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The resource provides detailed information about a five-band indoor magnetic loop antenna designed for amateur radio operators. This antenna is capable of operating on the 20, 17, 15, 12, and 10 meter bands, making it a versatile choice for various HF communications. Constructed from a single 3-meter length of 22 mm copper tube, the design emphasizes compactness and efficiency, which is particularly beneficial for operators with limited space. The page includes insights into the construction process, tuning, and operational tips, catering to both novice and experienced users. In addition to the technical specifications, the resource also discusses the advantages of using a magnetic loop antenna indoors, such as reduced interference and improved performance in urban environments. It serves as a practical guide for those interested in building their own antenna, offering a straightforward approach to antenna design and construction. Overall, this resource is a valuable addition to the toolkit of amateur radio enthusiasts looking to enhance their station with an effective indoor antenna solution.

The homemade CW paddle key design, inspired by a QRP homepage, utilizes soldered PC board material for its construction. The builder, DL5NEJ, modified an existing design to achieve a smaller footprint, preferring a compact setup for portable operations. This paddle was specifically built to complement a Wilderness Radio SST20 QRP transceiver kit, demonstrating its suitability for low-power operations. The project details suggest a straightforward assembly process, with the primary components being readily available PC board scraps. The design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, aiming to provide a reliable keying experience comparable to commercial paddles like the Bencher. Performance evaluations indicated the simple paddle operates effectively, prompting further exploration into similarly minimalist QRP rig designs. Additional construction details for a similar paddle are available from PA0CMU.

Contruction manual to build a 4:1 balun, it has good performance from 160 through 10 meters.

Loop Antenna Starter Kit contains detailed plans for building the MTM Scientific, Inc. loop antenna from scratch.

The Q-signal **QRP** signifies a request to reduce power, and in amateur radio, it defines operating with 5 watts or less for CW and 10 watts or less for SSB. This article addresses common inquiries from new hams regarding the practice, its benefits, and implementation methods. It explains how a 5-watt QRP signal, compared to a 100-watt signal, typically results in only a 13dB drop in signal strength, equating to about two S-units, still providing solid copy under most conditions. Hams choose QRP for various reasons, including seeking a greater challenge in DXing or contesting, reducing band interference, or enabling portable field operations with lightweight, battery-efficient equipment. A modern single-band CW transceiver, key, and antenna can fit into a pocket, offering receiver performance comparable to commercial rigs and extended operation on a small battery. This portability facilitates operations in remote locations where higher-power setups are impractical. Operating QRP can involve simply reducing power on an existing commercial HF rig or building a dedicated QRP transceiver from a kit, such as the **Wilderness Radio SST** with its 2-watt output and 15mA receive current draw. While SSB is viable, CW remains the most popular and efficient mode for QRP due to its superior signal-to-noise ratio. The article lists common QRP calling frequencies across 160m through 10m bands for both CW and SSB, and highlights organizations like QRP ARCI and NorCal that support the QRP community.

A Comprehensive roundup of the most popular QRP transceiver kits on the market in recent years in PDF format

Demonstrates the essential steps for winding **toroidal cores**, a fundamental skill for amateur radio operators engaged in homebrewing and kit building. It addresses the critical aspects of selecting the correct core material and wire gauge, emphasizing the importance of precise turn counting and consistent winding tension to ensure optimal circuit performance. The resource details methods for preparing the wire, including techniques for safely removing enamel insulation from leads using flame, sandpaper, or a solder pot, and provides guidance on tinning the exposed wire. Explains the process of mounting the wound toroid onto a printed circuit board, highlighting the need for careful lead placement and secure soldering to prevent shorts and ensure mechanical stability. It also offers a practical formula for calculating the required wire length based on the desired number of turns and the specific **toroid** size, referencing common core types like T-50 and FT-240. The guide stresses the importance of verifying the inductance of the wound component, often using an inductance meter, to confirm it matches design specifications. Provides practical tips for handling multi-filar windings and managing short lead lengths, which can be particularly challenging. It underscores the necessity of meticulous attention to detail throughout the winding and installation process to achieve reliable and efficient RF circuits.

Robert Norgards KL7FM's, notes on upgrading the Heathkit SB-200

A portable amateur radio station which the radio amateur can take when asked to go to an event which needs support with radio communication.

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.

Mailing list for people interested in building radio and electronics equipment from kits or from scratch. Frequent topics include shortwave radio receivers, construction techniques, and ham radio project.

A rebuild job on a Heathkit SB-200 amplifier by N4NAB

Article about assembling of a Dick Smith Electronics (DSE) 100 Watt VHF Linear Amplifier kit.

Building the MFJ Cub QRP transceiver kit for 20 meters band by G4ILO

Constructing a high-power 70cm solid-state amplifier presents unique challenges, particularly when aiming for 500 watts output using modern LDMOS devices. This resource details the author's experience building a 70cm amplifier based on a _Freescale MRFE6VP5600H_ transistor, initially from an RFHAM kit. It meticulously outlines the necessary modifications to achieve advertised performance, including optimizing input and output matching, correcting bias circuitry, and ensuring proper output balun connections for stability. The author shares specific adjustments, such as trimming the prototyping board for better transistor fit, drilling additional mounting holes for improved heat sinking, and replacing original matching capacitors with a single _20pf MIN02 metal mica_ for superior output. A critical fix involved jumpering gate decoupling pads to balance the push-pull transistor halves, which increased output to 580W and improved IMD. The resource also highlights a crucial correction to the output balun connection, initially reversed in the _Dubus_ article schematic, which resolved intermittent stability issues. Test results are provided, showing input power, output power, and drain current at 50V, demonstrating the amplifier's performance after modifications. This practical account offers valuable insights for hams undertaking similar high-power UHF amplifier projects, especially those working with LDMOS devices and kit-based constructions.

ozQRP offer a range of kits to build a complete QRP SSB transceiver

Ham radio HF antennas manufacturer, produce HF dynamic beam antennas, and vertical pole antenna. Offer kits and parts to build you own dynamic antennas, by IZ0AEG

Amateur radio kits. Makers of the WinKeyer, their goal is to keep homebrewing and kit building alive.

A kit Digital VFO with pre-soldered surface mount parts and burned-in firmware, a scratch build with Arduino Nano, C code with modifications, and a Silicon Labs si5351 PLL clock generator on a breakout board.

The WB5RVZ Genesis Radio G40 build log documents the construction of a 5W QRP 40m SDR transceiver kit, detailing each phase of assembly from power supply to RF filtering. It provides specific component lists, parts placement diagrams, and testing procedures for stages like the local oscillator, Tayloe detector, and RX op-amps. The resource highlights discrepancies between documentation versions and offers practical advice for builders, including a "virtual build" approach to preemptively address potential ambiguities in component identification and placement. It also addresses a specific "VK6IC Fix" for early board revisions, involving trace cuts and jumper wires for improved performance. The build log presents measured voltages and expected current consumption for various stages, such as the 4.9-5.0 Vdc on the 5V rail and under 100mA for RX current. It outlines critical adjustments like image rejection tuning, a common procedure for direct conversion receivers. The resource also includes practical tips for handling components like the 2N3866 transistor and its heatsink, emphasizing pre-assembly. It details the winding of two 1.45 uH toroidal inductors on T50-6 cores with 17 turns of #20 AWG wire, crucial for the RF path.

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.

Details the Big Thunder Amateur Radio Club (BTARC), a long-standing amateur radio organization based in Boone County, Illinois, established in 1962. It covers the club's mission to enhance the skills of local hams, promote radio knowledge, and foster social interaction among operators. The resource outlines BTARC's commitment to community service, including emergency communications support through RACES, and its active participation in events like Field Day, fox hunts, and public service communications for local races. Explains the club's history, including the establishment of its first repeater in the 1970s by members WD9JGH, Mike George, K9ORU, and Claude Horsman, WB9PMM, using a VHF Engineering kit and a Sinclair duplexer. It provides specifications for two club-maintained FM repeaters: a 2-meter repeater on 147.375 MHz (+600 KHz shift, 100.0 Hz PL tone) and a 70-cm repeater on 442.825 MHz (+5 MHz shift, 114.8 Hz PL tone). The club hosts a weekly 2-meter net on Sundays at 7:00 PM local time and holds monthly meetings on the second Thursday at the Spring Township Building in Belvidere, IL.

Showcasing a diverse portfolio, RF Industries specializes in interconnect solutions crucial for modern communication infrastructure. Their product line encompasses a wide array of RF connectors, precision-engineered coaxial cables, and robust data cables, all designed to meet the rigorous demands of wireless and wireline telecom, data communications, and industrial applications. The company emphasizes its role in "Connecting the Next Generation" by providing foundational components for evolving network technologies. Their offerings extend beyond basic components to include comprehensive installation and test kits, alongside various adapters and wire harnesses. This focus ensures that their products not only perform reliably in the field but also integrate seamlessly into complex systems, supporting critical infrastructure. RF Industries' commitment to quality and innovation positions them as a key supplier for those building and maintaining advanced communication networks, from _5G deployments_ to industrial control systems, ensuring signal integrity and robust connectivity.

Amateur radio kits dealer, online shop for ham radio transceiver kits.

Ham radio information for new CW and QRP operators. Includes operating advice, reviews and articles on kit building/rig repair,

The N0QBH QRSS project page, a couple of projects using available kits for improved frequency and timing stability. A configurable DDS VFO 100mW transmitter with LCD display and a modified Hans Sommers 40m 100mW transmitter

This Guide helps you to build the 1:2 BalUn 600 Watts DIY kit step by step. If a delta-loop or quad-loop antenna is powered with a coax cable from the transceiver it is necessary to use a 1:2 BalUn. This 1:2 BalUn uses a symmetrical 1:2 impedance transformer.

This resource, despite its title, does not provide information relevant to amateur radio operations or the W1BD Central Vermont Amateur Radio Club. Instead, the content focuses on commercial topics such as vinyl lettering, business signage, and brand recognition strategies. It details the application of _transfer tape_ for graphics, the importance of pre-masking in vinyl cutting, and the use of squeegees for smooth decal application. The site also discusses various types of business signs, including monument signs and awning signs, highlighting their role in attracting customers and establishing brand presence. Further sections delve into home maintenance tasks like gutter cleaning, offering advice on using power washers and the importance of safety measures when working on ladders. The content also explores strategies for building brand recognition and customer loyalty, emphasizing consistent marketing efforts and excellent customer service. It touches upon the use of custom-printed bags and digital displays, such as LED signs, for enhanced visibility and engagement. The site's articles include practical tips for kitchen renovations, such as upgrading cabinet hardware, adding pendant lighting, and repainting cabinets to achieve a fresh look without significant expense. The content is entirely unrelated to amateur radio activities, club information, or technical aspects of radio communication.

One of the featured products, the V350 CAMP, is a multiband vertical antenna covering 6 to 80 meters, priced at R$ 799,90, demonstrating the range of ready-to-use solutions available. The inventory includes various antenna types such as **HF**, **VHF**, and **UHF** designs, along with dual-band options like the J-Pole Dual V/UHF for R$ 235,00. For those building their own arrays, the store stocks essential components like element holders, clamps, junction boxes, and aluminum plates, alongside specialized items such as the KIT Isolador Central Dipolo - 01DX for R$ 99,90. The shop also provides a comprehensive selection of installation hardware, including diverse antenna mounts, PTT supports, and various coaxial cables like RG58 and RG213, with prices up to R$ 849,90 for RG213. Connectors such as UHF male PL259 and various adapters are readily available, ensuring compatibility for different setups. Additionally, specialized items like side handles for popular transceivers such as the FT857/891 and IC7300 are offered, catering to specific equipment needs. Beyond antennas, the store supplies practical accessories like transport bags, 12V power cables for transceivers, and even branded merchandise like the Antena Kit mug. Rodrigo Gonçalves, PP5BT, manages the operation from Blumenau, SC, Brazil, providing direct contact via WhatsApp at +55 47 9.9985.0155.

This project describes a DIY all band HF SDR transceiver. Built around a Softrock 6.3 kit, it boasts a 20W homebrew amplifier and ATmega168 microcontroller for USB control. An LCD displays frequency, power, and SWR. Automatic LPF selection and SWR protection enhance functionality. Compatible with Rocky and PowerSDR software, this project provides a cost-effective and powerful HF SDR transceiver for hobbyists.

An article about building home made Go Kits also using Tac-Comm tactical radio carriers

Wireless Society of Southern Maine Projects, instructions and photos for many ham radio projects and experiments, including antenna construction and modelling, kit building, station setup, restoration and more

The ARRL's End-Fed Half-Wave (EFHW) Antenna Kit is an easy-to-build four-band antenna designed for 10, 15, 20, and 40 meters. Ideal for portable operations, it includes a 49:1 impedance transformer for compatibility with most transceivers. This project, detailed with step-by-step assembly instructions, involves creating a weatherproof enclosure and impedance matching network. The kit simplifies HF operations and supports multiple configurations, making it a versatile tool for amateur radio opertors.

A polarity checker is a very useful item to have around the shack and in a go-kit. This project, inspired by a QST article on powerpole connector protection illustrate how to build a polarity checker.

Building an End-Fed Half-Wave (EFHW) antenna from a kit, as detailed by Frank Bontenbal, PA2DKW, with process photos by Bob Inderbitzen, NQ1R, offers a practical approach for hams. This specific kit, a collaboration between ARRL and HF Kits, targets 10, 15, 20, and 40 meters, making it a versatile option for HF operations. Unlike a center-fed dipole, the EFHW is a half-wavelength antenna fed at one end, which simplifies deployment, particularly for portable use. The construction guide meticulously outlines the assembly of the 49:1 impedance matching network, crucial for transforming the antenna's high impedance (around 2,500 Ohms) to a transceiver-friendly 50 Ohms. Steps include preparing the enclosure by drilling holes for the coaxial connector and antenna connections, followed by the precise winding of enameled copper wire onto a toroid to create the transformer. The guide emphasizes careful insulation removal and soldering for reliable connections. Final assembly involves integrating a 100 pF capacitor for higher band compensation, soldering the transformer's primary and secondary sides, and conducting SWR tests with a 2K7 resistor or a half-wavelength wire. The document also provides examples of wire lengths for different bands, such as 16 feet for 10 meters or 66 feet for 40 meters, demonstrating the transformer's adaptability for various half-wavelength configurations.

The MiniPA Linear Amplifier for HF page discusses the popularity of QRP for HF among ham radio operators, such as those using the Yaesu FT818 or low power SDR transceivers. It explores the use of cheap kits from eBay or Chinese suppliers to build a 70-100W SSB amplifier using IRF530 MOSFET transistors. The article provides a review of the MiniPA design, including its features, components, and assembly process. It also highlights the importance of using a heatsink and forced air cooling for optimal performance. This page is useful for hams looking to enhance their HF rig with a budget-friendly amplifier.

The QMX+ Transceiver Kit from QRP Labs is a high-performance, feature-packed 160-6m 5W transceiver designed for hams. This multi-mode kit includes embedded SDR, USB sound card, CAT control, synthesized VFO, RTC, and optional internal GPS. It can be used in CW, digital, and SSB modes, with standalone CW operation, digi mode via USB to PC, or SSB operation. The kit offers standalone beacon functionality and shares firmware with the QMX model. With an optional enclosure, battery-backed RTC, and GPS, the QMX+ is versatile and easy to build, making it ideal for ham radio operators looking for a customizable transceiver kit.

The Code Practice Oscillator kit, featured at TechFest 2020, provides a straightforward device for Morse Code skill development. It utilizes two 3V coin batteries for power and is designed for ease of construction, making it accessible for hams of various ages. The kit's primary technical substance revolves around generating an audible tone for practicing Morse Code timing and ear training, with a downloadable schematic detailing its electronic configuration. Construction of the oscillator involves soldering, with adult supervision recommended for younger builders. The kit's practical application lies in offering a hands-on method for beginners to learn Morse Code and for experienced operators to refine their sending abilities. Instructions for assembly are available as a downloadable PDF, complementing the schematic to guide users through the building process.

This HF active antenna is a build of the PA0RDT Mini-Whip from a kit, it covers the entire HF band (3 to 30 MHz) and below (supposedly down to 10 kHz). It is powered by an external 12-15V supply, consuming about 50 mA.

This project delves into the development of a compact WSPR beacon, building on earlier experiences with weak-signal modes. Inspired by QRP Labs kits and modified open source designs, it integrates a Si5351 frequency generator, GPS module, and class E PA for efficient operation. Extensive optimizations—addressing drift, heat management, and power stability culminated in a portable, serviceable device. The beacon offers insights into propagation while minimizing reliance on main station equipment. Lessons learned highlight the importance of careful component selection and iterative design improvements for robust amateur radio experimentation.

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.

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.

Learn about the ZRS QRP-808 kit system for hams from the 1980s. Discover the improved features of the QRP-808 compared to the QRP-805, including the electrical diagram and assembly instructions. Explore the nostalgic journey of building and tuning this iconic amateur radio station, as shared by experienced ham radio operators. See original photos and insights from enthusiasts like Janko S55WT and Mirko S52PC, offering a glimpse into the history of amateur radio technology. Access PDFs for detailed views and immerse yourself in the world of DIY radio equipment construction and tuning.

This page details the construction project of the 'Stone', a QRP double conversion superhet SSB transceiver for the 40m band. The project is based on a kit from Tim Walford, G3PCJ, and includes step-by-step instructions for building and testing each stage. The author has added enhancements such as a three digit frequency counter and an automatic gain control. The content is aimed at hams interested in DIY transceiver construction and includes technical details of the build process.

This website provides kits, parts, and resources for building and launching CubeSats for amateur radio use.

Presents a four-part video series documenting the assembly of the Elecraft KX3 QRP transceiver, offering insights into the construction process. The author, VE9KK, shares practical tips and addresses challenges encountered during his own build, providing guidance to help other builders achieve a smoother experience. The videos, while not a step-by-step instructional guide, showcase completed assembly stages and discuss lessons learned. This approach allows builders to anticipate potential pitfalls and apply proven solutions, drawing from the author's direct experience with the _KX3_ kit. Specific attention is given to areas where builders often face difficulties, ensuring that critical details are covered to facilitate successful completion of the transceiver, which is renowned for its **10-watt** output and versatile operating modes.

The project details the construction of a GM3OXX OXO transmitter, designed to accommodate **FT-243 crystals** using 3D-printed FX-243 holders from John KC9ON. It presents specific frequency adjustments, noting a 7030 KHz HC-49/s crystal could be tuned from 7029.8 KHz to 7031.7 KHz with an internal 45pF trimmer capacitor. The build incorporates a modified keying circuit to prevent oscillator run-on key-up and includes a TX/RX switch for sidetone via a connected receiver, with the transmitter output routed to a dummy load on receive. Practical construction aspects are thoroughly covered, including the process of cutting a rectangular opening in a diecast enclosure for the FT-243 socket and the selection of a **low-pass filter** (LPF) based on the QRP Labs kit, derived from the W3NQN design. The author achieved approximately 800mW output power from a 14.75V supply, measured with an NM0S QRPoMeter, using a 16.5-ohm emitter resistor in the 2N3866 final stage. The article also touches upon the potential for frequency agility across the 40M band using multiple FX-243 units with various crystals. The narrative includes a brief diversion into Bob W3BBO's recent homebrew projects, such as his Ugly Weekender MK II transceiver, highlighting the enduring appeal of classic QRP designs. The author reflects on the personal satisfaction derived from building RF-generating equipment, irrespective of DX achievements, and shares experiences of making local contacts with the 800mW OXO transmitter on 40 meters.