Any software method to disable Xmit?

Roy Laufer

I realize there is a hardware option of using a Tx Inhibit line, but can anyone tell me of any software methods to lock off the transmit capability when I am trying to set up a third party piece of software without emitting any RF by accident.

Yes, I have considered lowering the RF output to 0 as well as selecting my dummy load as the antenna output, but errant software can fool with those controls while it is trying to do its programmed function.
 
Any thoughts? 

More than one piece of software that can do this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

George KF2T

Deselect TX in the slice flag. Red highlight will disappear, and no transmission will take place. Or, in rig setup, set maximum output to zero for a global disable. Will that fill the bill?

Roy Laufer

Not really.

My problem is that a lot of well meaning third party software will re-tweak slices into activity and reset preset power settings in a blink of an eye.

I'm looking for something that is either "higher" up the priority command set, or can act as a watchdog to shut it down if it senses that it has been put into activation mode.

Ken - NM9P

The only absolutely foolproof way I know to prevent accidental transmission is to connect dummy loads to all transmit-capable antenna connectors - i.e. ANT1 & ANT2 for the 6500/6700.  I don't care if it transmits on the XVTR port.  In any case, I have a small 50 ohm load on that connector, too.

As you mentioned, using the hardware TX inhibit port only works if it is enabled in SSDR setup, so it isn't 100% goof proof either.

Not much help, I know, but it would work...

Ken - NM9P

K6OZY

In Radio Setup, there is a button to inhibit all TX.  If that doesn't work, then attach your antenna or sensitive equipment to RX A / RX B on a 6500/6700 so it will never eat any RF.  That is what I do with my Pixel Loop antenna.

Roy Laufer

I wasn't worried about burning up my Pixel Pro, since it its connected to RX_A and won't get any RF on that connection.

The two best options are a "TX Inhibit" setting in Radio Setup->Transmit, as well as the Max Power setting on the same window.

I guess I was looking for a big button, labeled "DON'T PANIC" that turned a color when it enabled these features when a person is tinkering with third party software that take general command of the radio...

You know, belt, suspenders, and staple gun!

K6OZY

Flex may be able to issue you a TURF file that neuters the TX of the radio.  I'm not saying they WOULD, but you could ask.   I have one for my MARS license that unlocks the radio entirely, but I re-apply the default TURF during times that others use my radio for contests and Field Day.

N9VC

Hi,

I agree with K6OZY.
In the radio setup, under the transmit tab. if you enable
TX inhibit, it greys out the tune, mox, and other transmit
related buttons. The footswitch also became disabled. Is
this what you desire? You might have to check when you
re-start Smart sdr just to be on the safe side.

73, Jim N9VC

Tim - W4TME

That type of TURF is not available.