RIGblaster Nomic

Lore & Background

The RIGblaster Nomic is a particular product of the West Mountain Radio corporation. Its name is a contraction of the words 'no mic', from 'no microphone', because when connected in its most common configuration, it takes the place of the radio's external microphone, speaker, and push-to-talk (PTT) switch. This design allows it to work with over 2000 different radios due to its universal design.

Other RIGblaster models, the plus and the pro, have automatic switching between the computer and the radio's microphone. Although the term 'Nomic' is somewhat genericized and is sometimes used to refer to home-built devices serving the same function, such devices are more generally called 'sound card to radio interfaces'.

The RIGblaster Nomic can be used with the Amateur Radio VOIP system Echolink, as well as with Packet, APRS and most other modes of amateur radio operation. When used with appropriate software, it allows the operator to transmit and receive using many digital modes, including packet, PSK31, and RTTY.

Reader's Guide

The RIGblaster Nomic holds significance as a universal interface that simplifies connecting an analog radio transceiver to a computer for digital mode operation. By replacing the microphone, speaker, and PTT switch, it eliminates the need for radio-specific cables or modifications, making it compatible with over 2000 different radios. Its design allows amateur radio operators to easily engage in digital modes such as packet, PSK31, RTTY, and APRS, as well as the Amateur Radio VOIP system Echolink. The term 'Nomic' has become somewhat genericized, sometimes applied to home-built interfaces that serve the same function, though those are more commonly called 'sound card to radio interfaces'. The existence of other RIGblaster models (the plus and pro) with automatic switching between computer and radio microphone highlights the Nomic's role as a foundational, manually-switched device. Its legacy lies in enabling broad access to digital amateur radio operation without requiring radio-specific hardware, and in fostering a community of home-built alternatives.