QSK USKI-5 Instructions Manual

Universal sequencer and keying interface

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QSK, llc
USKI-5
Universal Sequencer and Keying Interface
Rev. D

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Summary of Contents for QSK USKI-5

  • Page 1 QSK, llc USKI-5 Universal Sequencer and Keying Interface Rev. D...
  • Page 2 USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface FEATURES  Ideal switching interface between transceivers, power amplifiers, tower mounted amplifiers, and other accessories  Fully programmable via USB interface  Highly versatile, virtually any sequencing scheme possible  Multi-sequence capability for different operating modes (i.e., CW or Phone, etc.) ...
  • Page 3 Since the USKI-5 is microcontroller based, it can be programmed for virtually any conceivable order of events. Each output can be programmed for normally open or inverted (normally closed) operation.
  • Page 4 Modern transceivers are generally capable of good semi or full break in performance when operated alone (“barefoot”). Some external power amplifiers also have provisions for QSK operation. Amplifiers that do not should have their keying sequenced with that of the transmitter.
  • Page 5  USKI-5 Program (A) is ideal for sequencing of all devices in the transmit/receive system including TMA, transverter, power amplifier, etc. All keying functions (CW, PTT, etc.) must be connected to inputs of the sequencer which then controls switching of each device (see USKI-5 Program (D) for PTT operation only).
  • Page 6 USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface (PTT, VOX, or use of internal CW keyer) must be prevented since there would be no way for the sequencer to properly coordinate switching of the system components. Transmitter external amplifier control output is however monitored in case of accidental activation of the transmitter directly.
  • Page 7 USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface  USKI-5 Program (B) has all the features of Program (A) but in addition has two separate timing sequences, one for CW and one for PTT operation. Each can be programmed with different delays if necessary.
  • Page 8: Timing Considerations

    FIGURE 4  USKI-5 PROGRAM (D) is similar to Program (A) and applies to stations configured as shown in Figure 2 but has no provision for CW break-in operation. In some applications the required sequencing delays are of sufficient length that CW break-in operation at any reasonable speed is not possible.
  • Page 9 START and END delays must be less than 24 ms. USKI-5 PREPARATION FOR USE The USKI-5 is shipped without the output relays installed. Remove the four #1 Pozidriv screws (a number #1 Phillips driver can be used with care) from either the front or rear panel and slide out the circuit board.
  • Page 10 Type to PICAXE-14M2. Under “COM port”, click on “Refresh COM ports”. In the dropdown window, the COM port for the USKI-5 should be listed as a “COM# USB Serial Port”. Note all the COM port numbers listed. If the one for the USKI-5 is not known, unplug the USKI-5 USB References in this document are for the Windows version of the PICAXE©...
  • Page 11 COM ports again. Note the listed COM ports again. The one missing is that of the USKI-5. Again, plug in the USKI-5 USB cable and refresh one more time. Select the one for the USKI-5. Then click on “Check PICAXE type connected”. If successful, a window will appear indicating that “Firmware Check Successful”.
  • Page 12 USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface It is also necessary to change the states for inverted outputs within all the “start” and “end” routines of the program. Depending on the program they may include “cwstart”, “cwend”, “pttstart”, “pttend”, “txstart”, or “txstend” routines. For any inverted channel, change “high” to “low”...
  • Page 13: Warranty

    CONNECTIONS TO THE USKI-5 SEQUENCER The outputs of the USKI-5 sequencer are non-polarized and completely isolated so each can be used without regard to ground or the polarity of the device being switched. Output connections are simply made via the screw clamp terminals of the one piece output connector plug to the appropriate channels as indicated on the sequencer’s rear panel.
  • Page 14 USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface By installing and using the USKI-5 Universal Sequencer and Keying Interface, you agree to accept all responsibility for any resulting damage, injury, or related consequences. The only warranty provided is for refund of your purchase price or replacement of a defective unit during the first year after purchase.
  • Page 15: Timing Examples

    USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface TIMING EXAMPLES Several examples of typical timing delays for USKI-5 Program (A), (B), and (C) are presented in this section. These are only examples and actual timing required may be different depending on the specific devices or station configuration.
  • Page 16 DELAY, ms USKI-5 Program (C) Program (C) is primarily intended for use with the CW mode, particularly QSK operation. Since transmitter PTT is not connected to the sequencer, this allows for up to five other external devices to be controlled. This example is for a station with separate transmitter, receiver, VFO, amplifier, and T/R switch.
  • Page 17 VFO. If the VFO turns off its RF output quickly, the RX mute end delay can be set to zero. If not, and sometimes for cleaner sounding QSK operation, sometimes a few ms delay in the RX mute end delay may be necessary.
  • Page 18: Programmer's Notes

    USKI-5 Universal Sequencer & Keying Interface PROGRAMMER’S NOTES The following information is provided for anyone who wishes to write their own programs. Pin designations apply to the PICAXE® type 14M2 microcontroller which is used in the USKI-5. INPUTS: JACK CONNECTION...

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