Operating with a Maestro

Mal G3PDH

Can someone explain clearly the station configuration when operating with a Maestro? For instance I understand that the Maestro is connected to the PC Ethernet port directly. So how does one use the PC for running such as a logging program or N1MM+ for operating in contests. Will it be possible to operate with the internal connections such as DAX, CAT for using CW, SSB dvk or DATA for instance.  Can the Maestro work simultaneously with a PC running SSDR?   Does it mean a return to using an external interface somehow? 

Ernest - W4EG

Mal,
This is what I understand from Customer Service Manager W4TME - Tim
The Maestro needs access to the Flex-6000 radio at the same time to perform software updates.
Maestro to Radio and Maestro to internet.
There is no computer involved and updating Maestro.
If I understand it correctly; we will able to update a Flex-6xxx to the latest firmware with only a Maestro that has internet access, no computer needed!

Tim - W4TME

Mal, the Maestro is not connected to any PC.  The Maestro communicates directly to the radio over a network.  The entire intent with Maestro is not to have to use a PC to operate the radio.

For operating digital modes with Maestro, you will need to connect the FLEX-6000, Maestro and the PC running your digital, mode logger or any other CAT enabled application to your TCP/IP network in your shack.  This is usually an Ethernet network, but there can be wi-fi elements involved too.

For example, my 6700 is connected to my wireless router via a wired Ethernet connection.  The Maestro communicates to the radio via a wi-fi connection.  My PC running Fldigi which requires SmartSDR CAT and DAX (not SmartSDR for Windows) is also connected to my network via a wi-fi connection.  Both the Maestro and my PC communicate over the network to the radio.  

And to answer your last question, the answer is no, you cannot run Maestro and SmartSDR for Windows at the same time.  Both are classified as GUI applications and currently there can only be one GUI application connected to the radio at one time.

James Whiteway

Tim. Will the only one GUI app at a time thing ever change? I would like to be able to run Maestro and SSDR or my custom Spotter app (with panafall) at the same time. I read that SSDR v1.7 is beiing updated to work with Maestro. In what way? If it makes either Maestro or SSDR the GUI app and the other a control surface, then Maestro becomes a very expensive Flex Control! Personally, if that is the case, I see no need for Maestro, when the Flex control or a CMD Micro, becomes a much cheaper option for a knobbed controller. I prepaid for a Maestro (and the adjustable feet) having had the understanding that I would be able to use both Maestro and SSDR or my custom app, together. If that's not going to happen I would like to know now not later, when my Maestro arrives. James WD5GWY

James Whiteway

Tim and others. I have my answer to my questions. So, I'm looking forward to receiving my Maestro when it ships. James WD5GWY

Tim - W4TME

Tim. Will the only one GUI app at a time thing ever change? 

Yes.  Exactly how it will work is TBD.