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Author Topic: Use of the new Flex 6400M on MARS  (Read 15229 times)

K5AJ

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Use of the new Flex 6400M on MARS
« on: May 22, 2017, 08:25:37 AM »

Hi,
It seems safe to assume that the Flex or any other radio capable of sending USB audio, will marry up with the 2 MARS applications that run in tandem, with the Signal-Link-USB.

Aside from that, is it envisioned that Flex Radios can satisfy the two digital softwares without the need for the Signal-Link-USB?
More important, can the MARS softwares key up the  PTT  in a Flex radios the same as it does with Icom and Yaesu radios?  Given that Flex is Software defined; it would seem that some diddling around with virtual ports would have to be done, as well as available or homebrew cables.

A local ham suggested I forget about the Icom 7610 and go the Flex route, and to make sure the Flex 6400M, has the "M" on it.

Appreciate any comments.
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WI9MJ

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RE: Use of the new Flex 6400M on MARS
« Reply #1 on: May 23, 2017, 02:42:35 PM »

Any radio with a USB connection should make it easy to connect to a computer.

Use this software to split the radio COM connection between the various digital software. You can also use a virtual pair to connect between the M110 modem and Station manager. Just make sure to select the right USB microphone and speaker.
http://www.eterlogic.com/Products.VSPE.html

I have 2 Icom 7200's to the same computer running two copies of the modem and stn mgr.
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K5AJ

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RE: Use of the new Flex 6400M on MARS
« Reply #2 on: July 22, 2017, 09:38:08 AM »

Hi,
I ended up with a used Flex 5100,  and it turned out to be a really good choice.
The USB to DB9 to Null Modem cable combo keeps the Elecraft KPA500 happy, and both do MARS frequencies exceedingly well. 

Given that Flex Radios can or will allow another flex user to use my radio (and vice versa) over IP, the only issue remaining is that the distant user, IP-using my radio, will not be able to switch the Elecraft KPA500 linear between Standby  and Operate until I come up with a work-around. 

My inclination (worst case) will be to build a solenoid that literally, and gently, presses the Elecraft button to switch it between standby and operate.  Such a button will have to be operated over IP  by the distant operator.  Further, i would probably have to set up an IP camera on the green and yellow LEDs so the distant operator knows whether the KPA500 is in a given mode.   Camera needs to be positioned so the distant operator can see the SWR status of the amp.  What i do not want to do is remove the KPA500 front panel and go after it with a soldering iron (bye bye warranty).

I posted a query on the Elecraft listserv list, and it didnt even show up in the listserv digest

My 2 cents worth; and I have no fiduciary relationship with Flex, is that I'll take the flex over the top of the line Icom/Yaesu/Kenwood. The only time I even look at the Flex radio is to press the on off button.  It's out of sight and out of the way.  The only way I would go beyond a Flex radio would be for  Barrett 2090 or 2050.

VR/Jack

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