Option to set RCA TX Ports for Tune independently

Dwayne_AB6A

Alan

KC2QMA_John

Alan

WX7Y

KC2QMA_John

Any pins on the DB15 that could be used?

Alan

Alan

I do not see anything like that in the hardware manual.   There is a TX inhibit, but that would prevent you from also tuning.

KC2QMA_John

Dwayne_AB6A

All these replies and I really appreciate the feedback but SmartSDR is software... It is such an easy programming change to make. I know since I develop on a number of platforms.  

Craig_KØCF

It is possible to do this with FRStack and a Stream Deck. I have it working very nicely using a REST "Tune" command to FRStack, and clicking on the "Tune" button on the remote control program for my KPA1500 using AutoHotKey.
I use a "switch" function on the stream deck, so the second push cancels the above. It really works very nicely.

Dalton Williams

To Dwayne and FlexRadio team:

It would be a great help if there was a software setting (switch) in the TX Band Settings that would inhibit the RCA TX during tune. I see where others have come up with work arounds, but why not implement such a feature. Todays solid state amplifiers are really sensitive to SWR and being able to Tune without tripping the amplifier into action will really help a lot of people with new solid state amplifiers! For instance Acom Elecraft KPA500 KPA1500

Any chance this could be included in 3.4 or in an optional patch to 3.4
Sincerely,
Dalton Williams W5EIM

George M.

I also agree, Amp TX should be inhibited during Tune.

Mike-VA3MW

Curious --- Are there any other OEM HF radios that allow for this?

I know that it was mentioned that LMDOS amps are sensitive about this, but that really isn't the case any more. Today's amplifiers have amazing SWR protection.

I have transmitted into shorts and opens on my KPA500 more times than I care to admit. :).

George M.

Not that I'm aware of, but when does Flex Radio compare itself with and do what other Manufacturers do?

Yes, my KPA500 trips fast also, however, then you need to release/reset the fault to get back to operating. This could be avoided in the first place by not keying up and having that fault.

Also, when do you need or require the amp "keyed up" to tune anyway? Bad for the Tuner/Coupler, Never mind the interference with tuning up at a higher power than necessary.

Just My Humble Opinion and Thoughts.

George N1NAZ

Geoff AB6BT

I have a Drake L-4B that is fully manual. I use the Flex tune function all the time into a dummy load to adjust the L-4B.

That's my 2 cents...

George M.

This is True Geoff, It’s been a while since I have had a manual amp. (as opposed to a no tune solid state) that’s why an option to turn on or off TX1,2,3 be a good idea.

George N1NAZ

Alan

George

Are you open to alternative solutions to disable the PTT line, during Tune? If so, we (I) can suggest some ideas. For example, add a switch or relay to open the PTT from the RCA connector. This could be done with a manual switch in your shack, or with software, such as Node-Red and displayed on your computer monitor.

Or, if this is simply a request for Flex to add this logic/function to its Smart SDR, then enough has been said already?

Alan. WA9WUD

Bill AB7AA

I am one who needs the option for it to remain the way it is. I have the need to key the amplifier with the tune button without it defaulting to eliminate the amp. A simple option so that those with each preference can select it and not defaulting away from it.

73,

Bill AB7AA

Rick N0VT

Since I have a manual tuner, I created a nifty little multi-action button on my stream deck that sets the TUNE power to 5 watts and toggles the TUNE function on and off. I have the "Tune RCA TX Control" set to "disable" in FRStack so it accomplishes what you're talking about with a single button push.

73, Rick N0VT

George M.

This ability to turn "Tune" on or off on the TX1,2,3 line is a convenience not a necessity and just a suggestion.

Asher - K0AU

Another vote in favor of a tune option that inhibits a PGXL amp AND can assert one of the RCA TX outputs. My use case is for a remote tuner mounted next to a wire antenna. My old tuner (MFJ998RT) autotunes when it senses RF but wants 10 watts or less. I'm considering a replacement tuner (Stock Corner JC-4s) that needs a tune contact closure.

I say old tuner because I can confirm that a 500W tune signal does not make the MFJ tuner happy, but I can't blame MFJ.

Does FRStack work with SmartLink connected radios?

Mike-VA3MW

Yes FRStack does work on SmartLink