A cheap toy, but it looks kinda fun to play with. (SI4732 0.5-108mhz Pocket Mini Radio)

[AB5ID]

Do you know the link to the most current version of software... and maybe foolproof upgrade instructions?

I think the video is ok to follow now the developer came out with a revised firmware and closed the issue on git hub.

 

[YoShep69]

I think the video is ok to follow now the developer came out with a revised firmware and closed the issue on git hub.

Are you referring to the video in message #47? Mine is not here yet.
Hopefully it is still enroute.

Thanks!

 

[AB5ID]

Are you referring to the video in message #47? Mine is not here yet.
Hopefully it is still enroute.

Sorry about that
post 38
I would watch both videos as they are using the same instructions and files.

 

[saioke]

I wish my 3D design skill were better. It would be so cool to have a 3D storage case for this little radio... maybe with a second side to store some cheap earbuds.

How is that little antenna anyways? I've seen it plastered on a lot of Chinese websites like AliExpress. They typically sell for single digits and they seem to have favorable reviews (Unless they're botted).

How well does it receive 40m?

 

[Omega-TI]

How is that little antenna anyways? I've seen it plastered on a lot of Chinese websites like AliExpress. They typically sell for single digits and they seem to have favorable reviews (Unless they're botted).

How well does it receive 40m?

My experience, (your's may very) is that it's a POS, so don't waste your money. What we need is an appropriate connector with a small rod sticking up about an inch so we can use one of those Sangean type shortwave antennas like shown below.

 

[saioke]

My experience, (your's may very) is that it's a POS, so don't waste your money. What we need is an appropriate connector with a small rod sticking up about an inch so we can use one of those Sangean type shortwave antennas like shown below.

I figured, I mean I've seen them for less than 90 cents on eBay, but I know they make various colors supposedly for different bands too. I hear the blue one is better for lower stuff.

Those Youloops are supposedly really good antennas but they usually sell for $25-30. Probably cheaper to make your own honestly if the schematics are out there.

 

[AB5ID]

The maker of the ATS Mini has already spun the board to address major issues, including weak audio. The update also includes new firmware and several other hardware tweaks.

 

[spongella]

Yes, I bought it for $27USD and have had a great time playing with it. The SSB works pretty well, if you see his follow up video, BFO can be adjusted via the menu. While not the best radio in my arsenal, it works pretty well (I use an indoor amplified loop) with the right antenna. As would be expected, the audio output is weak, but listenable. I have wasted way more $ on lunch and consider this a fun radio to take out and not worry about losing it.

I like your philosophy. I've wasted more on pipe tobacco so I'll get one of these. Thanks for the inspiration.

 

[spongella]

Nice little radio. Don't forget to wear your bifocals hihi.

 

[Omega-TI]

The maker of the ATS Mini has already spun the board to address major issues, including weak audio. The update also includes new firmware and several other hardware tweaks.

They've not hit Amazon yet. If it comes with the mods and the newer software, I'll pop as well.

 

[AB5ID]

Nice little radio. Don't forget to wear your bifocals hihi.

For the save amount of money, you might want to take a look at the ATS20+. It uses the same receiver chip as the Mini but is controlled by an Arduino instead of an ESP32. The ATS20+ is about the size of two cigarette packs, has an aluminum chassis, a large speaker, and eight dedicated push buttons. I own both and tend to prefer the ATS20+, which I would recommend over the Mini. That said, I still find myself using both throughout the week.

 

[Omega-TI]

For the save amount of money, you might want to take a look at the ATS20+. It uses the same receiver chip as the Mini but is controlled by an Arduino instead of an ESP32. The ATS20+ is about the size of two cigarette packs, has an aluminum chassis, a large speaker, and eight dedicated push buttons. I own both and tend to prefer the ATS20+, which I would recommend over the Mini. That said, I still find myself using both throughout the week.

While it's physically larger, the smaller monochrome display on the ATS20+ is the deal breaker for me. As an old man, it kinda sucks that I cannot read the small stuff like I used to. Also, since there are many inexpensive amplified speaker alternatives in this day and age, I'd rather go that route.

 

[Omega-TI]

... oh by the way, the affiliate link results in a 404 page after a split second view of the radio. Could it be they are blocking it until all the other older models are sold?

 

[Omega-TI]

It was a little tough to find, but if someone wants one of the newer models with upgraded software, this link works.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256808748513074.html

 

[AB5ID]

While it's physically larger, the smaller monochrome display on the ATS20+ is the deal breaker for me. As an old man, it kinda sucks that I cannot read the small stuff like I used to. Also, since there are many inexpensive amplified speaker alternatives in this day and age, I'd rather go that route.

For they DIY project. ;-)

 

[Omega-TI]

For they DIY project. ;-)

Anyone want to place any bets on how long it'll be before this turns up on Aliexpress or Ebay, maybe even Amazon as a complete out-of-the-box radio?

 

[AB5ID]

New update this little low buck bucket of fun continues to amaze the tinkerer in me. Now can do on screen CW / digital decoding.

H.J. Berndt’s Firmware for the ATS-Mini DSP Radio

Berndt’s firmware is an alternative, community-built firmware for ATS-Mini-style receivers (ESP32-S3 with Si4732)

vu3dxr.in

 

[AB5ID]

Great deal on this one as of Sunday evening.

https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256808526969838.html

 

[foxtail]

I figure it won't be long before the mark-up gets to be too much. 25-30 dollars now, 60-80 dollars sooner or later...

 

[AB5ID]

I figure it won't be long before the mark-up gets to be too much. 25-30 dollars now, 60-80 dollars sooner or later...

It's funny because these radios bounce around on price from $20 - $50. I don't know if there's a tracking tool for AliExpress but it would be useful.