FlexRadio 5000 + RX2 = SO2R in a box?
Since posting that the FlexRadio 3000 has been released to the masses a few days ago, I’ve been wondering if SDR & the Flex Radio platform is ready for contesting/DXing prime time.
For example, could the FlexRadio 5000 be used as an SO2R machine in a single box? (SO2R in a box) The literature claims that it can if you throw in their second receiver (RX2). I’d imagine that you’d also need bandpass filters… and a way to control them… and, while you’re at it, a really good amp with a way to control it (or not). OK, maybe I’m getting carried away.
Question 1: SO2R With a FlexRadio 5000A (& RX2 + ATU), plus some bandpass filter system, could I go SO2R? If yes, how painful is it?
I’d love to try the FlexRadio, but don’t have one in my area. They are sending me a demo CD.
Question 2: FlexRadio 5000 Demo Mode. Can I simply download the PowerSDR software and install it to try the Flex-5000 (demo mode)? I understand that I need to feed it some I/Q file. How do I do that? I’ve installed the software and downloaded a couple I/Q files, but I’m not sure how to “play� the files. Do I need the VAC thingy?
I guess I’ll wait for the demo CD. Any FlexRadio experts out there?
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Update – just got an email… my FlexRadio Demo CD is on the way. Unfortunately, the demo doesn’t play well with Vista so I’ll have to try it on my XYL’s WinXP PC.
Thoughts:
1). Flex-5000A with RX2 is a triplex receiver and will do SO2R from the box. I have been working contests without running the RX2, but after this summer’s antenna upgrades should be able to give the SO2R a whirl.
2). I was able to load the software in Demo mode on several machines, including a Vista Laptop. Worked a-ok without any of the I-O Port add-in software packages.
73
Steve
K9ZW