Followup on Easy Digi & Trail-Ready QRP Radio

A couple of years ago I'd posted a short bit on a lightweight interface and using it with the FT-817nd radio.  Since then, I've used it a handful of times both on the trail and at home.  The long-term verdict is that while it works, it is generally much easier to haul the extra three pounds of laptop.  (I know, I know: 3 lbs more pack weight is a steep price.  Hear me out on this.)  For anything contest-like, such as Winter Field Day, the laptop is overwhelmingly superior.  The narrow 300 Hz filter doesn't play particularly well with the iPhone, it's easier to get into a comfortable operating position with the laptop, and most importantly, the controls are way better with the SignalLink and fldigi software on an actual computer.  A decent table to operate from is much more needed with the iPhone/Easy Digi gear, which is kind of at odds of operating light in the backcountry.  Also, the iPhone has to come out of its Otter box so that the chubby interface plug can get to the port.  Finally, because the Easy Digi box feeds in as an audio signal and not through the digital port, a bunch of voice-mode menu items (VOX, SSB mic gain, etc.) have to be changed, then changed back if you're going to do actual voice.  It's a pain.

Reflecting on all this, using this lightweight PSK-31 interface is an even bigger handicap than working QRP in the first place.  Then you have to work QRP.  These things stack up, and the odds of making contacts dwindle quickly.

Having said all that, it is just plain cool operating PSK-31 digital mode off of an iPhone, and shaving three pounds off the pack is always a really good thing.  Additionally, it's a serviceable backup if the laptop ever goes tango utah.  The price was right too.  I'm glad to have this in my bag of tricks, limited as it is.  In the course of keeping in practice with it this weekend, I've made a handful of contacts to MI, MD, PA, etc., so it does work.

Last year's WFD setup.  Note the SignalLink box next to tent.

Misting rain outside here in coastal MS.  Not much else to do today.