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SWList iOS App, provides access to the EiBi list for discovering and identifying shortwave radio stations, curated by Eike Bierwirth. It offers four search methods: by frequency, radio band, station name, or language. Users can view detailed station information and map locations if available, with support for both light and dark modes.

Many low-power SSB rigs and kits lack dedicated speech processor circuitry, although most modern HF rigs include it. Speech processing is crucial for low-power SSB to overcome QRM. This simple, low-cost circuit integrates a microphone element and can be housed in a defunct desk mike. It features a feedback amplifier, audio preamplifier, and adjustable speech compression control

This blog post documents the author's journey building an APRS micromodem for amateur radio applications. Using an open-source design by LY2EN, the author assembled a cost-effective Terminal Node Controller (TNC) with SMD components, an Arduino Nano, and a JDY-31 Bluetooth module. The construction process included PCB fabrication, careful component soldering, microcontroller programming, and Bluetooth configuration. A custom 3D-printed case protected the completed device. Field testing in Romania showed the device functioned with a Baofeng UV-5R radio, though antenna limitations affected performance. The entire project demonstrates an affordable DIY alternative to commercial APRS trackers.

Morsle.fun is a user-friendly web application designed for practicing Morse code reception by guessing transmitted text, which can be either words or call signs. Users can adjust the volume and tone frequency of the Morse code playback. The application tracks performance and generates activity statistics. Call signs are typically more complex than words, containing up to six characters and at least one digit. Users can practice Morse code at speeds ranging from 10 to 60 wpm.

The Portable EFHW antenna for the 40, 20, 15, and 10-meter bands utilizes a broadband transformer with a 1:49 ratio, designed on a PCB by either Jan or DL2MAN. The design incorporates an **FT114 core**, offering an alternative to the FT82 core. The antenna requires precisely 20.5 meters of DX Wire Ultralight for optimal performance. Additional components include DX Wires "Dyneema" 1mm rope and 1mm bricklayers string for structural support. The SWR plot indicates performance at two elevation heights: 5.5 meters (blue line) and 4 meters (yellow line), demonstrating optimization for low-elevation portable use without poles. The antenna's components, including spool and rope tensioners, are available for 3D printing, with spool dimensions scaled to 130% for a length of approximately 110mm. The design emphasizes simplicity and portability, suitable for field deployment.

Analyzes the operational dynamics of the _IARU R1 VHF contest_, the world's largest 2-meter contest, focusing on factors enabling top performers to maintain consistent results amidst declining overall activity. The resource investigates the physical constraints that limit higher point totals, examining how technical capabilities, increased interference, and evolving station setups contribute to contest outcomes. It provides insights into the strategic and technical aspects of achieving high scores, such as the **1,000,000+ point** totals observed from leading stations. Compares the performance of various stations over time, highlighting the sustained success of top contenders and speculating on future trends in VHF contesting. The analysis delves into specific operational strategies and equipment choices that differentiate high-scoring stations, offering a detailed look at the competitive landscape. It also considers the impact of propagation conditions and operator skill on final scores, providing a comprehensive overview of the contest's intricate mechanics and the pursuit of maximum QSO points.

Learn how to build a compact and efficient HF antenna for ham radio operators with limited space. Follow the author's journey from experimenting with different antennas to creating a magnetic-mounted antenna that covers 7MHz to 30MHz without the need for an ATU. Discover how a portable flagpole can be repurposed for radio communication, allowing you to operate with 100 Watts power output. This project provides a cost-effective solution for hams looking to set up a reliable antenna on their car roof in just 30 seconds.

Recently, at the Ballarat Hamfest, the author acquired an old Marine transceiver for just $10, charmed by its sturdy construction and waterproofing. Made by Findlay Communications in Sydney, this crystal-controlled transceiver had been dormant but was reinvigorated with minor fixes. A manual was sourced, and further repairs were made, including an ingenious crystal oscillator replacement using an Si5351a controlled by an Arduino. The refurbished radio, complete with a fresh coat of paint and added customizations, is now operational for 160m AM and 30m SSB. A successful and cost-effective restoration.

KLog is a free, multiplatform ham radio logging application that runs natively on Linux, Windows, and macOS. It provides comprehensive **QSO management**, including features for logging contacts, managing QSL cards, and tracking DXCC entities. The software integrates a **DX-Cluster client** for real-time DX spotting, supports WSJT-X for digital modes, and includes functionality for the DX Marathon award program. It also offers Club Log integration for uploading logs and managing awards. The application's multiplatform nature ensures broad accessibility for amateur radio operators using various operating systems. Its support for WSJT-X facilitates logging of popular digital modes like FT8 and FT4, while DX Marathon integration assists contesters and DXers in tracking progress. The built-in DX-Cluster client streamlines the process of finding and working rare DX, enhancing overall operating efficiency and award pursuit.

SvxLink is an advanced software suite for the ham radio community, initially launched in 2003 as an EchoLink application for Linux. Now a comprehensive voice services system, the SvxLink Server functions as an advanced repeater controller and can operate on simplex and duplex channels. It acts as an intermediary between transceiver hardware and applications, offering essential system services. The modular architecture of SvxLink supports customization, with modules in C++ or TCL. Key modules include a help system, parrot mode, EchoLink connectivity, DTMF repeater, voice mail, propagation warnings, and selective calling sequences. SvxLink's development and source code are available on GitHub, promoting open-source collaboration in the ham radio community.

The MSF radio signal is a dedicated standard-frequency and time broadcast that provides an accurate and reliable source of UK civil time. It is available 24 hours a day across the whole of the UK and beyond. The signal operates on a frequency of 60 kHz and carries a time and date code that can be received and decoded by a wide range of readily-available radio-controlled clocks.

Effective suppression of harmonics and parasitic radiation from HF transmitters is crucial, especially with the increasing sensitivity of VHF/UHF radio channels to interference. This project details a hybrid low-pass filter (LPF) designed to operate across the HF bands up to 51 MHz, making it suitable for 6-meter band operations while providing deep VHF/UHF suppression. The design addresses the challenge of modern interference landscapes, where even microvolt-level signals can disrupt wireless sensors and other simple VHF/UHF receivers. The filter utilizes a single elliptic link, combining high cutoff steepness with robust suppression in the hundreds of megahertz range. A key feature is the use of only two standard capacitor values, simplifying construction and component sourcing. The article provides a detailed schematic, performance characteristics, and _RFSim99_ model file, demonstrating a reflection coefficient S11 below 0.017 (VSWR < 1.03) across 1-51 MHz, ensuring minimal degradation to the antenna system. Construction notes include coil winding specifications and capacitor selection guidance, with recommendations for _FR-4_ assembly. Two capacitor sets are presented, with the first variant recommended for its lower RF current demands, keeping currents below 3 A at 1 kW passing power at 51 MHz. Fine-tuning involves adjusting frameless coils, with considerations for capacitor tolerance and high-frequency capacitance measurement accuracy.

Learn how LoRa mode can be used for APRS and connected mode packet radio, offering low power and long-range communication. Discover the growing popularity of LoRa-only APRS devices and the use of LoRa boards from manufacturers like Lilygo, Heltec, and RAK. Find out about firmware options like Ricardo Guzman's CA2RXU firmware, which incorporates previous work and offers KISS for external APRS clients. Explore LoRa APRS frequency and modulation settings in the UK, and consider adding CA2RXU firmware to lora-aprs.live for more radio-specific information. Dive into the world of LoRa technology for ham radio operators and experiment with different firmware options.

Twigger is a very lightweight, free ham radio logger designed for Windows, offering seamless integration with transceivers via _TCI_ or OmniRig. This software stores all logged contacts in a SQLite database, with the flexibility to export daily ADIF files for import into a main logger or to send real-time QSO data via UDP in N1MM XML format. It also supports direct, real-time uploads to popular online logbooks like Clublog and QRZ.com, streamlining the logging process for active operators. The application has seen continuous development, with version 1.1.34 fixing an ADIF log importer bug and earlier versions adding crucial features like WSJT-X/JTDX UDP support. Author OE3IDE, Ernst, has incorporated user feedback, including ideas and testing from MW0LGE, to refine the software. Key enhancements include the transition to SQLite for data storage in version 1.1.32, allowing for easy import of previous Twigger ADIFs upon initial startup. The logger also features integrated DX cluster support, enabling users to send spots directly and query QRZ.com for callsign information, which is then cached to reduce redundant queries. The software's compact design and essential logging capabilities make it a practical tool for casual logging or as a secondary logger during contests, with the ability to handle **25 downloads** for version 1.1.34.

The UV-K5 HF Fullband receive firmware version 0.3 introduces enhanced SSB capabilities using the SI4732-A10 chip. Released separately from UV-K5 CEC firmware, it offers improved HF reception, mode changes, frequency fine-tuning, and user modifications. New PCB designs and detailed usage instructions are included.

The resource details the construction of a 433 MHz LoRa APRS iGate and a tracker, both built around _TTGO T-Beam v1.1_ microcontroller boards. Each board integrates an OLED screen, WiFi, GPS, and an SMA antenna connector, powered by an 18650 3.7 V lithium-ion battery or microUSB. The iGate operates on 433.775 MHz, with its status verifiable on aprs.fi, demonstrating practical implementation of LoRa-based APRS solutions. The methodology involves programming the modules using Visual Studio Code with the PlatformIO plugin. This process loads the necessary firmware and a JSON configuration file, which includes the operator's callsign and WiFi credentials for the iGate. The guide emphasizes the ease of programming and provides specific steps for configuration. Initial testing of the iGate and tracker, including smart beaconing configuration, is documented. The low power output of approximately 200 mW from the LoRa board's transmitter is noted, with suggestions for range extension through improved antennas or RF amplification. The author, N4MI, plans to deploy a higher-gain 70cm antenna for the iGate.

The Wanted Alive (TWA) by OH2BUA is an online DX cluster service specifically tailored for digital mode enthusiasts, presenting real-time DX spots with a unique ranking system. Unlike traditional clusters, TWA sorts spots by decreasing DXCC most-wanted ranking, allowing operators to prioritize rare entities. It integrates data from various sources, including PSK Reporter and RBN, to provide a comprehensive view of current propagation conditions for modes like FT8, FT4, and JS8. This approach helps DXers quickly identify and pursue high-value contacts, optimizing their time on the air. OH2BUA's TWA provides a practical application for serious DXers by filtering the noise and highlighting the most sought-after DXCC entities. The service's focus on digital modes reflects the growing popularity of these efficient, low-power communication methods, offering a specialized tool that complements general-purpose DX clusters. By presenting propagation information through the lens of DXCC rarity, TWA assists operators in achieving DXCC awards and improving their overall DXing efficiency, particularly during contests or limited operating windows.

Demonstrates the application of Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) as effective tools for conducting Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) site surveys. The resource details the methodology for capturing and analyzing RFI, specifically focusing on the 80-meter band over a 24-hour period. It outlines the setup of an SDR-based survey tool, utilizing software like _S-Meter Lite_ and _Spectrum Lab_ to visualize and quantify noise sources. The article emphasizes the SDR's wideband capabilities, which allow for comprehensive identification and documentation of RFI across broad frequency ranges, crucial for effective mitigation strategies. The analysis presents practical results, illustrating how continuous monitoring can reveal intermittent RFI sources that might otherwise go undetected. For instance, the survey identified noise peaks exceeding **S9+20dB** on 80 meters during specific hours, correlating with local appliance usage. The methodology provides a repeatable process for hams to characterize their local noise floor, enabling targeted RFI suppression efforts and improving weak-signal reception, particularly for DXing and contesting.

Chavdar Levkov, LZ1AQ, presents an experimental comparison of small wideband magnetic loops, building on his previous work on wideband active small magnetic loop antennas. His research focuses on increasing loop sensitivity by maximizing the short-circuit current, which is directly tied to the "loop factor" M = A/L, where A is the equivalent loop area and L is its inductance. Levkov's methodology involves reducing inductance and increasing area through parallel or coplanar crossed (CC) configurations, comparing these designs against a reference single quad loop of 1 m2 area. Experimental verification included testing three distinct loop types: a simple quad loop, two coplanar crossed (CC) loops, and eight parallel loops, all designed to have a total geometric area of 1 m2. Measurements were conducted at 1.8, 3.5, 7, and 10 MHz using a small transmitter 270 meters away, with a Perseus direct sampling receiver for precise signal level assessment. The results consistently showed that CC loops, particularly Loop 5 (two CC circular loops with 1.44 m2 total area), yielded significantly higher currents, up to 9.1 dB over the reference loop at 3.5 MHz, validating M as a reliable predictor of loop sensitivity. Numerical simulations using MMANA further corroborated the experimental findings, demonstrating an almost perfect correlation between the calculated M factor and the induced loop current for 15 different loop models. Levkov concludes that CC loops offer superior sensitivity for a given loop area, while parallel loops are advantageous for minimizing physical volume. Practical recommendations suggest using loops with an M factor greater than 0.5 uA/pT for quiet rural environments, and he provides a spreadsheet tool, WLoop_calc.xls, to aid in optimizing loop configurations for specific operational needs.

An **Arduino LC Meter** provides an accessible solution for precisely measuring inductance and capacitance values, crucial for RF circuit design, filter tuning, and troubleshooting in amateur radio applications. This project details the construction of a low-cost, accurate instrument using readily available components, making it an attractive alternative to commercial units for hams and electronics enthusiasts. The build process involves assembling a resonant circuit, integrating an Arduino microcontroller for frequency measurement, and displaying results on an LCD. Key components include an Arduino Uno, a 16x2 LCD, a 74HC14 Schmitt trigger inverter, and a few passive components. The design leverages the Arduino's processing power to calculate L and C values from resonant frequency shifts. Calibration procedures are outlined to ensure measurement accuracy, which is vital for critical RF work. The project includes schematics, a parts list, and the necessary Arduino code, enabling hams to construct a functional LC meter for their workbench.

This **PDF report** documents a _maritime mobile_ DXpedition operating from the _Southern Ocean_ near Antarctica, detailing antenna deployment strategies on a sailing vessel. It addresses power management systems for remote operations and propagation characteristics specific to polar regions on **20m and 40m** bands. Operational strategies include managing high-density pileups using split frequency operation and maintaining signal integrity during periods of high aurora activity. Equipment considerations cover specific transceiver models like the Icom IC-7300, antenna types optimized for marine vessel installation, and battery power systems for extended periods without shore power. The resource also examines the use of satellite communication for real-time log uploads and QSL confirmation from remote locations, and discusses mitigating signal degradation from ice accumulation on antennas. DXZone Focus: PDF report | Maritime Mobile DXpedition | Polar Propagation | Split Frequency Operation

This article will introduce total beginners to Amateur Radio, more commonly known as ham radio or DXing. That includes the basic definition - what DX is, where it came from, and the couple primary types (passive and active DXing). A Very Historical Past Radio Home!! The different kinds of DXing are well separated, indicating that you are either just listening to more distant stations, or engaging in a direct communication with another amateur. Ham Radio DXers: Importance of the Internet While the article glosses over the technical aspects of Ham radio equipment much like several of his articles, it does touch on how important the internet is to DXers. These include link to locate active stations, learn signal proagation, and be a part of the Ham community online.

Presents DJ5IL's personal amateur radio station, detailing his journey as a licensed operator since 1973. The resource covers his **shack setup**, including an Elecraft K4D, Icom IC-7610, and various vintage transceivers like the Drake 2-B, along with a SPE Expert 1K-FA amplifier. Antenna systems include a PRO.SIS.TEL RD1524T rotary dipole for 40/20/15/10m at 15m height, an 18m vertical dipole with an SGC SG-230 tuner for 3.5-30 MHz, and an inverted-V dipole for 80m. The site features a **QSL gallery** showcasing his custom card designs and outlines his QSL policy, emphasizing the exchange of unique, personalized cards over generic confirmations. It also includes a detailed operator's biography, tracing his early fascination with radio, obtaining his license at 16, and memorable QSOs, such as a contact with his blood-relative W3NZ. The resource also delves into the historical significance of amateur radio's role in pioneering shortwave communication following the 1912 International Radiotelegraph Convention, which initially relegated amateurs to wavelengths of 200 meters and shorter. DJ5IL's philosophy on "ham spirit" is discussed, stressing the unpolitical nature of amateur radio as a global fraternity.

Demonstrates a **Progressive Web App** (PWA) approach to amateur radio logging, providing a platform-agnostic solution for hams. The resource details its core functionality, including offline callsign and reference lookups, auto-formatting for data entry, and integration with **POTA spots** and saved re-spots. It highlights support for various logging templates such as General, Contest, POTA, and Field Day, indicating its adaptability for different operating activities. The application emphasizes seamless log synchronization across multiple devices, eliminating the need for manual file transfers. It operates effectively both online and offline, with installation options available for full offline functionality on Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux, or direct use within any web browser. The documentation further outlines features like rig control and the continuous development of additional templates, positioning Smart Logger as a flexible and efficient tool for managing amateur radio contacts.

This article explores the powerful features of AutoEZ as an Excel application working with EZNEC antenna modeling software. The article demonstrates how variables, equations, and formulas enable versatile antenna design and automatic optimization. Through practical examples including dipoles, inverted vees, delta loops, and monopoles, the author shows techniques for achieving resonance, implementing transmission line resonators for broadbanding, and optimizing antennas across frequency ranges. The step-by-step demonstrations cover unit conversion, coordinate calculations, segmentation considerations, and SWR optimization. This practical guide illustrates how AutoEZ extends EZNEC's capabilities, making complex antenna modeling more efficient and accessible.

This page provides instructions for unlocking additional frequency bands on your IC-7610 transceiver to access the 60m band. The step-by-step guide is useful for hams looking to expand their operating capabilities and communicate on this popular band. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your transceiver is set up correctly to operate within the regulations of the 60m band.

The FT101ZD DDS VFO project replaces the original VFO in the Yaesu FT101Z/ZD rigs with an AD9850 DDS module, providing enhanced frequency control. It uses the original optical encoder and clarifier for compatibility, with a custom 6V power supply modification. The project includes selectable step sizes, a frequency save function, and works with both RX and TX modes. The design involves mechanical and electronic modifications, including SMD components and a custom PIC processor. Calibration ensures accurate frequency output, with further improvements under consideration.

Demonstrates the capabilities of DXtreme Monitor Log 14, a specialized software application designed for radio spectrum monitoring and logging. The resource details its core functionality, which includes logging stations across various bands and supporting multiple transmission modes such as AM, CW, FM, LSB, USB, and RTTY. It highlights features like the ability to select country formats for new databases and the **Schedule Checker** tool, which assists users in identifying broadcast stations for monitoring. The software facilitates tracking **Maidenhead grid squares**, particularly useful for VHF and UHF monitoring activities. It also supports QSL management and offers tools for efficient contact logging, catering to both amateur radio operators and shortwave listeners. Specific information includes its version number, Monitor Log 14, and its utility for DXers and other radio enthusiasts in managing their monitoring experiences and logging contacts effectively.

Demonstrates practical **rules of thumb** for selecting and utilizing ferrites and coils in amateur radio projects, particularly for RF applications up to 30 MHz. It addresses common challenges like determining appropriate ferrite grades and estimating L/C values without precise specifications. The resource details the author's experience with readily available grey ferrites, noting their suitability for HF work, and provides guidance on constructing **baluns** and RF chokes, balancing inductance for lower frequencies against inter-wire capacitance for higher frequencies. It also outlines a method for estimating power handling based on ferrite weight, suggesting a 1-gram ferrite can manage over 2 Watts, and offers a technique for evaluating unknown ferrites by winding 10 turns and measuring resonance with a 1 nF capacitor. This approach emphasizes a hands-on, iterative method for balun winding and adjustment, allowing operators to quickly approximate component values. The article compares the characteristics of ferrite-cored coils with air-cored coils, highlighting the reduced pickup and radiation of ferrite designs. It refines the air-coil estimation method for frequencies between 2.5 MHz and 10 MHz and provides a scaling factor for frequencies outside this range, aiming to get operators into the correct general area for their designs. The author's standardized ferrite choice (RND Components 165-00182) is presented as a practical example for reproducible projects.

This article details an Inverted-L antenna design optimized for 160-meter band operation, consisting of a 10m vertical section and a 28m horizontal section supported by Spiderpoles. Despite its relatively low height compared to the wavelength, the antenna has demonstrated impressive DX capabilities, achieving contacts up to 3,453 miles into Asiatic Russia. The system incorporates a Pi-Network ATU at the base for tuning flexibility. While modeling shows a radiation pattern favoring the South, practical operation indicates effective all-round coverage on Top Band.

This excel workbook addresses the issue of power loss in transmission lines with complex characteristic impedance ZoZo​. It illustrates the discrepancy between actual loss (0.35 dB) and matched line loss (0.6 dB) using a simplified example, highlighting potential software tool limitations. The RF Feedline Power-Loss Calculator provides accurate end-to-end loss assessments for both microwave and RF applications. This tool is suitable for engineers and students and is compatible with Windows versions of Excel 2016 or later, though it is not compatible with Macintosh systems.

KISS703 is a 703 Hz narrowband digital mode for amateur radio, designed for simple, low-power operation without computers. A 500 Hz pilot tone ensures frequency alignment, replaced by unique tones for 37 symbols (letters, numbers, space). Built from common discrete components, it draws about 40 mA at 12 V, ideal for SOTA/IOTA use. The receiver uses amplification, wave shaping, and a pulse-counting frequency meter for manual decoding via a calibrated meter. Transmitter and receiver calibration involves marking meter positions for each tone, enabling fully self-contained messaging with minimal hardware in portable or fixed operations.

Demonstrates a cloud-based suite of tools for amateur radio operations, eliminating local software installation. The platform integrates a comprehensive logbook with import/export functionality, an _eMap_ application displaying DX spots, user locations, and grayline data, alongside a dynamic band map derived from DX cluster information. It also provides a _vQSL_ system for QSL management and a mailbox with QSO verification. Users can access a Web DX cluster to monitor spots and _DXCC_ status, or connect via Telnet using external programs like _Logger32_ or Ham Radio Deluxe. The cluster supports advanced spot filtering by QRG, spot call, spot from, and origin, with configurable mail alerts based on IARU zone filters. Additional features include a real-time chat for skeds, azimuth/distance calculations from a user's QTH (with QRA locator), a search engine for spot and logbook databases, a band status matrix, and a propagation tool for MUF calculations, leveraging data from N0NBH.

For those engaging with amateur radio satellites, _Ham Satting_ provides a comprehensive, multi-platform application developed by A46UNX. It offers real-time visualization of the ISS and other amateur satellites on an interactive map, ensuring operators always know their current positions. The application delivers detailed pass predictions, including crucial data like AOS, LOS, duration, azimuth, and elevation, which are essential for planning successful satellite contacts. Beyond tracking, Ham Satting integrates a robust QSO logging feature, allowing users to save contacts to a local database with filtering, searching, and export capabilities. A notable addition is the built-in SSTV decoder, supporting various modes such as _Robot 36/72_, Scottie, Martin, and PD, complete with manual fine-tuning controls for optimal image reception. This feature alone can save operators from needing separate software. Developed by Yousuf AL Balushi (A46UNX) out of a personal need for a more integrated solution, Ham Satting is available for iOS, macOS, and Android, with BETA versions for Windows and Linux. His journey into ham radio and satellite operations, beginning in November 2024, directly informed the design, aiming to combine all essential tools into one powerful package.

This article explains how LoRa parameters impact data rate and range when setting up a LoRa transceiver. It covers the basic concepts needed to understand different LoRa parameters and their effects on modulation. By adjusting parameters, you can achieve fast data transfers or extend transmission range. The post also offers a calculator to determine on-air bitrate based on input parameters. Understanding LoRa parameters is crucial for optimizing performance and achieving desired communication outcomes.

This PDF presentation explores using aircraft reflections for VHF communication. It explores the characteristics of reflected signals, including how they cause fading and vary in frequency due to aircraft movement. The feasibility of using such signals for communication is then examined. The presentation highlights challenges like requiring very narrow filters and strong frequency stability. It explores Slow-Feld, a slow version of Hellschreiber, as a potential modulation mode due to its tolerance for weak signals and frequency variations. While successful communication via aircraft reflections has been achieved, the data rate was slow and intermittent. The potential for communication over long distances, especially with busy air traffic, is discussed.

The RXC70/10 is a sensitive 70 MHz to 10-meterband converter using the Philips SA602 mixer IC. It operates with high stability and low noise, converting 70–72 MHz signals to 28–30 MHz for general coverage receivers. The compact, low-power design (15mA) supports various modulations and uses. Its versatility makes it suitable for amateur radio applications with proper tuning and antenna setup.

Operating on the 60m band requires specialized antennas, and the 2 Element HB9CV, also known as the _ZL special_, excels in this domain. With a gain of **7.3 dBi** when phased at a 162-degree shift, it rivals traditional 3-element Yagi antennas, making it a solid option for enhancing 60m operations. The construction process is thoroughly detailed, providing insights into its performance and practical applications. Real-world comparisons demonstrate that the HB9CV antenna outperforms long Beverage antennas by an average of **5.5 dB** in reception, showcasing its effectiveness in various conditions. Insights from Mr. Cebik's analysis further validate its design, confirming its capability to maximize communication on the 60m band.

This project features a compact, 5-LED general-purpose S-Meter, designed for use with various radio circuits. It utilizes the LB1403 IC, with alternatives like LB1413, LB1423, and others. The circuit's design allows flexibility, with one version featuring a trimpot for calibration and another without it for more compact setups. The LB1423 is preferred for its low current draw and dB-calibrated scale. This S-Meter offers an efficient, customizable solution for measuring signal strength in amateur radio applications. In Portuguese.

This comprehensive article dispels common misconceptions about Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) in amateur radio. The author explains that SWR is not an antenna property but a measure of the entire antenna system, representing the mismatch between transmission line and load impedance. Contrary to popular belief, modest SWR values (under 3:1) typically cause minimal power loss in HF applications. The article demonstrates mathematically why obsession with achieving 1:1 SWR is often unnecessary, explains when SWR matters more (QRO, QRP, VHF/UHF), and explores effective matching techniques including proper ATU placement and quarter-wavelength transformers.

YAGio 1.01 is a Windows-based software for designing DL6WU long Yagi antennas on VHF and UHF frequencies. It supports Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, and likely 8. Using keyboard commands, users input specifications such as frequency, gain, and element diameters, and YAGio generates the design. You can download latest Yagio version from this page. Results can be saved in YIO, NEC, YAG, MMA, and YC6 formats, or printed directly.

This page showcases the use of ChatGPT for quickly creating a prototype application that maps out individual QSOs from a CZML map. The author details the process of using ChatGPT to generate code that positions and frames a Cesium Ion map based on data from a czml file. The page includes links to the original map, the prototype app, a video demonstration, and the mapped QSOs output. The content is aimed at hams interested in experimenting with AI tools for ham radio applications.

Detecting stray RF voltages on station grounds, chassis, and interconnecting cables is crucial for preventing program and hardware failures in the shack. This article details the construction and application of an LED RF V-probe, which offers significantly higher sensitivity compared to conventional neon lamp indicators. The probe leverages two specific properties of modern red LEDs: their ability to glow at microampere currents and their rectification capability at frequencies up to tens of megahertz. The design features a simple circuit with two LEDs, allowing for indication of both positive and negative RF voltage half-waves. The minimum detectable RF voltage is approximately 2 V, a substantial improvement over the 40-60 V threshold of neon bulbs. The resource illustrates the probe's physical construction on a PCB and provides a direct comparison demonstrating its superior sensitivity in detecting RF fields near a coil. Two operational modes are described: a non-contact mode for high RF voltages (above 15-20 V) and a direct-contact mode for measuring lower RF voltages, with a safety caution for the latter. Practical examples show the probe's use in analyzing RF voltage distribution across a radio station setup at 1.84 MHz and 24.9 MHz, revealing insights into common-mode current issues and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies like adding radials.

FISTS Log Converter simplifies various tasks for amateur radio operators. It aids in tracking FISTS Awards, submitting applications, and creating logs for FISTS Activities in Europe like the Ladder and EuCW Snakes & Ladders. Users can generate callsign checklists and import logs from existing logging programs via ADIF files. Available as freeware, it runs on Windows 2000 and later versions

The N7YG Digital Engine, functions as a streamlined digital modem, supporting **PSK**, **RTTY**, and **MFSK** modes. It eliminates many ancillary logging and awards features found in other software, focusing instead on providing a dedicated digital interface. The software is specifically engineered to complement the N3FJP logging suite, offering a simple digital modem with a floating waterfall display that can coexist on the same screen as the logger. The application includes support for PSK Reporter, EXTFSK, TinyFSK, and K1EL Winkey FSK, enhancing its utility for various digital operations. Key features comprise a separate waterfall window, a main GUI with operational controls, receive and transmit display areas, and 10 Macro Buttons across 10 user-definable macro banks, totaling 100 macros for general and contesting use. Configuration options include sound card selection, digital gain (0-32767), AFC Level (0-100), AFC Width (in Hz), and COM Port TX keying for VOX/SignaLink or direct port control. Input and Output Mixer buttons provide direct access to OS audio mixer controls for precise level adjustments. The software is digitally signed with a security certificate, aiming to prevent conflicts with antivirus programs.

This article describes the design and construction of a 4-meter band vertical sleeved dipole antenna, built to complement a newly acquired Yaesu FTDX10 transceiver. The simple yet effective antenna consists of modified coaxial cable housed in weather-resistant plastic conduit, featuring an integrated 8-turn choke coil. Despite common misidentification as an EFHW antenna, this design is actually a sleeved dipole that provides an excellent 50-ohm match across the band, achieving SWR values between 1:1 and 1.1:1. The project demonstrates an economical approach to entering the relatively quiet 4-meter band.

The FARPN Federated Amateur Radio Packet Network Wiki is a valuable resource for hams looking to learn more about packet radio networks. The wiki provides documentation, user tools, and site tools to help users navigate and utilize the network effectively. Whether you are a seasoned ham radio operator or just starting out, the FARPN Wiki offers a wealth of resources to enhance your experience with packet radio. Explore the wiki to discover more about FARPN and how you can make the most of this network for your amateur radio communication needs.

This article describes the implementation and testing of a low-power GPS tracker using LoRa technology in the 433MHz amateur band. The system, built with AIThinker RA-02 modules and Arduino controllers, demonstrated successful communication over non-line-of-sight distances up to 5km. Operating with a 125kHz bandwidth and spreading factor of 11, the tracker achieves a data rate of 500 bits/sec. Powered by a LiPo cell with power-saving features, the final compact design operates for approximately 1.5 weeks between charges with 3-minute reporting intervals, consuming just over 1mA in idle mode.

The Olivia digital mode, a **Multi-Frequency Shift Keying (MFSK)** radioteletype protocol, is specifically engineered for robust communication under difficult propagation conditions on shortwave radio bands from 3 MHz to 30 MHz. Developed by Pawel Jalocha in 2003, Olivia signals can be decoded even when the noise amplitude exceeds the digital signal by over ten times, making it highly effective for transmitting ASCII characters across noisy channels with significant fading and propagation phasing. Early on-the-air tests by Fred OH/DK4ZC and Les VK2DSG on the Europe-Australia 20-meter path demonstrated intercontinental contacts with as little as one-watt RF power under favorable conditions. Common Olivia modes are designated as X/Y, where X represents the number of tones and Y is the bandwidth in Hertz, with examples including 8/250, 16/500, and 32/1000. The resource clarifies that Olivia, unlike some other digital modes, produces a constant envelope, allowing RF power amplifiers to achieve greater conversion efficiencies and making it less prone to non-linearity. Operators are advised that **Automatic Level Control (ALC)** can be set higher than no meter movement for MFSK modulation, as long as it's not driven past its high limit, contrary to common misinformation about other digital modes. The Olivia community encourages voluntary channelization on suggested calling frequencies, such as 14.0725 MHz for 8/250, to facilitate initial contacts, especially for signals below the noise floor. The Olivia Digital DXers Club provides links to Groups.io, Facebook, and Discord for community engagement and offers details on QSO parties.

DXLog.net Cluster functions as a dedicated client application designed to enhance DXLog.net contest logging operations. It facilitates simultaneous connections to multiple DX cluster nodes, providing a consolidated view of DX spots. The software also supports integration with local CW skimmers, enabling real-time reception of CW signals and their automatic decoding into spots. The utility broadcasts UDP data across the local area network, allowing DXLog.net to receive and process these spots efficiently. A key feature includes CAT control integration, which automatically QSYs connected CW skimmers to the frequency of interest, optimizing spot acquisition. The system also incorporates duplicate spot filtering to reduce redundancy and offers blacklist management for unwanted callsigns or frequencies. Programmable commands and dynamic skimmer bandwidth control further refine its operation, adapting to varying band conditions and contest strategies. Automatic reconnection capabilities ensure continuous operation, maintaining reliable access to DX information crucial for competitive contesting.