Easy Rotor Control

Easy Rotor Control (ERC) are interfaces for connecting the antenna rotator to the computer. Sú vhodné prakticky pre všetky bežné typy komerčných aj Home made rotátorov bez zabudovaného interfaceu. René DF9GR ponúka tri verzie: ERC stavebnica (azimuth ), ERC-3D stavebnica (azimuth aj Elevácia ) a ERC-R in the form of a mounted PCB (azimuth and elevation).

These simple interfaces significantly increase the comfort and efficiency of antenna rotation. They communicate with the computer using commonly used protocols DCU-1, or GS232A/B. Although DF9GR provides a simple service Software, most users will probably use this option directly from some log. You can find a list of compatible Software and hardware on the website https://www.schmidt-alba.de/eshop

In the winter, I ordered, assembled, and installed two pieces of ERC into yaesu and CDE (Hy Gain) rotators.

Princíp fungovania je znázornený na blokovej schéme. Srdcom je mikroprocesor s programom, ktorý sprostredkováva informáciu o aktuálnom azimute do počítača a zároveň prekladá pokyny z počítača na zopnutia Relé , ktoré spínajú otáčanie motora rotátora.

Ordering through the web is simple, and if needed, René will gladly help. 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. The package includes a schema, only an assembly plan, and photos that are very helpful in assembling the kit.

Assembly of the Easy Rotor Control kit to connect the antenna rotator to the computer

Component placement is not demanding and takes about two hours. It starts with making the connecting cable. Attention should be paid to the correct polarity of electrolytic capacitors, diodes, transistors, and IO. Although René does not provide an exact assembly procedure, it is advisable to start with smaller components and install relays and terminals last.

Oživenie spočíva len v kontrole funkcie stabilizátora. Ak je všetko v poriadku, môžeme osadiť IO do pätíc. Potom môžeme prepojiť interface s počítačom a softwari skontrolovať či modul komunikuje. Ak áno, v spodnej časti okna programu sa objavia načítané údaje, napr. verzia Firmware . Prednastavený je COM1, ak je modul pripojený na iný, musíme ešte zmeniť nastavenie a načítať údaje stlačením tlačidla.

Installation of ERC into the rotator

The more demanding part is the integration into the rotator. This point is addressed in a separate document with over forty pages, where the connection to most commercial rotators is detailed and illustrated. I recommend following the scheme. Most of the functionality difficulties are caused By poor cabling in the rotator. The description may also include changing the ERC setup (brake activation) and power supply method. Usually, ERC requires an external power supply 10 to 15V.

The final calibration is performed 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 every 30 degrees, high accuracy of antenna rotation is guaranteed.

Tested Software with Easy Rotor Control

Easy Rotor Control worked on the first try in both of my rotators. I have tried several Software:

• DF9GR - functionality is flawless, but control comfort is weaker
• N1MM Rotor - can control the rotator and rotate the antenna after entering the prefix or azimuth, but does not display the current azimuth
• HamRadio Deluxe - works flawlessly
• PSTRotator AZ - excellent program with great antenna rotation comfort. It also allows remote control

Video of using ERC RS232 rotor interface

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

ERC is suitable for moderately skilled constructor, but it is a very useful accessory that almost every radio amateur will appreciate.