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VUSC for Windows
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Version 6.25
OK1DIX (c) 2009
1. VUSC - VHF/UHF/SHF/Contest
The program was developed for VHF/UHF contests. Operator experiences of contest stations OK1KRA and OK2KKW have been used at its development. Of course any ideas to improve it are very welcome. Currently there are English, Czech and German program versions.
2. Technical conditions
The program is designed for using on the PC with operating system Windows 98SE/Me/2000/XP/Vista. Program was not tested under Windows 95 or NT.
Hardware requirements:
· processor: at least PII at 200 MHz
· RAM: at least 64 MB
· free space on hard disc: about 5 MB, depending on the database size
· ports (optional): serial RS-232C (COM) (CW keying, elbug paddle, rotator control), parallel Centronics (LPT)(CW keying, elbug paddle, rotator control), USB (rotator control)
· sound card (optional)
· network card (optional)
The requirements on RAM size may vary depending on the database sizes and number of QSOs in a contest.
Software:
· Windows 2000/XP/Me/98SE/Vista
· DirectX 9.0c or higher
· DLportIO Driver (only when using parallel port LPT for keying/paddle or rotator control)
· MBUSB Driver (only when using USB port for rotator control)
3. Installation
It’s very likely, that DirectX is already installed in your PC. You can check it by running the program dxdiag.exe, usually located in C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32 or C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32. If there’s no DirectX or a version older then 9.0c download it from http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=9226A611-62FE-4F61-ABA1-914185249413&displaylang=en or http://www.soft32.com/ (search for the “DirectX Redistributable”) and follow the instruction for installation.
Then in case of new installation create a new separate directory (the path must NOT contain any spaces or hyphens) and unpack the vusc.zip archive. If it's a new installation also unzip the archive databases.zip in the subdirectory “data” and copy all files from this subdirectory into the program directory (one level up). If you're doing just the upgrade to a higher VUSC version do _NOT_ copy them, because your private databases would be destroyed. The best way how to perform an upgrade is to get the special upgrade zip-file vusc_<version number>.zip and copy all files except vuscwin.cfg into the existing directory. The file vuscwin.cfg should be copied only if you have problems with your own configuration file after the upgrade. In this case you have to renew your individual setting, though. If you intend to use LPT port for CW keying, band switch or rotator control, install the DLportIO driver by running Install.exe in the subdirectory DriverLINX\install.
The old *.DIX files from the DOS VUSC version higher then 4.03 can be open, but they are automatically converted to the new Windows format when saved and can not be used by the DOS version any more.
As the setting of suitable fonts and window layout may be difficult for inexperienced users, three sample configuration files (vuscwin1024.cfg, vuscwin1280.cfg, vuscwin1600.cfg) are supplied with the program for various display resolutions. Copy the one suitable for your display resolution under the name vuscwin.cfg and use it as a template for your configuration.
Recently a problem with the driver DLportIO.SYS cropped up after the installation of some Windows system updates. For an unclear reason the update installation program changes the registry database entry for the driver which causes driver load failure at VUSC start. The remedy is as follows:
Go to Start->Run type into the box regedit. Go to then to the folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\dlportio
Open it with double click and change the value of the key Start to 2 (the original value is usually 3). Check also if the file DLPortIO.SYS is in the directory under the key ImagePath (usually C:\Windows\drivers). Close the regedit and restart your PC. If the problem persists try to change the key value to 1 and reinstall the driver.
CAUTION! Make sure that you’re really changing just the key Start as described above. Some changes in the registry database may corrupt your Windows system. If you don’t feel sure about this ask someone experienced for help.
4. List of files
The complete installation contains following file:
· VUSC.EXE - contest program
· TR.EXE - utility to process database files
· USORT.EXE - sort utility
· DBASE.BAT - batch file for the database update
· VUS_BASE.ASC - ASCII file containing the database records sorted by stations
· VUS_BASE.DAT - working database binary file sorted by stations
· QSL_BASE.ASC - QSL database ASCII file
· QSLTEM.HDR - QSL label form
· VUS.HDR - log header form for contests evaluated by distances
· VUS2.HDR - log header form for contests evaluated by locators/multipliers
· VUS3.HDR - log header form for Nordic Activity Contest
· VUSC_EN.HTM - English documentation in HTML format
· schema_en.jpg - scheme of CW keying and rotator interfaces
· VUSCWIN.CFG - file containing CW memories, port settings and other technical parameters, window layout, font setting etc. There are also configuration file templates for various display resolution vuscwin1024.cfg, vuscwin1280.cfg, vuscwin1600.cfg to make setting easier.
· QSL_BASE.ASC – QSL database file
· CONTLIST.TXT – list of evaluated contests
· Drivers DLPortIO and/or MBUSB - optionally installed if LPT and/or USB should be user for rotator, band switch or CW keying
Following files are created while working with the program:
· #######.DIX - contest file
· #######.BIN - work file
· #######_$$$.LOG - log file from one band
· #######_$$$.EDI - contest log file from one band in EDI format.
· #######_$$$.LDB - sorted list of calls with their locators.
· #######_$$$.SUM - summary sheet of one band (calls with their contest numbers).
· #######_$$$.QSL - file to print on QSL labels
· #######_$$$.ADI - file in ADIF format for upload to http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/
· OWNH.HDR - stored individual data of the log header sheet
· QSL_BASE.DAT - QSL binary work file
· Subdirectory ####### for storing of sound files and work file backups
####### - stands for the name of the contest
$$$ - three characters band code
144 - 144 MHz
432 - 432 MHz
129 - 1296 MHz
232 - 2320 MHz
340 - 3400 MHz
565 - 5.6 GHz
10G - 10 GHz
24G - 24 GHz
47G - 47 GHz
76G - 76 GHz
120G - 120 GHz
144G - 144 GHz
248G - 248 GHz
5. Program start
Before the start you should check the right local time and time zone setting. It’s not necessary to set UTC time on your computer provided the system time and the local time zone settings are correct. The program allows later time correction, but you avoid complications if you don't start it with wrong time setting.
The system variable PATH must contain the symbol for the current directory ".". Check it in the system setting “Start->Settings->Control Panel->System->Advanced->System” variables and set it if necessary.
Start the program by double clicking on VUSC.EXE file or create a shortcut on the desktop.
If you work in the network it’s absolutely necessary to synchronize time on all computers after the program start, before the contest operation begins. Choose one computer with the right time and zone setting, open a contest, log it on any band and use the menu “Network->Band to synchronize” on other computers to synchronize the clock and time zone. Not adhering to this may cause data lost or damage.
The program is designed for minimal display resolution 1024x768 pixel. Optimal resolution is 1280x1024 or higher. You can change the size, layout and fonts ("Options->Font") of all windows to match them to your display and individual needs. If you terminate the program with “Contest->Exit” the current setting is automatically saved in the file vuscwin.cfg for the next start. The configuration can be stored also explicitly by using “Contest->Save config”. If this file does not exist default values are used at the program start.
6. Contest operation
The program VUSC has been primarily designed for on-line usage by the operator in the contest. To open a new contest, choose the menu item “Contest->New” and enter the contest name, evaluation style, own locator and call sign. If you use the style “Locators with/without Multipliers” you can supply your own file with the point pattern for a specific contest. Take a look at the default file QRBPAT.DAT for an example. You can also open an existing contest file with “Contest->Open”. Following file formats can be read: VUSC specific format (extension ".dix"), EDI format (".edi") or a crash recovery file (".bin"). QSOs from a text file ("*.txt") can be added to an open contest (menu "Contest->Add"). The text line format must be as follows:
<YYMMDD> <HHMM> <Call> <RST> <QSO number> <Received code> <Locator>
Field delimiters are any number of spaces and/or tabelators.
At the program start you can choose the option "Quick restart". In this case the last contest is open, all network connections and other settings are renewed including displayed bands, network messages and todo list. Also synchronization can be made from the relevant bands (details see the chapter on the network operation). The contest data are secured, so they don’t get lost even if the program and/or computer crash for any reason. Only the last currently entered QSO may be lost. In such case after the program restart look for the file with the relevant contest name and extension “.bin” in the file open dialog and open it. When opening a ".dix" file and a ".bin" file with the same name exists (i.e. the program was not correctly closed) a warning message is issued and you can choose if you want to read the original file or the crash recovery copy. This also applies in case of quick restart. In addition you can write backup copies at any time during the contest by using "Save as" menu item. It’s also possible to merge another file to an open contest by using "Contest->Add".
The log has a classic form. It means that the QSOs are entered as they have been made in time and all fields (including QSO number) can be changed at any time also in previous records (the same approach as in the CT contest log from K1EA). Be careful when manipulating QSO numbers because the other stations have them already in the log. Also avoid putting higher QSO number before the lower one.
Normally you move among the input fields using SPACE or TAB key. For changing of other fields, click on them with mouse. Another option is to invoke a special typeahead window ("Options->Typeahead"). The items can be typed there in any order and entered with the key RETURN similarly as for instance in the program TACLOG. The program automatically distinguishes the data type, which is also indicated in the lower part of the window. If the automatically determined type does not fit it can be changed by using the SPACE key.
After bad experiences with too restrictive input data checks, the program allows to enter double and/or incomplete QSOs. All data can be changed at any time and all changes are immediately reflected in the whole log also on other computers in the network if it's used.
The current UTC time is automatically entered, when not supplied manually. If you work in network the clock must be synchronized (see above the previous chapter). It’s absolutely necessary to synchronize time on all computers after the program start, before the contest operation begins. Otherwise the data may be lost or damaged!
For a quick filtering of calls when checking an incomplete call/locator received you can use meta characters "*" and ".". The "*" matches a string of any characters, the "." matches just one character. To make the usage of meta characters clear look at following examples:
If a string like DL.KN is entered, all call signs of set DL1KN, DL2KN ... DL0KN with their locators and bands are displayed in the window "Current contest check". Similarly if you enter *KN all call signs ending with KN are displayed. The same rules apply for locators.
For faster data entering it is possible to omit the call sign prefix and report 59(9). Also the first two letters of a locator (if omitted) are automatically added for the area of one big WW locator around your own QTH. The boundaries for this area can be changed in the setting “Options->VUSC” “North-South default border” and “East-West default border as well as the default call sign prefix.
The program also supports inquiries to the database of call signs and locators from previous contests. The search results are displayed in the window “Database check”. For the locator check (F9) the call sign must be completely entered except for /P, /A and similar extensions. A list of all locators from the previous contests for this call sign is displayed. For the call sign check (F10) the locator must be entered completely. The first number at the displayed records means the number of occurrences of the combination call/locator in previous contests, the second number is the azimuth from the current QTH as soon as it is known after opening of an existing contest or creating a new one. The function “super check” (F11) searches for records containing fragments of call signs and locators. Apparently wrong database records (for instance if a locator differs only in one letter against the currently received locator) can be removed from the database by clicking on it and deleting with DEL key or by choosing "Delete" from the menu. The records are permanently deleted from the database only if you respond “Yes” to the question "Do you want to permanently remove deleted records from the database?" when ending the program.
When entering a call sign a database check is automatically performed. You can set which kind of check is performed by default by using "Options->VUSC->Default database check". Normally you should use "Super Check". However, on less performing machines you may experience some delay when entering the call sign and/or locator especially with a large database. In this case set the default option to "Call Check".
There’s also an option to backup work file during the contest in case it gets damaged for any reason. The number of backup copies and thier frequency can be set in "Options->VUSC". The copies are stored in the directory of the same name as the contest.
For general overview different types of statistics including the direction map can be selected in the menu in the window "Statistic".
To enter and edit the QSO records following keys are used:
Arrows UP, DOWN - move over the records.
Arrows LEFT, RIGHT - move inside of one field.
SPACE - move to the next field right
TAB - move to the next field left
Home - move cursor to the begin of a field
End - move cursor to the end of a field
Page Up - list of one page up
Page Dn - list of one page down
INS - toggle insert/overwrite mode
CTRL/Page Up - jump to the begin of the log
CTRL/Page Dn - jump to the end of the log
Delete - delete character under the cursor
Backspace - delete character left from the cursor
CTRL/W, F12 - wipe out a not finished QSO
CTRL/N – enter remark to a QSO
Return, Enter – Saving of a new QSO or confirmation of changes of an existing QSO, without the confirmation no change is made and the old data are renewed.
CTRL/Return - same as Return, but in addition a window for entering of the band and frequency for a sked appears and a message is sent to another node in the network according to the chosen band.
Right click on a QSO – Context menu with the most frequent QSO operations
Function keys:
F1-F8 CW/SSB buffers (see below)
F9 - locators database check for a call
F10 - calls database check for a locator
F11 - super check partials of calls and locators
F12 – wipe out current line
General control keys:
ALT/M – mode change CW/SSB
ALT/X - program exit with saving of the contest file and configuration changes (file vuscwin.cfg).
ALT/Q - quit the program without saving any file. All data entered/changed since the program start is lost.
ALT/L – switch to the message window in network mode (see below)
ALT/R – log recalculation
ALT/F – find a call
ALT/O – open a contest
ALT/S – send sked menu
ALT/T - Time shift and/or system time set up. It serves for correction if time was wrong set at the contest start.
ALT/U - band up
ALT/D - band down
ALT/E - start QSO edit menu, also the right mouse click on a line
ALT/H - help
ALT/W – CW/SSB/Packet Setting menu
ALT/N – send CW from keyboard
ALT/- - CW speed down
ALT/= - CW speed up
ALT/B – band selective display
ALT/G – create log
ALT/V - Statistics window
ALT/C - Packet window
ALT/A - Database window
ALT/J - To do window
ALT/Z - Band map window
ESC - return to the main window
Sound recording control:
CTRL/R – record
CTRL/S – stop record/playback
CTRL/P – pause record/playback
CTRL/B – back (playback)
CTRL/E – forward (playback)
Rotator control:
CTRL/< - turn left
CTRL/> - turn right
CTRL/space - stop
CTRL/? – turn to the azimuth of the current QSO (if valid)
7. Contest evaluation
If the network was not used during the contest the
logs from diverse bands can be merged into one file with the “Contest->Add”
function. The separate evaluation band by band is possible, too. You start the
evaluation of the relevant band from the menu option “Create Log”. In the
following dialog choose the band and fill out the header page. All entries for every band
are stored in the file OWNH.BIN, so you don't need to repeat the constant data as first
operator's name, QTH etc. By editing of files VUS.HDR (evaluation by distances),
VUS2.HDR(evaluation by locator and multipliers), VUS3.HDR(Nordic activity contest) and
QSLTEM.HDR you can change the format of header page and QSL label. In the file QSLTEM.HDR
the strings in the format @
1 - contest name
2 - own call sign
3 - own locator
4 - call
5 – date
6 - time
7 – band
8 - own RS(T) and contest number
9 – mode
10 – power
11 - antenna
In the files VUS.HDR, VUS2.HDR and VUS3.HDR it is only possible to change their layout. The strings @@@@@ are used as placeholders for the variable header page data.
The following files are created after the evaluation for every band:
· contest log from the appropriate band to print, extension *.log
· sorted list of calls with their contest numbers, extension *.sum
· contest log in the EDI format , extension *.edi
· sorted list of calls with their locators, extension *.ldb
· file with the QSL labels to print, extension *.qsl
· QSL file in the ADIF format to upload to the e-QSL web page http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/, extension *.adi
The first two files are to be printed; the third EDI-file is for the electronic data exchange (e-mail, floppy disc, web interface etc.). Fourth file contains data for the update of databases (see below). Last two files deal with QSL. The first one contains labels for QSL to print, the other one is for the electronic QSL exchange via http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/. The program does not print the files directly, due to the very wide spectrum of printer types with various control character sets. The files contain only the ASCII data in pages separated by FF. For printing it is recommended to load the file into any word processor/editor (for example MS-Word) and format the output according to your needs. In the worst case the files can be printed using the command in the command prompt window:
print /D:<printer name> filename
The files are formatted 38 row and 76 columns by default. Do not forget to sign the statement on the header page when sending the paper log.
8. Database maintenance
As mentioned before the program can utilize a database of calls and locators. Users can build up their own databases from the previous contests. A sample database is provided with the program. For a routine database update after the contest reply "Yes" to the question "Do you want to update the database?" at the end of the evaluation run. The database records previously marked for delete are permanently removed from the database, too. Every time a new contest is evaluated the occurrence counters of the combinations call/locator are updated as well. The contest name is entered in the file CONLIST.TXT to avoid double processing of the same contest.
The primary database file is VUS_BASE.ASC. A work file VUS_BASE.DAT is created when working with the database under certain circumstances, but it does not have any other meaning. The file VUS_BASE.ASC can be edited with any text editor (Notepad, WordPad, etc.) for error corrections (deletion of cancelled prefixes, typo errors etc). The file CONLIST.TXT can be edited as well for possible reprocessing of a contest. If the database was not updated automatically during the contest evaluation, following command can be used in the Windows command prompt window. The command is to be started always from the directory where the database file reside.
dbase.bat #######.ldb
#######.ldb is the sorted file with the calls and locators created during the evaluation. New calls and locators are inserted into the database and the original database file is copied to the backup file VUS_BASE.OLD. In case of any problems with the new database you can use this backup file for restoring of the original database. To do this you have to rename this file back to VUS_BASE.ASC. If you edit the file VUS_BASE.ASC manually it's a good practise to call the command file dbase.bat without parameters to ensure proper sorting and file consistence.
Tip: This commad can be used also for the import of calls and locators from other sources. It must be in the ASCII file format with rows as follows:
<call><delimiter><locator><delimiter><any contents>
As delimiter any number of spaces and/or tabulators can be used.
The procedure of the database maintenance changed significantly in comparison to the previous versions. The files LOC_BASE.DAT and LOC_BASE.ASC are not used anymore and can be deleted.
9. QSL maintenance
The evaluation program supports also printing of QSL and a small database of the QSO for which the QSL has been sent. There are several processing options:
No QSL – no QSL are created.
All QSL - QSL for all QSOs of a band are created.
New QSL - only QSL for the new QSOs (which are not in the database yet) are created.
Update QSL Database – if checked, the QSOs are written into the QSL database.
A QSO is considered to be new if the call sign is new and/or the band and/or the locator. Database ASCII file (QSL_BASE.ASC) is sorted by the call signs and bands and it can be edited by any text editor (Notepad, WordPad) in order to correct mistakes. If you insert a line you have to regard the right sorting. Unlike the locator database this one is updated automatically during the program run. The file QSL_BASE.DAT is only a work file without any other meaning. As mentioned above a file with the extension *.adi to upload to http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/.
10. CW/SSB control
The program VUSC supports direct CW keying and elbug paddle connected to the serial or parallel port. The circuits and the default pin-out are described in the appendix below. The pin-out can be changed in "CW/SSB/Packet->Setting". Note that in case of paddle connected to the serial port there is no galvanic connection between the cable shielding (i.e. also paddle body) and the PC ground. Therefore you should avoid direct contact to the TRX or PC ground. There are 8 CW buffers, which can be programmed and used for the automatic keying. They buffer contents can be maintained with "CW/SSB/Packet->Program CW". They are also stored in the configuration file vuscwin.cfg, so they are permanently available. The following symbol variables can be used for the CW buffer programming.
$O - own call sign
$C – call sign of the current QSO
$L - own locator
$R - report of the current QSO
$Q - report with short nines
$N - contest number of the current QSO
$M - contest number with short zeros
$<1-8> – buffer content under the definitions for the keys F1-F8
When programming the CW buffers you have to pay attention not to create a loop by putting a buffer symbol ($number) into the same buffer or even indirectly through another buffer. The program would work, but after stack exhausting the keying is automatically stopped. For every buffer a button label can be also configured to identify the assigned buffers.
The speed can be changed from 5 WPM to 45 PARIS by using the slide bar in the "CW/SSB control" window or shortcuts. The keying can be done either directly from the keyboard in the window "CW/SSB control" or with the paddle. You can insert all symbol variables as well. Sending can be always interrupted by hitting ESC, by touching the paddle or clicking on the button "Stop" in the "CW/SSB control" window. The CW keying is possible only in the CW mode. The following shortcuts can be used:
F1-F8 - buffer send
ALT/= - increase the speed by 1 WPM
ALT/- - decrease the speed by 1 WPM
ESC – interrupt and return to the main window
ALT/N – direct CW input from the keyboard
If a sound card is installed in your PC and operational under Windows it can be used for the TRX SSB modulation, especially for CQs. Since the program VUSC does not support on-line recording yet, you have to prepare the WAV files by using the sound recorder in Windows or by a similar program.
There are 8 buffers for SSB WAV file names controlled by F1-F8 keys in SSB mode. They can be programmed in the dialog "CW/SSB/Packet->Program SSB".
The headphone output of the sound card is the best choice for the TRX modulation. Some computers have also the volume control of this output, which can be used for the optimal modulation level setting. Otherwise you have to use a resistor trimmer. Of course a shielded cable is necessary for the connection between the computer and the TRX.
11. Network operation
The network enables the communication of connected computers, sending of QSOs, skeds, synchronization, sending of messages among them, packet sharing etc. A connected computer is called a network node.
The network is in “disabled” state after the program start. It means just limited network functions are enabled. This avoids the receiving of QSOs from other nodes and other log related operations before a contest file is open when for example a node has been taken into operation when a contest is already in progress, had to be restarted etc. The full network functionality is enabled by unchecking the "Network->Disable" menu item. Do it only when the contest is open on the local node and synchronization (see below) has been made. The contest file name must be the same on all nodes in order to avoid operators mistake and overwriting the contest QSO by other ones. The network is also automatically enabled when a node is logged on a band.
After opening of a contest a node can (but does not have to) be logged on (assigned to) one or more bands. The band(s) for a particular node can be entered by "Network->Own band". The network is then automatically enabled for this node. The skeds scheduled on other bands can be sent to this node (see below). The assignment of bands to nodes is displayed in the window "Nodes". Only one node can be defined for a specific band, but one node can serve for more bands. The assignment is valid till a new node is defined for the same band. For assigned nodes their IP addresses are displayed. The bands which are not assigned to a node are marked by 0.0.0.0. Automatic network search for on-line nodes is performed when the program is started or a new band is assigned. The same check is made always when the node list is refreshed by clicking the button "Network check"; an "A" (active) next to the IP address means an on-line node, an "O" (own) own band. The program automatically checks the network connections every 20 seconds and updates their status (network heartbeat).
A QSO made or changed on any node is sent automatically to all other nodes after pressing the RETURN key.
If a node is assigned to a band the skeds on this band sent from another node (band) are displayed in the "To Do" window. By double clicking on an item in the "To Do" list the QSO is copied into the current line in the log. The skeds which could not be made can be deleted from the "To Do" window by pressing DEL key.
For relaying information among the nodes (bands) a text message can be sent either to a specific node or to all nodes in the network by using ALT/L or by clicking into the input line of the window "Network Message". Only nodes assigned to a band can be chosen as a specific message target.
If any information on a node gets lost during the operation (for example computer crash, network connection interrupt, later connection to the network etc.) you can synchronize the local log with a log of another node using "Network->Band to synchronize". First the system time and zone setting is transferred. Then you can choose either the transfer of the complete log from the node or just the selected band. A message with the number of QSOs to transfer is issued at the transfer beginning and the message "Synchronization complete, nnn QSOs transferred" indicates the successful completion. Use the synchronization also when an inconsistence in QSO numbering on the network is detected. It’s very recommended to synchronize all nodes in the network before the contest in order to ensure the identical time setting. If any problem occurs during the synchronization, the synchronization is automatically interrupted after 5 seconds time out. The broken synchronization can be also reset by disabling and re-enabling the network ("Network->Disable").
If a new QSO is inserted/changed from a foreign node (i.e. which is not assigned to the relevant band) a confirmation is required, because it can cause double numbering on this band. The same confirmation is needed if a band is overtaken by another node.
When running more then one nodes on one band (for example a second search and pound working place in VHF contest) use the button "Book #" for requesting a contest number from a node which is assigned to the relevant band in order to avoid double QSO numbering. The number is booked with regard to the current state at the run station. If the operator entered a call and moved to the next input field, the QSO number will be blocked for this QSO and the other operator at search and pound station will get the next number.
12. Network – installation and configuration
The program VUSC for Windows utilizes the TCP/IP network protocol. You have to configure it before the operation. If there’s a DHCP server in the local network you don’t need to do any other configuration, just check the firewall setting (see below). If not, you have to set fix IP addresses for every node. Choose the network TCP/IP protocol configuration in "Start->Control Panel" and set the IP addresses, normally from the range 192.168.x.x, network mask 255.255.255.0 or from any other general recommended range for local networks. Do NOT use the automatically Windows set local IP addresses (usually from range 162.254.x.x, mask 255.255.0.0). In Windows XP you can take advantage of setting the fix IP address as the alternate TCP/IP setting. Check your setting by command ”ipconfig” in the command prompt window and also check the connection between the nodes with ping.
If you’re using firewall software on the individual nodes, make sure that the port # 5068 is enabled in both directions for VUSC and also broadcast packets are allowed. CAUTION! Some freeware firewalls (for example Sygate Personal Firewall) don’t support allowing broadcast packets for a single application. In this case it’s better to switch it off. If this is not possible for security reasons you can check the option "No broadcast" on ALL nodes and enter the IP addresses for individual bands manually in "Network->Setting". You can even use this method for connection of remote nodes in non-local networks (for example over the Internet), since the broadcast packets are limited to local network.
In the same configuration option you can also choose the appropriate network interface if there are more of them installed in your PC.
13. TRX control
VUSC supports control of certain TRX types over serial interface. Most of the ICOM types (with the CI-V protocol) and KENWOOD types are supported. Since every YAESU model has different control protocol, just FT1000MP and FT847 are currently supported.
First you have to connect the serial ports with the proper cable (the cable type can be different for various TRX types - straight or null modem, check the TRX manual) and set up serial connection and other parameters in the menu "TRX->Setting". Since the computer can be assigned to more bands and (especially on the microwave bands) the transverters are often used you have to set the band on which the TRX works and eventually the frequency offset. The computer must be also assigned to the same band on the network on which the TRX works to display the frequency and mode even if there are no other computers on the network. Then you can choose in the menu "TRX" the appropriate TRX type to activate the connection. After activating the operating frequency and mode are displayed in the window "Nodes" (this information is automatically sent to other nodes on the network). Also the current frequency is displayed in the "Band map" window. With a double click on a spot in the band map the TRX is tuned to the spot frequency and the callsign is copied into the log. If you want to change any setting and the TRX connection is active you have to close it first using "TRX->Close".
For ICOM TRX types the ICOM-address has to be maintained accordingly and you must ensure that the menu item 38 (CI-V Transceive) is set to OFF on the TRX side.
14. Packet radio
The packet radio operation is supported for modems of TNC standard (currently TNC5+) of for Internet servers using the telnet protocol. For the modem connection to the COM port, use the standard null-modem cable (see the modem documentation). The communication parameters (port, speed etc.) can be set in "CW/SSB/Packet->Setting". The communication with the modem works only in the terminal mode. It means that some settings (as for example channel select, own call, TX delay etc.) must be done manually after starting the program and modem. See the modem documentation for details. The speed, port and other parameters are also stored in the file vuscwin.cfg. To connect to a modem (or a telnet server) use the menu "Packet->Connect/Disconnect".
For telnet servers an IP address or server name and the port number can be set. The most used servers with their parameters can be found on the web page www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html. If the local network is active the computer with the packet connection can work as a packet server for those computers on the network on which the option "Packet Remote" has been chosen. Check the option "Packet->server" in the menu of the packet window. The packet server network address is also displayed in the network node window. The packet server IP address is stored also displayed in the window "Nodes". The current packet configuration is displayed in the title of the packet window.
For better overview the DX spots from the packet are gathered into the band map window. Four lists are maintained for 2m, 70cm, 23cm and microwave bands. You can choose them in the menu "Band". The new spots are displayed in blue, the spots with already made call signs in black. By checking the item "Band->Filter Made" these spots can be filtered out. For microwave bands a bit mask in hexadecimal format can be entered in the dialog “Options->VUSC”. The mask determines the relevant microwave bands of the current contest on which a QSO must be made for a spot to be considered as made. The bits correspond to the bands from the least relevant one. For example 68 mean 13cm, 6cm and 3cm bands. With the "Band->Wipe" the whole map for a band can be cleared. In the dialog "CW/SSB/Packet->Setting" time out can be set after which the items are deleted from the list.
15. Sound recording
If you experience troubles receiving a DX station it may be useful to record the signal for further examination. Choose the microphone as a signal source and disable the other ones (mute) in the recording sound mixer control. Double click on the little speaker on the Windows task bar to get the mixer control and go to the menu "Option->Properties->Recording" to get the recording controls. Use a shielded line to connect the TRX speaker with the microphone input on your PC.
The sound recorder controls are record, play, back and forward. You can choose either the button controls or shortcuts mentioned above. The usage is similar to a normal tape recorder. The sound files *.wav are stored in a subdirectory of the same name as the contest. Their name consists of time stamps of the record start and end, record hour and minute and the call sign. The hour, minute and call sign is taken at the end of the recording. Besides normal controls storing of a QSO with <Enter> ends up automatically the recording. The file size is about 1MB per minute. You should be careful when using the recorder in order not to fill your hard disk with the sound files. The files have the standard *.wav format and can be played by any player.
16. Rotator and band switch
The rotator control is possible over LPT, COM or USB port. For LPT and USB a simple hardware interface is needed. You’ll find the schema in the appendix below. The COM port control adheres to the Yaesu standard (for more information see the relevant Yaesu documentation). A feedback potentiometer (or another sensor device which delivers lineary proportional voltage from 0 to about 4.5V) as position indicator is a prerequisite for the interface to USB and LPT. The potentiometer value can be from 100 ohms to about 30 kohms. The higher feedback potentiometer value increases the risk of interference voltage being induced in the connection wires when transmitting. The output of the external sensor is to be connected to the point C (see the schema).
The interface has been designed with an 8-bit ADC which is sufficient precision for normal antennas. However, if LPT interface is used, the program is able to evaluate 9th bit on the ACK signal (pin 10). In this case you can replace the A/D converter for a type with more bits and achieve higher precision (for example for a dish antenna). The power supply for the feedback potentiometer can be from current or voltage regulator (see the schema below). Both options have pros and cons. The voltage regulator requires 3 wires to the potentiometer, but it does not need to be adjusted if its value changes (for instance when using another rotator) and power supplies for the interface and the motor can be completely separated for safety reasons. The current regulator needs only 2 wires, but it must be adjusted to a particular potentiometer value and the interface and motor must have at least common ground or a separate power supply of about 12V must be used only for the current regulator (see the schema).
When using USB port for the rotator control the programmed PIC circuit CY7C63001C-PXC (order Nr. CY7C63001PFW variant 1) is needed. It can be ordered together with the Windows driver MBUSB at the company AK MODUL-BUS GmbH on the web page http://www.ak-modul-bus.de for 15,- euros. Unfotunately the web page is only in German, but the ordering is simple. On the web page find the field Suchbegriffe and type CY7C63001C. You will see a couple of links, choose Mikrocontroller CY7C63001C-PXC mit Firmware. On the next page check under the title Bestellen if the order number is CY7C63001PFW and choose Port-Chip Variante 1 in the field below. Put the number of pieces into the field Anzahl and click on the button In den Warenkorb. This puts your order into the cart. Click then on the icon Cart in the upper right corner and you'll get to the check out page in English. Major credit cards as well as PayPal are accepted. Download also the last driver version under http://www.ak-modul-bus.de/cgi-bin/iboshop.cgi?show1200000510,254447591177330 or click on Downloads on the ordering page. Under the title Treiber für den Mikrocontroller CYC63001 mit der Firmware "Port-Chip Variante 1" oder "Port-Chip Variante 2" click on Details and click Download starten on the next page. The archive zip-file contains files MBUSBprt.sys and MBUSBprt.inf. Extract the files in a separate directory. Driver installation is performed automatically when the PIC gets connected to the PC for the first time. Windows will find a new hardware and ask for a driver. Enter the directory with the extracted files and finish the installation. The PIC behaves similarly as other USB devices (for instance flash memory). It can be connected and disconnected at any time while the PC is running.
Interface set up procedure:
1. Check (in case of current regulator or external sensor adjust) the voltage at the point C is between 4.0 and 4.5 V. The maximum voltage may not exceed 5V at any circumstances, because it can destroy the A/D converter.
2. Set the voltage at the point A (using the trimmer 680) to about 0.1V lower then the minimum voltage at the point C.
3. Set the voltage at the point B (using the trimmer 2k2) to the middle between the voltage at the point A and the point C.
4. Start the program and set the parallel ports for rotator and eventually band switch in the menu "Rotator/Band switch->Setting". The rotator requires a dedicated port. On the other hand the band switch port can be shared with CW/PTT keying. If the checkbox USB is checked the LPT port setting is not relevant and the connection is established automatically when the USB interface is connected.
5. Connect the interface to the port, in the menu "Rotator/Band switch->Rotator" activate rotator window, and turn the antenna to the most left position (counter clockwise). Check if the counter value displayed in the setting window (i.e. the voltage st the point C) is minimal, if not switch over the ground wire and the wire at the point C. Enter the beginning azimuth in the left field of "Range" and confirm with "Set".
6. Turn the rotator to the most right position (clockwise), check the whether the counter value is maximal, set the azimuth value in the right field of "Range" and confirm with "Set". The azimuth values must be positive and the end value must be higher the beginning value. For example if the beginning value is 60 degrees and the rotator turns over 380 degrees the end azimuth value will be 60+380=440 degrees.
8. Close the window.
After calibration setup the software terminal switches are automatically set to the beginning and end azimuth values. If you have hardware terminal switches in your rotator make sure that their beginning and ending positions comply with the minimum and maximum voltage on the feedback potentiometer respectively.
If you just need to rectify the antenna direction on the already calibrated interface you don't need to repeat the calibration. Aim the antenna to the known azimuth (for instance a beacon), enter its azimuth in the field "Rectification" and click "Set".
CAUTION! After booting the computer the parallel port LPT may be in an undefined state. Switch on the motor power supply after the activation of the rotator window to avoid unwanted switching on of the motor. Also, when ending the program switch off the motor power supply before rotator control deactivation.
Rotor control keys:
CTRL/< - turn left
CTRL/> - turn right
CTRL/space - stop
CTRL/? – turn to the azimuth of the current QSO (if valid)
The band switch works on the chosen LPT port. The band is hexadecimal coded on the upper four data pins (6-9). The switching is accomplished either manually in the menu “Rotator/Band switch” or automatically with the band change if you check "Band auto" in the same menu.
17. Appendix - schemes and pin-outs of the interfaces
Use only shielded cables for all connections between the computer and TRX. The shield should be connected to the signal ground (GND). The 100 Ohm resistor in the collector of the keying transistor is only for the protection. It can be leaved out if necessary.
The default paddle pin out is compatible with the program N6TR.