Re: QSX radio feature requests
Being mindful of Hans statement in the QSX preliminary info thread.
I read that as:- LEAVE ME TO IT.....
Now even before the first Kit ships.... Perhaps we should at
least just see what the final specification is actually stated to
be?
Perhaps limit ourselves initially to Brain storming & Feature
request only for topics that CANNOT be otherwise solved by other
means ?
LF/ MF, VHF and beyond use. Chances are transverter designs exist,
suitable products are available cheaply off ebay's shelves that will
satisfy most and a "standard" 10 Band HF QSX will make a
potential exciter.
Exotic user interfaces and specific controls, via CAT interface
The QRP Labs mantra is:-
???? Maximum
performance, for the least cost..
It's tempting to make the QSX? a swiss army knife of radio's
We all have our own wish list, how does yours fit as being a QRP
Labs product....
(When the Jr. techs are old enough we can get them interested in LF
and +VHF operation
and they can kit some deluxe transverters that will work with their
fathers QSX design.
It will not be many years.....)
The Summers family will go down in radio history.
Alan
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Re: QCX constantly transmitting dashes
Tom
You may need to use your dvm to relate schematic to the board. It may also confirm where a short may be. Look and check continuity carefully. I can't remember which project I experienced this, it happens.
Curt
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Re: QSX - 6 and 4 meters expansion?
Allan
Do read Hans message on his team efforts to enhance 10m performance,? really stretching the irf510 up to 28 MHz with attention to layout detail. It may have something on the higher bands, but more expensive PA devices might he needed. I sense the filters and Rx are more likely to ge supported. Now how many filters may fit into the relay board or degree of conservatism here. Note the ubitx only uses 4 LPFs, and I see debate on spurs and harmonics over there. With fewer they need to be more precisely tweaked. I imagine your wish is possible to some degree.
Curt
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One possible problem with an LF version of the QSX is that there is a
lower limit to frequencies where you can use the Si5351A to generate
quadrature signals. Hans previously reported that the lower frequency
limit for the method is about 3.2 MHz, which would appear to preclude
using it even on 160 meters, let alone the LF bands. It's possible he
found away to extend the range down by another factor of two, but that
certainly wouldn't work for LF. Or he may have designed a flip-flop
divider and quadrature generator into the QSX; that method would work
fine for 630 and 2200 meters.
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On Wed, Aug 22, 2018 at 6:32 AM, Chris Wilson <chris@...> wrote: Hello James,
2200 meters is a fascinating band and even us relatively lowly 2E0's
can run 1kW plus so long as ERP is at or below 1 Watt! To show what
can be achieved this is from last night's WSPR session where I heard
N1BUG in Maine USA here in north Shropshire. N1BUG and I both use U3S
for exciters, Paul usually uses a modded Softrock Lite for RX, and I
use either my TS-590, another Softrock Lite or my Red Pitaya. Last
night the RP did the honours. Antenna here for RX and TX is a big
horizontal quad loop with the corner feed ladderline strapped together
at ground level for LF, so the loop acts as a top hat. Home made
loading coil, home made matching transformer, and a home made band
pass filter into a broadband Ebay ?4 preamp then the RP.
For Tx I use the same antenna, a U3S with output taken direct from
CLK0 on the Si chip into a 1kW Class D home brew amp based on a W1VD
design. Paul N1BUG and I have regular contact on 2200m across the
ocean, and I easily get into all of Europe and as far as Asiatic
Russia and the Canary Islands. Heard and been heard by several US
stations on 2200m.
Many use an active mini whip or active loop for RX. I have tried an
active mini whip but got nowhere with it, others have great results.
Larger active loops seem also to work well G0LUJ runs a Kiwi Web SDR off
one and it hears well as you can see for yourself.
Paul from last night:
2018-08-22 03:44 N1BUG 0.137437 -34 0 FN55mf 1 2E0ILY IO82qv 4731 55
2018-08-22 03:50 N1BUG 0.137437 -32 0 FN55mf 1 2E0ILY IO82qv 4731 55
Weak but definitely there!
and at
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Hello to all.
Does anybody have any information as to how to build an antenna for these bands.?
I¡¯m assuming mag loops.?
Also I¡¯m looking very much forward to the new rig kit.
Congratulations to all that have an input to its design, testing and building.
Keep up the tremendous work.
It really is going to be a very exciting few months/years for us all.
Kindest. James 2E0MUA
--
2E0ILY
Best regards,
Chris mailto:chris@...
--
Best regards, Chris Wilson (2E0ILY)
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Re: QCX constantly transmitting dashes
A high resolution schematic is available on QRP Labs' site:?
A screen grab of the paddle jack and connections taken from the lower-right section of that image:
--Al
|
Hello James,
2200 meters is a fascinating band and even us relatively lowly 2E0's
can run 1kW plus so long as ERP is at or below 1 Watt! To show what
can be achieved this is from last night's WSPR session where I heard
N1BUG in Maine USA here in north Shropshire. N1BUG and I both use U3S
for exciters, Paul usually uses a modded Softrock Lite for RX, and I
use either my TS-590, another Softrock Lite or my Red Pitaya. Last
night the RP did the honours. Antenna here for RX and TX is a big
horizontal quad loop with the corner feed ladderline strapped together
at ground level for LF, so the loop acts as a top hat. Home made
loading coil, home made matching transformer, and a home made band
pass filter into a broadband Ebay ?4 preamp then the RP.
For Tx I use the same antenna, a U3S with output taken direct from
CLK0 on the Si chip into a 1kW Class D home brew amp based on a W1VD
design. Paul N1BUG and I have regular contact on 2200m across the
ocean, and I easily get into all of Europe and as far as Asiatic
Russia and the Canary Islands. Heard and been heard by several US
stations on 2200m.
Many use an active mini whip or active loop for RX. I have tried an
active mini whip but got nowhere with it, others have great results.
Larger active loops seem also to work well G0LUJ runs a Kiwi Web SDR off
one and it hears well as you can see for yourself.
Paul from last night:
2018-08-22 03:44 N1BUG 0.137437 -34 0 FN55mf 1 2E0ILY IO82qv 4731 55
2018-08-22 03:50 N1BUG 0.137437 -32 0 FN55mf 1 2E0ILY IO82qv 4731 55
Weak but definitely there!
and at
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
Hello to all.
Does anybody have any information as to how to build an antenna for these bands.?
I¡¯m assuming mag loops.?
Also I¡¯m looking very much forward to the new rig kit.
Congratulations to all that have an input to its design, testing and building.
Keep up the tremendous work.
It really is going to be a very exciting few months/years for us all.
Kindest. James 2E0MUA -- 2E0ILY Best regards, Chris mailto:chris@...
--
Best regards, Chris Wilson (2E0ILY)
|
Re: QCX constantly transmitting dashes
Tom, That's not good...
( This is now in addition to low tx power, & inoperative
in-built watt meter?? )
Assuming you have not got anything connected to the GPS header &
the plug on the end of any key plugged into the QCX is a stereo TRS
type
I don't think you are going to get any more information other than
what's in the build manual. schematic, and write up of theory of
operation.
Dot & Dash share the GPS interface pins and straight into IC2
MCU, but you need do your own fault-finding to prove it's NOT
something external to the MCU before you finally order !
It's almost* guaranteed not to cure the low power issue.....
report back on what you find
Alan
On 22/08/2018 01:11, Tom Gundlach
wrote:
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Need a schematic of dash wiring.
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Hi Tim,?
I just wondered if that was a limit imposed by circuitry or the highest intended frequency BPF. The U3S has a 'normal' upper limit of 10m, but I have squeezed mine to 70MHz.
Just thinking ahead...
Poor Hans, DC to Daylight please HiHi.
73 Ken G4APB
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Hi Ken,
As per
its currently 10m
regards
Tim
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On 22/08/2018 4:40 PM, KEN G4APB via Groups.Io wrote: So does anyone know what the expected upper frequency limit is?
--
VK2XAX : QF56 : ITU59 : CQ30
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So does anyone know what the expected upper frequency limit is?
73 Ken G4APB
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Hi Alan,
My use of the word "locking" is in error, suffice to say that the method to keep the LO on point by the U3S is probably sufficient for the the QSX should a module be created to do such a thing.
Alternatively a connector to use an external standard would also suffice. That external standard could also be a U3S ;)
Mind you, given that its predecessor, the QCX, already had an interface for GPS & timekeeping, I'd guess that facility would be found on the QSX too :)
regards
Tim
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On 22/08/2018 3:23 PM, Alan G4ZFQ wrote:
GPS locking of LO has already been solved in the U3S, maybe a similar plugin module can be done for the QSX. Tim,
QRPLabs does not lock the LO like a disciplined controller.
It regularly calibrates against GPS then steps the frequency if an error is detected.
I suspect this technique will not be adequate for really demanding applications.
However locking the 27MHz reference is not too difficult although it will increase the cost and size.
73 Alan G4ZFQ
--
VK2XAX : QF56 : ITU59 : CQ30
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GPS locking of LO has already been solved in the U3S, maybe a similar plugin module can be done for the QSX. Tim, QRPLabs does not lock the LO like a disciplined controller. It regularly calibrates against GPS then steps the frequency if an error is detected. I suspect this technique will not be adequate for really demanding applications. However locking the 27MHz reference is not too difficult although it will increase the cost and size. 73 Alan G4ZFQ
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Re: QSX feature request: Can it talk?
It's starting to look like an rPi (or similar) might be needed to implement these extra features while keeping it a standalone unit.
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Re: Computer controlled Oscilloscope - What do you suggest
#tool
My point was that most PC-based scopes have relatively low cutoff frequencies (e.g., 20MHz) but can cost over $100. My point is that, if you're going to buy a scope, consider going "all in" and get one that will cover all of your scope needs. The marginal cost isn't that great when you consider it will last for years.
Jack, W8TEE
On Tuesday, August 21, 2018, 5:23:47 PM EDT, TrueBlue <44-40@...> wrote:
On Mon, Aug 20, 2018 at 11:56 AM, jjpurdum wrote:
I have the Hantek DSO5202B and am very happy with it. It was recently on sale for $329
I got the Hantek DSO5202 P over a year ago for $284.05 (shipped) from CircuitSpecialists with a fabulous (?) free 10-unit set of Chinese pliers that look like they more or less work. What the difference is between these two 'scopes is I can't really tell, even with the minimally-useful aid of the Hantek page. As it turned out, aside from checking it out and calibrating it, I've never used it.? Not once.? Nor the pliers, come to that. But isn't the OP asking about a different type of USB-connected 'scope?
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Re: QSX feature request: Can it talk?
Nick
I think you are onto something good. I suggest that you specify the functionality needed for this role. Perhaps you or a small team can collaborate with Hans on the implementation. Perhaps interfacing it to a pc for this role might be workable.? yes I remember qsos with sight impaired hams back when I was a teen. Be patient as Hans is busy with family time per what I had read.
73 Curt
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Re: QSX feature request: Can it talk?
No need for social media,
The QSX "phones home" and Subliminal message "To buy more kits,
press the red button to purchase 4/6Mtrs" etc? :-)
Not surprising that something for visually impaired operators
exists, the picatune amu (and possibly picastar?) did morse ident
It's with Kees touch screen or I'll have to reply to the Nigerian
High Commissioner to take up his "Get Rich Quick"offer......
Alan
On 22/08/2018 01:28, Nick VK4PP wrote:
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HI All,
Yes there are already standalone devices:?
Given that the radio is SDR and a powerfull CPU, I dont imagine it
would take much to make this work, just need a voice library... or
Hans' voice in wavs...
73 Nick VK4PP
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Re: QCX 40 meter low power out
Hi Tom,
from your current consumption reading, It's inline with what to
expect from a working QCX
and if the readings from your other power meter are to be believed
2/3rds of the RF is not making it to the Ant jack....
I take it, nothing gets abnormally hot and Q1 > Q3 feel equally
warm after a period of keydown into a dummy load?
Spend 10 Sec with a DVM and test prod on BNC Ant socket centre, and
the other prod to make sure you have continuity on the pads C27
junction C29?
otherwise it's working through
(I Saw your other thread that DVM works but unable to measure RF
power with the in-built one, I don't know how you have everything
wired and if it's a portable / self contained project.
The RF sensor although on a different header pin uses the same input
pin of the MCU as the DVM/ Batt sensor.
You cannot have the Battery sensor hard wired and use the RF test
feature at the same time, may not be applicable in your build. But
just in-case....)
I don't think you ever gave any build details?
Is this a late serial number recently shipped kit, or one you have
being meaning to get around to?
Your Serial No# and/or PCB REV number,
If an older kit, have you have read the FAQ?
some of the components have substitutions or incorrect parts
(as your RX aligned OK, It's almost certain
it's not your issue. Somebody else may read this thread in the
future, so included?)
If an older kit, have you read the MOD's web page? ?
and carried out any applicable changes?
Was it an otherwise un-noteworthy build, that didn't raise any
queries, no other component failures?
Has it has shown the low TX power from the very start, or has it
initially worked OK at the expected O/P and it's reduced at a later
date?
Alan
On 21/08/2018 17:59, Tom Gundlach
wrote:
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Thanks Alan for your suggestions alignment went normal,
RX-119.3MA TX- .47A=470ma will continue with your suggestions.
73??? Tom??? KS5X
On 8/20/2018 4:29 AM, Alan de G1FXB
via Groups.Io wrote:
Hi Tom,
On 20/08/2018 11:20, Tom Gundlach
wrote:
Thanks Alan for your suggestions, I will run through the RX alignment
again.
Should be no need to repeat alignment,
just how did it "feel" when you did it initially?
If you thought to your self, is this as good as it gets
or if its a poor RX performer then that perhaps points to the
LPF stage having too much attenuation??
Exactly what voltage should the power supply be? I am using an old 12v
30A adjustable supply.
That's more than adequate,
If something unfortunate were to happen, 30A through the QCX
is going to do damage.
A fuse will help minimise damage beyond the initial failure.
How much power output? see should I get?
There is a table in the back of the
assembly manual that plots typical power out verses TRUE PA
voltage. if you are within 10 % then that's good enough in my
book.
Even 20% off, maybe more trouble than it's worth... It's
effort Verses "fractions of an S Point"
You state you have an adjustable 12v supply. If you tickle it
up to get 12V after the protection diode, The book says you
should achieve circa 3W
You reported in the order of 1W so you are only getting 33% to
the antenna socket....
I would take that as an indication that it should be better
Whats your current consumption?
A QCX on TX making it's full output is circa 450mA
If yours is similar, this will provide a clue that it's likely
the PA is making full output but it's not reaching the outside
world,
it's got to be going somewhere.
?
I am reading the power with an Autech Research WM1 Computing meter into
a dummy load.
Part of the suite of test equipment
included in the QCX purchase price was a built in watt meter.
See section 5.16 of the build manual
It doesn't claim to be anything other than a relative
indication, but it won't cost anything to compare what that
reads into the same dummy load......
It's probably the instrument that most people report their
units performance with, and other QCX40 owners can give you
their figures.
If you have not read the assembly manual & troubleshooting
page recently, perhaps re-read it.
Don't skip sections you think don't apply!!
It's an old time radio mystery, the clues are there,
they just need picking out!
Alan
Will let you know how things work-out.
73???? Tom KS5X
On 8/19/2018 4:10 PM, Alan de G1FXB via Groups.Io wrote:
Tom,
Unusual report for a QCX40.
Did the RX alignment go as per the book, and have good performance?
Perhaps double check soldering / component placement, especially
around the LPF
Check the continuity through the LP Filter windings, you need to check
pad to pad not just the wire tails.
(not removing the enamel sufficiently is common but should also effect
RX sensitivity.)
The QCX20 / 30 tend to be more finicky, however as a starter
Paragraph beginning "Finally if you really think your power output is
a lot lower than you expected"
Chances are you may need to remove one or more windings from the
cores, as a last resort substitute the capacitors in the LPF.
(If it was truly just the capacitors "at fault" You may need to add
turns back.....)
Report back what you find.
Alan
On 19/08/2018 22:34, Tom Gundlach wrote:
Into a dummy load only get 1 watt? Any suggestions on how to get 5
watts?
--
Have a GREAT Day
Tom KS5X@...
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Re: QSX feature request: Can it talk?
HI All,
Yes there are already standalone devices:?
Given that the radio is SDR and a powerfull CPU, I dont imagine it would take much to make this work, just need a voice library... or Hans' voice in wavs...
73 Nick VK4PP
|
QCX constantly transmitting dashes
Need a schematic of dash wiring.
--
Have a GREAT Day
Tom KS5X@...
---
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Re: QSX feature request: Can it talk?
Nick,
Even if it didn't make it into the native firmware.
The preliminary QSX spec states it is? to be CAT controllable.
So same solution as for touch screen control....
Is there anything stopping a stand-alone device interrogating the
QSX for it's basic settings for speech or Morse Code playback?
QSX specific commands maybe more difficult to acquire if the QSX
CAT support is via another common radios emulation??
If such a device doesn't already exist, I'm in for 30%
Do you guys have BBC world or your own version of "Dragons Den" ?
? :-)
Alan
On 22/08/2018 00:00, Nick VK4PP wrote:
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HI Hans,
I did email this through, but thought I'd see what others thoughts
are:
How about making it talk, mainly for assistance to visually
impaired operators. Just simple screen reader with manual PTT so
to speak?
I am working on a talking module for another kit radio for a white
stick operator.
73 Nick VK4PP
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Alan de G1FXB
Shirley Dulcey KE1L
jjpurdum
Nick VK4PP