Search results

This resource details the fundamental aspects of deploying longwire antennas, emphasizing ease of construction and installation for shortwave listening (SWL) and broadcast reception. It covers wire gauge selection, suggesting 14 to 24 AWG for general use, with heavier gauges (14-20 AWG) for permanent outdoor installations. Guidance is provided for various deployment scenarios, including indoor setups where the wire can be run around a room, temporary outdoor installations from balconies using light 18-24 AWG wire, and permanent outdoor configurations requiring higher placement and slack for tree movement. Feeding methods are discussed, recommending coaxial cable (50-75 ohms) to mitigate man-made interference, with instructions for connecting only the center conductor to the longwire. Safety precautions are highlighted, particularly avoiding contact with power lines and conductive materials, and managing static electricity buildup by unplugging the antenna after use and bleeding off charges before connection. The article also advises against using outdoor longwires during thunderstorms or snowstorms due to static and lightning risks. Optimal height considerations are presented, advocating for the highest safe placement, ideally a couple of feet above underlying structures, to maintain free air space. The text mentions a personal setup with one end at a roof peak (20 feet) and the other at a 17-foot mast, illustrating practical deployment without strict height requirements beyond safety and clearance.

Here is a serial control (CAT) cable that plugs into the FT-857's microphone jack, freeing the CAT/Linear jack for other purposes.

The SoftRock-40 is a small, low-cost, good-performing "software defined radio" receiver that plugs into a computer USB port and delivers I-Q audio signals to the computer's sound card. It was designed by Tony Parks, KB9YIG and Bill Tracey, KD5TFD as an "SDR sampler project" for hams everywhere to easily try out software defined radio.

Unified Microsystems presents a range of amateur radio products, notably the **XT-4 MK2 CW Memory Keyer**, a battery-powered iambic keyer designed for portable operations like Field Day, POTA, SOTA, and DXpeditions. It features four non-volatile memories, each storing approximately 240 Morse characters, and operates at speeds from 8-45 WPM. The XT-4 MK2 also includes an auto power save function and paddle reverse, making it adaptable for multi-operator setups. Beyond the XT-4 MK2, the site details the **W9XT Contest Card**, a PC plug-in board offering DVK and CW interface capabilities, allowing operators to record and playback CQs and contest exchanges. Other offerings include the BevFlex-4X RX Antenna System, RAS-4 RX Antenna Switch, VK-64 Voice CW Keyer, and various USB interfaces. Additional products cover electronic development, such as the ATS-1 Terminal Shield for Arduino™ and VR-X Power Supply Voltage Regulators, demonstrating a broader scope beyond just operating accessories. The XT-4Beacon MK2 / CW IDer is also highlighted for beacon projects, capable of storing messages up to 5 minutes at 25 WPM.

An illustrated and complete guide to soldering PL-256 coax plugs

The Yaesu FNB-78 Battery plugs into the FT-897/D. It produces 13.2 VDC at 4500 mAh. The radio can hold one or two and one can be in use while the other is charging.

The Kenwood TH-F6A handheld transceiver can achieve an extended transmit frequency range of 137-174 MHz, 216-235 MHz, and 410-470 MHz by removing a specific diode and chip resistor from the main PCB. This modification also expands the receive range on the A-band to 142-152 MHz, 216-235 MHz, and 420-450 MHz. For the TH-F7E, the transmit range extends to 137-174 MHz and 410-470 MHz, with a corresponding receive range on the A-band. Performing these hardware changes will reset and initialize the radio's memory contents, necessitating prior backup of important channel frequencies. Instructions are provided for constructing a homemade PC programming cable compatible with the Kenwood TH-G71A, TH-F6A, and TH-F7E. The interface utilizes an RS-232-to-logic (0-3.3V) level-shifter and a full-duplex serial connection, adapting the Kenwood PG-4S cable schematic for the TH-G71's 2.5mm and 3.5mm phono plugs. Specific schematic tweaks include changing R1 from 150 ohms to 1K ohm to optimize power from the serial port and adding a 150K ohm resistor between the Radio TXD and ground to manage the 3.3V I/O pin. Detailed plug pinouts for the 2.5mm and 3.5mm connectors are presented, with the interface's TXD connecting to the ring of the 2.5mm plug and RxD to the shield of the 3.5mm plug. Ground connects to the shield of the 2.5mm plug, while the tips of both plugs are no-connects. Debugging procedures cover verifying positive and negative power rails from the serial port, checking component polarities, and testing level-shifting and inversion functions of the interface. Software setup involves enabling "TC ON" (Menu 15 for TH-G71, Menu 9 for TH-F6) and using Kenwood's MCP programming software.

The ultimate Keyhole Markup Language (KML) plugin for Google earth. Keyhole Radio is a unique and powerful RF planning interface, accessed by loading a Keyhole Markup Language (KML) overlay in Google earth.

Electronic components dealer, semiconductors, switches, leds, motors, solar energy, ferrites, toroids, capacitors, batteries, jacks and plugs, microphones, meters, power supplies, speakers, transformers, wire and more

Receiver converter that can be plugged to the backside of the Yaesu FT-817 battery powered portable transceiver

Radioberry Radio hat for raspberry pi. HF (0-30 MHz) The latest development of PA3GSB is a radio card plugged into a raspberry pi (2 or 3) , a so called rpi-hat, forming an amateur radio.

Hidden transmitter hunting, often called fox hunting or Amateur Radio Direction Finding (_ARDF_), presents a unique challenge for radio amateurs. This resource details the _PicCon_ controller, a specialized device designed to automate the transmission of signals for such events. It integrates with a standard radio transceiver, functioning similarly to a packet radio TNC, by controlling the Push-To-Talk (PTT) line and injecting audio tones or modulated CW Morse code into the microphone input. The _PicCon_ unit is field-programmable using DTMF tones received via the radio, storing all settings in EEPROM for power-off retention. Its compact design and low power consumption (a few milliamps from a 7-35VDC source) make it suitable for remote deployment. An onboard LED indicates operational status, and a push-button allows manual start/stop of transmissions without DTMF. Typically supplied as a kit, _PicCon_ includes a PCB, components, and a comprehensive manual (available in HTML, RTF, and PDF formats). The kit provides a six-conductor interface cable, but users must supply radio and power plugs due to varied configurations. Byon, _N6BG_, developed this controller, which is available from the Byonics website.

CAT5 T-568B Colour Code for RJ-45 Plug

NU-Tech is a powerful DSP platform to validate and real-time debug complex algorithms, simply relying on a common PC. Thanks to an easy plug-in architecture, the developer can write his own NUTSs (NU-Tech Satellites) in C++ and immediately plug them into the graphical interface design environment.

Banana plugs, coaxial cable assemblies, patch cords, oscilloscope and DMM test lead and probe kits and accessories, IC test clips, boxes, RF connectors, XLR and 75-ohm cable assembly products.

A very useful video that explains how to program the TYT MD-2017 radio. From software download, firmware, codeplug and how to manually configure settings and how to program memories

Originally eveloped by I1FLC, uses seven plug in coils covering 3.0 to 30Mhz in a Colpitts oscillator circuit.

The web site of RW3AG, Vlad Plugin in Moscow, Russia. Ruussia links and other information.

I live in Vnukova, Russia near Moscow.

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.

DMR Contact Manager is a Free software package designed to make it easy to maintain channel, zone, contact and call group information in these radios. It is fully compatible with the Ham-Digital and RadioID database systems and allows instant codeplug updates from a wide variety of sources. DMR Contact Manager is designed for use with Connect Systems CS700/CS701/CS750/CS800/CS801/CS800D radios, as well as the Tytera MD-380/390/390GPS, TYT MD2017/MD9600, AnyTone AT-D868UV and AT-D858, Retevis RT3, and similar radios that use the RDT/RDB file formats.

Ham Cockpit is a program of a new type. All of its functions are implemented in the plugins, the main program simply loads the plugins and helps them work together. Ham Cockpit is an integrated environment for a Radio Amateur that every user can build according to his needs. It can work as SDR client, a logger, a cluster monitor, a propagation prediction tool, or have any combination of these working together.

Contest audio recording for N1MM. external "plug-in" which adds a QSO audio recording function.

This project is a USB Audio, Serial and PTT interface for rigs that does not directly support digital modes provided by applications such as FLDIGI, WSJT-X and JS8CALL. Plug these interface devices into your Windows or Linux laptop or Raspbian Raspberry Pi and you can send and receive digital tones to/from your rig and automate the frequency and mode control and PTT control.

A Neat Little Tool For The Bench. The basic information needed when testing a multi-conductor cable like CAT-5 is that each wire in the 4 pair cable goes to the correct pin in the RJ-45 plug and that all crimps are solid.

SDR++ is a cross-platform, open-source SDR software designed for minimal bloat and ease of use, supporting Windows, Linux, macOS, and BSD operating systems. It incorporates multi-VFO capabilities and offers extensive hardware compatibility through both _SoapySDR_ and dedicated modules. The software features SIMD accelerated DSP for efficient signal processing and provides full waterfall updates when possible, which enhances signal browsing. Its modular design facilitates the development of custom plugins, allowing users to extend its functionality. The application's focus on a bloat-free architecture and user-friendly interface aims to simplify the experience of working with Software Defined Radios. The full waterfall update mechanism is particularly beneficial for visualizing and identifying signals across a wide frequency spectrum, improving operational efficiency for radio amateurs. The modular plugin system enables community contributions and specialized enhancements, making _SDR++_ adaptable for various amateur radio applications, from general listening to specific digital mode decoding.

An overview about the UHF connectors often referred to as the PL259 plug and SO239 socket used for many RF applications. Limitations, history and soldering properly UHF Connectors

A 15-pin data switch, typically a rotary-knob type designed for DB-25 connectors, forms the basis for this microphone selector project. The resource details the conversion process, which involves replacing the original DB-25 connectors with **RJ-45** or **RJ-12** jacks to accommodate modern amateur radio microphones. It specifically addresses wiring for radios like the Icom IC-706 series (including the IC-7000 and IC-703) and Yaesu transceivers such as the FT-857, FT-897, FT-817, FT-7800, FT-7900, FT-8800, FT-8900, FTM-100, and FTM-400. The design ensures all microphone lines are switched straight through, with separate contacts for external speaker/headphone jacks, allowing simultaneous switching. The project emphasizes the practical application of switching between a headset for net control and a hand mic for rag-chewing without repeatedly plugging and unplugging cables. It highlights modifications to the original concept, such as eliminating a separate PTT jack by integrating PTT into headset cables and building the external speaker cable directly into the selector. The article provides guidance on managing the non-color-coded wiring often found in these data switches by soldering wires one by one from old to new connectors, ensuring correct pin alignment. This approach simplifies the conversion, making it accessible for hams seeking a functional and cost-effective mic switching solution.

Over 100 distinct RF connector types are available from AIR802, including popular UHF series PL-259 plugs and SO-239 sockets, designed for a wide array of coaxial cable dimensions. The company specializes in producing connectors compatible with common amateur radio cables like RG-8, RG-213, and RG-58, ensuring reliable signal integrity for antenna systems and shack interconnections. Their product line extends to various coaxial cable types and pre-made antenna cable assemblies, offering ready-to-deploy solutions for hams. AIR802 also provides custom cable assemblies and pigtails, catering to specific installation requirements for transceivers, tuners, and amplifiers. These pre-fabricated options simplify station setup, reducing the need for field termination of connectors. Michael Bryant is the contact for inquiries regarding their range of RF components, which are essential for building robust and efficient amateur radio stations.

Available worldwide can be used as Arduino Shield or plug it in to you PC , or with a bluetooth adapter connect to Android. With a highly optimized software, KAI200 brings you: a. Antenna analyzer form 1 up to 200 Mhz; b. WSPR transmiter (set up by serial terminal); c. Square Wave Signal generator KAI200 is all you need for your radio whatever it is Yaesu, Icom, Kenwood or Drake and DIY projects.

How to program Motorola APX Series P25 Two-Way Radios for use with the OpenSPOT 2. This document covers some important steps to be followed to upload the correct codeplug to mMtorola P25 radios

How to use the hacked firmware on the MD-380. Tools for working with codeplugs and firmware of the Tytera MD380,

A Primer On Mics For Ham Radio. Difference between dynamic and condenser microphones, microphone plugs and differences in kind of microphones available on the market

Modifications for Retevis RT3 / Tytera MD-380 includes Hardware Modifications, Codeplugs, Software / Firmware Modifications.

Operating in a Single Operator Two Radios (SO2R) setup, especially with beverage antennas, often exposes the receiving radio's front-end to significant RF energy from the transmitting radio. This resource details a practical, homebrew receiver protection circuit designed to mitigate this risk. The core of the design involves a non-inductive 2W 22 Ohm carbon composition resistor in series with the RX antenna line, followed by two stacks of four fast-switching diodes (e.g., _1N914_) configured in opposite polarizations. This arrangement effectively clamps the incoming voltage to approximately 2.8 V peak-to-peak, safeguarding sensitive receiver input components. The series resistor plays a crucial role by absorbing excess power, preventing the diodes from exceeding their current ratings and potentially failing open, which would leave the receiver unprotected. The author, _N4KG_, measured up to 50 watts of coupled power between 80M slopers on the same tower, highlighting the necessity of such protection. The design is presented as a cost-effective solution to prevent damage to receiver input transformers, with the author noting successful protection of a receiver even after a resistor showed signs of overheating. This simple circuit can be integrated via a transverter plug, offering a robust defense against high RF input.

A very small receiver converter that can be plugged to the backside of the battery powered portable transceiver FT817 from Yaesu. A high performance receiver for 2.3GHz amateur radio signal

DMR personal web site. Includes download links for Codeplug for Hytera AR685 PD685G, PD785G, PD785 & X1P with DMR Plus and Brandmeister support with VFO like channels. Repeater maps. In German.

German antenna parts dealer, provides antenna element holders, element clamps for yagi antennas, junction boxes, aluminium plates and rods. Offers also Rope tensioners, plugs and adapters and any additional part you need when you want to make your own antenna.

DC plug adaptor using an XT60 connector. 18650 Lithium battery 3 cell carrier, Three band end fed half wave antenna, XT60 chassis mounted flange.

Starter Code Plugs and Information for the New DMR User These code plugs were are set up specifically for three UHF repeaters in the York / Harrisburg, PA area. These are working examples only and to be used as guides.

QSO Recorder Indexing service. This site allows radio amateurs to share their contest and DXpedition audio recordings, usually made with the N1MM Logger+ and the Qsorder plugin

_Amphenol RF_ manufactures RF connectors, RF adapters, RF attenuators, RF cable assemblies, and RF terminators. The company offers custom RF solutions, including modified connectors and integrated cable assemblies. Product examples include SMP to SMPM adapters, surface-mount SMB jack connectors, end-launch SMA bulkhead connectors, and non-magnetic SMPM connectors. The company's product portfolio also features single-crimp N-Type connectors, USCAR compliant Mini-FAKRA connectors, 2.4 mm to 2.4 mm adapters, and 2.92 mm plugs for 0.141-inch cable. _Amphenol RF_ produces MMCX and MCX cable assemblies on RG-316 and RG-174 cable, PFAS-free SMA connectors, and FAKRA rear mount bulkhead plugs for RG-58 and LMR-195 cable. Additional offerings include 2.92 mm to 2.92 mm adapters, BNC bulkhead jacks, SMA to MHF 4 LK cable assemblies, and 2.92 mm to SMA adapters. _Amphenol RF_ is headquartered in Danbury, Connecticut, and operates as part of _Amphenol Corporation_. The company maintains a global manufacturing and distribution network. DXZone Focus: RF connectors | Cable assemblies | Danbury, Connecticut | _Amphenol Corporation_

Basic information on code plugs. What code plugs is, how to set up a code plug, transmit talk groups and configuring zones.

Repairing the RJ45 plug end of the mic cable of a Alinco DR-605 dual band mobile transceiver. Alinco microphones are well known for the cable jacket getting brittle and breaking

With high impedance earphones plugged into the audio jack on the Kenwood TS-590S or TS-590SG, you can hear a really annoying noise even with the AF volume set to zero. A simple quick-and-dirty solution is a resistor in series to the audio output.

This project builds into a box into which you plug a Morse Code Key. Using the Morse Key creates realistic sounds so you can judge how well you Send. A great tool for beginners to improve Morse sending skills before going on-air

Learn how to construct a balanced Antenna Tuning Unit (ATU) for your ham radio equipment. Follow the instructions provided by Bengt, SM6APQ, to create a variable capacitor insulated from the ground for additional safety. Discover how to set up the ATU for the 20 to 10m band with proper spacing between coils. Use low power when adjusting the ATU for lowest SWR. Avoid using switches and opt for banana plugs for flexible connections. Visit the Creative Science Centre website for more information and resources on ATU construction.

The Weather Fax plugin for OpenCPN allows you to directly open image files or decode audio faxes into images. With easy calibration, these images can be overlaid on charts. It supports image conversion in Mercator, polar, conic, and uniform coordinates and can transform any image into a raster chart. Additionally, it includes a built-in database for HF radio fax stations via SSB and another for retrieving data from meteorological websites.

The resource details the construction of a 433 MHz LoRa APRS iGate and a tracker, both built around _TTGO T-Beam v1.1_ microcontroller boards. Each board integrates an OLED screen, WiFi, GPS, and an SMA antenna connector, powered by an 18650 3.7 V lithium-ion battery or microUSB. The iGate operates on 433.775 MHz, with its status verifiable on aprs.fi, demonstrating practical implementation of LoRa-based APRS solutions. The methodology involves programming the modules using Visual Studio Code with the PlatformIO plugin. This process loads the necessary firmware and a JSON configuration file, which includes the operator's callsign and WiFi credentials for the iGate. The guide emphasizes the ease of programming and provides specific steps for configuration. Initial testing of the iGate and tracker, including smart beaconing configuration, is documented. The low power output of approximately 200 mW from the LoRa board's transmitter is noted, with suggestions for range extension through improved antennas or RF amplification. The author, N4MI, plans to deploy a higher-gain 70cm antenna for the iGate.

This is an easy afternoon project to switch multiple cw keys between several rigs. If you've ever wanted to change keys on one rig or use one key on several rigs, this gadget makes it easy. Plug keys into the box inputs, and plug each of the box outputs into a rig. No need to fumble around behind the rigs to move a key from one to another or to swap paddles for a bug.