Technical Articles

Technical Articles

The Pros and Cons of Using an Amp with QRP Radios

Less is more. QRP (low power operation) is becoming quite popular among hams who take a minimalist approach to amateur radio communications. Some radio amateurs who are licensed to use […]

FT8 / Technical Articles

A Look at Maintaining Proper Etiquette in FT8 Mode

Compared to the classic amateur modes of CW, SSB, and RTTY, WSJT-X modes such as FT8 are very structured with constrained message protocol. They are not suited for rag-chewing, and […]

WSPR Radio Network Map
Technical Articles

Hey Hams, Let’s Give a Shout Out to WSPR!

When I want to check for information on propagation conditions, I often look at the N0NBH solar-terrestrial data banner that appears on many ham radio sites. But if you want […]

world RF Wave propagation layers illustration
Technical Articles

Propagation Paths–The Long and Short of It

Getting Around on the Bands This article focuses on one of my favorite interests: How HF signals get around. When asked the question, “Why are you into ham radio?” I […]

How to calculate height with geometry diagram
Technical Articles

Brushing Up On Math: Some Basic and Handy Calculator Tools for Hams

Uh-oh, just lost half the audience at the title! Don’t despair, you needn’t be an engineer to do the simple calculations we all encounter in ham radio, sooner or later. […]

a collection of ham radio microphones
Technical Articles

Microphone Spotlight: New Offerings for Icom and Yaesu

Ask any longtime Ham and they’ll tell you what a difference an upgraded microphone can make for your transmissions. We’re pleased to showcase two new mics that can help take […]

am m2 antenna element for ham radio
Antenna Tech / Technical Articles

Antenna Safety—Look Before You Install

The most important thing you can do when putting up an antenna is to look before you install. Go outside and survey your property. Consider every suitable location for your […]

DX Engineering NCC-2 Control Box Module
Technical Articles

Using the DX Engineering NCC-2 with the Yaesu FTDX-101MP

Over the years, due to long term exposure to noxious noise, I have developed occupational hearing damage. Consequently, for me it is very difficult to critically adjust amplitudes when it […]

AFSK & FSK Comparison block diagram
Technical Articles

Getting Started in RTTY

Getting started in the RTTY mode can be confusing and frustrating. Just following instructions is often not successful. It helps to have a clear picture in one’s mind of how […]

ground radial installation diagram
Technical Articles / Weatherproofing and Grounding

How Many, How Long: Advice for Installing Ground or Above Ground Radials

Installing a radial system is a must for any quarter-wave vertical antenna system. Without one, a vertical antenna is only half complete. The radials are the second half of the […]