What's New?
The latest version of SMART Keyboard is 2.0.4. Updated 20 Nov 2007.
The latest version of SMART Key-n-Log is 3.2.1. Updated 22 May 2008.
The latest version of SMART Keyboard Firmware is 1.0.0.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WARNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The latest versions of the SMART Keyboard and SMART Key-n-Log require firmware version 1.0.0. If you do not have a 16C745 programmed with firmware version 1.0.0 installed in the interface unit, do not install the latest GUI programs on your computer. Chips programmed with verison 1.0.0 are available from N4YG.
What's new in the new GUI versions? The latest revision includes support for serial communication with the Ten Tec OMNI VI Transceiver. If an OMNI VI is connected to the host computer's serial (COM) port, then the Key-n-Log GUI queries the OMNI VI to obtain its current FREQUENCY, BAND, and MODE. Since most computers these days do not have COM ports, the OMNI may be connected via a USB to Serial converter which may be purchased for less than $10. If an OMNI VI is not connected, then the user will notice no change in the operation and behavior of the GUI program. All that is necessary is to set the OMNI baud rate to 9600 as described in the manual, connect the OMNI VI to the host computer as described above and install and run the 3.2.0 GUI program.
Key-n-Log now includes a feature called Buddy List. A Buddy List is a file containing groups of Call/Operator combinations. Each time a call is entered for logging, the Buddy List is checked to see if it contains the call. If the list does contain the call then you (the operator) are alerted and provided with the operator name and the associated group name. A buddy list may contain up to 10 groups and any number of Call/Operator combinations. The program contains provision to create and edit a Buddy List within Key-n-Log.
Key-n-Log can now reference "HisCall", that is, the text entered into the "CALL" box.
The QST article on the SMART Keyboard appeared in the July 2007 issue. (You may view it by clicking here.)
SMART Key-n-Log has LoTW and ADIF support, allowing you to easily take advantage of Logbook of the World. This is neat stuff and I urge you to begin logging with Key-n-Log.
I am always interested in your suggestions, so feel free to let me know what you think could be better about anything you find on this site.