RIGblaster Plus II
9
NOTE:
If you do not set up the software for RTS to do PTT control, you
will have to set the radio for break-in or semi-break-in CW operation;
both options will properly.
Test CW operation by transmitting with the CW software. The radio
should transmit CW and the
RIGblaster Plus II
red CW keying LED
indicator should flash with the dots and dashes. The PTT should come on
steadily in transmit if you have configured the software for that on RTS.
Step 3a: Have Fun Working DX
You are on the air with CW. You can now type CW with your keyboard!
Keyboard CW operation is great for CW contesting but nothing beats a
real key for regular CW QSOs.
RTTY FSK OPERATION, INSTALLATION AND SETUP
(READ CAREFULLY and PROCEED IN ORDER)
Step 1b: Connect FSK Keying Cable
FSK keying cables are available at West Mountain Radio. The “KEY
OUT” jack on the RIGblaster Plus II may be used for FSK keying instead
of CW keying. Understand that AFSK operation using the sound card for
transmit in LSB has many advantages. However, be advised that the only
advantage may be with a radio that has better AGC operation because of
IF filters that are only available for RTTY. Most radios allow for the same
filters set with the radio in LSB instead of RTTY mode, or the last stage
IF filters have no effect on AGC performance.
Connect the cable from the RIGblaster Plus II “KEY OUT” jack to the
radio’s FSK keying jack. The 1/8 mini phono plug “tip” of the keying jack
goes to the FSK keying pin and the “sleeve” goes to common or ground
on the radio’s RTTY FSK connector. A custom cable for your radio
may be purchased at West Mountain Radio or make one following the
diagrams in your radio’s manuals.
To test this cable, plug it into the radio’s jack only and put the radio in
the RTTY mode with the monitor on. Set the radio manually into transmit
and sort the 1/8” plug from tip to sleeve and listen to the monitor to be
sure that the frequency shifts. If it does, you may plug the cable into the
RIGblaster’s “KEY OUT” jack.
Continue to the next step only if you have connected the
CW cable to a straight key jack.
