After a few months of radio inactivity I picked up a little idea I read a while ago on the N1MM wiki. Of course I could buy a Winkeyer, but since I’m just a CW-novice with not many miles on the paddle, I want a cheap and simple solution first. I could always buy a Winkeyer in the future. Besides, I really dislike all kind of separate little boxes in my shack. I’m more of a Zen-fan.
When I read the N1MM wiki, the described serial interface for CW was simple enough to put into a DB9-connector. Just solder two parts and off you go. I bought the parts (and the DB9-connector) on a local ham marked for a few euro’s and put things together. Result? It works like a charm! Now N1MM is able to send CW directly from my PC to the rig. Next step is getting my CW-skills up to speed to run my first CW-contest.
Good work on this, Jim. I’ve got to set up something similar for FSK and PTT. Will use DB-9 at the computer and DB-15 at the Elecraft K3. You’ve given me confidence that the simple transistor/resistor approach will work. Great to hear from you after a long absence. 73, Jim, K5ND
Hi Jim, thanks for your comment. A well, you probably know the distractions from our hobby: DIY-things around the house and family vicissitudes. But I can’t ignore my hobby’s for very long