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This is a group for CBers, Sidebanders, Amateurs and Freebanders. Items to be discussed are CB, Skip, Skeds, DX communications, SSB, export radios, Radio equipment, mods, ham radio, repairs, electronics, CW, PSK31, RTTY, digital, and different radio shops.

Details the construction of an **HF converter** designed by M1GEO, George Smart, specifically to extend the frequency range of the FunCube Dongle Pro (FCD) for amateur radio reception. The FCD natively covers 64 to 1,700 MHz, but this project enables reception from 0 Hz to 64 MHz by up-converting signals to the FCD's operational range. It employs a **double-balanced mixer** with a 100 MHz local oscillator (LO) to translate incoming HF signals; for instance, a 1 MHz signal appears at 101 MHz within the FCD's passband. The design incorporates a 7th-order Chebyshev low-pass filter with a 62 MHz cutoff frequency at the input to mitigate image frequencies, ensuring cleaner spectral presentation. George provides the schematic, PCB masks, and Gerber files for replication, noting that Far Circuits also offers PCBs. The resource includes test results for the low-pass filter and measurements of LO leakage, identifying -36.8 dBm at 100 MHz as a potential sensitivity concern. M1GEO discusses potential improvements, such as adjusting the mixer's LO drive, adding a balance pot, or incorporating a post-mixer high-pass filter to reduce LO breakthrough. Audio recordings from 40m and 17m demonstrate the converter's performance with WRplus SDR software.

A simple free running oscillator oscillating at the receiver\'s IF (intermediate frequency) beats with the incoming signals in either CW or SSB and the resultant audio frequency goes to the AF amplifier.

CW and SSB INRAD narrow filters modification

Presents a concise guide for Amateur Radio operators participating in Jamboree-on-the-Air (JOTA), an annual event connecting approximately 500,000 Scouts and Guides worldwide via ham radio. The resource details how to initiate a voice contact, including the use of "CQ Jamboree JOTA" and proper signal reporting with the RST system. It also outlines the typical exchange information, such as name, QTH, Scout rank, and age, encouraging participants to practice their responses. Authored by Bill Wetherill, N2WG, the brochure provides a practical phonetics chart and a comprehensive Morse code dictionary, including punctuation and prosigns like AR and SK. It clarifies rules for third-party operation under the direct supervision of a licensed operator, noting restrictions on international contacts without specific government agreements. Additionally, the guide lists recommended World Scout Frequencies for SSB and CW across 80, 40, 20, 17, 15, 12, and 10 meters, emphasizing courteous operating procedures. It includes a section on common Q-signals like QRM, QRN, and QSL, alongside the Amateur's Code, which stresses considerate, loyal, progressive, friendly, balanced, and patriotic conduct.

Amateur radio kits online shop, includes Mini Touch Key, QRP HF SSB and CW transceiver kits

If you find yourself in London then please do visit. The club operates a HF station with the call sign GX0MIN, Friday evenings. We have held the contest call sign M2W since 2000, and regularly participate in HF contests. CQWW SSB is a favourite and the group has operated the October event from Whitton using M2W and from DX locations during the years, with the calls 9H0WW, ZC4DX, C56DX, A45ZN.

Amateur Tosno contest club Russia ATCC was founded 25.08.2008. ATCC invites everyone who loves ham radio, CW, dx, ssb, digi and contesting, to become a member.

The CQ World Wide DX Contest records page details the highest scores achieved in the CQ WW DX Contest across various categories and years. It systematically lists records for both SSB and CW modes, segmenting results by entry class such as Multi-Multi, Multi-Two, Multi-Single High, Multi-Single Low, Single Operator High Power, Single Operator Low Power, Single Operator QRP, Single Operator Assisted High, Single Operator Assisted Low, and Single Operator Assisted QRP. Each record entry specifies the callsign, the operator's callsign in parentheses if different, the year of operation, and the total score achieved. The data is further broken down by individual amateur radio bands, including 160m, 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, and 10m, allowing for granular analysis of performance within specific frequency segments. The page also includes records for the "ALL" band category, representing cumulative scores across all operational bands. The presented records span from 1948 to 2025, providing a historical perspective on contest performance. This resource also references other CQ contests like CQ WPX, CQ WW RTTY, CQ WPX RTTY, CQ 160, CQ VHF, and WW DIGI, indicating a broader context of contest record keeping. It explicitly states that late logs are not included in the records, ensuring data integrity. The page is maintained by the World Wide Radio Operators Foundation, Inc.

A list of active Amateur Radio satellites grouped by FM SSB/CW and satellite monitoring

Fundamentals of operating on single sideband

The **HamRacer** voice keyer, a Windows-based application, is showcased in this video, illustrating its utility for radio amateurs participating in SSB contests. It functions as a synthesized PC-based voice keyer, specifically designed for HF and VHF SSB contest operations, allowing operators to transmit pre-recorded or text-to-speech generated messages during rapid-fire exchanges. The demonstration includes actual recorded QSO examples from a contest, featuring contacts with stations such as SP6OWA, S57O, OK1IEI, 9A1DL, OE1PAB, OK1GTH, and 9A1E. These examples highlight the software's practical application in a live contesting environment, demonstrating how it facilitates contest participation for operators who might otherwise face challenges with traditional voice keying. The resource provides a direct look at the software in action, emphasizing its role in promoting inclusivity within the amateur radio contesting community. It details the use of Windows SAPI for speech synthesis, a core component of HamRacer's functionality.

The Kenwood TS-870S HF transceiver features two state-of-the-art 24-bit 20 MIPS DSP chips, providing over 100dB out-of-passband attenuation and CW bandwidth adjustable to 50 Hz. It operates across 160-10 meters with 100 watts output, incorporating digital filtering, a beat canceller, and 100 memory channels. The radio also includes a transmit equalizer, RX antenna input, and a K1 Logic Keyer, enhancing signal processing and operational flexibility for amateur radio operators. Advanced capabilities include IF stage DSP, dual noise reduction, and an auto notch filter, all contributing to superior signal reception and clarity. The TS-870S offers a variable AGC, voice equalizer, and an RS-232C port for computer control, with Windows™ software supplied. Its built-in automatic antenna tuner functions on all bands for both transmit and receive modes, streamlining station setup and operation. Available accessories such as the DRU-3A digital recording unit, SO-2 high stability crystal oscillator, and VS-2 voice synthesizer option further extend the transceiver's utility. The unit requires 13.8 VDC at 20.5 Amps and is supplied with an MC-43S hand microphone, making it a comprehensive station component.

IZ5CML, Enrico Giannerini, obtained his amateur radio license in 1998, achieving DXCC contacts with all entities over 18 years of activity. His station, located in Empoli, Tuscany, Italy, focuses on HF and 50 MHz operations, primarily using SSB, CW, and some RTTY. He emphasizes direct radio communication, preferring "human modes" over digital modes like FT8/4, which he views as detaching the operator from the signal. Enrico's operating interests include DXing, IOTA activations, and major HF contests, where he has participated both individually and with teams like IQ5LV and IO5O. Notable activations include Sao Miguel and Flores (CU8, EU-089) in the Azores in 2005, and Antiparos and Paros (EU-067) in Greece in 2006 and 2014. He also contributes to the Hamradioweb forum, promoting good operating practices and publishing the monthly "Dxschedule" for upcoming DX and contest activities. The website includes a blog with articles on DX, ionospheric propagation, and antennas, reflecting his long-standing passion for radio, sparked by the 1980s film "La Tenda Rossa" and years as an SWL.

1500 watts PEP SSB is the power handling capability of the MFJ-989C HF Antenna Tuner, a popular choice among amateur radio operators. Users have shared a wide range of experiences, with some praising its durability and performance over decades of use, while others criticize its build quality and accuracy. The tuner features a built-in dummy load, SWR-wattmeter, and a balun for balanced line feeders, making it versatile for various antenna setups. However, discrepancies in RF power readings and SWR measurements have been noted, with some users finding the dual scale meter to be off by about 20% compared to a Bird wattmeter. Long-term users report that the MFJ-989C performs well with proper antenna setups, but caution against tuning at high power without initial adjustments at lower power levels. Some have experienced issues such as arcing when exceeding 400 watts, while others have had no problems even at higher power levels. The roller inductor and capacitors are functional, though some users have had to perform maintenance like tightening screws or cleaning components to ensure reliable operation. Despite mixed reviews, the MFJ-989C remains in production, suggesting continued demand. It's a tuner that requires careful handling and possibly some DIY fixes to achieve optimal performance.

The CQ World Wide DX Contest records document top scores, with the Multi-Multi SSB category showing CN8WW achieving **78,170,508 points** in 2000. These records span from 1948 to 2025, categorizing results by region, operating class (e.g., Single Operator High Power, Low Power, QRP, Assisted), and specific bands like 10M, 15M, 20M, 40M, 80M, and 160M. For instance, EF8R (E77DX) holds the All-Band High Power SSB record with **25,747,775 points** in 2025. Each entry includes the callsign (with operator callsign in parentheses for guest ops), year of operation, and total score. The _CQ WW DX Contest_ also features records for the RTTY and VHF contests, alongside the main SSB and CW categories. QRP records demonstrate significant achievements, such as P40W (W2GD) with 5,097,780 points in the All-Band SSB QRP category in 2000. Multi-Two and Multi-Single categories are also detailed, providing a comprehensive overview of competitive performance.

The Mississippi QSO Party, sponsored by the Mississippi Section of the ARRL, offers a prime opportunity for hams worldwide to make contact with Mississippi stations. This annual event encourages both in-state and out-of-state operators to activate Mississippi counties, promoting activity across the Magnolia State's diverse geographic regions. Participants often operate from various locations, including parks and historical sites, contributing to the unique character of the contacts. Operators typically utilize a mix of HF and VHF bands, employing CW, SSB, and digital modes to maximize their QSO count and multiplier acquisition. The exchange usually involves a signal report and county for Mississippi stations, or state/province/country for others. Results are compiled and published, recognizing top scorers in various categories and encouraging friendly competition among participants. The event serves as a significant annual gathering point for the Mississippi amateur radio community, fostering camaraderie and operational skill development.

The 2200-meter band (135.7-137.8 kHz) presents unique challenges for amateur radio operators due to its narrow 2.1 kHz bandwidth, low signal levels, and high noise. W1TAG explores various transmission modes suited for this demanding environment, highlighting that traditional voice modes like SSB and AM are impractical. Plain old CW serves as the baseline, demonstrating effectiveness across different modes, though signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) significantly limits practical speeds. The article notes that reducing CW speed below 5 WPM can improve copy, especially with computer-aided spectrum analysis software capable of decoding signals too weak for human ear reception. QRSS, or "CW sent slowly enough that speeds are best expressed in seconds per dot," is a key mode for LF work, with examples ranging from 3 seconds/dot to extreme 240 seconds/dot transmissions. _Argo_ by I2PHD is mentioned as a simple program for QRSS, enabling reception of signals like BRO, a Part 15 beacon, at a distance of **1100 miles**. Other modes discussed include Dual Frequency CW (DFCW), which uses frequency shifts to distinguish dots and dashes, and Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK), a phase modulation technique employing 0 to 180-degree phase flips. WOLF (Weak-signal Operation on Low Frequency), a specialized BPSK form by KK7KA, encodes 15-character messages into 960-bit packages, taking 96 seconds to transmit, and has demonstrated successful reception over **672 seconds** for a message from a 1-watt beacon. Further modes include PSK, FSK variations like JASON and MSK, and graphical modes such as Hellschreiber and Chirped Hell. The article concludes with a practical chart comparing the time required to send a simple message like "WD2XES FN42CH " across these diverse LF modes, offering valuable insights for operators planning contacts on the low bands.

Midwest Mountain Thunder CB Radio Group is a group of CB SSB operators that started in the Midwest as a branch off of the Washington State group. good clean radio

Maintaining vintage Eddystone receivers often presents unique challenges, as detailed by Victor Jenkins in his refurbishment of an EA12, where his deep understanding of RF circuits ensures optimal performance for daily shortwave listening. Similarly, Gerry O’Hara VE7GUH, a prolific contributor to the EUG website and a trustee, meticulously documented his restoration of an Eddystone S830/2, even addressing an unusual instability issue with a follow-up postscript article and YouTube videos demonstrating the fix. His work, along with numerous other articles on the "Restorations" page, showcases a master's approach to bringing vintage sets back to factory specifications or better. Beyond technical restorations, the EUG also shares compelling historical narratives. One such story recounts the discovery of a long-lost 78rpm recording featuring Eddystone Radio Ltd.'s founder, George Stratton Laughton, and other key figures discussing the company's wartime and post-war contributions to shortwave communications. This six-minute BBC production, transcribed into an MP3 file by Peter Carney, offers a rare auditory glimpse into the company's legacy, highlighting its role in supplying equipment to police, ministries, and expatriate British workers. The community aspect thrives through shared experiences, like Roger Trickett's anecdote about his Eddystone EC10, which has been continuously powered for 50 of its 54 years, traveling across continents and enduring various modifications. Another intriguing account from Roy GM4VKI details the "S640 Identity Crisis," where a seemingly standard S640 receiver turned out to be a masterfully engineered 80/20-meter SSB transceiver built into the original chassis by GI3ZX, showcasing incredible ingenuity from a bygone era of amateur radio.

Over 1900 ARISS school events have been conducted since 2000, facilitating amateur radio contacts between students and ISS crew members. This resource details the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) program, outlining scheduled contacts, operational procedures, and application processes for educational institutions worldwide. It lists specific upcoming contacts, such as those with Lewis Center for Educational Research in California and Vauban, Ecole et Lycée français de Luxembourg, typically operating on a 145.800 MHz downlink frequency. The content also provides crucial guidelines for radio amateurs, emphasizing the importance of not interfering with scheduled school contacts and utilizing the crossband repeater for general QSOs when available. It clarifies crew availability for casual contacts, noting that astronauts are usually free during personal time, approximately one hour after waking and one hour before sleeping, and often on weekends. Constraints on scheduling, such as avoiding EVA weeks and specific crew rest periods, are also detailed. Furthermore, the resource includes historical statistics on direct versus telebridge contacts, QSL information, and links to related ARISS, AMSAT, ARRL, and NASA websites. It also provides information on applying to host an ARISS contact for schools and youth organizations in various regions, including the United States, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Canada, Central and South America, Asia, and Australia.

This article describes the construction of a high performance transmitter and receiver for SSB (voice) communication covering the 14MHz (20 meters) high frequency amateur radio band with output range 15 to 20 watts and a top audio sound quality both on transmit and receive.

Review of the Xiegu G90 20W HF portable transceiver capable to run CW SSB AMD modes, based on an Software Defined Radio

The Cambridge University Wireless Society (CUWS) serves as the amateur radio society for students and staff at Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin Universities, fostering interest and activity in two-way radio communication. It provides a platform for members to engage with various aspects of amateur radio, including operating, technical experimentation, and community building within the university environment. The society's activities typically encompass station operation, antenna construction, and participation in contests and DXing. As a university-affiliated club, CUWS offers practical experience in radio theory and application, often utilizing the club callsign _G6UW_. Members learn about different modes of operation, such as CW, SSB, and digital modes, and gain hands-on experience with transceivers and associated equipment. The society's focus includes preparing members for amateur radio licensing exams and promoting ethical operating practices. Participation in CUWS provides a foundation for future involvement in the broader amateur radio community.

Operating Free DV, the open source digital voice codec for HF, allows any SSB radio to be used for low bit rate digital voice.

_AT Auto_ is an automatic antenna tuner designed for amateur radio enthusiasts seeking efficient and reliable tuning solutions. This device automates the tuning process, allowing operators to focus on communication rather than manual adjustments. The tuner is compatible with a range of transceivers, enhancing its versatility in different shack setups. Its design incorporates advanced circuitry to ensure optimal performance across various bands. The _AT Auto_ tuner is particularly useful for those operating in HF bands, providing seamless transitions between frequencies. Its integration capabilities with other shack automation products make it a valuable component for modern amateur radio stations. The tuner supports multiple modes, including _SSB_ and _CW_, catering to diverse operating preferences. Its robust construction and user-friendly interface contribute to its appeal among both seasoned operators and those new to the hobby. Kessler Engineering's focus on innovation and quality is evident in the _AT Auto_'s design. The tuner is part of a broader product line that includes shack automation solutions, reflecting the company's commitment to enhancing amateur radio operations. Despite the website redesign, the tuner remains a key offering in their product portfolio.

Icom 706MkIIG Filters, Make a narrow CW filter work in SSB for the digital modes

DL1OFC, operating from Hankensbüttel, Germany, shares insights into the fascinating hobby of amateur radio. While the station has been on hiatus since 2016, the site provides a valuable archive of activities and technical information. DL1OFC was active across various bands and modes, including 145.225 MHz FM, 430.225 MHz FM, 29.600 MHz FM, and DMR via DB0AGM on TS-1 TG-262 DL. Shortwave operations included SSB on the 40m through 10m bands, as well as 6m. The site details regional amateur radio activities in and around Hankensbüttel, offering a glimpse into local field days and community involvement. A notable feature is Die Isetalrunde, a regional amateur radio net covering the area from the Harz mountains to the sea. The site also includes general information on radio technology, tips for obtaining an amateur radio license, and discussions on VHF/HF propagation, including specifics on the 70 MHz band.

How to build a complete Single-Sideband amateur radio transceiver from scratch. Article published on hackaday dot com includes an introduction to radio architectures, ssb receivers and tramsitter

Documents the operational experiences and technical insights of amateur radio station VA3STL, offering a firsthand account of various on-air activities and equipment. The blog features a detailed narrative of a **QRP transatlantic QSO** on 12m SSB, achieving a 55 report with 10W to a mobile station in Italy using a homebrew 90ft doublet antenna. It also introduces the _Ten-Tec 539_ QRP HF transceiver, a 10W output rig covering 80m through 10m, designed for portable operations and featuring DSP and dual VFOs. The resource also delves into historical radio technology, specifically the "Gibson Girl" survival radio, an emergency transmitter operating on 500kHz (and later 8280/8364 kHz) with a hand-cranked generator and kite-deployed antenna. This section explores its origins from German designs and its use during World War II, including its distinctive curved shape for ergonomic hand-cranking. Further historical content includes a visit to Signal Hill in St. John's, Newfoundland, commemorating Marconi's reception of the first transatlantic radio signal in 1901. The post describes the Cabot Tower exhibit and the VO1AA station, highlighting the site's significance despite the thick fog during the visit. It also showcases a homebrewed _Marconi-style straight key_ by WB9LPU, crafted to celebrate the centenary of Marconi's achievement.

The PG7V Contest Calendar provides a curated listing of significant **HF contests**, with a particular focus on events relevant to European amateur radio operators. It details contest specifics such as start and end times in UTC, eligible bands (e.g., 80 meters, 40 meters, 10 meters), and required exchange information (e.g., serial number, CQ-zone, DOK, locator, age). The calendar includes diverse modes like CW, SSB, PSK63, RTTY, and FT4, catering to various operating preferences. Featured contests include the RSGB 80m Club Championship, WW WPX Contest, IARU Region 1 Fieldday, and ARRL International Digital Contest. Each entry links directly to the official contest rules for detailed information. The calendar also notes specific participation rules, such as the 1 KHz QSY requirement in the HA3NS Memorial Contest or the 24-hour single-operator time limit in the ARRL International Digital Contest. This resource is updated regularly, ensuring timely information for upcoming **contest operations** over a four-week period. It serves as a practical tool for hams planning their contest activity.

Nexus is a free and open-source ham radio software application, built in Rust by KD9TAW, designed to integrate multiple station functions into a single program. It supports fifteen operating modes, including FT8, FT4, CW, SSB, FM, RTTY, SSTV, and APRS, with both transmit and receive capabilities across Windows, Linux, and Raspberry Pi platforms. The software provides band activity displays with country, distance, and bearing information, a call roster, a 3-D propagation globe with live spots, and alerts for new DXCC, WAS, WAZ, VUCC, and IOTA entities. It also features a native RF panadapter for Icom CI-V and Flex radios, or a live audio scope for other transceivers. Nexus integrates a comprehensive logbook, computes awards offline without requiring an account, and includes repeater search functionality with curated memory packs. It offers CHIRP CSV round-trip compatibility for approximately 1,000 radio models and is compatible with WSJT-X, JTDX, and MSHV via UDP protocol for seamless integration with existing workflows. The application supports ADIF import/export for log data management and provides accessibility features for operators with hearing or visual impairments, including screen reader compatibility and keyboard-navigable interfaces.

Gimme Five reloaded, a compact 5 band QRP SSB transceiver in SMD technology. This unit covers 5 bands within the amateur radio spectrum (3.5, 7, 14, 21 and 28 MHz). Receiver is a single conversion unit with an interfrequency of 9 MHz. Transmitter uses 5 stages and has got a power level of 10 watts PEP output.

Remote SDR is a web application allowing to remotely control an amateur radio transceiver between 1 MHz and 6 GHZ. It allows processing of Adalm-Pluto SDR in addition to HackRF or RTL-SD Reception in NBFM, WBFM, AM in addition to SSB Transmission in NBFM or SSB and more

DK7IH QRP transceiver for 14 MHz. This small and compact home made transceiver with a max power output of 5W, the VFO module is based on the clock oscillator chip Si5351A by Silicon Labs ATmega168 and OLED 1306

The Burlington Amateur Radio Club (BARC) provides a community hub for amateur radio operators in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, offering regular meetings, educational programs, and a dedicated hackspace for electronics and radio experimentation. The club operates several repeaters, including a 2m repeater (VE3RSB) on 147.210 MHz with a +600 kHz offset and 131.8 Hz tone, which supports AllStar node 542490. Additionally, BARC maintains a UHF repeater on 444.825 MHz with a +5 MHz offset and 131.8 Hz tone, and a 1.25m (220 MHz) repeater, facilitating local communication and digital mode access. BARC hosts multiple nets, including a Fusion Net on Mondays at 8:00 p.m. via VE3RSB-Room 61272, a Regular Wednesday Night Net on the VE3RSB system at 7:30 PM, and a 220 Net on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. The club also runs a CW/SSB HF Net every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. local time on 40m, utilizing 7.125 MHz for LSB and 7.124.3 MHz for CW check-ins. These activities promote on-air participation, technical skill development, and social interaction among members, supporting both VHF/UHF local operations and HF DXing.

The MiniPA Linear Amplifier for HF page discusses the popularity of QRP for HF among ham radio operators, such as those using the Yaesu FT818 or low power SDR transceivers. It explores the use of cheap kits from eBay or Chinese suppliers to build a 70-100W SSB amplifier using IRF530 MOSFET transistors. The article provides a review of the MiniPA design, including its features, components, and assembly process. It also highlights the importance of using a heatsink and forced air cooling for optimal performance. This page is useful for hams looking to enhance their HF rig with a budget-friendly amplifier.

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 simple superheterodyne receiver (3.5–30 MHz) for amateur radio achieves stable SSB-CW reception using modern BJTs, an AD831 mixer, a 6-pole quartz filter, and Seiler oscillators. Designed with high IF (4.5 MHz), compact AM-FM variable capacitors, and modular resonant circuits, it ensures selectivity, image rejection, and stable tuning. Built in a copper-lined wooden case, it features practical assembly techniques but lacks advanced features like AGC or S-meter. Effective on basic antennas, it achieves global reception.

The SM1000 allows you to run FreeDV without a PC. Connect the SM1000 to your SSB radio, and you now have Digital Voice (DV). You don’t have to buy a new radio to run Digital Voice! It’s based on a STM32F4 micro-controller, has a built in microphone, speaker amplifier, speaker, and transformer isolated interfaces to your radio.

Over 15 years of continuous operation, Ham365 provides a web-based logging solution for Amateur Radio Operators, allowing them to maintain and share their QSO records online. Originally launched as the online logbook component of Ham Radio Deluxe, it has since evolved into an independent platform, now integrating with numerous other logging applications. The platform shares its database with HRDLOG.net, ensuring that operations performed on one site are reflected on the other, maintaining data consistency for users. Key features include an overview of the latest hour's activity, a display of the most recent QSOs, and a map visualizing recent contacts. It also highlights "Most Wanted" entities and ongoing DXpeditions, providing a dynamic view of current amateur radio activity. The logbook supports various operating modes, including SSB, RTTY, PSK31, and FT8, and handles ADIF data for interoperability. Users can manage their logbooks, track DX activity, and utilize features like OQRS (Online QSL Request System) through its integrated functionalities. The system is designed to be accessible to a wide range of operators, from casual ragchewers to avid DXers and contesters.

This project revisits a minimalist software-defined radio (SDR) receiver built using a Raspberry Pi Pico, now optimized for simplicity and affordability. Designed for breadboard assembly with through-hole components, the receiver covers 0–30MHz, supporting CW, SSB, AM, and FM modes with an OLED display and spectrum scope. Key improvements include enhanced frequency accuracy, reduced op-amp saturation, and lower-cost components. Powered by three AAA batteries, it delivers standalone operation for global signal reception. Ideal for hobbyists, the design fosters experimentation and is documented with firmware and schematics available online.

QRP is a Q-code originally meaning reduce power, but now has come to mean operating a radio that outputs 5 watts or less for CW or 10 watts for SSB.

Over 15 amateur radio bands, from 160m to 70cm, are supported by the _DXTRON_ web cluster, providing real-time DX spotting information. This service integrates directly with the _QRZCQ_ API, allowing users to monitor activity across various modes including CW, Phone, Digi, RTTY, SSTV, and SAT. DXTRON displays critical spot data such as timestamp, spotter callsign, frequency, mode, DX call, and remarks, along with geographical details like Grid, DXCC, ITU, CQ zone, continent, and country. Developed by _DO5SSB_, DXTRON v1.42 offers a user-friendly interface for filtering spots by band and mode, catering to both casual DXers and serious contesters. The platform is designed for accessibility, providing a clear overview of current propagation conditions and active stations worldwide. This web cluster is a practical tool for hams seeking to identify rare DX, track contest activity, or simply observe band conditions. Its reliance on the QRZCQ API ensures a consistent flow of up-to-date spotting data, making it a reliable resource for real-time operational awareness.

The 222 MHz Transverter project, based on Zack Lau's (W1VT) original July 1993 QEX magazine design, provides an IF of 28 MHz for both transmit and receive paths. Rick Bandla (VE3CVG) contributed supplemental notes and construction details, including modifications to achieve 10 mW output power from an initial 4 mW PEP. The design incorporates three distinct boards: a Local Oscillator (LO), a Transmitter (Tx), and a Receiver (Rx), with an estimated parts cost of just over $150 CDN, significantly less than commercial kits. Construction involves both through-hole and surface-mount components, with specific guidance on mounting MAV and MAR devices, grounding techniques, and component selection. The project details include parts lists, schematics for the LO, Tx, and Rx, and board layouts. Troubleshooting advice emphasizes sequential testing, starting with the LO, then Tx, and finally Rx, using a 194 MHz and 222.100 MHz capable FM handheld for signal tracing. Further enhancements are discussed, such as an optional Tx driver stage to boost output to 100 mW and the potential modification of a Motorola Maxor 80 PA for 222 MHz SSB/CW operation. The resource also covers practical aspects like power attenuation pads for IF radios (e.g., FT817) and considerations for enclosure design, including repurposing a Maxor 80 case. Performance reports indicate successful 70 km contacts with only 4 mW output.

A homebrew spectrum analyzer, the Specan, provides a crucial measurement capability often missing from the typical amateur radio shack, allowing for detailed analysis of RF signals up to 70 MHz. This double-conversion superheterodyne receiver design incorporates 112 MHz and 12 MHz intermediate frequencies, utilizing an _Si570_ as the local oscillator for fine tuning down to 1 Hz steps. It offers two resolution bandwidths: 300 KHz for broad spectrum sweeps and 1 KHz for precise close-in distortion measurements, achieving an 80 dB spur-free dynamic range at 1 KHz resolution. The project, a reboot of the classic _W7ZOI/K7TAU_ design from November 1998 QST, integrates an _Arduino_ microcontroller for controlling the Si570, managing a front-panel LCD, and communicating with a PC for spectrum plotting. This approach significantly reduces cost compared to commercial units, making advanced RF diagnostics accessible to homebrewers. The Specan can measure carrier suppression, VFO cleanliness, antenna VSWR, transmitter harmonics, and filter passband shapes, providing insights beyond what an oscilloscope or frequency counter can offer. Construction emphasizes modularity and careful shielding, with each stage built and tested individually on unetched copper clad board. The design includes detailed instructions for integrating the Arduino, building the Si570 oscillator, and aligning the various modules, often using the Specan itself for calibration. It requires a well-regulated linear power supply and can be built with common tools and readily available components, making it a practical and rewarding endeavor for those looking to enhance their RF test bench.

The E6AF DXpedition to Niue (OC-040) in 2019 successfully activated a rare DXCC entity, providing thousands of contacts for the global amateur radio community. Operations focused on maximizing QSOs across various **HF bands** and modes, significantly contributing to the DXCC program. The team, led by SP9FIH, meticulously planned antenna deployments and station setups, including a specific focus on **Fox-Hound mode** for digital operations, to ensure robust signal paths and efficient pile-up management. Operational details included specific schedules for CW, SSB, and digital modes, aiming to accommodate different time zones and propagation windows. QSL information and log search functionalities were made available post-operation, facilitating confirmation for thousands of contacts. The expedition encountered logistical challenges, including power supply failure and strict COVID-19 travel restrictions that delayed licensing. Despite these hurdles, the E6AF and E6CI stations provided valuable contacts from Niue, a sought-after location for many DXers.

The Ukrainian Contest Club (UCC) website details contest activities, including a March 2026 contest calendar compiled by _UW3WF_ that excludes specific "exotic" tests, mini-tests, sprints, VHF competitions, and events organized by Russian entities. It lists major contests such as the ARRL International DX Contest, Stew Perry Topband Contest, and CQ WPX SSB Contest, providing dates, times, modes, bands (e.g., **10-160m**), organizers, log submission methods, and deadlines. The resource also highlights Ukrainian participation in various international contests, noting specific callsigns that represented the UCC, and acknowledges new Ukrainian records, such as UW5Y's new record in the ARRL DX CW Contest. The site presents contest results and rankings, including the top 20 Ukrainian contesters in the World Amateur Radio Contesting Association (WARCA) rating for 2019-2024, with _UW1M_ ranked #18 globally and #1 in Ukraine with **26,490.32** points. It also details the club's 12th place finish among 155 clubs worldwide in the CQ WPX Contest 2024 (CW + SSB). The resource includes information on WRTC 2026 participants from the club and lists members excluded due to collaboration with adversarial entities, reflecting the current geopolitical context.

From March 2 to March 11, 2018, a Norwegian team operated as Z2LA from Zimbabwe, focusing on 160m through 10m bands using SSB and CW modes. The operation, described as "holiday style," aimed to provide contacts for DXers worldwide seeking a rare DXCC entity. Key equipment included a SUNSDR PRO II, an Elecraft KX3, and an Icom 706 MK2G as a spare radio, supported by two Juma 1000 amplifiers for robust signal output across the bands. Antenna systems were tailored for multi-band operation, featuring an Inv L for 160m and 80m, sloping dipoles for 30m/40m, and a _Hexbeam_ from SP7IDX Technology covering 20m to 10m. For improved reception, the team deployed a SAL 30, two reversible BEV antennas from remoteqth.com, and a BOG from K1FZ, enhancing their ability to hear weak signals. QSL information directs operators to Clublog for log search and M0OXO Charles for OQRS, explicitly requesting no bureau cards. The team comprised LA7THA Rune, LA7WCA Arne, and LA9VPA Thor, successfully making numerous contacts and contributing to the DX community's pursuit of _Zimbabwe_ as a DXCC entity.

The Weather Fax plugin for OpenCPN allows you to directly open image files or decode audio faxes into images. With easy calibration, these images can be overlaid on charts. It supports image conversion in Mercator, polar, conic, and uniform coordinates and can transform any image into a raster chart. Additionally, it includes a built-in database for HF radio fax stations via SSB and another for retrieving data from meteorological websites.