Signalink USB

[KB1NXE]

I got a new TNC for my primary rig. Well, new to me. It replaced a AEA PK-232/MBX/DSP/PSK. That particular model of the PK-232 has a built in isolation and switching arrangement for Sound Card modes. The new TNC is an AEA DSP_2232. Not so lucky with this one, so I took the cue to get a regular interface. Price and features were important. Didn't need all the rig interfacing many of the other models have. That's already taken care of. So I settled on the Signalink USB.

All I can say is- FANTASTIC!!! Now, I'm what I would call computer literate (day job is a Senior Computer Network Engineer), but I needed none of those skills to get this thing working. Plug it into the USB jack, follow the simple instructions on configuring your sound card settings. Set up and install the internal jumpers (I used a DIP socket I had laying around so I could make up changeable one's if the mood hits me). Run the cable to the MIC socket. Done. 10 Minutes and this things was ready to make contacts. Heck it took longer to edit the Macros in the software I was using.

You want to get on the Digital Modes, but it's too difficult? Nonsense. This could be done by anyone. It works great, it's virtually self installing and opens up a whole new world. :)

[KG4RUL]

There is one on the FT-857 in our EOC Radio Room. I have two - one configured for my TS2000(X) and one used with my FT-100D mobile (while stationary, of course). Each worked correctly, after configuration, right out of the box. All three are being used with MixW software.

[N8MME]

I am glad to hear that you are so happy with the Signalink USB. I ordered one 2 days ago and it should be here tomorrow. I will be using it for SSTV on a 2 meter SSTV net we have on Monday evenings. I have been using accoustic coupling to send pictures and that has been marginal at best. I can't wait to get it hooked up and try it out.

[KB1NXE]

Dave,

Don't limit yourself to just 2 meter SSTV. Try it on HF as well. I've been able to pull out DX PSK-31 contacts with it that you can barely hear or see in the waterfall display. Amazing mode and piece of gear!

I've added Central Russia, Israel, Montenegro, a Special Event Dutch station, and a bunch more with this since last Friday. All HF 20 Meters. It's really sparked a desire to get back on the almost dead bands. They do seem to be awakening however...

[N8MME]

Dave,

Don't limit yourself to just 2 meter SSTV. Try it on HF as well. I've been able to pull out DX PSK-31 contacts with it that you can barely hear or see in the waterfall display. Amazing mode and piece of gear!

I've added Central Russia, Israel, Montenegro, a Special Event Dutch station, and a bunch more with this since last Friday. All HF 20 Meters. It's really sparked a desire to get back on the almost dead bands. They do seem to be awakening however...

Thanks, I might just do that. Some of the other folks in the 2 meter SSTV net are using the Signalink USB for PSK 31 and they keep saying how great it is. One of them lives in an apartment building and is limited to an attic antenna for HF and he is thrilled to be making contacts again. Thanks for the input.

[KA7O]

For anyone that's curious - the SignaLinkUSB works GREAT on Linux as well. Their web site sorta 'hedges the bets' on promising it'll be OK - but with a modern distro (I use Fedora 9) - no problem. Slam dunk install and on the air with fldigi in a matter of minutes. Love it!!

[VE3FMC]

Dave,

Don't limit yourself to just 2 meter SSTV. Try it on HF as well. I've been able to pull out DX PSK-31 contacts with it that you can barely hear or see in the waterfall display. Amazing mode and piece of gear!

I've added Central Russia, Israel, Montenegro, a Special Event Dutch station, and a bunch more with this since last Friday. All HF 20 Meters. It's really sparked a desire to get back on the almost dead bands. They do seem to be awakening however...

I have had a SignaLink USB for a year and it has performed flawlessly.

I have used it for HF SSTV, with EasyPal.

I run HRD/DM780 for my digital and I do a lot of digital now.

I started on PSK but lately I have been operating Olivia, mainly 500/8.
Olivia is a very good mode to use when band conditions are poor. I have better luck with this mode when it comes to long QSO's on 40 and 80 meters. I normally have S 7 noise levels here and I can usually pull out every Olivia signal I come across.

Give it a try, it is a great low power mode

[W4PC]

I got a new TNC for my primary rig. Well, new to me. It replaced a AEA PK-232/MBX/DSP/PSK. That particular model of the PK-232 has a built in isolation and switching arrangement for Sound Card modes. The new TNC is an AEA DSP_2232. Not so lucky with this one, so I took the cue to get a regular interface. Price and features were important. Didn't need all the rig interfacing many of the other models have. That's already taken care of. So I settled on the Signalink USB.

All I can say is- FANTASTIC!!! Now, I'm what I would call computer literate (day job is a Senior Computer Network Engineer), but I needed none of those skills to get this thing working. Plug it into the USB jack, follow the simple instructions on configuring your sound card settings. Set up and install the internal jumpers (I used a DIP socket I had laying around so I could make up changeable one's if the mood hits me). Run the cable to the MIC socket. Done. 10 Minutes and this things was ready to make contacts. Heck it took longer to edit the Macros in the software I was using.

You want to get on the Digital Modes, but it's too difficult? Nonsense. This could be done by anyone. It works great, it's virtually self installing and opens up a whole new world. :)

And your copy of Roc/Digitak Desktop should work fine with the DSP-2232 and the signallink interface.

And you have the satilite interface with the DSP-2232 and ROC also.

Rick - W4PC