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Learn how to build a simple transmitter called the 'Easy Ten' that can be easily heard at a distance of 10 miles using a random length wire antenna thrown into a tree. This article focuses on working with frequencies in the 3.5 and 7 MHz range without the need for complex setups like coax lines or baluns. The author shares their experience of making contacts across the Pacific Ocean and the United States using just one watt of output power and simple antennas. Discover how to optimize signal output using a homemade level meter made from a DC microameter and a germanium diode.

Learn how to optimize your keyboard setup for CW contesting in amateur radio. Discover the importance of macros, keyboard combinations, and single keys for efficient contesting. Find out how a mechanical key system like the Lenovo full-sized preferred pro 2 keyboard can enhance your contesting experience. Explore tips on avoiding accidental key presses and maximizing your speed during contests. Dive into macro setup details, including key functions like STOP, CQ, and X. Improve your contesting skills and efficiency with the right keyboard setup tailored for CW operators.

The behavior of a straight dipole and its L-form is examined in terms of impedance and SWR. By adjusting the feed point or bending angle, impedance variation is observed. Impedance shifts symmetrically as the feed point deviates, leading to recommendations for optimal ratios. Model simulations aid in understanding and fine-tuning, crucial for achieving a 50 Ohm match. Practical tuning guidelines ensure efficient antenna performance.

This article introduces TAP, a morse code alternative mode designed for HAM radio operators. Developed by sv3ora, TAP eliminates the need for extensive training and provides a user-friendly communication option. Learn more about this innovative mode and how it can enhance your radio experience. Visit the main site for additional information.

This page provides updates, manuals, and firmware for the ADX - Arduino Digital Modes HF Transceiver. Learn about calibration procedures, band display bug corrections, and important notes on the SI5351 library. The content includes a detailed build manual and firmware updates for the ADX, a mono band (actually quad band) digital modes optimized HF transceiver based on Arduino. Stay informed about the latest releases, bug fixes, and enhancements to improve your experience with the ADX transceiver.

Learn how an experienced ham radio operator rebuilt his trap dipole antenna for 30, 40, and 80 meters after a storm damage. Discover the process of upgrading to a short trap dipole for 40, 80, and 160 meters using double-wound traps made from RG-58 coax. Follow along for construction details and tips on building this unique classi.

Learn about Permeability Tuned Oscillators (PTO) and why they are useful for ham radio operators. This page covers the mechanics of PTO tuning, the components involved, and how to wind the PTO inductor. Written by Andrew Woodfield ZL2PD, this resource provides a detailed guide for building and using a PTO oscillator in your amateur radio projects.

Learn how to hack an IR turret to track the International Space Station (ISS) as it passes overhead. Discover the basics of the ISS and how to use simple tools to point an arrow at the ISS without looking at a phone. Find out how to calculate the azimuth and elevation angles to locate the ISS in the sky and enjoy watching this habitable space craft orbit the earth at a speed of 28,000 km/h. Take your hobby to the next level by bouncing radio signals off the ISS or even talking to the astronauts on board. Turn stargazing into an interactive and educational experience with this fun and practical project.

Learn how to build your own RF signal generator for aligning radios by following the modifications made to the circuit of an existing project. Explore the use of a common cathode varactor diode and a single center-tapped 24 VAC transformer to simplify the design. Discover alternative components like the MACOM 4ST079CK-287T varactor diode, which offers cost-effective solutions compared to unobtainable options. Find inspiration in modifying existing projects and gaining practical knowledge in electronics. Purchase the Nuts and Volts magazine for detailed schematics and a deeper understanding of RF signal generators.

open890 is a web-based UI for the Kenwood TS-890S amateur radio, and features good usability, clean design, and high-speed bandscope/audio scope displays, among other features not available either on the radio itself, or in the ARCP remote control software. It is currently only designed to interface with the TS-890 via a LAN (or wifi) connection, and not a USB/serial connection. It may work with the TS-990, as the command set is very similar, but is currently untested.

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.

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.

If you need a non-standard resistor value you could probably realize a close match using two resistor. If you use two resistor in series it is quite easy to figure out which values give the best match; on the other hand, using a parallel connection it is not so easy (at least for me) to find a good combination. This resistor calculation tool shows which combinations of two resistors (series or parallel) gives a match better than the closest standard value, for the E12 (10%), E24 (5%) and E96 (1%) series.

Come learn why it is very difficult to predict propagation on the top band. Ionospheric Variability, Time Variations of Ionospheric Parameters, Atmospheric Gravity Waves, Ionospheric Absorption and The Role of Negative Ions.

Cloverleaf antenna is a circular polarized antenna which is way better than the cheap dipole antenna that comes with video transmitters and receivers. The Cloverleaf is a closed loop antenna which the signal and ground wires are connected. The cloverleaf antenna has 3 loops at 120 degree apart, and they are titled at 45 degree to horizontal plane.

The _DX EXPLORER_ blog serves as a personal chronicle of amateur radio experiences, particularly emphasizing homebrew projects and DIY radio equipment. It provides insights into constructing various transceivers and receivers, such as the Minimalist CW Transmitter and the Sputnik Regenerative Receiver, offering practical guidance for those new to the hobby. The content often details the assembly and operation of low-cost kits like the $3 Pixie Transceiver, demonstrating accessible entry points into radio construction. Beyond building, the site also features reviews of commercial gear, including the Tidradio TD-H8 Radio, providing an operator's perspective on performance and utility. The author, YO6DXE, shares a learning journey, aiming to inspire fellow enthusiasts to engage with the technical aspects of amateur radio. This resource covers a range of topics from basic circuit explanations to practical operating tips, fostering a deeper understanding of radio principles. The blog's focus on personal experimentation and project documentation makes it a relevant resource for hams interested in hands-on learning.

Learn how to build a VHF 144MHz transverter connected to an LMR SDR radio using easily accessible components. The transverter works by mixing the 144Mhz input frequency with a 116 MHz local oscillator frequency. Explore the challenges of finding a 116 MHz crystal and the solution of using a programmable Si5351A oscillator. Follow the provided schematic for the RX and TX sections. The transverter design is still a work in progress, with ongoing trials to achieve optimal results.

AllScan is a free and open-source web app for AllStar nodes that provides Favorites Management features, AllStarLink Stats integration, and connection monitoring and control functions. Shows your favorites in a Dashboard summary table with Keyed status, Connected Node count and other statistics. Continually scans the status of each favorite using ASL's Stats API data showing which favorites are active and have recently been active. Allows favorites to be connected with a single click (optionally automatically disconnecting any currently connected nodes first). Allows the Favorites Table to be sorted by Node#, Name, Description, Location, etc. Favorites can be added/deleted simply by entering the node# and clicking a button. These features finally give AllStar nodes similar memory management and scan capabilities that analog radios have had for decades. AllScan is mobile-friendly and optimized for ease of use on both small and large screens. AllScan follows the latest web development standards, with PHP, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS cleanly partitioned, runs on both ASL and HamVOIP, and is very easy to install, configure, and update.

A low-cost Arduino project expanding on the button tutorial, where three inputs act as "buttons" generating Morse code on a WOTDUINO. This keyer, costing around £4, offers learning potential and hints at more complex ham radio applications.

Learn how VE6LK built a comprehensive radio go-kit for emergency communication purposes. The kit includes Yaesu FT-8800, Yaesu FT-857, LDG FT-Meter, Powerwerx SS-30 power supply, SignaLink USB interface, and more. The author shares details on the equipment, organization, and practical tips for setting up the kit. Discover how to stay prepared for public service events, disaster responses, and general ham radio activities with a well-equipped go-kit.

Learn how to enhance your 160 meter reception by building and using a custom band pass filter. Discover how this filter can reduce interference from strong AM broadcast signals, improving the overall performance of your receiver. Find out about the challenges of creating a filter that balances signal loss and attenuation at specific frequencies, and how it can benefit hams operating near powerful transmitters. Whether you're experiencing IMD issues or looking to optimize your 160 meter setup, this article provides practical insights and solutions for ham radio operators.

Learn about the POTA PERformer antenna, a portable, elevated, resonant whip designed by Greg Mihran KJ6ER. Discover how this unique antenna requires fewer radials to be efficient, making it ideal for portable operations. Explore the benefits of using two radials for a directional radiating pattern, compared to just one radial. Find out how computer modeling can help optimize the performance of the POTA PERformer antenna for your ham radio activities.

This project details an automatic roger beep circuit for VHF/UHF contests. Built around a Microchip PIC microcontroller, the design detects PTT (Push-To-Talk) activation and generates a brief tone upon release, mimicking a "roger beep" to signal the end of transmission. The circuit utilizes readily available components and includes downloadable resources for PCB layout and firmware.

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.

The DIY Power Meter project utilizes the _INA226_ high-side power monitoring chip, paired with an ATtiny85 microcontroller, to measure voltage, current, and power, displaying the results on a 128x32 OLED screen. The INA226 communicates via an I2C interface and is programmed with a calibration factor based on the shunt resistance and current register LSB. The project is designed to handle a maximum current of 500mA using a 0.16ohm shunt resistor, which can be adjusted to a 0.2ohm resistor, reducing the full-scale current range to 409mA with a resolution of **12.5uA**. The shunt resistor dissipates only 33mW at maximum current, making 1/4 watt resistors suitable for the setup. The PowerMeter.ino sketch configures the shunt resistance and maximum design current, automatically calculating the calibration factor. The project can be prototyped on a breadboard using an Arduino Uno, employing the Wire library for INA226 and OLED communication, and the u8g2lib library for the OLED display. For the ATtiny85 version, the Adafruit-TinyWireM and Tiny4kOLED libraries are used. The power meter is independently powered by a 3V CR2032 cell, with power switching options including manual switches or DC switched jacks. The low-side n-channel MOSFET switch configuration is tested but introduces voltage drop issues, making manual switching a more reliable option until a suitable DC switched jack is found. DXZone Technical Profile: INA226 | ATtiny85 | OLED Display | Power Meter

This document serves as a thorough guide to amateur radio nets throughout Australia and includes some international (DX) nets. It outlines key information like frequencies, schedules, and the people responsible for managing these nets. Among the nets covered are Ron's 10 A.M. net, the Australian Travellers Net, and several others, each operating on different bands and regions. Additionally, it offers technical details about repeaters, such as frequency, offset, and CTCSS tones where applicable. Any updates are clearly marked, and further details are included for linked repeater systems and network connections.

The Acom 1500 HF+6M Linear Amplifier is a high-quality and user-friendly amplifier that provides excellent performance and reliability. G6NHU, who previously owned an Acom 1000, upgraded to the Acom 1500 after nine years and has been using it for about eighteen months. Key features highlighted include the ability to connect three antennas internally, straightforward tuning process, robust construction that can handle high SWR, quiet operation, fast and quiet switching for efficient CW operation, and clean output signal even when driven hard. G6NHU highly recommends the Acom 1500 and states they would not hesitate to purchase another one in the future.

Delta loop antennas, particularly the 30 meter variant, offer unique advantages in terms of vertical polarization and omni-directional coverage. The construction process detailed by VE3VN highlights common mechanical and electrical challenges faced by amateur radio operators. Key design considerations include minimizing interaction with existing contest band antennas, achieving low elevation angles for DX chasing, and ensuring the antenna remains off the ground for agricultural clearance. The article provides specific measurements, such as the loop's height and feed point impedance, which are critical for optimizing performance. The use of NEC modeling software illustrates the importance of accurate resonance calculations, revealing how proximity to the tower affects both pattern and impedance. This practical account serves as a resource for hams looking to build effective antennas while navigating typical construction hurdles.

Learn how to create a USB Keyer for PowerSDR to enhance your CW experience. This article provides a step-by-step guide using affordable materials like a USB to TTL Module (FT232RTL) and a Keyer iambic. The tutorial includes a detailed wiring diagram and instructions for configuring the Keyer in the PowerSDR menu. The author also shares a helpful video demonstration to ensure smooth operation. Whether you're a seasoned ham operator or new to CW, this DIY project can improve your radio setup. Follow these instructions to build your USB Keyer and elevate your PowerSDR experience.

This page provides information on how to design an Off-Center-Fed Dipole (OCFD) antenna, suitable for amateur HF bands like 80 meters or 40 meters. The antenna design allows for VSWR minima on multiple bands, making it a good choice for multi-band use. Learn how to create an OCFD antenna in either flat-top or inverted-Vee form using a single support. The page also offers tools to generate radiation patterns, VSWR charts, and antenna current diagrams for your specific antenna design, helping hams understand performance factors. Ideal for ham radio operators looking to build their own effective antennas.

Learn about the ZRS QRP-808 kit system for hams from the 1980s. Discover the improved features of the QRP-808 compared to the QRP-805, including the electrical diagram and assembly instructions. Explore the nostalgic journey of building and tuning this iconic amateur radio station, as shared by experienced ham radio operators. See original photos and insights from enthusiasts like Janko S55WT and Mirko S52PC, offering a glimpse into the history of amateur radio technology. Access PDFs for detailed views and immerse yourself in the world of DIY radio equipment construction and tuning.

Galvanic corrosion, a destructive process triggered by dissimilar metal contact in a corrosive electrolyte, poses a significant threat in antenna manufacturing. With aluminum and stainless steel components commonly involved, unaddressed corrosion can lead to white particle accumulation, causing long-term damage. Awareness of the galvanic series and the application of protective coatings like Alumslip can mitigate this pervasive issue, ensuring a prolonged antenna lifespan.

Learn how to easily convert between different units like dBu, dBm, W, mW, V, and uV with the dBCalc application. This small windows program allows ham radio operators to quickly check conversions using input and output resistance. It's a useful tool for anyone dealing with electronic measurements and calculations. Best of all, dBCalc is free to use, making it a convenient solution for amateur radio enthusiasts. This tool simplifies complex conversions and helps hams optimize their equipment setup.

Learn how an experienced ham radio operator designed and built a compact shack in their motor home. Discover the considerations, challenges, and solutions involved in setting up a radio station in a small space without damaging the vehicle. Find out which radios were chosen for VHF/UHF scanning, HF communications, and QRP operations. Get insights on cabinet design, speaker placement, and radio cabling for a functional and portable ham radio setup on the road.

Explore VK5DJ's experiments with the si5351a frequency synthesizer, a versatile device capable of generating frequencies from 8kHz to 200MHz. Learn how this I2C configurable clock generator can replace crystals and oscillators in various applications, providing stable and precise outputs. Discover how to program the si5351a for your own signal generator projects and repeater site setups. Utilize the affordable and efficient Adafruit module for reliable performance. Enhance your understanding of PLL/VCXO architectures and fractional dividers for frequency generation. Join the PDS Forum community in experimenting with this innovative technology.

This article investigates SSB signal quality during the CQ WW 2015 SSB contest. It highlights the importance of adhering to the ideal SSB signal profile, the impacts of intermodulation distortion, and the consequences of poor-quality signals. The analysis underscores the need for well-tuned equipment to ensure cleaner, more efficient signals and, consequently, a more enjoyable and spacious experience for contest participants and amateur radio operators.

Don Trynor, VA3XFT, created EvoHam to provide guides, reviews, and tools to help ham radio operators navigate the world of digital voice modes like DMR, D-STAR, Yaesu Fusion, P25, NXDN, M17, and FreeDV. The website aims to make this technology more accessible and enjoyable for beginners, intermediates, and experienced hams alike by offering clear and approachable information. With years of experience in the field, EvoHam is a modern hub for all things related to digital voice in the amateur radio community.

This project outlines a simple Lead Acid/SLA battery monitor, designed to alert users when battery voltage falls below 10.6V. The monitor, based on a PIC16F1827 microcontroller, checks the voltage of up to five batteries and triggers an alarm if any drop too low. The system operates in various modes, including self-test, monitoring, and alarm. This updated version improves upon the original 1999 design, offering a more modern microcontroller and extended functionality for workshop use, with minimal impact on battery charge.

Information on frequencies suggested as Scout amateur radio frequencies. These were initially suggested by the World Organization of the Scout Movement and their Jamboree on the Air organizer. As with all amateur radio frequencies they are a shared resource. If someone else is already on that frequency, move up or down to find a clear frequency for calling.

Explore the world of fox hunting with the Fox Hunt V7 Kits and Assembled Units. Learn about the different antennas used for fox hunting, such as the tape measure beam with an offset attenuator. Discover how to make your own WB2HOL beam antenna using PVC pipe, T's, and a tape measure. Find out how the offset attenuator works and how it can help you track down jammers and interference. Whether you're a seasoned fox hunter or just starting out, this page offers valuable insights and tips for improving your hunting skills.

The author fixed a friend's Kenwood TS-850S radio, which suffered from Capacitor Plague, a common problem in 1990s electronics where capacitors leak and damage circuit boards. The CAR board, responsible for generating signals, was especially affected. The author cleaned the board, replaced the capacitors, and repaired a broken trace. Although the radio mostly functioned afterward, the "Slope Tune" control behaved abnormally. The cause seems to be a software issue, not a hardware one.

This is a theoretical look at propagation on 630-Meters and 2200-Meters using ray tracing software. It expands on the brief discussion in the ARRL Handbooks. The Earth's magnetic field affects 630-Meter and 2200-Meter band propagation. Lower ionization reduces absorption, aiding low-frequency propagation. Differences exist between bands, limited daytime sky-wave propagation. Sunrise/sunset show promise, yet mechanisms are unclear. Ducting possible at night in specific conditions. Negative ions enhance propagation. Inefficient antennas and high man-made noise are anticipated. Groundwave propagation is significant on 2200-Meters.

This software connects to a DMR master using the MMDVM protocol, enabling a ChatGPT-powered AI bot for voice interaction. It comprises a main program (a DMR/D-Star client handling audio via AMBEServer) and a Python script for audio processing via APIs. OpenAI Whisper handles speech recognition, while Google Translate powers text-to-speech, supporting multilingual interaction. Clear, polite questions improve recognition. If silent for over one second, the bot provides local weather, with forecasts available on request. English performs best for recognition accuracy.

Ham radio communication in the VHF and UHF bands, which was previously dominated by analog Frequency Modulation (FM), is increasingly incorporating Digital Voice (DV) modes. DV transceivers digitize audio and offer benefits like as signal integrity, encoded caller ID, and bandwidth savings. Today D-STAR, DMR and Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) are popular DV formats, each with its own set of features but mainly incompatible with the others. Internet access with Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) expands DV communication worldwide. Repeaters and personal hotspots expand DV capabilities, enabling seamless worldwide connections. However, implementing DV frequently necessitates learning new technologies and negotiating network complexity.

Learn how to build a VFO controller based on the Si5351 for ham radio operators. This controller consists of a PIC16F1825 and OLED SSD1306 display, with clock outputs for Tx, Rx, and IF frequencies. Features include calibration, RIT function, and the ability to tune frequencies separately. With step-by-step instructions and schematics, you can easily create your own VFO controller for your amateur radio setup.

This webpage caters to EMRFD owners, offering insights into building popcorn receiver band-pass filters with Ladpac programs and EMRFD Chapter 3 knowledge. Through practical experiments and Ladpac tools, the author explores coupling capacitors' impact on filter response and return loss optimization. The content emphasizes empirical approaches, encouraging builders to embrace experimentation and learn from mistakes. Detailed examples and workflow suggestions aid hobbyist-level designers in creating customized filters, fostering a deeper understanding of filter design principles.

The article "Icom IC7300 RTC Fix" details the meticulous repair of an Icom IC-7300's faulty real-time clock (RTC). The author and a friend, Nacho, discovered the RTC was gaining an unacceptable 11 seconds per day. Investigations revealed the Seiko Epson RX8803LC RTC was far outside its specified stability. Despite replacing the RTC and a burned pullup resistor, the transceiver still malfunctioned, leading to the replacement of the processor. Post-repair, the clock's accuracy improved significantly, now gaining only 1.4 seconds per month. This narrative underscores the complexities of electronic repairs and the satisfaction of resolving intricate issues.

This thoughtful review details ajourney from the stock Elecraft KXPD2 paddle to an innovative pressure-sensor alternative. The author candidly describes issues with their original paddle—intermittent operation and loosening screws—before discovering VK3IL's pressure-sensitive design through QST magazine. The construction process, using a PCB and components generously shared by the designer, proved straightforward despite challenging SMD soldering. What stands out is the clever DIY housing solution: a "sandwich" of closed-cell foam encased in heat-shrink tubing that fits comfortably in hand. The ergonomic design allows effective single-handed operation for portable SOTA activations. The successful implementation has rendered the original paddle obsolete, leaving only the task of covering the radio's paddle port.

Learn how to set up N1MM Logger+ software for your FT-991 transceiver. This article provides a step-by-step guide on configuring your transceiver settings to work seamlessly with the N1MM Logger+ program. By following these instructions, hams can enhance their contesting and logging experience with improved efficiency and accuracy. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced operator, this tutorial will help you optimize your FT-991 setup for contesting and general ham radio operations.

YaesuFT1000MK V stands out with improved close-spaced SSB transmit performance, reversing a trend seen in other modern radios. Featuring a class-A mode, it offers clean HV finals when kept out of ALC. However, two significant flaws persist: the noise blanker causes receiver IM distortion, and the transmitter lacks wave-shaping on CW, resulting in pronounced keyclicks. Preliminary tests reveal strong keyclicks +1kHz and -1kHz, prompting a combined modification to address both issues.