Print the gerbers to a transparancy.
Though with the cheap PCB fab options we have nowadays,
your best option may be to email those gerbers off to China
and sit on your hands for a couple weeks.
Two (or four!) layer boards with plated vias are a wonderful thing.
Jerry
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On Fri, Nov 13, 2020 at 07:46 AM, Gareth Evans wrote:
But how do you get from a file in the PC to an etch resist on the bare PCB?
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There are folks using Kicad at CERN where much of it was developed
to better suit their needs.? I'd count them as some awfully high level hobbyists.
It can take time to figure out any PCB layout package.
At work we used Pads-PCB for over three decades, mostly because it would have
been such trauma for an entire engineering team to switch over to something else.
?
Here's a list of board layout packages:
My criteria:
Not locked to a particular PCB vendor, must be able to emit gerbers.
Low cost, prefer open source so they can't suddenly jack up the price.
Able to do complex multilayer boards.
Not stuck under Microsoft Windows, I have no interest in that world.
EagleCad used to be very popular with hobbyists.
Currently the free version is restricted to a two layer 3x4 inch board,
costs $100/yr to do a 5x5 inch board, $495/yr to do anything as big as a uBitx.
For occasional use, I'll happily deal with any warts Kicad might have.
The gEDA stuff once looked interesting, but it hasn't been worked on in almost a decade.
And reports are that it is a collection of programs that are not a well integrated whole.
But I haven't looked around much recently.? I am curious what others are finding
that works well for them, especially if they meet my criteria above.
I applaud HFSignals for releasing the schematics and firmware for the Bitx40 and uBitx.
Holding back the PCB files should present a very low bar for anybody wishing to recreate either one.
Anyone doing so will likely have a significantly different board layout and some different parts,
otherwise why not just buy a uBitx???
You will need to learn how to use Kicad (or similar) if you are going to make even a small change
to Farhan's layout.? The time needed to lay the board out will be far less than that required?
to learn how to use the tool.? And far far less than the years Farhan has spent developing the uBitx.
In spite of how easy it should be, nobody has bothered to clone the uBitx.
I'm not aware of an alternative that comes close to the capabilities of the uBitx at this price.
Jerry, KE7ER
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On Fri, Nov 13, 2020 at 06:36 AM, Kobus ZS6CHK wrote:
Using Eagle cad. Paid for license. This is a very potent piece of software. For professional use.
Yes, for hobby application KiCad is fine. The are a couple of free cad software available on the
net.
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But how do you get from a file in the PC to an etch resist on the bare PCB?
73 DE GARETH G4SDW AR K
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On Fri, Nov 13, 2020 at 01:25 PM, Ashhar Farhan wrote: I used the pcb express free tool for a while. Then I switched to kicad. It
has a bit of a learning discipline (you cant layout unless you have drawn
out the schematic first, etc.). My only complain about it is the component
libraries suck. In each version they try fixing and it breaks the earlier
version and makes it even worse.
I learn this useful tool from OM Bhatnagar, he is on this group.
- f
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Hello to group.
I have built and calibrated a homebrew Raduino. Works all OK
I would like to built it into a homebrew TXR I am constructing.
My? TXR has an IF of 72 Mhz, not 45 Mhz as per the Raduino.
I am not an Arduino expert, and I cannot find where to change the IF offset in the sketch.
Can any Arduino gurus point me in the right direction?
Many thanks
Richard? VA3NDO
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Using Eagle cad. Paid for license. This is a very potent piece of software. For professional use. Yes, for hobby application KiCad is fine. The are a couple of free cad software available on the net.
Gerard, it appears it is possible to import a PCB image into KiCAD and use it to create a new layout by using Bitmap2Component tool.? I haven't done it myself but here is a thread that discusses it:
Farhan, unfortunate that the PCB files are proprietary.? That only hurts the hobbyists as the professional cloners can strip, scan, and layout a small 2-layer board like the V6 in a couple days, even if they take long tea times.
?- Bill
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Gerard, it appears it is possible to import a PCB image into KiCAD and use it to create a new layout by using Bitmap2Component tool.? I haven't done it myself but here is a thread that discusses it:
Farhan, unfortunate that the PCB files are proprietary.? That only hurts the hobbyists as the professional cloners can strip, scan, and layout a small 2-layer board like the V6 in a couple days, even if they take long tea times.
?- Bill
|
I used the pcb express free tool for a while. Then I switched to kicad. It has a bit of a learning discipline (you cant layout unless you have drawn out the schematic first, etc.). My only complain about it is the component libraries suck. In each version they try fixing and it breaks the earlier version and makes it even worse. I learn this useful tool from OM Bhatnagar, he is on this group. - f
On Fri 13 Nov, 2020, 6:46 PM Gerard, < kabupos@...> wrote: Hello,
Several decades ago, we made a PCB with a pen, then pellets and tape. Today we can make a nice PCB with software.
I used simple free software, where you have to connect all the tracks manually and place the components yourself.
That¡¯s what I used to feed my Ubitx power.
Some software are only in demonstration and do not allow to print or save.
With a little time, I focused on Kicad.
It is true that this software is not constrained and it is free.
At first, I thought it was fantastic software and making a pcb would be simple.
So I watched several videos....
I thought we could have imported a diagram from a pdf for example, and not possible.
So we have to recreate everything manually, the diagram, then choose the components.
After that, it remains to create the PCB. I told myself, that with all the informations it will propose me one, that to rigor I could modify.
No, there too none of that.
You must also choose everything manually.? Only positive thing, you have a 3d view of your circuit.
I may be wrong, but I have this observation.
What do you use to create your PCBs?
cdt
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Hello, Several decades ago, we made a PCB with a pen, then pellets and tape. Today we can make a nice PCB with software.I used simple free software, where you have to connect all the tracks manually and place the components yourself.
That¡¯s what I used to feed my Ubitx power. Some software are only in demonstration and do not allow to print or save.With a little time, I focused on Kicad.
It is true that this software is not constrained and it is free.At first, I thought it was fantastic software and making a pcb would be simple.
So I watched several videos....
I thought we could have imported a diagram from a pdf for example, and not possible.
So we have to recreate everything manually, the diagram, then choose the components.
After that, it remains to create the PCB. I told myself, that with all the informations it will propose me one, that to rigor I could modify.
No, there too none of that.
You must also choose everything manually.? Only positive thing, you have a 3d view of your circuit.
I may be wrong, but I have this observation.
What do you use to create your PCBs?
cdt
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Re: #v6 connect ubitx V6 and Xiegu XPA125B
#v6
I cannot speak to the B version but the A version should not have more then about 3 watts.
Sincerely, ?Frank Krozel?
BSEE, ? AASEET, ? FCC Lic.# PG-18-19178, ? KG9H
Electronic Instrument Associates -?Central, Inc. ...since 1971
w:? ?
See our EMC-specific site ????
d/l our November 2020 linecard at?? ? t: 1-630-924-1600 ? LinkedIn: ?
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On Nov 12, 2020, at 5:40 PM, Alejandro G S¨¢nchez Mart¨ªnez < lurkan@...> wrote:
Has anyone any experience or comment to make of connecting the V6 to a Xiegu XPA125B amplifier. I think there should be no problem but I would like to consult them if anyone has any comments on this. Also know if you can control the output power to the V6 from any menu on the radio. Because what I have read this is not possible. Thank you and 73
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Gary,
Is it possible to remove the Raduino and display from the case and connect to the USB port on your computer?without the mainboard?? The Raduino should powerup and the display should show the normal frequency screen.
If this does not work, then my next thought is the display or the Raduino board as the digi board supplier suggested.? If it does work, then there may be a wiring issue in the case.
This is really a head-scratcher.? I cannot see why the one Nano works and the 3 others do not.? Are you sure that the Arduino programs are the same?? When I read your statements it reads like you reprogrammed the original Nano with the files (sketch) that are the same as the 3 new Nano programs.
There is one other thing that you could try: reprogram one of the new Nanos with KD8CEC software that works with the 16x2 display.? That would be in this archive:
The correct file would be in the uBITXV234 folder.? The file for the parallel display is?UBITX_CEC_V1.200_16P.hex
you will need the Xloader program to load the hex file.
73
Evan
AC9TU
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Thanks yes I did.? I took the digi board completely out of the loop. If I put the original nano in the radio acts as a normal v 4 ubitx. I can't figure out why these replacements won't work?
On Thu, Nov 12, 2020, 7:09 PM Evan Hand < elhandjr@...> wrote: Gary,
Did you try powering up the rig without the USB connection to the Nano from the digi board?? There may be an issue with the digi board.
73
Evan
AC9TU
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Somewhere I read that after some changes were made, the V6 had to be turned off and back on for the changes to take effect. I think there was a few seconds delay in turning it back on required (in the commentary), IF I remember correctly.
Perhaps someone here can clarify this or report if there is any value to this suggestion.
Bob ¡ª KK5R
On Thursday, November 12, 2020, 6:58:03 PM EST, Gary Rindfuss <rindfussg@...> wrote:
I don't think I worded my first post very well.? I am trying to install a new nano board. The v 4.3 sketch loads properly no errors when it compiles or loads. This board seems to be the identical physical replacement from the same manufacturer as the original nano from HF. But when installed and powered up I get only "ubitx v4.3" in the display. No other function or lines of display. I have tried 3 different nanos from the bunch I got on Amazon all the same result.? The original nano works ok for normal ssb operation but not with the digi board and is loaded from the same sketch file as the others.? A foto of the screen?is attached. Any ideas what I am doing wrong? Many thanks Gary
Sorry Gary. I misread your email.? Greetings i am pretty new here and I want to thank everyone in advance for their help.?
I am trying to sort out an issue with a digiboad that I had installed that worked for a while then quit. It had been suggested that I replace the nano board. I ordered some on Amazon. They are the kind where you solder the header pins in so they gave the right way.? The chip is marked 328p
I load the v 4.3 sketch on it and when you turn it on you get only "ubitx v4.3 in the display nothing else.? (Photo)
I have tried a couple of the nanos and get the same result.? I still have the original nano the radio works fine with it it just won't talk to the digi board.??
I am sure there is probably something I don't? understand about loading a sketch on a new nano board? But the sketch does load without error.??
Any help much appreciated
Gary
KC3KSC
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Re: #v6 connect ubitx V6 and Xiegu XPA125B
#v6
You would need to key the V6 on the freq you want to operate long enough for the tuner to go through the tune cycle. Otherwise, there should be no problem using it with the V6...
I am getting ready to build the N7DDC tuner which should require nearly the same thing. Keying it on SSB would not work unless you had a tone going into the microphone.
REF:
Xiegu also offers a connection hub for the G90 which may be of some use...
Bob ¡ª KK5R
On Thursday, November 12, 2020, 6:41:00 PM EST, Alejandro G S¨¢nchez Mart¨ªnez <lurkan@...> wrote:
Has anyone any experience or comment to make of connecting the V6 to a Xiegu XPA125B amplifier. I think there should be no problem but I would like to consult them if anyone has any comments on this. Also know if you can control the output power to the V6 from any menu on the radio. Because what I have read this is not possible. Thank you and 73
|
Gary,
Did you try powering up the rig without the USB connection to the Nano from the digi board?? There may be an issue with the digi board.
73
Evan
AC9TU
|
Sometimes you see a Hotwater-8 or an HW7 (the -8 is more common) at a big hamfest going for $50-$125, depending on condition. They are usually bought for nostalgic purposes since in their heyday, they were what put many beginners on the air...
The V6 beats the pants off the Hotwater QRP radios. However, the Heathkit radios were pretty much king of hill when they first came out because of their popularity. Good design for that era but today, they are museum pieces. To say so, though, brings out the oldtimer's ire in many hams.
Bob ¡ª KK5R
On Thursday, November 12, 2020, 4:31:09 PM EST, Arv Evans <arvid.evans@...> wrote:
HW-8 (HotWire-8) was a single-conversion transceiver by Heathkit, from the 1970's era.? Not really
relevant today because of US FCC requirements regarding spurious emissions.
_._
On Thu, Nov 12, 2020 at 3:10 AM Gerard < kabupos@...> wrote: hello,
Hw-8. I dont know what is it? Is it a fabrication of this style? A Heathkit year 80?
?I would really like to see a similarly placed, larger layout with through hole components? >>> That exist...
cdt
|
I don't think I worded my first post very well.? I am trying to install a new nano board. The v 4.3 sketch loads properly no errors when it compiles or loads. This board seems to be the identical physical replacement from the same manufacturer as the original nano from HF. But when installed and powered up I get only "ubitx v4.3" in the display. No other function or lines of display. I have tried 3 different nanos from the bunch I got on Amazon all the same result.? The original nano works ok for normal ssb operation but not with the digi board and is loaded from the same sketch file as the others.? A foto of the screen?is attached. Any ideas what I am doing wrong? Many thanks Gary
Sorry Gary. I misread your email.? Greetings i am pretty new here and I want to thank everyone in advance for their help.?
I am trying to sort out an issue with a digiboad that I had installed that worked for a while then quit. It had been suggested that I replace the nano board. I ordered some on Amazon. They are the kind where you solder the header pins in so they gave the right way.? The chip is marked 328p
I load the v 4.3 sketch on it and when you turn it on you get only "ubitx v4.3 in the display nothing else.? (Photo)
I have tried a couple of the nanos and get the same result.? I still have the original nano the radio works fine with it it just won't talk to the digi board.??
I am sure there is probably something I don't? understand about loading a sketch on a new nano board? But the sketch does load without error.??
Any help much appreciated
Gary
KC3KSC
|
#v6 connect ubitx V6 and Xiegu XPA125B
#v6
Has anyone any experience or comment to make of connecting the V6 to a Xiegu XPA125B amplifier. I think there should be no problem but I would like to consult them if anyone has any comments on this. Also know if you can control the output power to the V6 from any menu on the radio. Because what I have read this is not possible. Thank you and 73
|
Sorry Gary. I misread your email. Ignore my comments.?
Hi Gary, I flashed a spare Nano or tried to using the IDE Software with verbose ticked for the Upload option. It kept failing with a? can't sync 500 error. I found I had to select the OLD BOOTLOADER option under Tools. After that I was able to flash the Nano with one of the Ubitx Software version Sketches. Or did your flashing process terminate correctly. Arduino's can be a bit difficult so don't give up.
On Fri, 13 Nov 2020, 8:03 am Gary Rindfuss, < rindfussg@...> wrote: Greetings i am pretty new here and I want to thank everyone in advance for their help.?
I am trying to sort out an issue with a digiboad that I had installed that worked for a while then quit. It had been suggested that I replace the nano board. I ordered some on Amazon. They are the kind where you solder the header pins in so they gave the right way.? The chip is marked 328p
I load the v 4.3 sketch on it and when you turn it on you get only "ubitx v4.3 in the display nothing else.? (Photo)
I have tried a couple of the nanos and get the same result.? I still have the original nano the radio works fine with it it just won't talk to the digi board.??
I am sure there is probably something I don't? understand about loading a sketch on a new nano board? But the sketch does load without error.??
Any help much appreciated
Gary
KC3KSC
|
Hi Gary, I flashed a spare Nano or tried to using the IDE Software with verbose ticked for the Upload option. It kept failing with a? can't sync 500 error. I found I had to select the OLD BOOTLOADER option under Tools. After that I was able to flash the Nano with one of the Ubitx Software version Sketches. Or did your flashing process terminate correctly. Arduino's can be a bit difficult so don't give up.
On Fri, 13 Nov 2020, 8:03 am Gary Rindfuss, < rindfussg@...> wrote: Greetings i am pretty new here and I want to thank everyone in advance for their help.?
I am trying to sort out an issue with a digiboad that I had installed that worked for a while then quit. It had been suggested that I replace the nano board. I ordered some on Amazon. They are the kind where you solder the header pins in so they gave the right way.? The chip is marked 328p
I load the v 4.3 sketch on it and when you turn it on you get only "ubitx v4.3 in the display nothing else.? (Photo)
I have tried a couple of the nanos and get the same result.? I still have the original nano the radio works fine with it it just won't talk to the digi board.??
I am sure there is probably something I don't? understand about loading a sketch on a new nano board? But the sketch does load without error.??
Any help much appreciated
Gary
KC3KSC
|
Greetings i am pretty new here and I want to thank everyone in advance for their help.?
I am trying to sort out an issue with a digiboad that I had installed that worked for a while then quit. It had been suggested that I replace the nano board. I ordered some on Amazon. They are the kind where you solder the header pins in so they gave the right way.? The chip is marked 328p
I load the v 4.3 sketch on it and when you turn it on you get only "ubitx v4.3 in the display nothing else.? (Photo)
I have tried a couple of the nanos and get the same result.? I still have the original nano the radio works fine with it it just won't talk to the digi board.??
I am sure there is probably something I don't? understand about loading a sketch on a new nano board? But the sketch does load without error.??
Any help much appreciated
Gary
KC3KSC
|
Kobus ZS6CHK
Gerard
Bob Lunsford
