Technical Articles

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 […]

how to filter coaxial cable illustration
Technical Articles

Simple Filters from Transmission Line Stubs

In my previous article, I discussed overload from broadcast stations and the filters that could block those strong signals from getting to your radio. In this article, I’ll illustrate a […]

Technical Articles

Five Tips for Successful QRP Operating

QRP, or low-power operating, is one of Ham radio’s fundamental challenges. Can you really make contacts running only five watts or less? Yes, Virginia, you can enjoy a quality ham […]

ham radio operator working at indoor station
Technical Articles

Your First Pileup: Techniques for Success

Operating from a rare (or semi-rare) location is one of the greatest experiences in Ham radio. Many operators have spent time trying to work a DXpedition and have also dreamed […]