radio, electronics, security, silly hacks
The uSDX+ is a nice little transceiver from china based on the uSDX project. It is cheap, works on 8 bands, is based on opensource software, and has enough place inside the case to do some modifications. And if it breaks, it is easy to fix (probably easier than many analog radios).
So let’s see what we can modify in this radio.
The following modifications will be for the uSDX+ (uSDX plus), with the board marked Ver 3.0, but other radios may be similar and similar modifications may apply.
The (tr)uSDX has hardware to measure the power amplifier voltage/current/input power. Since the output power is also measured, it can calculate and show efficiency. This is very useful for tuning the class-E output stage, and is also useful in the field to see battery voltage and other parameters.
I have an uSDX+ transceiver from China. Let’s add the power monitor to it too. This description should apply to other radios based on the uSDX.
Continue reading “Adding an INA219 power monitor to a chinese USDX+ transceiver”
The (tr)uSDX transceiver has a builtin SWR meter. It will measure SWR and forward/reflected power. This is very useful in the field, because there is one less device to carry.
I have an uSDX+ transceiver from China. Let’s add the SWR meter to it too.
Continue reading “Adding an SWR meter to a chinese uSDX+ transceiver”
So I’ve tried to operate from Platanias / Crete (see SV9/SQ5BPF with uSDX part 1).
Threw a wire on a palm palm tree, stretched a counterpoise on the ground, tuned it, and made the first CW QSO on 40m with Zygi SP5ELA. So next I’ve tried to tune the antenna on 80m, and the uSDX transceiver failed with a short circuit.
It seems that the smd PA transistor died on 80m (it also dies on 10m). Fortunately I’ve had two IRLML2060 transistors with me, but no soldering iron and other tools.
So is there any hope that i will be able to make more than one QSO?
I have traveled to Crete / SV9 in July 2021 for vacation. I’ve spent vacation in Greece many times. This time i brought a shortwave transceiver with me to see if amateur radio will be compatible with a family vacation.
