ANAN-G1 100 W KV and 6m SDR transceiver

Introduction

In the world of amateur radio broadcasting, Apache Labs strives to push the boundaries of technology performance and availability SDR (Software Defined Radio). One of their interesting products is ANAN-G1, 100 W HF/6 m SDR transceiver, which is designed for radio amateurs who want to combine modern digital signal processing with high performance and reliability.

Architecture and main features

It forms the core of the device 16-bit AD/DA converter, which provides an impressive dynamic range and helps minimize distortion in both reception and transmission. An FPGA unit, specifically Intel Cyclone 10, guarantees sufficient computing capacity for DSP operations, management and multireceiver operation.

Preamplifier with a high dynamic range and filtering (e.g. TX bandpass filtering, BCB reject high-pass filter) ensures resistance to interference and strong signals. The entire device is housed in a robust aluminum construction, which also serves as a cooler, providing good thermal stabilization.

Performance and operating characteristics

It reaches on KV and 6m bands output power up to 100 W (for CW, SSB, FM, digital modes), while for AM mode it is possible to transmit in the range of 1–30 W.

The device supports four independent software receivers, which can work simultaneously from one antenna (antenna sharing). Each of these receivers can display a spectrum with a width of 48, 96 or 192 kHz.

In addition, it is possible full duplex operation (with the possibility of different RX/TX in the entire range of 160 m to 6 m).

Immunity to unwanted signals is loosely expressed as imperceptible signal compression (gain compression) should not occur at levels below the overload threshold ADC.

Broadcasting IMD (intermodulation distortion) at 10 W at 20 m typically reaches values ​​below –50 dBc (third order), which in practice means decent purity of the transmitted signal.

Technical specifications and parameters

• Income coverage: 10 kHz to 55 MHz (in some versions up to 60 MHz)

• Architecture: direct sampling DDC/DUC (direct sampling)

• Power supply: 13.8 V DC, maximum current in reception approx. 3 A, in transmission up to 25 A

• Dimensions: approximately 10.4″ × 3.11″ × 10.87″

• Weight: about 15.8 lb (about 7.2 kg)

• Receiver sensitivity: with built-in preamplifier and typical noise floor in the 500 Hz band -135 dBm

• Input attenuator: software adjustable from 1 to 31 dB in 1 dB steps

Software, control and extensibility

The device is controlled via Ethernet interface, while the FPGA firmware (code) can be updated via the TCP/IP network.

Supported software includes the OpenHPSDR platform, especially the popular package Thetis (and also PiHPSDR) for control, spectrum visualization, DSP effects and control functionalities.

In addition, the G1 has seven user-configurable open-collector outputs that can be independently configured by band or TX/RX mode. These outputs are often used to control relays, switch antennas, switch power stages sequentially, and the like

Microphone PTT (Push-To-Talk) can be jumpered to tip or ring cable and power is also provided for the electret microphone via a jumper.

Comparison of ANAN-G1 with the competition

1. Apache Labs ANAN-G1 vs. FlexRadio FLEX-6400

• Performance: both offer 100 W on HF and 6 m.

• Architecture: G1 uses Cyclone 10 FPGA and 16-bit AD/DA with direct sampling, FLEX-6400 has a similar architecture, but with greater integration and tight coupling with proprietary software SmartSDR.

• Receivers: ANAN-G1 can handle 4 current receivers, FLEX-6400 only 2.

• Software: FLEX is easier to use (SmartSDR, remote access via Internet), ANAN is more open and flexible (Thetis, OpenHPSDR), but requires more knowledge.

• Price: FLEX is more expensive, G1 is more affordable with similar performance.

2. Apache Labs ANAN-G1 vs. Elecraft K4

• Performance: Both ~100 W on HF/6 m.

• Receivers: K4 has a modular concept – the basic model has 1 RX, expandable to more, G1 has 4 RX.

• DSP and SDR functions: Elecraft K4 has a modern touch screen and local control (no PC required), G1 needs a computer or an external client.

• Flexibility: G1 is more oriented towards experimenters (open software, community-driven), K4 is commercially tuned with an emphasis on user comfort.

• Price: Elecraft K4 is significantly more expensive (double to triple).

3. Apache Labs ANAN-G1 vs. Apache Labs ANAN-7000DLE MkII

• Architecture: 7000DLE uses a more powerful FPGA and has 8 RX, G1 is a compact model with 4 RX.

• Performance: Both 100 W.

• Target group: 7000DLE je high-end pre contest a DX-ing vo veľkom štýle, G1 je menší brat – cenovo dostupnejší, ale stále veľmi výkonný.

• Dimensions and weight: G1 is lighter and more compact, which will be appreciated by portable and smaller hamshacks.

Advantages, use and focus

ANAN-G1 it is designed to provide high performance and advanced SDR features at a price that is relatively competitive in the SDR world. It is the ideal device for radio amateurs who do not need more than 100 W of power, but want to use the modern advantages of SDR - flexible DSP on-the-fly, multiple receivers, software filters, automatic updates and advanced control.

Je vhodný na DX prevádzku, súťaže (contest), experimentovanie so slabými signálmi (weak-signal work), ako aj bežné denné používanie v KV a 6 m pásmach. Vďaka dobrej odolnosti k rušeniu a čistému výstupu môže byť aj v prostredí s množstvom signálov či silných blízkych vysielačov.

Potential disadvantages may be associated with the requirement for a powerful computer, a good network connection and familiarity with SDR software. Also, the packaging and cooling must be properly designed, as the power stages and internal components produce heat.

Conclusion

ANAN-G1 is a powerful and competitive SDR transceiver with a power of 100 W for KV and 6 m bands. Thanks to advanced hardware (16-bit AD/DA, FPGA), support for multiple independent receivers, full duplex operation and reliable construction, it is an interesting choice for radio amateurs looking for a sophisticated platform capable of growing with their requirements. Presale price is 95. Would you be tempted? If so, visit https://apache-labs.com/product-detail/ANAN-G1-100w-hf-6m-sdr-transceiver