[NLRS] Low cost IF rig?

[Zack Widup]

Looks good for those using an HF IF.

I picked up a Realistic HTX-100 for $70 on eBay once. I use it as a
straight 28 MHz IF with transverters for the bands through 432 MHz.

I also came up with another HTX-100 at a hamfest for $40. Did a lot of
modification to it. I removed the speaker and in that space put a 144
to 28 MHz transverter I threw together myself. Removed the entire rear
panel with the power amp module and replaced it with a sheet of
aluminum. I put power and RF connectors for the 144 MHz on that panel.
I've been using it as a microwave transverter IF for many years.

The only thing you have to watch out for with these used HTX-100's is
that someone, in trying to mod them for freeband use, may have gotten
all the tuning coils out of alignment. Fortunately, the service manual
is freely available on line and gives the full alignment procedure.

73, Zack W9SZ


On Wed, Dec 13, 2017 at 9:31 AM, Jon Platt via NLRS
<nlrs at mailman.qth.net> wrote:
>
>
>
> A common problem when using transverters is finding a low cost solution for the IF rig.  Transverters can be costly, then one has to put down hundreds of $$ more for an IF rig.  Here is one possible solution, the uBITX, the QRP HF General Coverage Transceiver you can build.  It appears to cover up to 30 MHz with at least 2 watts.  Cost is $109 USD.  SSB/CW (built in CW keyer), it does not appear to have FM.  You will need to provide your own enclosure and microphone.  Some assembly is required, but it appears to be basic assembly work and there appears to be lots of help available.  The software is open source for those so inclined to dig into it.
>
> Website is  http://www.hfsignals.com/index.php/ubitx/
>
> 73, Jon
> W0ZQ
>
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