Quoted:
The issue is, there is no way to run coax,or so they say, they have "fiber" (pink line) but I don't know what that means. They are tossing around an idea of putting an SDR in the building out there and a computer in the EOC to run it. Is that feasible? I have no idea how a link would work, or what is needed.
View Quote
While you can remote nearly any rig, the idea of using an SDR is the best, and, arguably, the easiest approach.
Flex radios, while expensive, will probably pay for themselves in terms of the simplicity of installation and operation. You don't even need a PC, you can use a Flex Maestro remote control head. The fiber that they refer to is an Ethernet cable. With an Ethernet network between the building and antenna site, the Flex radio plugs into the Ethernet network at one end, and the Maestro control head plugs into the Ethernet network in the main building. And that's it! Unless you also need to provision tuners, amp's and whatnot. However even that is not difficult if you choose the correct products. Same for remote power switching.
Just as an example, I currently remotely operate an ANAN-8000 radio, BG7TBL GPSDO, KPA-500 amp and use an MFJ-998RT remote tuner. Everything I need at the operating location plugs into my remote PC: mic, speakers, headphones and PTT switch. The only thing that runs from the PC to the radio "room" (really just a pile of stuff
) is a single Ethernet cable. I can fully control all aspects of the operation except for 12V power switching and to do that I just need to go out and buy an appropriate network controlled power switching unit.
Do they have a climate controlled building or telecom shed at the antenna site for the radios and other ancillary gear?
Be prepared to be overwhelmed with answers. Again, you can remotely operate almost any radio, and there are several ways to skin the cat per radio.
I'd still go with the Flex stuff if you can get them to throw the dough.