HFU HF Underground
Technical Topics => Equipment => Topic started by: Elf36 on October 17, 2021, 1853 UTC
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So, I'm having an issue that I probably can't fix, but I thought I'd throw it out there. I keep having to pull out the USB connection from the back of the PC and plug it back in. It seems to always lose connection after transmitting on my HF rig? It doesn't happen to my wife when she uses it.
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Did you try snapping on a ferrite choke on that cable that the USB connector is attached too? Sounds like RF peaks are getting in there, somehow.
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Great idea. I have a few clip-on chokes around here somewhere. I'll try that out.
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I have a keyboard that does that. Only happens on 73 meters for some reason... ::)
+-RH
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Yeah. It's quite annoying having to reset the USB plug over and over, especially when I'm trying to confirm call signs on QRZ, checking DX clusters or posting here in real time. I put one clamp on choke on the cable so far. I'll try to get some more when I can. Thanks for the feedback.
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I don’t know if this will help or not, but you can buy USB isolators. Amazon sells several different types; this is one example:
https://www.amazon.com/HiLetgo-ADUM3160-Voltage-Isolator-Support/dp/B07235PR4V/ref=sr_1_7_sspa?
I would first try the ferrite chokes. Make sure you are using ferrites appropriate for the frequency range you are experiencing problems with. Often the ones you find on line use a mix designed for VHF frequencies. If you are having problems with 80 meters you are going to want to look for something using mix 75 or so. DXengineering has a good selection of mixes.
If the ferrite chokes aren’t successful, you might then want to try the USB isolator to see if it helps.
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While on the subject of USB, I’d like to offer this hint.
Sometimes when powering up the computer and rig, one of them doesn’t boot up fast enough and the result is that computer doesn’t recognize that the rig is plugged in. Rather than unplugging the USB cable and plugging it back in (which is needless wear and tear on the USB connection), I bought a two port electronic USB switch. Now I simply have to push the button to cycle the ports and get the computer to recognize the radio. Amazon has them cheap.
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Thanks, I will look into this. Most of the time the radio is disconnected from USB connection unless using PSK31, SSTV or WEFAX.