How to Configure HRD using DAXv2

Overview

This article provides step-by-step instructions for installing and configuring Ham Radio Deluxe with a FLEX-6000 series radio using SmartSDR v4.2.18 and DAX v2.

This configuration enables:

• CAT control of the radio from HRD
• Digital mode operation using DAX audio

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, ensure:

• SmartSDR v4.2.10 is installed
• DAX and FlexVSP drivers are installed
• Aurora, FLEX-8000 or FLEX-6000 radio is powered on and connected to the network
• HRD is installed

Important: Reboot the PC after installing SmartSDR to ensure all drivers initialize correctly.

1. Verify SmartSDR CAT Configuration

1. Launch SmartSDR CAT
2. Confirm at least one CAT port exists:

To add a CAT port:

• Click Add Port → Serial Port
• Select an available COM port (e.g., COM4)
• Click OK

This COM port will be used by HRD for rig control if not using direct IP connection.

2. Connect HRD to the Aurora, FLEX-8000 or FLEX-6000

1. Launch HRD
2. In the Connect dialog, configure:

Preferred Method (Direct IP Connection)

• Rig: FlexRadio 6xxx
• Connection: FlexRadio
• IP Address: Select your radio from the list

Click Connect

Alternate Method (Serial CAT)

If the FlexRadio connection type is unavailable:

• Rig: FlexRadio 6xxx
• COM Port: (e.g., COM4 from SmartSDR CAT)
• Speed: 38400

Click Connect

3. Configure DAX v2 Audio Streams

Launch the DAX Control Panel included with SmartSDR v4.2.18.

A. Assign RX Audio (Radio → HRD)

1. In SmartSDR:
   • Select the desired slice (e.g., Slice A)
   • Enable DAX
   • Assign a channel (e.g., Channel 1)
2. In HRD (DM780):
   • Set the Input (Receive) soundcard to:
     • DAX RX 1

B. Assign TX Audio (HRD → Radio)

1. In HRD (DM780):
   • Set Output (Transmit) soundcard to:
     • DAX TX
2. In SmartSDR:
   • Enable DAX

4. Configure PTT (Transmit Control)

Option 1: CAT PTT (Recommended)

• In HRD:
  • Configure PTT to use the same COM port defined in SmartSDR CAT
  • Use RTS, DTR, or CAT command for keying

Option 2: VOX

• In SmartSDR:
  • Enable VOX
• HRD will key the transmitter automatically when audio is present

5. Verify Operation

Receive Test

• Tune to an active signal
• Confirm:
  • DAX RX channel meter shows activity
  • HRD waterfall displays the signal

Transmit Test

• Initiate transmit from HRD (e.g., Tune)
• Confirm:
  • DAX TX meter shows activity
  • RF output is present (use low power for testing)

6. Recommended Settings

• Set all Windows sound devices (DAX) to 100%
• Adjust levels using the DAX Control Panel
• Use a 48 kHz sample rate for all DAX devices
• Assign one DAX channel per slice receiver
• Label CAT ports in SmartSDR CAT for clarity

7. Troubleshooting

No Receive Audio in HRD

• Verify the correct DAX RX channel is selected
• Ensure DAX is enabled on the slice
• Confirm the DAX Control Panel channel is active

Unable to Transmit

• Verify DAX TX is enabled in SmartSDR
• Confirm the correct TX audio device in HRD
• Check the CAT port configuration or VOX settings

Distorted or Overdriven Audio

• Reduce DAX TX gain
• Verify Windows audio levels are not exceeding 100%
• Avoid adjusting levels in multiple places

8. Example Configuration