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Re: reviving my sbitx v3

 

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Evan, I finally got it going! My problem was having more than one problem at a time. Once I replaced everything in the circuit, fixed dry or bridged joints, and put a new set of finals in, it now switches and has output. However, before I even touch the bias pot, does the other pot have anything to do with this circuit? It doesn't appear to, but I mistakenly put it to full ccw with the bias pot too. What is the pot for and how should I set it?






-------- Original message --------
From: "Evan Hand via groups.io" <elhandjr@...>
Date: 3/10/25 10:10 PM (GMT-05:00)
Subject: Re: [BITX20] reviving my sbitx v3

Michael,
?
The first step is to verify that the Q10 Drain goes to zero when TX goes to 3 volts (or higher).? If that happens, Q10 is OK.? If not, it is bad.
?
Once Q10 works, verify that the Q9 tab (Drain) goes to 12 volts when the TX signal drives the Q10 drain low.? If that does not happen, remove Q9 and check the operation of Q101.? Do this with Q9 removed to prevent damaging both devices again.
?
Q101 drain goes to zero when TX and Q10 are off.? When TX is low, the Q101 gate should go above 5 volts to make Q101 turn on.? When Q10 turns on with the TX signal, Q101 should turn off.? If Q9 is removed, you can verify that the Drain-to-source resistance is very high with an Ohm meter.? Q101 Drain to Source resistance should be close to zero when TX and Q10 are on.
?
An alternative approach is to remove Q101 so there is no short on the 12V line during receive, Verify and replace bad parts, and then install a verified working Q101.? I built a test jig on a small copper-clad board with wires to insert into a component tester.? I hold the device with tweezers to connect each lead to a separate pad.
?
?
73
Evan
AC9TU

--
Mike - K8MCB?
Re: uBITX v6 Low Audio - Back at it again - FIXED

 

Glad you fixed it and that I could be of help.?

73
Evan
AC9TU
Re: uBITX v6 Low Audio - Back at it again - FIXED

 

Hello all, and thank you for helping me getting my uBITX V6 up and running again. I replaced C30 this morning and I now have audio. Next will be alignment, BFO, and the frequency display is off. So I'll tackle that soon and if I run into problems I'll start a new thread. Thanks again to all and Evan for sending me some new parts. You guys are the greatest. 73, Richard AG5M
On Friday, February 28, 2025 at 02:53:06 PM PST, Richard AG5M via groups.io <ag5m@...> wrote:


Unknown. I heated the end closer to the back of the PCB, and the cap fell right off the board, with a end still on the PCB. A check of the cap shows it is open, not surprising with the end missing.

Anyway, I found a 0.1uF cap in the junk box, just a tad too big, Hi Hi, to put in on the board, but connecting it to the board gives me LOTS of audio again. When replaced with an appropriate cap I'll be back in business. Then to calibrate the BFO, frequency, etc. And have it on the air again.

73, Richard AG5M


On Friday, February 28, 2025 at 02:25:59 PM PST, tomekdm sp7etd via groups.io <tomekdm@...> wrote:


Interesting why it cracked/failed... due to mechanical stress, like bent of PCB... temperature shock...? or was it already bad since new...
Simple12m TRX QRPp DSB

 

I built a new trx ...12m DSB ft8.
?
It is a simple TRX using one TA7358 and 7 x 2N2222 ... 800mW .
?
73 de py2ohh miguel
Re: RX uBITXv5 from scratch

 

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Thanks for sharing!

Li

On Mar 12, 2025, at 5:18?PM, Tech Guy via groups.io <tech48055@...> wrote:

?
Looks nice. Congratulations!
73s John N4HNO
Re: RX uBITXv5 from scratch

 

Looks nice. Congratulations!
73s John N4HNO
Re: RX uBITXv5 from scratch

 

RX uBITXv5 from scratch

 

Hello everyone, I realize I'm late to the topic, but after a course by the ARI Parma association on the uBITX V5, I wanted to try my hand at designing a single-sided PCB for the receiver part only using Kicad and TH components.
I actually created two versions, the first educational, with well-spaced components and the second more compact and more suitable for being placed in a container. Both involve the use of Raduino and the low frequency part, separately. I also created the PCB for these two modules.
I'll make them available in case anyone wants to create the RX part only and suggestions are welcome.
Soon, I hope to be able to create the TX part too.
Thank you and 73 de IU7SUX
?
/g/BITX20/files/IU7SUX
Re: sBitx Mic input - assist request

 

I got this element and stuffed cotton balls in the housing and get GREAT audio reports?
PUI Audio, Inc. AOM-5024L-HD-R
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Re: sBitx Mic input - assist request

 

Was there a mic input modification for the sBtx DE because I am getting reports of bad or distorted audio.
?
The mic element I am using was the one that came in the uBitx v3 kit.
?
Was thinking of giving a Heil headset mic with the IC element in it a try. Just have to make a adapter cable for the PTT part and not short the mic.
?
Do you guys think thats a good idea?
Re: sBitx v3 - problem with nonstandard callsigns

 

I have cloned and added my suffixed callsigns to the test: OE/SP5DAA, DE/SP5DAA, SP5DAA/2, SP5DAA/P (in ft8_lib/test/test.c)
Only SP5DAA/P is encoded and decoded correctly. Three others fail.
?
Below is one of the test cases:
Encoded [YL3JG] [DE/SP5DAA] [KO26]
Decoded [YL3JG] [<DE/SP5DAA>] [KO26]
FAIL: Condition '0 == strcmp(call_de, call_de_tx)' failed!
Encoded [YL3JG] [OE/SP5DAA] [KO26]
Decoded [YL3JG] [<OE/SP5DAA>] [KO26]
FAIL: Condition '0 == strcmp(call_de, call_de_tx)' failed!
Encoded [YL3JG] [SP5DAA/P] [KO26]
Decoded [YL3JG] [SP5DAA/P] [KO26]
Test OK
Encoded [YL3JG] [SP5DAA/2] [KO26]
Decoded [YL3JG] [<SP5DAA/2>] [KO26]
FAIL: Condition '0 == strcmp(call_de, call_de_tx)' failed!
?
?
Another case:
Encoded [DE/SP5DAA] [YL3JG] [KO26]
Decoded [<DE/SP5DAA>] [YL3JG] [KO26]
FAIL: Condition '0 == strcmp(call_to, call_to_tx)' failed!
Encoded [DE/SP5DAA] [W1A] [KO26]
Decoded [<DE/SP5DAA>] [W1A] [KO26]
FAIL: Condition '0 == strcmp(call_to, call_to_tx)' failed!
Encoded [DE/SP5DAA] [W1A/R] [KO26]
Decoded [<DE/SP5DAA>] [W1A/R] [KO26]
FAIL: Condition '0 == strcmp(call_to, call_to_tx)' failed!
Encoded [DE/SP5DAA] [W5AB] [KO26]
So it seems that this fix still does not remove the problem, especially for those travelling abroad.
?
73,
Wojtek
Re: zbitz changes

 

I agree with most of Ken and Lee's points.? What is not mentioned is the enormous amount of software that Ashhar Farhan used that is open source and may not be available for the "lower cost/higher performance" options.? Also, note that the sbitx and zbitx can run digital modes without adding a computer.? Most of that is possible because of the Linux base that the Raspberry Pi uses in most of its forms.? That could also go away if another processor is selected.
?
If the specs published for the zBitx are met, the closest competitor is the QMX+ from QRP-Labs.? The QMX line needs an external computer for most digital modes.? The QMX does include two more bands (160 and 6 meters) than the zBitx.? The QMX does not have a graphic touchscreen interface.? The QMX firmware is proprietary and not modifiable by the user.? The advantage of open-source SW is best exemplified by the 64-bit dev team (led by JJ W9JES) 's work.? That software is a HUGE improvement over the original get-to-market version distributed by HFSignals.? Both the zBitx and QMX+ cost the same with a case: $150.? Both specify 5 watts, with SDR-based digital filters for signal processing.? I will own both when my zBitx arrives.
?
I am one of the original 250 "lucky" users.? I am anxiously awaiting my shipment notice and receipt of the radio.
?
All good things take time.? Speculating on shortcomings before analyzing the product is wasted time and effort.
73
Evan
AC9TU
Re: zbitz changes

 

"If he had been much earlier in the design process, a more powerful CPU may have been a better answer, but it is not practical at this point"
Not to pick nits, but I was under the impression that after the sBitx project and it's RPi 4 computer, Farhan speculated a simpler design, based on lessons learned with the sBitx could be built based on the RPi Zero 2 w, with its half-gigabyte of RAM and a CPU shared with the RPi 3 B+ and thus was born the zBitx project and product.
?
The starting-point for the zBitx (Zero Bitx) as I recall was always the RPi Zero 2 W, if a more powerful CPU was needed, that likely would have rendered the zBitx project a failure, based on its original goals.
?
Ken, N2VIP
Re: zbitz changes

 

Thank you Lee for your 2? in the topic, without which we seemed to be in the dark.?

This seems like a new wave taking shape after "Add my name to the new order list"

Cheers

On Tue, 11 Mar, 2025, 1:29 am Lee via , <kx4tt=[email protected]> wrote:
I think everyone needs to take a deep breath and recognize a few things.

1) This is new product, and to expect military precision for its release does not seem reasonable, especially with a smaller firm. Think of releases by Elecraft, QRPLabs, ant of course the "Big Three"; they may state a release date but really that should be taken as the beginning of a date range.
2) Asher and his group have made a couple of important additions to the zBitx based on changes to the operating plans for the rig. This benefits the end user but takes some extra time to implement. Waiting a bit longer to get a more complete product?!? This sounds like a no-brainer to me.
3) Some of the processes involved cannot be sped up by "adding another man to the job"; in fact, it may slow down the process.
4) Gordon makes an excellent point here. Asher only took on 2) above because he felt it would be advantageous to us end users at minimum disruption of the manufacturing process and minimum delay to getting them into our hands. In doing so, he made the same sort of decisions that all manufacturers make. If he had been much earlier in the design process, a more powerful CPU may have been a better answer, but it is not practical at this point.

73 de Lee KX4TT




> On 03/10/2025 1:39 PM EDT Gordon Gibby KX4Z via <docvacuumtubes=[email protected]> wrote:
>
>
> I’m somewhat incredulous that people would urge a complete redesign of a product that is potentially days away from shipping, likely already built. The only issue is how to manage upgrades, something that demonstrates some foresight!
>
> I don’t think you redesign a product, even changing the chip set , when it is ready to market.
> Validation of such a radical change would substantially delay delivery of the product to those who have already paid for it
>
> My 2 cents,
> Gordon kx4z
>
Re: zbitz changes

 

I decided to go for the zBitx because I'm really intrigued by the concept of a miniaturized allband allmode trx. I have full faith in the developers that they'll create an amazing product for the community (free and open software and hardware, just like the good old days of Ham radio, the packet radio / AX.25 / that's used today).
I personally prefer to receive a well-tested device, and I'm sure the developers will deliver just that.
73, Herbert
Re: reviving my sbitx v3

 

Michael,
?
The first step is to verify that the Q10 Drain goes to zero when TX goes to 3 volts (or higher).? If that happens, Q10 is OK.? If not, it is bad.
?
Once Q10 works, verify that the Q9 tab (Drain) goes to 12 volts when the TX signal drives the Q10 drain low.? If that does not happen, remove Q9 and check the operation of Q101.? Do this with Q9 removed to prevent damaging both devices again.
?
Q101 drain goes to zero when TX and Q10 are off.? When TX is low, the Q101 gate should go above 5 volts to make Q101 turn on.? When Q10 turns on with the TX signal, Q101 should turn off.? If Q9 is removed, you can verify that the Drain-to-source resistance is very high with an Ohm meter.? Q101 Drain to Source resistance should be close to zero when TX and Q10 are on.
?
An alternative approach is to remove Q101 so there is no short on the 12V line during receive, Verify and replace bad parts, and then install a verified working Q101.? I built a test jig on a small copper-clad board with wires to insert into a component tester.? I hold the device with tweezers to connect each lead to a separate pad.
?
?
73
Evan
AC9TU
Re: reviving my sbitx v3

 

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Evan, I have gotten things mostly straightened out, proper voltage to R77, 5.6v to D6, etc. I still get the 3v on Q10 for the Tx signal, but Q9 just doesn't switch. The voltages on the excel sheet match the steady receive state, but things aren't switching when the Tx is applied. Suggestions?






-------- Original message --------
From: "Evan Hand via groups.io" <elhandjr@...>
Date: 3/6/25 2:07 AM (GMT-05:00)
Subject: Re: [BITX20] reviving my sbitx v3

Michael,
?
The TX signal works (recieve at 0.15 volts, transmit at 3 volts).
?
?
The pins on Q9 are marked in this photo:
?
The gate (pin 1) of Q9 should be higher, and the tab (Pin 2 or drain) should be 0 volts when receiving and close to 12 volts on transmission.? It could be a failed Q9, Q10, Q101, or combination.? I would start with Q10, as it should pull down the gate of Q9 to turn it on and supply the 12 volts to the driver stages.??
?
?
Q101 is a 2n7002 MOSFET.? This can not be replaced with a 2n2219.??
?
?
The above is based on not getting 12 volts on the tab of Q9.
?
73
Evan
AC9TU
?

--
Mike - K8MCB?
Re: sBITX Toolbox - A great companion for the sBitx transceiver is now available for public release #file-notice #sBitx #sbitx_v2 #sBITX_v3 #wiki-notice

 

sBitx Toolbox for 64 Bit has been upgraded to v3.01.
?
This upgrade includes new and enhanced applications.

  • Re-added Screen Resizer
  • Updated USB headset for lower latency
  • Added volume slider to voice keyer recording function
  • Added update manager utility
  • Added DroidStar controller (installed on v4.2 or later PI OS image)
  • Fixed Screen Scaler medium and large buttons
  • Added CW Detector
  • Updated Toolbox launcher with new theme and UI controls
?
To get the latest update; Go to the Update menu and select Check for Updates
?
https://github.com/drexjj/sBITX-toolbox64
?
?
?
?
- JJ
?
?
Re: sBitx Mic input - assist request

 

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Now I wish I hadn’t removed so many parts, Hope I can get the back in without too much difficulty! #LoveThroughHolePcbs!

73,
Rob, WF4RC

From: [email protected] <[email protected]> on behalf of Evan Hand via groups.io <elhandjr@...>
Sent: Monday, March 10, 2025 6:10:22 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: [BITX20] sBitx Mic input - assist request
?
Yes, that is why I sent the picture.? Unfortunately, there is no tracking process for minor revisions, only the major ones, such as DE, V2, V3, and V4.? The V4 has just been announced.
?
With HFsignals, you always need to verify the schematic against the board.? My DE had some changes that have never been documented on a schematic.??
?
73
Evan
AC9TU
Re: sBitx Mic input - assist request

 

Yes, that is why I sent the picture.? Unfortunately, there is no tracking process for minor revisions, only the major ones, such as DE, V2, V3, and V4.? The V4 has just been announced.
?
With HFsignals, you always need to verify the schematic against the board.? My DE had some changes that have never been documented on a schematic.??
?
73
Evan
AC9TU
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