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Controlling Peripherals via USB in FLEX

Eugene Bugrimov
Eugene Bugrimov Member ✭
in FLEX-6000 Signature Series
Hi. I purchased the ERC VERSION 4 SMD USB board for the G-450 rotator.
https://www.schmidt-alba.de/eshop/EASY-ROTOR-CONTROL/ERC-Version-4/ERC-VERSION-4-SMD-USB-assembled-and-tested::26.html
Can I use the USB port on the transceiver to control the G-450 remotely?
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Answers

  • KlausP
    KlausP Member ✭✭

    Hello Eugene,
    This rotor controller requires a compatible software as described in the manufacturer's list.
    https://www.schmidt-alba.de/eshop/Software-Guide%3A_%3A15.html?language=en
    Therefore, connecting it to the FlexRadio does not make sense, as there is no control option available in SmartSdr.

    It would make sense to connect it to a PC running the LOG4OM or HRD programs.
    73 Klaus, DF3RP

  • Eugene Bugrimov
    Eugene Bugrimov Member ✭
    Let me clarify the question. I'm specifically interested in connecting to a USB port so I can control it over the network. In the remote configuration, the hub has Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity. The rotator controller has a USB input.
    So, can I use the port on the transceiver to control the rotator remotely using the manufacturer's software?
  • KlausP
    KlausP Member ✭✭

    Okay, this is a bit more complicated.
    The FlexRadio transceiver does not have a Windows interface, which you need to use the ERC software.

    Therefore, you need a Windows PC on which the ERC program is running. You likely already have one since you want to access it via remote configuration.
    Now, at the rotor’s location, you would need an adapter that provides a USB port over the network so that the ERC V4 module can be reached via the IP network.
    To be able to communicate with the module using the ERC software (since it expects a USB protocol), you need a software solution that tricks the ERC program into thinking it is connected to a USB port.

    Have I described the situation correctly? 😁

  • Eugene Bugrimov
    Eugene Bugrimov Member ✭
    No - the question was that FLEX has a USB port, which, as the company stated, can be used to control peripheral devices. Or, in this case, it forwards the USB port through its system. We have an ERC module and a USB port in FLEX. The question is - will this work or do we need to invent a USB->WiFi adapter, for example?
  • KlausP
    KlausP Member ✭✭

    As I have mentioned several times, the FlexRadio’s USB port is not designed for this purpose.
    It can be used, for example, to transmit frequency or band information to a power amplifier.
    The use of these USB ports is defined in the FlexRadio software.

    For more information, please contact support.

  • Mike-VA3MW
    Mike-VA3MW Administrator, FlexRadio Employee, Community Manager, Super Elmer, Moderator admin
    edited 7:47PM

    The USB connector on the back can be used for multiple purposes

    • By adding an FTDI RS-232 / USB adapter to send Kenwood formatted CAT data to devices such as amplifiers that require frequency information. It is a limited command set.
    • By using BIT data and triggers to control 8 FTDI Logic levels
    • By using the same BIT Data Cable to send BCD Data to devices requiring that format
    • As an RS232 passthrough to allow RS232 devices to communication with the parent applications on the operator computer with out without SmartLink. eg: You have an LP-100 watt meter RS232 output connected to the FTDI USB/RS232 cable on the back of the radio. You then configure CAT on the operator end so that the LP-100 Windows program can read the data coming from the hardware device. USB Passthrough was just recently added.

    It does not support any USB devices that may emulate RS232 such as an ERC rotator controller.

    Let me know if you want more details.

    https://www.flexradio.com/documentation/usb-cable-interface-guide-pdf

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