Search results

A 102-inch vertical whip, commonly a CB antenna, forms the core of this low-profile 10-meter antenna design, optimized for the 28 MHz band. The construction details specify three 8-foot radials made from scrap wire, connected to a common point. This simple yet effective setup is designed for ease of construction and deployment, making it accessible for operators with limited space or materials. The design emphasizes using readily available components, including PVC pipe for the mast and a SO-239 connector for the feedline, ensuring a straightforward build process for a resonant quarter-wave vertical. Field results indicate that this antenna provides good performance for local and DX contacts on 10 meters, despite its compact footprint. The author, N8WRL, shares practical insights into its construction and tuning, highlighting its suitability for temporary or permanent installations where a full-sized antenna might be impractical. Comparisons to more complex designs suggest that this low-profile vertical offers a respectable signal-to-noise ratio and effective radiated power for its size, proving that simple designs can yield satisfying on-air results.

The page provides a detailed guide on how to build your own NOAA weather satellite receiving station, covering hardware, antenna, computer setup, and software installation. It offers a straightforward explanation suitable for beginners and serves as an educational project. The content includes step-by-step instructions and tips for observing satellites in the night sky.

BKLog is a versatile log book and contest program designed specifically for amateur radio operators. Developed in VB.NET, it offers a user-friendly interface and a range of features that cater to both casual and competitive hams. Users can log their contacts, manage contest entries, and utilize automatic CW sending, making it a valuable tool for any operator. One of the standout features of BKLog is its integration with DX Cluster access, allowing users to stay updated on DX spots and enhance their operating experience. Additionally, it supports uploads to popular online QSL services such as QRZ, LoTW, and Club Log, streamlining the QSL process for users. With regular updates and improvements, BKLog continues to evolve, ensuring it meets the needs of the amateur radio community. Whether you're a seasoned contester or a newcomer to logging, BKLog provides the essential tools to enhance your ham radio experience. Its compatibility with Windows makes it accessible to a wide range of users, and its ongoing development ensures that it remains relevant in the ever-changing landscape of amateur radio.

This home made antenna provides around 10.5dBd gain on 70cm, and 6.5dBd gain on 2m, which is more than adequate to work the FM satellites with a handheld dual band radio

A web site about amateur radio satellite

Eham article by Vince Waelti (K9TSU)

Evaluates the **LDG Z100 autotuner**, a device designed to automatically match antenna impedance for optimal transmission efficiency. The review discusses its performance in comparison to the MFJ-902, noting that while the Z100 is a reliable autotuner, it does not match the range of impedances that the MFJ-902 can handle. The Z100 is suitable for operators seeking a 100-watt autotuner that covers HF bands, providing a practical solution for those who require automatic tuning without manual adjustments. The review highlights the Z100's operational context, focusing on its use in HF bands and its practical application in amateur radio setups. While it offers a straightforward tuning process, the Z100's limitations in impedance matching are noted, making it less versatile than some competitors. This comparison provides valuable insights for operators considering an upgrade or replacement for their current autotuner. The Z100's performance is positioned within the broader market of autotuners, offering a clear perspective on its strengths and weaknesses in real-world amateur radio operations.

Balloon Projects, scheduled launches at amsat

How to receive automatically NOAA wather satellite images with a Raspberry Pi and a RTL SDR. This project requires a Raspberry Pi 3 Model B a common NooElec SDR Dongle and a QFH Antenna in the attic. Article explains how to setup and configure software but no instructions on antenna.

Fox Telemetry Decoder Software is a free telemetry software that run on Windows MacOSX and Linux. With Fox Telem will be able to track, store and analyze FOX series and Cubesat satellites

Satellites, mir, atv and personal information

A page describing all element of a weather statio for NOAA weather satellite image reception

Describes Atlantic Tower Services (ATS), a company specializing in antenna tower erection and maintenance, operating from Orlando, Florida. ATS offers a range of services including site maintenance, structural repairs, system modifications, and complete tower installations for various communication needs. The company emphasizes its capability to handle diverse tower projects, from routine inspections to complex upgrades, ensuring structural integrity and optimal performance for amateur radio and commercial installations. ATS focuses on delivering reliable infrastructure solutions, supporting the backbone of communication systems. Their service portfolio covers critical aspects of tower ownership, addressing both preventative care and reactive solutions for existing structures. They are equipped to manage projects involving different tower types and heights, adhering to safety standards and operational best practices. Services include **site maintenance** and _structural modifications_.

Amateur TV, Satellite TV Equipment, Broadband Via Satellite, Weather Monitoring

K1JJ presents a compilation of insights regarding vertical radial ground systems, specifically applied to 160m vertical arrays. The resource details 19 distinct observations and recommendations, emphasizing that ground radials primarily reduce ground losses rather than influencing pattern formation. It explains that RF current flows inefficiently through average soil, necessitating copper radials to create a low-resistance path back to the antenna base. The content suggests that **50-60 radials** are generally sufficient to achieve optimal efficiency, with diminishing returns beyond that number, and that radials should be laid on the surface for best performance. The discussion also addresses practical aspects such as wire gauge, installation techniques using 'U' shaped staples, and methods for connecting radials in multi-element arrays. It highlights the importance of radial length, stating that 1/4 wave radials are a crucial minimum, and that for 160m, radials should be at least _100 feet_ long. The resource critically examines the efficacy of elevated radials versus ground radials, noting that while a few elevated radials may suffice for VHF, HF applications, particularly on 160m, require extensive ground radial systems to efficiently collect RF currents in the near field. It also touches on the impact of radial systems on parasitic elements and the significance of symmetrical radial patterns for minimizing losses. Further practical advice includes wire type recommendations, proper soldering and weatherproofing techniques for radial connections, and considerations for integrating steel towers into the ground system. The author shares personal experience with installing 60 quarter-wave and half-wave radials under each of three in-line verticals, expressing satisfaction with the results.

FMI provides superior solutions in the design and manufacture of frequency control devices including Voltage Controlled Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillators (VCTCXO), voltage controlled crystal oscillator (VCXO), Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillators (TCXO), crystal clock oscillators, high temperature oscillators, surface mount and crystal oscillator products, phase locked sources and more.

JAMSAT - AMSAT division Japan

A non-profit organisation devoted to the preservation of early radio equipment and associated historical information.

N8VI\'s powerpoint on satellite keplerian elements.

Radio amateurs worldwide are being asked to help collect data from the student-built SSETI Express satellite, due to be placed in orbit on 27 September. To encourage them, ESA’s Education department has organised two competitions and is supplying free downloadable software.

The **Escort** series Tactical Carrying System provides robust protection and enhanced portability for popular HF transceivers, addressing the need for secure field operation and transport. These systems, designed for models such as the Yaesu FT-857D/891, FT-991, FT-817/818ND, and Icom IC-706/703/7000, IC-7300, feature military-grade construction with front panel protection and versatile carrying strap attachment points. Operators can confidently deploy their rigs in various environments, from SOTA activations to casual field days, knowing their equipment is safeguarded against bumps and impacts. Beyond tactical carriers, Portable Zero LLC also produces the **Sherpa Pack** for the Yaesu FT-817 and the Field Power 12 and Field Power 3 Battery Cases. These accessories complement portable operations by providing essential power solutions and additional carrying options, facilitating extended off-grid activity. Established no later than 2013, Portable Zero LLC manufactures its products in the USA, leveraging CAD design and CNC precision laser cutting for consistent quality. The company's commitment to enhancing portable amateur radio operations is evident in its specialized product line, available in finishes like Black Texture and OD Green.

A list of active Amateur Radio satellites grouped by FM SSB/CW and satellite monitoring

Constructing a dip oscillator provides radio amateurs with a fundamental piece of test equipment for resonant circuit analysis. This particular design, adapted by VK3YE from a concept by _Drew Diamond VK3XU_, details a practical build using readily available components. The unit incorporates four plug-in coils, covering a frequency range from **2.6 MHz to 55 MHz**, mounted on 5-pin DIN plugs for versatility. A salvaged two-gang air dielectric variable capacitor, fitted with a vernier reduction drive, serves as the tuning mechanism, with the smaller gang optimizing bandspread at higher frequencies. In practical application, the dip oscillator is used by setting the meter needle to approximately two-thirds scale. When the instrument's coil is brought near a tuned circuit under test, a noticeable dip in the meter reading indicates resonance. This allows for precise measurement of resonant frequencies in antennas, filters, and other RF circuitry, proving invaluable for homebrewing and troubleshooting. The design emphasizes short wire runs for stable operation, particularly at the higher end of its operational range.

The _Fuji-OSCAR 20_ (FO-20) amateur radio satellite, launched over six years prior, continues to operate reliably, despite a gradual decrease in its Nickel-Cadmium storage battery capacity and solar cell degradation. The satellite's power system can still supply approximately **10 W**, enabling operations. During the non-eclipse period, typically from mid-June through March, the satellite experiences a 0% eclipse rate, ensuring sufficient power generation. This allows for the potential operation of the onboard BBS, which had been previously suspended due to concerns about power shortages. An "eclipse rate" refers to the proportion of time a satellite spends in the Earth's shadow during each orbit. When the satellite's orbital plane is perpendicular to the sun's direction, the eclipse ratio becomes zero, meaning continuous solar illumination. Understanding these eclipse periods is crucial for managing satellite power budgets and scheduling operations, particularly for power-intensive functions like the BBS, which can now be considered for activation during periods of sustained solar exposure.

Makers of QRP HF General Coverage Transceivers you can build. The Home of BITX transceivers, uBITX General Coverage Receiver-Transmitter. A general coverage, 10 watts HF SSB/CW transceiver kit with features you NEED for operating ease, convenience and versatility. It works from 3 MHz to 30 MHz, with up to 10 watts on SSB and CW, with a very sensitive receiver.

Manufacturers of professional Civil & Defense UHF/VHF Base Sation Antennas,Installation Hardware, Power Splitters and Distributors of EUPEN rf Cable & Connector products.

Operating the UoSAT-2 (OSCAR-11) satellite, launched in 1984, presents unique challenges due to its age and current eclipse schedule. This resource provides a historical archive of news, telemetry data, and specialized software for decoding its 145.826 MHz FM beacon. It includes tools like _CTERM_ for terminal emulation and capture, and U2TM for processing ASCII telemetry, enabling hams to analyze the satellite's health and performance. The site also offers audio samples of the beacon and S-band signals, along with details on hardware and software decoders. Reception reports are actively solicited for the satellite's intermittent transmissions, which occur for less than an orbit every 21 days during its eclipse period. The site details how to process raw telemetry data, including instructions for skipping initial frames to improve decoding accuracy with U2TM. It also provides software like SATILL for predicting solar eclipses and tools for determining the satellite's spin period from magnetometer or solar array telemetry, offering insights into its operational status despite its advanced age.

144 MHZ to 28 MHZ 2nd Down-Converter for AO-40 Sat

Projects in ham radio, programming, and robotics. Specializing in amateur satellite operations.

Jose B Rivera, N2LRB, shares his initial experiences with the Icom IC-7300, recounting a shift from skepticism to appreciation for the transceiver. He details how the radio's impressive Sherwood Engineering test results, ranking it #12, significantly influenced his decision, especially considering its competitive price point against higher-end options like the Elecraft K3s. The review highlights the IC-7300's strong receive capabilities, a key factor in N2LRB's purchasing decision, and notes the advantages of its SDR architecture for future updates. He describes the straightforward setup process, from unboxing and connecting PowerPole connectors to making a first contact with N0HQ, a special event station. N2LRB expresses satisfaction with the radio's clear audio and ease of tuning, even if the pan-adapter's utility for his operating style remains to be fully explored. He concludes that the IC-7300 offers exceptional value, providing SDR features and receive performance comparable to more expensive rigs at half the cost.

The ARRL powerpoint on satellite Operations by WB8IMY

Site dedicated to amateur radio ballooning

The Icom IC-7300 is a groundbreaking Software Defined Radio (SDR) transceiver that revolutionizes the way amateur radio operators interact with the spectrum. With its large 4.3-inch color TFT LCD touch screen, users can easily navigate through various functions, including real-time spectrum scope and high-resolution waterfall displays. This allows for quick adjustments and enhanced signal awareness, making it easier to find and engage in QSOs. The touch screen interface provides a modern approach to radio operation, replacing traditional buttons with virtual controls that can be accessed with a simple touch. In addition to its user-friendly interface, the IC-7300 boasts advanced features such as IF-DSP filtering, audio scope functions, and a multi-dial knob that combines tactile control with touch screen flexibility. These capabilities enable operators to visualize signals and make precise adjustments to their settings, ensuring optimal performance during contests or casual operating. The IC-7300 is designed for both beginners and experienced hams, making it a versatile addition to any shack. Its innovative design and functionality truly embody the spirit of modern amateur radio.

This Antenna project is a bit more complex than other omni antennas for satellite use, but it is much easier and cheaper than a standard tower mounted circular polarized azimuth and elevation rotating beam system.

Building a LEO satellite ground station, and eggbeater antenna for the 70cm band

A squint at the world of LF This website was initially thrown together to provide ready availability to data being collected from the measurement of a transatlantic LF (Low Frequency) path.

Information on so-35 satellite

1500 watts PEP SSB is the power handling capability of the MFJ-989C HF Antenna Tuner, a popular choice among amateur radio operators. Users have shared a wide range of experiences, with some praising its durability and performance over decades of use, while others criticize its build quality and accuracy. The tuner features a built-in dummy load, SWR-wattmeter, and a balun for balanced line feeders, making it versatile for various antenna setups. However, discrepancies in RF power readings and SWR measurements have been noted, with some users finding the dual scale meter to be off by about 20% compared to a Bird wattmeter. Long-term users report that the MFJ-989C performs well with proper antenna setups, but caution against tuning at high power without initial adjustments at lower power levels. Some have experienced issues such as arcing when exceeding 400 watts, while others have had no problems even at higher power levels. The roller inductor and capacitors are functional, though some users have had to perform maintenance like tightening screws or cleaning components to ensure reliable operation. Despite mixed reviews, the MFJ-989C remains in production, suggesting continued demand. It's a tuner that requires careful handling and possibly some DIY fixes to achieve optimal performance.

My expeditions and personnal station site of CW-PLAYER, SAT-EXPLORER from F6DQM

Always wanted to know what kind of sounds we hear, when listening to the radio? Here are some examples

Documents the OC1I and OC6I IOTA DXpeditions to Peru, specifically highlighting operations from SA-098 (Isla La Leona) and SA-076 (Isla Lobos de Afuera). The OC1I team logged over **8000 QSOs** from SA-076, while OC6I made 1400 QSOs from SA-098, despite challenging propagation conditions. The resource details the equipment used, including an _IC-7000_, an IC-706mkIIG, and a TS-440SAT, along with various antennas such as a 160m dipole, FD4, G5RV, and a multi-band vertical for 17m, 20m, 30m, and 40m. The DXpedition dates are specified: OC6I operated from SA-098 between December 28 and December 30, while OC1I was active from SA-076 from January 2 to January 7. Both operations are confirmed as valid for IOTA credit. The page also includes a video link for the OC6I operation and a photo gallery from the DXpedition. Feedback is welcomed, and the webmaster is identified as Bodo Fritsche, DL3OCH.

A portable decoder for METEOR M weather satellite LRPT signal, available for windows and Linux

AMSAT is a worldwide group of Amateur Radio Operators who share a common interest in building, launching and communicating with each other through non-commercial Amateur Radio satellites.

NOAA Satellite Signals With a PVC QFH Antenna and Laptop, this website also link to a github where you can find files and supporting documentation for constructing a QFH Antenna

OpenHamClock is a modern, open-source dashboard for amateur radio operators, designed as a web-based successor to the original HamClock. Deployable locally on a Raspberry Pi or via the cloud, it centralizes essential DX operations into a single, intuitive interface. At its core is an interactive world map that visualizes real-time DX spots, signal paths, satellite tracking, and POTA activators. The software seamlessly integrates critical tools like WSJT-X, DX Cluster, and PSKReporter for monitoring digital traffic. Additionally, it provides vital environmental data, including real-time space weather indices, solar activity, and personalized HF propagation predictions. With customizable themes and a modular architecture, OpenHamClock offers modern operators comprehensive, at-a-glance situational awareness of global radio conditions

Demonstrates the community-driven mission of the McKinney Amateur Radio Club (MARC), a North Texas organization dedicated to advancing amateur radio. The club actively promotes continuous learning, encouraging technical innovation among its members, and provides avenues for public service engagement, skill enhancement, and global connectivity with fellow operators. MARC hosts weekly breakfast discussions every Saturday at 7:30 AM at IHOP in McKinney, Texas, covering diverse topics and offering a Q&A forum. The club emphasizes emergency communication preparedness, antenna design and tuning, and the science of global radio wave propagation, crucial for clear amateur radio contacts. Furthermore, MARC explores modern radio technologies, including digital modes and _Software-Defined Radio_ (SDR), blending traditional amateur radio with cutting-edge advancements. The club also facilitates license testing sessions, hands-on training, and participates in events like _Field Day_ to hone emergency communication skills.

QSL card printer based in Bethlehem, PA offer QSL Card printing, Bronze Plaque with sation ID and Printed Envelopes

Louisville Hamfest - the first Saturday in September after Labor Day. A yearly event sponsored by the Greater Louisville Hamfest Association.

This versatile broadband amplifier is used in several DX Lab projects.

Building equipment for AMSAT P4A geostationary Es'hail-2 Quatar OSCAR 100 Satellite