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A handy piece of test equipment useful for HF bands, can absorb a 200W modulated carrier for almost 2 minutes. It is housed in a tin and part filled with dry sand that helps in power dissipation

Restoration and sale of quality antique radios that work, backed by professional testing, restoration, and warranty. vintage hi-fi included.

Indiana's fastest growing hamfest! Saturday, November 29, 2003

Demonstrates a range of specialized radio frequency equipment and consulting services for amateur and professional applications. The offerings include _Vector-Finder_ direction finding antennas, various test equipment such as _gate dip meters_ and RF sniffers, and communications receiving adjuncts. Additionally, the company produces satellite antennas for weather satellite reception, voice amplification devices like the _Flex-Mike_, and custom prototype circuit boards. The company's product line addresses needs for precise RF measurement, signal detection, and specialized antenna systems, particularly for direction finding and satellite communications. Their historical association with National Radio (HRO) suggests a legacy in radio technology. The site also highlights a subsidiary, Sierra Mountain Products, which offers outdoor recreational gear, indicating a diversification beyond core RF manufacturing.

Soundmodem is a free software defined dual-port Packet-Radio TNC that implement a soundcard as a modem and supports AX.25 protocol. Soundmodem has been tested on Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 and has proved stable in operation. The Soundmodem may be used to build EMCOMM, APRS, BBS, Node station, for satellites

The _ISS Detector_ Android application, with over 5 million downloads, offers precise predictions for visible passes of the International Space Station. It notifies users minutes before an overhead pass, integrating local weather conditions to ensure optimal viewing opportunities. The core functionality focuses on the ISS, but in-app purchases extend its capabilities to track other celestial and artificial objects. Optional extensions, available via in-app purchase, allow users to monitor dozens of amateur radio and weather satellites, providing real-time transmitter information and Doppler frequencies. Additional extensions cover _Starlink_ satellites, the _Hubble Space Telescope_, rocket stages, bright satellites, comets, and planets, expanding the scope beyond the ISS to a broader range of observable space phenomena. The app's interface is designed for ease of use, displaying pass times, directions, and elevation. It adapts predictions based on the user's GPS location, ensuring accurate local forecasts. The latest update, dated April 3, 2026, includes corrections for magnitude values and various speed and stability optimizations.

The Icom AH-4 autotuner operates efficiently across multiple HF bands, providing seamless automatic tuning for antennas from 3.5 MHz to 54 MHz. Its robust design allows for outdoor installation, making it suitable for field operations and fixed stations. The unit interfaces with Icom transceivers via a control cable, enabling automatic band switching and tuning. The AH-4 is capable of handling up to 120 watts of RF power, ensuring compatibility with most amateur radio setups. Its weather-resistant casing and compact form factor make it a versatile choice for operators requiring reliable performance in diverse environments. Field tests demonstrate the AH-4's ability to maintain low SWR across its operational range, enhancing signal quality and transmission efficiency. Compared to manual tuners, the AH-4 offers significant time savings and ease of use, particularly in rapidly changing band conditions. Its integration with Icom radios simplifies operation, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. The autotuner's performance is consistent with other high-end models, providing a cost-effective solution for amateur operators seeking dependable tuning capabilities without sacrificing performance.

Constructing a high-power 70cm solid-state amplifier presents unique challenges, particularly when aiming for 500 watts output using modern LDMOS devices. This resource details the author's experience building a 70cm amplifier based on a _Freescale MRFE6VP5600H_ transistor, initially from an RFHAM kit. It meticulously outlines the necessary modifications to achieve advertised performance, including optimizing input and output matching, correcting bias circuitry, and ensuring proper output balun connections for stability. The author shares specific adjustments, such as trimming the prototyping board for better transistor fit, drilling additional mounting holes for improved heat sinking, and replacing original matching capacitors with a single _20pf MIN02 metal mica_ for superior output. A critical fix involved jumpering gate decoupling pads to balance the push-pull transistor halves, which increased output to 580W and improved IMD. The resource also highlights a crucial correction to the output balun connection, initially reversed in the _Dubus_ article schematic, which resolved intermittent stability issues. Test results are provided, showing input power, output power, and drain current at 50V, demonstrating the amplifier's performance after modifications. This practical account offers valuable insights for hams undertaking similar high-power UHF amplifier projects, especially those working with LDMOS devices and kit-based constructions.

VK Contest Club (VK1CC) is a national organisation for all contest minded hams in Australia

Operating as a local amateur radio club, the Wireless Association of South Hills (WASH) provides a community hub for hams in the Pittsburgh, PA area, identified by the N3SH callsign. The club engages in a range of activities including the Annual Field Day, the PA QSO Party, and a 2 Meter Contest, fostering participation in various aspects of the hobby. WASH also supports local ARES/RACES efforts, highlighting the critical role of amateur radio in emergency communications during disasters, and facilitates ARRL/VEC exam sessions for new licensees. Beyond contests and emergency preparedness, WASH hosts club picnics and an annual hamfest, promoting social interaction among members. The club maintains VHF/UHF repeaters, which are essential for local communication and extending range for members. Regular activities include a Monday evening WASH NET at 8:00 PM, providing a consistent on-air gathering point. The club's focus on both recreational and public service aspects of amateur radio, from making new friends to providing vital disaster communications, underscores its comprehensive approach to the hobby.

The 80 metre fox-or/test transmitter is a small low power transmitter which is designed to be used as an alignment aid for running up 80 metre foxhunt or ARDF receivers. It is also usable as a micro transmitter for fox-or-ing events.

This spreadsheet is designed to perform a statistical analysis of the results of a competition among amateur dumps in the standard format Cabrillo.

An introduction to RDF contesting in southern California, updated from a paper originally submitted for Proceedings of the 1992 West Coast VHF/UHF Conference.

The ARRL Contest Results Database serves as a centralized repository for official scores and detailed breakdowns from numerous ARRL-sanctioned operating events. This resource typically features comprehensive listings of participants, their submitted logs, and final standings across different categories, modes, and bands. It allows hams to review their performance, compare results with other operators, and analyze contest trends over time, providing valuable insights into competitive amateur radio. Historically, the database has showcased the efforts of thousands of contesters, from single-operator entries to multi-operator, multi-transmitter stations. While the current status indicates scores are not immediately available, the database's primary function is to archive and present the outcomes of events like the ARRL DX Contest, Sweepstakes, and Field Day. This historical data is crucial for tracking individual progress, identifying top performers, and understanding the competitive landscape within the amateur radio community.

Demonstrates the design and functionality of _uLog_, a Windows-based logging application for amateur radio operators. The resource details its core purpose as an easy-to-use logbook, emphasizing its streamlined interface that provides only the basic fields necessary for efficient QSO entry. It positions _uLog_ as a practical alternative to more complex logging software, catering to operators who prefer simplicity and speed in their logging workflow without an abundance of advanced features. The application's utility is highlighted by its focus on fundamental logging tasks, distinguishing it from comprehensive contest loggers or DX cluster clients. While not explicitly comparing it to other specific software, the description implies its niche for everyday logging rather than specialized operating events. Its design philosophy prioritizes quick data input, making it suitable for casual operating or for those who desire a minimalist approach to maintaining their station log.

Ham radio activities, from satellite operations, eme communications, dxing and contesting, qsling and direction findings, are just some of ham radio exciting activities

Gao engineering offers a wide range of affordable, popular and reliable rfid products, dsp, arm and other microprocessor evm and development boards, ides, universal programmers, emulators, dsp learning systems, micro-network terminals, test and measurement products for engineers.

Vapex Tech offers over **150 different battery products** tailored for diverse applications, including specific models for Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu handheld transceivers. The product catalog details specifications for NiMH, LiPo, and LiFePO4 chemistries, providing crucial data on voltage, capacity, and discharge rates. Customers can browse by application, such as _Airsoft Batteries_ or _Model Control Batteries_, or directly by consumer battery types like AA and AAA cells. The resource presents a structured e-commerce platform where users can filter products by category, view detailed item descriptions, and proceed with online purchases. Each product listing includes high-resolution images and key technical parameters, enabling informed selection for specific radio equipment. Operational hours are clearly stated as 9am-5pm Mon-Fri and 9am-12pm Sat, with contact information including a sales email and phone number for direct inquiries. The site also features a "Latest News" section, indicating ongoing updates regarding product availability or company information.

When I tell friends that I enjoy amateur radio contesting, their reaction is usually a quizzical stare. "What's that?" It is hard to explain in the span of a cocktail conversation, so here is the answer.

The web pages of VU2PTT, Prasad Rajagopal, also AT2PTT, AT0PTT. Information on ham radio operations, Contest log book searches

The first Kuwaiti contest club,idea of 9K2RR

Operating on the 146.880 MHz repeater, the Inland Empire VHF Radio Amateurs (IEVHFRA) hosts a weekly net, providing a consistent on-air gathering for amateurs within Eastern Washington and Spokane County. My experience with similar regional VHF nets confirms their value in fostering local ham radio community and sharing information, often covering topics from equipment troubleshooting to upcoming hamfests. The club, active for over **50 years**, also organizes the _Inland Empire VHF Tailgate Swap_, an event featuring vendors, emergency communication demonstrations by Spokane ARES-ACS, and POTA/SOTA activity setups. Such events are crucial for hands-on learning and direct interaction, which I've found invaluable for new licensees and seasoned operators alike. Beyond on-air activities and events, IEVHFRA supports the hobby through amateur radio classes and testing, facilitating new license acquisition and upgrades. They also maintain an online messaging group for members, ensuring continuous communication and information exchange.

This is an Arduino-based rotator interface that interfaces a computer to a rotator or rotator controller, emulating the Yaesu GS-232A/B and Easycom protocols which are supported by a myriad of logging, contest, and control programs.

The Superantennas MP-1 portable HF antenna is analyzed for its design and field performance, particularly its high-Q loading coil and 3/8-inch mounting. The review details the antenna's construction, including an 8-inch vertical section, a large-diameter loading coil tuned by a sleeve, and a 4-foot whip that disassembles into six rods for transport. Initial testing with the supplied 10-foot ribbon cable "ground plane" yielded poor SWR and RF hot conditions, indicating an inadequate ground system. Further experimentation with longer radials and resonant counterpoises for each band improved matching and eliminated RF hot issues, but introduced significant operational complexity. The author notes the difficulty in optimizing both counterpoise length and coil setting without an antenna analyzer, and the sensitivity of the MP-1 to counterpoise deployment. The review also discusses the recommendation to tune for maximum received signals rather than minimum SWR, often necessitating an external ATU due to the antenna's typical low impedance. The **MP-1**'s critical dependence on resonant counterpoises for effective operation, especially when elevated, is highlighted as a major drawback for portable use. The author ultimately sold the antenna, concluding that despite its sound technical design, its fussy nature and the need for extensive counterpoise management or an ATU detract from its portability and convenience compared to simpler, less expensive dipole solutions. The **Superantennas MP-1** is deemed a flawed portable antenna, requiring considerable effort to achieve its claimed performance.

LEMO, established in 1946, specializes in high-performance interconnect solutions, offering an extensive range of over 50,000 circular connectors. Their product line includes the REDEL SP IP68 series, which features resin-free IP68 sealing for robust performance without complex potting processes. These connectors are critical for applications in medical, military, test and measurement, security, defense, and industrial sectors, ensuring reliable signal integrity in harsh conditions. The company designs, tests, and manufactures high-quality cable solutions, providing complete connectivity services such as custom cable assembly and signal integrity analysis. LEMO's solutions are integral to advanced scientific endeavors, as demonstrated by their use in CERN’s NA62 experiment for instrumentation and maintenance. LEMO's 80-year history, detailed in their anniversary publication, highlights their evolution from a Swiss family workshop to a global leader in connector technology. Their product finder tool assists customers in selecting appropriate connectors from their broad portfolio, which also serves audio-video, transportation, aerospace, and UAV applications.

The adventures of a small Contest Group

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

Receiver performance review of the Kenwood TS-890S HF,50MHz,70MHz amateur radio transceiver by Sherwood Engineering

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.

Documents the construction of a **VHF/UHF** antenna addition for the Buddipole HF antenna system, leveraging the existing Versa-Tee component. The project details the fabrication of a custom antenna mount from angle aluminum, including specific drilling and tapping for 3/16"-24 bolts, and the creation of radials from Simpson Strong Tie Insulation Supports. It specifies radial lengths for 70 centimeters (6 inches from the center stud) and 2 meters (19 1/4 inches), noting the use of wire nuts for safety. The resource outlines the construction of a mast from 1/2" ID PVC conduit, connected with 3/8"-24 connecting nuts and bolts, mirroring the Buddipole's modular design. It describes the integration of a mobile dual-band antenna with a 3/8"-24 mounting stud and the custom coax setup with BNC and **PL-259** connectors. Field testing with an FT-817ND and a separate dual-band SWR meter confirmed good SWR on both 2 meters and the 440-450 MHz section of 70 centimeters, with positive reception reports during Field Day activities. Further, the article describes the creation of a custom carrying solution, including a 22-inch tripod bag and a fabric roll-up, to emulate the portability of the original Buddipole system.

K8CU technical topics article about high voltage breakdown tester necessary for testing of any high voltage components like vacuum tubes, high voltage capacitors, vacuum relay

The Lakeshore Repeater Association (KR9RK) operates a **VHF** 2-meter repeater on 147.270 MHz, utilizing a +600 kHz offset and a 100 Hz PL tone, serving the Raymond, Wisconsin area. The organization provides access to monthly newsletters, with recent editions including March 2026, February 2026, and January 2026, detailing club activities and operational updates. A Google Docs link is provided for newsletters with functional embedded links, addressing issues with PDF versions. The association's Megacycle Group is actively constructing a **DX Contest** level HF network, designed for remote accessibility. This initiative aims to provide members with a competitive edge in global DX hunts by enabling worldwide access to the station's radios. Additionally, the Lakeshore Radio Association is commemorating its 50th anniversary with a special event station, K5O, inviting all members to participate in on-air operations.

Tti is thurlby thandar instruments who manufactures advanced electronic test equipment for sale in the uk and throughout the world.

Constructing a dip oscillator provides radio amateurs with a fundamental piece of test equipment for resonant circuit analysis. This particular design, adapted by VK3YE from a concept by _Drew Diamond VK3XU_, details a practical build using readily available components. The unit incorporates four plug-in coils, covering a frequency range from **2.6 MHz to 55 MHz**, mounted on 5-pin DIN plugs for versatility. A salvaged two-gang air dielectric variable capacitor, fitted with a vernier reduction drive, serves as the tuning mechanism, with the smaller gang optimizing bandspread at higher frequencies. In practical application, the dip oscillator is used by setting the meter needle to approximately two-thirds scale. When the instrument's coil is brought near a tuned circuit under test, a noticeable dip in the meter reading indicates resonance. This allows for precise measurement of resonant frequencies in antennas, filters, and other RF circuitry, proving invaluable for homebrewing and troubleshooting. The design emphasizes short wire runs for stable operation, particularly at the higher end of its operational range.

Tuning non-resonant antennas and usage of such technique during contests.

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.

Jose B Rivera, N2LRB, shares his initial experiences with the Icom IC-7300, recounting a shift from skepticism to appreciation for the transceiver. He details how the radio's impressive Sherwood Engineering test results, ranking it #12, significantly influenced his decision, especially considering its competitive price point against higher-end options like the Elecraft K3s. The review highlights the IC-7300's strong receive capabilities, a key factor in N2LRB's purchasing decision, and notes the advantages of its SDR architecture for future updates. He describes the straightforward setup process, from unboxing and connecting PowerPole connectors to making a first contact with N0HQ, a special event station. N2LRB expresses satisfaction with the radio's clear audio and ease of tuning, even if the pan-adapter's utility for his operating style remains to be fully explored. He concludes that the IC-7300 offers exceptional value, providing SDR features and receive performance comparable to more expensive rigs at half the cost.

The Icom IC-7300 is a groundbreaking Software Defined Radio (SDR) transceiver that revolutionizes the way amateur radio operators interact with the spectrum. With its large 4.3-inch color TFT LCD touch screen, users can easily navigate through various functions, including real-time spectrum scope and high-resolution waterfall displays. This allows for quick adjustments and enhanced signal awareness, making it easier to find and engage in QSOs. The touch screen interface provides a modern approach to radio operation, replacing traditional buttons with virtual controls that can be accessed with a simple touch. In addition to its user-friendly interface, the IC-7300 boasts advanced features such as IF-DSP filtering, audio scope functions, and a multi-dial knob that combines tactile control with touch screen flexibility. These capabilities enable operators to visualize signals and make precise adjustments to their settings, ensuring optimal performance during contests or casual operating. The IC-7300 is designed for both beginners and experienced hams, making it a versatile addition to any shack. Its innovative design and functionality truly embody the spirit of modern amateur radio.

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.

Diary of a small contest group

Multi-op contest station of Joe Rudi, NK7U of Baker City, Oregon, USA

Contest log Written by Isao Suzuki JK1IQK, english and japanese version available

This site features Samuel M. Goldwasser's latest and greatest "Notes on the Troubleshooting and Repair of..." series of comprehensive repair guides for consumer electronics equipment and other household devices.

The _Alessandro Volta RTTY Contest_ is an annual digital mode competition focusing on Radioteletype (RTTY) operation, challenging participants to make contacts across various HF bands. This event typically occurs in January, drawing a global field of operators aiming to maximize their QSO count and multiplier accumulation. The contest emphasizes accurate exchange of signal reports and serial numbers, with specific rules governing single operator, multi-operator, and SWL categories. Participants utilize software like _N1MM Logger+_ or _WriteLog_ to manage their logs and generate Cabrillo files for submission. Scoring is based on points per QSO, multiplied by unique DXCC entities and Italian provinces worked on each band. The contest encourages both seasoned RTTY contesters and those new to digital modes to engage in competitive HF activity, promoting skill development in digital communication. Final results and logs are typically published on the contest website, showcasing top performers and providing detailed breakdowns of scores.

Program for the control of the transceiver from your PC. Works on windows and has been tested with different serial and USB interfaces, Based on hamlib libraries , Auto CQ for repetitive calls, Audio Recorder, BktNetInterface for JTDX and WSJT-X

An Amateur Radio enthusiast living in the North of England. A keen DXer and Contester.CoSysop GB7MBC DXCluster. Member of Sands Contest Group MX0SCG/M0SCG

KComm, a logging and communication program, was specifically engineered for Elecraft K2, K3, and KX3 transceivers, leveraging the Lazarus cross-platform development tool. It operates natively on Windows XP and can be compiled for Linux, with potential for macOS, prioritizing low resource usage for casual DXers and contest participants. The software integrates with external applications like Fldigi for diverse digital modes and CW Skimmer for advanced Morse decoding, enhancing its functionality beyond basic logging. The design philosophy of KComm emphasizes utilizing the physical radio controls for operational adjustments, rather than replacing the transceiver's front panel. It facilitates keyboard CW operation via the Elecraft serial protocol and capitalizes on the K3 and KX3's built-in decoders for RTTY and PSK31. Additionally, KComm supports PSK31, PSK63, and PSK125 through the AE4JY PSK Core DLL on Windows and integrates with PSKReporter.info for spotting. While not a dedicated contest logging or award tracking program, KComm supports ADIF and Cabrillo export for casual use, allowing logs to be imported into other software. The author, G4ILO, ceased all software development, providing KComm "as is" without further support or updates; however, the source code is available under the GNU GPL for community continuation.

Demonstrates the community-driven mission of the McKinney Amateur Radio Club (MARC), a North Texas organization dedicated to advancing amateur radio. The club actively promotes continuous learning, encouraging technical innovation among its members, and provides avenues for public service engagement, skill enhancement, and global connectivity with fellow operators. MARC hosts weekly breakfast discussions every Saturday at 7:30 AM at IHOP in McKinney, Texas, covering diverse topics and offering a Q&A forum. The club emphasizes emergency communication preparedness, antenna design and tuning, and the science of global radio wave propagation, crucial for clear amateur radio contacts. Furthermore, MARC explores modern radio technologies, including digital modes and _Software-Defined Radio_ (SDR), blending traditional amateur radio with cutting-edge advancements. The club also facilitates license testing sessions, hands-on training, and participates in events like _Field Day_ to hone emergency communication skills.

Constructing a high-performance RF spectrum analyzer up to 1000 MHz requires careful attention to component selection, shielding, and circuit isolation. This resource details a project that improves upon the _Spectrum Analyzer for the Radio Amateur_ design by Wes Hayward (W7ZOI) and Terry White (K7TAU), incorporating ideas from Scotty Sprowls' project, particularly his 1013.3 MHz IF bandpass cavity filter. The analyzer utilizes a Mini-Circuits SRA-11 mixer with a sweeping local oscillator from 1013 to 2013 MHz, feeding into a 4-pole copper pipe cavity filter. The design employs a second SRA-11 mixer with a fixed 1024 MHz LO to produce a 10.7 MHz final IF. This signal then passes through narrowband resolution filters and is processed by Analog Devices AD603 and AD8307 ICs for IF amplification and logarithmic detection, driving an oscilloscope in X/Y mode. The project emphasizes modular construction, using salvaged components and double-sided FR4 material for PCBs, with critical notes on minimizing spurious images through effective shielding and proper voltage regulation for each module. Key components include a Z-Communications V585ME48 VCO for the first LO and a Z-Comm V583ME01 VCO controlled by a Motorola MC145151 PLL for the second LO. An optional Hittite HMC307 step attenuator and K&L 5L121-1000/T5000-O/O low-pass filter manage RF input. Tuning procedures for the 10.7 MHz IF resolution filter are also detailed, showing before-and-after spectrum views.

Home of Bosnia and Herzegovina Contest Operators