k9foh
11-18-2002, 01:31 AM
The Patcomm PC-500 is a dual band 160-6 meter QRP #transceiver that is a dream rig to operate. #If you are not inclined to build the famed Elecraft K-2/1 or one of the other QRP kits, here is a chance to enter the QRP arena with a top-notch, quality built transceiver. #Some of the features include:
# # - Continuously adjustable (600-2800 hz) digital variable audio filter which works great.
# # - RF clipping for outstanding SSB audio quality.
# # - Built-in CW keyer from 5wpm to 75wpm for the really high speed buffs. #I leave mine on 15wpm. #This one retains the speed setting when turned off, unlike my PC-9000 which I reviewed in another report.
# # - Eight pole crystal filter.
# # - Output power adjustable between 1 and 15-watts.
# # - Ready for PSK-31 with optional PC interface cable.
# # - Optional noise blanker works great on six-meters.
# # - Can be controlled with an external keyboard for CW sending, frequency changes, four memories per band, and direct frequency entry from the keyboard. #This is really a nice feature that works great. #I program my favorite CW QRP and FISTS frequencies for both the Novice and the regular CW portion into memory. #
# #
# # The band modules are very easy to swap. #Just remove four screws, pull the cover off, and swap the boards. I've been using mine mostly on 40 and six-meters. #This rig is not really designed for the back-packer since the receive current drain is 750ma, but it should do fine for portable use with gel-cel, or similar, #type battery.
#
# # A tip for swtiching from the external paddle to a straight key. #Press the KEYSPD button and then the LOCK button and the display with show MANUAL. #This disables the internal keyer. #The reverse to swtich back to a paddle. #
# # I highly recommend the PC-500 for the entry-level ham, QRP buff, or any ham who would like to support a US manufactuer. #Yes, this one is made in the good old USA in New York by a very small company. #Frank personally builds each rig and checks it out before shipping. #The factory service and support is second to none. # Patcomm's WEB page is:
#www.patcommradio.com #
# # For a more comprehensive review of the PC-500 check CQ magazine May 2001, page 40. #Some other reviews of the Patcomm equipment line that I forgot to mention in my reviews of the PC-9000 and the PC-16000A are:
QST November 1999, page 68 for the PC-9000. #
QST December 2000, page 67 for the PC-16000A.
CQ June 2000, page 52 for the PC-16000A.
CQ April 1998, page 22 for the PC-16000.
QST February 1998, page 62 for the PC-16000.
Cheers from Bob, K9FOH. #
ex: #KR6FJ, Okinawa 1964-65; #KA2BL, Japan 1970-74; #KA1BL & KA1DX, Marcus Island 1973-74 DX-peditions; #KA1CQ, Iwo Jima 1973 DX-expedition; #G5EBA, England 1981-84.
# # - Continuously adjustable (600-2800 hz) digital variable audio filter which works great.
# # - RF clipping for outstanding SSB audio quality.
# # - Built-in CW keyer from 5wpm to 75wpm for the really high speed buffs. #I leave mine on 15wpm. #This one retains the speed setting when turned off, unlike my PC-9000 which I reviewed in another report.
# # - Eight pole crystal filter.
# # - Output power adjustable between 1 and 15-watts.
# # - Ready for PSK-31 with optional PC interface cable.
# # - Optional noise blanker works great on six-meters.
# # - Can be controlled with an external keyboard for CW sending, frequency changes, four memories per band, and direct frequency entry from the keyboard. #This is really a nice feature that works great. #I program my favorite CW QRP and FISTS frequencies for both the Novice and the regular CW portion into memory. #
# #
# # The band modules are very easy to swap. #Just remove four screws, pull the cover off, and swap the boards. I've been using mine mostly on 40 and six-meters. #This rig is not really designed for the back-packer since the receive current drain is 750ma, but it should do fine for portable use with gel-cel, or similar, #type battery.
#
# # A tip for swtiching from the external paddle to a straight key. #Press the KEYSPD button and then the LOCK button and the display with show MANUAL. #This disables the internal keyer. #The reverse to swtich back to a paddle. #
# # I highly recommend the PC-500 for the entry-level ham, QRP buff, or any ham who would like to support a US manufactuer. #Yes, this one is made in the good old USA in New York by a very small company. #Frank personally builds each rig and checks it out before shipping. #The factory service and support is second to none. # Patcomm's WEB page is:
#www.patcommradio.com #
# # For a more comprehensive review of the PC-500 check CQ magazine May 2001, page 40. #Some other reviews of the Patcomm equipment line that I forgot to mention in my reviews of the PC-9000 and the PC-16000A are:
QST November 1999, page 68 for the PC-9000. #
QST December 2000, page 67 for the PC-16000A.
CQ June 2000, page 52 for the PC-16000A.
CQ April 1998, page 22 for the PC-16000.
QST February 1998, page 62 for the PC-16000.
Cheers from Bob, K9FOH. #
ex: #KR6FJ, Okinawa 1964-65; #KA2BL, Japan 1970-74; #KA1BL & KA1DX, Marcus Island 1973-74 DX-peditions; #KA1CQ, Iwo Jima 1973 DX-expedition; #G5EBA, England 1981-84.