Change In Software Design Will Affect Some SCS Modem Users

This does NOT affect users of Airmail user software. It also does not affect RMS Packet or RMS Pactor gateway software (our RMS station operators).

In all Winlink-produced client programs (Paclink and RMS Express) that support both WINMOR and Pactor 3, radio control shall connect direct from the computer to the radio. Radio control THROUGH the SCS modem will no longer be supported.

Why is this being done? Most importantly, one cannot control the radio when using WINMOR and other possible future protocols if the radio control is connected through an SCS modem. Thus, for multi-mode operations and future development, the option is being eliminated.

What do you do if you now control your radio through the SCS via a control cable from the modem to the radio? Currently, there is a provision for direct connect, which will require either another USB port, or USB-to-serial interface, depending on the radio used.

1. Here is my choice for a USB-to-serial adaptor for radios requiring a serial
interface:

TRENDnet USB-to-Serial Adaptor at about $17.00
http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=1131250

2. Here are two options from about $4.00 to $22.00 for those who must convert from RS-232 serial to a CI-V (TTL) interface:

http://valley-ent.com/catalog/advanced_search_result.php?search_in_descr...

http://cgi.ebay.com/USB-Programming-CI-V-interface-cable-for-ICOM-Radio-...

If not all of the above text shows up as a hyperlink, then cut and paste until it does.

Thanks much,

Steve, k4cjx, aaa9ac
For the Winlink development team