About

Hello.

My name is Chris and my amateur radio callsign is M0NKA. I dedicate this website to my homebrew mcHF project.

The original idea was born few years ago when I got really interested in the 70Mhz band and found out that I had to homebrew something as commercial gear at that time was not available. My choice was Softrock Ensemble and OZ2M transverter. The extra part was a bulky and power hungry PC. So I decided to replace it with an ARM microcontroller. This is how the TRX4M project was born and I have been on the air with it ever since.

Last year I decided to remove all extra complexities from TRX4M and produce a design for a very cheap, affordable and functional QRP radio. This is the mcHF.

My major inspiration was the Softrock and the SDRCube projects. Without those I wouldn’t have had an idea where to even start. I also love the KX3 form factor and the ICOM IC-7600 user interface, you can see some design ideas from both have inspired the mcHF look. My gratitude also to Eric Brombaugh for sharing his I2S driver source as it gave me the push to pursue this project on the STM32F4.

Also special thanks for continuous help and encouragement from Brian (G0MJI) – the first ever mcHF Beta tester. And my good, old school, buddy – Nikolai (LZ2SEX) with his valuable analogue electronics experience and ideas.

Greatest thanks off course goes to Clint (KA7OEI) who took over the mcHF source code in the last one year and I can say that the mcHF is now a complete radio transceiver.

You can post comment on any of the pages, keep in mind it takes time for approval due to large amount of automated spam posted by bots. Or you can contact me via e-mail(djchrismarc at gmail) or page me on twitter @M0NKA_.

And now, thanks to the great effort of Andy (G6LBQ), the mcHF project has its own Yahoo support group. You can sign here.

Thanks for visiting!

192 thoughts on “About”

  1. YL3AJG

    Just ordered the kit from you, and I am eager to experiment with the DSP part. I really appreciate the effort that has gone into the development. I have been musing about a similar transceiver for few years myself, but knowing how expensive it is to develop hardware, it’s amazing what you have achieved. If you don’t mind, I will share some of my ideas on the HW part (please don’t see it as a criticism or questioning, it’s just what goes through an engineer’s mind, and you probably have received tons of these suggestions before):
    – The RF amplifier (Q1) seems to work in the straight common emitter fashion without any feedback except emitter resistor. It’s loaded by the QSD, which is fine, but what about the input impedance of this stage? I can’t see how it would be well matched to the previous stage. I would considered other alternatives, like a collector-base feedback, e.g. http://cqham.ru/rb/ris3_9.gif from http://cqham.ru/rb/rb3.html, which could have better IMD and NF properties, and better matched. The QSD itself has quite remarkable strong-signal performance, so adding a weaker amplifier before it compromises the quality. I see, of course, how you have strived for lower price, yet reasonable quality.
    – An interesting idea to borrow from fellow designers is to use multi-line common mode chokes as RF transformers – haven’t tested it myself, but the successful JUMA project seems to use them – http://www.jumaradio.com/juma-trx2/. They are off-the-shelf components on Farnell.
    – Have you considered double conversion architecture with a fixed first IF of 45..70 MHz, like it is, for example in uBITX and also many commercial TRXs? This way you might eliminate the switchable band filters otherwise necessary for QSD (due to its sensitivity to 3x f_lo), and also the QSD would work on a fixed frequency, making the phase/amplitude errors easier to cancel.
    – The WM8731 seems to be no longer stocked in Farnell, have you considered a replacement or an alternative? Like TLV320AIC3104/5? They are cheaper, have more inputs/outputs, and a very comparable performance.

    Reply ↓
  2. JR8QVT

    Hello Chris san
    I am very interested in complete kit of MCHF and would like to order it as my birthday present (19,Dec).
    Coudl you kindly let me know when complete kit is available?
    Coudl you also let me know total cost for complete kit / compontent kit which include postage?

    Tak JR8QVT

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Tak,

      Thanks for your interest in the project! But i am really not sure when will have the Full Kit.
      When i do, will post on the main page.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  3. John Tarbox

    I too am interested in a complete kit, either populated with the SMD devices or not, whatever is available first.

    WA1KLI John

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Chuck,

      Thanks for your interest! We would have few kits ready in day or two, just finished some components, waiting on them.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  5. Chris Herd

    Hi Chris

    When will you have stock of kits where the components have been soldered to the boards?

    Best regards

    Chris ZL2TCH

    Reply ↓
  6. Paul Rice

    A lot of people are now buying the Chinese clone because you have been out of stock for a long time.
    What’s up?
    Are you going to re-stock version 0.6 or are you working on version 0.7 now?

    Reply ↓
    2. Alex

      chinese and indonesian sdr/dsp xcvrs are now prevailing in the market now. your items have been out stock for a long time.

      Reply ↓
  7. Leif Christensen

    Hey
    I have a MCHf vers 0.4 which have worked ok until I had a lightning destroing the ui-board. The rf-board works ok.
    Does a rf-board vers. 04 work together with a vers. 0.6 ui-board?. If it doe,s Is it possible to buy only a ui-board kit?
    Vy 73 de OZ8GW, Leif.

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Leif,

      Sorry to hear that! yes, boards between versions are inter-compatible.
      I have few single boards left over, some with small defects, will list them,
      maybe later today.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  9. Sam NW9T

    I don’t see an Email address here so sent one to your Email address listed on a Ham Lookup site.

    Reply ↓
  11. Lev OK2PLL

    Dr om. I am against thee arrangements described tx tx quad preamp and mixer. Would not it be easier than wires stretched across the plate instead of jumpers directly on one side of the C109,110,11 capacitors, and resistors 112 and R63,64,65 and 66? It would be significantly shorter and simpler. Or such a solution was a reason. Lev 73 OK2PLL

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Lev,

      Off course. It is much better with short bridge on the single side of the PCB. It is what i did for my test and took pictures.
      As my test boards never see a case and stay in ‘naked’ position all the time was ok. But if you going to do on your radio should
      be done properly, with short as possible wires.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  12. Luca

    Hi Chris,
    is it possible for you sell me a bounce of SN74CBT3253C? Here in Italy are not in stock since months.. and my mchf needs. As occurred in the early days after completed your kit, these days U2 died again.
    If it’s possible for you, please forward me prices details at my persona email.
    Thank you,

    Luca IU0AZB

    Reply ↓
  13. Claudio

    Hi Chris I saw on the internet a rf board for 144 mhz. I wanted to ask if you plan to produce a kit or a board for this frequency.73 de IV3ALF claudio

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Claudio,

      I have no idea about this board. I still support only HF, as there are so many cheap VHF radios.

      73

      Reply ↓
  14. Clark

    When might you have more complete kits, I see that they are out of stock. I’d sure like to order one from across the pond here.

    Clark, WA3JPG

    Reply ↓
  15. C-Jack

    Hi. I like the radio. I am curious though. What is the sensitivity of the mcHF radio. And what will I have to purchase additionally for the kits on EBAY to be fully operational.

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello,

      I haven’t done any measurements due to lack of equipment(calibrated RF signal generator), although i am
      getting one soon and will try to measure and post some details.

      As for the missing parts – Speaker and MOSFETs. You can get that former from Farnell (part code in BOM),
      as far as the MOSFETs go – do not buy from ebay, but from reputable Ham source, as most of those transistors
      on Ebay are fakes.

      73

      Reply ↓
  16. Larry W8LM

    Chris,
    I enjoyed surfing your web site. I’ve only been licensed 50 years this month. That’s 350 dog years. I’m trying to learn more about the hobby. I built my 1st receiver in 1962, transmitter in 1966 and my 1st computer in 1977. We’re in the middle of the US eating and shopping holiday. I took the time to eat and surf at the same time and enjoyed your web site. Having an Amateur Extra class license allows you to talk and eat at the same time. In this case keyboard. I have a few comments regarding your mcHF radio:

    #1. Complete Kit– minus this and that– Obvious English Humor. The Catholic nuns would admonish you
    as It can’t be complete if it’s missing something. Or did you learn something akin from Kansasian
    P.T. Barnum- as his Kansas City guarantee was “If it breaks in half, you get to keep both pieces”
    #2. In case your wondering who this A$$hole is, now for the technical aspects of my inquiry:
    a. Why Toroids in the band pass filters?
    1. When surface mount devices can make a lighter more compact filters with good results.
    2. Does the assembler have to wind the toroids in your kit? Pain to strip enamel wire for soldering.
    3. See a surface mount band pass using all surface mount components:
    https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hobbypcb/rs-hfiq-5w-software-defined-radio-sdr-tranceiver#prototype-slide-14551
    b. More about the rs-hfiq SRD transceiver:
    https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/hobbypcb/rs-hfiq-5w-software-defined-radio-sdr-tranceiver# #3. Which brings us to – Why are you not “GO FUND ME”? They raised $44K (USD).
    a. They surpassed their original goal by offering a TXO at a second level of funding.
    b. I am funder #101 and sold my FLEX 1500. Keeping the FT-817
    c. Because of “GO FUND ME” they offer a complete kit including enclosure.
    1. I believe that “seals the deal” regarding resale value and protection of components.
    #4. All though I did not dig to the depths of every page, I did not find any specifications regarding
    dynamic range, IMD, 2nd,3rd harmonic suppression. Has your transceiver been lab tested?
    #5. Buttons and 4 encoders… What are their functions? I know 1 must be VFO. Any memories, Band
    Stacking registers, Scanning functions, Menu’s etc… Inquiring minds would like to know.
    #6. I think you would do much better if you simply took a sales brochure from the “BIG 3” and used it as
    a guide line to duplicate the information they provide in 3-4 full color pages You don’t have to be as
    fancy or have mum in a miniskirt holding the radio in hope of increasing sales.

    If you get out this way. We can feed you the best $10 steak you ever had. Planning on Dayton 2017, maybe you should go too.

    Larry W8LM
    ARRL Life Member -50 years a ham this month.
    President, VFW post 3115 Amateur Radio Club, W0VFW- Wichita, Kansas
    Old Goat Ranch – Mulvane Kansas

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Larry,

      Thanks for your interesting post and inquire about the project! I will try to address your points as much as I can:

      1. The full kit is missing only the final MOSFETs and the speaker. Also there is no enclosure, but the point of being project,
      not product is purely on purpose.

      2. Actually the BPF is using SMD wire wound inductors, the one you see on board with toroids is actually the LPF, it is realised
      like that due to higher power handling requirements. Yes, you need to wind those buy hand, including scraping enamel and the full deal, sorry.

      3. I have no financial problem to pay from my pocket for everything – development and design, then ordering from factory, etc. And i am running at a small profit as well, so it is all bad. Probably i would go to kistarter if i need a million or two, but that has to be some massive project.

      4. Probably it is possible to be tested, but for me personally is not that important because even with the best performing gear, you will still
      be on the same bands where constantly somebody is tuning over you with a kW or just shouting his call over 100 other people to get that DX. It
      is a hobby, not latest mission to Mars 😉

      5. There is very detailed manual from Clint, on my Downloads page explaining all the functions in details. But even without reading it, it is
      pretty easy to grasp in minutes. The reason i have lots of buttons is to make it user friendly, less menues etc..

      6. Yes, but wanted to have a project, that is in constant development, not a complete product. My target audience is also hams that are into
      electronics and have deep love for technology, not somebody who is just looking for cheaper deal on an appliance. For me is amazing to see the
      schematics and the insides of a gadget, sales brochures don’t win over me.

      Steaks and mini skirts, count me in 😉

      73, Chris
      M0NKA

      Reply ↓
  18. Carsten DL8AAP

    Hi Chris,
    if we want to order more than one kit (2-3) in one package are we paying the postage of 10 for each kit or only one time?
    73 Carsten DL8AAP

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Carsten,

      My box fit only the parts for one kit. If i try to fit more boards and components in single box, i have less space for packaging material, so something can get damaged. Usually the Alu caps that stick out on the board got chopped off.

      Chris

      Reply ↓
  20. ohtaron

    I have just ordered a kit, hope it arrives fast. Any Final specific Mosfets recommended ? And the speaker has to be 8ohm or 4ohm?
    Thank you!

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi,

      It should be sent now, please check PayPal for tracking. Full specs on the MOSFETs and Speaker in the BOM,
      please check my downloads page.

      73

      Reply ↓
      1. ohtaron

        Now it arrived at home. And found all the info. Thanks! the packaging is perfect! everything OK, now to start soldering and winding toroids! Thanks for this amazing project!

        Reply ↓
  22. Wladimir Wall

    Hello dear friend Chris ! Tell me please , when you will be available again sets to build your transceiver . A few days ordering from the website but as soon as I leave on the payment list is reset , and there remains only the ports . Regards Vlad DL1KBX, ex UL7GBZ

    Reply ↓
  23. Blayne Marek

    Hey Chris, Just wanted to thank you for all the hard work you have done and also to everyone else that worked to make the MCHF what it is today!! I am almost done with mine and so far looking good. I can’t wait to get it done. Just wanted to post a big THANK YOU and soon will be ordering 2 more. KE8ARN, Blayne

    Reply ↓
  24. Karl-Heinz Faikis

    Hello, Chris, can I buy only the rf-Board like preinstalled with smd-parts in the factory and rest of pieces to finished at home? when I can do this, please give me an info about the price.
    Thanks and 73

    Henry, DL4FK

    Reply ↓
  25. Peter Schlüter

    Hallo Chris,
    did you get my order?
    Best Regards
    peter Schlüter
    Germany
    26736 Krummhörn

    Reply ↓
  26. anastasio

    Hi, I need some help,when I try to load the bootloader in DFUSE the chip is detected but in a few seconds dissappears and cannot charge it

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi, need to keep on pressing the power button, CPU in ROM mode doesn’t know how to control the power supply.

      73

      Reply ↓
        1. m0nka Post author

          Hi,

          Sorry for late reply, drop me a mail please, i will try to help (djchrismarc at gmail).

          73

          Reply ↓
  27. GARCIA

    Hello om,
    Is that you have complete mcHF QRP kit in stock ??
    Is what i can to order a mcHF QRP kit ??
    Thank you for the answer.
    73 de F6HFX

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello,

      Yes, it is in stock and available to purchase on my Order page. Lots of information about what is included on the Download page.

      73

      Reply ↓
  28. Gus Andrada

    Hi Chris

    Sorry fo my previous bad post.

    Tell me the full kit is the complete transceiver no more board is neded? mchf have of possibility of transmit bandwidht at 3.5 khz.
    I see in the web has pre soldered smd in the boards?

    What is the cost of shipping to mi country Argentina?

    Thanks again

    Gus
    lw3ewz

    Reply ↓
  29. John Wiewiorka

    Sir

    Can you please let me know the dimensions of the main boards as I cant seem to find them anywhere

    regards John

    Reply ↓
  30. anastasio

    Hi Chris,Some time ago I bought two units of ui board and rf board and two lcd, you can sell me only the components without board and lcd?, thanks

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Max,

      Yes, i have full kits in stock. Also comes soldered to the UI board. Actually i do this by hand before sending, not done by
      the factory. I thought is a good idea, to save me some future troubles 🙂

      73!

      Reply ↓
      1. Max IU0AYU

        Thank you so much for your response. I will order the kit as soon as possible , as soon as I gather enough money , hopefully before the end of next month .
        Great project mchf rtx!

        Reply ↓
  32. Ulrich Graf

    Hi Chris,

    for exact identification of parts I like to have an actual parts list (board version 04). Could not find any so far. Where could I download such a list?

    73, Uli, DK4SX

    Reply ↓
  33. Ulrich Graf

    Hello Chris,

    Fred, DK9WF, a close friend of mine got your pcbs and the full kit for me. I already assembled the UI-Board and wanted to push up the push butten knobs, but unfortunately those of FARNELL have obviously a different inner diameter becaus even with hard force I cannot push them onto the button shaft. Which knobs (round shape) do you use and where can I get them from – eventually from you?

    Regards, 73, Uli, DK4SX

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Uli,

      I use the cheapest possible ones that you can find in any equipment from 80’s and 90’s. Lots of them available on Ebay. I think they are classed as 6mm (3mm button and 3mm shaft). Just make sure you get SMD type (gull wing).

      73!

      Reply ↓
  34. Terry Genes

    Would like to buy one of these, is there a version of the kit with all surface mounted components already fitted only my old eyes can’t cope with SMD anymore

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Terry,

      I plan to get all SMD parts installed on the next batch of boards. But keep in mind that even the through hole parts are kinda small and some type of testing and modding might be required and this will involve touching the SMD parts (eventually).

      73

      Reply ↓
  36. Anatoly

    Hello Chris!I have a question on the program.In Your source settings are saved in the virtual EEPROM.The number of rewriting the flash 10000(100000).How long will this time-saving if You in main loop?
    // Transceiver main loop
    for(;;)
    {
    // UI events processing
    ui_driver_thread();
    // Save eeprom values
    UiDriverSaveEepromValues();

    Reply ↓
  37. Rune Gjerde

    Hi
    The STM32F407 is soldered on the Ui Board? or is it clean for every compontents for 8 pund?
    Got a bit panic when I saw that 🙂
    Best Regards
    Rune

    Reply ↓
  38. Dubravko

    What will be aproximate total price for parts and PCB’s to build this nice transceiver from parts that are acquired from on the shelf supplyers (ebay, Farnell..)?

    Thanks in advance for information…

    Dubravko 9a5bdp

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi,

      The last time i have calculated it was about 200 GBP, but i see the prices of parts had gone up in the last two years, so it might be bit higher now.

      73

      Reply ↓
  40. Keith

    I have spent some time tonight trying to find what gauge SWG wire was used for winding the coils and transformers and been unable to find this information.
    Can you point me me to this information.

    Many thanks

    Keith GU6EFB

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Keith,

      Sorry for the late reply, the wire width is in the schematics file, next to each coil/transformer.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  41. Sergey

    Hi Chris!
    Can I order a Board and some components only? Other components I already have. I did not see mode SPLIT . This feature is already implemented? Is there a possibility to order a metal body design KX3 . Very good I love Elecraft KX3.
    73! Sergey UR5IPW

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Sergei,

      I have some parts left, please e-mail me a list of what do you need, i will check if i have some leftovers. Split mode is available in latest firmware versions, please check the group or GitHub.
      There are two metal cases – Chinese (ebay) and aluminium extrude, from a Polish colleague, you can get
      his details in the group.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  42. Mani

    Hi Chris,
    Long time back, I had purchased LCD modules and PCBs from you. However, Just now only I could complete the assembly. MCHF firm ware from your site was loaded and the it is not working and need to trouble shoot!. Please help me in locating the problems. The following are my observations:
    1. MCHF responds to power on push button and display light up. But only a white screen is there. Nothing s displayed.
    2. Band+ , Band- buttons are responding. I can hear the relay clicks when these buttons are pressed.
    3. Volume control and Gain control knobs are working. The only issue is that volume /gain (hissing) increases when turned anti clockwise.
    4. It seems that the local osc ( si570) is not tuning. I am getting a fixed frequency of around 56 MHZ at the output of si570.
    5. I2c Bus connected to Si570 does not show any activity.

    I would like to get your expert opinion in locating the fault. Is it due to failure of the LCD display or anything wrong with the Controller?
    Waiting for your advice.
    73
    Mani

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Mani,

      First thing – you need to fix the LCD. Please check all joints – LCD and CPU pins soldering. The SI570 comm is not related to the LCD issues, it is something else. Best to e-mail me directly or post in the group, not easy in the comment section.

      73

      Reply ↓
  43. Ken Scharf (WA2MZE)

    I can’t seem to find the BOM on this site for the parts required to populate the bare PCB’s.
    Also a question on using the ‘Discovery’ board, it seems to have a different codec on it than your boards, I assume that would require some mod’s to the software. Maybe I might build just your UI board and then use softrock or other rf boards with it?

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Ken,

      The BOM is on the Hardware page – schematics. As for the codec, on my early prototype i used the TI
      chip (same as Cube SDR), but lately moved to the Wolfson part as is 8-10 times cheaper. You can build
      around the discovery board and use softrock as RF front end (my 70 Mhz radio is built this way).

      73

      Reply ↓
  44. Bernie VK2ABN

    Hi Chris Beautiful Project, Congratulations ………Are there any Specs like Blocking dynamic range, AGC characteristics , and 3rd order intermod, birdies Ect I would be a starter for one of these BUT ??? anyway look forward to hearing from you

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello,

      To be honest i never cared for those things, and don’t have the equipment and knowledge to
      measure them scientifically. I guess eventually somebody will do. My concern was normal
      requirement that can affect your license conditions (harmonics, distortions, phase noise), e.g.
      stuff that i can measure with my Spectrum Analyzer.

      73

      Reply ↓
  45. Uwe Cappeller

    Hi Chris,

    I baught one mcHF kit and will finalize soon but in the kit there is no Y1, C93 and C94 for the UI board (0.4). In the check list it is marked as “na” but what does it mean? “Not applicable” or “not available”? It is not clear for me because I didn’t any replacement note and in the other lists (also bom for Farnell) it is still in place.

    Thank you in advance for your comment. Sorry that I left this note here but I didn’t want to post it in the group and I don’t found a contact site. Here you can delete it.

    Best Regards,
    Uwe
    DJ3FV

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Uwe,

      The CPU needs only one clock, so its the TCXO or the crystal and two caps. In the kits supplied by me only the TCXO is used, so those components are optional, that is why NA. All this is clearly visible from the schematics, not so from BOM. But i am limited to some template excel sheets, can’t do much about them, still need to print and fit into A4 piece of paper. Hope that helps.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
      1. Uwe Cappeller

        Hi Chris,

        thank you for the fast reply. Now it’s clear and I can go on.

        Thank you very much again for this nice project!

        vy 73, Uwe

        Reply ↓
  47. Josip- Joe Bedenicec 9A2QP

    Hello Chris
    Gave a sales KIT kit and gave the transceiver can be paid via PayPal. Price with shipping to Croatia 230.75 GPB, I am very interested in a copy and would like to order. It is a very nice project but otherwise I like something a little strong and with it a nice design and it ordered immediately. There is a possibility to work on 50MHz and 70MHz. With the enthusiasm that the RX / TX get Joe 9A2QP

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Joe,

      Available right now on the Order page. I am using the mcHF on 70 Mhz, maybe for two years,but
      with external OZ2M (modded with SI570 – oven heated osc, and 10W PA).

      73!

      Reply ↓
  48. Ray

    bought the boards way back 2014 when you first started have the been changed ? I am a diabetic with bad eye site do you know of any in U.S,A. That would build the boards for me ?
    thanks Ray

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hell Sandro,

      I wouldn’t personally, due to high phase noise of those DDS chips, but you could try it, that is why the source was released,
      to allow experimentation.

      73!

      Reply ↓
  56. DL1EGR

    software developement environment can found at? is there a environment running under linux? how to & many other questions…

    Reply ↓
  57. Jonathan Miller

    I have no problems soldering, Did I see a BOM for RF board somewhere?
    I cannot seem to locate it.

    many thanks

    Kind regards

    Jonathan

    Reply ↓
  58. Jonathan Miller

    Hello
    Can you confirm then that I can set up with just a scope and multimeter please.
    Kind regards

    Jonathan

    Reply ↓
  59. Jonathan Miller

    Hello, I am interested in building your radio. What test gear would I need for setup please.

    Thank you

    Kr

    Jonathan

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi, multimeter, SWR meter and SSB HF transceiver would be enough. Scope, if you have one, would make it even easier. 73

      Reply ↓
      1. Jonathan Miller

        Hi there,

        I have a dual scope,meters, sig gens, but not the SWR meter, or the SSB HF Transceiver. Altough the SWR looks cheap enough to get. Would I be able to manage without The SSB HF Transceiver.

        As you can probably tell I am bit of a newbie to radio, although I have been in electronics all my life, and your set looks rather good without me spending a rather lot of money.

        Kind regards

        Jonathan

        Reply ↓
  61. Heinz-Volker Schütte

    Hello,

    i am interesting on this Project, and want to Buy 1 ore more complete Full Kit’s.

    Please let me know how much it cost by 1 or 5 Kit’s

    73 DD3DC, Volker

    Reply ↓
  62. Dave Marvin

    Hi,
    Thanks for your reply,
    I will check what you suggest.
    Also I am waiting membership approval for the yahoo group, so will also check this when its cleared.

    Cheers
    Dave G7JIQ

    Reply ↓
  63. Dave Marvin

    Hi, (sorry if this is in the wrong topic area)

    I first must congratulate you on an excellent project, which went together very smoothly.
    I have just one slight problem, and I wondered if you had come across anything similar and could shed any light on the cause.
    To start with, the radio functions fine as a radio, my problem is with the on/off button.
    From first applying power the button turns on power fine and the radio is operational, if I press or hold the button to turn off, the display blanks after about 5 seconds after holding the button, momentary press does nothing.
    Upon releasing the button the radio turns back on and this time flashes a overall white screen, then blanks, then displays a white screen again.
    This stays white until power is removed,
    Some times this will stay white when turned on after a power down and has to be left disconnected over night to clear.
    I have re-flashed the software and this made no difference.
    It does seem to partly work when the screen is white, but-its impossible to see what’s being changed.

    Cheers
    Dave G7JIQ

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Dave,

      I think somebody have posted about similar problem in the Yahoo group as well (not sure if it was you). It is a good idea to check the levels on the first regulator, that is MCU controlled. Also there are two lines from MCU that control it – it might be a short, wrong resistor value or partially cooked protection diod on the GPIO (inside the MCU).

      But i don’t believe is a software problem.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
  64. Mark Richardson

    I am, like so many other’s, trying to get on this as well! When do you think I can order a complete set of these?

    Reply ↓
  65. Gediminas M0NSP

    I love this project a lot! I think I will buy some boards and start soldering 🙂 brilliant transceiver!

    Reply ↓
  66. Clive

    Chris, Just ordered the boards and display. Looks like a great project and am looking forward to the build, there are not many that have done what you have here and placed it in the PD. Great work!

    73 de Clive G4KCM

    Reply ↓
  67. Evgeny

    Hello Chris,

    Yes I understand that I need to recompile display driver. I’ve just checked the “device code ” of display drivers on my LCDs. There are actually two types of them: 0x8989 -> SSD1289 and 0x5408 -> SPFD5408B.
    Maybe LCD you are using has similar driver ?

    So, please send me the PCBs first. I will check the info on your page when your displays come.
    Please send me by mail your payment details.

    73! Evgeny

    Reply ↓
  68. Evgeny

    Hi Chris,

    Yes I agree that Chinese New Year takes to long period of time. Anyway maybe you can sell only PCBs.
    I have few chinese LCD displays HY32D 320*240. They are 3.2″ but have the same interface. I guess you are using FSMC. Btw these 4 displays have 3 different types of controller inside. So it’s not trivial task to get them started. But I’ve found solution.
    I have one 2.4″ but it has only 8 bit parallel interface. I’ve bought it for arduino.
    It would be great if you can send the PCBs now.

    73! Evgeny

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hello Evgeny,

      Yeah, i had some but all gone, and can’t order again before the first of March, then will take few days for DHL to deliver.

      You can use those LCDs you mentioned, maybe you need to compile the code with different init routine, printing on the screen might be bit different as well, not sure. Also 3.2 inch display will have much worse PPI. For the 8 bit
      LCD is the same story, need to make a custom compile and add changes.

      If you have outstanding order for boards – i will send ASAP, no worry. If you need LCD as well, maybe wait some 10 days and order all together. I will announce on the main page when in stock.

      73

      Reply ↓
  69. Evgeny

    Hi Chris! Your projects looks very good. I am interesting to buy the PCB and display. Can you send to me ?
    73! Evgeny RV3BJ

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Evgeny,

      Just run out of LCDs, sorry. Chinese New Year took to long, will order some more when they are back to work.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
  70. edwin

    hi chris,

    good day im interested with the project what is the price of the board and lcd, may be you can email me if the kit is available soon tnx 73s.

    Reply ↓
  75. Sudhindra

    Dear sir,

    I am one of the amateur radio operator in India. I am really interested to assemble one MCHF sdr. Pls send the price details of pcb’s and anything available with kit form or fully assembled one. Awaiting for your response.

    Regards&73’s
    Sudhindra. Vu3pwt.

    Reply ↓
  76. JR1KDA / Shoji Iwasaki

    It is very interesting project!
    I would like to order full parts kit.
    When can I order the whole kit?

    73
    de JR1KDA / Sho

    Reply ↓
  77. franz

    Hi Chris,

    yes, the idea with split on/off is ok and we need than VFO A and VFO B. The simply way is to push the split button and than turn the main knob until you have the TX QRG. After this operation the TRX receive with VFO A but send with VFO B on the second QRG. The other idea is to have a second readout for the main and sub-QRG so you can see the QRG´s from VFO A and VFO B. The VFO B for TX can be smaler and placed under the main frequency. After split operation push split off and that means VFO A = VFO B

    Reply ↓
  78. Franz

    Hi Chris,

    Split is when i wanna work a DX-Station with RX on 14.020 and TX 1-5 KHz up or down from the RX QRG, so i don´t need a second receiver. Ok, split is also posible when the RIT is capable to go from 1-5KHz up or down. MDS is the sensitivity of the receiver in dBµV. So, a good TRX has a sesitivity about -140 dBµV that means better than 0,1 to 0,15 µV.

    73, Franz

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Thanks for the clarification. It is no problem to be coded then, it will be probably 1-2 days playing around with the UI driver, eg adding additional controls (split on/off, split value).

      As for the sensitivity of the receiver, i don’t believe i have the needed tools and experience to produce scientifically useful result. Much easier on the TX side as i have a scope and spectrum analyzer.

      Reply ↓
  79. Franz

    Hello,

    nice TRX :). Can it make split? I can´t see VFO A or VFO B on the screen. What MDS has the TRX?

    Thanks, regards.

    Franz

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Franz,

      No split right now. But do you need two separate receivers, working in parallel or just double frequency bank in software ? First will require months of work to achieve, the second just messing around with the UI driver.

      What is MDS ?

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
  80. Laurent - F6FVY

    Hi Chris

    The current features do not include any CAT connectivity. Do you think it’s feasible thru the USB (not sure it’s currently configured as an USB peripheral device), or can be added with 2 spare pins on the STM32 (if any left ?).

    73 – Larry – F6FVY

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Larry,

      Sorry for the late reply. Full CAT control is possible via USB only (emulated com port or any other type of USB device). No need to use old fashioned physical COM (UART) ports for that. I have started on the driver, but due to lack of time have implemented only PTT on/off. The only ‘appliance’ i have here is IC-706, so i need to make CAT cable, scan the USB protocol and emulate it into my mcHF driver. It is not difficult task, but will require few days, non stop work on this only. If you are in rush and you are coder yourself, mail me for some tips, so you can maybe do it yourself faster.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
  82. Francisco SEna

    Hola Chris

    YO estaria interesado en fabricar y distribuir este equipo como kit de radio para la comunidad QRP mundial,si de es de tu interes en llegar a un acuerdo para su fabricacion ,disponemos de los medios necesarios
    Contacta conmigo EA7JGZ .
    UN saludo

    EA7JGZ
    Francisco Sena

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Rudolf,

      Please email me at djchrismarc at gmail dot com, we can discuss details, thanks.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      hello,

      I have no plans of releasing the gerbers, sorry. If you want one board, I can give you at cost plus postage. I always order in quantity of 15, so have some leftovers.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
  86. Rudolf0351

    Hello,
    I want to order the PCB file from MCHF QRP transceiver. My name is Rudolf Unger from Germany.
    Thank you.

    Reply ↓
  87. Rudolf0351

    Hello,
    I want to order the PCP file from MCHF QRP transceiver. My name is Rudolf Unger from Germany.
    Thank you.

    Reply ↓
  88. Janos Nagy

    Hi,
    My name is Janos Nagy from Hungary. I would like to order the PCP file of mcHF QRP transceiver.
    Thank you.

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi, this board is not possible to be made at home with homebrew methods, it has 5mil clearance.

      Reply ↓
  91. k8dad

    WOW! I’m currently working on a minima QRP rig which also utilizes the si570’s. The big difference is its SSB and CW only and not using any type of SDR setup.

    Whats the power output from your power amp on various frequencies?
    What frequencies are covered by this? 1mhz to 160mhz?
    I know your not selling any kits yet but can you give a rough estimate on final cost?

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi,

      The SDR setup is good in a way that allows to add other modes via software update only, so no hardcoded hardware blocks. The maximum power from the current drive without clipping is around 10W, below 10 Mhz. On higher frequencies is lower. Also the PIN diods will not survive for long at 10W on some data modes like WSPR, that is why i limit the output power to around 5W in the software(via mult/div). The frequency coverage is 2-30 Mhz because the mixers use 4x the LO frequency, so with the cheap version of SI570 thats the best we can do.

      Current BOM for both boards, without assembly comes to 170 GBP.

      73, Chris

      Reply ↓
      1. k8dad

        Gotcha thats great as you have coverage on most of the HF bands + all mode. I do like the fact that you check that the si570 locked on the requested frequency. If the minima dosn’t already do that I will probably add it to there code base.

        Price wise thats still much more affordable than the kx3 and will enable more people to get into the HF section.

        Have you looked at the non-cmos versions of the si570? They run from 1mhz to I think 1600mhz but I dont know how much the price increases with the other ones.

        Reply ↓
        1. m0nka Post author

          Yeah, i found some bug, where the chip will reset itself to default frequency on I2C error. This was unacceptable for a transceiver, so i had to implement extra checking.

          I wouldn’t compare it to the KX3, it is a hobby project, not complete, commercial project.

          About the SI570 – i am in the UK, it is so difficult to buy good quality parts here, for example Digi key seems to refuse to sell latest tech to outside US, i was lucky with those PIN diods, hehe.

          Reply ↓
          1. k8dad

            Interesting. I did a quick lookup and it looks like for the 1.4ghz si570 its $54 usd which is a far cry from the $11 usd that the cmos si570 costs.

            But that would get you up to 350mhz which would cover the 2 meter band + 220 but the amp would probably be out of spec at that point.

          2. m0nka Post author

            Yeah, that is really too expensive. Originally i had VHF support(70 Mhz only), but with transverter. The STM32F4 can output 42Mhz on one of it’s pins, so i was using as clock for the transverter. Adding more bands is more relays, more filters, more real estate on the PCB, i think i am done. I will add 60m though, this is just software update.

          3. k8dad

            Yea I think you have done an amazing job on this. Just curious but could you highlight a few of the more expensive components of the system besides the si570?

          4. m0nka Post author

            Thank you! The speaker is expensive, but gives very good sound, together with the acoustic chamber formed by the bottom and middle panels. The LCD is around 10 USD. The Mitsubishi transistors are rare and expensive. Then i use those ridiculously expensive 22nF caps in the TX and RX switching mixers – .80 GBP each. Keep in mind that the component count is high as well – the RF board has some 320 in the BOM.

  92. Paul Warren

    Hi there, This project does look very nice! You’ve certainly put a lot of work into it, and I’m glad to see it all working successfully!

    I’m wondering, have you given any thought to releasing the firmware as open source? It would be of great value to me, and others I’m sure, if for example, I could do things like add Codec2 and its modem directly in to the firmware, and of course, whatever else comes down the pipeline in the future!

    Is there a license attached to the schematics?
    Are the PCB layouts available, or will they be?

    Look forward to seeing more 🙂

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi Paul,

      Thanks for your interest and kind words. Yes, i was planning to release the source code, just need some time to clean it up. Great idea about Codec2, i was thinking the same the other day when listening to 20m.

      Schematics are more or less re-hashing of common knowledge, so no license. The enclosure STL files and source code will be free to use, as long as no commercial usage.

      About the PCB, i have few extra made, let me know if you need one.

      73

      Reply ↓
      1. Paul Warren

        Awesome news, and I see you’ve released it already 🙂 Excellent news!

        As for a PCB, I’d definitely love one, but I would say that my soldering skills are probably not up to populating it, so it’ll be many months before I feel confident making a start on it! So, send it to someone else if you know they’ll make use of it sooner!

        Reply ↓
        1. m0nka Post author

          No problem Paul. I will try to solder make few boards with the most difficult to solder components and offer, just need to clear some work projects aside first. The source you have probably seen has most of the functionality working, but things like CAT driver, IQ ballance, etc are still work in progress. I also switched from ‘super loop’ to IRQ based state machine for the UI driver in the last firmware version to minimize some parasite noise, still in testing as well. Also there is a need for some compressor for the microphone on SSB. All on the pipeline.

          Reply ↓
  93. Graham Phillips, G3XTZ.

    Hi Chris, this is off-topic, but I hope you can help with a little info. I’ve seen your info on modification of the
    RA35h1516 P.A. block. and wondered if you had made any more progress ? The transistor gain would be higher at 70 Mhz ( than 150 Mhz ), so I would have expected nearer 50 watts O/P. When I bought my modules, I was given a “HF mod sheet”, which was pure fiction …. an external RF choke supposedly isolated the power feed, but actually allowed the full RF output to be applied to the Gate of the final amplifier !

    Many Thanks, Graham, G3XTZ.

    Reply ↓
    1. m0nka Post author

      Hi,

      Thanks for your interest! Haven’t started sales yet. Still some Beta testing left. Please keep coming back and check on my progress.

      73, Chris
      M0NKA

      Reply ↓
      1. anonymous

        I was wondering what your cost goal was, such as keeping the final device at a cost sub $200 , sub $100 , sub $50 , ect..

        Reply ↓
        1. m0nka Post author

          I was hoping below 100 GBP, but some components are very expensive, and at the end all adds up ;(

          Reply ↓
    1. Gus Andrada

      Hi Chris

      the complete kit is the full transceiver or need some other part?
      I see in the page that the kit is pre solder smd components. Im interesting in the excellent proyect.
      The transmit max bandwidth in SSB is 3.6 Khz?
      Tell me .. what is te cost of shipping to my country Argentina.

      sorry for the many questions
      best regards
      gus
      lw3ewz

      Reply ↓
      1. m0nka Post author

        Hello,

        Although it has SMD parts, still requires excellent soldering skills and lots of work to finish as complete radio. TX bandwith you can change to upto 48 kHz (codec sampling rate) by playing with the source code. Cost for International Recorded is 10 GBP.

        73

        Reply ↓
        1. Lukas Thorwald Hey

          Hi from germany!

          I’m dying to see the kit with presoldered smd parts being available again _and_ having the money to purchase it 🙂 I unfortunately didn’t do anything concerning smd the last years so in my opinion it’s worth the extra money to have at least these parts presoldered.

          73,

          DO4AMF

          Reply ↓
          1. m0nka Post author

            Hi Lukas,

            I used to have the Full Kits all the time, just this time the switch from v 0.5 to v 0.6 and Chinese New Year coincided, that is
            why the huge delay. I am sorry about that. As for the components kits, i would rather not sell them, as it takes ages to prepare the small bags, but there were lots of hams who wanted to solder from scratch, this is why i made it again. I think from now on i will have both type of kits in parallel, so there is a choice.

            73, Chris

    2. Nick Ikonomov

      Chris,
      Sincere congrats! Look’s like Bulgarians have some QRP addictions…
      Very cute project , clever and enough for most people.
      Keep up good work , buddy!
      We also try via LNR precisions… started like a joke, but…
      One more time , congratulations!
      73 Nick LZ1JY

      Reply ↓
      1. m0nka Post author

        Здравей Ник,

        Благодаря за топлите думи! Поздрави! Крис

        Reply ↓

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