TGXL/PGXL/AG8x2 - PTT timing and connections for Flex and 3rd party radios

KI5RLR

Several questions.

1) When using a network connection to control PTT for my entire Flex ecosystem, is 30ms the recommended delay? Does that only need to be set in the SSDR -> Radio Settings -> TX menu?

2) When using a direct PTT connection (from an external switch/foot pedal) with my 6600, and the remaining PTT control of my TGXL/PGXL handled by a network connection, should I use the same settings as above?

3) When integrating a 3rd party radio with TGXL/PGXL, what is the correct order to connect the PTT in/out cables between radio/tuner/amp? What kind of delays should be set for this?

4) Is it 'safer' to connect/configure my 6600 to send PTT out via RCA cables, like I would with a 3rd party radio? Has anyone tried that?

Thanks!

David Decoons, wo2x

I’ll chime in:

1. yes
2. yes
3. radio -> TG XL -> PG XL. You should also have a CAT/CI-V connection from radio to PG XL. In TG XL under Genius Integration, enable Power Genius and enter IP of amp. Use correct firmware versions. pG 3.8.4, TH/AG pair either 1.1.20/3.1.5 or 1.2.11/4.1.7
4. No. LAN PTT is reliable.
5. 73 Dave wo2x

KI5RLR

Thanks Dave, your responses are always quick and concise!

Would you consider LAN PTT to be more, less, or the same reliability as RCA PTT?

Mike-VA3MW

This might help as well. I think we are now at 40ms.

https://helpdesk.flexradio.com/hc/en-us/articles/20826281594011-Configuring-the-Dream-Station-Flex-6000-PGXL-TGXL-AG-for-proper-operation

KI5RLR

Thanks Mike! What are your thoughts on using RCA PTT input/output with a Flex radio and TG/PG?

I saw a post where you (I think it was you) suggested using a physical PTT in to the TG, then TG to PG, and PG to the radio. I like that idea, but it would limit remote operations... at least I think it would.

73

K5IUC

KD0RC

I use physical connections from TX1 on my 6400 to my KAT500 tuner and then to my KPA500 amp. Works great locally or remotely.

Whether the rig is keyed locally using the PTT socket or remotely using the ethernet connection, TX1 is triggered and behaves the same.

David Decoons, wo2x

Correction on my post in response to PTT delay.

Mike is correct. For the complete Dream Station we recommend 40 ms. Also if using an OEM exciter make sure to set the Tax delay on it as well.

73 Dave wo2x

KI5RLR

https://community.flexradio.com/discussion/comment/20610121#Comment_20610121

Got it, 40ms delay across the boards, no matter if LAN PTT or RCA PTT on Flex or some 3rd party radio.

KI5RLR

https://community.flexradio.com/discussion/comment/20610120#Comment_20610120

Thanks! Are you using 40ms?

KD0RC

Yep. I had it at 30, and never got a hot-switching fault, but decided to up it to 40. I can't tell the difference operationally. I do quite a bit of CW (but not much contesting) and it is totally fine.

Mike-VA3MW

40ms is about 1 dit length at 30 wpm if that helps as a reference.