Crazy! A man portable RPi Powered HF Rig in an ammo can go box

as an fyi if you want something even better check out the UDRC pi Hat! its basically 2 radio interfaces in one for about $90! it fits on top of the pi, allows for 12v input and you could run the pi headless like in the video!

apparently they are also coming out with an all-in-one kit that also includes a gps receiver in a nice little metal box at some point in the near future.

 

I get about a full hour of use (SSB 100w) from a 7 AH battery. Enough for a mountain top expedition.

 

The RPi has a big advantage if you're worried about your power budget.

 

I recommend the book by Mark KI0PF, Milspec Radio Gear. I know Mark personally and wrote the review for ER Mag on Vol 2. If you can find a suitable green radio, the need for external widgets decreases.
The PRC320 is simple and relatively available and not really expensive.

https://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/books/0415.html

 

Have you ever read "Two Eggs on My Plate" about the resistance using Parasets during the German WW2 occupation?

 

My definition of QRO has been redefined. I thought QRO was greater that 100 Watts and QRP was lass than 100 Watts. I have several 50 Cal ammo cans that will take car batteries. I could hook up a 500 Watt amp and be QRO but it could not fit into a back pack let alone be carried easily to the field. Nice use of the newest battery technology and a new way to think of using the Raspberry Pi3B.

73, Larry WB8LBZ
El Paso, TX

 

I don't think anyone here in Texas would care about the color of my ammo can nor would it be the first thing anyone practicing PCism would notice about me. The 1911 in my drop leg holster would probably be the first thing they see...

 

I'm usually not looking to attract the wrong kind of attention from the park ranger whenever I setup at a public park to operate qrp.

 

I have a few things set up in these boxes and had the same thought. I like them because they make good battery carriers and cable holders and heatset containers. I used some Rustoleum spray paint (even on the plastics boxes) to make them a less obvious or potentially threatening color than Army Green. I also used some stencils to put Ham Radio and my call sign on the sides. Makes it easier to explain and faster to identify when I am with others. I have done a lot of multi-op field operations, including field day, and always try to color code my cables and equipment and adapters, etc. with some colored electrical tape (I like Orange) and my call sign on it with a sharpie. I sometimes still end up "losing" a small item or two, but labeling and color coding really cuts that down. I also take ARRL handouts with a local club contact noted on them on field operations and pass out quite a few to interested parties. Some people I even see at a club meeting sometimes as they become more interested or in licensing classes or VE sessions.

 

How do you connect the Rpi to the radio's interface. The Rpi only has audio output and no audio input. The rig control can be put into a USB port, but the audio?

 

Purple would be a good color. Purple has special meaning in Texas.

 

That is a cool idea. Makes for a great grab & go kit.