Xiegu X108: Update

X108 Update (and pics):

X108 is the X1 one series. It is a single-conversion shortwave transceiver. In strict accordance with standard industrial design, design optimization transceiver channels, improve the overall receiver dynamic range and SNR; To enhance SSB and CW transceiver performance, specially customized military-grade crystals, crystal filters for the production of IF. X108 machine configured 2.4k and 500Hz for SSB , CW filter, the filter performance is excellent, comparable merchandise machine crystal filters to ensure excellent frequency characteristics of the machine. In addition, the machine is also equipped with AGC , S meter, power meter standing wave, NB (module) function, the operator can meet their daily needs. RF transmit channels using imported MOS tube, the machine APC circuit to ensure the machine is kept constant RF output power level of each band, and also according to the actual needs, adjust the output power level, and have a high VSWR protection. Overall performance indicators to meet the national standard, FCC (or CE ) certification requirements.

Receiver characteristics
Low noise, single-conversion superheterodyne receiver;
Double-balanced diode mixer, providing excellent dynamic range;
Receiver sensitivity: . 0 2 uV (preamp open);
Narrow-band double-tuned band-pass filter, to achieve coverage of all amateur bands ( WARC band);
6 emission in low-pass filter, the filter function to provide excellent performance;
IF channel AGC ( AGC ), providing a constant in the amplifier gain;
Preamplifier and switchable attenuator;
Excellent performance of narrowband IF crystal filter shape factor of up to 1.7 ;
Multi VFO mode , can vary the frequency of work;
Provide S meter, power / SWR meter display;
Optional NB modules;
Optional front panel knob;

Transmitter characteristics
Power adjustable, from 1W ~ 20W ;
Dedicated RF power tube, superior performance;
High VSWR protection, durable, safe and reliable;
Stray radiation rejection: ≥ 40dBc
Standard CW amplitude newspaper;
Automatic key rate adjustable;

Receiving frequency range: 0.5 ~ 30MHz
Transmitting frequency range: all WARC bands ( HAM band)

Work mode:

SSB ( J3E )
CW ( A1A )
AM ( A3E )

Frequency Stability: 1.0 ppm @ -10 ℃ ~ +60 ℃ (standard)
0.5 ppm @ -20 ℃ ~ +75 ℃ ( military regulations, optional)
Receiver sensitivity: . 0 2 uV

Optional:
SSB 2.4kHz (-6dB)
CW 0.5kHz (-6dB)

Dynamic Range: 95dB
RF Power Output: 20W ;
Spurious rejection: ≥ 45dBc
Carrier suppression: ≥ 45dBc
Antenna Port Impedance: 50 Omega
Operating voltage: 12.5V ~ 14.5V DC ;

Current
Receive 0. 75 ​​A ( Max )
Transmitter 7A ( Max )

With multifunction digital microphone in hand, can achieve full function control, such as digital set-frequency operation;
Equipped with a USB port for easy connection to PC end, realize software control;
32 channel storage;
RIT fine-tuning;
Front panel to protect the handle (optional);
Dimension: 120 * 45 * 180 ( mm )




X108 production is currently being prepared and is expected in 25 days you can get a production machine. X108 is divided into standard and high version in two versions, specific pricing as follows: Standard Edition: 2280 yuan / Taiwan, including the Standard Edition host, hand microphone, power cord, CW plugs, packaging (accessories). High version: 2680 yuan / Taiwan, Standard Edition contains all the configuration, front panel knob, NB modules, high version identifier starting a discount for X1M old user has another offer, so stay tuned! Have everyone's support, we will do better!

Free Tektronix 2225 100MHz Scope (you pay shipping)

Not here on my blog, so don't get confused and comment below. The giveaway is at http://www.reddit.com/r/amateurradio.

"I purchased a digital scope at Dayton and I'd like to get rid of my space hungry analog scope. It would be a great one for a newbie. I got it for free so I'll pay it forward. I just ask that you pay for shipping, should be about $50, its pretty heavy. I'll include probes. The scope isn't in the best of shape but both channels work. The pots could use some cleaning with DeOxit probably. It's free... (almost) 

Oh for the comment - leave me a comment on what you plan to build that you will use the scope for or something interesting like that. Your comment has no impact on whether you'll win or not, just gives me something to read other than "I WANT IT" 

I'll do a random lottery drawing at 00:00 UTC on June 20th based on the comments on this thread. Please US hams only."

More Amplifier News

When I saw all the information about the Xiegu amplifiers (XPA100, XPA20), I thought I would check with Ed at Import Communications. He says he should have an American designed 20W amplifier that matches the X1M form factor available in kit form by the end of the month.

Organize your shack with SmartJars:

"SmartJars® are the easiest way to get organized fast!In three simple steps, stuff goes from distributed clutter to organized and elegant: 
1. You put your stuff in a SmartJar®. 2. You snap the SmartJar® Dock on to pegboard. 3. You put the SmartJar® in to the Dock. Ordered. Easy to find. Laid out just the way you want."

Via KK Cool Tools

Brick O'Lore After Dark III

A new guy in town walks into a bar and notices a large jar filled to the brim with $10 bills. The man approaches the bartender and asks, "What's up with the jar?"

"Well, you pay $10, and if you pass three tests, then you get all the money."

"What are the three tests?" asks the man

"Gotta pay first."

So the guy gives him the $10 bucks, and the bartender adds it to the jar.

"OK, here's what you have to do. First, you have to drink that whole bottle of pepper tequila -- the WHOLE thing at once -- and you can't make a face while doing it. Second, there's a pit bull chained up out back with a sore tooth. You have to remove the tooth with your bare hands. Third, there is a 90-year-old woman upstairs who's never had an orgasm in her life. You gotta make things right for her."

"Well, I know I've paid my $10 bucks," says the man, "but I'm not an idiot. No wonder you've collected so much money -- that's impossible!"

The new guy proceeds to drink several whiskeys, and eventually, he gets up his nerve.

"Wherez zat teeqeelah?" he slurs.

He grabs the bottle of pepper tequila with both hands and downs it, gulp by gulp. Tears are streaming down his cheeks, but he doesn't make a face. Next, he staggers out back. Everyone in the bar hears a huge scuffle outside -- barking, yelping and growling, then silence.

Just when they think the man must be dead, he staggers back into the bar with his shirt ripped and gashes across his body.

"NOW," he says, "wherez at ol' lady with the sore tooth?"

Knoxville HamFest

My daughter and I took a quick trip to the Knoxville HamFest. It was her first one. We went late, so I missed what I heard was a good bone yard. I'll post a couple of pictures and more later, but I will say I was a little surprised to see a Leixen VV-898.

Warp Drive Spaceship

Nasa's warp drive spaceship.

More pictures here.

Via my nephew

IoT: Honeywell Lyric Thermostat

Forget the NSA, your thermostat is watching you.

"The Lyric has a motion sensor, too–one which it uses to put itself into an interactive mode when it notices you’ve approached. But for monitoring whether you’re at home at all, Honeywell’s thermostat leverages its iOS and Android apps. Your phone tracks your location via GPS and reports it back to the thermostat, so the Lyric knows if you’re around the house or at a distant location. And if it notices that you’re headed home, it can begin to adjust itself so that the temperature is ideal by the time you arrive."

Xiegu XPA100 Amplifier

So today must be Xiegu amplifier (see XPA20) day here at brickolore.com... I saw this a while back, but did not get it posted:

"This stuff has been tested over time, the basic OK. Linear power amplifier input 5W, output 100W, emission indicators shown below, the maximum operating current of approximately 26A.

Have the following basic functions:
automatic frequency measurement
automatic transmission control
automatic temperature control fan
high VSWR protection, thermal protection, overcurrent
power detection
power can set the data format compatible ICOM and YAESU key indicators are as follows: Frequency Range: 0.5 ~ 32MHz Operating voltage: 13.8V Current: 22A @ 100W Max Maximum input power: ≤ 5W maximum output power: ≥ 100W emission efficiency: ≥ 36% work: AB class amplifier input VSWR: 1.2 ≤ fluctuation gain band: ≤ 1.0dB ALC control Range: ≥ 20dB Spurious emission rejection: ≥ 55dB Output Impedance: 50 ohms Frequency Detection time: ≤ 5ms Input Protection: Built-in terminal load Display: 3.0-inch color TFT LCD screen Dimension: 138mm * 85mm * 270mm XPA100 amplifier project completed, the indicators parameters comply with FCC and CE certification requirements, protection agency act quickly to meet the needs of residential, commercial, professional and other applications. My goal is clear, is to make products for everyone to use, do not take the Simple equipment compared with XPA100, we do not fight the price is expected sale price: 2788 yuan / Taiwan (only in mainland China, excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan foreign) after May 5, scheduled to begin. Thanks again for everyone's attention and support has always been, because of you, we can do better"

And an update later:

XPA100 amplifier project has been completed, the indicators parameters comply with FCC and CE certification requirements, protection agency act quickly to meet the needs of residential, commercial, professional and other applications. My goal is clear, is to make products for everyone to use, do not take the Simple equipment compared with XPA100, we do not take the low road is expected sale price: 2788 yuan / Taiwan (only in mainland China, excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, overseas) after May 5, scheduled to begin. Thanks again for everyone's attention and support has always been, because of you, we can do better

Xiegu XPA20 Amplifier

XPA20 Compact 6-Band Amateur HF 20 Watt Linear amplifier for use with X1M QRP Transceiver (149 GBP / 253 USD):

"The XPA20 is intended as a companion linear amplifier for the X1M HF QRP transceiver, for those who would like a little more oomph than the X1M's 5 Watt output. It is rated at 20 Watts maximum output for 5 Watts input and is suitable for both CW and SSB modes."

XPA20 FEATURES

Switchable CW/SSB mode circuit
Six selectable low pass filter settings
Selectable time delay
BNC Female input & antenna connectors

XPA20 SPECIFICATIONS

RF power output (max): 20 W for 5 W input
Low pass filter settings:
2.0 MHz
4.0 MHz
7.5 MHz
15.0 MHz
22.0 MHz
30.0 MHz
Time delay (selectable): 100 ms to 1000 ms
Transmission modes: SSB (A3J), CW (A1)
Supply voltage (min/max): 12.5/14.0
Current draw (max): 7.2 A
Dimensions: 97 x 40 x 155 mm
Weight: 550 g

1 x XPA20 HF linear amplifier
1 x Power connector housing with 2 x crimp terminals
1 x 3.5 mm stereo Y cable
1 x 3.5 mm stereo extension cable

Via the Xiegu Yahoo Group