Here is a brief write-up of my new SW-3B: http://ae5x.blogspot.com/2019/08/a-few-notes-on-new-sw-3b-qrp-transceiver_33.html 73, John AE5X
SW3b sounds like a great value. Not sure about servicing if it fails, but that comes with the Chinese angle. Some of the things you say don't come with the Mtr3b, do, actually: Fully built, not a kit (MTR3B IS AVAILABLE FULLY ASSEMBLED) 8 frequency memories for each band Dual mode receive (CW/SSB) with fixed bandwidths for each mode (400Hz/2kHz) Automatic CQing (MTR3B HAS THIS) Variable rate rotary tuning (MTR3B HAS VARIABLE RATE TUNING, BUT NOT ROTARY) LCD backlight Separate RF and AF gain controls Significantly lower in price ($188 vs. $350)
I didn't remember the MTR-3B having auto CQing. What I do wish the SW-3B having from the MTR is the ability to QSY to a specific frequency by being commanded to it via the paddles. Pat, I hope you like it! I used mine yesterday in all three 1-hour sessions of the CWT CW contest and have no problem recommending this radio. It performed well. When we get away from this 95-100 heat I hope to do a park activation with it. 73 - John
The DFE is a nice touch on the MTR. I regretted selling mine but I think I might have to get the new version, the BNC and LCD make it a whole new radio. Well, sort of.
Relay free, like the HS-1A/MFJ-9200. Nice. Given the feature set, look like a lot of the HS-1A MCU code is inside this one. Be a fun project to write up a manual for the rig, like I did for the -9200, but not willing to spend the $$ to obtain a unit. Looks like a solid rig at a decent price point.
There is. An operating manual. My technical manual has a detailed theory of operation for each section (TX and RX) and illustrated parts breakdown w/part numbers and source & many photos showing test points, voltages and so on. The is a detailed troubleshooting tree with suggested fixes. An authorized copy sits here if you wish to look at it... http://www.ok1in.cz/userfiles/downloads/08_25_`17_MFJ9200_Troubleshooting_guide.pdf My apologies for not being more detailed.
