Presents

The Wonderful World ofSoundcardSoftware 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 –RTTY –Stream –MT63 –Hellschrieber –PSK31 –Packet –Amtor –APRS

High-speed FSKHot New ModeModest Station RequirementsCheck our web site 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 mhz 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 –winPSKse –DigiPan –W1QSL PSK –MMTTY –Chromapics Mutlimode –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

This Your Output This Your Input Access this screen by clicking on OPTIONS Know Your Controls

The Elegant Solution for Your Interfacing Needs RIGblaster

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 –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

For Ordering Information Please Contact Us or call (203) Home of the RIGblaster