Don't know if this belongs in Computers or Digital so forgive me. I have an older RigExpertSD interface with the cable for an Icom 756pro2 plugged into the CIV jack. Device Manager (Win7) says it's on Com10 so I have my logging software (WinEQF 2.22) set to that. Been trying different combinations of com port parameters and nothing seems to get my xcvr to talk to the PC. Any hints appreciated!  73, Ian N8IK

A lot of folks have DSTAR capable radios even though there are no DSTAR repeaters in their area yet. The Icom DSTAR radios are also great analog radios. It's one of those "Field of Dreams" things - if you build it they will come.  But there is a significant upfront investment in the controller and repeaters. And if you want to join the net as a gateway there is the monthly cost of an internet connection.  Join one of the several very active google or yahoo groups and ask questions there.

fb! Get on 2-3 times a week and you'll be amazed at how fast your code speed builds.  Check out http://fists.org/ and get a FISTS number.  Lots of fun and on December 15th you'll have additional spectrum available!  

See http://www.norcalqrp.org/sywtbab.htm

Wow! Has your bride ever tried RUFZ?  Would be interesting to see how fast she is if she can do 40gpm!  See http://www.rufzxp.net/

fb Clint!  Now set up your 756's keyer memories for the contest exchange for CQWW at the end of this month. Even if you're a 5-10wpm guy you will work a bunch of DX at 25-30wpm with no problem! Nothing like a contest to get really good at zero-beating with CWGet. Anyone you can hear, you can work - guaranteed! And your code speed will improve too!  e-mail me direct if you want more specifics. 73, Ian N8IK at arrl dot net

Clint,
Be sure AFC is turned off in CWGet. Turn off Break-in on your 756 so that it becomes a very expensive code oscillator (or use a dummy load). Now key down and note what tone CWGet is hearing from your rig. With AFC turned off on CWGet you can left-click (and right-click) on the peak and read off the tone at the bottom of the CWGet window. Turning AFC off keeps the tone marker fixed. If your CW pitch on the 756 is centered it should be around 600Hz. CWGet will report 598 or 603Hz (close enough). Now attach an antenna and find a QSO or better, try a "frequency standard" like W1AW's code practice. Peak their signal at 600Hz and you should be spot on. Crank down the PBT to 50 or 100Hz and they should still be there. Works fb for me.
73, Ian N8IK

I have a Palm mini-paddle mounted between my seats so that my arm rests on the armrest when sending - works great. I have a dual RJ-45 connector that plugs into the 706 control head - both mike and key stay plugged in. If you'd like a picture email me at callsign@arrl.net.  Mobile cw will cause a serious improvement in your head-copy ability!

Thanks Caity - the 500Hz filter is definitely on my toy list!

Thanks!  I'm a Mode B guy so that works for me.  Hope to get one at Dayton.

Is the FT-817 keyer Mode A or Mode B or something else?  TIA, Ian N8IK

Good question. Looks like it would make a great IF provided it doesn't have the power spike problem that the IC-706 series has.

I should have checked first. There's only a 50 mile rule. See http://www.arrl.org/awards/was/

If you're less than 50 miles from the last QTH and still within your last QTH's state I think they're still good for WAS.

http://www.kb6kq.com/products.html stacks loops 5/8 L apart.