FT8: Choosing a Radio and Interface
So you want to get into FT8: What’s the best way to proceed and what equipment is required? To use FT8 you need four things: HF transceiver with data or […]
An Amateur Radio Blog by DX Engineering Technical Articles
FT8 / Technical Articles
Antenna Tech / Technical Articles
What is a Screwdriver Antenna?
When I first heard the term screwdriver antenna, I thought it was a joke. I immediately thought of stories about loading wet noodles, bedsprings, and random trees in the forest […]
Events / FT8 / Technical Articles
Field Day Strategies to Maximize Scores… and Fun
Since 1933, ARRL’s Field Day has been arguably the most popular event in ham radio. It is a rite of passage of sorts, with many hams citing the event as […]
Field Day / FT8 / Technical Articles
Give FT8 a Try on ARRL Field Day
My all-time favorite ham radio activity is coming up soon—Field Day!! Want to try something new this Field Day, June 25-26? All digital modes can be used, provided they can […]
Field Day / Technical Articles
Minimizing Interference on Field Day
Whenever two or more transceivers are used in close proximity, there is some level of interference involved. This level can vary from practically no problem at all to actually overloading […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8: Completed and Logged QSOs
What makes an FT8 digital QSO complete and logged? Sometimes you get a signal report back from someone responding with R-10, for example, and then the contact dies there. A […]
FT8 / Technical Articles
FT8: Frequencies, Decibels, and Message Meanings
FT8 is a very popular protocol and continually growing. But does everyone understand the nuances? What do all the characters mean? What are the frequencies? Why are the signal reports’ […]
Field Day / Technical Articles
Gearing Up for ARRL Field Day 2022 Part 4: Wire Antenna Kits, Masts, Guy Rings and More
In our first three installments of Gearing Up for ARRL Field Day 2022, we addressed coaxial cable, headsets and foot switches, and power—all important components of a successful weekend (June […]
EMCOMM
EMCOMM: What is AUXCOMM and Why is it Important?
The Department of Homeland Security National Incident Management System (NIMS) compliant program adopted AUXCOMM for all auxiliary emergency/public service communications within most states. AUXCOMM encompasses amateur radio, RACES, CERT Team […]
Field Day / Technical Articles
Gearing Up for ARRL Field Day 2022 Part 3: Batteries, Generators, and Power Supplies
One of the exciting aspects of Field Day is the challenge of operating with power sources you’re not accustomed to using, including batteries, generators, and solar panels—even water-driven, bicycle-powered, or […]
