HF Signals has announced the launch of the zBitx, a 5-watt QRP all-in-one transceiver with integrated 64-bit SDR technology. The zBitx offers coverage from 80M to 10M across multiple modes, including CW, SSB, AM, FreeDV, FT8, and SSTV, all controlled via a 480×320 touchscreen. Compact and lightweight, it measures just 5.5″ x 3″ x 1.25″ and weighs 250 grams (9 ounces), making it small enough to fit in your pocket. It operates on two standard 18650 batteries, capable of delivering up to 10 watts of power.
The zBitx is essentially a variant of the popular sBitx Transceiver introduced last year by Ashhar Farhan (VU2ESE). Leveraging the Raspberry Pi Zero, the zBitx operates on the same codebase as its predecessor, the sBitx.
These modifications have significantly reduced the cost, making the zBitx an affordable, all-around, multipurpose SSB Transceiver suitable for a wide range of amateur radio enthusiasts.
Key features include an intuitive touch screen with an on-screen keyboard for CW operation, even without a paddle, and a built-in microphone for SSB use. The zBitx is a self-contained FT8 station, enabling seamless operation without the need for external computers or complex wiring setups. Users can tune directly to FT8 frequencies and tap on callsigns to complete QSOs effortlessly.
The zBitx runs on best-in-class open-source software, continuously improved by a vibrant community of developers and experimenters. This ensures the device remains cutting-edge. The CW mode offers an exceptional experience with ringless filtering down to 50 Hz, a responsive on-screen keyboard, a sensitive CW decoder, editable macros, and an integrated logger with ADIF export capabilities.
For SSB and AM operations, the zBitx includes an integrated voice equalizer and variable voice bandwidth to reduce fatigue in noisy environments. It also comes preloaded with apps such as Fldigi, FreeDV, and QSSTV, ensuring compatibility with any RigCtrl-compatible Linux software.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 156mm x 80mm x 35mm (including battery case)
- Weight: 415 grams (with two LiPo batteries)
- Display: 480×320 resistive touchscreen with Raspberry Pico front panel controller
- Frequency Coverage: 80M to 10M international ham bands
- Power Output: 5 watts (reduced on 15M, 12M, and 10M bands)
- Power Supply: 6V to 9V
- Current Consumption: Receive: 300 mA, Transmit: 1.5 to 3A
- Modes: USB, LSB, AM, CW, CW-Reverse, FT8, Digital (via Fldigi)
- Preloaded Apps: FreeDV, QSSTV, Fldigi (more to come)
With its open-source hardware and software, compact design, and versatile functionality, the zBitx is an ideal transceiver for both base station and field operations, catering to amateur radio enthusiasts worldwide.
For more details, visit HF Signals.
