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Hi all SSB firmware was released into beta on 17-Mar-2025 after 9+ months of development. Many thanks to everyone who bravely helped test it and patiently provided their feedback and observations. There are now quite a few YouTube videos, forum reports and other social media mentions about on-air successes with QMX SSB. Now that it has been at least 6 weeks in beta and I believe most of the issues have been resolved, it's time to promote it to an official version. I have called this version 1_02_000 and published it on the QMX page http://qrp-labs.com/qmx where I have also published the updated operating manual, which grew from 111 pages to 134 pages. The main changes are: SSB (obviously!) including CESSB, TX Equalization, Mic AGC, VOX, Pre-distortion and and and... Addition of up to two more USB Virtual COM serial ports (up to three total). All of the hardware tests such as RF and SWR sweep, and Diagnostics, are now available on the LCD too. New CAT commands for LCD contents, S-meter, AGC-meter, Power meter, SWR meter, SSB source Complete list (relative to 1_00_027 the previous official version): SSB modes added (USB and LCB), with CESSB, TX Equalization, Mic AGC, VOX, Phase pre-distortion and more Rationalization of menus, grouped into CW, Digi and SSB submenus (now Keyer and Decoder are submenus of CW) Added up to two more USB Virtual COM serial ports (configurable) LCD versions of AF, RF, Image, LPF, Test ADC I/Q sweeps (miniature graph on LCD) New function PA mod. test to check operation of amplitude modulator Diagnostics screens are now available on the LCD interface too Now remembers previous menu location on ALL menus regardless of nesting level Add way of forcing factory reset, press Menu (left) button during power-up Change TX color in diagnostics screen from red to blue, to avoid confusion since red things are errors Added CAT LC command to retrieve LCD contents Added CAT commands SA (AGC meter), SM (S meter), PC (Power meter), SW (SWR meter) Added CAT command SS (get/set SSB input source) Bug fix: PTT P did not work properly Bug fix: Incorrect PA voltage display on the Diagnostics screen 73 Hans G0UPL http://qrp-labs.com https://www.buymeacoffee.com/g0upl
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QMX+ CW Setup
I'm trying to listen to CW on my QMX. 1.02 firmware installed. In CW mode I mostly get noise. If I switch to any of the other modes I can hear CW well, though sometimes more than one station at at time. I get that the CW filter is supposed to be narrower, but I hear a station in USB mode, switch to CW, then tune around in 100 Hz or even 10 Hz steps and can't find anything. I even tried enabling the 500 Hz filter, but still all I hear in CW mode is noise. It sounds like water rushing in a tunnel. If I set CW passband to NONE it's just like in USB mode, which is not a surprise, since that's turning all the narrow CW filtering off. Do I have some other config messed up ? +---Main menu------+ |+---Configuration------+ ||+---CW---------------------------+ ||| | ||| CW Keyer | ||| CW Decoder | ||| CW passband 500 | ||| CW center 750 | +|| Auto-offset/tone YES | || CW offset 750 | || Sidetone frq 750 | || Sidetone volume 50 | || Sidetone abs/rel Absolute | || CW-R OFF | || Choose filters | || | |+--------------------------------+
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Rev 1 vs. Rev 3 QMX Kit?
7
I have an unbuilt Rev 1 QMX kit, that I am finally seeing time ahead to build it. But am wondering, would I be better off getting a Rev 3 kit. Are there significant upgrades or differences in the current version that would make it worth getting the new kit revision? Tnx Paul w2eck
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QMX+ SSB not keying from Mic/Paddle Port
9
Hello Bill here it is probably just a defective operator. My QMX works no problem Digital, CW and SSB (using digital). The Mic/Paddle port has no issue with CW but when the Microphone is used it does not key the QMX+. I insert the microphone and using the PTT button on the microphone I can get it to key and send very slow CW. Is there a setting that I am missing. I tried to key the QMX+ with just the Tip Sleeve to get the rig to key ( bare wire on the jack ) with no luck. When I run microphone diagnostics I see modulation. From what I am reading that when you insert the microphone it should sense that it is not a Paddle and use the microphone. Yes I am in USB and or LSB mode into a dummy load. The microphone I have is the Electret Mic from QRP Kits wired and tested as per instruction manual ( qrp-labs ) . https://qrpkits.com/microphone.html I have also tried to repurpose a microphone from a Baofeng with no joy. Any help would be appreciated Thanks in Advance Bill N3GTY
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Hi, I¡¯ve had my QMX+ for a number of months and had tested the then beta now regular SSB firmware with good results except pretty low output power in SSB. As I had never gotten around to fine tune the LPFs when building it I decided this was the logical next thing. So I fiddled with spreading and compressing turns on the toroids and managed to get all bands to between 4 and 5w output for CW except 160m that was already at 6w. Running 12.0v input and build for 12v Being happy with results I then first tested resetting to factory defaults, and then tested SSB output power. Still max 2-2.5w according to the Bird. I then decided to run the SSB calibration again. Worked fine til perhaps 12m or 10m phase. I then heard some terrible noise from the speaker and saw the QMX crashing with all blocks in the display and turning itself off. I tried powering on again, but won¡¯t start now. Just blank display and current protection on PSU kicks in due to over current. I suspect maybe finals are fried with internal short as result? Jonas 7 maj 2025 kl. 23:12 skrev Stan Dye via groups.io <standye@...>: ? On Wed, May 7, 2025 at 01:38 PM, Wiggle Pig wrote: It¡¯s D503 and D504 These are placeholders for diodes that could be placed across the BS170 outputs, as was commonly done with QDX. Hans included them in the design, but has not encouraged installing the diodes, which he believes are unnecessary for QMX. They may suppress spikes, but they also add additional capacitance to the PA, which may affect it adversely in other ways. There were many posts on this list regarding this topic a year or so ago. Stan KC7XE
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microphone wiring.
16
When SSB is implemented on the QMX I want to be ready. I have a vintage in new condition RadioShack electric condenser microphone element. on the illustration for the mic I believe the middle wire which is number 2 would need a momentary switch for PTT, or would it be better to put it on #3 ground? I imagine as per the schematic that came with the microphone it will need a capacitor in the range specified. Any help here would be appreciated because I don¡¯t want to take a chance at wiring something wrong and damaging anything. Feel free to draw a full schematic just to confirm everything. thank you everyone.
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Updated Wiki Page: QMX QMX_plus Block Diagram
#wiki-notice
The wiki page QMX QMX_plus Block Diagram has been updated by @Ludwig_DH8WN <DH8WN@...>. Compare Revisions
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Hi everyone. With the release of the SSB firmware out of beta, I thought I would make my offer to source K6ARKs wonderful little microphones, which can be found here: https://www.printables.com/model/320559-mini-microphone-for-qmx-trusdx-usdx-kx2-and-kx3, one more time. Adam (K6ARK) made a super fantastic little miniature mic case, and they work with the QMX quite nicely. I print the cases in PLA, and have the following colors available: Black, White, Grey, Navy Blue, Orange, Light Green, Red, Gold, Purple, Sand Stone, Light Blue Stone, Turquoise stone, and Marble Stone (The stone colors look like marble or granite - little flecks of darker color in them - The marble one winds up looking like bleached bone). The kit includes: 3D Printed case in PLA 3.5mm jack Electret Mic Element Microswitch for PTT For each mic, $10 for kit, $15 fully assembled and tested. This price includes shipping in the US. I am happy to make you more than one, some people want one for home and one for the go bag, that's great. You will need to provide your own AUX cable (3.5mm male to male) to go between the mic and the radio. I have had several ask what cord I am using, So I have included this link to one I am using and that I test all my assembled mics with; it seems to work quite well: https://a.co/d/36GDDXf (This is a shortened, non-affiliated link to Amazon.com page for the cable I use) If you are interested, send me a private email, and I will send you payment details. My email address is good on QRZ.
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QMX+ Build - No Power on Diagnostics screen (pressing T)
11
#power
#test
#troubleshooting
I have corrected all the issues with my enameled torroid soldering joints, so those look reasonable now on all bands. That said, I have no power whatsoever when pressing "T" on the diagnostics screen. I am using 3 cell LIPOs charged to 11.9vdc (checked after charging with multimeter) for power. T501 wound for 12v. - Initial startup was at 7v, just to be safe. No issues or magic smoke so slowly raised voltage to 12V with no issues. No pops or anything else. - Checked T507 by removing and testing, then reinstalling. - Removed and rewound T501, RWTST, to eliminate concerns of over twisting the wires. - Rewound T401 and checked for continuity on the 3 pairs, then installed it. - T502 has continuity and the correct amount of wraps. - The dummyload I am using is one I purchased along with the kit. Assembly was enjoyable and it measures 49.5 ohms. When I press "T" I get 0.0 power. I checked the SWR protection set it higher, and restarted the radio, but still get 0.0 on the diagnostics screen. I then turned the SWR protection completely, then restarted the radio and still 0.0. The power transistors DO get slightly warm, but not suddenly. From what I can tell, everything is as it should be, but I'm still getting no power to the dummyload. I have no actual antennas yet, but should have one completed in a couple hours. I checked several patch cords (between radio and dummyload) and they all are working correctly, but still no power. What should I be checking now? Is there a test procedure for this specific issue? There has to be others who have encountered this before... Thanks again, btw... Ahand59
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Unable to buy a QMX+ on QRP Labs site
19
I have tried for two days to buy a QMX+ but forgot my password and could not log on. So I clicked the "forgot password" thing and the system asked for my email address, saying a link to change the password would be sent, but it was never sent (it was not in trash otSPAM folders!). Because it forgot my password I cannot complete my order!! What do I do now? EuGene Smith KA5NLY
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File /QMX-PC-Controller.html uploaded
7
#file-notice
The following items have been added to the Files area of the [email protected] group. /QMX-PC-Controller.html By: Paul Harrison <dj0cu@...> Description: Control the QMX via the PC. Instructions just save the File to your hard Disc, right click and Open with Chrome, Edge etc. Make sure your QMX is connected to the PC and click on Connect.
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T507 and SSB SWR
10
Hello everyone, I've seen in different topics that T507 solder joints should be checked & reflowed in the event of a high SWR spike on SSB transmit... a problem that several of us have mentioned, and in my case, makes the rig completely unusable on SSB. I do understand, looking at the schematic, how this could cause the protection circuit to trigger. What I do not (yet) understand is why this would be a problem that I see on SSB only, and not on CW. I have not witnessed this on CW. A theory I have is that maybe if the joint is just on the edge of continuity, then a higher duty cycle CW signal would temporarily "anneal" the bad joint, but that on SSB you don't have that effect. I am a skeptic about my theory...in any case, I do plan on trying reflowing T507 and associated circuitry. This was a factory assembled unit so I was hoping to avoid this, but I appreciate all that Hans is doing. I'm not complaining at all... just looking for guidance and thoughts so I can get this amazing rig on SSB. God bless, Joel W9JFK
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The antenna connection was installed in line with the PCB, not at right angles to it. When outside within view of plenty of satellites, all LEDS are bright and not blinking. Inside, with no expectation of reception, all LEDS are bright and not blinking. The display always shows: 1_00b.QG2 Powered by STM32 There was no modification to the PCB other than adding a display, which works, and a 3.5mm jack. See photo. Any suggestions? Jim
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Iq enable and demodulated audio both over USB
7
I am wondering if this would be possible with future firmware. Is it possible to have the demodulated audio sent over usb for digital modes (wsjtx, fldigi ect) and IQ output on a separate audio feed from qmx at the same time? Since we have a computer connection anyway it would be nice to have the panadapter open using the IQ feed and digi mode open on demodulated audio at the same time. They can all be linked together via hamlib. Ryan KK6DZB
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RE; Quirky SSB software behavior & Solution
QMX and QMX+ Installed SSB software then during testing they locked up, other than very slow incrementing of freq, no controls had any effect. After numerous re-install of 027 and factory resets. ( even a reset from terminal would usually say 'resetting' but hang - waited over 30 min. in one case. Possible Solution. I unplugged the USB to my computer and seemingly have regained control. NOTE no previos problems with my approach prior to 002 update. On a MAC M1 using Tabby (like putty on a mac) for conducting QMX testing terminal operations and also WSTJ for live reception and transmission checks. WSJT must be quit and restarted with almost any changes- this is a given. These programs will not run simultaneously - one OR the other. In the past Exit Terminal got me out of Terminal ops on Tabby, and I could open wsjtx all with complete control of the QMX. I had then been closing Tabby from the upper tool bar - on a mac this usually makes it non operative but leaves it open in the tool tray Maybe my lazy bad, but usual on a mac. The hang up would not occur in CW or Digi modes but only in SSB It would also start transmitting by itself VOX off and no mike plugged in (SWR and W meter show this) Driving me nuts! Hope this helps someone
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On May 11 I had a CW practice / rag chew session on 17 meters. I worked two stations: Conditions were poor with heavy QSB. I heard several very weak stations calling but could not copy callsigns. If you were one of them maybe next time will be better. SSN = 70, SFI = 1134, A = 12, K = 2. I was using my Elecraft K3 at 100 watts with my 100 foot sloped doublet. Anyone and everyone is welcome. These practice sessions are intended for operators who are new to CW or they need some practice. IT DOES NOT MATTER HOW POOR YOUR CW IS. Mistakes are OK. Poor fists are OK. Slow speed is OK. Really slow speed is OK. This practice is meant for you to improve your CW. I will do my best to adjust to your skill level. Operate at any power level. If several stations show up, I will operate as a round-table control station. I will do it as a round-table so everyone gets a chance to transmit. Please listen to my directions. My next CW practice session will be TBD at TBD EDT / TBD UTC on TOD meters. I will be away attending FDIM and Hamvention. I will schedule the next session when I get back. I will be manning the Michigan QRP Club both at Club night. Please stop by and say Hi. Also we are offering a special FDIM discount for Michigan QRP Club memberships. Details: Date - TBD Time - TBD Band - TBD How to find me - I will find a clear frequency and call CQ. Go to the Reverse Beacon Network and search for my call sign AB8DF. That will tell you what frequency I am on. Tune your station to that frequency and if you hear me give me a call. If there is a QSO in progress, please wait for a break in the action. Then send your callsign. If I hear you, I will invite you to join the QSO and start a round-table QSO. Reply to this email if you have questions. IT DOES NOT MATTER HOW POOR CW IS Ed AB8DF
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QMX+ WSPR
24
Hi Wei, yes it might well be from the WSPRnet database, the full locator is in there under my registration. That still doesn¡¯t explain why JD38 is being decoded by some and IO91 by others! it does seem to end up as JD38, I take this from the WSPR rocks website which shares WSPRnet and it¡¯s there to behold if you search the last 24hrs with my call sign as the tx. I¡¯m running it into a 40M resonant 1/4wave with a return loss of >20db, 12V supply (real 12V!) and the output is circa 3.6W according to both my test set and vector power meter. At this time I can¡¯t really put my finger on anything outside of the QMX+ box as a suspect. 73 Clive, G4KCM
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Feature Request
Hans: A couple of items for your feature request list: 1. (Probably already listed) Use an added USB port to allow PC to access internal QMX+ GPS receiver for time synchronization. 2. In CW mode, add zero-beat command to tune radio to exact frequency of chosen CW sidetone. This could, if enabled, perhaps replace the RIT function. 73, Bill, K2HRT
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QMX+ with ~1000 tone on 12M & 6M: solved
2
Hello, starting from strange LO signal I de-solder one wire of trifilar T401 to IC408 pin 9. To verify I touch every pin of IC 403 and IC402 with the Ohm-meter. Power -on: LO-Signal at BNC vanished and wistles get weaker. Connecting wire of T401 again: Noisefloor at 6m reduces from 25 dB to 5 dB and wistles are reduced. Side-Band of LO at BNC vanished, only LO Signal is detectable. My conclusions: Either I have a fine closure in T401 or a cold soldering point at IC 403. I guess one pin of IC 403 was not connected properly, touching with the Ohm meter established connection. All pins of IC403 will be soldered in case wistles are remainig. vy 73 Michael
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QCX Classic Case WANTED
5
I post a message like this every 6months or so in hope... I'm looking for someone who has an original QCX Classic case they no longer want. This is the BaMa Tech case that was sold by QRP Labs for sometime. The case is not available new any more. If you have such a case or maybe a cased QCX Classic that is fried and dead and you want to sell, please contact me andy.mm0fmf AT gmail.com. I'm in the UK and Brexit etc. has made shipping to and from the UK much more "fun and challenging" now. But if you are in the EU or in the US I have friends/relatives in either that will handle shipping to me making it simple for you :-) Here's hoping. Thanks Andy, MM0FMF
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Sat 8:39am
Sat 8:39am