Search results

Demonstrates RadioComm, a freeware Icom transceiver/receiver controller program for Windows, which facilitates memory programming, spectrum analysis, and interfacing with extensive frequency databases. The software allows users to program their Icom radio's memory, generate radio-frequency spectra, and connect the radio to a computer-based frequency database. It supports various Icom models, offering bidirectional control where virtual controls mirror the transceiver's physical controls and vice versa. The program's spectrum analysis feature, exemplified by tuning the WWV time standard at 15 MHz, provides insights into the AM passband, a capability often found in high-end Icom transceivers. While RadioComm offers these functionalities, the author, Paul Lutus, notes that it has been superseded by JRX (a virtual radio) and IcomProgrammer II (a memory programming utility), which are described as superior and compatible with more platforms. RadioComm is available as a 516 KB self-extracting executable, requiring an Icom CT-17 RS-232 interface box for radios that need it. Users can also customize the plain-text database to include unsupported Icom models. However, the author explicitly states that no user support is provided for this free program.

Multimode suite, feature logging, Internet interface to CXCluster, Smart multi-mode controller software, contest, APRS, and PSK31 via Sound card. Free and Commercial version available.

KaWin is a legacy digital RF data communications program designed to harness the full potential of Kantronics Terminal Node Controllers (TNCs) via their proprietary Host Mode. Serving as a central hub for the digital shack, it gave operators running packet radio or DX clusters a native graphical interface to seamlessly manage RF traffic across up to four simultaneous TNCs. The primary limitation today is extreme software obsolescence. KaWin is a completely unsupported, discontinued product running exclusively on legacy operating systems, peaking at Windows 95. Modern shacks cannot run it natively; it strictly demands antiquated hardware like physical RS-232 serial ports with 16550 UARTs, dedicated IRQ assignments to prevent RX/TX buffer overruns, and specific legacy TNC firmware EPROMs. Despite being a relic, its benefits for the dedicated digital DXer were substantial. By fully exploiting Kantronics Host Mode rather than basic KISS configurations, it maximized on-the-air throughput and station efficiency. For retro-computing hams restoring vintage packet stations, KaWin still provides a robust environment that successfully bridged raw RF data routing with a highly functional, multitasking graphical user interface.

Free windows basic and simple CAT program specifically for the Yaesu FT-857 radio. It provides an unlimited memory storage area which resides on the client side.

A system designed to automatically tune small transmitting magnetic loop antennas, particularly beneficial for **contest operations** where rapid frequency changes are common. The core of the system involves a PC-based control application, AutoCap, written in C#, which monitors antenna SWR via an external meter and commands a motor interface to adjust the loop's variable capacitor. The software is compatible with Windows and Linux via the Mono framework, offering a graphical user interface for monitoring system status, SWR, power, and motor commands. Key components include one or more magnetic loop antennas equipped with DC or stepper motors for capacitor adjustment, an SWR meter with data output (such as the Telepost LP-100A or a homebrew serial/USB SWR meter), the AutoCap PC software, and a motor interface. The most effective motor interface utilizes an **Arduino-based controller** with custom firmware, providing precise control over both simple DC motors and stepper motors, and supporting features like motor braking for finer adjustments. The system allows for configurable SWR thresholds, pulse widths, and motor effort settings to optimize tuning speed and resolution. Optional radio integration provides frequency hints, enabling the algorithm to learn the relationship between motor actions and resonant frequency, thereby speeding up initial tuning responses. The software also supports antenna profiles, allowing operators to save and recall specific configurations for different loops, including accumulated frequency hint data.

Presents RigOne, a radio controller application designed for Windows 10 (later releases) and Windows 11, with a macOS version under active development. The software provides core operational controls such as tuning, VFO following, signal metering, and audio management, emphasizing a clean interface for everyday use. It supports native Icom direct control, with the **IC-7300** serving as the primary tested profile, and integrates **Hamlib** for broader compatibility across various transceivers. The resource details specific features, including frequency and mode read/write, VFO A/B switching, quick mode/band selectors, and switchable analog-style or horizontal-bar signal meters. For the IC-7300, RigOne offers an integrated panadapter, waterfall display, native VOX control, and Twin PBT controls, leveraging live scope data for an enhanced visual operating experience. The application focuses on essential functions, avoiding unnecessary clutter. It outlines the latest version, v1.2.5.1, highlighting updates like a compact layout selector for Tall mode, direct frequency entry, and refined fixed 16:9 panel layouts. The page also clarifies hardware compatibility, noting extensive testing with the IC-7300 via USB/COM CI-V, and invites user feedback for expanding Hamlib support to other radio models, ensuring the software evolves based on real-world amateur radio station use.

This blog article introduces an updated repeater controller project utilizing the Arduino UNO. It includes a CW identifier, and the ID message can be customized using hex codes. The author offers a Windows command line program for easier message coding and provides a link for download. The controller features three adjustable timers for IDer, Timer-out, and Squelch-tail. The article also mentions the use of an audio switch to control audio levels between the receiver and transmitter. Detailed instructions and code files are available on the author's website for both version 1 and version 2 of the Arduino repeater controller. The project aims to enhance repeater functionality and audio management in ham radio operations.