Category: Rigs

All posts that are about rigs, radio’s and Handy Talkies.

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GPS logoI did use a bluetooth GPS-mouse with my TM-D710E to send out APRS-packets before. That configuration needs a bluetooth receiver module to convert the data-stream. I don’t like extra boxes especially not in the car (that is where I also use my TM-D710E). So I keep searching for a more compact solution. In the meantime the Kenwood TM-D710G was introduced. But I didn’t had 650 euro for a new radio. The TM-D710G has a GPS-receiver in the head unit. A great idea, maybe it is possible to build such a receiver in my TM-D710E. After googling around a few times I found this Swedish site.
A great solution and exactly what I was looking for. The GPS-receiver in this mod uses plain RS-232-level signals so there’s no need for TTL-RS232-converters as in other mods. Erik Sohlén from the site could send my this GPS-receiver for only 38 euro. I ordered the mod and a few weeks later it arrived. Only three wires need to be installed and the GPS-receiver has to be glued in.
The mod works excellent! The GPS-receiver only starts its data-stream when it has a satellite fix. So when the receiver hasn’t a fix yet, the GPS-sign on the TM-D710 isn’t blinking. That way you can check if there is a fix without seeing the GPS-receiver itself.

Now I’m pretty good track-able via aprs.fi. When I using my car (not everyday) I build in my TM-D710 and set all APRS-settings for mobile use according to Bob Bruninga, WB4APR.

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Replacement fan for TM-D710In the first months after I bought my TM-D710 the original fan starts making a screaming noise when I put on the radio. After about one minute it seems like it gain enough traction and became a bit less noisy, and only turns on when I transmit. Since I use my TM-D710 in my home office primarily , it still is too loud.
Recently I subscribed to a Yahoogroup for the Kenwood TM-D710/V71. One of the threads that popped in my mailbox was one about changing the stock fan for a more silent one. I ordered the SilenX Ixtrema IXP-11-14 from Freezing Hardware for a whopping 14 euro’s.
The old fan was out in a breeze, the new one in place in a minute. Only thing I had to do was change the original connector. Since all three wires of the SilenX are silver, it was a bit of gamble which one to pick. When I connected the radio for a test run I came to the conclusion I used the wrong wires. No sound of a running fan at all. Not even when I was transmitting. Fortunately I did put my hand in front of the fan before rewiring it and noticed that it did suck air in. When I took a good look, it turns out the fan was running, but without noticeable sound! Unbelievable what a difference! Now I can listen to the local repeater at the lowest volume without a screaming fan every time APRS push out a packet.

I also use my TM-D710 in the car from time to time. Of course the fan noise is not a big problem in the car where other noises are more dominant. But less noise in the car isn’t a bad thing at all.

Impression of the modification:

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Elecraft logoMy Elecraft K1 is a need little rig. One thing I think it missed was a zero beat indicator. K6XX designed just that. Christmas holiday is the perfect period for a little home brewing, so I warmed up the solder iron.
After a hour or so the kit was finished. My first attempt with SMD’s. I’m not disappointed with the result. The test drive isn’t successful yet. All though I’ve seen the led blinking, I can’t get it to work. The SMD variable resistor feels weird (no resistance when adjusting) so I think maybe I damaged it. In the manual there is a piece with voltage points. I hope I can find some time to check all points and figure out what is going wrong.