[CQ-Contest] RE: SO2R with KENWOOD Radios +++

[Joe Subich, K4IK]

> It seems as if this job could be reasonably done with some sort of 
> serial-to-bcd converter, appropriately programmed for the Kenwoods, 
> followed by the TopTen style decoders.  The trouble with this 
> new-generation stuff is that it's really pricey, so far.  

The problem is the need to "read" the serial data stream and catch 
the proper VFO commands.  That requires a UART in, some intelligence 
(PIC or more advanced microprocessor), a UART out and a parallel 
driver.  

> Another, somewhat related topic.  Ultimately, parallel ports 
> are going away too.  Is there any SO2R hardware out there that 
> can sense Radio A/B toggles from any source except LPT pin 14?  

Not to my knowledge ... I know of one vendor working on a standard 
for serial control using USB virtual ports and custom hardware.   
Unfortunately, this will take a serial port of the "opposite" sense 
of the normal PC port.  The PC port (DTE) has only two controllable 
output lines: DTR and RTS ... while the opposite port (DCE) has four
controllable outputs: DSR, CTS, CD, and RI.     

> Is there any logging *software* that provides serial A/B switching?

Not to my knowledge.  

73, 

   ... Joe, K4IK