Copyright: Help File Copyright ® 1992-96 FineWare
Citation: Smart R8 Control for Windows Help ® 1992-96 FineWare


 Help Contents

Copyright © 1992-96  FineWare

Thank you for choosing Smart R8 Control for Windows.  This help file is intended to serve as an on-line users manual, showing what the software will do, how to set it up, and how to run it.

Through out this help file, you will see the Smart R8 Control icon in the help topic title.  Clicking on it will bring you back to the next higher level in the help system.

Introduction

About Smart R8 Control

System Requirements

Warranty and License Information

Release Notes/Possible Future Enhancements

Acknowledgments

Whats New/Version History

How to...

Install and Set Up Smart R8 Control

Operate the Faceplate

Use the Memory Management System

Use the Logging System

Register Smart R8 Control

Contact the Author

Commands

Control Menu

File Menu

Edit Menu

Radio Menu

Tuning Menu

Memory Menu

Query Menu

Tools Menu

Log Format Menu

Keyboard Conventions

Special Note:  Throughout this help file, graphical aids have been provided to show what the different displays and controls look like.  Such displays were developed under the Windows95 operating system, with a user-defined color palette.  Since the user may neither be running the Windows95 operating system nor the authors color palette, it should be understood by the user that some of these displays in the help file may be slightly different than what actually appears on the users screen.  It should be noted that these differences generally reflect only the color and shape of some of the controls and text.


 About Smart R8 Control for Windows

Because most shortwave broadcast stations change frequencies during the day, its often frustrating have to double check mounds of reference material while trying to listen at the same time.  For example, consider the following:

Scenario 1:  Upon settling in for a relaxing session of twirling the dial, an unfamiliar station pops out of the ether.  While waiting for the station to ID, you fumble through pages of reference material trying to get a heads-up on what the station might be.

Scenario 2:  You have an urge to listen to a particular station such as Radio Sweden, Radio Netherlands, Radio Moscow, or Radio Australia (if the conditions are right).  Again, you fumble through your references to find out what frequency to tune to.  Not only have you found the station's programming schedule, but the station won't be on for at least another hour.

For these and other cases, Smart R8 Control for Windows is designed to both simplify and enhance the shortwave listening hobby.  Smart R8 Control for Windows integrates a database of frequency information with the power of remotely controlling the shortwave receiver.  Smart R8 Control for Windows emulates most of the R8/R8A's front panel controls, adding the capabilities of tuning by user selected increments (i.e., 5 kHz) and controlling an attached tape recorder; while adding the name of the station you're listening to and a 24-hour clock (local/UT) to the continuous display.

Aside from displaying the station you're tuned to, Smart R8 Control for Windows allows smart queries to the integrated frequency database.  Smart R8 Control for Windows allows the user to choose from a list of stations broadcasting at that time.  Once a station is selected, a separate window is created containing that station's list of current frequencies and target areas.  The user can now automatically tune the receiver by selecting a frequency from the list.  A marking feature is included, to allow the user to highlight particularly reliable frequencies in the list (i.e., the 5975, 7325 and 9915 kHz evening frequencies for the BBC to North America).  If a new frequency has been heard during that time period, it can be added to the list.

The frequency database can also be queried to display a station's full frequency schedule, when selected programs are on that particular day, as well as a query to find what other stations use the frequency the receiver is tuned to.  Other ancillary features include memory management, a full-featured logging facility and a 'reminder' display of the shortwave frequency bands.


 System Requirements

The system requirements for operating this software are the Drake R8 or R8A Communications Receiver, a 286 based (or better) MS-DOS Computer running either Microsoft Windows 3.x or Windows95, a VGA video display, a minimum of 1Mb RAM and one available serial port.  A mouse is optional, but desirable.

Warning:

Because of the instability of some of Windows installed communications drivers, it is helpful (but not necessary) to know what type of Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART) chip is being used by your computers serial port.  For the software to work correctly, users with an 8250 or compatible UART must interface with the port directly.  Users with a 16550 class UART have the option of using the Windows communications drivers, which in most instances may make Smart R8 Control for Windows more responsive.


 Warranty and License Information

This and all of the other files contained in the distribution file SMWIN300.ZIP are provided as shareware to be used and disseminated in an unmodified form.  The author requests that no fee be charged by any agent other than FineWare (Mark J. Fine), for the enjoyment or use of this software.  Neither the author nor his associates are responsible for any results of using this software or hardware modification recommendations included in this document on any computer system or radio receiver, whether used or performed either properly or improperly.  The user hereby agrees that he is using this software/modifying his hardware at his own risk.

This and all of the other files contained in the file SMWIN300.ZIP are provided as is, with no warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of fitness for a particular purpose, and all such warranties are expressly and specifically disclaimed.  In no event should the author or any of his associates be responsible for any indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages or lost profits to you or any other person or entity regardless of the legal theory, even if the author or any of his associates have been advised of the possibility of such damage.

No person or entity is authorized to expand or alter either these warranties or this agreement; any such representation will not bind the author or his associates.

The user is licensed to operate Smart R8 Control for Windows free of charge, for the purposes of inspection, for a period of sixty (60) days.  After the 60 day period expires, the user is expected to pay the nominal registration charge of forty United States dollars (US$40).  Currently registered users of the DOS version of Smart R8 Control are entitled to a special collateral upgrade for only fifteen United States dollars (US$15), to switch to the Windows version of the software.

Support of this shareware product ensures its continued development and dissemination.  As a bonus for registering Smart R8 Control for Windows, the user will receive future updates to the software, free of charge.  As an extra added bonus, the registering party will receive the following integrated capabilities:

*  Wholesale editing and updating of the shortwave database with user data and frequency schedule changes.

*  Use with other frequency databases, specifically, the regularly updated shortwave schedules from TRS Consultants (only for subscribers to TRS Consultants' English Language Shortwave Broadcast Database).

*  Desktop publishing of the full shortwave database in a neatly collated two-column newspaper style format.

*  On-line prediction of HF propagation conditions to a particular station or area of the world.

See How to Register Smart R8 Control for Windows for more information on product registration.


 Release Notes/Possible Future Enhancements

Release Notes:

* Smart R8 Control v3.00 was supposed to be able to automatically fill Memory Bank Lists when performing List Mode scanning on the R8A.  This explains the extra check boxes in the Scanning Parameters Option page.  Somehow, Drake has either hidden the command to do this, or unknowingly omitted it.  An attempt will be made to fix this for the formal release.

* With this release of Smart R8 Control, a new Setup facility has been created.  The Setup facility will automatically configure your system for optimum use of the program.  The user should note that it will automatically detect and replace communications drivers that have been problematic in the past.  It will also copy only the necessary files, prompting the user if any critical files (i.e., the users program configuration file and database) are to be changed or overwritten.  Please note that it is not possible at this time for the Setup facility to either create, install or change Start Menu or Program Manager Items in Windows95, and that the use of long filenames in the path name of a Smart R8 Control directory when creating it.  See below for news on complete Windows95 Compatibility.

Windows95 Compatibility:

* Currently, Smart R8 Control for Windows is still a 16-bit application, written entirely under Borlands Delphi compiler.  Although Delphi is Winodows95 aware, not all Windows95 functionality can possibly be supported.  This includes the previous incompatibility with long filenames.  As of current up-to-date information, Borland is planning a release of the 32-bit version of Delphi Desktop v2.0 as of 01 March 96.  Sometime after this date, a 32-bit version of Smart R8 Control will be developed and released as a separate line of software.  Currently registered users should watch their mailbox and other news forums for an announcement of this forthcoming release, and upgrade/pricing information.

Add-ons:

* One of the things missing when controlling the Drake R8 and R8A, is the capability to address the receivers volume and tone controls.  Additionally, an on-screen audio oscilloscope and spectrum analyzer may be provided.  An on-screen oscope and spectrum display will provide the user with a means to not only correctly tune the receiver for RTTY signals, but allow the user to visualize any clipping in the audio output.  The author is currently developing such a tool, Smart Audio Control, which provides these functions via a hook to an on-board sound card, if present.  When Smart Audio Control is made available, Smart R8 Control will have the capability to automatically kick it off as part of a complete DXing package.

* To go with Smart Audio Control, an add-on TNC/TU decoder interface would make the package complete.  Since not all possible TNCs can be addressed, the author is contemplating the development of a smart terminal package.

General Functions:

* The amount of the displays that Smart R8 Control produces is becoming rather large.  This is most evident in Windows95, where every display creates a distinct task bar entry.  The author would like to redesign the software such that it consists of a desktop with resizable windows.

* For those users that enjoy ship-to-shore DXing, it would be desirable to provide a Duplex Tuning function.  This would allow the user to auto fill duplex channels in both VFOs, provide for scanning, etc.

* Now that Smart R8 Control allows the user to define timers, it would be desirable to simplify this capability.  The author is toying with the capability to allow the user to fill those timers by dragging and dropping items from the SWBC Programs display.

Database:

* Smart R8 Control v3.00 has added the Station Frequency Usage function that allows the user to display and tune all of the discrete frequencies that a specific station uses over a 24 hour period.  It would be desirable to be able to likewise print these usage lists along with the Print Station Schedule function as an additional frequency plan.

* Sometimes the displays will return a blank list of frequencies, either due to a typing error or because no frequencies exist for that particular query at that time.  Rather than display things this way, it would be much more desirable to simply display a message box saying that the query resulted in a null set.

* The current version of the software was intended to include access to multiple databases, other than just the distribution and TRS Consultants database.  A future version of the software will allow the user to create separate SWBC, Ute and BCB databases that can mixed and matched to suit the users needs.  This would additionally provide a capability to Open a TRS database and convert it on the fly; as well as the option to utilize TRS Utility Database.

* The distribution database now contains tons of Utility Station frequency information.  It would be desirable to enhance this to allow for the storage and tuning of VHF frequencies (for those with Drakes optional VHF Converter).  Currently, it is only possible to use the Memory List display for this function.

* There is a wealth of information regarding station schedule information available from the Internet and other sources.  It would be desirable at some point to provide a method to import such text information directly into the database a la Microsoft Excel.

* The SWBC Programs display is getting rather large and unmanageable.  It would be desirable to provide user queries to this portion of this much underdeveloped portion of the database.  User queries could be done to search and sort by program name and/or station.  In addition to allowing SWBC Program queries, it would also be desirable to provide a function to Publish this information with the rest of the database.

Scanning:

* Some times during scanning on the R8A, the display will freeze up.  This is inherent to the way that the R8A provides polled updates during scanning, which may overflow the R8As communications buffers.  With the advent of Multiple Frequency Scanning in Smart R8 Control for Windows v3.00, it would be more desirable to discontinue using Drakes scanning function (which may be somewhat faster), in favor of the programs newer internally implemented routines.  This would additionally provide the user more flexibility to define the stepsize of the scan, as well as the time delays for Time Mode scanning.  It would also allow a Duplex Tuning display to act as a method by which automatic A-B scanning can be achieved.

Logging:

* For logging utility stations, there is no field that specifically addresses the signal type (e.g., voice, SITOR-A, etc.).  The Mode field can currently support this, but it is not an optimal solution.  A future version may additionally include this field.

Miscellaneous:

* Many folks have requested that Smart R8 Control for DOS, as well as Windows be able to control other remote control-capable shortwave receivers.  Smart R8 Control has always, and will always, only focus on the Drake R8 and Drake R8A.  However, if enough people request that another particular receiver be addressed, the author may develop separate software suites for that particular receiver.  This decision will be based not only on the amount of requests, but the availability of the particular receiver in question.


 Acknowledgments

The author wishes to thank all of those who have contributed in making both the DOS and premier Windows versions of Smart R8 Control a success.  For this Windows/Windows95 version, the author also wishes to thank the efforts of Messrs. Philip Potts and L. Mitchell Wein, for their ever-lasting support, and the World Utility News (WUN) List contributors (too many to mention) for providing a wealth of utility frequency loggings and information.  Special gratitude goes to Mr. Steven A. Wagner, who initially pushed me into this project, causing me to lose much sleep (paybacks are hell <Grin>).

An extra special debt of gratitude goes to Mr. Philip Potts (Genie Radio & Electronics Roundtable Co-Sysop, and all-round hardware guru) for this particular version of Smart R8 Control.  Phils help both during this development cycle and the tough times was immeasurable.  When the addition of some of the new features in Smart R8 Control seemed impossible, Phil helped me find the ways to make it do-able.

* The Drake R8 and R8A Communications Receivers are products of the R. L. Drake Company (Drake), Miamisburg, Ohio 45342.

* The format of the shortwave database used in Smart R8 Control for Windows is based upon the Shortwave Guide column found in Monitoring Times magazine.  Monitoring Times is a monthly publication of Grove Enterprises, Inc., 140 Dog Branch Road, Brasstown, North Carolina, 28902-0098.  Special credit is given to Bob and Bill Grove, for their permission to reproduce this format.

* English Language SWBC Schedules is a product of TRS Consultants, PO Box 2275, Vincentown, NJ 08088-2275.

* Microsoft is a registered trademark; Windows and Windows95 are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

*  Portions of Smart R8 Control for Windows are Copyright © 1983-95, Borland International, Inc.


 Whats New/Version History

v3.00 - Formal Release  15 Feb 96

* Added an alternate antenna frequency band for those using the R8/R8A with two antennas.

* Added report format editing and report generation functions.

* Changed the Export Entry popup menu item in the Log Display to correctly read Export Selected.

* Changed the font in the Form Editor to use a fixed font (Courier) for better readability.

* Added the query time to the SWBC Programs display for an added user reference.

* Fixed bug that incorrectly drew the Available SWBC Stations window when using a large screen font.

Registered Utilities (registered users only):

* Adapted the Importer to utilize the notes data in the TRS DXSHOWS database.

v3.00ß - Preview Beta Release  14 Jan 96

* Added compatibility with Windows95 and the Drake R8A.

* Developed a Setup/Install program to make installations easier.

* Resolved all serial port communications problems.

* Redesigned the frequency display with a green blackout style.

* Increased the size of most buttons.

* Made meter larger and more responsive to actual signal levels on the R8A.

* Added a toolbar for most commonly used functions.

* Added the capability to auto fill both VFOs from the Band Plan.

* Fixed 0.0x stepping bug, where 10Hz portions were ignored.

* Modified clock to a single user-selectable UT or Local clock.

* Added a tuning offset to assist in tuning digital signals.

* Made entries in the offset and stepsize lists deletable.

* Expanded the number of stations in all Available Stations Lists to 400.

* Expanded the number of frequencies in the Current Frequency List to 300.

* Added a 24 hour Frequency Usage function for any station in the database.

* Fixed column justification in some of the list displays.

* Remapped the right-mouse-button popup menu to the menu bar on all lists.

* Added back the Ctrl-Enter record marking keystrokes, and made most window lists more keyboard aware.

* Added system and database information in the About Box.

* Added ten user-selectable timers, similar to a VCR.

* Added the capability for users to define frequency marking colors.

* Increased station capacity in the database to 999.

* Reformatted the database for 0.1 kHz resolution.

* Added capability to edit the database from most windows.

* Added feature to synchronize all database windows when editing.

* Fixed editing to use the existing database entry when using the Modify function.

* Added the capability to scan multiple frequencies from the Current Frequency List (F6).

* Added a user definable scanning delay (only for the multiple frequency scan).

* Renamed DX Programs to SWBC Programs.

* Improved on the speed at which SWBC Programs displays.

* Added the capability to edit SWBC Programs from the display.

* Added a notes field to the SWBC Programs.

* Added the capability to create and use multiple log files.

* Added call sign and digital rate/shift fields to the Log Display.

* Added the capability to edit any entry in the Log Display.

* Added capability to print and export selectable log entries from the Log Display.

* Added capability to drag and drop individual frequencies into the Memory Display List.

* Fixed the default antenna bug when filling the radio.

Registered Utilities (registered users only):

* Adapted all functions to the new database format and ensured backwards compatibility.

* Fixed day cross-over problem in the Importer.

* Fixed same station lockup problem in HF Propagation Prediction.

v2.01ß - Secondary Registered Release  23 Jan 95

* Automatically saves the last stepsize selected as the default, for the next session.

* Made DX Programs screen more robust, by automatically indexing to the next upcoming show in the list.

* Fixed bug that incorrectly drew the station windows, when the list was not filled and a scroll bar was not present.

* Fixed bug that did not allow you to save the database, if you exit Windows prior to exiting Smart R8 Control.

* Fixed problem with communications, to include initialization of the DTR and RTS lines.

* Fixed problem with communications at installation time.  Smart R8 Control for Windows now makes sure that the Control Panel configures the desired port for 9600,e,7,1,p.

* Fixed bug when printing a memory file.  Channels with valid note fields in the right column (above #50), did not print correctly if the corresponding channel on that line in the left column (below #50) was blank.

* Fixed bug in print dialog box.  The cancel button in the print dialog box now operates correctly, and will abort after printing the current page.  Also, the dialog box now displays the current page being printed.

Registered Utilities (registered users only):

* Integrated Shell : All utilities may now be run either internally from Smart R8 Control for Windows, or from a single front-end shell SMUTES.EXE, when the main program is not running.

* Database Compilation : Compilation now synchronizes database editing with Smart R8 Control.  It automatically kicks in when re-opening the database if it has changed after an editing session.

* Database Importing : Importing now does not alter the utility frequencies, for TRS users.

* Database Publishing : Publishing now asks for pages to print and includes the name of the database in the header.

* HF Propagation Prediction : Eliminated useless EMUF curve, in favor of a 10% FMUF curve.  Utility now also has MUF-LUF display built into the main entry window.

* Added secondary registered help file.

v2.00ß - Original Shareware Release  02 Jan 95


 Keyboard Conventions

Smart R8 Control for Windows is easy enough to use with the Windows menuing system, the new toolbar and a mouse.  However, in some instances it may be desirable to utilize the keyboard instead.  For those cases, Smart R8 Control for Windows also recognizes the following key combinations:

Key Combination	Smart R8 Control for Windows Function	Corresponding Menu
Left/Right Cursors	Fast Tunes the radio using stepsize Moves cursor to adjacent entry	Gridded Lists
Ctrl-Left/Right Cursors	Slow Tunes (nudges) the radio Fast Tunes the radio using stepsize	Some Lists
Numeric Keypad, Enter, Backspace	Direct Access Tunes the radio (Faceplate Stepsize, Offset, Ant or BW not selected)	All Displays
Ins	Modifies database entries	Edit Menu
* Del	Deletes database entries	Edit Menu (All)
* Ctrl-Del	Deletes stepsize or offset entries	Edit Menu
* Home	Moves cursor to first entry Moves cursor to beginning of entry	Standard Lists Gridded Lists
* Ctrl-Home	Moves cursor to first entry	All Lists
* End	Moves cursor to last entry Moves cursor to end of entry line	Standard Lists Gridded Lists
* Ctrl-End	Moves cursor to last entry	All Lists
* PgUp	Moves cursor up one screen	Standard Lists
Ctrl-PgUp	Inserts database entries above/before Moves cursor to top line in display	Edit Menu Some Gridded Lists
* PgDn	Moves cursor down one screen	Standard Lists
Ctrl-PgDn	Inserts database entries below/after Moves cursor to last line in display	Edit Menu  Some Gridded Lists
* Ctrl-Enter	Marks database entries	Edit Menu (All)
Esc	Toggles the radios Power	Radio Menu
Ctrl-Esc	Invokes Windows Task Manager (Win 3.x) Shows Start Menu (Windows95)	Control Menu
Alt-Esc	Switches to next task	Control Menu
Ctrl-A	Sets the radios Antenna Port	Radio Menu
* Alt-A	Selects all frequencies in the list	Edit Menu (Freq. List)
Ctrl-B	Sets the radios IF Bandwidth	Radio Menu
* Alt-B	Selects marked frequencies in the list	Edit Menu (Freq. List)
Ctrl-C	Toggles the radios Scan Mode	Tuning Menu
Ctrl-D	Toggles the computer-radio Connection	Tuning Menu
Ctrl-E	Toggles the radios Memory Mode	Tuning Menu
Ctrl-F	Invokes HF Propagation Prediction	Tools Menu
Ctrl-G	Sets the radios AGC Speed	Radio Menu
Ctrl-H	Displays current Memory List	Memory Menu
* Ctrl-I	Inserts a Memory Channel	Memory Menu (Faceplate) Edit Menu (Memory)
* Alt-I	Sets timer parameters	Tuning Menu
* Ctrl-J	Invokes Timer Mode	Tuning Menu
Ctrl-K	Sets the radios Noise Blanker	Radio Menu
* Ctrl-L	Prompts for a Log Entry	Tools Menu (Faceplate) Edit Menu (Log)
Ctrl-M	Sets the radios Demodulation Mode	Radio Menu
Ctrl-N	Toggles the radios Notch Filter	Radio Menu
* Ctrl-O	Sets the radios tuning offset	Tuning Menu
* Ctrl-P	Sets program Options	Tools Menu
* Alt-P	Sets printer	File Menu (Faceplate)
Ctrl-Q	Closes all active windows	Tools Menu
Ctrl-R	Sets the radios RF Amplifier	Radio Menu
Ctrl-S	Toggles the radios Synchronous Detector	Radio Menu
* Alt-S	Sets scanning parameters	Tuning Menu
Ctrl-T	Toggles the radios Tape VOX	Radio Menu
Ctrl-U	Invokes Database Publishing	File Menu (Faceplate)
* Alt-U	Updates display on demand	Tuning Menu
Ctrl-V	Toggles the radios VFO	Radio Menu
* Ctrl-W	Captures the radios memories	Memory Menu (Faceplate) Tools Menu (Memory)
Alt-X	Exits Smart R8 Control for Windows	File Menu (Faceplate)
* Ctrl-Y	Fills the radios memories	Memory Menu (Faceplate) Tools Menu (Memory)
Ctrl-Z	Sets the radios stepsize	Tuning Menu
* Ctrl-*	Sets the radios VFOs A = B	Radio Menu
* F1	Displays Context Sensitive Help	Help Menu
Shift-F1	Displays Help Contents	Help Menu
* Ctrl-F1	Help on using the Help System	Help Menu
F2	Displays the SWBC Band Plan	Tools Menu
* F3	Displays the SWBC Programs	Tools Menu
F4	Displays the Radio Log	Tools Menu
* Ctrl-F4	Opens alternate Radio Log	Tools Menu (Faceplate) File Menu (Log)
* Shift-F4	Prints the Radio Log	Tools Menu (Faceplate) File Menu (Log)
Alt-F4	Closes current window	Control Menu
* Shift-Ctrl-F4	Exports selected Radio Log entrie(s)	File Menu (Log) PopUp Menu (Log)
* Shift-Alt-F4	Exports all Radio Log entries	Tools Menu (Faceplate) File Menu (Log)
F5	Displays Available SWBC Stations	Query Menu
Shift-F5	Displays Available AM/CB Stations	Query Menu
Ctrl-F5	Displays Available Utility Stations	Query Menu
F6	Displays Current Station Freqs.	Query Menu
* Shift-F6	Displays Station Freq. Usage	Query Menu
F7	Displays Full Station Schedule	Query Menu
Shift-F7	Prints Full Station Schedule	Query Menu
F8	Displays Who Else Uses Freq.	Query Menu
F9	Saves a changed Database	File Menu (Faceplate)
Shift-F9	Swaps Databases	File Menu (Faceplate)
* Alt-F9	Opens or re-opens database	File Menu (Faceplate)
Ctrl-F9	Dumps Database to disk	File Menu (Faceplate)
* Shift-Alt-F9	Imports TRS database	File Menu (Faceplate)

Notes:

Items marked with an asterisk (*) are either new or changed for version 3.00 of Smart R8 Control for Windows.

Grayed items are only available for registered users of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


Ok Button

This button is used to accept any changes and continue the action.


Cancel Button

This button is used to deny any changes and abort the action.


Help Button

This button is used to display the help screen behind this message.


Nice Try!

You are already at the highest level of the help system.


 Installation and Setup

It is necessary (but not essential) that the computer's real time clock be accurately set.  If no battery back up clock is used in the computer, the computers clock should be set prior to running Smart R8 Control for Windows.  The importance of this will be detailed later.

Smart R8 Control for Windows now comes with an automated Setup facility.  The Setup facility automatically handles:

* Creation of the program directory (if warranted).

* Copying of all necessary files in the distribution package.

* Installation of a proper 16-bit, Windows API-compliant communications driver, BICOMM.DRV, and a controls library, CTL3DV2.DLL, into your WINDOWS\SYSTEM directory (only if warranted).

* Creation/modification  of a Program Manager program group and icons (Windows 3.x only).

Important Notes:  Since Smart R8 Control is still a 16-bit application, Windows95 users should avoid using long filenames as the path to the programs host disk directory, or for any prompts during the Setup process.  Also, since the Setup facility is based upon the older Windows 3.x standard, SETUP.EXE, it will not create Start Menu or Program Manager Groups and Icons.

The program may be distributed either as a single archive (SMWIN300.ZIP) or a self-unarchiving (SMWIN300.EXE) file.  The user should use a PKUNZIP-compatible unarchiver to extract the program into a temporary directory not containing any previous version of Smart R8 Control.  If the self-unarchiving file is used, copy it to the temporary directory and run it.  The user can now run SETUP.EXE from the temporary directory to start the Setup facility.

Users that already have a previous version of Smart R8 Control may opt to create a new directory that will contain the new version.  The Setup facility will automatically create this directory if desired.  Otherwise, the directory containing the older version of Smart R8 Control for Windows should be used, such that it may be overwritten with this new version and that older setup information can be carried forward.

Once the Setup facility is complete, the user must run Smart R8 Control from the directory it was installed to, in order to complete the installation.  If the user is a previous user of Smart R8 Control, and the new version was installed on top of it, the user must invoke the Options function such that new functions (such as a switch to the R8A) can be properly registered in the initialization file.  First-time users will see the Options display automatically.

The Options display will prompt you for all of your important default options if they are omitted.  These options will consist of the receiver being used (R8 or R8A), your UT-to-local time offset, which of the computers serial ports is connected to the receiver, which of the receivers two antenna ports is connected to the shortwave antenna, and optionally some user information that may be included for logging purposes.

All default options will be stored in an initialization file, in the default directory, named SMARTCON.INI.  Upon future runs of Smart R8 Control for Windows, this file will be automatically read at start-up.  Since these options can change, the user can enter these options independently.  See Setting Options for more detailed information.

Special Note:  Registered users of Smart R8 Control should note that the format of the database in version 3.00 has changed to one that is incompatible with the previous version.  It is for this reason that registered users should refrain from using the Smart R8 Control Utilities to modify the database until the new version is received.  Failure to follow this advice may result in a corrupted database.


 Operating the Faceplate

Faceplate Description

After properly setting all options, Smart R8 Control for Windows will automatically read the default frequency database and display the radio faceplate, as shown above.  The layout of the faceplate is somewhat similar to that of the R8 (and R8A), except that it also displays a Band Indicator, the current tuning stepsize, the local or UT time, and space for up to ten co-channel station names.  For easier direct tuning of the radio, Smart R8 Control for Windows adds a fully functional numeric keypad, similar to that on your keyboard.  It also adds a couple of extra tuning buttons, that will allow you nudge the receiver's frequency by 0.01 kHz (0.1 kHz for the VHF Converter).

See the following topics for more faceplate operations:

Tuning the Radio

Memory Mode Operation

Scanning Mode Operation

Timer Mode Operation

For a full description of all faceplate controls, either click on a feature in the above faceplate, or select one of the following:

Open Button	Full Schedule Button 	VFO Button

Save Button	SWBC Programs Button 	VFO A=B Button

Noise Blanker Button	Log Button 	Antenna Combo Box

Notch Filter Button	Close Windows Button 	RF Amplifier Combo Box

Tape VOX Button	Tape Indicator 	AGC Speed Combo Box

Memory Mode Button	Band Indicator 	Bandwidth Combo Box

Scan Mode Button	Memory Indicator 	Mode Combo Box

Timer Mode Button	Memory Channel Indicator 	Offset Combo Box

Connect/Disconnect Button 	Stepsize Combo Box 	Synch Detector Button

SWBC Stations Button	Noise Blanker Check Boxes 	Station(s) Tuned List Box

Utility Stations Button	Timer Indicator 	Direct Tune Keypad

AM/CB Stations Button 	Notch Indicator 	Power Button

Find Frequency Button 	Scan Indicator	Up/Down Tuning Buttons

Frequency Usage Button 	Scan Parameters Indicator

Unfortunately, there are no provisions to remotely control receiver's tone, notch, squelch, passband offset, volume or RF Gain control knobs; nor the internal clock or timer settings on the R8.  Although these last two are available on the R8A, it did not make sense to add specific features for one radio if the other radio did not have a similar capability.  There are provisions to remotely control the tuning knob step display, but because of the tuning features provided by Smart R8 Control for Windows, the point is moot.

A work-around for controlling the volume and tone controls can be made, if you connect one of the radios line outputs to an input on your computers sound card (if available).  The radios volume and tone can be then controlled via the sound cards speakers, using the cards Windows-based mixer utility.  If this is a desirable feature, FineWare is developing another product to do all of that as well as provide a calibrated Audio Oscilloscope and Spectrum Analyzer display.

In addition to the available faceplate controls, space is reserved for the following status indicators:

*  Current database selected.  The name of the current database will be shown in the Smart R8 Control title bar.

*  Carrier Status. If a signal is present and is at a level above the squelch threshold on an R8, the meter in the upper left hand corner of the faceplate will display, as shown.  On the R8A, the meter will reflect the average signal level as reported by the receiver.

*  Registration status.  The space to the right of the power button will display the users registration number for registered copies of Smart R8 Control for Windows.

*  Serial port communications status.  The space next to the registration status indicator will display Comms if the computer is physically disconnected from a receiver.  This feature has changed in version 3.00, such that the health of the physical connection can be separately distinguished from the users ability to temporarily disconnect communications from the receiver.  For more information on this change, see Connect/Disconnect.

*  Database status.  The space to the left of the up/down tuning buttons will display Save if the database has changed since the last time it was saved.  This indicator will light in conjunction with the Save Toolbar Button


 Using the Memory Management System

Description

New to the Smart R8 Control line, is the ability to manage the Drake R8s 100, and the R8As 440 memory channels.  Previously, the DOS version of Smart R8 Control only allowed the user to fill and recall one memory channel at a time.  This made it cumbersome to completely fill the radio.  In addition to the original memory functions, Smart R8 Control for Windows now has a robust Memory Management System, to make both the R8 and R8As memory channels a lot easier to use and manipulate.  The Memory Management System allows the user to create, edit, recall and save individual memory files; as well as to Capture and Fill all memory channels.  When either Capturing or Filling the radio, the contents of the memory locations used will be automatically loaded the next time Smart R8 Control for Windows is run.

It is expected that the Memory Management System will provide a set of useful tools for operating the Drake R8 or R8A while the computer is Off.  For these instances, memory files may be constructed to hold a either single stations set of used frequencies, or any combination thereof.  The constructed memory file can then be used to Fill the receiver for use when the computer is Off.  The user can also Print these memories out in a foldable one-sheet format, as a handy reference.

Memory File Creation and Loading

The Memory Management System operates from a series of memory files.  The user can create a memory file by either Capturing the radios current memories, or editing each location in a blank memory set.  The Capture Radio function will automatically step through all of the memory locations, reading each setting at each location.  The New function will create a blank set of memories that the user may configure.  If the user Captures the receivers memory locations, Smart R8 Control for Windows will automatically prompt the user to Save these settings to a memory file.  The memory file may then be recalled at a later time, by using the Open command.

Dragging and Dropping into Memory List

New in version 3.00, is the capability to drag and drop multiple frequencies from either the Current Freqs or Frequency Usage Lists into the Memory List.  To drag frequencies, first select the frequencies to drag on either the Current Frequency or Frequency Usage display.  Then simply click and hold the mouse button on one of the selected frequencies and pull the mouse cursor, dragging the entries into the Memory List.  Once completed, Smart R8 Control will display an initial Memory Insert dialog box.  In this dialog, the user has the opportunity to define the first memory location to drop the frequencies into, and the notes to be associated with them.  Smart R8 Control will then automatically add the memory locations to the Memory List, optionally filling the associated radio channel with each.

Editing and Saving Memory Files

A memory file may be easily edited using Smart R8 Control for Windows from within the displayed Memory List.  To edit the memory file, select the memory location to edit and select the Modify command.  From here, the user can modify all of the memorys settings (except the memory channel number) as well as fill the memory location of the radio at that time.  The user can also Insert the radios current settings to a memory location by using the Insert command.  Selecting Clear will empty the contents of the location, and will show in the Memory List as <none>.

Once changed, the filename in the title bar of the Memory List display will be followed by an asterisk (*), showing that the current memory file needs to be saved.  The user can then save the file using the Save command or by the Save As... command.

The memory files can also be edited manually using a text editor.  Within the memory file, all active records are formatted as *MM SSSSS FFF.FFFFF*MHz<#Notes>.  In this format, MM = the active memory channel (MMM for the R8A), SSSSS = Drakes 5-character settings string, FFF.FFFFF = the frequency setting, in MHz.  The user may append the end of each record with a short notes field, describing the contents of the memory location, containing a maximum of 28 characters.  The notes field begins with tab character (shown as the # in the format string, above).  A memory file can have up to 100 records for the R8, and 440 for the R8A, to match the receivers memory capacity.  On the R8A, the Notes field is additionally used to set the receivers memory location name.

Filling Memory Locations

As previously mentioned, a single memory location can be filled either by using the Insert  command, or the Modify command.  Each does basically the same thing, and uses the same dialog box.  When using the Insert command, the user may only select the channel number to fill, using the receivers current settings.  When using the Modify command, the user can only change the contents of that location, and has the option of filling the channel at that time.  The user can likewise fill all of the R8 or R8As memory locations by using the Fill Radio command.  This command will run through all active memory locations in the currently loaded memory file and fill each corresponding channel.

For a full description of all Memory Management System functions, select one of the following:

New	Creates a fresh memory file.

Open...	Opens a previously saved memory file.

Save	Saves a modified memory file.

Save As...	Saves the current memory file under a new name.

Print	Prints the current memory file to the printer.

Show List	Shows the current memory file listing.

Capture	Reads all of the radios memories into a memory file.

Fill Radio	Fills all of the radios memories with the current memory file.

Modify	Modifies the selected memory file record.

Insert Channel...	Fills a memory channel with the current radio settings.

Clear	Clears the selected memory file record.


 Using the Logging System

Description

One of the mundane tasks of the listening hobby is the logging of activity.  Smart R8 Control for Windows contains a robust Logging System that makes this task a lot easier.  Depending on how a log entry is invoked, the Logging System will produce a Log Entry form that automatically contains the date, time, frequency, station name and mode settings from the faceplate.  These settings may be recalled later, from the Log Display, to automatically tune the radio.  New in version 3.00, is the capability to create and edit log entries in user-defined log files.  The user may select a log file by using the Log Open command.

Log Entries

Creating log entries has been made extremely flexible and easy to use.  For example, there may be instances when a late log entry is to made.  When invoked, the Log Entry form will be shown with only the current date and time, and the station field will default to UnID.  From here, the Frequency, SINPO (or SIO) and all other fields can be manually entered.  As well, any program details or notes can be entered in the multi-line notes field.  The station name can be manually typed or can be changed by searching through the standard station names in the drop-down combo box.  Pressing the Ok Button completes the entry, which is then posted in the log file that is annotated in the Log Entry title bar.

If the radio were on, the Frequency and Mode fields would be automatically filled, anticipating that you will log what you are listening to.  If the station you heard is displayed in the faceplates Station(s) Tuned list, clicking on the stations name will automatically invoke the Log Entry form with that station name already filled in.

If the stations name is not shown on the faceplate, or can not be IDed, it may be possible that the station also uses that frequency at another time during the day.  Invoking the Who Else Uses database query may show this station in the list, and possibly help you to ID it.  Clicking on a station name is from the Who Else list will also display the Log Entry form with that station already filled in.

The Log Entry form has been completely revised in version 3.00.  For one, the user may choose what log file the log will go in to by pressing the Log File button on the form.  Additionally, the notes field employs easy to use editing buttons to cut, copy and paste, as well as add the current UT time or date.

Revising a Log Entry

Also new in Smart R8 Control for Windows, is the capability to edit old log entries directly from the Log Display.  Selecting an entry and choosing Modify will display the entry, as the user first entered it.  This will allow users to provide station names for previously unidentified logs, or to revise typing mistakes in the notes field.

Revisiting a Log Entry

In some instances, it may be desirable to revisit some old log entries.  One possible instance is to attempt to ID a previously unidentified entry.  Invoking the Log Display will show all log entries, and automatically point to the most recent one.  Selecting one of these log entries will automatically tune the receiver to that frequency.  This will also set the radio to the mode that it was set to when the entry was made.  This should be extremely helpful for those users that do a lot of utility DXing.

Exporting the Log File

In the previous version of Smart R8 Control, one had to manually copy and paste entries from the actual log file to create ported logs.  For those who do a lot of posting to any of the available conferences, newsgroups, or mail lists, version 3.00 now has an Export function.

Once an Export Format is chosen (see below) it will be used for all Exporting functions.  The user may export individual entries, or the entire log file to a text file.  When selected, Smart R8 Control will prompt the user for a file name to export to.  Once the file name is entered, the export file will be created and may be subsequently used for posting logs.

An alternative to directly using the Export functions is to choose the Print Log function, and clicking the Print to File check box.  The routines are exactly the same, however, the provision of an explicit Export command is more direct.

Creating and Editing Export Formats

In order to create exported logs, the user must either create or choose an Export Format.  This will display an editor, which will include all data for the currently selected Export Format (if one is selected).  The user can then create a new format or open a previously existing one by pressing the New or Open Buttons on the form.

As with the Log Entry display, the Export Format editor contains easy to use editing buttons to cut, copy or paste text items, or insert a tab into the format.  In addition, the editor has a row of buttons along the top of the form to allow for rapid format token insertion.  For more details on how to work with Export Format files, please refer to the Export Format command.

Once the format is completed, pressing the Ok Button will save it using the current file name chosen.  If the file is untitled, the user will be prompted to provide one.  Pressing Cancel will abort the process, but the current format will remain as the default exporting format.

Printing Reception Reports

New in Smart R8 Control v3.00, is the capability to print Reception Reports directly from the Log Display.  Once an Export Format and Report Format are chosen (see below) they will be used for all Reporting functions.  Although the Report Format is used for the entrie document, the Export Format is used to embed the actual Log Entries.  The user may generate a report based upon multiple log entries by simply selecting them from the Log Display and choosing this function.  The report may be automatically sent to the printer, or saved to a text file for later editing.

Creating and Editing Report Formats

In order to create reception reports, the user must either create or choose an Report Format.  This will display an editor, which will include all data for the currently selected Report Format (if one is selected).  The user can then create a new format or open a previously existing one by pressing the New or Open Buttons on the form.

As with the Export Format editor, the Report Format editor contains easy to use editing buttons to cut, copy or paste text items, or insert a tab into the format.  In addition, the editor has a row of buttons along the top of the form to allow for rapid format token insertion.  For more details on how to work with Report Format files, please refer to the Report Format command.  In most respects, the Report Format Editor acts very similar to the Export Format Editor.

Log Format

Although the Exporting function has been added, some users may still wish to explore and use the log files directly.  Since the data included within the Smart R8 Control logger has been changed somewhat from the earlier DOS and Windows versions, the structure of the log files have changed with it.  It is no longer a simple text file, but a tab-delimited flat file database of log entries.  The structure is as follows:

Field	Length	Comments

Frequency	8 Chars	FFFFF.FF, if kHz; FFF.FFFF if MHz (see Multiplier)

Multiplier	3 Chars	kHz or MHz

UT Time	5 Chars	TTTTd format, where d is the day of the week.

Date	9 Chars	DD MMM YY format

Mode	<=4 Chars

Rate/Shift	<=10 Chars

SINPO	<=5 Chars

Call	<=11 Chars

Station Name	<=25 Chars

Long Notes	<=150 Chars	Notes are split into separate lines, with each line preceded by a special character (#255) and two tab characters.  Each line is limited to 80 Char of free text.

For a full description of all Logging System functions, select one of the following:

Log Open...

Show Log

Print Log

Print Report

Export Log

Log Export Format

Log Report Format

Log Entry...

Modify Log Entry

Delete Log Entry


 Registering Smart R8 Control

The user is licensed to operate Smart R8 Control for Windows free of charge, for the purposes of inspection, for a period of sixty (60) days.  After the 60 day period expires, the user is expected to pay the nominal registration charge of forty United States dollars (US$40).  Currently registered users of the DOS version of Smart R8 Control are entitled to a special collateral upgrade for only fifteen United States dollars (US$15), to switch to the Windows version of the software.

To register Smart R8 Control for Windows v3.00, print this help topic (from the menu bar, select File | Print), fill out the form below and return it with a check or money order in the appropriate amount.

Checks or money orders drawn on a United States bank may be made payable to MARK J. FINE and can be sent to the following address:

MARK J. FINE

c/o FineWare

11252 Cardinal Drive

Remington, Virginia 22734-2032


 Contacting the Author

The author would appreciate any comments regarding the improvement of this software or any bug reports (nobody's perfect).  The author can receive electronic mail at the following e-mail addresses:

mfine@crosslink.net

m.fine7@genie.com

If you have World Wide Web access, you can also check the FineWare Web Page for up-to-date announcements and links to download current and forthcoming FineWare products.  The URL for the FineWare Page is:

http://www.crosslink.net/~mfine/

Previous users of Smart R8 Control had the benefit of being able to contact the author via the FineWare Support Conference on The Cats Meow BBS.  Unfortunately, this BBS has since closed, and the FineWare Support Conference is looking for a new dial-up BBS home.  Users without Internet access would be able to use it as a forum for rapidly acquiring software updates, information on Smart R8 Control developments; as well as a means to exchange up-to-date shortwave data.

As an alternative, FineWare does have an area on the Genie Radio & Electronics Roundtable, Page 345, Category 15, Area 4.  Users of the Genie on-line service may access the Radio & Electronics RT by typing RADIO or going to page 345 at any prompt.  The entire FineWare product line can be found in the RTs vast file library.  Please see the enclosed GENIE.TXT for more up-to-date information on the Genie service.

Aside from finding updates on the Internet and the Genie Radio & Electronics RT Library, additional FineWare titles may be found on various radio-related dial-up BBS, World Wide Web and FTP sites.  Please note that at the time of this writing, many dial-up BBSs, to include previous flagship drop sites of The Cats Meow, Grove Services BBS and Pics OnLine, have either closed or were in the process of changing to Internet Service Provider-systems.  As this unfortunately leaves the non-Internet customer with very limited resources, this author is beginning to believe that the days of dial-up BBSs may be a thing of the past.

The author also tends to hang out in the following message areas in Cyberspace:

USENET Rec.Radio.Shortwave newsgroup (news:rec.radio.shortwave)

Drake R8 list (DrakeR8@terra.pwd.hp.com)  [Note:  Send a SUBSCRIBE message to DrakeR8-Request@terra.pwd.hp.com to join the list.  Be sure to tell Mik Butler, the listmaster, that FineWare sent you.]

World Utility News Club list (wun@grove.net)  [Note:  Send a SUBSCRIBE message to majordomo@grove.net, with subscribe WUN <your address> in the body to join the list]

In addition, the author may also be contacted by mail at his home address (phone calls are discouraged):

MARK J. FINE

c/o FineWare

11252 Cardinal Drive

Remington, Virginia 22734-2032

Comments should be constructive and contain detailed descriptions of what the user would like to see included in this software.  If a bug report is in order, please include information such as computer make and model, version and make of DOS & Windows used, a hard copy of the user's AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files, as well as detailed descriptions of the nature of each problem.  All constructive comments and bug reports will result in a prompt, courteous response.


 Tuning the Radio

Power on and Up/Down Tuning

The receiver can be turned on and off by either clicking on the Power Button, or by pressing the Esc key.  The receiver can then be tuned in a stepping fashion by clicking on one of the buttons on the tuning bar.  Clicking on the Double Arrow Buttons of the tuning bar will tune the receiver at whatever the amount is shown in the Stepsize Combo Box.  Clicking on the Small Arrow Buttons of the tuning bar will tune the receiver in a set increment of 0.01 kHz (0.1 kHz for the VHF Converter).  Stepped tuning can be also done by using the left and right cursor keys on the keyboard.  Holding down the Ctrl key when using the left or right cursor keys will emulate clicking one of the small arrow buttons.

Direct Access Tuning

If desired, the receiver can be direct-access tuned by either using the Faceplates Direct Tune Keypad, or by typing in the frequency and hitting return.  Corrections can be made while direct-access tuning, by using the backspace key on either the direct tune keypad, or the keyboard.

When using the direct-access tuning, typing 15, 15.000 or 15000 will yield the same result: 15 MHz.  This only works between the frequency range of 0.176 through 55 MHz.  Frequencies below 0.176 MHz and above 108 MHz must be entered in MHz (i.e., .153 for 153 kHz or 147 for 147 MHz).  Since the receiver only tunes between .100 - 30,35 - 55, and 108 - 175 MHz, any other frequency will yield an error message.  If the optional VHF Converter is not installed, tuning in the latter two bands will also yield an error message.

Using the Stepsize

Different areas of the radio spectrum have different channel spacing.  For example, the SWBC bands typically have a 5 kHz spacing, while the AM Broadcast Band uses 10 kHz (9 kHz in Europe and elsewhere).  In addition, the Maritime bands utilize a 0.5 kHz channel spacing for digital signals, and 3.0 kHz for voice.  For this reason, Smart R8 Control includes a variable Stepsize control, allowing the user to adjust the Up/Down tuning controls to the listening environment.

Using the Tuning Offset

Tuning digital signals is more complicated than it seems.  Since TTY signals usually comprise two tones, the signals frequency is often posted as either a so-called window frequency.  However, the decoder that you use may require the signal to be even further offset such that it fits within its internal filters.  For these cases, Smart R8 Control for Windows has added an Offset Combo Box.  Five offsets have been pre-loaded into the  , to compliment the tuning of narrow and wide digital signals.  As a tip:  When tuning in USB, the negative offsets should be used.  When tuning in LSB, use the positive ones.  Typically, the narrow digital signals will require the larger offset value.

The Keyboard Layout

All of these key positions were specifically chosen because of the layout of the 101 style keyboard.  On the 101, the Esc key is in the upper left hand corner of the keyboard, which keeps it nicely out of the way.  Also on the 101 keyboard, are separate cursor and numeric keypads.  If the NumLock is depressed, it is extremely easy to punch in a direct-access frequency or incrementally tune.

Smart Tuning

Smart R8 Control for Windows is not only limited to the tuning methods, described above.  Throughout the software, there are numerous dialog windows that contain various frequencies.  Even the least experienced users will soon find that the receiver can be tuned by clicking on any frequency shown in one of these dialog windows.


 Memory Mode Operation

Entering Memory Mode

Memory mode tuning can be toggled on and off by clicking the Memory Mode Toolbar Button, or by pressing the Ctrl-E key combination.  When in memory mode, the Memory Mode Indicator will display an upper case MEM and the receiver will tune to the memory number displayed on the Memory Channel Indicator.  Selecting the Memory Mode Toolbar Button again will download the memory settings into the current VFO, which is analogous to pressing the M-V key on the receiver.

Tuning or Jumping to Another Memory Channel

While in memory mode, tuning up or down will step through all of the preset memory channels.  An alternate method for accessing a particular memory number is by either clicking on the Memory Channel Indicator, or by pressing the Ctrl-H key combination.  This will display a list of all of the radios memory channels, if the radios memories have been captured to a memory file, and the memory file has been loaded into Smart R8 Control for Windows.  The radio will jump to that Memory Channel, by either clicking or selecting any one of the items in the list.  The receiver may be tuned by the direct-access method without having to leave memory mode.  Smart R8 Control for Windows will handle this automatically.

Special Note:  Items in the list that are marked <none> cannot be tuned.  Please refer to Capturing Memories to create a valid memory file.

More Memory Operations

Smart R8 Control for Windows has a fairly complete and robust Memory Management System, allowing you to read all memory locations from the receiver, or fill them with a previously created memory file.  As well, each memory location can be individually set either by using the radios current settings, or with a user-defined combination.

For more detailed information, see the Memory Menu topic, or one of the following:

Capture

Show List

Fill Radio

Insert Channel...

Modify Channel

Clear Channel


 Scanning Mode Operation

New in Smart R8 Control for Windows is the Frequency Scan Mode.  This mode allows the user to select multiple frequencies from a Current Frequency List or Frequency Usage List, and automatically step through them using a user-selectable delay time.  For this, Smart R8 Control has added Freq to the available scanning modes on the Options|Scanning Parameters page.  A combo box with selectable delay times have been included as well.

Entering Scanning Mode

Scanning mode can be accessed by clicking on the Scan Mode Button, or by pressing Ctrl-C key combination.  This function does not work very well on the shortwave bands if the squelch is not properly set.  It is only recommended if the RF Amplifier setting is switched OFF and the squelch is set to open at somewhere between S9 to 20 dB over S9.

Unless the new Frequency Mode scanning is used, many of the radios functions are not usable while scanning and they will be automatically disabled.  Only the Band Indicator, Memory Channel Indicator, and Up/Down Tuning Buttons will be enabled.  The former two functions will operate normally, however they will not allow you to tune the receiver.  On the other hand, using the Up/Down Tuning Buttons during scanning mode will allow the user to change the scanning direction.

Setting the Scanning Parameters

If the scanning parameters have not been properly set (as indicated by a ?? on the Scan Parameters Indicator) Smart R8 Control for Windows will automatically prompt for them.  This may also be performed by either clicking on the Scan Parameters Indicator or by pressing the Alt-S key combination.  Invoking this function will bring up the Scanning Parameters page from the Options dialog box.  The appropriate scanning mode (Memory, List, A-B or Freq) and scanning type (Seek, Time or Carrier) can be set by selecting each from the appropriate combo box.  If the List Mode scanning is to be used, the desired memory banks to be scanned can be likewise selected using the appropriate radio buttons.  If Frequency Mode scanning is chosen using the Time method, the user may select a user-definable delay time.

Special Note:  If Memory or List Mode scanning is used, the user must remember to enter memory mode and initially tune to a memory location within the specified memory list.  Failure to do so has been known to confuse the receiver.


 Timer Mode Operation

Description

New in Smart R8 Control for Windows is the ability to set up to ten programmable event timers.  These Timers are programmed and function much like those found on commercial video tape recorders and the like.

Entering Timer Mode

Timer Mode can be accessed by clicking on the Timer Mode Toolbar Button, or by pressing Ctrl-J key combination.  If the Timer is on, the Faceplate will display an upper case TIMER just below the frequency readout.  With Timer Mode engaged, Smart R8 Control will continually monitor the list of active timers.  It will then automatically tune the receiver to a particular frequency, at the time and day of the week specified by any one of the active timers.

Specifying Timers

Before the Timer Mode can be effective, the user must specify some timers to trigger Smart R8 Control.  Timers are specified via the Options|Timer Parameters page.  This page can be automatically displayed by clicking the Faceplates Timer Indicator when Timer Mode is enabled.

In this form, the user can specify the timer number (1 to 10), frequency, time and day of week.  For instances where the particular timer entry is undesired, the user can make the individual entry active or inactive by using the Set Check Box.  Each timer may be reprogrammed by using the same procedure as setting a timer.  The change will take effect once the Options dialog is closed.

After using Smart R8 Control for a while, you will most likely find that actual frequencies become irrelevant.  Over time. a particular timer setting may no longer make sense.  For these cases, each timer also contains a notes field, where the user can specify the particular program or event that the timer represents for future reference.


 Control Menu

The Control Menu includes commands that enable you to move or minimize the programs main dialog box, exit Smart R8 Control for Windows, or switch to another application.

For more information, select the Control Menu command name.

Restore	Restores a minimized dialog box back to the screen.

Move	Moves the dialog box to a new location.

Minimize	Shrinks the dialog box into an icon at the bottom of the screen.

Close	Exits Smart R8 Control for Windows.

Switch To...	Switches to another currently running application.  (Win 3.x only)


 Restore Window

This Control Menu Item will allow you to restore a minimized (or iconized) dialog box back to the Windows desktop.

Special Note:  The dialog box can also be restored by double-clicking on the minimized dialog box icon in Win3.x or by clicking on the Smart R8 Control item in the Task Bar in Windows95.


 Move Window

This Control Menu Item will allow you to move the dialog box to a new location on the screen.  After selecting this item, the cursor will change to a cross-hair-like icon.  Using the cursor keys will move the window around the screen.  Also, placing the cross-hair icon on the dialog box and holding down the left mouse cursor will move the dialog boxs outline around the screen.  Releasing the mouse button will drop the dialog box at that location.

Special Note:  The dialog box outline will not be grabbed until the cursor reaches the title bar.  The same thing can be done by simply selecting and grabbing the title bar of the dialog box.  This item is obviously for backwards compatibility with earlier versions of Microsoft Windows.


 Minimize Window

This Control Menu Item will allow you to minimize the dialog box into either an icon (Win 3.x) or an item on the Task Bar (Windows95) on the bottom of the Windows desktop.

Special Note:  The dialog box can also be minimized by clicking on either the down-arrow (Win 3.x) or underscore (Windows95) button in the right hand corner of the title bar.


 Switch To...

This Control Menu Item will allow you to switch to another currently running application.  Selecting Switch To...  will display the Task Managers Task List, from which the user can select another application, end a specific application, tile or cascade currently maximized application windows, or arrange all of the minimized application icons on the bottom of the Windows desktop.

Special Note:  This feature is only available when running Windows 3.x.


 File Menu

The File Menu includes commands that enable you to open, save, export or print the respective frequency database, memory or log file.  It will also enable you to set up the printer and exit Smart R8 Control for Windows.

For more information, select the File Menu command name.

From the Radio Faceplate:

Open Database	Opens (or re-opens) a stored frequency database.

Save Database	Saves the modified database to disk.

Dump Database	Saves the database in an ASCII format for editing.

Import Database	Converts a TRS Consultants database file into Smart R8 Control format.

Swap Database...	Switches between the Smart R8 Control distribution and TRS Consultants databases.

Publish Database	Prints the database in a two-column newspaper format.

Printer Setup...	Sets the default printer.

Exit	Exits Smart R8 Control for Windows.

From the Memory List:

New	Creates a fresh memory file.

Open...	Opens a previously saved memory file.

Save	Saves a modified memory file.

Save As...	Saves the current memory file under a new name.

Print	Prints the current memory file to the printer.

From the Log Display:

Open...	Opens a previously saved radio log file.

Export all	Exports all of the log entries to a text file.

Export selected	Exports the selected log entrie(s) to a text file.

Print	Prints all radio log entries.

Print Report	Prints a reception report for the selected log entries.

Special Note:  Grayed items are only available in the registered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Open Database

Choosing this File Menu Item, clicking the Open Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Alt-F9 key combination will allow you to open (or re-open) a previously stored database.  Registered users of Smart R8 Control for Windows have the capability to store and retrieve various frequency databases.  Unregistered users will only be allowed access to the distribution database, SWBCGIDE.DAT.

Special Note:  If changes have been made to the currently selected database prior to invoking this function, the user will be prompted to save the current database before the new one is read in.


 Save Database

Choosing this File Menu Item, clicking the Save Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the F9 key will allow you to save all database changes to disk.  This function will only be enabled if it has been changed.  This will be evidenced by either an enabling of the Save Toolbar Button or by Save being displayed in the database status indicator.

Special Note:  If changes have been made to the currently selected database prior to invoking this function, the user will be automatically prompted to save the current database before the new one is read in.


 Printer Setup...

Choosing this File Menu Item or pressing the Alt-P key combination will allow you to locally change the currently selected printer to another one that is installed and recognized by Windows.  It will also allow you to modify any of the printers options.  This function should be run in preparation for any Smart R8 Control for Windows print functions.


 Close/Exit

This menu item is replicated in both the Control Menu, and the File Menu and will allow you to safely exit from Smart R8 Control for Windows.  The Close/Exit function can also be done by double-clicking on the Control Menu Box in the left-hand corner of the title bar, or by either pressing the Alt-F4 (Close) or Alt-X (Exit) key combinations.

When Exiting Smart R8 Control for Windows the user will be prompted to save the database or the memories, if either has been changed.  Any user defaults that have been changed will automatically be saved to SMARTCON.INI.  Since this program alters certain computer parameters, it is important that the user ONLY exit the program in this manner.  If for some reason the program hangs, the best solution is to reboot the virtual machine that the program is running in with Ctrl-Alt-Del (when in Windows running in 386 Enhanced mode or in Windows95).  Any other method to Exit Smart R8 Control for Windows should be avoided.

Special Notes:  In Windows95, the Close/Exit function can be performed by clicking on the X button in the upper right hand corner of the title bar.

Selecting the Close function in any other Smart R8 Control for Windows dialog box will simply close that box.  It will only exit the program when performed on the faceplate.  Selecting the Exit function will exit Smart R8 Control for Windows  from any dialog box.


 Edit Menu

The Edit Menu includes commands that enable you to modify the currently selected list box item.  Editing features include marking (or unmarking), modifying, inserting or deleting frequency records.

All editing may also be done by selecting a list box item and holding down the right mouse button.

For more information, select the Edit Menu command name.

From the Radio Faceplate and Who Else Uses List:

Mark/Unmark	Marks or Unmarks frequency records in the database.

Delete	Deletes the selected database record.

From the Find Frequency List:

Mark/Unmark	Marks or Unmarks frequency records in the database.

Modify	Modifies the selected database record.

Insert	Inserts a database record next to the selected record.

Delete	Deletes the selected database record.

Select all	Selects all frequency records in the list (used for scanning).

Select marked	Selects only marked frequency records in the list (used for scanning).

From the Utility Stations List and AM BCB/CB Stations List:

Modify	Modifies the selected database record.

Insert	Inserts a database record next to the selected record.

From the Full Schedule List:

Mark/Unmark	Marks or Unmarks frequency records in the database.

Modify	Modifies the selected database record.

Insert	Inserts a database record next to the selected record.

Delete	Deletes the selected database record.

From the SWBC Programs List:

Mark/Unmark	Marks or Unmarks program records.

Modify	Modifies the selected program record.

Insert	Inserts a program record next to the selected record.

Delete	Deletes the selected program record.

From the Memory File List:

Modify	Modifies the selected memory record.

Insert	Fills a memory channel with the current radio settings.

Clear	Clears the selected memory record.

From the Log Display List:

Modify	Modifies the selected log entry.

Add Entry	Allows you to create an entry in the radio log.

Delete	Deletes the selected log entry.

Export selected	Exports the selected log entrie(s) to a text file.  (popup menu only)

Print report	Prints a reception report for the selected log entrie(s).  (popup menu only)

Special Note:  Database editing is not available in database windows other than the Faceplate and the Find Frequency List for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Mark/Unmark Record

Choosing this Edit Menu Item, or pressing the Ctrl-Enter key combination, will allow you to change the marked state of a frequency record.  The marking feature is a useful way to draw attention to frequencies that are audible at the listener's location, as evidenced by a records highlighted text color.  This text color change will occur in any Smart R8 Control for Window display that references that record.

A frequency record can be marked for future reference by first selecting an entry in the faceplates Station(s) Tuned List Box, or most any other database window, and picking this menu item from the menu bar.  Records can also be marked or unmarked by placing the cursor over a selected entry in the list, holding down the right mouse button, and picking the Mark (or Unmark if already marked) item from the resulting PopUp menu.

In either method, changing the marking status can only be performed on a list item that is currently selected, as evidenced by a highlighted background color.  Because the faceplate display is updated every minute, it may be possible that the Station(s) Tuned list item may become deselected during this process.

Special Note:  The Mark/Unmark function is not available in database windows other than the Faceplate and the Find Frequency List for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Delete Record

Choosing this Edit Menu Item, or pressing the Del key, will allow you to remove a selected frequency record from the currently loaded database.  The feature is a useful way to remove records that are either out of date, or in error.  Descriptions of each field in the Delete Record dialog box can be displayed by clicking on any entry in the above example.

A frequency record can be deleted in most any database display by first selecting the entry and picking this menu item from the menu bar.  Records can also be deleted by placing the cursor over a selected entry in the list, holding down the right mouse button, and picking the Delete Item from the resulting popup menu.

In either method, attempting to delete a record will pop up the Delete Record dialog box, containing all of the records pertinent information.  None of the data in the dialog box will be able to be changed.  Clicking the Ok Button (or pressing the Enter key) will delete the record from the database.  Clicking the Cancel Button (or pressing the Esc key) will abort the process.

The Delete function can only be performed on a list item that is currently selected, as evidenced by a highlighted background color.  Because the faceplate display is updated every minute, it may be possible that the Station(s) Tuned list item may become deselected during this process.

Special Note:  The Delete function is not available in database windows other than the Faceplate and the Find Frequency List for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Modify Record

Choosing this Edit Menu Item, or pressing the Ins key, will allow you to modify a selected frequency record in the currently loaded database.  The feature is a useful way to modify records that are either out of date, or in error.  The Modify function can only be performed on a list item that is currently selected, as evidenced by a highlighted background color.  Descriptions of each field in the Modify Record dialog box can be displayed by clicking on any entry in the above example.

A selected frequency record can be modified in most any database display by using the either the Modify Item in the Edit Menu; or by holding down the right mouse button and picking the Modify Item from the resulting popup menu.  This will pop up the Modify Record dialog box, containing all of the records pertinent information.  Only the records frequency, target area and marking status will be changeable from this dialog box.  Clicking the Ok Button (or pressing the Enter key) after modifying the records data will change the records data in the database.  Clicking the Cancel Button (or pressing the Esc key) will abort the process.

Special Note:  The Modify function is not available in database windows other than the Find Frequency List for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


Insert Record Above/Below

 Insert Record

Choosing this Edit Menu Item, or pressing either the Ctrl-PgUp or Ctrl-PgDn key combinations, will allow you to insert a selected frequency record in the currently loaded database.  The feature is a useful way to make additions to the current database due to minor scheduling changes.  The Insert function can only be performed next to a list item that is currently selected, as evidenced by a highlighted background color.  Descriptions of each field in the Insert Record dialog box can be displayed by clicking on any entry in the above example.

A frequency record can be inserted in most any database display by selecting an entry in the list and picking an Insert function from the Edit Menu ; or by holding down the right mouse button, and picking an Insert function from the resulting popup menu.  This will display the Insert Record dialog box, containing all of the selected records time and station information.  If the radio is on, the frequency field will automatically be filled with the currently tuned frequency.  Only the records frequency, target area and marking status will be changeable from this dialog box.  Clicking the Ok Button (or pressing the Enter key) will accept the data in the dialog box and insert the new record in the database.  Clicking the Cancel Button (or pressing the Esc key) will abort the process.

Special Note:  The Insert function is not available in database windows other than the Find Frequency List for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


Start Time

This field displays the time that the station begins to broadcast on the frequency shown, within a one-hour time block.


End Time

This field displays the time that the station ceases to broadcast on the frequency shown, within a one-hour time block.


Days of the Week

This field displays the days of the week that the station broadcasts on the frequency shown, within a one-hour time block.  Day codes are shown as smtwhfa, where:  s = Sunday, m = Monday, t = Tuesday, w = Wednesday, h = Thursday, f = Friday and a = Saturday


Station Name

This field displays the station name, as annotated within the database.


Broadcast Frequency

This field displays the frequency (in kHz) that the station broadcasts on, between the times shown.


Target Area

This field displays the target area that the station intends to broadcasts to, using the displayed frequency.


Station Heard Mark

This field displays the state of the marking flag.  If should be set if the station was heard, and cleared otherwise.


 Radio Menu

The Radio Menu includes commands that enable you modify the radios settings.

For more information, select the Radio Menu command name.

Power	Turns the radio on and off.

VFO A/B 	Toggles between VFO A and B.

VFO A=B 	Stores the current VFOs settings in the other VFO.

Antenna	Sets the radios input antenna port.

RF	Sets the radios RF amplifier.

AGC	Sets the radios AGC speed.

Bandwidth	Sets the radios bandwidth setting.

Mode	Sets the radios demodulation mode.

Synchro	Toggles the radios Synchronous Detector on and off.

Noise Blanker	Sets the radios noise blanker.

Notch	Toggles the radios notch filter on and off.

Tape VOX	Toggles the tape carrier sense on and off.


 Power On/Off

The radio can be toggled On and Off by choosing this Radio Menu Item, clicking the Power Button (as shown), or by pressing the Esc key.  The Power indicator (green LED) in the Power Button will light if the radio is On.  Turning the radio Off will dim the indicator.  The Power Item in the Radio Menu will display a check mark depending upon the Power status of the radio.


 VFO A/B

The VFO can be toggled from A to B and vice versa by choosing this Radio Menu Item, clicking on the VFO Button (as shown), or by pressing the Ctrl-V key Combination.  The VFO Indicator will display the currently tuned VFO, and the VFO Item in the Radio Menu will display the VFO to change to.


 VFO A=B

The A and B VFOs can be set to the same radio settings by choosing this Radio Menu Item, by clicking on the VFO A=B Button (as shown), or by pressing the Ctrl-* key combination.  If the user is using the A VFO, it will be copied to the B VFO, and vice versa.  The A=B indicator (green LED) by the A=B Button will light if both VFOs are equal.  Changing one of the frequencies will dim the indicator.  The VFO A=B Item in the Radio Menu will display a check mark depending upon the status of the indicator.


 Antenna Port

The Antenna Port can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the Antenna Combo Box.  The Antenna Combo Box can be made visible by either choosing this Radio Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-A key combination.  From the control, HF antennas 1 and 2, or the VHF Converter (if the converter is available) can be chosen.  If the VHF Converter is chosen, the Noise Blanker and RF Amplifier will be disabled.

Special Note:  Upon subsequent HF frequency changes, the antenna port may automatically change depending upon the default antenna selected in Options.


 RF Amplifier

The RF Amplifier can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the RF Combo Box.  The RF Combo Box can be made visible by either choosing this Radio Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-R key combination.  From the control, Att selects the attenuator, Pre engages the preamplifier and Off selects no RF enhancement.  When using the VHF Converter, the RF Combo Box is disabled.


 AGC Speed

The AGC Attack Speed can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the AGC Combo Box.  The AGC Combo Box can be made visible by either choosing this Radio Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-G key combination.  From the control, the AGC Attack Speed can be set to Off, Slow, or Fast.  When in FM Mode, the AGC Combo Box is disabled.


 IF Bandwidth

The IF Bandwidth can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the BW Combo Box.  The BW Combo Box can be made visible by either choosing this Radio Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-B key combination.  From the control, the 0.5, 1.8, 2.3, 4.0 or 6.0 kHz settings can be made.  When in FM Mode, only the 12 kHz bandwidth filter is available.


 Demodulation Mode

The Demodulation Mode can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the Mode Combo Box. The Mode Combo Box can be made visible by either choosing this Radio Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-M key combination.  From the control, the Demodulator can be set to AM, FM, CW, RTTY, LSB or USB.  When changing the Demodulation Mode, the AGC Speed and IF Bandwidth will be changed to the setting last used at that mode on the R8 (and on the R8A if Auto is selected).  The Synchronous Detector can only be enabled when using the AM demodulator.


 Synchronous Detector

The Synchronous Detector can be toggled On and Off by selecting this Radio Menu Item, by clicking the Synchro Button (as shown), or by pressing the Ctrl-S key combination.  The Synchro indicator (green LED) will light if the Synchronous Detector is On.  Turning Off the Synchronous Detector will dim the indicator.  The Synch Item in the Radio Menu will display a check mark depending upon the status of the Synchronous Detector.  The Synchronous Detector will only be available if operating in the AM Mode.  After subsequent AM mode frequency changes the Synchronous Detector will turn off on the R8.  It will remain on when using the R8A.


 Noise Blanker

The Noise Blanker can be changed by selecting the appropriate Noise Blanker Check.  The Noise Blanker Check Boxes can be toggled on or off by either choosing this Radio Menu Item, by clicking on the Noise Blanker Toolbar Button (as shown), or by pressing the Ctrl-K key combination.

The status of the Noise Blanker can be evidenced by the status of the Noise Blanker Toolbar Button.  If the Noise Blanker is on, the Noise Blanker Toolbar Button will be depressed and the Noise Blanker Check Boxes will be visible to the left of the frequency readout.  The Noise Blanker can then be set to narrow or wide by either clicking on the appropriate check box, or by pressing the N or W key.

The Noise Blanker Item in the Radio Menu will display a check mark depending upon the status of the Noise Blanker.  When using the VHF Converter, the Noise Blanker is disabled.


 Notch Filter On/Off

The Notch Filter can be toggled On and Off by either choosing this Radio Menu Item, by clicking on the Notch Toolbar Button (as shown), or by pressing the Ctrl-N key.

The status of the Notch Filter can be evidenced by the status of the Notch Toolbar Button.  If the Notch Filter is on, the Notch Toolbar Button will be depressed and NOTCH will be displayed under the frequency readout.  The Notch Item in the Radio Menu will display a check mark depending upon the status of the Notch Filter.


 Tape VOX On/Off

Smart R8 Control for Windows provides a robust Tape VOX control.  If a tape recorder is connected to the line audio and timer connections in the back of the receiver, the Tape VOX can be enabled by either choosing this Radio Menu Item, clicking the Tape Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Ctrl-T key combination.

The status of the Tape VOX function can be evidenced by the Tape Toolbar Button.  When Tape VOX is enabled, the Tape Toolbar Button will be depressed and TAPE will be displayed to the left of the frequency readout.  The Tape Item in the Radio Menu will display a check mark depending upon the Tape VOX status.

The Tape VOX is provided as a handy footswitch for a controlling a tape recorder in order to capture radio programs or updates to the program schedules.  The Tape VOX control, once activated, will only roll the tape if a carrier is present.  This way, if the receiver is being used on the VHF Service frequencies (i.e., Police, Fire), dead air will not be recorded, thus compressing tape usage.  The Tape VOX will not operate while the receiver is scanning.


 Tuning Menu

The Tuning Menu includes commands that enable you modify how the radio is tuned.

For more information, select the Tuning Menu command name.

Stepsize...	Sets the up/down tuning stepsize.

Offset...	Sets the tuned frequency offset.

Memory Mode	Sets the radio to operate from stored memories.

Scan Mode	Sets the radio to scan a set of frequencies.

Scan Parameters...	Allows you to select the way the radio scans.

Timer Mode	Sets the radio to automatically tune at specific time periods.

Timer Parameters...	Allows you to select the timer frequencies and time periods.

Update display	Allows you to manually synchronize the display with the radio.

Connect/Disconnect	Toggles the computers connection to the radio on and off.


 Up/Down Tuning

Fast Tuning.

The receiver can be tuned in a stepping fashion using the Double Left and Double Right Arrows on the faceplate (as shown), or by using the Left and Right Cursor keys.  When tuning in this fashion, the radio will be slewed up or down by the increment shown in the Stepsize Combo Box.  While in Memory Mode, these controls will tune the receiver up or down to the next memory channel.

Slow Tuning.

By clicking on the Single Left or Right Arrows (as shown) on the ends of the tuning bar, or by using the Ctrl-Left or Ctrl-Right Cursor keys, the receiver will be tuned in a set increment of 0.01 kHz (0.1 kHz when using the VHF Converter).  The key combinations are valid when any dialog window is displayed, except when the gridded and multi-column lists are selected.  Since the cursor keys are used for general navigation in those dialog windows, the Ctrl-Left and Ctrl-Right Cursor key combinations are used to perform Fast Tuning instead.


 Numeric Tuning Keypad

If desired, the receiver can be direct-access tuned by using the faceplates Numeric Tuning Keypad (as shown), or by manually typing in the frequency and hitting the Return key.  When using the direct-access tuning, typing 15, 15.000 or 15000 will yield the same result: 15 MHz.  This only works between the frequency range of .176 through 55 MHz.  Frequencies below .176 MHz and above 108 MHz must be entered in MHz (i.e., .153 for 153 kHz or 147 for 147 MHz).  Since the receiver only tunes between .100 - 30, 35 - 55, and 108 - 175 MHz, any other frequency will be ignored.  If the optional VHF Converter is not installed, tuning in the latter two bands will be ignored, as well.


 Tuning Stepsize...

The Tuning Stepsize can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the Stepsize Combo Box.  The Stepsize Combo Box can be made visible by choosing this Tuning Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-Z key combination.

The stepping increment defaults to 5 kHz upon program start-up.  From the control, the Tuning Stepsize can be set to any of the available settings.  If none of the settings are desirable, you can enter a new Stepsize value between 0.01 to 9999.99 kHz, which will be stored such that it may be recalled at a later time.  Stepsize values can be deleted from the Stepsize Combo Box by selecting the value and pressing the Ctrl-Del key combination.


 Tuning Offset...

The Tuning Offset can be changed by making the appropriate selection in the Offset Combo Box.  The Offset Combo Box can be made visible by choosing this Tuning Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-O key combination.

The tuning offset defaults to 0.00 kHz upon program start-up.  From the control, the Tuning Offset can be set to any of the available settings.  If none of the settings are desirable, you can enter a new Offset value in a range of +/- 9.99 kHz, which will be stored such that it may be recalled at a later time.  Offset values can be deleted from the Offset Combo Box by selecting the value and pressing the Ctrl-Del key combination.

As the name implies, the Offset will add or subtract an amount from that of the receiver.  This is for the purpose of being able to tune and display the posted frequency of a signal, while allowing the decoder to properly operate.  When the Offset is set to something other than 0.00, the display will change and any further tuning will be offset by the amount chosen.

Special Note:  When the Offset is other than 0.0, the Smart R8 Control display and tuning mechanisms will differ from the radio by the offset amount.


 Memory Mode On/Off

Memory mode tuning can be toggled on and off by either choosing this Tuning Menu Item, clicking the Memory Mode Toolbar Button (as shown), or by pressing the Ctrl-E key combination.  Memory Mode operation can be evidenced by the Memory Mode Toolbar Button.  When Memory Mode is enabled, the Memory Mode Toolbar Button will be depressed, and MEM will be displayed to the right of the frequency display.

When in Memory Mode, the receiver will tune to the memory number displayed on the Memory Channel Indicator.  Selecting the Memory Mode Toolbar Button again will download the memory settings into the current VFO, which is analogous to pressing the M-V key on the receiver.  The Memory Mode Item in the Tuning Menu will display a check mark depending upon the Memory Mode status.


Memory Indicator

 Memory Channel Indicator

The Memory Channel Indicator shows which of the radios available memories are either currently selected, or are selectable by switching to Memory Mode.  If the receivers memories are completely erased (by pressing and holding the receivers Del button down while turning it on with the Power button), the Memory Channel Indicator will only show 00 (or 000 on the R8A), and switching to Memory Mode will be impossible.

The Memory Channel Indicator also serves as an alternate means to access any of the receivers programmed memory channels.  Clicking on the Memory Channel Indicator will display a dialog window containing this information, similar to selecting Memory Show from the Memory Menu.  This feature requires that a memory file of programmed memories has been previously created, using Smart R8 Control for Windows Memory Capture function.


 Scan Mode On/Off

Scanning Mode can be toggled on and off by either selecting this Tuning Menu Item, clicking the Scan Mode Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Ctrl-C key combination.  Scan Mode operation can be evidenced by the Scan Mode Toolbar Button.  When Scan Mode is enabled, the Scan Mode Toolbar Button will be depressed, and SCAN will be displayed to the lower-right of the frequency display.

When scanning, the receiver will begin to scan according to the set Scanning Parameters.  Selecting Scan Mode again will stop the receiver from scanning, leaving the receiver at the frequency and receiver settings that were last scanned to.  The Scan Mode Item in the Tuning Menu will display a check mark depending upon the Scan Mode status.

Special Note:  While the receiver is scanning in anything other than Frequency Mode Scanning, Smart R8 Control for Windows is capable of performing any function except those that will tune the receiver or change any of its settings.  The only receiver control functions that will be available while in Scan Mode are the ability to turn Scan Mode Off, or to change the direction that the receiver is scanning.


 Scanning Parameters...

Both the Drake R8 and R8A receivers are capable of scanning frequencies in a variety of ways. Scanning Parameters are specified via the Options|Scanning Parameters page.  The user may declare which way the receiver will scan by either selecting this Tuning Menu Item, clicking on the faceplates Scanning Parameters Indicator, or by pressing the Alt-S key combination.  This will display the Default Options dialog box, already opened to the Scan page as shown above.  Descriptions of each field in the Scan page can be displayed by clicking on any entry in the above example.

The receiver can be configured to scan between two frequencies, selected frequencies in the Current Frequency or Frequency Usage Lists, any number of memory banks, or all of the receivers memories.  These may be declared by setting the Scan Mode to A-B, Freq, List, or Mem, respectively.  If the List Mode is chosen, at least one bank of memories must be selected from the group of Memory Bank Check Boxes to the right of the dialog box.  Displaying the radios memories, using the Show Memory List Item in the Memory Menu, may help decide which memory banks should be scanned.

How scanning progresses may also be selected from this dialog box.  The receiver may be configured to stop on the first active channel, idle for two seconds on every active channel it sees, or idle until the channel is no longer active.  These may be declared by setting the Scan Type to Seek, Time, or Carr, respectively.  If Freq Mode and Time are selected, the user may adjust scanning to idle at a desirable Delay Time.


Scan Mode

Scanning can be set to occur between the frequencies in the A and B VFOs (A-B), selected frequencies from the Frequency List (Freq), a number of memory banks (List), or all of the receivers memories (Mem).


Scan Type

Scanning can be set to stop on the first active channel (Seek), idle on an active channel for 2 seconds (Time), or idle until the channel is no longer active (Carr).


Scan Delay

When combining Freq Mode with Time Type scanning, the user can also set a preset idle of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 or 10000 mS.


Memory Banks

Used for scanning in the List Mode, the user may select up to 10 available memory banks to scan among.  Selecting one of these Memory Bank Check Boxes will include it for List Mode scanning.


 Timer Mode On/Off

Timer Mode can be toggled on and off by either selecting this Tuning Menu Item, clicking the Timer Mode Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Ctrl-J key combination.  Timer Mode operation can be evidenced by the Timer Mode Toolbar Button.  When Timer Mode is enabled, the Timer Mode Toolbar Button will be depressed, and TIMER will be displayed beneath the frequency display.

When Timer Mode is engaged, Smart R8 Control will continually monitor all active event timers as set by the Timer Parameters.  If an active timers time and day of the week match the current UT time, the timers frequency will automatically be tuned.  The Timer Mode Item in the Tuning Menu will display a check mark depending upon the Timer Mode status.


 Timer Parameters...

Before the Timer Mode can be effective, the user must specify some timers to trigger Smart R8 Control.  Timer Parameters are specified via the Timer Page on the Options dialog.  This page can be displayed by either selecting this Tuning Menu Item, clicking the Faceplates Timer Indicator when Timer Mode is enabled, or by pressing the Alt-I (capital i) key combination.  This will display the Default Options dialog box, already opened to the Timer Page as shown above.  Descriptions of each field in the Default Options Timer Page can be displayed by clicking on any entry in the above example.

Each Timer (10 total) can be configured for a particular frequency, time, and day of week.  For instances where a timer entry is undesired, the user can make the entry inactive by clearing the Set Check Box.  Setting the Set Check Box makes the timer entry active.  Each timer may be reprogrammed by simply refilling the appropriate data.  Changes to any and all Timers while this page is visible will only take effect upon pressing the Options dialogs OK Button.

After using Smart R8 Control for a while, you will most likely find that actual frequencies become irrelevant.  Over time. a particular timer setting may no longer make sense.  For these cases, each Timer also contains a notes field, where the user can specify the particular program or event that the Timer represents for future reference.


Timer #

This control allows the user to select from 10 available timers.


Set Active/Inactive

Any of the 10 timers may be made individually active or inactive by either setting or clearing this check box.


Time (UT)

This specifies the UT time that the timer event is to occur.


Days

This specifies which days of the week that a weekly event is to occur.  Daily is provided to make the event occur every day at the UT time specified.


Notes

This may be used to provide a clarification of the timer event, for future reference.


 Update Display

Smart R8 Control for Windows automatically updates the display at the top of the minute when the program is idle, and anytime the user (or Smart R8 Control) changes a receiver parameter.  In some instances, it may be desirable to manually Update the display.  For example, since the faceplate of the R8A is not locked during Smart R8 Control operation, the user may wish to slide over and manually change something on the radio.  The user can then re-synchronize Smart R8 Control with the radio by either selecting this Tuning Menu Item, clicking on the meter or any empty black area of the frequency display, or by pressing the Alt-U key combination.


 Connect/Disconnect From Radio

Smart R8 Control for Windows automatically detects if a receiver is present and appropriately configures a communications path via the computers serial ports.  If a receiver is either not physically present or connected to the computer, Smart R8 Control will display Comms in the Communications Status display.  Toggling the programs electrical connection to the radio can be done by either selecting this Tuning Menu Item, clicking the Connection Toolbar Button (as shown) or by pressing the Ctrl-D key combination.

Status of the programs electrical connection will be evidenced by the Connection Toolbar Button.  If the program is Connected, the Connection Toolbar Button will be green in color and be in the up position.  If the program is Disconnected, the Connection Toolbar Button will be red in color and be in the down position.  The real front panel of the R8 will be locked when the program is Connected and released when Disconnected.  The front panel of the R8A will be unaffected by this action.

Special Note:  Because the R8s serial interface requires a hardware handshake, it is imperative that that receiver be Connected to the computer while the program is running.  If Smart R8 Control for Windows is to be run for database access only, or if the user wishes to tune the receiver manually, the program can be temporarily Disconnected from the radio.


 Memory Menu

The Memory Menu includes commands that enable you manipulate and display memory files.  It also allows you to read and set the radios memories.

For more information, select the Memory Menu command name.

New	Creates a fresh memory file.

Open...	Opens a previously saved memory file.

Save	Saves a modified memory file.

Save As...	Saves the current memory file under a new name.

Print	Prints the current memory file to the printer.

Capture	Reads all of the radios memories into a memory file.

Show List	Shows the current memory file listing.

Fill Radio	Fills all of the radios memories with the current memory file.

Insert Channel...	Fills a memory channel with the current radio settings.


 New Memory File

This Memory Menu Item will allow the user to clear all current Memory List entries for creating a fresh memory file.  Invoking New will automatically display the blank list, which will show all entries as <none> and have the file name <Untitled>.

Special Note:  Invoking this command will prompt the user to Save the current memory file, if it has been changed.


 Memory File Open...

This Memory Menu Item will allow the user to retrieve a previously Saved memory file, filling all current Memory List entries with its contents.  Invoking Open will display all of the available memory files (having the extension *.MEM as a default), in the current directory.  Upon selecting a memory file to Open, it will be automatically displayed in a Memory List dialog window.

Special Note:  Invoking this command will prompt the user to Save the current memory file, if it has been changed.


 Memory File Save

This Memory Menu Item will allow the user to Save a changed memory file.  If the memory file has not been changed, this feature will be disabled.  Currently changed, but unsaved memory files will have an asterisk (*) following the file name in the Memory List title bar.  Invoking Save will write the currently loaded memory file to disk, using the file name used to Open it.  If the currently loaded file was developed from invoking the New function, or has <Untitled> as a file name, Save will prompt for a file name, per the Save As function.


 Memory File Save As...

This Memory Menu Item will allow the user to Save any memory file under another name. Currently changed, but unsaved memory files will have an asterisk (*) following the file name in the Memory List title bar.  Invoking Save As will prompt the user for a file name to use (having the extension *.MEM as a default), in the current directory.  After entering a file name, Save As will write the currently loaded memory file to disk, using the file name specified.


 Print Memory File

This Memory Menu Item will allow the user to Print the currently loaded memory file to the default printer.  Each memory entry will be organized by bank number, and contain the memory channel, the frequency, and any user-defined notes.  Each Printed Memory File page will contain 100 entries and the bottom of each page will contain the date it was printed with the name of the file used.  Since the R8A has more than 440 memories, five pages will be printed and will include the page number at the top of each page.  Each memory bank will be printed in such a way that the printout may be neatly folded, and serve as a handy reference for when the computer is Off.


 Capture Radios Memories

Choosing this Memory Menu Item or by pressing the Ctrl-W key combination allows the user to Capture all of the radios memory channels and Save them to a user-defined memory file.  The memory file specified will be written as the default within SMARTCON.INI, and automatically loaded the next time Smart R8 Control for Windows is run.  This will help Smart R8 Control for Windows know what memories are loaded within the receiver at run time.

Once invoked, the Capture function will prompt the user if he/she wants to continue.  Answering Yes will continue the operation; No will abort.  If the answer was Yes, Smart R8 Control for Windows will step through all of the radios available memories, reading the contents of each.  If the R8A is used, each memory entrys notes field will be filled with the alphanumeric name stored within any particular channel.  Once completed, Smart R8 Control for Windows will prompt the user to specify a file name to Save the newly created memory file.  If the Captured memory file is not Saved. it will be given the default file name of <Untitled>.  The Captured memories will then be displayed in a Memory List dialog window.

Special Notes:  The first time Smart R8 Control for Windows is run. it will not have a default memory file, and all memory locations will be assumed to be blank.  Since blank channels can not be tuned, this function should be invoked in preparation for Jumping to any memory channel.

Invoking this command will prompt the user to Save the current memory file, if it has been changed.


 Show Memory List

Choosing this Memory Menu Item, clicking on the Memory Indicator, or pressing the Ctrl-H key combination allows the user to display all of the memory locations, currently available on the receiver.  From this display, the user can tune to, modify, insert or clear any of the receivers memory locations; as well as perform any other Smart R8 Control for Windows Memory Menu function.

All memory editing may be performed by selecting a memory entry and choosing a function from either the Edit Menu or the popup menu.  For tuning purposes, the user may also Jump to another memory channel.  Double clicking on an active memory from the list will automatically tune the receiver to that memory location.  The receiver will automatically be put in Memory Mode, if necessary.

Special Note:  Memory locations that Smart R8 Control for Windows thinks are empty will display a <none> indication next to the memory location.  Empty memory locations can not be tuned.  It is for this reason that a valid memory file should be loaded prior to performing memory tuning operations, such as this.  Please refer to Using the Memory Management System for more information.


Edit Memory List Channel...

 Modify Memory Channel...

The above Modify Memory Channel dialog box will display when attempting to edit one of the entries in the Memory List dialog window.  It will allow the user to change any of the receivers settings, to include tuned frequency, notch filter, synchronous tuner, antenna, RF amplifier, AGC speed, demodulation mode and noise blanker.  It also allows the user to add a short 28 character or less description of what will be contained in the memory channel; as well as allow the user to fill the memory channel at that time.  If the R8A is used, the Notes field will be used to set the memory channels Name.  Clicking on any of the controls in the above example will provide a short description of it.

Any Memory List entry may be edited, by highlighting the entry and choosing this Edit Menu Item, by holding down the right mouse button and selecting the Modify Item from the popup, or by pressing the Ins key.  When a blank entry is selected, as indicated by <none> in the list, the radios current settings will be used.  This has the same effect as Inserting the radios settings into the selected memory channel.  Otherwise, if the entry has been previously filled, the current entrys data will be used.

Special Note:  Since this is intended to change only the selected entry from the Memory List, the memory channel to use has been disabled.


Memory Channel

This item is used to set the memory channel to insert and is only available for inserting memory channels.


Tuned Frequency

This item reflects the frequency that the radio is tuned to.  It includes the frequency and frequency multiplier.


Notch Filter

This item is used to toggle the notch filter and is only available for editing memory channels not using the FM demodulator.


Synchronous Detector

This item is used to toggle the synchronous detector and is only available for editing memory channels using the AM demodulation mode.


Antenna Port

This item is used to set the desired antenna port and is only available for editing memory channels.  HF frequencies may use either the balanced (port 1) or unbalanced (port 2) antenna ports.  VHF frequencies must use the converter, or antenna port C.


RF Amplifier

This item is used to set the desired RF Amplifier and is only available for editing memory channels using the HF frequencies.  Settings are attenuated (Att), Off, and preamplified (Pre).


AGC Speed

This item is used to set the desired AGC Speed and is only available for editing memory channels not using the FM demodulator.  Settings are Off, Slow and Fast.


IF Bandwidth

This item is used to set the desired IF Bandwidth and is only available for editing memory channels not using the FM demodulator.  Settings are 0.5, 1.8, 2.3, 4.0 and 6.0 kHz.  FM signals are preset to use the 12 kHz IF Bandwidth.


Demodulator Mode

This item is used to set the desired demodulation mode and is only available for editing memory channels.  Settings are AM, FM, CW, RTTY, LSB and USB.


Noise Blanker

This item is used to set the noise blanker and is only available for editing memory channels not using the FM demodulator.  Settings are off (NB Off), narrow (NB Narr) and wide (NB Wide).


Memory Notes

This free-text item may be used to append a user-definable label to the memory record.  Up to 28 characters may be entered.  It is also used to set the memory channel name on the R8A.


Add to List

This item is used to toggle whether the memory record should be added to the list and is optional only for inserting memories.


Fill Channel

This item is used to toggle whether the memory record should be used to fill the radio and is optional only for editing memories.


Signal Meter

On the R8, this item is not really a signal meter, but shows if a signals carrier is above the squelch threshold setting.  On the R8A, it is representative of the receivers reported signal strength.  The signal meter is lit if the radio is On, and dimmed otherwise.  Clicking on the meter will update the display.


Registration Status Indicator

This item indicates the users registration number for Smart R8 Control for Windows.


Communications Status Indicator

This item indicates whether a receiver is physically connected to the computer.  It will display Comms if the receiver is physically disconnected from the computer.


Database Status Indicator

This item indicates the status of the database.  It will display Save if the database has been changed.


On-Screen Clock

This item displays the day of the week, as well as local or UT time.  Time is in 24hr format, and the days are given as the first letter of the day (exc.:  h = Thursday, a = Saturday).  Clicking the on-screen clock toggles it from Local Time to UT and vice versa.


 Clear Memory List Channel...

The Clear Memory Channel function can be invoked to blank out any one of the entries in the Memory List.  Any Memory List entry may be cleared by either selecting this Edit Menu Item, by holding down the right mouse button and selecting the Clear Item from the popup, or by pressing the Del key.  A message box will be displayed, prompting the user if he/she wishes to continue with the action.  Answering Yes, will Clear the memory entry; No will abort the action.  The corresponding entry will then display as a blank entry, as indicated by <none> in the list.

Special Note:  It should be noted that on the R8, this will only clear the Memory List entry, and not any of the radios memory channels.  The only way to clear any of the R8s memory channels, is to first tune to that memory channel, Disconnect Smart R8 Control for Windows from the radio, then on the radio, press F (function) and hold the Del key for 3 seconds.  After performing this manual function, please remember to Connect the program back to the radio.


 Fill Radio

This Memory Menu Item allows the user to Fill all of the radios memory channels a user-defined memory file.  The memory file will be specified as the default within SMARTCON.INI, and automatically loaded the next time Smart R8 Control for Windows is run.  This will help Smart R8 Control for Windows know what memories are loaded within the receiver at run time.

Once invoked, the Fill function will prompt the user if he/she wants to continue.  Answering Yes will continue the operation; No will abort.  If the answer was Yes, Smart R8 Control for Windows will step through all of the radios memories, Filling the contents of each from the corresponding memory file entry.  If the R8A is used, Smart R8 Control will initialize all the receivers memories before filling, and each memory entrys notes field will be used to fill the memory channel name on the receiver.

In some instances, a communications error may occur when attempting to Fill the radio.  In these cases, Smart R8 Control for Windows will prompt the user if he/she wants to Abort the operation, Retry filling the particular channel, or Ignore the error and continue.  Aborting the operation will stop the Fill operation completely.  Retrying will continue to attempt to Fill the radio as normal.  Ignoring the error will skip the particular channel and continue the operation.  Aborting or Ignoring the error may provide unreliable results when using the rest of Memory Management System.

Special Notes:  If the R8 is used, it should be noted some memory files may contain blank entries.  These entries will not clear the corresponding memory channel when Filling the radio.  If this is the case, the only way to ensure that the radio is properly Filled, is to clear all of the radios memory channels prior to Filling.  To do this, switch the radios Power Off, Disconnect Smart R8 Control for Windows from the radio, then on the radio, hold the Del key for 3 seconds while pressing the radios power button On.  After performing this manual function, please remember to Connect the program back to the R8.

Filling the radio will reset any previously set memory lockouts.  The only way to lock out any of the radios memory channels, is to first tune to that memory channel, Disconnect Smart R8 Control for Windows from the radio, then on the radio, press F (function) and the Lock button (same button as Mode).  A properly locked out channel will flash the MEM indicator on the radio.  After performing this manual function, please remember to Connect the program back to the radio.


Insert Memory Channel

 Insert Memory Channel...

Choosing this Memory Menu Item, or pressing the Ctrl-I (capital i) key combination, will display the above Insert Memory Channel dialog box.  It will allow the user to Insert all of the receivers current settings into one of the receivers memory channels.  It also allows the user to add a short 28 character or less description of what will be contained in the memory channel, if the user opts to add the record to the current Memory List.  On the R8A, this notes field will be used to fill the receivers memory channel name.  Clicking on any of the controls in the above example will provide a short description of it.

Any memory channel can be filled by selecting this Memory Menu Item, and is very similar to Editing a blank Memory List entry.

Special Note:  Since this is intended to use the current receiver settings to fill a memory channel, all receiver setting controls have been disabled.


 Query Menu

The Query Menu includes commands that enable you to make smart database queries.

For more information, select the Query Menu command name.

Shortwave Stations	Displays all currently available Shortwave stations in the database.

Utility Stations	Displays all utility stations in the database.

AM BCB/CB Stations	Displays all AM Broadcast and CB channels in the database.

Find Current Freqs...	Displays a stations currently available frequencies.

Find Freq Usage...	Displays a stations frequency usage over a 24hr period.

Full Station Sked...	Displays a stations full frequency schedule.

Print Station Sked...	Prints a stations full frequency schedule to the printer or to a text file.

Who Else Uses...	Displays all stations using the indicated frequency.


 Station(s) Tuned List

One of the most important features of Smart R8 Control for Windows, is its ability to use its integrated database to rapidly display the station (or stations) that you may be currently tuned to.  The bottom section of the faceplate contains a list box that is solely reserved for this function.  In the event that a few stations may be occupying this frequency, up to ten stations will be listed.  If a frequency for a particular station has been previously marked by the user, the text color of that stations name will be highlighted.

The format of the shortwave database, hence the information displayed, is based on the Shortwave Guide section of Grove Enterprises' Monitoring Times magazine.  For those unfamiliar with this format, it is described as follows:

Field Name	Description
Time Period	Reflects a portion within the one-hour UT block.
Days of the Week	If broadcast is made daily, this space will be empty, otherwise, the particular days will be displayed.  Field uses the same convention described for local and UT clocks.
Station Name	If medium wave (AM BCB), name is expanded to show output power in kW.
Intended Target Area (if known)	* See Below

Typical SWBC and Utility target areas are as follows:  do = domestic service, om = omnidirectional, na = North America, am = Americas, ca = Central America, sa = South America, eu = Europe, af = Africa, as = Asia, pa = Pacific/Oceania, au = Australia/New Zealand, and va = a combination of target areas.  Sideband transmissions will display a uf (USB feed) or lf (LSB feed) to designate that the transmission is in upper or lower sideband.

If the station is a medium wave station, the target area field is used to describe the station's approximate times of operation, if known.  The codes used for this are:  an = all night, ar = all night-reduced power at night, nh = normal hours, nr = normal hours-reduced power at night, dr = day time only-reduced power during dusk/dawn, and da = daytime operation only.

The Station(s) Tuned list box is also used to invoke other Smart R8 Control for Windows functions.  For example, the user can make minor changes to the database (marking and deleting) by using the Edit Menu.  Clicking on the on the time period portion of any station ID line, will generate a Find Current Frequencies query to display any parallel frequencies.  Likewise, clicking on the Station Name portion of any ID line will prompt the user to create a Log Entry, using the current radio settings as well as the station name selected.


 Available Shortwave Stations

Choosing this Query Menu Item, clicking on the SWBC Stations Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the F5 function key will query the database to display a dialog window containing Shortwave Stations that are on at the current time.  The Shortwave Stations displayed in the dialog window are listed from top to bottom (and left to right) by order of start time, end time, country, and station name.  Time period enunciators have been added to the display in order to provide less confusion.  Certain stations, such as the BBC, will jump around the window upon subsequent queries due to the fact that most of the BBC entries are indexed in 15 minute blocks.  This is despite the fact that the BBC broadcasts around the clock.

If any of the frequencies that the station uses have been previously marked by the user, the Shortwave Station name will be highlighted.  This will alert the user that this station has been heard previously, during that time.  By selecting one of the listed Shortwave Station names, a display containing the stations current frequencies will be generated.  This has the same effect as invoking the Find Current Frequencies query for the selected Shortwave Stations name.

If the Available Shortwave Stations dialog window is showing, but is not the active dialog window, it can be re-entered by using Tab key.


 Available Utility Stations

Choosing this Query Menu Item, or pressing the Utility Stations Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Ctrl-F5 key combination will query the database to display a dialog window containing all Utility Stations contained in the database.  The Utility Stations displayed in the dialog window are listed from top to bottom (and left to right), and are grouped by utility class.  These utility class enunciators have been added to the display in order to provide less confusion.

If any of the frequencies that the station uses have been previously marked by the user, the Utility Station name will be highlighted.  This will alert the user that this station has been heard previously.  By selecting one of the listed Utility Station names, a display containing the stations frequencies will be generated.  This has the same effect as invoking the Find Current Frequencies query for the selected Utility Stations name.

If the Available Utility Stations dialog window is showing, but is not the active dialog window, it can be re-entered by using Tab key.

New in Smart R8 Control for Windows, is the ability to Insert or Modify either station names and / or categories within the Utility Stations List.  When Modifying a station record, the only field that the user can change is the station name.  Only station entries can be Modified.

Alternatively, stations may be Inserted anywhere within the form.  However, if the cursor is on a category label and the user Inserts a new station above it, or if the cursor is on the last station of a category and the user Inserts a new station below it, Smart R8 Control will allow the addition of a new Utility category.  The category may consist of up to four alphanumeric characters and is entered in the end time field of the form.  This field can not be left  blank.  As well, the user must include a seed frequency when Inserting a new station name.


 Available AM BCB/CB Stations

Choosing this Query Menu Item, clicking the AM BCB/CB Stations Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Shift-F5 key combination will query the database to display a dialog window containing all AM Broadcast Band (BCB) Stations and CB Channels contained in the database.  These are listed in the dialog window from top to bottom (and left to right), and are grouped by AM BCB and CB, respectively.

If any of the stations/channels have been previously marked by the user, the AM BCB Station or CB Channel name will be highlighted.  This will alert the user that this station has been heard previously.  By selecting one of the listed AM BCB/CB Station names, a display containing the stations frequencies will be generated.  This has the same effect as invoking the Find Current Frequencies query for the selected AM BCB Stations name (or CB Channel).

If the Available AM BCB/CB Stations dialog window is showing, but is not the active dialog window, it can be re-entered by using Tab key.

New in Smart R8 Control for Windows, is the ability to Insert or Modify AM Broadcast station names within the AM BCB/CB Stations List.  When Modifying a station record, the only field that the user can change is the station name.  Only AM BCB station entries can be Modified.  Alternatively, AM BCB stations may be Inserted anywhere within the form.  The user must include a seed frequency when Inserting a new station name.

Note that since CB channels are relatively fixed, CB channel entries are not editable.  As well, since the AM BCB/CB Stations List  is only meant for AM Broadcast and CB Channels, there is no facility to add any other category.


 Find Current Station Frequencies...

A shortcut to finding a particular station's frequencies is to use this direct query.  After selecting this Query Menu Item, clicking the Find Freqs Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the F6 function key, Smart R8 Control for Windows will prompt the user to provide the name of the station to query.  The station name may be manually typed, or selected from the prompts drop-down combo box.

Once the station name is entered, and a matching station is on at that time, a dialog window containing that stations Current Frequencies will appear.  If any of the frequencies in the list has been previously marked by the user, the text associated with that record will be highlighted.  It is anticipated that this will be used to alert the user that this station has been previously heard on this frequency during that time period.

Each frequency will be associated with the time and days of broadcast (within the one-hour time block) and the intended target area.  Typically, on the East Coast of North America, frequencies targeted for Asia and the Pacific can be avoided during certain times of the day.  Selecting one of the frequency entries will subsequently tune the radio to that frequency.  If the target area is annotated as uf (USB feed), lf (LSB feed), rf (RTTY feed), cf (CW) or ff (FM) the radio will automatically change to USB, LSB, RTTY, CW or FM, respectively.

If any of the Available Station dialog windows are active, an inactive Current Frequencies dialog window may be re-entered by using the Tab key.  The Current Frequencies query can also be automatically invoked by clicking on the left-hand (time block) portion of any station ID line in the faceplates Station(s) Tuned display.

The user can make minor changes to the database through this window.  An existing frequency can be marked, modified, inserted or deleted by using either the Edit Menu or popup menu.

New in version 3.00, these menus also provide a means to select multiple Frequency List entries.  Choosing Select all will select all of the entries in the list box.  Similarly, choosing Select marked will select just the marked entries in the list box.  These two functions should facilitate the additional features outlined below.

In addition to editing features, the user may select multiple frequencies in the Current Frequencies list to perform several operations.  If the user has previously set scanning to Freq Mode, the receiver will step through each frequency in the list upon entering Scan Mode.  As well, any and all selected frequencies in the list may be dragged and dropped into the Memory List.  Please refer to Scanning Operations and Memory Management for more information.


 Find Station Frequency Usage...

A new function in Smart R8 Control, is the capability to find all of the frequencies that a particular station uses over a 24 hour period.  This feature is a nice companion to the Find Current Station Frequencies and Full Station Schedule queries.  The results of the query have the look of the Find Frequencies query, but contain data that is basically a compressed version of the Full Schedule.  After selecting this Query Menu Item, clicking the Frequency Usage Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the Shift-F6 key combination, Smart R8 Control for Windows will prompt the user to provide the name of the station to query.  The station name may be manually typed, or selected from the prompts drop-down combo box.

Once the station name is entered, the database will be scanned, and a small bar scale display will show the relative progress of the operation.  If a matching station is found, a database window containing all of the frequencies that the station uses during a 24 hour period will appear.  If any of the frequencies found in the list have been previously marked by the user, the text associated with that record will be highlighted.  It is anticipated that this will be used to alert the user that this station has been previously heard on this frequency at some time during the day.  Clicking on any of the Frequency Usage entries will tune the receiver to that frequency.

If any of the Available Station dialog windows are active, an inactive Frequency Usage dialog window may be re-entered by using the Tab key.  The Frequency Usage query can also be automatically invoked by clicking on the left-hand (time block) portion of any station ID line in a Full Station Schedule display.

Unlike the Current Frequency list, the user can not make changes to the database through this window due to the fact that this is a composite display.  However, the user may select multiple Frequency Usage entries.  Choosing Select all will select all of the entries in the list box.  Similarly, choosing Select marked will select just the marked entries in the list box.  These two functions should facilitate the additional features outlined below.

In addition to editing features, the user may select multiple frequencies in the Frequency Usage list to perform several operations.  If the user has previously set scanning to Freq Mode, the receiver will step through each frequency in the list upon entering Scan Mode.  As well, any and all selected frequencies in the list may be dragged and dropped into the Memory List.  Please refer to Scanning Operations and Memory Management for more information.


 Who Else Uses Frequency...

Smart R8 Control for Windows integrated database typically contains entries for broadcasts in English.  If foreign language broadcasts are encountered, the station may be using a frequency used for English broadcasts as well.  A listing of all stations that will use the currently tuned frequency at any time of the day may be accessed by either selecting this Query Menu Item, clicking on the faceplates frequency display, or by pressing the F8 function key.  The prompt will default to the frequency currently tuned.  This will produce a dialog window containing a list of all of these stations, their times of operation on that frequency (in English), and the target area for the broadcast.  If any of the stations in the list has been previously marked by the user, the text associated with that record will be highlighted.

Other Smart R8 Control for Windows functions can be made using the Who Else Uses dialog window.  Clicking on the left-hand (time block) portion of any entry will invoke Full Station Schedule query, using the associated records station name.  Likewise, clicking on the station name portion of the Who Else Uses display will prompt the user to create a Log Entry for that station, at the current time.

New in version 3.00 of Smart R8 Control, the user can make minor changes to the database through this window.  An existing frequency can be marked or deleted by using either the Edit Menu or popup menu.

Special Note:  Database editing is not available in this database window for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Full Station Schedule...

A particular station's full 24-hour broadcast schedule may be queried by either selecting this Query Menu Item, clicking the Full Sked Toolbar Button (as shown), or by pressing the F7 function key.  As with the Find Current Frequencies query, Smart R8 Control for Windows will prompt the user to provide the name of the station to query.  The station name may be manually typed, or selected from the prompts drop-down combo box.  While the database is being scanned, a small bar scale display will show the relative progress of the operation.

Once the station name is entered, a dialog window containing the full broadcast schedule will appear.  The format of the information displayed will be similar to that found in the Shortwave Guide section of Grove Enterprises' Monitoring Times magazine.  The text of frequencies that have been previously marked by the user are highlighted, to allow for planning purposes.

An alternative method for invoking this query, is by clicking on the left-hand (time block) portion of any displayed station ID line in a Who Else Uses dialog window.  Likewise, the Full Station Schedule display may be used to generate other Smart R8 Control for Windows functions.  Clicking on any time/station name block in the display will automatically generate a Frequency Usage dialog window.

Users may tune to any frequency in the full program schedule window, by simply clicking on it.  This will allow users to double check other frequencies used by that station at other times of the day.  As with other similar tuning functions, if the target area for that frequency is annotated as uf (USB feed), lf (LSB feed), rf (RTTY feed), cf (CW) or ff (FM), the radio will automatically change to that mode.  Any other annotated target area will cause the radio to switch to the AM mode, unless the target area is blank.  In this case, the demodulation mode of the radio will not be changed.

New in version 3.00 of Smart R8 Control, the user can make changes to the database through this window.  A frequency can be marked, modified, inserted or deleted by using either the Edit Menu or popup menu.

Special Note:  Database editing is not available in this database window for the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Print Full Station Schedule...

An alternative to displaying a particular Station's Full Schedule, is to generate a printed or file copy of the schedule.  Either can be generated by either selecting this Query Menu Item, or by pressing the Shift-F7 key combination.  As with the other station-based queries, Smart R8 Control for Windows will prompt the user to provide the name of the station to query.  The station name may be manually typed, or selected from the prompts drop-down combo box.

Output of this query will default to the printer, unless the Print to File Check Box is selected.  If the check box is selected, Smart R8 Control for Windows will additionally prompt for a file name to send the output.  Any filename extension can be used for the output file.  However, the extension *.TXT is recommended because of its association with Windows Notepad and other text editors.  While the database is being scanned, a small bar scale display will show the relative progress of the operation.

Once the prompt is completed, Smart R8 Control for Windows will generate a Full Station Schedule on the desired output.  The format of the information displayed will be similar to that found in the Shortwave Guide section of Grove Enterprises' Monitoring Times magazine.  Since printed and file copies of the schedule cannot highlight per se, frequencies that have been previously marked by the user will be followed by an asterisk (*) instead.


 Select All Frequencies

In order to facilitate Frequency Mode Scanning and filling the Memory List, the user may Select All of the frequency entries in a Current Frequency or Frequency Usage List.  To perform this function, the user may choose this Edit or popup menu Item; or press the Alt-A key combination.  As an alternative, the user may click the first entry in the list, then click the last entry in the list with the Shift key depressed.


 Select Marked Frequencies

In order to facilitate Frequency Mode Scanning and filling the Memory List, the user may Select Marked frequency entries in a Current Frequency or Frequency Usage List.  To perform this function, the user may choose this Edit or popup menu Item; or press the Alt-B key combination.  As an alternative, the user may click the first desired entry in the list, then click all other desired entries in the list with the Ctrl key depressed.


 Tools Menu

The Tools Menu includes commands that enable you to display a table of shortwave band frequencies, display a radio guide of shortwave programs, perform radio logging functions, predict reception conditions and set user-definable options for Smart R8 Control for Windows.

For more information, select the Tools Menu command name.

Band Plan	Displays a reference of standard SWBC band frequencies.

SWBC Programs	Displays a radio guide of currently available SWBC programs.

Log Open...	Opens a radio log.

Log Entry...	Allows you to create an entry in the radio log.

Show Log	Displays a list of radio log entries.

Export Log	Exports a radio log using a user-defined format.

Print Log	Prints all radio log entries.

HF Prediction	Allows you to predict listening conditions for a specific station.

Close Windows	Closes all open Smart R8 Control displays.

Options...	Allows you to modify all user-definable program options.

Notes:

Grayed items are only available for registered users of Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 Band Indicator

The Smart R8 Control for Windows faceplate adds a Band Indicator to the left of the frequency readout.  The Band Indicator shows which broadcasting band (approximate wavelength in meters) the radio is tuned, if set for an HF frequency.  The Band Indicator will also indicate if the radio is tuned to the Longwave Band (LW), AM Broadcast Band (BCB), or a VHF frequency when using the optional VHF Converter (VHF).

The user should note that the Band Indicator will not reflect the exact band limits, as sanctioned by the World Administrative Radio Conference (WARC), since many broadcasters prefer to use Out of Band (OOB) frequencies.  It is for this reason that the Band Indicator will instead reflect the limits of the de facto band limits.  Clicking on the Band Indicator will display the full SWBC Band Plan, as used by Smart R8 Control for Windows.


 SWBC Band Plan

Despite the rulings of the World Administrative Radio Conference (WARC) and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), there are a plethora of stations broadcasting outside the authorized broadcast bands.  By selecting this Tools Menu Item, clicking on the Band Indicator, or pressing the F2 function key will display a dialog window of the de facto SWBC Band Plan.

The frequency limits displayed in the dialog window are not necessarily hard and fast.  For example, VOIRI, Iran, still broadcasts on the oddball frequency of 9022 kHz, which is nowhere near the limits of the 31 meter band.  However, the limits displayed represent where the majority of shortwave broadcasters may be found.  It also serves as a helpful reminder of what frequencies to search while tuning the receiver with Smart R8 Control for Windows.

Another feature is the capability to tune the receiver directly from the Band Plan window.  This should be especially helpful when setting up band scans.  After displaying the Band Plan window, the user can tune the receiver to any frequency in the window by simply clicking on it.  The user can then proceed to tune either up or down the shortwave band as desired.

New in version 3.00, by clicking in the Band area Smart R8 Control will automatically fill the A and B VFOs with the extremes of that band.  This feature is a precursor to providing Duplex Tuning in a later version.


Available DX Programs

 Available SWBC Programs

The R8 and R8A Communications Receivers are especially designed for listening to programs.  Selecting this Tools Menu Item, clicking the SWBC Programs Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the F3 function key will display a dialog window containing a list of selected programming.  Each entry displays the name of the station and UT time that the program is on.  A header marking the start of a UT day is provided as a reference.  If any station is on the air, at the time displayed in the faceplate window, it will be highlighted in the list regardless of whether the show is actually on.  This was implemented in this manner, because stations often shift program times during the schedule season.

By selecting a highlighted station, the station's current frequency list will be presented.  Selecting a station from the SWBC Programs window has the same effect as using the Find Current Frequency database query.  This will allow the user to quickly tune to the station, via the Find Current Frequency display.  If the SWBC Programs display is inactive, it can be re-entered by pressing the Shift-Tab (or Tab Left) key combination.

The database of programs is contained in the file DXSHOWS.TXT.  As an example, DXSHOWS.TXT mostly contains listings for general programming, including Glen Hauser's World of Radio.  This file is a field-delimited flat file that may be edited with a simple text editor.  The user may edit this file, provided that the general format of the examples is adhered.  Another restriction is that the station name must match exactly what is in the main shortwave database.

New in version 3.00, is the capability to edit the SWBC Programs database directly from the this display.  The user may mark/unmark entries as begin heard, modify entries according to a stations program line-up, insert new programs, and delete old ones.

Special Note:  SWBC Programs editing is not available in the unregistered version of Smart R8 Control.


 Log Open...

Previous versions of Smart R8 Control only had one standard log file, SMARTCON.LOG.  This made organizing different types of loggings extremely difficult.  For example, the loggings mixed SW Broadcast logs with Utility logs, and so on.  New in version 3.00 of Smart R8 Control for Windows, is the capability to create and edit multiple Log Files.  Choosing this Tools Menu Item, pressing the Ctrl-F4 key combination, or pressing the Log File Button on the Log Entry display will prompt the user to select a Log File.  Once a Log File is opened, it will be automatically displayed as if the Show Log command was invoked.

There is no limit on the number of Log Files that may be created, however, it is suggested that the standard file extension be *.LOG.  Although the log format has changed in version 3.00, the Logging System will recognize previous versions.  If an entry in a previous version is to be edited, that entry will be saved back using the v3.00 format.


 Create Log Entry...

Selecting this Tools Menu Item or pressing the Ctrl-L key combination, will display the above Log Entry dialog box.  Clicking on any of the fields in the above example will display a short description about it.

If the radio is off, only the Date and Time fields will be filled in.  If the radio is on, Smart R8 Control for Windows will additionally fill in the frequency and mode fields.  The station name will normally default to UnID.  However, it can be changed to any standard station in the database, using the drop-down combo box.  When filled in, clicking the Ok Button will accept the Log Entry, and clicking Cancel will abort it.  All entries are immediately posted in the currently active radio log file, as annotated on the title bar of the form.  If the user decides that the Log Entry belongs in a different log file, clicking the Log File Button will allow the user to Open another log file, or create a new one.

As an alternative, users can also invoke the Log Entry dialog box by either clicking on any station name listed in the faceplates Station(s) Tuned list box, or Who Else Uses display.  In addition to the date, time, frequency and mode settings, Smart R8 Control for Windows will also insert the station name as selected.

As previously mentioned, the logging system now includes the ability to use multiple log files in version 3.00.  Additionally, log records now include rate/shift (for digital signals) and callsign fields.  The notes area has been improved as well, providing standard editing buttons (cut, copy, paste) and the capability to automatically insert the current UT time and date.


Date

This field contains the date stamp of the log entry in the format DD MMM YY, where D = day, M = month and Y = year.


Time

This field contains the time stamp of the log entry in the format TTTTd, where T = numeric time and d = day of the week (h = Thursday, a = Saturday).


Frequency

This field contains the frequency that the station was heard on.  The format is FFFFF.FF if in kHz, and FFF.FFFF if in MHz.


Frequency Multiplier

This field contains the multiplier for the adjacent frequency field.  Choices are kHz or MHz.


Station Name

This field contains the name of the station that was heard.  It may be typed in or selected using the drop-down combo box.


SINPO (or SIO)

This field contains the signal quality of the broadcast.  Signal quality can be input in SINPO or SIO, where (S = Signal Level, I = Co-channel Interference, N = Man-made Noise, P = Propagation Fading and O = Overall Quality).  Each figure is a number from 0 to 5, representing the worst to best possible condition, respectively.


Demodulation Mode

This field contains the demodulation mode that the receiver was in, when the broadcast was heard.  Choices are AM, FM, CW, RTTY, USB or LSB.


Digital Rate and Shift

If a digital signal is being logged, this field contains the baud rate and mark/space frequency shift (and polarity) in the format RRR/SSSSP.


Callsign

If an official or symbolic callsign is available for the logging, this field contains that information.


Log File

This button open or create another log file, such that the current Log Entry may be added to it.


Cut Button

This button will delete any selected text from the editing area and place it on the clipboard.


Copy Button

This button will copy any selected text in the editing area and place it on the clipboard.


Paste Button

This button will copy any selected text on the clipboard into the editing area.


Date Button

This button will insert the current UT date into the editing area.


Time Button

This button will insert the current UT time into the editing area.


Tab Button

This button will insert a tab character into the editing area.


Log Notes

This field is a free-form text area, to contain program details or general reception notes.


 Show Log File

The Smart R8 Control Logging System has been greatly enhanced over previous versions.  It has always allowed the user to revisit old log information, and now allows the user edit previously posted logs in version 3.00.  Selecting this Tools Menu Item, clicking on the Show Log Toolbar Button (as shown), or pressing the F4 function key will display a scrollable Log Window containing all information accumulated in the currently selected log file.  Selecting one of the entries in the Log Window will automatically tune the receiver to the frequency and demodulation mode listed.

Log Entries have always been able to be inserted via various methods.  New in version 3.00 is the additional capability to modify and / or delete any Log Entry in the currently selected Log File.  While the Log File is displayed, the user can choose the Modify or Delete command directly from the Log Displays Edit Menu, or by pressing the Ins or Del keys, respectively.


Export Log File

 Export Log

New in version 3.00 of Smart R8 Control for Windows, is the capability to Export a Log Entry, or a whole Log File.  Based upon the Print Log command when printing to a file, the currently selected Log File can be Exported by either choosing this Tools Menu Item on the faceplate, File Menu on the Log Display, or by pressing the Shift-Alt-F4 key combination.  Also, as previously mentioned, choosing the Print Log command and clicking the Print to File Check Box will accomplish the same thing.

If the Log Display is showing, the user has the option to export individual Log Entries.  By first selecting the entries, the user can choose the Export Selected Item from the File Menu or popup menu on the Log Display, or press the Shift-Ctrl-F4 key combination to Export them.  This is equivalent to selecting the entries and choosing the Print Log command, but with both the Print to File Check Box and the Selection radio button clicked.

Before the log can be Exported, however, the user must select one of the prepared Log Export Formats, or create a new one.  Details on how to create and edit these formats are extensively detailed in the Export Format Editor section.


 Print Log File

As an alternative to Displaying the Log File, it may be desirable to revisit old log information in a printed format.  Selecting this Tools Menu Item, or pressing the Shift-F4 key combination, will print the currently selected Log File to the printer.

The Log File will be printed in a line-by-line spreadsheet-like log format.  If the last page of the printed log has any remaining space, it will include blank log entries.  These may be used for writing in any additional log information, while operating the receiver with the computer off.  These manual log entries may then be input at a later time, as outlined in Using the Logging System.

New in version 3.00, is the capability to Print specific pages or entries, if desired.  The user may even Print the log to a text file, which is essentially the same as Exporting the log in a user-defined format.  Please refer to the Logging System or the Export Log command for more detail on this powerful feature.


 Print Reception Reports

New in version 3.00 of Smart R8 Control for Windows, is the capability to Print Reception Reports for any existing Log Entry.  The user may even print the Report to a text file, for later editing.  The currently selected Log File Entries can be formatted into a Reception Report by either choosing this Log Display File Menu Item or from the displays popup menu.

Before a Reception Report can be printed, however, the user must select one of the prepared Log Report Formats, or create a new one.  Details on how to create and edit these formats are extensively detailed in the Report Format Editor section.  Likewise, the user must have an already selected Log Export Format.  The Export Format will be used to format all log entries within the Report.


 Close Windows

Sometimes it is desirable to unclutter all of Smart R8 Control for Windows displays from the screen.  This Tools Menu Item will clear all dialog windows from the screen, with the exception of the main faceplate window.  This function can also be invoked by either clicking the Close Windows Toolbar Button (as shown) or by pressing the Ctrl-Q key combination.


 Set User Options...

Description

The above Default Options dialog box will be displayed automatically the first time Smart R8 Control for Windows is run.  All of the options set will be saved in the file SMARTCON.INI, for use in later sessions.  The dialog box can be displayed during later sessions, by selecting the Options... Item from the Tools Menu, or by pressing the Ctrl-P key combination.  The Default Options dialog box allows the user to set up Smart R8 Control for Windows, to conform to the users listening and computing conditions.  It tells the software how to set its internal clocks, which HF antenna to default to, how the computer will talk to the radio, as well as some information about the users QTH and equipment.  Clicking on any feature in the following Default Options dialogs will provide a brief description of it.

Communications Defaults

Smart R8 Control for Windows requires that a serial port be used for communicating with the receiver.  Of all of the Default Options, this is probably the most critical.  The user must declare which serial port is to be used as the Receiver Port, from the radio buttons provided.  If a particular serial port is not available on the users computer, that radio button will be disabled.  Once a Receiver Port is selected, it may be configured by pressing the Port Setup button.  This will automatically invoke the Control Panels Ports module.  This can be used to configure all of the serial ports settings, to include the advanced settings of IRQ and hardware address.  This need not be done if the selected serial port is known to operate correctly.  Special Note:  Changing the either Receiver Port, or the associated serial ports IRQ or hardware address may also change some settings in the users WIN.INI and SYSTEM.INI files.  If this is the case, the user will be required to restart Windows before the software will operate correctly.

Once the Receiver Port is correctly set, Smart R8 Control for Windows requires the user to also configure the protocol for communicating with the receiver.  The protocols will either use Windows built-in communications driver (Via Windows) or bypass this driver and send data directly to the receiver (Direct to Port).  The protocol to be selected depends upon which Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART) is being used by the computer.  This is important, because Windows built-in communications driver has been known to be unstable at rates of 9600 bps, when using an 8250 or compatible UART, and must be bypassed.  If the UART is unknown, please run Microsoft Diagnostics (MSD.EXE) to examine your serial ports.  If the UART is found to be an 8250 or compatible, the Direct to Port protocol must be used, and is the default setting.  If a 16550AFN or compatible UART is used, either protocol may be used.  However, using the Via Windows protocol may make Smart R8 Control for Windows to be more responsive.

Once the correct protocol is set, the user has the option to set the correct communications pacing used by Smart R8 Control for Windows.  Both the Character and Line Pacing values are declared in milliseconds.  The Character Pacing is only enabled if the Direct to Port protocol is selected, and declares the amount of time that Smart R8 Control for Windows will wait between sending characters to the receiver.  This is default to 0, but may be increased if the receiver appears not to accept any of the commands.

The Line Pacing value is the amount of time that Smart R8 Control for Windows will wait before it receives a response from the receiver.  If no response is received, Smart R8 Control for Windows will know that a communications error has occurred, and will attempt to resend the command.  Commands will be sent to the radio up to three times, until a correct response has been received.  If the command fails in three tries, the computer will produce a dinging sound.  The Line Pacing value can be adjusted such that excessive delays can be avoided, yet robust communications to the Drake R8 can be achieved.

Time Defaults

The Smart R8 Control for Windows faceplate contains both a local and UT clock.  The local time is taken from the computers internal clock, and may be set by pressing the Set Time button.  This will automatically invoke the Control Panels Date and Time module.  Once this is set, the UT clock may be configured as an offset to the users local time.  The offset is defined as the number of hours to add to the users local time, in order to achieve UT.  For example, if the listener is on the East Coast of North America, the UT Offset is to be configured as +5:00, to convert EST (Winter Time), or +4:00, to convert EDT (Summer Time).  The UT Offset is flexible enough to be used in area of the world, allowing offsets in increments of 15 minutes.

Timer Settings

Clicking on any feature in the above image will provide a short description for it.  If more detail is required, please refer to Timer Settings, or Tuning Menu.

Radio Defaults

Smart R8 Control for Windows has always provided a quality interface for controlling the Drake R8 receiver.  New in version 3.00, is the capability to additionally interface to Drakes newer R8A.  The R8A provides many enhanced features for the user to take advantage of, one of which is an increase from 100 to 440 memory channels.  Smart R8 Control for Windows has been updated to take advantage of these features.  The Receiver Model option will let the program know which receiver is being used.

When using the VHF Converter, the Drake R8 and R8A like to default to the balanced antenna input (port 1) when returning to an HF frequency.  This is frustrating to those users only using a longwire antenna on port 2.  The Antenna Port option will allow the user to tell Smart R8 Control for Windows to automatically default to the correct antenna port, when tuning in the HF bands.

Many users employ more than one antenna for their R8 or R8A receiver.  Although one HF antenna port may be declared as the default, the user will be able to declare exceptions to the rule.  If the user has an Alternate Antenna, a specific frequency band  may be declared for it using the From and To fields.  The frequency band may then be enabled by checking the Enabled check box.  If the Enabled check box is not checked, the frequency range will be ignored and all tuning operations will default to the specified Antenna Port.

Scanning Parameters

Clicking on any feature in the above image will provide a short description for it.  If more detail is required, please refer to Scanning Parameters, or Tuning Menu

Logging Defaults

This area allows the user to personalize Smart R8 Control for Windows.  The data entered here, includes information about the user, the users equipment, and the listening conditions at the users QTH.  This information will be used in the formal release of Smart R8 Control for Windows version 3.00, to automatically generate reception reports from the integrated Logging System.  As shown, the information is pretty self explanatory.  The left side of the Logging Defaults allows the user to enter his/her name and address.  The right side of the Logging Defaults allows the user to enter the radio (hopefully a Drake R8 or R8A, whichever is the default) and antenna used.  Additionally, a listening conditions entry has been provided, such that the user may describe what kind of location (Urban, Residential, Rural, Remote) the users QTH is in, as well as the relative level of man-made noise.

General Defaults

Previously, Smart R8 Control would a fixed color to define the color of marked frequencies.  New in Smart R8 Control for Windows is the capability to change these marking colors.  Clicking on the color grid with the left mouse button will define the foreground or selected color for marked text.  Selecting a color with the right mouse button will define the background or unselected color for the marked text.  Examples of what these will look like will be presented underneath the color grid.  In either example, the color of the selection bar (or cursor) may be set using the standard Windows Control Panel.

In addition to marked color selection, Smart R8 Control for Windows v3.00 includes a toolbar, numerous quick-click speed buttons and hypertext hot spots.  All of these buttons and hot spots have the capability to provide a small help hint to remind you of what will happen when you click on it.  Sometimes these little helpers out grow their use, and in some instances can get in the way.  The show help hints option will allow you to enable or disable this feature at any time.


Page Tabs

These tabs provide a way to get around the Default Options display.  It provides quick access to the Communications, Time Offset, Timer, Radio, Scanning, Logging and overall program default settings.


UT Offset

These selections allow the user to enter amount of time (in hours and minutes) to be added to the listeners local time, to obtain Universal Time (UT).  For example,  The user will select +5:00, for Winter Time on the East Coast of the USA.


Set Time

This button allow the user to set the computers clock, using the Control Panel.


Receiver Model

These radio buttons allow the user to select the receiver to which Smart R8 Control is attached.  This is either the older R8, or the newer R8A.


Antenna Port

These radio buttons allow the user to select the antenna port that the HF tuner will default to.  Port 1 is the 50 Ohm J-259 jack, and Port 2 consists of the high impedance spring clips (normally used for unbalanced longwire antennas).


Alternate Antenna Enable

This check box allows the user to select the alternate HF antenna port for a specific frequency range.  If Port 1 is the default antenna, Port 2 will be used for the specified frequencies (and vice versa).


Alternate Antenna Frequency Range

This defines the range of frequencies (in kHz) for use by the alternate HF antenna.  If enabled, tuning to any frequency within this range will automatically select the alternate antenna.


Comm Port Setup

This button allow the user to configure the computers serial ports, using the Control Panel.


Radio Comm Port

These radio buttons allow the user to define the computers serial port that will connect to the Drake R8 receiver.


Communications Protocol

These radio buttons allow the user to select which way the computer will talk to the radio.  Direct to Port bypasses Windows communications driver, and must be selected by users with an 8250 or compatible UART.  Via Windows utilizes Windows internal communications processes, and is only recommended for users with a 16550 or compatible UART.


Transmit Pacing

This field should contain the amount of time (in milliseconds) that the computer will wait between sending characters to the radio.  The default is 0, and is only accessible if the communications mode is set to Direct to Port.


Receive Pacing

This field should contain the maximum amount of time (in milliseconds) that the computer will wait to receive a response from the radio, before it attempts to resend, or assumes a communications failure.  The default is 230.


DXers Name

This field should contain the shortwave listeners name.


DXers Address

This field contains the shortwave listeners address, to include Street address, City, State or Province, ZIP or Postal Code, and Country.  Format should correspond to the DXers standard mailing address.


Receiver Used

This field contains the name of the receiver normally used.  Typically, this will be the Drake R8 or R8A.


Antenna Used

This field contains a short description of the shortwave listeners antenna.  It should contain details of style (longwire, dipole, etc.), height above ground, length (if applicable), and where the antenna was mounted (roof, lightly wooded area, etc.).


QTH Conditions

This field contains a short description of the area where normal reception takes place.  Typically, this will contain adjectives, such as Urban, Residential, Rural, Remote.  It may also use Noisy or Quiet when describing the man-made noise environment.


Marking Colors

This grid allows the user to select what color scheme is to be used for marking frequencies.  A sample is created below the grid to visualize what any changes may look like before committing to them.


Show Hints

Setting this option will display small reminders of what Smart R8 Control function will be executed if an unlabelled button or hypertext item is clicked.


 Log Format Menu

The Format Menu includes commands that enable you to create formats for use with the Smart R8 Control Logging System.

For more information, select the Format Menu command name.

Export...	Displays the Export Format editor.

Report	Displays the Report Format editor.


 Export Format Editor

New in Smart R8 Control for Windows is the capability to create Export Formats.  This capability is invoked from the Format | Export menu only found in the Log Display.  Choosing this will display the Export Format editor, as shown above.  You can click the items on the image to see what each does.

Distributed with Smart R8 Control v3.00 are export formats for the Cumbre DX Club (CUMBRE.FML), Fido SWL Conference (FIDO.FML), the World Utility News List (WUN.FML) as well as the standard Smart R8 Control format.  Pressing the Open button will allow you to choose any of these formats.  Pressing the New button will clear all data in the editor and rename the current Export Format to <Untitled>.

Once the editor is shown, the user may immediately start to edit the format.  The standard logging fields are shown as shortcut buttons along the top of the display.  Pressing one will insert the field within the editing area.  The user may then create up to ten lines of export formatting.  Multiple format fields may be combined on the same line, with the exception of the [notes] field.  The [notes] field must reside on its own line due to the special wrapping and formatting that will be performed on it.

In addition to the standard format buttons, the user may provide supplemental formatting.  For example, the standard Smart R8 Control frequency format is an 8-character field number with two decimal places.  Upon appending :f:d (where f provides the field length and d provides the decimal places) within the [freq] token, all subsequent exports using this format will result in a frequency field of f characters wide, rounded to d decimal points.  Currently, this is only available with the [freq] token.  In the future, the [date] and [time] tokens will be able to be formatted similarly.

The user can provide additional formatting characters that will be exported with that field, by placing them within the token brackets.  The extra formatting characters will only be output if the field is present.  For example, the [call] token in the WUN format file has a colon appended to it.  This means that if the [call] field is present in the log entry, a colon will be appended to it during the export process to complement the standard WUN log format.

The user may add additional formatting characters outside each token as well.  In this case, the characters will be exported with the log entry regardless if the field for it is empty or not.  For example, the FIDO format (FIDO.FML) contains a multi-line format, where each field to be filled is prefaced by a field header.  These headers will be printed as shown in the format file, regardless of the content filled by the corresponding token.

As with the Log Entry display, the Export Format editor contains easy to use editing buttons to cut, copy or paste text items, or insert a tab into the format.

To save the displayed format, the user merely needs to press the Ok Button.  If the file is untitled, the user will have the option to name it.  It is anticipated that when creating new Export Formats that the user will use the *.FML filename extension, such that it may be easily retrieved at another time.


Export Field Buttons

These buttons provide a quick way to insert Log Fields as export tokens into the Export Editor.  Choices include (from left to right) the UT Date and Time, the Frequency and Multiplier (kHz or MHz), the stations Callsign and Name, the SINPO (or SIO) rating, the Demodulation Mode and Rate/Shift (if digital) and the Notes (or program details) from any log entry.


Format Area

This area is where the format editing occurs.


New Format

This button will clear the editing area, and change the Export File title to <Untitled>.


Format Open

This button will allow the user to read an existing Export File into the editor.


 Report Format Editor

New in Smart R8 Control for Windows is the capability to create formatting for automated Reception Reports.  This capability is invoked from the Format | Report menu only found in the Log Display.  Choosing this will display the Report Format editor, as shown above.  You can click the items on the image to see what each does.

Distributed with Smart R8 Control v3.00 is a single report format (SMARTCON.FML).  The user may modify this format or create a new one.  Pressing the Open button will allow you to choose an alternate format, if previously created.  Pressing the New button will clear all data in the editor and rename the current Report Format to <Untitled>.

Once the editor is shown, the user may immediately start to edit the format.  The standard reporting fields are shown as shortcut buttons along the top of the display.  Pressing one will insert the field within the editing area.  The re is no limit to the number of format lines.  Multiple format fields may be combined on the same line, with the exception of the [logE] field.  The [logE] field represents where the Log Entries will be located and must reside on its own line due to the special wrapping and formatting that will be performed on it.

As with the Log Entry display, the Report Format editor contains easy to use editing buttons to cut, copy or paste text items, or insert a tab into the format.

To save the displayed format, the user merely needs to press the Ok Button.  If the file is untitled, the user will have the option to name it.  It is anticipated that when creating new Report Formats that the user will use the *.FMR filename extension, such that it may be easily retrieved at another time.


Export Field Buttons

These buttons provide a quick way to insert Report Fields as tokens into the Report Editor.  Choices include (from left to right) the DXers name, Address (two lines), the Receiver and Antenna used, and a brief description of the listening Conditions around the DXers QTH.  Another button is provided to define where the Log Entries will be located.


 Modify Log Entry

Choosing this Edit Menu Item from the Log Display, or pressing the Ins key, will allow you to modify a selected Log Entry in the currently selected Log File.  The feature is a useful way to modify logs that have been since identified, are either out of date, or in error.  The Modify function can only be performed on a list item that is currently selected, as evidenced by a highlighted background color.  Descriptions of each field in the Modify Log Entry dialog box can be displayed by clicking on any item in the above example.

A selected Log Entry can be modified only from the Log Display by using the either the Modify Item in the Edit Menu; or by holding down the right mouse button and picking the Modify Item from the resulting popup menu.  This will pop up the Modify Log Entry dialog box, containing all of the records pertinent information.  Every item is changeable from this dialog box, except for the Log File that it goes into.  Clicking the Ok Button after modifying the entrys data will immediately update the Log Entry in the Log File.  Clicking the Cancel Button will abort the process.


 Delete Log Entry

Choosing this Edit Menu Item from the Log Display, or pressing the Del key, will allow you to remove a selected Log Entry from the currently selected Log File.  The feature is a useful way to remove stale logs that are either out of date, or in error.  The Delete function can only be performed on a list item that is currently selected, as evidenced by a highlighted background color.  Descriptions of each field in the Delete Log Entry dialog box can be displayed by clicking on any item in the above example.

A Log Entry can be deleted only from the Log Display by using the either the Delete Item in the Edit Menu; or by holding down the right mouse button and picking the Delete Item from the resulting popup menu.  This will pop up the Delete Log Entry dialog box, containing all of the entrys pertinent information.  None of the data in the dialog box will be able to be changed.  Clicking the Ok Button (or pressing the Enter key) will immediately delete the entry from the Log File.  Clicking the Cancel Button (or pressing the Esc key) will abort the process.