Cowtown ADX Buildathon Project — Construction Manual and 8-Band Firmware
Community-driven ADX build project by VK2ARH with comprehensive construction manual, 8-band firmware (including 160m), LPF tuning guides, and buildathon resources used by amateur radio clubs worldwide.
Overview
The Cowtown ADX Project, created by Richard (W5ARH/VK2ARH), is a comprehensive resource repository for building the ADX digital transceiver designed by WB2CBA. Originally developed to support the Cowtown Amateur Radio Club's buildathon events, the project has grown to serve multiple clubs including the Manly-Warringah Radio Society and the Radio and Electronics Association of Southern Tasmania (REAST).
Key Resources
- Construction Manual (v1.7.1) — detailed step-by-step build guide incorporating lessons learned from multiple buildathon events
- Bill of Materials — complete parts list with vendor links from group buys
- 8-Band Firmware — extended firmware supporting 160m through 10m (160m band added June 2025)
- Gerber Files — PCB manufacturing files for low-pass filter circuits
- Technical Guides — harmonic spectrum testing and LPF tuning optimization documents
- 3D-Printed Enclosure — designed by Simon Mitchell (VK2YU)
Tutorial Videos
The project includes tutorial videos covering:
- VFO calibration procedure
- LPF tuning and optimization
- Operating procedures with WSJT-X
Buildathon Support
The construction manual has been updated to support multiple club builds, including:
- Cowtown Amateur Radio Club (original)
- Manly-Warringah Radio Society
- REAST Tasmania build (March 2025) with 7-band variant and custom PCBs
This project is an excellent starting point for ham radio clubs wanting to organize their own ADX buildathon events.
