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The RockLoop Antenna is a compact multiband portable and indoor antenna suitable for QRP operations on the 10, 14, and 21 MHz bands. The page provides detailed information on the design and usage of this antenna, making it a valuable resource for amateur radio operators looking to improve their setup. The intended audience is amateur radio operators interested in building and using antennas for QRP indoor operations.

SP5DDJ mini antenna tuner for QRP operations

This is a collection of articles, generally from QRP-L, about QRP operations and portable antennas. However, anything that looks interesting to me might end up here. These articles are posted here primarily for my own use; however, all are free to browse.

Ideal for QRP operations on 10 meters band in french

A magnetic loop made just of wire. Suitable for portable usage and for QRP operations.

Amateur Radio operator interested in mobile & emergency operations, with some portable QRP operations.

A nice resource from AE5X John a QRP opertator

Attenuating output power to Yaesu FT-817 and interesting article for really QRP operations by PA1B

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

W1PID outdoor amateur radio operation web site with pictures and descriptions of his portable operations

Aerial 51 is an antenna manufacturer producing HF Wire antennas. Their antenna product catalog includes portable, OCF wire antennas for HF bands but also QRP transceivers, and accessories for portable operations.Based in Germany

Italian station operating mostly in QRP Mode, contain some interesting QRP projects for portable antennas and antenna mounts.

Official web site of the Alaska QRP Club The AK/QRP Club is dedicated to the enjoyment of low power Amateur Radio operations.

An article describing equipment needed to make portable operations evenin winter cold times. The article is completed by a nice video describing not only the radio setup but even the tent and power supply equipment

QRP Operations by RV3APM

QRSS operations on 30M with an home made dipole

AA5TB portable station for 30 meter QRP operations

About Lithium-Polymer batteries for QRP operations

An interesting article about a homemade LiFePO4 battery pack for ham radio operations, a 10Ah LiFePO4 based on Headway 38120 Cells

Schematic drawing and instructions for the construction of a simple portable dipole for use in low power and portable operations

Using portable battery power is always a challange when operatin amateur radio in sota oprations. This article is about implementing lithium iron phosphate cells (LiFePO4) in ham radio portable operations.

Personal web site by N9SKN about portable QRP operations with pictures of several portable setups and antenna solutions.

This project details the creation of a portable GoBox housing an IC705, Windows 11 PC, and Bluetooth microphone. The robust setup, enclosed in a weatherproof Hofbauer Explorer Case, ensures stability and functionality for QRP and emergency radio activities. The aluminum-mounted devices minimize RF interference, and a built-in LifePO4 battery powers the 10.1 TFT touch LED monitor, providing approximately 12 hours of use in receive mode. With a focus on grab-and-go versatility, this GoBox stands as an efficient solution for outdoor ham radio operations.

Original HF magnetic loop antenna designed by the author to work in conjunction with QRP transceivers like the FT-817 in portable operations. In this configuration the loop can operate from 30 to 10 meters. Using a two spires radiator of the same diameter it also covers 40 meters.

A Home made antenna tuner for QRP transceivers. This small tuner is the ideal for portable operations with random length wires or whenever you have not a resonant antenna.

This article explores the conventional wisdom about antenna height in amateur radio operations, challenging the common belief that "higher is always better." Through practical examples and computer modeling, it examines how low-height antennas like Beverage antennas, VP2E, and End-Fed Half Wave (EFHW) configurations can perform effectively in various scenarios. The analysis includes radiation patterns and efficiency considerations for antennas at different heights, particularly focusing on portable operations. The article demonstrates that while height affects antenna performance, lower installations can still provide practical and efficient solutions for specific applications, especially in portable and QRP operations.

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.

Learn how to build a QRP digital transceiver with Arduino, based on a project by Burkhard Kainka. This article covers the development process, including the source code, modifications made, and the addition of an OLED display for a more professional look. Discover the inner workings of the transceiver, from the receiver to the oscillator, and how components like the CD2003 are utilized. Explore the schematic design, the use of a PLL module Si5351A controlled by Arduino nano, and more. Ideal for hams looking to create their own digital transceiver for amateur radio operations.

This innovative antenna tuning unit (ATU) enables QRP operators to match their antennas without transmitting RF signals. Using a noise bridge technique instead of traditional transmit-and-tune methods, it achieves truly silent operation. The design incorporates an L-match network with switched inductors and variable capacitor, handling impedance matching from 3-30MHz. Operating from a 9V battery, it includes a built-in RF power meter and dummy load for QRP transmitter testing. The compact unit is particularly suitable for portable operations where minimal RF emissions during tuning are desired.

Paul McMahon presents a compact VSWR meter designed for QRP portable use, ideal for SOTA operations with rigs like the FT817. The device, constructed from readily available components, employs a simple resistive bridge for wideband performance from 1.8MHz to 52MHz, with diminishing accuracy at higher frequencies. Key features include no need for external power, simple calibration, and operation with low power levels. The design, detailed with parts lists, schematics, and construction guidelines, ensures a 2:1 worst-case VSWR to protect transceivers during antenna matching. Calibration points are set for accurate VSWR readings at various loads.

The ICOM IC-705 remains a standout portable transceiver after 3.5 years of use. Its unmatched feature set includes multi-band/mode support, built-in WiFi, GPS, remote operation, and excellent third-party app integration, making it versatile and user-friendly. Despite competition like the Elecraft KX3 and Yaesu FT818, the IC-705 excels in flexibility, durability, and ease of use. Whether for QRP operations, digital modes, or SSB, it delivers exceptional performance in diverse settings, reaffirming its status as the best portable transceiver on the market.

Learn how to build your own QRPGuys DS-1 40-10m short vertical antenna for ham radio operators. This page provides detailed instructions on constructing this antenna, which covers the 40 to 10-meter bands. Whether you're a beginner looking to get started with antenna building or an experienced ham radio operator looking for a new project, this resource is useful for anyone interested in DIY antennas for portable or QRP operations.

QRP is a way of operating that involves using low power transmitters, that are no more than 5 Watts for Morse or data modes, or 10 Watts pep for voice. Introduction to QRP operations

This page provides a detailed guide on building a 25 Watt QRP dummy load for hams. It includes a list of required parts and supplies, along with a documentation section. The project is aimed at hams interested in QRP operations and looking to build their own dummy load. The page offers step-by-step instructions and resources to help hams successfully complete the project.

Assembling a QRP Station for Field Operation

This article discusses the evolution of portable amateur radio operations, focusing on optimizing backpack-carried equipment for outdoor use. The author shares his journey from using wheeled carts to developing an innovative backpack-mounted antenna system, emphasizing the transition from high-power (QRO) to low-power (QRP) operations to reduce weight. The piece details practical solutions for antenna mounting, equipment selection, and portable operations in challenging terrain, particularly along Ontario's Niagara Escarpment. The author's approach prioritizes mobility and functionality while maintaining effective radio communications in remote locations.

The POCKET TUNER V1.1 is a highly compact HF T-Match antenna tuner designed for QRPp and QRP portable operations. With a credit card-sized form factor, it is tailored for low-power setups, supporting HF bands from 10m to 40m. The tuner features a unique design using rotary switches for precise capacitor adjustments, allowing tuning in small increments. Its inductance selection is optimized for various bands, ensuring efficient performance. Equipped with a resistive tuning indicator, it protects the transmitter by reducing SWR during adjustments. This versatile and portable tuner is ideal for field operations, enabling efficient antenna matching for low-power rigs.

KISS703 is a 703 Hz narrowband digital mode for amateur radio, designed for simple, low-power operation without computers. A 500 Hz pilot tone ensures frequency alignment, replaced by unique tones for 37 symbols (letters, numbers, space). Built from common discrete components, it draws about 40 mA at 12 V, ideal for SOTA/IOTA use. The receiver uses amplification, wave shaping, and a pulse-counting frequency meter for manual decoding via a calibrated meter. Transmitter and receiver calibration involves marking meter positions for each tone, enabling fully self-contained messaging with minimal hardware in portable or fixed operations.

Moto-QRP setups offer compact, weatherproof QRP transceivers for portable ham radio use, ideal for motorcycle and backpack operations. The YouKits HB1A MKII, a 5W CW rig, is paired with a lightweight long-wire antenna and an Elecraft T1 tuner for efficient field communication. This setup fits in panniers, enabling operators to explore parks and remote locations. Accessories include a durable Morse paddle, FCC documentation, and essential logging tools, making it a perfect choice for adventurous QRP enthusiasts.

Learn how an experienced ham radio operator designed and built a compact shack in their motor home. Discover the considerations, challenges, and solutions involved in setting up a radio station in a small space without damaging the vehicle. Find out which radios were chosen for VHF/UHF scanning, HF communications, and QRP operations. Get insights on cabinet design, speaker placement, and radio cabling for a functional and portable ham radio setup on the road.

"The QRP Adventures of VE3FI" is a captivating blog that chronicles the amateur radio experiences of Bill, VE3FI, over two decades. Holding Canadian Basic, 5-word CW, and Advanced licenses, Bill's main interests include DXing and QRP operations. The blog offers detailed accounts of his portable activations, such as a recent outing in March 2025, where he achieved impressive DX contacts on the 10-meter band using just 8 watts and a Hamstick antenna. Bill's engaging storytelling and practical insights make this blog a valuable resource for both seasoned and aspiring amateur radio enthusiasts.

This page provides a detailed review of the ZB-4, 4 Band CW QRP Transceiver designed for QRP ham radio operations. It includes information on features, performance, and user experience with the ZB-4. The review aims to assist hams in making informed decisions about this transceiver model, highlighting its strengths and potential drawbacks.

Join Thomas (K4SWL) as he shares his experience activating a POTA site using the Elecraft KX2 AX1 combo. Follow along on his journey from a podcast recording session to a quick POTA activation, showcasing the ease and efficiency of this portable setup. Discover the joy of getting on the air with minimal setup time and maximum enjoyment, perfect for hams looking for a grab-and-go solution. Learn about the benefits of using the AX1 antenna and how it can enhance your portable operations, all while supporting QRPer.com through affiliate links.

This presentation explores the practice of QRP (low-power) amateur radio operation in outdoor settings. It guides operators to identify their specific objectives for portable operations, which inform equipment and antenna choices. The discussion covers considerations including portability, operating modes, power requirements, and weather resistance. Various antenna designs are examined, from vertical configurations to dipoles and end-fed options, with emphasis on deployment practicality in public spaces. The presentation concludes with practical advice on selecting operating locations, RF safety, and resources for equipment and community support for QRP enthusiasts.