Rigblaster Pro

[KB3SKU]

Hello i was thinking about getting the Rigblaster Pro for my Yaesu FT-897D,i do have the Rigblaster Nomic but i have to always reconnect and disconnect the one cable from the microphone jack on the radio when i want to talk im afraid im gonna wear it out :(

So like i said im thinking on the Rigblaster Pro,from what i am reading i will no longer have to constantly disconnect the cable from the microphone jack if i get the pro. Plus i do like all the featues it can do.

So what are the experiences you guys have had with the Rigblaster Pro? is it worth $200+?

https://www.hamcity.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=79&idproduct=382

[WA3ERQ]

Jim;

I have that exact setup. The "only" problem that I have ever had was using my Yaesu desk mic connected to the RigBlaster. I got reports that my audio was not right but it's been so long that I can't remember the exact report. At the moment I now use a Heil headset but since I have RF affecting my computer, I don't connect it to the RigBlaster.

For digital modes, I've had fantastic luck on everything except Pactor which you need a TNC for.

Just a quick note, when operating on any digital mode with the RigBlaster Pro, you have to go to the menu on the rig and adjust your ALC down just as it dissapears. When I start my first CQ, I turn it up during the transmission then slowly down. If you bring it down too low, you won't be putting out any RF. Also, a high ALC will cause your signal (especially PSK) to have very large sidebands and distortion.

I recommend the Pro and have never regretted purchasing it.

Good luck.

'73
Jim
WA3ERQ
(Philadelphia)

[WA3ERQ]

Jim;

I forgot to mention that I'm using a G5RV and a Titan-DX on my 897d. The G5RV is setup as an inverted 'v' and really out-performs the Titan. I still use the Titan but favor the G5RV for all bands and modes.

I also recommend Ham Radio Deluxe for when you get started in digital. HRD itself will control the rig but the additional programs such as DRM-780 is what you use for operating digital including SSTV. With HRD and the logbook, as you change the frequency, everything updates each other. i.e. if you adjust your VFO on the rig, HRD and the logbook show the change and vice-versa.

Good luck.

'73
Jim
WA3ERQ

[KB3SKU]

Jim;

I forgot to mention that I'm using a G5RV and a Titan-DX on my 897d. The G5RV is setup as an inverted 'v' and really out-performs the Titan. I still use the Titan but favor the G5RV for all bands and modes.

I also recommend Ham Radio Deluxe for when you get started in digital. HRD itself will control the rig but the additional programs such as DRM-780 is what you use for operating digital including SSTV. With HRD and the logbook, as you change the frequency, everything updates each other. i.e. if you adjust your VFO on the rig, HRD and the logbook show the change and vice-versa.

Good luck.

'73
Jim
WA3ERQ

What about PSK31 Deluxe that comes with HRD? The waterfall in PSK31 Deluxe seems cleaner than the one in DRM-780 unless im not setting things right?

I really want to put my G5RV up but im not sure how to make a inverted V or a sloper,ive never done that stuff before. i have no room to extend it from east to west and north to south.

[WR8D]

I bought one of the first rigblaster pros that was made. That was a few years back and i love it. The support from rigblaster is great too, you can call them up and ask any question...even dumb ones!!

A great group of people and the perfect soundcard interface.

If rigblaster comes out with something to top the pro line i'd check it out...from the great experiance i've had from calling and talking with those guys right down to their product...i feel it's the best there is and they don't have any competition.


73 John WR8D:p

[W2TXB]

A funny thing happened on my way to getting on the air with my Rigblaster Pro... it took me almost two years to get there. I bought the unit new and and was repeatedly interrupted in my quest to get it set up and running - even changed radios during that time so I had to reset the jumpers.

After seeing PSK31 running at a QCWA function, I finally decided to just do it. When I got home, I began connecting and experimenting. The ThinkPad T61 and ICOM IC-7000 work well with the Rigblaster Pro. In the first few days of using this unit, I have several countries and many states worked.

I like this thing.... works great after I fine-tuned some audio adjustments.

See you all on PSK. :D

[EI5DD]

Has anyone ideas about the Configuration of the Rigblaster Pro to the FT 897D? The description of the Yeasu settings seem very vague. The initial setup with Digipan works as does the Mic and PTT but when I connect up the leads described below I get no results only receive.

I have the audio in and out via the 6 pin DIN socket. I have the RXD, TXD, and GND connections to the CAT Socket. I have tried configuring the P16 jumpers but none of the settings work. Receive is fine but I cannot make it go into transmit. The connections to the computer were checked and the serial interface is working.

Maybe this is not the way to go about it. I am hoping to use all the facilities of this equipment with DM780 (Ham Radio Deluxe)

All ideas would be most welcome,

Steve (EI5DD)