This week, we’ve pulled together a few items that touch on practical antenna work and some digital modes. There’s a good look at a multi-band portable dipole, something that comes up often for field day or SOTA ops, detailing a switching arrangement for 40 through 15 meters. We also have a piece on building and testing 50 MHz traps, comparing different capacitor types—useful for anyone experimenting with 6-meter antennas. For those running APRS, a comprehensive symbol table is included, which is always handy for interpreting what you see on the map. Finally, we’ve got a mention of open-source firmware for LoRa transceivers and a popular Android application for APRS tracking, both relevant for modern portable and mobile setups.

JTTY brings RTTY-style contest exchanges to WSJT-X 3.2.0-rc1: 127 Hz GFSK, no T/R cycles, N1MM Logger+ support. See specs and suggested frequencies.

The suggested JTTY dial frequencies for every band from 160 m to 2 m, with 14.090 MHz as the initial meeting place. This page covers how to add them to WSJT-X and N1MM Logger+, and is updated whenever the WSJT team revises the list.

This week, we're looking at some interesting developments in the LoRa space, particularly how it's being leveraged for amateur radio applications. We've got a few resources that touch on mesh networking, off-grid text messaging, and the integration of LoRa with APRS. For those experimenting with portable setups or considering resilient communication methods beyond traditional HF, these items offer practical insights. There's also a utility for managing virtual serial ports, something that comes up often when interfacing modern transceivers or microcontrollers with logging software or control applications. It’s a mix of hardware-adjacent firmware projects and mapping tools, all relevant for operators keen on digital modes and self-contained systems.

This week, we’re looking at some practical antenna builds and a handy reference for precise timing. For those operating on 70cm, there are a couple of interesting options: a UHF Double Bazooka Antenna Construction guide details building with RG213, something worth considering for fixed stations needing a clean pattern. Then, for the mobile crowd, especially those on two wheels, a Vertical J-Pole for motorcycle use offers a compact solution for 430-450 MHz. It’s a robust design, which is key when you’re out on the road. Finally, for anyone needing to calibrate their rigs or just curious about propagation, the HF Time Broadcasts and Time Signal Stations List is a solid resource. It’s always good to have those frequencies handy, whether for a quick check or more serious experimentation.

This week, we're looking at a few interesting builds, from compact multiband solutions to specific band optimizations. There's a solid 50-watt amplifier project for the HF bands, something that comes up often for those needing a bit more punch without breaking the bank. We also have a couple of vertical antenna designs, one covering multiple bands and another specifically for 20 meters, which is always a popular choice for portable work. For those running an Icom IC-705, there are some practical insights into maximizing its potential in the field. And for stealth operations, a window loop antenna for 20 meters offers a clever approach. These selections should provide some good food for thought for anyone considering their next antenna project or looking to refine their portable setup.

This week, we've pulled together a few items that touch on some persistent challenges and evolving technologies in the shack. There's a practical look at mitigating common-mode issues, something that comes up often when dealing with feed lines and antenna installations, especially for those running higher power or operating portable. We also have a couple of pieces exploring the expanding role of Software Defined Radio, both as a standalone system for advanced modes like Digital Amateur Television and as a valuable companion to traditional transceivers. Finally, a quick nod to the wider RF spectrum with a public safety audio feed, a reminder of the diverse signals out there. It’s a mix that should offer something for those experimenting with RF, optimizing their home station, or even considering satellite operations.

This week, we've pulled together a few items that might spark some interest, particularly for those dabbling in digital modes or looking to refine their station's utility. We're looking at some compact desktop applications that offer a quick glance at propagation and local conditions, something that always comes in handy whether you're chasing DX on HF or just planning a local net. There's also a deeper dive into some hardware for packet and digital radio experimentation, specifically ESP32-based LoRa boards, which are becoming quite popular for everything from APRS to Meshtastic. And for the low-frequency enthusiasts, we found a construction guide for an active loop converter, which could be a real asset for improving reception on the LF band. It’s all about practical enhancements and exploring new facets of the hobby.