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A page with several testing and measurement resources usefull for those ham radio operators who needs to align or repair their own radio equipment.

A multi tool Windows program that has been designed to offer the EMC RF and Radio Engineer a large variety of tools for Attenuation calculation, VSWR analysis, FIR Filter calculations, EMC system configuration, Radar testing , RF Filter calculation and much more without the need of a live internet connection.

The Itchen Valley Amateur Radio Club (IVARC) provides a local hub for radio amateurs in the Southampton and Winchester areas of the UK. This club actively participates in various UK contesting events, including the weekly _RSGB VHF UKAC_ contests, _RSGB AFS club contests_, and _BERU contests_, alongside annual UK field days. As a _Brickworks Accredited_ club, IVARC is committed to supporting both new licensees and experienced operators in exploring diverse aspects of the hobby, fostering skill development and operational experience. Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month at the Bianchi Suite, Otterbourne Village Hall, offering a consistent schedule for members and visitors. The club's recent activities include supporting _Jamboree On The Air_ (JOTA) for local Scout groups (e.g., GB1ESG), activating special event stations like _GB0SR_ from Solent Rescue Lifeboat Station, and organizing club visits to significant historical sites such as Bletchley Park. IVARC also hosts events like QRP Day and National Field Day, providing practical operating opportunities and fostering camaraderie among members.

Mount Greylock Expeditionary Force VHF/UHF Multiop Contesting Page

Presents amateur radio activities and experiences from JJ0LUU and JJ0LXF, two operators based in Japan. The weblog, hosted on shinshu.fm, documents their on-air operations, equipment setups, and general ham radio interests. Content often includes details about specific contacts, antenna configurations, and local operating conditions within the Japanese amateur radio community. The resource primarily focuses on personal operating logs and occasional technical discussions relevant to their station. It offers a glimpse into the daily life and pursuits of Japanese **amateur radio** operators, detailing their engagement with various bands and modes. JJ0LUU and JJ0LXF share their passion for radio communication, contributing to the broader online repository of individual ham radio narratives. The site serves as a digital logbook and informal platform for sharing their **DXing** and contesting endeavors.

How test transistors and diodes with a simple digital multimeter.

MARCA, Inc. operates approximately 24 repeaters across Arizona mountaintops and Phoenix-area rooftops, supporting modes like D-STAR and Fusion. The club, holding the **W7MOT** callsign, engages in diverse activities including ARRL Field Day events near Forest Lakes, AZ, ARRL FMT contests, and antenna experimentation. Members actively participate in HF operations such as voice, digital, CW, DXing, and various digital HF modes, alongside MESH and EOC operations within the valley. The club's interests span a broad technical spectrum, from SDR radio building to antique radio restoration, and include modern digital modes like WSPR, WSJT, FT8, and FT4. They also explore computer-based operations such as Echolink, fostering a dedicated Single Board Computer (SBC) and Raspberry Pi group. Monthly VE testing sessions for Technician, General, and Extra Class licenses are conducted by Ray Vasquez, K4RMV. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month, typically lasting two hours, with a business segment followed by a technical presentation. These gatherings occur in-person at IHop in Mesa, AZ, and concurrently via Zoom, accommodating both local members and winter visitors. Informal chat groups often form post-meeting to discuss specialized topics like D-STAR, SDR, APRS, MESH, and Fusion.

Master Callsign Database Editor allows to create and modify Super Check Partial database files used by many contesting programs in DTA and SCP formats. The files produced by Master Editor in DTA format can be used with CT, WriteLog, TRlog, SD, and others. The SCP versions of the produced files are for use with Win-Test, N1MM+, and others. Master Editor allows to create a callsign database from a separate log or from a set of logs in the Batch Import mode.

How to do a capacity check on your battery pack. Videos demonstrate how to test the capacity of a 4S 10Ah LiFePO4 Headway pack

The YM2XBU Bilkent University Amateur Radio Club website details the club's activities and operational focus within the amateur radio community. It serves as the primary online presence for the university's ham radio enthusiasts, showcasing their involvement in various aspects of the hobby. The site provides insights into the club's station setup, operational modes, and participation in local and international amateur radio events. Club members engage in DXing, contesting, and educational initiatives, fostering practical skills in radio communication and electronics. The _YM2XBU_ club callsign is actively used for on-air operations, contributing to the global amateur radio network. Information regarding membership, meeting schedules, and contact details for _Kagan SIRDAR_ are available, facilitating engagement for students and faculty interested in amateur radio.

A tutorial on how to get started operating RTTY using MMTTY as the primary program to begin your RTTY operations. Installing, configuring and using MMTTY. Documentation in English and Spanish

F5NPV explores the construction of a cost-effective 1KW dummy load for radio enthusiasts. Purchasing a commercial dummy load can be expensive, but with basic materials such as a metal can, resistors, mineral oil, and a heat dissipator, you can build your own. The article provides a simple guide to assembling the load, including the importance of testing for inductance. The DIY dummy load yields impressive performance, with an SWR of 1.2:1 across multiple bands and the ability to handle up to 1KW of power. This budget-friendly solution is a valuable addition to any radio shack.

Messi & Paoloni offers a range of RF coaxial cables, including the _Ultraflex_ series, specifically engineered for amateur radio applications. These cables feature advanced dielectric materials and high-density braiding, resulting in significantly reduced attenuation across HF, VHF, and UHF bands. For instance, the Ultraflex 7 exhibits a loss of only **2.5 dB per 100 feet** at 144 MHz, making it suitable for demanding DX and contesting operations. The company's product line also includes specialized connectors, such as N-type and PL-259, designed to maintain optimal impedance matching and minimize signal reflections. Each connector is precision-machined to ensure a secure, weather-resistant termination, crucial for outdoor antenna installations and long-term reliability. Messi & Paoloni emphasizes rigorous quality control, with all cables undergoing testing to ensure consistent performance and durability, supporting effective two-way radio communication.

Testing a Bencher YA-1 low-pass TVI filter with a spectrum analyzer with tracking generator.

A news site focused on DXing and contesting, DXNews.com provides daily updates on upcoming **DXpeditions**, contest announcements, and general **amateur radio news**. The site features a continuously updated feed of articles detailing call signs, operating dates, IOTA references, and specific contest participation plans for various DX operations. Content includes detailed reports on planned activities from rare and semi-rare DX entities, often with information on operators, bands, modes, and QSL routes. It also covers major amateur radio contests, offering insights into rules, participating stations, and results. The archive depth extends back many years, providing a comprehensive historical record of DX activity. This resource is ideal for experienced DXers and contesters seeking timely information to plan their operating schedules, track rare DX entities, and stay informed about the global DX scene. It also serves general amateur radio operators interested in following significant events and operations within the DX community.

When experimenting with the WellGood Loop antenna, I came across the PA0RDT MiniWhip design referenced in several places. The construction of the PA0RDT MiniWhip is simpler than the WellGood Loop since there are no inductors to wind, but during my testing, I have found the loop to have slightly better performance.

The Ontario QSO Party (OQP), an annual event, takes place on the third full weekend of April, specifically from 1800Z April 18 to 0300Z April 19, 2026, and 1200Z to 2000Z April 19, 2026. This **QSO party** encourages stations outside Ontario to contact as many Ontario amateur radio stations as possible, while Ontario stations work both in-province and worldwide. Key rule changes for 2026 include phone QSOs now counting equally with **CW** QSOs (2 points), the introduction of VE3RHQ as a bonus station, a 250m county line proximity definition, and a new Fixed County Line Category, alongside an adjustment of contest times. Established in 1998 by Bob Chandler VE3SRE, the OQP has been managed by Contest Club Ontario (CCO) since 2006. The event contributes to the State QSO Party Challenge, offering various award categories and maintaining records of past performance. Participants can submit activation plans, review Ontario multipliers, and access county maps. Final results and certificate winners are published, and a dedicated groups.io discussion group facilitates community interaction and support for logging software.

The Straits Area Amateur Radio Club (SAARC) operates a 146.68 MHz (-) repeater with a PL tone of 110.9, serving Northern Michigan for emergency communications and community support. A temporary cross-band repeater on 445.875 MHz is also available during specific hours, enhancing local coverage. The club actively supports disaster services through its repeater infrastructure and coordinates local community events. SAARC provides resources for prospective hams, including information on licensing classes and testing sessions, and promotes amateur radio education. Members and interested individuals can join the club's Groups.IO group for updates and participate in the Bill DeMay _K8GUG_ Memorial Net, held weekly on Monday evenings at 8:00 PM on the primary repeater frequency.

QSK 2500 enhances HF amplifiers by enabling full break-in (_QSK_) operation, allowing for seamless communication during CW transmissions. This device supports **all** HF transceivers that are QSK-compatible, ensuring versatility across various setups. The QSK 2500 facilitates quick switching between transmit and receive modes, which is crucial for effective DXing and contesting. With its straightforward installation, operators can achieve **improved** responsiveness in their communications without the need for extensive modifications to their existing amplifiers. This project is particularly beneficial for those engaged in high-speed CW operations, where timing is critical.

Amateur radio operators in northwestern Wisconsin often seek local community and technical support, which the Barron County Amateur Radio Association (BCARA) provides. This organization facilitates regular meetings, nets, and events, connecting hams across the region for shared learning and operational experiences. Members engage in various aspects of the hobby, from contesting and DXing to emergency communications and technical projects, reinforcing local Elmering traditions. The BCARA maintains a presence on social media, including a Facebook group with over **100** members, enabling real-time communication and event coordination. The club also supports local public service events, demonstrating the practical utility of amateur radio. Their activities encompass both VHF/UHF operations and _HF bands_, ensuring a broad appeal to operators with diverse interests and equipment setups.

The "DIY Telescopic-V Antenna £35" project showcases the creation of a budget-friendly, portable telescopic V-shaped antenna inspired by commercial designs. Using eBay-sourced telescopic whips and custom mounting solutions, the author documents their process, testing, and adaptations. Despite challenges like weather and missing tools, the antenna performed well across multiple bands, enabling successful QSOs. Future improvements include exploring loading coils and testing in better locations. The compact design offers versatility for amateur radio enthusiasts seeking an affordable and practical solution.

An overview or summary of amateur radio / ham radio contests, contesting and a contest calendar of some of the more popular contests.

Presents Wayne Kerr Electronics, a manufacturer specializing in precision component measurement products. The company offers a range of LCR meters, impedance analyzers, and transformer test systems designed for various applications in electronics manufacturing and research. Specific product lines include the 3260B Precision Magnetics Analyzer, which measures inductance, capacitance, and resistance with high accuracy, and the 6500B series of LCR meters, capable of testing components across a broad frequency range up to 120 MHz. The 3255B and 3265B series provide solutions for transformer and inductor testing, including turns ratio, leakage inductance, and inter-winding capacitance measurements. These instruments are utilized in quality control, component characterization, and production line testing, ensuring performance and reliability in electronic circuits. Wayne Kerr's offerings support engineers and technicians in verifying component specifications.

Formed in 2010 by a group of hams whose core hobby interest is DXing and Contesting. The 599 DX Association members are unapologetic about their love and enthusiasm for this aspect of our hobby.

This is an explanation of the intended way to use TR LOG with two radios in the ARRL November Sweepestakes, CW. The concepts and techniques presented here can work for you in other contests, as most of the ideas are the same.

A spectrum analyzer is always an usefull amateur radio test equipment that should be present in a radio shack. Hams can use it for testing frequency response of filters, amplifiers, and other two-port RF devices. This article illustrate a tracking generator compatible with any spectrum analyzer in the Tektronix 490- and 2750-series lineups

Testing the Icom IC-7700 on the mediumwave broadcast reception by VA7OJ

Uderstanding Single Operator two radios amateur radio contesting mode, an article by CT1BOH

Receiving **GOES-16** and **GOES-17** weather satellite imagery requires a specific hardware and software configuration, detailed in this practical guide. The author outlines the necessary components, including a Raspberry Pi, an RTL-SDR dongle, a suitable LNA with SAW filter for 1.69 GHz, and a parabolic grid antenna. This setup enables direct reception of high-resolution weather data, a fascinating aspect of amateur radio satellite operations. The installation process begins with preparing the Raspberry Pi, followed by updating the system and installing essential dependencies like `git`, `build-essential`, and `cmake`. A critical step involves compiling and installing `librtlsdr` from source, ensuring proper driver setup and blacklisting conflicting DVB drivers. The guide then walks through testing the RTL-SDR dongle to confirm device recognition and troubleshoot common issues like USB power or driver installation problems. Finally, the instructions cover cloning and building `goestools`, a software suite essential for processing the satellite signals. This compilation, while time-consuming on a Raspberry Pi, is crucial for decoding the raw data into usable imagery. The guide concludes with the initial steps for creating the `goesrecv.conf` configuration file, preparing the system for active satellite reception.

A multi-plaform CW-Trainer program (already tested on Windows and Linux Ubuntu, now testing on Raspberry Pi), multi-skin and it will provide different learning programs.

The Tyler County Amateur Radio Association (TCARA) serves as a focal point for amateur radio operators in Woodville, Texas, and surrounding areas, emphasizing knowledge sharing and skill advancement among its members. The association actively participates in public service communications, including _ARES_, _RACES_, and _Skywarn_ initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to community support through amateur radio. Regular meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 6 PM at Calvary Baptist Church, 909 N Magnolia St, Woodville, TX, providing a consistent venue for fellowship and operational planning. TCARA facilitates amateur radio license examinations, offering testing sessions for all license classes, from Technician to Amateur Extra. This commitment to education supports new hams entering the hobby and existing operators upgrading their privileges. Prospective members or individuals interested in licensing, Technician classes, or general club activities are encouraged to reach out via email for further information, indicating a direct channel for engagement.

This article introduces an Arduino-based QRP CW Transceiver designed for lower HF bands. The journey begins with the Wotduino, evolving from a keyer to a multi-mode beacon. The development includes a QRP transmitter and culminates in a receiver inspired by Roy Lewallen design. The transceiver, controlled through a control bus features a signal path, modulation, filtering, and adjustable frequency settings. Despite initial testing intentions, successful QSOs on 80 and 40 meters showcase its functional capabilities.

This article documents the author's journey in building, modifying, and testing a DIY short vertical antenna for 40, 30, and 20 meters, with potential 80m capability. Initially inspired by Parks On The Air (POTA), the author explores pedestrian mobile operation and details various experiments to enhance antenna performance. The piece highlights challenges, SWR tuning, portability, and practical results, emphasizing a balance between efficiency and size. Ultimately, it showcases the adaptability of DIY antennas for portable ham radio applications.

TE Systems 0510G 50 MHz meter amplifier set up for 10 watts in and 170 watts out.

The Shiawassee Amateur Radio Association (SARA), operating under the call sign W8QQQ, serves as a non-profit amateur radio organization in lower central Michigan's Shiawassee County. Its primary objectives include public service, emergency communications, and advancing amateur radio through education and technical excellence. The club maintains a weekly _Skywarn_ 2m net on the N8VDH repeater at 147.02 MHz (+.6 MHz, 100 Hz tone) every Monday at 7:00 PM, actively seeking more local hams to participate. SARA also facilitates VE testing, with upcoming sessions like the one scheduled for April 23, 2026, at 6:30 P.M., requiring pre-registration by April 20. SARA holds monthly meetings at the James P. Capitan Building in Corunna, typically on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM local time, excluding December's social event. They offer Zoom meeting options for members unable to attend in person. Annual dues are $15.00, with a reduced rate for new licensees, making it a very low-cost club. The organization actively seeks more EMCOMM assistance from all Shiawassee County hams, not just club members, to bolster their ARPSC (ARES/RACES) capabilities, noting that only about **10** out of **200+** county hams are currently active in ARES. They also maintain a Google Group, "W8QQQ," for electronic notifications and club communications.

a 20M quarter-wave vertical antenna with a 6m telescopic mast, 1:1 balun, and spiral-wound driven element. Designed for QRP at 14.285 MHz, the antenna’s performance exceeded expectations, delivering low SWR and surprisingly quiet reception. Initial testing yielded successful contacts with European stations and EC1KR, showcasing its effectiveness. Compact and easy to deploy, the antenna promises to be an excellent portable solution for future hilltop operations.

Intrigued by a German OM positive experience with a 20m delta loop, the author replicated the design, noting its favorable 50-ohm impedance compared to their 40m version. Testing against a vertical EFHW, the delta loop excelled within EU but lagged at longer distances. Despite needing more testing, the user leaned towards the EFHW for its overall performance and practicality.

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.

How to setup and work SO2R with N1MM the popular free contest logging software

A comprehensive overview of a 10-band attic antenna system developed for contesting and DXing is presented, covering its evolution and performance. Initially intended in a restricted location, the system has been developed through numerous iterations, using various antenna types such as delta loops and Yagis. Automatic switching, dual-direction capability, and optimum tuning for certain band segments are among the most notable features. The project not only improves operating efficiency but also provides great learning opportunities in antenna design and installation in restricted places.

HF contesting is a rising aspect of amateur radio that can be enjoyed (at any level) throughout the year. There are HF and LF contests almost every weekend and on some weekday evenings. Learn how to take part in HF contests.

A simple 2-tone-generator for testing the linearity of SSB transmitters. This device is as simple as useful. With 2 transistors and an oscilloscope, it is fairly easy to test the linearity of your SSB transmitter. The 2-tone-method is a standardized test method that can be used to determine the maximum output and the amplification characteristics of a sideband transmitter.

Explaining ARRL Technical Reviews of Radios a brief tutorial on radio testing. The ARRL Lab tests radio equipment according to standardized test procedures, using calibrated professional test equipment. Info on transmitter and receiver tests

The Noronha Contest Group is a DX and Contesting group formed by experiencied operators from Brazil with the aim to have fun and participate on the main Amateur Radio Contests & Activities. QSL info, log online and contest results

Homebrew a 9:1 transformer and measurement for testing purposes with a miniVNA

CW_Player is a freeware Morse code training program designed for aspiring and experienced radio amateurs. It generates Morse characters, Q codes, abbreviations, and random text, offering 20 customizable lessons for learning Morse code. The software includes a quiz for knowledge testing, CW signal monitoring to decode morse code live, and the ability to create personalized local characters. It generates .wav files for playback, supports Windows features like copy-paste, and integrates easily with transceivers for on-air training. Ideal for beginners, instructors, and hobbyists, CW_Player boosts confidence in CW operations.

Eaton provides a comprehensive suite of power quality solutions, ranging from compact single-phase isolation units to high-capacity megawatt sag correction systems. The resource details Eaton's engineering expertise in addressing diverse power quality challenges, emphasizing the distinction between DC resistance and apparent AC resistance under heavy current loads within AC power distribution systems. Specific **Marine-Grade surge protective solutions (SPD)** are highlighted, designed to safeguard critical safety and navigation equipment on vessels and rigs against unpredictable power transients in harsh environmental conditions. The company's commitment extends to providing appropriate solutions for critical power systems, ensuring quality installation. The site also features customer testimonials from entities like Federal Express, Kutztown University, J. C. Penney, and Fairchild Aircraft, attesting to the effectiveness of products such as 'The Protector' in preventing equipment damage and downtime.

This project details building a multi-band antenna for park activations. The author constructs a random wire antenna with a 9:1 UnUn for improved performance. Winding the toroid core proved challenging, but the completed antenna shows promising results in initial tests with an analyzer. Further field testing is planned for a future activation.

ADIF-to-QSL-label is a GitHub utility designed to generate print-ready PDF QSL labels from ADIF log files. Optimized for the Avery Zweckform 3664 format (A4, 3×8 grid), the tool accommodates up to four QSOs per label. While an HTML version is suggested, the Python script provides extensive customization via the reportlab library. Users can precisely calibrate the layout through single-point configuration, adjusting page margins, global X/Y offsets, and specific column or row nudges. Key features include dynamic column sizing, support for any ADIF field (such as RST or Mode), and debugging tools that print outlines and guides for alignment testing. Configuration is managed via the script, YAML files, or CLI arguments, requiring "Actual size" (100%) printer settings for accuracy.

The 222 MHz Transverter project, based on Zack Lau's (W1VT) original July 1993 QEX magazine design, provides an IF of 28 MHz for both transmit and receive paths. Rick Bandla (VE3CVG) contributed supplemental notes and construction details, including modifications to achieve 10 mW output power from an initial 4 mW PEP. The design incorporates three distinct boards: a Local Oscillator (LO), a Transmitter (Tx), and a Receiver (Rx), with an estimated parts cost of just over $150 CDN, significantly less than commercial kits. Construction involves both through-hole and surface-mount components, with specific guidance on mounting MAV and MAR devices, grounding techniques, and component selection. The project details include parts lists, schematics for the LO, Tx, and Rx, and board layouts. Troubleshooting advice emphasizes sequential testing, starting with the LO, then Tx, and finally Rx, using a 194 MHz and 222.100 MHz capable FM handheld for signal tracing. Further enhancements are discussed, such as an optional Tx driver stage to boost output to 100 mW and the potential modification of a Motorola Maxor 80 PA for 222 MHz SSB/CW operation. The resource also covers practical aspects like power attenuation pads for IF radios (e.g., FT817) and considerations for enclosure design, including repurposing a Maxor 80 case. Performance reports indicate successful 70 km contacts with only 4 mW output.