First, I have SignaLink and microHAM as interfaces between rig and computer. I like microHAM because it also reads the rig mode and frequency without needing a second USB port. (I also have older microHAM units that need a separate sound card port) I patch direct (now) with my KX3 to the laptop. I do PSK31 and low level modes like JT65. Something to think about if you want to do the low level modes is how GOOD is the sound card. 24 bit and 48K with >100db SNR would be good for JT65 (not required). Keeping system sounds away from the rig is important. I just purchased another sound card ~$25 (USB) for the laptop and JT65 so I CAN also hear (system sounds) the announcements for JT65 Alerts when NEW countries "pop" up... Specs were weak but I am hoping it is 24 bit... You CAN turn OFF all the system sounds and use a single sound port. Useful IF the computer is single use.
73, steve WB3LGC -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Rick Bates Sent: 27 July, 2013 1:36 AM To: 'william wade'; [email protected] Subject: Re: [Elecraft] PSK 31 First let's explain what Wayne meant: If you use a secondary sound card/device, you won't accidentally transmit an operating system sound (many of which are musical). You also won't have to constantly twiddle with levels as you switch from OS to the radio. And it allows you to have the computer alert you to DX or whatever you have it set to do, without transmitting that sound, while you're operating in a digital more (the computer is quite capable of having two or more sound cards at the same time). I use a SignaLink (Tigertronics). But there are far cheaper and expensive options, including one I recently saw at another shack that cost a whopping $5.78 after tax and shipping. It failed from structural weakness (SMD connector broke from the board, overstressed) but it did work before that. So between $5 and whatever the fanciest device costs is what you'll pay. They all work, but you'll likely want a little more quality than the cheapest. Jim Brown has done a study of several models and can list some potential watchouts (poor bonding, pin one issues etc) so maybe he'll chime in here. The bottom line (to me) is that you have a serious radio, you're building a serious station, why diddle around with being cheap on a critical part, the sound card by trying to multiuse the computer sound card. That's like putting retread tires on a sports car. ;o) 73, Rick wa6nhc -----Original Message----- From: william wade Hello all: Getting ready to set up PSK31 on my K3 following the operating tips outlined by Wayne. He states: "It is usually best to use a second sound card for...digital modes". Is he referring to something like Tigertronics? 73 Bill, Ai4PF ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
