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WinKey PORT
WinKey is a unique external CW processor developed by Steve Elliot, K1EL. This CW processor supports
paddle input like any other electronic keyer, offers many configuration options, and in addition converts
ASCII data from the computer to Morse characters. This unique property assures perfectly timed CW
output from the computer regardless of OS load. More detailed instruction for configuring WinKey is found
in the description of the CW/WinKey tab.
When a COM port is assigned to WinKey in
Router but not in the application program (or
no application is running), Router reports the port closed. When an application opens WinKey, (usually at
start-up), Router shows the port open and displays settings used to configure COM port.
TIP: If you see settings other than 1200 8N2, the application is not configured correctly for WinKey.
If the data rate is incorrect, Router will transfer data to to WinKey at 1200 baud. However, reliable
operation is not guaranteed.
Data flow is indicated by two arrows. The green arrow indicates data flow from the application to WinKey
and the red arrow indicates data flow from WinKey to the host application.
Test: Sends "Test" via WinKey when the channel unassigned or closed.
Mon: “WinKey Monitor” allows capturing communications between Router or the application and WinKey.
Controls for the monitor include Start, Stop, Clear and Save.
WinKey Monitor should not
be used under normal
conditions. However, if
there are problems with
WinKey and a logger, it
may be useful to Start a
capture and close the
window. When a problem
is noticed, the window can
be opened and the WK
communications log Saved
for analysis.
WinKey Monitor is circular
– only the last 20 kilobytes
or so will be saved in order
to prevent creating very
large files.
WK Monitor will display a description of each command from Router or the application and
“decoded” response from WinKey. “ If a line ends in three dots (...) it means that the command or
response has been broken across two USB packets.
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