Auto-generated description: An old-fashioned radio is nestled among pink roses and dry leaves. Photo by Abbas Tehrani on Unsplash

Spring has sprung so it’s time to start ‘working’ from my summer shack (the greenhouse). Trouble is when I’m out here I can’t use my IC-7300. I could move it, and the PSU/cables out here, but then I can’t use it in the evenings or on cold days when the greenhouse isn’t as enticing. I’ve been trying to figure out a fix and now I have one!

I found some software that allows you to extend a USB connection over your LAN (or technically further afield). The server component runs on a Raspberry Pi (4 or 5), or in my case a RK3399 based SBC. The USB cable from that plugs into the rig. There’s then a client component that runs on my laptop which presents the USB connection as if it was plugged in directly to the laptop. Other software, e.g. flrig, sees the rig as attached locally and everything works as normal after that.

The software is VirtualHere. I’ve no affiliation with them other than being a satisfied customer. I had problems with disconnects initially which the author (Michael) quickly diagnosed as being due to the lack of performance of the Pi3B+ that I was using. Once I switched to use the RK3399 device it’s worked perfectly.

Now it’s time to do some HF digital modes in the sunshine with the tiny mice family keeping me company.