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This article details the design and construction of a compact 20-meter QRP SSB transceiver by Pete Juliano, N6QW, measuring just 2 x 4 x 2 inches—small enough for a shirt pocket. Inspired by a 1963 QST design and refined from a prior version, it employs bilateral circuits, a 4.9152 MHz homebrew crystal filter, switched-crystal VXO for 60 kHz coverage (14.160-14.220 MHz), and standard components like ADE-1L mixers and IRF510 PA for 1W output. Key innovations include a double-sided PCB skeletal frame for shielding and isolation, Vectorboard sub-assemblies, and ultra-miniature relays. The bilateral receiver/transmitter shares stages, omitting AGC for simplicity, while a W3NQN LPF and optional 10W external amp enable DX contacts. Tune-up focuses on crystal matching and bias for linearity. Videos on YouTube demonstrate performance, confirming excellent stability and audio. Total cost nears $100, prioritizing portability over features like CW.

Operating on the HF and VHF bands, the URE WebCluster serves as a real-time DX spotting network for amateur radio operators. It aggregates DX spots from various sources, presenting them with detailed information such as DX callsign, frequency, mode, and spotter details. The platform integrates essential propagation data, including current solar indices like _K-index_ and _A-index_, alongside visual propagation maps, which are crucial for planning long-distance contacts. Users can submit new DX spots, contributing to the collective intelligence of the amateur radio community, and filter existing spots by band, mode, or callsign, enhancing operational efficiency. This resource enables operators to monitor band openings and identify active DX stations, significantly aiding in _DXCC_ pursuit and contest operations. The integration of solar-terrestrial data directly within the cluster interface allows for immediate correlation between propagation conditions and observed DX activity, a feature not universally present in all web clusters. By providing both raw spot data and contextual propagation information, the URE WebCluster offers a practical tool for real-time decision-making during operating sessions, allowing hams to quickly adapt to changing band conditions and target specific _DX_ entities.

For those engaging with amateur radio satellites, _Ham Satting_ provides a comprehensive, multi-platform application developed by A46UNX. It offers real-time visualization of the ISS and other amateur satellites on an interactive map, ensuring operators always know their current positions. The application delivers detailed pass predictions, including crucial data like AOS, LOS, duration, azimuth, and elevation, which are essential for planning successful satellite contacts. Beyond tracking, Ham Satting integrates a robust QSO logging feature, allowing users to save contacts to a local database with filtering, searching, and export capabilities. A notable addition is the built-in SSTV decoder, supporting various modes such as _Robot 36/72_, Scottie, Martin, and PD, complete with manual fine-tuning controls for optimal image reception. This feature alone can save operators from needing separate software. Developed by Yousuf AL Balushi (A46UNX) out of a personal need for a more integrated solution, Ham Satting is available for iOS, macOS, and Android, with BETA versions for Windows and Linux. His journey into ham radio and satellite operations, beginning in November 2024, directly informed the design, aiming to combine all essential tools into one powerful package.

Operating amateur radio repeaters involves understanding frequency offsets, CTCSS tones, and the basic signal flow through a repeater system. This resource details the fundamental concepts of repeater operation, including the distinction between input and output frequencies, the role of **CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System)** for access, and the typical frequency bands utilized for local communication. It clarifies terms such as "simplex" versus "duplex" operation and provides a diagram illustrating the signal path from a handheld transceiver to a repeater and back to another station, emphasizing the range extension repeaters offer. The article further explains practical aspects like identifying a repeater's offset (e.g., +600 kHz for 2-meter band) and the necessity of programming the correct tone. It compares the operational benefits of using repeaters for local communication over direct simplex contacts, highlighting how repeaters overcome line-of-sight limitations. The content is structured to assist new licensees in confidently making their first repeater contacts, providing a foundational understanding of how these critical infrastructure components facilitate wider area coverage for VHF/UHF amateur radio.

Demonstrates a **Progressive Web App** (PWA) approach to amateur radio logging, providing a platform-agnostic solution for hams. The resource details its core functionality, including offline callsign and reference lookups, auto-formatting for data entry, and integration with **POTA spots** and saved re-spots. It highlights support for various logging templates such as General, Contest, POTA, and Field Day, indicating its adaptability for different operating activities. The application emphasizes seamless log synchronization across multiple devices, eliminating the need for manual file transfers. It operates effectively both online and offline, with installation options available for full offline functionality on Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux, or direct use within any web browser. The documentation further outlines features like rig control and the continuous development of additional templates, positioning Smart Logger as a flexible and efficient tool for managing amateur radio contacts.

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.

Detecting stray RF voltages on station grounds, chassis, and interconnecting cables is crucial for preventing program and hardware failures in the shack. This article details the construction and application of an LED RF V-probe, which offers significantly higher sensitivity compared to conventional neon lamp indicators. The probe leverages two specific properties of modern red LEDs: their ability to glow at microampere currents and their rectification capability at frequencies up to tens of megahertz. The design features a simple circuit with two LEDs, allowing for indication of both positive and negative RF voltage half-waves. The minimum detectable RF voltage is approximately 2 V, a substantial improvement over the 40-60 V threshold of neon bulbs. The resource illustrates the probe's physical construction on a PCB and provides a direct comparison demonstrating its superior sensitivity in detecting RF fields near a coil. Two operational modes are described: a non-contact mode for high RF voltages (above 15-20 V) and a direct-contact mode for measuring lower RF voltages, with a safety caution for the latter. Practical examples show the probe's use in analyzing RF voltage distribution across a radio station setup at 1.84 MHz and 24.9 MHz, revealing insights into common-mode current issues and the effectiveness of mitigation strategies like adding radials.

Launched in March 2008, this website offers news and information for amateur radio enthusiasts in the Canadian Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. It serves as a valuable resource for both local and visiting hams. The site provides updates on general amateur radio news, Silent Keys, Exercise Handshake, Fusion/Wires-X, and Winlink. To join the Maritime Amateur mailing list or to share information, suggestions, or questions with fellow amateurs, contact the site owner via the provided email

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 resource details a novel approach to Morse code (CW) reception for hearing-impaired operators, focusing on a handheld device that translates CW signals into tactile vibrations. It explains how this device allows users to perceive the patterns of dots and dashes through physical feedback from a shaker, addressing the challenges of auditory discrimination for those with hearing loss. The content highlights the potential for this tactile method to aid in CW learning and interpretation, even suggesting benefits for operators with normal hearing by providing an alternative sensory input. The article also mentions the device's _patent-pending_ status and its availability to members of the _Long Island CW Club_ and the general public. It provides contact information for further inquiries about this innovative tool.

The Olivia digital mode, a **Multi-Frequency Shift Keying (MFSK)** radioteletype protocol, is specifically engineered for robust communication under difficult propagation conditions on shortwave radio bands from 3 MHz to 30 MHz. Developed by Pawel Jalocha in 2003, Olivia signals can be decoded even when the noise amplitude exceeds the digital signal by over ten times, making it highly effective for transmitting ASCII characters across noisy channels with significant fading and propagation phasing. Early on-the-air tests by Fred OH/DK4ZC and Les VK2DSG on the Europe-Australia 20-meter path demonstrated intercontinental contacts with as little as one-watt RF power under favorable conditions. Common Olivia modes are designated as X/Y, where X represents the number of tones and Y is the bandwidth in Hertz, with examples including 8/250, 16/500, and 32/1000. The resource clarifies that Olivia, unlike some other digital modes, produces a constant envelope, allowing RF power amplifiers to achieve greater conversion efficiencies and making it less prone to non-linearity. Operators are advised that **Automatic Level Control (ALC)** can be set higher than no meter movement for MFSK modulation, as long as it's not driven past its high limit, contrary to common misinformation about other digital modes. The Olivia community encourages voluntary channelization on suggested calling frequencies, such as 14.0725 MHz for 8/250, to facilitate initial contacts, especially for signals below the noise floor. The Olivia Digital DXers Club provides links to Groups.io, Facebook, and Discord for community engagement and offers details on QSO parties.

Examines the historical context of amateur radio, specifically focusing on Guglielmo Marconi's pioneering wireless transatlantic signal reception at Signal Hill, Newfoundland, in 1901. It describes the operation of a contemporary remote radio station at Signal Hill, utilizing the special event call sign _VD1M_ issued by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. The content recounts a specific contact from Signal Hill, reporting a signal strength of 5 by 9 to a station in Sarnia, Ontario, which received the signal at 3 by 3. The narrative also introduces the concept of 'Marconi chasers' who endeavor to replicate historical transmission methods. Further, the resource discusses general amateur radio operating procedures, the evolution of the hobby, and its critical role in emergency communications, citing examples from hurricanes _Irma_ and _Maria_ in 2017 and the conflict in Ukraine in 2022.

Operating amateur radio satellites presents unique challenges, particularly concerning antenna design and signal propagation. Juan Antonio Fernández Montaña, EA4CYQ, recounts his three-year journey into satellite communication, starting with initial guidance from EB4DKA. His early experiments involved a portable 1/4 wave VHF antenna with four 1/4 wave ground planes, designed for hand-held use to adjust polarity. This setup, paired with an FT-3000M transceiver, allowed full-duplex operation on **VHF** transmit and **UHF** receive, proving effective for early contacts on satellites like AO27, UO14, and SO35. EA4CYQ's experience highlights the critical role of coaxial cable loss and antenna polarization. After encountering significant signal degradation with longer RG213 runs, he experimented with a 1/2 inch commercial cable, noting improved reception but persistent fading due to varying satellite polarities. This led to the construction of an **Eggbeater II** antenna, an omnidirectional UHF design offering horizontal polarization at the horizon and circular right polarization at higher elevation angles. Subsequent modifications resulted in the directional **TPM2** antenna, which provided sufficient gain for LEO satellites with a wide 30-degree lobe, enabling consistent contacts from his home station. The article concludes with practical insights on the performance of the Eggbeater II for both UHF and VHF, and the TPM2 for UHF, emphasizing their utility for portable and fixed operations. EA4CYQ's journey underscores the iterative process of antenna development and the importance of adapting designs to overcome real-world propagation challenges in satellite communications.

The project details the construction of a GM3OXX OXO transmitter, designed to accommodate **FT-243 crystals** using 3D-printed FX-243 holders from John KC9ON. It presents specific frequency adjustments, noting a 7030 KHz HC-49/s crystal could be tuned from 7029.8 KHz to 7031.7 KHz with an internal 45pF trimmer capacitor. The build incorporates a modified keying circuit to prevent oscillator run-on key-up and includes a TX/RX switch for sidetone via a connected receiver, with the transmitter output routed to a dummy load on receive. Practical construction aspects are thoroughly covered, including the process of cutting a rectangular opening in a diecast enclosure for the FT-243 socket and the selection of a **low-pass filter** (LPF) based on the QRP Labs kit, derived from the W3NQN design. The author achieved approximately 800mW output power from a 14.75V supply, measured with an NM0S QRPoMeter, using a 16.5-ohm emitter resistor in the 2N3866 final stage. The article also touches upon the potential for frequency agility across the 40M band using multiple FX-243 units with various crystals. The narrative includes a brief diversion into Bob W3BBO's recent homebrew projects, such as his Ugly Weekender MK II transceiver, highlighting the enduring appeal of classic QRP designs. The author reflects on the personal satisfaction derived from building RF-generating equipment, irrespective of DX achievements, and shares experiences of making local contacts with the 800mW OXO transmitter on 40 meters.

Provides access to a robust DX cluster node, G6NHU-2, running DX Spider software, which facilitates real-time amateur radio contact spotting across HF bands. This service is engineered for high reliability and low latency, ensuring rapid dissemination of DX spots from a global network of interconnected nodes. It features multiple redundant links to prevent data loss and maintain continuous operation, even if individual connections drop. The cluster integrates directly with the Reverse Beacon Network (RBN), allowing users to enable or disable skimmer spots for specific modes like CW, RTTY, FT8, and FT4. It also offers an extensive one-year spot history, significantly longer than most other DX clusters, which typically retain only a month of data. The node supports various lookup commands for callsign information, beam headings, QSL routing, and FCC database lookups, enhancing operational efficiency for DXers and contesters. Additionally, it permits self-spotting, a feature increasingly relevant in modern contests, and provides detailed instructions for connecting popular logging software such as N1MM+, HamRadioDeluxe, MacLoggerDX, LOG4OM2, Logger32, and N3FJP's Amateur Contact Log.

The Florida AM Group operates a weekly Amplitude Modulation (AM) net on 3885 kHz every Sunday morning, with a pre-net starting at 6:30 AM Eastern Time and the formal net at 7:00 AM. This group focuses on the preservation, restoration, and on-air operation of antique Amateur, commercial, homebrew (HB), and Military Radio equipment, emphasizing **Amplitude Modulation** (AM) mode. Participants are encouraged to use AM mode, regardless of whether they possess vintage gear, fostering a community around classic radio operation and the distinctive high-fidelity audio associated with **vacuum tube** equipment. The net utilizes NetLogger software for check-ins and round table management, providing a structured environment for participants. The group regularly publishes net control schedules, listing operators like NZ1Q, K1HH, and W3XM, and organizes various in-person events such as Hamcation gatherings, luncheons, and boat anchor swap meets. These activities facilitate eyeball QSOs and equipment exchanges, reinforcing the community aspect beyond on-air operations. The Florida AM Group also provides contact information for net control volunteers and shares news, including SK (Silent Key) announcements for members like Steve KI4RUS and Roy W4IDD, highlighting the group's long-standing camaraderie and shared passion for AM radio.

Cloudlog Helper addresses the need for streamlined, automated logging of amateur radio contacts, particularly for operators utilizing digital modes like FT8 or those with limited system resources. This utility syncs real-time rig data and QSO information to various logging platforms, including _Cloudlog_ and Wavelog, supporting mainstream transceivers. It integrates seamlessly with popular digital mode software such as JTDX and WSJT-X, ensuring that contact details are captured and uploaded without manual intervention. Operators can compile the software themselves and configure essential settings, including their Maidenhead locator, Cloudlog server address, API key, and station ID. The application's design prioritizes efficiency and portability, making it a practical solution for hams who prefer automated logging processes. While an unofficial community project, Cloudlog Helper provides a robust framework for automating the often-tedious task of logging, supporting multiple logging services beyond its primary integration. It offers a direct method for hams to maintain accurate and up-to-date logbooks with minimal effort, potentially improving their DXCC or other award tracking by ensuring no QSO is missed.

Callook provides a **USA amateur radio callsign lookup service** with data current as of March 25, 2026. The platform allows users to search for valid callsigns and retrieve detailed information, including geographic coordinates sourced from the Bing Maps API. A mathematically calculated **grid square** is derived from these coordinates, though accuracy is not guaranteed due to reliance on external services. The service supports multiple access methods, including a browser search plugin, direct API access with a reference, and plain text output for integration into other applications or scripts. This tool facilitates rapid identification of US amateur radio operators, offering an alternative to other callbook services. Its API access enables developers to integrate callsign lookup functionality into custom applications, streamlining data retrieval for logging software or contest management. The direct presentation of FCC data, combined with grid square calculation, assists DXers and contesters in verifying contact information and location details during on-air operations.

The _Amateur Radio Logbook ADIF File Analyzer_ processes ADIF files locally within the user's browser, ensuring no QSO data is uploaded to a server. It generates a visual map of contacts and detailed statistics across various parameters, including band, mode, time, grid squares, and DXCC entities. The tool offers insights into operating patterns and station performance without requiring any software installation. Users upload their ADIF log files directly, and the analysis is performed client-side, providing immediate results. The output includes charts and graphs that visualize QSO distribution and activity. This approach prioritizes user privacy and data security, as logbook information remains on the user's computer throughout the analysis process. The analyzer supports standard ADIF formats, enabling hams to quickly review their log data for trends and achievements. It is a free, open-source utility designed for general amateur radio log analysis.

Presents detailed expedition charts and statistics for the **XX9W** DXpedition, covering operating time, total QSOs, unique calls, and duplicate QSOs. The resource provides comprehensive band and mode breakdowns, including FT8, SSB, CW, and FM, across 80m, 40m, 30m, 20m, 17m, 15m, 12m, 10m, 6m, 2m, and 70cm. Users can access DXCC statistics by band and mode, daily QSO totals, and multiband QSO statistics. Continent-by-mode and continent-by-band breakdowns are also available, detailing activity from Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, and South America. The platform also tracks the expedition's impact on user totals, showing new band, new mode, new band + new mode, new slot, and new DXCC contacts.

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

Over 44,000 square kilometers of Scotland's natural beauty provide a unique backdrop for the _GMFF_ award program. Designed for amateur radio operators who thrive on portable operations, this program encourages activators to set up stations in designated flora and fauna areas. Participants engage in _SSB_ and _CW_ modes, making contacts from these scenic locations, which are part of the _WorldWide Flora and Fauna_ network. Activators and chasers alike benefit from the program's structure, which awards points for successful contacts. The _GMFF_ program is part of a larger global initiative, allowing operators to contribute to conservation awareness while enjoying their hobby. With a focus on environmental preservation, the program aligns amateur radio activities with ecological interests, promoting responsible and sustainable operating practices. The program's website provides resources for participants, including maps of designated areas and guidelines for operation. By participating, operators not only enjoy the challenge of portable operation but also support the conservation of natural habitats. The _GMFF_ program thus combines the thrill of amateur radio with a commitment to environmental stewardship.