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The Regen Shortwave Receiver using Manhattan-style ugly construction techniques.

The RigPix database entry provides a comprehensive technical overview of the Icom IC-746 amateur HF/VHF transceiver, detailing its operational parameters and physical characteristics. It specifies the transmit frequency ranges across 10-160 meters plus WARC bands, 50-54 MHz, and 144-146/148 MHz, alongside receive coverage from 0.03-60 MHz and 108-174 MHz. The resource outlines supported modes including AM, FM, SSB, CW, and RTTY, noting a tuning step resolution down to 1 Hz and a frequency stability of ±5 ppm. Key electrical specifications are presented, such as a 13.8 VDC power supply requirement, current drain figures for RX (1.8-2 A) and TX (Max 20 A), and RF output power ranging from 5-40 W for AM and 5-100 W for FM, SSB (PEP), and CW. The entry details the triple conversion superheterodyne receiver system, listing IF frequencies at 69.01 MHz, 9.01 MHz, and 455 KHz, along with sensitivity ratings for various modes and bands. Transmitter section specifics include modulation systems and spurious emission levels. Additional features like a built-in auto ATU, electronic keyer, simple spectrum scope, DSP, and CI-V computer control are noted. The page also lists related documents, modifications, and an extensive array of optional accessories, including various filters, microphones, and external tuners, providing a complete profile of the IC-746.

A Simple Project: One Transistor TRF Regenerative RX

Demonstrates the construction and measurement of a single-turn HF receiving loop antenna, built from common materials like electrical conduit and lamp cord. The resource details the physical dimensions, including a 4-meter circumference, and calculates the theoretical inductance at approximately _6.4 uH_. It outlines a method for determining resonant frequencies across the 4-17 MHz range using a _C Jig_ and a _VR-500 receiver_, coupling the loop with a ferrite ring. The article also discusses the impact of receiver coupling on the loop's Q factor, noting a degradation in sharpness due to the transformer's reflected impedance. Analyzes the observed resonant frequency patterns, highlighting an unexpected rise in the loop's effective inductance at higher frequencies, particularly above 13 MHz. While some increase is attributed to distributed capacitance, the rate of rise suggests further investigation. The experimental setup provides practical insights into the challenges of maintaining high Q in simple receiving loops and offers a comparative reference for other homebrew antenna projects, such as those by _VK2TPM_.

A very simple receiver project by PA2OHH

Roger, G3XBM, shares his extensive experience in **QRP** (low-power) amateur radio operation, detailing various aspects of transmitting with minimal power. The resource provides insights into VLF (Very Low Frequency) reception techniques and the construction of simple **crystal radio sets**, reflecting a foundational approach to radio experimentation. It includes links to external resources covering QRP clubs, online receivers, manufacturers, and technical references, offering a curated collection for enthusiasts. His page serves as a hub for those interested in the challenges and rewards of QRP, often comparing the efficacy of different low-power setups. The practical application extends to understanding basic radio principles through hands-on projects like crystal sets, which G3XBM has explored. The collected links provide a starting point for further research into specific QRP equipment or operating practices, drawing on G3XBM's long-standing engagement with the QRP community.

For amateur radio operators engaged in **radio direction finding** (RDF) and **transmitter hunting** (T-hunting) activities, this resource provides a catalog of printed circuit boards (PCBs) for constructing various DF and foxhunt-related projects. The offerings include PCBs for 80-meter fox transmitters and receivers, UHF fox transmitters with audio recording capabilities, and several designs for general-purpose radio direction finders. Specific projects like the "Simple 80M ATX-80 Transmitter" and the "N0GSG DSP Radio Direction Finder" are listed, along with attenuator boxes and specialized components for Doppler DF systems. The catalog details PCBs for projects published in prominent amateur radio magazines such as *73's*, *CQ*, *QST*, and *PE*, indicating their origin and design pedigree. For instance, the "Montreal Fox Controller" is sourced from the *Homing-In* column by Joe Moell, K0OV. The resource also lists components for advanced Doppler DF systems, including main boards, LED display boards, and antenna switch boards, with options for programmed PIC microcontrollers. Pricing for each PCB is provided, allowing hams to acquire the necessary components for their DIY RDF endeavors.

Using a full-size antenna and a reasonably sensitive headphone, this simple switching mixer will produce an amazing abundance of signals on 80m.

Sherwood Engineering Inc. (SEI) offers a repository of technical presentations and white papers focused on optimizing amateur radio transceiver and receiver performance. Content includes detailed analyses of _roofing filters_, transmitted IMD, and receiver characteristics, with specific discussions on products like the Drake R-4C and Icom IC-781. Presentations from events such as Dayton Contest University (2008-2014) cover topics like "How To Optimize Rig Performance," "Transceiver Performance: 10 Years of Change," and "Choosing a Transceiver: Far from Simple." Additional white papers address HF mobile antenna efficiency, ground screen alternatives to buried radial systems, and common receiver problems with solutions. The site also provides historical product information for items like the SE-3 MK IV synchronous AM detector and various 455 kHz mechanical and crystal filters, though many products are no longer in production. Receiver test data and alignment tips for the R-4C are also available, offering insights into rig modifications and performance enhancements.

GQRX is a free and simple to use SDR receiver which runs on Linux and MacOS X. GQRX comes with a standard FFT spectrum and waterfall display and a number of common filter settings

With all the wire you have out, you may run into a problem with static buildup on the antennas. This static may try to make its way into your receiver, causing you major problems and damage that can run into a lot of money.

The direct conversion receiver described consists of only a bandpass filter, mixer IC, VFO and audio filter. With only 22 parts, this simple circuit should take a few hours at the weekend to construct.

A simple free running oscillator oscillating at the receiver\'s IF (intermediate frequency) beats with the incoming signals in either CW or SSB and the resultant audio frequency goes to the AF amplifier.

The idea makes use of a very simple direct conversion receiver on the band of interest.

A simple direct conversion receiver for 80m. The receiver covers 3.51 MHz - 3.60 MHz and 3.64MHz - 3.71 MHZ - CW and Phone portions by M0DGQ

IK2PII describe here a simple direct conversion receiver, thinked for QRSS and DFCW communications, as companion of ARGO or SPECTRAN programs.

This project is a Software Defined Radio Receiver. It has a frequency range of 24MHz 1.2GHz. It can demodulate AM, FM, USB, LSB with selectable bandwidths of 600, 2400, 2800, 3200 and 6400Hz. Using a simple RTL-SDR Dongle and Raspberry Pi 3 computer using GNU RADIO

A simple Drake R-4C receiver power supply modification

Amateur radio repeaters extend communication range for mobile and remote stations by retransmitting signals on a different frequency, often for emergency communications. The resource details various repeater bands, noting that 2 meters and 70 cm are primary for activity, with 10-meter repeaters offering potential national and overseas coverage. It specifies **18 channels** on 6 meters and **31 channels** on 2 meters, along with a new 70 cm offset of _7 MHz_ adopted in 2015. The content explains how repeaters can be linked via dedicated transmitters/receivers, landlines, or Internet VoIP systems like _IRLP_ and Echolink, enabling global connections. It also describes simplex gateways for multi-band operation and the use of CTCSS subaudible tones for access control and interference mitigation. The document highlights specialized repeaters for modes beyond voice, such as SSTV and ATV, particularly on 70cm and higher bands. Operational guidelines for efficient and courteous repeater use are referenced, along with links to Australian repeater listings and band plans.

A very simple experimental short wave radio receiver. This is basically just a crystal radio with two stages of transistor amplification afterwards made with scrap components.

Barest of bones APRS RF position reporter using a Raspberry Pi B+, USB GPS receiver, Baofeng UV-5R, and a mono 3.5mm audio cable between the Pi and the radio

Amateur Packet Reporting System (APRS) operations often require compact, reliable solutions for transmitting position data, particularly for mobile or portable stations. This resource details the construction of the _Tiny Track-I_, a transmit-only APRS tracker designed for straightforward integration with a VHF radio and a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. It enables hams to broadcast their location without the complexity of a full-duplex TNC. The project outlines the printed circuit board (PCB) layout and schematic, based on an original design by N6BG, with a personal PCB drawing by SV1BSX. It includes specific component placement and notes an additional 10uF/10V capacitor (C5) for improved IC voltage decoupling, a modification not present in the original N6BG diagram. The unit connects to a computer or GPS via a DB9 female connector. This tracker is ideal for basic position reporting, offering a simple and effective way to participate in APRS networks. Its small footprint makes it suitable for vehicle installations or field deployments where space is limited, providing a **reliable 9600 baud** data stream for location updates.

This is a compact three transistor regenerative general coverage receiver with fixed feedback. The sensitivity and selectivity is relative good, especially on the LF and MW bands, as can be expected with this simple design.

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.

Super Simple APRS Position Reporter. This project idea has been in response to the more hardware heavy Raspberry Pi projects that involve extra TNC hardware, additional sound cards, and custom cabling. This APRS position reporter is done using a Raspberry Pi B+, USB GPS receiver, Baofeng UV-5R, and a mono 3.5mm audio cable between the Pi and HT.

Explains the fundamental purpose of a repeater, detailing how these automated relay stations overcome distance and terrain limitations for VHF/UHF communications. It traces the historical development from early Bell Telephone Labs "relay" stations in 1922 to Art Gentry, W6MEP's, pioneering K6MYK amateur radio repeater in the mid-1950s, which remains active today. The resource clarifies the distinction between simplex and duplex operation, including the unique function of a "parrot repeater" for single-frequency recording and playback. Delving into the internal workings, the guide breaks down a repeater into its core components: the antenna system, feedline (often _Heliax_ or hardline for minimal loss), duplexer, receiver, transmitter, and controller. It emphasizes the critical role of the duplexer in preventing receiver desensitization by isolating transmit and receive signals, even with distinct frequencies. The discussion highlights the importance of high-performance, durable antennas and low-loss feedlines, citing examples of equipment installed in the 1960s and 1970s that are still in perfect working order. Operating a repeater is also covered, with an explanation of frequency offset (e.g., the 600 kHz standard for 2 meters) and the function of _CTCSS_ (PL tone) for access. It outlines standard input/output offsets for various bands, from 6 meters to 23 centimeters, while noting regional variations. The guide also touches on features like autopatch and Digital Voice Recorders (DVRs), providing a solid foundation for understanding repeater technology and usage.

A simple superheterodyne receiver (3.5–30 MHz) for amateur radio achieves stable SSB-CW reception using modern BJTs, an AD831 mixer, a 6-pole quartz filter, and Seiler oscillators. Designed with high IF (4.5 MHz), compact AM-FM variable capacitors, and modular resonant circuits, it ensures selectivity, image rejection, and stable tuning. Built in a copper-lined wooden case, it features practical assembly techniques but lacks advanced features like AGC or S-meter. Effective on basic antennas, it achieves global reception.

ToyNTP is a simple freeware time server for Windows that implements the SNTP protocol and uses a GPS receiver, Garmin GPS 18x LVC, as time reference. ToyNTP was designed to be used with Faros in the locations where access to the SNTP servers on the Internet is not available, but it may be used for other purposes as well, in particular, it may be configured to keep the PC clock synchronized to a GPS receiver.

Since 2012, the RTL-SDR is the simple and cheap way to give Software-Defined Radio a try. For about 25 euro you get a receiver covering much of the VHF and UHF range, and by either adding an upconverter, or using the direct sampling option, also the HF bands. They are so cheap because they are mass-produced as DVB-T receivers.

This page by Lajos Hoss, HA8HL, provides a detailed guide on how to build a simple direct receiver using FT8QRP CAT control support. The author shares his experience in making QSOs with FT8, WSPR, and JT65 modes during the Covid-19 lockdown. Modifications to the VFO, transmitter design using BD329 transistor Class A amplifier, and the challenges faced in achieving clean output signals within legal limits. This project is interesting for those hams that are interested in experimenting with DIY transmitter projects and understanding CAT control support for various amateur radio modes.

This a well performing, simple two band transceiver. The transceiver design is inspired by the S7C superhet. A dual-band transceiver with a crisp receiver and a clean SSB signal

Learn how to build a simple tuned loop antenna for the AM broadcast band to improve the performance of your radio receiver. Discover how to construct a loop antenna with readily available materials, such as balsa and basswood, without the need for specialized woodworking tools. Follow step-by-step instructions to create a portable loop antenna that offers good gain and directivity, ideal for pulling in weak stations. Enhance your Ultralight DX'ing experience and explore the world of FSL antennas through this practical DIY project.

The Specan is actually a very simple but robustly built receiver. it is, in essence, a double conversion superhet receiver with 112 Mhz and 12 Mhz Intermediate frequencies. The first mixer uses an Si570 as the local oscillator. The Ardiuno that controls the Specan is a very flexible microcontroller board that you can program in simple C language

Effective suppression of harmonics and parasitic radiation from HF transmitters is crucial, especially with the increasing sensitivity of VHF/UHF radio channels to interference. This project details a hybrid low-pass filter (LPF) designed to operate across the HF bands up to 51 MHz, making it suitable for 6-meter band operations while providing deep VHF/UHF suppression. The design addresses the challenge of modern interference landscapes, where even microvolt-level signals can disrupt wireless sensors and other simple VHF/UHF receivers. The filter utilizes a single elliptic link, combining high cutoff steepness with robust suppression in the hundreds of megahertz range. A key feature is the use of only two standard capacitor values, simplifying construction and component sourcing. The article provides a detailed schematic, performance characteristics, and _RFSim99_ model file, demonstrating a reflection coefficient S11 below 0.017 (VSWR < 1.03) across 1-51 MHz, ensuring minimal degradation to the antenna system. Construction notes include coil winding specifications and capacitor selection guidance, with recommendations for _FR-4_ assembly. Two capacitor sets are presented, with the first variant recommended for its lower RF current demands, keeping currents below 3 A at 1 kW passing power at 51 MHz. Fine-tuning involves adjusting frameless coils, with considerations for capacitor tolerance and high-frequency capacitance measurement accuracy.

Chavdar Levkov, LZ1AQ, presents an experimental comparison of small wideband magnetic loops, building on his previous work on wideband active small magnetic loop antennas. His research focuses on increasing loop sensitivity by maximizing the short-circuit current, which is directly tied to the "loop factor" M = A/L, where A is the equivalent loop area and L is its inductance. Levkov's methodology involves reducing inductance and increasing area through parallel or coplanar crossed (CC) configurations, comparing these designs against a reference single quad loop of 1 m2 area. Experimental verification included testing three distinct loop types: a simple quad loop, two coplanar crossed (CC) loops, and eight parallel loops, all designed to have a total geometric area of 1 m2. Measurements were conducted at 1.8, 3.5, 7, and 10 MHz using a small transmitter 270 meters away, with a Perseus direct sampling receiver for precise signal level assessment. The results consistently showed that CC loops, particularly Loop 5 (two CC circular loops with 1.44 m2 total area), yielded significantly higher currents, up to 9.1 dB over the reference loop at 3.5 MHz, validating M as a reliable predictor of loop sensitivity. Numerical simulations using MMANA further corroborated the experimental findings, demonstrating an almost perfect correlation between the calculated M factor and the induced loop current for 15 different loop models. Levkov concludes that CC loops offer superior sensitivity for a given loop area, while parallel loops are advantageous for minimizing physical volume. Practical recommendations suggest using loops with an M factor greater than 0.5 uA/pT for quiet rural environments, and he provides a spreadsheet tool, WLoop_calc.xls, to aid in optimizing loop configurations for specific operational needs.

This page discusses a simple receiver protection device designed by Matt Roberts for hams. The article details the purpose, construction, and usage of the RF clipper, providing useful information for ham radio operators looking to protect their equipment from RF overload. The content is practical and informative, offering a solution to a common issue faced by hams.

The F6AOJ RX splitter project was created to split the antenna signal from an LZ1AQ receive loop to multiple receivers, such as radios or SDRs. The design is simple to build and effective. The splitter, mounted on the back of the LZ1AQ control board, provides two outputs—one for an Afedri SDR and another for a K3 transceiver. Measurements show a damping of -3.01 dB at 1 MHz and -3.10 dB at 30 MHz, with a low SWR (max 1.07 at 30 MHz and 1.4 at 60 MHz).

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.

This article About Noise offers a clear, non-mathematical explanation of noise in telecommunications, making it accessible to radio amateurs. It categorizes noise into fundamental and intermodulation types, detailing sources like thermal, shot, and cosmic noise. The article effectively highlights noise impact on receivers and introduces key metrics like Noise Figure and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). While comprehensive, it remains digestible, balancing technical depth with simplicity. A great resource for understanding radio noise fundamentals without complex equations, though a more detailed discussion on mitigation techniques would further enhance its value.