Sound Card Packet  with AGWPE

Translations and PDF of this site
Most recent AGWPE version is:  2013.415  15 Apr 2013

Introduction
Overview
Computer requirements
Packet Engine Pro

Configure AGWPE
Download and Install
Basic AGWPE Setup
2 Radio Setup
2 Card Setup

Sound Device Setup
Basic Device Settings
Rename Sound Device
Additional Settings
Using the Tuning Aid

Problems?
Program Behavior
Receiving
Transmitting
Connections
Firewalls

AGWPE Features
AGWPE on a Network
Baud Rates & Modes
Remote Control
TCP/IP Over Radio
Tips and Tricks
Traffic Parameters

Compatible Programs:
Setup Help

Radio Interface
Getting Started
Kits and Pre-assembled
USB SignaLink
Receive Audio Cable
Transmit Audio Cable
PTT (TX Control) Cable
2 Radio Modification

About Packet
Packet Overview
Exchange Modes
TNCs and AGWPE
What To Do with Packet
Common Frequencies
Frame Headers
Further Reading 

Kits and Pre-assembled Interfaces

If you don't want to build your own computer-to-radio interface, you can purchase a pre-assembled interface .. or buy a kit with all the necessary parts.

I haven't used interfaces from all the sources listed below, so I can't vouch for any of them. The list is merely a service for those who are shopping. I also haven't been very diligent in keeping the list current, so do a web search for others.

A. USB External Sound Devices
B. Kits and Pre-assembled Kits

A. USB External Sound Devices 

These devices can be of particular value for several reasons:

  • They may be your only solution if your computer has no serial or parallel ports, just USB ports.
  • They free up your first sound card for other applications and you won't need to reset the first sound card's mixer/volume control when you switch to and from AGWPE use.
  • No external power required.
  • Simplified cabling between computer and radio.

Note: For USB-attached sound card devices, use the basic setup procedures on this site, except for the COM/LPT port selection in the properties configuration, select a non-existent LPT port, e.g. LPT3. There is no need to have AGWPE tie-up a RS232 port in Windows when AGWPE doesn't need to use it. (AGWPE won't let you select a non-existent COM port, just a non-existent LPT port.)

B. Kits and Pre-assembled Kits

  • West Mountain Radio has several models of pre-assembled interfaces. The RigBlaster (Std, Plus and Pro models ) let you keep both your microphone and sound card connections attached to the radio's microphone jack. The Nomic (No Mike) doesn't have that feature, but it is smaller in size, less expensive, and doesn't require a power connection.
     
  • MFJ also sells a pre-assembled interface in two models: the 1275 (round connector) and 1275M (modular connector).

  •  Bux CommCo™ sells the RASCALGLX kit which has all the parts and cables you'll need to make a well-designed interface.  The kits use isolation components on each line...a very nifty extra. It would be difficult to purchase all the components on your own for such a price! One nice feature is the ability to quickly change the GLX-to-radio cable. One comes free (you pick your radio model) but you can order cables for additional radios for $15.  They also offer the RASCAL-II+, which requires no USB or serial port connection.
     
  • Tigertronics sells the SignaLink

  • Donner's - Interfaces for about $40 plus shipping http://www.donnerstore.com
     
  • KH6TY's Audio-triggered PTT Interface - information about this home-brewed interface that does not need a serial, parallel or USB port for radio PTT is at http://home.comcast.net/~kh6ty/interface/  This interface was featured in QST in June 2009 (p. 30). A $5 circuit board is also available.
     
  • WB2REM-G4CDY All Mode Interfaces - http://www.wb2rem.com/
     
  •  KK7UQ's "Altoids" box interface kit: http://kk7uq.com/html/model_ii.htm. Includes a way to attenuate RX audio from the radio which might be helpful to users who are forced to use the MIC jack for input (MIC input is often to sensitive for full audio from the radio).
     
  •  Unified Microsystems SCI-6 - $30 kit with full isolation

 

Last Updated:
18Aug2015

 

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