I have an Small Wonder Labs SW-40+ on the bench, and I am very satisfied already. This project is unbelievably well-documented.
Links(Edit)
(Pages like these are the very heartbeat of what makes me love amateur radio.)
- Elmer101 - Transciever class that uses the SW-40+ as the lab
- Elaborate Build/Exploration Instructions - Turns the project from a rote build into a rich lecture series---with funky "What happens if we short from here to here" diversions to help understand the components' roles.
- Schematic PDF - This and the next are extracts from K6QO's doc for easy printing.
- Component Dictionary(!)
- Block Diagram PDF
- NE612A - The mixer chips, "Double-balanced mixer and oscillator"
- NE5532 - OpAmp Chip
- 2n4401 - The transistors
- LM78LXX - The Voltage Regulator
- Reviews
- Enhancements - Full 5W, Full 40m/CW range, RIT, and Freq display (though I want audio morse output).
Goals(Edit)
- I want to understand as much of it as possible (for debugging, education, and expansion). It's OK if it's big and complicated as long as the design is componentized and well-explained.
- CW Only (for now)
- Monoband is fine (for now)
- N6QE post (on eHam.net) ups direct conversion and downs AGC. I like it.
Honorable mention(Edit)
- This Norcal SMK-1 really nails it. I like the built-in keyer addition, too.
- The KK7B Binaural I-Q Receiver looks fascinating (great use of stereo sound).
- Also by KK7B: http://www.kangaus.com/microt2.htm
- Popcorn Direct-Conversion Receiver page, short demo video
- Tiny Tornado and K8MAV - Minimalist (Improved PixieII). I ♥.