Currently I am running a 100 watt Kenwood TS-520 transceiver, my first rig (a 70's era hybrid - the driver and output stages use tubes). The 520 goes through a Daiwa SWR meter, then to an A-B switch, to select either a dummy load or the Murch UT-2000A tuner. The tuner feeds a 4:1 ferrite-core current balun, inside of a weatherproof pvc box, mounted on an 8' ground rod) with 6 feet of RG-8 between the balun and the tuner, to keep RF outside of the shack. The balun output has a lightning arrestor, 100k resistor from each leg to ground, and uses 300 ohm ladder-line to an un-tuned 120' long, center-fed Zepp, about 35' high at the feed point.

For monitoring digital modes, I have an HP computer, with FLDigi and for Slow-scan TV pictures, I have MMSSTV and Easypal installed. I use a simple interface with isolation transformers for transmit and receive audio, and an opto-isolator (output hooked in parallel with mike key switch) to key the 520 from the computer serial port output.

• 1 - Storage for keyboard, misc.
• 2 - Monitor
• 3 - Digital interface
• 4 - Digital readout (using VFO output on rear of 520, and switch-selectable, programmable offsets for each band to give conventional frequency readout -10 Hz resolution)
• 5 - Power outlet strip
• 6 - 31 Band equalizer
• 7 - Powered speakers for eq. output
• 8 - Murch UT-2000A transmatch (roller-type inductor)
• 9 - Daiwa SWR meter
• 10 - Antenna/ dummy load switch
• 11 - Kenwood TS-520 transceiver
• 12 - Toroid in mike cord (#43- 2.4" diam.)
• 13 - 1000W "paint can" dummy load
• 14 - MC-50 mike
• 15 - Steel shelving unit - 36' W x 15" D x 36" H. Aluminum window screen around sides and back to form (partial) Faraday cage.

A useable system doesn't have to cost a fortune, if you are willing to do a little shopping, and don't demand all the latest "bells and whistles" (and don't mind a little manual tuning).

The 520 & mike - $350 (on consignment) at a local dealer. Transmatch - $75, SWR meter - $50 at Ham auction. Dummy load - $35 & Digital readout kit - $30, online auction. Computer system - old XP system, not being used. Programs - freeware, downloaded online.