WA2ZKD

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WA2ZKD
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  • kiwi cluster

    all systems running now... 2 unloaded kiwi/BBAI run 31 deg. and the 2 with 14 channels of continuous kiwiclient run 34 deg, in my cool basement
    Powernumpty
  • kiwi cluster

    Project is done mechanically, just needed to update the firmware in everything, configure and hook up antennas.
    Pix may be viewed at https://www.dropbox.com/sh/x7tt18loi84bpg3/AADLeN3iU6g7ZoPi520opbQpa?dl=0
    rz3dvp
  • Alternate cooling method

    Almost ready... removed paper ducts and with 4X 14 ch installed max temp at 100% CPU is 44 deg C, a 19C rise
    KA7UPowernumpty
  • kiwi cluster

    Since I've found an adequate cooling scheme, see: http://forum.kiwisdr.com/discussion/1939/alternate-cooling-method#latest

    I have gone on to finalize my "kiwi cluster", 4ea BBAI based units combined with a common fan.



    I went this route to reduce fan noise. The box on the back is a plenum for a single 90 X 90 mm AC fan. I used a best quality ball bearing fan.

    Initially (see other thread) I had some ducting in the inlet side of the kiwi enclosure. I found today that was no longer needed, I stay below 44C, only 19 deg above room ambient.

    Some of you may say "wow, that's a lot of dollars"... I can duplicate that for $1400 or $25/channel (there's the potential for 56 channels there). Better performance and less money that dongles!!
    rz3dvp
  • Alternate cooling method

    Almost ready... removed paper ducts and with 4X 14 ch installed max temp at 100% CPU is 44 deg C, a 19C rise
    KA7UPowernumpty
  • Alternate cooling method

    The evolving kiwi cluster
    PowernumptyKA7UG0LUJ
  • Alternate cooling method

    The evolving kiwi cluster
    PowernumptyKA7UG0LUJ
  • Alternate cooling method

    The evolving kiwi cluster
    PowernumptyKA7UG0LUJ
  • Alternate cooling method

    simple alum. and yes I designed it and made them with a water-cutter. I'll publish the drawing. I have that cardboard baffle there to defleact the air to a more favorable path.
    KA7U
  • rx.linkfanel.net receiver map moving to Leaflet

    Relative to that topic, is there any how-to, guide or documentation anywhere to improving and tuning reception quality on your KiwiSDR?

    I do not think there is anything in one spot. There are many excellent posts here in this forum. Here's a summary of my experiences:
    • Have a reasonably good antenna and keep it away from known RFI sources.
    • Be conscious of things like MW BC overload and apply filters as required
    • Avoid switching PSU, some are quiet but most are not so try to use linear PSU
    • Understand Common Mode Interference, read up on it, applies the easy remedies like use of ferrite core and intermediate grounding on your feedline
    • Watch for spurious using the [SPEC] display on a KiwiSDR client webpage, much noise can be noted by "lumps" of noise or spurs carriers at repeating spacing across a band
    • ID noise spurious by turning things on/off within your dwelling ot near the antenna
    • a partial list...
    G0LUJKA7UG8JNJ