Ameco AC-1 CW QRP Transmitter and Homebrew Receiver

Here is my vintage Ameco AC-1 Ham Radio novice CW transmitter on 40 Meters at about 5 watts output, along with my homebrew receiver and station controller (keyer and TR switch). If you are not familiar with this vintage novice rig, google search and you will find some interesting information on it. The AC-1's signal is being monitored in the shack for this video with a Kenwood R-1000 receiver - my homebrew receiver has only headphone audio output right now. As you can hear, my AC-1 produces a clean and stable signal. Hope you enjoy the video!! 73, Jack WA6KYO

RECEIVER INFO: I've been getting questions about my homebrew receiver. It is a simple solid state direct conversion type with two separate audio filters for added selectivity. It's basic, but actually works quite well on 40 meters. The metal box above the chassis and just behind the National Vernier dial is the VFO and is extremely stable. I will make a video demonstrating the receiver soon.

For more info on the AC-1, including partial replica kits, decals, coil forms, etc... there is an AC-1 Yahoo Group:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/amecoac1/

Here's another great AC-1 page:
http://www.qsl.net/wb1gfh/ameco.html

Looking for more info on homebrewing your own replica? Original instruction manual, schematics and parts list information can be found here:
http://www.qsl.net/wb1gfh/ameco1.html

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• ameco ac-1
• ac1
• qrp
• cw transmitter
• vintage rig
• ham radio
• homebrew receiver
• cool electronics
• J-38
• J38 telegraph key
• amateur radio
• morse code
• tube electronics
• valve
• DYI projects
• home made
• DYI electronics

[ahhuic]

Very nice setup! Would you please tell me more infomation of that homebrew receiver, It's looks like build by vaccum tube and had few noise. Thank you.

73! BD6IVX

[TechDemos]

Hello and tnx for the comment! I have added some info on the receiver in the video description.

73, Jack WA6KYO

[GlobalAntennaWorks]

I wonder if you could tell me the output specifications of the power transformer on the AC-1.

Also if you know the specifications on the filter choke that would come in handy too.

Great video. I'd like to see another where you snag some sweet DX.

73 de WE5I

[TechDemos]

Hello and thanks for the comment! I have posted some useful links in the "more info" description for this video. There are many AC-1 replicas on the air. Visit these pages for more information on restoring an AC-1 or homebrewing your own version of one. 73, Jack WA6KYO

[G6PBS]

wa6kyo de g6pbs

nice setup - qrp & homebrew = fb

73

Colin

[TechDemos]

Tnx Colin! Stay tuned for some more QRP/Homebrew videos! 73, Jack

[N2RRAny]

Awesome vid! I'm inspired!

[pjvolkma]

@w5lxg1

Some more "constructive" commentary:

Tuning up on the air is both a common practice and specifically allowed under Part 97 of the rules as a permitted type of one-way communication.

Many transmitters require adjustment with the antenna (not a dummy load) attached for a clean, chirp free signal.

This is a very nice looking and great sounding station.

That "Novice accent" comment is a cheap shot. Unless you meant that you are a Novice? Sorry, maybe I misunderstood.

[K7AGE]

I used to have the AC-1 as a Novice back in the late 60s. I think I trashed it in the 70s sometime. Big mistake, these thing go for big bucks today. I really wished that you provided some narration to explain your station. K7AGE

[teamfab]

@richardyingren Well said that man....

[richardyingren]

This is the REAL amateur radio, aluminium and components can make something quite wonderful. A real achievement. Thank goodness someone still can do this. 73 M0VRK

[jdh1812]

Nice set-up. Nothing gives the satisfaction like working someone on a home brew station you made!

de

AB4MS

[tvictor59]

Really cool. After 40 years I can still copy. Thanks for posting. Anything more you can tell us about your receiver?

73 de WB2STR

[rmachayes]

Nice fist om. I have been a cw op for over 29 years now, and prefer straight key, but can use iambic as well as side swipers. CW forever!! 73''s Mac

[Badwsky]

Are you directly keying the cathode? If you are Dude, watch out! I suspect not because I hear a keying HV isolation relay that may also be doubling as a t/r relay. FB OM 73 DE WW2W Tony NYC

[soroastronik]

que espactaculares equipos y en que buenas condiciones estan, me hacen acordar mis viejas construcciones a valvulas en AM en 80 y 40... ! espectacular ¡