"Complete" digital package!
Here is a "complete" digital
package featuring the Xiegu Model X-108G Outdoor version
transceiver. Allow me to "elaborate"
on this setup and how I configured it to work the digital
modes. This package includes some "home brew" cables for use
with the X-108 and the, highly popular, SignaLink USB digital
interface sound card. There is one "slight glitch" using the
X-108 with, virtually ANY sound card; there is NO dedicated
"audio output" for the receive signal. The "accessory" port
handles transmit audio, PTT and ground just fine. To overcome
this, I have "paired" a cable with the, 'normal', accessory
cable which plugs into the SPK, "speaker", jack on the back
panel of the X-108, then connects to the "SPKR" jack on the
SignaLink. This works just fine, however, this does NOT allow
for monitoring of the received audio, something I, personally,
like to do if only at a low level. Of course, a dual port
adapter could be used at the X-108 which would allow for the
use of an external speaker and the audio for the SignaLink at
the same time.
Having said that, there is an unused "AUX" port on the back of the Xiegu which, apparently, is connected to NOTHING. This certainly opens the possibility of connecting that port to a "fixed" receive audio source inside the X-108. I actually thought about connecting this port to the "input" side of the VOL control but I "chickened out", not wanting to risk any damage to the transceiver. Also, I did not actually "miss" NOT monitoring the incoming audio during digital operations. This "mod" could certainly be done by someone with steadier hands than I have and who is also "braver"! The result, of course, is that the "AUX" port would connect to the sound card and the 'internal' speaker would operate normally.... AND.... an external speaker could be connected as well if so desired.
I have used this setup on several of the digital modes, mostly FT8/FT4, where there is "always" an abundance of signals from which to choose for "testing" purposes. I generally ran between 10 and 15 watts, which is quite adequate for FT8/FT4 as well as many of the other digital modes.
From the research I have done, the X-108G "Outdoor" version sold for $500 plus/minus when new. They continue to show up on various websites and 'current' prices are readily available. This "package" includes the transceiver, SignaLink USB interface, a Samlex SEC 1223, 23A power supply (serious 'overkill' for the X-108!) and all the applicable connecting cables. Also included is a HamGadgets "Ultra PicoKeyer BUILT" and a handy "home brew" stand in which the PicoKeyer is installed. NOTE: You can easily "edit out" my call sign on the case, or, "roll your own"!
The price for everything is $425 and, of course, includes shipping. I much prefer to sell the whole "package" together. However, if you wish to discuss individual items, please feel free to email me using the email link on the 'homepage' and we can discuss that.
Enjoy the pictures!
Having said that, there is an unused "AUX" port on the back of the Xiegu which, apparently, is connected to NOTHING. This certainly opens the possibility of connecting that port to a "fixed" receive audio source inside the X-108. I actually thought about connecting this port to the "input" side of the VOL control but I "chickened out", not wanting to risk any damage to the transceiver. Also, I did not actually "miss" NOT monitoring the incoming audio during digital operations. This "mod" could certainly be done by someone with steadier hands than I have and who is also "braver"! The result, of course, is that the "AUX" port would connect to the sound card and the 'internal' speaker would operate normally.... AND.... an external speaker could be connected as well if so desired.
I have used this setup on several of the digital modes, mostly FT8/FT4, where there is "always" an abundance of signals from which to choose for "testing" purposes. I generally ran between 10 and 15 watts, which is quite adequate for FT8/FT4 as well as many of the other digital modes.
From the research I have done, the X-108G "Outdoor" version sold for $500 plus/minus when new. They continue to show up on various websites and 'current' prices are readily available. This "package" includes the transceiver, SignaLink USB interface, a Samlex SEC 1223, 23A power supply (serious 'overkill' for the X-108!) and all the applicable connecting cables. Also included is a HamGadgets "Ultra PicoKeyer BUILT" and a handy "home brew" stand in which the PicoKeyer is installed. NOTE: You can easily "edit out" my call sign on the case, or, "roll your own"!
The price for everything is $425 and, of course, includes shipping. I much prefer to sell the whole "package" together. However, if you wish to discuss individual items, please feel free to email me using the email link on the 'homepage' and we can discuss that.
Enjoy the pictures!