[Elecraft] KX2 Satellite Derivative? (Was: Re: The KX2)

[Edward R Cole]

I replied in depth to Barry but let me share that more briefly with the List:

My vision for a "KXV3sat" would be based on a 50-MHz direct 
conversion SDR (if that is practical at this time).
That would establish the IF for other bands which would be 
accomplished with transverters.   HF would be unnecessary and just 
take up valuable real estate inside the radio.

To keep a KX3 sized concept power would likely be held to 10w on 2m 
and 70cm.  The radio would have IQ baseband access for running other 
sw on external computers.  Similar I/F for Line in audio and computer 
PTT would enable use of   sw other than the internal DSP.  SDR means 
any number of modes could be accommodated.  Stable LO would be 
required for NB digital modes and use with mw.  Full cross-band 
duplex plus computer tuning of both VFO's to enable satellite 
auto-tune from external sw.  BNC would suffice for ANT connections 
since power is low.  Battery operation (option).

An option would be a K3 sized transverter housing which modules for 
222, 432, 902, and 1.2 GHz that could be added making a complete 
50-1296 package, or just what you want.  The KXV3sat would dock to 
this "console" for 'no external interconnect' wiring 
package.  Probably modules would be 10w or maybe 25w.  If enough 
room, 60-80w PA boards might be included for 6m/2m/70cm.  Though 
there are ext. PA's available from the ham community.

Keeping the power down in the KXV3sat would make it usable for 
portable operating and keep it light.  Also 100w linears would likely 
add $300 per band to the total price.

Design considerations would emcompass VHF/UHF SSB/CW/FM plus digital 
modes.  Interconnection for ext amps, ext freq. source, ext computer 
I/F, Panadaptor.  One could operate satellite in full-duplex and 
operating eme/ms/weak-signal modes.  Perhaps optional Rx antenna 
ports could be incorporated as options.

My belief there is a large market for such a radio.  Satellite 
population is on the rise, so is small-scale eme.  VHF/eme 
Dxpeditions are on the rise for which a small footprint is desirable 
for airline baggage.

Who will build it?

73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
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