[amsat-bb] ROOT CAUSE IDENTIFIED... Fwd: SatPC32 and Yaesu FT-817nd not working properly

[Curt Laumann]

There are two versions of SatPC32 available for download for North American
users

a) 128d_991                release date June 2019
b) 128d_Scope_Digi    release date July 2020

SatPC32 version released June 2019 works properly with the FT-817nd.
*SatPC32 version released July 2020 DOES NOT work properly with the
FT-817nd.*

I'll forward a note to the author of the program (DK1TB) and make them
aware of this issue.

73's,

Curt / K7ZOO

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Curt Laumann <curt.laumann at gmail.com>
Date: Wed, Dec 2, 2020 at 3:05 AM
Subject: SatPC32 and Yaesu FT-817nd not working properly
To: <AMSAT-BB at amsat.org>


Hi All,

I've used SatPC32 with my Icom IC-910H successfully,  I tried using SatPC32
with my Yaesu FT-817nd and ran into some problems tonight.  I'm seeking
setup and troubleshooting help..

*a)  Anomalous Behavior of FT-817nd*
Frequency does not change to satellite frequencies
Frequency stays on 7 MHz
On SatPC32 start up, mode on FT-817 changes from LSB to FM (in accordance
with AO-27)
Radio rapidly switches between VFOa and VFOb a couple times when I select
different satellites
Correct mode (CW/FM) seems to be chosen.

*b) FT-817nd notes*
Factory reset performed
CAT rate kept at 4800
Split mode is shown when SatPC32 is run
I've tried two different FT-817nd's and they both exhibit this anomalous
behavior.

*c) SatPC32 setup parameters worth mentioning*
version         12.8d - fresh installation
C+ i               CAT control is ON
A-                  automatic satellite chane OFF
V-                  VFO mode OFF
..........<Radio Setup> parameters............
Radio 1        "Yaesu"
Model            FT-817
Baudrate      4800 (verified same as menu item #14 "CAT RATE" on FT-817nd)
COM port -   7 (verified correct with Windows Device Manager.  I plugged
and unplugged the CAT cable and could see COM7 appear and disappear with
the Windows Device Manager)
CAT delay    110
no boxes checked:  RTS+12, DTS+12, KCT-Tuner, Auto Sat Rx/Tx change,
Satellite Mode
Radio 2      none

*d) Reading the manual*
I've read and followed the directions in the SatPC32 manual closely,
including the 'Hints for Yaesu radio" file.

*e) Communications to Yaesu verified with another program*
I verified the computer and CAT cable can communicate with the FT-817nd at
least when using CHIRP.  I was able to successfully program memory channels
in both FT-871nd's..

*QUESTIONS*
a) is there a known problem with using this version of SatPC32 with an
FT-817nd?
b) Any thoughts of additional troubleshooting steps I could take?

I suspect I just missed something in the setup manual, but I can't seem to
figure out what.  Thanks for any help you can provide.

Curt / K7ZOO