XIEGU X6100 HF/50MHz Transceiver

Introduction

The X6100 is an ultra-portable short-wave transceiver utilizing a high-performing SDR (Software Defined Radio) platform. It features a powerful baseband and RF unit, a separated dual-channel transmitting and receiving structure, and 24-bit sampling with a large dynamic RF front-end unit, ensuring excellent transmitting and receiving indicators. The device integrates rich operational functions, including call recording, variable bandwidth digital filters, and digital noise reduction, offering a new experience in amateur radio. Its compact design makes it ideal for outdoor communication.

• HF/50MHz full mode (supports data communication)
• Transmitting power: 10W (external power supply), 5W (battery)
• 4-inch high-resolution color screen (800*480)
• Built-in 3000mAh, 12V lithium battery pack
• Built-in efficient automatic antenna tuner
• Integrated standing wave scanner and voice pager
• Integrated modem, preset message, CW automatic call
• Built-in Bluetooth/WLAN for wireless audio, keyboard, and mouse operation
• Integrated USB line control/transmission, supporting USB HOST
• Standard high-stability TCXO internal clock source

Important Note: To operate this device effectively, obtain the appropriate amateur radio operation qualification and apply for a station setup license. Transmission activities must be confined to amateur frequency bands.

Safety Precautions

• Do not use in lightning weather; disconnect power and antenna.
• Avoid touching the antenna during transmission.
• Do not apply AC power or voltages exceeding 15VDC to the DC interface.
• Do not reverse power cable polarity.
• Do not operate with wet hands.
• In case of smoke or unusual smell, disconnect power immediately and contact the supplier.
• Do not use in prohibited areas, vehicles, or aircraft.
• Do not use while driving or operating engineering equipment.
• Avoid use in areas with combustible gas or near medical devices in hospitals.
• Protect the device from rain, snow, or liquids.
• Do not use headphones at high volume.
• Do not disassemble or modify the device.
• Keep away from heat sources, direct sunlight, dust, and moisture.
• Ensure proper ventilation and do not block radiators.
• Do not wipe with organic solvents like benzene or alcohol.
• Avoid impact force on the device.
• Operate within the temperature range of -10°C to +55°C.
• Disconnect power when not in use for extended periods.

Battery Precautions

• Improper use of the internal lithium-ion battery can lead to hazards like smoke, fire, or rupture.
• Do not hit the backplane where the battery pack is installed.
• Do not expose the device to temperatures above 60°C.
• Keep the back of the device away from heat sources.
• Do not weld, disassemble, or modify battery components.
• If deformation, seepage, or peculiar smell occurs at the battery pack location, discontinue use and contact the distributor.
• Avoid operating outside the device's temperature range.
• Do not leave the battery pack in a fully charged or fully discharged state for extended periods. For long-term storage, maintain battery charge between 40%-50%.
• The battery pack has a lifespan of approximately 3-4 years or 300-500 charge cycles. Performance may degrade significantly over time.
• Use only the accompanying charging adapter.
• Monitor the device during charging and stop if any abnormality occurs.
• Do not charge the device in vehicles under direct sunlight.

Important Notes

• Ensure you have the necessary operating certificates or permissions before transmitting on amateur radio bands.
• Verify the antenna feed system meets transmitting requirements before transmitting.
• The device may become hot after prolonged transmission (e.g., FT8 operation). Extend transmission intervals and enhance external heat dissipation as needed.
• Place the device in a safe, reliable location away from children and unauthorized persons.

Electromagnetic Interference

Wireless LAN and Bluetooth devices may interfere with each other or other wireless devices (e.g., wireless mouse, keyboard, router) operating on the same frequency band, potentially causing unstable connections. Keep devices separated or disable conflicting devices if interference occurs.

I. Panel Instructions

Front Panel

The front panel features:

• 1 GEN button: Accesses general settings menu.
• 2 KEY button: Accesses tapper settings menu.
• 3 DFN button: Accesses digital functions menu.
• 4 MFK multi-function knob: Customizable function knob.
• 5 VOL/SQL/RFG knob: Controls volume, SQL muting depth, and RF gain. Short press to cycle through functions.
• 6 Power button: Press and hold to turn the transceiver on/off.
• 7 APP button: Accesses the function menu.
• 8 MSG button: Accesses the message editing and storage interface.
• 9 DFL button: Accesses the digital filter settings interface.
• 10-14 Multi-function buttons: Execute functions displayed on the screen.
• 15 Main knob: Adjusts frequency.
• 16 Lock button: Long press (2s) to lock/unlock the main knob. Short press adjusts screen backlight brightness (5 levels on battery, 10 levels on external power).
• 17 Power supply/TR indication: Green indicates startup, red indicates transmitting.

Left Plate

• 18 ANT: BNC interface (50Ω) for antenna connection.
• 19 I/Q OUT: 3.5mm stereo socket for IQ signal output.
• 20 DC IN: 5525 type external power input port (9-15VDC).

Right Plate

• 21 CARD: MicroSD memory card slot.
• 22 DEV: USB port (Slave interface).
• 23 HOST: USB port (Host interface).
• 24 S/P: 3.5mm stereo interface for external speaker/headphone output.
• 25 KEY: 3.5mm stereo interface for connecting a manual/auto tapper.
• 26 ACC: 3.5mm stereo interface for accessory connections.
• 27 MIC: RJ45 hand microphone interface.

Top Buttons

• 28 PTT: Push-To-Talk button on the device body.
• 29 AM/FM: AM/FM mode switch button.
• 30 CW: CW mode switch button.
• 31 SSB: SSB mode switch button.
• 32 V/M: VFO/Memory status switch.
• 33 AGC: AGC switch/speed selection button.
• 34 FST: Fast step selection button.
• 35 ATU: Built-in antenna tuner access/tuning button.
• 36 PRE: Pre-amplifier/pre-attenuator switch.
• 37 A/B: VFOA-VFOB switch button.
• 38, 39 Left and right arrows: Frequency band/channel increase/decrease switch.

Hand Microphone Buttons

The hand microphone includes:

• Lock/unlock main knob button.
• Transmitting control button (PTT).
• Frequency step +/- (VFO mode) or previous/next channel (channel mode).
• Operation indicator light.
• Waveband direct access/numeric keyboard.
• Filter selection.
• Working mode selection.
• Button action indication.
• Custom function settings.
• Save VFO to current channel.
• Switch VFO/MEMO mode.
• Switch VFO A/B or copy VFO.
• Enable/disable automatic antenna tuner.

II. Interface Definitions

• Microphone Port (RJ45): Standard microphone connection.
• S/P Port (3.5mm stereo): For external speaker or headphone output. Ensure correct plug type to avoid short circuits.
• KEY Port (3.5mm stereo): Connects to manual/automatic tappers. Use a 3.5mm stereo plug. Incorrect wiring can cause continuous CW transmission.
• ACC Interface: For accessory connections.
• I/Q OUT Interface: For IQ signal output.

Note: Disconnect power before connecting or disconnecting tapper plugs to prevent accidental transmission.

Power Source Wiring

Use a 13.8V external DC power supply with a current capacity of at least 3.5A. Connect power lines according to the diagram, ensuring correct polarity. EMC magnet rings can be used on power lines to prevent interference.

Charging

When the battery symbol is empty and red, the device will shut down to protect the battery. Use the accompanying charging adapter. The initial 4 charges may take longer (approx. 8 hours). Charging is complete when the indicator light is steady green. During charging:

• Flashing green: Charging
• Steady green: Battery full
• No light: Charging disabled in menu

Caution: The charging adapter is for charging only. Do not connect voltages higher than 15VDC to the DC port.

II. Screen Display Interface

The screen displays various information:

• Status display areas (1, 8, 10): Show status like SPL, ATU, SQL, NB, NR, ANF, lock, USB, Bluetooth, WLAN, battery, and volume.
• Volume tag (2): Adjusts volume, noise level, or RF gain.
• Multi-function tag (3): Displays transmitting power and CW frequency adjustment tags.
• Spectrum display area (4): Visualizes signal strength.
• Waterfall plot display area (5): Shows signal activity over time.
• Multi-function menu area (6): Provides access to functions via screen buttons.
• Main VFO frequency display area (7): Shows the primary operating frequency.
• VFOB display area (9): Shows the secondary VFO frequency.
• Signal strength dBm display (11): Indicates signal strength in dBm.
• Audio spectrum display area (13): Displays the audio spectrum.

Basic Operation

• Turn on/off: Press and hold the power button for 1 second.
• Adjust audio volume: Turn the VOL knob. Short press to switch between volume, muting depth, and RF gain.
• Operating frequency band and mode selection: Press mode buttons (AM/FM, CW, SSB) at the top. Use left/right arrow buttons to cycle through frequency bands (1.8MHz to 50MHz). Hand microphone buttons allow direct band switching. Frequencies outside amateur bands are receive-only.
• Set operation frequency: Rotate the main knob to adjust frequency. Press [FST] for faster adjustment. Use the hand microphone's numeric keypad and [F-INP ENT] to input frequency directly.
• Adjustment of RF gain and muting level: Short press the VOL knob to select RF GAIN or SQL Level, then rotate the knob to adjust.
• Pre-amplifier/pre-attenuator: Short press the [PRE] button to toggle between PRE (pre-amplifier), ATT (pre-attenuator), and shoot-through state. Recommended to disable pre-amplifier below 14 MHz. Enable pre-attenuator for signals > -40 dBm.
• Automatic gain control (AGC): Press the [AGC] key to cycle through AGC modes (AUTO, OFF, SLOW, FAST). AGC-AUTO automatically selects parameters. AGC is recommended for improved performance.
• Transmitting (SSB/AM/FM): Press the PTT button on the microphone. The TX indicator turns red. Release PTT to receive.
• Transmitting (CW): Connect a manual tapper or external keying unit to the KEY port. Switch to CW mode. Enable QSK function in the menu if needed.
• Automatic Antenna Tuner (ATU): Short press [ATU] to enable the tuner (antenna icon appears). Long press [ATU] to start automatic tuning. The tuner must remain enabled for use. If the SWR icon flashes during transmission, re-tune. Turn off ATU when the antenna is naturally resonant. Using a whip antenna with internal ATU may cause interference.
• Use the build-in PTT: Press the PTT button on the top and speak into the built-in microphone hole.
• Lock main knob / screen backlight adjustment: Long press the lock button to lock the main knob. Short press to adjust backlight brightness.

Multifunctional Operation

Use the function buttons on the left panel to access menus. Select a direct button, and the corresponding menu appears at the bottom. Use the main knob or MFK knob to adjust parameters.

GEN Function Operation

Pressing the [GEN] key brings up the General Settings menu. Submenus include RADIO SETTING 1, RADIO SETTING 2, DISPLAY SETTING, SYSTEM SETTING, and MEMORY EDIT.

RADIO SETTING 1

RADIO SETTING 2

DISPLAY SETTING Menu

System Setting Menu

Includes TIME setting and FW UPGRADE.

Memory Setting Menu

Allows saving and recalling frequency, mode, and other settings. You can save current settings to a channel, name the channel, or mark it. Channels can also be erased.

APP Function Operation

Accesses MODEM, SWR SCAN, and VOICE CALL functions.

Modem Menu

Supports RTTY, CW, and BPSK modes. Settings include MODE, FC/TONE, RATE/SPEED, RTTY SHIFT, AFC, SQL, and CLEAR.

Automatic Sending of Preset Information under MODEM

In the MODEM interface, press the [MSG] key to access preset messages for automatic transmission in the selected MODEM mode.

SWR SCAN Menu

Scans antenna standing-wave parameters. Adjust SPAN (bandwidth) and SPEED.

Automatic Call by Calling Preset Recording under Voice Mode

Record and store voice calls for automatic transmission in voice mode. Access via [APP] - [VOICE CALL].

KEY Function Operation

Configure KEY TYPE, KEY SPEED, IAMBIC mode, TONE settings, QSK TIME, DI/DA RATIO, and CW TRAINER.

MSG Function Setting Operation

Store up to 5 preset text messages for automatic CW, RTTY, and BPSK transmission. Messages can be edited using a virtual keyboard. Also supports storing up to 5 voice messages for automatic voice mode transmission. Recording has a maximum duration of 1 minute and 30 seconds per message.

DFN Function Setting and Operation

Adjusts noise reduction (NR) and pulse blanking (NB) settings. Includes NR switch and depth, NB switch, width, and level.

DFL Function Setting and Operation

Configure digital filters (FILTER1, FILTER2, FILTER3) with adjustable low-cut (L-CUT) and high-cut (H-CUT) frequencies. Parameters are mode-dependent. The default settings can be restored.

Restore Initial Settings / Check FW Version Number

Access system settings via [GEN] -> [SYSTEM SETTING]. Check App and Base firmware versions. Factory reset is available via [FACTORY RESET] in the system settings.

Power On/Off Description

• Power on: Press the power switch for 2 seconds until the indicator light is green. Wait for system startup.
• Turn off: Press and hold the power button for 2 seconds until the screen turns off. Wait approximately 10 seconds for the shutdown to complete.

Notice: Maintain a 30-second interval between power cycles. Do not force shutdown to prevent damage.

WiFi Function Settings

Access via [GEN] -> [SYSTEM SETTING] -> WIFI. Scan for networks, connect/disconnect, edit settings, and configure network parameters.

Bluetooth Function Settings

Access via [GEN] -> [SYSTEM SETTING] -> Bluetooth. Turn Bluetooth on/off, connect/disconnect devices.

Forced Shutdown

If the system crashes or fails to start/shut down normally, long press the power button for over 12 seconds until the indicator light and screen turn off.

Appendix 1: Connection between X6100 and XPA125B

Connecting the X6100 to an XPA125B power amplifier and antenna tuner via L4001 cables expands output power to 100W. The X6100 controls band switching and ALC. Recommended X6100 output power is ≤ 2.5W to protect the amplifier. XPA125B and L4001 cable are sold separately.

Appendix 2: Connection between X6100 and PC

• Connect the Type-C cable to the DEV port. Install the CH342 driver. Select "XIEGU X108G" in data communication software. Enable virtual sound card for audio input/output.
• Connect with N1MM to automatically transmit CW: Same connection as PC, configure N1MM settings.
• External mouse/keyboard: Connect to the HOST interface for operation.

Parameter & Specification

• Frequency range: Receiving: 0.5MHz-30MHz, 50MHz-54MHz. Transmitting: Amateur bands 1.8MHz-50MHz.
• Working mode: CW, AM, SSB, FM.
• Minimum stepping: 1 Hz.
• Antenna impedance: 50Ω.
• Working temperature range: 0°C to +55°C.
• Frequency stability: ±1.5ppm (within 10-30 min after startup).
• Supply voltage: 9.0-15.0VDC (negative ground).
• Current consumption: Receiving: 330mA (max), Transmitting: 3A (max).
• Dimensions: 180 x 86 x 49 mm (excluding protrusions).
• Weight: Approx. 880g (host only).
• Transmitter parameters: RF output power 10W (SSB/CW/FM) @13.8VDC, 5W (battery). AM carrier wave power is lower. Spurious suppression ≥ 50dB.
• Receiver parameters: Circuit type ZIF. MDS -138dB. Sensitivity varies by frequency band and mode (details in table).
• Audio output: 0.4W (8Ω, ≤10% THD).
• Antenna tuner: Tuning range VSWR 1:4.5. First tuning time ≤ 15s. Memory load tuning ≤ 0.2s.
• Wireless network/Bluetooth: Supports IEEE802.11b/g/n, WEP/WPA-PSK encryption. Bluetooth version 4.0.

Specifications are typical and subject to change.

Packing List

• X6100 host: 1 pc
• Type-C cable: 1 pc
• Multifunction hand microphone: 1 pc
• Charger adapter: 1 pc
• Power cable: 1 pc
• Warranty card: 1 pc
• Manual: 1 pc
• Quality certificate: 1 pc

Information for Private Households (German WEEE Directive)

This section provides information regarding the German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG) for private households:

• Separate collection of old equipment: Old electrical and electronic devices (Altgeräte) must not be disposed of with unsorted municipal waste but must be collected separately.
• Batteries, rechargeable batteries, and lamps: These should generally be separated from old equipment before disposal, unless they are enclosed and cannot be removed without damage.
• Return options: Owners of old equipment can return them free of charge to collection points of public waste disposal authorities or to return facilities set up by manufacturers or distributors. Retailers with significant sales areas for electrical and electronic equipment are obligated to take back old devices, especially when a new equivalent device is purchased.
• Data protection notice: Users are responsible for deleting personal data from old devices before disposal.
• Meaning of the crossed-out wheeled bin symbol: This symbol indicates that the device must be collected separately from unsorted municipal waste at the end of its service life.