Hi Dave

Welcome to this friendly and informative bunch of guys!

Terry and Howard have given you some good clues.  To extend on Howard's
theme, someone has the archives for the Smith-Kettlewell Foundation where
there is a description of a VCO with audio output using a NE556 (double
NE555) chip.  I don't have the circuits myself.

My setup is similar to Terry's in that I use a K3 with PC control.
The Hampod I use for setting up the configuration and menus, but not in real
time for SWR/RST, nor for PSK32.
I use a KPA500 and KAT500 amplifier and tuner - both from Elecraft.

Prior to that, I use a Yaesu Quadra amp, but this I lost in a fire.
Prior to that I used an Fl7000 which was almost idiot proof, and drove it
with a Yaesu FT1000MP.  It had the facility for switching an external
antenna switch - Yaesu built one, but I cannot recall the type number.

The Quadra and KPA500 are both fire and go amps.

ATB

David W Wood 

-----Original Message-----
From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of David Weigel
Sent: Friday, May 24, 2013 3:24 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Inquiry: ham station set-up for easier, more independent operation

Hello. I am new to the List.  I've been licensed for 21 years, and lost my
eyesight about 6 years ago.  I've been using my boatanchor transceivers with
assistance of family members making adjustments & reading meters pre-tuning
the radios and tuner for my use which limits my flexibility for band
switching, etc., during operation, particularly when I am alone.  I would
appreciate info re: where to find a talking wattmeter and suggestions of
what amplifier(s) might be recommended for use with my current transceivers
- two Kenwood TS-520s, a Swan Cygnet 270 (in storage/not used since 1977)
and a Rockwell/Collins KWM-380 that is currently off line with a synthesizer
problem.  Any other information regarding more modern transceivers and board
inserts for speech capabilities of rig settings would also be much
appreciated.  Oh, yes - one last question:  Is anyone using a Yaesu FL 7000
HF Amplifier?  And if so, with what transceiver?  and is it recommended for
blind ham use? (Simplicity of operation with equipment that doesn't
self-destruct quickly in "normal" tuning mode, etc., is 

            desired.)

     Thank you.     

                                                          Dave Weigel -
KD4JEZ