HB-1a 3 band QRP rig

The HB-1a is a small 3 band QRP CW rig made in China. It was produced as a kit but today the HB-1A is offered as a complete product (batteries not included) using professional assembly with Surface Mounted Technology. The cost seems to be in line with most other rigs offering similar features, power output, multi-bands and of course, size. The current pricing including freight direct from the manufacturer represents a bargain when compared to other units offering similar features.

The digital display offers power output, RIT, storage frequencies as well as short-wave radio receiver functions.

This is an ideal transceiver for the CW enthusiast who likes to set up a station at impromptu locations. A picnic bench in a park with the antenna wire thrown in to the closest tree, a remote camp-site, long nature walks are just a few thoughts. The unit does not include an internal antenna tuner.

The current drain is of a low-power design and allows approximately 50-75 mA on receive. The manufacturer rates the unit, using 2200 mA rechargeable cells at 2 watts output power at 15-20 hours with receive and send ratio of 2:1.

I had to replace the 100 ohm trim pot in the driver stage on this one as it was broken. I set the output to 4 watts on 40m and it was also 4 watts on 30m, on 20m it was about 31/2 watts. The pa transistor is heat sinked against the case but it was standing in free air on this one so i fixed that, used a mica washer and plenty of heatsink paste.

Output seems fairly steady and got clean reports, my power meter is not very accurate so i think i’ll make new one!