Hello I have a Kenwood TS-600 6M multi mode I am trying to get hooked up for WSJT6 software to operate some meteor scatter, I have made a common rig to computer sound card interface using both optocouplers and a 2N3904 to control the PTT line. Both circuits seems to be functioning in a hole except it will not key up the TS600, If I check for continuity across the two points where the ptt line connects to the rig with the mic plug out and select Transmit from the software I get 0 ohms or full continuity, when I release the transmit option for the software it returns to an open state, now when I connect the mike jack back up to the rig, (and yes it is wired correctly, will explain how I know this later on...) the same connection point goes dead no continuity upon pressing the transmit software button.
Now I even tried using the 3904 to control a 5 volt dc relay powered by a weak 9 volt battery, ( was only looking to see if it would work before getting to serious with voltages...) and it did indeed energize the relay and also keyed the rig, but when I release the PTT software button the rig and relay stays in an energized state.
How can I get this to work properly, I am really getting truly frustrated, and would be very grateful for any help you may have to offer.
My interface started out exactly like the one at the Buxcomm.com website using the optocoupler to isolate the rig from the PC, and then tried it with the 2N3904 as suggested on another site. Now I know my connections at the mike plug are correct for 2 reasons, A- I have the manual and wired it up according to instructions in there, B- I was able to jumper across the two wires that the PTT lines connect to and the rig did indeed go into transmit mode.
Again I am truly frustrated and looking for any assistance I can get on this matter...
I can provide any information that maybe required to make a serious reply possible, just feel free to ask away...
Regards,
Marc Tessier - VE3TES
I am pulling my hair out on this one Please help !!!
A ground is not always a ground...
Some manufacturers use TWO grounds on their mic plugs, one for PTT and one for the ground side of the mic. Are you sure you have the correct ground going to your control unit? The two grounds are not common on some rigs.
Also, is your circuit presenting any voltage to the rig? If yes, when you key your controller, what happens to that voltage? If it stay up, there could be a polarity problem.
Good luck,
AL
Also, is your circuit presenting any voltage to the rig? If yes, when you key your controller, what happens to that voltage? If it stay up, there could be a polarity problem.
Good luck,
AL