Ferrite Chokes, What are They, Anyway?
In other OnAllBand entries, we’ve covered what ferrites are, how their behavior varies with frequency, and some of their applications in the ham station. This time, we’ll focus on their […]
An Amateur Radio Blog by DX Engineering Technical Articles
Technical Articles
Technical Articles
What is Ferrite Used For, Anyway (Part 2)
In the OnAllBands entry, “What is Ferrite, Anyway?” we discussed what ferrite is and what makes up a “mix.” We also explored how ferrite behaves at different frequencies. Ferrite has […]
Technical Articles
What is Ferrite, Anyway?
Ferrites are made from oxides of iron, cobalt (Co), barium (Ba), and strontium (Sr). The type of ferrite most useful to hams are soft ferrites. (The hard ferrites are good […]
Technical Articles
Video Tech: Establishing Hot Spots for Your D-Star Radio
Ken, KA8ODA, is DX Engineering‘s digital mode specialist. In this video, he takes you through the hows and whys of establishing a hot spot in your home. “What a hot […]
Technical Articles
Tips for Handling Fiberglass Tubing for HAM Radio Applications
Many amateur radio projects use fiberglass tubing and there are some precautions you should take when handling it. When the tubing arrives – before you open the box – be prepared. There […]
Technical Articles
Guide to Amateur Radio Frequencies and Bands
Many hams equate frequencies and bands with colloquial usage. Therefore VHF is 2 meters, specifically 144 to 148 MHz, and HF is 160 through 6 meters, just like on our […]
Technical Articles / Weatherproofing and Grounding
Copper Strap vs. Copper Braid in Amateur Radio Grounding
Tinned-copper braid has been around for a long, long time. It’s been used in many grounding applications because of its flexibility and ease of soldering. It’s great for grounding radio […]
Technical Articles / Weatherproofing and Grounding
The Importance of Weatherproofing Lightning Protectors
Most amateur radio operators (hams) know they should weatherproof any coaxial cable connections that are outdoors to prevent moisture entering your coax connectors. However, many hams don’t realize you must […]
Technical Articles
Coax Switches: What to Consider When Buying a Coax Switch
“Wow! I just got another transceiver. I’m gonna need a coax switch. I’ll get a used switch off the web.” Bad idea… Used coax (coaxial) switches come in all conditions. […]
Technical Articles
Polarity on BALUNS Explained!
Q: If RF is a high frequency AC signal, why are there plus and minus signs on a balun? A: Keep in mind that we are usually connecting a ‘BALanced’ […]
