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Does anybody know about the full functionality of the 6 pins on the back of the TX500. I realise that 2/3 pins on each pad are the +supply and ground, does anybody know about the other single pins in each pad? From looking at the information in the BP500 manual the radio displays three items of information, DC in, Battery charge level and Charge power. Clearly Battery charge level can be determined by the voltage being supplied on the 4 (2+2) power pins. The other two single pins i assume are either analogue (ADC inputs to the TX), my best guess or some digital com pins, less likely i feel. Before i start testing with probing high impedance voltages up the two pins to see that the TX displays i wanted to check if anybody else has looked at this side of the circuit, or traced any tracks on the reverse of the main pcb
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CW-500 Opinions
13
Hi everyone, I was contemplating buying the CW-500 key when it's in stock :) but before I place the order was looking to see if you would recommend buying it. I have the Begali traveler key which is great but I think the direct connection to the socket of the TX-500 would be nice, but I could be wrong. Does anyone in the group have one? Thanks in advance, David
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VOX Continuous with BM-17DDYN and custom adapter cable
6
Hello, I've created a custom adapter cable that connects the microphone on my Heil BM-17DDYN headset to PIN 2 (MIC IN) and PIN 6 (GND). The adapter also has a PTT switch which is wired to PIN 3 (PTT IN) and PIN 6 (GND). The headset speaker positive leads are tied together on PIN 4 (SPEAKER +) and the headset speaker ground is on PIN 1 (SPEAKER -). The headset, microphone and PTT switch all work as expected with VOX turned off. Monitoring my own audio, there does not appear to be any unexpected noise, hum, clicking, or anything else. However, with VOX enabled, the radio continuously goes in and out of transmit mode, even with no audio present. As soon as I press the VOX button, the radio switches into transmit, then switches out after the VOX delay, then immediately goes back into transmit. there is no combination of VOX Level and MIC gain that does not result in this behavior. VOX works properly with the factory microphone. The headset works properly in VOX mode using the Heil adapter cable on my KX2. Any idea what I've done wrong here? Thanks, Jonathan KN6LFB
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TX500 & PA500 for sale - with extras
2
Dear all, due to lack of time I want to sell my TX500 and my PA500, both are in a very good condition and have not been used much (hence the reason to sell it ;-) ) They both come with a protective shell (Nintendo Switch case) and all cables, etc. they were deliverd with. An HF cable to connect the two is also part of the set. If you take both devices together, I will add a DigiRig for free on top (also with all cables necessary) If you are interested, drop me a message and we can talk about it. I would be happy if it will sell here in teh "community", if not it will go out there on the platforms. 73 Markus, DO2MP
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Hello all, I am relatively new to amateur radio. I bought some cheap models to play around with. I intend to take the technician exam soon (practice exams seem to be fairly easy for me), but I ordered a TX-500 after doing a lot of reading. I'm looking for any recommendations for robust solutions for a power supply (hopefully relatively inexpensive). I know about the battery packs (3rd party and from Lab599), but before I spring for one of those, I want to just play around with the unit in the house and get more familiar with the controls, so just looking for a reasonably priced AC/DC power supply that will match the connector. On top of that, I've been looking at several different antennae. The one I think I want to get is the Chameleon MPAS Lite https://chameleonantenna.com/shop-here/ols/products/mpas-lite/v/CHA-MPAS-LITE-MICRO but before I spring for that, I was wondering if anyone could recommend possible a cheaper solution that might be suitable for backyard use (I am close to a large body of water). I know antenna and even ps depend on usage/context. Initially, I just want to play around with the unit locally outside, but eventually I want more robust equipment that can last outdoors in more remote environments. Thanks in advance!
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I have created a TX-500MP group to support the forthcoming "MP" model of the TX-500. I am asking all prospective members to restrict all postings to the group to subjects specifically only to the MP, and for subjects relating to the current TX-500 and more general discussions to continue to use and support the Lab599 group. Bob, G8IYK
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Those of you who are BP-500 users might like to consider the above to make the Pack more readily removable from the radio (perhaps for charging?). Accu is a UK supplier, but similar products seem to be universally available. Polished types are more readily available, but who wouldn't want black anodised stainless steel? More flush mounting types are also available, but the shoulder on this model (known as "High" Thumb Screws from this supplier) would seem to be important to enable it to clear the thickness of the battery cover. I don't have the BP-500 myself yet, so perhaps an owner could comment on how deep they think that shoulder needs to be? The image shows a 10mm thread length, but other lengths are available. Bob, G8IYK
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TX-500
Reading through the User Manual for the Discovery, I was slightly surprised to see that there is apparently no ground/earth lug. Easy enough to provide, of course, but intrigued why it didn't form part of the design? Bob, G8IYK
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Hi everyone, Here's some pictures that I took with my solar panel connected directly to the BP-500 without a charge controller. This is so cool!!! Notice the charge voltage at 29v. Connecting a solar panel directly to a radio with this much voltage would smoke the radio. Thanks LAB599 for building in a solar charge controller!!!!! David K9AT
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TX-500 with blank screen?
11
Just turned the radio on and i have a lit screen but its just white. Reloaded firmware successfully but no change. V/m plus power to reset does nothing. Anybody any ideas? Thanks
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Are any of you using the RadioSport headsets with the 500? My question will eventually be for use with the "MP" model when that becomes available, but I imagine the electrical requirements for both radios will be the same, even if different connectors are required. Bob, G8IYK
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Lab599 For Sale w/LDG Z100Plus and DigiRig
Hey all, I'm sure most of you own a Lab599, but if there is anyone who is lurking that doesn't own one OR if you guys know someone who is looking to purchase one, I am selling mine. Comes with all original accessories, a LDG Z100Plus Tuner, and DigiRig for digital modes. The TX500 is still under warranty (~6mos) and has only been used indoors. Asking $1100. Reason for selling: I'm looking to acquire a 100w rig and I thought I'd be doing POTA/SOTA but that's just not in my cards for the time being. Happy to meet over FaceTime or Zoom. My email is kf0gtr@... for questions. Thanks!
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I just tried the firmware update tool on Ubuntu 21.10 for the first time. Nothing shows in the COM port box, and if I click Update it gives the following error: Error:2 Could not open the serial port. the manual it says to download the latest drivers, but I only see two drivers, both for Windows. I can always use Windows, but I primarily use Ubuntu. Does anyone have a solution for this?
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Can anyone tell me what the turn around time is on service from Reno, NV?
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Lower Power on 10m
Hey all, When running FT8 on 10m, I'm only getting out on 8w instead of 10. My power is set to 100 on the radio and both my sound output & pwr meter in WSJT-X are set to 100%. My SWR is 1.7 on 10m. I would attribute it to SWR but on 15m, I'm able to get out on 10w with the same SWR reading. Has anyone run into this type of problem before? Thanks!
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IF DSP explanation
11
I operated Winter Field Day with a small group yesterday. The TX500 handled itself well. There was one issue that came up. I was operating 15m and another op was on 10m. I was clearly picking his signal up as if he were on 15m. This morning I did some testing with a signal generator and I could recreate the situation. I could clear it up by initiating the DIF function. I could clearly see the small spurs that I was picking up disappear when DIF is engaged. The only reference I can find in the manual is in the RECEIVER SETTINGS page. It describes IF DSP, which I am assuming I am assuming is the DIF setting. From reading it I take it that the receiver performs better with this function engaged. It states that if it is disabled the radio has soft reduced performance. Can anyone elaborate on this? Should I have DIF engaged all the time? Why be able to turn it OFF? Larry n0sa
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Lab 599 for youth
5
Our kids are learning CW. It¡¯s about time to get them on the air. Want to upgrade from our ancient ICOM radio. On paper the Lab 599 looks like a good option for our use: pre-teens using straight key. would like your thoughts on whether this is a good option and relatively plug and play. I¡¯m a general class operator but not much of a technician with computer stuff (and SDR). i would also like to tinker with the radio using some digital modes. thanks in advance.
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I was wondering if Lab 599 has changed the audio chip, the TDA7056at? There seems to be a pretty high failure rate and I am concerned because the chip is no longer produced. There was a reference to them maybe having changed to another chip. Is this correct? I am curious because it seems that getting it fixed and or getting a new chip may be an issue. Larry n0sa
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Question for CW ops
4
I have found the keyer on the TX500 a bit difficult to use. I am used to my KX2 with full QSK, and realize this is slower to switch between transmissions, but the keyer itself seems a bit laggy and I make keying mistakes. Is there an adjustment or have you just gotten accustomed to the keyer over time? Admittedly, I need more practice with the radio.
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New Firmware available: v1.20.03
3
There seems a new Firmware available but the changelog was not changed since the previous v1.20.02. But the file differs from the previous one. 73 Stephan
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Image Name
Sat 8:39am
Sat 8:39am