Confusion VAC, SmartSDR and SmartCat

Jim W3IPO

I am using a 1500 with PowerSDR  and the VAC program.   I am thinking about taking a dive into the 6700.  Am I correct in assuming that by using SmartSDR, I will not need the VAC program?

I have studied the quick setup guide to the 6000 series and see no mention of using SmartCat.
When would I use SmartCat?  (I do want to use digital modes.) 

I also do not see a download for SmartCat on the website.  Is it part of SmartSDR?

KY6LA_Howard

1.   You no longer need VAC..  SmartSDR include DAX which totally replaces VAC with a much easier to use Virtual Cable

2.  SmartCAT is part of the SmartSDR install package.  After you install SMARTSDR, you will see in your Flex Folder the install file for SmartCAT... this is well detailed in the release notes that come with SmartSDR


BTW... my 6700 works much better with DAX on Digital...

Jim Bryce W5HFS

You do not need the virtual audio cable program. DAX handles this function for for the 6000 series. SmartCAT controls various functions, third party programs, and hardware; SmartCat is included with the download of SmartSDR and will appear as a distinct program to be run and installed after you have run and installed the latest update of SmartSDR. I too have had a 1500 for about two years. Through using it I became totally convinced that Flex is the best way to go for the future of ham radio. I bought my 6700 the day it was announced while I was in Dayton. I've been a ham since 1954; the 6700 has totally revolutionized my understanding and enjoyment of amateur radio.

Mike NN9DD

Correct with the 6000 series you do not need VAC, they have a program built in called DAX and it handles it all. As far as the CAT program it is also included in the software package and you willl use it to connect logging programs, keyers or any other thrid party softward to the radio Its a great radio I woild not hesitate. Mike N9DFD

Jim W3IPO

Thanks, very much for the comments and recommendations. Answered my questions perfectly.
I was at the Flex dinner last year in Dayton.  Good bunch of engineers.
Jim
W3IPO

DonS

If you decide to keep the 1500 along with a nice new 6700 you will be able to use SmartCAT in place of VAC for the 1500

KY6LA_Howard

SmartCat controls the ports. DAX is the Flex Virtual Audio Cable. VAC is only a Virtual Audio Cable. It has nothing to do with controlling ports.

Ernest - W4EG

Jim,

Like you; your last sentence which I will quote with just a minor change."I've been a ham since 1960; the 6700 has totally revolutionized my understanding and enjoyment of amateur radio." Too

However, I found out about Flex more than a decade ago and been enjoying all the products ever since.  There is no turning back.

DonS

My mistake I meant other virtual port programs such as VSPE, etc., not VAC.

DonS

That's what happens when you are in church doing something you shouldn't be doing.