First Prototype Transmitter Stats

[NZ0I]

The first fully-assembled prototype transmitter has been achieved. It does not contain the updated 2m transmitter design, so it isn't capable of more than 170 mW on 2 meters, but the form and fit is close enough to the final design to get some numbers. So I threw it on the kitchen scale and pulled out the ruler:

• The finished product is small (4.724" L x 3.543" W x 3.150"H, or 120.00mm L x 89.99mm W x 80.00mm H) - that's 53 in^3 (0.87 liters)
• It is light (under 0.88 lbs, or 400g)
• A dozen could fit easily into a backpack for carrying and weigh just 10.6 lbs (4.8 kg) total.

Those numbers include the battery, all parts, and boards. They are maximum numbers measured for the larger Hammond box (PN 1554G2GYCL), so it will be possible to bring those numbers down by ~10% or so by using the smaller Hammond box (PN 1554F2GYCL).

The antennas will add some weight. But an 80m transmit antenna weighing less than 6 ounces (170 g) has been designed. So it should be possible to put an entire 80m course (for any event) into an average-size backpack (1830 in^3, or 30 Liters) and still have plenty of room for your tool kit and lunch bag, and it won't cause any back injuries when carried!