IQ-64 SDR TRANSCEIVER

Thanks to the efforts of Craig, WB5KUO, we now have a image for the Raspberry PI Model 3B (or 3B+) that has Quisk, HAMLIB, FLDigi and WSJT-X software loaded and configured, just plug and play. You can download the image here. It fits on a 8GB or larger, class 10, MicroSD card. The only required hardware is the PI, Behringer UFO202 sound card and the RS-HFIQ, everything else is optional.

The IQ-64 is an exciting project which uses the HobbyPCB RS-HFIQ transceiver and a Raspberry PI computer to create an amazingly capable HF communications terminal. It is completely stand-alone, just plug-in power and an antenna and start making contacts. It supports virtually every communications on the HF bands today and will easily support new modes that are developed in the future.

Bill of Materials:

Here's what you'll need:

• 1. HobbyPCB RS-HFIQ HF Transceiver

  2. Raspberry PI 3 Model B or B+ (it needs a case and some thermal management.

  3. 32GB Class 10 MicroSD card

  4. Behringher UFO202 sound card (don't substitute unless you are familiar with Linux driver setup)

  5. 13.8V IN to 5V OUT DC-DC Converter rated at 3-5A

  6. Waveshare 7" LCD 1024X600 Capacitive Touchscreen HDMI display

  7. Short, right angle HDMI cable

  8. Two 4-port USB hubs, with the ports all in a line, the internal unit must accept external power for the LCD

  9. USB Cables

  10. Audio cables

  11. PACTEC Sloping Enclosure 62291-501-000 (get the kit without the front and back panels)

  12. Front panel (the one in the picture was made by Front Panel Express the file is IQ64.fpd at the bottom of the page)

  13. Rear panel and inside base plate (gnaw your own)

  14. Laptop speaker bar, USB powered if you want to work voice modes.

Even if you have to purchase everything new the total cost should be under $500.

Connections:

The setup is basically plug and play. I did remove the UFO202 from its plastic case and shorten/resoldered the attached the USB cable to reduce the excess and I cut a 3.5MM right angle audio jumper and soldered the ends to the jacks in the UFO202 to eliminate the need for the RCA jacks. The DC-DC converter picks up 13.8V from the power header on the RS-HFIQ and supplies the PI and the powered USB hub.

Interior Layout:

The PI's case is mounted to the base plate, the RS-HFIQ, DC-DC converter and UFO202 are mounted on stand-offs. The UFO 202 is mounted high enough for the power, HDMI and audio to the PI to be connected underneath. The USB hubs are hot-glued to the top of the PI's case, one pointing in for internal USB connections and one pointing out for external devices. There are four 3/4" hole drilled near the top of the case to let warm air out and more in the base (not visible) under the RS-HFIQ's heatsink and the PI's enclosure to let in cool air.

External Connections:

The rear panel has connections for the antenna, Hardrock-50 (or other amplifier), 13.8VDC and USB for a keyboard, mouse, USB microphone, etc. The laptop sound bar is attached to the back of the enclosure with self-tapping screws and sounds surprisingly good.

Software:

Basically, all you do is copy the SD card image and boot the PI. We have an image that has Quisk for the basic radio operation, FLdigi for many digital modes and the WSJT software for the WSPR modes. You can download the image here. It fits on a 8GB or larger, class 10, MicroSD card.

Here is all the stations that I hear and can hear me on WSPR in the last hour:

Not bad for 5 watts.

Other Configurations:

It's not really necessary to put all the parts in a single box. You can setup all the pieces with a separate power supply for the PI and a desktop monitor and have just as much fun. You can also download/install VNC and operate remotely.

If you have any questions please post them to the HobbyPCB RS-HFIQ Forum.