the Vox and AntiVox depending on the band/antenna I am on.

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[tomb18]

Well, I've made some changes based on a lot of suggestions via email.

This is the new version.  Please ignore button sizes and placement, it hasn't been optimized yet.
The whole thing is about 1/2 way there in terms of programming.  One feature that I'm putting in is the ability to connect directly to HRD Logbook without HRD or a com sharing program like LPBridge or MiniDeluxe.
It will have native support for HRD Logbook, DM780 and rotor control programs built in (I hope!).
Any other popular logbook programs open enough to allow me to connect?

Thanks for comments on the interface and if anything is missing or not.
Tom VA2FSQ

[tomb18]

Oops, forgot the link!
http://va2fsq.com/wp-content/uploads/W4P3Deluxe.jpg