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SimSmith is a highly interactive, real time Smith chart graphing program. Circuits are constructed using drag-n-drop. Load files can be imported from the EZNEC and CocoaNEC antenna simulation software and from the AIM4170 and miniVNApro antenna analyzers. Circuits and load files can be of any size. Key Features: SimSmith is one of the few Smith chart packages which models transmission line losses. SimSmith also allows the description of circuit elements using algebraic equations. SimSmith has only one screen and allows the screen to be resized to increase workspace or readability.

If you are a ham and live in a modern urban or suburban development, putting up a highly visible antenna may make it difficult to stay friends with your neighbours.

Over 1.5 million US amateur radio call signs are managed by the FCC, and this online service assists operators in finding available vanity call signs. Users can specify desired **call sign suffixes** to narrow down search results, which are drawn directly from the current FCC database. The platform clarifies that some valid call signs, never previously held since online FCC record-keeping began, may not appear in search results; for such cases, a separate "call lookup" function is recommended to verify availability before applying. The service provides crucial guidance on the application process, noting that applications should generally not be filed before the indicated "Available Date" unless the applicant is a former holder or a close family member. It also dispels the common misconception that call signs are granted on a first-come, first-served basis on any given day. Instead, all applications received on a particular day are metaphorically "thrown into a hat," with a winner randomly selected. This mechanism ensures fairness in the assignment of highly sought-after **vanity call signs** across the US amateur radio community.

The Collins TRC-75 autotune linear amplifier, owned by JF2SVU, is presented with a focus on its internal modifications. This QRO amplifier utilizes three 4CX250 tubes in parallel for its final stage, delivering 1 KW output power. Notably, the amplifier achieves full power with only 100 mW of RF input, a characteristic often associated with Collins designs. The original 400 Hz power supply has been converted for easier shack integration, and the entire RF and power supply sections have been rehoused into a compact, clean enclosure. The control unit, positioned above the amplifier, features three meters for individual vacuum tube IP monitoring and a multi-meter on the right. A dedicated 7 MHz receiver, recently completed, is also part of this integrated system. The autotune functionality means the main amplifier unit only requires connections for power, control, and coaxial cables, simplifying its operation. Key components like the 4CX250 tubes and NF capacitors are visible, along with the gearing mechanism for the final tank circuit. A timer and relay system manages high-voltage delay and cooling fan off-delay, although the cooling fan's airflow is noted as somewhat insufficient. A central volume control, which experienced a contact issue, is also highlighted.

HB9DNU Karlheinz's blog, hosted on Blogger, presents a collection of personal reflections and observations, predominantly in German. The content spans various non-amateur radio subjects, including Swiss political initiatives, economic discussions concerning banks like UBS, and social commentary. For instance, an entry from February 2008 details the Swiss vote on a combat jet noise initiative, highlighting the debate between tourism concerns and national security. Another post from October 2008 critiques the 500 billion Euro bailout package for banks, calculating its per-capita cost for German citizens and referencing earlier blog entries from March 2006 and June 2007 that discussed UBS salaries and Raiffeisenbank issues. These entries often reflect Karlheinz's personal perspective on current events. The blog also includes lighter, more personal notes, such as a February 2009 entry about a video produced by his grandson, and observations on local events like a bird exhibition in Contone or a scenic train ride through the Centovalli, demonstrating a broad range of interests beyond the ham radio hobby.

ARRL Audio News contains highlights taken from the League's weekly publication, The ARRL Letter. ARRL Audio News is available via internet in mp3.

Construction details of a multiband dipole that can can operate at high power levels, and match its 50-ohm coax feedline without a tuner

A 50-ohm 10W resistor forms the core of this portable QRP antenna, designed by _K0EMT_ for convenient operation on 160m and 80m. The construction involves soldering the resistor to a BNC connector, with one lead to ground and the other to the center conductor, then insulating the assembly. This minimalist design aims to provide a highly portable solution for low-band QRP operations, acknowledging the inherent trade-offs between antenna size and efficiency. Testing with an antenna analyzer revealed low SWR on both 160m and 80m, with a Yaesu FT-817 confirming good matching. While 40m and 30m showed higher SWR, the primary focus remains on the lower bands. The author successfully tested the antenna with **2.5W CW** output, demonstrating its practical application for QRP field operations where ease of deployment is paramount, even if it means sacrificing some **gain** compared to full-sized antennas.

This program expedites the design of lumped-element diplexers using both the lowpass/highpass and the bandpass/bandstop topologies.

A bowtie antenna is a type of antenna that reputedly provides higher gain at lower radiation angles than a center-fed dipole antenna at heights considerably less than 1/2 wavelength above ground.

SM5BSZ article on building VHF RF amplifiers

Operating a specialized DX cluster, this service provides real-time DX spots exclusively from stations confirmed to be _Log of The World_ (LoTW) users. This unique filtering mechanism allows DXers to prioritize contacts with stations that are highly likely to upload their logs to LoTW, streamlining the process of achieving confirmed DXCC or other awards. The cluster aggregates data from various sources, presenting a focused view of active LoTW participants across multiple bands. By narrowing the scope to LoTW-active stations, the platform significantly reduces the effort required for QSL management, as users can confidently pursue contacts knowing a digital confirmation is probable. This targeted approach is particularly beneficial for contesters and DXpedition chasers aiming for rapid award qualification, offering a strategic advantage in identifying viable contacts. The service supports both web-based access and traditional telnet connections, ensuring broad compatibility for amateur radio operators. It processes thousands of spots daily, with a focus on delivering accurate and timely information relevant to LoTW users, facilitating more efficient and productive operating sessions.

Manufacturer of single band and multiband transceiver bandpass filters for HF. High pass filters, two radoi headphones mix and switch, 6 meter portable antenna, antenna remote switching and steering.

Are you suffering from TVI? Then why not try this filter for size. It is a three-stage high-pass filter that blocks low-frequency 50MHz signals while letting through UHF TV.

The Olivia transmission system is constructed of two layers: the lower, modulation layer is an (almost) classical Multi-Frequency Shift Keying (MFSK) and the higher layer is a Forward Error-Correcting (FEC) code based on Walsh functions.

RF and Microwave Power Amplifier and Transmitter Technologies, amplifierlinearity, efficiency and available RF power devices.

This circuit consists of microphone amplifier and a high pass filter. Suitable to improve signal readability.

Packet-Radio-Controller for amateur radio, CB and commercial applications. Data radios (transceivers), receivers and transmitters for high speed data communication Assemblies for satellite ground stations, special receivers and transmitters.

A High-End UHF Preamp for the VHF/UHF Dongle

Analyzing FCC amateur radio license issuance data, this resource presents monthly graphs and raw numerical statistics detailing the number of new and upgraded amateur radio licenses. The primary focus is on the impact of the Element 1 Morse Code test removal on HF privileges, specifically observing the transition rates from _Technician_ to _General_ and _Extra_ class licenses. Data is sourced from _QRZ Archives_ and processed using a custom Perl script to tally "Issued" licenses each month. The presented data, available in graphical, tabular, and raw XML formats, clearly illustrates the "spike" in General class upgrades following the rule change. It also highlights a consistent rise in new Technician licenses observed in March of both 2006 and 2007. While the dataset currently extends back to January 2006, providing a limited statistical snapshot for long-term Technician trends, it effectively captures the immediate climb in General class licenses.

FreqTweak is a tool for FFT-based realtime audio spectral manipulation and display for Linux, offering various algorithms for audio processing in the frequency domain and an interactive GUI. It provides high-resolution spectral displays like scrolling-raster spectrograms and energy vs frequency plots.

High Voltage Dummy Load 3000 OHMS, 5400 WATTS There are 45 layers of 6 resistors, each one being 400 OHMS @ 20 Watts for a total of 270 resistors

Building a high voltage (5KV), variable plate capacitor (17 to 220pF)

This article explores the performance of an unloaded elevated vertical, base matching and feed line as a multi-band HF antenna system.

The 2.1 kHz wide European LF allocation between 135.7 and 137.8 kHz is detailed in this observed band plan, offering guidance for activity within this narrow segment. It specifically addresses the challenge of locating weak signals, such as those from Slow-CW stations, which can have bandwidths of only a few Hertz. The resource emphasizes the utility of precise frequency knowledge when operating with narrow DSP filters, like a 30 Hz filter for CW, to differentiate multiple stations within a very small band segment. The plan, though not officially recognized, provides practical orientation for operators, particularly those new to the _LF band_. It references a similar plan published by the _RSGB_ in the January 2000 issue of _RADCOM_, suggesting a community-driven approach to band organization. The content highlights the importance of spectral awareness, noting that multiple stations can occupy minimal bandwidth, a concept illustrated by spectrographic analysis.

DX Propagation by DR2W! High resolution SNR maps in pseudo color. Propagation based on the actual sunspot number.

Operating an amateur radio station often involves community engagement, and the Anne Arundel Amateur Radio Club (AARC) exemplifies this with a focus on public service and emergency communications. The club maintains repeaters, provides an Elmer program for new hams, and conducts training and testing sessions, fostering skill development across various age groups and experience levels. Members participate in activities ranging from contesting to kit building, promoting technical proficiency and camaraderie within the local ham radio community. The AARC hosts regular meetings on the first and third Thursday evenings, creating opportunities for fellowship and knowledge exchange. Their commitment extends to programs designed for kids, YLs, OMs, and both new and experienced operators, ensuring a broad appeal. This club's structure supports continuous learning and practical application of amateur radio principles, aligning with the core values of the hobby. Their emphasis on emergency preparedness highlights a critical aspect of amateur radio's public service mission.

RFAC Solutions specializes in providing a range of RF components, including various connector types, cable assemblies, attenuators, and filters. Their product line features common connector standards such as SMA, BNC, TNC, N-Type, MCX, and MMCX, essential for reliable RF signal paths in amateur radio and commercial applications. The company also offers high-power VHF amplifiers, catering to needs for signal boosting in specific frequency ranges. Their offerings extend to dust caps and adapters, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and versatility of RF systems. The focus on supplying components from South Korea suggests a commitment to specific manufacturing standards and supply chain practices. This resource details a vendor's product scope, useful for hams sourcing specific parts for shack builds or antenna projects. Jeff is listed as a contact for inquiries.

LOGic presents a commercial logging software solution for amateur radio operators, detailing its capabilities for managing QSOs, controlling transceivers, and facilitating DX operations. The resource outlines features such as comprehensive logging functionalities, support for various operating modes, and integration with rig control interfaces. It emphasizes the software's long history, having been available since 1989, and its continuous development to meet the evolving needs of the amateur community. The software's practical application extends to contest logging, award tracking, and interfacing with external hardware like CAT interfaces for seamless rig control. The resource highlights its flexibility and feature set, positioning it as a professional-grade tool for serious DXers and contesters. Specific mentions of TRX-Manager and W1GEE indicate related or integrated hardware and developer involvement, providing context for its ecosystem.

TrunkStar785D is a high-performance, full-featured software package for Uniden® BC785D, BC250D, BC796D and BC296D digital trunking scanners. Data management, operational control and spectrum analysis features are provided.

Radio frequency systems require robust protection against transient voltage events, which can severely damage sensitive equipment. This resource details a range of **RF surge protection** devices, including models with DC Pass, DC Block, Bias T, and Ultra Low PIM characteristics, designed to safeguard critical infrastructure. It also presents various RF filtering solutions and interconnect components, emphasizing their role in maintaining signal integrity and operational continuity across diverse applications. The site provides information on products engineered for both RF and data line protection, highlighting their utility in preventing downtime and equipment loss. Specific product categories encompass coaxial protectors, grounding items, and fiber optic solutions, indicating a broad scope of application from amateur radio installations to industrial and telecommunications networks. Furthermore, the resource mentions the availability of NOM-certified products and offers same-day shipping for many items, underscoring a commitment to rapid deployment and compliance with industry standards.

The HamCall.net database offers a detailed listing of amateur radio callsign divisions, organized by prefix, which is crucial for DXers and contesters to quickly identify the geographical origin of a station. Each entry includes a specific callsign prefix, the total count of callsigns registered under that prefix, and the associated DXCC country or entity, such as "AL9Z 43203 USA" or "3AOH9MM 237 MONACO." This structured data allows operators to rapidly ascertain the DXCC entity for a given callsign, aiding in QSL verification and award tracking. This information is particularly useful for confirming rare DX entities during contests or for logging contacts for awards like DXCC. For example, an operator hearing a "3Y0C" callsign can immediately identify it as Bouvet Island, a highly sought-after entity. The inclusion of callsign counts provides a sense of the activity level within each prefix, which can be helpful for anticipating pile-ups or assessing the likelihood of making a contact. The data presented reflects a snapshot of the HamCall database, offering practical insights into global amateur radio demographics.

The NCDXF/IARU International Beacon Project operates a worldwide network of 18 high-frequency radio beacons, continuously transmitting on 14.100, 18.110, 21.150, 24.930, and 28.200 MHz. These beacons, initially launched in 1979 with a single station and expanded to the current 18-beacon system in 1995, provide reliable signals for both amateur and commercial users to assess current **ionospheric propagation** conditions. The system's design, construction, and operation are managed by volunteers, covering hardware and shipping costs. The resource details the evolution of the beacon network, including the transition from Kenwood TS-50s transmitters to Icom IC-7200 radios with a new controller design implemented in 2015. It explains how listening for these 100-watt signals, transmitted to vertical antennas, allows operators to determine band openings and optimal propagation paths globally. The content also references three QST articles providing historical context and technical specifics of the beacon project. Practical information includes methods for identifying transmitting beacons via a schedule or specialized software like FAROS and Skimmer, which integrates with the **Reverse Beacon Network** for automated monitoring.

Details Allied Wire and Cable's extensive product catalog, focusing on its role as both a distributor and manufacturer of specialized wiring solutions. The resource highlights the availability of electronic and electrical wire, various cable types, tubing, and pre-assembled cable solutions. It also specifies their capability in **custom cable design**, addressing unique requirements for specific applications. The site presents information on flexible cable options and a broad spectrum of wire and cable specifications, catering to diverse industrial and technical needs. It outlines the company's capacity to provide tailored solutions beyond standard off-the-shelf products, emphasizing their engineering and manufacturing expertise. Key offerings include **coaxial cable**, connectors, and general wiring components, positioning the company as a comprehensive source for connectivity infrastructure. The content implicitly supports applications ranging from industrial automation to specialized radio frequency installations.

Details the Northern Amateur Relay Council of California (NARCC) as the regional coordinating body for amateur radio repeaters operating on the 10-meter band and above. It outlines NARCC's function in managing frequency allocations to minimize interference and ensure efficient spectrum use across Northern California. The resource specifies that NARCC operates in cooperation with the FCC and ARRL, indicating its recognized authority within the amateur radio community. The organization's role centers on repeater coordination, a critical aspect of VHF/UHF operations where multiple stations share limited frequency segments. It highlights the support received from local amateur radio operators, underscoring a community-driven approach to spectrum management. The site serves as a primary reference for hams seeking to establish or operate repeaters within the designated service area. NARCC's activities directly impact the operational landscape for _VHF_ and _UHF_ enthusiasts, providing essential guidelines and coordinated frequencies. This ensures orderly communication and prevents conflicts, particularly in densely populated areas of Northern California.

The _National Contest Journal_ (NCJ) serves as a dedicated resource for amateur radio contesters, providing in-depth articles, operational strategies, and technical insights. Published bimonthly by the ARRL, it covers a wide array of contesting topics, including antenna systems, station optimization, operating techniques, and rule interpretations for major events like the NA Sprint and various QSO Parties. The journal aims to enhance the competitive edge of participants across all skill levels, from casual operators to serious multi-operator teams, by sharing experiences and data from high-scoring stations. NCJ content frequently includes detailed analyses of contest results, offering breakdowns of scores, participant statistics, and comparisons of operating strategies. Readers can find practical advice on improving their contest performance, such as optimizing logging software usage or maximizing **run rates**. The journal also features columns on specific contest modes like RTTY and provides updates on rule changes and upcoming events, helping contesters prepare for future competitions and achieve better results, often leading to **top 10** finishes in their respective categories.

Optimizing a G5RV or ZS6BKW multiband wire antenna for HF operation often involves addressing common SWR issues and understanding feedline characteristics. This resource chronicles the construction and performance evaluation of a G5RV, initially built for 80m, 40m, 15m, and 10m bands, by a newly licensed Foundation operator. The author details the selection of materials, including 3.5 mm stainless steel wire for the doublet arms and enameled copper wire for the open-wire feeder, and the initial decision to omit a balun based on common online information. The narrative highlights the initial disappointing performance, characterized by high receive noise and poor signal reports on 80 meters, despite the transceiver's internal ATU achieving a 1:1 match. This led to experimentation with a coax current balun and further research into G5RV myths, such as SWR claims and the necessity of a balun. The author then describes modifying the antenna to the ZS6BKW configuration, which involves specific changes to the doublet and feedline lengths, and integrating a 1:1 current balun wound on a ferrite toroid. The modifications resulted in improved reception and transmit performance across the bands.

17-Element Very High Frequency/Ultra High Frequency Log Period Dipole Array

High Gain Wi-fi Helical Antenna by AB9IL

Presents a curated collection of newsletters dedicated to _Earth-Moon-Earth_ (EME) communications, primarily focusing on the 432 MHz band and higher microwave frequencies. The resource details various EME DX experiences and news contributions from operators like K2UYH (W6/PA0ZN), offering insights into successful moonbounce contacts and operational strategies. It serves as an archive of specialized content for those engaged in or interested in extreme weak-signal propagation via the moon. The newsletters provide practical information on achieving EME contacts, often including details on station setups, antenna arrays, and signal reports from challenging DX. For instance, operators might report achieving contacts over **750,000 km** round trip, demonstrating the feasibility of long-distance communication on UHF and microwave bands. The content differentiates itself by concentrating on the unique technical and operational aspects of EME, which contrasts significantly with terrestrial DXing, providing a specialized knowledge base for advanced amateur radio operators.

The rhombic antenna is often claimed to be an exceptionally good antenna with very high gain. Modelling rhombic antennas

HamRadioBug.com the new home for Electronic Equipment Service. Yaesu high-end series SSB/CW transceiver repair

N4PY Software is your source for high quality, effective rig control software for your transceiver. N4PY offers rig control software for a wide variety of receivers from the Elecraft K3 to the Ten Tec RX 320 receiver and it is major equipment integrator supporting panadapters, winkeyer, Tmate2 or FlexControl

The _Italian VHF Beacons_ resource provides a detailed listing of active and QRT amateur radio beacons operating across VHF, UHF, and SHF bands within Italy. Each entry specifies the beacon's callsign (e.g., IQ1SP/B), operating frequency (e.g., 144.411 MHz), QTH locator (e.g., JN44VC), effective radiated power (ERP) in watts, and antenna configuration (e.g., Big Wheel, 4x Dipole, Yagi). This data is crucial for radio amateurs involved in propagation studies, equipment testing, and long-distance (DX) communication on these higher frequency bands, offering fixed signal sources for monitoring. This compilation, last updated in October 2005, serves as a historical snapshot of Italian beacon activity. For instance, it lists several 144 MHz beacons with ERPs ranging from **0.1W** to **10W**, and higher frequency beacons such as I8EMG/B on 1296.880 MHz and I3EME/B on 24192.132 MHz. The inclusion of QRT (Quiet Radio Teletype) status for many entries indicates the dynamic nature of beacon operations over time. Users can utilize this information to identify potential signal sources for band openings or to calibrate their receiving equipment against known transmissions.

Optimizing the ZS6BKW antenna for full HF band coverage often requires specific modifications beyond its standard configuration. This resource details several enhancements, beginning with a simple series capacitor to improve 80m SWR, a technique W5DXP found effective for permanent installation due to its minimal impact on higher bands. Further improvements include a 10-inch parallel open stub for 10m resonance, shifting the frequency to 28.4 MHz with an SWR of approximately 1.8:1, a practical solution for Technician class operators. The document then explores a switchable matching section, adding or subtracting one foot of ladder line at the 1:1 choke-balun, which significantly impacts higher frequency bands and eliminates the need for a tuner on 17m. W5DXP's _AIM-4170D_ antenna analyzer measurements confirm these effects. More advanced modifications involve a parallel capacitor for further 80m SWR reduction, requiring remote switching for multi-band operation, and relay-switched parallel capacitors at specific points on the 450-ohm matching section to achieve low SWR on 60m, 30m, and 15m. These detailed steps, including _Smith chart_ analyses for the challenging bands, aim to transform the ZS6BKW into a truly all-HF-band antenna, reflecting W5DXP's practical experience in antenna tuning.

The ZS6BKW multiband antenna, an optimized variant of the classic G5RV, features a 102-foot (31.1 m) horizontal span and a 39.1-foot ladder line matching section. This design, derived by G0GSF (formerly ZS6BKW) in the early 1980s using computer programs and _Smith charts_, aims for improved SWR across multiple HF bands compared to its predecessor. Construction details specify Wireman 554 ladder line and #14 AWG THHN copper wire for the radiators, with precise instructions for determining the velocity factor (VF) of the ladder line using an antenna analyzer or dip meter, ensuring accurate physical length for the matching section. The radiator length is electrically 1.35 wavelengths for the 20-meter band, requiring careful trimming during tuning. Field measurements with an _AIM-4170C_ analyzer by KI4PMI and NC4FB demonstrated good SWR curves and bandwidth on 6, 10, 12, 17, 20, and 40 meters. The antenna was deemed unusable on 15 and 30 meters due to very high SWR, but an LDG AT-100PRO autotuner successfully brought 6 and 80 meters into tune. Contacts were made on 80, 40, 20, and 17 meters, including a **17-meter** contact to Spain. EZNEC models for 80-6 meters are provided, along with an AutoEZ model by AC6LA, which predicted good SWR for 80-10 meters. W5DXP's modifications for an all-band HF ZS6BKW are also referenced.

How to build a slingshot antenna launcher. Slingshot antenna launchers are used to launch a line over a tree branch, so antennas can be suspended from high up trees

Examines PSKGNR, a software front-end specifically engineered to augment the functionality of existing PSK31 applications such as PSK31SBW and PSK31EVM. The resource details how PSKGNR integrates capabilities like typeahead for faster text entry, macro support for automating common phrases or commands, and other operational enhancements that streamline the PSK31 digital mode experience. It outlines the program's role in improving user interaction and efficiency during PSK31 QSOs by providing a more robust interface over the base software. The content highlights the practical benefits for digital mode operators seeking to optimize their workflow and reduce repetitive tasks. It positions PSKGNR as a utility for refining the user interface and adding advanced features to established PSK31 software platforms.

Sometimes many VHF-UHF modern transceivers have problems with BROADCAST Interference and CROSS-modulation from FM commercial broadcast stations this article shows a simple Batteworth HI-Pass VHF Filter to reduce this problem

This Forum is use to discuss the monitoring of the Lehigh Valley, PA