Rockmite ][ Assembly Instructions/checklist
Hello Group,
Several years ago I bought a QRPme Rockmite ][ kit to build but never got around to it.? Recently I pulled the kit out thinking to start the build but found that I do not have the assembly instructions. Being a complete novice kit builder, I was hoping that the assembly instructions were on the groups.io site, but could not find them.? I did find the original Rockmite Assembly instructions on the SmallWonders site.?
Will the original assembly instructions/checklist still apply for the Rockmite ][ or are there updated assembly instructions for the QRPme version?
Thanks in advance for any help.
Dan KD4VBV
|
Re: After Building a Two Tinned Tunas EZ Build, what next?
Replying to my own message.
The Oscillator Fun kit is designed for audio frequencies.
Is it possible we could have an Oscillator Fun kit that can be made for RF frequencies in the HF band as well?
And see if we can include cheap new tools that have come along that hams can use too:
- NanoVNA
- TinySA
- Arbitrary Waveform Generator (frequencies at least up to 15 MHz or 30 MHz)
At least include the ability to measure to the top of the code portion of the 40m band which is 7.125MHz in the USA.
The whole idea is about a fun kit to learn how to test and measure QRPme radio kits for fun and learn how it works too.??
Is this possible?
Has anyone built this kit?? What do you think of it?? Do you have any photos, notes, or videos of it?
73 Daniel KK4MRN
|
After Building a Two Tinned Tunas EZ Build, what next?
Hello fans of the can,
What would be a good QRPme radio kit to build next?
I built the Two Tinned Tunas EZ Build transmitter.? ? And I have a Sea Sprite+ transceiver kit ordered for the Buildathon on March 25th.
- The regular Sea Sprite transceiver kit?
- Sudden Receiver - a Direct Conversion Receiver
- Rock Mite transceiver
- Super Tin Tuna 5W transmitter
- Lil Squall transceiver?
Radios like Sudden Receiver, Super Tin Tuna transmitter, and Lil Squal transceiver have band modules and crystlas that can be swapped out for a different band.
And some possible tools or accessories:
- Texas Topper amp to bring up your QRPp transmitter/transceiver rf output power up to 5W
- Oscillator Fun (only does up to audio frequences)
- RF Probe in a test tube
- RF sensing automatic T-R Switch (really for those radios that have a separate receiver and transmitter like a TTT/Super TT and Sudden Receiver and do not have a built-in T/R switch).
- Power Distribution - but that uses RCA connectors and cannot be used for the RF amp because it requires its own power supply.
- Switched Tuner - want to maximum transfer of power and you do not want to destroy those finals.
I already have a RF Probe/Dummy Load device for testing RF output.? But a standalone RF probe can be helpful for testing within a circuit since most multimeters cannot measure AC voltage at HF frequencies.
I think it would be cool if there was a kit like the Oscillator FUN kit but can be used up to the top of HF frequencies so a person can learn how to measure with an oscilloscope to? to test radio receivers and transmitters.? Not only test the radios - but understand what is happening.? If it cannot handle up to the 10meter band, could we at least have a kit that can handle to the top of the CODE portion of the 40meter ham band?
Thanks,
Daniel KK4MRN
|
Group,
Then I asked:
what about one using torroids?
and got:
On 02/26/2023 3:33 PM John Putnum, AC9UV <johnfputnam@...> wrote:
group,
Just asked a question of chatGBT.
What is a good design for a low power low pass filter for the 20 meter ham band
and got:
|
group,
Just asked a question of chatGBT.
What is a good design for a low power low pass filter for the 20 meter ham band
and got:
|
Rex,
Saw some doomsday predictions on the international state of affairs, esp China with population and workforce.? Throw in a few wars and the shutdown of the Russian oil fields, which will take decades to recover (oil wells in the north freeze up and crack). The countries that rely on some of that oil will have some major difficulties. But what's a good doomsday presentation without a little collapse globally.? Then there is the price of oil for transport over the oceans will go up in price soon probably.
It may be that soon the semiconductors we count on will be in short supply.?
I put in an order for a small quantity of 2n2222's with TO18 cases and some of those 2n3622.? While the shipping is still reasonable. Just a thought.?
I have an RF probe from QRPGuys from about a year ago, so for comparison and to try to understand the usefulness of the little buggers. I took the practice card you sent, cut out the probe, soldered it together (I had to dip into my cache of SMD assorted caps, One of those you sent disappeared on my desktop, on the floor, or maybe an small ant took it home to show the folks).?
I did a comparison with the two with really different results. The showed the same trends but still scratching my head to try and figure out, rather than relative goodness, what to make of the results (some images attached).
Sea Sprite, 12v supply? two test points,? Antenna connection, Beginning of LPF
QRPMe RF Probe? ? ?Antenna? .43v? ?Beg LPF? .54v? ?ratio: .796
4.1m ohm resistor.? .01mf cap
QRPGuys RF Probe? Antenna? 1.17v? ?Beg LPF? 1.56v? ratio:? .75
4.7m ohm resistor. .01mf cap
using a harbor freight MM 10meg (I assume)
For QRPMe reading at antenna? ?(0.43v + 0.25)**2/50ohm = .009248 w?
For QRPGuys reading at antenna (1.17v + 0.25)**2/50ohm = 0.40328 w?
interesting comparison. More research to be done.
I have to confess the use of DB as an understandable effect unit still has me scratching my head. I guess I have to do some study, or start scratching on the other side of my head to balance the bare patches.
Looking forward to the buildathon.
? ---John AC9UV
? ? 73? ? (wonder how to express that in DB)
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
I am starting building my Tuna Tunah as my 10W dummy load hasn't found too many signals across the pond. And by pond, I mean the one acre double pond at the treatment plant 100-feet to the north of me here at the RV park. Each is pretty much a little half-acre duckweed cover & a single duck with a broken wing that escaped from the gator a few months ago.?
There are 5 hams here but mostly French speaking Canadian's talking back to their home nets at night.
When we get back from the cruise in a week we will pickup where we left off, looking forward to doing taxes & buildathon stuff also.
On Fri, Feb 24, 2023 at 9:48 AM, David Knapp via groups.io <renewables@...> wrote:
Rex,
We hope UPS lands their Santa sleigh successfully. A neighborhood had to be evacuated in N IL because the ice stretched out the guy wires of a commercial TV station that has fallen a couple of times already over the years, previously landing between homes without injuries or damaging them. Phew!!!
The supply chain thing is still screwed up. A LIFEPO4 battery I ordered for my portable compressor fridge/freezer combo in December just came yesterday, the Chinese are still learning that important things need to be double-boxed, just saying!
Zepp, EFHW, Vertical, etc. It's all just wire and once the kits are assembled then the real work begins consulting about troubleshooting techniques. I learned all of my troubleshooting from my grandfather who had two TVs stacked vertically. On one the sound worked and on the other the picture worked. When one or the other quit you just bang on the top or sides until it starts working again. For a brief time during a Saturday night John Wayne movie I got to see both pictures and sounds working at the same time!!! Unfortunately, his troubleshooting technique did not work for me in most of my life, LOL.
72,
Davey - KU9L
On Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 11:00:57 PM EST, Rex Harper <tunacankits@...> wrote:
On 2/23/2023 11:52 AM, John Putnum,
AC9UV wrote:
Chuck,
That is why I
mentioned it. You cut off 17ft for the CP and the rest is the
antenna. Nice way to give you both and not need a feed line.?
? ---John
AC9UV
On 02/23/2023 3:05 AM Chuck Carpenter
<w5usj@...> wrote:
Rex is including a counterpoise. There
are No-Tune sources who are expecting coax to be the
counterpoise. Connecting direct to the V6 kit cuts out feed
line.
From:
[email protected] <[email protected]> On
Behalf Of John Putnum, AC9UV via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2023 4:18
PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [QRpmeKits] Ordered my
March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with
coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
On 02/22/2023 3:01 PM Daniel KK4MRN
via groups.io <sqldan2000@...>
wrote:
Based on feedback from Chuck, the
antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna
coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half
Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+
is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).? The antenna is not a
Zepp.
--
Chuck, W5USJ
Gangue,
I have updated the Sea Sprite+ Buildathon kit page for proper
antenna description. It was a simple case of my fingers typing
faster than my brain was thinking and they got carried away and
threw in a Zepp where it wasn't supposed to be....
I heard back from the pcb fab house and the pcbs are in transit
but UPS won't tell me a thing about where they are. Probably
somewhere out in the Midwest searching for an open airport to land
in. I suspect that I will see them 1st part of next week. I have
lots of parts in house but also lots of parts on order, in transit
and also waiting for more $$$ from orders coming in to pay for
them. It is the kitter's age old problem but especially
exasperating in a situation like the live streamed Buildathon. I
need to order the parts, cash in advance of course, to kit the
kits but I never know how many will sign up. So I have to pick
some number out of the air as to how many I think WILL
sign up. So far I have 60 Builders signed up but trying to buy
parts for many more. I have scrounged up the parts for the
Builders already signed up from my parts bins but need to order
more. Some parts have caught me by surprise. LM386-3s were in very
short supply, DIZ had no FT50-43s and not enough T30-2s. I
discovered some very important parts for some of my other kits
were also non-existent or in critical shortage so I had to buy
some bulk parts while I was placing SST+ orders. Anyway, bunches
of parts are winging in from all over and hopefully by the end of
next week everything will be in house in quantity and Steve &
I can hold an early kitting party. I was looking to ship kits at
least 2 weeks early so Canadian and DX orders might participate in
the Buildathon in real time. Looks like I might be able to make or
even beat that goal.
Also,there are 3 pieces to this Buildathon, Transceiver, Key
& Antenna. I'm thinking about putting together & posting
videos for the Key & Antenna portions so these projects could
be completed early. Building the key early could be a nice
beginners soldering practice exercise and there are quite a few
beginners worried about their soldering skills! I will try to do
the same with a video for the 3 toroids. If the toroids are wound
before the big live stream happening, I think there won't be any
problem with everyone completing the transceiver part in the 2
hour live stream time window.
Feel free to make any other suggestions that might help make this
EXPO Buildathon the BEST one yet!
Rex? W1REX
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
Rex,
We hope UPS lands their Santa sleigh successfully. A neighborhood had to be evacuated in N IL because the ice stretched out the guy wires of a commercial TV station that has fallen a couple of times already over the years, previously landing between homes without injuries or damaging them. Phew!!!
The supply chain thing is still screwed up. A LIFEPO4 battery I ordered for my portable compressor fridge/freezer combo in December just came yesterday, the Chinese are still learning that important things need to be double-boxed, just saying!
Zepp, EFHW, Vertical, etc. It's all just wire and once the kits are assembled then the real work begins consulting about troubleshooting techniques. I learned all of my troubleshooting from my grandfather who had two TVs stacked vertically. On one the sound worked and on the other the picture worked. When one or the other quit you just bang on the top or sides until it starts working again. For a brief time during a Saturday night John Wayne movie I got to see both pictures and sounds working at the same time!!! Unfortunately, his troubleshooting technique did not work for me in most of my life, LOL.
72,
Davey - KU9L
On Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 11:00:57 PM EST, Rex Harper <tunacankits@...> wrote:
On 2/23/2023 11:52 AM, John Putnum,
AC9UV wrote:
Chuck,
That is why I
mentioned it. You cut off 17ft for the CP and the rest is the
antenna. Nice way to give you both and not need a feed line.?
? ---John
AC9UV
On 02/23/2023 3:05 AM Chuck Carpenter
<w5usj@...> wrote:
Rex is including a counterpoise. There
are No-Tune sources who are expecting coax to be the
counterpoise. Connecting direct to the V6 kit cuts out feed
line.
From:
[email protected] <[email protected]> On
Behalf Of John Putnum, AC9UV via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2023 4:18
PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [QRpmeKits] Ordered my
March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with
coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
On 02/22/2023 3:01 PM Daniel KK4MRN
via groups.io <sqldan2000@...>
wrote:
Based on feedback from Chuck, the
antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna
coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half
Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+
is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).? The antenna is not a
Zepp.
--
Chuck, W5USJ
Gangue,
I have updated the Sea Sprite+ Buildathon kit page for proper
antenna description. It was a simple case of my fingers typing
faster than my brain was thinking and they got carried away and
threw in a Zepp where it wasn't supposed to be....
I heard back from the pcb fab house and the pcbs are in transit
but UPS won't tell me a thing about where they are. Probably
somewhere out in the Midwest searching for an open airport to land
in. I suspect that I will see them 1st part of next week. I have
lots of parts in house but also lots of parts on order, in transit
and also waiting for more $$$ from orders coming in to pay for
them. It is the kitter's age old problem but especially
exasperating in a situation like the live streamed Buildathon. I
need to order the parts, cash in advance of course, to kit the
kits but I never know how many will sign up. So I have to pick
some number out of the air as to how many I think WILL
sign up. So far I have 60 Builders signed up but trying to buy
parts for many more. I have scrounged up the parts for the
Builders already signed up from my parts bins but need to order
more. Some parts have caught me by surprise. LM386-3s were in very
short supply, DIZ had no FT50-43s and not enough T30-2s. I
discovered some very important parts for some of my other kits
were also non-existent or in critical shortage so I had to buy
some bulk parts while I was placing SST+ orders. Anyway, bunches
of parts are winging in from all over and hopefully by the end of
next week everything will be in house in quantity and Steve &
I can hold an early kitting party. I was looking to ship kits at
least 2 weeks early so Canadian and DX orders might participate in
the Buildathon in real time. Looks like I might be able to make or
even beat that goal.
Also,there are 3 pieces to this Buildathon, Transceiver, Key
& Antenna. I'm thinking about putting together & posting
videos for the Key & Antenna portions so these projects could
be completed early. Building the key early could be a nice
beginners soldering practice exercise and there are quite a few
beginners worried about their soldering skills! I will try to do
the same with a video for the 3 toroids. If the toroids are wound
before the big live stream happening, I think there won't be any
problem with everyone completing the transceiver part in the 2
hour live stream time window.
Feel free to make any other suggestions that might help make this
EXPO Buildathon the BEST one yet!
Rex? W1REX
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
On 2/23/2023 11:52 AM, John Putnum,
AC9UV wrote:
Chuck,
That is why I
mentioned it. You cut off 17ft for the CP and the rest is the
antenna. Nice way to give you both and not need a feed line.?
? ---John
AC9UV
On 02/23/2023 3:05 AM Chuck Carpenter
<w5usj@...> wrote:
Rex is including a counterpoise. There
are No-Tune sources who are expecting coax to be the
counterpoise. Connecting direct to the V6 kit cuts out feed
line.
From:
[email protected] <[email protected]> On
Behalf Of John Putnum, AC9UV via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2023 4:18
PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [QRpmeKits] Ordered my
March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with
coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
On 02/22/2023 3:01 PM Daniel KK4MRN
via groups.io <sqldan2000@...>
wrote:
Based on feedback from Chuck, the
antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna
coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half
Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+
is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).? The antenna is not a
Zepp.
--
Chuck, W5USJ
Gangue,
I have updated the Sea Sprite+ Buildathon kit page for proper
antenna description. It was a simple case of my fingers typing
faster than my brain was thinking and they got carried away and
threw in a Zepp where it wasn't supposed to be....
I heard back from the pcb fab house and the pcbs are in transit
but UPS won't tell me a thing about where they are. Probably
somewhere out in the Midwest searching for an open airport to land
in. I suspect that I will see them 1st part of next week. I have
lots of parts in house but also lots of parts on order, in transit
and also waiting for more $$$ from orders coming in to pay for
them. It is the kitter's age old problem but especially
exasperating in a situation like the live streamed Buildathon. I
need to order the parts, cash in advance of course, to kit the
kits but I never know how many will sign up. So I have to pick
some number out of the air as to how many I think WILL
sign up. So far I have 60 Builders signed up but trying to buy
parts for many more. I have scrounged up the parts for the
Builders already signed up from my parts bins but need to order
more. Some parts have caught me by surprise. LM386-3s were in very
short supply, DIZ had no FT50-43s and not enough T30-2s. I
discovered some very important parts for some of my other kits
were also non-existent or in critical shortage so I had to buy
some bulk parts while I was placing SST+ orders. Anyway, bunches
of parts are winging in from all over and hopefully by the end of
next week everything will be in house in quantity and Steve &
I can hold an early kitting party. I was looking to ship kits at
least 2 weeks early so Canadian and DX orders might participate in
the Buildathon in real time. Looks like I might be able to make or
even beat that goal.
Also,there are 3 pieces to this Buildathon, Transceiver, Key
& Antenna. I'm thinking about putting together & posting
videos for the Key & Antenna portions so these projects could
be completed early. Building the key early could be a nice
beginners soldering practice exercise and there are quite a few
beginners worried about their soldering skills! I will try to do
the same with a video for the 3 toroids. If the toroids are wound
before the big live stream happening, I think there won't be any
problem with everyone completing the transceiver part in the 2
hour live stream time window.
Feel free to make any other suggestions that might help make this
EXPO Buildathon the BEST one yet!
Rex? W1REX
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and End Fed Half Wave - I have comments and questions
I edited my original subject which creates a new topic.
?
I wanted to correct the type of antenna.??
?
The antenna will not be a Zepp.??
The antenna will be an End Fed Half-Wave Antenna for 40 meter ham band.
?
Enough wire will be provided to construct the antenna and counterpoise.
The antenna can hookup to the Sea Spirte+ directly using its built-in NO TUNE antenna coupler?
which was designed for this antenna.? No coax.
?
QSO Today BUILDATHON KIT (#9) SST+ on Mar 25 2023
This is the Sea Spirte+ Kit
It also includes a straight key kit.
QSO Today Virtual Ham Expo on March 25 - 26
Presentation at the Buildathon on Saturday, March 25th, 2023 at 10:00 PDT (1800 UTC) (1:00 PM EDT)
2-hour session
Build a Simple Station and GOTA (Get On The Air!)
Speaker: Rex Harper W1REX
This is the follow up presentation on Sunday, March 26th, 2023.
This is the original message with incorrect subject.
Topic where Chuck Carpenter points out that the antenna will be an End Fed Half Wave.? Not a Zepp.
?
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
Chuck,
That is why I mentioned it. You cut off 17ft for the CP and the rest is the antenna. Nice way to give you both and not need a feed line.?
? ---John AC9UV
On 02/23/2023 3:05 AM Chuck Carpenter <w5usj@...> wrote:
Rex is including a counterpoise. There are No-Tune sources who are expecting coax to be the counterpoise. Connecting direct to the V6 kit cuts out feed line.
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> On Behalf Of John Putnum, AC9UV via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2023 4:18 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [QRpmeKits] Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
On 02/22/2023 3:01 PM Daniel KK4MRN via groups.io <sqldan2000@...> wrote:
Based on feedback from Chuck, the antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+ is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).? The antenna is not a Zepp.
--
Chuck, W5USJ
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
Rex is including a counterpoise. There are No-Tune sources who are expecting coax to be the counterpoise. Connecting direct to the V6 kit cuts out feed line.
?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] < [email protected]> On Behalf Of
John Putnum, AC9UV via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2023 4:18 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [QRpmeKits] Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
?
On 02/22/2023 3:01 PM Daniel KK4MRN via groups.io <sqldan2000@...> wrote:
Based on feedback from Chuck, the antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+ is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).?
The antenna is not a Zepp.
-- Chuck, W5USJ
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
antenna and counterpoise
---John AC9UV
On 02/22/2023 3:01 PM Daniel KK4MRN via groups.io <sqldan2000@...> wrote:
Based on feedback from Chuck, the antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+ is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).? The antenna is not a Zepp.
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
Based on feedback from Chuck, the antenna for the Sea Sprite+ with built-in No-Tune antenna coupler is designed to work with an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave) antenna.? ?The antenna included with the Sea Spirte+ is an EFHW (End Fed Half Wave).? The antenna is not a Zepp.
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
Daniel,
I have only had the experience with the AD9850 DDS in making the VFO project. It went together well and has been a solid stable frequency source for my projects. Also in building various QRPMe projects, a check that the receivers are actually working. For a frequency standard I bought some inexpensive small boards that are 9v powered and seem to be dead on accurate. Here is one of those. Price is right too. I just keep one with a 9v battery with a switch handy when I need to know.
As to the code. I'm rusty. Have to spend some heads down time to wake up that sleeping morse giant. I remember all those things to watch out for, being able to not get stuck on a letter and keep on... from the CWOps course I took a few years ago.
Letters pretty good, numbers a on the edge, pro signs have to work on, Q codes, some, CW strange abreviations like es for and I have some studying to do.?
I'll get there.
I agree, the building of kits, the hands on, getting things to work has always been what I was drawn to since my first crystal radio build when in junior high if I remember.
I'm signed up for the buildathon. See you online there
? ?--John AC9UV
On 02/22/2023 9:34 AM Daniel KK4MRN via groups.io <sqldan2000@...> wrote:
John,
Very cool.? I want to home brew my own VFO.? I will eventually.? I have all the parts to build multiple VFOs using Si5351A (module or chip), LCD, rotary encoder, and a microcontroller (chips and prototyping boards like Arduino UNO, Nano, Raspberry Pi Pico).? I don't think it would be hard.?
How does this AD9850 DDS compare to other DDS or PLL that are out there?? Or even the popular Si5351A clock synthesizer chip and a microcontroller used these days?
I tell you - without seeing all these hams homebrew and the kits coming from places like QRPme, QRPGuys, QRP-Labs, qrpkits, kitsandparts, and others..., I would have not stayed in this hobby.? ?Building radios "is" the primary reason I got into ham radio.
Have you gotten on-the-air yet?? ?Do you know all your letters, numbers, some prosigns and punctuation?? And you can easily skip characters you do not understand and move on to the next character you do understand?? That last question is important.? If yes to all the questions, get on the air.? (By the way, I need to take my own advice here... Once I re-learn them).
In the past, I did well with computer randomly-generated Morse code at 12WPM.? But I failed miserably the 3 times I actually tried to make contacts.? Real world Morse code is so un-even I guess while computer generated code is perfect.? ?So, maybe my mind needs to be able to adapt to imperfect code.? So, hopefully Long Island CW Club will help.? And they do help you live on the air.? ?And I am motivated to be on the air the weekend before the weekend of the Buildathon.? That is my goal.
And I finally registered and paid my $15 for the Expo on March 25-26.? ?And I got permission from my boss - the XYL for this weekend too. LOL
I am curious to see how many hams have bought the kit so far and who is going to the Expo.
Hey William, are you out there?? ?How are you learning your Morse Code?? I want to make a sked with you once we both get on the air.
Anybody else out there learning Morse Code too or needs to work on their rusty Morse code skills?
73 Daniel KK4MRN
|
Re: Ordered my March 2023 Buildathon's updated Sea Sprite+ kit with coupler, key, and Zepp - I have comments and questions
John,
Very cool.? I want to home brew my own VFO.? I will eventually.? I have all the parts to build multiple VFOs using Si5351A (module or chip), LCD, rotary encoder, and a microcontroller (chips and prototyping boards like Arduino UNO, Nano, Raspberry Pi Pico).? I don't think it would be hard.?
How does this AD9850 DDS compare to other DDS or PLL that are out there?? Or even the popular Si5351A clock synthesizer chip and a microcontroller used these days?
I tell you - without seeing all these hams homebrew and the kits coming from places like QRPme, QRPGuys, QRP-Labs, qrpkits, kitsandparts, and others..., I would have not stayed in this hobby.? ?Building radios "is" the primary reason I got into ham radio.
Have you gotten on-the-air yet?? ?Do you know all your letters, numbers, some prosigns and punctuation?? And you can easily skip characters you do not understand and move on to the next character you do understand?? That last question is important.? If yes to all the questions, get on the air.? (By the way, I need to take my own advice here... Once I re-learn them).
In the past, I did well with computer randomly-generated Morse code at 12WPM.? But I failed miserably the 3 times I actually tried to make contacts.? Real world Morse code is so un-even I guess while computer generated code is perfect.? ?So, maybe my mind needs to be able to adapt to imperfect code.? So, hopefully Long Island CW Club will help.? And they do help you live on the air.? ?And I am motivated to be on the air the weekend before the weekend of the Buildathon.? That is my goal.
And I finally registered and paid my $15 for the Expo on March 25-26.? ?And I got permission from my boss - the XYL for this weekend too. LOL
I am curious to see how many hams have bought the kit so far and who is going to the Expo.
Hey William, are you out there?? ?How are you learning your Morse Code?? I want to make a sked with you once we both get on the air.
Anybody else out there learning Morse Code too or needs to work on their rusty Morse code skills?
73 Daniel KK4MRN
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John,
This procedure works exactly as shown, the smaller the screwdriver the better. Actually, I had more of an issue putting it back together than I did taking it apart (as usual!).
Good Luck,
Davey - KU9L
On Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 05:29:45 PM EST, John Putnum, AC9UV <johnfputnam@...> wrote:
Rex,
Just got that nifty tool. I read the instructions but getting the cylinder out to clean seems to be stuck. Not wanting to force it. How is it best to do that. I thought of a screwdriver between the cylinder and the black half cylinder or between the yellow end where it sticks through to the iron. Any suggestions?
? ?Looks like a winner,
---John AC9UV?
On 02/14/2023 8:59 PM Rex Harper <tunacankits@...> wrote:
Gangue,
I forgot to mention that on their de-soldering page, they have replacement tips for that tool. Pretty cheap. I added some of those to my order. I always like to stash away any specialty items like iron tips to extend the life of a tool.
Rex
On 2/14/2023 9:41 PM, John Putnum, AC9UV wrote:
Rex,
Thanks, order in.? I have a nice little solder sucker that is from Japan that works well but the timing of lifting solder and positioning the tip has always been a source of humor.
? ?---John AC9UV
Gangue,
I just discovered this tool a couple of days ago...
It is a de-soldering iron which is a 40watt soldering iron with build in solder sucker. Brilliant! I just wish I had thought of it! I'd retire and just play with my QRP stuff all day.... Oh wait! I am retired and play with my QRP stuff all day. Well, if I did invent it, I would at least have some money in the bank....
Anyway, I ordered a few for me and made sure my order was processed before I alerted you guys. I haven't got mine yet but the reviews looked real promising so I bought some!
Rex? W1REX
|
Rex,
Just got that nifty tool. I read the instructions but getting the cylinder out to clean seems to be stuck. Not wanting to force it. How is it best to do that. I thought of a screwdriver between the cylinder and the black half cylinder or between the yellow end where it sticks through to the iron. Any suggestions?
? ?Looks like a winner,
---John AC9UV?
On 02/14/2023 8:59 PM Rex Harper <tunacankits@...> wrote:
Gangue,
I forgot to mention that on their de-soldering page, they have replacement tips for that tool. Pretty cheap. I added some of those to my order. I always like to stash away any specialty items like iron tips to extend the life of a tool.
Rex
On 2/14/2023 9:41 PM, John Putnum, AC9UV wrote:
Rex,
Thanks, order in.? I have a nice little solder sucker that is from Japan that works well but the timing of lifting solder and positioning the tip has always been a source of humor.
? ?---John AC9UV
Gangue,
I just discovered this tool a couple of days ago...
It is a de-soldering iron which is a 40watt soldering iron with build in solder sucker. Brilliant! I just wish I had thought of it! I'd retire and just play with my QRP stuff all day.... Oh wait! I am retired and play with my QRP stuff all day. Well, if I did invent it, I would at least have some money in the bank....
Anyway, I ordered a few for me and made sure my order was processed before I alerted you guys. I haven't got mine yet but the reviews looked real promising so I bought some!
Rex? W1REX
|
Re: Band Frequencies for QRS (Slow Code), CW and Morse Code Newbie Hams, and Typical Frequencies for Rock-Bound Kits
Oh, yeah--Daniel--? If you haven't tried 7055 kHz, most of the ops there don't go very fast--usually more than 5WPM, but I've heard 10WPM or slower, too. You don't have to stick to 7110-ish for speed reasons.
-HRS
H. Russell Smith, N0QLT???
?????????????????????????????
On Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 03:28:09 PM CST, Russell Smith via groups.io <n0qlt@...> wrote:
Daniel--
Short answer:
Anything your license will support.
Why?
When I was a Novice (Tech +, actually, but still a novice operator), I loved the 40m Novice Band. It was years later, as a General or Advanced, before I ventured out of my "safe space."? And when I did, I quickly found myself running back home to the Novices.? I was off the air for several years without a station, pretty much operating only at the University's superstation whenever I could. By the time I started back in again on my own, the Ham world had changed. The band had shifted and there just wasn't the activity in my old stomping ground.? I'm a bit sad there isn't the volume of stations in the good-ole Novice band (I think it used to be something like 7100-7150 back then), but I'm even more encouraged by what I hear in the old "General" part. I hear speed demons--the ones who answer a 10WPM station at 40+ WPM and I've heard 10WPM and below working special events and DXpeditions. (not as common, but it DOES happen). Speed isn't everything, I promise. If you can bop along at a pace comfortable to you, you'll make contacts. And if you listen in, you'll come to the same conclusion that it's everyone in the lower part of the band now.? Don't be afraid to try, that's how you get faster. And if you get run over, just ask the other station to QRS or sign off quickly. In my early days, there was more than one time I had to QRT for some fabricated reason or other: QSB, QRM, QRN, QRP, QRO, QRSS,QSY, QLF, Qsomethingorother, storm, go somewhere, alien abduction, Elvis at the door, etc.", sent 73, and signed off. I don't condone lying but I've politely excused myself when I needed to.
If you HAD to choose, I'd say anything between 7010kHz-7038 kHz for Extras and 7027-7038 for Generals is a safe bet. You'll work more DX down around 7010kHz-7015kHz. If you can buy only ONE crystal, I'd probably get it for something 7050kHz-7060kHz.? The latter frequency range is where the SKCC crowd hangs out (7055kHz, I believe, is the calling frequency), and you are very likely to make frequent contacts. They are a friendly bunch and pretty much follow the Novice QSO format.
-HRS
H. Russell Smith, N0QLT???
?????????????????????????????
On Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 01:33:51 PM CST, Daniel KK4MRN via groups.io <sqldan2000@...> wrote:
I did a little research. Many rock-bound CW QRP or QRPp kits come with crytals around 7.030, 7.040, or 7.110.? My Two Tinned Tunahs came with 7.110 and another I forget.? The March Buildathon and the SST+ will come with a 7110 crystal.? What are some other good frequencies/bands to get?? I see some crystal specials on the QRPme web site.? Of course, other band would require a different band module if you have a Super Tuna, Sea Sprite, Lil Sqal, Sudden Receiver, etc... I tend to hear QRS (Slow Code) around 7.110 - 7.125.? Good place to make contacts for CW Newbie hams. SKCC Skeds are a good place to arrange to make contacts. ARRL USA Frequency Allocations FCC Part 97 Regulations in the USA Novice Historical Society - what the Novice frequencies were in 1957 Does anyone know what the Novice frequency range on 40m in 1953 was?
1958 Novice Frequency Privileges:?
3.7 to 3.75mc CW.
7.15 to 7.2mc, CW.
21.1 to 21.145mc, CW.
FCC CW Band frequencies in USA:
80m: 3.525 - 3.600 MHz: Novice, Technical, General and other ham licenses. 40m: 7.025 - 7.125: Novice, Technician, General and other ham licenses. 30m: 10.100 - 10.150: General and other ham licenses. 20m: 14.025 - 14.150: General and other ham licenses.?? 17m:??18.068 - 18.110 General and higher?? 15m: 21.025 - 21.200? General and higher 12m: 24.890 - 24.930 General and higher? 10m: All licenses can do 28.000 - 28.300? I did not list the extra frequencies that some licenses have to keep it simple.? And I did not list MF nor VHF frequencies. I do not list 60m.? Nor do I list ranges for hams outside the USA. I also do not list the VOICE portion of bands the General and higher license have the ability to do CW as long as they follow gentleman agreements. Hams should follow band plans and gentleman agreements.?? Let's keep the ham radio hobby fun.? ? And just because some hams are rude, stubborn, or do not follow the rules does not mean we should be rude or not follow the rules as well.?? I am interested in knowing what good watering holes there are for QRP, QRPp, rock-bound radios, radios from QRPme, QRS (Slow Code) and beginner CW operators are. 73 Daniel KK4MRN
|
Re: Band Frequencies for QRS (Slow Code), CW and Morse Code Newbie Hams, and Typical Frequencies for Rock-Bound Kits
Daniel--
Short answer:
Anything your license will support.
Why?
When I was a Novice (Tech +, actually, but still a novice operator), I loved the 40m Novice Band. It was years later, as a General or Advanced, before I ventured out of my "safe space."? And when I did, I quickly found myself running back home to the Novices.? I was off the air for several years without a station, pretty much operating only at the University's superstation whenever I could. By the time I started back in again on my own, the Ham world had changed. The band had shifted and there just wasn't the activity in my old stomping ground.? I'm a bit sad there isn't the volume of stations in the good-ole Novice band (I think it used to be something like 7100-7150 back then), but I'm even more encouraged by what I hear in the old "General" part. I hear speed demons--the ones who answer a 10WPM station at 40+ WPM and I've heard 10WPM and below working special events and DXpeditions. (not as common, but it DOES happen). Speed isn't everything, I promise. If you can bop along at a pace comfortable to you, you'll make contacts. And if you listen in, you'll come to the same conclusion that it's everyone in the lower part of the band now.? Don't be afraid to try, that's how you get faster. And if you get run over, just ask the other station to QRS or sign off quickly. In my early days, there was more than one time I had to QRT for some fabricated reason or other: QSB, QRM, QRN, QRP, QRO, QRSS,QSY, QLF, Qsomethingorother, storm, go somewhere, alien abduction, Elvis at the door, etc.", sent 73, and signed off. I don't condone lying but I've politely excused myself when I needed to.
If you HAD to choose, I'd say anything between 7010kHz-7038 kHz for Extras and 7027-7038 for Generals is a safe bet. You'll work more DX down around 7010kHz-7015kHz. If you can buy only ONE crystal, I'd probably get it for something 7050kHz-7060kHz.? The latter frequency range is where the SKCC crowd hangs out (7055kHz, I believe, is the calling frequency), and you are very likely to make frequent contacts. They are a friendly bunch and pretty much follow the Novice QSO format.
-HRS
H. Russell Smith, N0QLT???
?????????????????????????????
On Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 01:33:51 PM CST, Daniel KK4MRN via groups.io <sqldan2000@...> wrote:
I did a little research. Many rock-bound CW QRP or QRPp kits come with crytals around 7.030, 7.040, or 7.110.? My Two Tinned Tunahs came with 7.110 and another I forget.? The March Buildathon and the SST+ will come with a 7110 crystal.? What are some other good frequencies/bands to get?? I see some crystal specials on the QRPme web site.? Of course, other band would require a different band module if you have a Super Tuna, Sea Sprite, Lil Sqal, Sudden Receiver, etc... I tend to hear QRS (Slow Code) around 7.110 - 7.125.? Good place to make contacts for CW Newbie hams. SKCC Skeds are a good place to arrange to make contacts. ARRL USA Frequency Allocations FCC Part 97 Regulations in the USA Novice Historical Society - what the Novice frequencies were in 1957 Does anyone know what the Novice frequency range on 40m in 1953 was?
1958 Novice Frequency Privileges:?
3.7 to 3.75mc CW.
7.15 to 7.2mc, CW.
21.1 to 21.145mc, CW.
FCC CW Band frequencies in USA:
80m: 3.525 - 3.600 MHz: Novice, Technical, General and other ham licenses. 40m: 7.025 - 7.125: Novice, Technician, General and other ham licenses. 30m: 10.100 - 10.150: General and other ham licenses. 20m: 14.025 - 14.150: General and other ham licenses.?? 17m:??18.068 - 18.110 General and higher?? 15m: 21.025 - 21.200? General and higher 12m: 24.890 - 24.930 General and higher? 10m: All licenses can do 28.000 - 28.300? I did not list the extra frequencies that some licenses have to keep it simple.? And I did not list MF nor VHF frequencies. I do not list 60m.? Nor do I list ranges for hams outside the USA. I also do not list the VOICE portion of bands the General and higher license have the ability to do CW as long as they follow gentleman agreements. Hams should follow band plans and gentleman agreements.?? Let's keep the ham radio hobby fun.? ? And just because some hams are rude, stubborn, or do not follow the rules does not mean we should be rude or not follow the rules as well.?? I am interested in knowing what good watering holes there are for QRP, QRPp, rock-bound radios, radios from QRPme, QRS (Slow Code) and beginner CW operators are. 73 Daniel KK4MRN
|
David Knapp