|
Hi! More work following the path that Ashhar suggested. I have also bought an older Icom 810H that has full duplex VHF/UHF. I'm doing initial experiments on Windows PC, but I have already demonstrated full Doppler shift control of sBitx acting as the 10m transceiver to a transverter, so this can all move to the sBitx.... GPREDICT re-installed due to better location, tracking any satellite I like. Does all the trig and doppler MATH RIGCTLD - previously studied and working; receives tcp/ip commands from GPREDIT to do doppler shift adjustments of sBitx or Icom radio Today: ROTCTLD -- figured out how to run this on a windows machine. Receives trig output of GPREDICT. Converts (in this case) to Yaesu type rotator commands for Az/ elevation and sends out serial port (in my case, COM4, 9600 baud) K3NG Rotator Controller -- I havent made a board for this yet. So I took one of my homebrew WINKEYER ARDUINO simulators, and reprogrammed it using K3NG code to "act like" the controller, handling Az, El controls, reading the CW speed control as if it were an azimuth potentiometer; running the display and activating the "key" and "PTT" to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The reprogramming of my Winkeyer Arduino appeard to be a huge success. I properly set the pins to run the display, which worked FINE. It was reading the speed pot as an azimuth reading, and if I pushed "buttons" it would read different elevations. ROTCLD happily connected to it at 9600 baud, and the "rotator controller" accepted commands and displayed them. I was not able on the first test to monitor whether it activated simulated motor controls (key output, etc) -- but that will come. So huge success here and soon (days, weeks?) I should be able to lay out a board (many others have done so before me, but some just did crazy wiring between variuous "shields") to put all this in a neat little package with relay outputs, possibly with PWM output (dunno)., to control available rotators for real. 73 Gordon KX4Z
|
|
Waiting for the Zbitx to start... after update
Hi! I updated the PI from the command line as the videos and manual from Hfsignals. on the next boot it hangs on the start up. It does not start in the external monitor, but I can use the PI. it is connected to wifi, and got the BT running with my BT keyboard. Local time did not update after connecting to wifi this is what shows up in the command line, then I try to update the zbitx and get all this text USER PID ACCESS COMMAND /dev/snd/controlC0: root 308 f.... (root)alsactl pi 629 F.... (pi)lxpanel /dev/snd/controlC0: root 308 f.... (root)alsactl pi 629 F.... (pi)lxpanel pi@sbitx:~/sbitx $ ^C pi@sbitx:~/sbitx $ ./update sbitx >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mon 14 Apr 13:38:31 MST 2025 Already up to date. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mon 14 Apr 13:38:39 MST 2025 database is intact compiling sbitx version in /home/pi/sbitx vfo.c:13:24: error: 'MAX_PHASE_COUNT' undeclared here (not in a function) static int phase_table[MAX_PHASE_COUNT]; ^~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ vfo.c:23:23: warning: 'struct vfo' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration void vfo_start(struct vfo *v, int frequency_hz, int start_phase){ ^~~ vfo.c: In function 'vfo_start': vfo.c:24:3: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct vfo' v->phase_increment = (frequency_hz * 65536) / sampling_freq; ^~ vfo.c: At top level: vfo.c:29:21: warning: 'struct vfo' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration int vfo_read(struct vfo *v){ ^~~ vfo.c: In function 'vfo_read': vfo.c:31:7: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct vfo' if (v->phase < 16384) ^~ fft_filter.c: In function 'filter_new': fft_filter.c:185:35: error: invalid application of 'sizeof' to incomplete type 'struct filter' struct filter *f = malloc(sizeof(struct filter)); ^~~~~~ fft_filter.c:186:3: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct filter' f->L = input_length; ^~ queue.c:11:21: warning: 'struct Queue' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration void q_empty(struct Queue *p){ ^~~~~ queue.c: In function 'q_empty': queue.c:12:4: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct Queue' p->head = 0; ^~ queue.c: At top level: queue.c:19:20: warning: 'struct Queue' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration void q_init(struct Queue *p, int length){ ^~~~~ queue.c: In function 'q_init': queue.c:25:3: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct Queue' p->max_q = length; ^~ queue.c:28:10: warning: passing argument 1 of 'q_empty' from incompatible pointer type [-Wincompatible-pointer-types] q_empty(p); ^ queue.c:11:28: note: expected 'struct Queue *' but argument is of type 'struct Queue *' void q_empty(struct Queue *p){ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~^ queue.c: At top level: queue.c:31:21: warning: 'struct Queue' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration int q_length(struct Queue *p){ ^~~~~ queue.c: In function 'q_length': queue.c:32:9: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct Queue' if ( p->head >= p->tail) ^~ queue.c: At top level: queue.c:38:20: warning: 'struct Queue' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration int q_write(struct Queue *p, int32_t w){ ^~~~~ queue.c: In function 'q_write': queue.c:40:8: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct Queue' if (p->head + 1 == p->tail || p->tail == 0 && p->head == p->max_q-1){ ^~ queue.c: At top level: queue.c:52:23: warning: 'struct Queue' declared inside parameter list will not be visible outside of this definition or declaration int32_t q_read(struct Queue *p){ ^~~~~ queue.c: In function 'q_read': queue.c:55:8: error: dereferencing pointer to incomplete type 'struct Queue' if (p->tail == p->head){ ^~ logbook.c: In function 'logbook_count_dup': logbook.c:130:20: warning: implicit declaration of function 'time_sbitx'; did you mean 'timer_settime'? [-Wimplicit-function-declarati
|
|
ZBitx Bluetooth ?
16
Hello everyone, I understand that the zBitx has Bluetooth onboard the Raspberry Pi. Is there a way I can set up my Bluetooth keyboard with a track mouse to the Raspberry Pi on the zBitx? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks Everyone, Robert, AG6LK
|
|
I tested transmitting from my new zBit into a tinySA with 50 dB of attenuators in between. First the good news, the 2nd and 3rd harmonics seem ok (43 dBc down or more). But I also see spurs at carrier +-2 MHz, and a 2 MHz, that seem to be a higher level than 43 dB below carrier. These 2 MHz sideband spurs were still visible when testing output on multiple other bands, from 40M to 12M. I don't see such 2 MHz spurs when testing my other transceivers, so they don't seem to be from the tinySA. Wierd measurement error? Or is my zBitx bad? Or could this be a hardware design or software issue. Or inter-mod from one of the digital circuit clocks or IO or display, requiring more shielding. I also hear noise on the audio, even with no antenna connected, pulsing at about 3 or 4 Hz. Ideas? Potential solutions? Thanks and 73, Ron, n6ywu
|
|
Fixed: cw latency and wsjtx/flidigi sidetone
27
I have a minor update to make zbitx work with wsjtx/fldigi/etc and fixed cw latency. You have to update just the raspberry zero. From a terminal window, type this: cd ~/sbitx ./update sbitx this should do it
|
|
After my first successful FT8 QSOs with the zBitx, I switched it off. When I later switched it on again in FT8 mode, I was surprised, that I did not have any FT8 decodes, although I could clearly hear and see the FT8 signals. Connecting a monitor showed, that the time was off, i.e. the real time clock obviously does not work. I opened my zBitx (very nice concept of 3D printed parts for the case!) and took a picture of the mainboard: There is a 2 pin connector next to the RTC DS3231, which I guess is J7 from the schematics. Most probably this should be connected to a battery, but there is none!? Has this been an oversight during assembly and if yes, will a CMOS BIOS backup battery work? -- 73, Joerg - DB2OO
|
|
Zbitx mic/pTT wiring
Hello! I have a Yaesu SM17a pTT that I want to use and make a adapter for the zbitx. the Yaesu wiring is GND > mic/pTT > clone > spk => How should I wire the adapter? thanks in advance!
|
|
CW on zbitx
51
I have fixed the two issues of zbitx on CW. The new update has good keying with Iambic keyer and the cw decode noise is now gone as well. To get this update, you have to: 1. Flash the new firmware (the firmware version is now 1.06). The firmware is available from https://github.com/afarhan/zbitxfrontpanel/raw/refs/heads/main/zbitx_front_panel_sw.ino.uf2 2. Update the new software on the raspberry pi, the latest version with the CW keyng fixed is 3.051 (or later). Here is Jose, VU2JOS sending CW with the new firmware update. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEVyuFrkBd8 With this, I hope we have moved on with CW issues. - f
|
|
Hello, My sBitx v3 has killed next final MOSFET. Again, as previously, only one was dead: However, this time the failure wasn't caused by overheating (the fan was cooling the heatsink and its temperature was ca 30 C) but by SWR. I was operating my device remotely via WiFi in FT8 mode, and my ATU got crazy. Unfortunately, I could only see the increase of SWR on my laptop, and the connection got broken. I couldn't cease the transmission immediately. When I reached the sBitx, it already showed the output power 0W. Well, when replacing them, I have exchanged the mica insulators with AlN ones. Let's see how long is it going to survive now. BTW. Is it possible to replace IRF510 with other MOSFETs (maybe more expensive, but offering higher maximum voltage and better power at 28 MHz)? 73, Wojtek SP5DAA
|
|
Should I start with uBITX, sBITX or zBITX?
12
I do not have a BITX yet, but have been closely following the discussions on the group. My experience in homebrewing was a few decades back, of a VU2VWN QRP with BD 139 final and a 3 x 807 vacuum tube TX running about 120W DC input. That means I have not meddled with any radio circuit for the past few decades. Which one should I start with: uBITX, sBITX or zBITX? As of now, I have no option for portable operations. Only a fan dipole for 40-10m and a dipole for 80m. Hoping to receive your valuable suggestions. 73 Jon, VU2JO
|
|
sBITX V4
10
Will the V4 still have the PI-4 or will it be like the zBITX with a pico? Ron
|
|
Submitted suggestion form to Gigaparts (US) to stock zbitx 4/11/2025
4
I rejoined bitx20 after learning of zbitx project/product, it is very interesting to me. I built 2 home-brew bitx radios about 8 years ago with integrated 902 MHz transverter, but my choice of LO was very bad, so best DX was ~200 meters! 11 April 2025, I submitted form to US distributor "gigaparts", who already sell ubitx version, asking them to carry new zbitx (kit or assembled, either OK.) It will be easier in US to buy zbitx from US distributor, as special customs treatment of small orders ("de minimus") in US is stated to end 02 May 2025, after that day it is uncertain, difficult or expensive (or all) for individual small-order user direct import. Thank you.
|
|
Purchase question for NA and Canada
16
Hi and ‘73. I searched and could not find this question covered so I would like to post it please. I’d like to purchase the kit version of the sBitx. Just the tested board. I have all the other components. However, I cannot use DHL as DHL has exorbitance additional prices and extra charges for Canadians. It’s absolutely ridiculous. It would cost me another $150 to get it into Canada. I would really appreciate if someone could direct me to another purchase solution for the sBitx board kit. Thank you very much. Gabe VE3SLJ.
|
|
Zbitx FT8 - Some wishes and Observations
4
I have been doing a fair amount of playing with the Zbitx. FT8- Is there a way to clear the screen area where the decodes are displayed? With so many decodes it can be difficult to sort through them. How about a button to turn off/on waterfall? WSJT-X: I have made contacts in FT8 In the settings, cat test did not work, however when actually running the software it controls the zbitx fine. Rig Rx Band control works fine Tx enable works and tune also. Remote mode:, A method to turn off the zbitx screen from the remote.. It might help reduce the the processing load? Screen timeout? I leave my zbitx running for days. Would be great if a timer could be in the settings to blank screen. Maybe just touching the screen would turn it back on. TX: When the radio goes from rx to tx I here noise thru speaker just before tx actually is on Maybe just a split second in timing to silence rx before tx goes on? Just a thought of a few things. I am very pleased so far and know there are plenty of things to add and or polish up, but overall a great first run so far. Thanks ! Joe VE1BWV
|
|
Display discrepancy of Copied FT8 station
I observed a small discrepancy between copied FT8 station displayed on the Webpage and between the Front panel display. Has anyone observed it yet. w.r.t zBITX regards Charudatt – de VU2UPX
|
|
sBitx End of transmission time to start receiving again
5
#ssb
#sBitx
#sBITX_v3
i thought I had seen this on here but I am not sure how to search for it. In ssb mode when I end a transmission it seems like a long time before I can starting hearing the received signal again. Some times I miss as many as 4-5 words from the person replying to my transmission. Any ideas here? Jeff Darby
|
|
is it possible to build zBitx firmware on Mac OS x?
3
If so..how? Thanks! Mark
|
|
Hi all, A while back at a hamfest I picked up a mystery radio being sold by a guy selling items from an SK's estate. He didn't know what it was at all, so I got a good price on it. Bringing it home, I found out that it's a BitX40 v3. The builder didn't label any of the buttons or knobs on the radio, so I had to figure those out myself. Got it all sorted out except for one switch that goes to another smaller board under the main PC board, but that'll be a question for another time. There apparently have been multiple mods done by the original builder to the radio, but so far I haven't been able to reverse engineer what's been done to it. It does work great and has great receive audio as well as good transmit audio. Right now, the things I want to figure out is how much power output the radio should have. All other Bitx's I've had are 10W output, but this one seems to only be 5W with one IRF510 final. If 5W is what I can expect out of this radio, then fine. I was making contacts on a net last night. The radio was built without having a hookup for a CW key. I'd like to install a CW jack so I can operate CW with it. I did find a schematic but can't seem to find where to hook up a key to the circuit. Any help appreciated. -- Tom Sevart N2UHC -- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. www.avast.com
|
|
Can we someday have change logs for the zBitX firmware and screen updates?
3
The title really says it all. I know you guys are really busy, but sometime there's a lull, maybe start posting some kind of change log update documents for the new and wonderful firmware you're cranking out? I'm really in awe of your ability to do all that. It's been years since I did any sort of coding, and most of what I know now is obsolete. So I'm always glad to see the change logs, because then I know how much is changing and how fast. 73, Gwen, NG3P
|
|
#zbitx I would really like a formal way to shut down the software gracefully
25
#zbitx
I get a little nervous pulling power on a running Linux computer. Probably 9 times out of 10, no issues, but the ONE time....well, a corrupt SD card doesn't sound like fun. The Raspberry Pi Pico running the display can probably deal with things well, my concern is the other CPU. I would feel tons better if there ws a formal shutdown item to click on....any thoughts? Cheers Jim K8JK
|
Image Name
Sat 8:39am
Sat 8:39am