I setup and bench test the Digi Rig with my G90 QRP Radio for FT8. Then i use the 4State 10watt dump load to bench test the system. Special %5 off with Promo Code "Tank" from GigaParts Parts Links: Digi Rig kits - https://www.gigaparts.com/nsearch/?lp=TANKRADIO
The DigiRig is a nice gadget. But everybody needs to check before buying, if its really useful in the own homeshack. At next the solution for the handhelds at the VHF / UHF frequencies is nice. But there should be no wonder to be awaited. Because handhelds got problems with bigger antennas to get into operation. And the small standard antennas, which are normally comes with the devices, cant provide the needed sensitivity for a point to point QSO without a repeater for a long distance. And to wait for the right conditions can force frustration.
Nice Video, Frank!! I really enjoy your enthusiasm when you post a vid. I really like that DigiRig gizmo for its size and packability when you want to go into the field. I decided I wanted to do the same sort of thing with multiple capabilities (FT-8, PSK, Winlink, etc) built into my little Xiegu G-90 setup. When I began, I decided on the XGGComms Digimode-4 ... it is in the same price class as the DigiRig ... just a little larger box. I did try a setup using the Xiegu CT-19 first, but the wiring was a mess (my soldering skills made it worse) and it relied on my laptop sound card, so I scrapped it. I really like the Digimode-4, but I think if the DigiRig was available back then, it might have worked just as well.
Awesome and thank you for feedback. I haven't heard of the Digimode-4 before now. I will have to look into it. I really like the size and probability of the DigiRig is and it work great in the field. only one wire to the computer, and I am loving it.
The Digimode-4 works really great with the G90 and the vendor is very helpful if there are questions.
Very glad you made this video. It helped me see how easy it could be to get the G90 onto the Digital Modes. I'd been meaning to try to get the G90 going digital and put together a small, portable FT8 and Winlink setup. You made the process look very straightforward and I was able to see all the pieces that I would need. Very cool! Thanks for taking the time to share your experience with this. 73!
Being a fellow Texan, how is the G90 handling the heat up there in DFW while on FT-8? Im wanting to get mine up and running with a digirig on Ft-8 as well, but its been a touch toasty in Waco recently and even operating phone has gotten the case on my G90 pretty warm (although the G90 is showing no ill effects). I operate portable about 99% of the time just FYI so that outdoor ambient temp is pretty important to me.
One thing I would not like with the Digirig is that there is no adjustment pots for tx and rx like on a signallink. I use these all the time. 73 -Mike
Constant need of adjustments is not really a benefit. With Digirig, once you've set up the audio levels on the computer they're saved and work every time. There is no need for PTT delay adjustment - computer has explicit control of the timing and it just works.
I'm down in south central Texas and have added the G90 fan accessory to my radio. My G90 seems to have no heat up issues when operating out of doors. I simply carry a folded cardboard "sunguard" shade that i place above the radio to keep direct sunlight off the radio case itself.
