KRC2 BAND DECODER
The Elecraft KRC2 Band Decoder is a universal, programmable station control unit that can switch any combination of antennas, filters, amplifiers, or other equipment. It supports analog, digital, and RS232 control inputs, so it's compatible with transceivers from Icom (voltage level), Yaesu (BCD and voltage level), and Kenwood (serial or BCD via logging program), as well as Elecraft's own K3S and K2.
- Overview
- Specs
- Reviews
- FAQ
- Manuals & Downloads
- Price List/Order
Overview
The KRC2 includes decoded outputs for all HF - 6M bands (including WARC bands), three transverter bands, and general accessories. High-side (source) and low-side (sink) relay drivers are included. All signal lines are RF bypassed to eliminate RFI and noise pickup.
Individual driver outputs can be "wire-ORed" as with conventional decoders. However, the KRC2 also provides a PC-based command interface, allowing the user to configure the unit with simple text commands. New firmware can even be downloaded via the internet. The combination of these features makes the KRC2 uniquely suited to the user's present as well as future station control needs.
The KRC2 is fully integrated with Elecraft's transceivers, decoding band-change data via the company's AuxBus protocol. But other unique K2 features are also supported that can be enabled or disabled with jumpers inside the KRC2. The K3S and K2's ACC menu entry can be used to directly control the KRC2's accessory outputs. Four buttons on the top of the KRC2 can be used as "hot keys" for instant access to CW message buffers, fast switching of the rig's RXANT jack, or other functions. Finally, the KRC2 can act as a complete CW-feedback interface for the K2 and K3S, allowing enhanced accessibility for operators with special user interface requirements.
Specs
The easy-to-build kit uses Elecraft's "no-wires" construction and is suitable for first-time kit builders.
- Outputs: 32 (16 sink, 16 source)
- Output Driver Ratings: 500 mA max, 50 V max (sink and source)
- Analog Inputs: 0-5 V (1 input), 0-10 V (2 inputs)
- Band Decode Formats: Elecraft, Icom, Yaesu, Kenwood
- Internal Current Drain: Approx. 20 mA (excludes output driver current)
- Size: 5.5" (L) x 3.5" (D) x 1.5" (H) (14 x 11.4 x 4 cm)
FAQ
Q: Is the KRC2 supported by both the K3S and K3?
A: Yes. In addition to the K2, there is full, integrated support for the KRC2 from both rigs.
Q: How can the KRC2 be used to control my remote antenna switch?
A: The KRC2 reads the band selected on the K3S, K3 or K2 directly and then can be configured to select one of more relays that you wire up to the terminals inside the KRC2. Using the freely-downloadable Control Program, you can map the exact terminals you want to engage for each band of the radio. In this way, you can integrate most any Antenna Controller directly into the K3S or K2.