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This online project guide details the construction of a homebrew boom microphone system. It details the assembly of a microphone shell from a 3/4" PVC pipe section and an end cap, requiring a drilled hole for a snug fit of the electret or condenser mic element. The internal wiring schematic specifies a **2.2 K** resistor and a **47 uF** polar capacitor for signal conditioning, with a circuit diagram provided for integration with IC-706 series transceivers. The guide outlines the use of CAT-5 cable for internal connections, incorporating strain relief at the rear of the mic shell, and an inline 3.5 mm jack to facilitate an external _PTT_ line, designed for a foot-mounted switch. Further construction involves fabricating a microphone shock mount from a 2-inch PVC connector, detailing the creation of four "fingers" and the insertion of screw-eyes for attaching elastic bands, which are twisted 180 degrees for tensioning and vibration isolation. A foam wind screen is also incorporated into the microphone assembly, secured with adhesive. The boom arm itself is repurposed from an articulated architect lamp, with the original lamp assembly converted into a **60 watt** resistive load for testing power sources. Microphone cabling is secured to the boom arm using wire ties, ensuring sufficient slack at hinge points to maintain articulation. The boom base is mounted to a bookshelf, requiring specific positioning to achieve proper microphone placement in front of the operator. Performance evaluation of the microphone system is conducted through on-air audio signal reports from other amateur radio operators. DXZone Focus: Online Project Guide | Boom Microphone Construction | Electret Mic Element | PTT Line

FTRestore is a free Windows desktop application to upload, download and compare memory channels and menu settings in the Yaesu FTDX1200, FTDX3000 and FT-991/FT-991A model transceivers.

Multi language contest log program for 9A VHF UHF contest. Freeware for Windows

BKLog is a versatile log book and contest program designed specifically for amateur radio operators. Developed in VB.NET, it offers a user-friendly interface and a range of features that cater to both casual and competitive hams. Users can log their contacts, manage contest entries, and utilize automatic CW sending, making it a valuable tool for any operator. One of the standout features of BKLog is its integration with DX Cluster access, allowing users to stay updated on DX spots and enhance their operating experience. Additionally, it supports uploads to popular online QSL services such as QRZ, LoTW, and Club Log, streamlining the QSL process for users. With regular updates and improvements, BKLog continues to evolve, ensuring it meets the needs of the amateur radio community. Whether you're a seasoned contester or a newcomer to logging, BKLog provides the essential tools to enhance your ham radio experience. Its compatibility with Windows makes it accessible to a wide range of users, and its ongoing development ensures that it remains relevant in the ever-changing landscape of amateur radio.

GridTracker listens to live traffic from WSJT-X or JTDX and displays it on a map. It can also load ADIF log files, load clublog, lotw, hrdlog.net and other sources to diplay your logbook statistics and map your QSOs. GridTracker is a free application for windows Linux and MacOS.

Run Morse Runner on Apple MacOSX computers using Wineskin. Morse Runner is a popular MS Windows morse code contest simulator. You can do this by yourself or just download the ready-made dmg and use it on your apple mac.

DxDozer is a Windows-based amateur radio logbook designed for both new and experienced DXers, featuring a robust logging system with extensive search capabilities. It offers seamless integration with FT8, displaying received stations from WSJT-X in a DX Cluster-like view, indicating LoTW status and prior contacts, and initiating QSOs directly. The software supports an unlimited number of callsign logbooks and allows multiple operators to log simultaneously to a single database, enhancing its utility for multi-operator stations or contest operations. The application includes a sophisticated DX Cluster with highly configurable filters based on band, mode, continent, worked/confirmed status, and LoTW participation, enabling users to monitor specific calls or countries. DxDozer simplifies QSL management by facilitating one-button uploads to LoTW and ClubLog, and downloads of new confirmed QSOs, with a dedicated field for QSL medium. The software provides both 'Easy' and 'Expert' modes to cater to different user proficiency levels, and is available via a yearly subscription after an initial free trial period.

This blog article introduces an updated repeater controller project utilizing the Arduino UNO. It includes a CW identifier, and the ID message can be customized using hex codes. The author offers a Windows command line program for easier message coding and provides a link for download. The controller features three adjustable timers for IDer, Timer-out, and Squelch-tail. The article also mentions the use of an audio switch to control audio levels between the receiver and transmitter. Detailed instructions and code files are available on the author's website for both version 1 and version 2 of the Arduino repeater controller. The project aims to enhance repeater functionality and audio management in ham radio operations.

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.

This blog chronicles the development of an 80-meter vertical antenna for amateur radio operation. The author constructs a top-loaded vertical using fiberglass poles, achieving significant performance improvements over their previous end-fed wire antenna. Comparative testing using the Reverse Beacon Network and on-air contacts demonstrates 8-10 dB gain on the east coast. The project evolved to include 40-meter capability through a modified design featuring a four-wire vertical cage, loading coil, and strategic guying system. Despite challenges with signal wobble during windy conditions, the vertical consistently outperforms the end-fed wire, particularly for reaching distant stations during nighttime propagation.

Download the Kenwood TS-590S and TS-590SG virtual port Driver for Windows 10/11 and Windows 8. This driver is also valid to control TS-990S, TS-890

Official download page of TQSL software provided by ARRL as LoTW signing tool to upload QSO confirmations valid for ARRL Awards. TQSL download page provide links for Windows MacOS and Linux platforms.

SkyRoof is an open-source, 64-bit Windows application designed for amateur radio operators and satellite enthusiasts, combining satellite tracking and Software Defined Radio (SDR) functionality in a unified platform. The software provides real-time satellite tracking, pass predictions, and visual representations through Sky View, Earth View, and Timeline displays. It features an SDR-based waterfall display covering VHF/UHF satellite segments with Doppler-corrected frequency scales, automatic satellite labeling, and visual tuning capabilities. SkyRoof supports various SDR devices (Airspy Mini, SDRplay, RTL-SDR), external transceiver CAT control, and antenna rotator integration. The application automatically downloads satellite data from SatNOGS and other sources, offers voice announcements for satellite passes, and includes comprehensive frequency control with Doppler tracking, manual corrections, and RIT functionality for enhanced satellite communication operations.

The HamAlert Cluster Client is a Windows program developed by OE3IDE to connect to the HamAlert system created by Manuel Kasper (HB9DQM). This system notifies users of new spots using various criteria through app notifications, SMS, Threema, and Telnet. The HamAlert Cluster Client enhances this functionality by providing taskbar notifications on Windows 10 and 11 PCs. The program is easy to use, requiring no installation—just download, unpack, and start. It includes features like a logfile for tracking activities.

The 1/4 wavelength vertical antenna project, initially designed for 20 meters, has evolved into a versatile portable solution covering 10 through 60 meters. K0BXB details its construction, emphasizing a bottom-loaded design with a tapped loading coil and four 10-foot counterpoise wires. The author shares personal experiences and field results, including **18 QSOs** during a park activation on 17m and 30m with 10 watts, and a **2,435-mile** contact with a contest station in Bonaire on 20m using 5 watts. Comparisons are drawn to commercial offerings like the _Wolf River Coils TIA_ and _QRPGuys Triband Vertical_, highlighting the DIY antenna's small footprint, light weight, and ease of tuning for POTA activations. The resource includes insights into using test equipment such as the _NanoVNA_ for SWR optimization and discusses various radiator lengths, from 17-foot wire to a 102-inch whip, demonstrating adaptability for different portable setups. Construction tips cover coil winding, tap placement, and connecting feedlines and radials using common components.

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

Rob Conklin N4WGY delivered an informative presentation on Hexagonal Beam antennas (Hex Beams), detailing their construction, performance, and benefits over traditional multiband Yagi antennas. He highlighted their cost-effectiveness, lower wind loading, lightweight design, and multi-band capabilities without requiring traps. Conklin also discussed the improved G3TXQ design, which offers better SWR performance across ham bands. The presentation included practical construction tips, resource recommendations, and demonstrations of performance analysis tools, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced antenna builders.

SAT_EXPLORER is a versatile software for tracking the Moon, Sun, and artificial satellites while controlling various antenna interfaces. Compatible with Windows XP and later (32/64-bit) and multilingual (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish), it integrates seamlessly with TRX-Manager for transceiver control. SAT_EXPLORER computes satellite and Moon positions with high precision, calculates EME Doppler shifts, and uploads real-time satellite positions and coverage maps to your personal web pages. Linux/Ubuntu users can run it using WINE or CROSSOVER.

The Aziloop DF-72 antenna system provides 72 K9AY headings and 36 loop axes, allowing for rapid switching in 60 ms. It integrates a switchable 18 dB preamp, a 4-step attenuator (0-18 dB), and four 7-pole preselection filters to optimize receiver performance. The K9AY load is adjustable from 250 Ohm to 950 Ohm in 50 Ohm increments, offering flexibility for various receiving conditions. Control is managed via an intuitive Windows UI, supporting Local, Client, or Server modes, with headless remote operation possible through the built-in Ethernet Server. _Omni-Rig_ support facilitates auto-filter selection, PTT muting, and Rig-Sync functionality, enhancing integration with existing station setups. Designed by _GW4GTE_, the system utilizes a low visual impact, small-footprint antenna with orthogonal loops and an earth connection. It is suitable for general monitoring, co-channel station resolution, basic direction finding, and interference reduction across the VLF to HF spectrum.

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

The 2026 Sable Island DXpedition (CY0S) announcement details an upcoming 10-12-day operation from March 19-31, 2026, following an invitation from Parks Canada - Sable Island. The team, largely drawn from the 2024 CY9C DXpedition, includes Murray **WA4DAN** and Glenn **WØGJ** as co-leaders, with Larry WØPR managing publicity and fundraising. Bill K5DHY will handle OQRS QSL cards and serve as treasurer, while Chaz W4GKF maintains the CY0S.com website. Logistical information specifies Sable Aviation will provide flights to the island, landing on a suitable south-facing beach area, acknowledging potential flight delays. Sable Island, located approximately 300 km east of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is described as a 40 km long, 1 km wide sand island with no trees, anticipating cold, windy, and snowy conditions during March. The resource also notes the availability of a dedicated Japanese website and accepts donations via the CY0S website.

This online tool is a specialized web-based utility for orchestrating multi-operator HF contest and DXpedition activities. This tool, _Rig2Cast_, assists station managers in meticulously planning operator shifts, ensuring adequate rest periods, and crucially, preventing operational conflicts such as assigning a single operator to multiple radios concurrently. It integrates support for SO2R operations and offers real-time simulation of operator requirements, a feature I've found invaluable in pre-event planning. The scheduling engine incorporates five distinct algorithms: greedy fairness balancing, round robin, maximum coverage, simulated annealing, and a fatigue-aware model. These algorithms enforce critical constraints like minimum/maximum shift durations and mandatory rest times across all radios, which directly impacts operator performance over long events. My field experience confirms that such robust constraint management is essential for maintaining peak efficiency during intense operations. Key features include distributed multi-station support, printable per-operator cards, flexible band activity windows, and real-time editable operator slots. The drag-and-drop shift management, coupled with full cross-radio swap support and smart constraint feedback (valid targets in green, invalid in red), streamlines complex scheduling tasks. The system's design ensures user data privacy, as no information is stored on the server; schedules are saved and reloaded locally.

SKY Audio is a duplex remote audio software for Windows, allowing two-way audio transmission between devices. Users can send and receive audio, as well as engage in PTT functionality. The program offers low audio latency and the ability to configure connection settings. The freeware software can be downloaded from the provided link.

Version 1.0.1.0 of QW5 Lizard, released on September 21, 2019, is a specialized logging program designed for Windows notebooks, particularly for outdoor operations and contest participation. It supports individual configuration and input masks, making it suitable for various HF and VHF/UHF contests. The software prioritizes data security, with a planned feature for live upload directly to the GMA database, catering to activations of references such as mountains, WCA, lighthouses, and WWFF. This logging tool offers robust export capabilities, including EDI for NAC and IARU Region 1 Contests, as well as standard ADIF and Cabrillo formats. The program has undergone extensive testing and deployments by various stations, demonstrating its utility in real-world contest scenarios, such as the Holzhammer Contest. Future extensions for specific contests are also anticipated, enhancing its versatility for the competitive ham radio operator.

The Gemini Amplifier Remote Control software operates on Windows 7 and above, facilitating remote management of the Gemini HF-1K and DX-1200 amplifiers. Users connect via Ethernet, configuring the amplifier's IP address through the front panel. The software allows seamless band and antenna selection, saving settings for each band without requiring transmission. Integration with _OmniRig_ from Afreet Software, Inc. enables automatic band adjustments based on the radio's frequency changes. Users can configure serial or virtual serial connections, with tracking options accessible through the ribbon bar. The software supports speech functionality, enhancing accessibility for operators. Firmware updates, such as version 2.5Ee, introduce features like background datalogging and power output control, uploaded via FTP. Version 1.2.0 allows users to offload internal parameter data for support purposes. The firmware upload process requires the amplifier's IP address and port 21, taking approximately 90 seconds. Users are encouraged to upgrade to the latest firmware for improved performance and remote diagnostics.

Details the Virtual COM Port (VCP) drivers for Silicon Labs CP210x USB to UART Bridge devices, which are crucial for establishing serial communication between a host system and CP210x-based hardware. It covers driver availability for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, highlighting the necessity of these drivers for operating CP210x products as a virtual COM port. The resource also mentions the option for direct access drivers and references _Application Note 197_ for comprehensive serial communication guidance. The page specifies that the CP210x Manufacturing DLL and Runtime DLL have been updated, requiring their use with v6.0 and later of the Windows VCP Driver, impacting specific application note software downloads like AN144SW.zip. It notes that Linux 3.x.x and 4.x.x driver versions are maintained within the _Linux kernel tree_ at www.kernel.org, ensuring ongoing support. Legacy OS software is also provided for users requiring support for 5.x drivers, ensuring broad compatibility.