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Restoring vintage amateur radio gear often presents challenges with accurate dial calibration due to the non-linear characteristics of analog tuning capacitors. This resource details the construction of a 100 kHz crystal calibrator, a crucial tool for precisely setting the frequency of older rigs lacking digital readouts. The design cleverly circumvents the scarcity and cost of 100 kHz crystals by utilizing a readily available 8 MHz microprocessor crystal, such as a _HC49U_ type, in conjunction with common _CMOS ICs_ like the 74HCT00 quad NAND gate and 74HCT393 dual 4-bit binary ripple counter. The circuit employs a two-stage frequency division process: the 8 MHz crystal oscillator output is first divided by 16 to yield 500 kHz, then further divided by 5 to achieve the desired 100 kHz output. A 5.1-volt Zener diode, _1N4733A_, regulates the power supply for the HCT series logic. The article also provides a modification to produce a 50 kHz calibrator by altering the counter reset logic. Installation involves feeding the output to the receiver front end, ensuring it's post-TR relay to prevent RF damage, and incorporating an ON/OFF switch for the 12V supply line.

Signalprocessing for SSB - Direct Conversion Receiver using Phasemethod for Sideband Supression, does all necessary signalprocessing for Direct conversion Receivers using IQ-mixer for demodulation.

NDBfinder allows you to use your PC and soundcard to receive, detect, identify and log NDBs (Non Directional Beacons used for maritime and aeronautical navigation)

A new SDR-receiver from the italian SDR developers community. Low-cost, DDS-less Software Defined Radio full coverage receiver for all HF bands, used with powerful software on the PC for multi-mode operation

Constructing a functional spectrum analyzer for the 0-100 MHz range presents a significant challenge for radio amateurs, often requiring specialized components and careful calibration. This project details a homebrew spectrum analyzer design utilizing common integrated circuits like the _SA605D_ FM receiver IC and _MAR-6_ MMIC amplifiers, aiming for a cost-effective solution. The design incorporates a low-pass filter, RF amplification, a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) for downconversion, and multiple IF stages at 150 MHz and 10.7 MHz, with a resolution bandwidth (RBW) of 15 kHz. Critical components such as the _SBL-1_ mixer and varicap diodes are specified, alongside instructions for winding inductors and tuning filters. The analyzer's performance is discussed in terms of input level limitations, specifically the 1dB-compression point and third-order intercept point, to ensure accurate measurements and prevent component damage. The _SA605D_'s logarithmic Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) output serves as the detector, driving the Y-input of an oscilloscope, while a _TL084_ op-amp generates the sweep signal for the X-input. Potential enhancements include adding a step attenuator, improving front-end filtering, and implementing switchable IF filters for variable RBW, allowing for greater versatility in analyzing RF signals.

Forum thread comparing FT-60 to VX-6R

IC-2720H it will receive fine on 220MHz amateur band, but will NOT transmit there

Ham Radio On line shop, kenwood yaesu icom alincon ten tec dealer, antenna rotors, antennas, antenna mounts, microphones, antenna mas, receivers and scanners based in Essex England Uk

A page about fascinating Very Low Frequency and natural radio, with lots of streaming audio links from remote receivers. Some experimental stereo pairs around the world.

A three tube regenerodyne receiver by Gary Johanson, WD4NKA

Baofeng UV-5R extreme Receive Modification

Private homepage by DG8JZ with information about the VR5000 receiver including some usage tips. Mostly in german

All about the JRC NRD-525 receiver. Modifications, review, manuals, tipd and tricks

My first homemade SSB and CW receiver 10 kHz to 30 MHz

Offers Scanners, Shortwave, Wide-Band receivers, accessories from Icom, AOR, Sangean and Grundig.

SSTV1 Modem software is an AFM modem that runs on the TAPR/AMSAT DSP-93 hardware platform that can be used to receive and transmit Slow Scan Television(SSTV) signals.

A Simple Project: One Transistor TRF Regenerative RX

Demonstrates practical solutions for reducing **Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)** in amateur radio operating environments, specifically addressing issues with PC monitors, receivers, and transceivers. The resource compiles advice from experienced operators regarding the selection and application of ferrite cores, including split cores and toroidal cores. It details specific material types like **43, 73, 75, and 77 ferrite**, outlining their effective frequency ranges for RFI suppression, such as 43 material for 30-400 MHz and 77 material for 2-30 MHz. The content provides part numbers for various ferrite products from manufacturers like Fair-Rite Products Corp, distributed by Amidon, and discusses their impedance characteristics across different HF bands. It compares the performance of various ferrite materials at frequencies like 4 MHz, noting that 75 material offers 27 ohms, 73 material 17 ohms, and 43 material just under 10 ohms. Additionally, it touches upon the use of bypass capacitors in conjunction with ferrites to create low-pass filters, emphasizing the importance of identifying common-mode versus differential-mode RFI paths for effective mitigation.

A multiband WebSDR receiver system, located in Bolton, England accessible via the RSGB web site

Deciphering weak or noisy **CW** (Continuous Wave) signals often presents a challenge for amateur radio operators, particularly in contest environments or during DXpeditions. CWLab04X addresses this by providing a software solution that leverages **DSP** (Digital Signal Processing) capabilities of a soundcard to decode Morse code. It functions as both a receiver and a sender, supporting traditional CW and a unique "CCW" mode designed to enhance copyability of signals struggling against high noise floors. The program offers two installation methods: a Windows-specific installer for straightforward setup or a zipped package compatible with Windows and Linux systems running Wine. Users must first download and review the accompanying PDF documentation, CWLab04.pdf and CWLab04_Hardware.pdf, which detail the software's operation and the necessary soundcard interface circuit. The hardware PDF outlines a direct connection from the receiver audio output to the soundcard input, with optional conversion of the soundcard output for hard-keying or microphone input. CWLab04X is intended as an operational aid rather than a replacement for skilled human copy, particularly highlighting the effectiveness of its CCW mode in adverse signal conditions. The software was last revised in April 2009, with installation requiring the LV Runtime 602.

Supplier of custom designed, high performance quartz crystal filters for communications receivers and transceivers, for Yaesu Icom Kenwood and Collins radios

AOR USA Web site, manufacturer of base and mobile receivers, handheld receivers, digital voice modems, spectrum display units, frequency monitors and antennas

This receive only loop covers a frequency range of about 5 MHz to 22 MHz and is built from readily available parts.

This is a compact three transistor regenerative general coverage receiver with fixed feedback

open source software designed to control and program the ICOM IC-R8500 receiver

One specific challenge in the KazShack, operating Single Operator Two Radios (SO2R), involved sharing a K9AY receive antenna between two transceivers without direct RF connection or manual feedline swapping. The solution, detailed in this project, adapts the **W3LPL RX bandpass filter** design to split 160m and 80m signals, feeding them to separate radio inputs while maintaining isolation. This approach also addresses the issue of strong broadcast band interference from a nearby 50KW WPTF transmitter on 680kc. The construction utilizes T-50-3 toroids and NP0 ceramic capacitors, built in a "dead bug" style on copper clad board. Each band's filter coils are identical and resonated to the desired frequency using an MFJ-259 antenna analyzer. A single DPDT relay, controlled by a remote toggle switch mounted on an aluminum panel, facilitates quick band switching between radios, simplifying low-band operations. While some signal loss is noted, the expected lower noise levels from the receive antenna are anticipated to compensate, potentially reducing the need for constant volume adjustments during toggling between transmit and receive antennas.

SSB-electronic gmbh based in Germany produces coax cables and connectors, rf parts and components, SDR receivers and transceivers, transvertes, attenuators, coax relays, precision directional couplers.

This low power transmitter is developed for ARDF exercising purposes but of course can be used as super QRP transmitter either. With 1 or 2 meter wire as antenna and a ARDF receiver with ferrite-rod antenna the range is about 100m but with better antennas and a 'real' receiver the range is probably much larger.

This is a 6 band receive only filter designed to protect your receiver front end and provide 45dB reject at the stop bands. This is a 6-band receive only filter designed to protect your receiver front end and provide 45dB reject at the stop bands. Stop band reject may be limited by the relay isolation. Worse case isolation is at 28 MHz or 35 dB or better. Relay K3/K8 protects the filter during transmit via the PTT line. A 25-50ms delay must be used between transmit and PTT. Do not rely on your radio to provide adequate delay with out using the PTT. You logging software must be set to allow a delay between PTT and time of 1st transmit. This filter will not work with VOX or QSK keying as you will damage the filter.

Enables users to convert plain text into _Morse Code_ and, conversely, decode Morse sequences back into readable text. This web-based utility provides a straightforward interface for rapid translation, proving useful for both learning and practical application. It processes input efficiently, displaying the corresponding Morse or text output instantly. Operators can leverage this tool for generating practice copy or for deciphering received CW signals, making it a handy resource for those honing their code skills. The translator handles various character inputs, converting them into standard International Morse Code elements. This simple utility supports quick lookups and real-time conversions, facilitating a better understanding of CW structure and timing. It operates entirely online, requiring no software installation.

Sigmira is a free Software Defined Radio (SDR) application program that runs on Windows and Linux. It operates with with an external conventional receiver, RFSpace SDR-IQ, RPSpace SDR-14, or SDR-RADIO.com networked receiver

Supports both PSK31 and PSK63, sends and receives color thumbnail portraits by PSK63, displays 24 PSK63 channels simultaneously, and features semi-automatic mode selection between PSK63 and PSK31. Merely left-click on a PSK63 signal to copy, or right-click on a PSK31 signal to copy.

A GSM1800 Moxon Square antenna project is presented, detailing its construction using three 1.5mm copper wire pieces for the reflector and dipole elements. The design inherently offers a 50-ohm feedpoint impedance, allowing direct connection to 50-ohm coax without complex matching networks like baluns or gamma matches, which are prone to high attenuation at 1.8 GHz if not precisely built. The resource includes a construction plan, expected **SWR plots**, and **radiation patterns** for the GSM 1800 band, specifically covering the 1710-1785 MHz transmit (red zone) and 1805-1880 MHz receive (blue zone) segments. The SWR remains below 2:1 across the entire GSM 1800 band, with the main lobe consistently achieving 5-6 dBi gain. While the radiation pattern shows some changes across the band, these primarily affect the back of the antenna, maintaining consistent forward gain. Practical considerations for high-frequency operation are emphasized, such as minimizing coax length (e.g., under 1 meter for RG-174) and selecting appropriate connectors like N, SMA, or BNC to mitigate significant attenuation. The article also discusses direct connection to the phone's RF PCB for minimal loss and notes observed signal strength variations with antenna orientation despite crossed polarization at cell sites.

Differential Global Positioning Service (DGPS) is a land-based augmentation system that receives and processes signals from orbiting GPS satellites, calculates corrections from known positions and broadcasts these corrections via a Medium Frequency (MF) Transmitter to DGPS users in the Broadcast Site's coverage area.

CWRX, a freeware Windows application, decodes Morse code (CW) signals directly from a sound card's audio input, presenting the decoded text on screen. It supports various receive bandwidths and filtering options, allowing operators to optimize signal reception in different QRM conditions. The program's core functionality focuses on robust CW decoding algorithms, crucial for weak signal work and contesting environments. Developed by OZ1IVA, Lars Harbo, this utility provides a straightforward interface for real-time CW interpretation. It integrates basic logging capabilities, enabling users to record decoded transmissions for later review or contest submission. The software is specifically tailored for the Windows operating system, ensuring compatibility with common shack computer setups. Its design emphasizes ease of use for amateur radio operators seeking a dedicated CW decoding solution. The program's small footprint and direct functionality make it a practical tool for both casual listening and more intensive operating sessions, without requiring extensive system resources.

A comprehensive guide to receive Weather Satellites signals in wefax mode

VOAProp shows you typical propagation for a given hour of the day during a given month. The propagation is shown as expected signal strengths to be received from different parts of the world, plotted on a world map. Windows freeware by G4ILO

CWQSO allows you to practice sending and receiving CW in a real QSO!

Open source software designed to control and program the ICOM IC-R75 receiver

BaseStation is a Windows application written originally for the SBS-1 family of Virtual Radar Receivers.

glfer is a program for reception and transmission of QRSS/DFCW signals. It is composed of two main parts: the spectrogram window, where you can see the spectrum of the received signal vs. time the transmission functions, to emit cw characters at a slow but precisely controlled speed, using the QRSS (slow CW) or DFCW (Dual Frequency CW) modes

Windows remote control for Yaesu or Icom. Displays the current transceiver settings frequency, mode, and others on the PC in an old-fashioned way that corresponds to the look of receivers in 70's. DX-Cluster Watch (DCW) is an application that automatically refreshes a web page with the dx-cluster content, parses spot lines from it, keeps a consolidated list and inserts the spots to VLR as frequency markers by OK1FIG

This noise canceller is suitable for use with a receiver or transceiver and works on all modes, including AM, FM and SSB.

A means of sync-ing your computer clock using a GPS Receiver. GPS2Time is another GPS network time synchronization software application for Window 7 and higher. Freeware.

HF Weather Fax lets you receive marine weather radiofascimile transmissions on your iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. Just connect it to a shortwave radio tune in a weather fax frequency, and watch the images come in.

Open source software designed for the Yaesu VR-500 receiver.

Demonstrates the construction and measurement of a single-turn HF receiving loop antenna, built from common materials like electrical conduit and lamp cord. The resource details the physical dimensions, including a 4-meter circumference, and calculates the theoretical inductance at approximately _6.4 uH_. It outlines a method for determining resonant frequencies across the 4-17 MHz range using a _C Jig_ and a _VR-500 receiver_, coupling the loop with a ferrite ring. The article also discusses the impact of receiver coupling on the loop's Q factor, noting a degradation in sharpness due to the transformer's reflected impedance. Analyzes the observed resonant frequency patterns, highlighting an unexpected rise in the loop's effective inductance at higher frequencies, particularly above 13 MHz. While some increase is attributed to distributed capacitance, the rate of rise suggests further investigation. The experimental setup provides practical insights into the challenges of maintaining high Q in simple receiving loops and offers a comparative reference for other homebrew antenna projects, such as those by _VK2TPM_.

This is a packet radio software developed for amateur radio operators to provide IP communications. You can chat, send/receive e-mail, surf the web and so on via radio depending on your bandwidth. You don't need a TNC. You might have all of TNC features via SoundCard using SoundModem.

N6RK receive 4 square antenna with transformer coupled antennas and true hibrid combiner

Processing a single RTTY signal from a transceiver's 3-kHz audio, GRITTY employs _Bayesian statistics_ for superior decoding accuracy compared to traditional trial-and-error methods. This approach not only decodes 5-bit Baudot codes but also calculates the probability of error for each bit, enabling features like color-highlighting unreliable characters and smart squelching based on error probability rather than signal amplitude. This allows decoding of very weak signals while suppressing strong, undecodable interference, resulting in minimal garbage text. The program intelligently analyzes decoded text, comparing similar callsigns bit by bit and merging probabilities using the Bayes formula. This often allows GRITTY to determine the correct callsign and place it on the call stack even when all received copies are corrupt. The same methodology is applied to correct errors in exchange numbers and CQ/DE keywords, and to fix incorrect shift states. GRITTY offers an open API interface, documented in its Help file, for integration with other programs, allowing them to receive decoded data and mouse click events.