[UK-CONTEST] USB to serial converters

[Steve Bunting]

Hi All,

I have used a couple of USB to serial converters for a variety of
jobs. In "contest mode", the Belkin one does a good job of running
either a TNC or the rig. I also picked up a no brand one from ebay
really cheaply (6 quid inc, I think) and that is fine with both devices
as well, even though mechanically it is awful.

I have given up trying to get an XP laptop to produce decent CW. I have
just ordered a WinKey from K1EL so that I can generate CW via a reliable
route. See:

http://k1el.tripod.com/wkinfo.html for further info.

I may need another serial port as I am thinking about using a band
decoder to switch antennas (after the rats nest that is FD). Some of the
US made ones are loadsamoney, but there must be a better way. EI7BA's
ideas look nice. Anyone care to comment?

I see that several manufacturers do multi serial ports from one USB. Has
anyone tried on of those?

73
Steve
M0BPQ