Re: uBITX Firmware (CEC) 0.30 released (Test version).
#ubitx
nickpullen
awosome!!!?I learned how to apply variously because of you.?I was thinking about S.Meter and Power Meter space. I will write the code to print the sample on the top line. You will be able to check in a few hours.
Thanks for your information
Ian KD8CEC
Hi Ian. This work you are doing on the FW is incredible. Many thanks for your efforts, and to every one else for their contibutions.
I plan on doing the following to your version once you are "done" with the non-hardware mod version..
1: Convert to I2C LCD, free up 6 digital I/O.
Move keyer jack to D8 for DIT and D9 for DAH, should work well as there is a GND connection between the 2 on the OLD LCD header (pin 4,5,6)
Move PPT to D10 (pin 11)
Move Button to D11 (pin 12 and 16 for GND)
Move ENC to D12/13 (pin 13,14 and 16 for GND)
Also gives easy access to +5v on pins 2 and 15 for my I2C TPA2016 AGC and SSM2167 MIC Amp.
I2C breakout as per Jim Sheldon's method, I need 2 of each for AGC (+3.3v) and LCD.
Now what to do with all those free Analog ports?
A7: S-Meter. (vk3YE AGC with out the AGC part, only the SIG meter...)
A6: SWR bridge rev (Kitsandparts.com)
A3: SWR bridge fwd (Kitsandparts.com)
A2: Array of buttons (via different resistors) for direct access to: Band up/down, RIT, VFO A/B...
A1: Potentiometer to for ACG control (via the I2C AGC module)
A0: ...
Hope to get the FW to display s-meter on RX and the SWR and PWR on TX on the top line.
Thanks again.
-- Best 73 KD8CEC / Ph.D ian lee kd8cec@...
(my blog)
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Re: UHF/VHF uBITx equivalent
But, this is not much of a homebrew. The challenge would be to build something from scratch.
- f
On Tue, Jan 30, 2018 at 9:56 AM, <nickpullen@...> wrote: Hi Fred.
This is also on my project list. I have both the V and U version of the DRA818. I am planning on a simply desktop unit powered by arduino and a nokia 5110 lcd.
a cheap baofen mic/speaker. Just for experimentation and local repeater access as these modules are only 1W... maybe even do APRS...
In the end though, If all you want is a cheap V/U radio, just buy a $30 UV5R...
73, Nick. VK4PLN
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Re: UHF/VHF uBITx equivalent
Hi Fred.
This is also on my project list. I have both the V and U version of the DRA818. I am planning on a simply desktop unit powered by arduino and a nokia 5110 lcd.
a cheap baofen mic/speaker. Just for experimentation and local repeater access as these modules are only 1W... maybe even do APRS...
In the end though, If all you want is a cheap V/U radio, just buy a $30 UV5R...
73, Nick. VK4PLN
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Re: Second batch of uBITX shipping?
#ubitx
I ordered mine on Dec 14 and received it this morning...
Brian K9WIS
---- James Tate <kw4sz@...> wrote:
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Show quoted text
Just to let you all know, I ordered mine in the 4th. When I inquired about status, I did not even get an ETA. I am patiently awaiting confirmation of shipping on a slow boat. LOL
From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Joe Puma
Sent: Monday, January 29, 2018 7:44 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [BITX20] Second batch of uBITX shipping?
I ordered one Jan 17th. I recently emailed them and they said it will ship in 2-3 weeks. Glad I ordered DHL.
Sent from my iPhone
On Jan 29, 2018, at 7:37 PM, David Robertson <kd1na363@...<mailto:kd1na363@...>> wrote:
Ordered on the 16th and no responce
--
Dave Robertson KD1NA
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Re: uBITX Firmware (CEC) 0.30 released (Test version).
#ubitx
Hi Ian. This work you are doing on the FW is incredible. Many thanks for your efforts, and to every one else for their contibutions.
I plan on doing the following to your version once you are "done" with the non-hardware mod version..
1: Convert to I2C LCD, free up 6 digital I/O.
Move keyer jack to D8 for DIT and D9 for DAH, should work well as there is a GND connection between the 2 on the OLD LCD header (pin 4,5,6)
Move PPT to D10 (pin 11)
Move Button to D11 (pin 12 and 16 for GND)
Move ENC to D12/13 (pin 13,14 and 16 for GND)
Also gives easy access to +5v on pins 2 and 15 for my I2C TPA2016 AGC and SSM2167 MIC Amp.
I2C breakout as per Jim Sheldon's method, I need 2 of each for AGC (+3.3v) and LCD.
Now what to do with all those free Analog ports?
A7: S-Meter. (vk3YE AGC with out the AGC part, only the SIG meter...)
A6: SWR bridge rev (Kitsandparts.com)
A3: SWR bridge fwd (Kitsandparts.com)
A2: Array of buttons (via different resistors) for direct access to: Band up/down, RIT, VFO A/B...
A1: Potentiometer to for ACG control (via the I2C AGC module)
A0: ...
Hope to get the FW to display s-meter on RX and the SWR and PWR on TX on the top line.
Thanks again.
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Re: Cheap Harbor Freight Case for MBITX
I've been working on a plastic one that fits both the Pelican 1150 and the Apache 1800. I actually bought the Pelican without the pick-n-pluck.
I still need to thin it some since I found it can actually be used on the top as well if you're not putting anything real thick in it. Some LCD displays will fit in the top with a plastic panel.
Vince.
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On 01/29/2018 05:39 PM, Ken Hansen wrote: This 'pelican-style' case is also nice - I'd love to figure out a front
panel that snaps over the bottom half of the case (remove all
pick-and-pluck)...
Ken, N2VIP
On Jan 29, 2018, at 3:47 PM, wishbone_aaa <dlmock@...
<mailto:dlmock@...>> wrote:
Just place my order for a MBITX and have been looking for an
enclosure. I spotted in my workshop a Harbor Freight plastic ammo box
that looks like it will do the job. With the lid open, the box is 6
inches deep,9 3/4 wide and 4 1/2inches high. Price $6.99 (even
cheaper when there's a coupon).
<>
--
Michigan VHF Corp.
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Re: #ubitx New I2C/Digital I/O mod & firmware from W0EB/W2CTX
#ubitx
Haven't heard back on this one. Were you able to get a good compile?
Jim
------ Original Message ------
Sent: 1/28/2018 5:59:17 PM
Subject: Re: [BITX20] #ubitx New I2C/Digital I/O mod & firmware from W0EB/W2CTX
Jim
Thanks. Will do it in the morning?
Art Sent from my iPhone On Jan 28, 2018, at 6:50 PM, Jim Sheldon < w0eb@...> wrote: OOPS, I forgot to mention that you have to have the LiquidCrystal_I2C library directory installed in the Arduino IDE's "Libraries" directory or it won't compile.? Just to keep you from having to hunt for the correct llibrary, I've attached a zip file containing the library files.? Unzip the file to somewhere you can find it, and you will have a directory called "LiquidCrystal_I2C? .. Next, open your Arduino IDE's "Libraries" directory and move this complete directory intact into the Libraries directory for the IDE.? Once its there, the program should compile just fine.
Jim Sheldon - W0EB
<LiquidCrystal_I2C.zip>
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Re: uBITX Firmware (CEC) 0.30 released (Test version).
#ubitx
Hi Ian,
Great, thanks for the extra explanation.
I have been using the v.31 a bit this evening and I like the changes.
Band Change I found one anomaly that when I set a frequency on any given band and I change bands it comes back to the last used frequency on that band when I return (as it does with most modern transceivers) which is great, however I noticed when returning to 80M rather than returning to the last used frequency it returns to the last frequency set with the CAT interface (not currently connected).
CW Keying It appears when measuring the Key value that it takes a long time for this value to settle. As though discharging a capacitor.? This I believe might be the issue I am having currently when I get a Dash instead of a Dot on first press of the paddle.? I haven't proved this positively yet however this is the case on both Dot and Dash paddle measurements, and I do have the Keying adapter in place.? I'll remove it and test again.
Dave WI6R
On Mon, Jan 29, 2018 at 6:43 PM, Ian Lee <kd8cec@...> wrote: Dave
Of course.?When the firmware is complete, I will upload manual.
I will briefly describe the ADC measurements.
ADC measurements can be used in many ways.
You can reduce the error of CW Key in the present concept.?
Read ADC (A6) value to determine DOT, DIT and straight.
However, as you know, if you divide the voltage by a resistor, the accuracy is low.
So the program has a bigger adc range. (ex: 0 ~ 300 : straight, 300 ~ 600 : dot, 600~800 : Dash)
Therefore, depending on the CW key management state, it may happen that the output is wrong.
By using the ADC measurements function in the uBITX menu, you can check the incoming value for each key.
In uBITX Manager, if you set the key judgment range small, the error will decrease.
Another use is to use it in the hardware modification concept.?I still think about it, but now there is only one A7 spare pin left.
I want to add S.meter and connect various function keys (mode change, band up / band down, vfo to memory, memory to vfo ...).
If I put together things that are not likely to be pressed at the same time, I can secure as much I / O as I need.
First, there is an emphasis on reducing the errors of CW Key.
Ian KD8CEC
-- Best 73 KD8CEC / Ph.D ian lee kd8cec@...
(my blog)
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Re: Software support Request for Full QSK BITX40
Very interesting, and quite promising.
Like I say, I hope it works.
I'm not keen to have all those relays in there.
uBitx schematic is here:??
It has two relays for TR switching just like the Bitx40, plus another three for band switching.
Final amp is two IRF510's in push-pull, well under 20W when operated from less than 24v.
I'm fine with the band switching relays, they don't have to chatter much.
If your TR switch works at 20W, it's definitely of interest for use on the uBitx too..
That 2n7000 TR switch can somehow deal with 180v pk-pk without exceeding the 60v Vds limit?
As you probably know, LTSpice doesn't check for failure within the devices, they just have a linear model.
It's up to you to look at the voltage waveforms and check if stuff like the 60v Vds and 20v Vgs get exceeded.
The BS170 is similar to the 2n7000, but KD1JV has found the BS170 to be significantly more robust.
Max Vgs and Vds and dissipation are exactly the same as the 2n7000, but drain current can be about 2x.?
I suspect your primary concern is voltage, however.
KD1JV uses three devices in parallel to give 5W of CW out from 12v.
See the AT_Sprint group on yahoo if curious, files sections has schematics for 15 years worth of designs that do this.
If infinite VSWR is an issue, perhaps a 1k resistor across the output could help, and have minimal impact.
Jerry
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On Mon, Jan 29, 2018 at 06:43 pm, Gary O'Neil wrote:
At 20W output, the switch could theoretically see 180V P/P when presented with a perfect open circuit infinite VSWR, and the 2N7000's remain within spec boundaries.
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Re: Second batch of uBITX shipping?
#ubitx
Seems like it shouldn't take too much effort to be posting where they're at on the batches correlating to order dates.
On 26 Jan 2018 2:37 am, "dj0hf" < dj0hf@...> wrote: Ordered on the 16th December - Nothing yet.
73
Ian
DJ0HF/G3ULO
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Re: [SPAM] Re: [BITX20] IRF510 amplifier failures
Using two LM78L05's in a push-pull amp is very cool, he seems to think it works to 30mhz.
That regulator has been around for about 40 years, there are better now.
The faster a regulator responds, the less output ripple for a given size output cap,
so they are under pressure to make regulators faster..
May have to try that.
Would give me something to talk about once I get it on the air.
I seem to recall an article in Ham Radio back in the late 1970's
where somebody built an entire transceiver from 7400 NAND gates.
The logical way to build a radio.
Jerry, KE7ER
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On Mon, Jan 29, 2018 at 06:10 pm, John Backo wrote:
For lots of ideas and circuits (including a 7805 push-pull amplifier!)
check out Harry's Homebrew Pages:
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Re: Software support Request for Full QSK BITX40
Hi Jerry;
My Laptop is back in service, and I've taken a look at your concerns in simulation to the extent that I can assess what I observed while evaluating my feasibility prototype of the RF switch. I think I read that the power output of the BITX could be increased to 20W with the addition of a higher supply voltage source for the final, and possibly a heat sink on the IRF510 as well. Based on that input, I tested my switch at 20W output, and observed no ill effects. such as switch damage, or retardation in receiver recovery time. I performed the test using a 20W CW carrier, and a transmit duration of 10 to 15 seconds to assess component heating in the switch. There was none, however; I was using my finger as a thermometer and couldn't detect any heat rise in any of the components. I deliberately offtuned it to approximately a 5:1 VSWR, and continued to observe no ill effects other than some reduction in isolation when mismatched. I also observed a significant improvement beyond my simulated predictions of isolation when I optimally matched the load with the switch in circuit.?
Based on those results, of which I'm currently unable to revisit due to being away from my shack; I've attempted to simulate those conditions to verify that my measurements were not serendipitous, and my prototype just happened to have a super hearty pair of 2N7000's. I'll need to go back and perform some additional spot measurements and repeat my results before I'll be 100% confident, but the results of my simulations appear to confirm my measurements with some slight remaining margin. I have simulated up to a 10:1 VSWR, and the 2N7000's remain within spec limits. Assuming a perfect source (zero ohm source impedance) and an infinite load VSWR, the Vgs limit could be exceeded by 7V at the 20W output limit. While I can simulate ideal worst case conditions, it would be a fluke to produce them in a practical circuit due to the influences of unpreventable parasitic influences, lossless sources, and total lossless reflections in perfect antiphase. In effect; I'm not "concerned" that 20W presents an exposure, and when operated from a single 13.8V supply, my expectation is that there will be ample margin as well.
I might add that I also happen to have a propensity for destroying 2N7000's... often before I get the &%$## things installed... I can't say I have much love for them. However; I have yet to destroy one as a result of utilizing them in this switch application. That's not much a a scientific assessment, but it darn sure makes me feel like I'm keeping them happy. LOL!
At 20W output, the switch could theoretically see 180V P/P when presented with a perfect open circuit infinite VSWR, and the 2N7000's remain within spec boundaries. I'm not entirely certain that I'm simulating the operating environment realistically, but I feel confident that the simulations are sufficiently rigid if not precisely valid worst case operating conditions. There are devices that will perform well with sufficient margin, but the 2N7000's appear to be fine, I have an ample supply to cover my propensity to kill them, and anything better at this point appears that it would be overkill. This perspective could change before I put the ribbons on this though.? ?
IRF510's will work as drop in replacements also, but with a slight degradation in both insertion loss and isolation. No improvement in margin however.
I don't have a uBITX, so I haven't been looking at that radio. If I'm correct though, its multiband and different than the BITX40. I've read comments that it has similar issues, and three rather than two relays; but? I have no idea how much if any of what I am doing would apply to that design. I'm not entirely certain that I'm working to the right schematic either. What I have doesn't seem to match what is published on Farhan's website. There are a fair number of discrepencies. The board looks correct though, and this isn't my first rodeo so to speak. In any case, the protection diodes aren't actually needed. I just typically add them to a receiver front end to protect it when I inadvertently transmit directly into it. The switch isolation is sufficient to mitigate the need for them in this application.? ??
72
Gary, N3GO
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Re: uBITX Firmware (CEC) 0.30 released (Test version).
#ubitx
Dave
Of course.?When the firmware is complete, I will upload manual.
I will briefly describe the ADC measurements.
ADC measurements can be used in many ways.
You can reduce the error of CW Key in the present concept.?
Read ADC (A6) value to determine DOT, DIT and straight.
However, as you know, if you divide the voltage by a resistor, the accuracy is low.
So the program has a bigger adc range. (ex: 0 ~ 300 : straight, 300 ~ 600 : dot, 600~800 : Dash)
Therefore, depending on the CW key management state, it may happen that the output is wrong.
By using the ADC measurements function in the uBITX menu, you can check the incoming value for each key.
In uBITX Manager, if you set the key judgment range small, the error will decrease.
Another use is to use it in the hardware modification concept.?I still think about it, but now there is only one A7 spare pin left.
I want to add S.meter and connect various function keys (mode change, band up / band down, vfo to memory, memory to vfo ...).
If I put together things that are not likely to be pressed at the same time, I can secure as much I / O as I need.
First, there is an emphasis on reducing the errors of CW Key.
Ian KD8CEC
uBITX ADC Range measurement and adjustment CEC v0.31 firmware
Ian ,
Could you post a description of how to use the ADC Measurement and Adjustment?
Dave WI6R
-- Best 73 KD8CEC / Ph.D ian lee kd8cec@...
(my blog)
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Re: UHF/VHF uBITx equivalent
The RDA818/DRA818 is a VHF/UHF transceiver IC used by baofengs and the like. There are a number of projects (including hamshield I think) which use it.
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Is anyone aware of a VHF and/or UHF band "version" of uBITx? I am aware of the DSP-10, but that project is rather dated and does not seem as straightforward a project to undertake as uBITx is.
I've seen things like the Ham Shield for an arduino as well as some "hacks" using various SRD receivers. I'm trying to find something a bit more useful than a hack, yet still able to be upgraded and customized like I see here in the BITX community.
I know it's off-topic a bit, but I still appreciate any input you guys might have.
Thank you!
-Fred
KC3HMS
--
David K4DBZ
Unofficial bitx chatroom:?https://discord.gg/CrHvWFc
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Re: [SPAM] Re: [BITX20] IRF510 amplifier failures
John
I occasionally visit Harry's web pages.?
We were both working in Saudi Arabia at the same time but I did not meet him.
I did not find the 10 watt amplifier but did find a few newer entries that were
interesting.
Thanks,
Arv
_._
On Mon, Jan 29, 2018 at 7:10 PM, John Backo <jabac@...> wrote: For lots of ideas and circuits (including a 7805 push-pull amplifier!)
check out Harry's Homebrew Pages:
He includes a lot about RF amplifier design and circuits,
including a kind of JBOT mini-linear, and a 10W linear
amp.
It is a very interesting resource.
john
AD5YE
|
Re: [SPAM] Re: [BITX20] IRF510 amplifier failures
If a fuse is too slow and a simple current limit makes the amp non-linear,
perhaps use foldback current limiting.
If the current ever exceeds perhaps 3 Amps, then shut down the power to the final,
turn on a red idiot light, and latch it up to that state until the operator resets the current limit.
The operator will soon figure out how high to set the mike gain.
This circuit could be entirely contained in the power supply,
no mod to the Bitx40 required to implement this option.
Perhaps combine it with a boost mode switcher to allow higher power operation
from a 12v battery.
I like K9ZC's notion of a hall effect sensor, as that sounds like it should not suffer
the 0.7 volt Vbe drop of Arv's sense resistor.? Lots of other ways to sense current
without introducing a significant voltage drop, some of them cheap.
Jerry
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On Mon, Jan 29, 2018 at 05:31 pm, Arv Evans wrote:
his has been an interesting discussion, but still not sure which
might be the best way to insure a long and uneventful life for
MOSFET power amplifiers.?
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Re: [SPAM] Re: [SPAM] Re: [SPAM] Re: [BITX20] IRF510 amplifier failures
You are absolutely right, Jerry.
It was not my intent to diss the IRF MOSFETS.
What I am saying is that they are different beasts
and one has to understand that to make them work well.
And it can be done easily enough. Start with the NA5N critique
and the WA2EBY amplifier design article. Follow through
with the notes and comments of KB1GMX. Then one should
have a fair appreciation for what these devices can and cannot
do...and what to avoid.
There is an excellent design of a 300-600W amplifier using the IRF510
in multiples that was built some years ago by the German Radio Club
(among others). These are fantastic designs and worth much study.
Search for them on the web.
john
AD5YE
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Re: uBITX Firmware (CEC) 0.30 released (Test version).
#ubitx
Philip
Thanks for this firmware.?I am borrowing a little memory space left for the next concept and adding fun features.
Ian KD8CEC
Hello Ian.
Many thanks for the updated firmware for the uBITX. Makes it much better to tune.
Philip G7JUR
-- Best 73 KD8CEC / Ph.D ian lee kd8cec@...
(my blog)
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Re: uBITX Firmware (CEC) 0.30 released (Test version).
#ubitx
Joel
You've looked at uBITX Manager. yes i added it at 0.31. for next concepts (with h/w modification) but,?You will soon be able to try out the other of the fun. alwayis info. scroll info. Now I have added a very small funny feature.
Ian KD8CEC
Thank you to everyone. I upgraded to v.31 and set for a straight key.? It is working again.
I see in the new manager an option for a S meter.? What is needed to get that to function?? I hope to have AGC added, tonight, so I could pull the voltage from that and use a 5v zener to prevent over voltage to a pin...
Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to making this an even better radio!
Marco - KG5PRT?
-- Best 73 KD8CEC / Ph.D ian lee kd8cec@...
(my blog)
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Re: [SPAM] Re: [BITX20] IRF510 amplifier failures
For lots of ideas and circuits (including a 7805 push-pull amplifier!)
check out Harry's Homebrew Pages:
He includes a lot about RF amplifier design and circuits,
including a kind of JBOT mini-linear, and a 10W linear
amp.
It is a very interesting resource.
john
AD5YE
|
Nick VK4PP
Jim Sheldon
Art Howard