CLUB 100 Library - 415/939-1246 BBS, 937-5039 NEWSLETTER, 932-8856 VOICE
One Approach to Amateur RTTY using the Model 100
In response to recent questions re RTTY and the Model 100, I am using my Model 100 with an HF rig (Kenwood TS-520S) via a Kantronics UTU (Universal Terminal Unit). It is easy to set up and works well. Cost is about $200 and *no* software is needed in the Model 100; all software to support RTTY, CW, AMTOR and ASCII is ROM-resident in the UTU. It connects to the Model 100 RS232 port (STAT=38I1E,10) and to the rig via the external speaker and mic connectors (AFSK) -- and can support FSK, as well.
I'm not a gung ho ham, although I've been at it for 31 years; the UTU may not give the ultimate RTTY station, but it is easy to set up, relatively inexpensive, clutter-free, etc. It will work with any computer which can support a dumb terminal mode and has RS232 with the required (fairly standard) comm parameters. I haven't used it on VHF, but it appears that connection to my 2 meter rig would be simple.
By the way, unless your rig has a special RTTY mode, reduce the DC input to 30-50% of CW value, since duty cycle is 100% on RTTY; otherwise, kiss your finals goodbye! All other questions answered asap.
