by April 16, 1999
Dear RX-320 User,
Beta version D of the Flexi-Tuner software for operating the Ten-Tec
RX-320 is now available.
Many thanks to the many beta testers for their excellent comments,
ideas, and suggestions. I have tried to incorporate as many ideas as
possible into this beta version.
The biggest change in this version is the addition of a comprehensive
logging function (described below).
The major features of the beta version D are as follows:
1. Operates the RX-320 from virtually any desktop
or laptop computer, including older 386 machines.
2. Works in either DOS or Windows (this is a DOS
program).
3. Implements 34 selectivity filters.
4. All modes: AM, USB, LSB, CW.
5. AGC implemented: Fast, Medium, Slow.
6. Tuning steps down go 1 Hz or up to 1 Mhz.
New! 7. Now includes 3 Khz tuning step for marine
channels. Also includes 9 Khz tuning steps
for European AM stations.
8. Adjustable squelch.
New! 9. Pause S-meter function on front panel. This
eliminates the "chuffing" heard on some
RX-320 systems.
10. Bandpass tuning (offset from center freq.)
11. Scanning using scan files. Adjustable parameters.
12. Built-in scan file editor.
New! 13. Built-in logging function with log editor.
Easily track, edit, sort, monitor, and export
log entries. Items logged include station name
(or notation), frequency, mode, filter, date,
time, and S-meter reading. Time and date can be
adjusted if you want to log in UTC or other time
zone.
New! 14. More sensitive S-meter.
15. Almost all parameters adjustable (great for
knob twiddlers like me).
New! 16. Tighter code for faster operation.
17. No mouse required (or supported).
Beta version D has been running for a couple of weeks on several
computers, including an old B&W Grid laptop (80386 at 25 Mhz), an 80486
machine, and several Pentiums. It works equally well on all the tested
computers.
As reported last time, it really is a lot fun to use an old DOS laptop
to operate the RX-320 while sitting in an easy chair across the room.
By the way, the RX-320 sounds great when played through a good stereo
system. Also, I tried Michael Young's idea (April 2 posting on
chuffing and crosstalk heard in some systems - this solved my crosstalk
problem.
I would be happy to supply free of charge this Beta version to anyone
interested who has an RX-320. The software will not function without an
RX-320.
The program is supplied along with several scan files in a single zip
file. Installation and removal are simple, as the program does not
affect any system settings either in DOS or windows (it does not mess
with your registry, DLL's, or other system programs).
The program is easy to use - just press various keys to engage the
different functions.
Installation, removal, and operating instructions are included.
A final version of the program is expected within a month or so,
depending on feedback. It will probably be offered on a shareware basis
for a nominal amount (all this work has to be worth something :-) The
final version will have greatly expanded scan file and log capacity;and
any inconsistencies, cosmetic irregularities, and faults will have been
fixed. As always, the final program will be small and easy to install
without effects on system files.
If you would like to receive the latest beta version at no charge, send
return e-mail.
Regards and 73,
David
W7HTJ