The zBitx v2 Migration: Community Fixes for v1 Hardware Owners

The zBitx community is buzzing with the release of the v2 software and hardware update by Ashhar Farhan (VU2ESE).While the new version promises to solve long-standing issues like receiver “chuffing” and the 24 kHz spur, the migration for v1 owners has proven to be a technical challenge. If you are seeing a “white screen” or unresponsive touch controls, you are not alone.

zBitx v2 Migration

Based on the latest discussions from theBITX20 Groups.io forum, here is the comprehensive guide to a successful upgrade.

What’s New in zBitx v2?

The v2 update is both a hardware revision and a software overhaul designed to decouple the user interface from the core radio.

• Wi-Fi Architecture: The Raspberry Pi Zero 2W now acts as an Access Point (SSID:zbitx), and the front-panel Pico W connects via Wi-Fi.This replaces the old$I^2C$ link, eliminating the I2C “hogging” that caused CW keying lags.
• Hardware Upgrades: The new retail units include a power switch, an in-built EFHW transformer, a passive FET mixer, and high-efficiencyAFT05MS004N LDMOS transistors.
• 24 kHz Spur Fix: By shifting the clock and adding acenter_bin parameter inhw_settings.ini, the BFO is moved outside the crystal filter’s passband.

The Upgrade Process for v1 Owners

If you are upgrading your existing hardware, follow these steps precisely to avoid common pitfalls.

Step 1: The SD Card

Do not attempt to “git pull” over your old installation.

• Use afresh 32GB Micro SD card.
• Download the official image and burn it using theRaspberry Pi Imager.
• Data Recovery: To keep your logbook and settings, copy/home/pi/sbitx/data/user_settings.in and/home/pi/sbitx/data/sbitx.db from your old card to the new one.

Step 2: Front Panel Firmware (The UF2 Update)

You must update the Pico firmware via theCAT port (not the USB port).

• Hold down the tuning button while powering up to enter upload mode.
• The screen will light up dimly white; copy thezbitx_front_panel_v2.ino.uf2 file to the drive that appears on your computer.

Critical Issues & Expert Remedies

1. The “White Screen” Power Issue

Many users report a white screen upon boot.

• The Cause: The v2 software activates Wi-Fi on the Pico, which draws more current and raises the voltage threshold.Many units fail to boot below 8.5V.
• The Fix: Use asolid 9V supply.If using batteries, ensure they are freshly charged.Some hams suggest a “USB jump”—powering the Pico via the CAT port USB while the radio boots—as a temporary workaround.

2. Touchscreen “Calibration Hang”

If your screen works but the touch is unresponsive, you must recalibrate.

• Hold the stylus down during power-up to enter calibration mode.
• Expert Tip: If you cannot clear the fourth corner,loosen the screws on the right side of the case.Mechanical pressure on the display often causes calibration failure.

3. The “Pico vs. Pico W” Trap

Some early v1 units were shipped with a standardPico instead of aPico W.

• The Problem: Standard Picos lack the silver Wi-Fi module and cannot communicate with the v2 software.
• The Fix: Check your board for the silver wireless chip; if missing, you must replace the Pico with a Pico W for v2 to work.

4. Expert Hardware Mods

For those comfortable with SMD soldering, the community recommends replacing the78L05 regulator on the front panel with a500mA version (like theDI78M05UAB) and swapping theD1 diode for aSchottky diode to reduce voltage drop.

Related Posts

• The zBitx v2 Has Arrived: Efficiency, Built-in EFHW, and a Wi-Fi Revolution
• STREAM1090 : Extending Your ADS-B Range with new demodulation
• ZBitx: The Pocket SDR That’s Redefining Portable QRP