Xiegu X108 Firmware Update

http://www.cqxiegu.com

 Xiegu has come through once again with their latest firmware update to take care of a few small problems that were on the latest version of the X108G OLED outdoor version.

The first fix about a month ago was to address the issue with the Iambic keyer adding extra characters in while trying to send code. That was fixed and all is good now when using a paddle.

This newest firmware update takes care of a few things:
1) Fixed the A=B issue
2) Split mode-You can now work cw on on one VFO and voice on another for working nets when no microphone is available.
3) Split band is also working now so you can operate cross band if required
4) SQL adjustable levels also added to menu

One can now send code using the microphone PTT button while in CW mode in the event a key is not present, there is however no sidetone heard when doing this.
From what I read or what I think I read it looks like maybe one could send code while in USB mode, the rig does key up but there is very little RF going out, you can hear a carrier on another radio but no power deflection is visible.

This is a direct copy from the Xiegu Firmware Folder:

I. Update description

[A=B]

A=B functions are available

[Split screen] mode

Update the transceiver switching logic, both two VFO in any mode, split screen mode are effective.

1.     The PTT switch is no longer disabled in CW mode. Ignoring automatically key settings when PTT is pressed (by pressing the manual key logic), enter the sending State and CW tone generated (microphone effective at this time), release the PTT to produce a state of setting CW the delay time of switching and quit sending.

2.     When not in CW mode, no longer disable keying. Keying action and the VFO key were setup consistent (hand keys left / right automatic key). At this point, the carrier is related to the current VFO mode( Into the launch logic will open the carrier switch).

Key behavior in CW mode is not affected.

PTT behavior is not affected when there is not in CW mode.

3.     [SQL]

Updated SQL code

1.     SQL=0, invalid squelch;

2.     SQL=1~10, the squelch invalid when S signal is greater than the SQL value, otherwise, squelch effectively.

4.     [SQL]

When the user upset the X108G data, you can press the RST key, so that the X108G to restore the calibration data.

II. Firmware update tutorial:

1.     Press the frequency knob (keep the action), turn on, connect the USB cable to the computer.

2.     Open “ My computer”, there is a Update X108 (*:) mobile storage device.

3.     Open Update X108 (*), delete the file, this time on the radio will show delete progress (waiting for progress to complete 100%).

4.     Copy the latest firmware to the Update X108 (*:) to wait for replication to complete, and then disconnect the USB and the computer.

5.     Restart X108G, firmware update is completed!

                                  Xiegu Tech

Updated YouKits Webpage

Yimin has been hard at work with some updates at the YouKits webpage and some new and updated projects coming.

The HB1B MKIII 2015 is almost ready to roll out onto the market. The HB1B MKII is my favorite rig that I take portable with me all the time when I fly up North.

YouKits can be found at : http://www.youkits.com

We look forward to some of the new toys that YouKits has to offer the ham who likes to operate portable and low power, as well as accessories to help with those antenna projects like antenna analyzers and tuners.



The TJ2B handheld is also being re-worked, Yimin says this on his webpage:

 TJ2B in upgrade some new functions!
November 14, 2015 • new products
TJ2B is in upgrade!
High-performance audio AMP IC SA58631 raising audio output level
High-performance IF AGC
Power level indicator
Battery level indicator.
They are scheduled to release at middle of Dec 2015.

So keep an eye on the YouKits webpage for future new products and upgrades.

Portable Zero Accessories

In the past few months I purchased a few radio accessories from Mike W0MSN at Portable Zero
http://www.portablezero.com/icom706.html

My first purchase was the IC706 Escort for my Icom IC703. I ordered the Escort directly from Mike and had it in my hand in only a few days. The product was as described, easy to install and attach to the radio. Service and shipping from Mike was fantastic.

So I was looking for and in the market for a good bag for my Xiegu X108G, tuner and accessories. Well the X108G is not much larger then my FT817 so figured this would work just about right for the radio allowing me to take it out in the field. So looking at Mikes Portable Zero sight I was thrilled to see The Sherpa Bag.
Mike's description for the bag is as follows:
"The 817 Sherpa Pack is the perfect way to transport your Yaesu FT-817 transceiver, tuner and accessories. Order item 817-SP"



I sent an email to Mike about my order, he replied asking what my address would be to ship the radio and then I was sent a PayPal Invoice in very short time. I replied to Mike and within a very short time I had confirmation that the bag was being shipped out Friday morning, it was just after 2:00PM on Thursday that I placed the order..

I look forward to the Sherpa Bag arriving and allowing me to take the X108G outdoors in a  nice all in one ready to go kit.

I thank Mike at Portable Zero LLC for his efforts and his quick and speedy service and top quality gear.

Fred
VE3FAL