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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.

This program simplifies the complex jumper calculations for the PRF1520 radio, which can be a pain to determine manually. It supports common crystal frequencies and channel spacings, advising if a desired frequency is achievable. A recent feature allows determining unknown frequencies of a newly obtained radio by setting the jumper positions and other parameters.

This **PDF report** documents a _maritime mobile_ DXpedition operating from the _Southern Ocean_ near Antarctica, detailing antenna deployment strategies on a sailing vessel. It addresses power management systems for remote operations and propagation characteristics specific to polar regions on **20m and 40m** bands. Operational strategies include managing high-density pileups using split frequency operation and maintaining signal integrity during periods of high aurora activity. Equipment considerations cover specific transceiver models like the Icom IC-7300, antenna types optimized for marine vessel installation, and battery power systems for extended periods without shore power. The resource also examines the use of satellite communication for real-time log uploads and QSL confirmation from remote locations, and discusses mitigating signal degradation from ice accumulation on antennas. DXZone Focus: PDF report | Maritime Mobile DXpedition | Polar Propagation | Split Frequency Operation

This project presents a compact QRP SWR meter featuring a 0.96" OLED display (128x64 pixels) for high-contrast visibility, updated with software fixes for display compatibility, improved low-power performance, and support for ATtiny45/85 microprocessors. A 1.3" OLED version accommodates visibility needs. Designed for HF QRP transmitters (3-15W), it uses a Breune coupler with germanium diodes for accurate SWR measurement. Powered by a AAA battery, the meter offers a standalone solution for impedance matching, with a 3D-printed enclosure enhancing portability.

This tutorial demonstrates how to charge laptops or tablets, like the Microsoft Surface, using off-grid 12-volt batteries typically used for ham radio gear. The guide highlights the importance of selecting a reliable USB-C PD adapter, recommending a 15V, 60W minimum with 5–20V, 3–5A capability. Featured tools include a 100W USB-C adapter and a USB multimeter for monitoring power usage. The video also explores the compact, efficient Power Queen 50Ah LiFePO4 battery for portable power solutions.

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.

Off Grid Ham discusses the benefits of mobile ham radio operation in addition to fixed or semi-fixed base stations. The article highlights the challenges of antenna placement on vehicles, emphasizing the importance of a good ground plane for optimal performance. Tradeoffs between performance and appearance are inevitable, especially with modern vehicles that have plastic body panels. Bonding the coax shield to the car frame is often necessary to establish a good ground plane. Mobile ham radio operation is a valuable option that fills in the gaps left by fixed stations, offering flexibility and convenience for hams on the go.

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.

This page discusses the potential risks and safety concerns related to antenna installations for ham radio operators. It emphasizes the importance of following electrical codes and regulations to prevent property damage, injuries, or even loss of life. The author shares personal experiences and advises against using trees for antenna support near power lines. The content serves as a cautionary resource for hams planning antenna setups to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Demonstrates a cloud-based suite of tools for amateur radio operations, eliminating local software installation. The platform integrates a comprehensive logbook with import/export functionality, an _eMap_ application displaying DX spots, user locations, and grayline data, alongside a dynamic band map derived from DX cluster information. It also provides a _vQSL_ system for QSL management and a mailbox with QSO verification. Users can access a Web DX cluster to monitor spots and _DXCC_ status, or connect via Telnet using external programs like _Logger32_ or Ham Radio Deluxe. The cluster supports advanced spot filtering by QRG, spot call, spot from, and origin, with configurable mail alerts based on IARU zone filters. Additional features include a real-time chat for skeds, azimuth/distance calculations from a user's QTH (with QRA locator), a search engine for spot and logbook databases, a band status matrix, and a propagation tool for MUF calculations, leveraging data from N0NBH.

This article details an Inverted-L antenna design optimized for 160-meter band operation, consisting of a 10m vertical section and a 28m horizontal section supported by Spiderpoles. Despite its relatively low height compared to the wavelength, the antenna has demonstrated impressive DX capabilities, achieving contacts up to 3,453 miles into Asiatic Russia. The system incorporates a Pi-Network ATU at the base for tuning flexibility. While modeling shows a radiation pattern favoring the South, practical operation indicates effective all-round coverage on Top Band.

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.

Moto-QRP setups offer compact, weatherproof QRP transceivers for portable ham radio use, ideal for motorcycle and backpack operations. The YouKits HB1A MKII, a 5W CW rig, is paired with a lightweight long-wire antenna and an Elecraft T1 tuner for efficient field communication. This setup fits in panniers, enabling operators to explore parks and remote locations. Accessories include a durable Morse paddle, FCC documentation, and essential logging tools, making it a perfect choice for adventurous QRP enthusiasts.

Facilitate seamless communication in the world of packet radio with PoPT, a versatile terminal program designed for AX.25 protocol enthusiasts. Operating across multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and Raspberry Pi, it caters to a wide range of users. The program supports various connection methods such as KISS over TCP/Serial and AXIP over UDP, ensuring compatibility with Linux AX.25 devices. This flexibility allows operators to maintain robust connections in diverse environments. Developed with Python 3.11, PoPT is currently under active development, reflecting a commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. Its multi-platform nature ensures that operators can leverage their existing hardware setups without the need for additional investments. The program's ability to handle different connection types makes it a valuable tool for those engaged in packet radio operations, whether for personal experimentation or more structured communication networks. PoPT's ongoing development promises future enhancements and features, making it a dynamic choice for operators looking to explore the capabilities of AX.25 packet radio. Its adaptability and support for modern systems position it as a practical solution for contemporary amateur radio enthusiasts.

The CW keyer with memories, inspired by SOTA activities, features three on-the-fly programmable memories for hands-free operation during logging or specific calls. Designed for low power consumption, it uses AAA batteries and an Arduino Mini, optimized for minimal energy use with a sleep function. The compact design fits in a small TEKO box, with a printed circuit board for easy assembly. The keyer includes customizable software for various CW modes and settings, programmable via paddles and command mode. It's an efficient, portable solution for amateur radio enthusiasts seeking enhanced CW functionality.

The ICOM IC-705, a popular QRP transceiver for portable operations, often presents unique challenges for field deployment. This resource details practical solutions for common portable setup issues, particularly for _Parks on the Air_ (POTA) activations. It describes a custom bracket for connecting antennas to the IC-705 through a backpack's antenna flap, utilizing a BNC female-to-female chassis mount connector to mitigate cable tangles. The author shares experiences with a DIY magnetic loop antenna, noting its ease of tuning with the IC-705 and successful CW contacts on 40 and 20 meters over distances exceeding **1000 miles**. Another modification presented is a strain relief solution for the microphone cord, replacing the standard spring clip with an easier-to-attach method. The page also mentions using a _Wolf River Parks antenna_ for POTA activations and references the QRPGuys DS-1 antenna as another portable option. Firmware updates and integration with an LDG Z11-Pro II auto-tuner are also discussed.

Operating a web-based DX cluster, this resource presents real-time amateur radio DX spots, facilitating contact logging and propagation analysis. It leverages the Spiderweb platform, offering users the ability to filter DX spots based on various criteria, including inclusion and exclusion rules. The interface integrates directly with QRZ.com for immediate callsign lookups, displaying flag icons for geographical context, and provides charts and statistics derived from spot data. Further enhancing its utility for DXers and contesters, the cluster includes direct links to MUF (Maximum Usable Frequency) maps and HamQSL solar condition reports. These external data sources provide critical propagation insights, assisting operators in making informed decisions about band selection and operating times. The service also offers Telnet access at dxc.sv5fri.eu:7300 for those preferring a command-line interface.

The _MFJ-915_ RF Isolator, rated for 1.8-30 MHz and 1500W PEP, exemplifies the product range available from The Ham Shop. The inventory includes various antenna support ropes, such as 3/16" _Dacron Polyester Rope_ in lengths from 100 to 1500 feet, alongside a selection of cables for _SignaLink USB_ sound card interfaces. Specific SignaLink cables are offered for radios like the Yaesu FT-847 (SLCAB847), Yaesu HTs (SLCABVXY), and the Elecraft K3 (SLCABHTY). Additionally, the shop provides modular jumper cables and modules, including the SLMOD8RY for Kenwood/Alinco 8-pin round mic jacks and the SLMOD8RI for Icom 8-pin round mic jacks. The product line supports diverse station configurations, encompassing antennas, coax, baluns, dummy loads, duplexers, insulators, microphones, power supplies, SWR meters, and watt meters.

Tufteln offer portable ham radio gear for field operators. They sell breakout boards, knee boards, antennas, power delivery boards, and more. The site guarantees satisfaction and offers quick shipping options. It is a useful resource for amateur radio enthusiasts looking for custom items to enhance their hobby.

This page provides basic information about SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) and its importance for ham radio operators. It explains what SWR is, how to measure it, and why it is crucial to have a good SWR reading. The content covers the impact of SWR on antenna efficiency, power transmission, and potential interference issues. It clarifies common misconceptions like the impact of coax length on SWR. Suitable for hams looking to optimize their radio setup and avoid performance issues due to SWR issues.

The Beam project offers various features for controlling antenna rotators, including support for 2 or 4 line LCD displays, software or hardware clocks, open collector drives for azimuth and elevation control, and internal calculations for tracking the sun and moon. It can also track satellites and supports "Flip Mode" for inverted antennas. The 4-line version provides detailed readouts while the 2-line version offers a more compact display. New versions now support PWM and I2C H-bridge modes for adjustable speed control at the end of a move.

KISS703 is a 703 Hz narrowband digital mode for amateur radio, designed for simple, low-power operation without computers. A 500 Hz pilot tone ensures frequency alignment, replaced by unique tones for 37 symbols (letters, numbers, space). Built from common discrete components, it draws about 40 mA at 12 V, ideal for SOTA/IOTA use. The receiver uses amplification, wave shaping, and a pulse-counting frequency meter for manual decoding via a calibrated meter. Transmitter and receiver calibration involves marking meter positions for each tone, enabling fully self-contained messaging with minimal hardware in portable or fixed operations.

After owning the second-hand radio for a few months, it developed a sense wire failure, limiting output to 20 watts. Yaesu support advised the owner, an Electrical Engineer, to investigate. The issue was traced to a blown digital transistor, Q1032. Yaesu provided free replacements, revealing intricate internal components during the repair.

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.

A full-wave delta loop antenna, approximately 141 feet in total wire length for the 40-meter band, offers a low angle of radiation, which is highly advantageous for DX operations. This design, optimized for both 30m and 40m, leverages a specific circumference calculation of 1005/F, ensuring resonance on both bands through a simple switching mechanism. The antenna's configuration enhances long-distance communication, making it a practical choice for hams with limited space. The resource details the construction process, including the use of a _Ceramic Knife Switch_ for band selection and an _RG-11_ matching section to achieve optimal impedance. It outlines the precise loop lengths required for each band, along with tuning secrets to ensure efficient operation. Requiring a minimum height of 12 feet, this antenna can be supported by a single mast or tree limb, making it suitable for suburban installations where stealth or space constraints are a factor.

The RXC70/10 is a sensitive 70 MHz to 10-meterband converter using the Philips SA602 mixer IC. It operates with high stability and low noise, converting 70–72 MHz signals to 28–30 MHz for general coverage receivers. The compact, low-power design (15mA) supports various modulations and uses. Its versatility makes it suitable for amateur radio applications with proper tuning and antenna setup.

A versatile digital VFO design utilizing the Silicon Labs Si5351a oscillator chip and Nokia 5110/3310 graphics LCD display, operating from 1-160MHz with dual VFO capability. This microcontroller-based system, powered by an ATmega328 processor, features rotary encoder tuning, selectable step sizes, RIT control, and comprehensive band memory functions. Drawing less than 40mA at 3.3V, it significantly improves upon previous DDS designs' power consumption while offering advanced features like S-meter display, VFO lock, and programmable BFO/CIO offsets. The design achieves flexible functionality through simple hardware implementation and efficient software architecture, making it particularly suitable for QRP and portable amateur radio applications.

The ICOM IC-745 is a durable 1980s HF transceiver, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy restoration. While lacking modern serial control, it supports digital modes with modifications like sound card connections and frequency stabilization. Enhancements like an RTL-SDR panadapter can also be added, making it a versatile and valuable radio for contemporary use.

Yaesu FT-818ND HF VHF UHF All mode portable transceiver. Announced in 2018, production of this QRP all mode portable transceiver has been discontinued some years later.

This project features a compact, 5-LED general-purpose S-Meter, designed for use with various radio circuits. It utilizes the LB1403 IC, with alternatives like LB1413, LB1423, and others. The circuit's design allows flexibility, with one version featuring a trimpot for calibration and another without it for more compact setups. The LB1423 is preferred for its low current draw and dB-calibrated scale. This S-Meter offers an efficient, customizable solution for measuring signal strength in amateur radio applications. In Portuguese.

This paper presents an 80 meter wire 3-element beam antenna in an inverted-V configuration, designed for limited-height towers. Using EZNEC modeling, the antenna features a central parasitic reflector and two switchable driven elements at each end, enabling NE/SW coverage without moving parts or networks. Element lengths are optimized for SSB (3.8 MHz) and CW (3.5 MHz) operation, with a 50 Ω feed and rope-supported boom. The design delivers high gain, effective takeoff angles, and excellent reception, confirmed in real-world DX contest operation. Its simplicity, reliability, and ease of construction make it ideal for operators seeking performance without complex matching systems.

English operating manual of the Yaesu FT-818 HF VHF UHF portable transceiver

The Greencube Terminal Program enhances communication with the Greencube/IO-117 satellite by enabling message exchange via a PC's soundcard and integrating with multiple loggers like ACLog and Cloudlog. It supports new contact identification through an ADIF file, featuring a color-coded "Dupelist" for tracking unconfirmed contacts and grids. The software is compatible with voice notifications for efficient satellite communication management.

"The QRP Adventures of VE3FI" is a captivating blog that chronicles the amateur radio experiences of Bill, VE3FI, over two decades. Holding Canadian Basic, 5-word CW, and Advanced licenses, Bill's main interests include DXing and QRP operations. The blog offers detailed accounts of his portable activations, such as a recent outing in March 2025, where he achieved impressive DX contacts on the 10-meter band using just 8 watts and a Hamstick antenna. Bill's engaging storytelling and practical insights make this blog a valuable resource for both seasoned and aspiring amateur radio enthusiasts.

The N7YG Digital Engine, functions as a streamlined digital modem, supporting **PSK**, **RTTY**, and **MFSK** modes. It eliminates many ancillary logging and awards features found in other software, focusing instead on providing a dedicated digital interface. The software is specifically engineered to complement the N3FJP logging suite, offering a simple digital modem with a floating waterfall display that can coexist on the same screen as the logger. The application includes support for PSK Reporter, EXTFSK, TinyFSK, and K1EL Winkey FSK, enhancing its utility for various digital operations. Key features comprise a separate waterfall window, a main GUI with operational controls, receive and transmit display areas, and 10 Macro Buttons across 10 user-definable macro banks, totaling 100 macros for general and contesting use. Configuration options include sound card selection, digital gain (0-32767), AFC Level (0-100), AFC Width (in Hz), and COM Port TX keying for VOX/SignaLink or direct port control. Input and Output Mixer buttons provide direct access to OS audio mixer controls for precise level adjustments. The software is digitally signed with a security certificate, aiming to prevent conflicts with antivirus programs.

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.

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.

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

The Kenwood TS-50 is a reliable 25-year-old mobile HF radio, widely used in DX operations but lacking CAT and DATA ports for modern logging or contest software. To overcome this, a custom CW interface was built using an USB to TTL module (FT232/FT232RL) and an optocoupler (e.g., 4N25, H11A1) for galvanic isolation. This setup enables the TS-50 to connect with a computer via USB, facilitating integration with software like LOGGER32 and Win-Test. The interface is cost-effective and driver-free for Windows XP and 7, making it an accessible solution for enhancing the TS-50's functionality.

The blog and website of English amateur radio operator G0RIF, located near Lichfield in central England. Favourite aspects of the hobby are DXing, RTTY, portable operating and experimenting with wire antennas.

This resource details the construction and performance of a compact broadband magnetic loop antenna designed for portable receiving applications with devices like the _ATS MiniRadio_. The antenna utilizes approximately 3 meters of 0.5–1 mm copper wire wound in two turns on a rhomboidal wooden frame, measuring 50 cm by 70 cm. It connects via a modified 9:1 unun, where the primary center tap is isolated from ground to improve common-mode noise rejection. The design provides untuned operation across a frequency range from the longwave band up to approximately 25 MHz. Performance characteristics include observable directivity for noise suppression and the ability to connect directly to a radio or via a 50 coaxial cable for remote operation. The article specifies the unun's 3:1 turns ratio and its SMA output for connectivity. The methodology focuses on practical construction and observed reception quality.

A dual insert microphone design for the Icom IC-7300 transceiver utilizes a **Besson BZ2400 M4 Rocking Armature** insert for frequencies from 500 Hz to 3 kHz, exhibiting a rising response of approximately 11 dB. A generic Electret Condenser insert, powered by the transceiver's microphone line, covers the low-frequency range from 100 Hz to 500 Hz. A Low Pass Filter is incorporated after the Electret insert to prevent frequency overlap, and a pre-set potentiometer (VR1) adjusts the low-frequency response, balancing the output of both inserts. The design emphasizes a "Close Talking" arrangement and addresses audio "colorization" by housing the Besson insert in a thick rubber holder with a foam boot, separate from the circuitry, with the Electret insert also wrapped in a foam boot. Critical importance is placed on using the correct BZ2400 M4 insert with 12 holes in its face plate. The frequency response table for the BZ2400 M4 insert shows 0 dB at 500 Hz, rising to +11 dB at 3000 Hz, while the Electret insert with the Low Pass Filter provides 0 dB at 100 Hz, rolling off to -9 dB at 500 Hz and -50 dB at 3000 Hz. This combination ensures a broad, balanced audio spectrum for SSB operation. The project includes a circuit diagram, a comprehensive parts list detailing components like a 1 Henry iron-cored inductor (L1) and various capacitors, and a board layout within the metal tube. The completed unit provides a tailored audio profile for the IC-7300, enhancing transmit audio quality.

DXLog.net Cluster functions as a dedicated client application designed to enhance DXLog.net contest logging operations. It facilitates simultaneous connections to multiple DX cluster nodes, providing a consolidated view of DX spots. The software also supports integration with local CW skimmers, enabling real-time reception of CW signals and their automatic decoding into spots. The utility broadcasts UDP data across the local area network, allowing DXLog.net to receive and process these spots efficiently. A key feature includes CAT control integration, which automatically QSYs connected CW skimmers to the frequency of interest, optimizing spot acquisition. The system also incorporates duplicate spot filtering to reduce redundancy and offers blacklist management for unwanted callsigns or frequencies. Programmable commands and dynamic skimmer bandwidth control further refine its operation, adapting to varying band conditions and contest strategies. Automatic reconnection capabilities ensure continuous operation, maintaining reliable access to DX information crucial for competitive contesting.

VE1ZAC's analysis details the performance of **MFJ927** and **SGC239** autotuners with portable HF vertical antennas, specifically comparing 31 ft and 43 ft configurations. The resource originated from challenges encountered during a Maritime QSO Party roving operation, necessitating a lightweight and easily deployable antenna system. Target bands for the contest included 80, 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters, with a maximum power handling of 100 W CW. The author utilized a 30-foot carbon fiber push-up pole to support a vertical wire element, noting its 2 lb weight and reliability. EZNEC modeling was employed to predict performance, showing favorable results for a 30-foot vertical with elevated radials, particularly on 40 and 20 meters. Feedpoint impedance measurements, taken with an AIM4170C, are presented for various HF bands, both with and without a 41-foot RG6 stub designed to reduce reactance on 80 and 20 meters. The stub significantly improved matching on these bands, easing the tuner's workload. Operational tests revealed issues with the MFJ927's reliability during contest setup, leading to reliance on the K3's internal tuner. The SGC239, tested post-contest, performed flawlessly. A detailed side-by-side comparison covers mechanical aspects, connection options, power bias, impedance range, board quality, and documentation. Modifications to the MFJ927, including a new aluminum case, white paint for heat reduction, and upgraded impedance-measuring resistors, are also described.

The TY0RU DXpedition to Benin in 2022 achieved over **100,000 QSOs** from Cotonou, IOTA AF-051, operating across 160m through 6m bands using CW, SSB, and FT8 modes. The operation involved a team of 12 operators, including _F5RAV_, _F4WBN_, and _F1TCV_, utilizing multiple stations with transceivers like the Icom IC-7300 and IC-7610, paired with amplifiers and various antennas such as verticals, dipoles, and a 4-square array for 40m. The expedition's log is available on Club Log, supporting OQRS for both direct and bureau QSLs, with F5RAV serving as the QSL manager. The site details the team's travel, setup, and operational challenges, including local conditions and equipment deployment, offering insights into the logistical complexities of activating a rare DXCC entity. Donors are acknowledged, and a photo gallery documents the activity.

This is a contest keyer for the AEA MM-3 Morse Machine. It integrates with OmniRig for your radio's frequency. It has a built in logbook as well as a keyboard keyer. You can also export your log as an .adi or cabrillo format for contest submission. Please find my contact details on QRZ.COM for any suggestions or help 73 ZS6WAR

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.

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 project describes a high-performance EME antenna array consisting of two home-designed 9-element Yagis, each about 2.5 wavelengths long, combined into a 25-ohm system and matched to 100 ohms using 9/4λ sections of 50-ohm coax. The array supports rotatable polarity from 0° to 180°, allowing both horizontal and vertical polarization to optimize moonbounce performance under varying conditions. Despite operating for years without a balun—something another designer called “disastrous”—the system has delivered strong results, including copying very weak DX such as VK3KH at about -25 dB with only 120 W (around 2 kW ERP). The builder continues to refine the mechanics, having installed new gear motors and an upgraded follow-up control system in 2011.

The Icom IC-9700 transceiver, a popular choice for VHF/UHF/1.2 GHz operations, gains enhanced remote control capabilities through Pycom Radio Controller. This software provides direct _CI-V based control_, enabling operators to manage frequency, mode, memories, and tones from a connected computer. It integrates a built-in rigctl server and supports popular satellite tools like Gpredict and SatPC32, facilitating full duplex Doppler control for satellite passes. Key features include real-time meters, a waterfall display, and remote RC-28 integration. Designed for practical amateur radio use, the application streamlines voice and digital satellite operations. It allows for full duplex remote Doppler control, crucial for maintaining accurate frequencies during satellite contacts. The software also incorporates callsign lookup and logging functions, alongside enhanced memory management. Documentation pages offer configuration guidance and operating examples, ensuring users can effectively set up and utilize the software for their satellite communication needs, potentially improving success rates for contacts and contests.