MMX Multi-band Morse Code Transceiver

  • PreppComm MMX Multi-band Morse Code Transceiver
  • PreppComm MMX Multi-band Morse Code Transceiver
  • PreppComm MMX Multi-band Morse Code Transceiver
  • PreppComm MMX Multi-band Morse Code Transceiver
$329.00USD
$329.00USD
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Product Bundles
DMX Bundle
DMX Bundle
$268.00USD
$268.00USD
DMX Complete Bundle
DMX Complete Bundle
$312.00USD
$312.00USD

Overview

Multi-Band QRP Portable Computer Plus Transceiver!

Check out the MMX Bundles below!

NOTE: while the receiver in the MMX can tune outside of the amateur radio bands, the transmitter is restricted to the frequencies allocated by the FCC for amateur radio operation. In addition, by entering your license, the frequencies may be additionally limited based on the available frequencies allocated for your license level.

The MMX Multi-band Morse Code Transceiver is the evolution of the DMX-40 Morse Code Transceiver,and includes the keyboard and a small pair of wired earbuds!  It has the same industry-leading decoder, the same high sensitive SDR receiver, 10 frequency memories per band, RPL microprogramming for custom automation, and more.  However, what is added is a band board plug-in system that supports up to 3 bands.  Currently, the supported bands include 80, 40, and 20 meters.  You can purchase a single band MMX, and add other bands later, purchase a dual band MMX, and add the third band later, or even get all three bands on your initial order!

Specifications are similar to the DMX-40+, such as receiver sensitivity of -119 dBm.  Power output is highest on 40 meter, and slightly lower on 80 and 20 meter bands, as listed in the Specifications tab in the right column.

Better, Easier, Relaxing QSO's at Higher Speeds!

Do you need help decoding those fast senders?  Do you want a less stressful QSO?  Not only do we help you decode with the best decoder in the industry, but you will gradually learn to do so as well by way of cognitive association!  For sending, you can use a straight key, the built-in keyboard to Morse system with automatic station ID's and hand-offs, auto-CQ and station calls, automatic capture of the other station's call sign, plus the powerful RPL language for microprogramming to customize of the automation or create your own automations.  And, you can get help and practice sending using the build-in decoder to listen to your keying in receive mode.  It will treat you as "just another station" and decode your signal, give you your speed, and tell you what other stations would think you had sent.  Great key training!  And don't forget to start by pressing the Space Bar to restart the decoder before you begin keying!.

Another stress reducer!  The built-in typing speed test function sets your maximum transmit speed to match your typing speed!  This means that - even if the other guy can type or send at 35 WPM, but you can only type at 22 WPM, that is how fast you will go, enabling you to have time to partially fill the type-ahead buffer so you can relax and edit your keyboard mistakes, and have a little time to think about what you want to say next. A great stress reducer. Of course if the other station is sending at a lower speed, your MMX will match them so they can decode you!

Talk about stress reducing, the automatic capture of the other station's call sign is a great one!  It automatically appears in the CCS button (CCS is Captured Call Sign), and is used for the automatic station ID's and hand-offs.  No more quick scribbling to write down their call sign!  Or typing station ID's over and over.  Even a Handle, QTH, Rig, Antenna macro built-in so you can send that info with a single keystroke!

If you want to use a paddle or iambic key, an external keyer is required to convert your key to straight key or "pure Morse" output to feed into the MMX.

So, up your game!  Get an MMX to go with you for a great experience in QRP with a lightweight powerful computer plus QRP transceiver!  Great for POTA, SOTA, etc.  Or, get an MMX attached to your station using our External Transceiver Cable Assembly to make it easy and neat to connect and integrate your station and the MMX as your decoder and encoder.  You can also just use the MMX as a decoder, with no keyboard by pressing the status line to restart the decoder

Details

  • The MMX Bundles

    To make it easier to purchase the MMX, we offer 4 bundles:

    1. The MMX Bundle: this includes a stand, dummy load, cable adaptor, and cable assembly
    2. The MMX Complete Bundle: to #1 above, we add a powered speaker, A/C USB power block, 5V to 12V cable, audio cable, and USB cable for a truly complete setup
    3. The MMX EMP Bundle: To #1 above we add an EMP Shield zip-lock, a roll-up keyboard and cable, and an interior canvas bag for the MMX to protect the EMP Shield from sharp corners on the MMX
    4. The MMX Complete EMP Bundle: To #2 above we add an EMP Shield zip-lock, a roll-up keyboard and cable, and an interior canvas bag for the MMX to protect the EMP Shield from sharp corners on the MMX. We also add a second EMP Shield bag to protect the speaker, USB Power Block, and 5V-12V cable, all of which have sensitive electronics within them

  • More Info!

    There is lots more features:  check out our main features on the Features tab in the right panel, and our More Features list!   

    You can Download Data Sheet here.

    Below are two video links.  The first is a long open box to QSO live demo via Coffee and Ham Radio on YouTube.  Note that the MMX is accidentally placed into CTX mode during much of the session (and thus can't decode human code, or HCW).  I finally noticed that, and after that, things went a lot better!

    And here is a look inside the MMX.  Note:  What comes with the MMX is misrepresented in this video.  Only the keyboard, cleaning cloth, and power adaptor come with the MMX, but otherwise, pretty accurate:

    Also, for more information, read the DMX-40 description. The MMX has all the same functions and features, but 3 band capability!

    What's Inside the MMX

  • International Orders

    Be aware that by purchasing a product from the USA will require going through customs in your country, and typically you may be required to pay duty on your order. Check with your local authorities for details. Also note that if your country uses the VAT tax system, VAT taxes will also apply. Finally, UPS also typically charges a fee for handling the collection of duties and taxes. USPS does not, but their shipments take longer.

Product Videos

Video 1: Introduction to the DMX-40

Since the MMX is just a DMX-40 with band cards, the DMX-40 videos are very helpful and on-target for learning about the MMX: DMX-40 Videos

This is the first in a series of 8 videos designed to give the viewer a overview of the operation and function of this very unusual transceiver. Unlike most transceivers, the interface is a keyboard and a color touchscreen. Its operation is unique – it has no direct competitor.

This series will help you understand what makes this product a very attractive option for a radio operator looking for an opportunity to operate on the HF bands with Morse Code without having to learn it first. The DMX-40 will help you learn, if that is your goal, or it will allow you to operate on 40 meters (or any other band if you have a base station) with only a Technician Class license and no knowledge or experience of Morse Code. It enables infrastructure-free communications alternative for preppers bound to a fallible repeater with their handheld VHF/UHF transceivers. Fun to use, powerful 3-microprocessor automation and power!

Video 2: Transceiver Setup and Typing Speed

This video covers the initial setup steps that are needed prior to operating a DMX-40 transceiver. Initially, in the Local Station Setup option from the Main Menu, you enter your call sign, your handle, your QTH (location), rig (usually the DMX-40 unless you are operating with a base station. In that case, the base station transceiver), your antenna, and finally your license level.

This information is used to set your call sign, to load the “INFO Macro” for sending your information to other stations with a single keystroke, and to set limits on your allowed transmitter frequencies, based on your license. This means you can’t transmit accidentally where you are not supposed to.

The typing speed system enables you to set your comfortable typing speed, so you can keep ahead of the transmitter while using the outgoing type-ahead buffer. This allows you to correct typing errors before they get transmitted, and annoys the transmitter to send perfect code. Without the type-ahead buffer and speed control, you could be in the position of starving the transmitter and thus messing up your transmitted code timing.

Video 3: Help System, Gain Controls, and LED Functions

In this video, we explore the built-in Help System for the Receive and Transmit Mode. Additional help is provided via printable keyboard layouts in the Reference Manual Appendices.

The DMX-40 has two digital gain controls: one for the headphones, and one for the Morse Code decoder. Both are controlled via the keyboard, as shown in the video. Finally, the function and operation of the receiver and transmitter LED’s is presented.

Video 4: Receiver Tuning Controls and General Calling (Calling CQ)

As you can see from the photos, this transceiver does not have a tuning “dial.” Rather, it uses the keyboard 4-way controller to control the tuning of the receiver. The left-right arrows control moving up and down in frequency, and the up-down arrows control the step size, from 1 Hz to 10,000 Hz steps. To enable you to keep track of your step size, the display shows small zeros indicating your steps. Thus, for example, a step size of 100 Hz will show two small zeros, as in 7.0300oo, for example. Using the auto repeat function of the keyboard, it is very easy to do a band scan.

The CALL button has 3 states: BLUE = not calling. RED = repeated calling CQ with your call sign. AMBER = completing the current repeat and then ending the call with a single K for “come back.”

Calling is a very simple procedure: Press CALL once to start, press it again to start the ending process. And then listen for a response!

Video 5: Directed Call and Answering

Besides calling CQ, you also will want to be able to call a specific station. This is accomplished using the same CALL button, but with an important difference. The “NO CCS” spot between the CALL and ANS (Answer) buttons is actually a button, as well. CCS stands for “Captured Call Sign.” There are two primary ways for a call sign to be “captured” by the system. This call sign is essentially the “other” station you are listening to or want to call or answer.

The first way the CCS can be captured is via the receiver decoder. When the receiver sees the proper sequence of characters from the receiver containing the call sign, it is recognized and then appears automatically by replacing NO CCS.

The second way is for you to touch the NO CCS button, and enter the call sign of the station you want to call or answer from the keyboard. If there is a station call sign displayed in the CCS button, when you press the CALL button, you will get a Directed CALL to that station. Otherwise, it works just like the General Call. Clearing the CCS button is accomplished by touching it.

Video 6: QSO! An Example of An On-Air Conversation

The previous five videos have covered many basics. Now, let’s demonstrate how it all comes together in a sample QSO. A QSO is “ham talk” for a conversation over the air. In this video, we have a very short conversation with another station, demonstrating the use of the VALIDATE-ANSWER function.

Both the CALL and ANS buttons have two functions. In the case of the CALL button, it is General CALL and Directed CALL. For the ANS button, it is Validate-Answer and Answer,.

Validate-Answer is used when you need to establish a two-way communication with the other station. Note that if you do a call, and another station answers, you have, by definition, a two-way communication established. After all, they heard you, and you hear them. When answering someone else calling, or trying to call a station via the ANS button after they have completed a conversation with another station, you only know you can hear them. The Validate-Answer function is used to find out if they can hear you, in a quick and painless manner.

Watch carefully in the demo as the receiver decoder captures the call sign of W2OL and automatically puts it into the CCS button. Pretty cool. No longer having to remember their call, write it down quickly, mess it up and ask for it again… Like I always had to do…

Video 7: Frequency Memories

There are ten frequency memories available on the DMX-40. But how they are available and how the editor works is quite interesting.

First of all, there is a Frequency Memory List. This is accessible from the Main Menu, but is also available using the F key. F pressed twice gets you back to the Main Screen. Of course ESC also does that… The list shows all ten of the memories, either by label or by frequency (your choice). Or blank, if nothing has been set. There is also a EDIT button next to each. But you can also “execute” a frequency memory by touching the frequency or label. In other words, you can “load” the VFO (Variable Frequency Oscillator) with the value by touch.

There are also keyboard shortcuts. Pressing a digit from 0 to 9 also “executes” or loads the VFO with the stored frequency. Shift-number goes directly to the editor for that memory.

The Frequency Memory Editor allows you to use your current frequency, or any frequency within the tuning range of 4.9 to 10.2 MHz you enter from the keyboard as the value to store.

Pressing the right arrow key moves the blue rectangle – indicating where the keyboard is active – to the memory label field. Up to 9 characters can be typed for the label. If no label is used, the frequency is displayed in the field.

Hit STORE to save. the current value, CLEAR clears the current value so you can type a frequency, or you can just hit backspace to delete the current frequency before you enter the desired frequency. Very easy to use, very effective. The Frequency Memory List is useful for those of us who can’t remember which number we put that net frequency in when we need it…

Video 8: Microprogramming: Customizing & Expanding the DMX-40

The DMX-40 has 3 built-in microprograms: the CALL button, the ANS button, and the INFO Macro. The INFO Macro allows you to send the typical information normally shared between operators, such as your name, location, rig and antenna. All from a single keystroke, the tilde (~) key.

Microprogramming allows you to customize how your DMX-40 operates. The microprogram system includes Help in the Help System, and a layout with a list and editor similar to the way Frequency Memories are arranged.

Each microprogram can have up to 60 characters, and uses the RPL (Rig Programming Language). This is a series of commands, typically single characters, that control the operation of the DMX-40. This includes substitutions, function calls and inserts, loops, timed loops, delays, and if statements, along with transmitter controls, and more.

The Starter Set is suggested to simplify your use of the transceiver in many different situations. Of course without them, you have basic operation just using the CALL and ANS buttons. But with the Starter Set, the BK abbreviation and ESC key, you have the ability to interact with other stations in a much faster “station ID free” mode (Station ID’s not required on every back and forth).

Going farther, you can customize your rig for net control operations, or contests, or other special cases, simply by creating your own microprograms. Appendix V in the Reference Manual describes all of the RPL commands.

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Reviews

Customer Reviews

Based on 11 reviews
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Anonymous
Works as designed and VERY interesting package

Works as designed and very interesting package.
First - Good Trainer for making your Ear learn as you see the text appear - just listening as you get accustomed to the little box with a keyboard!
It's not cheating - it's an electronic Elmer.

At first I played with it as designed - good.
Then as I read on through the instructions I found ways to make it more interesting to my understanding of CW operating - very good.
Then I learned how to make it learn HOW I LIKE to operate - it gets better.
The more you become familiar with how this little black box functions the more you will appreciate what went into it's design - Bravo.

I now can tune with 2 fingers - find my next target.
Then with the stock Function Keys begin the QSO - OR
Set up 3 personally set up Function Keys to contain all I need to perform simple QSO's with little effort.
I like my Funcion Key to to to "TX" and enter Text as I please till I'm done and return to "RX".
If you're a CW Op, you know the usual necessaries - make them Function Keys on the Keyboard.

I have the MMX and have made some impressive contacts while testing my "Customized" Function Keys - honestly surprised for how this radio works.
I was initially surprised at the DX I worked just Testing the Waters at 5 watts and under.
It has my approval and compliments to Eric - bravo.
A.K.

Thank you for your very detailed review! It is always nice to hear that a customer actually understands the detail precision and functionality we built into the MMX and DMX transceivers!

W
Will W
Just opened

Everything arrived safely packaged!!! I have mint had a chance to operate yet, but when I do I’ll give a full review.

j
john b
Nice unit

Works quite well. Looking forward to seeing all of its capabilities

J
John Reinke
FANTASTIC PRODUCT

I am very pleased with my MMX-ZERO and use it with my Icom 7300 and X6100.
I purchased the MMX-ZERO plus all cables to make the setup easier which it did.
Within ten minutes of setup I had my first QSO . Fantastic
Its a great learning tool and Highly recommended.
Make sure you view the videos first, which will make things easy.
I love using my MMX-ZERO.
Thanks Eric and the team at PreppComm
Whats next Eric ?
73 John ZL3QRP

Thanks for your wonderful review, John! We could tell you what's next, but then we would have to send the black helicopter... :) I am sure you will love it!

D
David Lyons
An outstanding product.

I am extremely pleased With the MMX 20/40 and Preppcomm tech support.
The MMX 20/40 is easy to set up in both Stand alone mode, and external mode ( using the accessory cable set they offer) with my FTdx10. I made my first QSO two hours after setup and learning the ropes by reading the manual and experimenting using a dummy load. I logged 8 contacts before the day was out.( two of those DX).
Tech support is excellent. Twice I emailed Eric Anderson with questions . He got back with answers within 30 minutes both times.
The MMX 20/40 provided me with the impetus I needed to learn CW. Learning Morse Code is something I had shied away from but always wanted to do. Using the MMX has got me fired up! I started online Morse code training. I also bought a paddle key for use on my FTdx10 and I am progressing with that at a good pace.
( The MMX takes a straight key only. Perhaps newer versions of the MMX will have an electronic keyer built in or offered as a designed for MMX accessory? ) The MMX allows me to enjoy the mode while I learn. I find watching the text and listening to the code helps me learn both the code, and the abbreviations and pro-signs.
I can't wait to see what Preppcom comes up with next.
David KD2UBX

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