Adding an ERC Rotor Control to a Yaesu G600RC Controller
This page explains how I installed the ERC Version 4 USB rotor controller into my Yaesu G600RC controller
Purchased form Here: https://www.schmidt-alba.de/eshop/index.php?cPath=1_5
The kit now comes with a printed sheet which gives a URL to the ZIP file download which then contains full instructions.
Link to zip file here: https://www.schmidt-alba.de/eshop/downloads/ERC-Version4-20230516
Calibration software and basic control application download here: https://www.schmidt-alba.de/eshop/shop_content.php?coID=14
Disconnect mains! Remove controller cover and front panel
Once removed you'll be faced with this view. The board is shown installed. Small holes are required to allow the USB connector access and screws for mounting...
Use template provided to drill holes
A drill template sticker is provided in order to get the correct hole size and placement for the ERC board
Drilled holes for screws and USB connector
In the 600RC it fits best as shown in the image. Ensure the holes align so that the board is free of the controller's metal cover once installed (note the relays stick out of the board). A mounting kit is provided including necessary screws and stand offs. That metal is thicker than you think! I used a 3mm drill for the mounts and a 13mm drill for the USB hole which allows enough room for the connector to get through.
WIRING...
ERC Pin out
This shows the numbering of the ERC pins. Use this to work out where to wire your controller (cross reference with the right hand picture of the G600RC)
Yaesu 600RC pin out
Coloured numbered wires show where to connect on the rotator controller from the matching colours and numbers on the diagram to the left (ERC pin out)
Taking the front panel off allows easier access for soldering the switches...
Using the supplied wire: The Right terminal of the UM connector goes to terminal 2 of the controller rear terminals (solder inside to the solder tab) (This is the potentiometer feedback from the rotor)
The left terminal of the UM connector goes to terminal 3 of the controller rear terminals (solder inside to the solder tab) (This is the potentiometer feedback from the rotor)
A wire needs to go from pin 1 of the ERC CW relay to the CW (Right) switch (pin 3a) on the Yaesu controller, this is the bottom left terminal as you look from the back of the switch. This supplies 26v to the CW relay
Also a wire needs to go from pin 1 of the ERC CCW relay to the same place on the Yaesu controller right switch (pin 3a). This supplies 26v to the CCW relay
Then, Pin 4 of the CCW_aux and also from CW_aux relays both need to go to pin 3b of the switch (which is the bottom right terminal of the same switch)
Next, pin 2 of the CCW relay goes to terminal 4 of the back of the controller. Solder to the inside tab (this supplies 26v to drive the motor left when relay is engaged)
Next pin 2 of the CW relay goes to terminal 5 of the controller, these send the output of the relay (this supplies 26v to drive the motor right when relay is engaged)
Pin 5 of the CCW_aux relay goes to terminal 7 of the controller (left limit switch cut off)
and finally, pin 5 of the CW_aux relay goes to terminal 6 on the controller (right limit switch cut off)
Installed and wired in
Now the lid can go back on and tests. First i checked it all worked as before and i'd not disrupted anything, all ok!
Plug in the supplied USB cable into your PC
Software install and calibration
Once you are happy with the installation, load the software and follow the instructions for assigning the correct USB port then calibrating the unit so it can measure your rotator feedback position. Then you simply load the controller software and enjoy PC control and display of your rotator position. Also compatible with other programs using the correct port and the RS232B protocol.
My current favourite control programs are:
PSTRotator which costs about 20 euros but is packed with features including a web server.
Minos logging which is handy during contests for antenna control.