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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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