SE0X Shack Evolution: From Tangled Cables to a Clean-Desk SO2R Station

The SE0X shack has constantly evolved over the years, growing from a simple setup into a highly optimized remote SO2R station.

Here’s a compressed timeline of the transformation:

• 2007 – First real contest effort, simple 1 radio setup
• 2008 – 3-element SteppIR installed in tower
• 2009 – Elecraft K3 added with remote capability (now retired) / First Multi-Op effort
• 2010 – 2-el phased array for 40m & CW Skimmer added
• 2011 – Shack rebuilt for SO2R/M2 adding one TS-590 (now retired)
• 2012 – 5-element 15m OP-DES Yagi installed for SO2R on high bands
• 2013 – Off-site CW Skimmer (retired) added
• 2014 – First contest with remote team members worked, CQ WPX SSB
• 2015 – First SDR transceiver, a SunSDR2 PRO, used in a contest
• 2016 – A second TS-590 added for SO2R and Remote (now retired)
• 2017 – Installed a reversible BOG antenna in North/South
• 2018 – Major gear upgrade & new 160/80 “Axtorp” vertical added
• 2019 – 144 MHz LFA added to the tower, first NAC contest worked
• 2020 – Rewired for Corona-safe Multi-Op contesting
• 2021 – a FT-1000D was added for 160m (not used for contesting)
• 2022 – FLEX-6600 installed, RX antenna switching upgrade
• 2023 – Shack rebuilt to support the “Clean Desk Policy”
• 2024 – New power monitors, smaller improvements and cable clean-up

Over the years, my goal has been twofold: expand the capabilities of the station while simplifying its layout. Step by step, clever upgrades replaced the chaotic nest of cables and magical switchboxes crowding the tiny shack.

The biggest leap came in 2015, with the adoption of SDR transceivers. Virtual audio and serial cables drastically reduced the wiring overhead. But the real game changer arrived in 2022: the FLEX-6600.

This SDR transceiver revolutionized SO2R at SE0X. Thanks to its dual Spectral Capture Units (SCUs), the FLEX-6600 functions as two contest-grade radios in one box. No more MicroHAM SO2R controller, no more complex cabling—everything is now handled in software via SmartSDR. Whether operating on-site or remotely via SmartLink, the SO2R experience is seamless.

With fewer devices needed at the desk, it was time to take things a step further. The transceiver, filters, and amplifier were all moved away from the operating table. Now, only the antenna controllers and power meter remain within reach. This new layout makes it possible to stand while operating, improving comfort during long shifts.

The Clean Desk Policy is here to stay.

Next up? That old FT-1000D might be on its way out too. One less thing on the desk—and more space for coffee during contests!