Ramblings by K6RJ

I must admit to having a lot of fun with my new Yaesu FT-450.  This rig has been extremely easy to operate remotely and I finally got around to trying the Ham Radio Deluxe software by HB9DRV.  I found the software very easy to install and configure.  I had it up an running within 15 minutes.  I installed the HRD IP server and was remotely operating the FT-450 on my home LAN within 30 mintues.  I have the IP Server configured to run on start up so my station is always ready to operate remotely.  I installed HRD on my work computer the next day and was operating in minutes.

I really like the interface of the HRD software.  It gives me everything I need, is attractive and is quite customizable.  Within a few hours I was changing the skin, adding new CAT control command buttons and more.  This is how I have my HRD interface looking now.

Click for larger image

I have been using IP Sound to handle the VOIP functions.  I found the sound quality to be good and installation and configurability is a breeze.  I have both my remote and base PCs configured to start IP Sound on startup.  I also have IP Sound configured to auto answer so it is always ready to receive calls.  IP Sound also allows you to define an application to run upon start up.  On my remote PC I have it configured to auto start Ham Radio Deluxe.  I simply start IP Sound, connect to my base PC and Ham Radio Deluxe is started automatically.  I click connect in HRD and I am connected to my FT-450 at home and in business.  Two clicks and I am operating.  It really is that quick.

The distance between my office and home is about 34 miles.  I am anxious to try remote ops when I go on a business trip next month.  I will be about 350 miles from home with many hours free in the evenings.  Hopefully the hotel with have a true broadband connection.