TX Meter stuttering on Maestro B since SmartSDR 3.10.15

Kurt Zwerger

Hello everyone,

Since upgrading my FLEX-6400 and Maestro B to SmartSDR 3.10.15, I have noticed an issue with the transmit meters on the Maestro.

System:

• FLEX-6400
• Maestro B
• SmartSDR 3.10.15 on both devices
• Remote operation via SmartLink over the Internet

Problem:
All TX meters (RF Power, MIC, COMP, SWR, etc.) are updating very slowly and appear to stutter or **** during transmit. The movement is no longer smooth.

The RX meters work perfectly and are smooth as before.

The radio itself transmits normally, and this behavior started immediately after updating to version 3.10.15. Before the update, all TX meters were smooth using the same Internet connection and the same hardware.

I have already verified that:

• Both the radio and the Maestro are running version 3.10.15.
• The Internet connection has not changed.
• The problem affects all TX meters, not just one.

Has anyone else experienced the same behavior with SmartSDR 3.10.15 and a Maestro B?

I would also be interested to know whether this is a known issue or if anyone has found a solution.

Thank you and 73!

IN3DOV/Kurt

Mike-VA3MW

The way the meters work is that the data is sent from the radio over the network to the client. If the network is slowing down, then the meters may get jumpy.

Since you say this happens only in TX, then it might be possible that RF is getting into your network somehow.

I would update to 4.2.20 (it is free to do so) and as there are a LOT of performance changes between 3.10 and 4.20 and it is possible in these improvements your problem might go away.

If it doesn't then you'll need to look into your own environment and see if it is RF, or is it a not very good networking switch, such as a Gigabit switch in a plastic case as an example.

The other test is to do a link local test:

Diagnosing Network Issues with a Link-Local Test

A Step-by-Step Guide for FlexRadio Users

Introduction

FlexRadio transceivers rely on stable network connections for optimal performance. If you’re experiencing disconnects, audio dropouts, or other network-related issues, performing a Link-Local Test helps determine whether the problem lies with your radio or your network. 

This test directly connects your PC to the radio, bypassing any external network components.

This document outlines how to conduct the test and interpret the results.

Why Perform a Link-Local Test?

• Isolates the Problem – Helps determine if the issue is related to your network or the radio itself.
• Eliminates Variables – By removing routers, switches, and other network devices, we can focus on potential hardware or software issues.
• Simplifies Troubleshooting – If the radio works properly in this test, then the issue is within your network setup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Required Equipment

• Your FlexRadio transceiver
• A PC or laptop running the latest version of SmartSDR
• A single NEW LAN (Ethernet) cable

2. Power Down Your Equipment

• Turn off both your PC and your FlexRadio completely.
• Unplug any existing network connections to ensure no external devices are affecting the test.

3. Directly Connect the Radio to the PC

• Use an Ethernet cable to connect your PC directly to the LAN port on the FlexRadio.
• Do not connect the radio or PC to any router, switch, or other network devices.

4. Power Everything Back On

• First, turn on your radio and allow it to fully boot.
• Then, turn on your PC and let the operating system load completely.

5. Launch SmartSDR

• Open SmartSDR on your PC.
• In the radio chooser window, check if your radio appears as an available device.

Interpreting the Results

✅ If the radio appears and works correctly:

Try to recreate the same problem.  If you are not able to, then this means your radio is functioning properly, and the issue likely stems from your network setup. 

The next steps are:

• Check for faulty Ethernet cables, switches, or routers.
• Ensure your network is properly configured for SmartSDR.
• Look for any network congestion or interference.

❌ If the radio does NOT appear or crashes:

This could indicate a hardware or software issue with the radio or PC. In this case:

• Restart the test to confirm consistent failure.
• If the issue persists, contact FlexRadio Support and report your findings.

KD0RC

Hi Kurt, what modes are you seeing this behavior in? If digital, are you running DAX at the operator site or the radio site?

Kurt Zwerger

Hi Len. I see it with SSB.