FlexRadio FLEX-8400M

With the FLEX-8000 series (consisting of the 8400, 8600, 8400M and 8600M models), FlexRadio establishes the next generation of high-class SDR transceivers. In addition to the technical highlights of the FLEX-8400, the 8400'M' is equipped with a fully featured control panel dominated by an 8-inch touch-sensitive display (resolution 1920 x 1200 pixels). 

It is based on the architecture of the successful FLEX-6400M, but has a CPU with around 4 times the performance and an FPGA with twice the performance. This increase in performance not only ensures shorter start-up and loading times, but above all forms a solid basis for the implementation of numerous future features that could not be realized with the resources of earlier hardware.

One of the first of these upcoming new features is 'adaptive pre-distortion' (APD), which according to the manufacturer offers the cleanest signal on an amateur radio platform. All FLEX-8000 models also feature built-in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capability and a future built-in NTP time server as standard. This ensures that all FLEX-8000 transceivers always remain on exactly the same frequency. But even without a direct view of the sky, the FLEX-8400M can continue to use the internal TCXO.

The receivers are designed as direct-scanning SDR receivers. A sampling rate of 122.8 MHz is used; the AD converter has a word width of 16 bits. This results in an excellent RMDR value of 115 dB (at 2 kHz spacing). As a visible result of this high-end digital technology, the user has up to 7 MHz spectrum width at his disposal, more than sufficient to observe several amateur radio bands simultaneously and to align his activities accordingly. 

The frequency range of the receiver extends from 30 kHz to 54 MHz, the transmitter is limited to the amateur radio bands. The preselector with 3-pole band filters ensures excellent large-signal immunity. Both receivers can be operated simultaneously on any band and in any mode with instant QSY between the VFOs. The transmitter of the FLEX-8400M offers 100W transmit power (PEP, 25W AM), the suppression of unwanted by-products is better than 60 dBc.

The FLEX-8400M SDR transceiver from FlexRadio has been specially developed for demanding radio amateurs and offers maximum flexibility and ease of use, as this top-of-the-range transceiver can be operated like a stand-alone radio without the need for a computer. The integrated, large IPS display with touch function provides you with information on operating status and band assignment at all times and is supplemented by numerous "classic" operating elements such as rotary controls for volume control, receiver sensitivity and VFOs. - Of course, there are two of these, so that both receivers can be set individually and directly without having to go to the menu. An external screen can also be connected via the HDMI connection.

Or you can use the first-class remote features of the FLEX-8400M and control the radio conveniently via PC, laptop, Mac or iOS client. The Maestro console is also available as an option, which can access the transceiver via WLAN or wired Ethernet. As with all FlexRadio transceivers, the focus is on convenience and simple remote control.

The two fully independent SDR receivers fulfill an important requirement for working DX in split mode or observing other bands and other modes in a contest. Full-duplex crossband operation is also possible. 

Every FlexRadio model - whether with or without a front panel - can be easily controlled remotely. The following options are available:

This remote control can be carried out via the local network in the house, but also via the Internet from a great distance. No matter where you are - you can operate the rare DX station from your own station, even if you are sitting in a hotel! With the latest version V3 of the SmartSDR software, it is even possible to operate one transceiver with two operators at the same time. Any mix of the above-mentioned devices can be used - a PC, iPhone/iPad or the Maestro console.

As the power supply is 13.8 volts DC, operation is not limited to use as a fixed station, but you also benefit from the freedom of being able to use the device in a car, van or motorhome.