Version 6.30
OK1DIX (c) 2011
1. VUSC -
VHF/UHF/SHF/Contest
The program was developed for VHF/UHF contests. Operator experiences of contest stations
OK1KRA and OK2KKW have been used at its development. Of course any ideas to improve it are
very welcome. Currently there are English, Czech and German program versions.
2. Technical prerequisites
The program is designed for using on the PC with operating system Windows
98SE/Me/2000/XP/Vista. Program was not tested under Windows 95 or NT.
Hardware requirements:
· processor: at least PII at 200 MHz
· RAM: at least 64 MB
· free space on hard disk: about 5 MB, depending on the database size
· ports (optional): serial RS-232C (COM) (CW keying, elbug paddle, rotator control),
parallel Centronics (LPT)(CW keying, elbug paddle, rotator control), USB (rotator control)
· sound card (optional)
· network card (optional)
The requirements on RAM size may vary depending on the database sizes and number of QSOs
in a contest.
Software:
· Windows 2000/XP/Me/98SE/Vista
· DirectX 9.0c or higher
· DLportIO Driver (only when using parallel port LPT for keying/paddle or rotator and
band switch control)
· MBUSB Driver (only when using USB port for rotator control)
3. Installation
Its very likely, that DirectX is already installed in your PC. You can check it by
running the program dxdiag.exe, usually located in C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32 or
C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32. If theres no DirectX or a version older then 9.0c download it
from http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=9226A611-62FE-4F61-ABA1-914185249413&displaylang=en
or http://www.soft32.com (search for the DirectX
Redistributable) and follow the instruction for installation.
In case of new installation create then a new separate directory (the entire path must NOT
contain any spaces, dots or hyphens) and unpack the vusc.zip archive there. Also unzip the
archive databases.zip in the subdirectory data and copy all files from this
subdirectory into the program directory (one level up). If you're doing just the upgrade
to a higher VUSC version do _NOT_ copy them, because your private databases would be
destroyed. The best way to perform an upgrade is to get the special upgrade zip-file
vusc_<version number>_en.zip and copy all files except vuscwin.cfg into the existing
directory. The file vuscwin.cfg should be copied only if you have problems with your own
configuration file after the upgrade. In this case you have to renew your individual
setting, though. If you intend to use LPT port for CW keying, band switch or rotator
control, install the DLportIO driver by running Install.exe in the subdirectory
DriverLINX\install. If you want to use the rotator control over USB install the driver
MBUSB (see below the chapter 16 on the rotator usage).
As the setting of suitable fonts and window layout may be difficult for an inexperienced
user, four sample configuration files (vuscwin1024.cfg, vuscwin1280.cfg, vuscwin1400.cfg,
vuscwin1600.cfg) are supplied with the program for various display resolutions. For a new
installation copy the one suitable for your display resolution under the name vuscwin.cfg
and use it as a start point for your own configuration. You can also change the windows
configuration for a different resolution dynamically by choosing Options->Resolution.
The windows layout and fonts are changed as set in the relevant configuration file
(vuscwin1024.cfg, vuscwin1280.cfg, vuscwin1400.cfg, vuscwin1600.cfg). The other settings
remain unchanged, though. Options->Resolution->User sets the windows layout and
fonts as currently set in the file wuscwin.cfg. You can use to renew the right layout in
case a window "disapears" or other problems with the windows layout. The program
also creates the configurations file quickstart.cfg used to completely restore the current
configuration during the contest. It's read if you choose the quick restart when the VUSC
starts.
Recently a problem with the driver DLportIO.SYS cropped up after the installation of some
Windows system updates. For an unclear reason the update installation program changes the
registry database entry for the DLportIO driver which causes driver load failure at VUSC
start. The remedy is as follows:
Go to Start->Run type into the box regedit. Go to then to the folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\dlportio
Open it with double click and change the value of the key Start to 2 (the original
value is usually 3). Check also if the file DLPortIO.SYS is in the directory under the key
ImagePath (usually C:\Windows\drivers). Close the regedit and restart your
PC. If the problem persists try to change the key value to 1 and reinstall the driver.
CAUTION! Make sure that youre really changing just the key Start as
described above. Some changes in the registry database may corrupt your Windows system. If
you dont feel sure about this ask someone experienced for help.
4. List of files
The complete installation contains following file:
· VUSC.EXE - contest program
· TR.EXE - utility to process database files
· USORT.EXE - sort utility
· DBASE.BAT - batch file for the database update
· VUS_BASE.ASC - ASCII file containing the database records sorted by stations
· VUS_BASE.DAT - working database binary file sorted by stations
· QSL_BASE.ASC - QSL database ASCII file
· CONTLIST.TXT
list of evaluated contests
· QSLTEM.HDR - QSL label form
· VUS.HDR - log header form for contests evaluated by distances
· VUS2.HDR - log header form for contests evaluated by locators/multipliers
· VUS3.HDR - log header form for Nordic Activity Contest
· VUSC_EN.HTM - English documentation in HTML format
· SCHEMA_EN.JPG - scheme of CW keying and rotator interfaces
· VUSCWIN.CFG - file containing CW memories, port settings and other technical
parameters, window layout, font setting etc. There are also configuration file templates
for various display resolution vuscwin1024.cfg, vuscwin1280.cfg, vuscwin1600.cfg to make
setting easier.
· QUICKSTART.CFG
- a file similar to VUSCWIN.CFG used for the quick restart.
· QSL_BASE.ASC QSL database file
· Drivers DLPortIO and/or MBUSB - optionally installed if LPT and/or USB should be user
for rotator, band switch or CW keying
Following files are created while working with the program:
· #######.DIX - contest file
· #######.BIN - work file
· #######_$$$.LOG - log file from one band
· #######_$$$.EDI - contest log file from one band in EDI format.
· #######_$$$.LDB - sorted list of calls with their locators.
· #######_$$$.SUM - summary sheet of one band (calls with their contest numbers).
· #######_$$$.QSL - file to print on QSL labels
· #######_$$$.ADI - file in ADIF format for upload to http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard/
· OWNH.HDR - stored individual data of the log header sheet
· QSL_BASE.DAT - QSL binary work file
· Subdirectory ####### for storing of sound files and work file backups
####### - stands for the name of the contest
$$$ - three characters band code
144 - 144 MHz
432 - 432 MHz
129 - 1296 MHz
232 - 2320 MHz
340 - 3400 MHz
565 - 5.6 GHz
10G - 10 GHz
24G - 24 GHz
47G - 47 GHz
76G - 76 GHz
120G - 120 GHz
144G - 144 GHz
248G - 248 GHz
5. Program start
Before the start you should check the right local time and time zone setting in Windows.
Its not necessary to set UTC time on your computer provided the system time and the
local time zone settings are correct. The program allows later time correction, but you
avoid troubles if you don't start it with wrong time setting.
The system variable PATH must contain the symbol for the current directory ".".
Check it in the system setting Start->Settings->Control
Panel->System->Advanced->System variables and set it if necessary.
Start the program by double clicking on VUSC.EXE file or create a shortcut on the desktop.
If you work in the network its absolutely necessary to synchronize time on all
computers after the program start, before the contest operation begins. Choose one
computer with the right time and zone setting, open a contest, log it on the relevant
band(s) and use the menu Network->Band to synchronize on other computers to
synchronize the clock and time zone (see the chapter on the Network operation for
details). Not adhering to this may cause data lost or damage.
The program is designed for minimal display resolution 1024x768 pixel. Optimal resolution
is 1280x1024 or higher. You can change the size, layout and fonts
("Options->Font") of all windows to match them to your display and individual
needs. If you terminate the program with Contest->Exit the current setting
is automatically saved in the file vuscwin.cfg for the next start. The configuration can
be stored also explicitly by using Contest->Save config. If this file does
not exist default values are used at the program start.
In rare cases the
program may crash after the start. A bug in the sound card driver was indentified as a
most common reason. The driver crashes when a DirectX function is called. In such a case
start the program from a command line "Start->Run" with the
argument nosnd:
vusc.exe nosnd
It switches off
the sound card entirely. Of course the funtionality depending on it can't be used (SSB CQ
call, CW monitor and audio recording). On the other hand the CW keying works OK without
the sound card.
6. Contest operation
The program VUSC has primarily been designed for on-line usage by the operator in the
contest. To open a new contest, choose the menu item Contest->New and enter
the contest name, evaluation style, own locator and call sign. If you use the style
Locators with/without Multipliers you can supply your own file with the point
pattern for a specific contest. Take a look at the default file QRBPAT.DAT for an example.
You can also open an existing contest file with Contest->Open. Following
file formats can be read: VUSC specific format (extension ".dix"), EDI format
(".edi") or a crash recovery file (".bin"). QSOs from a text file
("*.txt") can be added to an open contest (menu "Contest->Add").
The text line format must look as follows:
<YYMMDD> <HHMM> <Call> <RST> <QSO number> <Received
code> <Locator>
Field delimiters are any number of spaces and/or tabelators.
The old *.DIX
files from the DOS VUSC version higher then 4.03 can be opened, but they are automatically
converted to the new Windows format when saved and can not be used by the DOS version any
more.
At the program start you can choose the option "Quick restart". In this case the
last contest is opened, all network connections and other settings are renewed including
displayed bands, network messages and todo list. Also synchronization can be made from the
relevant bands (details see the chapter on the network operation). The contest data are
secured, so they dont get lost even if the program and/or computer crash for any
reason. Only the last QSO currently being entered may be lost. In such case after the
program restart look for the file with the relevant contest name and extension
.bin in the file open dialog and open it. When opening a ".dix" file
and a ".bin" file with the same name exists in he current directory (i.e. the
program was not correctly closed) a warning message is issued and you can choose if you
want to read the original file or the crash recovery copy. This also applies in case of
quick restart. In addition you can write backup copies at any time during the contest by
using "Save as" menu item. Its also possible to merge another file to an
open contest by using "Contest->Add".
The log has a classic form. It means that the QSOs are entered as they have been made in
time and all fields (including QSO number) can be changed at any time also in previous
records (the same approach as in the CT contest log from K1EA). Only be careful when
manipulating QSO numbers because the other stations have them already in the log. Also
avoid putting higher QSO number before the lower one or entering two or more QSOs with the
same number.
Normally you move over the input fields using SPACE or TAB key. For changing of other
fields, click on them with mouse. Another option is to invoke a special typeahead window
("Options->Typeahead"). The items can be typed there in any order and entered
with the key RETURN similarly as for instance in the program TACLOG. The program
automatically distinguishes the data type, which is also indicated in the lower part of
the window. If the automatically determined type does not fit it can be changed by using
the SPACE key.
After bad experiences with too restrictive input data checks, the program allows to enter
double and/or incomplete QSOs. All data can be changed at any time and all changes are
immediately reflected in the whole log also on other computers in the network if it's
used.
The current UTC time is automatically supplied, when not entered manually. If you
work in the network the clock must be synchronized (see above the previous chapter). Its
absolutely necessary to synchronize time on all computers after the program start, before
the contest operation begins. Otherwise the data may be lost or damaged!
For a quick filtering of calls when checking an incomplete call/locator received you can
use meta characters "*" and ".". The "*" matches a string of
any characters, the "." matches just one character. To make the usage of meta
characters clear look at the following examples:
If a string like DL.KN is entered, all call signs of set DL1KN, DL2KN ... DL0KN with their
locators and bands are displayed in the window "Current contest check".
Similarly if you enter *KN all call signs ending with KN are displayed. The same rules
apply for locators.
For faster data entering it is possible to omit the call sign prefix and report 59(9).
Also the first two letters of a locator (if omitted) are automatically added for the area
of one big WW locator around your own QTH. The boundaries for this area can be changed in
the setting Options->VUSC North-South default border and
East-West default border as well as the default call sign prefix.
The program also checks the database of call signs and locators from previous contests.
The search results are displayed in the window Database check. For the locator
check (F9) the call sign must be completely entered except for /P, /A and similar
extensions. A list of all locators from the previous contests for this call sign is
displayed. For the call sign check (F10) the locator must be entered completely. The first
number at the displayed records means the number of occurrences of the combination
call/locator in previous contests, the second number is the azimuth from the current QTH
as soon as it is known after opening of an existing contest or creating a new one. The
function super check (F11) searches for records containing partials of call
signs and locators. Apparently wrong database records (for instance if a locator differs
only in one letter against the currently received locator) can be removed from the
database by clicking on it and deleting with DEL key or by choosing "Delete"
from the menu. The records are permanently deleted from the database only if you respond
Yes to the question "Do you want to permanently remove deleted records
from the database?" when ending the program.
When entering a call sign a database check is automatically performed. You can set which
kind of check is performed by default by using "Options->VUSC->Default database
check". Normally you should use "Super Check". However, on less performing
machines you may experience some delay when entering the call sign and/or locator
especially with a large database. In this case set the default option to "Call
Check".
Theres also an option to backup work file during the contest in case it gets damaged
for any reason. The number of backup copies and thier frequency can be set in
"Options->VUSC". The copies are stored in the directory of the same name as
the contest.
For general overview different types of statistics including the direction map can be
selected in the menu in the window "Statistic".
To enter and edit the QSO records use following keys:
Arrows UP, DOWN - move over the records.
Arrows LEFT, RIGHT - move inside of one field.
SPACE - move to the next field right
TAB - move to the next field left
Home - move cursor to the begin of a field
End - move cursor to the end of a field
Page Up - list of one page up
Page Dn - list of one page down
INS - toggle insert/overwrite mode
CTRL/Page Up - jump to the begin of the log
CTRL/Page Dn - jump to the end of the log
Delete - delete character under the cursor
Backspace - delete character left from the cursor
CTRL/W, F12 - wipe out a not finished QSO
CTRL/N enter remark to a QSO
Return, Enter Save a new QSO or confirmation of changes of an existing QSO, without
the confirmation no change is made and the old data are renewed.
CTRL/Return - same as Return, but in addition a window for entering the band and frequency
for a sked appears and a message is sent to another node in the network according to the
chosen band.
Right click on a QSO Context menu with the most frequent QSO operations
Function keys:
F1-F8 CW/SSB memories (see below)
ALT/F1-F8 CW/SSB
memories with repeating (see below)
F9 - locators database check for a call
F10 - calls database check for a locator
F11 - super check partials of calls and locators
F12 wipe out current line
General control keys:
ALT/M mode change CW/SSB
ALT/X - program exit with saving of the contest file and configuration changes (file
vuscwin.cfg).
ALT/Q - quit the program without saving any file. All data entered/changed since the
program start is lost. Only a copy of the work file (*.bin) is saved in the
directory of the same name as the contest for security reasons.
ALT/L switch to the message window in network mode (see below)
ALT/R log recalculation
ALT/F find a call
ALT/O open a contest
ALT/S send sked menu
ALT/T - Time shift and/or system time set up. It serves for correction if time was wrong
set at the contest start.
ALT/U - band up
ALT/D - band down
ALT/E - start QSO edit menu, also the right mouse click on a line
ALT/H - help
ALT/W CW/SSB/Packet Setting menu
ALT/N send CW from keyboard
ALT/- - CW speed down
ALT/= - CW speed up
ALT/B band selective display
ALT/G create log
ALT/V - Statistics window
ALT/C - Packet window
ALT/A - Database window
ALT/J - To do window
ALT/Z - Band map window
ESC - return to the main window
Sound recording control:
CTRL/R record
CTRL/S stop record/playback
CTRL/P pause record/playback
CTRL/B back (playback)
CTRL/E forward (playback)
Rotator control:
CTRL/< - turn left
CTRL/> - turn right
CTRL/space - stop
CTRL/? turn to the azimuth of the current QSO (if valid)
7. Contest evaluation
If the network was not used during the contest the logs from diverse bands can be merged
into one file with the Contest->Add function. The separate evaluation band
by band is possible, too. You start the evaluation of the relevant band from the menu
option Create Log. In the following dialog choose the band and fill out the
header page. All entries for every band are stored in the file OWNH.BIN, so you don't need
to repeat the constant data as first operator's name, QTH etc. By editing of files VUS.HDR
(evaluation by distances), VUS2.HDR(evaluation by locator and multipliers),
VUS3.HDR(Nordic activity contest) and QSLTEM.HDR you can change the format of header page
and QSL label. In the file QSLTEM.HDR the strings in the format @@@@# are placeholders for
the QSO data. You can change their order and/or layout on the QSL label or they can be
omitted as well. On the other hand the item length can not be changed except of the
contest name. The numbers denote the QSO items as follows:
1 - contest name
2 - own call sign
3 - own locator
4 - call
5 date
6 - time
7 band
8 - own RS(T) and contest number
9 mode
10 power
11 - antenna
In the files VUS.HDR, VUS2.HDR and VUS3.HDR it is only possible to change their layout.
The strings @@@@@ are used as placeholders for the variable header page data.
The following files are created after the evaluation for every band:
· contest log from the appropriate band to print, extension *.log
· sorted list of calls with their contest numbers, extension *.sum
· contest log in the EDI format , extension *.edi
· sorted list of calls with their locators, extension *.ldb
· file with the QSL labels to print, extension *.qsl
· QSL file in the ADIF format to upload to the e-QSL web page http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard, extension *.adi
The first two files are to be printed; the third EDI-file is for the electronic data
exchange (e-mail, floppy disc, web interface etc.). Fourth file contains data for the
update of databases (see below). Last two files deal with QSL. The first one contains
labels for QSL to print, the other one is for the electronic QSL exchange via http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard or similar servers. The
program does not print the files directly, due to the very wide spectrum of printer types
with various control character sets. The files contain only the ASCII data in pages
separated by FF. For printing it is recommended to load the file into any word
processor/editor (for example MS-Word) and format the output according to your needs. In
the worst case the files can be printed using the command in the command prompt window:
print /D:<printer name> filename
The files are formatted 38 row and 76 columns by default. Do not forget to sign the
statement on the header page when sending the paper log.
8. Database maintenance
As mentioned before the program can utilize a database of calls and locators. Users can
build up their own databases from the previous contests. A sample database is provided
with the program. For a routine database update after the contest reply "Yes" to
the question "Do you want to update the database?" at the end of the evaluation
run. The database records previously marked for deletion are permanently removed from the
database, too. Every time a new contest is evaluated the occurrence counters of the
combinations call/locator are updated as well. The contest name is entered in the file
CONLIST.TXT to avoid double processing of the same contest.
The primary database file is VUS_BASE.ASC. A work file VUS_BASE.DAT is created when
working with the database under certain circumstances, but it does not have any other
meaning. The file VUS_BASE.ASC can be edited with any text editor (Notepad, WordPad, etc.)
for error corrections (deletion of cancelled prefixes, typo errors etc). The file
CONLIST.TXT can be edited as well for eventual reprocessing of a contest. If the database
was not updated automatically during the contest evaluation, following command can be used
in the Windows command prompt window. The command is to be started always from the
directory where the database file reside.
dbase.bat #######.ldb
#######.ldb is the sorted file with the calls and locators created during the evaluation.
New calls and locators are inserted into the database and the original database file is
copied to the backup file VUS_BASE.OLD. In case of any problems with the new database you
can use this backup file for restoring of the original database. To do this you have to
rename this file back to VUS_BASE.ASC. After manual editing of the database file it's a
good practise to call the command file dbase.bat without parameters to ensure proper
sorting and file consistence.
Tip: This commad can be used also for the import of calls and locators from other sources.
It must be in the ASCII file format with rows as follows:
<call><delimiter><locator><delimiter><any contents>
Any number of spaces and/or tabelators can be used as a delimiter .
The procedure of the database maintenance changed significantly in comparison to the
previous versions. The files LOC_BASE.DAT and LOC_BASE.ASC are not used anymore and can be
deleted if you have them in your installation.
9. QSL maintenance
The evaluation program supports also printing of QSL and a small database of the QSO for
which the QSL has been sent. There are several processing options:
No QSL no QSL are created.
All QSL - QSL for all QSOs of a band are created.
New QSL - only QSL for the new QSOs (which are not in the database yet) are created.
Update QSL Database if checked, the QSOs are written into the QSL database.
A QSO is considered to be new if the call sign is new and/or the band and/or the locator.
Database ASCII file (QSL_BASE.ASC) is sorted by the call signs and bands and it can be
edited by any text editor (Notepad, WordPad) in order to correct mistakes. If you insert a
line you have to regard the right sorting. Unlike the locator database this one is updated
automatically during the program run. The file QSL_BASE.DAT is only a work file without
any other meaning. As mentioned above a file with the extension *.adi to upload to http://www.eqsl.cc/qslcard.
10. CW/SSB control
The program VUSC supports direct CW keying and elbug paddle connected to the serial or
parallel port. The circuits and the default pin-out are described in the appendix below.
The pin-out can be changed in "CW/SSB/Packet->Setting". Note that in case of
paddle connected to the serial port there is no galvanic connection between the cable
shielding (i.e. also paddle body) and the PC ground. Therefore you should avoid direct
contact to the TRX or PC ground. There are 8 CW memories, which can be programmed and used
for the automatic keying. They memory contents can be maintained with
"CW/SSB/Packet->Program CW". They are also stored in the configuration file
vuscwin.cfg, so they are permanently available. The following symbol variables can be used
for the CW memory programming.
$O - own call sign
$C call sign of the current QSO
$L - own locator
$R - report of the current QSO
$Q - report with short nines
$N - contest number of the current QSO
$M - contest number with short zeros
$<1-8> memory content under the keys F1-F8
When programming the CW memories you have to pay attention not to create a loop by putting
a memory symbol ($number) into the same memory or even indirectly through another memory.
The program would work, but after stack exhausting the keying would be automatically
stopped. For every memory a button label can be also defined to identify the assigned
memories.
The speed can be changed from 5 WPM to 45 PARIS by using the slide bar in the "CW/SSB
control" window or shortcuts. The keying can be done either directly from the
keyboard in the window "CW/SSB control" or with the paddle. You can insert all
symbol variables as well. Sending can be always interrupted by hitting ESC, by touching
the paddle or clicking on the button "Stop" in the "CW/SSB control"
window. The CW keying is possible only in the CW mode. The following shortcuts can be
used:
F1-F8 - memory send
ALT/F1-F8 send
CW/SSB memory with repeating
ALT/= - increase the speed by 1 WPM
ALT/- - decrease the speed by 1 WPM
ESC interrupt and return to the main window
ALT/N direct CW input from the keyboard
If a sound card is installed in your PC and operational under Windows it can be used for
the TRX SSB modulation, especially for CQs. Since the program VUSC does not support
on-line recording yet, you have to prepare the WAV files by using the Sound Recorder in
Windows or similar program.
There are 8 memories for SSB WAV file names controlled by F1-F8 keys in SSB mode. They can
be programmed in the dialog "CW/SSB/Packet->Program SSB".
The memory can be
sent also in the repeat and pause mode. Set the parameters in the "CW/SSB
Control" window, choose the memory to repeat and click "Start". Clicking
the button "Stop" , hitting ESC or touching the paddle terminates the cycling.
The shortcut keys <ALT>/F1-F8 play the relevant memory with repeating using the
current parameters.
The headphone output of the sound card is the best choice for the TRX modulation. Some
computers have also the volume control of this output, which can be used for the optimal
modulation level setting. Otherwise you have to use a resistor trimmer. Of course a
shielded cable is necessary for the connection between the computer and the TRX.
11. Network operation
The network enables the communication of connected computers, sending of QSOs, skeds,
synchronization, sending of messages among them, packet sharing etc. A connected computer
is called a network node.
The network is in disabled state after the program start. It means just
limited network functions are enabled. This avoids the receiving the QSOs from other nodes
and other log related operations before a contest file is open when for example a node has
been taken into operation after a contest has already been started, the node had to be
restarted etc. The full network functionality is enabled by unchecking the
"Network->Disable" menu item. Do it only when the contest is open on the
local node and synchronization (see below) has been made. The contest file name must be
the same on all nodes in order to avoid operators mistake and overwriting the contest QSO
with the one from other contest. The network is also automatically enabled when a node is
logged on a band.
After opening a contest a node can (but does not have to) be logged on (assigned to) one
or more bands. The band(s) for a particular node can be entered by "Network->Own
band". The network is then automatically enabled for this node. The skeds scheduled
on other bands can be sent to this node (see below). The assignment of bands to nodes is
displayed in the window "Nodes". Only one node can be defined for a specific
band, but one node can serve for more bands. The assignment is valid until a new node is
assined to the same band. For assigned nodes their IP addresses are displayed. The bands
which are not assigned to a node are marked with 0.0.0.0. Automatic network search for
on-line nodes is performed when the program is started or a new band is assigned. The same
check is made always when the node list is refreshed by clicking the button "Network
ping"; an "A" (active) next to the IP address means an on-line node, an
"O" (own) own band. The program automatically checks the network connections
every 20 seconds and updates their status (network heartbeat).
A new or changed QSO on any node is sent automatically to all other nodes after pressing
the RETURN key.
If a node is assigned to a band the skeds on this band sent from another node (band) are
displayed in the "To Do" window. By double clicking on an item in the "To
Do" list the QSO is copied into the current line in the log. The skeds which could
not be made can be deleted from the "To Do" window by pressing DEL key.
For relaying information among the nodes (bands) a text message can be sent either to a
specific node or to all nodes in the network by using ALT/L or by clicking into the input
line of the window "Network Message". Only nodes assigned to a band can be
chosen as a specific message target.
If any information on a node gets lost during the operation (for example computer crash,
network connection interrupt, later connection to the network etc.) you can synchronize
the local log with a log of another node using "Network->Band to
synchronize". First the system time and zone setting is transferred. Then you can
choose either the transfer of the complete log from the node or just the selected band. A
message with the number of QSOs to transfer is issued at the transfer beginning and the
message "Synchronization complete, nnn QSOs transferred" indicates the
successful completion. Use the synchronization also when an inconsistence in QSO numbering
on the network is detected. Its very recommended to synchronize all nodes in the
network before the contest in order to ensure the identical time setting. If any problem
occurs during the synchronization, the synchronization is automatically interrupted after
5 seconds time out. The broken synchronization can be also reset by disabling and
re-enabling the network ("Network->Disable").
If a new QSO is inserted/changed from a foreign node (i.e. which is not assigned to the
relevant band) a confirmation is required, because it can cause double numbering on this
band. The same confirmation is needed if a band is overtaken by another node.
When running more then one nodes on one band (for example a second search and pound
working place in the VHF contest) use the button "Book #" for requesting a
contest number from a node which is assigned to the relevant band in order to avoid double
QSO numbering. The number is booked with regard to the current state at the run node. If
the operator entered a call and moved to the next input field, the QSO number will be
blocked for this QSO and the other operator at search and pound node will get the next
available number.
12. Network installation and configuration
The program VUSC for Windows utilizes the TCP/IP network protocol. You have to configure
it before the operation. If theres a DHCP server in the local network you dont
need to do any other configuration except checking the firewall setting (see below). If
not, you have to set fix IP addresses for every node. Choose the network TCP/IP protocol
configuration of the relevant network interface in the "Start->Control Panel"
and set the IP addresses. You use normally the address range 192.168.x.x, network mask
255.255.255.0 or any other general recommended range for local networks. Do NOT use the
automatically Windows set local IP addresses (usually from the range 162.254.x.x, mask
255.255.0.0). In Windows XP you can take advantage of setting the fix IP address as an
alternative TCP/IP setting so it's automatically used when no DHCP is activ in the local
network. Check your setting by command ipconfig in the command prompt window
and also check the connection between the nodes with the ping command.
If youre using firewall software on the individual nodes, make sure that the VUSC
port # (default 5068) is enabled in both directions for VUSC and also broadcast packets
are allowed. CAUTION! Some freeware firewalls (for example Sygate Personal
Firewall) dont support allowing broadcast packets for a single application. In this
case its better to switch the firewall off. If this is not possible for security
reasons you can check the option "No broadcast" on ALL nodes and enter the IP
addresses for individual bands manually in "Network->Setting". You can even
use this method for connection of remote nodes in non-local networks (for example over the
Internet), since the broadcast packets are limited to the local network.
In the network configuration you can also choose the relevant network interface if there
are more installed on your PC. The network is re-initialized in this case, i.e. the
network is disabled and you have to assign the node to the relevant band(s) again. The
same applies if you change the VUSC port.
13. TRX control
VUSC supports control of certain TRX types over the serial interface. Most of the ICOM
types (with the CI-V protocol) and KENWOOD types are supported. Since every YAESU model
has different control protocol, only FT1000MP and FT847 are currently supported.
First you have to connect the serial ports with the proper cable (the cable type can be
different for various TRX types - straight or null modem, check the TRX manual) and set up
serial connection and other parameters in the menu "TRX->Setting". Since the
computer can be assigned to more bands and (especially on the microwave bands) the
transverters are often used you have to set the band on which the TRX works and eventually
the frequency offset. The computer must be also assigned to the same band on the network
on which the TRX works to display the frequency and mode even if there are no other
computers on the network. Then you can choose in the menu "TRX" the appropriate
TRX type to activate the connection. After activating the operating frequency and mode are
displayed in the window "Nodes" (this information is automatically sent to other
nodes on the network). Also the current frequency is displayed in the "Band map"
window. With a double click on a spot in the band map the TRX is tuned to the spot
frequency and the callsign is copied into the log. If you want to change any setting and
the TRX connection is active you have to close it first using "TRX->Close".
For ICOM TRXs the ICOM-address has to be maintained accordingly and you must ensure that
the menu item 38 (CI-V Transceive) is set to OFF on the TRX side.
14. Packet radio
The packet radio operation is supported for modems of TNC standard (currently TNC5+) and
for Internet servers using the telnet protocol. For the modem connection to the COM port,
use the standard null-modem cable (see the modem documentation). The communication
parameters (port, speed etc.) can be set in "CW/SSB/Packet->Setting". The
communication with the modem works only in the terminal mode. It means that some settings
(as for example channel select, own call, TX delay etc.) must be done manually after
starting the program and modem. See the modem documentation for details. The speed, port
and other parameters are also stored in the file vuscwin.cfg. To connect to a modem (or a
telnet server) use the menu "Packet->Connect/Disconnect".
For telnet servers an IP address or a server name and the port number must be set. The
most used servers with their parameters can be found on the web page www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html.
If the local network is active the computer with the packet connection can work as a
packet server for those computers on the network on which the option "Packet
Remote" has been chosen. Check the option "Packet->server" in the menu
of the packet window. The packet server IP address is also displayed in the network
"Nodes" window. The current packet configuration is displayed in the title of
the packet window.
For better overview the DX spots from the packet are gathered into the band map window.
Four lists are maintained for 2m, 70cm, 23cm and microwave bands. You can choose them in
the menu "Band". The new spots are displayed in blue, the spots with already
made call signs in black. By checking the item "Band->Filter Made" these
spots can be filtered out. For microwave bands a bit mask in hexadecimal format can be
entered in the dialog Options->VUSC. The mask determines the relevant
microwave bands of the current contest on which a QSO must be made for a spot to be
considered as made. The bits correspond to the bands from the least relevant one. For
example 68 (hexadecimal) means 13cm, 6cm and 3cm bands. With the "Band->Wipe"
the whole map for a band can be cleared. In the dialog
"CW/SSB/Packet->Setting" time out can be set after which the items are
deleted from the list.
15. Sound recording
If you have troubles with receiving a DX station it may be useful to record the signal for
further examination. Choose the microphone as a signal source and disable the other ones
(mute) in the recording sound mixer control. Double click on the little speaker on the
Windows task bar to get the mixer control and go to the menu
"Option->Properties->Recording" to get the recording controls. Use a
shielded line to connect the TRX speaker with the microphone input on your PC.
The sound recorder controls are record, play, back and forward. You can choose either the
button controls or shortcuts mentioned above. The usage is similar to a normal tape
recorder. The sound files *.wav are stored in a subdirectory of the same name as the
contest. Their name consists of time stamps of the record start and end, record hour and
minute and the call sign. The hour, minute and call sign is taken at the end of the
recording. Besides normal controls storing of a QSO with <Enter> ends up
automatically the recording. The file size is about 1MB per minute. You should be careful
when using the recorder in order not to fill your hard disk with the sound files. The
files have the standard *.wav format and can be played by any player.
16. Rotator and band switch
The rotator control is possible over LPT, COM or USB port. For LPT and USB a simple
hardware interface is needed. Youll find the schema in the appendix below. The COM
port control supports Yaesu and SPID rotor standards (for more information see the
relevant Yaesu/SPID documentation). You may experience some delay in the rotator position
display when using the SPID rotator. It is due to low communication speed supported by the
SPID firmware, which, unfortunately, can't be changed.
A feedback
potentiometer (or another sensor device which delivers lineary proportional voltage from 0
to about 4.5V) as position indicator is a prerequisite for the interface using USB or LPT.
The potentiometer value can be from 100 ohms to about 30 kohms. The higher feedback
potentiometer value increases the risk of interference voltage being induced in the
connection wires when transmitting. The output of the external sensor is to be connected
to the point C (see the schema).
The interface is designed with an 8-bit ADC which has sufficient precision for normal
contest antennas. However, if the LPT interface is used, the program is able to evaluate
9th bit on the ACK signal (pin 10). In this case you can replace the A/D converter with a
type with more bits and achieve higher precision (for example for a dish antenna). The
power supply for the feedback potentiometer can be from current or voltage regulator (see
the schema below). Both options have pros and cons. The voltage regulator requires 3 wires
to the potentiometer, but it can be used with different potentiometer values (i.e.
different rotators) without any adjustment and the power supplies for the interface and
the motor can be galvanically separated for safety reasons. The current regulator needs
only 2 wires, but it must be adjusted to a particular potentiometer value and the
interface and motor must have at least common ground or a separate power supply of about
12V must be used only for the current regulator (see the schema).
For the USB interface the programmed PIC circuit CY7C63001C-PXC (order Nr. CY7C63001PFW
variant 1) is needed. It can be ordered together with the Windows driver MBUSB at the
company AK MODUL-BUS GmbH on the web page http://www.ak-modul-bus.de
for 15,- euros. Unfortunately the web page is only in German, but the ordering is simple.
On the web page find the field "Suchbegriffe" and type CY7C63001C. You will see
a couple of links, choose "Mikrocontroller CY7C63001C-PXC mit Firmware". On the
next page check under the title "Bestellen" if the order number is CY7C63001PFW
and choose "Port-Chip Variante 1" in the field below. Put the number of pieces
into the field "Anzahl" and click on the button "In den Warenkorb".
This puts your order into the cart. Click then on the icon Cart in the upper right corner
and you'll get to the check out page in English. Major credit cards as well as PayPal are
accepted. Download also the latest driver version from http://www.ak-modul-bus.de/cgi-bin/iboshop.cgi?show1200000510,254447591177330
or click on Downloads on the ordering page. Under the title "Treiber für den
Mikrocontroller CYC63001 mit der Firmware Port-Chip Variante 1" oder "Port-Chip
Variante 2" click on "Details" and click "Download starten" on
the next page. The archive zip-file contains files MBUSBprt.sys and MBUSBprt.inf. Extract
the files into a separate directory. You can also use the driver supplied with the VUSC
installation. Driver installation is performed automatically when the PIC gets connected
to the PC for the first time. Windows will find a new hardware and ask for a driver. Enter
the directory with the extracted files and finish the installation. The PIC behaves
similarly as other USB devices (for instance flash memory). It can be connected and
disconnected at any time while the PC is running.
Interface set up procedure:
1. Check (in case of current regulator or external sensor adjust) the maximum voltage at
the point C between 4.0 and 4.5 V. The maximum voltage may not exceed 5V at any
circumstances, because it can destroy the A/D converter.
2. Set the voltage at the point A (using the trimmer 680) to about 0.1V lower then the
minimum voltage at the point C.
3. Set the voltage at the point B (using the trimmer 2k2) to 50% of the voltage between
the points A and C.
4. Start the program and set the parallel ports for rotator and eventually band switch in
the menu "Rotator/Band switch->Setting". The rotator requires a dedicated
port. On the other hand the band switch port can be shared with CW/PTT keying. If the
checkbox USB is checked the LPT port setting is not relevant and the connection is
established automatically when the USB interface is connected. MBUSBPRT driver is
installed automatically when you connect the USB interface for the first time. Enter the
path to the driver (files MBUSBPRT.SYS and MBUSBPRT.INF) when asked by Windows
installation wizard.
5. Connect the interface to the port, in the menu "Rotator/Band
switch->Rotator" activate rotator window, and turn the antenna to the most left
position (counter clockwise). Check if the counter value displayed in the setting window
(i.e. the voltage at the point C) is minimal, if not switch over the end contacts of the
potentiometer (3 wires connection) or ground the other end contact (2 wire connection).
Enter the beginning azimuth in the left field of "Range" and confirm with
"Set".
6. Turn the rotator to the most right position (clockwise, check whether the counter value
is growing while turning), set the azimuth value in the right field of "Range"
and confirm with "Set". The azimuth values must be positive and the end value
must be higher the beginning value. For example if the beginning value is 60 degrees and
the rotator turns over 380 degrees the end azimuth value will be 60+380=440 degrees.
8. Click OK.
After the calibration the software end switches are automatically set to the beginning and
end azimuth values. If you have end switches in your rotator make sure that their
beginning and ending positions comply with the minimum and maximum voltage on the feedback
potentiometer respectively.
If you just need to rectify the antenna direction on the already calibrated interface you
don't need to repeat the calibration. Aim the antenna to the known azimuth (for instance a
beacon), enter its azimuth in the field "Rectification" and click
"Set".
CAUTION! After booting the computer the parallel port LPT may be in an
undefined state. Switch on the motor power supply after the activation of the rotator
window to avoid unwanted switching on the motor. Also when ending the program switch off
the motor power supply before rotator control deactivation.
Rotor control keys:
CTRL/< - turn left
CTRL/> - turn right
CTRL/space - stop
CTRL/? turn to the azimuth of the current QSO (if valid)
The band switch works on the chosen LPT port. The band is hexadecimal coded on the upper
four data pins (6-9). The switching is accomplished either manually in the menu
Rotator/Band switch or automatically with the band change if you check
"Band auto" in the same menu.
17. Appendix - schemes and pin-outs of the interfaces

Use only shielded
cables for all connections between the computer and TRX. The shield should be connected to
the signal ground (GND). The 100 Ohm resistor in the collector of the keying transistor is
only for the protection. It can be leaved out if necessary.
The default paddle pin out is compatible with the program N6TR. |