How to use the SKCC K2RFP Sprint Logger with CAT control ...



How to use the SKCC K2RFP Sprint Logger with CAT control in conjunction with your normal CAT control program.

The following is written with the upcoming K3Y in mind but can apply to everyday use as well.

Problem: My computer only has one serial port so how can I run my normal control program and also use the auto CAT logging feature with the K2RFP Sprint Logger?

Solution: By installing a small program called Virtual Serial Ports Emulator.

The VSPE will actually create a selectable wide variety of Serial Port combinations that will allow you to run two or more CAT program from one physical serial port.

I will make download of this program available for SKCC members for a limited time at the following URL:

Step 1. Download the program and extract the .rar compressed file to a folder on your computer. I suggest creating a folder called VSPE anywhere on your computer. (You may have to download a RAR extractor from the internet if you don’t already have one) There are many free versions at .

Step 2. After you download and extract the files to your VSPE folder, right click on the executable (exe) icon and send it to your desktop for easy startup when needed.

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Step 3. Double click on the desktop icon and open the interface. It will look like this:

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Step 4. Next we will need to create the type of Virtual Device needed. In this case we will create a Serial Port Splitter.

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Step 5. Click next and it will bring up the next screen. (At this point be sure that no other applications are currently using COM 1)

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As you can see, the VSPE has recognized that your physical port is COM1 and is ready to create a virtual COM2 that is attached to COM1. Click Finish to create the port. (Check or uncheck RTS and DTR depending on your radio requirements).

Step 6. Repeat the above process to create virtual serial port COM3 also. When you have created ports COM2 and COM3, minimize the program and it will minimize to your windows tray.

Step 7. Now that you have created the additional ports needed, it’s time to bring up your normal CAT application ( I use HRD) and connect it to COM2.

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Step 8. Next we want to start the K2RFP Sprint Logger and configure the CAT frequency control feature. You will want to be sure that it attaches to COM3.

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Click the “Test port” button and you should see a connect to COM3. At this point there are some additional setup requirements for your particular radio. If you are already running some sort of CAT program you will know what these settings should be. Once these setting are correct, press the “Test communication with rig”.

If all is correct you should see the status bar turn green and report the frequency from you radio. Next click the “Accept all info and exit setup” button.

Both of your programs are now communicating with your radio and will make logging using the Sprint Logger much easier while still having full control of your rig with your normal CAT program. You can even setup the favorite SKCC freqs in the Sprint logger and change your radio with one click. Don’t be afraid to play with the cat features to get the feel of its operation. The next picture is both my HRD and K2RFP Sprint Logger running.

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Have fun in the K3Y event and contact me if you need any additional help.

N4QLB

Mike

SKCC 6650T n4qlb@

Special thanks to Dick, K2RFP and Simon Brown for their work provided free to hams.

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