Tuesday, May 23, 2023

I be tempted

 I'm not sure whether to give a tip o' the  hat to Bob W3BBO for bringing this to my attention or .......


Meet the QMX from QRP Labs.

Its a 5 band multi mode QRP transceiver. Currently it only supports CW and the digital modes, but a future firmware update should include SSB. Here's a rundown on the features:

80, 60, 40, 30 and 20m

CW and FSK Digi modes

All features of QCX-mini (VFO A/B/Split, RIT, Message and frequency memories, beacon, keyer)

5W output at 9V supply (can be built for 4-5W at 12-13V supply)

SWR bridge built in

Single signal transmission (zero unwanted sideband, zero residual carrier, zero intermodulation distortion)

Solid-state band switching and transmit/receive switching under CAT control

High performance embedded SDR SSB receiver with 60-70dB of unwanted sideband cancellation

Built-in 24-bit 48ksps USB sound card

Built-in USB Virtual COM Serial port for CAT control

Si5351A Synthesized VFO with 25MHz TCXO as standard

Easy to build single-board design, Professional quality 6-layer, through-hole plated, silk-screen printed PCBs

All SMD components factory assembled

Connectors: 2.1mm power barrel connector, USB B (for audio and CAT control), BNC RF input/output

Built-in test signal generator and testing tools

Switched mode regulators

Receive current 80mA, Transmit current 1.0-1.1A for 5W output with 9V supply (around 0.7A for 5W with 12V supply).

Optional aluminum extruded cut/drilled/laser-etched black anodized enclosure

All at a price point of $95.00 (kit form), as you can also order one pre-assembled. If you purchase the kit, the enclosure is available for another $20.00. Pre-orders only at this time.

This little rig has me in a quandary - I'm a bit disappointed that 17 and 15 Meters are not available, but I'm tempted to purchase one nonetheless. I could see this little guy becoming my main portable ops radio, significantly minimizing the size and weight of my current "go bag".

I'll have to think seriously about this one.

72 de Larry W2LJ

QRP - When you care to send the very least!

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