Goal: Maximize operator efficiency, ie keep hands on the keyboard and minimize fatigue
Objectives:
Integrate all controls on the operators computer screen
Provide two computer screens at eye level to have adequate space for all controls and important information
An operator should be able to select any antenna for any band
Filters and screens automatically follow band changes
Rotators and switches will be on screen and only when that band is selected.
Anything on screen should be able to be remote controlled from another computer using the internet.
Steppir antennas shall be remote controlled on screen and follow the radio in use.
Minimize the cabling necessary for this implementation.
Use WiFi networking for all stations
Use small footprint keyboard with integrated touchpad to ease access to radio controls.
Implementation:
Selected software and hardware to implement - Green Heron Everywhere, N1MM Logger and PstRotatorAZ.
Installed a server computer for GHE.
Installed the StackMatch at the tower base for switching and interconnected to the GHE module. Antennas were added to improve the S/N ratio at the base unit.
Used GHE modules for 160m Array control, HiZ 8 control, Comtek 4 Square control, and in shack Stackmatches.
Used USB hubs to integrate the rotators and GH base unit in the shack to the server.
Installed a secure WiFi network with Verizon USB 3G internet wireless connection (soon to be 4G)
Connected the Steppir SDA 100 controllers to the server using serial to USB adapters.
Installed the PstRotatorAZ software server for control of the Steppir controllers
Setup PstRotatorAZ clients on each station.
Set the UDP broadcast output of N1MM to the input of the PstRotatorAZ to follow the radio.
Each instance of PstRotatorAZ relays to the next and also to the GH client.
Programmed the GH client so that when a station changes bands only the relevant rotators and antennas are on screen.
