Elecraft KIO2 User Manual

Page 20

Using the K2REMOTE and K2VOICE Programs

K2REMOTE provides flexible remote control of the K2, even over the Internet (using TCP/IP).

K2VOICE is a voice feedback program for the K2 which make the K2 fully usable by hams who are unable
to see the normal K2 controls and displays.

Both of these programs were developed by Elecraft for use with the KIO2. You can download the programs
and associated documentation from our web site.

CW Keying and PTT

There are three basic ways to key the K2 when using a computer:

1. Directly-connected microphone, hand key, paddle, etc.: This is the simplest method, and may be

preferred if you don't plan to use the computer to generate CQs and contest exchanges, etc.

2. Serial or parallel-port control line keying: Most programs support this method. In SSB mode the

computer turns a selected control line on to activate PTT. In CW mode, the computer generates the
dots and dashes, turning the selected control line on and off in response. The control line(s) used--
which may be at RS-232 or TTL/CMOS levels--must be level-shifted for connection to the K2 key
and/or mic jacks.

3. "Virtual" keying, using computer commands sent to the KIO2's serial port: In this case, no

connection to the key or mic jacks is required for keying the K2. In SSB mode, the computer sends the
K2 "TX" and "RX" commands, which the K2 responds to by turning PTT on and off internally. In CW
mode, the computer sends typed characters to the K2 using a "KY" command, and the K2 converts the
characters to dots and dashes internally. This method of keying is supported by only a few remote-
control applications, including RCP570 and Elecraft's K2REMOTE program. (For details on the TX,
RX, and KY commands, refer to the KIO2 Programmer's Reference.)

Case (2) above is by far the most common. Connection diagrams showing how to use serial or parallel port
control lines are usually provided in the program's user manual.

In the case of a serial port control line, you can use the spare wire (white) in the 4-conductor cable for CW
or PTT keying. You'll need to connect this wire to the specified control line at the PC end. At the K2 end, a
simple level converter using an NPN transistor will be required (usually diagrammed in your program's
user manual). The white wire must then be brought out from the connector at the K2 end and routed to a
1/8

inch stereo plug for the key jack. You can optionally use two diodes (or two transistors) to take

advantage of the K2's "auto-detect" feature, allowing both the computer and a keyer paddle to be connected
to the K2's key jack at the same time.

Additional information on this topic can be found on our web site.