BI4OAE I have listed some items; please correct any errors.
Short version (too long to read):
The "Shoe, Octopus, and Frog" are entry-level kits that are suitable for practicing soldering and experiencing CW (Continuous Wave), but they have limited functionality and a single frequency.
For multi-band FT8 mode, choose ADX or ADX-S.
With sufficient welding skills, it's possible to challenge USDX or its derivatives.
| Model | Supported frequency bands | Supported modes | Assembly difficulty | Transmitting power | Suggested package prices (for reference) | Author of the kit | Reference URL |
| USDX | Typically ranging from 80 to 10 meters, it has various derivative versions such as eight-band, five-band, and three-band. | SSB/CW/FT8, etc. | ★★★★☆ Contains a large number of SMT components. | 5-7 Watts | Approximately 300 yuan (occasionally available) | PE1NNZ, as well as a derivative version (tr) of DL2MAN | https://github.com/threeme3/usdx |
| ADX-S | 40–10m (7 bands: 40/30/20/17/15/12/10m) | FT8/FT4/JS8/WSPR | ★★☆☆☆ All components are through-hole. | 0.5–5W (depending on whether it's powered by 5V or 12V) | Approximately 400 yuan | WB2CBA (original ADX), BD6CR (improved superheterodyne) | GitHub - WB2CBA/ADX: ADX CRKits GROUPS.IO ADX-S |
| Pixie2023 (Leather shoes) | 40m (single band) | CW | ★★★★★ All components are through-hole components. | ~1W | Less than 100 | RV3GM. (BD6CR introduced domestically) | SPRATCD.pdf |
| Octopus(SuperRock) | 40m (single band) | CW | ★★★★★ All components are through-hole components. | ~200mW | Less than 100 | ?? (BD6CR introduced in China) | |
| Creeing of frogs | 40m (single band) | CW | ★★★★★ All components are through-hole components. | ~200mW | Less than 100 | ?? | |
| HB-1B(Black Panther 1B) | 80m, 40m, 30m, 20m | CW | Almost ready? | ? | ¥700+? | BD4RG | |
| HS-1B(Black Mouse 1B) | 80m, 40m, 30m, 20m | CW | Almost ready? | ? | ¥600+? | BD4RG | |
| Norcal 40A | 40m (single band) | CW | ★★☆☆☆ | ? | ? | NM0S | NM0S introduces the NorCal 40B transceiver kit | QR P er |
Self-soldering requires a certain level of basic skills! It also requires initial investment in tools such as temperature-controlled soldering irons, solder, heating plates (for SMD components), tinning wire, and flux. Sourcing components and setting up equipment from various sources also requires extensive knowledge and experience. Beginners are advised not to attempt DIY without proper preparation, as this can lead to frustration and discourage enthusiasm.