I have completed the SolderSmoke-DCR Attenuator / Band Pass Filter module. In this video I demonstrate it working with the help of the non-SolderSmoke-DCR audio amplifier I had available from an earlier project. During the testing, I compare the SolderSmole-DCR's audio with my MAX-SSB superhet transceiver using an A/B audio switch. Based on just listening by ear, I feel the SolderSmoke-DCR is receiving as well as my MAX-SSB superhet, with the notable difference being the superhet's audio is a little more restrained (audio bandwidth narrower) due to its 2.5 kHz wide crystal filter.
Background: Bill N2CQR of the SolderSmoke podcast and blog, has been working on a Direct Conversion receiver project with Dean KK4DAS to be used as a High School Direct Conversion Receiver Project (here: soldersmoke.blogspot.com/2023/... ). Bill asked for others to build the DC receiver to help in testing; so as a result, I have begun reproducing the receiver. So far I have 75% of the modules complete; the PTO (Permeability Tuned Oscillator) a.k.a. VFO and/or L.O., the Diode Ring Mixer / Diplexer, and the Attenuator / Band Pass filter, with the only remaining module to complete being the Audio Amplifier . My build of the project is modular, and I have not made any changes to Bill and Dean's published design other than some very minor component value changes to match what I had in my junk-box, and the addition of an extra bypass capacitor here and there to support my modular layouts.
Schematic:
www.remmepark.com/circuit6040/...
Project page:
www.remmepark.com/circuit6040/...
73 - Rick - N3FJZ.