Hello everyone, I am beginning to build my on transceiver and would like to purchase some test equipment. I would like to purchase the following:

1) Oscilliscope
2) RF signal Generator

I want to work with HF at first then VHF/UHF later.

Can anyone suggest equipment that would work for me? (Manufacture, model #, accessaries)

Also what else would I need?

I'm confused about a couple of things. First "Max audio 150ma typical" What is this telling me? I can only expect 150ma from the speaker output.

If that is the case then maybe my math is wrong but if I have an 8 ohm load and 150ma then my power is 180 mw not 100mw. Or if I have 3.7v and 150ma then my power is 555mw. See my confussion


AF output power (at 3.7v DC) 100mw typical at 10% distortion with an 8 ohm load

Great info guys. Thanks. Here's the spec's for my Icom R20.

Max audio 150ma typical
AF output power (at 3.7v DC) 100mw typical at 10% distortion with an 8 ohm load

With all the ideas you guys have given me here's what I would like to do.

Design a device that would receive multiple speaker outputs and convert the signal to a line level signal with a transformer isolated output.

Since most speakers look for either a 4 or 8 ohm load. I would need to provide a switch to select the proper load. I was thinking of maybe 4 speaker inputs with a selector switch. Each input would have the ability to select the 4 or 8 ohm load then feed it to the selector switch. Coming out of the selector switch I would goto a signal trim pot. The output of the trim pot would go into the Transformer.

I'm I thining correctly on this. Would a selector switch add undue signal noise? How would I go about selecting the proper transformer?

I’m looking at purchasing a Elecraft K2 Serial #389. Can anyone tell me what I should look out for. I know it needs to be upgraded to serial #3000. The unit comes with SSB, 20W ATU, Noise Blanker, all to be built, The K2 has built in battery. The price is $675. Is this a good deal?

I'm wanting to take the output of my icom r20 speaker/head phone output and convert it to a line level so that I can run it into my sound card. Does anyone have any suggestion?

I'm just getting back into radio and looking at buying a new radio. I like the versitility of the 706. How would it work for satilite operations? What modes would I not be able to work?

Does anyone have any good websites and/or yahoo groups that discuss specifically the ICOM IC-706 all flavors.

What would happen if I orient two dipole antenna's in a cross configuration. I would think one being perpendicular to the other that it would not affect the output of the other. Each would have its on feedline and an antenna switch to select which antenna you wanted. This would be for 160-80-40 meter bands.

Also, where can I find W9INN HI-PERFORMANCE DIPOLES for sale. From the reviews everyone is very pleased with the design. Or can you recommend another maker.

I'm trying to determine where best to locate my station. I have a good spot on the first floor and a good spot on the second floor. I think my deciding factor is which is best to have: a short distance to ground or a short feedline. Any comments?