The Box at the Host
The Host Box connects to the CW key and PTT inputs of the radio. It receives the remote CW/PTT stream and recreates the intended keying timing locally. That is why we recommend a Host Box for properly integrated remote CW.
Your existing station interface still supplies receive and transmit audio, either through the radio’s native USB connection or through a separate interface. The Box adds CW and PTT as remotely accessible station functions; it does not replace the audio interface.
It remains useful when you are not remote
The same Box is a standalone WinKey-compatible keyer. At the local station it can serve the logger and paddle without OpenShack Remote. It is therefore not hardware that becomes idle whenever you sit in your own shack.
What the optional Client Box adds
WinKey-compatible logger keying works without a Client Box. Add one beside the operator when paddle feel matters: it accepts the physical paddle, provides immediate local sidetone and connects a footswitch for PTT. That avoids waiting for sidetone to travel to the station and back.
Which setup fits?
- Logger CW: Host Box at the station; no Client Box required.
- Best paddle operation: Box at both ends.
- Existing remote system: use CW Link to add the missing CW/PTT path.
- FlexRadio: Flex Keyer can use a Box beside the operator without requiring a second Box at the radio.