In the middle of March 2012 you could see a note about Russian SDR Transceiver ZS-1. https://www.cqdx.ru/ham/new-equipment/russian-zs-1-sdr-transceiver. Now ZS-1 is updated. It became some extra connectors and useful functions.
First of all it equipped with a separate KEY and PTT connectors. CW key and keyer paddle are accepted now. Automatic key with software adjustments is realized in FPGA.
External power amplifier is controlled via TX and ALC connectors.
ACC connector allows to control up to 8 external devices in direct mode or more with an external decoder. The software will be implemented to customize ACC connector functions. For example, it can be used to control band filters on the output of the external power amplifier or to control an external antenna switch.
Reworked amplifier provides 15W output power. Minimum output transmitter power is 1 mW. In low output power mode signal can be transmitted at any frequency in the range 300kHz – 30MHz. This allows, in combination with the built-in SWR meter, to use the transceiver for antenna analysis and adjustments.
Receiver frequency range is also extended down to 300kHz.
Now the ZS-1 SDR transceiver has acquired additional functionality and enhanced capabilities for external connections, while ideology and structure remained the same. The main transceiver units are also remained unchanged. And as a consequence, all parameters remained at the same high level.
Soon the ZS-1 will be shown at the Ham Radio fair 2012 in Friedrichshafen. After that ZS-1 will be distributed together with CE certification and 2 years warranty. It is planned to get FCC certification, what will make this transceiver available worldwide.
Additional information is available in the Yahoo group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ZS1SDR/.