This week, we've gathered some practical insights for the workbench and the field. There’s a good piece on adapting common 75-ohm TV components for our 50-ohm systems, something that comes up often when scrounging parts. We also have a solid guide for portable power considerations, which is always relevant for those heading out for POTA or field day. For the theory buffs, a refresher on the Smith Chart's utility beyond just matching networks is included. Mobile operators will find a discussion on optimizing vehicle installations, particularly regarding ground planes. And for the experimenters, a look at the Si5351a frequency synthesizer and its potential for stable signal generation. Finally, a club spotlight for those keen on chasing DX awards.

Icom UK has confirmed that the X-026 concept project will see its world premiere at Dayton Hamvention 2026, May 15–17 in Xenia, Ohio. The physical mock-up follows a teaser video released last month. Final name, specs and pricing will be disclosed only at Tokyo Ham Fair later this year.

This week, we’ve gathered some practical insights for the workbench and the field. We’re looking at tools for signal analysis, something that comes up often when troubleshooting or just exploring the bands. There’s also a good refresher on NVIS, which is always worth revisiting for those tricky local nets or emergency communications, especially when terrain is a factor. For the low-band enthusiasts, we found a piece on improving 160-meter reception with a custom filter—a common challenge with broadcast interference. Antenna builders will appreciate the details on a rebuilt trap dipole, offering some solid construction notes. Finally, for those running a Yaesu FT-991, we’ve included a couple of resources on configuring popular logging software, which can save a lot of head-scratching during contest setup.

This week's collection of resources brings together a variety of antenna projects and mounting solutions, each offering practical insights for the dedicated amateur radio operator. From verticals to wire antennas, these guides provide valuable knowledge for enhancing your station's capabilities. Whether you're setting up a portable operation or refining your home station, these resources address common challenges and offer innovative solutions. The focus ranges from efficient multiband designs to specialized mounts that preserve your vehicle's integrity. Each resource is grounded in real-world application, ensuring relevance to your operating context, be it HF, VHF/UHF, or beyond.

Guglielmo Marconi did not merely invent a device, he proved to a skeptical world that the atmosphere itself could carry human messages across oceans. This tribute explores the life, vision, and stubborn determination of the man amateur radio operators rightly call the father of long-distance wireless communication.

This week, we've gathered a few items that touch on various aspects of our hobby, from digital networks to tackling common station issues. There's a look at a growing packet network initiative, something that might spark interest for those experimenting with local digital infrastructure. We also have a resource for European frequencies, which can be quite useful for those operating portable or just curious about the RF landscape across the pond. For the DX chasers, a new cluster client is worth a look, offering some integration features. And for those who find themselves battling stray RF, a practical guide on taming a common audio accessory is included. Finally, a popular DMR net is highlighted, a good reminder of the diverse ways hams connect globally.

This week, we're looking at a few items that touch on improving reception, particularly on the lower bands, which often presents challenges for those of us with limited real estate. There's a good piece comparing various low-band receive antennas, including the K9AY and Shared Apex Loop Array, offering some practical alternatives to the traditional Beverage. Speaking of which, we also have a detailed look at constructing a Beverage antenna using a simple wire on the ground—something that comes up often when trying to pull out weak signals. For 160 meters, there's a compact counterpoise design for smaller lots, a clever solution for getting on the top band without needing acres of wire. And for the experimenters, a pocket-sized 20M QRP SSB transceiver project, along with a critical reminder on RF safety and antenna installation risks. Always worth revisiting those fundamentals.

Every April 18, the bands come alive for the same reason they have for a century: to mark the day, in 1925, when amateur radio pioneers met in Paris and founded the International Amateur Radio Union.