[Dxbase] Control by FT-2000

Fri Oct 31 15:55:14 EST 2008

Since my logging program, DXbase, doesn't poll my FT-2000D, I haven't been
able to control the SteppIR with the radio since I sold my PRO3. (The PRO3
can be used to control a SteppIR without running a logging program.)
I finally ordered and today received the SteppIR Y-cable for use with a
logging program so I could experiment with different programs.
As expected, the radio controls the antenna fine if I am using the contest
logging program N1MM Logger, which polls the radio. As a workaround for
DXbase, I decided to use the free FT-2000 rig control program from the Yaesu
web site and set the radio option in DXbase to no radio connected.
Now I have to manually log the frequency and mode in DXbase, but the antenna
follows the radio. I don't even have to look at the Yaesu control program,
which is called PCI-2000, as long I am controlling the radio by the front
panel. For a contest using N1MM, there's no problem.
The same approach would work if another logging program that polls the radio
is running in the background is used instead of the Yaesu rig control
program. The solution would be for Jack to add polling to the DXbase radio
setup options, even if DXbase doesn't use the frequency/mode (for a band
map, for instance).
Maybe the same approach would work with other radios. It's free, though not
perfect.
Jim N7US