Antenna Genius and V2

AH0U

Does V2 make any provision for running Antenna Genius without a PC???? Seems remote operation with an Antenna Genius needs this

Ria

That is entirely up to Ranko. From what I gather, it is in the works, but is not included with this initial release of v2.

AH0U

Too bad.... makes V2 fairly useless for those of us who use the Antenna Genius

Bob G W1GLV

I've got Antenna Genius working using BCD. No window app required.

Cal N3CAL

So Antenna Genius will not work in the Ethernet Mode (Automatic)???  Do you need a computer running the windows app? 

Cal/N3CAL

AH0U

Too bad.... makes V2 fairly useless for this if us who use the Antenba Genius

Bob G W1GLV

I presume you misunderstood my comment. Antenna Genius can use BCD data from the radio. Open the AG manual go to paragraph 8.6 and setup the dipswitch as illustrated. The switch will now switch with the radio band setting. Once you do this the AG app will only be good to configure the AG. Good Luck

AH0U

But if you have more than one antenna for a band , how do you switch between antennas??

Bob G W1GLV

You've got me there. I'm sure the makers of AG will provide us with some relief.

Ria

Maybe ask Ranko directly. I'm sure he wants full SmartSDR integration. I doubt he will give a firm date though. But yes I'd like that too.

AH0U

Many of us have but he seems to say it's FRS needs to do it

Mike VE3CKO

I did ask on their website, see category "AG functionality via the FLEXRADIO Maestro"

The reply from Jan. 26:  "I've talked to Steve from FlexRadio and he says we can expect it in the second half of 2017. They're busy developing the new SmartSDR version, adding WAN support and other big features."

So hopefully sometime soon.

Dragisa Boca

Hello everyone!

My name is Dragiša - 4O9ITT and I  work at 4O3A Signature. 

We started the discussion on this topic on our humble forums: https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/4o3a-genius-devices/yl9-xO2fiCI

What I need from you guys is information on whether Flex actually has classic BCD output? 
If so it is possible to hack together a temporary solution.

Besides that I want to let you know that I'm talking with Flex software devs about integrating the AG app into Maestro. I will let you know when a timeline is set.

73
Dragiša 4O9ITT

Bob G W1GLV

NO

David Decoons, wo2x

Yes, you can plug a USB to BCD cable into the radio and configure it in SmartSDR for either HF BCD, HF & VHF BCD, or VHF BCD

Dave wo2x

Ria

Thank you Dragiša. looking forward to it! I may acquire an AG soon. 

Tim - W4TME

 Dragiša

What I need from you guys is information on whether Flex actually has classic BCD output? 

It is the Yaesu BCD "standard"
http://www.flexradio.com/downloads/usb-cable-interface-guide-pdf/

AH0U

Since the AG has two VGA ports, does one need two USB cables on. 6700 one for each TX output???

Dragisa Boca

Thanks for info guys!

Yaesu BCD "standard is perfect". 
AG features a dedicated BCD port for each radio port so yes, two cables would be necessary.

This may be a transitional solution for some users before AG is implemented into Maestro. 

Thinking out loud it may be worth considering simply keeping a PC running at your station with AG and SSDR open. You will be able to do everything except change antennas on the same band but you won't be able to do this when using BCD cables either.  You'd save on power though.

@Ria That's great! The product turned out to be very reliable so far.

73
Dragiša 4O9ITT

Mike VE3CKO

I don't regret getting AG 8x2, it really simplifies the station and if you're anything close to lazy and band hop, you will love this. Besides the addition to have full control including antenna switching via Maestro, I would like a feature to lock current antenna or override auto-antenna/band switching from both SmartSDR and Maestro. When tuning outside ham bands the AG switches to what bands you have preset or created. This is a hassle for example if you are tuning and you hit the frequency or go outside a preset then the antenna switches to whatever. Times like that I'd rather use a manual switch but I understand with new technology come a learning curve for the developers and end users.
I must say Dragiša has been very responsive on the website, keep up the good work guys.

Dragisa Boca

Guys,

The USB to BCD cable we've been mentioning is this one, right? 
http://cart.flexradio.com/USB-to-Serial-adapter-for-the-FLEX-6000-series_p_1002.html

You can configure this piece of hardware to act as either BCD, CAT, BIT etc.?

Regards,
Dragisa

Mike VE3CKO

No, that is a serial cable, here is the one:
http://cart.flexradio.com/USB-to-Parallel-adapter-for-the-FLEX-6000-series_p_1001.html

refer to this HelpDesk article: https://helpdesk.flexradio.com/hc/en-us/articles/115005631123-AntennaGenius-Band-Changing-Tutorial-L...

AH0U

The other function of my 8x2 AG that has not been mentioned is the external relays.... I use them to switch directions of my phased arrays.... so the PC app. not only selects the correct antenna for the band in use, it also allows me to switch my arrays.... without a PC this would not be possible... if the AG get integrated into the Maestro, which I hope it does, I also hope it makes provision for the external relays sold by 4O3A...

Asher - K0AU

My Antenna Genius 8x2 appears to have an intermittent stuck relay on the "A" side. Have a workaround by switching transmit input to the "B" side, but curious if anyone else has had a similar problem. Use AG to switch between 3 antennas and it does a great job!

AH0U

I just received a new replacement for my AG 8x2... this is my third one as the other two which 4o3a replaced all had similar challenges.... I suggest you post a note on the 4o3a page as the new USA rep. is very responsive and helpful