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ICOM ID-52E

The ID-52E, VHF/UHF dual-band digital transceiver, the latest in a long line of D-STAR handportables from Icom will be available from authorised Icom dealers at the beginning of December.

The ID-52E succeeds the popular ID-51E PLUS2 and is the latest Icom model to work on the D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) network.

What immediately strikes you about this model is its large transflective colour display that makes it easy to see outdoors, even in bright sunlight.

The size of the display has also been increased to 2.3 inches from 1.7 inches on the ID-51A/E.

The ID-52E supports Bluetooth communication as standard.

You can wirelessly connect to Android devices with the ST-4001A/ST-4001I Picture Utility Software, and RS-MS1A Remote Control Software installed.

The optional VS-3 Bluetooth® headset is also available, for hands-free operation.

ID-52E D-STAR Digital Handheld Transceiver Features:

• Simultaneous reception in V/V, U/U, V/U as well as DV/DV.
• Waterfall Scope Function
• Airband reception is expanded from VHF to UHF (225 to 374.995 MHz).
• Can be charged via a micro USB connector.
• Audio output has been increased from 400 mW to 750 mW.
• The latest D-STAR functions allow you to send, receive and view saved photos on an installed microSD card using only the ID-52E.
• Accessories for the ID-51E, including battery packs and microphones, can be used.

In addition to the above, the ID-52E has a variety of other features including DR function with easy set-up, built-in GPS receiver, micro SD card slot, IPX7 waterproof construction (1-metre depth of water for 30 minutes), and Terminal/Access Point modes.

Having many great features, the ID-52E will appeal to not only beginners but for those experienced operators who want to get even more out of the D-STAR network.

Other Features
• 750 mW loud audio output power
• Improved heat dissipation efficiency for stable operation
• DV fast data mode uses data in place of voice frames
• QSO log in CSV data format
• Accessories for the ID-51E/ID-31E such as battery packs and microphones can be used
• DV/FM near repeater search function
• Voice recorder function
• External DC power jack

In the UK, the ID-52E will be available from Icom Amateur radio dealers from December 2021 with a suggested retail price of £519.99 (inc.VAT).

Yaesu FT5D

Yaesu FT5DR FT5DE

The new Yaesu dual band FT5DE, 5W C4FM/FM 144/430MHz is a full-featured C4FM handheld transceiver with superior operability and several new sophisticated features.

Despite its compact size (62x34x100 mm), the FT5DR / FT5DE provides a reliable RF output power of 5 W and achieves an audio power of 1 W, optimised for quality audio.

Real Dual Band operation (V+V, U+U, U+V) is available with two independent receivers. Large individual LED indicators for A-band and B-band instantly show the status and communication mode (C4FM or analogue) of each band.

The new FT5D supports simultaneous digital C4FM (standby C4FM/C4FM). Equipped with a rubber protector the FT5D has a robust and shock resistant construction. The waterproof rating is IPX7.

The comfortable size and shape of the completely flat rear body offers an excellent grip for the operator.

A high-resolution display shows the operating band frequency. The colour of the operating band frequency can be selected from white, blue or red. Three keys on the touch panel and seven keys below the display offer intuitive operation. The new TOUCH & GO mode is convenient for immediately starting communications on a frequently used frequency.

Holding down the “PMG” key registers the current display frequency in the primary memory group.

After recording, pressing the “PMG” key will display the reception status of the recorded frequencies as bars on a graph (activity monitoring).

By simply touching the displayed bar, the user can instantly recall that frequency.

The Band Scope function monitors in real time up to 79 displayed channels centred on the current VFO frequency.

The centre frequency can be tuned using the selector knob or by touching and moving the frequency of a displayed channel bar. With the new FT5D, the already popular C4FM digital communication features such as Automatic Mode Selection (AMS), Digital Group ID (DG-ID) operation and Smart Navigation function are available. The FT5D also supports the WiRES-X portable digital node function.

A portable digital node can be easily set up with the new FT5D, a laptop PC connected to the Internet and the optional SCU-39 cable kit.

The advanced features of the new FT5DR/E includes:

wireless hands-free operation using the optional Bluetooth® headset (SSM-BT10); VOX function; automatic memory grouping (MAG); VFO band hopping function; wide-range RX coverage with continuous reception from 0.5 MHz to 999.99 MHz (A-band) and 108 MHz to 580 MHz (B-band); built-in 66-channel high-sensitivity GPS receiver; 1200/9600 bps APRS data modem; high-capacity 2. 200 mAh lithium ion battery (SBR-14LI) as standard; voice recording function; reception of simultaneous AM/FM transmissions while monitoring two frequency channels; microSD card slot. The new quick-release case (SHB-26) is included with the FT5D and allows the transceiver to be attached and detached with a single touch while clipped to the belt.

Top Amateur Radio Websites – Issue 2143

Top Amateur Radio Websites – Issue 2142

Top Amateur Radio Websites – Issue 2141

Top Amateur Radio Websites – Issue 2140

64th Jamboree On The Air

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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 15-17 October 2021

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

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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!

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

BandSSB (phone)CW (Morse)
80 m3.690 & 3.940 MHz3.570 MHz
40 m7.090 & 7.190 MHz7.030 MHz
20 m14.290 MHz14.060 MHz
17 m18.140 MHz18.080 MHz
15 m21.360 MHz21.140 MHz
12 m24.960 MHz24.910 MHz
10 m28.390 MHz28.180 MHz
6 m50.160 MHz50.160 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 mCW 3.560-3.800 kHzSSB 3.650-3.700 kHz
40 mCW 7.040-7.200 kHzSSB 7.080-7.140 kHz
20 mCW 14.060-14.350 kHzSSB 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.

Information is also available from the ARRL at arrl.org/jamboree-on-the-air-jota.

Top Amateur Radio Websites – Issue 2139

microHAM ARCO Smart Antenna Rotator Controller

In recent years, amateur radio station management has evolved greatly with computer aided systems. Many ham radio operators effectively work remotely and can even control their entire station from their own PC. With this in mind microHAM, a pioneer in the development of integrated radio-PC systems, has developed  “ARCO“, a rotor controller device that has innovative and unique features.

ARCO is a fully autonomous rotor controller with a wide range of remote control options. It controls azimuth adjustment through an intuitive graphical interface and a 7-inch touch screen that can be customized by the user in terms of color, automatic day/night variation, display of the globe in grayscale and more.

Positioning of the antenna can be done by simply touching a point on the displayed globe or one of the proposed ITU prefixes, but also by using the classic CW-CCW keys or even by entering the position via a virtual keyboard.

For remote management, there are several connection options: the classic USB port with COM emulation (no driver required for Win10, macOS and Linux), the RS-232 serial port and the Ethernet port for Internet connection.

Boxed into an all-aluminum enclosure, the unit can be configured through simple menu functions, allowing it to be easily connected to any type of rotor, commercial or even homebrewed, and guarantees longer life through gradual control of the start and stop speed in case of strong wind gusts or ice on the antennas.

For complex antenna systems, there is a local connection between several ARCO controllers via a two-wire bus connection for directional masts, rotating towers, etc. Even remotely several ARCO controllers, located in different parts of the world, can be synchronized each other via the Internet with a very simple procedure.

MicroHAM will ensure continuous implementation of functionality through the development of free downloadable firmware.

Top Amateur Radio Websites – Issue 2138

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