From around the hobby

Lab599 TX-500MP LINKS & Accessories

Off Grid Ham Radio OH8STN · Nov 12, 2026

Hello Operators, Many operators have trouble finding the relevant links for the Lab599 TX-500MP, the LiNK500MP, and the compatible Digirig interface and cables. There are [...]

QLog version 0.54.2 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

QLog is an Amateur Radio logging application for Linux and Windows, with macOS builds available. It is based on the Qt framework and uses SQLite as its database backend. QLog aims to be as simple as possible, while providing everything an operator expects from a logbook. KEY FEATURES WHAT YOU NEED L…

Lab599 Utility version 2.294 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Mohammed, EP2AES, has released Lab599 Utility, A Native macOS Firmware Updater & Toolkit for the TX-500. Lab599’s official utilities are only available for Windows and Linux (x86_64). Until now, Mac users had to borrow a PC or fight USB/serial passthrough in a virtual machine just to update firmware…

YAAM – Yet Another ADIF Manager version 1.37.62 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Mohammad, EP2AES, an active ham radio operator and software developer, has released a new version of YAAM (Yet Another ADIF Manager), a native macOS logbook and operating desk for amateur radio. YAAM is for operators who want one place to manage ADIF records, confirmations, contest sessions, award p…

SDRangel v8.1.0 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

SDRangel is an open-source Qt5 / OpenGL 3.0+ SDR and signal analyzer frontend to various hardware. SDRangel uses include: Version 8.1.0 — 2026-11-08 New plugins for aero comms Thanks to @srcejon we have now two more plugins: Also noticeably colour support was added to analog TV demodulator. What’s C…

FreeDV v2.4.1 has been released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

FreeDV is a suite of digital voice modes for HF radio. Their flagship mode is the Radio Autoencoder (RADE). You can run RADE using a free GUI application for Windows, Linux and OSX that allows any SSB radio to be used for high quality digital voice. FreeDV technology is being developed by an interna…

QK4 v0.8.1-beta.1 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Mike Garcia, KF5O has released a new version of QK4, a cross-platform desktop application for remote control of Elecraft K4 radios over TCP/IP, with real-time audio streaming and spectrum display. It also controls the Elecraft KPA1500 amplifier. KEY FEATURES WHAT YOU NEED LEARN MORE Version 0.8.1-be…

My 6 Month Experience with the Radioddity HF-010 Portable Antenna

KB9VBR Antennas Blog · Nov 12, 2026

When I do an antenna review on the channel, it’s never ‘one and done.’ I like to periodically revisit the product, put it on the air, and see if they continue to perform. Two antennas that have passed that test are Radioddity’s HF-009 and the improved HF-010. Both are portable vertical antennas with…

SmartSDR for iOS v27.0.17 Now Available

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Marcus, DL8MRE has released the latest iOS version of SmartSDR, the Official FlexRadio Systems® client for iPhone and iPad, which is available now for download from the App Store. Your FLEX-6000, FLEX-8000 or Aurora radio on your iPhone and iPad: at home over Wi-Fi or from anywhere with SmartLink™…

SmartSDR for MacOS version 27.0.15 Now Available

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Marcus, DL8MRE has released the latest MacOS version of SmartSDR, the Official FlexRadio Systems® client for your Mac, which is available now for download from the Mac App Store. Operate your FLEX-6000, FLEX-8000 or Aurora radio from your Mac, at home or remotely with SmartLink™. SmartSDR is a full…

SDR-Receiver for macOS version 1.16 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Marcus, DL8MRE has released the latest version of SDR-Receiver, his native macOS app for USB software-defined radios, which is available now for download from the Mac App Store. Plug in an RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, Perseus, Icom IC-R8600 or IC-7760: see the spectrum, listen and decode, with live tran…

DigiDecoder: FT8 SSTV CW Packet JS8 Decoder version 1.41 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Lukasz Skierkowski has released the latest version of DigiDecoder, which is available now for download from the App Store. Automatically identify, decode and encode amateur radio digital modes, with a real-time waterfall display. DigiDecoder is a universal digital modes decoder and encoder for iPhon…

Upgrade Your CoCo The Modern Way

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

The Radio Shack TRS-80 Colour Computer may never have achieved the sales volume of its competitors from Commodore or Apple, but it offered a surprisingly capable set of hardware. There …read more

K4-Control for Elecraft iOS version 27.0.17 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Marcus, DL8MRE has released the latest iOS version of K4-Control for Elecraft which is available now for download from the App Store. Master your Elecraft K4 transceiver from anywhere! Explore advanced SDR features and digital modes directly on your iPhone or iPad. K4-Control for Elecraft puts your…

K4-Control for Elecraft MacOS version 27.0.15 released

Mac Ham Radio · Nov 12, 2026

Marcus, DL8MRE has released the latest MacOS version of K4-Control for Elecraft which is available now for download from the Mac App Store. Master your Elecraft K4 transceiver from anywhere! Explore advanced SDR features and digital modes directly on your Mac. K4-Control for Elecraft is an innovativ…

Baochip-1x: A Mostly-Open, 22nm SoC for High Assurance Applications

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

For most people, just getting any old microcontroller or system on chip (SoC) from our favorite – or cheapest – vendor is more than good enough. But if you’re really …read more

MatterMesh OS: Encrypted Off-Grid LoRa Chat on the LilyGO T-Deck With No Internet

QRZ NOW · Nov 12, 2026

MatterMesh OS turns the LilyGO T-Deck Plus, T-Deck Max, and ThinkNode M9 into encrypted off-grid LoRa mesh communicators with maps, weather, and repeater tools. The post MatterMesh OS: Encrypted Off-Grid LoRa Chat on the LilyGO T-Deck With No Internet appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech In…

Lashed up 630m Amp Power Supply

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 12, 2026

Everything is here for the 630m station. I haven’t found the time to get this up yet, and the last actual excuse was a suitable power supply for the MultusSDR 200w 630m Amp. The amp is set up to take a nominal 36vdc, and the Lash-up from a IT power supply measured out at th […]

Just Use QWIIC Already

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

Years ago, I wrote an article describing different I2C-on-a-connector ecosystems, explaining their strengths, weaknesses, and implementation details, as well as piling on a heap of fun stories. Looking back at …read more

Ventoid: Turn Your Android Phone into a Ventoy Bootable USB Workshop

QRZ NOW · Nov 12, 2026

Ventoid prepares Ventoy multiboot USB drives from an Android phone over OTG, no PC or root needed. Here is how it works and who it helps. The post Ventoid: Turn Your Android Phone into a Ventoy Bootable USB Workshop appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Reviews by 9M2PJU.

KIISU V4BR: The Credit Card Size Flipper Zero Alternative for Sub-GHz, NFC, RFID and IR

QRZ NOW · Nov 12, 2026

KIISU V4BR packs Sub-GHz, NFC, RFID, infrared, iButton and GPIO into a credit card size board that runs Flipper Zero firmware for under USD 100. The post KIISU V4BR: The Credit Card Size Flipper Zero Alternative for Sub-GHz, NFC, RFID and IR appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and…

Take Some Time to Read the Plaques (and Smell the Wild Roses)

QRPer · Nov 12, 2026

As always, there are lots of links within the article. Click one! Click them all! Learn all the things! by Vince (VE6LK) The general physician I had from age five until I moved out west thirty-five years later once said to me, “Take some time and smell the roses, Vincent. Don’t be go-go-go all the ……

USB-C Hub or Nintendo Switch 2 Dock? Relax, It’s Both!

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

[Nozomi] travels with a Nintendo Switch 2, but the official dock is bulky and doesn’t seem to be made for travel. USB-C hubs with displays are common, but they won’t …read more

The Sextant: Navigating The Old Way

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

Navigation is easy these days, as we’ve entire complex computerized mapping systems and radio-based positioning systems to find ourselves anywhere on Earth. It might seem simple to use GPS these …read more

Amateur Radio Buoys—Bringing HF Position Reporting to the Open Ocean

OnAllBands · Nov 12, 2026

Amateur radio encompasses a wide variety of unique pursuits. While many operators focus on standard HF propagation, satellite communications, or moonbounce, Randy, KQ6RS, pursues a distinct niche: building amateur radio […] The post Amateur Radio Buoys—Bringing HF Position Reporting to the Open Ocea…

K5KHK: Earning My Brass Knuckles

QRPer · Nov 12, 2026

by Karl (K5KHK) Have you heard of the Brass Knuckle Gang (or BKG for short)? In a nutshell: Make 2m CW contacts – and get others involved. Plain and simple. I’ve often said – only half joking – that POTA is the program that gave ham radio a new lease on life, or, to put … Continue reading K5KHK: Ear…

Some CTR2-Max Observations

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 12, 2026

Flashing isn’t the most straightforward. Actually you have to initiate the flash twice, as the first time moves the controller into a ready-to-receive mode. Flashing from AetherSDR didn’t work for me, and I struggled with the touted AetherCTR firmware. Pro Tip: If you plug in a FlexControl at the sa…

Tiny Transmitters Track Monarch Butterflies

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

Miniaturization is one thing, but how would you like to design a transmitter that attaches to a butterfly? That’s what the BlūMorpho transmitter is made to do, according to [Tom …read more

Espresso, Meet Custom-Machined Stainless Steel Boiler

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

While pondering some repairs for his Gaggia Classic Pro espresso machine, [Hans Gaensbauer] ended up machining an entirely new boiler from stainless steel. It was a nontrivial undertaking, since the …read more

A LEGO 3D Printer

Hackaday · Nov 12, 2026

LEGO building blocks are a great toy, but every so often a hacker decides to take the little bricks outside of the toy room and make them an integral part …read more

ph-intercept: Watch Your Pi-hole Win a Space Shooter Every Time It Blocks an Ad

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

ph-intercept renders live Pi-hole, AdGuard Home and Technitium queries as a pixel-art space shooter. Blocked trackers explode, HUD controls blocking, free MIT Docker app. The post ph-intercept: Watch Your Pi-hole Win a Space Shooter Every Time It Blocks an Ad appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio…

Victorinox Straight Pin A.3645: The Hidden Tool Every Swiss Army Knife Should Carry

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

The A.3645 straight pin hides in SAK scales and lifts splinters, resets electronics, and ejects SIMs. Fitment, uses, and care for every Swiss Army knife owner. The post Victorinox Straight Pin A.3645: The Hidden Tool Every Swiss Army Knife Should Carry appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech I…

RefConnect: Link Your D-STAR Radio to REF, XRF, XLX, and DCS Reflectors Over USB

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

RefConnect links your D-STAR radio to REF, XRF, XLX and DCS reflectors over USB serial. Free GPL-3.0 app for macOS, Windows and Linux with APRS support. The post RefConnect: Link Your D-STAR Radio to REF, XRF, XLX, and DCS Reflectors Over USB appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights an…

ArchangeSDR: A Lightweight Linux Scanner That Records People Talking, Not Static

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

ArchangeSDR sweeps your bands, tests each signal for human speech, and records whole conversations with transcripts. Free MIT scanner for Linux with RTL-SDR and SoapySDR support. The post ArchangeSDR: A Lightweight Linux Scanner That Records People Talking, Not Static appeared on HamRadio.my - Amate…

Doppler App for F4HWN Labs: Auto Satellite Tracking on UV-K5, UV-K1, UV-K6

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

Doppler 0.3 is a free MIT overlay app for F4HWN Labs that auto-tracks satellite Doppler on Quansheng UV-K5, UV-K1 and UV-K6. Four numbers model the pass, RX only. The post Doppler App for F4HWN Labs: Auto Satellite Tracking on UV-K5, UV-K1, UV-K6 appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insight…

Missileer.watch Three Weeks On: Live Copy-Along, Corrections Board, and a Coming Device

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

Three weeks on, missileer.watch adds live copy-along, a corrections board and device news. KPH receiving, Iceland dark since Oct 26, 23 EAMs this week. The post Missileer.watch Three Weeks On: Live Copy-Along, Corrections Board, and a Coming Device appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insig…

H9 Toolbox SAT PASS: FM Satellite Tracker for the TD-H9

QRZ NOW · Nov 11, 2026

H9 Toolbox App Manager adds SAT PASS to the TIDRADIO TD-H9: next five FM satellite passes, sky plots, live Doppler tuning, and auto VFO tracking. The post H9 Toolbox SAT PASS: FM Satellite Tracker for the TD-H9 appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Reviews by 9M2PJU.

It’s Elite, For The Commodore Pet

Hackaday · Nov 11, 2026

A few times in the life of someone interested in technology, there comes along something which after seeing it, you know the field is never going to be the same …read more

FLOSS Weekly Episode 883: Telnet Broke Us

Hackaday · Nov 11, 2026

This week Jonathan chats with Sattyam Jain about Agent Audit Kit and Agent Airlock. We’re in a brave new world, where anyone can use AI to generate an AI agent. …read more

Modular, 3D Printed Train Whistles For Everyone

Hackaday · Nov 11, 2026

If the word “train” didn’t grab your attention, you’re probably not the target audience for this project. If it did, then there is no need to explain why [AeroKoi] has …read more

FT8 at 3.2 watts, QMX+ with FT8 on a TAB5

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 11, 2026

I’ll have a more comprehensive how-to write-up later, but this mini-setup is so fun that I wanted to share. The TAB5 arrived by FedEx from DigiKey and after supper I thought I would look it over. Installing the Firmware was easy, and well I just had to give it a try. I picked FT8 to […]

Interview with VE6SH, President of the IARU at the ITU PP-26 Conference

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Nov 11, 2026

Making QSOs with the QMX+ and QMX

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 11, 2026

After a broke a wire on the Pebble HF kit build, I was a bit frustrated. Dragged out the QRP-Labs transceivers to knock out a few QSOs. Started with the QMX+, which is the bigger “desktop version” that has more bands. I rather like this QMX+, as my “K9ZW” signal to the POAT stations I […]

CHIP 8: The Pong Game’s Afoot!

Hackaday · Nov 11, 2026

Writing a computer game has always been hard. It is only the nature of the difficulty that changes. A modern game is as much about graphics, sound, and storytelling as …read more

The Hidden Woodsmen 2026 Holiday Sale: Great Pouches for Field-Portable Shortwave Radios

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 11, 2026

A quick note for SWLing Post readers: this article has been re-posted from our sister site, QRPer.com. Although the field kits I mention below are amateur radio kits, these pouches and packs could just as easily hold any number of portable shortwave radios. For scale, I’ve taken a couple of photos o…

Ham Radio Holiday Gift Guide 2026 Part 2–POTA Presents: Transceivers, Batteries, Books & More

OnAllBands · Nov 11, 2026

There are legions of ham radio operators who feel Parks on the Air® (POTA) has been a true gift to the amateur radio community. If you’d like to introduce a […] The post Ham Radio Holiday Gift Guide 2026 Part 2–POTA Presents: Transceivers, Batteries, Books & More appeared first on OnAllBands.

The Hidden Woodsmen 2026 Holiday Sale: Deals on Some of My Favorite Pouches and Packs

QRPer · Nov 11, 2026

by Thomas (K4SWL) Our friends at The Hidden Woodsmen are having a sale on many of their pouches. They’re all made in the USA and are very high-quality. The sale prices are an incredible value. Click here to check out the sale. I’m a big fan of several of these pouches and packs. The Possible … Conti…

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of Radio 10 (November 9, 2026)

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 11, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report. Carlos notes: …”Foreign press focused Pope Leo XIV’s speeches on the government’s economy. Media outlets in the United States and Europe interpreted his p…

Salute to Veterans on Veterans Day

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 11, 2026

A salute to fellow veterans on Veterans Day. Amazingly I was in uniform posted overseas for my first Veterans Day 45 years ago. The SIC (Special Agent in Charge) of my two/three person unit finagled our appearing as 8th ID (Infantry Division) representatives in Verdun France, where the French Milita…

KI5OEB: My First Walk-In Parks on the Air Activation

QRPer · Nov 11, 2026

by James (KI5OEB) I am about to describe my first walk-in park activation. I was at Roaring River State Park (US-1780) all week, but there was a park inside it: Roaring River Cove Hardwoods State Conservation Area (US-13161). Accessing this location required a hike. Decisions, decisions, decisions o…

The Double Bazooka coax dipole antenna

Ham Radio Outside the Box · Nov 11, 2026

The Double Bazooka antenna is a very old idea first developed in 1944 for radar that has been modified for amateur radio use. I was alerted to its advantages by Ham Radio Outside the Box reader “Trippy” Brown AC8S who lives in the state of Michigan across mighty Lake Huron from my home town in … Con…

BinKeep: See Inside Any EXE, ELF or Mach-O Binary in Your Browser

QRZ NOW · Nov 10, 2026

BinKeep analyzes any EXE, ELF or Mach-O binary in your browser. Headers, functions, xrefs, YARA, packer detection, no upload, free and open source. The post BinKeep: See Inside Any EXE, ELF or Mach-O Binary in Your Browser appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Reviews by 9M2PJU.

Pebble HF Woes – Fat Finger the Toroids

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 10, 2026

This is an error message you hope not to see when you power up your freshly built Pebble HF transceiver.  A rather generic sort of message actually, usually a short or a cold solder joint. So I re-flowed everything I did, and still the “!! Check PTT/key” error. Hmm…. did I cook something along the […

X6100 Link: On-Radio FT8, DX Cluster and Phone Control for the Xiegu X6100

QRZ NOW · Nov 10, 2026

X6100 Link is free firmware plus an Android app that give the Xiegu X6100 on-radio FT8, SSTV, DX cluster, Field Ops logging and phone remote control. The post X6100 Link: On-Radio FT8, DX Cluster and Phone Control for the Xiegu X6100 appeared on HamRadio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Reviews…

1,000 Feet Above the Wheat Fields: K7TQ’s SOTA Activation of Steptoe Butte (W7W/WE-023)

QRPer · Nov 10, 2026

by Randy (K7TQ) On October 30, 2026, I decided it was time for another SOTA activation. I had already activated Kamiak Butte, W7W/WE-022, the week before and posted a report here on QRPer.com. In that activation, I had handheld my KH1 with only the four-foot whip and 13-foot counterpoise as its ante…

Ham Radio Youth Insights—How to Prep for Your First Multi-Op Contest

OnAllBands · Nov 10, 2026

With the 2026 CQ World Wide DX Contest SSB completed and the CQ WW DX Contest CW coming up soon (Nov. 28-29), I thought it might be helpful to discuss […] The post Ham Radio Youth Insights—How to Prep for Your First Multi-Op Contest appeared first on OnAllBands.

Texas Radio Shortwave: Schedule for December 2026

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 10, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor Terry (N5RTC), who shares the following schedules for Texas Radio Shortwave (click the image to enlarge): Note that you can also find schedules and more information on the Texas Radio Shortwave website.

Video: Detecting Sunspots on the Far Side of the Sun

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 10, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor David Shannon, who shares the following short video about detecting sunspots on the far side of the Sun: Click here to view on YouTube.  

Fall’s ARRL FMT (Frequency Measurement Test)

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 10, 2026

https://fmt.arrl.org/ https://fmt.arrl.org/docs/FMT-202611-Notice.pdf Frequency Measuring Test Schedule Starts November 13 at 02:29 UTC (Thursday evening in North America)  and you have to submit your results online before November 16 at 02:00 UTC (Sunday evening in North America). 73 Steve K9ZW

How Henry Jenkins W7DIZ Built His Rig during the Storm on Tillamook Rock -- How Many Hams Could Do This Today?

SolderSmoke Daily News · Nov 10, 2026

KNOT the nine o’clock news on shortwave

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 10, 2026

Happy November to all our SWLing Post friends! Here’s what Imaginary Stations is cooking up for your shortwave radio/SDR listening pleasure. On Wednesday 11th November at 0300 hrs UTC on 9395 kHz via WRMI we revisit the Shortwave Music Library to see if we have any overdue recordings. Expect the une…

VARA or Open-Source XARA: What do you think?

Off Grid Ham Radio OH8STN · Nov 9, 2026

Many of you have asked my take on the XARA implementation of VARA HF and VARA FM. It has taken a minute but here goes. [...]

LHS Episode #637: FieldQTH

AmateurRadio.com · Nov 9, 2026

Hello and welcome back everyone! You're joining us for episode 637 of Linux in the Ham Shack, the most terrific amateur radio podcast on the internet! This week we're sharing news about what has been going on in our lives, as well as taking a look at FieldQTH and discuss the Asahi Linux drama.

October 21, 1934 at the Tillamook Light Station, Oregon -- W7DIZ Saves the Day by Building a Transmitter (and Receiver!) from Scratch

SolderSmoke Daily News · Nov 9, 2026

2026 Veterans Day - Amateur Radio Events. ARRL Closed Nov. 11

ARRL News · Nov 9, 2026

Many amateur radio clubs and organizations are planning on-air commemorations and special events for Veterans Day 2026. Visit the ARRL Special Events Stations database, and contact the following stations on-the-air:In Tampa, Florida, the American Victory Amateur Radio Club will be operating W4V, foc…

A Century-Plus of Radio Innovation: The 102nd ARRL Handbook is Now Available

ARRL News · Nov 9, 2026

First published in 1926, The ARRL Handbook has helped generations of radio amateurs turn curiosity into knowledge, ideas into circuits, and experiments into new discoveries. Over the past century, it has evolved alongside radio technology, reflecting new developments and inspiring hands-on learning…

Tariffs? Politics? Inflation? Meh. This is the Best Time Ever to Buy Solar Panels.

Off Grid Ham · Nov 9, 2026

How can you not know? One would have to be astonishingly out of touch not to know about the tariffs implemented by the United States and the political acrimony surrounding them. But many hams may be surprised to learn that solar tariffs specifically are a more than fourteen year old... Read more » T…

Tales from the Shack by Bob Locher, W9KNI: Pulling Coax Cables & Control Cables Through a Plastic Pipe

OnAllBands · Nov 9, 2026

Legendary DXer and popular amateur radio author Bob Locher, W9KNI, took a break from his “Tales from a Serial Sniper” series on OnAllBands to write about the travails and triumphs […] The post Tales from the Shack by Bob Locher, W9KNI: Pulling Coax Cables & Control Cables Through a Plastic Pipe appe…

Embracing more than one Technology Level

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 9, 2026

Bas PE4BAS picked up the Friction-Maxxing theme Jeff KE9V offered: https://pe4bas.blogspot.com/2026/10/friction-maxxing.html I had commented at Bas’s blog: Individually we are clever enough to recognize when technology is too much or when it is too primitive. We dance around the extremes looking for…

N2YCH: Ragged Mountain – A Dual SOTA/POTA Activation on the Metacomet Ridge

QRPer · Nov 9, 2026

by Conrad Trautmann (N2YCH) October 26, 2026 Ragged Mountain, a peak in the Metacomet Ridge in Central Connecticut is SOTA W1/HH-003 of the Summits on the Air Hanging Hills region. Frank (W1FCS) and I decided to tackle the hike to the summit and activate it. This is the third of four summits in the…

Video: Alan Adds and Amplified Speaker to the CFT1

QRPer · Nov 9, 2026

Many thanks to Alan (W2AEW), who performed the half-upgrade kit on his CFT1, along with audio amplification: Click here to view on YouTube. 

IARU Administrative Council Meets

International Amateur Radio Union · Nov 9, 2026

The 64th meeting of the IARU Administrative Council (AC) was held in person September 24, 2026 in Vienna, Austria following the IARU Region 1 General Conference. The IARU officers presented reports highlighting IARU’s core responsibility of spectrum defense and global … Read more →

Listening to One’s Own Station – NB0W’s Recording of Our QSO

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 8, 2026

Scott NB0W was activating POTA US-13612 in Nebraska, and he made a YouTube of his whole activation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Od22HIGeEss&t=1096s Our QSO starts at 18:16 into the YouTube and ends at 19:32 I’ve been using XIT -30 Hz pretty regularly to make my signal stand out when I zero-beat…

Kenwood TS-990S availability returned

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 8, 2026

The formidable Kenwood TS-990S is available after a long period of “out of stock.” The return after four or more years of unavailability is welcomed. DX Engineering has them – https://www.dxengineering.com/part/kenwood/ts-990s/3280409 Using George W9EVT’s (SK) TS-990 was always a treat when operatin…

K4RLC & K4AAC: Ponies, POTA, and the Quest for the Elusive Mt. Rogers

QRPer · Nov 8, 2026

by Bob Conder (K4RLC) When it became apparent that Alanna (K4AAC) and I could not make it back to our beloved Scottish Highlands this year, we chose a very close alternative: Grayson Highlands State Park (US-1300) in Southwest Virginia. They share a lot in common: the Scottish Highlands and Grayson…

Radio by Permission vs Radio at Liberty

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 8, 2026

Radio by Permission vs Radio at Liberty By “Radio by Permission” I’m thinking of my DMR experience. In DMR you need to subscribed, have an ID that is assigned to you, and have access granted. Then you need to know information about who you hope to contact, usually their ID. To access the portal to […

EI3LH: Beans on the Air, or, I Ate My CW Key.

QRPer · Nov 8, 2026

Bean there, Keyed that. by Ian (EI3LH) I have a bit of a problem when it comes to operating portable. Time flies as I’m having so much fun that before I know it a couple of hours have passed and I’m starving hungry. If I keep going, at this rate I’ll be back to my … Continue reading EI3LH: Beans on…

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of Reach Beyond Australia (November 5, 2026)

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 8, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report. Carlos notes: Shortwave radio never ceases to surprise me. While in Porto Alegre, I was listening to a broadcast aimed at Japan by the Australian radio st…

ANS-312 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

AMSAT · Nov 7, 2026

November 8, 2026 In this edition: The AMSAT(R) News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio oper…

KV4AN: Attempted Activation of Three State Parks on O’ahu, Hawai’i – Part I

QRPer · Nov 7, 2026

by Steven Krumm (KV4AN) A few weeks ago, I needed to make a quick trip to O’ahu, Hawai’i. While there, I attempted to activate three parks, but only made three QSOs at one park and none at the other two. I’d been thinking about taking a trip to O’ahu sometime next year (more about that … Continue re…

Radio Waves: Automated Overnight Shortwave DXing, $17M Aroostook Superstation on the Market, Blessing EWTN, Radio Bulgaria QSL No. 11, and FM Deserves Protection Too

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 7, 2026

Radio Waves: Stories Making Waves in the World of Radio Welcome to the SWLing Post’s Radio Waves, a collection of links to interesting stories making waves in the world of radio. Enjoy! Many thanks to SWLing Post contributors Dennis Dura and David Iurescia for the following tips: NightDX: Automated…

While we Age – will we become obsolete soon or later than our radios?

With Varying Frequency - Amateur Radio Ponderings · Nov 7, 2026

With the ability to download what essentially is a “new radio” periodically, reprogramming the FPGAs in our SDRs (Field-Programmable Gate Array in Software-Defined Radio), perhaps our physical radios have a lifespan greater than us as operators? Will the Silicon in the hamshack out survive the Carbo…

Amateur Radio Weekly – Issue 446

AmateurRadio.com · Nov 7, 2026

An Amateur Radio operator told a satellite to play ‘Doom.’ And it listened. The experiment marks the first known time a satellite has received and acted on a voice command from the ground. Gizmodo QSL Shack Free social network for Ham Radio operators & enthusiasts. QSL Shack The depiction of Amateur…

Zero Retries 0268

Zero Retries · Nov 7, 2026

2026-11-06 - Meet Potential NewTechHams on Meshtastic / MeshCore, Mesh OFDM Protocol Update, New Kantronics KPC-3XE USB, Live RPi Backups, M17 AES256+ECDSA Test, xara Update

Opening at 88 MHz between Spain and Sub-Saharan Africa - 27th May 2026

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Nov 7, 2026

The ARRL Solar Update

ARRL News · Nov 6, 2026

Solar activity is expected to be low in the coming days, according to NOAAís Space Weather Prediction Center, with a chance for M-classflares and a slight chance for stronger X-class flares associated with sunspot region 4566, which is showing rapid growth in both size and magnetic complexity. No Ea…

One wavelength antenna fed at two points

Ham Radio Magazine · Nov 6, 2026

A wavelength of wire offers interesting properties that vary wildly depending on where you feed it.

A Fourth Park and 18 New BKG Recruits: My Bug-Out QRP POTA Rove Finale

QRPer · Nov 6, 2026

by Thomas (K4SWL) On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, I set out from the mountains of North Carolina for Raleigh, where I was giving a presentation that evening to the North Carolina State University Amateur Radio Society. To break up the drive and make the trip a little more interesting, I decided to do…

From Western Pennsylvania to Vatican City: My Unforgettable Experience Operating HV0A

OnAllBands · Nov 6, 2026

Article written by Tim, N3DL. *** Every amateur radio operator has a bucket list. Maybe it’s working a rare DX entity, completing DXCC, or finally making that elusive contact after […] The post From Western Pennsylvania to Vatican City: My Unforgettable Experience Operating HV0A appeared first on On…

End October /November activations

VK1DA.blog · Nov 6, 2026

On the weekend of 31 Oct/1 Nov I attended the vkff conference at Albury on the VK2/VK3 border. I activated some summits for SOTA as part of the trip. Of course on 2m I was using an Hourglass antenna with my FT857D. I started the weekend on Thursday 29th October activating four summits west of … Cont…

Scarrafone 2.0: The Homebrew Antenna Evolves

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 6, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor Giuseppe Morlè, who writes: Dear Thomas and friends at the SWLing Post, This is Giuseppe Morlè, IZ0GZW, from Formia, in central Italy on the Tyrrhenian Sea. In this video, you’ll see the evolution of the “Scarrafone” antenna—this is the Scarrafone 2.0! I’ve hel…

Carlos’ Field Recording of Reach Beyond Australia ( , 2026)

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 6, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist Carlos Latuff, who shares the following field recording. Carlos notes: I listened to this program broadcast yesterday by Reach Beyond Australia, which was about a book published in Japan titled “The Book of Breathing,” written by…

OBIT: Cyril Hilsum -- The Many Who Made Big HDTVs possible

SolderSmoke Daily News · Nov 6, 2026

Thursday SSB Net Report – Nov 5, 2Ø26

Loudoun Amateur Radio Group Blog · Nov 5, 2026

Thursday SSB Net Nov 5, 2Ø26 Open Ø1Ø3Z Nov 6, 2Ø26 on 3675 KHz Listen 3815 KHz for General class ops QNI KE4S Dave +1ØK8SYH Bill S8 N4PD Paul, Net Control +15 Closed Ø119Z Open Ø12ØZ on 28.4Ø5 MHz QNI KE4S Dave S8 N4PD Paul, Net Control S9 Closed Ø125Z

Amateur Radio Newsline Report 2558 for Friday, November 6th, 2026

Amateur Radio Newsline · Nov 5, 2026

- FCC TO VOTE ON LEGALIZED PHONE JAMMING AT PRISONS - CHANGES AT 2 US SHORTWAVE STATIONS - HAMS SHOWCASE RADIO'S ROLE AT MAJOR TECH FAIR - SECONDARY STUDENTS IN PAKISTAN CALL CQ FOR 1ST TIME - STUDENTS IN KAZAKHSTAN GET MESSAGES FROM 'THEIR' SATELLITE - POLDHU COVE'S MARCONI CENTRE RECEIVES WORLD OR…

Catching Up with Bob Schenck, N2OO, INDEXA Vice President

OnAllBands · Nov 5, 2026

While early winter’s chill is beginning to creep into Ohio’s daily forecast, the folks at OnAllBands are still reminded of warmer days this May at the Greene County Fairgrounds and […] The post Catching Up with Bob Schenck, N2OO, INDEXA Vice President appeared first on OnAllBands.

VE3QEE: An Overview of the QMX M5Stack Tab5 Panadapter

QRPer · Nov 5, 2026

by Mardy Eedson (VE3QEE) I have owned a QRP Labs QMX for about 10 months now. I am not a dedicated QRPer. Most of my HF contacts are made with an Icom 7300, and prior to that Flex 6300, plus, once a week I host a one-hour net on the club repeater. However, my acquaintance … Continue reading VE3QEE…

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of NHK (November 4, 2026)

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 5, 2026

Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report. Carlos notes: NHK: US Midterm Elections: Republicans Suffer Major Defeat “…In the U.S. midterm elections, the opposition Democratic Party secured a majori…

Alan Roe’s B-26 Season Guide to Music on Shortwave (version 1.0)

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 4, 2026

1Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor Alan Roe, who shares his A-26 (version 5.0) season guide to music on shortwave. Alan provides this amazing resource as a free PDF download. Click here to download Music on Shortwave B-26 v1.0 (PDF) Alan notes that this is likely the final update for the A-26 s…

“Rayture” (Elecevolve) RT-880X: Another TEF 6686 Portable

The SWLing Post Blog · Nov 4, 2026

Earlier this year, I was contacted by Elecevolve, the producer of the unique MLite-880 that I consider to be the best portable to emerge in years, about another receiver they planned to release called the RT-880x. The test unit that arrived here carries the name “Rayture” which was unfamiliar to me…

DX Engineering Holiday Gift Guide Part 1—DX Engineering Gift Cards

OnAllBands · Nov 4, 2026

Need a sure-fire, one-stop solution to easily handle all your ham radio holiday gift-shopping needs? You’ll find presents for every operator on your list at DX Engineering. Choose from transceivers, […] The post DX Engineering Holiday Gift Guide Part 1—DX Engineering Gift Cards appeared first on OnA…

Stellafane: Homebrew Telescopes -- The Telescope Makers of Springfield, Vermont -- PLEASE COMMENT

SolderSmoke Daily News · Nov 4, 2026

Sunday 2M Net, 01 November 2026

Loudoun Amateur Radio Group Blog · Nov 4, 2026

Net commenced at 2000 local on the 146.700/146.850 repeaters. Check-ins: Topics tonight:  Great discussions on many topics. Net was secured 2033. 73’s, Chris, W4PMP

A tunerless 3-30MHz tactical field antenna – too good to be true?

Ham Radio Outside the Box · Nov 4, 2026

I came across an interesting antenna design recently and I just had to build one to try for myself. The original version is a commercial antenna, built for the Australian military, called the Bushcomm Mil-1. The manufacturer claims it presents a low SWR from 3 to 30 MHz without a tuner. It is quite…

M6C CQ Worldwide 2026 – Storms, Stubborn Bands, Missing Sunspots and a Bit of Club Madness!

Humber Fortress DX Amateur Radio Club · Nov 3, 2026

Picture it: The Mill, Patrington. CQ Worldwide SSB 2026. M6C. Radios, laughs, and possibly too many biscuits. What could possibly go wrong? The Mill and antenna site during contest weekend. Storm Boelo: the uninvited operator Then Storm Boelo turned up uninvited. Wind howling, antennas doing the cha…

The 70 MHz (4m) band is 70-years old - Nov 2026

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Nov 3, 2026

Ham Radio Youth Insights—My Experience at Austria 2026 YOTA Camp

OnAllBands · Nov 3, 2026

This past summer (July 25-Aug. 1, 2026), I had the opportunity to attend the YOTA (Youngsters On The Air) camp held in Wagrain, Austria. I’ve attended YOTA camps in IARU […] The post Ham Radio Youth Insights—My Experience at Austria 2026 YOTA Camp appeared first on OnAllBands.

My Sunday Real Time Contest Adventure!

AmateurRadio.com · Nov 2, 2026

   Sunday was my day to get some chores done and then sit down at the radio/PC to put in about two hours in the Real Time Contest. I had taken part in this relatively new contest in the past and had a great time.The exchange is your repo...

New Products Spotlight for November 2026—POTA Packages, Satellite-Friendly Antennas & More

OnAllBands · Nov 2, 2026

In this season of giving thanks, OnAllBands would like to give a major shout out to the amateur radio innovators who are constantly looking for ways to enhance our enjoyment […] The post New Products Spotlight for November 2026—POTA Packages, Satellite-Friendly Antennas & More appeared first on OnAl…

Grayson Evans KJ7UM Talks Thermatrons with Charlie NJ7V on Red Summit

SolderSmoke Daily News · Nov 2, 2026

ICQPodcast Episode 496 – AI Advancements for Ham Radio

KB6NU's Ham Radio Blog · Nov 1, 2026

In this episode, I join Martin Butler M1MRB, Caryn Eve Murray KD2GUT, Edmund Spicer M0MNG and Ed Durrant DD5LP  to discuss the latest amateur / ham radio news, including: eBay Tightens Rules on Radio Equipment Listings — But Ham-Band-Only Gear Is Exempt Pilot Dies After Helicopter Strikes Ham Radio…

ICQPodcast Episode 496 – AI Advancements for Ham Radio

AmateurRadio.com · Nov 1, 2026

In this episode, we join Martin Butler M1MRB, Dan Romanchik KB6NU, Caryn Eve Murray KD2GUT, Edmund Spicer M0MNG and Ed Durrant DD5LP  to discuss the latest Amateur / Ham Radio news. Colin Butler (M6BOY) rounds up the news in brief, and the episode's feature is AI Advancements for Ham Radio We would…

The Communicator: November – December 2026

AmateurRadio.com · Nov 1, 2026

Welcome to The CommunicatorGet ready for an exciting journey into amateur radio tech in the November–December 2026 issue of The Communicator. This milestone edition celebrates 60 years of emergency communications support with the Surrey Emergency ...

ANS-305 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

AMSAT · Oct 31, 2026

AMSAT News Service ANS-305November 1, 2026 In this edition: AMSAT OSCAR Satellite Status Page – New URL Spacewalkers Install Seventh Roll-Out Solar Array; Final Installation Set for November 5 ARISS SSTV Series 34 Concludes UNNE-1B Heard Around the World as AMSAT-EA Commissions Its Newest PocketQube…

More Clandestine Spy Radios -- Soviet Spies in Japan during WWII -- Spies On The Air! Please Comment!

SolderSmoke Daily News · Oct 31, 2026

SSTV From SPACE!

Ham Radio Operator - M0YKS · Oct 31, 2026

Amateur Radio Weekly – Issue 445

AmateurRadio.com · Oct 31, 2026

An unmodified C62 can not decode TETRA. Or can it? A successful TETRA decode using a TMO transmission sample from the HamTETRA group. M17 Project A new Ham’s guide to overcomplicating everything How well does my station work in the field? QRPer Time’s up for the leap second! A historic decision with…

RTL Long Wave masts to be demolished Fri 6th Nov 2026

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Oct 31, 2026

Ham College 145

AmateurRadio.com · Oct 31, 2026

Ham College episode 145 is now available for download. General Exam Questions Part 6 G2A – Phone operating procedures: USB/LSB conventions, breaking into a contact, transmitter setup for voice operation, answering DX stations. Download YouTube This video is part of the Ham College series, specifical…

Ham College 145

AmateurLogic.TV Blog · Oct 31, 2026

Ham College episode 145 is now available for download. General Exam Questions Part 6 G2A – Phone operating procedures: USB/LSB conventions, breaking into a contact, transmitter setup for voice operation, answering DX stations. Download YouTube This video is part of the Ham College series, specifical…

Zero Retries 0267

Zero Retries · Oct 31, 2026

2026-10-30 - ZRDC 2026 Update 10/30/2026, Zero Retries Digital Conference 2026 - N8GNJ Debrief, Breaking: xara - a VARA-compatible Modem for Linux, AnyRadio - Receive AnyFrequency / Receive AnyMode...

Learning the hard way!

AmateurRadio.com · Oct 30, 2026

 Once a month or so, I back up the SSD (Solid State Drive) on my PC. I do both a clone backup and an incremental backup. One clone is saved to another SSD, while a second is saved to a SATA connected drive. The incremental backups are saved to two...

Ham Radio Portable Operating Insights—Combining POTA with the Pennsylvania QSO Party

OnAllBands · Oct 30, 2026

One of the high points of my ham radio year is the time spent in Pennsylvania with my friends. It’s a tradition that began 40 years ago with a tent […] The post Ham Radio Portable Operating Insights—Combining POTA with the Pennsylvania QSO Party appeared first on OnAllBands.

Amateur Radio Newsline Report 2557 for Friday, October 30th, 2026

Amateur Radio Newsline · Oct 29, 2026

- NASA FUNDS HELP HAMSCI BRING SCIENCE, RADIO TO COMMUNITIES - HAM RADIO COMPLETES ANOTHER EARTH-VENUS-EARTH CONTACT - FCC GRANTS SPECTRUM-LICENSE TRANSFER TO SPACEX - SILENT KEY: TREVOR HUGHES, G4WKJ, FORMER RSGB VOLUNTEER - CAMPAIGN TO SEND 'AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR' INTO SPACE - ANTIQUE WIRELESS 19…

Extend Your Range—Getting in Touch with Cross-Band Repeat

OnAllBands · Oct 29, 2026

I have been trying to figure out a way to increase some usage on our local repeaters. I have a 2 meter and a 70cm repeater fairly close by. I […] The post Extend Your Range—Getting in Touch with Cross-Band Repeat appeared first on OnAllBands.

Closure of Skywaves DX Forum - Oct 2026

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Oct 29, 2026

CQ CQ: An Invitation.

Off Grid Ham · Oct 28, 2026

Few of my readers know this, but I have another website not related to radio or off grid power. Twenty First Summer  was started in December 2013, predating Off Grid Ham by a year and a half. It is intended to encourage introspection and offer readers thoughtful, positive, and relevant... Read more…

Not1MM now working on my Linux box!

KB6NU's Ham Radio Blog · Oct 28, 2026

A year ago, I reported that I had converted my shack computer to Linux and that I had gotten most of the software I wanted running on it. The one thorn in my side, if you will, was the not1mm contest logging program. The problem was that the process did not support a critical feature […]

Pedestrian Mobile Ham Radio: You Can Take It With You

OnAllBands · Oct 28, 2026

Most hams think of mobile operation as getting into a vehicle, turning on the radio, and heading down the road. Choosing portable operation means carrying a radio, battery, and antenna […] The post Pedestrian Mobile Ham Radio: You Can Take It With You appeared first on OnAllBands.

Surge in sales of domestic radios in the UK - Oct 2026

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Oct 28, 2026

TechTip #5: When is a balun not a balun?

Ham Radio Outside the Box · Oct 28, 2026

TechTips are occasional brief posts describing easy ways to do difficult things. What is a balun? The simplest definition is “a device for connecting a balanced line to an unbalanced line.” Many hams use the term generically to refer to the device that goes in between the antenna wire and the coax…

New Propagation Software from 8P5AB in Barbados

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Oct 27, 2026

LHS Episode #636: Unjoined

AmateurRadio.com · Oct 26, 2026

Hello and welcome back everyone! You're joining us for episode 636 of Linux in the Ham Shack, the most terrific amateur radio podcast on the internet! This week we're sharing news about what has been going on in our lives, as well as discussing the end of opensource, oh I mean r/opensource.

ISS SSTV Awards/Diploma

Ham Radio Operator - M0YKS · Oct 26, 2026

NVIS vs DX: Why you need to master local propagation

KB9VBR Antennas Blog · Oct 26, 2026

As amateur radio operators we put a lot of time and effort in order to make our signal go further. We pick antennas with a low RF radiation takeoff angle, we search for efficiency in design, and we spend vast amounts of time and effort analyzing the propagation charts for that rare DX opening. But […

25 October 2026 2M Net

Loudoun Amateur Radio Group Blog · Oct 25, 2026

WA4TXE DavidK2BFY HenryK3WD BillKS1G SteveKO4ANI MikeW0MOM JohnWA4KBM Kevin Net Control Net Closed at 825pm

Video: The Bizarre Bases of Antenna Towers

EI7GL....A diary of amateur radio activity · Oct 25, 2026

ANS-298 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

AMSAT · Oct 24, 2026

AMSAT News Service ANS-298October 25, 2026 In this edition: * AMSAT Youth Initiative Featured in Florida News* ERMINAZ-2 Satellites Receive OSCAR Numbers* Where Does Space Begin?* Falcon 9 Launches Bandwagon-5 Rideshare Mission* Greek-Built Satellite Launched for Kazakh School* San Diego Balloon Lau…

Amateur Radio Weekly – Issue 444

AmateurRadio.com · Oct 24, 2026

1 out of 18 Hams fail to renew at the payment point 227 hams per month failed the payment process after applying for renewal. That’s 4.63% of the total. K4HST Earth-Venus-Earth 2026 The successfully received message was modulated in a specially designed waveform (M-FSK), in collaboration with the Op…

Zero Retries 0267 is Delayed

Zero Retries · Oct 23, 2026

2026-10-23 - Apologies for the delay of Zero Retries 0267

A new keyboard

AmateurRadio.com · Oct 23, 2026

 Because I do a lot of contesting, my keyboard gets a serious workout every year. Recently, some keys started becoming unreliable. I’d press a key and nothing would happen until I tried again—sometimes several times. I considered taking the keyboa...

Ham Radio 2.0 Hits 200,000 Subscribers

KB6NU's Ham Radio Blog · Oct 23, 2026

James Brown was known as “the hardest working man in show business.” His Wikipedia page notes that “in a career that lasted more than 50 years, he influenced the development of several music genres.” Back in the day, you saw him everywhere–on TV, in concerts, and apparently also in the studio. If I…

The ARRL Solar Update

ARRL News · Oct 23, 2026

The active sunspot region that has been giving us improvedpropagation over the past several days will be rotating awayfrom Earth’s view today, but conditions on most of the HFamateur bands should remain pretty decent in the days ahead,as the 10.7-centimeter radio flux remains right around 100.Howeve…