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This blog chronicles over a decade of portable HF contesting from rural Ireland (2008–2019) by Olivier, operating under callsigns EI/ON4EI, EI8GQB, EI1A, and EI7T. Using only green energy from a caravan, he achieved top-tier results in major international contests—including 1st World in the 2018 IARU HF Championship (SSB LP) and multiple 1st-place finishes in CQ WW and CQ WPX SSB Europe. Operating in the demanding Single Operator All Band Low Power and SO2R categories, he deployed up to five antennas across five bands, often in remote or emergency-style conditions. The narrative blends technical detail, fieldcraft, and personal reflection, documenting triumphs, setbacks (including carbon monoxide poisoning), and the logistical challenges of sustainable portable operation—culminating in his decision to transition to team-based contesting and future DXpeditions.

This article discusses the Beverage antenna, a reception antenna for low bands, originally published in the Megahertz magazine between November 1990 and April 1991. It explains the challenges faced in receiving signals on low bands due to interference and how the Beverage antenna's directional radiation pattern can help improve reception of distant stations. The article highlights the importance of choosing antennas with low efficiency but sharp radiation lobes for better DX signal reception. It also compares the reception characteristics of signals from European stations versus DX stations, emphasizing the benefits of antennas favoring low arrival angles for DX signals on low bands.

Listen to HF communications via the KiwiSDR online receiver located in Badgad IRAQ locator LM23fh. This web receiver is running a MLA 30+ antenna and can be tuned easily on all HF bands from 10 to 80 meters.

The author discusses ways to display VHF and higher bands using a K3/10 as  transverter, NooElec Upconverter, SDR, and SDR-Console. He observed that the results were remarkable, with the tuned frequency visible at +/-100kHz. The K3 Interface Option (KXV3A) produces a buffered IF output at 8.213MHz, which is received using a NooElec NESDR SMArt SDR dongle and Ham It UP Upconverter. The SDR-Console program is utilized, with Omnirig synchronizing the SDR and K3. To configure the system, particular parameters are required, such as adjusting the IF frequency to 133.213MHz (125MHz + IF frequency) and inverting the spectrum. The Panadapter demonstrated ES activity at 10m, and modest software tweaks may be required for improved performance.

This resource presents a phase-controlled receiving array designed specifically for QRP (low power) fox hunting on the 40M and 80M bands. The author shares personal experiences and challenges faced during fox hunts, including the impact of regional noise levels and propagation conditions. The document details modifications made to enhance receiving capabilities, such as adding a director wire to a vertical antenna, which improved effective radiated power (ERP) in specific directions. The resource is aimed at amateur radio operators participating in QRP fox hunting, providing insights into noise reduction techniques and antenna performance in varying conditions. It also references the QRP Fox Hunt series, which operates weekly during winter months, emphasizing the importance of understanding local propagation characteristics.

IOTA: OC-003 activation planned for November 01 – November 15, 2024 Operation modes: SSB, CW, RTTY , FT8, FT4, PSK Bands: 160 – 6m, QO-100

Join Kirk Pickering, K4RO, as he delves into the importance of calling CQ in amateur radio contesting. Learn about the debate over spotting assistance and why developing tuning and identifying skills is crucial for contest operators, especially newcomers. Discover valuable insights on how to enhance your contesting experience and maximize your success.

This page discusses the construction and use of a low pass filter for MF/LF reception, specifically for the 630 meter and 2200 meter bands. The author, KA7OEI, shares technical insights and practical advice related to amateur radio, with a focus on improving reception in the low-frequency bands. This resource is useful for hams interested in building their own filters to enhance their MF/LF reception capabilities.

The _Colorado QSO Party_ is scheduled for **September 12, 2026**. This amateur radio event focuses on contacts with stations operating within Colorado. The _Grand Mesa Contesters of Colorado_ sponsors the event. Operators may pursue contacts across all **64 counties** of Colorado. Activations for programs such as POTA and SOTA are permissible during the event period. Logs generated from these activations are eligible for submission to both the _Colorado QSO Party_ and the associated operating program. DXZone Focus: QSO Party | Colorado | Mixed | All Amateur Bands

The International DX Amateur Radio Club provides a structured environment for amateur radio operators interested in long-distance communication. The club offers a variety of awards, including the DX Countries Award, DX United States Award, and DX Continents Award, among others. These awards recognize achievements in contacting stations across different geographical areas, such as Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia. The club also supplies resources like DX Spots, Grey Line Map, and Solar Data to assist operators in optimizing their communication strategies. The DX Code of Conduct emphasizes disciplined operating practices. Operators are encouraged to listen carefully before transmitting and ensure they have correctly identified the DX station's call sign. The guidelines advise against interfering with ongoing communications and stress the importance of patience, such as waiting for the DX station to complete a contact before calling. Operators are reminded to send their full call sign and avoid continuous calling, maintaining respect for fellow operators to foster a cooperative amateur radio community. DXZone Technical Profile: DX Awards | DX Code of Conduct | Grey Line Map

Learn about Amateur Television (ATV) on the 23 cm band (1240-1300 MHz) in this article from the September and October 2000 issue of Mégahertz magazine. Discover how ATV adds a new dimension to QSOs by allowing hams to visit stations, transmit real reports on antenna installations, follow signal paths on camera, and have simultaneous sound transmission. Explore the world of ATV experimentation, comparison, and innovation, made easier by existing equipment in many ham radio operators' homes. Find out about the ATV bands, bandwidth requirements, and the 23 cm band as a starting point for ATV activities.

This resource provides an in-depth look at Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) operating techniques specifically for the 432 MHz band and above. It outlines the differences in operational procedures between the 144 MHz and 432 MHz bands, emphasizing the importance of sequence lengths and scheduling. The initial calling period typically starts on the hour, with the eastern-most station calling first, which is crucial for effective communication. The document also discusses the challenges faced by operators, such as signal readability and the necessity of confirming exchanges. It highlights the significance of using a standardized procedure to enhance the likelihood of successful contacts. Additionally, it covers the use of signal reports and the importance of patience and clarity in communication, especially when dealing with weak signals. Overall, this guide serves as a valuable resource for amateur radio operators interested in improving their EME operations.

Review of the Sangean ATS-505 portable receiver, introduced in March 2000. The review includes specifications such as power requirements of 6 Volts DC using 4 AA batteries, dimensions of 128 by 214 by 39 mm, and a weight of 840 g without batteries. It covers various frequency bands including LW from 153 to 279 kHz, MW from 520 to 1,710 kHz, SW from 1,711 to 29,999 kHz, and FM from 87.5 to 108 MHz. The ATS-505 features a backlit display, 45 memory presets, and SSB mode for shortwave listening. The review is independent and provides technical comparisons with other Sangean models like the ATS-404 and ATS-909, highlighting differences in coverage and features.

This resource provides an analysis of MFJ927 and SGC239 AutoTuners with portable HF antennas, as well as the performance of 31 ft. versus 43 ft. vertical antennas. The author discusses the challenges faced during the Maritime QSO party, highlighting the need for lightweight and easily deployable antennas. Key specifications include coverage for 80, 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters, with a maximum power of 100 W CW. The resource also evaluates the efficiency of vertical antennas, particularly in relation to their take-off angles across different bands. The use of a 30-foot carbon fiber push-up pole is noted for its reliability and ease of setup, making it suitable for portable operations.

Radio classifieds, technical articles, reviews and antenna designs for CB and Amateur bands.

The LICW Challenge is a daily event for ham radio operators, with special weekly on-air classes. It resets quarterly and covers bands from 160m to 2m, focusing on CW only. The event offers various point values based on member categories and bonus opportunities. Participants use specific calling frequencies and a CQ format to exchange information. Bonus points are awarded for specific criteria like contacts outside North America or special monthly members. The goal is to work as many LICW members as possible on different bands to earn points and bonuses.

Kilo Lima Radio Club is a global amateur radio community uniting operators across bands and borders.