After the successful development of WKFlex, I was still looking for the ultimate solution to the lack of a remote option for transmitting serious CW with the Flex Radio 6X00. I considered adding the Flex native CW API protocol to WKFlex but was attracted by the idea of developing a more sophisticated yet simple and functional solution.

 

MORCONI is a microprocessor-managed interface that connects your networked radio to your straight key, bug, or any electronic key. Once programmed and configured, it does not require a computer connection (other than for power, if you don’t want to use an external power supply) and works completely standalone. You can think of it as a remote extension of your radio’s key jack

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Acknowledgements

Before digging deeper into the project, I want to thank Mike, VA3MW and Andy, VA3CW from FlexRadio for making a 6300 available to me for debugging the code while waiting for my 8600 to be delivered. I also want to thank Len KD0RC, who influenced me with his TeensyMaestro project.

 

The Interface

If you’re not comfortable with microprocessors or soldering two connectors, please keep reading—there is a solution!

The project is built around a Teensy 4.1 32-bit microcontroller. Several benefits come with using this board, such as:

 

• Native Ethernet Interface

• Audio library

• Arduino-compatible programming language

• Easy updates using a firmware-like procedure

 

The board with the Ethernet chip and the Ethernet connector kit, can be purchased through PJRC and are relatively inexpensive. By the way, I’m not affiliated in any form with PJRC.

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MORCONI:

• is available for the FlexRadio 6X00 and 8X00 series

• or any other radio brands (Kenwood, Icom, Yaesu...)

• is a DIY project which you can build in few hours

• can be purchased assembled and tested.

 

Some Extra Thoughts

I wanted to make it easy for everyone to build this interface, which created some limitations. The lack of a Human Interface like a display and a controller does not allow using the Flex discovery protocol, the Multiflex, or some extra advanced features; therefore, the only way to configure the interface is through the editing of the configuration file.

If there is enough demand, I can develop a deluxe version with a small display and an encoder.

 

The .stl files for the 3D printed enclosure are available from the Downloads page.

 

For more engagement, consider joining MORCONI@groups.io