I picked up a Yaesu FIF-232 at a local hamfest for $10. It comes with the box and instructions, but not the adapter cable (you'll need to supply your own). I purchased it up thinking someone in the group can use it.
This is the RS-232 CAT Interface adapter for the FT-980. Just add an RS-232 to USB converter and plug it into your PC.
You can buy cheap CAT cables on eBay ... so why use a FIF-232?
1. It matches our rig (paint color and everything)
2. It is opto-coupled and galvanically isolated (reduces PC noise coupling into your rig or antenna system). The eBay cables are not.
3. It has an on-board regulator AND serial converter to provide the correct voltages to both sides (+/-12V for the PC, 5V for the FT-980) instead of relying on blocking diodes and ballast resistors.
It is yours for the same $10 plus shipping cost. First come first serve ...
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-Mat Breton, N8TW
Mat Breton N8TW