Re: Notes on FA-VA 5 status
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HF focus
This is a very good point. There is an ongoing race for higher frequencies. The more GHz the better. But covering multiple GHz conflicts with low cost. The question arrives, if this really should be the focus of such a handheld device. I would agree that most users are HF-users with some limited usage at 2 m and 70 cm. So the main focus is HF. However, an UHF connector is simply too bad. SMA is not robust enough for the field. Leaving BNC or N-type. Let's see.
Either one has my vote provided the mass of the new variant does not increase.?
I like the fact the connector is mechanically attached to the enclosure and not
the pc board.
Batteries
The idea is going towards USB-C, using rechargeable batteries. The European Union just made USB-C mandatory on any mobile device. Therefore, also Apple needed to switch to UCB-C. The USB-C standard defines power delivery on a worldwide base. The voltages and currents are software negotiated. Saying that, you should be able to use just one fast charge USB-C adapter to charge any USB-C device. Ok, I know that power outlets are different in USA and Europe. So you need two.
This jostled the memory and reminded me I needed to check the batteries. Any
device I own I now remove the carbon-zinc or alkaline cells due to the risk of
leakage. Whatever choice you select, please pick one that minimizes the risk of
damage that accompanies the generic AA and similarly constructed cells.
Also, if some method can be implemented to limit lateral forces applied to the
proposed USB-C connector, it would be greatly welcomed by this old goat.
USB-C is ok on cell phones, but devices with more mass and prone to being
dropped, I find the USB-C to be just as susceptible to tearing from the PC board
with the abrupt lateral jerking that frequently occurs.?
Thank you for asking for end user input.
Regards
Chuck WD4HXG
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