JS8Call + QDX - After Action Report

[@jeffallen6459]

Please do the JS8 call for dummies series…👍

[@tjman4943]

100% this. As a dummy, I need

[@ke8mattj]

Thirding this.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I guess the people of spoken. I am a big dumb gorilla when it comes to radio, so I will be happy to make a simple, down-to-earth, 101 JS8Call introduction video next. Thanks guys!

[@ke8mattj]

@@TheTechPrepper That would be so great! You tend to show things in a way and make it understandable. It might be that "big dumb gorilla" aspect that allows you to dumb stuff down for the rest of us.

[@pale_2111]

If you run FT8 with WSJT-X, JS8 is the exact same settings with the same radio.

[@lmcalhoun]

Awesome! I love the "No Random Contacts" series! Already ordered my QDX and another for my brother about 200 miles away from me. :) Keep up the awesome work! Thanks!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Mike. You guys are the ideal distance to exploit the benefits of an NVIS antenna deployment. I had a feeling that the QDX, JS8Call and little bit of wire would be a winning combo for simple and effective regional communications. Keep us updated on your progress.

[@Liberty4Ever]

@@TheTechPrepper - I'm in central Kentucky and with 20W and a low end fed random wire with a tuner, I was able to make fairly consistent JS8 contacts with some stations (probably with good antenna) in Texas, Florida, Colorado and random contacts in Canada and the UK... and that was a couple of years ago when the band conditions sucked.

[@tookthe5th182]

Great Video.... I have 3 QDX's, 1 high band and 2 low band all built by myself. I have also built several for friends and repaired a few to boot. You need to be very careful and make sure you have a good antenna match before transmitting or you will cook the finals. There is zero protection and the BS170 Fet's are not tolerant of even a mismatch of 2:1 for very long.. If you are lucky, it will just blow the 4 finals or the damage can be much worse to the point of not being repairable. I do maintain a stock of BS170's (dirt cheap) but replacing them requires a certain level of skill. It is easy to trash the board if you don't know what you are doing You can lower the output power by reducing the input voltage all the way down to 7 volts. Don't go below that because the 5V LDO needs at least 2 volts across it for stable operation. Typical output power at 7 volts is around 1 watt on a properly tuned QDX and the finals are much more tolerant of a higher mismatch. Also do not exceed 12v(if possible) input to the QDX. Bad things can happen also. I just finished my 2nd QCX Mini and this version was built for 10m. Besides being a great CW rig, they do a great job running WSPR (and other beaconing modes). I have this new one running WSPR on 10m at 1W output and was spotted in VK land, KH6, all afternoon as well as all around the US into an OCFD @40ft. I suggest you join the QRP Labs groups IO. groups.io/g/QRPLabs/topics Lots of good info on the QRP Labs line of products. Plenty of experts to answer questions and even Han's, the owner of QRP Labs is very active in the forum. The only downside in dealing with QRP Labs is that they are in Turkey and they are very busy and some component availability is an issue and cause delays. My last order took 5 weeks to get to Phoenix. 4 of which was them waiting for parts for the various kits I ordered. If you are into building kits, their kits and documentation are the best I have seen anywhere in my 50 years of kit building. 73 de N5AQM

[@bradl2636]

Thanks for the info.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@ Took The 5th, I appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. What are the indicators that you have blown the finals? I'm running the QDX daily for 12-hours at a time, with a heartbeat every 15 minutes on normal mode. For power, I am exclusively running the TalentCell 3,000mAh battery pack. I connected it to my power meter yesterday and with a full charge (5 indicator bars), it's running at ~11.8 volts and by the end of the day (3 indicator bars), it's running at ~10.8 volts. I am getting anywhere from 3.2 to 3.8 watts RF output according to my MFJ meter. Should I be concerned? I plan to capture more metrics today. 73 de KT7RUN

[@tookthe5th182]

@@TheTechPrepper Under your stated parameters, you should be just fine as long as you maintain a good antenna match. They can tolerate very brief bad mis matches. I have transmitted without an antenna for about 2 seconds without failure. I have also run the pants off mine on FT8 untill it got warm to the touch(not hot) and give it a rest but that is after 15min of back and forth at about 3.5w out on 20m. The Failure modes can vary when you cook the finals. 1.) Just no power out, not getting hot while transmitting. 2.) Above plus getting hot when trying to transmit. 3.) Above plus smoke. it will take out the reverse polarity FET, Q7 which I just jumper around plus literally smoke the power FET's. I think this(Q7) is only on Rev 4 and later PCB's but not sure on that. 4.) Above and it takes out the driver IC ACT08 and other devices. A goner if the 5v regulator fails. 12V on the 5v logic bus. Pretty rare though. I have been lucky with my 2 failures where it smoke Q7 and just the finals on the newest one and just the FET's on my Rev 1. Both times were my fault because of a bad antenna match As a side note, I have used the QDX to download beautiful Satellite Weather maps using FlDigi on 12mhz out of point loma in Ca. It also makes a great band hopping WSPR transceiver at reduced power(~1w) I run it thru a LDG Z-11 pro... There are other things you can do with it like RTTY(I have not tried it yet) making it a most versatile unit for the field. Wish it did PSK31... BTW, We met at the Quartzfest. I pulled up to Jason and Frank's camp on a minibike for an eyeball. I think you were about to leave to head back to the Valley at the time. I hope I answered your questions/concerns and feel free to contact me if you have other QDX questions. I am good in QRZ 73 -Mike N5AQM

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@tookthe5th182 Morning, Mike. Yes, you did. Thank you. I've read so many stories of cooked QDX transceivers when fed with bench top power supplies, that I got concerned. According to the product description, it looks like voltages between 12v and 13v are fine. I just switched to a regulated 12V power supply and the QDX is very happy and putting out 5 watts. I think I recall you and your mini bike. I think Jason was joking and commented that you need a bigger bike. ;-) Thanks for taking the time to respond. 73, Gaston

[@945-b2m]

Would love to see some JS8Call 101 videos!

[@TheTechPrepper]

You got it. Next video up.

[@vironpayne3405]

Gaston, you are a beast having more fun than any man should be allowed to have. Keep it up! Yes, JS8Call is an ECOM bomb mode!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Not a beast, just someone looking for simple, effective gear. More on the way.

[@Liberty4Ever]

Message storage and retrieval is an underutilized aspect of JS8 that would be very useful in personal EmComm. I was excited to hear that you are planning to implement intelligent message routing in EmComm Tools. That's a much needed feature. I also wish there was a packet resend feature where the receiving station could request a packet that didn't decode to be resent for more reliable communications. That would allow longer messages to be sent. Because it's not live communication, the operator doesn't need to be fully involved as the slow but reliable messages could be delivered or routed automatically. The routing concept is similar to ALE - automatic link establishment. I also wish JS8 used another few bits for error detection to avoid the false decodes to improve message integrity.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Really? I can't believe that this feature is under utilized. Honesely, that is the most powerful feature. Well, the plan is to implement more streamlined routing and messaging just by automating some of the manual steps. I have no intention of forking or rewriting anything in the core application. Theoretically, adding this higher level of abstraction seems possible. Stay tuned for a future demo. ALE is still on my to-do list...I am waiting for ion2g to hit Ubuntu. Cheers!

[@KM4ACK]

Looking forward to how you use JS8. It’s a fabulous mode

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's a great mode.

[@homejamesglobalrealestater8518]

Another motivating vid. Thanks.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad you enjoyed it. More JS8Call coming.

[@vironpayne3405]

I love what you are doing with your group. Keep up the good work! Practice makes perfect.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear it. We'll keep you posted on our findings.

[@rwellitgoes7789]

Loved it. Thanks for this. I will be testing js8call this weekend. I have ordered a couple of QDX units for my set up!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear it, Richard. My station will be online in about 1-2 hours. Leave me a message! I hope you enjoy the QDX has much as I do.

[@jerintilson4043]

Just got my general ticket last month. I'm trying to learn as much as possible about HF. Thanks for another great video.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Congratulations on your upgrade ticket. General is where the action is. It's the best bang for your buck. 73's

[@jamesyoung159]

Just set up my 857 with CF20 for JS8 call and made my first contact. No i did not RTFM 🤣 I need to do that to figure out what i did and how to effectively work this. Yes a 101 would be great. Keep them coming. I left a photo on discord

[@TheTechPrepper]

Congratulations on your first contact. That is exciting. Roger on the 101 video.

[@HorizonsleatherBlogspot2012]

I run a Panasonic FZ-M1 also and I recently got a really small bluetooth keyboard for it and will be trying it out. I like watching your setup walkthroughs, it's nice to see what other people are using. I strictly run GMRS, but all the basics are the same.

[@stevenray7898]

Just ordered my second FZ-G1 and second QDX. I also would like to see a JS8 call video from you. Just Upgraded to Silver Membership on Buy me a coffee. I'm happy that I can help support the work you are doing, keep up the good work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Excellent. Enjoy the FZ-G1. I've had one sitting on my desk to evaluate for two weeks now. Also, thanks for upgrading. You'll have a much high success rate of picking up the small batch product releases. Thanks for the support. 73

[@bt1959]

looking forward to the remedial JS8 series.

[@ericsolomon9522]

Great video - again!!! NEED a link for the keyboard. Estimate of next batch of dipoles ???

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. The prices have jumped since I started evaluating the keyboard. toughruggedlaptops.com/ikey-magnesium-folding-detachable-keyboard-for-fz-m1-with-back-lighting-usb-port-ik-pan-fzm1-c1.html We'll announce the next batch of the antennas later this month. I will send an email blast to each membership tier. We'll be making 50 mor units.

[@warplanner8852]

The QDX _will_ fldo other modes besides FT8/JS8 and use other software. Take a moment to review Hans Somers' 2022 Four Days in May (FDIM) presentation to see how much truly genius engineering went into the development of that little unit. The genius involved is astounding. Also, LY2H does a series of videos explaining how the QDX can be repurposed with different software.

[@AD6DMDennis]

The only thing that holds me back from QDX is the lack of VARA/Winlink capability. However, your idea of having a small always-on JS8Call station is very appealing. I'd need to find another ham laptop to dedicate to it, though, and I'm not needing the rugged builds like your Panasonics. Maybe I can find another Maestro Evolve craptop on eBay.

[@ethant7886]

Getac F110 G2 basically the Panasonic tough book but way cheaper and readily available, easy to find in the sub $150 range. Hot swap batteries and rugged, along with vehicle docks and other accessories

[@tjman4943]

​@@ethant7886 if this is for a base station would any old PC laptop do?

[@TheTechPrepper]

@TJ Man, yes any inexpensive laptop produced in the last 10 years will do.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Morning, Denis. Everyone seems to call out the lack of VARA on the QDX. Personally, I wish it had that support, but I look at this as a different class of radio. I really think it needs to be marketed as a persistent JS8Call (and fldigi/flmsg) transceiver for long-running nets. For our group, I am recommending a $200 "all-in" station setup and just pair it with a $50 used laptop and a simple, home-made dipole that is parked on a desired band.

[@ethant7886]

@@tjman4943 pretty much, although it needs to have some bare minimum processing to run programs for digital modes

[@warplanner8852]

You are a pretty dedicated and ambitious young man and your comm plan and other organizational skills woukd be of greatness value to folks like RACES and similar. Keep up the good work, old son! 72/73 de William, k6whp dit dit

[@DK5ONV]

Happy 1st of May EVERYONE 💯🙋‍♂

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes, happy May 1st. 73

[@Bob814u]

On FT(anything) I used to get so mad if my time was off. I figured out watching the waterfall and clicking to set the clock (Raspberry Pi without an internal clock). Another option is 10 mhz and the clock there. Please keep up the great work! 73! de KE5ES

[@dangermandave67]

Using the dipole antenna for digital modes is a good idea. I've tried EFHW but had trouble with RFI affecting my computer. As you are probably aware, the dipole is much less prone to that.

[@bhamptonkc7]

I love your approach, I am running a 100w mobile setup and I often turn down the power my philosophy of use is to push winlink 3rd party traffic.the RMS is ok for getting outside and effected area but disaster communications P2P comes into its own but coordinating random contacts is a chore, the radio only may have some use there.

[@Q1745]

There are no failures, just some very effective learning opportunities. I’ve had mixed results using JS8Call so I’ll be interested in your upcoming series if you do it! Nice AAR, thanks for sharing. 73 de N0SR

[@DreamWithinReachYT]

Nice video. Love to get a QMX. But it has a long wait list. I have a question. With JS8, we can send location information to APRS on 30 m. I want to build something that can carry on my motorcycle and it can send my location every hour through JS8call. Can QDX work with a ham stick ?

[@KC1QKMKC1QKM]

how do you find a persistent js8 station to drop messages on?

[@sanebedlam]

Have you tried a USB to 9v power supply for the qdx? I've been considering using one to power my qdx utilizing the cf-20 I have coming in this week. It might be interesting to allow everything to run off the laptop in a pinch.

[@EdLiddle]

Have you sent message exchanges with someone using the NTS (national traffic system) traffic nets that are already established? I'm curious how that would work compared to what you have already used with your comms plan.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Great question. I have not, but it is intentional. I'm trying to keep blinders on to how things have always been done, so that I can maintain an unbiased perspective with fresh lenses. This is how innovation can happen. I have been doing this with my EmComm Tools software project and it has payed off huge dividends. I would prefer to fail (a lot) along the way and even re-invent the wheel if needed. Once we have a process that works, I'll look at what other groups are doing. Cheers.

[@MikeSmith-OU812]

What "rig" selection did you use under the radio tab ?

[@PghJugrnot]

Are there any weekly or monthly nets out there for the digital modes? My radio is ordered and should arrive end of may.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Yes. There are many. Check out AmRRON.

[@945-b2m]

How is your antenna work at the 15 to 50 mile range? I have friend’s in this range that can’t here well with HF voice due to urban/city produced noise. Want to try this mode and antenna in this range with 3 to 5 watts of power.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I have not retried that short of a range. All the literature around NVIS indicates a starting point of around 30 miles. Depending on the band used. You are more likely in ground wave range with those those distances which likely require more power. The antenna is rated up to 50 watts for voice and much less for digital modes. Remember, this antenna is designed for low power operation. You may want to try a different antenna and may want to look at a delta loop. They require a large area, but seem to work better in higher noise environments.

[@neiloppa2620]

Is there a way to add a 20 watt amp to the QDX if you feel like it?

[@28larrysjunkmail]

is the linked dipole antenna going back into production anytime soon? is there a waiting list?

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's available again, but Tim N9SAB is now doing the distribution through his store on eBay. Search for N9SAB on eBay.

[@yb7sqx747]

nice video my friend

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks! Have a good one!

[@TheWingnut58]

I would love to see this implemented into Linux, most people have little to no clue how vulnerable Microshaft Winblows is since very few bother to read the EULA. They don't realize that, by simply using the OS, they're giving MS permission to connect to their system and do anything they please....without prior warning or consent....

[@TheTechPrepper]

The system shown is running on Linux. Personally, I am not a fan Microsoft.

[@TheWingnut58]

@@TheTechPrepper Sweet!....I may have to set up and learn JS8Call.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@TheWingnut58 It's worth the effort. Good luck!

[@firewaterforgeofarizona4304]

I'd like to branch out into digital but know little to nothing. Where can I get the fundamentals, is there a digital radio for dummies?

[@yamez69]

Doesn't JS8Call need accurate time sync? We don't have that luxury in a full grid down situation. FSQ does not have that issue.

[@TheTechPrepper]

There is a time sync feature built into JS8 that can synchronize the application's timing using heard signals. I use this in the field.

[@BowmanReade-j5k]

Padberg Tunnel

[@PullmanSam-u3x]

Joany Mews

[@joseng6259]

I find the QDX not reliable. You will end up blowing something inside and repairing it repeatedely. I blow the finals on the 2nd usage. Repaired it and set it aside in the storage box. Prefer a more reliable radio. HP2AT.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Edited: What kind of power source/supply were you using? I've been reading that you need be careful not to provide more more than 12V of input. I put my TalentCell on the meter and it outputs about ~12.5V on a full charge and will dip down to about 10.8V (when there are 3 of 5 light indicators). When I finish out a 12 hour day running the QDX I am in at the 10.8 volt range. Given that the QDX is designed to work with exactly 12V or just a bit less, I am considering only charging the battery pack to about 80% capacity (i.e. 4 of 5 led light indicators).

[@SamGardiner-k3v]

Kelvin Islands

[@MarjoryAugust-h3j]

Reilly Village

[@chuckchamplin6627]

@TheTechPrepper..... Gaston the less video's you make the less reason people will will want to sub to your channel.and yes i'm a youtuber under another name..I was going to get on your Silver Membership.not really enough content to to make it Werth it.ttyl Sorry

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the feedback. The upper membership tiers have more perks such as earlier access to the limited products that I produce. I am still trying to figure out how to keep all the initiatives going while still providing value to each tier. Cheers.

[@WellsLindsay-e6e]

Casandra Pine

[@rexweatherford8386]

I switched my station back to a JS8CALL station. You can practice message storage, and relay hops through it. Leave me a message. De KE0MHJ