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If you are expecting to set up EchoLink in
"sysop" mode, you will need a special interface device which connects
your radio equipment to your computer. This device allows the computer to
control the PTT function of your transceiver, and (optionally) to accept and
process DTMF commands from the receiver.
For maximum flexibility, EchoLink is designed to work with several different
types of interfaces. Below is a partial list of high-quality interfaces
which are specifically recommended for use with EchoLink.
The URI is a USB-powered interface with a built-in sound chip that lets you connect a transceiver
to your PC, with both sound and signalling, over a single USB connection.
Please see EchoLink and the URI for more information.
The Kenwood TM-V71 and TM-D710 dual-band FM transceivers are the only commercially-available rigs with EchoLink capabilities built in. With
these rigs, no special interface is required; you can use the optional PG-5H cable set
(or a homebrew cable set) to connect the rig directly to your PC. For answers to frequently-asked questions
about using EchoLink with the TM-V71 and TM-D710, please click here.
These interfaces are available in kit form. The
original circuit was described in QST for March, 2002.
Several models of these general-purpose
digital-mode interfaces are available, all of which are compatible
with EchoLink. Use EchoLink's internal DTMF decoder when
using a RIGblaster and set it to VOX in the Sysop mode. (If
you wish to use a RIGblaster and join the EchoLink QSO using the
linked radio's microphone, the RIGblaster DXpro or Pro model is required.)
This is a USB device that functions as an external sound card, with VOX-controlled PTT,
so no connections to your computer's sound card or serial port are required.
Pre-wired cables are available for popular transceivers.
Can also be used with digital modes such as PSK31.
Other Interfaces
Here are some other interface options for EchoLink.
PY2JF
Interface (from Brazil)
DL5MGD Controller (diagrams
and PIC source code)
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