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I have three Amateur Radio programs which will only run on a Window$ machine and are even problematic on Windows 7. They will not run under WINE for Linux either, which I use for a couple of other Window$ programs. Thus, I am looking for ideas on putting together a rig that will run one dedicated program which needs 2 COM ports and is set up for Windows 10 or 11. Maybe just buying a couple of small Dell refurbished boxes already loaded with Window$ 10/11 and then cleaning out the cruft?

Thanks in advance for advice!

I have three Amateur Radio programs which will only run on a Window$ machine and are even problematic on Windows 7. They will not run under WINE for Linux either, which I use for a couple of other Window$ programs. Thus, I am looking for ideas on putting together a rig that will run one dedicated program which needs 2 COM ports and is set up for Windows 10 or 11. Maybe just buying a couple of small Dell refurbished boxes already loaded with Window$ 10/11 and then cleaning out the cruft? Thanks in advance for advice!

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[–] 0 pt (edited )

Curious if you don't mind as to specifically which they are. I'm about 70% through development of a Lin/Win/Pi/Mac FOSS alternative to the RT Systems backup. I simply detest having to boot Windows for that one thing.

BTW, I have no problems running it (the RT Systems winware) in a Win 10 virtual machine using Oracle Virtual Box. Map the com ports to any of your native serial devices and rock and roll. Your app is worth a try that way if you've not already (sounds like you might have).

If you want a dedicated machine, however, search for 'Evolve III Maestro'. It is a Celeron-based 11.6-in eBook that will charge directly from 12 volts and has phenomenal battery life and low current usage. You can pick it up on Amazon for about $90 or other places for as low as $60. YouTuber KM4ACK has a good review with respect to using it for amateur radio. It comes with Windows 10. I have ordered one and immediately plan to wipe it and install Linux. It is no powerhouse for sure, but will run most ham software just fine per reports.