Karl, DK5LP, hat mich auf eine Besonderheit des Logbuchprogrammes RUMLOG für den Mac aufmerksam gemacht.

Dieses nutzt nicht den bisher implementierten IF-Befehl des Kenwood-Protokolls sondern den FA-Befehl.

Ich habe die Firmware entsprechend erweitert, somit sollte auch RUMLOG funktionieren.

Die Beschreibung, entsprechend ergänzt, ist hier zum runterladen.

I've build a simple distribution amplifier for my GPSDO.

My SYMMETRICOM GPSDO 090-03861-03 with firmware release 1.0.0.2-01 has a bunch of commands available:

I've done some long term measurements on my GPSDO. The GPSDO has a RS232 based simple command interface.

To have a stable 10MHz reference in my shack, I've ordered a SYMMETRICOM based GPSDO from an Chinese eBay seller. It was delivered in kit form, so no issues with missing CE marking etc.

The GPSDO is build into a sturdy aluminium case with a PCB front panel and an aluminium back panel.

With the firmware version 1.8.0 I've introduce the capability to display also the input power in Watt instead of dBm. Simply tap on the unit field on the display to toggle between dBm and Watt.

I've introduced with the firmware version 1.7.1 a complexity to this project which may not be suitable to all users.

WIth the firmware version 1.7.2 I've reduced the complexity by removing the remote configuration utilities.

If you are using my powermeter software in conjunction with Maki's module and have a unstable readings or sporadic extrem value changes, this is a problem of the CS pin. It may be a grounding issue - Makis is currently analysing the problem.

I've developed a new firmware for my RF Powermeter. In this firmware, the user can now program for six calibration points the factors for the polynimial regression functions.

Therefor I've developed a JAVA GUI application for downloading these floating point values to the device.

*** CAUTION ***
All stuff described in this post is ONLY running on an Arduino which runs the OptiBoot bootloader. The EEPROM capability of the OptiBoot bootloader is needed for the features of firmware V1.7.1

I described here a way how to flash the OptiBoot loader on an Arduino UNO clone. For this you need an ISP or a second Arduino to act as an ISP.

I've added a new feature to the firmware release 1.5.0 - power offset .

The original library from Dan is not working as expected for me. So I adopted the code a little bit.

You can find the changes below. You can also download "my version" of the library here. Unzip into the Arduino's library folder.

As described here, I've build an RF Powermeter.

The basic firmware is now running. So I started analysing the accuracy of the used meter head.

Inspired by the work of Richard G3CWI from SOTABEAMS and his flight decks for some QRP transceivers, I decided to build a matching one for my ELECRAFT KX3.

Starting point was a clipboard which can be found for some bucks at AMAZON. In the lower section, I can simply secure my log sheets with the strong clip.

My second SOTA activation is done. Monika (DL6SCF) and I made a short hiking trip on the Swabian Alps. On top of the Kornberg we made a stop and started the activation ... unfortunately we have to shut down operation due to a rising thunderstorm.

During a business trip, I took the chance to activate a mountain in the Bavarian low mountains - Kleiner Kulm.

My current working conditions for SOTA are:

• ELECRAFT KX3. With its build in antenna tuner it does a quite remarkable job.
• For the power I use a LiFePO4 battery with 12V 6,6Ah with a build in BMS.
• Microphone for the SSB contacts is the stock-mike from ELECRAFT.
• For CW I use the Palm Pico Paddle.
• Antenna is a HYENDFED 3-band antenna.
• Flight-Deck for KX3
• A 10m fibre pole from DX-Wire - MINI
• Some velcro-straps

I've used one of these cheap switch-mode DC-DC converters (available on eBay for a few bucks) for my WSPR U3S transmitter. Checking the transmitted signal reveals strong spurious emissions. Hints from the QRPLabs group leads me to the cause - the DC-DC converter. Replacing it with a linear LM317 one solves the problem.

I've checked this extremly simple concept for spurious emissions and whether they're compliant with the current regulations ...

Yesterday I've build the FROG SOUNDS 40m CW QRP transceiver.

I've ordered it as a kit from eBay Seller for about €10,- inclusive shipping to DL. The kit arrived well packed after about 15 days in my postbox.

Currently I've done 6 QSOs with the Frog and my dipole antenna.