PDF document for IC-7300 beginners. The ICOM IC-7300 is an HF + 6 meter, multi-mode, self-contained Software Defined Radio (SDR) transceiver with knobs, buttons and a touch screen. It also has a real-time spectrum display with pan adapter and water fall displays.
These pricey battery-powered devices are the only type of generator that can be used indoors safely. The article reviews pro and cons of power stations evaluating runtime, power delivery, power quality, ease of use, and noise.
On this page, you will find one of my designs; An Audio Selection Panel (ASP). The Audio Selection Panel allows you to control 4 Transceivers and hear the audio through the built-in loudspeaker and on an external boomset (combination Microphone/ headset). On or more transceivers can be selected at a time to transmit and/ or receiv
When building antennas for the Wifi band (Like the 8dBi omni), a need for an easy way to check the antennas arose. A Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) meter useable at the 2.4GHz band is however, hard to find.
The Slim-Jim is a bit of a classic – building one is almost certainly a rite of passage and you will be glad that you did: It is easy to make, fairly easy to tune and rolls-up for transportation.
JOTA-JOTI is the largest Scouting event in the world with over 1.3 million Scouts participating across 150+ countries. Scouts and Guides across the world connect with each other during JOTA-JOTI using the airwaves and the internet.
JOTA is a spectacular opportunity to introduce Scouts to amateur radio. For many, this will be their first exposure to the world of ham radio. Some will go on to become hams, enjoying the hobby for a lifetime. A few will even find the basis of a career in science and technology.
The event has been held the third weekend of October since 1957.
The next Jota will be 16-18 October 2020
Why is there a JOTA-JOTI ?
Jamboree on the Air – Jamboree on the Internet (JOTA-JOTI) is a fun and exciting annual experience for all young people in Scouting using the widest range of technology communication channels to educate, promote cultural awareness, develop tolerance, as well as enhance sharing, collaboration and teamwork, along with building a sense of belonging to the worldwide Scout Movement. It is a “travel-free” Jamboree that takes place wherever you are in the world
JOTA-JOTI Purpose
Jamboree on the Air – Jamboree on the Internet (JOTA-JOTI) is a fun and exciting annual experience for all young people in Scouting using the widest range of technology communication channels to educate, promote cultural awareness, develop tolerance, as well as enhance sharing, collaboration and teamwork, along with building a sense of belonging to the worldwide Scout Movement. It is a “travel-free” Jamboree that takes place wherever you are in the world.
JOTA-JOTI Description
Jamboree on the Air – Jamboree on the Internet promotes a Scout’s sense of belonging to the worldwide Scout Movement and builds cultural awareness, develops tolerance, advocates sharing and collaboration as well as demonstrates teamwork.
It provides exciting opportunities for young people to explore technology and to develop technical skills including fostering innovation and creativity through communicating with other Scouts. A wide range of activities using communication technology are the chief methods of attaining these goals.
JOTA-JOTI strives for a meaningful engagement of as many young people from as many parts of the world as possible annually on the third weekend in October. This weekend is also an occasion to celebrate Scouting and to generate positive energy to support the development of the Scout Movement.
The event seeks to promote quality Scouting in a manner faithful to the purpose, principles and method of Scouting and consistent with the needs and aspirations of young people in today’s world.
The JOTA-JOTI programme shall be a reflection of the Promise, Law, Principles and Method of Scouting, as defined by the WOSM Constitution, and shall also reflect the most up-to-date policies and initiatives of WOSM relating to youth programme for all ages.
JOTA Operating Rules
All radio operators must operate their station strictly in accordance with FCC regulations.
Stations should try to contact each other by calling “CQ Jamboree” or “CQ JOTA” or by answering other stations sending this call.
Any authorized amateur radio frequency may be used. It is suggested that the frequencies listed below be used, at least for a starting point. Once contact is established, you can move to another frequency to leave the calling frequency open for others.
Any amateur mode of operation can be used such, as CW, SSB, PSK, SSTV, FM, and satellite. The more modes in operation, the more exciting the event will be for the Scouts.
JOTA is not a contest. The idea is to contact other Scout stations and allow as many Scouts as possible to talk to other Scouts and learn about who they are and what they are doing. You might think about counting the Scouts on both sides of the QSO rather than the number of QSOs!
SPECIAL ADVICE FOR COVID-19 MEASURES
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented measures in almost every country. Luckily, the JOTA-JOTI event will not be affected as much as other events, as participants are able to take part from any location, anytime during the weekend, with any number of Scouts.
Nevertheless, some safety considerations need to be taken into account. Please check your local regulations effective at the time of the event, particularly in regard to the maximum number of people that allowed to gather in one space.
Social distancing: Radio signals can bridge thousands of kilometres around the globe. So certainly, they can operate at 1.5 or 2 meter distance at your local station. Ask your radio operator to install a microphone lead of 2 meters or more, so your Scouts can keep a distance from the operator. Alternatively, you can use wireless microphones on bluetooth, or even separate walkie-talkies to get your audio to your radio transmitter. You may also place radio stations outdoors, for example at a Scout camp, where there is ample space to keep distances. Radio amateurs will be pleased with the large space to set up the antennas.
Hygiene: Take care of extra cleaning at your station, in particular microphones and keyboards used by more than one person. You can place transparent screens between participants and / or radio operators. Also take additional measures for food and drinks at your radio station.
Different locations: Is it possible for your Scout group to not be present at the same location? Ask your radio amateur to connect two or more locations together electronically so you can all enjoy the same event. Ask him about a short-link amateur television (ATV) connection or using station remote control over a wifi link.
Activities: Several fun activities can be offered to Scouts almost unchanged, including a morse code game with stations in separated rooms connected by wire, or foxhunting where individual Scouts try to locate small transmitters hidden outside in the field. Is the morse code too difficult or fast? Try one of the decoder apps on your smartphone and discover what is behind these mysterious beeps on the radio. More programme suggestions will follow soon.
Be creative and focus on what is possible and safe to do.
JOTA Suggested Frequencies
All frequencies are shown as megahertz.
Primary HF recommendations are for General Class licensees. Technicians may take advantage of 10 m and VHF/UHF for voice communications.
After contact is made on Calling Channel or frequency, move to another channel or frequency for QSO.
Experiment with modes prior to JOTA or Radio Scouting demo. ‘Murphy’s Law’ prevails!
Use web search tools to find lots of helpful information about any of the modes commonly used for JOTA and Radio Scouting.
WOSM (World Organization of the Scouting Movement) calling frequencies are shown to indicate center of international activity.
World Wide JOTA HF Frequencies
Band
SSB (phone)
CW (Morse)
80 m
3.690 & 3.940 MHz
3.570 MHz
40 m
7.090 & 7.190 MHz
7.030 MHz
20 m
14.290 MHz
14.060 MHz
17 m
18.140 MHz
18.080 MHz
15 m
21.360 MHz
21.140 MHz
12 m
24.960 MHz
24.910 MHz
10 m
28.390 MHz
28.180 MHz
6 m
50.160 MHz
50.160 MHz
European JOTA Frequencies
JOTA isa worldwide event, and JOTA staions in Euripe are looking for contacts. To avoid a conflcit with the Worked All Germany contenst, European JOTA stations will be active on these band segments:
80 m
CW 3.560-3.800 kHz
SSB 3.650-3.700 kHz
40 m
CW 7.040-7.200 kHz
SSB 7.080-7.140 kHz
20 m
CW 14.060-14.350 kHz
SSB 14.100-14.125 kHZ and 14.280-14.350 kHZ
15 m
SSB 21.350-21.450 kHz
10 m
SSB 28.225-28.400 kHz
2 Meter FM Simplex
147.450, 147.480, 147.510, 147.540* * Use 147.540 as Calling Channel. Always listen first to avoid interfering with another QSO or auxiliary or control link. Avoid 146.520, the National FM Simplex Calling Frequency, as well as 146.550, which is commonly used by mobiles and RVers.
70 CM FM Simplex
446.000*, 445.950, 446.050, 446.100, 446.150 * Use 446.000 as Calling Channel. Always listen first to avoid interfering with another QSO or auxiliary or control link.
D-STAR
REF033A has been allocated as a full-time JOTA/Radio Scouting D-STAR Reflector. After contact is established, stations should disconnect from REF033A and connect to one or other repeater or migrate to an unused Reflector.
SIMPLEX Channels: 145.670*, 145.640, 145.610, 438.010. * 145.670 and 438.010 are commonly used as the National D-STAR Simplex Channels and should be used only as Calling Channels for JOTA. Always listen first to avoid interfering with another QSO.
DMR
All wide area talkgroups are permitted for use for JOTA for establishing contacts. After contact is established, stations should utilize as few resources as possible. For international, national, and regional QSO’s, stations should move their transmissions to one of the DMR-MARC UA talkgroups or to the DCI TAC-310 talkgroup.
For intrastate contacts, stations may use their area’s statewide talkgroup (if applicable). The use of your repeater’s local talkgroup (if applicable) is always permitted.
SIMPLEX Channels: 441.0000*, 446.5000, 446.0750, 433.4500, 145.7900*, 145.5100. All simplex frequencies operate on time-slot 1 and use color code 1. (*are commonly used as the National DMR Simplex Channels and should be used only as Calling Channels for JOTA. Always listen first to avoid interfering with another QSO.)
Need More Information?
Go to scouting.org/jota, for the information provided by the Boy Scouts of America.
After you have build this antenna, you may not need anything else. This article shows how to build a VHF j-pole antenna and how to protect it by inserting it into a PVC tube, the correct way.
Make them simple then Make them work. The LAZY H antenna is a general type of antenna that is in the curtain array family. By placing two 1 wavelength dipoles in a plane that is at right angles to the direction of maximum radiation and keeping the proper in-phase current condition to each element, you can achieve a high gain bi-directional antenna.
If you like building good antennas, this one is for you. The J-pole is a slim, omnidirectional, half-wave antenna fed at the end through a quarter-wave shorted transmission line. Its predecessor is the famous Zepp antenna developed for the Zeppelin airship.
This page includes an interesting and comprehensive review of the ICOM IC-7300 SDR HF / 50 MHz transceiver. The author focuses on many aspects of this transceiver with impressions based on his experience
A homemade j-pole antenna for six meters band, designed to work on local repeaters, and working on the 52-53 MHz. Includes a list of needed materials and detailed description on assembling the copper tubes used to build this antenna.
WSJT-X 2.3.0 introduces FST4 and FST4W, new digital protocols designed particularly for the LF and MF bands. Decoders for these modes can take advantage of the very small Doppler spreads present at these frequencies, even over intercontinental distances.
As a consequence, fundamental sensitivities of FST4 and FST4W are better than other WSJT-X modes with the same sequence lengths, approaching the theoretical limits for their rates of information throughput. The FST4 protocol is optimized for two-way QSOs, while FST4W is for quasi-beacon transmissions of WSPR-style messages. FST4 and FST4W do not require the strict, independent phase locking and time synchronization of modes like EbNaut.
The new modes use 4-GFSK modulation and share common software for encoding and decoding messages. FST4 offers T/R sequence lengths of 15, 30, 60, 120, 300, 900, and 1800 seconds, while FST4W omits the lengths shorter than 120 s. Submodes are given names like FST4-60, FST4W-300, etc., the appended numbers indicating sequence length in seconds. Message payloads contain either 77 bits, as in FT4, FT8, and MSK144, or 50 bits for the WSPR-like messages of FST4W. Message formats displayed to the user are like those in the other 77-bit and 50-bit modes in WSJT-X. Forward error correction uses a low density parity check (LDPC) code with 240 information and parity bits. Transmissions consist of 160 symbols: 120 information-carrying symbols of two bits each, interspersed with five groups of eight predefined synchronization symbols.
We recommend that on the 2200 and 630 m bands FST4 should replace JT9 for making 2-way QSOs, and FST4W should replace WSPR for propagation tests. Operating conventions on these LF and MF bands will eventually determine the most useful T/R sequence lengths for each type of operation.
Further details and operating hints can be found in the “Quick-Start Guide to FST4 and FST4W”, posted on the WSJT web site:
WSJT-X 2.3.0-rc1 is a beta-quality release candidate for a program upgrade that provides a number of new features, capabilities, and defect repairs. These include:
New modes FST4 and FST4W targeting LF and MF bands.
Improved noise baseline discovery for more reliable SNR estimates.
On the waterfall and 2D spectrum a tool-tip shows the frequency offset under the mouse pointer.
The *On Dx Echo* Doppler compensation method has been modified in response to feedback from Users. Basic functionality is unchanged. See the User Guide (Section 8.1) for more information.
Improved user_hardware script or program initiation for WSPR band-hopping mode.
Decoded QSO mode message display narrowed to make appended information easier to view without scrolling the window.
Option to record the propagation mode in logged QSO records.
ADIF v3.1.1 compliance.
Option to connect to PSKReporter using TCP/IP for those with very poor Internet connections.
Major rewrite of the PSKReporter interface to improve efficiency and reduce traffic levels.
Removal of the Tab 2 generated messages.
Accessibility improvements to the UI.
Tweaked decode speed options for a better user experience with lower powered single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi.
Updates to UI translations in Spanish, Italian, Catalan, Chinese, Hong Kong Chinese, Danish, and Japanese.
Audio devices only enumerated when starting up and opening the “Settings->Audio” device lists.
Option to select the default audio device removed to minimize the likelihood of system sounds being transmitted.
Better handling of missing audio devices.
Improved and enhanced meta-data saved to .WAV files.
More reliable multi-instance support.
Included CTY.DAT file moved to installation share directory.
The bundled Hamlib library is updated to the latest available which fixes several regressions, defects, and adds new rig support.
Fixed some edge-case message packing and unpacking defects and ambiguities.
Fix a defect that allowed non-CQ messages to be replied to via the UDP Message Protocol.
Fix a long-standing defect with Tx start timing.
Repair a defect with style sheets when switching configurations.
Repair defects that made the astronomical data window an several main window controls unreadable when using the dark style sheet.
Repair a regression with setting WSPR transmitted power levels.
Repair a regression with newly created ADIF log file’s header.
GOAL: For amateurs around the world to contact as many other amateurs in as many CQ zones, countries, and W/VE QTHs as possible.
BANDS: Five bands only: 3.5, 7, 14, 21 and 28 MHz. Observance of established band plans is strongly encouraged.
EXCHANGE: RST report plus CQ zone number of the station location (e.g., 599 14). Stations in the continental USA and Canada also send QTH (e.g., 599 05 MA).
All Rules can be read and download in several languages at the official CQ WW RTTY Web Site
Free RTTY Software
Here is a selection of popular free to use RTTY programs, many more links to RTTY software can be found on our dedicated links category.
MMTTY is a popular windows free software for RTTY amateur radio operations. This freeware run on Win XP, Win7 Vista and Win8 by JE3HHT. You can download MMTTY software from the official English Website by VE5KC
Fldigi Freeware Digital multi mode program for Linux, Free-BSD, MacOS X and MS Windows . Support CW and several digital modes like PSK31, MFSK, RTTY, Olivia, WeFax, Hell and others and is a fully multi platform application
MixW Software – Update DLL
Many of the Cabrillo format problems in submitted logs are from MixW users. There is a new DLL for CQ WW RTTY that must be used.
Please install the MixW DLL for CQ WW RTTY, available here. Instructions for configuration of MixW and how to create a proper Cabrillo file are here.
AX1 by Elecraft is an ultra-portable two-band antenna system for 20 and 17 meters.
It is basically an antenna whip, ideal for use with portable transceivers such as the Elecraft KX2 and KX3 with internal antenna tuner.
AX1 is ideal for mobile pedestrian use (/PM) where the radio is used in hand-held mode.
AX1 can, however, also be used in table-top configuration thanks to a BNC elbow adapter and a special bar that prevents it from rotating. AX1 consists of a 6 cm long base unit with a diameter of 2 cm, which houses the tuning coil and an extendable stylus of only 15 cm that can extend up to 120 cm.
The base unit and the stylus are separate, thus ensuring maximum portability especially in activities outside the shack. Designed for the 20/17 meter bands, the AX1 antenna system can be used on other bands by modifying the tuning coil in the base.
The suggested power for use is around 15 watts, although it has been successfully tested up to 25 watts. The electrical performance is comparable to that of other portable antennas but no competitor offers the versatility of use that AX1 offers.
The AX1 is not intended for vehicle-mounted use or for permanent outdoor installations.
• To avoid damage to the telescoping whip, keep it collapsed when not in use. • Always use at least one radial (included). This improves transmit signal radiation by up to 20 dB, and reduces the risk of getting an RF burn from the mic, key, or chassis at higher power levels
AX1 Specifications
Resonant Frequencies (by switch position)
AX1: ~14 MHz (20 m), ~19 MHz (17 m). AXE1: ~7.2 MHz (20 m), ~8.5 MHz (17 m). Resonant frequencies may vary +/- 400 kHz or more due to variations in terrain, antenna height, body capacitance, and length of radial(s).
Supplied Radial Wire
AX1: 13 feet (4 m). AXE1: 33’ (10 m). Includes spade lug
Max. Power
30 Watts. For safety, use 15 W max when operating hand-held. If RFI symptoms are observed, reduce power or move antenna farther from the transceiver
Dimensions
Whip: 6” (15 cm) collapsed, 45” (115 cm) extended. Base and AXE1 extender: 6” (15 cm) x 0.75” (19 mm) dia.
Weight
AX1: 3.2 oz. (90 g). AXE1: 2.0 oz. (55 g).
AX1 Antenna price is 99.95 USD
AXE1 40 Meter Extender
AXE1 Extender that allows an Elecraft AX1 whip to be used on 40 and 30 meters. It adds 6 inches (15 cm) of overall length. The AX1 with an AXE1 can be attached directly to a hand-held transceiver or supported by an Elecraft AXB1 whip bipod for table-top use.
The KGD antenna is an option for those with space restrictions. The idea behing this project is to provide a short dipole antenna for HF Bands and to allow operations on HF bands when its not possible to setup large antennas, using these short base loaded dipoles.
This article provides details on building a 6 Meter J-Pole antenna using PVC pipe for an enclosure. This antenna uses flat 450 ohm Window Line for the tuning stub.
The J-Pole antenna is a common omnidirectional antenna used in amateur radio, particularly on the VHF and UHF bands. This article is an attempt to explore how the J-pole antenna transforms feed-line impedance to free-space impedance, all the while providing gain found only in the more expensive commercial products.
Since 1988, Royal Communications International has been supplying communications equipment designed for the military, professional, and amateur market. We specialize in the sale and service of High Frequency, Single Sideband transceivers that are dependable and easy to use.
NEC models are used to explore the GR5V and ZS8BKW optimizations. A third optimization is also rediscovered. The effect of fixed lengths of 75 ohm coax are explored. A link to the NEC model is provided.
This antenna was designed for the CQ WW CW 2009 at EA8URL. All elements are made out of fishing rods with an insulated copper cable fixed on the rods by cable ties. Both fishing rods and cable are UV resistant.
In this article author illustrate a homemade yagi antenna for satellite operations. The antenna includes a VHF antenna and an UHF antenna with a band splitter.
A voice keyer kit available on the marker in two models, BX-184 is the replacement PCB for those who already own an MH-31 microphone. Kit BX-184M includes an MH-31 besides the PCB for those not owning one yet.
Living in a no antenna deed restricted community sounds bad for a HAM, but it means you just need to be more creative. I have found this will not stop your DXCC activities and many of my local HAM club members will agree
Presentation about Practical Antenna Modeling Using the NEC Codes with examples of HF wire antennas and 4NEC2. How to define and edit the models, Running the simulations, Work some examples, Variables usage, Deal with Feed Lines and ground
The problem with making your own trapped HF antennas is usually getting the coaxial traps tuned to frequency. This article explains a method using a RF signal generator at +10dBm output into the coaxial trap.
GridLocW is a free Lat/Long to Maidenhead converter for Windows – with optional GPS support, includes the formula to calculate geodesic distance (in m) between two points specified by latitude/longitude.
