Latest Project:

I have been busy the past few days, adding a Piexx IF-10C(PX) $89 computer interface board to the TS-140, and setting up HRD (Ham Radio Deluxe] software. Piexx makes a number of boards/chip sets for connecting various radios. They also make Digital Voice Recorders, Iambic Keyers, Voice Synthesizers, Level Converters, Serial Adapters, Radio Upgrades and Tone encoders to replace optional boards no longer available from radio manufacturers. Check out their site, linked above. I now have everything configured interface and software-wise, and the system is working well. I am very pleased with the quality of the IF10C(PX).

Piexx IF-10C(PX) installed in TS-140S. Installaton: 1) Remove Covers 2) Screw IF-10C(PX) to space provided for original IF-10C on top board. Board is designed to screw right in. 3) Connect cables (2/3 of the way across the board from the left) to provided connectors. 4) Route ribbon cable from IF-10C(PX) through slot provided in radio next to antenna connector. 4) Button 'er up!

 

The Piexx IF-10C(PX) is a replacement for the original Kenwood IF-10C Interface (no longer available) with one major difference - it outputs directly to RS-232, resulting in the radio no longer needing the TTL-RS-232 external converter. It is a perfect fit for the space formerly reserved in a TS-140S transceiver for the original IF-10C, and is a ten minute project to install.

I connect my IF-10C(PX) to the computer using a serial to USB converter purchased for $4 on eBay, as I had no free serial ports, and it works extremely well. If you do the same, you will need to know what Com port your computer installs this device on. Go to Control Panel\System\Hardware\Device Manager\Ports\and click on USB-Serial (Comx). Mine originally set up on Com6 - I changed that to Com8, as I was getting some device conflicts. Change by going to USB Serial as above, then Port Settings, then on Advanced. You can then select which port you wish to operate the device on. Keep track of the port you set, and use this figure when you set up software.

Even simpler, if you do have a free serial port on your computer, use that one - it will most likely be Com1 or Com2, and of course then, a serial to USB converter isn't needed..

Ham Radio Deluxe TS-140S Control Screen Showing DX Cluster Info at Bottom

Click on the Dx spot, and the radio will change to that frequency. Of course, the frequency of the radio and mode can be changed either by using the user interface, or by the controls on the radio. Changes to the radio will reflect in the user interface display. The operation of this system is really slick, and gives a new dimension to operating what is now an older radio.