WKFlex - CW remote with SmartSDR and Winkeyer
I’m a CW guy and a SmartSDR remote user.
I’m very happy with the performances of SmartSDR but I was missing both the CW sidetone and sending code from my paddle/keyer.
I understand it can be achieved in different ways, using a Maestro is one of those. I also understand there are software applications which can do that, but I was looking for a light, simple, and elegant solution. I spoke about my idea with Dave, N1BIT and we came out with a working prototype written in Python and, eventually, a graphical app written in C#.
The prerequisite for the system is to have a Winkeyer by K1EL, nothing else. Also, the app works ONLY with a Winkeyer or devices which emulate the Winkeyer, no other devices are supported.
WKFlex creates a tunnel between the local Winkeyer and SmartSDR, allowing to send CW without extra cables, interfaces, or difficult configurations.
The following steps should keep you up and running in minutes:
Step 1) Add a dedicated Winkeyer interface to SmartSDRCAT
https://us.v-cdn.net/6032377/uploads/F1BAEMQ38DQP/image.png
Step 2) Check your Winkeyer COM port. If you don’t know it already, open Windows device manager.
Step 3) Download WKFlex from this link:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/i8v7k2neykxsdgq/WKFlex-v1.00.zip?dl=0
The software is not signed, so Windows will complain. If you trust me download it, if you trust Windows don’t!
Step 4) Unzip WKFlex in a folder of your choice. It doesn’t require to be installed, just unpack it. If you want to remove it just delete the folder.
Double click on WKFlex.exe to run the app.
https://us.v-cdn.net/6032377/uploads/REDMQ15DM7A1/image.png
Click on SETTINGS.
Enter the COM ports parameters, and the speed range for the Winkeyer ****, click on SAVE and CLOSE.
Now click on START and enjoy your paddle!
Nothing happens? Check your Flex is in CW.
The Speed Offset control in the main window can be helpful for high latency, low speed network connection. You are sending at higher speed than the Flex radio, avoiding gaps between letters.
Feel free to contact me or Dave if you need help.
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73 de Max, N5NHJ (I8NHJ)
one of EL2PP, 1A0KM, JT1Y, E30GA, T77V, TT8MM, T32R, K5K, XR0X, S05X, 4O3T, BS7H, K4M, PJ7E, PJ7DX, 6Y1V, C6ANA, VP5/I8NHJ, ZF2NH and...