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Edited: Apr 10

Rig control - CAT command file & CAT Customization guide

Download the latest CAT command version

VarAC offers direct CAT command support for various RIGs. You can download the most updated CAT commands file here.

If you found a mistake in this file or want to contribute a set of CAT commands that is not listed here, please submit your request as a comment on this post.

Download link - Latest file version:

VarAC_Cat_command.zip

After downloading, unzip the file and place it in your VarAC installation directory

Customizing VarAC Rig control CAT file

VarAC Cat file was built from ground up as an open platform so YOU can tweak it or even create your own customized configuration.

The VarAC_Cat_command.ini file contains a set of definitions for each RIG.

Here is an example of an IC-7300 VarAC CAT configuration:

[Icom IC-7300]
CmdType=HEX
PTTOn=FEFE94E01C0001FD
PTTOff=FEFE94E01C0000FD
ModeUSB=FEFE94E026000100FD
ModeUSB_D=FEFE94E02600010102FD
ModeFM=FEFE94E0260005FD
ModeFM_D=FEFE94E02600050102FD
SetFreq_Data_method=BCD
SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFE94E02500{}FD
SetFreqVfoA_param_length=10
SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1
ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFE94E02500FD
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=BCD
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=24
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=13
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=10
AntennaTuner=FEFE94E01C0102FD
VarACStartCmd=
VarACExitCmd=

Now lets dive in to each of the parameters:

PTT and MODE commands:

CmdType=

Possible values: "HEX" or "TEXT"

Some rigs requires a text based commands to be sent (like all Kenwoods and some Yaesus) while other requires Hex-based commands like most Icoms. This parameter tells VarAC how to encode the command before sending it to the Rig.

PTTOn=

Triggers TX (engage PTT)

PTTOff=

Triggers RX (dis-engage PTT).

ModeUSB=

Sets Rig to USB mode.

ModeUSB_D=

Sets Rig to USB-D mode.

This mode/command is only available with modern rigs.

VarAC settings screen provides you with the option to choose if you want to use the USB or USB-D mode.

ModeFM=

Sets Rig to FM mode.

VarAC will put your RIG in FM mode only if you use VaraFM.

AntennaTuner= Fires the antenna tuner after frequency changes.

Under the VarAC settings screen you can set it to tune on EVERY frequency change or only during BAND SKIPS.
Only a few Rigs provide with a CAT command that activate the "Tune" operation of the rig.

Set frequency commands:

The default CAT commands provided set the VFO-A.

SetFreq_Data_method=

Possible values: "HEX" or "TEXT"

Some rigs has different formats for PTT/MODE commands and for "set-frequency" commands. But in most cases it will be the same as the "CmdType=" parameter.

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=

sets the Rig VFO-A to a desired frequency.

This command use a special characters as place holder "{}" (2 curly brackets) that VarAC uses to plug the actual frequency.

For example:

Icom IC-7300: 
SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFE94E02500{}FD

Kenwood TS-850: 
SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA{};

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=

Each rig has a different frequency range capability. Therefore it has a different frequency length format where it pads with Zeros the beginning of the frequency.

When VarAC plugs in the desired frequency into the "SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=" command, it will use this value to know how many Zeros in needs to pad to bring the frequency into a "fixed size format" (ex. with length of 14105000 --> 0014105000)

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=

Some Rigs get the frequency number that is plugged to the "{}" placeholder but process it differently.

Most Rigs will take this frequency number as is. So in this case it means that the provided frequency number is in single Hertzs (ex - 14105000) so this parameter value in most cases is set to "1".

But some Rigs require the frequency number to be provided differently. For example:

Yaesu FT-100: SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=10 - which means that the number provided is in 10Hz skips so VarAC will need to divide the actual frequency by a factor of 10 before passing it to the RIG. 14105000 --> 1410500

Reading frequency commands:

Under the VarAC settings you can enable VarAC to read your current VFO frequency every X seconds.

If you do not use this feature you don't have to set these parameters.
Please note that some old Rigs does not provide with commands to read the current VFO frequency
The default CAT commands provided reads the VFO-A.

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=

Read the Rigs current VFO-A frequency.

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=

Possible values: TEXT, BCD, BCFBE, BIN

Instruct VarAC how to interpret the output of the "ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=" command. Some rigs returns the frequency as clear text while other return in Binary or Hexadecimal format.

By rig type:

Kenwood rigs are always "TEXT"
Icoms are always "BCD"
Xiegus are always "BCD"
Yaesus are either "BCD" or "BCDE" depends on the model
Some TenTecs and some Yaesus are "BIN"

For HEX values:

BCD is Little endian
BCDBE is big endian

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=

Similar to the "SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=" but on the reading frequency side.

It instructs VarAC on how to process the returning frequency number.

VarAC will multiply the number that returns with the number in this parameter to get to the frequency in Hz.

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=

The expected length of the entire output from the read frequency command (ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=).

This output in most cases includes many values that VarAC do not need so the next 2 parameters instruct VarAC where to find the actual frequency number.

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=

The position in the output of the read frequency command (ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=) in which the frequency number part begins.

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=

Similar to the "SetFreqVfoA_param_length=" but on the frequency reading side.

When parsing the output of the read frequency command (ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=), what is the expected length of the frequency number within the output.

Start/Exit VarAC commands

VarACStartCmd=

This command will be executed upon VarAC launch.

You can use it to set specific configuration in your Rig prior to using VarAC such as settings your preferred Filters, Notch, Antenna, NB level etc.

VarACExitCmd= This command is executed upon VarAC exit.

Use it to place you Rig in a preferred stated when existing VarAC.

Usually you would use it to revert any Rig states you enabled using the "VarACStartCmd=" command.

CAT command concatenaion

You can concatenate commands using the comma "," sign.
This would work only on the following commands: PTTOn, PTTOff, ModeUSB, ModeUSB_D, ModeFM
There are no limits to the number of commands you can concatenate.

Example #1:

When switching to USB_D (happens in every frequency change), and you also want to place DATA port of your IC-7300 to USB (not ACC):

ModeUSB_D=FEFE94E02600010102FD,FEFE94E01A05006703FD

Example2:

If your rig support 2 antennas, you can Use one for TX and one for RX by concatenating an antenna switch CAT command to the PTT On/Off commands. This is an example for IC-7400:

PTTOn=FEFE66E0120000FD,FEFE66E01C0001FD
PTTOff=FEFE66E0120100FD,FEFE66E01C0000FD

If your rig is not listed on the VarAC default CAT file and you configured it on your own,

or you find errors in the default CAT file and you managed to fix it by yourself,

PLEASE be kind and share it with us by commenting down below so we can distribute this to all VarAC users.

Rig based configuration examples (by other VarAC users)

Some folks have shared screenshots from their VarAC setting screen that so you see what worked for them:

Icom

Yaesu

Yaesu-FT-710: Video: Configure FT-710 Rig

Kenwood

SDR

Elecraft

Xiegu

Other

117 comments

Comments (117)

NC3Z Gary

Mar 18

From the TS-2000 manual:

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Replying to

Maybe so. But TX0 did NOT work on SDR Console.

TX works.

I found it confusing that TS-2000 doesn't work with software that is supposedly compatible. Maybe the TS-2000 also works with TX without the 0?

Please let's make it as simple as possible for the new user.

Any way, I suggest to at least add a section for SDR Console.

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Please add [Pluto+ SDR Console]

CmdType=TEXT

PTTOn=TX;

PTTOff=RX;

ModeUSB=MD2;

ModeUSB_D=MD2;

ModeFM=MD4;

SetFreq_Data_method=TEXT

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA{};

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=11

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA;

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=TEXT

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=14

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=3

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=11

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Replying to

The TS-2000 selection did NOT work properly. I had to modify it as above for it to work. At least PTT did not work.

NC3Z Gary

Mar 18

Replying to

Then try Kenwood Generic as I had suggested. or just edit to suit your needs, that is one of the great things about VarAC is that the operator can do some of these things.

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Replying to

I'm technical and it took me a while to figure out! Please let's try to help new users so they don't just give up. I think you should include an entry for SDR Console. This one did NOT work: [Kenwood TS-2000]

CmdType=TEXT

PTTOn=TX0;

PTTOff=RX;

Is it a bug?

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Please add [Hermes Lite 2 Thetis]

CmdType=TEXT

PTTOn=TX;

PTTOff=RX;

ModeUSB=MD2;

ModeUSB_D=MD9;

ModeFM=MD4;

SetFreq_Data_method=TEXT

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA{};

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=11

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA;

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=TEXT

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=14

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=3

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=11

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Replying to

As an end user, I attest that it is confusing. I still suggest that you should add an entry called Thetis. They won't be looking for Thetis under Anan. And it appears in the wrong place alphabetically.

NC3Z Gary

Mar 18

Replying to

I have provided several suggestions, guess you know better. 73

Meir 4Z5PE | QO100<->HF VarAC Cluster

Mar 18

Replying to

Well. I am a new user, so I know what is easy and what is hard from the user perspective. I don't understand - don't you want to make it easy for the new user and not hard?

Maybe I am missing something. Kindly explain, what is the problem to add Thetis and SDR Console to the file? I don't understand the downside to doing this?

Todd

Oct 26, 2024

Maybe someone can explain to me. I use a Icom 9100 for VarAC and the ini file is not working correctly. Modes don't work correctly especially "D" (data). Why is my ini file not have "CmdType=HEX" at the beginning and no hex commands?

Here is my file taken from VarAC:

[RIG_CONTROL]

RigPTTControlType=CAT

RigFreqControlType=CAT

RigCatFreqRead=OFF

RigCatFreqReadIntervalSeconds=2

SafetyPTTOffEveryMinute=OFF

PTTDisableAfterFreqChangeSeconds=0

FrequencyOffsetHZ=0

ActiveAntennaTunerFreqChange=OFF

ModeUSB_D=

FrequencySchedule=OFF

FrequencyScheduleCustomFilePath=

FrequencyListCustomFilePath=

LastFrequency=14.105.000

LastFrequencyLoadUponStartup=ON

UsbMode=USB-D

Thanks,

Todd

AL7PX

DH7LK

Oct 26, 2024

Replying to

What you have shown is a part of VarAC.ini, pls check your VarAC_cat_commands.ini where you should find the section

[Icom IC-9100]

CmdType=HEX

PTTOn=FEFE7CE01C0001FD

and so on...

Lutz, DH7LK

Todd

Oct 26, 2024

Replying to

Thanks, got it Lutz.

Todd

AL7PX

Pedro Santisteban

Oct 11, 2024

Buen dia,

con que comando CAT, funciona el FT-900.

Saludos.

irad d

Oct 12, 2024

Replying to

AS surprising as it may sound - with FT-900.

Por sorprendente que parezca, con el FT-900.

irad d

Sep 17, 2024

Thank you. I'll include it in the next version

Andreja Kostic

Sep 17, 2024

I've noticed that there's a Icom ID-52 in the list, but the settings weren't working for me on my radio. So here's a fixed configuration, tested on ID-52E with firmware 1.25, and as an extra, a configuration for ID-52E Plus, tested with firmware 1.00.

[Icom ID-52A/E]

CmdType=HEX

PTTOn=FEFEA6E01C0001FD

PTTOff=FEFEA6E01C0000FD

#USB&FM leads both to FM as there is no USB.

#the '_D' is for WIDE FM while without '_D' is narrow FM.

ModeUSB=FEFEA6E0060502FD

ModeUSB_D=FEFEA6E0060501FD

ModeFM=FEFEA6E0060502FD

ModeFM_D=FEFEA6E0060501FD

SetFreq_Data_method=BCD

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFEA6E000{}FD

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=10

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFEA6E003FD

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=BCD

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=22

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=11

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=10

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

[Icom ID-52A/E Plus]

CmdType=HEX

PTTOn=FEFEB4E01C0001FD

PTTOff=FEFEB4E01C0000FD

#USB&FM leads both to FM as there is no USB.

#the '_D' is for WIDE FM while without '_D' is narrow FM.

ModeUSB=FEFEB4E0060502FD

ModeUSB_D=FEFEB4E0060501FD

ModeFM=FEFEB4E0060502FD

ModeFM_D=FEFEB4E0060501FD

SetFreq_Data_method=BCD

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFEB4E000{}FD

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=10

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFEB4E003FD

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=BCD

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=22

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=11

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=10

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

Edited

Larry fields

Jul 09, 2024

I use a IC 718 and curious what one will I use for that one as rig control and for the unit

irad d

Jul 27, 2024

Replying to

IC-718 allow only frequency control through CAT. You can find the IC-718 on the drop down list only for frequency control as demonstrated in this screenshot.

PTT can be controlled by using RTS/DTR cable to your PTT plug.

I guess you are using the same mechanism with other softwares (FT8 and such) as well.

73s

G4AON Dave

Apr 05, 2024

A tip for Omnirig IC-7300 users... When checking the frequency for a CQ call (slot sniffer), my IC-7300 took around 3 or 4 seconds to QSY, yet when releasing the slot sniffer button it changed back instantly.

The problem is related to the VFO selection in the settings box, make sure it is set for VFO A, not A + B

Attached image shows the correct setting.

73 Dave

Paul Smith

Apr 04, 2024

I had to add a new radio in the VarAC_cat_commands for the Elecraft K4. The existing ELECRAFT file will not work with TCP and PTT. The three existing MODE command lines are not in the correct command format for the K4.

[Elecraft K4]

CmdType=TEXT

PTTOn=TX;

PTTOff=RX;

ModeUSB=MD$2;

ModeUSB_D=MD$6;DT$0;

ModeFM=MD$4;

SetFreq_Data_method=TEXT

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA{};

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=11

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA;

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=TEXT

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=14

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=3

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=11

AntennaTuner=SWT20;

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

n5jro

Mar 09, 2024

the program does not see my radio ft-991A Why is this.

Fermin Garcia

Mar 02, 2024

I'm EA4FG I have the kenwood ts-2000 I ask you to make drivers for the kenwood ts-2000 please

I await news in the email ea4fg.fermin@gmail.com

irad d

Mar 02, 2024

Replying to

Add this to the CAT file and try:

[Kenwood TS-2000]
CmdType=TEXT
PTTOn=TX0;
PTTOff=RX;
ModeUSB=MD2;
ModeUSB_D=MD2;
ModeFM=MD4;
SetFreq_Data_method=TEXT
SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA{};
SetFreqVfoA_param_length=11
SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1
ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA;
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=TEXT
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=14
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=3
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=11
VarACStartCmd=
VarACExitCmd=

Peter van der Post

Mar 01, 2024

I'm using the Yaesu FT-1000MP Mark-V Field tranceiver with a SignaLink connected to the PACKETRADIO DIN connector. For this to work, the PKT-U (Packet USB) mode needs to be selected by pressing PKT for one second. Then the PKT and LSB buttons will light up (yes, no logic there). Any other mode selection will result in no transmit audio.

I never found a working CAT code to get the rig in this mode, so I avoid setting the mode via software.

To do this with VarAC, I use the section below with the Mode commands commented out (semi-colon).

Peter PA1POS

[Yaesu FT-1000MP MkV No-mode-change]
CmdType=HEX
PTTOn=000000010F
PTTOff=000000000F
;ModeUSB=000000010C
;ModeUSB_D=000000090C
;ModeFM=000000060C
SetFreq_Data_method=BCD
SetFreqVfoA_Cmd={}0A
SetFreqVfoA_param_length=8
SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=10
ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=0000000310
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=BIN
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=0.625
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=64
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=3
ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=8
AntennaTuner=0000000082
VarACStartCmd=
VarACExitCmd=

Edited

Skip Dichead

Feb 28, 2024

Control file for FT-757GX

Toggles dial lock on startup and exit. Command 04

[Yaesu FT-757GX]

CmdType=HEX

SetFreq_Data_method=BCD

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd={}0A

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=8

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=10

VarACStartCmd=0000000004

VarACExitCmd=0000000004

un7phv

Jan 21, 2024

un7phv

Jan 21, 2024

Good day...

VarAC settings

Kenwood TS-2000

Interface: UnicomDual 2 ports: 8-9

Omnirig: rig1-TS-2000, COM-8, PTT-9

Omnirig: Cat command.ini TS-2000

Everything works well

😀

un7phv

Jan 14, 2024

OK, thank you........😀😀😄

un7phv

Jan 14, 2024

please cat control TS-2000

🤣

irad d

Jan 14, 2024

Replying to

Use "Kenwood-Generic".

Most kenwoods has the same CAT commands. those that do not - we have included a specific one for them.

Try the kenwood-generic which is suitable for most of the kenwoods

Fermin Garcia

Jan 12, 2024

soy EA4FG quisirea por favor que editen al gun archivo referente a la emisora KENWOOD -TS-2000 gracias 73 espero noticias suyas

irad d

Jan 13, 2024

Replying to

Use "Kenwood-Generic".

Most kenwoods has the same CAT commands. those that do not - we have included a specific one for them.

Try the kenwood-generic which is suitable for most of the kenwoods

Peter Peter

Jan 11, 2024

I am having issues with a 847. Here is what I posted on FB

Hey all. In an attempt to learn a bit more I have played around with talking to another station. I have (well I think I have) set my FT847 up for rts ptt and cat control via serial. 1 cable. The ptt part works fine and I can see in the log it writinf to the comm port asking for the frequ the radio is at but nothing is coming back.

Has anyone else played around with an 847

I for a test simply put a slot frequency into vfo b and changed with that but now I can see what its meant to do I am really looking to get ths working

I have what I believe is the latest cat definitions

11/01/2024 08:45:54 - Cat command (HEX): 0000000003

11/01/2024 08:45:54 - Writing to com port

11/01/2024 08:45:54 - CAT cmd result:

11/01/2024 08:45:54 - CAT result after echo stripping:

11/01/2024 08:45:56 - Cat command (HEX): 0000000003

ezragalloway07

Nov 12, 2023

My Varachat keeps saying soundcard device is not ready. What does that mean?

Daniel Hazen

Nov 12, 2023

Replying to

I'm on a train in Japan and can't comment extensively but for me I think it's usually my USB cable has disconnected/uninstalled itself or the program or Windows has changed away from the USB codec.

I'll be on the air in a few days. Meanwhile find N0BN or JJ5PVJ on APRS.

73 de Daniel N0BN/JJ5PVJ

Daniel Hazen

Oct 17, 2023

I have no idea how to enable Rig Control. I have an FT857D with SignaLink and Windows 10 and an LDG external tuner. SignaLink and the tuner use up the ACC and DATA ports. I have downloaded and extracted the CAT file but don't understand what it is supposed to do. Is it supposed to autoconfigure VARAC rig control?

I have CAT with FT857 clicked and tested and nothing happens. I have downloaded, clicked and tried Omnirig and nothing happens. I have downloaded and tried FLrig and nothing happens but I'm pretty sure I couldn't figure out how to configure Flrig. I have clicked on VOX/none and that works: I just change the frequency manually.

Daniel Hazen

Oct 21, 2023

Replying to

Regarding the problem with VARAC changing my mode from DIG (which works) to USB (which doesn't), I assume (dangerous act) that the FT857 CAT command file does that. I don't want to break the whole thing so could someone tell me how to change the command file to keep VARAC from changing DIG to USB? Much appreciated! Thanks and 73, Daniel N0BN

[Yaesu FT-857]

CmdType=HEX

PTTOn=0000000008

PTTOff=0000000088

ModeUSB=0100000007

ModeUSB_D=0A00000007

ModeFM=8800000007

ModeFM_D=0C00000007

SetFreq_Data_method=BCDBE

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd={}01

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=8

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=10

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=0000000003

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=BCDBE

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=10

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=10

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=8

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

irad d

Oct 22, 2023

Replying to

Daniel - just to make sure - under settings in VarAC, did you change the Drop down from USB to USB-D ?

If you havn;t - that is your problem.

BTW - to answer your question - if VarAC is set to USB-D - it uses the command in this line:

ModeUSB_D=0A00000007

Daniel Hazen

Oct 22, 2023

Replying to

I think changing the CAT configuration to USB-D was the last change I made. I had a long QSO last evening and I think that did the trick. The underlying digital mode in the 857 is set to USER-U while the operating mode is DIG, and now autoQSY seems to be working properly.

Thank you and 73,

Daniel N0BN/JJ5PVJ

Christian Mulvey

Oct 11, 2023

Hello, has anyone found a CAT file that is compatible with Yaesu FTM 300D radio?

irad d

Oct 14, 2023

Replying to

I did not find any documentations for this rig cat control commands... if you find one I might give it a shot. Do you use it for other digital modes that akready uses your rig correctly with CAT control ?

Christian Mulvey

Oct 14, 2023

Replying to

No I don't have any other digital modes working. Just getting into digital.

MIKE M

Oct 05, 2023

Are there VarAC commands for selecting a specific filter number and to select whether AGC is ON or OFF. My radio is IC-7851, and I am using the latest release of VarAC.

NC3Z Gary

Oct 06, 2023

Replying to

What options do you have? I would guess the default for Fast will be just fine.

MIKE M

Oct 07, 2023

Replying to

Gary,

The FAST time constant can be varied anywhere between 0.1 and 2.0 seconds. The default setting for FAST is 0.3 seconds.

NC3Z Gary

Oct 07, 2023

Replying to

That should be fine.

djinni442

Oct 02, 2023

Hello,

I have some questions on the CAT command file command format.

What is the significance of the semicolon ";"? I noticed some commands have one terminating the line, others do not.

Also, in TEXT mode are spaces allowed between characters? For example, if an actual rig command uses a space? In this case I need to send "KEY ON" or "KEY OFF" for PTT.

What is the significance of a comma used to concatenate? Versus just making the command string longer?

Last, how are CR and LF's handled?

Thanks!

djinni442

Oct 04, 2023

Replying to

I did some testing. I can code everything fine in "TEXT" mode, but I need to end every radio command with a carriage return. TEXT doesn't seem to do this, so I re-did everything in HEX mode and put in 0x0D's at the end of each command.

This works fine, but there seems to be an issue with the FREQ formats. If I set the format to "TEXT", which it should be, it works fine if the command format is TEXT. However, if command is in HEX format, does not want to seem to process TEXT frequency strings. Perhaps a bug?

Probably the best fix is if I could just tell the command to append a CR at the end in TEXT mode. Is there a way to do this?

irad d

Oct 14, 2023

Replying to

";" are part of the command as stated in the CAT control refernce of the rig. it is not a VarAC thing. For some rigs it is what signals the rig "end of command"

Space are allowed... Depend on the rig through. if the Rig support it. VarAC will send anything you put as a command including spaces.

Using the "," allows you to send individual commands seperatly. yes - in theory you can concatenate them as one single commend but not all rigs support it. so better to split them to individual calls. VarAC splits the string where a comma is and sends the command one after the other in a row.

Unknown member

Sep 25, 2023

OKOKOK

felix1

Sep 08, 2023

Not sure what happened, but the Flexradio cat commands isn't available anymore in the latest ini file: [FlexRadio]

CmdType=TEXT

PTTOn=TX;

PTTOff=RX;

ModeUSB=MD2;

ModeUSB_D=MD9;

ModeFM=MD4;

SetFreq_Data_method=TEXT

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA{};

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=11

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FA;

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=TEXT

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=14

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=3

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=11

VarACExitCmd=q

irad d

Sep 09, 2023

Replying to

@felix1

Nameing conventions was changed half a year ago.... based on the software used and not the hardware

PowerSDR/SmartSDR....

Look for those in the settings.

NC3Z Gary

Sep 09, 2023

Replying to

Of course the really cool thing is you as the operator can rename to your liking.

NC3Z Gary

Aug 12, 2023

Update for X6100, specifically for USB_D and USB

[Xiegu X6100]

CmdType=HEX

PTTOn=FEFE70E01C0001FD

PTTOff=FEFE70E01C0000FD

ModeUSB=FEFE70E02600010001FD

ModeUSB_D=FEFE70E02600010103FD

ModeFM=FEFE70E00605FD

SetFreq_Data_method=BCD

SetFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFE70E005{}FD

SetFreqVfoA_param_length=10

SetFreqVfoA_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Cmd=FEFE70E003FD

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Data_method=BCD

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_hz_res=1

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Length=22

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Start_Pos=11

ReadFreqVfoA_Result_Freq_Length=10

VarACStartCmd=

VarACExitCmd=

irad d

Aug 12, 2023

Replying to

added to the public CAT file.

tnx!

Sugarsail1

Jul 20, 2023

just upgraded to v8 from V7. Have a Knwd ts2000 using omni rig for freq control, V8 now doesn't work but settings are same as V7. Error message when I test PTT is "access to com port 13 denied" Any help out there?

Sugarsail1

Jul 21, 2023

Replying to

just tried that, made no difference. Still giving me the "access to com port 13 denied," when attempting to use PTT...freq control does work however, I forgot to mention that earlier.

irad d

Jul 21, 2023

Replying to

attach a screenshot of the setting screen including the TEST result of PTT

Sugarsail1

Jul 21, 2023

Replying to

Found the problem, I triple checked my settings to see if they were the same as the old version and noticed I had the com port set to DTS instead of RTS and changed it, saved it then reboot the software and it worked. Thanks.

mike

Jul 17, 2023

FTDX101MP AntennaTuner=AC002 to cause the ATU to fire. Tested, the TUNE button does not need to be 'on' for this to work.

Alex Ander

May 17, 2023

Anyone got the info for an ft817?

NC3Z Gary

May 17, 2023

Replying to

the 817 is in the CAT selection and if you need more info the CAT commands are in the manual:

https://www.yaesu.com/downloadFile.cfm?FileID=8032&FileCatID=158&FileName=FT%2D817ND%5FOM%5FENG%5FE13771011.pdf&FileContentType=application%2Fpdf

Rob Fisher

May 17, 2023

I've been sniffing the serial traffic on my Anytone AT-D578UVIII Pro and have confirmed these are the PTT codes. I have a working serial prototype cable for the Digirig. It's been a fun week of research. I hope to figure out how to pull the vfo and set the frequency, but here's what I have so far:

[Anytone AT-D578UVIII]

CmdType=HEX

PTTOn=4101000000000006

PTTOff=4100000000000006

irad d

May 17, 2023

Replying to

That is super cool Rob. I will add this to the RIG file. once you found more, please share.

MW0KEC

May 04, 2023

Kenwood TS-590SG,

AntennaTuner=AC111 works fine, should work ok on 590s as well according to manual.

irad d

May 06, 2023

Replying to

Thank you for the info. I will include this in the generic file

Irad

DF6RK / HS0ZET / N8RK

Apr 29, 2023

Improvement for all IC-7610 Users, who need to switch between LAN or USB and select the desired filters (I prefer Filter 3 700Hz for VarAC) :

[Icom IC-7610]

.....

ModeUSB_D=FEFE98E02600010103FD

#For different USB-D filters and DATA1/2/3, Replace ModeUSB_D value with:

#DATA1-Filter1: FEFE98E02600010101FD

#DATA1-Filter2: FEFE98E02600010102FD

#DATA1-Filter3: FEFE98E02600010103FD

#DATA2-Filter1: FEFE98E02600010201FD

#DATA2-Filter2: FEFE98E02600010202FD

#DATA2-Filter3: FEFE98E02600010203FD

#DATA3-Filter1: FEFE98E02600010301FD

#DATA3-Filter2: FEFE98E02600010302FD

#DATA3-Filter3: FEFE98E02600010303FD

......

Ralf

irad d

Apr 29, 2023

Replying to

Thank you Ralf. I am going to add this to the CAT file for all.

73s!

mike

Jul 17, 2023

Replying to

Thanks, this is really helpful.. now making use of this

Patrik Södergren

Mar 13, 2023

Hello guys! Anybody using VaraC with Signalink and Anytone 878?

Is this conifiguration possible?

Patrik, Sweden

dj0mdo

Feb 02, 2023

Any chance to get soon a CAT_Command file for the ELAD FDM-DUO transceiver?

Tnx & 73 de DJ0MDO

NC3Z Gary

Feb 02, 2023

Replying to

Looking at the ini file it seems to already be there and in the rig selection pull-down.

Virgil Machine

Dec 05, 2022

I used the settings in the screenshot for the IC-7300. It shows DTR and RTS both HIGH. DTR does not seem to matter, but RTS should be LOW, otherwise the Tx light stays on.

73, Lem W1LEM

Gary Anderson

Oct 23, 2022

I am trying to download the latest cat file for the IC-7300. How do I unzip it (did that using the Cloud Convert program. I have a file but not sure it is right. What type of file am I Coverting? What type of file am I converting to?) Where do I put it when it is downloaded? What a mess I am!

Gary Anderson

Oct 24, 2022

Replying to

i can't unzip it, but I must have done something right, it is working great! Thanks! 73

NC3Z Gary

Oct 24, 2022

Replying to

All you have to do to the zip file is right click on it and select Extract All, it is a built in Windows feature.

Gary Anderson

Oct 24, 2022

Replying to

Thanks! I'll give that a try. I think I already tried that (method is the old standard).

Demetre - SV1UY (M0SUY)

Jun 13, 2022

UFB Irad, I just tested 4.0.7 and it works fine. Thanks a lot.

73 de Demetre M0SUY (SV1UY) ..

irad d

Jun 13, 2022

Ok Gentleman. I listen :)

I added to V4.0.7 the ability to run multiple commands together.

you can take any command from the rig file and with a comma, add additional commands to it. VarAC will play them one after the other.

Here is an example of 2 commands concatenated whem changing mode to USB_D

ModeUSB_D=FEFE94E02600010102FD,FEFE94E02600010103FD

DF6RK / HS0ZET / N8RK

Apr 29, 2023

Replying to

Great to have this ..... just found it and tried it out. Thanks for your work. 73 Ralf

NC3Z Gary

Jun 12, 2022

Highly useful for Ham radio. It can send CAT commands via serial or TCP/IP, depending on what your radio can support, and JSON for radios that support that such as Flex radios.

Demetre - SV1UY (M0SUY)

Jun 12, 2022

Aha, I found it but it didn't seem relevant to Amateur Radio so I bypassed it! HiHi!

Thanks Gary!

NC3Z Gary

Jun 12, 2022

www.elgato.com

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Demetre - SV1UY (M0SUY)

Jun 12, 2022

Hi Gary,

I googled streamdeck and streamdecks and I cannot find anything relevant, could you please provide a link?

73 M0SUY

Demetre - SV1UY (M0SUY)

Jun 12, 2022

Thanks Gary,

Any idea of how can we incorporate the above CAT Command in VarAC so that whenever we select a new Frequency, this command is also sent to the IC-7300?

I guess that right now you are sending the commands before starting VarAC or am I wrong?

73 de Demetre M0SUY

Demetre - SV1UY (M0SUY)

Jun 12, 2022

Hi all,

Does anyone know how to send to an IC-7300 a CAT command so the radio can set the Connectors-DATA MOD from ACC to USB and the opposite. This will help anyone who uses his IC-7300 with an external Modem (i.e. a PACTOR Modem) which need the Connectors-DATA MODE to be set to ACC and also uses it with VarAC/VARA or other soundcard Programs which need Connectors-DATA MOD set to USB.

WINLINK EXPRESS can do this and when you change from using PACTOR to VARA it changes automatically from ACC to USB and the otherway around but I can't find how to do this when I use VarAC!

Any ideas would be much appreciated!

73 de Demetre M0SUY