Over the past few years I have twice requested Elecraft include
something like that as a software modification, but nobody (either at
Elecraft or here on the list) seems interested in the least. Since phase
is preserved during down conversion in a superhet circuit the software
crunching could even be done at audio ... it isn't required to be done
at RF. It doesn't require the K4 either ... the K3 and K3s with the new
synths also make it feasible.
In addition to simply determining signal direction, the software would
potentially be able to equalize volume from the two receivers (generally
required since typically two different antennas would be used) and then
add or subtract the two signals to peak a desired signal or null an
unwanted one. The equalization could be done in software while the
phase shifting would be manual and require a repurposing of a knob. DX
Engineering sells a stand alone unit for over $700 that performs these
same functions at RF, while a software mod could do the same for free
(to us ... obviously it would take a commitment of coding resources from
Elecraft).
Elecraft has already said that they would at some indeterminate time in
the future consider sanctioning well-chosen and trusted third party
software developers for ancillary applications for the K4, but I'd like
to see this capability for my K3 as well.
As an aside, it would theoretically be possible to investigate arrival
angles using two horizontally polarized antennas placed one above the
other a known distance apart. At the least it might even allow a user
to discriminate between two interfering signals from the same azimuth
but arriving at different vertical angles.
73,
Dave AB7E
On 6/25/2019 8:14 AM, Dick Dickinson wrote:
A late model SDR Receiver (only) is said to have a soon to be released
software update. I've seen a demonstration whereby using 2 antennas and a
computer device, the unit will be able (to some degree?) determine signal
direction.
Does Elecraft have plans to develop K4D software with such capabilities or
sanction 3rd party development of such? Will there be other software /
firmware development to come with the K4D beyond that of a dual receiver
K3/s?
Lastly, beyond control and perhaps IF output, will the K4 receiver(s) be
able to interface with external 'computers?' (No, I'm not sure what I mean
by that!)
Kindly,
Dick - KA5KKT
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