Re: [Flexradio] Flex 5000A w/earbuds
A couple of separate answers: - Capacitors in series do roll off the lows, but if you pick a cap whose reactance at one octave below the lowest frequency that you wish to be flat is equal to the reactance (though you can probably get away with simply using the DC Resistance of the headphones for all practical purposes...) of the phones, the frequency response will be 3 dB down at that frequency but will be back to flat at one octave above the corner frequency. So if you assume a lowest desirable frequency of 300 Hz. for communications purpose pick a corner frequency of 150 Hz. - And back in the day (1920's - 1930's) the voice coil of the speaker was used for the filter choke, and if you look at old radio schematics, say in the ARRL Handbook, you will see the headphones in series with the B+ for the amplifier tube. But that went the way of the Dodo when transformers became more readily available. Most high end amplifiers either use a transformer, or in the case of transistor amps have complimentary output devices with B+ and B- supplies so (in theory) there is very little DC at the common point the speaker is connected to. If you do loose one side of the power supply the full tilt boogie voltage of the other supply will be applied to your speaker and you have a good chance of blowing the voice coil.I have literally seen a speaker cabinet catch fire and burn because the amp went into DC. High quality amps have protection circuits to prevent that, but the Certain Vagrant (Cerwin Vega) amp that caused the fire did not because Vega was really cheaply designed. Bill AD5OL From: Rob Keijzer pa3...@amsat.org To: Bill Guyger bguy...@yahoo.com Cc: flexradio flexradio@flex-radio.biz; Mike Sonn fatfend...@sbcglobal.net Sent: Sunday, November 23, 2014 7:34 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Flex 5000A w/earbuds There is indeed dc on the 5kA phones output. When I plug in a headphone I hear a loud pop (almost to the level it makes me think it'll be blown). I asked once why on earth this is needed, and got the answer that blocking this DC (by transformers or capacitors) would also block the lowest audio frequencies. I simply don't use the headphones output. BTW: I never heard that high end audio required our equipment to run DC through our voice coils. Rob, PA3CNT 2014-11-23 5:06 GMT+01:00 Bill Guyger via FlexRadio flexradio@flex-radio.biz: Forgot to add grab a voltmeter and check for DC Bill Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 10:04 PM, Bill Guyger via FlexRadio flexradio@flex-radio.biz wrote: Heating in headphones and speakers is usually caused by D.C. coming out of the amp. I underline usually maybe something I'm not considering though. Bill AD5OL Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 8:27 PM, Mike Sonn fatfend...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Anyone else use earbuds? I've used a set for years with my Flex 3000. I now have upgraded to a FLEX 5K and when I stuck my earbuds in for the first time, they were very warm. I thought I had them leaning against something warm in the shack, but after sitting on the desk for 10 minutes, they are still warm. My ear canals won't get cold, but clearly, there's something strange going on here. Any ideas? ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz -- Rob Keijzer PA3CNT ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Flex 5000A w/earbuds
Very dangerous, but that's the they built radios back then. Everything was open, you could grab a hand full of electrons real easily ! Bill Sent from my iPhone On Nov 23, 2014, at 10:45 AM, Chuck Forsberg WA7KGX c...@omen.com wrote: On 11/23/2014 08:31 AM, Bill Guyger via FlexRadio wrote: A couple of separate answers: - Capacitors in series do roll off the lows, but if you pick a cap whose reactance at one octave below the lowest frequency that you wish to be flat is equal to the reactance (though you can probably get away with simply using the DC Resistance of the headphones for all practical purposes...) of the phones, the frequency response will be 3 dB down at that frequency but will be back to flat at one octave above the corner frequency. So if you assume a lowest desirable frequency of 300 Hz. for communications purpose pick a corner frequency of 150 Hz. - And back in the day (1920's - 1930's) the voice coil of the speaker was used for the filter choke, and if you look at old radio schematics, say in the ARRL Handbook, you will see the headphones in series with the B+ for the amplifier tube. But that went the way of the Dodo when transformers became more readily available. Most high end amplifiers either use a transformer, or in the case of transistor amps have complimentary output devices with B+ and B- supplies so (in theory) there is very little DC at the common point the speaker is connected to. If you do loose one side of the power supply the full tilt boogie voltage of the other supply will be applied to your speaker and you have a good chance of blowing the voice coil.I have literally seen a speaker cabinet catch fire and burn because the amp went into DC. High quality amps have protection circuits to prevent that, but the Certain Vagrant (Cerwin Vega) amp that caused the fire did not because Vega was really cheaply designed. Bill AD5OL From: Rob Keijzer pa3...@amsat.org To: Bill Guyger bguy...@yahoo.com Cc: flexradio flexradio@flex-radio.biz; Mike Sonn fatfend...@sbcglobal.net Sent: Sunday, November 23, 2014 7:34 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Flex 5000A w/earbuds There is indeed dc on the 5kA phones output. When I plug in a headphone I hear a loud pop (almost to the level it makes me think it'll be blown). I asked once why on earth this is needed, and got the answer that blocking this DC (by transformers or capacitors) would also block the lowest audio frequencies. I simply don't use the headphones output. BTW: I never heard that high end audio required our equipment to run DC through our voice coils. Rob, PA3CNT 2014-11-23 5:06 GMT+01:00 Bill Guyger via FlexRadio flexradio@flex-radio.biz: Forgot to add grab a voltmeter and check for DC Bill Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 10:04 PM, Bill Guyger via FlexRadio flexradio@flex-radio.biz wrote: Heating in headphones and speakers is usually caused by D.C. coming out of the amp. I underline usually maybe something I'm not considering though. Bill AD5OL Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 8:27 PM, Mike Sonn fatfend...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Anyone else use earbuds? I've used a set for years with my Flex 3000. I now have upgraded to a FLEX 5K and when I stuck my earbuds in for the first time, they were very warm. I thought I had them leaning against something warm in the shack, but after sitting on the desk for 10 minutes, they are still warm. My ear canals won't get cold, but clearly, there's something strange going on here. Any ideas? ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz In the old days the loudspeaker used a field coil instead of a permanent magnet. The B+ supply had a capacitor input, then the field coil, then the rest of the radio. A hum bucking winding was sometimes used. I don't know of any radios that had B+ on the headphone terminals. A bit shocking I'd think. -- Chuck Forsberg WA7KGX c...@omen.com www.omen.com Developer of Industrial ZMODEM(Tm) for Embedded Applications Omen Technology Inc The High Reliability Software 10255 NW Old Cornelius Pass Portland OR 97231 503-614-0430 ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex
Re: [Flexradio] Flex 5000A w/earbuds
Heating in headphones and speakers is usually caused by D.C. coming out of the amp. I underline usually maybe something I'm not considering though. Bill AD5OL Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 8:27 PM, Mike Sonn fatfend...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Anyone else use earbuds? I've used a set for years with my Flex 3000. I now have upgraded to a FLEX 5K and when I stuck my earbuds in for the first time, they were very warm. I thought I had them leaning against something warm in the shack, but after sitting on the desk for 10 minutes, they are still warm. My ear canals won't get cold, but clearly, there's something strange going on here. Any ideas? ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Flex 5000A w/earbuds
Forgot to add grab a voltmeter and check for DC Bill Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 10:04 PM, Bill Guyger via FlexRadio flexradio@flex-radio.biz wrote: Heating in headphones and speakers is usually caused by D.C. coming out of the amp. I underline usually maybe something I'm not considering though. Bill AD5OL Sent from my iPhone On Nov 22, 2014, at 8:27 PM, Mike Sonn fatfend...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Anyone else use earbuds? I've used a set for years with my Flex 3000. I now have upgraded to a FLEX 5K and when I stuck my earbuds in for the first time, they were very warm. I thought I had them leaning against something warm in the shack, but after sitting on the desk for 10 minutes, they are still warm. My ear canals won't get cold, but clearly, there's something strange going on here. Any ideas? ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] new Win 7 computer and 1500
I'd be interested to hear some of the computer geniuii (plural of genius?) comment too. I've been running Win 7 Pro 64 on laptop with no problems but I'm just operating PVM (Plain Vanilla Mode). Bill AD5OL On Friday, August 29, 2014 2:19 PM, dave dabay kd...@twlakes.net wrote: I have ordered a new pc to use with my Flex 1500 and would like to pave the way to a rock solid box like XP was. Process to upgrade and move my 1500? VAC? Fldigi? VSPE? Pitfalls or things to check on the Win7 Pro 64Bit? thanks in advance dave dabay kd...@twlakes.net ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Possible to run PSDR on a tablet for use with a Flex-1500
I'm doing exactly that with a Toshiba Satellite running Win 7 Pro, i7 processor 8 gig of RAM 1 TB hard drive. Works great! Bill AD5OL Sent from my iPhone On Jul 20, 2014, at 6:52 PM, vtnn...@comcast.net wrote: I was wondering if it is possible to run PSDR on a tablet hooked up directly via USB to a Flex-1500? It would be pretty cool to be able to to have a portable station like this. Zack N8FNR ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 to USB
The SDR1000 must operate in 32 bit mode. That was the deciding factor for me in my recent purchase of a 1500. That being said...if your laptop will support virtualization you can download a XP emulator from Microsoft that will run in Win 7 Professional but not home version. I had to do that to support some RF design software that was heavily DOS based, but there seems to be a fairly high latency when running something in the XP shell due I guess to all the converting that the machine is having to do. It was worth the price of the 1500 to not have the whipping of having to operate with patch work software. Besides which the 1500 is much a slicker radio. Bill AD5OL On Saturday, June 28, 2014 5:11 PM, Tim Ellison, W4TME t...@flex-radio.com wrote: Eddie is correct. Tim Ellison, W4TME Customer Experience Manager FlexRadio Systems^(TM) 4616 W Howard Ln, Suite 1-150 Austin, TX 78728 Phone: 512-535-4713 Ext. 223 Email: t...@flexradio.com mailto:t...@flexradio.com Web: www.flexradio.com http://www.flexradio.com/ On 6/28/2014 5:25 PM, Edwin Marzan wrote: I do not believe the SDR1000 is supported on any 64 bit system. Eddie from the BronxAB2VW From: w8...@q.com To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Date: Sat, 28 Jun 2014 12:01:22 -0700 Subject: Re: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 to USB I should add that I am running a Toshiba laptop, Windows 7 64 bit. -Original Message- From: Paul Sent: Saturday, June 28, 2014 9:42 AM To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 to USB I am looking for a USB to parallel adapter that will work with my SDR-1000. Anyone have any ideas? Paul, W8AEF ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
[Flexradio] Shuttle Pros and Power Mates
I've been following the Shuttle pro discussion and have a question. I bought a 1500 at Hamcom and had intended to employ the Power Mate controller I had from earlier radios I have / had. In looking at discussions of the Power Mate on line it seems that there is no working driver for Windows 7 (I have the Pro version). There were some patches / work arounds but they seemed iffy. The Shuttle Pro therefore began to look pretty good but looking at Contour's website their downloadable manual speaks of only XP and Vista. Any thoughts about my installation on my Win 7 Pro machine? FWIW it's a Toshiba Satellite with Core i7 2.64 Ghz., 8 G of RAM and 1Tbyte hard drive. Thanks! Bill AD5OL ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz To opt out of the Reflector: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] S Meter minimum
Wouldn't it be better to use a Software Defined Wrench? That way there's no problems with no compatibility at least until the next software revision... Bill AD5OL On Tuesday, January 7, 2014 11:16 AM, Patrick Greenlee patric...@windstream.net wrote: Left vs right hand hydrospanner . If I recall the class I took at Chanute Field in the winter of 1963-64 correctly the determining factor is which hemisphere you are in, north or south as it is related to coriolis effect. Patrick NJ5G -Original Message- From: Paul Playford Sent: Monday, January 06, 2014 7:00 PM To: apbid...@mailaps.org ; FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] S Meter minimum Left hand or right hand? Paul -Original Message- From: Alan Sent: Monday, January 06, 2014 5:36 PM To: FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] S Meter minimum A hydrospanner also works well. 73s, Alan WA4SCA ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000
It was indeed 1 W. I have one for a VFO for a 813 based transmitter out of the '55 handbook. Bill AD5OL From: Neal Campbell nealk...@me.com To: Hulen Smith clay1...@cmaaccess.com Cc: flexradio@flex-radio.biz flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Monday, December 3, 2012 3:06 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 On 12/3/2012 4:05 PM, Hulen Smith wrote: Does anyone know what the original 3-board SDR transmit power output was? k5hcs Hulen ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ I believe it was 1 watt. ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Get the way back machine out for this Question
I think I started that ball rolling by posting a drawing of a breakout cable I designed to eliminate the outboard box. It was just a D connector to 1/4 TRS plugs using some Canare or Mogami miniature pair shielded cable that went directly from the Delta 44 card directly to the radio since I've always been a fan of eliminating connectors and stray cabling if they are not required. Then Tony KB9YIG with my permission developed an improved version with RF filtering then offered a kit with PC board and parts for a very reasonable price. I'm not sure if they're still available I think there was a run on them and he ran out of stock pretty fast. Not sure if they're still available.. Bill AD5OL From: Ed White wa3...@verizon.net To: SDR-5000 FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Wed, September 28, 2011 6:40:00 PM Subject: [Flexradio] Get the way back machine out for this Question Hi Gang: Have a question for the way back machine gang SDR1000 with the Delta 44 sound card. What I am looking for is the documentation for the adapter that we built for the inputs and output to the Delta 44. The Delta 44 came with a big brick to interface out signals to the computer . One of our early gang came up with a card to put on the Delta 44 to take its place. I need the documentations for the card anybody have the information. Ed WA3BZT ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] OT: Yamaha CM-500 phones repair
I can't speak exactly to the Yamaha's but having serviced a bunch of Sennheiser HMD-25's and Beyer DT 190's and 290's, the ear pads USUALLY are kept in place by the elasticity of the plastic they are made of. In other words, on both the Sennheisers and Beyers there is a plastic skirt around the back of the padded area that is simply stretched over the hard plastic housing of the ear cup which holds the actual driver. You just grab it on one side stretch that side off the housing and work your way around removing it. In the words of the old saw, reassembly is the opposite of dis-assembly though at the last it sometimes helps to stick a small screwdriver in and slide it around to make sure the last little bit seats properly. Now about getting them.you might try a pro audio supply house. I totally recommend Proaudio.com (which use to be Crouse-Kimzey) and I deal with Lee Edwards at 1.800.257.6233. Since I don't use the Yamahas I have never tried to get a replacement part for them but Lee can get anything I need for my Sennheisers and Beyers so he may be able to help you with your headset or point you in the right direction. Bill AD5OL From: Dave Gomberg da...@wcf.com To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sat, July 16, 2011 10:28:45 PM Subject: [Flexradio] OT: Yamaha CM-500 phones repair Someone on this list recommended the Yamaha CM-500 headset with boom mic and I got one and fell in love. Now the outer covers of the ear muffs are disintegrating. If anyone has replaced their ear muffs, 2 Qs: 1. How did you get the old ones off and put the new ones on? 2. What kind of replacement muffs did you use -- Dave Gomberg, San Francisco NE5EE Programming since 1959 All addresses, phones, etc. at http://www.wcf.com/ham/info.html - ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Antenna hanging: revisited
FWIW I saw a golf ball launcher in the Cheaper Than Dirt catalog that is a tube which looks like a giant suppressor that screws onto the muzzle of an AR-15. You chamber a blank, drop in the ball and you're supposed to be able to launch the ball 200 yds. or so. It's so incredibly stupid that it is probably totally fun AS LONG AS USED IN A SAFE MANNER. Talk about a way to loft a golf ball over the tallest tree for antenna stringing as long as you're out in the middle of nowhere so you don't put the ball through the neighbor's 2nd story window or have the ball land in the middle of a garden party three blocks down if the string breaks. Obviously I'm not really suggesting you do this but it is something to think about should the proper circumstances present themselves. Bill AD5OL From: Rick McClelland, AA5S aa5s.r...@gmail.com To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sat, July 16, 2011 9:57:00 PM Subject: [Flexradio] Antenna hanging: revisited I saw a posting not long ago from a guy who hung a wire antenna by using a golf ball with some type of small turnbuckle driven through to hold a fishing line. Today, I tried using a golf ball and a cotter pin that I bought from Home Depot. I used a C-clamp vice-grip to hold the ball as I drilled a hole through the center. The cotter pin fit perfectly and was nearly flush with the golf ball on both sides. I bought a couple hundred yard roll of fishing line and pulled about 100 feet onto the ground, cut it from the roll and tied it to the cotter pin. I'm not a great athlete but I was able to zing the golf ball about 40' up into a willow tree and pull my rope through. I've been at my present QTH for about two months and my temporary antenna had been a single band 40 meter end fed dipole at 20' but now I have a 2 band end fed (Par Electronics EF-20/40) at 40'. This is a nice improvement and it was much cheaper using a golf ball than buying a super-de-duper, tennis-ball rocket launching contraption to accomplish the same thing. Admittedly, the super-de-duper tennis ball rocket launching contraption can get a line 100' into a tree but if your needs are more modest, I recommend a golf ball, a cotter pin and hand launching the golf ball. It works in some fairly challenging situations. --- Rick McClelland, AA5S Fort Collins, CO ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] 440 MHz band at risk
And for those of you who are broadcast engineers this bill includes the 450 and 455 Mhz. RPU bands! Bill AD5OL From: Gerald Youngblood ger...@flexradio.com To: Reflector flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sat, March 5, 2011 10:29:17 AM Subject: [Flexradio] 440 MHz band at risk Dear Flexers, Our 70 cm band is at risk. Please read the following sent to me by W5ROE and respond to the address provided if you would like to help keep our operating privileges on this important ham band. You can also read about the bill at http://www.arrl.org/news/view/spectrum-management-bill-threatens-amateur-frequencies . Thanks, Gerald Gerald Youngblood, K5SDR President and CEO FlexRadio Systems(TM) [TEXT AS FOLLOWS] Attention all Radio Amateurs! A FLASH message from the West Gulf Division Director, David Woolweaver, K5RAV Your assistance to defend one of our amateur bands is urgently requested. Please read and follow through on the requested action described below. This is an important issue for every Amateur Radio Operator in the nation. You may have already heard that our 440 MHz band is being threatened by a bill introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives. In its current form, HR 607 provides for the creation and maintenance of a nationwide Public Safety broadband network. As a part of that network, the bill proposes to allocate the so-called “D-Block” of frequencies in the 700 MHz range. The “D-Block” consists of two, 5 MHz wide segments of spectrum (758-763 MHz and 788-793 MHz) that became available when the FCC ended analog television broadcasts in June 2009. It was initially expected that the “D-Block” would be auctioned for commercial use. HR 607 provides for the reallocation of other spectrum for auction to commercial users in order to offset the loss of revenue that will occur as the result of the allocation of the “D-Block” to Public Safety instead of commercial auction. Among the bands to be reallocated for commercial auction within ten years of passage of HR 607 are the paired bands of 420-440 MHz and 450-470 MHz. The concept for this proposed network has merit. Everyone wants first responders to have the radio systems they need in order to protect themselves and us. However, there is absolutely no need to reallocate for auction the 440 MHz band to make it happen. We must let our U.S. Representatives know we oppose the current wording of HR 607. What can I do? A web site to automatically prepare a letter opposing HR 607 has been created to assist you. Go to http://www.kd4pyr.net/hamletter.htm. Insert your call sign where indicated and follow the simple instructions. The name and address of your U.S. Representative will automatically be inserted into the letter along with your name and address. The letter will then be displayed ready to be printed and signed. IMPORTANT: Please be certain to observe the following once you have printed your letter: - Be sure to sign it. Letters without a handwritten signature are not effective. - Signed letters can be sent by fax or postal mail to - John Chwat Chwat Co., Suite 103, 625 Slaters Lane, Alexandria, VA 22314 Fax number: (703) 684-7594 - The letter can also be signed and scanned into .pdf format and then E-Mailed as a file attachment to: john.ch...@chwatco.com. Chwat and Co. is the ARRL’s legislative relations firm in Washington, D.C. - Do not send this letter or any letter about HR 607 to your U.S. Senators at this time. The bill has only been filed in the U.S. House of Representatives. . -WHY should the letter be mailed to John Chwat and NOT your Representative? There are two reasons. First, all postal mail addressed to members of the U.S. Congress is delayed 6 to 8 weeks to search for the inclusion of hazardous materials. Remember the Anthrax incident? Second, Mr. Chwat will increase the value of your individual letter by combining it with others. He will then hand carry the stack of letters directly to your Representative's office. This manner of delivery makes a particular impact on members of Congress. Share the web site information with your amateur radio friends. It is not necessary to be an ARRL member to use the site. The more letters sent to Representatives the better. This is your opportunity to make a stand against this legislation. Help save the 70cm band by completing and mailing the opposition letter as requested. ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/
Re: [Flexradio] For the record (and a little off topic)
NORAD is jointly manned by US and Canadian personnel. From: Drax Felton draxfel...@gmail.com To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Fri, November 12, 2010 10:41:41 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] For the record (and a little off topic) VA's working at NORAD? -Original Message- I was fortunate enough to have been hired out of College by IBM where I worked in Norad (SAGE) on the ANFSQ-7 air defense computer in 1979. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AN/FSQ-7. No wonder I have such a love for the technology. Mike VA3MW ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flexradio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flexradio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] need more treble in my voice
Helium is also an option. Bill AD5OL From: Lee A Crocker lee_croc...@yahoo.com To: Flexradio FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Fri, May 21, 2010 2:38:00 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] need more treble in my voice Need more treble? Shrink your shorts 73 W9OY ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Common Mode Chokes - Purchasing Ferrite
I've exchanged several e-mails with him on Common Mode Chokes, Matching Transformers, Line Isolators and antennas. He's a super serious DX'er and Contester who is also Dr. Charles C. Counselman Professor Emeritus of Planetary Science at MIT. He's a Radio and Radar Astronomer who's been a ham since he was a kid, and holds several of the patents that make GPS work. May kind of know what he's talking about. Bill AD5OL From: Drax Felton draxfel...@gmail.com To: Flexradio FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Mon, April 19, 2010 7:31:36 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Common Mode Chokes - Purchasing Ferrite Is this W1HIS insane or a speculator in ferrite materials? Or is there validity in choking everything with that many cores? He must have several thousand invested in torroids. -Original Message- From: flexradio-boun...@flex-radio.biz [mailto:flexradio-boun...@flex-radio.biz] On Behalf Of Trevor Smithers Sent: Monday, April 19, 2010 4:59 AM To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Commom Mode Chokes - Purchasing Ferrite G0UUT has already mentioned the W1HIS document, however before everyone rushes out to buy ferrite a look at the following might be worthwhile. ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Commom Mode Chokes - Purchasing Ferrite
Can't help with Canada, but Amidon here in US will sell directly. www.amidoncorp.com Bill AD5OL From: Michael freem...@rogers.com To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sun, April 18, 2010 6:35:23 AM Subject: [Flexradio] Commom Mode Chokes - Purchasing Ferrite G0UUT has pointed to some interesting links on Common Mode Chokes. Can someone tell me a good source to purchase ferrite cores? A US source is fine but wonder, since I am in Canada, if anyone knows a good reliable Canadian source as well. Thanks. Mike . VE3BGE ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] the bose speakers
I bought a set of the Bose C2's on recommendation from this list and was fairly disappointed. Very bassy, no real high end, kind of muddy overall. I can see why they would be lacking for the high quality communications type audio Flex touts. Bose probably intends you to buy the whole system which includes some HF units. They're also targeted at demographics who've become use to MP3 rather than real audio. Bill AD5OL From: Lazy Senior lazysen...@verizon.net To: flexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Tue, February 2, 2010 11:53:16 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] the bose speakers I too bought the Bose C2 speakers at Sam's Club. They sounded ok (but not great) on my Flex 5000a, and I agree they seem immune to RF even when running Legal Limit. I disconnected The Bose speaker without the volume control and hooked up my Sound Sweet Speaker instead. WONDERFUL. Now I use the Bose (the one with volume control) on 2nd rx and the Sound Sweet as my main... Really good sound now... No RF problems either. Stan K9IUQ Alfred Green wrote: dan edwards wrote: FWIW since i've decided the f3k is a 'keeper' i coughed up the dough forthe recommended bose companion 2 speakers, to replace the cheapiesI started with. the hard-core audiophiles on my SUV forum snub bose, typically.'no highs, no lows, must be bose'... while i am usually a headphones guy, these things are NICE !! finally 'bin' sounds GOOD..sam's has em for $69 ish.. I have Bose C2 speakers on both my SDR1K and F3K systems. I think they sound very good, but for me the most important thing is they seem to be completely bomb-proof to RFI. I can run a kW on any band with no problem, whereas my Altec-Lansing computer speakers jump off the bench. They also have a convenient volume control knob on the front, the only knob I use with my radios. 73 Alf NU8I Scottsdale AZ DM43an ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Little boxes
The Women Folk are rolling over in their grave(s). Bill AD5OL From: Lee Mushel herbe...@centurytel.net To: tpcj1...@crocker.com; FlexRadio reflector flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sat, January 16, 2010 8:07:20 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Little boxes Bands are dead and none to blame, Ticky tacky all the same. Ticky tacky fire wire, Knobs and buttons then they came, Boxes, wires all made out of Ticky Tacky! Sorry, couldn't help myself Lee K9WRU - Original Message - From: John Ragle tpcj1...@crocker.com To: FlexRadio reflector flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Saturday, January 16, 2010 6:36 AM Subject: [Flexradio] Little boxes Amongst my various computer resources I have a ZINO HD with an AMD Athlon 3250e (1.8 GHz, dual core, 1MB L2 cache, 4 GB of 800 MHz RAM) running WIN 7 Home Premium (64 bit). Mostly out of morbid curiosity, I ask the computer guys out there if there is some way to get IEEE 1394 access to this machine? It is not designed with an eye to expandability...at the moment it is running my piano. It does have an ethernet connection, an HDMI snout, an SVGA snout, and 2 eSATA connections. (Not made with with ticky-tacky!)...Anybody? John Ragle -- W1ZI with apologies to Malvina Reynolds... Little boxes made of ticky tacky, Little boxes all the same. There's a green one and a pink one And a blue one and a yellow one, And they're all made out of ticky tacky ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ Message delivered to herbe...@centurytel.net ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ Message delivered to bguy...@sbcglobal.net ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Flexradio] FS: F5K and Computer
Hi All For sale Flex 5000 with ATU no Rx2 with hard copies of all manuals. It's been on the air twice and I still have all the original packing materials, $2000.00 + shipping. For $2700.00 + shipping, I will include the computer I built for this radio. -XP Pro w/ SP3 -Intel Core 2 Duo 3 Ghz. -300 G. RAM -NVIDIA GeForce 8500 GT video card -Asus P5Q Mother Bd. -Antec Power Supply and case The only time this computer has been on the Internet was to get updates, etc. i.e. no viruses... Lack of time plus a situation in the family requires me to sell the radio. Many thanks! Bill AD5OL ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Flexradio] Thanks to John Basilotto (W5GI) and Welcome to Greg Jurrens (WD0ACD)
A big thanks to John! It's always been a pleasure dealing with Mr. B. I've got a 1000 and a 5000 and I've built his Magical Miracle Mystery Antenna. Works pretty well I might add. OK I made up the magical and miracle part... Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Gerald Youngblood ger...@flex-radio.com To: FlexRadio List flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Wednesday, July 1, 2009 9:58:36 AM Subject: [Flexradio] Thanks to John Basilotto (W5GI) and Welcome to Greg Jurrens (WD0ACD) Dear Flexers, As of July 1, John Basilotto(W5GI) is retiring for the second time to spend more time with his family and less time on the road. John has been instrumental in the growth of FlexRadio over the last 4+ years he has worked with the company. He still plans to stay involved as a valued advisor to and champion for the company. We sincerely appreciate the contribution he has made and will continue to make in the future. Thanks John! We also want to welcome Greg Jurrens (WD0ACD), who will be joining FlexRadio as Director of Sales and Marketing on July 15th. Greg joins us from Testech, Inc. where he was a partner and field sales engineer. Prior to Testech, he was Director of Field Applications for NEC Electronics, Inc. Greg is an experienced HF contester and VHF+ enthusiast. Greg is very involved in amateur radio public service in his local community. Greg was also a key designer of the Texas Armadillo Intertie System, a statewide linked repeater system. Welcome Greg! Regards, Gerald Gerald Youngblood, K5SDR President FlexRadio Systems 13091 Pond Springs Rd. #250 Austin, TX 78729 Phone: 512-535-4713 www.flex-radio.com Tune in excitement! (TM) ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] PTT switch
You can always steal the one off your wife's sewing machine and run like hell, assuming you have a wife and that she can sew Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Jesse N4BFD n4b...@gmail.com Cc: FlexRadioReflector flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 3:03:44 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] PTT switch Used and new nurse call buttons on eBay can be a good alternative if you don't want a foot switch. N4BFD ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] MORE AUDIO ISSUES
The digital bursts from cell phones can get into damn near any audio gear including professional. We have to ban cell phones from the broadcast areas at sporting events (Play by Play and Color guys just have to have their iPhones or dingleberrys at hand 24-7) to keep the brap-brap-breep's from getting on air. Welcome to the modern age! I personally think technology reached its peak with the invention of the fork and has been going down hill ever since. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Dudley Hurry jhu...@austin.rr.com To: Dave Gomberg da...@wcf.com Cc: Jim Menefee w4j...@gmail.com; FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2009 10:18:40 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] MORE AUDIO ISSUES Dave, Cell phones interfering with PC speakers is pretty common, usually when it rings. I have seen it usually with ATT or Vontage, never with PCS or 1900 mhz phones. You can try some different speakers. 73, Dudley WA5QPZ Dave Gomberg wrote: At 21:31 5/20/2009, Jim Menefee wrote: I did notice a some decrease if my Cell was at least 10 feet away Aha, I have terrible noise in my PC speaker if my cell is nearby. It is intermittent (every 5-10'), and not associated with my usage. I believe it is the cell phone searching for a cell hub to connect to. If needed, I could try to record it ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Rebuilding PC - go XP or Vista? Also what PC power supply to get?
Amen onus and Antec. I just built a PC for my 5K with an Asus P5Q mobo and Anec P.S. and case. The case has a wire management area, and plenty of tie downs for the active cabling plus space for extra in addition to the two that are standard with the case. Bill From: Tim Ellison telli...@itsco.com To: vtnn...@comcast.net vtnn...@comcast.net; Flex Radio flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sunday, March 29, 2009 4:06:53 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Rebuilding PC - go XP or Vista? Also what PC power supply to get? That PC should do great. I am partial to Asus mobos. You didn't indicate the radio you plan on using, so I am going to assume a FLEX-x000 as opposed to the SDR-1000. Based on that assumption, either XP or Vista x86 (32-bit) would be my choice. Although Vista x64 will work perfectly well with PowerSDR without any issues, you may have some challenges with VAC and Com0Com since neither are signed kernel mode drivers based on the programs you want to use. All of the Antec P/S I have used are of good build quality and do not radiate much RF noise. As far as cases are concerned, the more metal you have the better off you are. The ones with the clear plastic panels don't make good Faraday cages for all the little RF emitters inside. -Tim -Original Message- From: flexradio-boun...@flex-radio.biz [mailto:flexradio-boun...@flex-radio.biz] On Behalf Of vtnn...@comcast.net Sent: Sunday, March 29, 2009 5:29 PM To: Flex Radio Subject: [Flexradio] Rebuilding PC - go XP or Vista? Also what PC power supply to get? I am rebuilding my pc and would like some advice (biased or not!) in regards as to what OS to use. BTW, here are the specs of what I am using, ASUS P5Q SE2 motherboard, 4 gig of Corsair RAM, Intel dual core 2.8 GHz 1066 FSB, Geforce 9500 GT video card and a SIIG PCIE Firewire card that needs power from the main powersupply, . I will be running PSDR of course, DXlab, WSJT, HRD, DDUTIL, VAC and Com0com. So if you were building a new PC would you use XP or Vista (32 bit)? How compatable are all of the apps listed above with Vista? Is there any reason NOT to use Vista? Second of all, I would like to get a new case and powersupply from Microcenter. Can anyone suggest a powersupply/case combo that is low in RF noise from them? Are Antec PS's usually quiet? Thanks Zack N8FNR ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] HD radio
I have to second Bob's statement. Going into my Pit Bill mode, and speaking as an increasingly crotchety old broadcast engineer, the only reason anybody I know of has been able to come up with for the consortium that holds the license for the process to be pushing HD Radio onto the public is the licensing fees they get from each station and from the OEM's who are reluctantly putting the codec chips into their receivers. The present AM codec sounds like crap and puts artifacts all over the adjacent channels, and even puts hiss onto the parent carrier if a listener has a good radio. The original AM codec was so bad NAB told Ibquity to cram it. The FM codec started out being a quite decent process, but then the sales types got involved and the 96 Kbit stream got divided in half which ends up sounding like a MP3 recording. There is a move afoot now to ad HD3 which cuts the bandwidth of the other two even further, and the HD3 channel sounds like a Speak and Spell or those traffic channels at the top of the XM Sat channels. So if Ibquity anin't about to get any money from Flex and maybe even individual hams, it ain't gonna happen. Bill AD5OL From: Robert McGwier rwmcgw...@gmail.com To: Jerry Harley wa2...@verizon.net Cc: FlexRadio FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Wednesday, March 25, 2009 6:00:01 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] HD radio As soon as you or someone else tells us the proprietary information in the HD encoding and then pays for our attorneys and court costs in fighting off the industry as they sue us. In other words, probably not. Bob 2009/3/25 Jerry Harley wa2...@verizon.net: Are we going to be able to listen to HD radio on our Flex in the future? ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Missing Q codes
One I've always liked: QTP = I've got to go relieve myself. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Kirk K6KAR kirk.hard...@cox.net To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Saturday, February 21, 2009 10:51:53 AM Subject: [Flexradio] Missing Q codes QKB 0 The Missing Q signals Original List by John Queen, KA0SEY Mike Colyar, K7ITL Additions by Thom LaCosta K3HRN and members of QRP-L Some Q signals have never made it to the ARRL's official list. Here are some that may agree would be useful in appropriate situations. As with regular Q signals, each can be a statement or a question, depending on whether a question mark follows it. * QAS - I am speaking out of my ass * QAS? - Are you speaking out of your ass? * QBA - My antenna is BIG! * QBA? - How big is your antenna? * QBO - Don't sit next to that guy in the meeting. * QBO? - Buddy, can you spare some soap? * QBS - It's getting deep in here. * QBS? - Did I tell you about the one that got away? Alternate suggested by ken cubilo w8ob * QBS - Clean the bird sh*t off your antenna so you can hear me * QBS? - Should I clean the bird sh*t off my antenna so I can hear you * QCP - I am using Cat Power(From Rotary Cat Power Wheel) Suggestions made for spark gap transmitter on QRP-L mailing list * QCP? - Are you using Cat Power? * QCW - I am going to whistle Morse Code on FM (or SSB) * QCW? - Why are you whistling Morse? * QDR - Damn Right the frequency is busy!} In response to QRL * QDR? - Do you have a Receiver?} In respone to QRL Contributed by Don Melcher = W6ZO * QET - Phone home. * QET? - Has anyone called me from another planet? * QEW - Copy is difficult due to Ear Wax. * QEW? - Is copy difficult due to Ear Wax? Contributed by John L Sielke W2AGN * QFH - This frequency is MINE! - go elsewhere. * QFH? - Is this frequency hogged? * QHI - I am jumping in quick to say hi, then going QRT. * QHI? - Are you leaving after only one transmission? * QKB? - How many knobs does your radio have? * QKB n - My radio has n knobs. Contributed by Fred K6DGW * QKN? - How many of them do you know how to use? * QKN n - I think I know how to use n of them. Contributed by Fred K6DGW * QLF - I am sending with my left foot. * QLF? - Are you sending with your left foot? * QLK - I am sending with my left foot and keyboard. * QLK? - Are you sending with your left foot and keyboard? Contributed by Thom LaCosta K3HRN * QNO - I am sending through a non-standard orifice. * QNO? - Are you sending through a non-standard orifice? Contributed by Thom LaCosta K3HRN * QOF Yes, I am an Old Fart. * QOF? Are you an old Fart? Contributed by Jim W7RY * QOK - Your last transmission was Okie Dokie. * QOK? - Was my last transmission OK? * QPM - Your signal is purr modulated. * QPM? - Is my signal purr modulated? * QRC - Warning, rag chewer on frequency. * QRC? - Are you a rag chewer? * QRG - You are transmitting in or near the ... (wave length or frequency) amateur band. * QRG? - Am I transmitting in or near an amateur band, and if so which one? * QRW - Means Qrp - Really Weak * QRW? - Qrp, you are Really Weak? contributed by w0rw * QWC? - Who cares? } Courtesy of * QWC - I don't care } Fred Bonavita, K5QLF * QWC - I have to go to the bathroom } Courtesy of * QWC? - Do you have to go to the bathroom? } Fred Bonavita, K5QLF * QZZ - I fell asleep at the mike. * QZZ? - Is that a 60Hz hum, or are you snoring? ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Balanced vs. unbalanced microphone inputs
If your problem is RF pick up in balanced audio pairs, may I recommend Canare (pronounced Can-R-E) L4E6-S cable which is available from any quality audio dealer. This whole series of cable is designed for noise immunity. It has a heavy woven shield and 4 internal conductors, two white and two blue which you wire in pairs. The extra conductors add some capacitance which effects high end response, but since they use polyethylene insulation the overall effects of capacitance are minimized. This stuff is great, and its all I use for live event interconnection with the exception of where I send balanced audio along with +/- 15V. audio power and +12 V. logic power down VGA cables to the desk boxes in front of the Play by Play and Color guys that have their mic-pre / line driver and headphone amps in them. Bill AD5OL From: Lux, James P james.p@jpl.nasa.gov To: Dudley Hurry jhu...@austin.rr.com; Chris seeber ctsee...@cox.net Cc: flexradio@flex-radio.biz flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Friday, January 30, 2009 12:42:33 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Balanced vs. unbalanced microphone inputs .. If you're having interference problems with balanced AUDIO cables, then something else is wrong. Twisted pair, unshielded, should have substantially better interference rejection than any sort of coax lashup, paired or otherwise. Look for a leakage capacitance problem at one end or the other. The audio circuit probably has different parasitic C from each side to ground, and while at audio frequencies this isn't a big deal, at RF, it could be a problem. Have you looked at K9YC's RFI-ham write up? It explains all sorts of stuff about running wires hither and yon, interference, filtering, etc. Pin 1 problems are a big issue, and he addresses how they can creep in. Jim, W6RMK On 1/30/09 10:32 AM, Dudley Hurry jhu...@austin.rr.com wrote: Chris, Here is another way to run the wires in, take two identical runs of coax, at least RG8x, tie the grounds together on the outside end, but this way you can run the twin lead inside without effecting near field.. This might solve your issue getting inside.. 73, Dudley WA5QPZ Chris seeber wrote: Dudley, Thanks. Yes, there is no doubt an out of balance situation going on here. The lines are the same length, but they do come very close to the PC (tower) case and are also routed too close to the ground wires in the shack. There's no other way to route them in here. That's why I need to get them outside and run coax in. I am hoping that will solve most of the trouble. Chris, KA1GEU -Original Message- From: Dudley Hurry [mailto:jhu...@austin.rr.com] Sent: Thursday, January 29, 2009 4:51 PM To: Chris seeber Cc: mindaugas2...@yahoo.com; flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Balanced vs. unbalanced microphone inputs Chris, If you are using balanced line and getting RFI, something is out of balanced, most likely the latter line. You must be careful that the lengths of both lines are exactly the same, and that includes the antenna. And ANY metal objects close to either side will throw it out of balance. The whole ideal of balance lines is the word balanced, exactly the same and the RF will be canceled out. These things have to be planned very carefully. I have run balanced here and had no RF showing on my field strength meter, if it does, there is a problem. 73, Dudley WA5QPZ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Balanced vs. unbalanced microphone inputs
Chris I know you've had several answers, but if the ring contact is directly grounded in your mixer things must be getting really cheap in OEM land. Most of the low end mixers and even some of the more middle of the pack units like the Mackie 1202 ( and even the Delta M44 sound card) use impedance balancing which is ok (nudge nudge wink wink) over short distances. See the attached pdf. For a 120 ohm output like you mention each resistor would be 60 ohms. If they did tie ring directly to ground, you'd probably be just as well going into the RCA input. Otherwise, you could build a 1/ 4 TRS to 1 / 4 TRS jumper cable and go into the balanced input jack and be ok. Bill AD5OL From: Chris seeber ctsee...@cox.net To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 7:53:51 PM Subject: [Flexradio] Balanced vs. unbalanced microphone inputs I have a Behringer B1 microphone that I'd like to use with the Flex 5000A. I picked up a Behringer UB802 mixer so I could get the 48V phantom power to the mic. Unfortunately the UB802 only has an unbalanced output (1/4 phone jack - ground on the sleeve and audio on the tip). The output has about a 120 ohm impedance. What would be the best way to connect this mixer to the Flex 5000? Should I use the line-in (RCA) connector on the back? Or should I figure out a way to wire up an adaptor to run into the balanced line input on the back? Thanks. Chris, KA1GEU ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
[Flexradio] OT Software availability question
Hi All This is totally off topic, but I need to ask if any of you heavy duty software guys out there know if there is a program that will run on a windows PC, it could even be a dos application, that is basically a scheduling program. I need to be able to on some given day at some given time 24-7 execute a closure. I need to be able to record satellite programs into another PC for later replay without spending a lot of money for a real automation system. Such is the fate of broadcast radio today As I envision it, the PC would output a word on the parallel port that could be decoded to close a relay or turn on an open collector transistor. The program will need to be flexible enough that the same event could be scheduled every day, or a one day a week event could be executed. The GUI should be friendly enough that events could be entered on the fly. I probably won't need a load of possible events, since a lot of them will be cyclical, but I suppose if 8 lines are available on the parallel port 256 would be the upper limit which would be more than enough (+/- 3 dB). Many thanks! Please reply off list. Now I'm going to go play with my 5000. Bill AD5OL ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] OFF TOPIC RANT
To quote Robert Heinlein (I think) Technology reached its height with the invention of the fork and has been growing decadent ever since. One might also read Aurthur C. Clarke's story Superiority. Of course none of this applies to SDR. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Robert McGwier rwmcgw...@gmail.com To: dttsp-li...@yahoogroups.com Cc: Flex-Radio flexradio@flex-radio.biz; q...@yahoogroups.com; softroc...@groups.yahoo.com; HPSDR Reflector hp...@hpsdr.org Sent: Tuesday, January 13, 2009 10:23:58 PM Subject: [Flexradio] OFF TOPIC RANT http://n4hy.blogspot.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Phantom power for use with a Marshall MXL 770?
You can roll your own very easily. In all the mixers that provide phantom, all they do is connect a 5.6 K or 6.8 K 1% resistor to pin 2 of the XLR mic connector and another to pin 3. The two loose ends are commoned to 12 to 15 VDC, though with modern mics almost anything from 9 V. to 48 V. will work just fine. 48 V was the old professonal standard, but the 15 V audio power supply rail in any preamp or mixer works just peachie. Bill AD5OL From: vtnn...@comcast.net vtnn...@comcast.net To: Flex Radio flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sunday, December 14, 2008 4:09:47 PM Subject: [Flexradio] Phantom power for use with a Marshall MXL 770? Can anyone suggest a phantom power supply for use with my Marshall MXL 770 microphone? It would be nice if the price were under $50.00 or so. And can I use the cable that Flex sells for the Heil PR781 to connect the rig for use with the MXL 770 for use with mic phantom power? http://web.flex-radio.com/OnlineOrdering.aspx Thanks Zack N8FNR ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kc.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] slightly off topic but looking for a cable
As someone who's involved in a lot of audio work, you're probably not going to find such a beast. I totally get where you're coming from, and if you don't want to build one yourself, I'd be happy to make you one, at cost. Or at the cost of another adaptor, you could get a 1/4 y also known as a twofer and put a 1/4 male to 1/8 female in one side. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: FireBrick [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FlexRadio List flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Saturday, August 2, 2008 5:17:08 PM Subject: [Flexradio] slightly off topic but looking for a cable Let me say this: 'I HATE ADAPTERS!' So, I use two headsets Proset with a 1/4 plug Quiet phones with a 1/8 male plug. So I'm looking for a 1/4 male (to plug into the 5ka front panel headset plug and siamesed to 1 1/4 female and 1 1/8 female. Rat Shack doesn't have one. And none of the other usual suspects seem to list such a critter. I know I can always make one but my eyes aren't so good. So does anyone know of a 'stock' cable like this? pse and tu - Bill H. in Chicagoland webcams at http://76.16.160.118:8080/ Current Weather at http://hhweather.webhop.org ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] AM Noise Blanker
Amen brother. I live in a noisy neighborhood and would love to be able to fish out AM signals on 80 and 160. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Mike Monnier [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2008 11:27:04 AM Subject: [Flexradio] AM Noise Blanker Hello All., I have been using my SDR-1000's for several years and they are still the most fun I have ever had in 31 years of amateur radio. I have one ongoing request. I wish your code guru's would spend some time to develop a mode specific AM noise blanker/noise reduction system. I'm not only an avid short wave broadcast listener like many of you but I also use the AM mode daily. Every time I switch to sideband and click on the noise blanker I'm green with envy. Please consider my request in the near future. I'm sure I speak for many others that would enjoy AM much more if it had less noise. Thanks in advance. Mike W8BAC ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Indian SDR Rig
They have kind of a different take on things over there. Once upon a time when I was QA manager for a company that built Mil Spec connectors, an Indian gentleman who worked in the assembly area told me I can get you the brass parts (male contacts) made much cheaper by my cousin in India. I had to tell him that the brass had to be certified to equal Fedral Specification QQ-B-xyz and that the brass that his cousin used to make tourist dodads probably wouldn't qualify... But hey, he was tryin'. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Jim Lux [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Tim Ellison [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Flex-Radio E-Mail Reflector flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2008 10:26:30 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Indian SDR Rig Quoting Tim Ellison [EMAIL PROTECTED], on Tue 17 Jun 2008 07:35:44 PM PDT: I love this quote from their web site The WonderRadio is not an attempt to reinvent the wheel but an amalgamation of a wealth of knowledge available on SDRs today. So a wealth of knowledge is a direct rip off of another product. I guess imitation is the greatest form of flattery, too bad they don't give credit where credit is due. Is it actually a direct copy.. No.. it's all on one board. I'm sure Gerald will be the first to tell you that there's a lot more to a successful design than the schematic. ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] The Death Of DRM?
Wow seems like the same situation facing IBOC (HD Radio) in this country. The lack of receivers here is compounded though by the fact that the AM version trashes the first adjacent stations and sounds like a bad MP3 recording, and the FM version which had the possibility to be a good thing at 96K bandwidth has been perverted into two 48K channels by the sales types, and sounds like a good MP3 vs. the promised CD quality. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Gary Carter [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Monday, March 31, 2008 8:22:43 AM Subject: [Flexradio] The Death Of DRM? I came across an interesting commentary on the probable demise of DRM (and even SW broadcasting in general) by Jonathan Marks at the link listed below. Some SW listeners may remember him as host of Media Network on Radio Netherlands many years ago. He has always been in the know about international broadcasting, so I have always taken his views very seriously. I know this may seem a bit off topic for this reflector, but since support for the DRM mode is offered by Power SDR I thought it might provide some food for thought. http://criticaldistance.blogspot.com/2008/02/death-of-digital-radio-mondiale-as-well.html 73, Gary - WA4IAM ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 Loose 3.5mm Jacks
Dave It's been my experience that all 3.5mm plugs and jacks are not created equal. In my broadcast engineering carrier, part of which consists of providing visiting radio engineering support for the radio broadcasters of teams who come in to play the Mavericks, Stars, Cowboys and Rangers I have found that the mini jacks in their Mini Disc and Flash Recorder units do not always mate properly with some mini plugs. For what it is worth I have had the best luck using believe it or don't, the mini plugs that Radio Shack sells. You might think some higher quality brand such as Switchcraft or Neutrik might be better, but Switchcraft at last check doesn't make stereo mini's and Neutrik's are not available on every corner. The particular part at R-S has a hexagonal removable plastic back shell and work amazingly well. I'm using them with my 1000. Your radio's jacks may have been stressed (contact fatigue) by previous use, and I'm sure that whoever manufactured the jacks does not do anywhere near mil-spec QPL testing so it's also possible that your particular jacks may be near the upper end of tolerance (or even exceed tolerance) and therefore nothing will mate properly. Another thing you might try is one of the Cramolin contact enhancement products. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Dave Aabye [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Sunday, March 2, 2008 8:52:57 AM Subject: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 Loose 3.5mm Jacks Hello Flexers, I’m a newbie to the scene, having acquired a used SDR-1000 several weeks ago. The radio is relatively late production with the 100W amp, ATU, and RFE. I've used both straight parallel cable and the USB adapter cable. The sound card is a Delta-44 with the circuit board interface kit. Being a vacuumtubosourus, I am amazed by the technology…and more than a bit intimidated by it. Anyway, I have experienced a series of problems, each of which was eventually traced to poor connection with the 3.5 mm line-in and line-out jacks on the back the radio. In my radio, the plugs fit very loosely to the point that they fall out if the cable is bumped. In contrast the jacks supplied with the D-44 interface kit are very tight and secure. So are the jacks on all of my computers, computer speakers, my daughter’s iPOD, etc. My only experience with loose 3.5 mm jacks is the Flex. When I’m able to get good connections, the radio is a marvel. But most of the time…ugh. I understand that my experience is not unique, so perhaps I can benefit from accumulated experience. Should I… 1. Replace the jacks? If so, what jacks have folks had luck with? 2. Hard wire cable to the board? This is probably the best from an electrical point of view, but carries the awful stigma of a user modified radio. 3. Use some “super” 3.5 mm plug that engages the existing jacks properly? So far, I have used Radio Shack, Switchcraft, and Mouser’s offering (Kobiconn). 4. Do something else? Thanks in advance, Dave, W4QCU Oak Ridge, TN Lost in the ones and zeros Visit FAIRTAX.ORG to discover an idea whose time has come. ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio Systems Mailing List FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archives: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Strange Audio Noise
Gives an entire new meaning to ANL doesn't it. Animal Noise Limiter But seriously folks, the radio stations I work for are on the 13th and 16th floors of a high rise. The IT manager's desk is against the wall that is the back wall of the elevator shaft. Every time an elevator car goes by his computer monitor wavers, more than likely due to magnetic fields associated with the control cabling that move along the shaft way as the cars go up and down. Also, when I've had my head up above the suspended ceilings in the hallways pulling cables between studios etc. you can hear the wiring in conduits vibrate in their magnetic fields in response to the elevator SCR motor drives current drains following the gating signals ramping up and down. I suspect that a line choke that will filter out that kind of hash would cost the apartment building a pretty penny. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Jim McLester [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Dale Boresz [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Friday, December 14, 2007 10:53:43 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Strange Audio Noise My 12-paw alarm make a lot of QRN also. Perhaps a K9NB system, would even have an amateur radio sound to the title! Jim - W4YXU Dale Boresz wrote: While you're at it, I have a howling cat that sometimes creates excessive QRM. Please consider an HCNB as well. Dale WA8SRA Eric Wachsmann wrote: Very interesting. I think this is our first report of elevator noise. :-) Perhaps we can someday have an ENB (Elevator Noise Blanker). Something to go with the WPIB (Water Pipe Interference Blocker). Eric Wachsmann FlexRadio Systems _ From: Edwin Marzan [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, December 14, 2007 10:24 AM To: Tim Ellison; Eric Wachsmann; 'Bill Bailey'; flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: RE: [Flexradio] Strange Audio Noise Hello gents, I am receiving the exact signal. It has been tracked down to elevator noise. My landlord put in a new elevator in the summer and now I'm receiving exactly what you described. This is not a Flex problem in my view. I've been told by other ham operators that the new elevators need to be installed with a filter. I have yet to approach my landlord as I am just glad that he lets me use the roof. My problem occurs on 40 and 80 meters. I hope this helps. Edwin Marzan AB2VW From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; flexradio@flex-radio.biz Date: Thu, 13 Dec 2007 17:10:23 -0500 Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Strange Audio Noise Also, look on page 5 of the FLEX-5000 Troubleshooting Guide available for download from the web site for possible solutions. http://support.flex-radio.com/Downloads.aspx?id=190 -Tim -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Eric Wachsmann Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2007 4:25 PM To: 'Bill Bailey'; flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] Strange Audio Noise Double check your buffer settings on the FLEX-5000 Control panel, and in PowerSDR (Setup Form - Audio Tab, DSP Tab). For starters, use the following: Driver: 1024 Audio: 1024 DSP RX/TX: 4096 Start at 96kHz and get that working before you move to 192kHz. Eric Wachsmann FlexRadio Systems -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] radio.biz] On Behalf Of Bill Bailey Sent: Thursday, December 13, 2007 3:14 PM To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: [Flexradio] Strange Audio Noise I am observing a peculiar audio noise on my 5000A that is perhaps catastrophic. It sounds like a woodpecker or machine gun burst for 2 to 4 seconds. It stops and comes back randomly. It shows up on the panadaptor as a visible signal that is very peculiar. It looks like a series of half circles perhaps as many as 6 or 7. There would be up to 7 half circles side by side going from small to large back to small in order left to right. I realize that this is a poor description, however it's driving me nuts. Has any one else seen an artifact like this? Best Regards, Bill Bailey...AE6EQ -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex- radio.biz/attachments/20071213/c6636b57/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge
Re: [Flexradio] OT: GFCI outlets and RFI
Jim You're obviously inducing a current in the wiring that the GFI breaker interprets as a dangerous leakage current and trips. I've had these things trip because of the charging currents in the capacitors used in the line filters of computers, audio equipment , etc. These caps are only on the order of 0.1M down to 0.01M or so, which tells you how little current from one of the current caring conductors to ground will trip the GFI. Given the amount of RF you're probably radiating into the household wiring I doubt that ferrites cores would be very effective, though it MIGHT be possible to build a choke by winding a set of coils using wire of the proper size, one for the hot leg and one for neutral, on a pair of ferrite rods (though a bifilar coil on one rod might work) and installing the filter in a proper enclosure using proper engineering practices. This though is a dangerous area in which to tread if you have no electrical experience. GFI breakers are a good idea for the purpose for which they are intended, but they can be a major pain in certain bodily regions technically. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Jim, W4ATK [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Flex-Radio Reflector flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Wednesday, September 5, 2007 8:36:24 AM Subject: [Flexradio] OT: GFCI outlets and RFI If anyone has sucessfully attacked this problem, short of removing the GFCI outlets from their home, I would appreciate hearing of your mehtods. I consistently trip one or more GFCI when I operate on 40M. I have reworked the ground system to no effect, if anything it increased my antenna efficiency and more trips of the GFCI. Everytime one in the kitchen trips, XYL makes sure I am aware of it. Help! 73s Jim, W4ATK ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20070905/19504f90/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] What's in a name ?
I'm Flexibill, the rest of you guys are on your own. OK I'm sorry I couldn't restrain myself any longer. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Steve Kirk (KW5TX) [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Flex Radio flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Monday, May 21, 2007 4:08:33 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] What's in a name ? Well if anyone calls me a Flexie? I have a right foot Tony Lama I want to show them (Lizard Skin) :) Tex Tim Ellison wrote: Actually, a Flexi is an annual award given by FlexRadio. http://www.flex-radio.com/Users.aspx?topic=flexies -Tim -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of k5nwa Sent: Monday, May 21, 2007 4:35 PM To: Flex Radio Subject: Re: [Flexradio] What's in a name ? Flexies is more friendly, a group of lovable fuzzbals. At 03:25 PM 5/21/2007, you wrote: Is there something wroung with Flexers ? http://www.flex-radio.com/Qrv.aspx José F5JD Cecil K5NWA www.qrpradio.com www.hpsdr.com Blessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light. ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20070521/eb26b76e/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] Take a deep breath.
AMEN Bro! Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: N9VC [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Friday, March 9, 2007 12:37:21 PM Subject: [Flexradio] Take a deep breath. Hi, Between the Vista thread and Ken's request for the review, can we all step back and take a minute to just cool off. Ken has always been very helpful to my inquiries. His post did not bother me, but if I write a review, it will be positive. Both he and John, W5GI, have returned calls to me when I didn't even leave a message, they just saw it on their caller ID. I don't think the big three would do that. Eric has returned a call when he had the day off, again what other company does that. As far as Vista, that is something that could be discussed on another reflector such as one dealing with Microsoft. Flex used an OS that is used by the majority of PC users. It's not their fault Microsoft threw a curve. I think that the guys at Flex need a pat on the back. They certainly have supported me with my questions and always have been quick to respond to any and all questions that I have seen on this reflector. 73, Jim N9VC ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/ -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20070309/53d7c2da/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com/ FlexRadio Knowledge Base: http://kb.flex-radio.com/
Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 WPI (Water Pipe Interference) Problem
Does Holy Water increase ground conductivity? Sorry my Catholic brethren, I couldn't help myself. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Frank Brickle [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: philip gentile [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: flexradio@flex-radio.biz; root [knesbitt] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, September 11, 2006 12:55:51 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 WPI (Water Pipe Interference) Problem On Mon, 2006-09-11 at 13:44 -0400, philip gentile wrote: after you call the priest, add a length of copper wire at one point to see if shifting the resonant frequency o fthe pipe helps. Given the price of copper these days, it's probably cheaper just to hire the Pope directly. 73 Frank AB2KT ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060911/2ca361b4/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] PowerSDR 1.6.3 SVN 665
The FCC office here in Dallas use to be on the 13th floor of the Federal Building until they moved to a location out on LBJ freeway (635). Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Gerald Capodieci [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Radio Station W5AMI [EMAIL PROTECTED]; FlexRadio List flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Thursday, September 7, 2006 11:54:23 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] PowerSDR 1.6.3 SVN 665 That may be like floor 13 in all but government buildings. They skip it. Radio Station W5AMI [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On 9/7/06, Tim Ellison wrote: (I wouldn't make SVN 666 too significant :-O ) I was thinking the same thing ;) Yes! I'm really glad to see the zoom and pan! One question however, and I'm sure there is a good reason; when zooming OUT, why can one not center the passband? I noticed this in Jeff's console as well, so it must be something I'm not thinking of. 73 Brian / w5ami ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060907/3fd97d14/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060907/639be7aa/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] OT A good deal on a new Linksys router for 5.00 resale your bandwidth
Also off topic, but speaking of Linksys routers... Do any of you computer mavens, gurus, and other forms of expertism have any idea why after two calls to the Philippines about configuring a new Linksys DSL router I had to finally set both of my computer NIC's (one in a Toshiba laptop, the other in a Dell desk top - both running XP pro) to 10 Meg half duplex before the computers would see the router even though there were activity lights operating in a normal manner on both computer and the router? After config, I was able to set the NICs back to auto detect and all was and is well. Both computers were set to DHCP and one of them (my laptop) had been on a network before. Just curious. Many thanks! Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Allen Boehm [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FlexRadio Reflector FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Thursday, July 27, 2006 7:48:52 PM Subject: [Flexradio] OT A good deal on a new Linksys router for 5.00 resale your bandwidth Just thought I¹d pass this along. You can get a brand new Linksys router for 5.00 at http://en.fon.com/ I have had mine about a week. You can choose to resell your broadband or share it for free. The router comes preconfigured with open source AP software with the default setting of blocking outside traffic to your LAN. I am reselling my bandwidth and putting up a 2.4 omni I purchased from sharperconcepts on eBay on my tower and I have access to my internet connection via my mobile any where in town. You can look me up on the Fon map at Clyde, TX I am not associated with any of the companies listed above. Just passing along the info for anyone interested. 73¹s Al KE5EUP -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060727/bbe01891/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060727/a33abb40/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 Damaged. Make sure you turn it OFF when you walk away. Update
Hi All I completely agree with Mike about the importance of a good low Z ground. I have my own version of a Poly-Phaser entry panel connected via a 6 wide copper strap to a multiple ground rod system with 12 Ga. radials, and the whole shack is bonded to that through a 2 wide ground buss with 1 wide braid jumpers to each piece of equipment. But I recently had an amusing (in the final outcome) Lightning experience. I just bought a super duper UPS with surge protection and auto shut down via USB and all that. We had a thunder storm come through the other day, and all seemed well until I was in the next room getting ready for bed about 1:00 A.M. I heard a pop from my computer / radio area, went in there, but couldn't find anything. But I did not try turning on anything. The next morning when I did try to turn on the computer, no luck. I was pretty sure that despite the grounding system and my new UPS I had taken a lightning hit. Which annoyed me greatly. I replaced the power supply in the computer, it came up just fine and all was well. Being curious, after a day or so, I opened the old power supply which by now had a curious smell. I found a chip with the top blown off, and a dead gecko. Apparently it had gotten in (those little bastards can get in anywhere) and had gotten across some part in the power supply that is active at all times causing the chip to blow by shorting something down stream, and in the process went to meet it's maker. Taking my power supply with it. Bill AD5OL - Original Message From: Mike Naruta [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: flexradio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Wednesday, July 19, 2006 9:33:24 AM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 Damaged. Make sure you turn it OFF when you walk away. Update My philosophy on AC power and lightning: A LOW-impedance ground system. Lots of copper in the Earth is money well spent. Choose one location to bond everything together in the house and bring the connections to the outside world through at that point. Telephone, cable, antennae, water, and power, if possible. At that common point, use protectors to encourage the current to flow to the Earth rather then through your equipment. Check out my bonding plate at hamsdr.com I throw some Ferrite on the shack-side of the common point. This helps with RF, but the Ferrite would probably saturate on a strike. Industrial-strength MOVs at the power panel, and more MOVs/protectors at critical items. BTW, this has an interesting effect when you are running on the generator. It teaches you to watch your RPM. Brute-force C-L-C line filters on the shack branch circuit. We have a couple of UPS on our PCs. PCs just don't tolerate any power interruption. I miss the HP-3000. If you could keep the remote users from resetting their terminals, it would recover to their last screen transaction. Your wildest voltage excursions are likely to be just before and just after a power outage. I like the idea of a holding relay. It gives you a chance to wait until the power stabilizes before turning your gear back on. I may put a contactor in the shack branch circuit. You could also rig up over-voltage and under-voltage protection. Mike - AA8K [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Just a bit on my philosophy about turning things off and on. Ages ago I worked for a company that made computer peripherals. An account I was dealing with had hundreds of Smart CRT terminals. Any time a storm was in the area we would cringe because we knew if the power went out some(a lot) of those terminals wouldn't come back on line. We might have to zig zag across the state to repair them. The failures were always attributed lightning or surges on the power or data lines. My philosophy about lightening protection: Yous pays yous money and yous take yous chances. On the air since 1971 this is my first damage from lightening. $1.50 for the part from Digikey. If it happens again I reserve the right to change my philosophy. :) Mileage Does Vary, k2ox ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060719/b855703a/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 Damaged. Make sure you turn it OFF when youwalk away. Update
The little bugger was a little too well done by the time I got to him. I will take the duck under advisement. Bill - Original Message From: Ron Kolarik [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: BILL GUYGER [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, July 19, 2006 8:16:24 PM Subject: Re: [Flexradio] SDR1000 Damaged. Make sure you turn it OFF when youwalk away. Update Should have bought insurance from the little bugger :) Now, would you please do something about the damn duck. Just to keep this somewhat on topic.I work in a place that has all manner of gear that has to run 24/7 and the highest failure rate is on the stuff that gets power cycled. - Original Message - From: BILL GUYGER I replaced the power supply in the computer, it came up just fine and all was well. Being curious, after a day or so, I opened the old power supply which by now had a curious smell. I found a chip with the top blown off, and a dead gecko. Apparently it had gotten in (those little bastards can get in anywhere) and had gotten across some part in the power supply that is active at all times causing the chip to blow by shorting something down stream, and in the process went to meet it's maker. Taking my power supply with it. Bill AD5OL -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: /pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/attachments/20060719/cd7330b1/attachment.html ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://www.mail-archive.com/flexradio%40flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] New AM Modulation mode
FWIW Guy The current crop of AM broacast transmitters all use PWM in the digital domain to drive all solid state finals. I unloaded a new 6 Kw transmitter off the freight truck all by my lonesome with a 2 wheel dolly. Of course the plug in output modules and the plate pig (OK Drain pig) were in seperate boxes that I unloaded seperatly. It ain't natural I tell you! Bill AD5OL Guy Olinger, K2AV [EMAIL PROTECTED] 04/29/06 08:27PM Whether or not they achieve the patent may be problematic, but likely 2) The most common form of AM transmission is plate modulation of the final stage, which is running class C at efficiencies near 75%. The new method would require linear amplifiers of a greater power range, running at lower efficiency (raising power bills), and much larger tubes to accomplish it.
Re: [Flexradio] Griffen Power Mate
I also had issues with this. I reloaded the driver (the current one on the Griffin website) several times and unplugged and reseated the USB connector several times. I was beginning to think in terms of a bad connector when the thing finally started working one way or the other. I hate problems that fix themselves without any clear reason to point to at a later date. Bill Tim Ellison [EMAIL PROTECTED] 04/07/06 08:22PM I had the same problem until I followed the driver install procedure to the letter. -Tim --- Integrated Technical Services You can't close the door when the walls cave in --Robert Hunter -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of n5ba Sent: Friday, April 07, 2006 9:11 PM To: Flex Subject: [Flexradio] Griffen Power Mate What's the secret to get the Power Mate to come up working every time? I seem to have to disconnect and reconnect a few times for it to be found. Brian N5BA ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] RF on Fiber Re: New computer
Duane Don't know if you'd be interested, but network type fiber is available jacketed with flexible steel conduit. Looks like regular BX or MC electrical cable, but is painted orange. Bill AD5OL Duane - N9DG [EMAIL PROTECTED] 04/01/06 01:50PM -- I've been thinking about different scenarios exactly along these lines for several years now. I've concluded that garden variety SC or LC fiber cable like used for 100Mb/1Gb Ethernet applications will get the job done quite inexpensively (such a fiber run would be less expensive than a single run of 7/8 hardline). It would require running it through a conduit of some kind for mechanical protection though, - Duane N9DG __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 and AM Reception -- problems
Hi All I've got to throw this out from a broadcast engineer's perspective. Since Paul mentioned HD radio, in a manner that implies that he listened to the AM HD signal, it may be that the HD process is responsible for the noise. FM HD works real well (or at least it did until the programming people heard the 96K bit stream could be divided into two 48K streams to give them something else to sell), BUT...the AM HD process throws out raspy, buzzy, etc. garbage 10 - 30 KHZ either side of the main carrier and trashes adjacent carriers in no uncertain manner, especially if they're weak. We're being forced to implement the AM version against a lot of our better judgment. A number of AM's have turned the HD off until someone at Ibuquity (the patent holder) comes up with a better codec. As it is the FCC only allows HD on AM during the day because of sky wave causing excessive hammering of on channel stations. Just a thought. Bill AD5OL Paul Shaffer [EMAIL PROTECTED] 03/28/06 07:32PM I need an idiots guide to AM reception. Even the strongest local stations have a hum or buzz in the audio through sdr-1000. I would like to get the great audio others are hearing and must be doing something wrong. I've tried SAM mode, no help. The buzziest local am broadcast station is the only jazz station in town. They just went to HD Radio. It sounds ok on a regular receiver, but not on sdr-1000. http://radio.boisestate.edu/stations/DigitalRadio.asp Little or no change in listener behavior will be required since all local radio station dial positions will remain the same. Listeners will simply tune to their favorite programs and stations and receive them in either a digital or analog format depending on their radio. Because stations will begin digital broadcasting using a hybrid mode, transmitting digital and analog signals simultaneously, listeners with analog receivers will still be able to pick up the broadcast and will be able to seamlessly upgrade to digital at their own pace. Original Message From: Jerald Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2006 5:59 AM To: Mark Ericksen [EMAIL PROTECTED], FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 and AM Reception Mark, This is normal. What you are seeing is the AM station carrier beating against the SDR (just like an analog receiver with the bfo on). If you switch the SDR to SAM mode it will sync the SDR and the carrier and you will have great sounding AM. Jerry WK0J - Original Message - From: Mark Ericksen [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Tuesday, March 28, 2006 12:06 AM Subject: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 and AM Reception I have had my SDR-1000 for a few weeks now and I am learning all of its bells and wistles. I am currentlly putting up a new Ham antenna and in the mean time I am just using a wire strung around my den as an antenna. I have been listening to AM stations as well as ham stations. I have noticed that while listening to AM stations if I switch the display mode to Scope I see the detected AM audio riding on a low frequency sin wave. As I detune the radio the frequency of the sine wave increases. The audio from the station is not modulating this sin wave but simply adding to or riding on it. I have performed the Frequency, Level, and Receive Image Reject calibrations using an Elecraft XG2 test oscillator. I get this behavior regardless of the version of PowerSDR. Can someone tell me what I am seeing and why? Is this normal? Thanks Mark Ericksen AD4MA ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] 160 hz notch
OK, I've got to quibble with Jim's quibble. The first paragraph below implies that one side of the line is grounded to the chassis. That was true back in the AC-DC 5 tube superhet days, (as opposed to the rock group) but is no longer legal because that would amount to having an exposed conductor. While the neutral side of the line is grounded where it enters the building, it still carried current and is refered in the National Electrical Code as the groundED conductor as opposed to the groundING conductor which is the green wire. So a cap from each side of the line to ground is the way to go. No quibble with the values, but those 2Kv. caps are hen's teeth. 1 Kv. are to be had, but 500V. are more common and will probably do. They're not quite 2X the P-P value of a 120V. power line (339.4 V.). But be advised, bypass caps can trip ground fault breakers, because the breaker thinks the charging current for the caps is you frying in your own juice and trips. All the best! Bill AD5OL Jim Lux [EMAIL PROTECTED] 03/22/06 04:36PM At 12:21 PM 3/22/2006, John Basilotto W5GI wrote: Interesting stuff there.. one quibble I might have is buried down there on Bypass Capacitors: For AC power bypassing, use .01µF 2000 Volt ceramic disc capacitors between chassis ground and hot. For grounded or balanced AC, use 2, one between chassis and one side of the AC line, and another between chassis and the other side of the AC line. Make sure that you use 2000 WVDC caps for AC so that there will be no breakdown or excessive heating. This might make things worse, and is a possible safety hazard, because the capacitors form a leakage path from AC line to chassis. About 250k ohms at 60Hz, or 0.5 mA. It can also lead to some strange things happening if different devices have different amounts of leakage to the different sides of the line, especially if the chassis doesn't have an explicit ground, so the leakage current flows through the shield of an interconnecting cable. And, of course, if the cap shorts, then you're in real trouble. James Lux, P.E. Spacecraft Radio Frequency Subsystems Group Flight Communications Systems Section Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Mail Stop 161-213 4800 Oak Grove Drive Pasadena CA 91109 tel: (818)354-2075 fax: (818)393-6875 ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] Protecting the computer
Paul I'm not real sure why your machines have suffered this fate, grounding issues? Installing isolation transformers is one option for DC isolation, but.inexpensive transformers like this do not have much iron in them and the quality of the iron that is present might be a little on the recycled jeep side, so phase or group delay issues can raise their ugly head. Given the fact that this radio is totally dependent on I/Q phase coherence there MIGHT be issues. I don't know that for sure, but it is a possibility. If you choose to use transformers, high quality ones like Jensens are a good idea. Bill AD5OL Paul Shaffer [EMAIL PROTECTED] 03/07/06 03:27PM In the past I have had problems connecting my sound card to stereo systems. After blowing a couple of Dell motherboards I started to use a Radio Shack audio isolation transformer and have had no problems since. This is really important when the stereo is on another power circuit, in another room, etc. The motherboards seemed to die just when I shut the power off on the stereo system -- some sort of surge found it's way back through my computer. That's my theory anyway. Are there any issues with connecting sdr1000 to a computer? I could try the isolation transformer trick again for safety, but there is still the parallel cable path. I suppose the radio is as safe as hooking up a printer, scanner, etc. ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] Question on Delta 44 Breakout Box
Velcro is a wonderful thing in instances such as this. Just be sure you clean the surfaces you're sticking the Velcro to with something like Denatured Alcohol so the adhesive will stick properly. Bill AD5OL Larry Loen [EMAIL PROTECTED] 02/25/06 06:23PM As I think I have mentioned several times, I'm fairly tight on space in my office. One problem I have is a lot of critical wires that are, one way or another, at or near their limits. The Delta 44 breakout box has wires that are one of these. The PCI to breakout D shell cable is not strained, but there is very little slack. The breakout box itself sits on top the SDR, but it's really not the best solution. I've put up with it. What I really need to do is hang the breakout box from the wall and not have it on the SDR at all. There's ample slack in the audio cables (I have the ones Flex sells) and if I could put four to six inches of slack on the PCI-to-computer cable, it wouldn't really inhibit anything I'd want to do in the space. The problem is, the breakout box itself is kind of resistant to being hung. There's a couple of black screws in the front -- are there consequences to removing them? Putting something between the screw and the case so I could hang the box from (say) some sort of very small picture hanging wire or something? I don't know if I want the labelled part against the wall, either, but it is a fairly obvious solution, assuming I don't upset anything inside. I have no schematic of this box and the on-line site wasn't very revealing. Perhaps more promising, there's a female screw receiver of sorts in the center of it. Has anyone experimented with that? There's rubber stand-offs on the bottom, so if I knew something I could screw into there, I could then use that to hang the box from some kind of hook or other. But, I'm loathe to do the obvious -- disconnect it and see what is necessary with a trip to the hardware store. I usually find disturbing these wires turns into an adventure. It would be better to avoid it if I can. If someone has already done this, and knows what kind of screw it takes. that would be a blessing. It's reminiscent of the kind of threaded female connector on a 35 MM camera, but this is smaller than that (I checked). Anyone already happen to do this one? Anyone else do anything interesting in terms of hanging the breakout box off a wall? I know this all sounds paranoid, but I try and treat the audio parts of this with kid gloves and disturb it all as seldom as possible. Larry WO0Z ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] Virus detected in an email sent to the reflector
I got the same warning. Fortunately they were caughe and confined by my Postini service. Bill AD5OL Wallace Watson [EMAIL PROTECTED] 02/04/06 12:16PM Folks, I just received notification from Norton Antivirus of an email from the following poster containing a virus; Sender: Tlthompson [EMAIL PROTECTED] Recipient: Flexradio Flexradio@flex-radio.biz Subject: [Flexradio] price The virus is reported as; FilenameThreat name jmhwgdw.exe [EMAIL PROTECTED] Wally - M0ZAZ -- Wallace Watson [EMAIL PROTECTED] Croughton RAF Base - England -- ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz Archive Link: http://mail.flex-radio.biz/pipermail/flexradio_flex-radio.biz/ FlexRadio Homepage: http://www.flex-radio.com
Re: [Flexradio] Beginners - Experts - Terminology and stuff
Hi All Thanks for the tutorial Eric. I'm an old dog, but hopefully no too old to leasrn new tricks. I agree that fragmenting the list is not a good idea. Learning by immersion is good IMHO. Those of us who are not as software savvy have a unique opportunity to learn from some real pros. We just have to suck it up and ask questions because not everyone has had the same impetus or opportunities to absorb the same knowledge as anyone else. Everyone on the list has some gem of wisdom that others can profit from and the the opposite applies. I don't think I've run into anyone on this list who will look down their nose at anybody for asking questions. Bill AD5OL Eric Ellison [EMAIL PROTECTED] 02/02/06 11:18PM Folks A Reflector member contributed a PM suggesting that I clarify some of the terms the I, and others have been using on the Reflector since the acronyms can be daunting to recent members reading. I find this a very reasonable request. I'll start with that: FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) An integrated circuit which is essentially a hardware etch-a-sketch. About 4 manufacturers make them. You actually write a program with tools offered by the manufacturer and create your own customized integrated circuit. It can be just about anything, from a microprocessor to a high speed counter, to a light switch, when you press the button it lights the light. Price range is $10 to $1800. It is an order of magnitude beyond a PIC (programmable interface controller). If you are a C programmer it is worth a look. Beyond that you will have to read for yourself about these digital diamonds in the rough Xylo (product name from FPGA4FUN) Is an experimental FPGA board with resources like USB (Universal Serial Buss), VGA, (Video Graphic Adapter), and other common I/O tools on board, with drivers on board to experiment with FPGA's. Offered by FPGA4FUN.com. Plug it into a USB port on a computer and begin experimenting with FPGA for about $100. A hobbiest thingy like ham radio. Saxo (product name from FPGA4FUN) A variant of the Xylo above. The website also has experiments and products such as an oscilloscope which plugs into the parent board. Not a joke! I intend to buy the scope and use it in the shack! SVN A program which integrates into the file system on your computer to access files stored on a server (can be on the same machine). SVN stands for Subversion. In the simplest form it could be a letter to your mother which you edit and make changes to over a period of time. Oh Oh you made a mistake or don't like the current version! Alas, you wish you had the last version. Tough luck! You are stuck with the current and you spent HOURS on it! Subversion lets you look at the last X versions and even cut and paste between versions. THEY are labeled versions, and there is always one current version. Change scenario to 5 folks teaming up to edit the Flex-Radio user manual, cause manuals are their thing! All 5 have server and local access to the manual and make changes. (Pretty Confusing! And we tried this on Teamspeak!). SVN organizes this collaborative effort by keeping previous versions, and facilities to merge various versions. SYNERGY! The SVN program written by experts and offering it for GPL and free have given us the tool to operate on a document project as a TEAM! You don't need to know how it works, just how to use it for your benefit. This IS the subject of this weeks Teamspeak forum and our expert and SVN server provider Dale - WA8SRA will be there to answer questions. I am going to ram it down your microphone! It IS a GOOD thing for team collaboration on any team document project! Now Gerald - K5SDR suggested on Teamspeak session a couple of weeks ago that we have separate Reflectors for the technospeak guys from the new users who might be 'turned off by the jargon and the 'technospeak.. I have mixed feelings about it. What do you think? This is ham radio, but also it is ham radio on the move and a new exciting 'edge' of technology. I don't think we should be divided at this point. If you are a new ham and don't have an interest in SVN-XYLO-SAXO-FPGA then punch up the next message. Personally I am currently bypassing most messages AM related. I don't think NOW is the time to divide the momentum on this Reflector. Ham radio, just like this forum is a mixture of many interests. If you have an interest in Snowbounce Mike King - KM0T is here to answer your questions! He will see messages in that interest area. I have NEVER seen Bob - N4HY not respond to a message on Linux. It's all a part of the future of ham radio! We are not ready to separate except in the 'subject' line! Just my 2 cents. Thanks Eric2 - AA4SW
Re: [Flexradio] Artificial ground
I've heard good reports about them, but have never used one personally. I'm in kind of a similar situation because of the design of my house (kind of split level on the side of a hill). My shack window is 8' above ground, but I use an entry panel in the window that is a copper plate with coax bulkhead feedthru barrels mounted in a wood frame that the window sash closes onto rather than the normal sill. The panel is connected to my ground system via a length of 6 wide 0.030 thick copper strap. The strap is bolted to the entry panel and silver soldered to the 3 Ga. bonding cable that ties my 3 ground rods together (there's also about 150' of 12 Ga. radials also silver soldered to the 3 Ga. bonding cable and run out into the yard burried about 3 deep). On the inside short piece of the same 6 strap connects to a 2 wide 0.125 thick copper ground buss that runs down the wall behind the desk. All equipment is bonded to the ground bar with either 1 or 3/8 wide braid. Seems to work. Bill AD5OL Bob Tracy [EMAIL PROTECTED] 01/10/06 04:42PM Hi, Anyone have any experience with the MFJ-931 Artificial Ground? I'm at wits end in this 2nd story shack trying to get rid of the RFI in my SDR-1000 and I'm ready to try anything up to and including witchcraft. Anyone got one for sale? Bob, K5KDN ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] A question on Frequency stability vs. Temperature
Wouldn't this constitute a GROUND loop? Ok that was cruel and unusual punnishment. In all seriousness, Marti RPU transmitters have a small styrofoam box around the crystals (and heat element) on the modulator board. Would taking a small styro block, hollowing out one side and placing it over the oscillator be a quick and dirty (there's that word again) fix? It sure wouldn't be as stable as the more complex hardware and software tricks that have been tossed out for consideration lately, but it might be a KISS attack plan. Bill AD5OL Almost true -- what you really want to do is to heat-sink the oscillator to a large thermal mass. In addition to a temperature controlled heater, another good heat sink is DIRT. If you were to dig a post-hole a few feet down into the earth and then drop the entire oscillator down the hole, and fill it back up, you would be amazed at the stability you achieve. We learned this trick in interferometry when we want to have stable microwave LOs out at the feed of several dishes. Even in the desert with a huge night/day cycling, we got good stability by burying the coax 1-2 feet. Tom ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] on filtering in general
Hi All I was going to bite my tongue on this one, but I've got to weigh in. I think Gerald is very very correct. If anyone should be an audiophile on the list it should be me. But I Aint. I come from a background with $200,000.00 SSL mixers and $80,000.00 Studer tape decks and the like (those were late 1980's $$). At Hamcom I was able to shake Bob Heil's hand and thank him for the PA stuff I used back in my Rock and Roll roadie days. I'm now a broadcast engineer. We're dealing with communications quality audio here. I agree with Ahti about having to add some EQ and compression to get through the krud, but we need to keep in mind that the guy (or gal) on the other end has a communications receiver with a 3-4 (probably) speaker and audio circuitry that has maybe a 3Khz high frequency corner. I know for certain that the typical consumer AM radio receiver's AF response is down -3 dB at 3.5 kHz or so and is typically down -20 dB at 5 Khz. This has been demonstrated by testing done in preparation for digital broadcasting in the AM B'cast band. So, I can't imagine any of the commercially available ham receivers being very much better especially given the fact that they are probably tailored for a telephone like (300 Hz - 3.3 Khz) audio frequency response. Given that, I think Gerald and Bob are right on with keeping it simple from real world and DSP overhead requirements stand point. If it makes you feel good to lay out all sorts of money for high quality mics and hotshot processors by all means knock yourself out. It's all about the fun you derive from the effort. But for my $0.02 you'd be better off dropping the same amount on a new antenna or a tuner or your mistress (oops wasn't supposed to mention her). Best of 73's and Merry Christmas! Bill Gerald Youngblood [EMAIL PROTECTED] 12/23/05 06:30PM I believe that basic EQ functionality is needed to compensate for different microphones and operating conditions. However, don't need to provide recording studio type tools.
Re: [Flexradio] Confession
Mike Don't ever be afraid to ask about something you don't understand. The only down side of asking the guys on this list is that you will likely get so many replys, it'll take you a week to read them. I'm very much a hardware type, and stand in awe of the Geralds, Bobs, Franks, Phils, et al, but they have never talked down to anyone who has ever asked for help or advise. This radio is not I think any more user unfriendly than the latest offerings from Icom or Yaesu etc. Those thingies have a panel full of knobs and switches each of which has 32 different functions and comes with a manual that makes the flight manual for the Space Shuttle look like Peter Rabbit. But the important thing to get here, is while this radio does take some savvy, the brains behind it are a e-mail away and you sure as heck can't say that about Icom or Yaesu. Don't ever give into the I can't do this syndrome. This radio gives you the opportunity to move onto new ground. All you have to do is speak the reality that you want to have be into existance by telling yourself that you can do this, and then doing what it takes to learn. If you throw up your hands and tell yourself you can't then you are stopped, finished. You don't have to become a DSP guru, these guys have spent years learning this stuff. Yet they are making all these powerful tools available to you and me in a form that us non-gurus can use if we just learn the basic rules. But hey, you have to do that to play poker or basketball. Hang in there bro! Bill AD5OL -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Mike Sent: Monday, December 19, 2005 10:47 PM To: FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Subject: [Flexradio] Confession Fellow SDR users, I am using version 1.4.4 with my SDR. I have been reading the reflector for several months and I must admit that perhaps I have made a mistake. I am at somewhat of a loss at this point. I am reluctant to try any further versions of the software. It seems that my area of expertise is in areas other than computers and computer programming. Therefore I have very little clue as to the meaning of most of the posted messages on the reflector. Perhaps I am in the minority, or perhaps there may be others who might benefit from a translator of sorts to attempt to put some of the available knowledge into a language which might be understood by a person such as I. At this point in time, I am inclined to revert to my comfortable regular style radios that I have been using for the last 46 years. My onboard computer(brain) is running way over the 100% level trying to comprehend. At any rate, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all Flexers. 73, Mike K5NU ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] wireless MIC for use with Delta 44/SDR
No REAL idea, but probably in the 500 to 700 MHZ range. There's a lot of wireless mic activity in that range. BTW they look amazingly like the el cheapo ones that are used by the NBA's Whistle Stopdevice. All the refs are miked with lapel mics, and there's a 4 channel receiver that is wired into the play and shot clock system to stop the clock when one of the refs blows his whistle. Bill AD5OL Don AE5K [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/27/05 04:04PM Does anyone know what frequency (FM radio broadcast band, 49 MHz. etc?) that this wireless mic transmits on? John, W5GI, does not know and the specs given on the website does not indicate this info. I've had conflicts (QRM!) with household devices before, so thought I'd check out first. (BTW, think their sale price goes off tonight) 73, Don AE5K [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thought you might be interested in this little gem. It will plug directly into a Delta 44 sound card and works great! It is a wireless MIC which has plenty of gain to drive the SDR [and for that matter any sound card; however, you may need to build an adapter.] The sound quality is nearly as good as a studio MIC- no kidding! The MIC is on sale for under $7. That's right under $7. I've used this mic with a variety of rigs and still can get over it's performance. just saw this at the Computer Geeks website and thought you might be interested: http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?InvtId=WM-603-Ncm_ven=Frooglecm_cat=Shoppingcm_ite=total http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?InvtId=WM-603-Ncm_ven=Frooglecm_cat=Shoppingcm_ite=total 73, John W5GI The Audio Doctor ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] wireless MIC for use with Delta 44/SDR
Or as was mentioned after I sent this, 114 MHZ. All the professional wireless mics have been moved to UHF probably just because of consumer units being assigned the VHF freqs. I just scrapped two beautiful Cetec Vega diversity VHF wireless mic receivers with helical resonator front ends and excellent IF stages for the audio companding (or decompanding I should say) stages and output driver amps. Hurt like hell, but they were totally useless because they were VHF and not frequency agile. AG! Bill AD5OL Bill Guyger [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/27/05 05:53PM No REAL idea, but probably in the 500 to 700 MHZ range. There's a lot of wireless mic activity in that range. BTW they look amazingly like the el cheapo ones that are used by the NBA's Whistle Stopdevice. All the refs are miked with lapel mics, and there's a 4 channel receiver that is wired into the play and shot clock system to stop the clock when one of the refs blows his whistle. Bill AD5OL Don AE5K [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/27/05 04:04PM Does anyone know what frequency (FM radio broadcast band, 49 MHz. etc?) that this wireless mic transmits on? John, W5GI, does not know and the specs given on the website does not indicate this info. I've had conflicts (QRM!) with household devices before, so thought I'd check out first. (BTW, think their sale price goes off tonight) 73, Don AE5K [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thought you might be interested in this little gem. It will plug directly into a Delta 44 sound card and works great! It is a wireless MIC which has plenty of gain to drive the SDR [and for that matter any sound card; however, you may need to build an adapter.] The sound quality is nearly as good as a studio MIC- no kidding! The MIC is on sale for under $7. That's right under $7. I've used this mic with a variety of rigs and still can get over it's performance. just saw this at the Computer Geeks website and thought you might be interested: http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?InvtId=WM-603-Ncm_ven=Frooglecm_cat=Shoppingcm_ite=total http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?InvtId=WM-603-Ncm_ven=Frooglecm_cat=Shoppingcm_ite=total 73, John W5GI The Audio Doctor ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] wireless MIC for use with Delta 44/SDR
Let's just say the frequency assignments in the VHF range were extremely loose. I'm not sure of the legality of some systems I have used or seen used. It was just kind of find a empty frequency in your town and ask the manufacturer to crystal them there. A big company like Vega who had been around a while could get away with something like that, where as a newbie like Lectrosonics (who is now very big time) wouldn't bend the rules nearly as much. A lot were on un-used TV channels. I have seen Comtek cue systems in the 88 MHZ area. Bill Jim Lux [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/27/05 06:24PM At 04:15 PM 11/27/2005, Bill Guyger wrote: Or as was mentioned after I sent this, 114 MHZ. All the professional wireless mics have been moved to UHF probably just because of consumer units being assigned the VHF freqs. I just scrapped two beautiful Cetec Vega diversity VHF wireless mic receivers with helical resonator front ends and excellent IF stages for the audio companding (or decompanding I should say) stages and output driver amps. Hurt like hell, but they were totally useless because they were VHF and not frequency agile. AG! Bill AD5OL I might be misremembering here, but I thought that VHF wireless mics were in the 170-200 MHz band A big of googling turns up: http://www.shure.com/booklets/wireless/wireless_page4.html which describes the various bands and allocations relevant to wireless mics, along with a nice description of avoiding intermods and spurs..
Re: [Flexradio] Feature request - white noise generator for receive EQ
OK I've actually slept simce my rock and roll days, but IF I remember correctly, white noise has equal energy per hertz which means that it has a rising frequency responce plot as frequency rises. Sound systems are more properly equalized with pink noise which is white noise filtered to yield equal energy per octive or a flat frequency response. If you set up EQ with white noise you will have a hotter high end than you might want. Does the internal generator create pink or white noise? Bill AD5OL Tim Ellison [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/15/05 11:47AM I was setting the receive EQ this morning and had an idea that I wanted to share with the Flex-Radio virtual neighborhood. Back many moons ago when I was much younger, I played in a rock band (for all the reasons you would join a rock band) and one of my jobs was to help the sound man set the final EQ specific to the speakers we were using and the geometry of the venue we were playing. We did this with a white noise generator and an audio spectrum analyzer. My thought was we have most of those components already in the PowerSDR application. If you added a white noise generator you could direct the output to your speakers and while using your microphone to measure the output, you manually (or with an automatic software routine) adjust the receive EQ until you flat line the response. This would allow you to compensate for room acoustics and non-linear speaker response. Wadda ya think? -Tim --- Tim Ellison mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Integrated Technical Services http://www.itsco.com/ Apex, NC USA 919.674.0044 Ext. 25 / 919.674.0045 (FAX) 919.215.6375 - cell PGP public key available at all public KeyServers ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] CAT CONTROL CHECK BOX P3 P4
I'd like to second Phil's comment on Bob's story WOW! When TI introduced the Datamath 4 banger I bought one via a friend that worked at TI at half of retail price, but as I remember that was still quite pricy. After buying one more TI, I've owned nothing but H-P's. When I was taking my Extra exam, (using my H-P 11C) I paused to think that the first time I worked those reactance, and resonance equations and did polar - rectangular conversions, I was doing them with a slip stick, trig tables, and log tables. Sure was easier to push just a couple of buttons. Hand me down my walking cane. Bill Philip M. Lanese [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/05/05 01:11PM Two very nice posts Bob. Glad to see the responses to my mention of RPN. New engineering graduates I have mentored on recent jobs had never heard the term. I don't consider mentioning my still functional (no battery required) Post and KE bamboo sticks to them. Phil, K3IB ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] CAT CONTROL CHECK BOX P3 P4
I wouldn't trade for mine. Every time I use a non RPN calculator I lapse into RPN half way thru the process ARRG! Bill AD5OL Philip M. Lanese [EMAIL PROTECTED] 11/04/05 07:13PM Don't see many HP handheld calculators with RPN around anymore either. Phil - Original Message - From: Bob Tracy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Philip M. Lanese [EMAIL PROTECTED]; FlexRadio FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Sent: Friday, November 04, 2005 8:00 PM Subject: RE: [Flexradio] CAT CONTROL CHECK BOX P3 P4 Resistance is futile, you will be assimulated. That's the way it works. 73, Bob -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Philip M. Lanese Sent: Friday, November 04, 2005 6:56 PM To: FlexRadio Subject: [Flexradio] CAT CONTROL CHECK BOX P3 P4 When the CAT Control 'Enable CAT' checkbox is checked, the values are grayed out. When CAT control checkbox is not checked, values are black on white and can be changed. Is this correct or is my logic backwards from 4 days of frustrating attempts at getting TeamSpeak, MixW, VAC, vCOM, SDR and Vera Cruz to play nice together? Phil, K3IB ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] [OT] $1,750 USB audio card with 12AU7 (huh?)
There's some very esoteric stuff out there for people who seem to have a lot of money and time on their hands along with a listening room that is so acoustically perfect that they can hear the difference between amplifiers that have polystyrene capacitors vs. polypropilene caps. But,there's also a lot of Dr. Snakeoil's Wonder Elixer. There was actually someone at one of the CES shows selling some liquid that you brushed onto the plastic or ceramic packages of the IC's in your amplifier that made them sound just like vacuum tubes. But actually, there is a resurgence of tubes in applications like mic preamps for studio use because of their clipping characteristics being a litle more gentle than treansistors / op-amps. They operate them class A and they do sound really clean. Bill AD5OL Ken - N9VV [EMAIL PROTECTED] 10/28/05 01:42PM I just had to share this with you Flexy's URL:http://www.stereophile.com/artdudleylistening/905listen/index.html seems to appeal to the iPOD crowd and uses words like USB and A/D and then has a 12AU7 (how bad could that be?)! Ken N9VV Ken - N9VV [EMAIL PROTECTED] 10/28/05 01:42PM I just had to share this with you Flexy's URL:http://www.stereophile.com/artdudleylistening/905listen/index.html seems to appeal to the iPOD crowd and uses words like USB and A/D and then has a 12AU7 (how bad could that be?)! Ken N9VV ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Eham Review
t the risk of over beating a dead horse, I've got get this off my chest. I'm sorry Chris had some issues, hopefully they will be resolved through the proper channels. It certainly looks like Gerald is trying on his end. But you know..what amazes me about Eham Reviews, is the disparity of opinions. Take for example the GAP Titan DX antenna that I bought recently. It had any number of this is a pretty good antenna entries, and one or two this is the worst piece of @%$# I've ever seen report(s). Sometimes when things don't work the way we THINK they should we totally get out of even believing that there is something we are not seeing and write the thing off as an impossible piece of @%#. That's the nice thing about this reflector. If we're having issues, there is going to be someone out there who has knowledge of the issue that we can turn to. I stand in awe of the expertise of some of the guys on this reflector. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Bill AD5OL Gerald Youngblood [EMAIL PROTECTED] 10/06/05 10:34AM Hi Tim, I am afraid I must chime in on this topic because of some misperceptions that may arise from the exam review.
Re: [Flexradio] A plea to SDR software developers
Having purchased a 857D myself, disreguarding the open ended - closed ended software discussion, the Yaesu IS a lot more portable. I love you guys (in a brotherly way), but putting a SDR-1000 in a car and operating it might be a bit of a challenge, even with a laptop :-). Same for backpacking it up the side of a mountain. Bill AD5OL ecellison [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/30/05 07:12PM Sami I am still reading. However, now I would like for you to comment on my purchase of the Yeasu 857 and compare what I bought from Yeasu with what I bought from FlexRadio Systems, years ago. Which was the better buy for the future, no matter what I want to do in ham radio? Juxtaposition. Eric - AA4SW -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Sami Aintila Sent: Tuesday, August 30, 2005 5:27 PM To: FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz Subject: Re: [Flexradio] A plea to SDR software developers Some comments: [Jim Lux] Warning... strong off-the-cuff opinions follow that I'll probably regret. Nothing to regret, Jim. These things needed to be said. [Frank Brickle] Further discussion /dev/null. Well, this is certainly a helpful attitude. [Eric] We are committed to using the GPL as it gives us protection while at the same time offering an extreme amount of freedom in terms of modification and redistribution. Using GPL is an ideological choice. Nothing wrong with that. But there are lots of people who really don't understand the ideology they are subscribing to. Until it's too late. It's like a cult: once you're in, you can never get out. OK, I'm not a big fan of GPL, but that's not the point. The point is (as Jim was trying to explain in his first post) that GPL may be the single most important reason why some people cannot contribute to this project. I think this is a serious problem. But this problem could be circumvented by following the guidelines Jim suggested. But I know this is not the first time we're having this discussion. The concept of plugins has been mentioned (and rejected) many times before. But the concept seems to work just fine in many other applications. Why not here? 73, Sami OH2BFO ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] A plea to SDR software developers
Gerald Youngblood [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/30/05 08:13PM Yep, the SDR-1000 is not a backpacking rig. Nor is a backpacking rig a SDR-1000. A fork will never be a knife but you can cut some with a fork if you push hard enough. Everything has its place. My point exactly. The SDR is a great rig and I'm proud to have it, and proud to be associated (even remotely) with you and your team who creating it. But as you say a time to every purpose under heaven. Bill AD5OL
Re: [Flexradio] SDR-1000 enables relaying of good news to family
Way to go Dale! Bill Dale Boresz [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/30/05 09:26PM I was on 20m ssb a few minutes ago with the SDR-1000 (of course), and had just signed with a mobile station in Oklahoma, when I heard a very weak station calling me. I was on 14.162 MHz, with some S9++ signals nearby at 14.168 MHz, and an S9+ signal just below me at 14.159 MHz, but by narrowing down the filter to 2.6K and shifting the filter a bit I was able to pull the signal (about S3) through the QRM. The op was Joe, N4TSU, and he said that he was in New Orleans and asked me if I could call his brother William to let him know that he was okay. I called the number, and although his brother was not home, his brother's wife answered the phone. I explained that I'm a ham radio operator in Ohio and had just spoken with Joe, and he wanted me to let them know that he was fine. Needless to say, she was elated to hear the good news, and said that her husband had been calling all day long from work, to see if there was any word about his brother. I've always hoped that one day I'd be able to help out in a situation like this, and was thrilled to be able to do so. Considering the band conditions at the time, I am quite certain that had I not been using the SDR-1000, I wouldn't have been able to copy the phone number and other information. It made my day. 73, Dale WA8SRA ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Hardware mods
I could get with the XLR's or the CPC styles. A D sub might be cool too. A lot of the professional sound cards that really do have balanced in's and out's use D connector to XLR breakout cable. Mini phone plugs don't always mate properly especially when you have a brand A jack and a brand B plug, Neutric does however make a REAL nice 1/8 TRS plug, I can't speak as to their mating connector. I'm out on modular connectors for audio applications, and while Lemo makes one hell of a good connector they're worse that mini plugs to solder to. I have still have the willies about having to cram one or two mono ceramic bypass capacitors into the 4 pin lemos that Vega wireless mics use to use. A lot of wireless mics today use the mini XLR' connectors which might be an option. While smaller than a normal XLR they're easier to deal with than Lemo's. Just my for what it's worths. Bill AD5OL Jim Lux [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/21/05 01:29PM At 10:19 AM 8/21/2005, Brian wrote: It sounds like there are some hardware mods coming through. May I make a suggestion? That weird mic plug. Last rig I had that had that 4 pin plug was my TS-700G, 25 years ago. Seems like the Heil mics are the preferred object of affection. Wouldn't it make sense to put a mini stereo jack on the front panel Ick! Horrors! I hope someone does away with mini phone plugs. I've had so many troubles with them over the years, they're almost as bad as those coaxial power connectors. It's impossible to get a good quality jack for these things: the springs are just too small, and there's no commercial incentive to make various quality grades, even if you were willing to pay for it. Sure, the Heil uses them, but that's because they're trying to be compatible and cheap. Better suggestions: Modular style phone jack (the jack is rugged.. the plugs not so much, because the tabs break off, and they're really not designed for multiple mate/demate). XLR style (Rugged, latching, available in myriad places, with myriad numbers of pins, although certainly, the 3 pin version is cheapest) Lemo latching (pricey, but real nice, and rugged, even in small sizes) 1/4 phone plugs (There's a world of difference between 1/8 and 1/4, because the springs are bigger in the jack). There's also a slightly different size used for the mic jack in airplanes (so they can't be inadvertently interchanged) Circular MS type (aka Bendix, MIL C-something, AMP Circular Plastic, etc) Rugged, not too expensive in the plastic form, securely mating. D-sub, even (although they're awfully easy to damage if you step on it laying on the floor). Overall, I prefer connectors where the hold the connector to the jack is something other than the spring to make electrical connection, which is the real failing of the mini phone plug. that would accecpt the standard Heil plug? Hopefully, VOX is not far from reality, so I guess another jack for PTT would be added too. 73 Brian N5BA James Lux, P.E. Spacecraft Radio Frequency Subsystems Group Flight Communications Systems Section Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Mail Stop 161-213 4800 Oak Grove Drive Pasadena CA 91109 tel: (818)354-2075 fax: (818)393-6875 ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Hardware mods
Just one more thought that occurred in the ohnosecond before I hit send. I can't really fault Gerrald and Co. for choosing the 1/8 mini as the audio connector in the SDR. That's what the associated sound cards used, and cost is always a factor when you're marketing some device. But, now that we've grown use to a slightly more sophisticated sound card it might be time to look at for example a D connector that mimics the connector on the D-44 card so a straight thru or perhaps a custom D to D cable (that takes grounding issues into consideration) might be used thus replacing the 1/8 to 1/4 cables, the breakout box, and the breakout box to sound card cables in one fell swoop. The only issue I see here is that this would lock us to the D-44 if something better came along or the Delta 44 people folded. 73's de Bill AD5OL Jim Lux [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/21/05 01:29PM At 10:19 AM 8/21/2005, Brian wrote: It sounds like there are some hardware mods coming through. May I make a suggestion? That weird mic plug. Last rig I had that had that 4 pin plug was my TS-700G, 25 years ago. Seems like the Heil mics are the preferred object of affection. Wouldn't it make sense to put a mini stereo jack on the front panel Ick! Horrors! I hope someone does away with mini phone plugs. I've had so many troubles with them over the years, they're almost as bad as those coaxial power connectors. It's impossible to get a good quality jack for these things: the springs are just too small, and there's no commercial incentive to make various quality grades, even if you were willing to pay for it. Sure, the Heil uses them, but that's because they're trying to be compatible and cheap. Better suggestions: Modular style phone jack (the jack is rugged.. the plugs not so much, because the tabs break off, and they're really not designed for multiple mate/demate). XLR style (Rugged, latching, available in myriad places, with myriad numbers of pins, although certainly, the 3 pin version is cheapest) Lemo latching (pricey, but real nice, and rugged, even in small sizes) 1/4 phone plugs (There's a world of difference between 1/8 and 1/4, because the springs are bigger in the jack). There's also a slightly different size used for the mic jack in airplanes (so they can't be inadvertently interchanged) Circular MS type (aka Bendix, MIL C-something, AMP Circular Plastic, etc) Rugged, not too expensive in the plastic form, securely mating. D-sub, even (although they're awfully easy to damage if you step on it laying on the floor). Overall, I prefer connectors where the hold the connector to the jack is something other than the spring to make electrical connection, which is the real failing of the mini phone plug. that would accecpt the standard Heil plug? Hopefully, VOX is not far from reality, so I guess another jack for PTT would be added too. 73 Brian N5BA James Lux, P.E. Spacecraft Radio Frequency Subsystems Group Flight Communications Systems Section Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Mail Stop 161-213 4800 Oak Grove Drive Pasadena CA 91109 tel: (818)354-2075 fax: (818)393-6875 ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Delta 44 Breakout Box and Balanced audio
If I understand what you're suggesting, it would take phase inverting the audio to two of the channels to achieve differentially driving or receiving a line. Bill Paull [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/05/05 10:53PM Thinking ouside the box, one could view the D44 this way: Not 4, single-ended, in/out ports, But 2 pairs of differentially driven ports. regards, Paull -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.338 / Virus Database: 267.10.1/64 - Release Date: 8/4/2005 ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Delta 44 Breakout Box and Balanced audio
Don There are some real high dollar sound cards that are really and truly balanced, but they cost as much as the SDR-1K. We use them extensively at work since all our spots (commercials) all the drops (cute sound effects the jocks and talk hosts play) and most of the music we play are on hard drive. The board that the jocks operate is just a work surface for another computer, and they are surrounded by touch screens to control the afore mentioned servers. Unless you've got a lot of spare cash the Delta 44 will do jest fine. It really is a good sound card from the software and computer hardware point of view, and the Flex Radio guys scored big time by making the decision to standardize on it. There's a whole lot of between the ear processor time being expended by those guys. Thanks Folks!!! What Delta is doing is fairly common of low end professional gear. Behringer does the same thing on their low dollar mixers as does Soundcraft, Yamaha, and others. Mackie uses real balanced line ins and outs on their mixers with the exception of the stereo line inputs, and the aux. ins and outs which use the pseudo balancing like you're seeing on the Delta breakout box. I posted a PDF of just what you're contemplating a couple of months ago. I did it to clean up some of the cable kludge behind the computer, and to eliminate all the ground loops that I can. We won't be able to get rid of all of them because of the data cable and the unbalanced ins and outs on the radio, but it's a start. I did get some feedback from one list member who has used my drawing with success. He noted that it eliminated (or at least reduced drastically) most of his ground loop induced noise and allowed him to ground his computer which he had to ground lift because of noise issues. 73's Bill AD5OL Don Newberry [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/04/05 10:25PM Hello all, I was considering using a DB 15 connector, appropriate plugs and shielded cable to interface between the SDR and the Delta 44, bypassing the breakout box altogether. I thought this would make a little cleaner setup here (not that this has mattered much before, hi). I traced out the wiring inside the box to find out the pinouts for the various ins and outs, and will list them below. Don, wd4egf
Re: [Flexradio] Delta 44 Breakout Box and Balanced audio
Not really in the great grand scheme of things Phil. I developed my DB-15 to mini adaptor to first, eliminate as many ground issues as I could (it's not perfect, that would take balancing amps or transformers on the SDR end, but it goes a long way) and second, reduce clutter and reduce the number of connectors in line. Why use 4 when 2 will do? Bill AD5OL Philip Covington [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/05/05 08:07AM Hi All, Does it really matter that the Delta 44 has only pseudo-balanced inputs since the SDR-1000 only has unbalanced inputs and outputs? 73 de Phil N8VB On 8/5/05, Mike Naruta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Gentlemen, I was disappointed to learn that the Delta 44 only has pseudo-balanced inputs, but it's good to understand that. The phone jacks on a dongle is a bit of a nuisance, but if want something light to use for travel, at least you have access to the sound card through a readily-available connector and can wire your own cable. The miniature phone jacks on the SDR-1000 are a weak point. If my SDR-1000 behaves oddly, the first thing I check is the miniature phone plugs. I never check the phone plugs on the Delta 44 jack box. Why? Because they are a reliable connection. Ma Bell made TONS of these. The country's communication system ran on phone jacks. Why are they used in guitars? Can you imagine one with a miniature phone jack? They'd be falling out all the time or getting snapped off. The miniature phone plug arrived with the transistor radio as a way of making an earphone connection with a physically smaller plug/jack. The concept of the SDR-1000 is to use the minimum hardware necessary and utilize a PC with a sound card to do the rest. Sound cards predominately use miniature phone jacks. You can go to the local store and buy a cable to go from the SDR-1000 to a sound card. I still don't have a tool to crimp the connections on an RJ-45. I hate using the miniature phones and there are other connectors that have merits over the miniature phone, but I think it was the appropriate design choice. Mike AA8K ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz -- Philip A Covington vHMI Automation, Inc. http://www.vhmiautomation.com http://www.philcovington.com ___ FlexRadio mailing list FlexRadio@flex-radio.biz http://mail.flex-radio.biz/mailman/listinfo/flexradio_flex-radio.biz
Re: [Flexradio] Delta 44 Breakout Box and Balanced audio
Hi Don I'll get it off to you later today. It's on another machine. Bill Don Newberry [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/04/05 11:30PM Hi Bill, thanks for the info. I'm sorry I missed your post, back on the 1st of July. Its amazing how much more money it takes to set up an op-amp for diff. input vs single (Hi-end vs ours) input, just a couple more resisters! Yes, I agree its a great card for SDR use. Perhaps the reason you gave is why I haven't heard much more about using the balanced line approach... mucho dinero! If you are still willing and able, I'd love to see your drawing, either by e-mail or a link. It sounds like what Eric is looking for as well. Thanks agn for the return post 73, Don, wd4egf
Re: [Flexradio] Delta 44 Breakout Box and Balanced audio
John and the group You can't make a silk purse from a sow's ear. The SDR is unbalanced, and that's all there is to it. As per several proceeding exchanges the Delta 44 does not have truly balanced inputs and outputs, so the amount of noise elimination / cancellation / etc. is not as great as it might be if it (Delta 44) had true differential inputs and outputs. Your comments about breakout boxes being useful in studio applications is true. However in the application here, it is very doubtful that the Delta will be used for any other purpose than interfacing the SDR-1000 to the computer, so the following applies. Several of the list members have had a real problem with ground loop related noise being introduced into their systems, caused by the multiple ground paths inherent in using the breakout box and the Hosa cables which have shield carries through to all connectors. In addition to these paths, there are others in the data cabling and in the A.C. power line connections and the 12 V.D.C. hook up. Those can't be eliminated, because ignoring safety considerations (which is a bad idea) it's necessary to ground the computer to keep all those 1's and 0's that are flying rampant inside the case from wreaking havoc from a R.F. standpoint. Given this I designed an adaptor cable that: 1.) Reduced the AUDIO ground paths between the SDR and computer to one. 2.) Got rid of the kludge of 1/8 to 1/4 cables, the DB-15 cable, and the breakout box. There's enough wires and cables in most shacks to begin with. 3.) Reduced the number of connectors to a bare minimum (always a good idea). Seems to work, I've gotten favorable feedback from list members who said it worked for them. Is it a be all end all? No. But it's pretty good without going to transformers or differential input and output amps on the radio. Speaking of transformers, Joe N6VS sez that he tried it and had I and Q issues. Joe AB1DO was going to try it with some Jensen (brand) transformers he had but I've not heard the results. If Jensens won't work, no transformer around today will which leaves the diff. amp. idea. I had thought to design a printed circuit board with differential output and input amps that would operate off the single ended power (13.8 V) that's available in the radio, but I'm burred at work with new 500 Kw, genset and HD radio (digital) radio transmitter installs, not to mention stuff I've got to do at American Airlines Center to get ready for the NBA and NHL (remember the NHL anyone ???) seasons that will be cranking up soon. If anyone wants to give this idea a go let us know. I don't think it's a real necessary thing, but it might benefit someone. 73's de Bill AD5OL [EMAIL PROTECTED] 08/05/05 12:18PM The advantage of going to the sound card Balanced is to eliminate [cancel] undesirable noise to include RFI. Having a breakout box allows easy switching of microphones, audio devices, etc, for those inclined to make changes and experiment. Other than reducing the number of wires and aesthetics there is no substance reason to directly wire the sound card to the SDR-the real limitation is the SDR 1/8 inch jacks. Breakout boxes are common in Broadcasting studios because of the flexibility they provide and ease of troubleshooting problems when they occur. John W5GI. Broadcast/Audio Engineer
Re: [Flexradio] The final nail in the coffin of Morse?
Hi All CW is an art that those who want to practice will continue to do whether it is a licensing requirement or not. Why should you daub oil paint on a canvas when you can use a computer rendering program to do the same?Answerbecause you can. Whether it should be a requirement or not has been whipped to death and does not need to be discussed here. I and a whole lot of others put a whole lot of head sweat into learning code and being proficient at it, and don't plan on giving up the grand old art. Newbies who are interested will pick up the skills, those who aren't won't and the sun wil still come up in the east and the stars will still be twinkling the following night. I personally bought my SDR to be the exciter / VFO / station receiver for a transmitter I'm building out of the 1955 handbook that uses parts that flew in B-17's in WW II, so I guess I'm a little biased in favor of tradidtion, but I recognize that it may be time to move on and acknowledge that the times thay are a chagin. Bill AD5OL Mike Naruta [EMAIL PROTECTED] 07/20/05 10:04PM Why do we want to hurl electromagnetic waves through the ether instead of just using the Internet? Because it's fun and it's a challenge. The folks who want to use CW will use CW. I plan to use my SDR-1000 to make lots of dits and dahs, as well as AM, RTTY, SSB, and PSK31.
