N8XE QRP Activities

 



 This is the 40M version of the Rock Mite from Small Wonder Labs. I used a Fossil Watch Tin for the enclosure. I call it the "Fossil Mite."

This is the 20M version of the Rock Mite from Small Wonder Labs. I used a tobacco tin that I got for free from the Tinder Box.
This was my first QRP kit I have built. This is a close-up of thr QRPp-I Tiny Tornado. Took about an hour to build and test. I found that the radio was completely unusable due to broadcast interference. The interference was so bad, it overloaded the receiver! Once I put the High Pass Filter (below) in line with the antenna, the radio sounded fine. The only issue now is that there is not enough volume if you are hard of hearing. Also, you here a thumping sound when another station is zero-eated on you. It was a very enjoyable kit.
This was my second Transceiver kit. This is a great kit by Kanga Kits. I purchased this at the local hamfest while browsing the flea market. The US Kanga representative was there and was very helpful. This kit went together in two nights (at a very leasurly pace). Alignment and testing went well. Since I need an antenna tuner, I have yet to get this working in a QSO. My next project is the Emtech ZM2 which will help me accomplish this.

This is the High Pass Filter which is a MUST with these small kits. The radios are unusable without it. It went together in no time. Consists of three capacitors and two inductors you wind yourself.

Also from QRPp-I.
Here is a useful item to use around the shack. It is a simple 4watt dummy load from QRPp-I. I think I may pick up another one.

Please contact me if you have any questions or comments.