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This guide provides step-by-step instructions for constructing a tin can waveguide antenna, commonly known as a cantenna, for enhancing WiFi signal range. The project is budget-friendly, costing under $5, and utilizes easily accessible materials like a food can and basic electronic components. The design is suitable for 802.11b and 802.11g wireless networks, operating within the 2.4 GHz frequency range. To start, gather the necessary parts including an N-Female chassis mount connector, nuts, bolts, and a suitable can. The assembly process involves drilling holes in the can for the connector and mounting the probe. The guide emphasizes the importance of can dimensions and placement for optimal performance, encouraging experimentation for best results. This project is ideal for amateur radio operators and DIY enthusiasts looking to improve their wireless connectivity without significant investment. Safety precautions are advised, as the author does not hold electrical engineering credentials. Users are encouraged to take responsibility for their equipment and ensure proper assembly. With this simple yet effective antenna, users can extend their WiFi coverage and enjoy enhanced connectivity.

This resource provides access to the 59+ software collection, specifically highlighting the **59+ CW** module. The software enables the generation of Morse code signals for transmission through a COM port to a transceiver, or for audio output via a computer speaker, facilitating both keying and listening practice. Users can customize various parameters, including CW speed, tone frequency, dash/dot ratios, and PTT line delay, alongside defining keyboard shortcuts for common QSO fields such as callsign, QTH, name, and RST. The collection also includes the 59+ Logbook, which operates smoothly on Windows XP according to testing notes, though the CW application experienced startup issues on the same OS. The software was originally designed for older Windows operating systems, specifically Windows 95, 98, ME, and 2000. It is noted that the original idealog.net site is no longer active, and development for the 59+ suite appears to be discontinued. Analyzer and converter modules within the collection require registration and do not function in trial mode.

Operating on the HF bands, Kenwood's TS-990S and TS-890S transceivers represent their flagship offerings, providing advanced features for DXing and contesting. My personal experience with Kenwood gear, particularly the TS-590SG, confirms their reputation for solid receive performance and clean transmit audio, often noted in pileups. The TS-590SG, a popular choice for many hams, delivers reliable performance across the HF and 6-meter bands, making it a versatile station centerpiece. For VHF/UHF enthusiasts, the TH-D75A tribander offers 144, 220, and 430 MHz capabilities in a portable form factor. This handheld unit integrates D-STAR and APRS functionalities, appealing to operators who value digital modes and location-based services on the go. The inclusion of 220 MHz, a less common but valuable band, expands its utility for regional communications and specialized nets. Kenwood's enduring presence in the amateur radio market, dating back to 1955, underscores a commitment to quality and innovation. Their product range, from high-end base stations to feature-rich portables, continues to support a wide array of operating styles and technical requirements within the ham community.

Presents the KE4UYP linear-loaded vertical antenna design, which introduces very little loss on 80 or 160 meters, achieving an overall radiation efficiency of 80% to 85%. This design addresses common pitfalls of traditional base-fed verticals by placing the majority of the current at the top of the antenna, eliminating the heavy reliance on extensive ground radial systems. The author's initial 10-meter model, only three feet tall, yielded 5/9 signal reports to Anchorage, AK, and Europe, confirming its effectiveness. The antenna incorporates both vertically and horizontally polarized radiators, with a 1/4 wavelength horizontal counterpoise located at the feed-point, near the top, to create an almost totally omnidirectional pattern with high wave angle horizontally polarized radiation. This dual polarization ensures even illumination across all take-off angles, making it effective for both local contacts and **DXing**. The vertical element is linear loaded, adding capacitance reactance and making it longer than the horizontal element to achieve resonance and raise the feed-point impedance to 50 ohms. Fine-tuning the antenna requires careful adjustment, as tower reactance can vary. The article suggests starting with 80 feet for 80m and 170 feet for 160m for the vertical wire, then trimming for resonance. Bandwidth specifications include 300 kHz under 2:1 **SWR** on 80m and 100 kHz on 160m when suspended between trees, or 150 kHz on 80m when side-mounted on a tower.

The _59+ Log_ software, part of the 59+ collection, functions as a logging tool for Windows operating systems, specifically tested on Windows XP where its logbook feature operates smoothly. This collection also includes _59+ CW_, a module designed for Morse code operations, enabling keying of the COM port for transceiver control or simply listening to CW signals via the speaker. The software package, originally hosted on idealog.net, is now available for download as 59soft14.zip (3.4 MB) from IW5EDI's site. While the logbook application is functional, the _59+ CW_ application may encounter issues on newer Windows versions, as indicated by a failure to start on Windows XP during testing. The analyzer and convert modules within the 59+ suite require registration and do not operate in trial mode. Development and support for this software have been discontinued.

The PSK31 philosophy, tips and tricks, sound files, how to get started, sound card setup and tips.

Comercial windows sound/voice activated recorder, will start recording when sound is detected. Recording to compact MP3-files. 30 days trial available.

Constructing an HF End-Fed Half-Wave (EFHW) vertical antenna, the resource details the winding of a monoband matching unit, inspired by _AA5TB_, designed to provide a 50 Ohm impedance match without a ground plane or antenna tuner. It specifies the use of a _T200-2_ ferrite core for the transformer, outlining the 13-turn secondary and 2-turn primary winding process with enamelled copper wire. The document also describes the integration of a coax capacitor, whose length is critical for tuning and varies by band, with specific starting lengths provided for 20m, 17m, 15m, 12m, and 10m operation. The practical application section guides the builder through tuning the antenna using an antenna analyzer, emphasizing the iterative process of spacing secondary windings and trimming the coax capacitor to achieve resonance at the desired band frequency. It highlights the antenna's low angle of radiation, beneficial for DX, and claims up to 2 S-points improvement over a _G5RV_ or similar doublet when used as an omnidirectional vertical. A comprehensive shopping list, including specific part numbers from _Rapid Electronics_, is provided, along with advice on selecting fiberglass fishing poles for support and suitable antenna wire.

For amateur radio operators seeking to confirm two-way radio contacts, a QSL card serves as a traditional, tangible verification. ON5UR QSL Printing provides a service for designing and printing high-quality, full-color QSL cards, including options for full-color backsides. The service offers various paper weights, such as 250, 280, 300, and 400 grams, allowing hams to select a card stock that meets their preferences for durability and feel. Pricing structures are detailed for different quantities, with 1000 cards starting at 96.00 Euro for 300-gram stock with gloss laminate, inclusive of design costs. The service includes free QSL cards with larger orders, such as 500 free cards with a 2000-card order, or 500 free cards with a 7000-card order. Shipping costs are categorized into six zones, primarily covering Europe, with specific pricing for countries like Belgium (Zone 1) and a request-based system for other regions and export conditions outside Europe. Testimonials from operators like M0URX highlight the design quality and quick turnaround, which are crucial for DXpedition QSL managers needing efficient processing.

An experimental antenna, similar to the _TAK spiral antenna_, was evaluated for SWR response over the 7.0 to 7.3 MHz frequency range. The analysis presents specific results: beam length significantly affects SWR, with increased distance between spirals raising the resonant frequency; the combined length of antenna and hookup wire lowers the resonant frequency as it increases; and spiral diameter impacts bandwidth, with larger diameters yielding greater bandwidth. The design addresses the fixed beam length limitation of the commercial TAK antenna by introducing an adjustable version constructed primarily from PVC electrical conduit and water pipe, using 14-gauge aluminum wire. The resource includes a detailed mechanical design, construction steps, and a parts list. It also features a spiral antenna spreadsheet model for calculating design parameters like start point, pitch, safe edge, spoke length, and arm length, which aids in determining wire length and kerf cutting tables. Model verification involved constructing an antenna to specific parameters, with SWR tests conducted using an _MFJ Model 269_ antenna analyzer at 13 feet above ground with 60 feet of RG8 mini coax. Measurements showed that adjusting beam length from 27 to 37 inches shifted the resonant frequency by approximately 0.18 MHz. Further data compares 32-inch versus 48-inch diameter spirals, demonstrating increased bandwidth for the larger diameter. The model accurately predicted revolutions for given antenna lengths, pitch, and starting distances. The final design achieved a resonant frequency of 7.17 MHz, favoring the voice portion of the 40-meter band after adjustments.

This resource details the construction of a versatile CW/QRSS beacon, designed around a Microchip _PIC16F84_ microcontroller. The project provides a flexible platform for transmitting either standard CW or very slow QRSS signals, making it suitable for LF, VHF, UHF, and SHF applications. It supports two distinct messages, each configurable for speed (from 0 to **127** WPM for CW, or up to **127** seconds per dot for QRSS) and repetition within a six-phase sequence. The core functionality relies on the PIC's EEPROM, which stores all operational parameters, including message content, transmission speeds, phase configurations, and relay control settings. This design allows for parameter modification directly via programming software like _ICProg_ without altering the main program code. The project includes a detailed schematic, a component list, and an explanation of the EEPROM memory mapping for messages, speeds, phase settings, and inter-phase delays. General-purpose outputs (OUT1, OUT2, OUT3) provide dry relay contacts for external control, enabling functions such as power switching, antenna selection, or frequency changes. A 'TRIGGER' input facilitates controlled starts or continuous free-run operation. Sample EEPROM configurations illustrate how to program specific beacon sequences, including message content and relay states.

GW4ALG's _136 kHz Pages_ document the evolution of vertical antennas for the 2200m band, starting with a prototype mounted on a house wall. This initial design, despite achieving the first **395 km** GM-GW QSO, suffered from significant insulation breakdown, high RF losses due to proximity to the house, and difficult tuning adjustments. The author details the challenges of maintaining resonance and matching with a variometer in the loft, noting that adding three earth spikes offered no measurable improvement over a simple water tap connection. The subsequent experimental 12m vertical, relocated away from the house, significantly reduced dielectric losses and proved far more effective. This antenna enabled GW4ALG to set a world DX record on 136 kHz with a **1916 km** QSO to OH1TN, and an intra-UK record of **703 km** to GM3YXM/P. The resource further explores the use of helium-filled balloons to extend the vertical radiator, achieving heights up to 27m, typically 20m, for enhanced low-band performance. Practical advice on balloon types, inflation, and critical insulation between the wire and balloon is provided, emphasizing safety and avoiding arcing.

The UK amateur radio licensing scheme features three distinct tiers: Foundation, Intermediate, and Full, each granting specific operating privileges. For instance, the **Foundation Licence** permits a maximum of 10 watts output power on most allocated bands, with restricted band access. The Intermediate Licence allows up to 50 watts, while the **Full Licence** grants access to the maximum UK legal power limits and all available amateur radio band allocations. UK call sign prefixes and formats provide insights into the licensee's class and the approximate issuance date. For example, M3, M6, and M7 prefixes with three letters denote Foundation Licences issued from 2002, 2008, and 2018 respectively. Intermediate Licences, often starting with "2E0" or "2E1" followed by three letters, were issued from 1991 onwards. Full Licences encompass a broader range of prefixes like G2, G3, G4, G0, and M0, with varying letter counts indicating different historical license classes and issuance periods, such as G3 plus three letters issued between 1946 and 1971. Special prefixes like GB are reserved for repeaters, beacons, data mailboxes, and special event stations, with specific numerical sequences (e.g., GB3 for repeaters, GB7 for data repeaters/mailboxes) indicating their function. Optional prefixes such as GC, GD, GI, GM, and GW denote specific UK countries (e.g., Wales, Isle of Man, Northern Ireland, Scotland, England) and can also signify club stations.

D-PRS is GPS for ham radio. Includes DStarTNC2, javAPRSSrvr, DStarInterface, and TNC-X. D-PRS is the act of converting Icom GPS information generated by Icom D-STAR radios in GPS mode into TNC2 fomatted APRS strings.

Cloudlog is a web-based amateur radio logging application built with PHP and MySQL, supporting station logging activities from HF to microwave. It integrates with companion tools for CAT control and automation, offering a flexible solution for managing QSO data. The application provides a self-hosted platform for amateur radio operators to maintain their logbooks, facilitating interaction with various ham radio operations. Its open-source nature allows for community contributions and customization, enhancing its utility for diverse operating preferences. Originally started by Peter, **2E0SQL**, Cloudlog was designed to enable simple interaction with the Ham Radio Deluxe logbook using MySQL.

Demonstrates various practical amateur radio projects and technical discussions through video episodes. One episode details cutting and retuning a _1/4 wave shorted stub_ from 101.7 MHz to 107.5 MHz to safeguard a transmitter's driver stage, alongside insights into advanced _160-meter antenna systems_ like eight-circle arrays and beverage antennas. Another segment covers upgrading firmware on an _ATS-20+_ receiver using AverDudes for improved display and functionality, and a detailed guide on using D-Star DR mode on an _ICOM ID-52A_ for international repeater programming. Additional content includes a deep dive into _OpenHamClock_ as a potential replacement for the HamClock project, updates on _Raspberry Pi 5_ running Trixie OS, and a review of the Choyong LC90 Internet radio with AI integration. The series also features "Ham College" episodes, which meticulously prepare viewers for the Technician Exam by covering topics such as antenna and transmission line measurements, SWR interpretation, and the functions of basic electronic components like rectifiers, relays, and transistors. Practical advice on coaxial cable characteristics, dummy loads, and proper soldering techniques is also provided.

We are the Radiating Element of the tri-state area composed of South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota.

Accessing this interface provides entry to one of the largest databases for amateur radio voice repeaters, encompassing over 8000 entries from more than 60 countries. The resource supports both desktop and mobile access, with a default display based on browser type, or forced via a "force" parameter (e.g., relais.dl3el.de?force=mobile). Users input a QTH-locator to find local repeater information. The database integrates FM-Funknetz servers and hotspots, potentially creating duplicate entries but ensuring new FM-Funknetz repeaters are immediately displayed. DMR repeater information, including status and talkgroup configurations, is sourced directly from DMR+ / ircDDB and Brandmeister systems, with real-time updates for active and default talkgroups. C4FM/Wires-X installations, particularly MMDVM-based gateways not listed in Yaesu's database, are identified through Brandmeister dashboard descriptions, marked with "W-x" or "W-x#MMDVM" for manual entries. D-Star repeater data from ircddb or QuadNet2 is also incorporated, with entries marked (i), (o), or (d) for manual additions. An APRS interface allows searching by callsign, using Sassan, DL3NCK's database, and offers a mobile-friendly, auto-refreshing display that follows an APRS station. Output data can be generated in GPX format for offline smartphone maps or CSV for spreadsheet applications. The database also attempts to determine valid repeater offsets based on IARU region and frequency, indicated by a "." after the frequency.

Tips and tricks to start working Meteorscatter with WSJT. Author: PE1AHX

Explains the fundamental principles of Software Defined Radio (SDR) and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) within the amateur radio context, serving as an initial entry point for hams interested in these technologies. It covers the architectural shift from traditional analog hardware to software-centric radio systems, detailing how digital signal processing algorithms are applied to modulate, demodulate, and filter radio signals. The resource compiles a list of external links to _white papers_ and project pages, offering further technical depth. This page provides a foundational understanding of SDR/DSP, enabling operators to grasp concepts like direct sampling and quadrature mixing. It references various projects and discussions, allowing users to explore practical implementations and theoretical underpinnings. The curated links direct users to resources that might cover specific SDR hardware platforms or software applications, facilitating deeper research into the subject.

Twenty-four repeaters, including D-STAR and Fusion systems, are maintained and operated by MARCA Inc., primarily located on Arizona mountaintops and around the Phoenix metropolitan area. The organization, holding the callsign _W7MOT_, facilitates a wide range of amateur radio activities, such as ARRL Field Day events near Forest Lakes, Arizona, and participation in ARRL FMT contests. Members engage in antenna experimentation, construction, and maintenance trips to repeater sites. The club's interests span diverse topics, including HF voice, digital modes like _WSPR_, _WSJT-X_ (FT8, FT4), and CW, alongside DXing, MESH networking, and EOC operations. It supports technologies from SDR radio building to antique radio restoration and computer-based operations like Echolink, fostering a Single Board Computer (SBC) and Raspberry Pi group. Monthly meetings, held on the third Tuesday, feature business discussions and guest presentations, with informal summer gatherings and an annual holiday dinner in December. Monthly VE testing sessions for Technician, General, and Extra Class licenses are conducted by Ray Vasquez, K4RMV. Post-meeting discussions often cover specialized interests such as repeater operations, technical topics, D-STAR, SDR, APRS, Fusion, and Raspberry Pi projects.

Constructing a multi-band fan dipole for HF operation presents unique challenges, as VE2XIP demonstrates through his 2012 project to replace an existing commercial antenna. He details the process of calculating wire lengths using the 468/frequency formula, emphasizing the critical importance of equal leg lengths for each dipole element. The author shares practical insights gained from building at ground level, noting how elevation impacts resonant frequency and SWR, particularly for lower and higher bands. VE2XIP's experience highlights the iterative nature of antenna tuning, starting with the lowest frequency band (80m) and working upwards. He provides a specific example of trimming calculations and offers a clever tip for accurate wire removal. The article also touches on the mechanical aspects, such as dowel spacing for wire support and the benefits of a pulley system for repeated raising and lowering during the tuning process. Field results showed significant performance gains over the previous Alpha-Delta DX LB Plus, with **20 dB over 9** signal reports on 80m compared to 57. The project cost around **$100** for hardware, proving a cost-effective alternative. The author also discovered a bonus 6m capability and achieved an inverted-V _obtuse angle_ of approximately 115 degrees, contributing to a surprisingly stealthy installation.

The Tri-pole antenna, a clever modification of a standard dipole, allows for dual-band operation by integrating a third element. This design effectively shortens the overall dipole length by 10 to 20 percent, simplifying antenna rotation and offering a compact footprint. KK4OBI's article delves into the operational principles, using a 6 and 10-meter Tri-pole as a primary example, and provides comprehensive instructions for constructing any Tri-pole antenna within the 6 to 15-meter range. Key to the Tri-pole's performance is its off-center feed, necessitating a common mode choke at the feed point for optimal tuning and reduced noise. The author outlines a methodical approach to determining element dimensions, starting with a vertical element frequency calculated as 0.47 times the sum of the desired upper and lower band frequencies. This calculation, along with K-values derived from trend lines, guides the initial lengths for the horizontal arms, demonstrating how a 10m-6m Tri-pole can achieve a total horizontal length 78% shorter than a conventional 10-meter dipole. Tuning and balancing are critical, with the article detailing adjustments to arm lengths and the vertical element to achieve balanced SWR values, as validated through 4NEC2 simulations. Radiation patterns are analyzed at various elevations, showing gains around 5.7 dBi and favorable take-off angles for DX contacts. Construction details specify aluminum tubing dimensions, U-bolts, and an SO-239 connector, emphasizing the importance of a ferrite-based choke for wideband operation.

DataBridge wireless RF modem modules facilitate point-to-point data transmission, supporting analog, digital, and serial RS232 UART signals. These modules are engineered for robust wireless communication, offering a reliable solution for various industrial and amateur radio applications requiring secure data links. The product line includes specific models designed for different frequency ranges and power outputs, ensuring compatibility with diverse operational requirements. Each module integrates advanced RF technology to maintain signal integrity over distance, crucial for remote monitoring and control systems. The design emphasizes ease of integration, allowing users to quickly deploy wireless data links without extensive configuration. Key features encompass low power consumption and a compact form factor, making them suitable for embedded systems and portable devices.

The Bella Vista Radio Club (BVRC) welcomes you to the NW Arkansas, SW Missouri and NE Oklahoma Area.

The BikeLoop antenna project details the construction of a double magnetic loop antenna optimized for VLF frequencies, specifically around 136 kHz. This innovative design incorporates two orthogonal loops, which significantly enhance reception capabilities. Key construction hints include utilizing lightweight bicycle rims for the antenna structure, making it easy to transport and set up in various locations. The document provides valuable mathematical and electrical insights into the antenna's performance, alongside practical reception tests conducted in the Italian Alps, showcasing its effectiveness in capturing various VLF signals, including Sferics and FSK transmissions. Proper setup is crucial for optimal performance. The project emphasizes the importance of grounding and avoiding interference from nearby electrical sources. The reception tests revealed the antenna's ability to capture a range of signals, demonstrating its practical application for enthusiasts interested in VLF reception and antenna experimentation. Overall, the BikeLoop serves as an excellent starting point for those looking to explore the world of VLF frequencies and enhance their antenna-building skills.

The 222 MHz Transverter project, based on Zack Lau's (W1VT) original July 1993 QEX magazine design, provides an IF of 28 MHz for both transmit and receive paths. Rick Bandla (VE3CVG) contributed supplemental notes and construction details, including modifications to achieve 10 mW output power from an initial 4 mW PEP. The design incorporates three distinct boards: a Local Oscillator (LO), a Transmitter (Tx), and a Receiver (Rx), with an estimated parts cost of just over $150 CDN, significantly less than commercial kits. Construction involves both through-hole and surface-mount components, with specific guidance on mounting MAV and MAR devices, grounding techniques, and component selection. The project details include parts lists, schematics for the LO, Tx, and Rx, and board layouts. Troubleshooting advice emphasizes sequential testing, starting with the LO, then Tx, and finally Rx, using a 194 MHz and 222.100 MHz capable FM handheld for signal tracing. Further enhancements are discussed, such as an optional Tx driver stage to boost output to 100 mW and the potential modification of a Motorola Maxor 80 PA for 222 MHz SSB/CW operation. The resource also covers practical aspects like power attenuation pads for IF radios (e.g., FT817) and considerations for enclosure design, including repurposing a Maxor 80 case. Performance reports indicate successful 70 km contacts with only 4 mW output.

The article offers practical guidance for setting up Field Day antennas, emphasizing the unpredictability and need for quick adaptations. It provides a comprehensive table of wire lengths for various bands and antenna types, using 1mm bare wire, in both metric and Imperial units. The author highlights the benefits of this table in saving time and reducing errors. While acknowledging potential variations due to construction and environmental factors, the article presents the table as a reliable starting point, with plans for future updates to include more bands and antenna types. This resource is valuable for ensuring efficient and accurate antenna setup during Field Day events.

The _Icom IC-705_ portable operation power supply guide details the use of a car battery jump starter and a step-up/down converter for field power. It examines various power supply types, including LiFePO4 batteries, lead-acid batteries, and supercapacitors, discussing their respective advantages and disadvantages for QRP and portable setups. The resource emphasizes practical considerations such as capacity, weight, discharge rates, and charging methods crucial for reliable off-grid operation. The article compares the energy density and cycle life of different battery chemistries, noting that LiFePO4 batteries offer significantly more cycles (e.g., **2000-5000 cycles**) compared to lead-acid batteries (e.g., **300-500 cycles**). It also touches upon the integration of solar panels for recharging and the importance of proper voltage regulation to protect sensitive radio equipment, providing insights into maximizing operational time during DXpeditions or POTA activations.

Protect your radio tower and solar charged battery power supply by sending the correct Morse code transmissions. Tap out alphanumeric characters in Morse code to prevent your radio station from being destroyed by the Morse code meteor attack! Meteors may be destroyed in any order. All levels start with a fully charged battery. Each DIT uses 1% battery power. Each DAH uses 3% battery power. Your battery charges at a nominal rate of 1% every 5 seconds, and total charge increases by 1% for every correct Morse code transmission. In addition, you have two solar panels that each contribute 1% to the battery charge rate. If your solar panels are destroyed, there are no replacements for that game. When your battery runs low, an SOS prosign bonus appears. Destroy this entity to recharge your battery.

Demonstrates WSPR propagation activity, presenting observed data by reporter, band, UTC time, local time, and user-selected global destination areas. The application allows users to analyze WSPR spots from a live data server or import saved WSPRnet query files, bypassing the 10,000-row download limit by collecting individual band files for busy bands. Users can configure band preferences and destination modes, choosing between city radius or Maidenhead map grids for filtering path destinations. The interface provides options to start current-day live collection, a 7-day continuous archive, or load previously saved data to build the propagation matrix. Diagnostic information and archive history are accessible, alongside map setup controls for grid contrast and visibility. The tool supports both Path 1 and Path 2 map destinations, enabling detailed analysis of WSPR signal paths.

List of analogue and digital DMR and DSTAR repeaters in the Sheffield Area provided by Sheffield & District Wireless Society UK