I'm studying for my tech right now. Came across this video. Some it didn't make sense to me but by far one of the coolest things I have ever seen. Very 007
I also have the KX3. I used an army surplus NVG case. Sprayed the inside with MG Chemicals Super Shield Silver Coated Copper Conductive Coating to give it some emi/rfi shielding. I like the integration of your system.
Total weight including all components: 53lbs. Case: Pelican 1510 - conforms to airline overhead specs Panel: Custom design from Front Panel Express Transceivers: Elecraft KX3 - options include internal NiMH batteries and charger, 2m transverter, internal ATU, hand microphone. Yaesu VX8-DR handheld with GPS option (for 1.25m, 70cm, APRS) Panadapter: Elecraft PX3 Amplifier: Elecraft KPA-100, with internal ATU AC to DC Power Supply: Powerwerx SPS 30DM External Speaker: Sound Matters Fox-L Dash 7 Headphones: Sennheiser PX200 II Noise Eliminating Module: BHI Compact In-line Key: Begali Expedition CW Logging: Begali CW Machine Sound card interface: SignaLink USB Battery: Bioenno LiFePO4 30 Ah (BLF 1230W) with charger Solar Panel: PowerFilm 60W foldable solar array (folds to 13” x 7.5” x 2”) Solar Charge Controller: Genasun 5A DC Distribution Panel: RigRunner 4005 Software: Win4K3, FLDIGI, Ham Radio Deluxe, CW Skimmer, WSJT-X, Winlink 2000
Total of all components and cabling, etc. is just under $6,500.00. Much of what I have here is not cheap and totally optional. The solar panel, Begali key, and Begali CW machine account for around $1,500.00. Also, costs can be less if you choose to build the KX3, PX3, and KXPA-100 as kits. I chose factory assembly which is more expensive.
Looks great. I think a cool improvement would be a removable upper lid, and a hinged tilting mechanism to being the viewing angle up. But it looks really clean.
Impressive! I have been looking at this radio as I want to take it for backpacking but soon i just see here that is impossible; my backpacking trips to top of mountains I usually take about 32 pounds of gears; there is no way this would work in a situation like that, so much for the setup; but here it is very attractive and functional what you have done with everything; maybe this would work going canoeing without portages. I have no idea how much your whole setup weights but it is not 5 or 6 pounds which how much i wished it all weight as an add on. There is a reason I do not want to take a Yaesu radio and that one is about 9 pounds! just the radio! The Elecraft KX3 kit is about $2600 in their site and with the add ons you have I am figuring this setup is close to the $3000 mark or more! which is another bucket of cold water on my wishes! so much for having fun in the outdoor in remote areas! but your video is awesome! 73, KI7CSI
Nicely done Sir, Great implementation!! . You need to add a LipoFe4 battery to be able to operate independent of AC power as well. Also, depending on your objective, if it is an emergency gobox, you need a NVIS antenna to be able to communicate with about 500mi radios. a vertical antenna has a low take off angle and is USUALLY used for long distance communication.
You might have missed it, but my setup includes a 30Ah Bioenno LiFePO battery located under the KXPA-100 amplifier. I was using AC for demonstration purposes only. Also, one of the antennas I routinely carry in a small pouch is the Chameleon CHA MPAS which has a NVIS configuration.
You are absolutely correct, I did miss the Bioenno battery. Great setup! BTW, looks like you are a Subby man and I'm a Speedy and 300 Pro man. My next one is going to be a Planet Ocean. I intentionally did not spell things out :). I may get a Datejust also. Looked at them last weekend with my son and its beautiful.
James, I am working on my second go box. Do you have any schematics, wiring diagrams or MFG diagrams you could share. I did read your comments about the CAD diagram and that would be very helpful as well. 73, Mike.
Awesome go kit !! Now to take it to the next level assuming there is space, install a laptop or mini pc beneath the waterfall and radio and the screen on the lid of the case.... Wireless keyboard and mouse and you have it all in one box!
Excellent go box! I got an idea for my particular need, instead of carrying a laptop, put a raspberry pi4 inside the go box along with a 13 or 15" screen and a mini wireless keyboard/mouse the monitor (a thin one) would be attached on the inside part of the box cover, the Rpi 4 would have all necessary digimodes programs such as FLDIGI, Pat+Ardop, etc and XLog or something like that.
Jim, I am attempting to recreate you awesome go-box and would dearly appreciate a copy of your CAD file for the cover plate as well as anything else you may have that would be helpful in building this. Great job, and many thanks for the inspiration and help.
I'd probably add a mini Windows machine and a touch screen monitor. That'd open it up to have my NW-Digital ThumbDV, BlueDV for Windows, Echolink, Teamspeak3, and probably some others. For audio handling I'd use Voicemeeter Banana and some virtual audio cables to tie stuff together so I could control various sound levels. I've already gathered up much of that, except for the amplifier as yet. I found that Talentcell makes some lovely Lithium Polymer 12v battery banks, with dual coaxial connectors to connect both the KX3 and PX3 with plenty of juice for both. Nice part is they don't weigh that much. I don't take airlines often, so taking LiPo batteries on a plane isn't an issue. I've got a handful of single and multi-band wire antennas from Sotabeams, one of their telescoping fiberglass masts, and various extra tuners and dummy loads and such. I'm getting together the parts to make a magnetic loop or two as well. I was pricing the Pelikan cases (actually the similar boxes at Harbor Freight) and considering much of what you've got here. The custom faceplate is more than I'd planned out, and it's a great addition, keeping stuff nice and neat. That's a really great setup you've got. Kudos to you for such a comprehensive and well thought-out bit of kit!
Wow this is terrific. Thanks for sharing. Very close to something i have in mind but can't seem to execute nicely. One day... I am using a Yaesu FT-857D so far.
I like your setup. I wish the weight of your box was lighter. Due to my back surgery I am limited in carrying weight. I have the same radio without the amplifier. I will have to come up with a Qrp version that doesn't weight so much. Nice setup.
I think this is the best complete KX3 Go Kit I've seen. There's a few that do a fantastic job with just the KX3 or with another accessory. But this one is fantastic. How does it look now after six years? I have pretty much all the same components and would love to get it inside a case similar to yours. What CAD program did you use to draw this out? Six years later is there anything you'd do different? Thanks so much for sharing this on UA-cam.
Brand new to ham radio. Was already looking at the KX3 and found this. Wow! This is something I would like to work towards. Awesome build. I really like how clean it is. Do you distribute the front panel express file?
Outstanding, I had made one with Pelican 1510 using the foam inserts, I just have the KXPA100 and power supply in a Pelican 1400. Included in the 1510 I have an rf amp for the KX3 2m module. I use a Bioenno 12v20ah battery in the 1510, I may have missed which Bioenno battery you use. Fantastic build and thanks for sharing. Eddie kj4fgi
Hermoso...... Acabo de adquirir una maleta Pelican V200....Iniciare con un FT-817, Z817 y 2 Baterias UBI 2590..... Gracias por tu vídeo y buen ejemplo... 73... HJ3TMP
WT8BZ, What a fantastic Go Box. I wish I had the knowledge to duplicate your system. Right now I am limited on the electronics side. I do have the Elecraft Kx3 radio. Will keep your video on my list as a reference as I collect all the parts for this Go Box. Maybe some day after I get my Extra license I will try this project. With your system what other radio would you need? You have given me a goal in my amateur radio hobby to strive towards. Thanks for your time in presenting your Amateur Radio Go Box. Gary Jamerson, Kf4cnm
Very clean setup. What are you doing as a solar charge control for your LiFePo4 battery? I've looked at the Bioennos, but I didn't seem to find a way to run their charger from DC. I've seen lithium battery fires and am reluctant to try unverified setups.
No problem with "unverified" setups. The Bioenno batteries have a built in overvoltage protection, over discharge protection, and cell balancing. I charge the Bioenno at home with the Bioenno charger which is 15V 6A output. On the road, I leave the charger at home and use the Powerwerx AC to DC power supply and ramp the voltage up to 15v. I chose the variable voltage charger for just that reason. When charging with solar, I use the Genasun 5A MPPT charge controller which is specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries. It's output isn't constant but closely matches the 15V 6A Bioenno AC charger. I've had no issues with any of the above configurations. About once a month I charge the battery with the Bioenno AC charger and use one of the other options in the interim.
thank again for this incredible video. by now i have watched it at list a dozen times. still trying to figure out what ( external) keypad are you using. and, how can i get or make the front panel. your response is very much appreciated. 73 Micha KG7JKP
It does but running JT-65, JT-9 or FT8 requires an external sound card interface with the computer. You could use other sound card interface devices but I already had a SignaLink and setup is pretty easy and straightforward.
Jim, Could you tell me where you got the mounting hardware for the faceplate and how you attached the radio and PX3 to the underside of same? Also, appreciate all that you have contributed to this project, and I hope to have mine together soon. Thanks again.
Can I please have a copy of the CAD file and a list of parts? Could you also update us if you have made any changes? Thanks and congratulations on all your hard work! 73----KJ6HCP
I don’t mean to downplay the go box you created (it is impressive) but I was more intrigued by the software. I wasn’t aware that you could get the waterfall and decoding from software. I’ve played around with some FT8 on my Mac and my KX2, but only about 50 contacts total. The waterfall display is impressive and interesting. I wonder if it defeats the PX3 then? Or is it too cumbersome to setup the laptop all the time?
It's more of a belt and suspenders thing. The laptop isn't necessary but does a better job of decoding CW (with CW Skimmer) and allows you to use FLDIGI or other computer based programs to run the JTs and other digital modes. The computer waterfall is larger and it's easier to change frequencies with a mouse click as opposed to turning a dialog the PX3 and the pushing the button. If I'm running the laptop I just switch the PX3 off. Usually when I start up the radio I don't set up the laptop unless I'm going to use CW Skimmer or FLDIGI. Also, with the Win4K3 program (which is unbelievably great) it's easier to band switch and adjust filters, AF, RF, etc.
Thanks for this. I’m good on CW decoding, perhaps save for a QSO tonight where I had an out of body experience ;-). I’m going to look into this, hopefully for OSX on my Mac so I don’t have to boot into Windows.
Yea, very nice. How long does it run on battery power? I would imagine you can use a large battery, but for the sake of being more portable. I wonder if you can get say an hour of talk time with a moderate sized battery. I have been thinking of building something like this.
It's a 30 amp hour LiFePO4 battery, will virtually last all day and is equivalent to about a 50 Ah lead acid battery. Reason for this is that LiFePO4 batteries will maintain their voltage until they are over 80% discharged whereas a lead acid battery can be damaged if it is consistently discharged below 50% of its amp hour rating. The 30 Ah LiFePO4 battery weighs 7.6 lbs and a 50 Ah lead acid battery weighs around 32 lbs. I generally travel with a much smaller 10 Ah LiFePO4 battery, not because of weight, but because some airlines restrict carry-on LiFePO4 battery packs to 100 watts.
Much of an effort to take the KX3 in and out of the box? The kit is exactly what I have been working towards, however I like taking the KX3 out when I go on hiking and the such. Beautiful set up! Thanks for the inspiration to hopefully complete something close to it myself. 73
There is a bit of an effort to disconnect the KX3. Would probably take 20 minutes or so and while that was my initial plan, things are so tight that it's not all that practical. For my own preference, if I were going to try to just use the KX3 alone, I would probably just purchase a KX2. I think the KX2 is well suited to stand alone operation. The problem with the KX3 always was that it had so much more potential than just a QRP transceiver.
None at all. The KXPA-100 has the heat sink fins exposed so that's no problem. I added the aftermarket heatsink for the KX3 and haven't had overheating with JT-65, the power supply has its own internal fan which draws through the perforations above the panel and exits through the equipment storage opening. Have run everything for over 8 hours with no heating issues whatsoever. BTW, I enjoy your videos.
Would you be able to share your cutout file, and wiring diagram I would love to build this, I got ALL the stuff for the box just no cutouts, and diagrams. I don’t want to reinvent perfection and sir you have it with this case
This answer maybe longer than you intended, but it's a little complicated. I've never actually run the Bioenno 30Ah battery down to its cutoff point. Bioenno builds in a PCM (protection circuit module) that disconnects the battery at around 10 volts so that it doesn't get over discharged and damaged. However, my conservative calculations are as follows: If I run the KX3 with the 100W amplifier on battery power alone with no solar charging input, I should easily get 4 hours of operating time. That assumes that I leave the panadapter on at all times, I leave the KX3 backlight on and the receive/transmit ratio is 75/25. The KX3, panadapter and KXPA-100 together on receive draw between 700 and 800 milliamps. On transmit at 100W, the current draw increases to about 2400 milliamps. If I turn off the KX3 backlight, power off the PX3 panadapter when I don't need it, and use the 60W solar panel to charge while operating I have no doubt I could go at least 8 hours and probably longer. On receive alone with no solar charging and the backlight and PX3 on continuously my calculations indicate I could operate for 23 hours. My above calculations are assuming I am able to utilize 90% of the amp hour capacity of the Bioenno battery. In contrast, a lead acid battery or AGM can only be discharged about 50 to 60% of its amp hour capacity. If you go beyond that you diminish the number of recharge cycles and therefore the overall life of the battery. The Bioenno battery I use (27Ah usable - 30Ah x .90) weighs 8lbs., whereas an AGM battery of similar relative capacity ( 27Ah usable - 45Ah x .60) weighs over 30lbs.
Looks like a great set up, and what's not to love about all those about Elecraft bits? (I wrote the firmware for the PX3, KX3 LO and KXPA power managment, hi hi)
Nice job. One correction re my battery comments above. The current draw with the KXPA-100 at 100W is 24.5 amps, not 2400 milliamps. Also, my calculations re the value of 23 hours is assuming 75/25 receive to transmit ration on QRP without the amp.
The backlight on the PX3 can be adjusted way down, it uses a lot of current compared to the rest of unit. There's really not much you can do about the KXPA, but I wonder if there is any current savings if you run it at less than 100W? For example 50W or even 20W when operating some digital modes.
Very impressive. I don't have a fixed operating position at this house (HOA). It would be far easier to wheel this out to my occasional operating position (or anywhere) than it is to carry my 7600, power supply, key, mic, etc.... With all the power options, do you still keep the NiMH batteries in the kx3? Seems it would be tedious to remove it to check on them. I pulled my eneloop NiMHs out of the kx3 out of concern for potential leaking inside the radio. de KE2SX
I keep the NiMHs in which ensures that the KX3 won't shut down if power is suddenly interrupted. I generally use them occasionally and charge them once a month for 4 hours. An argument could very well be made to remove them but it's kind of like another belt to go along with the other belt and suspenders.
I don't mind sending the CAD file on request, but with a huge caveat. After receiving my panel which cost $213, there are several measurements that I would modify. I spent the better part of two weeks cutting down Andersen Powerpoles and USB connectors with a Dremel tool to get things to fit properly. It's awfully difficult to think in three dimensions and have it all mesh together without wasting money on a panel that's not quite right. I haven't made a list of the panel modifications I would make now because it was on the fly and once I got putting things together, areas were unavailable for me to accurately measure and take notes. Plus, I didn't anticipate doing this again so I just wanted to get it over with.
I was asking because I joined a community makers group and I wanted to learn how CAD works and I thought that would be a fun way to begin learn it! I'm sure I would change it up, but it would be better than starting from ground zero.
Patrick Luke It's about 50/50. I had the RF cables made, like the female BNC from the KX3 to male PL-259 cable. The 3.5mm and 2.5mm cables and some of the USB A and B cables I had to make myself or combine various cables as I couldn't find anyone who could do the work. A pain but there isn't a lot of extra space so the length had to be kept to a minimum.
Sorry Kevin. Be happy to but it will require a fair amount of explanation and deconstructing of my setup. I'm happy to do it and will once I get past the solar eclipse event on Monday. I'm hoping to photograph totality and have been completely occupied with rehearsing, setup, calibration, etc. I expect to be able to get you the information you requested by the weekend after the eclipse - likely before Sept. 1st.
Jim, If you don't mind I would love to get a copy too. This is an incredible arrangement, and it's functionality would be a great asset to have on hand. thanks, fred
Hey Jim, I hope you got some great pics of the eclipse! I have purchased just about everything in your list and I'm ready whenever you are - I have a Skype for business and a WebEx account, so I'm happy to set up an audio / video sharing con call, just let me know some dates / times that work for you. For anyone else that is interested, I plan on taking lots of build pics / videos and like Jim, I'm totally willing to help and share...
This may be a dumb question but I have always wanted to get into this hobby but my question is what is the pc used for? If anyone can pin point me to guide where I can study and learn please cause I am really interested in this hobby always have been never thought it be still alive after all these years
JD Toony, K5HH The Front Panel aluminum panel is attached at four points about mid way on each dimension. I used cabinet clamps which screw on to the threaded studs but don't require a screwdriver to tighten or release. They look like black knobs on the video. The threaded bolts are attached to L brackets which are screwed (not through bolted) and Velcro attached. Not the best solution - in retrospect, I'd probably use epoxy if I did it over because you can't drill the screws in very far so there's not much purchase. However, everything excepting the battery is attached to the panel and it can be lifted out as one piece. Since the KXPA-100 sits on top of the Bioenno battery and when the case is closed there is no extra room between the top of the KXPA and the lid, the attachments aren't all that necessary. I still wouldn't do it without them but when the lid is closed nothing moves. Everything is so tight there's just no shifting of components.
Thanks, That's very good to know. I've got a larger pelican storm case I'm building out an emcomm go box for an Icom 7200, and was wondering how to attache the innards to the box. I'll use the expoxy solution.
you or elecraft should sell this setup to consumers. Elecraft could make this an option when purchasing the radio.
And double the price
This is by far the best gobox/setup I've seen so far!!! Great job, congrats!
Impressive that you've put so much thought into this.
I'm studying for my tech right now. Came across this video. Some it didn't make sense to me but by far one of the coolest things I have ever seen. Very 007
I also have the KX3. I used an army surplus NVG case. Sprayed the inside with MG Chemicals Super Shield Silver Coated Copper Conductive Coating to give it some emi/rfi shielding. I like the integration of your system.
Total weight including all components: 53lbs.
Case: Pelican 1510 - conforms to airline overhead specs
Panel: Custom design from Front Panel Express
Transceivers: Elecraft KX3 - options include internal NiMH batteries and charger, 2m transverter, internal ATU, hand microphone. Yaesu VX8-DR handheld with GPS option (for 1.25m, 70cm, APRS)
Panadapter: Elecraft PX3
Amplifier: Elecraft KPA-100, with internal ATU
AC to DC Power Supply: Powerwerx SPS 30DM
External Speaker: Sound Matters Fox-L Dash 7
Headphones: Sennheiser PX200 II
Noise Eliminating Module: BHI Compact In-line
Key: Begali Expedition
CW Logging: Begali CW Machine
Sound card interface: SignaLink USB
Battery: Bioenno LiFePO4 30 Ah (BLF 1230W) with charger
Solar Panel: PowerFilm 60W foldable solar array (folds to 13” x 7.5” x 2”)
Solar Charge Controller: Genasun 5A
DC Distribution Panel: RigRunner 4005
Software: Win4K3, FLDIGI, Ham Radio Deluxe, CW Skimmer, WSJT-X, Winlink 2000
One of the best go box how much money you got on that setup
Total of all components and cabling, etc. is just under $6,500.00. Much of what I have here is not cheap and totally optional. The solar panel, Begali key, and Begali CW machine account for around $1,500.00. Also, costs can be less if you choose to build the KX3, PX3, and KXPA-100 as kits. I chose factory assembly which is more expensive.
Wow! What a fantastic go box. Thanks for taking the time to share what you have assembled. Mark -- KM6HFR
WT8BZ would love to get a copy of the panel layout for replicating.
Very nice job. Not only would your setup be good for travel, it would be good for those who don't have a formal shack where they live.
That is the perfect go-box for a KX3 system.
Wow, so far this is the best set up I've seen. Take my money please, good job. I would definitely like to have one for my set up.
Impressive rig! Congratulations.
That is awesome. You should post a build and schematic document.
Looks great. I think a cool improvement would be a removable upper lid, and a hinged tilting mechanism to being the viewing angle up. But it looks really clean.
Impressive! I have been looking at this radio as I want to take it for backpacking but soon i just see here that is impossible; my backpacking trips to top of mountains I usually take about 32 pounds of gears; there is no way this would work in a situation like that, so much for the setup; but here it is very attractive and functional what you have done with everything; maybe this would work going canoeing without portages. I have no idea how much your whole setup weights but it is not 5 or 6 pounds which how much i wished it all weight as an add on. There is a reason I do not want to take a Yaesu radio and that one is about 9 pounds! just the radio! The Elecraft KX3 kit is about $2600 in their site and with the add ons you have I am figuring this setup is close to the $3000 mark or more! which is another bucket of cold water on my wishes! so much for having fun in the outdoor in remote areas! but your video is awesome! 73, KI7CSI
Nicely done Sir, Great implementation!! . You need to add a LipoFe4 battery to be able to operate independent of AC power as well. Also, depending on your objective, if it is an emergency gobox, you need a NVIS antenna to be able to communicate with about 500mi radios. a vertical antenna has a low take off angle and is USUALLY used for long distance communication.
You might have missed it, but my setup includes a 30Ah Bioenno LiFePO battery located under the KXPA-100 amplifier. I was using AC for demonstration purposes only. Also, one of the antennas I routinely carry in a small pouch is the Chameleon CHA MPAS which has a NVIS configuration.
You are absolutely correct, I did miss the Bioenno battery. Great setup! BTW, looks like you are a Subby man and I'm a Speedy and 300 Pro man. My next one is going to be a Planet Ocean. I intentionally did not spell things out :). I may get a Datejust also. Looked at them last weekend with my son and its beautiful.
James, I am working on my second go box. Do you have any schematics, wiring diagrams or MFG diagrams you could share. I did read your comments about the CAD diagram and that would be very helpful as well. 73, Mike.
I'm very Impressed, your work is very professional
This is one of the cleanest I have seen. Very nice job and thank you for sharing!
Awesome go kit !! Now to take it to the next level assuming there is space, install a laptop or mini pc beneath the waterfall and radio and the screen on the lid of the case.... Wireless keyboard and mouse and you have it all in one box!
Excellent go box! I got an idea for my particular need, instead of carrying a laptop, put a raspberry pi4 inside the go box along with a 13 or 15" screen and a mini wireless keyboard/mouse
the monitor (a thin one) would be attached on the inside part of the box cover, the Rpi 4 would have all necessary digimodes programs such as FLDIGI, Pat+Ardop, etc and XLog or something like that.
Very professional and well thought out would love to have the same set up
That’s slick. Nice work.
That's a beautiful setup! Clean interface, well thought through. Nice work! -- 73, Prem, KR7SH
Wow, what a great set-up! Well done.
Jim, I am attempting to recreate you awesome go-box and would dearly appreciate a copy of your CAD file for the cover plate as well as anything else you may have that would be helpful in building this. Great job, and many thanks for the inspiration and help.
Did you end up following thru with that? Looking at the same.
Absolutely BEAUTIFUL work!!!!!!!!!
Why don’t manufacturers sell these kind of solutions? Beautiful work!
I'd probably add a mini Windows machine and a touch screen monitor. That'd open it up to have my NW-Digital ThumbDV, BlueDV for Windows, Echolink, Teamspeak3, and probably some others. For audio handling I'd use Voicemeeter Banana and some virtual audio cables to tie stuff together so I could control various sound levels.
I've already gathered up much of that, except for the amplifier as yet. I found that Talentcell makes some lovely Lithium Polymer 12v battery banks, with dual coaxial connectors to connect both the KX3 and PX3 with plenty of juice for both. Nice part is they don't weigh that much. I don't take airlines often, so taking LiPo batteries on a plane isn't an issue.
I've got a handful of single and multi-band wire antennas from Sotabeams, one of their telescoping fiberglass masts, and various extra tuners and dummy loads and such. I'm getting together the parts to make a magnetic loop or two as well. I was pricing the Pelikan cases (actually the similar boxes at Harbor Freight) and considering much of what you've got here. The custom faceplate is more than I'd planned out, and it's a great addition, keeping stuff nice and neat.
That's a really great setup you've got. Kudos to you for such a comprehensive and well thought-out bit of kit!
Awesome setup Jim. Thanks for sharing!
Wow this is terrific. Thanks for sharing. Very close to something i have in mind but can't seem to execute nicely. One day... I am using a Yaesu FT-857D so far.
I like your setup. I wish the weight of your box was lighter. Due to my back surgery I am limited in carrying weight. I have the same radio without the amplifier. I will have to come up with a Qrp version that doesn't weight so much. Nice setup.
excellent, now if i could adapt this for my icom 705
what a beautiful design. would you be willing to share drawings, wiring diagrams and bill of materials.
Very well thought out setup good job
Beautiful setup.
I would greatly appreciate the files for a starting point for me to make my own panel - THIS IS FANTASTIC!!!
Outstanding is all I can say. Many thanks
Amazing Go Box. Congrats. 73. YV5EMG
Thank You for sharing. I hope you would be willing to answer questions when I set up a box like it. Amazing set of components and capability..
Be happy to answer questions.
I think this is the best complete KX3 Go Kit I've seen. There's a few that do a fantastic job with just the KX3 or with another accessory. But this one is fantastic. How does it look now after six years? I have pretty much all the same components and would love to get it inside a case similar to yours. What CAD program did you use to draw this out? Six years later is there anything you'd do different? Thanks so much for sharing this on UA-cam.
The go box to which all others aspire
Brand new to ham radio. Was already looking at the KX3 and found this. Wow! This is something I would like to work towards. Awesome build. I really like how clean it is. Do you distribute the front panel express file?
Outstanding, I had made one with Pelican 1510 using the foam inserts, I just have the KXPA100 and power supply in a Pelican 1400. Included in the 1510 I have an rf amp for the KX3 2m module.
I use a Bioenno 12v20ah battery in the 1510, I may have missed which Bioenno battery you use. Fantastic build and thanks for sharing. Eddie kj4fgi
Congrats! Beautiful job... looks profi :)
Would it be ok to see how the wiring was done under the panel?
Joel De Jesus I would love to see this too
Looks great!
Hermoso...... Acabo de adquirir una maleta Pelican V200....Iniciare con un FT-817, Z817 y 2 Baterias UBI 2590..... Gracias por tu vídeo y buen ejemplo... 73... HJ3TMP
Very impressive build.
That's awesome...costs more than my car though.
Now that's a beautiful thing...
WT8BZ, What a fantastic Go Box. I wish I had the knowledge to duplicate your system. Right now I am limited on the electronics side. I do have the Elecraft Kx3 radio. Will keep your video on my list as a reference as I collect all the parts for this Go Box. Maybe some day after I get my Extra license I will try this project. With your system what other radio would you need? You have given me a goal in my amateur radio hobby to strive towards. Thanks for your time in presenting your Amateur Radio Go Box. Gary Jamerson, Kf4cnm
Very nice! What was the total cost of the case build?
Could you post a good quality still photo of the case open?, Thanks!
Very impressive setup!
Very impressive work. Please share details of the face plate and accessories
its 3 years- what all has changed, fixed, etc? The battery doesn't have issues with airline rules? Nice setup!
I’ll look through your post but would love to see the computer build. Want to see it put on a raspberry pi
Excellent, very well done.
They allow that on the plane. That thing looks like a bomb
Very clean setup. What are you doing as a solar charge control for your LiFePo4 battery? I've looked at the Bioennos, but I didn't seem to find a way to run their charger from DC. I've seen lithium battery fires and am reluctant to try unverified setups.
No problem with "unverified" setups. The Bioenno batteries have a built in overvoltage protection, over discharge protection, and cell balancing. I charge the Bioenno at home with the Bioenno charger which is 15V 6A output. On the road, I leave the charger at home and use the Powerwerx AC to DC power supply and ramp the voltage up to 15v. I chose the variable voltage charger for just that reason. When charging with solar, I use the Genasun 5A MPPT charge controller which is specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries. It's output isn't constant but closely matches the 15V 6A Bioenno AC charger. I've had no issues with any of the above configurations. About once a month I charge the battery with the Bioenno AC charger and use one of the other options in the interim.
That's an awesome QRP/travel setup! :)
Well done!
Tom SQ9LBE
QRP?, dudes got 100 watts of amplification on board. That said, IT IS Awesome. Very well done.
Very well thought out gobox, but why taking up all that space with a signal link when a small usb dongle works great, and costs less than $10.
Very nice setup.
Excellent job! We used in mil services similar comsys but not as nice as yours.
That is spectacular.
Thats one slick setup. Like I'd expect from a govt agent. You are a G man aren't you?
INSPIRING
Dam fine work..
Nice set up
thank again for this incredible video. by now i have watched it at list a dozen times.
still trying to figure out what ( external) keypad are you using. and, how can i get or make the front panel.
your response is very much appreciated. 73 Micha KG7JKP
I'm just curious, why would you even need the USB Signalink? Doesn't the KX3 have exceptional digital capabilities on its own?
It does but running JT-65, JT-9 or FT8 requires an external sound card interface with the computer. You could use other sound card interface devices but I already had a SignaLink and setup is pretty easy and straightforward.
Jim, Could you tell me where you got the mounting hardware for the faceplate and how you attached the radio and PX3 to the underside of same? Also, appreciate all that you have contributed to this project, and I hope to have mine together soon. Thanks again.
Can I have a copy of the CAD file? Very nice setup.
Do you prop up the Px3 and KX3 at an angle? It seems like it would be really awkward to use in the case.
Can I please have a copy of the CAD file and a list of parts? Could you also update us if you have made any changes? Thanks and congratulations on all your hard work! 73----KJ6HCP
Very cool set up.
73, W6BKM
Well done!!!
Have you considered standing the case up vertically?
Very nice!
I don’t mean to downplay the go box you created (it is impressive) but I was more intrigued by the software. I wasn’t aware that you could get the waterfall and decoding from software. I’ve played around with some FT8 on my Mac and my KX2, but only about 50 contacts total. The waterfall display is impressive and interesting. I wonder if it defeats the PX3 then? Or is it too cumbersome to setup the laptop all the time?
It's more of a belt and suspenders thing. The laptop isn't necessary but does a better job of decoding CW (with CW Skimmer) and allows you to use FLDIGI or other computer based programs to run the JTs and other digital modes. The computer waterfall is larger and it's easier to change frequencies with a mouse click as opposed to turning a dialog the PX3 and the pushing the button. If I'm running the laptop I just switch the PX3 off. Usually when I start up the radio I don't set up the laptop unless I'm going to use CW Skimmer or FLDIGI. Also, with the Win4K3 program (which is unbelievably great) it's easier to band switch and adjust filters, AF, RF, etc.
Thanks for this. I’m good on CW decoding, perhaps save for a QSO tonight where I had an out of body experience ;-). I’m going to look into this, hopefully for OSX on my Mac so I don’t have to boot into Windows.
Did you get any noise in the radio cosed bye the solar charge controller or any other equipment??
Yea, very nice. How long does it run on battery power? I would imagine you can use a large battery, but for the sake of being more portable. I wonder if you can get say an hour of talk time with a moderate sized battery. I have been thinking of building something like this.
It's a 30 amp hour LiFePO4 battery, will virtually last all day and is equivalent to about a 50 Ah lead acid battery. Reason for this is that LiFePO4 batteries will maintain their voltage until they are over 80% discharged whereas a lead acid battery can be damaged if it is consistently discharged below 50% of its amp hour rating. The 30 Ah LiFePO4 battery weighs 7.6 lbs and a 50 Ah lead acid battery weighs around 32 lbs. I generally travel with a much smaller 10 Ah LiFePO4 battery, not because of weight, but because some airlines restrict carry-on LiFePO4 battery packs to 100 watts.
Do airlines allow to carry on the newer Lithium LifePo type batteries?
What are the list of items you used to build this manpack radio
plans for this pelican go kit? In Brasil I don´t have the $ to make it but, just in case... I´m still trying to make some dreams come true!
Could you share your panel cad drawing, I have a local machine shop that will waterjet me a panel
Much of an effort to take the KX3 in and out of the box? The kit is exactly what I have been working towards, however I like taking the KX3 out when I go on hiking and the such. Beautiful set up! Thanks for the inspiration to hopefully complete something close to it myself. 73
There is a bit of an effort to disconnect the KX3. Would probably take 20 minutes or so and while that was my initial plan, things are so tight that it's not all that practical. For my own preference, if I were going to try to just use the KX3 alone, I would probably just purchase a KX2. I think the KX2 is well suited to stand alone operation. The problem with the KX3 always was that it had so much more potential than just a QRP transceiver.
Ok, thanks.
Very cool setup. Do you have any heating issues?
None at all. The KXPA-100 has the heat sink fins exposed so that's no problem. I added the aftermarket heatsink for the KX3 and haven't had overheating with JT-65, the power supply has its own internal fan which draws through the perforations above the panel and exits through the equipment storage opening. Have run everything for over 8 hours with no heating issues whatsoever. BTW, I enjoy your videos.
Hay página de compra del material..
Brilliant
How do you mount/fix the KX3 and PX3 to the panel?
Would you be able to share your cutout file, and wiring diagram I would love to build this, I got ALL the stuff for the box just no cutouts, and diagrams. I don’t want to reinvent perfection and sir you have it with this case
Very nice set up Jim. Just wondering how much operating time you get out that battery when running the KXPA. 73 de N6HZ (paul)
This answer maybe longer than you intended, but it's a little complicated. I've never actually run the Bioenno 30Ah battery down to its cutoff point. Bioenno builds in a PCM (protection circuit module) that disconnects the battery at around 10 volts so that it doesn't get over discharged and damaged. However, my conservative calculations are as follows: If I run the KX3 with the 100W amplifier on battery power alone with no solar charging input, I should easily get 4 hours of operating time. That assumes that I leave the panadapter on at all times, I leave the KX3 backlight on and the receive/transmit ratio is 75/25. The KX3, panadapter and KXPA-100 together on receive draw between 700 and 800 milliamps. On transmit at 100W, the current draw increases to about 2400 milliamps. If I turn off the KX3 backlight, power off the PX3 panadapter when I don't need it, and use the 60W solar panel to charge while operating I have no doubt I could go at least 8 hours and probably longer. On receive alone with no solar charging and the backlight and PX3 on continuously my calculations indicate I could operate for 23 hours. My above calculations are assuming I am able to utilize 90% of the amp hour capacity of the Bioenno battery. In contrast, a lead acid battery or AGM can only be discharged about 50 to 60% of its amp hour capacity. If you go beyond that you diminish the number of recharge cycles and therefore the overall life of the battery. The Bioenno battery I use (27Ah usable -
30Ah x .90) weighs 8lbs., whereas an AGM battery of similar relative capacity ( 27Ah usable - 45Ah x .60) weighs over 30lbs.
Looks like a great set up, and what's not to love about all those about Elecraft bits? (I wrote the firmware for the PX3, KX3 LO and KXPA power managment, hi hi)
Nice job. One correction re my battery comments above. The current draw with the KXPA-100 at 100W is 24.5 amps, not 2400 milliamps. Also, my calculations re the value of 23 hours is assuming 75/25 receive to transmit ration on QRP without the amp.
The backlight on the PX3 can be adjusted way down, it uses a lot of current compared to the rest of unit. There's really not much you can do about the KXPA, but I wonder if there is any current savings if you run it at less than 100W? For example 50W or even 20W when operating some digital modes.
I'm sure you're correct on all those points, I was just trying to lay out the worst case scenario in terms of power consumption.
Very impressive. I don't have a fixed operating position at this house (HOA). It would be far easier to wheel this out to my occasional operating position (or anywhere) than it is to carry my 7600, power supply, key, mic, etc.... With all the power options, do you still keep the NiMH batteries in the kx3? Seems it would be tedious to remove it to check on them. I pulled my eneloop NiMHs out of the kx3 out of concern for potential leaking inside the radio. de KE2SX
I keep the NiMHs in which ensures that the KX3 won't shut down if power is suddenly interrupted. I generally use them occasionally and charge them once a month for 4 hours. An argument could very well be made to remove them but it's kind of like another belt to go along with the other belt and suspenders.
Great setup! Could others mooch off of your Front Panel Express custom order?
I don't mind sending the CAD file on request, but with a huge caveat. After receiving my panel which cost $213, there are several measurements that I would modify. I spent the better part of two weeks cutting down Andersen Powerpoles and USB connectors with a Dremel tool to get things to fit properly. It's awfully difficult to think in three dimensions and have it all mesh together without wasting money on a panel that's not quite right. I haven't made a list of the panel modifications I would make now because it was on the fly and once I got putting things together, areas were unavailable for me to accurately measure and take notes. Plus, I didn't anticipate doing this again so I just wanted to get it over with.
I was asking because I joined a community makers group and I wanted to learn how CAD works and I thought that would be a fun way to begin learn it! I'm sure I would change it up, but it would be better than starting from ground zero.
I would also like a copy of the file to play around with. Thank you.
Tom Sayres h
I would love a copy of the CAD file please if possible :D
Also, where is the list of parts ?
I checked the info section and there is nothing there.
James Bond cool! Can it transform into a helicopter? *lol*
I would like a parts list also.
Did you make all the connections yourself? i've got mine stuffed into a pelican 1400. leaving the kxpa at home!
Patrick Luke It's about 50/50. I had the RF cables made, like the female BNC from the KX3 to male PL-259 cable. The 3.5mm and 2.5mm cables and some of the USB A and B cables I had to make myself or combine various cables as I couldn't find anyone who could do the work. A pain but there isn't a lot of extra space so the length had to be kept to a minimum.
Excellent, following the same path then. Thankfully I have a awesome local resource for components, just need more ambition!
Donde se compra eso ya completó soy de Oviedo España
Hi Jim - I hate to keep bugging you but you mentioned that you would share the files needed to make the panel - Can I please get those from you?
Sorry Kevin. Be happy to but it will require a fair amount of explanation and deconstructing of my setup. I'm happy to do it and will once I get past the solar eclipse event on Monday. I'm hoping to photograph totality and have been completely occupied with rehearsing, setup, calibration, etc. I expect to be able to get you the information you requested by the weekend after the eclipse - likely before Sept. 1st.
Jim - Thanks so much - You don't know how happy this makes me! I've been wanting to do something like this for a long time!
Jim,
If you don't mind I would love to get a copy too. This is an incredible arrangement, and it's functionality would be a great asset to have on hand. thanks, fred
Hey Jim, I hope you got some great pics of the eclipse! I have purchased just about everything in your list and I'm ready whenever you are - I have a Skype for business and a WebEx account, so I'm happy to set up an audio / video sharing con call, just let me know some dates / times that work for you. For anyone else that is interested, I plan on taking lots of build pics / videos and like Jim, I'm totally willing to help and share...
Hi Jim
I also have the KX3 and am using the Harbor Freight Apache 4800 case.
Could I also get a copy of your case set up and mounting? Thanks
WT8BZ what is name of the company that would make me a case of that nature for my aor 8600mk2?
Thanks
This may be a dumb question but I have always wanted to get into this hobby but my question is what is the pc used for? If anyone can pin point me to guide where I can study and learn please cause I am really interested in this hobby always have been never thought it be still alive after all these years
How did you anchor everything in to the pelican case? Glue? screw or bolt through the case?
JD Toony, K5HH The Front Panel aluminum panel is attached at four points about mid way on each dimension. I used cabinet clamps which screw on to the threaded studs but don't require a screwdriver to tighten or release. They look like black knobs on the video. The threaded bolts are attached to L brackets which are screwed (not through bolted) and Velcro attached. Not the best solution - in retrospect, I'd probably use epoxy if I did it over because you can't drill the screws in very far so there's not much purchase. However, everything excepting the battery is attached to the panel and it can be lifted out as one piece. Since the KXPA-100 sits on top of the Bioenno battery and when the case is closed there is no extra room between the top of the KXPA and the lid, the attachments aren't all that necessary. I still wouldn't do it without them but when the lid is closed nothing moves. Everything is so tight there's just no shifting of components.
Thanks, That's very good to know. I've got a larger pelican storm case I'm building out an emcomm go box for an Icom 7200, and was wondering how to attache the innards to the box. I'll use the expoxy solution.
how to avail this kit?