Portable HF SDR Transceiver G90
Operation Manual
Ultra-Miniature 24 Bit SDR V1.01.00 April 2019
Basic Features
The G90 is a portable 20W HF SDR amateur radio transceiver with a built-in automatic antenna tuner. The display unit and the radio can be separated. It is a new member of the Xiegu product family and the first model of the new "G" series.
The G90 is a 24-bit 48kHz sampling rate SDR. It has excellent TX/RX performance and a highly configurable user interface.
- High-performance front end with narrowband pre-selection filters
- Covers the frequency range of 0.5~30MHz, SSB/CW/AM/FM*
- 1.8-inch high-brightness color TFT LCD screen
- 24k bandwidth spectrum and waterfall display
- Software-defined RX bandpass filters (CW mode down to 50Hz)
- Detachable Front display unit
- Up to 20W RF power output
- Built-in wide-range automatic antenna tuner
- Extensive Input / Output connections
- Baseband I/Q output. Interface with any external device that can handle baseband I/Q, including sound card-based or PC-based applications.
*FM mode can only be turned on when the GSOC controller is used together.
Please read this manual fully before operation to gain a good understanding of the G90's capabilities and functions.
Panel Descriptions
Side Panel
The side panel houses several controls:
- 1 Volume knob: Controls speaker volume. Short press inwards switches to headphone output mode.
- 2 Power/Receive or transmitting status pilot lamp: Yellow-green for standby/receive, Red for transmitting.
- 3 Power switch: Press to boot up. Press and hold to shut down.
- 4 Multi-function adjustment Knob: Default: Tunes frequency in 100 kHz steps. Press and hold to select Custom Functions.
- 5, 6 Mode switching: Switches between TX/RX operation modes.
- 7, 8 BAND Switching: Changes frequency bands.
- 9 FUNC Indicator light: Lights yellow when using alternate functions of other buttons.
- 10 F Indicator light: Lights yellow when CW is tuned to the correct pitch; blinks in sync with incoming CW characters.
- 11 Main Knob (VFO): Adjusts the current frequency.
- 12 TUNE Button: Antenna Tuner on/off and set.
- 13 Po Button: Transmitter power output adjustment.
- 14 KEY Button: CW speed, QSK, key type, and ratio settings.
- 15 LOCK Button: Controls button lock functionality.
Front Panel Connectors
The front panel includes:
- 16. Headphone interface: 3.5mm stereo jack (3-pin) for standard headphones.
- 17. Communication interface: 3.5mm jack used for updating the control head's internal firmware and for CAT control. Programming cable and firmware files are available on the Xiegu website.
- 18. MIC Interface: Connector for the multi-function microphone.
Rear Panel Connectors
The rear panel features:
- 19. Antenna interface: SO-239 type, 50 Ohm impedance.
- 20. KEY interface: 3.5mm stereo jack for manual/automatic CW keys. For manual keys, connect Dit and Dash together.
- 21. COMM interface: Firmware expandable I/O connection, currently used for main unit firmware updates.
- 22. I/Q Signal output: 3.5mm stereo jack for "I/Q" signal output.
- 23. ACC interface: 8-pin mini DIN interface. Pinout detailed in connector descriptions.
- 24. DC Power Cable Connector: For external power connection.
- 25. Ground Terminal Connection: For grounding the unit.
Connector Pin-Outs
MIC Interface (1)
- MIC
- MIC GND
- MDATA
COMM Connector (2)
- RXD
- TXD
Headphone Interface (3)
3.5mm stereo jack.
ACC Interface (4)
- PTT
- MSVSW
- NC
- +8V
- GND
- +8V
- ALC
- BAND
- GND
CW Key Wiring Diagram (5)
For manual CW keys: Connect Dit and Dash together.
Microphone Buttons
The multi-function microphone includes:
- 1 LOCK: Lock button.
- 2 PTT: Transmit control button.
- 3 UP / DOWN: Frequency increment/decrement buttons.
- 4 RX/TX indicator: Hand Mic operation indicator.
- 5 Numeric keypad: For direct frequency entry and other inputs.
- 6 FIL: Filter selection.
- 7 MODE: RX/TX operation mode selection.
- 8 Function indicator LED: Indicates when a function button is active.
- 9 Function button: F1/F2-configurable settings.
- 10 MW: Memory Storage operation.
- 11 V/M: Frequency/channel switching.
- 12 XFC: Actual TX Frequency Select (Split).
- 13 TUNER: Hold press to turn on the built-in automatic antenna tuner for tuning.
External Power Connection
The G90 requires a 13.8-14.3 VDC external DC power supply with a current capacity of at least 10A for 20W output.
- Polarity: Observe correct polarity; red wire to positive (+), black wire to negative (-). Reverse polarity can cause damage.
- Interference Prevention: Use a clamp-on or loop-through Ferrite choke on the power cord, placed as close to the radio's power connector as possible, to prevent external interference and radio RF radiation. Wrap the power cord around the ferrite core 2 turns.
The limited warranty does not cover damage caused by external power connection errors or improper voltage.
LCD Display
The 1.8" color LCD screen displays all functions, states, and values. Many buttons have dual functions accessed by short or long presses.
Display Elements
- Main frequency Display
- Status Display (Mode, VFO status)
- S-Meter and Power Meter
- Spectrum Display
- Power Supply voltage
- Volume Functions Display Area
- Standing Wave Ratio (SWR)
- Signal Level in dBm
- Waterfall Display
Power On/Off
- Turn on: Press the PWR button.
- Turn off: With the radio on, press and hold the PWR button for 1 second.
- LCD Screen Off (to save battery): Quickly tap the PWR button. Tap any button to turn the LCD back on.
- Brightness: Tap the LOCK button to cycle through brightness levels.
Operating Frequency Band Selection
The G90 covers 0.5 to 30 MHz, divided into 10 amateur bands (plus SW bands). Bands can be changed by pressing the BAND < or > buttons.
Amateur bands include: 1.8MHz, 3.5MHz, 5.2MHz, 7.0MHz, 10MHz, 14MHz, 18MHz, 21MHz, 24MHz, 28MHz. The radio can be configured for 60-meter band operation if permitted by your country.
Operating Mode Selection
Pressing the [MODE] button cycles through available operating modes (SSB, CW, AM, FM*). FM mode requires the GSOC controller.
Volume Adjustment
- Speaker mode: Rotate the volume knob left or right.
- Headphone mode: Press the volume knob inwards momentarily to mute the speaker and enable headphone output. Rotate the knob to adjust headphone volume.
- VOX mode: Press and hold [FUNC] for over 1 second, then briefly press the volume knob to enter VOX settings (VOX OFF/ON, VOX GAIN, ANTI-VOX, VOX DLY). VOX can be enabled for hand microphone or line input. This function keys the transmitter automatically for digital modes when using line input audio.
Multi-function Adjustment Knob
Controls various functions and settings:
- Default: VFO tuning in 100 kHz increments.
- Short press: Enter SQL item to adjust SQL level.
- Hold press: Accesses the User Custom feature menu. Rotate the knob to select items, short press "SAVE" (PRE) to select, then use the knob to adjust the featured item. "SAVE" (PRE) and "Exit" (COMP) are the first two buttons under the LCD.
Customizable features include: Frequency steps, SQL Level, Po Level (transmit power), Key Speed, FFT Scale (spectrum reference level).
Adjusting Transmit Power Output (Po)
- Short press the [Po] button.
- Use the multi-function knob to set output power in 1W increments.
Caution: When using the G90 for the first time, especially if unsure about antenna SWR, minimize the set transmit power output.
Setting Operation Frequency
Three methods:
- Main Tuning Knob: Short press the main knob to select tuning steps (100Hz, 1kHz, 10kHz). Rotate the main knob to set the frequency.
- Multi-function Knob: Rotates in 100kHz increments.
- Microphone Keypad: Press [F-INP ENT] on the microphone, enter frequency values using number keys, then press [F-INP ENT] again to confirm. (e.g., 14.09000MHz: Press [F-INP ENT] -> 1 4 . 0 9 0 0 0 -> Press [F-INP ENT]).
Automatic Antenna Tuner (ATU)
The G90 features a high-efficiency ATU.
- Activate ATU: Short press the [TUNE] button. The "TUNE" logo appears on screen.
- Initiate Tuning: Press and hold the [TUNE] button for 1 second. The G90 returns to RX mode upon completion.
Notes:
- An antenna icon indicates the ATU is on and ready.
- If the SWR icon blinks during transmission, the ATU needs to be used.
- Long-press the ATU button to activate auto-tune. Successful tuning means the antenna icon will not blink during transmissions.
- Using a whip antenna with the ATU may cause RF interference to nearby electronics.
Function Buttons
Common functions are accessed via function keys, some with secondary functions. To access a second function: Press [FUNC] (the "F" indicator lights), then press the desired function button. Press [FUNC] again to exit the second function.
Pressing the main knob inwards exits any function and returns to the main interface.
Button Function Table
| Button | Func 1 (Short Press) | Func 2 (FUNC + Button) |
|---|---|---|
| PRE/ATT | Cycle PRE--ATT--Normal | Turn on transmit voice compression |
| CMP/F-L | Turn on Noise Blanker (on/off, Level, Width) | Digital filter F-L low-end frequency selection |
| NB/F-H | AGC off/AGC-S/AGC-F/AGC-Auto | Digital filter F-H high-end frequency selection |
| AGC/SPL | Switch VFO / Memory | Turn on split frequency transceiver operation mode |
| VM. MW/MC | Turn on channel storage | Clear a memory channel |
| A/B.A>B | Switch between VFO-A and VFO-B | Copy the current VFO to the background VFO |
| TUNE | Turn on/off the auto antenna tuner | Start antenna tuner tuning |
| POW | POWER Transmit power setting | / |
| KEY | SWR THR Standing wave protection threshold | SPEED CW key speed setting |
| LOCK | M/L/R Manual/automatic left and right mode switching | Iambic A/B Mode switching |
| MODE | QSK CW Break-In On/Off | QSK Time CW QSK Hold Time Setting |
| FUNC +) | 5-level screen backlight brightness setting | / |
| / | MIC GAIN | / |
| INPUT | Voice input selection | / |
| CW Volume | Side-tone volume setting | / |
| CW TONE | Side-tone frequency setting | / |
| / | SCALE Spectrum reference level setting | / |
Split Frequency Operation (SPL) and VFO A/B Settings
The G90 has two independent VFOs (VFO-A and VFO-B) that can be set with different frequencies and modes. The SPL function allows setting independent TX and RX frequencies.
- Set the receiving frequency and mode (VFO-A).
- Set the transmit frequency and mode (VFO-B).
- Operate the second function of the [AGC/SPL] button to enable SPL mode.
This allows real-time switching between two frequency points.
CW Communication
Operate with a straight key or common types of paddles.
- Insert the key plug into the KEY interface.
- Press [MODE] to switch to CW (or CWR).
- Press [Key] button and set QSK ON for CW transmission.
- Press [Key] button again to set QSK hold time if needed.
Practice Mode: If QSK is OFF, the side-tone is heard when keying, but the transmitter does not send an RF signal.
The [KEY] button functions include CW SPEED, K-R/L, Iambic A/B, QSK ON/OFF, QSK time, and Ratio 3:0 settings.
Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) Scanner
The G90 has an SWR scanning/plotting function to display SWR over user-set frequency ranges.
- Operation: Press and hold the [POW] button to start.
- Scan Speed: Short press the button corresponding to FAST/SLOW on screen.
- Exit: Press the button corresponding to QUIT on screen.
The BW button cycles through 5 pre-set scanning ranges: 50 KHz, 300 KHz, 450 KHz, 600 KHz, and 700 KHz. Sampling increment varies with range (1-5 KHz).
Note: SWR scanner results are for relative readings only. Use a professional antenna analyzer for accurate measurements.
Digital Filter
The G90 has a built-in variable digital RX bandwidth filter.
- Operation: Press [FUNC] for second function.
- Adjust Filter: Press [CMP/F-L] to adjust the lower end (F-L) and [NB/F-H] to adjust the upper end (F-H). Use the main tuning knob for adjustments. Pressing the buttons again displays numerical bandwidth values.
F-L: Low pass cutoff frequency. F-H: High pass start frequency. Total Filter bandwidth = (F-H - F-L) Hz.
Line Input / Output
- Line Input: Connect external audio to the ACC port. Set mode to LINE via [FUNC + POW] > INPUT. Adjust AUX IN VOLUME in the system menu.
- Line Output: Adjust AUX OUT VOLUME in the system menu.
Note: Maximum line input audio level is 200mV.
Channel Storage (MW) - Clearing a Memory Channel
- Channel Storage: In VFO mode, set frequency/mode. Press [MW/MC] momentarily; "CH 00" flashes. Rotate main knob to select an empty channel (indicated by "E"). Press [MW/MC] again to save.
- Using Memory Channels: In VFO mode, press [VM] to enter memory mode. Rotate main knob (or use mic UP/DOWN) to select channels.
- Clearing a Memory Channel: In channel mode, press [FUNC] then [MW/MC]. "CH" flashes. Rotate main knob to select the channel. Press [MW/MC] again to clear.
Boot Screen Callsign Setting (CALL SIGN EDITOR)
Display your call sign on the boot-up screen.
- Operation: Press and hold [VM] to enter the text editor.
- Select Character: Rotate main knob to select characters in the bottom area. Short press main knob to select.
- Edit: Use BACK (NB button) to delete, QUIT (VM button) to exit without saving, SAVE (PRE button) to save and exit.
System Menu Description
Press and hold the [FUNC] button to enter the system menu.
- Serial Number 1: Mic up/down button function setting.
- Serial Number 2: Hand mic F1 button function setting.
- Serial Number 3: Hand mic F2 button function setting.
- Serial Number 4: Screen backlight brightness setting.
- Serial Number 5: ACC port input audio volume setting.
- Serial Number 6: ACC port output audio volume setting.
- Serial Number 7: Current firmware version number.
Computer Control Instructions
The G90 supports standard CIV instruction sets for remote control via computer software. Configuration files for other radios using standard instruction sets (e.g., IC-817 / IC-7000) can often be adapted. Check the Xiegu forum for compatible configuration files.
Band Voltage Data
The G90's ACC port provides band data voltage output for each band, useful for controlling external devices like amplifiers (e.g., XPA-125B) to switch bands automatically.
| Band | Voltage (mV) | Band | Voltage (mV) | Band | Voltage (mV) | Band | Voltage (mV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8MHz | 230 | 7MHz | 920 | 18MHz | 1610 | 28MHz | 2300 |
| 3.5MHz | 460 | 10MHz | 1150 | 21MHz | 1840 | / | / |
| 5.0MHz | 690 | 14MHz | 1380 | 24MHz | 2070 | / | / |
Specifications
General Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range (Receive) | 0.5MHz - 30MHz |
| Frequency Range (Transmit) | 160M - 10M Amateur radio bands only |
| Transmitting Modes | A1A(CW), A3E(AM), J3E(USB/LSB) |
| Minimum Frequency Step | 10Hz |
| Antenna Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Operating Temperature Range | -10°C to +50°C |
| Frequency Stability | ±10 ppm (10 to 60 min > power up), ±25 ppm/h |
| Voltage | 9-15V DC (Negative ground) |
| Electric Current (Receive) | 500mA Max |
| Electric Current (Transmit) | 8A Max |
| Case Size (W*H*L) | 120 x 45 x 210mm (Without handles) |
| Weight | About 1.63kg / 3.6 lbs (body only) |
Transmitter Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| RF Output Power | 20W (SSB/CW/FM), 5W (AM Carrier) at 13.8VDC |
| Modulation Type | Digital modulation |
| Stray Radiation Suppression | 50dB |
| Carrier Suppression | 40dB |
| Mic Impedance | 200Ω - 10kΩ conventional, 600Ω |
Receiver Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Circuit Type | SDR 24 bit 48kHz Mixer |
| Adjacent Channel Suppression | 60dB |
| Sideband Suppression | 60dB |
| Sensitivity (SSB/CW/FM) | 0.5-1.79999MHz: 0.35uV; 1.8-1.9999MHz: 0.25uV; 2.0-27.9999MHz: 0.25uV; 28-30MHz: 0.25uV |
| Sensitivity (AM) | 0.5-1.79999MHz: 10uV; 1.8-1.9999MHz: 10uV; 2.0-27.9999MHz: 2uV; 28-30MHz: 2uV |
| Sensitivity Conditions | SSB/CW/AM = 10dB S/N; FM = 12dB SINAD (PRE=on, ATT=off, NB=off, NR=off) |
| Image Rejection | 70dB |
| IF Suppression | 60dB |
| Audio Output | 0.5W (at 8Ω, ~10% THD) |
| Audio Output Impedance | 4-16Ω |
Specifications may change with future revisions. The operating frequency range may vary with machine version; consult your dealer. 60 meters is included if your country permits its use.
Packing Items List
| Item Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| G90 | 1pcs |
| Multi-function handle | 1pcs |
| Data cable | 1pcs |
| Power cable | 1pcs |
| Remote head DB-9 cable | 1 pcs |
| Operation Manual | 1pcs |
| Warranty Card | 1pcs |
| Fixed stud | 1pcs |
| Hexagon screwdriver | 2pcs |
| Certificate | 1pcs |
Optional Accessories
| Item Name | Description |
|---|---|
| CE-19 | ACC expansion adapter |
| XPA125B | 100W power amplifier (with built-in antenna adjuster) |
| GSOC*1 | Large screen controller |
*1 The GSOC controller was expected to be available in 2019.
Connection Diagrams
G90 and XPA125B Connection Diagram
The G90 connects to the XPA125B via the ACC port (8-pin) on the G90 to the CE-19 adapter, which then connects to the XPA125B (6-pin). The 8-wire ACC control line is provided in the CE-19 kit.
CE-19 Expansion Card Interface Diagram
- PTT CON: PTT signal / BAND signal output port. Isolated from the radio. Dedicated interface for XPA125B.
- AF CON: Audio input/output port. Direct demodulated output with no filtering.
- DATA CON: Data output port in NFM mode. Terminals are in parallel and output the same signal.
Copyright Statement
All rights reserved 2018 Chongqing Xiegu Technology Co., Ltd. reserves all rights to this manual, and reproduction of any part of this manual is prohibited without permission.
V1.1.00 1010160204-C
