| If you are expecting to set up EchoLink
in "sysop" mode, you will need a special interface device which
connects your radio equipment to your computer. This device
allows the computer to control the PTT function of your transceiver,
and (optionally) to accept and process DTMF commands from the
receiver.
For maximum flexibility, EchoLink is designed to work with
several different types of interfaces. Below is a partial list
of high-quality interfaces which are specifically recommended for
use with EchoLink.
The Kenwood TM-V71 and TM-D710 dual-band FM transceivers are
the only commercially-available rigs with EchoLink capabilities
built in. With these rigs, no special interface is required; you
can use the optional PG-5H cable (or a homebrew cable) to connect
the rig directly to your PC. For answers to frequently-asked
questions about using EchoLink with the TM-V71 and TM-D710, please
click here.
These interfaces are available fully-assembled, or in kit
form. The original circuit was described in QST for March,
2002. The newer ULI and AMI models have additional
features.
The W5TXR Electronic Labs EchoLink/Multimode interface is
available as a kit or completely assembled and tested (serial or
USB models). Large prototyping area. FCC Part 15 compliance is
pending.
Several models of these general-purpose digital-mode interfaces
are available, all of which are compatible with EchoLink.
Use EchoLink's internal DTMF decoder when using a RIGblaster and
set it to VOX in the Sysop mode. (If you wish to use a
RIGblaster and join the EchoLink QSO using the linked radio's
microphone, the RIGblaster Pro model is required.)
Fully assembled and enclosed, fully isolated interface designed
expressly for iLINK/EchoLink. Can be used with other
digital-mode software such as PSK31.
This is a USB device that functions as an external sound card,
with VOX-controlled PTT, so no connections to your computer's
sound card or serial port are required. Pre-wired cables are
available for popular transceivers. Can also be used with digital
modes such as PSK31.
Other
Interfaces
Here are some other interface options for EchoLink.
PY2JF Interface (from
Brazil)
DL5MGD
Controller (diagrams and PIC source code)
AB6CQ's
PC to Radio Interface
Fox Delta EchoLink
Interface | 
ARRL Book on
Nifty E-Z
