Back in the Shack: 168 QSOs and a Wire Dipole! For those of you who know me, it’s no secret I’ve been away from the amateur radio scene for a few years. Sure I continued to use two meter handheld radios, but that doesn’t count. Life had a way of getting in the way, and…

GRA-1900T Multi-Band HF Antenna: A Promising Start

GRA-1900T Multi-Band HF Antenna: A Promising Start

I recently got my hands on a GRA-1900T Multi-Band HF antenna, excited to try out its portability and multi-band functionality. However, my initial enthusiasm was dampened by the lack of setup instructions, particularly regarding the pin positions for different bands. After some digging online, I found similar antenna information and was finally able to put…

My Frustration of Misused Phonetic Alphabets in Amateur Radio

My Frustration of Misused Phonetic Alphabets in Amateur Radio

  Amateur radio, often known as ham radio, is a beloved hobby for many enthusiasts worldwide. It’s a means of communication that spans vast distances, connecting people with shared interests in technology, emergency communication, and simply the joy of reaching out to others across the airwaves. However, amid the crackle of static and the exchange…

BUZZZZ

The 10, 12, 15, 17, and 20-meter bands have been buzzing lately! Whether you’re a seasoned DXer, a casual rag chewer, or just enjoy the thrill of a good skip opening, these high-frequency bands are offering some of the best propagation conditions in years. What’s the magic behind this boom? Solar activity is playing a…