This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the Real POTA-ble antenna, highlighting its features, deployment tips, and advantages for amateur radio operators on the go.
Embark on a thrilling journey into the world of SDR receivers with the Malahit DSP2! Discover its versatility, advanced features, and user-friendly interface as you dive into the realm of radio communication excellence. Join us on M0 FXB Ham Tech for expert insights, tutorials, and tips to elevate your radio experience.
The Xiegu X6200, an upcoming ham radio, incorporates DRFS architecture, eliminating limitations of traditional IF design and reducing analog components. This promises enhanced performance and wider radio spectrum access. The implementation distinguishes X6200 from previous models, potentially making it attractive to portable QRP ham radio operators. Expected release is in early 2024.
Excellent Go Box for sale. Covers 160m thru 432 mhz all modes including a netbook with WSJT modes. All equipment stows inside the pvc/aluminum waterproof audio case with 2 handles, total weight 32 lbs.
Discover the new firmware and its enhancements to the Quansheng UV-K5(8) HT. In addition to the standard UV frequencies, you can listen to shortwave broadcast and the ham bands while viewing signals with the new spectrumscope.
It is a new generation of ultra-portable transceiver. With advanced RF direct sampling and powerful RF units, It integrates the functions of major models. The new XIEGU HF radio also sports a remote network control function.
Learn the truth about two popular QRP radios, the TruSDX and QCX-mini, with three simple tests in this video. Understand the differences between the two radios and decide
Introduction:
The video compares two popular QRP rigs, the TruSDX and QCX-mini by QRP Labs, and conducts three tests to determine the difference between the two radios.
The tests include the silence test, the pain test, and the signal purity test. The video aims to provide a subjective opinion on the work of these two rigs without the need to be proficient in technical details such as decibels, microvolts, or dynamic range.
I found this video to be valuable because it provides a straightforward comparison between two popular QRP radios. The three tests conducted in the video helps understand the differences between two radios.
Linas, LY2H, the creator of the video, has a channel dedicated to amateur radio with over 13,000 subscribers. Linas shares his knowledge and experience in the field of amateur radio, provides tutorials, and reviews various radios and equipment.
Key takeaways from the video include:
The TruSDX radio produces far more internal noise than the QCX-mini radio.
The QCX-mini radio is quieter and produces fewer birdies than the TruSDX radio.
The TruSDX radio has a slightly better signal purity than the QCX-mini radio.
Here are the steps followed in the video:
Silence Test:
Connect both radios to a Bluetooth speaker with no antenna connected to either.
Both radios should be set on CW mode 200 Hertz of filter with the AGC off.
Listen to both receivers and note the internal noise produced by each radio.
Pain Test:
Connect both radios to a dummy load.
Increase the sound level on each radio and listen to the internal noise produced by each radio.
Signal Purity Test:
Connect a Tiny SA to each radio.
Tune the frequency to the signal generator and choose the frequency for the signal generator to transmit on.
Adjust the level to the level of S9 for both radios.
Listen to the signal on each radio and note the quality and purity of the signal.
Resources mentioned in the video include:
TruSDX
QCX-mini
Bluetooth speaker
Dummy load
Tiny SA
My best advice for beginners in amateur radio is to start with a simple radio and work your way up to more advanced radios. Always conduct tests and experiments to understand the capabilities and limitations of your radio. Join a local amateur radio club and seek guidance and advice from experienced operators.
FAQ:
Q: What is a QRP radio? A: A QRP radio is a low power amateur radio transmitter with a maximum output of 5 watts.
Q: What is a dummy load? A: A dummy load is a device used to simulate an antenna load for testing and tuning a radio transmitter.
Q: What is a Tiny SA? A: A Tiny SA is a low-cost spectrum analyzer that is used to measure the frequency and strength of radio signals.
Q: What is signal purity? A: Signal purity refers to the level of interference or noise in a radio signal.
Q: What is a birdie in amateur radio? A: A birdie is an unwanted signal that is generated within a radio receiver due to internal mixing or local oscillator leakage.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, when comparing the TruSDX and QCX-mini radios, it is important to consider the internal noise and birdies produced by each radio. The TruSDX radio produces more internal noise, while the QCX-mini radio is quieter and produces fewer birdies. However, the TruSDX radio has a slightly better signal purity than the QCX-mini radio. Ultimately, the choice between these two radios will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences, as each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Are you looking for a super compact, portable QRP transceiver for your BOTA, POTA or SOTA ham radio operations? Then read on and watch DL2MAN’s video about his (tr)uSDX non-clone QRP transceiver.
Introduction:
Since I recently got a Venus-Tech SW-3B, I had not paid much attention to the (tr)uSDX rig from DL2MAN/PE1NNZ until now. YES! I am a BIG sucker for QRP stuff and just had to add one of these pocket sized rigs to my QRP stable. So, I pulled the trigger and placed my order for an assembled rig with AliExpress. AliExpress was listed as one of DL2MAN’s Where to Buy recommendations.
The (tr)uSDX is a 5-band, multi-mode transceiver that packs an efficient class E PA and supports CW/LSB/USB/AM/FM. It covers by default 80/60/40/30/20m (alternative filter setups possible). What sets it apart from the tons of clones is that every unit sold has its own serial number. To download the firmware upgrade you must enter your serial number and call sign into the web site. Your unique firmware will then be loaded into the radio, and your call will be displayed on the screen.
Sharing DL2MAN’s video about his design, operation and features of his (tr)uSDX transceiver might be valuable for those who want to learn more about it or considering one of these pocket transceivers for themselves. DL2MAN has a bunch of videos about his design on his YouTube channel.
Key Takeaways:
The (tr)uSDX transceiver is a compact, portable, and powerful 5-band, multi-mode transceiver that supports CW/LSB/USB/AM/FM.
Each unit sold has its own serial number, and you can upgrade your firmware only by entering your serial number and call sign into the firmware download website.
The transceiver is easy to use, and you can change various options in the menus to suit your needs, such as TX drive and noise gate.
Connect your (tr)uSDX to your computer via a USB cable.
Open the firmware update software and select your firmware file.
Click the “Upload” button to start the firmware upgrade process.
Wait for the firmware upgrade process to finish.
Disconnect your (tr)uSDX from your computer and turn it on.
Your new firmware and callsign should be displayed on the screen.
Resources:
DL2MAN web site – (Manual) The official website of the creator of the (tr)uSDX transceiver.
eHam.net review – A review of the (tr)uSDX transceiver on eHam.net.
DX Explorer article – An article about the (tr)uSDX transceiver on DX Explorer.
QRPer.com has a video review of the (tr)uSDX,
Conclusion:
The (tr)uSDX is a super pocket-sized QRP transceiver designed by Guido (PE1NNZ) and Manuel (DL2MAN) that has been widely anticipated by the amateur radio community. The transceiver boasts up to 5 watts output power, CW, SSB, FM, and AM modes, a built-in microphone, five bands (80, 60, 40, 30, and 20 meters), a super compact and lightweight form factor, and an open-source hardware and software design.
Based on the web search results, it is clear that the (tr)uSDX is a pocket-sized QRP transceiver capable of working multiple modes on 5 bands at 5 watts, and weighing less than 5 ounces. It has a Micro USB CAT and Programming Interface, and can create 0.5W Output from 5V USB Supply alone. It typically draws 80mA on RX and 500mA on TX at 13.8V with 85% PA Efficiency. The small size of the (tr)uSDX makes it excellent for portable work, and it can be used for CW, SSB, and digital ops as well.
One notable aspect of the (tr)uSDX is that it is an open source project and available for a very reasonable price. According to one review, the assembled transceiver is sold below the $150 price point, which is impressive given its capabilities.
Overall, the (tr)uSDX appears to be a powerful and portable transceiver that can be used for a variety of modes and bands, and is available at a very reasonable price point. Its open source design also allows for customization and modification, making it a popular choice among radio enthusiasts.
Looking for a portable and easy-to-use HF antenna? The Chelegance MC-750 Portable HF Vertical Antenna is designed to provide a hassle-free setup process and an efficient, high-performance antenna for portable ham radio operations.
Introduction:
If you are looking for a portable and easy-to-use HF vertical antenna, then the Chelegance MC-750 Portable HF Vertical Antenna system is worth considering. These antennas are designed to provide quick and effortless setup without requiring tools, making it ideal for field operations and emergency services.
Features:
The MC-750 Portable HF Vertical Antenna is built to provide an efficient quarter-wave vertical ground plane antenna for 40 through 6 meters. It can handle up to 100 watts and features a female SO-239 connector and jacks for up to 4 preassembled, 11.48 ft. counterpoise radials. Additionally, the antenna comes with a 7 MHz loading coil, 1.64 ft. extension, 17 ft. telescopic whip, and a cable winder, all packed in a carrying bag for easy portability.
Takeaways:
The Chelegance MC-750 Portable HF Vertical Antenna provides a hassle-free setup process. The antenna offers good efficiency for a compromised portable ground based antenna. The telescoping whip and preassembled radials make it easy to get on the air quickly, while the included carrying bag makes it easy to pack and transport.
How To:
Setting up the MC-750 is simple and straightforward. First, unpack the kit and extend the telescoping whip to its full length. Next, attach the 7 MHz loading coil to the base of the antenna and connect the antenna to your radio using a coaxial cable with a PL-259 connector. Finally, lay out the preassembled radials on the ground in a star pattern, ensuring that they are evenly spaced, and connect them to the antenna base.
FAQ:
Q: How does the Chelegance MC-750 Portable HF Vertical Antennas perform on different bands? A: The MC-750 is designed to operate on the 40 (with loading coil) through 6 meter bands.
Q: What is the maximum power handling capacity of the MC-750? A: The MC-750 can handle up to 100 watts of power.
The Chelegance JNCRadio MC-750 portable HF antenna, is a good choice for portable or emergency use. It is easy to set up and comes in a compact well designed case for easy transport. The reference marks etched into the antenna sections make it easy to get the SWR in the ballpark,
Note that the antenna base/spike does not use the standard 3/8×24 mount. The base uses a metric M-10-1.5 thread so other antenna systems like the MFJ-1979 would require some type of adapter.
In terms of performance, the Chelegance MC-750 is a reliable ground-based vertical antenna that provides decent RX and TX capabilities for the 20 meter band and up. The 40 meter loading coil is a compromise at best but will get you on 40 meters. The Chelegance MC-750 is a good option for situations where no trees are available or quick activations are in mind.
With a plan to take short hikes at local state parks this summer, my attention got drawn to the Elecraft AX1. While there’s no substitute for deploying the most amount of resonant wire when going portable, I self-justified my AX1 purchase by turning it into a health benefit. Hiking will provide cardio for this 75 year old body and few quick #POTA deployments along the way brings it all together.
Before I continue, the AX1 is definitely not the compromise antenna for every QRPer. Like all of Elecraft’s gear, the price may a bit difficult to swallow for some. Regarding price, QRPGUYS sells the DS-1 which is an AX1 clone in kit form. As I remember, the DS-1 is about a third of the AX1 price.
Tom K4SWL pointed out that Elecraft was having a “sale” during the month of February in one of his blog posts on QRPer.com. As a side note, if you want to experience the very best web site for everything QRP, be sure to visit QRPer.com.Anyway, as Tom mentioned the sale included the antenna/counterpoise, bipod and tripod mount. Normally the AX1 bipod and tripod mount are, you guessed it… sold separately.
So with the sale in mind I ordered the set. As of this post I have not had a chance to deploy the bipod or tripod antenna mount in a portable setting. But I wanted to try the AX1 out during cold weather #POTA activations, so I scouted Amazing and found a handheld antenna window mount for a very reasonable price.
Amazon listed the TW-MB-WCM Window Mount for handheld antennas. It appeared to be well made and was terminated in a BNC. No adapters needed for the KX3, one less thing to remember. Since the mount was designed for handheld antennas, there was no provision for a counterpoise, but that was a 5 minute fix.
The Modified TW-MB-WCM Car Window Mount With AX1 Counterpoise
So you may ask, why the hell would I want a window mount for the AX1? Well, there are times when I have nothing to do between appointments. Instead doing nothing during the winter months, I can leverage the window mount paired with the car desk I recently purchased from Amazon. Now doing quick #POTA deployments with a setup time of around 5 minutes is a snap.
The Mount-It! Car Desk
The first window mount deployment was over at Avalon Park in Stony Brook New York. Stony Brook is a beautiful setting over on the north shore of Long Island. Stony Brook is a place of upscale shops, restaurants, museums and beautiful landscapes. Unlike almost all Town, County and State parks on Long Island, Avalon is free to use.
Avalon Park, Stony Brook Long Island NY
Avalon park is a setting that just happens to have water on both sides of a very narrow street.
A parking spot happened to be free right between the two bodies of water. Thinking that the AX1 can probably use all the help it can get, a signal bouncing off the water can’t hurt!
With about 15 minutes to setup and operate, I quickly got the window mount out of the bag and realized there was no way to jury rig the counterpoise,
At is point I am wondering if the KX3 ATU will make this antenna resonant enough to try out with the missing counterpoise. While it was not a good idea, I thought what the hell, I’m here, just try it.
Setting the KX3 to around 5 watts, I hit the ATU and was surprised to see that the antenna was quickly at 1:1. Sometimes I think the KX3 ATU would bring the impedance of wet paper to 50 OHMS. I got on 20 meters and started calling CQ. Touching the KX3 while calling CQ did temporarily altered the SWR reading so hands off while transmitting! After a handful of 20 meter calls, there were no takers so I quickly switched to 17 meters.
In a rush, without thinking, I hit the ATU again and heard LA5ZO calling CQ. Here goes nothing, I answered his call and as it turned out, we had a short exchange. Getting a 539 from Norway was ridiculous but then he sent that he was using a YAGI and 500 watts. Coincidentally, he must have been beaming USA too! Then the imagination takes over and I’m now thinking yeah, he’s probably on top of a mountain looking down at some Fjord. There’s no other way he’d ever hear me. A window mounted 26 inch compromise antenna, no way!
In terms of getting a handle on the performance of the AX1 at Avalon Park, there was nothing to conclude. I had the antenna switch in the wrong position and the counterpoise was MIA. Let’s just say, working LA5ZO proved nothing about the AX1. I’ll just chalk up the whole experience to a fluke and/or a touch of AX1 magic. After all, Wayne Burdick, N6KR, and Eric Swartz, WA6HHQ have been making QRP magic for years! Future AX1 deployments will tell the rest of the story.
Need a solid, drive on stand to deploy your inverted V, random wire or vertical antenna during ham radio field events? Then you need the World’s dumbest drive on antenna stand.
Introduction:
As you most likely know by now, I enjoy making portable homebrew antenna systems. About 3 years ago I build this easy drive on stand from parts I had laying around. Today you can build the same stand for somewhere around $35.
After looking at the photo, you may be thinking that PVC would be lighter and less expensive so why use black pipe? It’s true, PVC may be a few dollars less and is lighter weight but I still think black pipe is a better alternative. Why 2 inch pipe? The telescoping masts I use all have a base diameter of approximately 1.75 inches,
Benefits:
Black pipe won’t fail under windy conditions or stress crack when using longer (30ft) telescoping masts. You won’t be backpacking this stand so is weight really an issue? PVC may be a couple of dollars less but why give up the strength of steel? However, if you have PVC or just want to use it as an alternative, then just substitute it in my list of pipe materials below.
In the photo you will notice that I used duct tape to attach a section of wood to the pipe. The attached wood has a velcro pad which I use to mount my 9:1 UNUN during random wire deployments. The 9:1 UNUN has a connection for the counterpoise wire.
What You Will Need:
To build this rock solid stand you will only need 7 parts.
1 24 x 6 x 1 inch pine board (I got scrap board at Home Depot)
4 1/2 inch long lag bolts (Amazon has a box for around $6.
1 2 inch by 12 inch black steel threaded pipe (Home Depot $9)
1 2 inch threaded pipe flange (Home Depot $20)
Hammer and Adjustable Wrench
Paint and brush (optional)
Step By Step:
It’s probsbly a good idea to paint the wood base on all sides if you plan to use it during wet weather.
Near one end of the wood base, center the pipe flange on the wood base.
Hold each lag bolt over a mount hole in the flange and use a hammer to lightly tap each lag bolt until it bites into the wood.
Then tighten each lag bolt with the adjustable wrench.
Throw the wood base, pipe, mast and antenna in your car.
Ready to operate? Just drive onto the wood base and screw in the pipe.
Deploy your antenna and start making QSO’s.
Takeaways:
You can build this drive on stand ar a reasonable cost.
The stand could not be simpler to use.
The stand is durable and will last a lifetime.
Using steel pipe eliminates any concern for failure.
Conclusion:
If you enjoy working portable ham radio operations as I do, and want an alternative way to quickly deploy different types of antenna systems then The World’s Dumbest Drive On Antenna Stand may be just what you are looking for.
Since the weather is still very cool here on Long Island, I decided to try out my new “Mount-It! Car Desk” for this activation. Werthiem is my first attempt at using the table for any deployment.
While I do like the convenience of the new table and the fact that it keeps me out of the weather, like anything else in the world, is not perfect. But for reading, using a laptop, eating or playing Amateur Radio, it’s another good, inexpensive tool for general use.
Benefits of the Mount-It! Car Desk:
The Mount-It Car Desk
A car desk is a great way to activate a park from the back seat of your car during nasty weather.
The car desk is sturdy enough to hold my KX3, 3Ah 12vdc LIfePO4 battery, UTC clock and notepad sized logbook.
I plan to use the car desk for other tasks like using my laptop and reading while killing time between doctor appointments.
The car desk can be used with the steering wheel or attached to the headrest of the front seat for back seat operations.
The unit is lightweight so you can easily take it with you wherever you go. It’s also easy to set up and take down, which makes it that much more convenient in a pinch.
The car desk is a stable surface to work on. The angle of the desk can be altered for use with a QRP rig, laptop or angled for reading.
My first impression is that the car tray is not rock solid. When using the onboard KX3 with the QRPGUYS paddle kit (shown in photo), there is a very slight up and down movement to the tray, mostly due my heavy hand leaning on it.
Initially I was a bit flustered trying to work my first few contacts with the slight motion of the tray but after a short time I was able to compensate for the movement. Of course using an alternative plug-in paddle would have resolved that problem.
The car desk easily handled the weight of the KX3, Bioenno battery and my heavy handedness. I’d say that the car desk could easily handle the weight of any current QRP rig around.
FAQ:
What can I use a car desk for? You can use a car desk for a variety of tasks, including eating, working on a laptop, or reading.
How do I use a car desk? To use a car desk, simply attach it to your steering wheel or front seat headrest and place your belongings on the surface. You can then adjust the height and tilt of the desk to find the most comfortable position for you.
Is a car desk safe to use? Yes, a car desk is safe to use as long as you follow the instructions. Make sure to attach the desk securely to your steering wheel or front seat headrest.
Where can I buy a car desk? You can buy a car desk online or at most automotive stores.
How much does a car desk cost? The price of a car desk varies depending on the brand and model. However, most car desks cost between $20 and $50.
Do I need any special tools to use a car desk? No, you don’t need any special tools to use or install a car desk. However, some desks may come with a set of instructions that include helpful tips for installation.
Conclusion:
Using the car desk definitely helped with my activation. Rather than leaning over to the left when I had to place the KX3 on the folded left rear seat, it was a pleasure to sit forward while working and logging my contacts.
With a roof mounted Hamstick and 10 watts CW, it’s always a surprise to find out just how far a signal with travel. During this activation I worked as far west as Oregon (K7GT) and to the east it was Poland (SP9RXP).
This article explores the features and benefits of HamAntCal Version 3.5, a powerful tool for building your own antennas. With step-by-step instructions, FAQs, and important safety tips, this comprehensive guide offers valuable insights into antenna building for both beginners and experienced users alike.
Introduction:
For those interested in building their own antennas, having the right tools and information is essential. HamAntCal Version 3.5 (Ham Antenna Calculator) is a valuable app that provides a simple and intuitive way to calculate the starting length for constructing your antennas in feet/inches or metric. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using HamAntCal, step-by-step instructions on how to use it, frequently asked questions, and conclusion.
Benefits:
HamAntCal has a variety of benefits, including the ability to work in both feet/inches and metric systems. Its easy-to-use and intuitive interface make it simple to calculate starting lengths for building your antennas. The app can calculate the starting length for “Dipoles,” “Verticals,” and “Inverted Vee” antennas. There is also a page for calculating 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 5/8, and “Full Wave” length.
One of the standout features of HamAntCal is its ability to work with “Inverted Vee” antennas. The developer encountered different and conflicting information for calculating the length of an “Inverted Vee” antenna. To test this, the developer calculated for a “Dipole” using the “Dipole” calculator.
Then they put together a “Dipole” with a support for the center insulator as well as the ends and measured the resonant frequency with an antenna analyzer. As the ends were lowered towards 45 degrees from horizontal, the resonant frequency increased. This means that the length of the “Inverted Vee” would need to be increased to stay resonant at the same frequency as the dipole.
The “Inverted Vee” calculator in the app has a slider that starts up with an angle of 45 degrees and can be adjusted down to 20 degrees continuously re-calculating as it is moved. This corresponds to about 4.5 to 2 percent added to the length of the “Inverted Vee.”
Step-by-Step:
Using HamAntCal is simple, here are the steps:
Download the app from the App Store on your iOS device.
Open the app.
Choose the type of antenna you want to build from the options presented: “Dipoles,” “Verticals,” and “Inverted Vee.”
Enter the frequency you want the antenna to resonate at.
Select the measurement system you want to use (feet/inches or metric).
The app will calculate the starting length of your antenna.
Takeaways:
When using HamAntCal, it is essential to keep in mind that no antenna calculator can give exact results in every case. Many factors can affect the resonant frequency of an antenna, including the wire used, height above ground, ground type, and nearby objects. It’s always a good practice to add a little extra wire and then trim up to the desired frequency.
FAQs:
Q: What frequencies can the calculator handle? A: The calculator can handle frequencies from 30 Khz to 500Mhz for the “Dipole,” “Vertical,” and “Length” calculators. The maximum for the “Inverted Vee” calculator is 60MHz.
Q: Will the calculator provide exact measurements? A: No, the calculator does not give exact measurements, and the results will need to be trimmed using an antenna analyzer or SWR meter to the exact frequency after installation.
Q: Is it necessary to leave extra wire on each section for trimming and wrapping around the insulators? A: Yes, it is important to leave some extra wire on each section for trimming and wrapping around the insulators.
Conclusion:
Overall, the HamAntCal Version 3.5 is a powerful and easy-to-use tool that can help antenna builders get started on their projects. With its updated interface, settings menu, and compatibility with both feet/inches and metric measurements, it offers a great deal of convenience to its users.
However, it’s important to remember that antenna building can be a complex process, and there are many factors that can affect the resonant frequency of an antenna. While HamAntCal can provide a starting point, proper matching methods and equipment should always be used to ensure a safe and effective installation.
Another successful activation at Brookhaven state park, POTA K-2019 21 contacts with 2 park to park contacts today. Setup was the KX3, Bioenno 12V 3aH LifePO, MFJ 1979 vertical with the homebrew Tripod trucker mount combo and 2 sloping 17.1 foot radials. Best to the west was Utah and to the east Italy. Who says you can’t work DX (haha) with a night light bulb? QRP just never fails!
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