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Presents various amateur radio topics through blog posts, detailing operational experiences and technical insights from the perspective of SV2YC. The content frequently discusses antenna projects, such as a **portable 20m/40m dipole** designed for rapid deployment, and explores the performance characteristics of different wire configurations in varied field conditions. Observations on propagation and band activity across the HF spectrum are also regularly documented, providing practical context for fellow operators. Specific entries often include detailed accounts of **DX contacts** and participation in minor contests, outlining station setup, power levels, and antenna choices. The blog also covers modifications to commercial transceivers and homebrew accessory construction, offering practical advice on improving station efficiency and functionality. Further posts delve into software applications for logging and digital modes, sharing configurations and operational tips for maximizing their utility in daily amateur radio activities.

The Elecraft KX2 is presented as a highly portable QRP transceiver, covering 80-10 meters with SSB, CW, and data modes. Key specifications include its remarkably light weight of only **13 ounces** (0.3 kg), an optional internal 2.6 Ah Li-ion battery, and an internal wide-range automatic antenna tuner (ATU). This _software-defined radio_ (SDR) architecture incorporates advanced DSP features such as dual watch, noise reduction, noise blanking, and autonotch, alongside built-in PSK31/RTTY data mode operation without requiring an external PC. Designed for maximum portability, the KX2 measures 5.8 x 2.8 x 1.5 inches and delivers up to **10 watts** of output power. Its low current drain of 135 mA allows for up to 8 hours of typical operation on a single battery charge, making it suitable for field deployment. The transceiver also features a built-in microphone for HT-style use and is compatible with the KXPA100 amplifier, offering versatility for various operating scenarios from desktop to mobile or handheld.

Schematic diagram circuit to build a RS232 serial interface for the Yaesu FT 1000D, works also as CW Keyer control with Log-EQF software. May be used with other Yaesu HF Transceivers.

The Icom IC-7300 is a popular SDR transceiver known for its excellent performance in ham bands. However, users have reported issues with reception reliability outside these bands due to ADC aliasing. This phenomenon occurs when the sampling rate of the radio interacts with frequencies outside the intended range, leading to unwanted signals being received. For instance, when tuned between 30 to 36 MHz, users may inadvertently pick up WFM broadcast signals or PMR communications due to aliasing effects. This guide outlines modifications to improve the IC-7300's performance by addressing the low-pass filter design, which is crucial for reducing interference from these unwanted signals. The proposed modifications involve adjusting the low-pass filter on the PA unit to better attenuate frequencies that cause aliasing. Measurements indicate that the original filter design allows significant signal leakage, leading to false receptions. By implementing the suggested changes, users can achieve a notable reduction in unwanted signals, enhancing the overall functionality of the IC-7300. While the modification requires careful soldering, the benefits in performance make it a worthwhile endeavor for serious operators looking to optimize their SDR experience.

Paul McMahon presents a compact VSWR meter designed for QRP portable use, ideal for SOTA operations with rigs like the FT817. The device, constructed from readily available components, employs a simple resistive bridge for wideband performance from 1.8MHz to 52MHz, with diminishing accuracy at higher frequencies. Key features include no need for external power, simple calibration, and operation with low power levels. The design, detailed with parts lists, schematics, and construction guidelines, ensures a 2:1 worst-case VSWR to protect transceivers during antenna matching. Calibration points are set for accurate VSWR readings at various loads.

SimpleHRR is a free ham radio remote control web application (or web app) hosted by Raspberry Pi in the ham station to remote control a ham radio HF transceiver through a supported web browser from a Desktop PC, Laptop or Android phone. Supports recent ICOM IC-7x series transceivers

Reviews of the Icom ID-51A handheld dual band transceiver

A web site deticated to the Kenwood TS-590 transceiver with links to software downloads fot the 590s seriend and technical documentation in Russian.

Despite the model limitations, such as a single TXRX antenna connector, the author shares a reversible modification involving a coax relay for enhanced functionality, demonstrating the transceiver's adaptability and customization potential.

The QMX+ Transceiver Kit from QRP Labs is a high-performance, feature-packed 160-6m 5W transceiver designed for hams. This multi-mode kit includes embedded SDR, USB sound card, CAT control, synthesized VFO, RTC, and optional internal GPS. It can be used in CW, digital, and SSB modes, with standalone CW operation, digi mode via USB to PC, or SSB operation. The kit offers standalone beacon functionality and shares firmware with the QMX model. With an optional enclosure, battery-backed RTC, and GPS, the QMX+ is versatile and easy to build, making it ideal for ham radio operators looking for a customizable transceiver kit.

A review of the dual band FT-8800R transceiver by the jeep expedition group

The (tr)uSDX is a 5-Band / Mulitmode QRP Transceiver in Pocket Format (90x60x30mm - 140g). It features a highly efficient Class E PA and Supports CW/LSB/USB and AM/FM. Right now it covers 80/60/40/30/20m and in Future there will be support for 17/15/12/10m

How to connect an Apple MacOS to a USB Radio transceiver. Get a Mac driver for ICOM IC-7100, IC-7200, IC-7300, IC-7600, IC-7610, IC-7850, IC-9100, PCR2500, Kenwood TS-890S, TS-990S, TS-590S, Elecraft KX3, K3S, Yaesu FTdx3000, FT-891, FT-991 or Ten-Tec Eagle USB direct connect built in USB/Serial adapter.

Review of the 144/430 MHz Dual Band FM Transceiver by Yaesu

Building an End-Fed Half-Wave (EFHW) antenna from a kit, as detailed by Frank Bontenbal, PA2DKW, with process photos by Bob Inderbitzen, NQ1R, offers a practical approach for hams. This specific kit, a collaboration between ARRL and HF Kits, targets 10, 15, 20, and 40 meters, making it a versatile option for HF operations. Unlike a center-fed dipole, the EFHW is a half-wavelength antenna fed at one end, which simplifies deployment, particularly for portable use. The construction guide meticulously outlines the assembly of the 49:1 impedance matching network, crucial for transforming the antenna's high impedance (around 2,500 Ohms) to a transceiver-friendly 50 Ohms. Steps include preparing the enclosure by drilling holes for the coaxial connector and antenna connections, followed by the precise winding of enameled copper wire onto a toroid to create the transformer. The guide emphasizes careful insulation removal and soldering for reliable connections. Final assembly involves integrating a 100 pF capacitor for higher band compensation, soldering the transformer's primary and secondary sides, and conducting SWR tests with a 2K7 resistor or a half-wavelength wire. The document also provides examples of wire lengths for different bands, such as 16 feet for 10 meters or 66 feet for 40 meters, demonstrating the transformer's adaptability for various half-wavelength configurations.

UHSDR stands for UniversalHamSoftwareDefinedRadio. The project provides the firmware to run standalone HAM transceivers. It currently supports STM32F4 and STM32F7 MCU based QSD designs.

An article by MicroHam on using the Icom PW-1 RF Power Amplifier safely and with non-Icom transceivers.

QSK 2500 enhances HF amplifiers by enabling full break-in (_QSK_) operation, allowing for seamless communication during CW transmissions. This device supports **all** HF transceivers that are QSK-compatible, ensuring versatility across various setups. The QSK 2500 facilitates quick switching between transmit and receive modes, which is crucial for effective DXing and contesting. With its straightforward installation, operators can achieve **improved** responsiveness in their communications without the need for extensive modifications to their existing amplifiers. This project is particularly beneficial for those engaged in high-speed CW operations, where timing is critical.

Yaesu FT-7800R dual band mobile transceiver reviews

An optocoupled audio interface between PC and Transceiver for digital modes. The article includes full schematic of complete board and build instructions.

Manufacturer of two way radios based in Shenzhen China. Retevis produce commercial, personal and amateur radio handheld and mobile transceivers, either for analog and digital modes. Retevis produce also two-way radio accessories and repeaters.

Picture and technical specifications of the Yaesu FT-8800R dual band transceiver

A home made portable QRP transceiver designed to work on 40 or 80 meters SSB band.

A new SDR radio concept developed by N6QW as an experimental 5W SDR transceiver for the 40 meter bands. Radio and Rig (RADIG) is a term conied by the author.

Yaesu FT-710 AESS MF/HF and 6-Meter Transceiver review on QST

This page details (in brief) the component changes to modify a Cybernet series 27MHz CB transceiver to 50MHz.

20W portable handheld SSB transceiver for 20 meters band

First released in 1988, _SWLog_ is a comprehensive suite of applications providing logging and remote control for both amateur radio and shortwave, utility, and broadcast listening. It integrates program schedules from sources like _HFCC_, _ILGRadio_, and _EiBi_ for broadcast reception, while also linking with amateur radio logbooks such as _ClubLog_, _eQSL_, _QRZ_, and _LoTW_. The software supports radio control for various transceivers, including _Flex_, Icom, Yaesu, and Kenwood, alongside interfaces like _FLRig_, _OmniRig_, and _HamLib_. Mobile applications for Android and iOS facilitate on-the-go logging and remote control, seamlessly transferring logs without manual ADIF export. _SWLog_ leverages an enterprise-grade relational database (SQL Server) for robust data management and analytics, enabling features like mapping QSOs by band or state. It offers specific integrations for _POTA_ monitoring, displaying active spots with real-time propagation and automatic radio tuning. The application's scalability allows multiple users to log to a centralized database, suitable for Field Day or DXpeditions. The user interface features modern aesthetics with light, dark, and gray themes, the latter optimized for outdoor visibility during activities like _POTA_ or _SOTA_. The Plus Edition, available for an annual fee, expands capabilities with advanced QSL integration, additional map providers, and enhanced propagation calculations using _VOACAP_.

A review with early observations and technical data specifications of the Icom IC-703 QRP HF+50 MHz transceiver

This article introduces an Arduino-based QRP CW Transceiver designed for lower HF bands. The journey begins with the Wotduino, evolving from a keyer to a multi-mode beacon. The development includes a QRP transmitter and culminates in a receiver inspired by Roy Lewallen design. The transceiver, controlled through a control bus features a signal path, modulation, filtering, and adjustable frequency settings. Despite initial testing intentions, successful QSOs on 80 and 40 meters showcase its functional capabilities.

A complete set of pages about the Yaesu FTDX3000 Yaesu transceiver, including USB Driver informations, voice keyer details, complete menu group informations, remote control and CAT control program, SDR Play and FTDX3000 configuration, firmware links and manuals

If your multiple transceiver station is suffering of intrastation interference, this handy and inexpensive band pass filters and help you. QST article Sept 1988

From buying an amateur radio transceiver, choosing the correct power supply, selecting the antenna and its feed line, to choosing the best microphone and accessories. A nice presentation for beginners.

The ICOM IC-7610 SDR HF/50MHz Transceiver official product page with product specifications, option accessories and video at ICOM UK

Operating an amateur radio station effectively requires reliable coaxial cable to minimize signal loss between the transceiver and antenna. SIVA Cavi, an Italian manufacturer, produces a range of coaxial cables, including specific 50 Ohm low-loss types suitable for amateur radio applications. Their product line features cables like **RG 58 SHF1**, **RG 213 SHF1**, and **RF 400 SHF1**, which are commonly deployed in HF and VHF/UHF setups. The company also offers specialized cables such as the **HF 214 UF Ultraflex**, a high-performance broadband low-loss 50 Ohm cable designed for flexibility and reduced attenuation across various amateur bands. These cables are engineered with solid or foam dielectric materials, impacting their electrical characteristics and suitability for different power levels and frequency ranges. For instance, foam dielectric cables often exhibit lower loss at higher frequencies, a critical factor for VHF/UHF operations. Beyond amateur radio, SIVA Cavi manufactures cables for digital video broadcast, offshore marine use, and fire detecting systems, demonstrating a broad engineering capability in coaxial cable technology.

This is a remote antenna switch I use in my attic to connect transceivers in the basement to multiple antennas in the attic. The goal of this project is to be able to remotely connect one of the antennas in the attic to the only antenna cable available.

QRPhamradiokits is an online shop for custom amateur radio kits including QRP transceiver kits, tuners, cw keyers, VFO DDS, part and components

CW_Player is a freeware Morse code training program designed for aspiring and experienced radio amateurs. It generates Morse characters, Q codes, abbreviations, and random text, offering 20 customizable lessons for learning Morse code. The software includes a quiz for knowledge testing, CW signal monitoring to decode morse code live, and the ability to create personalized local characters. It generates .wav files for playback, supports Windows features like copy-paste, and integrates easily with transceivers for on-air training. Ideal for beginners, instructors, and hobbyists, CW_Player boosts confidence in CW operations.

A Magnetic Loop Controller project details the construction and operation of an automatic tuning system for magnetic loop antennas, which are resonant circuits using an oversized inductor and an adjustable capacitor. The system employs a stepper motor to precisely adjust the variable capacitor, maintaining optimal resonance across the HF bands. It integrates with various transceivers, including _Icom_, _Kenwood_, and _Yaesu_ models, by monitoring the VFO frequency and adjusting the loop's tuning accordingly. The project provides comprehensive building instructions, a PowerPoint-style presentation, and the full source code for the controller's firmware, enabling hams to replicate and customize the design. The controller's firmware offers diverse functionality, including automatic frequency tracking, manual tuning, and SWR monitoring, significantly enhancing the operational efficiency of magnetic loop antennas, particularly for QRP and portable operations. The design emphasizes accurate capacitor positioning, crucial for achieving low SWR and maximum radiated power. Comparisons with manual tuning methods highlight the benefits of real-time adjustment, especially when operating across different bands or making frequent QSYs. The project's detailed documentation and available source code facilitate experimentation and modification by advanced builders, allowing for tailored performance characteristics.

Review of Yaesu VX-3R 2 m/70 cm FM transceiver. Receives 0.5-999Mhz AM/FMN/FMW, Transmits 144-148 and 430-450Mhz VHF/UHF FM.

Ham Radio Dealer based in Holland dealers of most relevant ham radio brands. Transceivers, antennas and accessories for amateur radio and marine radio markets.

BktRemote Suite is a package of programs that allow you to control the transceiver with different devices via a LAN connection or WiFi. The whole suite is composed by BktRemoteServer and BktRemoteClient

The **qrh-OS** application functions as a dedicated ham radio operating environment within Windows 10 and 11 systems, providing a consolidated platform for various amateur radio activities. It does not alter core system settings but instead presents a virtual desktop populated with specialized utilities and an integrated CAT radio system. This design aims to streamline the operator's workflow by centralizing tools often used for DXing, contesting, and general operating. Key features include a Telnet terminal for DX Cluster connections, real-time APRS tracking, and **CAT control** for transceivers, enabling one-click tuning from various integrated modules like Cluster, POTA, SOTA, WWFF, and Visual DX. The software also incorporates a worldwide Amateur Radio contest calendar, tools for Flora & Fauna activations, and displays for HF Low Bands Beacons and HF propagation conditions. Further utilities encompass a MeshCom Map, POTA Tunable, Reverse Beacons for WSPR network monitoring, SOTA Tunable, and a Timezone display. Visual DX offers an interactive globe showing DX stations and frequencies, while WebSDR/KiwiSDR access extends listening capabilities. An integrated IPTV player and real-time weather maps round out the comprehensive suite, all accessible within a single-window interface.

Construct the Peaberry, a SoftRock-compatible SDR transceiver. This project is aimed to build an amateur radio transceiver that operates on the medium or short wave bands

Presents two distinct hardware modifications for the Icom IC-7300 transceiver, detailing the necessary steps for each. The first modification, a _MARS_ transmit expansion, involves the physical removal of specific surface-mount diodes (D422) from the main board, enabling transmit capabilities across a broader frequency range, including out-of-band frequencies. It specifies the diode location on US versions of the IC-7300 and suggests using small diagonal cutters if a soldering iron is not preferred or available. The second modification focuses on the internal antenna tuner, aiming to provide wider impedance matching capabilities. This involves adding a **100k ohm** resistor to a designated point within the tuner circuit. The resource also briefly mentions a microphone modification for the _HM219_ and a general power increase, though without specific instructions for the latter two. It emphasizes safety precautions, such as disconnecting power and inspecting the work area.

A page dedicated tho the IC-756PROIII transceiver. This radio, discontinued, incorporates many of the features that made its predecessors so successful. However, the integration of the latest technology employed in the IC-7800 such as receiver technology, +30dBm class IP3, miniscope makes this new rig the very pinnacle of the IC-756PRO series.

Home made 40 meter transceiver project. The receiver is a Progressive Receiver with a few modifications. The Transmitter is a modified MFJ Cub circuit. Includes schematic and circuit diagrams for Receive Input Filter, 3-Pole 500 Hz Cohn Filter and 7 MHz Double Tuned Bandpass Filter

Digirig is an open-source integrated digital modes interface for amateur radio. As a differentiating feature, Digirig only requires a single USB connection to the computer with all the digital goodness packed in a single small enclosure. The internals include a USB hub, audio codec, a fully featured serial CAT (Computer Aided Transceiver) interface, and potentially other modules such as GPS receiver for time synchronization.

Author is currently developing the HS4HF 4 Band HF Radio Transceiver with a 5.0-inch TFT display, following their previous HSM1 model. They are also working on the Radio HSDRA, an All Band SDR HF Radio Transceiver with unique features such as DSP Digital Modulation, 100W final power, automatic antenna tuner, and more. The development includes a wide 5.0-inch display, touch screen, and various advanced functionalities. Stay updated with the latest developments in the world of HAM radio with Hambuilder Team.

A mid-power portable/handheld SSB transceiver for 14MHz