The Rock-Mite, by Small Wonder Labs, is a crystal-controlled direct-conversion transceiver operating on 7040 KHz, the North American 'watering-hole' for QRP activity, or 14060 KHz for the 20M version. It is a “one evening kit” and costs only $25, including shipping!

The little rig is rated at 0.5W of power output at 12V supply. The DC Supply voltage range can be 8-15V. It is fix-tuned, two frequencies ~7039/7040 Khz on 40 meters, or ~14060/14061 on the 20M version. The transceiver has automatic Transmit/Receive with the offset being reversible. It has a built-in Iambic keyer, 5-40 WPM with built in sidetone of 700 Hz.

Bill reports that the kit went together with no problems. There are no coils to wind, everything needed is included in the kit except an enclosure. It just happens to fit in an “Altoid” can, which is available in just about any Super Market or Drugstore.

Bill has just completed the 20 meter version of the Rock Mite. He elected this time to go with the commercially available enclosure which gives the completed rig a very professional look.

The interior view of the 20 meter Rock Mite shows how well the circuitry is laid out . . . and Bill's neat wiring. As with the 40 meter version, Bill reports no problems constructing the kit.

A photographic study of small electronic gadgets! The Rock Mite is small in size but big in building and operating fun.

Here’s an opportunity for us to dust off our soldering irons and build something that can be a lot of fun. For more information, visit the Small Wonder Labs web site at http://smallwonderlabs.com/rockmite.htm