Search results

The QRP Cluster provides a dedicated platform for _QRP_ (low power) amateur radio operators to self-spot their on-air activity. This web-based service allows users to post real-time information about their current operating frequency, modulation mode, equipment used, and transmit power. It facilitates QRP-to-QRP contacts and helps other low-power stations locate active QRP signals across various bands. Unlike general DX clusters, the QRP Cluster focuses exclusively on low-power operations, fostering a community for QRP enthusiasts. It enables operators to share details such as **5 watts** or less output, often specifying antenna types or unique portable setups. The platform supports the discovery of QRP stations for casual QSOs, contests, and award hunting, enhancing visibility for stations that might otherwise be overlooked on higher-power clusters.

KM Rover is a rover logger software for BIG 4 VHF UHF contests and generic, Spring and Fall Sprints, GPS interface, beam heading CW PTT DVK functions. Works on Windows

Presents a dynamic platform for real-time amateur radio contest scoring, enabling participants and enthusiasts to monitor ongoing competition results. The system processes submitted contest data, displaying live scores and competitor standings as they update. Users can observe the progress of various contests, gaining immediate insight into the competitive landscape. This resource serves as a central hub for following _DX contests_ and other operating events, offering a transparent view of current standings. It facilitates an engaging experience by providing up-to-the-minute score updates, reflecting the intensity of _on-line contesting_ and the efforts of operators globally. The platform's utility extends to both active participants submitting scores and observers interested in the competitive dynamics. It aggregates data from multiple sources, presenting a consolidated view of contest activity. The system's design emphasizes rapid data processing and clear presentation of results, crucial for high-stakes events like the _CQ World Wide DX Contest_.

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

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.

RadioLog is a free amateur radio logbook software for Windows 10/11 (x64) that integrates QSO logging with real-time DX Cluster spots and _RigControl_ capabilities. It supports ADIF, eQSL, and LoTW for logging and export, along with specific modules for contest operation, including automatic scoring and _Cabrillo_/EDI export for HF and VHF contests. The software also features a dedicated portable mode for SOTA, POTA, WWFF, and CB/11m activations, offering a distinct logbook for these activities. The application includes an integrated _RTL-SDR_ auxiliary monitor for visual and audio support during operation, and offers three CAT connection methods: direct RadioLog control, Hamlib managed by RadioLog, or an external rigctld server. Recent updates, such as those in v4.0.2, focus on interface polish, consistent dark theme application, and layout bug fixes, including VFO frequency display with thousands separators. The software also provides reciprocal synchronization with QRZ.com Logbook, allowing both upload and download of QSOs, and supports various digital voice modes like DMR, C4FM, D-STAR, FreeDV, and M17.

Learn how to optimize your keyboard setup for CW contesting in amateur radio. Discover the importance of macros, keyboard combinations, and single keys for efficient contesting. Find out how a mechanical key system like the Lenovo full-sized preferred pro 2 keyboard can enhance your contesting experience. Explore tips on avoiding accidental key presses and maximizing your speed during contests. Dive into macro setup details, including key functions like STOP, CQ, and X. Improve your contesting skills and efficiency with the right keyboard setup tailored for CW operators.

The Wanted Alive (TWA) by OH2BUA is an online DX cluster service specifically tailored for digital mode enthusiasts, presenting real-time DX spots with a unique ranking system. Unlike traditional clusters, TWA sorts spots by decreasing DXCC most-wanted ranking, allowing operators to prioritize rare entities. It integrates data from various sources, including PSK Reporter and RBN, to provide a comprehensive view of current propagation conditions for modes like FT8, FT4, and JS8. This approach helps DXers quickly identify and pursue high-value contacts, optimizing their time on the air. OH2BUA's TWA provides a practical application for serious DXers by filtering the noise and highlighting the most sought-after DXCC entities. The service's focus on digital modes reflects the growing popularity of these efficient, low-power communication methods, offering a specialized tool that complements general-purpose DX clusters. By presenting propagation information through the lens of DXCC rarity, TWA assists operators in achieving DXCC awards and improving their overall DXing efficiency, particularly during contests or limited operating windows.

Examining the demographic shifts within amateur radio, particularly concerning **radiosport** participation, this resource analyzes survey data from the National Contest Journal (NCJ) and two regional ARRL surveys. It focuses on the relationship between age and engagement in contesting, presenting findings that suggest older amateur radio operators tend to participate in more contests annually. The author, a spatial demographer, details the methodology, including data consolidation, georeferencing, and statistical analysis performed in collaboration with Dr. Scott Wright K0MD, covering ARRL November Sweepstakes participants from 2000 to 2020. The analysis also addresses the limitations inherent in using voluntary response samples rather than random samples, which may influence the generalizability of the results. Furthermore, the resource investigates the preferred sources of contest information among different age groups, noting that older contesters frequently rely on traditional publications like the NCJ, while younger participants show a preference for online platforms. This demographic review provides insights into the evolving landscape of **amateur radio contesting** and the generational differences in information consumption.

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.

This project details an automatic roger beep circuit for VHF/UHF contests. Built around a Microchip PIC microcontroller, the design detects PTT (Push-To-Talk) activation and generates a brief tone upon release, mimicking a "roger beep" to signal the end of transmission. The circuit utilizes readily available components and includes downloadable resources for PCB layout and firmware.

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.

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.

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.

This resource details **cooling modifications** for Ameritron AL82, AL1200, and AL1500 HF amplifiers, specifically addressing heat issues encountered during high-duty-cycle digital mode operation. The author, WD4NGB, observed excessive heat in the tank area and band switch on an AL82, attributing it to insufficient exhaust over the 3-500 tubes and a complete lack of exhaust over the tank area. The modifications aim to prevent common failures such as damaged band switches and deformed insulating materials by increasing airflow and exhaust area. The page describes adding five holes to the chassis for enhanced cooling to the band switch and tank area, alongside enlarging the exhaust area over the inner 3-500 tube and the tank area on the amplifier cover, utilizing expanded metal for safety and RF shielding. The original cover featured 26.25 square inches of exhaust; the modified version significantly increases this to 48.5 square inches over the tubes and introduces an additional 15 square inches over the band switch. These changes are intended to resolve heating problems encountered during heavy, 100% duty cycle use in modes like RTTY or long SSB contests, which typically generate substantial heat. The article also discusses upgrading to a higher output fan, such as the G2E085-AA05-21, and modifying tube sockets for improved airflow and reduced back pressure, citing Tom Rauch (W8JI) of CTR Engineering as a source for parts.

Since 1988 and after few decades of activities, Romeo Charlie is an International DX group and counts more than 1700 members in 150 divisions. Serious QSL management * Unique eQSL system, cluster & spot-push-notifications. * Online logs monitors. * Free contests, trophies & Challenges. * Activations all around the world. * Free fee for most of divisions. * Personal web page for members. * One of the most active DX group on 11m band. It's time for a change... Join a modern DX group... Looking to the future !

The Playground Amateur Radio Club has be in service to the Northwest Florida Panhandle since 1951. The team in Fort Walton Beach Florida sponsors and hosts multiple events, contests, Hamfests, Swapmeets, meetings, nets and technical instruction and assistance.

The N5KWD website, maintained by David C. Taylor, presents a personal station page for an Extra Class amateur radio operator. It serves as a digital logbook and resource hub, offering insights into his on-air activities and technical pursuits. Visitors can find a **ham radio journal** detailing operating experiences, along with current news relevant to the amateur community. Beyond personal updates, the site incorporates practical tools such as online calculators for various radio applications and calendars for upcoming events like contests or hamfests. This blend of personal narrative and utility reflects a common approach among hams sharing their passion and knowledge. Furthermore, the platform showcases several **amateur radio projects**, providing details on construction, modifications, or experiments undertaken by N5KWD. This content appeals to those interested in homebrewing and technical aspects of the hobby, offering inspiration and practical examples.

The **World Wide Digi DX Contest** website serves as the official hub for this annual digital DX event, a joint effort by the World Wide Radio Operators Foundation (WWROF) and the Slovenia Contest Club (SCC). It details critical operational changes, such as a strict 48-hour log submittal deadline and the prohibition of autonomous operation, ensuring fair play and adherence to contest guidelines. Participants can find comprehensive operating tips, instructions for submitting **Cabrillo logs**, and access to an ADIF converter to streamline their post-contest workflow. The resource clearly outlines future contest dates, consistently held on the last full weekend of August, with specific dates listed through 2029, including August 29-30, 2026, and August 28-29, 2027. Beyond the WW DIGI contest, the site also references other major contests like CQ WW, CQ WPX, and CQ 160, providing a broader context for digital and traditional contesting. A video recording and presentation PDF from the 2019 event are also available, offering insights into past operations.

Mid Sussex ARS is an RSGB-affiliated club and meets at its headquarters in Burgess Hill on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month. They organize various activities ranging from talks by members or guest speakers, evenings on the air using their shack's latest SDR equipment, training evenings and used equipment sales. As well as scheduled club nights, they run many outdoor activities throughout the year, including direction-finding contests, town days, social evenings and Special Event Stations. They even have their own free online training academy!

The Llanelli Amateur Radio Society (LARS) website details the club's offerings for both licensed operators and those new to amateur radio, including shortwave listeners and individuals pursuing Foundation, Intermediate, or Full licenses. It highlights opportunities to learn radio techniques, explore digital modes such as C4FM, D-Star, DMR, and FreeDV, and participate in contests and social events. The club aims to foster a supportive environment for experimentation and knowledge sharing among its members. Member testimonials illustrate practical applications, such as a new licensee making a 1000km contact via a repeater after being inspired by space exploration, and another quickly passing the RSGB Foundation exam. The site also features accounts of members progressing to Intermediate and Full licenses, with one Full license holder continuing to learn new modes like CW and digital, and engaging in activities like Parks on the Air (POTA).

The State QSO Party Challenge is an annual program recognizing amateur radio operators' participation in U.S. State and Canadian Province QSO parties. To qualify for the SQP Challenge, participants must make at least two QSOs in a minimum of two SQP Approved QP contests and submit their scores to 3830Scores.com. The site details the SQP Mobile/Portable Challenge, an overlay competition encouraging mobile/portable operations, with scoring identical to the main SQP Challenge: (Number of QPs entered) x (Number of QSOs) = Score. Eligibility for the Mobile/Portable Challenge requires prior qualification for the SQP Challenge. The website also mentions a State QSO Party Club Challenge and provides contact information for questions. The 2026 SQP Challenge will be dedicated to Stan Zawrotny, K4SBZ, a key team member instrumental in the program's development. Participants are recognized for reaching five levels of achievement: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Scores are calculated by totaling reported contacts and multiplying by the number of SQPs entered year-to-date, encouraging more entries and longer operating times. The Worked All QSO Parties (WAQP) program, sponsored by Icom America, offers certificates for participating in at least 50% of approved contests, with a goal of participating in all. WAQP requires submitting a log with at least two valid contacts to the contest manager, in addition to the 3830scores.com submission.

The ON4RSX website serves as the official online presence for the UBA Ronse/Renaix amateur radio club, providing information on its community and activities. It outlines the club's engagement across various amateur radio facets, including **HF**, VHF, UHF, digital modes, antenna construction, propagation studies, and general electronics. The site highlights past DXpeditions, such as the _OJ0V Market Reef_ operation, and mentions participation in contests, offering insights into the club's operational focus and technical interests. The resource details the club's commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for operators of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned technicians. It implicitly compares the breadth of activities available to members, covering both theoretical knowledge development and practical application in areas like antenna building. The site's content structure suggests it functions as a central hub for club news, event announcements, and potentially educational materials, supporting members in expanding their radio knowledge and sharing their passion.