Hong Kong 7.023 MHz QRP Transceivers

[W3WN]

For the last few months, at least, there has been a virtual horde of QRP transceivers, primarily centered on 7.023 MHz, available on eBay. http://www.ebay.com/itm/HAM-RADIO-40...E:L:OU:US:1120 for one example, amongst many

Most of them are coming from Hong Kong or China.

Prices range from a couple of bucks to as much as $60, depending on the model, how far along the assembly is, and whether or not it includes a case.

I'm curious. Anyone ever purchase one of these, or know of someone who did, and if so, what were the results?

... and for under $8 including shipping? I'm giving this one a try. Not expecting much, but what the heck, could be fun.

Thoughts?

[KC2UGV]

Just looking from a top-up view of the board, it looks like a tweaked pixie II. In which case, it'd be worth it, as a Pixie kit is about $8 shipped, and it doesn't come with headphone and key jacks, or an antenna connection. You have to bring those yourself.

[wa6mhz]

It does look like a cute little rig

[K7SGJ]

The only problem is that when you call CQ Contest it really sends......CQ大赛

[W3WN]

The only problem is that when you call CQ Contest it really sends......CQ大赛

Nah.

The only problem is that after you make a QSO with it, an hour later, you're hungry for another one!

[W3WN]

It does look like a cute little rig

Yes, it does.

I'm a little tempted, once I have a look at the rig, to pick up a few and try to resell them at a hamfest, for a couple of bucks.

I can see one possible mod already... I'll have to find a way to put a crystal socket on the board, so that you can easily change frequencies, should you so desire. I may also want to bring the key, antenna, and power connectors off the board so that it could be put in a little case.

But one thing at a time. First I have to see how bad my soldering skills are...

[KJ3N]

Thoughts?

Too low in the band. No mic input.

[K7SGJ]

Too low in the band. No mic input.

No problem. A Swan 410 VFO, and a push pull 807 modulator, and away you go. This, however, will shorten the life of the 9 volt battery a little.

[W3WN]

Too low in the band. No mic input.

Right.

That reminds me, you going to be on SS SSB next weekend? I need DE on 20 meters...

[X-Rated]

The oscillator is a Pierce style. I can't remember what the load caps are but you can replace them with something like 8pF or 5.6 pF to get a larger tuning range with what you have to work with. It will increase the frequency, but you get a larger tuning range.