K7VIQ QRP PAK

Continuous Wave Quick Radio Play PAK (Paul Allen K7VIQ)

A No-Code ham who wants to be a Know-Code ham.

Code, is a mode, that both takes skill, and is a thrill.

Learning code has been a lifelong quest, but I do my best.

K7VIQ’s CW QRP PAK:

A QRP Field Kit for CW Adventures

I decided to share my portable field radio kit, as if it was featured in the QRPer Field Kit Gallery! If you’d like to share your field kit with the QRPer community, contact them. I hope one day to have a real outing worthy of being posted there to share.

Introduction

Paul (K7VIQ) calls his field kit the CW QRP PAK—Continuous Wave Quick Radio Play, a nod to his passion for Morse code since childhood ciphers and codes with friends. Unable to pass the Morse code test, he waited until its removal to become a “No-Code” ham but, not giving up, he is still striving to be a “Know-Code” ham. “Learning code is tough,” he says, “but it’s a lifelong quest, and I do my best.” Collecting gear on a meager budget over time, his kit is packed and ready to go in a rugged Apache 2800 hard case, designed for Eugene, Oregon’s city parks and POTA activations, emphasizing portability, CW operation, and an occasional SSB contact.

The whole kit contents spread out to verify contents for the field. POTA pamphlets, Main and small bit cases, ID, What am I doing info, X-tenna, Putikeeg & base, DIY ATU-10, Paper & Mech. pencil, QMX+ radio and 11.1 battery.

The QRP Labs QMX radio on a bench ready to CQ CQ K7VIQ

The QRP Pak Apache case ready to go.

The CW QRP PAK Inventory

Paul’s kit is a lightweight, all-in-one solution for low-power field ops, weighing at 7.8 lbs including the carp fishing pole along for the ride. Here’s what’s inside:

Case: Apache 2800 hard case, compact and durable for field protection.
Radio: QRP Labs QMX+ (160-6m, CW and digi-modes), with manual on phone and a paper backup.
Power: 2200mAh LiPo battery (11.1V), lightweight and reliable.
Key: Putikeeg aluminum rose alloy paddle key, chosen for its compact size, affordability, and vibrant color.
Antenna Gear:
- X-tenna EFHW antenna (10-40m, 70 ft wire).
- Short RG8 BNC feedline for connections.
- 12 oz Weaver arborist throw weight with bag and cord.
- Fiberglass carp fishing pole (extends to 19.7 ft, last segments unused for stability).
Tuner: DIY Tech ATU-10 QRP by N7DDC (1-15W, v1.6), automatic for fast matching.
Audio:
- Headphones and backup earbud for solo CW.
- Amplified speaker (optional for group settings).
- K6ARK mic (3D-printed, compact for SSB).
Informational: POTA/SOTA bi-fold leaflet to share with curious passersby, plus paper and mechanical pencil for backup logging.
Phone: For PDF manual, logging apps, and emergencies.

Paper and mech pencil backup.

In the Field

To assure I had all the components I set up the CW QRP PAK on our backyard picnic table. Setting up was a breeze: I look forward to tossing the throw weight over a tree branch or extending the fiberglass pole to support the X-tenna EFHW to about 15 feet. The QMX+ will pair with the ATU-10 to create a match on the 10-40 bands. I plan soon to get on that Putikeeg paddle and call CQ and work all the stations I can. The Apache case keeps everything safe on the way to the park.

Why This Kit?

I chose the QMX+ for its compact size and versatility, perfect for CW and occasional SSB. The X-tenna EFHW covers 10-40m reliably, often without needing the tuner. The ATU-10 will handle any mismatches, and the Putikeeg paddle’s size, cost, and color make it a favorite to get on the air. The Apache case protects my gear during park outings. This kit reflects my CW journey—portable, efficient, and ready for the next QSO.

Final Thoughts

My CW QRP PAK embodies my dedication to mastering Morse code while enjoying portable ops in city parks and POTA. What’s in your field kit? Share with us!

73, Paul (K7VIQ)