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On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 10:42 PM, Dirk wrote:

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you might have missed it with all the post coming in on this topic.

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I made a stupid mistake during the first measurement and the reset powers the relays off.

Only relay 1, which toggles the capacitances between antenna and transceiver side powers up.

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Thanks, Dirk! Yes--I missed it. That makes sense. If all those relays had been powered-up, my antenna, which features under 3:1 SWR w/o a tuner throughout the entirety of ham HF and even 6m frequencies, would've gone through the roof!

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Did you see the AT-100 EEPROM cells cheat sheet I posted a few posts back? /g/ATU100/attachment/2277/0/EEPROM-Cells%20Content-de_eng.pdf I think some of the codes don't work the way we thought they worked. The codes definitions are in the manual too:

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The one I don't understand is cell 09. Why would one wish to enable a check for maximum SWR, above which auto tuning will not occur? Maybe to preclude tuner and rig thrashing when forgetting to hook up one's antenna or forgetting to rotate the antenna coax switch correctly, resulting in a connection to an open or short to ground?

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73,

Cal (AD8Q)

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Hi,

Fix installation or portable too?

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73

If you have an oscilloscope, you can verify by measuring at the inputs of the PCM1804.? See this post I just made for another op:

Stan KC7XE

Could be either one.? You can measure which one with a signal generator and oscilloscope.? Use a signal generator that can put a sine wave into the antenna jack (around 3mVp-p to 10mVp-p), and an oscilloscope to measure at the inputs of the PCM1804.? For example, put a 14.100MHz 5mV sine wave in, tune your QMX to 14.100MHz in CW mode, and you should measure about a 50mV clean sine wave at each of the 4 differential inputs of the PCM1804 (there is a 10x gain through the op-amps just before the PCM1804).? If one of the differential pairs looks bad, then look back, likely to the trifilar transformer.? If they all look good, it is likely the PCM1804 that is bad.

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You can take this measurement at the PCM1804, pins 4 & 5 (inphase) and the corresponding 4th & 5th pins down on the other side of the chip (quadrature).? Alternately if it is easier, you can measure at the outputs of the op amps IC405 pins 1 & 7 (inphase) and IC406 pins 1 & 7 (quadrature).? If you have a 2-channel scope, you can measure inphase and quadrature at the same time and verify that they are 90 degrees offset.? But if you only have one channel, it is ok, because if they look like good sine waves at somewhere near the expected amplitude, they are likely also offset correctly (and you can see the offset in the diagnostic IQ scan test).

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Special note: Make sure that you unplug the paddle/key and/or put the QMX in practice mode before doing this measurement.? Because if you accidentally bump the key and transmit into your signal generator, it will likely destroy it.? Don't ask me how I know....

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Stan KC7XE

Hi Cal,

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you might have missed it with all the post coming in on this topic.

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I made a stupid mistake during the first measurement and the reset powers the relays off.

Only relay 1, which toggles the capacitances between antenna and transceiver side powers up.

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73

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DK7CVD

I neglected to do and also snapped a wire off T401, never before having seen ferrites with such sharp edges.?
As I spread the leads of the trifilar T401 toroid to mount it on the board, one of its leads broke off where a sharp edge on the ferrite had nicked it.?

I was lucky to successfully splice back the broken lead with solder and to secure it with a hemostat while soldering T401 onto the board.?

The manual and support are otherwise excellent.? This was my only mishap while building the QMX+.?
The radio lit up without a puff of smoke and is now on the air!

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Hi,

Got a QMX on the workbench, and pulled up the terminal emulator window to run diagnostics. I'm currently seeing a great yellow trace on the ADC/IQ sweep that looks normal, but a very very erratic red trace. Definitely not a sine wave and absolutely not 90 degrees out of phase. Is this looking synonymous with a PCM1804 failure, or T407? (the trifilar one) being wound wrong?

--

Daniel ZL2DTL/ZL4YOTA?

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Thank you, STAN
My QMX symptoms are:
 < loud noise and (nearly) no real signals when receiving >
seem to be very similar.
I'm starting to suspect PCM1804.

I also carefully checked L401a/b and T401 along with the surrounding capacitors. But I'll check it again.

and I would like to post images using PuTTY soon.

Thank you very much.
Mitsu JK1PDR

I was wrong. ?It was operator error. :(

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The .zip file is okay too, Sardar. It contains only the original "legacy" .hex file in it, if the correct branch is downloaded! I don't know why github retired the old "git" utility in favor of gh. gh has had security key validity problems during updates over the last few months too.

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I was accidentally cloning the main branch and so not comparing the contents of the version1.1-beta branch zip file. Just FYI for folks, here is the (correct) command line to clone only version1.1-beta:

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$ gh repo clone AC8L/QMX_Plus_Autotuner_Internal_Battery_Speaker -- -b version1.1-beta --single-branch

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gh is picky about syntax and I'm very pleased that I figured this out (I hope) so I'll have the correct fileset!

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73,

Cal (AD8Q)

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On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 06:30 PM, Cal (AD8Q) wrote:

Hi,

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I have previously built a 50W PA for 40m that has been great. I would like to build another to use with my mid-band QMX with 17m. The 50W PA comes with components for 80, 40, 30, or 20m, but the manual says suitable components can be used to build the low pass filter for other bands. According to the 50W PA manual, the difference between the components supplied with the 50W PA and the regular QRP Labs LPF are: 1) the powdered iron toroids (3X T50-6 are supplied with the PA) and 2) NP0/C0G capacitors with a higher voltage rating.

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For the capacitors, I have found this kit that includes the same values specified in the QRP Labs LPF manual for 17m (100 and 270pf):

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For the toroids, I used this calculator to determine the number of turns for a T50-6 with 0.6mm magnet wire to be 12 for 548nH and 13 for 668nH to match the inductance values in the QRP Labs LPF manual for 17m:

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Before I purchase parts and do the build, I just wanted to ask if anyone else has successfully done the same already and if there is anything that I am overlooking. I have built several kits successfully, but this would be my first build where I am not just strictly following what is in the manual.

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Thanks,

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Jared

N7MAW

On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 05:54 PM, <me@...> wrote:

Just file was renamed.

I found the problem, Sardar. There are two ATU .hex files in version1.1-beta and they are different (as reported by my "diff" check). This one is up to date:

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However, there's also a .hex file in the .zip file here, which is the one I first grabbed, and it does not have the QRP configuration in it:

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73,

Cal (AD8Q)

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On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 07:37 PM, Cal (AD8Q) wrote:

Will the special markings be on the back of the front panel? I'm fine with looking at your AC8L mark on the front of the panel (you deserve it! :) ) but I think JLC...needs to be on the back side and not visible during normal operations of the rig.

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Yes, that was the entire point of making those markings so the JLCPCB order number if forced to be printed on the back of the PCB. And avoid an additional cost by rejecting the order number imprints.

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73,
Sardar (AC8L, 4K6SA, VA3DUA).

Hi Pedro,

There may be two issues here; we'll be lucky if it is just one.

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First we will examine the transmit circuits:? your LPF sweep failure and you 'T' failure in diagnostics point to a problem in the transmit circuitry.? This could be an issue with T501, the LPF toroids or diodes, or with T507.? Yes, I know - that's most of all the transmit stuff you installed.? All of these need checked for good solder joints, proper installation, etc.? But to give a focus point, I'm thinking that since it locks up the processor, a likely culprit could be T507, with a short between the 1-turn primary and the 10-turn secondary on the side that goes to the BNC pin.? Or anything messed up with this transformer.? Until we get it so it won't lock up the processor, and can give us an LPF scan, we won't be able to narrow it down further without using a signal injector and oscilloscope.

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Second, the receive circuits.? The first note is that if the T507 problem is there, it could possibly cause many of the receive problems, so it is best to make sure that is working first.? For the receive circuits, it could be T401 or L401, or perhaps the PCM1804 chip. ?

To check L401, first use the A,B,C,D,E test points on pg 42 of the assembly manual, step 8 as described there. ?(These are in the section for the high-band version of QMX, but apply also for the mid-band version).
To check T401 (trifilar), use the ABC test points on pg 49 of the assembly manual. ?Review all of this section on the build. ?Note that the continuity tests can't test if you reversed any of the paired wires - you would have to unsolder one side of it to do that. ?A on one side needs to match with A of the other side, the same with B and C.

For the PCM1804 chip, see this wiki post: /g/QRPLabs/wiki/37111

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This all seems daunting, but hang in there - hopefully there is just one or two minor issues causing all of this.

Stan KC7XE

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On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 07:37 PM, Cal (AD8Q) wrote:

I'm wagering that the minor changes in the ATU board and the slightly more significant changes in the ATU Connector board are unlikely to cause any problems. Do you feel the same?

No, I do not think those minor changes should trigger any issues. I would panic let's say, if I had to move around either ATU or J1 connector. Not today though :)

I'm still willing to donate my time and efforts, but the costs need to be shared among all buyers and I need to see if enough builders are willing to share the relatively small amount of money the unused bare PCBs cost me first on the first minimum trial order! I'm not making any money on this project so, essentially, a few development related costs need to be shared for me to continue.

What has changed in the FW? diff reports a small change in the latest github version1.1-beta from the last version that was in version2-beta. Filenames and differing file contents are highlight color coded here:

diff /home/calinb/Documents/ham_radio/QRP_Labs/AC8L/QMX+_1938_EXT_board_V2_sources_V_3.2_0x31_eq_10_fw.hex '/home/calinb/Documents/ham_radio/QRP_Labs/AC8L/QMX_Plus_Autotuner_Internal_Battery_Speaker/ATU-100_Custom_Firmware/atu_100_fw_3.2_QMX+.hex'?
2101c2101
< :10E00000780000000000150013000100400001002E
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> :10E00000780000000000150013000500000001006A

Just file was renamed.

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73,
Sardar (AC8L, 4K6SA, VA3DUA).

For L401, use the A,B,C,D,E test points on pg 42 of the assembly manual, step 8 as described there.? (These are in the section for the high-band version of QMX, but apply also for the mid-band version).

For T401 (trifilar), use the ABC test points on pg 49 of the assembly manual.? Review all of this section on the build.? Note that the continuity tests can't test if you reversed any of the paired wires - you would have to unsolder one side of it to do that.? A on one side needs to match with A of the other side, the same with B and C.

Stan KC7XE

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The most common receive/audio path issues from kit assembly, that are independent of transmit, are:

1) T401 - the trifilar transformer.? Make sure you matched the pairs properly, and all of the solder connections are good - sometimes the insulation doesn't get completely burned from the wires.

2) L401a/b - the receive filter transformers.? Same checks as above.

3) In some cases the PCM1804 chip has failed, cause unknown, but perhaps due to handling/ESD during assembly.? See /g/QRPLabs/wiki/37111

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It may be helpful to post screenshots of the "RF filter sweep", the "Image sweep", and the "Test ADC I/Q" tests, which may help narrow down the problem.? They are done on a per-band basis, just do one band that you are having the problem on.? Compare them to the Operations manual examples.

Stan KC7XE

On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 02:50 PM, <me@...> wrote:

On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 03:46 PM, Cal (AD8Q) wrote:

Just to double-check, I can use the files here to order all boards and I'll have the Companion board updates up to and including the 3mm holes to be used for PCB clamping pressure, the ATU Mounting Board JP302 pin 4 fix, and the non-IP-infringing panels, right?

Cal,

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Yes. That version1.1-beta branch has all the latest fixed fabrication files and firmware.

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Thanks for the confirmation Sardar!

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I have three sets of boards that I purchased that I need to recover, expense-wise. Only the ATU boards are somewhat expensive and the only thing changed is they have no power supply components, which is not significant in terms of function. (I could even lift the leg on the three older boards to slightly reduce power.

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On the other hand, the cost of the three other boards in the set could be amortized over the cost of the large order of ~25 board sets, but I also think at least the Companion board needs to be run in quantity=5 right now, due to all the several changes to it. I'd still like to order tonight to lean of any new Companion board issues before the Black Friday purchase. I'm wagering that the minor changes in the ATU board and the slightly more significant changes in the ATU Connector board are unlikely to cause any problems. Do you feel the same?

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I think I will upload the files and get a quote from JCLPCB so I can write an email to everyone on my list with a worst case price (tonight's price, vs. an uncertain future Black Friday discounted price.) For just myself, I would just rework my Companion board with 28 AWG blue wire on the high current traces to greatly reduce the voltage drop of the .5mm traces and I'd be happy with what I have, at least for now, but I promised that I'd donate my efforts to the group to provide PCBs and programmed PIC and ATmega chips. I'm still willing to donate my time and efforts, but the costs need to be shared among all buyers and I need to see if enough builders are willing to share the relatively small amount of money the unused bare PCBs cost me first on the first minimum trial order! I'm not making any money on this project so, essentially, a few development related costs need to be shared for me to continue.

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The way things have worked out, we have been making such rapid progress with just your, Dirk's and my hardware that we will not need a public first run so everyone in the "buy" can share my final costs equally. I do think Black Friday is a worthwhile and do-able target date, due to the potential for discounts!

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What has changed in the FW? diff reports a small change in the latest github version1.1-beta from the last version that was in version2-beta. Filenames and differing file contents are highlight color coded here:

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diff /home/calinb/Documents/ham_radio/QRP_Labs/AC8L/QMX+_1938_EXT_board_V2_sources_V_3.2_0x31_eq_10_fw.hex '/home/calinb/Documents/ham_radio/QRP_Labs/AC8L/QMX_Plus_Autotuner_Internal_Battery_Speaker/ATU-100_Custom_Firmware/atu_100_fw_3.2_QMX+.hex'?
2101c2101
< :10E00000780000000000150013000100400001002E
---
> :10E00000780000000000150013000500000001006A

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- Latest version of a companion board V1.2 committed to version1.1-beta branch also has those two M3 holes I have added last. You can monitor it at JLCPCB Gerber viewer when you submit orders.

- Latest revision of ATU Mounting board v1.2 (new!). Besides JP302 pin4 fix (in ver 1.1) you would appreciate that +5V is delivered to the ATU with a 1mm thick track versus 0.2 mm (hard lesson learned). And!!! I have connected an ATU bypass button to the J1 pin4 (and labeled it of course). This along with new companion board would allow future bypass button mangling in Arduino code without a soldering iron.

- Front panel PCB's. I personally really love the SMD version. Less soldering and its LED reminds me double deck Sharp 777 I had as a teenager :)?

- ATU low power firmware.

- Arduino sketch did not change.

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The reasons that branch is in beta is mainly because new versions of PCB's are not ordered and tested (yet). BOM, assembly instructions and links from readme file will need to be fixed.

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So, summary - you can go ahead and order ATU mount PCB, Companion PCB and chosen front panel from branch version1.1-beta.

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I think I need to order five Companion PCBs to be comfortable but I'd like to wait and order the ~25 ATU Mount, panel, and ATU PCBs on Black Friday--all together. They have had (minor) changes too, which still makes me a little nervous but buyers will be informed that they are not fully proven, but really, what ever is?

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New adjustment for the JLCPCB ordering process. In the menu option "Mark on PCB" (for ALL PCB's!) please select "Order Number(Specify Position"). This would automatically place JLCPCB order number to a place I have marked using special series of characters (JLC...). This an absolutely critical for front panels, but I have done it for all the PCB's and will continue doing so in the future.

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Will the special markings be on the back of the front panel? I'm fine with looking at your AC8L mark on the front of the panel (you deserve it! :) ) but I think JLC...needs to be on the back side and not visible during normal operations of the rig.

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BTU, Sardar.

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Cal (AD8Q)

Can you give me a quick continuity test list? I checked them all before assembly, but may have missed one because my test list was incorrect.?

On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 05:41 PM, Nick Garrod wrote:

An even simpler solution would be to use a 4.3V zener diode in series with the fan and run from the 9V supply.

Simpler still would be a resistor......

73, Don N2VGU