Tab 5 Computer / QMX Radio for POTA

This was the SCARS Elmer Night on August 18th, 2026, when Duane Angle AA5KD set up his QMX POTA kit for “Show and Tell.” He received tons of decodes, which surprised him because we thought the building was a big Faraday cage. He made 5 QSO’s into Ohio, Idaho, Tennessee, Michigan, and West Virginia.

Components in this image are as follows and are all detailed below:

  • J5create PD Power Bank
  • 5 to 20 volts output with E-Marker cable
  • PocketPD
  • This unique power supply leverages the Programmable Power Supply (PPS) mode that’s part of USB Power Delivery 3.0 and later versions
  • Malahit ATU-10 Antenna Tuner
  • The Malahit ATU-10 QRP Automatic Antenna Tuner is a compact and efficient device designed for matching antennas with low power (QRP) transceivers
  • Qrp-Labs QMX
  • Versions: 80, 60, 40, 30 and 20m — or — 20, 17, 15, 12, 11 and 10m — or — 60, 40, 30, 20, 17 and 15m.
  • M5Stack TAB5 – A standalone real-time panadapter — spectrum analyzer and waterfall — for the QRP Labs QMX/QMX+ HF transceiver with FT4/FT8.
  • Chubbycables USB cables
  • Cable material: Environmentally Friendly Silicone, Aluminum Alloy
  • Connector Types: USB-A, USB-C, Lightning
  • Current: 5A (Max)
  • Cable Power: USB-A to Type-C: 60-120W/ Type-C to Type-C: 240W / Type-C to
  • Lightning: 27W / USB-A to Lightning: 12W
  • Data Transmission Rates: USB 2.0 (480 Mbps)
  • Cable Length:1M (3.3ft), 2M (6.6ft), 3M (9.84ft)
  • Function: Fast Charge And Data Transmission; Supports CarPlay
  • Has E-Marker chipset
  • RG-316 Antenna Coax
  • BNC male to BNC male 25ft.

Costs

The total cost of everything shown here is $1,318.
Total cost without the Chameleon vertical antenna is $632.

Keep in mind that his requirements may not be yours. Duane uses this setup for POTA, so it needs to be portable.

There are other portable antennas available that might be a better fit and are detailed on the page.

PocketPD

PocketPD is a USB Type-C-powered bench power supply that fits in your pocket. Paired with a modern USB Type-C charger or power bank, it is a full-featured power supply with a wide voltage range and built-in safety features. It is equipped with an OLED display, a current sensor, and a banana-jack output for all your standard equipment. It also serves as a Power Delivery 3.0 profile tester.

This unique power supply leverages the Programmable Power Supply (PPS) mode, which is part of USB Power Delivery 3.0 and later versions. PPS lets you request voltage and current directly from the charger, enabling a more compact, lightweight design. Whether you’re a pro working in the field, learning about electrical engineering for the first time, or a DIY hobbyist who demands precise power control, PocketPD is a versatile addition to your tool kit. $79
https://www.crowdsupply.com/centylab/pocketpd

Malahit ATU-10 QRP Automatic Antenna Tuner

The Malahit ATU-10 QRP Automatic Antenna Tuner is a compact and efficient device designed to match antennas to low-power (QRP) transceivers. This tuner features automatic tuning, a clear OLED display, and a built-in rechargeable battery, making it ideal for portable use. This manual will guide you through the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your ATU-10 tuner. $118
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09PTC6DJ8?lv=shuf&channelId=510&plpRedirect=mhFallback

“QMX” (QRP Labs Multimode Xcvr)

The “QMX” (QRP Labs Multimode Xcvr): a feature-packed, high-performance, five band (80, 60, 40, 30 and 20m — or — 20, 17, 15, 12, 11 and 10m — or — 60, 40, 30, 20, 17 and 15m) 3-5W CW, Digi and SSB-modes transceiver kit, including embedded SDR receiver, 24-bit 48 ksps USB sound card, CAT control, synthesized VFO with TCXO reference. QMX may be used in CW modes standalone, or with a single USB cable to a PC for digi-mode operation or SSB (USB/LSB). QMX also incorporates standalone CW, FSKCW, and WSPR beacon functionality (no PC connection required). Kit is $103 and assembled is $153.
https://www.qrp-labs.com/qmx.html

Tab5 Computer

Tab5 is a highly expandable, portable smart-IoT terminal development device for developers, integrating a dual-core architecture and rich hardware resources. The main controller uses the ESP32-P4 SoC based on the RISC-V architecture, with 16 MB of Flash and 32 MB of PSRAM. The wireless module uses the ESP32-C6-MINI-1U and supports Wi-Fi 6. Its antenna system can switch freely between the built-in 3D antenna and an external MMCX antenna interface, adapting flexibly to various deployment environments to ensure high data throughput and low-latency control. $55
https://docs.m5stack.com/en/core/Tab5

J5 Create Power Supply

Charge laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices anywhere and anytime you need to. No more finding a wall plug for charging your devices when they are running out of power!

Charge the power bank via the USB-C® 1st port with any PD power supply, supporting up to 100 W. After the power bank is fully charged, single-use of the USB-C®. The 1st port also supports PD charging for laptops up to 100 W. The IC will efficiently distribute power among the USB™ ports so other devices can be charged at the same time.

The power bank also features short-circuit, overcharge, discharge, and overcurrent protection to prevent damage to both the power bank itself and connected devices.

If not available, anything similar will do (PD-capable). $100
https://en.j5create.com/products/jpb264100

USB Cables

You will need 2 USB-C-to-USB-C cables and 1 USB-A-to-USB-C cable. These cables need to be data cables capable of doing PD(Power Distribution). He uses the ChubbyCable 240W PD 3.1 SUPER-FAST CHARGING & STABLE DATA TRANSFER: Power your devices with ChubbyCable’s USB PD 3.1 technology, supporting up to 240W fast charging for USB-C to USB-C devices. USB-A to USB-C variants support up to 120W depending on charger compatibility. Enjoy stable 480 Mbps USB 2.0 data transfer with reliable Android Auto & CarPlay connectivity for seamless charging, syncing, and on-the-go performance.

VELVETY-SMOOTH SILICONE & 45,000+ BEND DURABILITY: Built for everyday durability, this 6mm thick USB Type-C cable features a velvety-smooth, skin-friendly silicone exterior and a precision-engineered zinc alloy shell for enhanced strength and corrosion resistance. The ultra-thick design helps resist tangles, dust, and daily wear, while the UV-coated finish keeps it looking clean and premium over time. Tested to withstand 45,000+ bends for lasting reliability. You do not need to buy Chubbycable; just make sure whatever cable you buy is PD-charge and data-capable. $22 to $25 for Chubbycable.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=chubbycable&adgrpid=1331510252516321&gb=2&hvadid=83219662249777&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=61616&hvnetw=o&hvocijid=3265131974727384117–&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83220414486922%3Aloc190&hydadcr=1783_13434690&mcid=152ce458185432c9afb57b98db9aec49&tag=mh0b
20&ref=pd_sl_kdkqzp3q3_e

Power Cable Anderson to Barrel Connector

Depending on how you choose to power your QMX, it requires a 5.5×2.1mm male barrel connector on one end and whichever connector you choose on the other. He used Anderson Power Pole connectors for his power connector because they mate with the PocketPD. $15
https://www.impulseelectronics.com/power-adapter-cable-powerpole-to-dc-2-1mm-x-55mm-plug/

Chameleon CHA Blank Adapter

CHA BLANK ADAPTER solves a deceptively important field problem: joining a selected RF connector to the proven 3/8-24 MPAS READY mounting ecosystem. Choose the BNC-to-3/8-24, SO-239-to-3/8-24, or SO-239-to-SO-239 format to create the exact interface your documented antenna build requires without replacing the mount already in the kit.

For the operator, that means a cleaner path from known equipment to a documented deployment—while preserving the electrical and mechanical limits of the completed antenna system. $132
https://chameleonantenna.com/products/cha-blank-adapter-1?variant=47738759217398

Antenna Tripod

Height, stability, wind area, and setup time all contribute to antenna performance when the support travels with the station. That is where CHA CARBON FIBER TRIPOD enters the kit. Introducing our Ultra-light Portable CARBON FIBER TRIPOD – a compact marvel designed for those on the move.

Weighing just over 1 lb and folding down to 8 1/2″, it’s your perfect outdoor companion. The right infrastructure lets the operator choose the site for radio reasons, then raise a documented load with the required base, sleeve, guying, and power-line clearance. $99
https://chameleonantenna.com/collections/all-products/products/carbon-fiber-tripod

Chameleon CHA Modular Extension

Modular field systems become valuable when one carefully chosen section can change what the complete antenna can do. That is where CHA SINGLE-EXT (PACK OF 2) enters the kit. The CHA SINGLE-EXT (Length: 27″ Each ) is a modular extension component designed for Chameleon Antenna systems, specifically enhancing the versatility and range of antennas like the CHA BV (Basic Vertical) and other MPAS (Modular Portable Antenna System) configurations. This extension provides added length to improve resonance and efficiency across various HF bands, making it suitable for operators seeking enhanced performance in portable and field deployments.

When used in a documented configuration, the component provides the operator with another practical build option while preserving the electrical, mechanical, and power limits of the complete system. $116
https://chameleonantenna.com/collections/all-products/products/cha-single-ext-pack-of2

Chameleon CHA Multi Configuration Coil

The CHA MCC 2.0 (Multi Configuration Coil) is for operators who want the compact footprint and fast setup of a portable vertical without being locked into a single fixed band or radiator length. Its continuously adjustable coil lets you move between documented base-loaded and center-loaded arrangements in the field. 75 through 6 meters, depending on radiator and verified configuration. Pair it with the specified Chameleon radiator, feedpoint, mount, and radial system, then use an analyzer or SWR meter to find the operating point. For POTA, travel, emergency kits, and space-limited campsites, it makes one modular parts kit far more adaptable. $250
https://chameleonantenna.com/products/cha-mcc-2-0?_pos=1&_sid=fa5f37cc5&_ss=r

Antenna Whip

Gabil GRA-CF2200 Carbon Fiber Telescopic Whip Antenna, 226cm Lightweight and compact 8-section carbon fiber whip antenna, collapsible to 40cm (15.7 in), extends to 226cm (89 in), with M10-1.0P to 3/8-24 adapter included. $89
https://www.gabilradio.com/product/19680/detail-aa638100-6ea8-11f0-bd32b9b15a4627c9?page=1

Patch Cables

Connector Type: BNC Male to BNC Male Low Loss RG316 Coaxial Cable Length: 1ft Impedance: 50 ohm $12
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BVVWKZ68/ref=sspa_dk_rhf_search_pt_sub_1/?_encoding=UTF8&ie=UTF8&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9yaGZfc2VhcmNoX3BlcnNvbmFsaXplZA%3D%3D&pd_rd_w=SpX6H&content-id=amzn1.sym.ab00ff07-6892-4059-9aa522111804fd1e&pf_rd_p=ab00ff07-6892-4059-9aa522111804fd1e&pf_rd_r=NVANWV0NA9RAGF8P7B1K&pd_rd_wg=9wMRf&pd_rd_r=324ff966-7ac5-4f1a-904e-7d0aacdee8d7&ref_=sspa_dk_rhf_search_pt_sub&th=1

Coaxial Feedline Cable

DX Engineering RG-174 50-ohm Hi-Viz Orange Mini Coaxial Assemblies DXE 174VDB025 $25
https://www.dxengineering.com/parts/DXE-174VDB025

Alternative Antennas

On the following pages are some of the alternatives. Keep in mind these portable antennas are not optimal antennas and “Your Mileage May Vary,” but they do work pretty well. If you are in an HOA and your only choice is to put one of these verticals in your house if you have the room. You can find much cheaper portable antennas. Just do a Google search for portable HF antennas, but remember you generally get what you pay for. If you are not in an HOA and you have 66ft. of space, one of Duane’s EFHW (End Fed Half Wave) antennas works extremely well. $70

JPC-12 HF Antenna

JPC-12 HF Antennas for Ham Radio 7-50MHz All Band HF Vertical Antenna with Low SWR 40m-6m 8 Bands Easy Setup for POTA/Field Day for Outdoor 4.1 Meter(13.5Ft) . $139
https://www.amazon.com/GOOZEEZOO-Shortwave-Regulator-7MHz-50MHz-MultiBand/dp/B0BVB73JJD/ref=sr_1_4?adgrpid=1343605757652380&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.2yvdnGFoAf1_ZEuEJOE8tKnewEm79Xv7rGpjonBTNGzAY7I3w
M2sFjBOVs4pvEV9oAlm8cg8nw6KPRlbqHMsinF316cN9q1clQgkS2lisc0Ydo2_uC5dmsglILr3YZQ2EpZSiCs-o5o3wiLM
cKtPDpHGX-a42ynCcpNcwiarzeGtSPi_zyjXOx2RRjDbFgUNh0edD3HGIkTp_Hf0MvyYvsJEd4lTSlqS8AOhIY.0SJtFxF3drjHe2svf7PUL96lc_d_JIEi5tIigsqM9F8&dib_tag=se&gb=2&hvadid=83975640872123&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=6161
6&hvnetw=o&hvocijid=4806351667847131516–&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd83976552663510%3Aloc190&hydadcr=2039_13434196&keywords=hf%2Bportable%2Bvertical%2Bantenna&mcid=86344a7318883a6393a4ebc265c383af&qid=1787247414&sr=8-4&th=1

Portable HF Telescopic Whip Antenna

GRA-7350TC Portable HF Telescopic Whip Antenna, 3/8″-24 Connector Laser-engraved telescopic whip covering 3.5–50 MHz with 3/8″-24 connector for portable amateur radio operation. $140
https://www.amazon.com/Gabil-GRA-7350TC-Portable-TelescopicAntenna/dp/B0C81DJQYJ/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?adgrpid=1343605757652380&channelId=8&clpRedir=Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.GqSqNmJpSD09a_AA1YH7KaOcvzF4ibnaGZP0TXeTliJ48rDFTZrbEmjG83GoccppfgwLW244TpbePw89X0lLoluuPoVLfq7tt1scBwFaCsc0Ydo2_uC5dmsglILr3YC4orpJRjYb
xp5etISqpwPzcumt231drTO7QQNS5z5ctix7WcqUu7vkRIRSgMLTpkmxjRBmhUiNmCFitFyQG5WWf5m7lw11aOIAi2vBqBW6k.hsQIIDlAYa7A6mTwvtAdVauzqsqkzl3oywlzZLuxZGk&dib_tag=se&gb=2&hvadid=83975640872123&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=61616&hvnetw=o&hvocijid=4806351667847131516–&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd83976552663510%3Aloc190&hydadcr=2039_13434196&keywords=hf%2Bportable%2Bvertical%2Bantenna&mcid=86344a7318883a6393a4ebc265c383af&plpRedirect=mhFallback&qid=1787249826&sr=82-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

Radioddity HF-010 Portable HF Antenna

The Radioddity HF-010 Portable HF Antenna is a 10-Band Vertical Shortwave Antenna, 80m-6m Multiband for Ham Radio & HF Transceivers, with an Upgraded 304 Stainless Steel Connector, Tripod & Ground Spike for POTA. $239
https://www.radioddity.com/products/radioddity-hf-010

Radioddity HF-009 Portable HF Antenna

Radioddity HF-009 Portable HF Antenna 5-50MHz Quick-Tuning Vertical Antenna SWR 1.0-1.5, Compatible with Xiegu G90/X6100/X6200, Radioddity QT40/QT60/QT80, for HF Transceivers & Mobile Radios, for POTA. $160
https://www.amazon.com/Radioddity-HF-009-Quick-Tuning-CompatibleTransceivers/dp/B0F4X4517J/ref=sr_1_15?adgrpid=1343605757652380&channelId=8&clpRedir=Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VCD-MOb5CalHN7ENVnIx_jviOb7q55a4shmrjkiECJ9dJMK_ev39Eki9WFlepNPppfgwLW244TpbePw89X0lLoluuPoVLfq7tt1scBwFaCsc0Ydo2_uC5dmsglILr3YZQ2EpZSiCs-o5o3wiLMcKtPDpHGXa42ynCcpNcwiZix7WcqUu7vkRIRSgMLTpkmxjRBmhUiNmCFitFyQG5WWf5m7lw11aOIAi2vBqBW6k.ZhBqHJfTL3qtQX6KT7A4Ikb7gDXULCDtK6Lr6sAA25g&dib_tag=se&gb=2&hvadid=83975640872123&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=61616&hvnetw=o&hvocijid=4806351667847131516–&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-83976552663510%3Aloc190&hydadcr=2039_13434196&keywords=hf%2Bportable%2Bvertical%2Bantenna&mcid=86344a7318883a6393a4ebc265c383af&plpRedirect=mhFallback&qid=1787250246&sr=815

JPC-350 Portable HF Vertical Antenna

JPC-350 Portable HF Vertical Antenna, 80m-6m 8-Band 100W SSB 100W SSB Power Rating, SWR≤1.5, Lightweight 1.5KG, Easy to set up, Portable for POTA, SOTA & Emergency Communication. $219
https://www.amazon.com/GOOZEEZOO-Upgraded-JPC-350-AntennasPortable/dp/B0DLGPX31J/ref=sr_1_19?adgrpid=1343605757652380&channelId=8&clpRedir=Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0I0HYa7aZj5bGiUdfz9VKU2DYy1haQvl_dBmYpqkX3d48rDFTZrbEmjG83GoccppfgwLW244TpbePw89X0lLfAuq4aNbw9M9zTBqTfFOyOBxHE3StKuJcaqqIRY5PB5Tzk6sGoObW9SrQIY4T5XzHZLxj_J7lY66ap7EhdUU1M5HQSe1mEieJBi452gfzXfs0TUy8KfS874m_cDFVoyyFjrjwRnnHVlg8HJcjBZks.QGlsmtePhBo5hrlq1ShmSwrc2_EO2gmzDWAjR346AmE&dib_tag=se&gb=2&hvadid=83975640872123&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=61616&hvnetw=o&hvocijid=4806351667847131516–&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd83976552663510%3Aloc190&hydadcr=2039_13434196&keywords=hf%2Bportable%2Bvertical%2Bantenna&mcid=86344a7318883a6393a4ebc265c383af&plpRedirect=mhFallback&qid=1787250487&sr=819&th=1

JNC RADIO MC-750 100-WATTS PORTABLE HF VERTICAL ANTENNA

Portable HF vertical antenna system for POTA, field days, and temporary HF operation. 2–5 minute tool-free setup with laser-etched whip markings for faster, repeatable tuning. Tuner-free operation on 20–6 m in normal use; 40 m operation with the included 7 MHz loading coil. Complete portable kit with radials and carry bag, plus accessory path for 80 m coil, tripod, grounding plate, and replacement parts. Best for operators who want a practical field antenna system rather than a loose collection of parts.
https://chelegance.com/products/jncradio-mc-750-100-watts-portable-hf-gpantenna/

Mini-Buddipole™

By popular demand, we’ve taken the standard Buddipole™ and made it more compact. Now you can get the same quality and performance as the standard Buddipole™ in a compact package that measures only 13″ in length. The difference here is that the 2 longer arms (22″ each) of the standard Buddipole have been replaced by 4 smaller arms (11″ each). This allows for a much more compact package which easily fits inside a small daypack or travel bag. $275
https://www.buddipole.com/minibuddipole.html

The Buddistick PRO™

Designed as a multi-band, portable antenna for 40m – 6m, the Buddistick PRO™ is an excellent performer with any transceiver up to 250 watts. The Buddistick PRO™ comes packaged in a compartmentalized 1000 denier Cordura™ portfolio bag and includes a Versahub™ feed point, 2 aluminum arms, one standard telescopic whip, one adjustable coil, 3 coil clips, and an elevated radial system. $200.
https://www.buddipole.com/buddistick.html