Search results

DXChrono Desktop presents a comprehensive suite of real-time amateur radio data, including NOAA solar indices, HF band conditions, and a worldwide _F5LEN tropo_ overlay for VHF openings. It integrates live spots from Telnet DX Cluster, PSK Reporter, and Reverse Beacon Network, displaying them on a dynamic 3D globe or 2D flat map. Additional features include aurora and MUF layers, QTH display with optional cities and grid/CQ/ITU layers, and dedicated support for SOTA and POTA activations. The software also offers a Watch List for callsign alerts and Sun/Moon Az/El widgets for satellite and EME operations. The application provides extensive contest and logging context through integration with _N1MM Logger+_ UDP, Cloudlog API, QRZ Logbook, and ADIF file support, allowing recent QSOs to be mapped directly. A Special Event mode is available for club stations, enhancing field day operations. DXChrono Desktop runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi 4/5, requiring a 64-bit OS and at least 4 GB RAM for optimal performance, distinguishing it from simpler HamClock-style appliances.

Collection of several topics on antenna tuners and their performance. Why use an antenna tuner? How does an antenna tuner…tune Does an antenna tuner fool the radio? Will an antenna tuner waste power? Can an antenna tuner help get more power to the antenna?

Presents various amateur radio topics through blog posts, detailing operational experiences and technical insights from the perspective of SV2YC. The content frequently discusses antenna projects, such as a **portable 20m/40m dipole** designed for rapid deployment, and explores the performance characteristics of different wire configurations in varied field conditions. Observations on propagation and band activity across the HF spectrum are also regularly documented, providing practical context for fellow operators. Specific entries often include detailed accounts of **DX contacts** and participation in minor contests, outlining station setup, power levels, and antenna choices. The blog also covers modifications to commercial transceivers and homebrew accessory construction, offering practical advice on improving station efficiency and functionality. Further posts delve into software applications for logging and digital modes, sharing configurations and operational tips for maximizing their utility in daily amateur radio activities.

The Elecraft KX2 is presented as a highly portable QRP transceiver, covering 80-10 meters with SSB, CW, and data modes. Key specifications include its remarkably light weight of only **13 ounces** (0.3 kg), an optional internal 2.6 Ah Li-ion battery, and an internal wide-range automatic antenna tuner (ATU). This _software-defined radio_ (SDR) architecture incorporates advanced DSP features such as dual watch, noise reduction, noise blanking, and autonotch, alongside built-in PSK31/RTTY data mode operation without requiring an external PC. Designed for maximum portability, the KX2 measures 5.8 x 2.8 x 1.5 inches and delivers up to **10 watts** of output power. Its low current drain of 135 mA allows for up to 8 hours of typical operation on a single battery charge, making it suitable for field deployment. The transceiver also features a built-in microphone for HT-style use and is compatible with the KXPA100 amplifier, offering versatility for various operating scenarios from desktop to mobile or handheld.

SimpleHRR is a free ham radio remote control web application (or web app) hosted by Raspberry Pi in the ham station to remote control a ham radio HF transceiver through a supported web browser from a Desktop PC, Laptop or Android phone. Supports recent ICOM IC-7x series transceivers

Microwaves101 provides an extensive repository of information covering fundamental principles of microwave design, targeting engineers and radio amateurs interested in the higher frequency spectrum. The site features a detailed _encyclopedia_ of microwave terms and concepts, alongside practical design considerations for various components and systems. It serves as a foundational reference for understanding RF propagation, transmission lines, and active/passive microwave circuits. The resource includes numerous calculators for impedance matching, filter design, and other critical RF parameters, facilitating hands-on project development. Discussions on **10 GHz** equipment and **24 GHz** projects highlight practical amateur radio applications, extending to operations up to 134 GHz. Content spans from basic theory to advanced topics like MMIC design and antenna characteristics, supporting both educational and practical endeavors in microwave technology.

how I learned to stop worrying and love the magic smoke

QSO Relay is a Windows desktop application that listens for contacts being forwarded from WSJT-X/JT65-HF and JTAlertX and write to Ham Radio Deluxe Logbook v6.x database

The 2D0YLX Amateur Radio Blog, maintained by David Cain (137AT108), serves as a personal station blog from Peel in the Isle of Man, offering insights into various radio-related activities and local connections. It features content relevant to amateur radio operations, including personal experiences and observations from the island, providing a localized perspective on the hobby. The blog's primary focus is on general amateur radio topics, reflecting the author's engagement with the hobby. David Cain's blog provides a platform for sharing operational details and general interest items, often including links to other relevant sites on and around the Isle of Man. The content reflects real-world amateur radio engagement, offering practical glimpses into the daily activities of a station located in a unique geographical area. It is a resource for those interested in the personal side of amateur radio from a specific European island QTH.

Illustrates the fundamental principles of radio repeaters, detailing their role in extending communication range beyond line-of-sight limitations. It begins by defining _simplex communication_ as a direct radio-to-radio link, effective only when no obstructions impede the signal path. The resource then introduces the concept of a repeater (or base station) strategically positioned on elevated terrain, such as a mountain, to overcome geographical barriers. The article clarifies the repeater's operational mechanism: it receives a signal on one frequency and simultaneously re-transmits it on a different frequency, enabling users on opposite sides of an obstruction to communicate. This _duplex operation_ is likened to satellite communication for VHF propagation, but with a fixed terrestrial station. Specific examples of signal paths are provided, showing how a handheld radio transmits up to the repeater, which then relays the message down to another user, effectively bypassing obstacles like hills or large buildings.

The _RS Group_ (formerly Distrelec) provides a comprehensive online store for electronic components, catering to both industrial and amateur radio needs. This resource offers a wide array of parts, including semiconductors, capacitors, resistors, relays, sensors, and power supplies, essential for constructing and maintaining amateur radio equipment. The platform emphasizes efficient procurement and features various top-level categories for easy navigation, such as **Sensors** with 33 subcategories and **Relays** with 13 subcategories, supporting diverse project requirements. Beyond component sales, RS Group offers services like ISO- and DAkkS-certified calibration for over a thousand measuring devices, and e-procurement solutions for businesses. The site also promotes _DesignSpark_, a community and software suite for electronic designers, aiding in the realization of design ideas. This integration aims to provide enhanced local support and a broader product selection, facilitating everything from basic circuit builds to complex industrial automation projects.

The Newbury and District Amateur Radio Society (NADARS), operating under the callsign G5XV, details its extensive history spanning **104 years** and its operational activities. The resource outlines regular monthly meetings held at Acland Hall, Hermitage Rd, Cold Ash, RG18 9JH, typically featuring informal lectures on radio-related topics. It also highlights the club's engagement in various social and radio events, including participation in contests such as _IOTA_ and _NFD_. NADARS maintains regular daily nets on both 2M and HF bands, providing specific details for members to join. A significant annual event is the Newbury Radio Rally, hosted each summer at the Newbury Showground, which attracts visitors nationwide and features radio and computing sales, club stands, and live demonstration stations. Information on upcoming events, including the next Newbury Radio Rally scheduled for July 5th, 2026, is also provided.

The Utah Amateur Radio Club (UARC), holding the callsign _W7SP_, provides a comprehensive resource for amateur radio operators, particularly within Utah. It details club activities such as Field Day, Winter Field Day, and annual social events like the Steak Fry and Christmas Dinner. The site also lists club resources including repeaters, _IRLP_ information, HF remotes, and a lending library. Information on becoming a ham, exam schedules, and a local repeater list are also available, catering to both new and experienced operators in the region. UARC hosts regular meetings on the second Thursday of each month, excluding July and August, at the University of Utah's Warnock Engineering Building, with presentations on topics like weather and _Skywarn_. The club publishes the monthly _Microvolt_ newsletter and maintains a YouTube channel for meeting playback. Additionally, UARC offers a Ham Hotline for questions and provides access to an "Elmer" list for mentorship, supporting the local amateur radio community.

The amateur radio listener for when you're not on the radio. Repeater-START, the offline repeater listing app for Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi, Ubuntu, Librem Phone is available, Now with grid square display, topographical maps and frequency preferences

This page presents an online calculator tool for determining the dimensions of various HF wire antennas operating between 1.8-30 MHz. Users input their desired resonant frequency to obtain precise measurements for four popular antenna types: standard flat-top dipole, inverted Vee, quad loop, and equilateral delta loop. The calculator provides comprehensive measurements including leg lengths, minimum heights, horizontal spreads, and feedpoint distances. Accompanying the calculator are detailed technical explanations, construction notes, and installation guidelines for each antenna type, making it a practical resource for amateur radio operators building their own antennas.

Ground Station offers real-time satellite tracking and radio communication capabilities, primarily for amateur radio operators engaged in satellite operations. It utilizes **TLE data** from sources like CelesTrak and SatNOGS for precise orbital prediction and integrates with various SDR devices, including RTL-SDR, SoapySDR, and UHD/USRP radios, to receive live signals. The software provides automated antenna rotator control and **Hamlib-compatible** rig control with Doppler correction, crucial for maintaining signal lock on fast-moving LEO satellites. It supports IQ recording in SigMF format and decodes several digital modes such as SSTV, FSK, GFSK, GMSK, and BPSK with AX25 USP Geoscan framing. Dedicated interfaces are available for satellite tracking, SDR waterfall displays with live transcription and packet decoding, and telemetry packet viewing. Users can manage TLE data synchronization and SDR hardware, along with browsing decoded outputs through an integrated file browser. An observations dashboard and DSP topology view further enhance the operational experience, providing comprehensive tools for monitoring and analyzing satellite passes.

Txtopia provides a browser-based Morse code translator that converts plain text to International Morse Code and decodes Morse back into text, supporting various Unicode dot and dash representations. The tool automatically detects translation direction, normalizes common input variations like middle dots (·), bullets (•), em dashes, and underscores, and explicitly flags unsupported characters or ambiguous sequences with visible placeholders rather than silently dropping them. It accepts spaces, tabs, newlines, and pipes as letter separators, and slashes or blank lines for word boundaries, recording collapsed separators for user review. Users can adjust playback speed from 5 to 40 WPM and tone frequency from 300 to 1000 Hz for CW practice, with playback adhering to international Morse timing. The application operates entirely client-side, ensuring user input remains in the browser without server transmission. It includes a comprehensive reference for the supported Morse alphabet, numbers, and punctuation, aiding in learning and verification. The tool is suitable for checking game clues, verifying tattoo designs, and transcribing messages for ham radio CW practice.

The _G3TSO_ Mobile Antenna Page details construction and tuning methods for mobile antennas operating across **10 to 160 metres**. The content describes a Hustler-based design, optimized for RF performance and vehicle speeds, featuring centre loading. For optimal operation on various bands, the loading coil placement requires clearance from the vehicle body. Antenna resonance is critical for efficient mobile operation. A mobile antenna's base impedance may be as low as 27 ohms, requiring specific matching to achieve maximum radiation, as a minimum SWR at the transmitter does not always indicate resonance or maximum output. Tuning involves physical adjustment of antenna length to achieve resonance at the operating frequency. The _G3TSO_ page outlines a tuning procedure utilizing a low-power signal source and a field strength meter to identify maximum radiation before impedance matching. Loading coil placement, either at the base, center, or top of the antenna, influences radiation efficiency and mechanical stability for mobile installations. Centre-loaded whips, such as the Hustler design, offer a compromise between efficiency and stability, often for single-band operation. Helically wound antennas, including those for **28 MHz**, may present base impedances around 17 ohms, resulting in a 3:1 SWR at resonance. Low resistance grounding at the antenna base is also specified for optimizing performance and minimizing RFI during mobile operation. DXZone Focus: Mobile | Any | Antenna Tuning | HF

The AN-55A ATV Handbook PDF is a document providing information and guidance on Amateur Television (ATV) for hams interested in setting up and operating ATV systems. The handbook covers topics such as equipment, setup, operating procedures, and technical details related to ATV transmissions. It is a useful resource for hams looking to explore the world of ATV and engage in video communications through amateur radio. The content aims to educate and inform hams about the intricacies of ATV technology and operation.

This blog chronicles the development of an 80-meter vertical antenna for amateur radio operation. The author constructs a top-loaded vertical using fiberglass poles, achieving significant performance improvements over their previous end-fed wire antenna. Comparative testing using the Reverse Beacon Network and on-air contacts demonstrates 8-10 dB gain on the east coast. The project evolved to include 40-meter capability through a modified design featuring a four-wire vertical cage, loading coil, and strategic guying system. Despite challenges with signal wobble during windy conditions, the vertical consistently outperforms the end-fed wire, particularly for reaching distant stations during nighttime propagation.

The 80-meter Skyloop antenna, a top-performing HF antenna, excels in weak signal work, low-noise operation, and omnidirectional coverage. Ideal for fixed stations, it delivers strong performance at low power, outperforming many alternatives, including 80m half-wave end-fed antennas. Requiring significant space for deployment, it’s well-suited for NVIS and groundwave use. Though not portable, it’s cost-effective and durable, with minor maintenance needs. Tuning may require adjustments for optimal resonance. It’s a standout for base stations, though a lighter portable version could enhance its versatility.

Explains the fundamental purpose of a repeater, detailing how these automated relay stations overcome distance and terrain limitations for VHF/UHF communications. It traces the historical development from early Bell Telephone Labs "relay" stations in 1922 to Art Gentry, W6MEP's, pioneering K6MYK amateur radio repeater in the mid-1950s, which remains active today. The resource clarifies the distinction between simplex and duplex operation, including the unique function of a "parrot repeater" for single-frequency recording and playback. Delving into the internal workings, the guide breaks down a repeater into its core components: the antenna system, feedline (often _Heliax_ or hardline for minimal loss), duplexer, receiver, transmitter, and controller. It emphasizes the critical role of the duplexer in preventing receiver desensitization by isolating transmit and receive signals, even with distinct frequencies. The discussion highlights the importance of high-performance, durable antennas and low-loss feedlines, citing examples of equipment installed in the 1960s and 1970s that are still in perfect working order. Operating a repeater is also covered, with an explanation of frequency offset (e.g., the 600 kHz standard for 2 meters) and the function of _CTCSS_ (PL tone) for access. It outlines standard input/output offsets for various bands, from 6 meters to 23 centimeters, while noting regional variations. The guide also touches on features like autopatch and Digital Voice Recorders (DVRs), providing a solid foundation for understanding repeater technology and usage.

The Panther Amateur Radio Club is the student run radio club on Pitt's campus. The club's repeater sits 535 feet above the campus on top of the Cathedral of Learning.

Large collection of 1900's antique Radios for sale,Floor model, Cathedral, table top, Novelty, Battery, police and broadcast band image gallery

Amateur radio portable operation has a lot to offer, even if you are a shack sloth and have an awesome setup.

The **Nilex Morse Tutor** is an HTML5 web application designed to teach Morse code reception, adapting to user proficiency by adding new characters as readiness is detected. It prioritizes practice on less familiar letters, numbers, symbols, words, and phrases, while minimizing repetition of already mastered elements. The program offers multiple learning orders, including "Q7ZG..." (Ward/Jim's), "KMRS..." (PU5EPX/Koch), "KMUR..." (lcwo.net), "AENT..." (CWops CW Academy), "TEAN..." (Stephen C Phillips), "ANET..." (Vic VE3YT), and "ETI5..." (Ham Whisperer), alongside an alphabetical option. Users can customize the learning experience by enabling or disabling automatic progression, and selecting specific content categories such as numbers, symbols, words, phrases, QSO bits, Ham Radio Bands, X+Y=Z math, and units. Audio settings are adjustable for volume, speed (WPM), tone frequency, and keyshape/keying envelope, allowing for a personalized auditory environment. The interface provides visual feedback with blue bars indicating practice emphasis and gray bars for reserved characters, with clickable bars for manual character selection. Developed by "Nosey" Nick Waterman, VA3NNW, this tutor is based on earlier versions by Jim Wilson and a 1977 QST article. A significant October 2019 rewrite incorporated a new WebAudio sound library by AwesomeAidenW, improving offline functionality and mobile support. The content library was expanded to include 3000 top Google words, 2284+ General Service List words, ISO country codes, capital cities, US states, Canadian provinces, UK counties, common names, periodic table elements, quotes, Q-codes, electronic components, ham abbreviations, and example call signs. The software is distributed under the GNU GPL V2 license.

NPR (New Packet Radio) is a custom amateur radio digital protocol, designed by F4HDK to transport bidirectional IP trafic over radio links on the 70cm band. This IP protocol is optimized for point-to-multipoint topology, with the help of managed-TDMA. Bitrate is up to 500kbps. Home Made modem has a built-in ethernet port to connect to PC. To boost power a DMR amplifier is required to reach 20W. This project is an extension of HSMM - Hamnet - AREDN networks

Hello, I'm glad that you stopped by. In this site you will find some information about myself and much more interresting Ham Radio stuff.

The Story County Amateur Radio Club offers a wide variety of opportunities for persons interested in amateur radio. Among the yearly activities are programs on technical topics, radio operating activities, flea markets and sponsorship of ham radio classes.

A 13-foot total radiating element length is achieved by combining a Buddipole Long Telescopic Whip with 4 feet of modified tripod tubes, forming a low-profile, multiband antenna for **POTA** operations. The resource details the transformation of an Amazon Basics Aluminum Light Photography Tripod Stand, focusing on electrically isolating the top two radiating sections from the bottom support. John, VA3KOT, outlines component sourcing, including the 9-foot 4-inch fully extended whip, and emphasizes using adhesive copper tape for reliable electrical contact and conductive grease to prevent oxidation at tube connections. The construction process, while not requiring specialized tools, highlights careful assembly to ensure proper electrical conductivity and mechanical stability. The author's experience with this setup suggests its effectiveness for portable activations, offering a discreet profile compared to larger antenna systems. The design prioritizes ease of deployment and transport, making it a practical solution for operators seeking a compact yet versatile antenna for field use.

The **qrh-OS** application functions as a dedicated ham radio operating environment within Windows 10 and 11 systems, providing a consolidated platform for various amateur radio activities. It does not alter core system settings but instead presents a virtual desktop populated with specialized utilities and an integrated CAT radio system. This design aims to streamline the operator's workflow by centralizing tools often used for DXing, contesting, and general operating. Key features include a Telnet terminal for DX Cluster connections, real-time APRS tracking, and **CAT control** for transceivers, enabling one-click tuning from various integrated modules like Cluster, POTA, SOTA, WWFF, and Visual DX. The software also incorporates a worldwide Amateur Radio contest calendar, tools for Flora & Fauna activations, and displays for HF Low Bands Beacons and HF propagation conditions. Further utilities encompass a MeshCom Map, POTA Tunable, Reverse Beacons for WSPR network monitoring, SOTA Tunable, and a Timezone display. Visual DX offers an interactive globe showing DX stations and frequencies, while WebSDR/KiwiSDR access extends listening capabilities. An integrated IPTV player and real-time weather maps round out the comprehensive suite, all accessible within a single-window interface.

100 Watts and a Wire is a ham radio talk show was originally launched as an audio podcast on June 22, 2015. Today, you can see the show on YouTube. It features topical conversation, interviews and ham radio news. You can listen anytime by subscribing wherever you get podcasts.

The FT-991 is a nice small size and lightweight radio, it is perfect for portable operations. It can be carried along with a laptop computer as hand luggage in airplane. The weak point of this radio, is it does not have a separate RX antenna capability. Therefore i decided to add this feature. On the back side of the radio a BNC connector is added to connect the RX antenna and a switch is fitted to select between RX antenna or main antenna.

G6HKS Yagi Kits & Parts provides material kits for building high-performance PowAbeam Antennas, ideal for VHF/UHF enthusiasts interested in DXing. The kits feature advanced Yagi designs, including the unique ParAclip system, ensuring exceptional all-weather stability and minimizing detuning effects. With resources, tips, and support, the site aims to make antenna construction straightforward for amateur radio operators. The focus is on delivering top-tier performance at competitive prices, empowering users to build and enjoy their own high-quality antennas.

This article explores the nuanced design challenges of Band Pass Filters (BPF) in radio receivers, balancing low insertion loss, high stop band rejection, and narrow bandwidth. The focus is on the "Series-Trap, Shunt-C" topology, resonator count impact, and meticulous layout design for superior stop band performance across various frequency bands

Stop EMI RFI Interference in Off Grid Solar PV Systems, in this article the author provides hints on tracking down the EMI or RFI source, shielding and grounding in order to eliminate interferences on the whole HF and VHF ham radio bands

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.

For amateur radio operators interested in satellite reception, SatDump provides a comprehensive software solution for acquiring and processing live data from various orbital platforms. This general-purpose application handles all stages from the raw satellite transmission to the generation of usable products, supporting a wide array of _Software-Defined Radio_ (SDR) devices such as RTL-SDR, Airspy, and HackRF across Linux, macOS, Windows, and Android operating systems. It enables hams to decode and process signals from over 90 satellites and probes, including NOAA 15-18-19, Meteor-M, GOES, and Metop, facilitating live decoding of APT, LRPT, HRPT, LRIT, and HRIT links. The software's capabilities extend beyond basic image reception, allowing for the output of calibrated and georeferenced L1b products, including Sea Surface Temperature and Microphysics, which are suitable for scientific analysis. SatDump's robust DSP system is extensible, offering advanced users the ability to develop new RF links or test hardware TX chains using its _DSP Flowgraph_. Thousands of hams utilize SatDump to receive stunning real-time pictures and data, with the software capable of producing L1b products from more than **five satellite constellations** almost as fast as the satellite transmits the data.

This article published on QEX details measurements of tree conductivity and permittivity at HF frequencies, addressing a long-debated topic in amateur radio. N6LF conducted experimental impedance measurements on Douglas fir and maple trees using a vector network analyzer with rings of nails inserted into tree trunks. Results showed that tree conductivity increases with frequency while relative permittivity decreases, similar to soil characteristics. Measured conductivity ranged from 0.06 to 0.4 S/m at 10 MHz, aligning with values used in previous research. These findings validate that NEC modeling can reliably estimate trees' substantial impact on HF antenna performance.

OpenRTX is a free and open source firmware for digital ham radios. The firmware is designed with a top-down approach with the objectives of modularity, flexibility and high performance. Currently, it targets some Tytera Radioddity Baofeng digital radios

Focusing on the Indian amateur radio community, this resource provides a collection of articles covering news, technical tutorials, and DIY project instructions. It features content on various aspects of ham radio, including club activities, circuit ideas, and general information relevant to operators in India, often referencing local events and regulations. The site serves as a central point for information exchange within the region. The author, VU3HZW, shares insights and practical guidance, drawing from personal experience to present topics such as antenna construction and station setup. The content aims to support both new and experienced hams, with articles detailing specific projects and offering practical advice for improving station performance or engaging in local ham radio activities. For instance, one article might detail a simple _QRP transceiver_ build, while another could discuss optimal antenna placement for **local nets**.

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.

This page provides information on how to design an Off-Center-Fed Dipole (OCFD) antenna, suitable for amateur HF bands like 80 meters or 40 meters. The antenna design allows for VSWR minima on multiple bands, making it a good choice for multi-band use. Learn how to create an OCFD antenna in either flat-top or inverted-Vee form using a single support. The page also offers tools to generate radiation patterns, VSWR charts, and antenna current diagrams for your specific antenna design, helping hams understand performance factors. Ideal for ham radio operators looking to build their own effective antennas.

This article presents a novel Top Loaded End-Fed Half-Wave (TLEFHW) antenna design for 20-meter ham radio operation. The antenna features a compact 14-foot vertical radiator with a capacitance hat configuration, eliminating the need for radials or ground systems. Using EZNEC modeling and field testing, the design achieves a 1.5:1 SWR across the 20m band with a 4.11 dBi gain. Key features include quick deployment, lightweight construction, and directional radiation pattern with 110-degree beamwidth. The design, while requiring a 45-foot footprint due to the top hat, offers an effective portable solution for amateur radio operators seeking a no-ground, no-tuner 20m antenna option.

The Big Gun's Guide" is a comprehensive exploration of low-band propagation, aimed at serious Amateur Radio operators. It delves into the complex physics of the ionosphere at lower frequencies, contrasting it with HF propagation. The book covers essential topics like ionospheric fundamentals, propagation mechanisms, magneto-ionic effects, and disturbances. It also addresses the challenges of low-band DXing and provides insights for overcoming them. Brown's work is detailed and technical, offering valuable knowledge for those seeking to master the intricacies of low-band communication

The _DX EXPLORER_ blog serves as a personal chronicle of amateur radio experiences, particularly emphasizing homebrew projects and DIY radio equipment. It provides insights into constructing various transceivers and receivers, such as the Minimalist CW Transmitter and the Sputnik Regenerative Receiver, offering practical guidance for those new to the hobby. The content often details the assembly and operation of low-cost kits like the $3 Pixie Transceiver, demonstrating accessible entry points into radio construction. Beyond building, the site also features reviews of commercial gear, including the Tidradio TD-H8 Radio, providing an operator's perspective on performance and utility. The author, YO6DXE, shares a learning journey, aiming to inspire fellow enthusiasts to engage with the technical aspects of amateur radio. This resource covers a range of topics from basic circuit explanations to practical operating tips, fostering a deeper understanding of radio principles. The blog's focus on personal experimentation and project documentation makes it a relevant resource for hams interested in hands-on learning.

If your FT-817 has stopped powering up from the internal battery but works from external power, then maybe the internal battery fuse has blown. There is a small PCB mounted fuse to protect the battery and radio. This fuse can blow, if it does your radio will not work from battery power. This page will describe how to test the fuse and describe how to make a repair.

Come learn why it is very difficult to predict propagation on the top band. Ionospheric Variability, Time Variations of Ionospheric Parameters, Atmospheric Gravity Waves, Ionospheric Absorption and The Role of Negative Ions.

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

The ZL1WTT resource details an experimental software-based Digital Amateur Television (DATV) system, demonstrating the multiplexing of up to six standard-definition (SD) and one high-definition (HD) channel utilizing _h264 compression_. The author encountered peak data rates reaching 32 Mbit/s, necessitating a shift to Freeview and Sky settings (22.5M Sym/s 3/4FEC) to manage bandwidth. The setup employs four networked computers, with a laptop functioning as the multiplexer to re-code PIDs for various inputs, including looped MPEG2 playlists, MPEG2 encoder card input from a VCR, satellite feeds, and an off-air UHF receiver. The system highlights the inherent flexibility of the DVB transport stream, supporting diverse formats such as MPG2, h264, AC3, and AAC. A significant advantage of this software-defined approach is the absence of video quality degradation from stored MPEG2 files to the displayed output, coupled with the ease of reconfiguring settings for MPEG2 encoder cards (e.g., size, bit-rate, frame rate, video input, coding format) and satellite receiver cards (e.g., frequency, LNB volts, symbol rate, FEC). The author also discusses the development of a new graphical user interface (GUI) using _Gambas_ for Linux, aiming to simplify configuration for this DATV project. Specific hardware components mentioned include Hauppauge WinTV PVR-150 and Nova-S plus cards, with a focus on optimizing analog video input via Y/C (S-video) to minimize frequency roll-off. The resource also provides insights into data rates for HD (1080i) content, recommending 8 to 12 Mb/s for optimal performance. Software utilized includes _Ubuntu Studio 10.04_, WinFF, VLC, and TMPGEnc Editor, underscoring the project's reliance on open-source tools and a foundational understanding of LAN networks and DVB transport streams.