----- Original Message -----
Subject: [softrock40] Re: Quick question about winding Transformers


>I presume this question is about winding of T5 in the RxTx? I'm trying to
interpret this myself and it is simply not in the least
>clear, either in the cryptic code-like way of describing the winding process in
the "Component Top/Bottom" column in the
>instructions, or anywhere else on the website that I've yet found.
>
> I'm pretty darn sure that T5 is a source of frustration for a lot of builders.
How about adding a note IN THE BUILD INSTRUCTIONS
> explaining clearly how to wind it? This email chain is the only place I've
seen anything about it but even here I'm not 100% sure
> what to do...
>

Joel,

There is a link to this page
http://www.wb5rvz.com/sdr/common/Common_Component_Mounting.htm#toroid_coils
which has information and
further links.
If this is not enough then let us know.
If the link is not on the page where you were looking let Robby know.

73 Alan G4ZFQ

Poas is a volcano in Costa Rica, which would make the surrounding area
very suitable for growing coffee arabica. The burlap sack in the photo
is the most common bulk packaging for transporting the unroasted
(green) beans.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peaberry

My other hobby is roasting coffee. I've been doing that for 15 years
so it's more habit than hobby at this point.

73 David AE9RB
http://AE9RB.com/

On Sun, Jan 20, 2013 at 2:40 PM,  <goatguy101@...> wrote:

I would like to see this Android application but from both my phone and tablet,
going to the Play Store or clicking on the website link I get a message that it
cannot be found.

Trying through the website and requesting the web browser to access the PA
it says that the requested URL was not found on the server.

Any ideas how can I get this AP?

Thanks
Martin, HS0ZED



> -----Original message-----
> From: Dan <danto@...>
> To: softrock40@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Sat, Jan 19, 2013 19:57:31 GMT+00:00
> Subject: [softrock40] Multiple Softrock Lite II accessible now from Android
>
> through the WebSDR server
>
> Hi all,
>
> First I want to apologies for a some how off-topic message, but still
> related to Softrock.
> I have installed some time ago a WebSDR server based on 4xSoftrock Lite II
> receivers (in KN34bk).
> In the mean time I have developed an Android application which allows you
to
>
> connect to this server from any smartphone or tablet
>
> Some of the features:
> -    Works on any Android device, including smartphones, tablets and
Google
>
> TV, with a minimum resolution of 320x240 and Android version 2.1 or
higher;
> -    tuning through the rotary knob or by directly entering the frequency
> from a numeric keypad (in MHz);
> -    16 presets (including frequency, mode, info. For each of the 16
> memories all parameters are saved (freq, alias, description, band, mode,
> etc);
> -    ON/OFF button. When off, the application is disconnected from the
> WebSDR server;
> -    select band from the pool pf available ones;
> -    select operation mode (AM/ LSB/USB/CW);
> -    display: SWR in both graphical and text mode;
> -    possibility to change font size by sliding the finger up or down
> through the right part of the frequency display (MHz, Band zone). Font size
>
> Is stored in the config file and displayed on the startup screen at next
> run;
> -    a FN key to extend the number of memories to 16 and add future
> functionality to some buttons;
> -    work in both portrait and landscape modes;
> -    UTC clock included in the interface;
>
> Current limitation:
> - there is no waterfall (standard transceiver like interface);
> - fixed bandwidth for each mode;
>
> If you want to test it you can download it for free directly from Googlr
> Play Store (search for Pocket AM/CW/SSB Receiver)  or following the link
> available on my web site.
> An user guide is available online (inside the app) or offline (as pdf) on my
>
> site.
>
> I would be very happy if you test it and send me your feedback.
>
> Same server is accessible from the PC at the following address:
> http://websdr.yo3ggx.ro:8765
>
> Thank you
>
> 73 Dan YO3GGX
>
>
>

Hi,

Because of a licensing issue I was asked to remove the app from Play Store.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
I hope that a better app will be available in the future.

73 Dan YO3GGX

On 1/21/2013 12:59 PM, hs0zed@... wrote:
> I would like to see this Android application but from both my phone and
tablet,
> going to the Play Store or clicking on the website link I get a message that
it
> cannot be found.
>
> Trying through the website and requesting the web browser to access the PA
> it says that the requested URL was not found on the server.
>
> Any ideas how can I get this AP?
>
> Thanks
> Martin, HS0ZED
>
>
>
>> -----Original message-----
>> From: Dan <danto@...>
>> To: softrock40@yahoogroups.com
>> Sent: Sat, Jan 19, 2013 19:57:31 GMT+00:00
>> Subject: [softrock40] Multiple Softrock Lite II accessible now from Android
>>
>> through the WebSDR server
>>
>> Hi all,
>>
>> First I want to apologies for a some how off-topic message, but still
>> related to Softrock.
>> I have installed some time ago a WebSDR server based on 4xSoftrock Lite II
>> receivers (in KN34bk).
>> In the mean time I have developed an Android application which allows you
> to
>> connect to this server from any smartphone or tablet
>>
>> Some of the features:
>> -    Works on any Android device, including smartphones, tablets and
> Google
>> TV, with a minimum resolution of 320x240 and Android version 2.1 or
> higher;
>> -    tuning through the rotary knob or by directly entering the frequency
>> from a numeric keypad (in MHz);
>> -    16 presets (including frequency, mode, info. For each of the 16
>> memories all parameters are saved (freq, alias, description, band, mode,
>> etc);
>> -    ON/OFF button. When off, the application is disconnected from the
>> WebSDR server;
>> -    select band from the pool pf available ones;
>> -    select operation mode (AM/ LSB/USB/CW);
>> -    display: SWR in both graphical and text mode;
>> -    possibility to change font size by sliding the finger up or down
>> through the right part of the frequency display (MHz, Band zone). Font size
>>
>> Is stored in the config file and displayed on the startup screen at next
>> run;
>> -    a FN key to extend the number of memories to 16 and add future
>> functionality to some buttons;
>> -    work in both portrait and landscape modes;
>> -    UTC clock included in the interface;
>>
>> Current limitation:
>> - there is no waterfall (standard transceiver like interface);
>> - fixed bandwidth for each mode;
>>
>> If you want to test it you can download it for free directly from Googlr
>> Play Store (search for Pocket AM/CW/SSB Receiver)  or following the link
>> available on my web site.
>> An user guide is available online (inside the app) or offline (as pdf) on my
>>
>> site.
>>
>> I would be very happy if you test it and send me your feedback.
>>
>> Same server is accessible from the PC at the following address:
>> http://websdr.yo3ggx.ro:8765
>>
>> Thank you
>>
>> 73 Dan YO3GGX
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>

David

How DARE you take time off for vacation!

Get back home and back to work on that new transceiver! We are waiting.....
(tap)....(tap).....(tap)....


Warren Allgyer - W8TOD

--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, David Turnbull  wrote:
>
> Poas is a volcano in Costa Rica, which would make the surrounding area
> very suitable for growing coffee arabica. The burlap sack in the photo
> is the most common bulk packaging for transporting the unroasted
> (green) beans.
>
> http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peaberry
>
> My other hobby is roasting coffee. I've been doing that for 15 years
> so it's more habit than hobby at this point.
>
> 73 David AE9RB
> http://AE9RB.com/
>
> On Sun, Jan 20, 2013 at 2:40 PM,   wrote:
>

I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people are using
and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO mike does not work
probably since it requires voltage from the radio. I am connecting to a Delta44
sound card.

 

I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people are using and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO mike does not work probably since it requires voltage from the radio. I am connecting to a Delta44 sound card.

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

 

On 21/01/13 13:16, wa1vta01452 wrote:

 

I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people are using and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO mike does not work probably since it requires voltage from the radio. I am connecting to a Delta44 sound card.

This topic came up a few days ago.

We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the best DDC/DUC SDR radios.

Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
73 ... Sid.

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 7915 (20130121) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

Ordered up a new Q3(2N3906). Cannot find electronic parts locally and had to
cool my heels for a week waiting for it to arrive.

Replaced Q3 and everything is working fine at this time.

Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.  This is my first Softrock.

About to start on my Delta 44 Interface Module and working toward getting on the
air.

73

Jerry N5GKJ

--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "Alan"  wrote:
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> Subject: [softrock40] Re: Ensemble RXTX Failed Driver/PA Test
>
>
> > I am going to jump in here in case you are in a hurry and Alan may be busy.
> >
> > The base voltage at Q3 is incorrect. It should be your PS voltage minus
about 0.7 volts...if you are using a 12V PS then it should
> > be 11.3.
> >
> > I would guess Q3 is either bad or installed incorrectly.
> >
>
> Yes Q3 base voltage is impossible if Q3 is good and installed properly.
>
> In a hurry, been playing WSPR 50mW on 60m and USA spots.
> But G4ZFQ   5.288634   +0   0   IO90ir   +17   0.050   KB9AMG   EN52tx   6287
3907
>
> Really musy be impossible! But it's in the database....
>
> 73 Alan G4ZFQ
>
>
>
> > You do not appear to be getting the proper S12V signal. You can look at the
hairpin of R37. It should be 0V during receive and
> > near to the PS voltage on transmit. Without S12V at 12V during transmit the
rig will not go into transmit mode.
> >
> > Warren Allgyer - W8TOD
> >
> > --- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "jerryburg"  wrote:
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Alan,
> >>
> >> Thanks for the link to the schematic.
> >>
> >> Verified Q3 as 2N3906.  Did various tests of voltage with following
results.
> >>
> >> Q3 Base RX was 3.18vdc and in TX 3.14vdc.
> >>
> >> At U1, Ovdc all Pins in RX and TX mode.
> >>
> >> At U4, Pins 1-3, 0vdc in RX and TX.  Pin 4 2.69vdc in RX and 47mvdc in TX.
> >>
> >> R50/R51 was 2.19vdc in RX and 39mvdc in TX.
> >>
> >> 73 Jerry N5GKJ
> >>
> >> --- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "R. R. (Robby) Robson"  wrote:
> >> >
> >> > Alan
> >> >
> >> > See http://wb5rvz.org/ensemble_rxtx/10_pa#pastandingcurrentandforwardbias
> >> > On Fri, Jan 11, 2013 at 12:48 AM, Alan  wrote:
> >> >
> >> > > **
> >> > >
> >> > >
> >> > >
> >> > > ----- Original Message -----
> >> > > Subject: [softrock40] Re: Ensemble RXTX Failed Driver/PA Test
> >> > >
> >> > > >
> >> > > > From Robby's original build notes: "Enabling PTT also should pull the
> >> > > base of Q3 down, turning it on and generating the S12V
> >> > > > supply to the PA on transmit.
> >> > > >
> >> > > > Bob, G8VOI, has provided a nice little trouble-shooting schematic to
aid
> >> > > for those who may experience problems with this stage.
> >> > > > http://www.wb5rvz.com/sdr/ensemble/05_rf_bob_g8voi.htm"
> >> > > >
> >> > >
> >> > > I find it takes so long to work out where A, B, C, is in relation to
the
> >> > > big scheme of things!
> >> > >
> >> > > What is the base voltage of Q3?
> >> > > The collector is definitely wrong.
> >> > > Some have put the wrong transistor in Q3 position.
> >> > > As Warren says compare with Bob's readings.
> >> > >
> >> > > 73 Alan G4ZFQ
> >> > >
> >> > >
> >> > >
> >> > >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > --
> >> > Cheers,
> >> > Robby
> >> >
> >> > Richard R. (Robby) Robson
> >> > LTC USA (RET)
> >> > www.wb5rvz.com
> >> > www.wb5rvz.org
> >> > www.rafino.org
> >> >
> >>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>

Thanks Sid...I'll try an inexpensive PC mike. High fidelity is not  really a
good thing for communications.

Tom

--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, Sid Boyce  wrote:
>
> On 21/01/13 13:16, wa1vta01452 wrote:
> >
> > I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people
> > are using and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO
> > mike does not work probably since it requires voltage from the radio.
> > I am connecting to a Delta44 sound card.
> >
> >
> This topic came up a few days ago.
>
> We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
> Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the
> best DDC/DUC SDR radios.
>
> Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and
> compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent
> transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
> 73 ... Sid.
>
> --
> Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
> Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
> Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
> Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks
>

I am going to disagree a bit with you Sid. The audio bandwidth of a SSB signal
is normally less than 3500 Hz. Taking a high quality professional microphone and
limiting it to 3.5 KHz, add in the background noise in a normal ham shack, and
your several hundred dollar microphone will sound no better than most of the
Skype compatible mics you buy at Walmart.

Muffled sound may be a bad mic but is more likely the result of overly
aggressive EQ and compression. Splatter into adjacent QSOs is almost always the
result of overdriving the RXTX and is not caused by the microphone.

A common USB PC mic, with drive levels set according to the two tone test level
described in the ARRL Handbook will give some of the best sounding audio you
will hear on the bands. Most amateur SSB is generated using filters.. The
Softrocks SSB is generated using old fashioned "phasing" which was known for
its"s superior audio quality.

Again....due to the extremely limited frequency response any reasonable quality
PC mic can give you stunning quality SSB . I like a USB headset with a boom mic
attached. Speaker, mic, and an audio card all for 20 bucks and it sounds
magnificent.

Warren Allgyer - W8TOD

--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, Sid Boyce  wrote:

>
> We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
> Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the
> best DDC/DUC SDR radios.
>
> Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and
> compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent
> transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
> 73 ... Sid.
>
> --

It is semantics but overdriving a microphone gives distorted audio but does not
create splatter. Splatter is created when the modulated signal level  drives one
or more of the RF stages into non-linearity.. If the microphone is overdriven at
the same time you can will have distortion AND splatter. If the microphone is
set properly but the drive level is set too high then you will have a clean
sounding SSB signal but it will splatter.

The standard Softrocks receivers seem to go into overload on signals higher than
about - 35 dBm or about S9+40 dB if you have properly calibrated your S meter.
Signals at levels above this may indeed look like the are splattering but that
splatter is more likely caused by overload to your receiver.

W8TOD - Warren Allgyer

---
>
> Just as people splatter the band up and down with their 1.8 filters and a
> hand mic by overdriving their rigs, so too can people using processing.
>  It's a simple matter of understanding how to operate the rig.  I've heard
> guys splattering all over the band with a 1.8 filter just as often.
>
>

 

I have been using a small, used, lapel, electret mic on my V6.3 RX/TX. It has worked very well with good reports for audio and plenty of 'punch'.
It uses a 'AA battery' which is placed in a tube inline with the mic. It has a cord of about 20 feet so I can waltz around the shack while I am talking! ;)
Bruce, K2BET

On 1/21/2013 8:53 AM, Sid Boyce wrote:

 

On 21/01/13 13:16, wa1vta01452 wrote:

 

I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people are using and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO mike does not work probably since it requires voltage from the radio. I am connecting to a Delta44 sound card.

This topic came up a few days ago.

We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the best DDC/DUC SDR radios.

Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
73 ... Sid.

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 7915 (20130121) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

 

I am going to disagree a bit with you Sid. The audio bandwidth of a SSB signal is normally less than 3500 Hz. Taking a high quality professional microphone and limiting it to 3.5 KHz, add in the background noise in a normal ham shack, and your several hundred dollar microphone will sound no better than most of the Skype compatible mics you buy at Walmart.

Muffled sound may be a bad mic but is more likely the result of overly aggressive EQ and compression. Splatter into adjacent QSOs is almost always the result of overdriving the RXTX and is not caused by the microphone.

A common USB PC mic, with drive levels set according to the two tone test level described in the ARRL Handbook will give some of the best sounding audio you will hear on the bands. Most amateur SSB is generated using filters.. The Softrocks SSB is generated using old fashioned "phasing" which was known for its"s superior audio quality.

Again....due to the extremely limited frequency response any reasonable quality PC mic can give you stunning quality SSB . I like a USB headset with a boom mic attached. Speaker, mic, and an audio card all for 20 bucks and it sounds magnificent.

Warren Allgyer - W8TOD

--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, Sid Boyce wrote:

>
> We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
> Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the
> best DDC/DUC SDR radios.
>
> Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and
> compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent
> transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
> 73 ... Sid.
>
> --

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

Hi Guys,

I have solved the problem. To be fair to me I was mislead by yet another of the
many quirks of the Windows 7 system which is why I gave up using Windows and
migrated everything I could to Apple Macs last year.

On a standard Windows 7 system you need to copy the DLL files into C:\Program
Files(x86)\HDSDR

If you use the Start Menu then list All Programs then right click on HDSDR and
choose OPEN from the menu you end up at:

C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Programs\HDSDR

this has a shortcut to HDSDR and to all intents and purposes looked to me like
its where the DLLs should live. But it isn't.

Hopefully this will help someone else from falling into the same trap.

73s Steve G0XAR

Hi Alan and all,

I read that page several times before sending my first email, but it does not
deal with how to interpret this very cryptic statement:

0.69uH: 16T/2x8T bifilar #30 on T25-6 (yellow) 9" (top)

As this sort of statement is used in the build instructions it would be a very
good idea to show the poor suffering (non scientist!) ham builder how to
interpret it. Preferably right there in the build notes, not off on some link
elsewhere. (the page already has all sorts of information, so why not add this?)

Look at this: "16T/2x8T"  How are we to interpret this? 16 turns divided by 2?
Multiplied by 8 turns? A little English goes a long way to clearing up
confusion. After a lot of extra reading in this forum I THINK I've figured it
out:

16 turns of #30 on a T25-6, using 9" of wire.
Then take another 9" of wire (not mentioned in the instructions) and cut it in
two. Twist the resulting two pieces together then add to the T25-6 as 8 turns
overlapping the 16 turns already added.

In the specific step in question the text in the "Component Top/Bottom" column
could be changed to something like:

16T #30 9", 8T bifilar 2x4.5" #30, on T25-6 (yellow)(top)

Using text that minimizes confusion results in a lot fewer questions on the
forum, lower stress level for those involved, and a higher success ratio on the
project.

I realize that lots of volunteers have been doing their best on this over a
period of several years, but when you get too close to the project you can lose
perspective and think that something like "0.69uH: 16T/2x8T bifilar #30 on T25-6
(yellow) 9" (top)" makes total sense to everyone...

Joel VE6EI

--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "Alan"  wrote:
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> Subject: [softrock40] Re: Quick question about winding Transformers
>
>
> >I presume this question is about winding of T5 in the RxTx? I'm trying to
interpret this myself and it is simply not in the least
> >clear, either in the cryptic code-like way of describing the winding process
in the "Component Top/Bottom" column in the
> >instructions, or anywhere else on the website that I've yet found.
> >
> > I'm pretty darn sure that T5 is a source of frustration for a lot of
builders. How about adding a note IN THE BUILD INSTRUCTIONS
> > explaining clearly how to wind it? This email chain is the only place I've
seen anything about it but even here I'm not 100% sure
> > what to do...
> >
>
> Joel,
>
> There is a link to this page
http://www.wb5rvz.com/sdr/common/Common_Component_Mounting.htm#toroid_coils
which has information and
> further links.
> If this is not enough then let us know.
> If the link is not on the page where you were looking let Robby know.
>
> 73 Alan G4ZFQ
>

----- Original Message -----
Subject: [softrock40] Re: Quick question about winding Transformers


> I read that page several times before sending my first email, but it does not
deal with how to interpret this very cryptic
> statement:
>
> 0.69uH: 16T/2x8T bifilar #30 on T25-6 (yellow) 9" (top)
>

Joel,

As I've never followed Robby's instructions I'm not familiar with following them
But on the page I linked is:-

"Specification Format
Winding specs will generally resemble the following:


5.0 uH 17T bifilar/34T #30 on T30-2 (red) (19").

This can be interpreted as:

   a.. Use a T30-2 toroid (color is red and O.D. is 0.3")
   b.. You will need two 19" lengths of #30 wire.
   c.. For toroids, one turn is a single pass through the center hole.
   d.. For binocular cores, one turn is a pass in which the wire goes in the
bottom, comes out the top, goes back in the other hole
at the top, and comes out the other hole at the bottom.
   e.. The transformer will have a single, 34 turn, secondary winding of 19" of
#30 wire. Usually the single winiding is wound onto
the core first. Winding should be evenly spaced and ideally cover all but a 15
degree "wedge" of the toroid. Sometimes, it may be
necessary to wind over the top of existing turns where there is more wire than
there is bare core left.
   f.. The transformer will have two primary windings each of 17 turns of #30
wire. The term "bifilar" means to take one of the two
lengths of wire, bend it at the half-point so the resultant "hairpin" is
composed of the two 9.5" long halves, and then twist the
two strands together to make a "bifilar" strand with approximately 3 twists to
the inch. The bifilar windings are usually wound
AFTER (and over) the single strand winding. You should wait until you have wound
it correctly before cutting the "hairpin" end of
the bifilar strand.
   g.. The inductance value is provided primarily to help validate the number of
turns. It is the inductance of the single-strand
winding"
Which to me seems to give a reasonable idea. And the other links on that page
must give more information.
Once you have done one then it seems uneccessary to repeat the instructions. It
is a one-time learning procedure.
Many others have made the coils before with only a few asking about them.
However, if you feel Robby should make things clearer then I'm sure he will be
glad to discuss it with you.

73 Alan G4ZFQ




>

----- Original Message -----
Subject: [softrock40] Re: HDSDR and Si570....


>
> I have solved the problem. To be fair to me I was mislead by yet another of
the many quirks of the Windows 7 system which is why I
> gave up using Windows and migrated everything I could to Apple Macs last year.
>

Steve,

Glad you sorted yourself out.
But, with respect, how come the Mac is any different?
It is just a matter of understanding how things work, knowing your way round the
file system. I'd be lost on a Mac, and Linux but I
would not blame them when I lost my way.

73 Alan G4ZFQ

----- Original Message -----
Subject: Re: [softrock40] Trouble with Transmitter section RXTX Ensemble




>>Check that R47 hairpin and the gates of Q7,8 are all at 2V5, the same as R38.
Check you have about 12V on the primary of T4 and Q7,8 drains.

>This is what I measured:

>R47=2.54, Gate of Q7,Q8=2.54, R38=2.52, Drain of Q7,Q8=12.64. T4-P1,P2=12.64


Joe,

I wondered if that would be your reply.
All seems correct except that Q7,8 are not conducting.
Are they the correct way round?
Otherwise they seem suspect which is strange as they were tested when you did
the balance check. But they are sensitive to static.
Unless someone else has any ideas I'd suggest replacing them.

73 Alan G4ZFQ



Subject: Re: [softrock40] Trouble with Transmitter section RXTX Ensemble

>I re-checked voltage drop across R48 and R49. R48=0, R49=2.9. The following
voltages to ground: NO PTT R38=0.2mv,R39=0.1mv,
>R40=0.1mv,R41=0.0mv PTT ON R38=1.1V , R39=1.6V, R40 =1.02V, R41=0.1mv. R46
resistance to gnd=2430 ohms.

All low. Sorry I should have asked for R39 hairpin as well.
If that is not around 12V then check it's value.
And check S12V.
Check all solder joints around Q5 and the other components mentioned.

 

Hi Bruce,
If the storms hit again, you've almost got a 1/4 wave substitute there for 40m operation - through an antenna tuner, call CQ DX and you'll get a pileup going.
73 ... Sid.

On 21/01/13 15:55, Bruce Tanner wrote:

 

I have been using a small, used, lapel, electret mic on my V6.3 RX/TX. It has worked very well with good reports for audio and plenty of 'punch'.
It uses a 'AA battery' which is placed in a tube inline with the mic. It has a cord of about 20 feet so I can waltz around the shack while I am talking! ;)
Bruce, K2BET

On 1/21/2013 8:53 AM, Sid Boyce wrote:

 

On 21/01/13 13:16, wa1vta01452 wrote:

 

I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people are using and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO mike does not work probably since it requires voltage from the radio. I am connecting to a Delta44 sound card.

This topic came up a few days ago.

We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the best DDC/DUC SDR radios.

Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
73 ... Sid.

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 7915 (20130121) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 7916 (20130121) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

Do they work together or is there something that I would need besides a sound
card for the ipad? Thanks for the help.
Gary

I do this as a matter of routine but and have tried a number of ways to protect
the RXII while transmitting, but still looking for a better way.

Disconnecting the antenna still produces a huge signal even with the SR in a
metal box.  I've been cutting power to it while transmitting...

I'm considering some combination of the following:

ground the metal box should help.
wrap it in tinfoil (never tried that)?
short the antenna
disconnect the antenna
cut DC power to the SR
cut the USB connection along with DC


Any other ideas or experience of what works best?
I run 50 watts HF and 2M and haven't blown out the SR yet
overload often detunes the SR or disables the USB, as does disconnection so
there are downsides/risks to what I've tried.


--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "warrenallgyer"  wrote:
>
> If you run the transmitter into a dummy load it will certainly reduce the
stray RF pickup but, like Dave, I use mine as a true operating monitor so it
needs to work with the transmitter at full power into the antenna. Mine does but
that is at 3 watts or less and with the input terminated. At higher power
levels, with unknown antenna match and ground conditions, it is hard to predict.
I think, at a minimum, he needs to get it into a metal box and terminate or
short the antenna connector.
>
> Warren Allgyer - W8TOD
>
> --- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "Alan"  wrote:
> >
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > Subject: [softrock40] Re: SDR station monitor, how to??
> >
> >
> > I guess Warren is saying is run your 857 into a dummy load. I think you will
overload the Softrock if you have an antenna connected.
> > Or is it possible to keep the RF out Warren?
> >
> > 73 Alan G4ZFQ
> >
>

 

Is it true that no one has ever built a GNU Radio source or sink block for the Softrock Ensemble Rx or RxTx?  It would only be an audio source/sink with access to the frequency setting, ptt, and keying functions, not too much work at all.  Give it an opensource license and it could be included in the next release of GNU Radio.

In contrast, http://sdr.osmocom.org/trac/wiki/rtl-sdr built a GNU Radio source block for the Realtek RTL2832U a few months after the DVB-T dongles were hacked last spring.  There is already a GNU Radio project that implements a complete GPS / Galileo / Glonass receiver/decoder on top of that.

I just watched the introduction to GNU Radio from last fall's TAPR DCC, http://arvideonews.com/hrn/HRN_Episode_0051.html  and it's a pretty good 4 hour tutorial.  It would be better if they had posted a link to the live CD image the participants were using, but no one seems to have saved that part of the presentation anywhere.

-- rec --

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

 

:-) ! Hi, Sid... hmmmm... never thought of that... maybe it explains the occasional RF feedback in the shack! ;)

I'll keep listening... during a former 'Sweepsteaks' I had it on the air and worked 18 sections on SSB without really trying and I was only operating for a couple of hours. Those little Softrocks are quite a wonder!

Bruce

On 1/21/2013 12:21 PM, Sid Boyce wrote:

 

Hi Bruce,
If the storms hit again, you've almost got a 1/4 wave substitute there for 40m operation - through an antenna tuner, call CQ DX and you'll get a pileup going.
73 ... Sid.

On 21/01/13 15:55, Bruce Tanner wrote:

 

I have been using a small, used, lapel, electret mic on my V6.3 RX/TX. It has worked very well with good reports for audio and plenty of 'punch'.
It uses a 'AA battery' which is placed in a tube inline with the mic. It has a cord of about 20 feet so I can waltz around the shack while I am talking! ;)
Bruce, K2BET

On 1/21/2013 8:53 AM, Sid Boyce wrote:

 

On 21/01/13 13:16, wa1vta01452 wrote:

 

I am using an V6.3 RXTX and wondering what type of microphone people are using and what type is most effective. I know my Icom IC746PRO mike does not work probably since it requires voltage from the radio. I am connecting to a Delta44 sound card.

This topic came up a few days ago.

We are needing broadcast or production audio quality.
Any eletret (PC) Mic connected to the sound card works with even the best DDC/DUC SDR radios.

Many of the stations I hear on the air using sound mixers and compressors either sound quite muffled or splatter over adjacent transmissions but they get reports of great sounding audio.
73 ... Sid.

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 7915 (20130121) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

-- 

__________ Information from ESET Smart Security, version of virus signature database 7916 (20130121) __________

The message was checked by ESET Smart Security.

http://www.eset.com

-- Sid Boyce ... Hamradio License G3VBV, Licensed Private Pilot
Emeritus IBM/Amdahl Mainframes and Sun/Fujitsu Servers Tech Support
Senior Staff Specialist, Cricket Coach
Microsoft Windows Free Zone - Linux used for all Computing Tasks

That's very interesting Ed
I thought I had solved it having rewound t2 and sending a tone from Rocky it
looked like I was txing on USB. However when using a mic and testing fully I
found I was on DSB

Perhaps I also have the same problem as you? I will recheck by sending the tone
from rocky again and will pay more attention to the result.

Thanks hopefully that's it.
Paul
--- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "ejfelix4976"  wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "PAUL"  wrote:
> >
> > Thanks Alan
> > Using the meter on ac is a good tip
> > Looks like I have signal where I expect it
> > Think I will lift out T2 next
> >
> > Paul
> >
> > --- In softrock40@yahoogroups.com, "Alan"  wrote:
> > >
> > >
> > > ----- Original Message -----
> > > Subject: [softrock40] ensamble tx on both sidebands at the same time
> > >
> > >
> > > > Any one had this? Receive works perfectly but I am transmitting on upper
and lower sideband at the same time. I have changed sound
> > > > cards and confirmed that the output is stereo. I also noticed that I
could not set the tx channel skew calibration in HDSDR as it
> > > > had no effect.
> > > >
> > > > I guess I need to look at the TX mixer, could I have wound one of the
transformers incorrectly to cause this?
> > > >
> > >
> > > Paul,
> > >
> > > You are certain you have two signals in and no shorts between them?
> > > It is possible T2 is at fault.
> > > If your meter  AC range is specified to 10KHz, many are, then TX close to
centre and check that the 4 opamp outputs are much the
> > > same.
> > >
> > > 73 Alan G4ZFQ
> > >
> >Hi Paul,
> I just ran into this while testing my Ensemble RXTX a couple of days
> ago.
> I was using the mic input to the sound card and the line out to the rxtx
> I could transmit,  but after looking at it with a spectrum analyzer,
> I was transmitting DSB.
> Turns out the Mic input was not being processed by the software
> When I looked at it with an oscilloscope, the two channels were in
> phase on the sound card line out.
>
> Hope this helps,
> 73,
> Ed
>