Getting started on what to buy

Warren

As the title starts, getting started on what to buy.  However, let me add a bit more info first.

I just recently passed all 3 exams (tech and general 8/25 and then extra 9/14).  Still researching on what things I want to start doing and what rig I want to get.

I came around Flex Radio from listening to a pod cast and it really sounds like what I should be looking into further and a prime candidate.

My question is about what else is required to setup a working system?  I come from the computer industry with many years experience there.  What I'm asking which there may be a link already, but it's kind of of a solution build out or minimum system requirements.  Also having a recommended items as well.  

Here's some of the things I gathered that are required but aren't spelled out or maybe understood by regular hams.   Some sort of antenna, DC power supply, cables (antenna feed, cables to power supply, RF ground cable?).

I believe an RF amplifier is optional?  Also, what specs for the DC power supply should be recommended as well. 

Hope this make sense.  It's kind of like getting a list at HomeDepot for a DIY build and listing all the items you'll need to make the project successful and giving suggestions how to make it great.

Thanks,
Warren
AJ6LZ

KF4HR

My question is about what else is required to setup a working system?

Much will depend on your requirements and constraints (if any).  To name a few, available space,  HOA restrictions, Budget?  A Flex transceiver with either an internal antenna tuner (ATU) or after-market ATU will suffice as your basic main unit.

If you opt for a "M" model Flex transceiver it comes with a built in display along with knobs and buttons for control.  The non-M models will require either a PC or laptop with an Ethernet connection, or a Flex Maestro, or iPad or iPhone for control (via LAN or WAN control). 

Minimal cable connections to the Flex Transceiver will be at least one coaxial cable (I recommend Times Microwave LMR-400 or equiv, although many other coax cables will work), Ground connection, an Ethernet cable if you're going to use your Flex Transceiver in a LAN or WAN configuration, and you'll need a 12vdc source capable of approximately 25amps.  (I recommend a linear power supply such as an Astron RM-35 or RM-50, but many other power supplies will work as long as they meet the necessary power requirements.)

Antennas can run the gambit from a long wire antenna, simple single band dipole, multi-band dipole, single or multi-band vertical, or yagi (AKA Beam) antennas such as the Spider or Hex Beams, or multi-band yagi antennas (Mosley, SteppIR, etc).

A HF Power Amplifier is optional.  We are currently at or near the null of the 11 year sun spot cycle so an Amplifier can be beneficial at times, although not absolutely necessary.

There are also numerous after-market items such as headphone/mic units, station monitors, wide(r) range ATU's, RF Switches, Dummy Load (highly recommended).

Paging through a Ham Radio Outlet, DX Engineering (and many other) catalogs (or online) will give you an idea of many of the station options available.

Just my .02.  Hope this helps.  Good luck and welcome!

Dwayne_AB6A

I would recommend a 50a power supply for your station - my 35A ran hot and was powering Radio, ATU, GPSDO external clock, and Maesteo

Bob- W5TX

Warren, I would recommend (depending on budget )either a 6400M or 6600M with Antenna Tuning Unit as an option. Since both of these units are self contained, when added to power supply and antenna will permit you to explore the bands and the hobby from the outset. The addition of a computer will provide additional flexibility and I believe enhance the experience. The radio will connect directly to the computer or via lan. A wire antenna should suffice initially until you get your feet wet and see what facets of ham radio you enjoy whereupon the choices are almost limitless. I believe a minimalist setup will avoid frustrations in station startup and operation familiarization. You have the advantage from your background to avoid many possible sidesteps. Becoming proficient in the radio/antenna etc should be a first goal. Of course, READ THE MANUALS both hardware and software (available online at Flex) and let the fun begin. The Flex systems are incredibly versatile and a bit of manual study will pay dividends in your enjoyment. Good luck and if you choose a Flex, welcome aboard and come back here if you need help or advice. Bob W5TX

Warren

I do have HOA type issues about antennas.  I'm planning on something like the 6400/6600 and getting a Maestro.  I was thinking about the built-in antenna tuner but wasn't sure.  Sounds like I should plan on that.  Also, wasn't even thinking how anything built-in would require more power.  Speaking of, what is the use case for having the GPSDO module? 

I do have internet to the room.  Any hints on if a new Maestro or an upgrade to provide WIFI 6 to it?  I really like the idea of having the flexibility of using the radio anywhere around the house including sitting out in the backyard.

Thanks for the replies and info.
Warren
AJ6LZ

Dwayne_AB6A

I went with a 6600 and purchased the Maestro separately and to be honest, don’t use the Maestro that much - the 6600 is a big upgrade from the 6400 and comes with a built in ATU.

Your antenna is just as important as the radio so spend serious research on antenna options vs just purchasing something cheap and simple.... I started with a G5RV Lite and it was poor compared to a random length wire End Fed Vertical I added later, and I would be better served by a rotating dipole if I had the room.

Neil D Friedman N3DF

Your success in erecting an efficient antenna will largely determine what you are able to accomplish with your station.

KF4HR

Warren -  I'm 100% sure about this (as I own a Flex-6700), but if you purchase the 6400 or 6600 (non-M models) you may also need to purchase a set of powered speakers (confirm by downloading the manuals).  I started out with Bose Companion 2 Series speakers.  They worked ok but I wanted something a better so I moved to he Audioengine A5+ speakers. 

I use my Maestro in and around my home regularly.  It works great. 

Your biggest hurdle may end up installing antenna(s) in an HOA environment.  You may want to look into that issue first.   

Tim N9PUZ

There lots of options. I use the following and am pleased with what I can accomplish. The biggest limitations in most stations are what types of antennas you can have based on budget, HOA, or family member restrictions/requirements. I would suggest always having at least an all band wire antenna of some sort. End fed, dipole, etc. doesn't matter too much.

• Flex 6400M w/ATU
• 30A Astron Power Supply
• Quad core Windows10 PC
• Wired Ethernet connections to the radio and the PC
• Yamaha CM500 Headset
• Bencher paddles
• End fed antenna that will cover 80M - 10M at about 50 ft.
• 2nd coax that goes outdoors and is used for antenna "experiments"
• 800W Ameritron amplifier w/tuner (seldom used)
• Various pieces of (mostly free/low cost) software for logging, digital modes, automatic keying, monitoring, etc.
  

Tim N9PUZ