pa0r

We are now testing the new features of PSKmail; APRS compatibility and rig control.

PSKmail is now able to send and receive short messages via the APRS backbone, rendering a world-wide messaging service. It even has a built-in answering machine, which lets you read your message history in connected mode, even if you have not been 'on-line' for a considerable time. I can now exchange messages with stations active in the 2 meters band in California, and I do it via Per's PSKmail server in Stockholm on 30 meters.

I also implemented a frequency scheduler. The hamlib library does all the work, I only have to make up a frequency schedule and the server will follow. Provided of course that the rig is remote controllable.

UBUNTU-5.10 now supports my USB/RS232 converter (Sitecom) out of the box, and I have tested the stuff with the ORION, which worked fine.

We are planning to set up a server in a rural area here, which will switch between 30 and 80 meters depending on time of the day. I will try to use my old OMNI VI plus which has a 250 Hz filter. The only thing is the multband antenna. Hopefully we get it installed before we leave for the GREAT TRIP in a few weeks.

I am still getting mail about my interface circuit of the OMNI VI to the QSK5 + ALH 811 which I published on the web some 5 years ago... Now the OMNI VI's are changing hands as a second hand item (I have one for sale if you need one), the problem resurfaces. It turns out that the ALH 811 is not the only linear which shows wrong timing when interfaced with the TX OUT/ TX ENABLE connectors on the OMNI. A quote from the article:

The OMNI (+ the AMP) still produce output when the TX OUT output is already high, switching the QSK5 to the receive position. Luckily, this effectively destroys the small fuse lamps. To delay the switch point from TX to RX a capacitor of about 10 microfarad and some diodes (1N4148) are used. (The TX enable must not be delayed).

It turns out that the same circuit is necessary for interfacing the ORION to the QSK5/Ameritron combination
so I am republishing it here. This circuit gives me full QSK at > 40 wpm with the ALH811 + QSK5.

Hmmm?? QSK with the ALH 811??? Read all about it here...