Easy Rotor Control

Easy Rotor Control (ERC) are interfaces for connecting the antenna rotator to a computer. They are suitable for practically all common types of commercial and home-made rotators without a built-in interface. René DF9GR offers three versions: ERC kit (azimuth), ERC-3D kit (both azimuth and elevation) a ERC-R in the form of a printed circuit board (both azimuth and elevation).

These simple interfaces make it possible to significantly increase the comfort and efficiency of shooting antennas. They communicate with the computer using the commonly used DCU-1 protocols, resp. GS232A/B. Although the DF9GR supplies a simple operating software, but most users will probably use this option directly from some log. A list of compatible software and hardware can be found on the site http://easy-rotor-control.com/

I ordered two ERC pieces in the winter, assembled and built into Yaesu and CDE rotators (Hy Gain).

The principle of operation is shown in the block diagram. The heart is a microprocessor with a program, which conveys information about the current azimuth to the computer and at the same time translates instructions from the computer to turn on the relay, which switch the rotation of the rotator motor.

Ordering via the website is easy and René will be very willing to help if needed. Builders can also register in the discussion group and share their knowledge with others. The package from DL arrived in about a week. Inside, all parts are carefully sorted in bags. Documentation (in English and German) and software are supplied on CD. A diagram is included, only installation plan and photos, which are very helpful in assembling the kit.

Assembly of the Easy Rotor Control kit for connecting the antenna rotator to the computer

Installing the parts is not difficult and takes about two hours. It starts with the production of the connecting cable. Attention must be paid to the correct polarity of electrolytic capacitors, diode, transistors and IO. Although René does not specify the exact installation procedure, however, it is advisable to start with the smaller parts and install the relays and terminal blocks last.

Recovery consists only in checking the function of the stabilizer. If all is well, we can fit the IO in sockets. Then we can connect the interface to the computer and the software to check whether the module is communicating. if yes, the loaded data will appear at the bottom of the program window, e.g.. firmware version. The default is COM1, if the module is connected to another, we still need to change the setting and load the data by pressing the button.

Building the ERC into the rotator

The more difficult part is the installation in the rotator. A separate document with over forty pages is devoted to this point, where the connection to most commercial rotators is described and illustrated in detail. I recommend following the scheme. Most of the difficulties with functionality are caused by poor wiring in the rotator. The description also includes a change to the ERC setup (activating the brake) and power supply method. Most ERCs require an external power supply 10 up to 15V.

The final calibration is carried out through the supplied software, where we define the properties of the rotator and assign the voltage from the sensor to a specific azimuth. Thanks to calibration after 30 degrees, high accuracy of antenna rotation is guaranteed.

Proven software with Easy Rotor Control

Easy Rotor Control in both of my rotators worked the first time it was turned on. I have tried several software:

• DF9GR – the functionality is flawless, but the driving comfort worsens
• N1MM Rotor – can control the rotator and rotate the antenna after entering a prefix or azimuth, but does not display the current azimuth
• HamRadio Deluxe - Works flawlessly
• PSTRotator AZ – an excellent program with great comfort for shooting antennas. It also enables remote control

You can see a demonstration of simple control from the N1MM Rotor in the video The ERC RS232 rotor interface:

ERC is suitable for the moderately skilled constructor, however, it is a very useful addition, which probably every radio amateur will appreciate.