Great California ShakeOut Drill Reported a Success
Editor's Note: Tuolumne County Amateur Radio and Electronics Society (TCARES) members Rich Combs, KN6HSR; Ned Sudduth, K6NED, and Toni Sudduth, K6TNI reported that the October 2023 Great California ShakeOut exercise was an "outstanding" success. Here is their story as reported to ARRL News: "This is a drill. Drop! Cover! Hold on!" was the mantra for the Great ShakeOut exercise on October 19, 2023...
Veterans Day 2023 Special Events
Special event stations will offer many opportunities for amateur radio operators to honor Veterans and make contacts for Veterans Day. The K1USN Radio Club will be on the air on Saturday, November 11, 2023, to show their appreciation for those who have served in the military. The club station is located at 85 Quincy Avenue in Braintree, Massachusetts. K1USN will be on the HF bands on SSB, CW, an...
Choosing the Right Aluminum Stock for Antenna Building
Antennas/Homebrewing Techniques
Building an efficient antenna begins with selecting the right aluminum stock. This article provides a comprehensive guide to sourcing aluminum materials for antenna construction. It covers different aluminum grades, their tensile strengths, tempering options, and their suitability for various antenna components. The article also recommends reputable suppliers in the UK, making it a valuable resource for antenna builders seeking durable and high-performance materials.
Deadline Extended to November 28, 2023 for 60-Meter Comments
The deadline to file comments on the 60-meter band proposal has been extended by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to November 28, 2023. Replies to comments will be due December 28, 2023. The public comment period was originally to close October 30, 2023. ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® strongly encourages all amateurs to submit comments expressing support to the FCC ...
SNASharp
Software/Vector Network Analyzer
SNASharp is a free software application designed to work with scalar network analyzers compatible with NWT software from DL4JAL. It is used to measure and analyze the scattering parameters (S-parameters) of microwave devices. Provide several measurements and analysis tools including Smith chart, Polar plot, S-parameter tables, Transmission line calculator
Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2338
WIFI Remote FUCHS ATU for EndFed Antenna, Yaesu FTdx101D Review, DuinoVox USB interface, HB9CV Antenna for 23 cm, A 6m beam for portable operations, FT-818ND Operating Manual, NZ Amateur Beacons,
USB-C charging for Handheld Radio Transceivers
Technical Reference/Batteries
The article highlights the common absence of modern USB-C ports on handheld ham radios and the limited use of USB for power. The author, [jephthai], shares a solution involving a USB-C cable with power negotiation capabilities, allowing the radio to be powered by USB. By splicing Anderson power pole connectors onto the cable, the radio can now be conveniently powered by a USB battery bank, providing a practical alternative to traditional 12 V batteries for off-grid operations.
EFHW Anntenna 40-10 for QRP
Antennas/End-Fed/End Fed Half Wave Antenna
The author discusses their endeavour to create a compact, robust resonant antenna for QRP operations due to strong winds in their area. Primarily designed for 40m and 20m bands, the article offers adaptability for different bands. The author hints at future projects, including an extended 8010 EFHW variant, promising a lighter yet efficient design.
ARRL Audio News October 27, 2023
ARR Audio News October 27, 2023
FCC To Vote on Removing Symbol Rate Restrictions
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® welcomes news of a scheduled vote by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to consider removing symbol rate restrictions that restrict digital modes, foster inefficient spectrum use, and dampen incentives for innovation. In the draft Commission decision, the FCC would replace the current HF restrictions with a 2.8 kHz bandwidth limit. The ...
How to Engage Youth with Amateur Radio STEM Education
ARRL Education and Learning Manager, and IARU Region 2 Youth Coordinator, Steve Goodgame, K5ATA, gave the keynote address at the 2023 ARRL Pacific Division Ham Radio Convention, also known as Pacificon. Goodgame was a public-school teacher for 21 years. He carries his experience of bringing ham radio into the classroom into his role at ARRL. "It is safe to say I've learned a thing or two about r...
Yaesu FT-891 Go-Box for POTA
Technical Reference/Ham Radio Go Kits
This article documents the author's latest go-box build for outdoor ham radio operations using a Yaesu FT-891 transceiver. The go-box is constructed from a plastic "50-cal ammo case" and contains various components, including the transceiver, LDG Z11 Pro autotuner, DIY Yaesu FH-2 remote control keypad, and an external battery. The author details the design considerations, the mounting of components inside the box, and addresses issues related to ventilation and cable management. The go-box is geared for CW operations and POTA activations, with further modifications planned for a microphone and DATA jack. This project allows for rugged, environmentally protected outdoor radio operations while maintaining portability.
Arduino Repeater Controller
Technical Reference/Arduino
This blog article introduces an updated repeater controller project utilizing the Arduino UNO. It includes a CW identifier, and the ID message can be customized using hex codes. The author offers a Windows command line program for easier message coding and provides a link for download. The controller features three adjustable timers for IDer, Timer-out, and Squelch-tail. The article also mentions the use of an audio switch to control audio levels between the receiver and transmitter. Detailed instructions and code files are available on the author's website for both version 1 and version 2 of the Arduino repeater controller. The project aims to enhance repeater functionality and audio management in ham radio operations.
Stingray Marine Transceiver
Technical Reference/HF Radios
Recently, at the Ballarat Hamfest, the author acquired an old Marine transceiver for just $10, charmed by its sturdy construction and waterproofing. Made by Findlay Communications in Sydney, this crystal-controlled transceiver had been dormant but was reinvigorated with minor fixes. A manual was sourced, and further repairs were made, including an ingenious crystal oscillator replacement using an Si5351a controlled by an Arduino. The refurbished radio, complete with a fresh coat of paint and added customizations, is now operational for 160m AM and 30m SSB. A successful and cost-effective restoration.
Hurricane Otis: Amateur Radio Active
Amateur Radio has been activated to serve during Hurricane Otis. In an e-mail, WX4NHC Amateur Radio Assistant Coordinator Julio Ripoll, WD4R, wrote: WX4NHC has been activated today Wednesday October 25th for Hurricane Otis in the east Pacific affecting Mexico.
WX4NHC will be monitoring the Hurricane Watch Net frequency 14.325 MHz and 7.268 MHz depending on propagation.
We will also be on the VoI...
Wireless Society of Southern Maine RACES
The WSSM Emergency Communications Team serves the Cumberland County Emergency Management Agency (CCEMA), and the community in general, by providing emergency communications assistance, conducting programs and training, promoting radio knowledge, fraternalism, and individual operating efficiency, and to conduct activities as to advance the general interest and welfare of Amateur Radio as a viable and efficient means of communications support.
RF Choke with Bifilar Windings
Antennas/Feed Lines/Choke
This article presents an RF Choke featuring an 11-bifilar turn winding of #14 house wire on a Fair-rite FT240-31 toroid. The choke is enclosed in a 3D-printed case from Thingiverse, though this may pose thermal concerns at higher power levels. With SWR concerns up to 30MHz, the author plans to employ two series chokes at the rig input for improved performance. This choke offers versatility for portable use, with potential mismatch resolution using an antenna tuner. Further testing is anticipated upon the arrival of new cables.
PCM Kestrel HF Transceiver
Technical Reference/Homebrew
This article describes an upgrade to the Kestrel transceiver, replacing its LCD display with a 0.91-inch OLED screen for improved sound quality. VFO boards from Denys VK3ZYZ were integrated, particularly a Nano VFO board. The author shares details about the setup and the resulting enhancements, along with images of the modified components. The transceiver is now optimized for various frequencies and operates at a power output of approximately 120 W pep. More information about the boards can be found on the provided website.
DX EXPLORER - Step Into The Amateur Radio World
Ham Radio/Blogs/Europe
DX Explorer is a blog tailored to amateur radio enthusiasts, with a special focus on DIY radio equipment. Geared towards beginners, the author shares their learning journey, emphasizing that the thrill of discovery and growth is the essence of this engaging hobby.
Ham Radio And the Art of Bushcraft
Operating Modes/Portable Operations
This article explores the marriage of amateur radio and bushcraft, advocating the pleasure of setting up a portable station in nature rather than operating from the confines of a vehicle. The Parks on the Air (POTA) programme is highlighted as a catalyst for outdoor radio activities. The author shares his experiences and techniques, from transporting equipment into the wilderness to setting up shelters and antennas. Knot tying skills and the use of frogs are emphasized for efficiency, and a unique method for launching wire antennas is described. The article emphasizes the synergy between amateur radio and bushcraft skills, enhancing the enjoyment of radio operations in wilderness environments.
International SWL DX Contest 2023
DX Resources/Contest/Contest Rules
The international SWL Contest is oen to SWL all over the world. You can use a real radio receiver or a kiwi or web SDR. We have many sponsors who will give nice gift for best listeners of AM radios on SW and MW.
Playground Amateur Radio Club
Ham Radio/Clubs/North America/USA/Florida
The Playground Amateur Radio Club has be in service to the Northwest Florida Panhandle since 1951. The team in Fort Walton Beach Florida sponsors and hosts multiple events, contests, Hamfests, Swapmeets, meetings, nets and technical instruction and assistance.
MUF(3000)F2 Plots
Propagation/MUF Indicators
This page reports the last six daily MUF(3000)F2 plots recorded at Rome observatory by the AIS-INGV ionosonde. Provided Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) Italy.
Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2337
VHF UHF Duo band Yagi Antemma, Simple 2-tone generator, Portable J-Pole Antenna, QRP Z Match Antenna Tuner Project, DK3WN SatBlog, How to Activate a SOTA Peak, EA1CS - DX Info, LU1DSO Radio Club Olavarria,
ARRL Audio News October 20, 2023
ARRL Audio News October 20, 2023
Hurricane Watch Net Activates for Hurricanes Tammy and Norma
The Hurricane Watch Net (HWN) is activating for Hurricanes Tammy and Norma. In an e-mail sent on the morning of Friday, October 20, 2023, HWN Net Manager Bobby Graves, KB5HAV, wrote: This morning, we have 2 Hurricanes threatening landfall. - In the Atlantic, we have Tammy which strengthened into a Cat 1 Hurricane overnight.
- In the Eastern Pacific, we have Hurricane Norma. Once a Cat 4 Hurricane...
Using Amateur Radio to Play Chess
Playing chess using amateur radio? The concept may have begun in 1912 when a group of college students from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) wanted to challenge chess players at The Ohio State University (OSU). Though the official origin is still debated, clippings from a 1912 issue of The Case Tech, one of CWRU's former student newspapers, reveal that the challenge was made when the CWRU...
Modified Ground Plane Antenna Adds Second Band
Antennas/Vertical
This article explains the trick of how to shorten and lengthen pairs of radials to make a 2-band ground plane antenna.
Included is a "Table of Multi-Band Possibilities" covering the range of 6 to 40 meters.
Half-Size 6 meter J-antenna
Antennas/6M/6 meter J-Pole Antenna
How to use a little known J-antenna characteristic to reduce a conventional 14 foot antenna to 7 feet. Perfect 50 Ohm match, same gain, no radials.
Amateur Radio Supports 2023 Chicago Marathon
On October 8, 2023, more than 140 amateur radio operators from five Midwest states assisted 2,000 volunteer medical personnel at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. This is the 15th consecutive year that amateur radio operators have helped coordinate medical responses and arrange for medical resupplies. About 49,000 runners entered this year’s event. The city-wide marathon uses six main repe...
A POTA Book for Park Activators and Hunters
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® has a new book to help radio amateurs enjoy one of the fastest growing communities within the hobby. Participants in Parks on the Air® (POTA) have built one of the most vibrant on-air communities in contemporary ham radio. Park hunters comb the airwaves for activators operating from the lawns of sprawling public mansions, stoops at urban histori...
HB9CV Online Antenna Calculator
Antennas/Antenna Calculators
Online HB9CV antenna calculator, accept as input the desired resonating frequency and provides dimensions for spacing and length of each element, including boom and radiator diameter.
ARRL Website to be Unavailable Monday, October 23, 2023, for Scheduled Maintenance
The ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® website, ARRL.org, will be unavailable on Monday, October 23, 2023, due to scheduled maintenance. Those needing assistance with joining ARRL or renewing their existing memberships, as well as anyone interested in ordering products offered by ARRL, are invited to call the ARRL Member Services team at 888-277-5289 (toll-free US) or 860-594-020...
Digital Modes with Yaesu FT-817
Radio Equipment/HF Transceivers/Yaesu FT-817
Setting up the Yaesu FT-817 and Signalink for data mode communication. Hardware and software required for data mode communication, connect and configure FT-817 and Signalink
OZ2BC Jan
Exciting site vith many Links & HamStuff
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