DXZone.com

Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2342

Three-Element Hex Beam Project, 40m Wire Antennas Comparison, 9:1 Balun and Unun, Building a new lithium battery, Dx-peditions365 App, Tripod Platform and Bi-Quad Antenna Mount, Band Decoder Arduino,

Enhancing Frontend Performance with Optimized Band Pass Filters

Technical Reference/Filters
This article explores the nuanced design challenges of Band Pass Filters (BPF) in radio receivers, balancing low insertion loss, high stop band rejection, and narrow bandwidth. The focus is on the "Series-Trap, Shunt-C" topology, resonator count impact, and meticulous layout design for superior stop band performance across various frequency bands

A mobile radio installation

Operating Modes/Mobile
Detailing a Yaesu FT-857 and ATAS-120 installation in a 1997 Toyota Tacoma, the author used Polar Plot to map signal strength. Using a hand truck with a laptop, FT-817, and an Iron Horse antenna, they circled a chalk-outlined 100-foot diameter, revealing potential nulls towards the truck's rear and through the cab, offering insights into antenna performance.

Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2344

Build a W3DZZ Antenna, Field Strength Meter, 6 Meter Beacons - Worldwide, aLog365, E51D North Cook Islands, E51D Log Online, Yaesu FT-818 Review, WRTC 2026 UK,

Comparing Mobile whip versus EF HW Vertical

Antennas/End-Fed/End Fed Half Wave Antenna
PH0NO conducted field tests comparing a mobile antenna (DX-UHV) to an end-fed half-wave wire. Results on 20m showed the end-fed wire outperforming the mobile antenna, with a significant difference in signal strength. On 40m, the end-fed wire surpassed the mobile antenna in spots and reach. While the mobile antenna is more practical, the end-fed wire offers superior performance. Further testing is planned.

FT-817 Audio Speech Compressor: Boosting Signal Power with SSM2165

Technical Reference/Audio
Designed for the FT-817, this audio speech compressor, centered on the Analog Devices SSM2165, offers a 40 dB compression range, enhancing signal power. Built externally with the SMD version to preserve warranty, the circuit interfaces smoothly with electret microphones. Testing shows a 6 dB average power increase. Adaptable to rigs with electret microphones, it maintains unity gain and 40 dB compression.

Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2341

Performance of 49:1 Ferrite Core Transformers, Variations on a Dipole, Yaesu FTDX101D QST Review, GP Antenna for 1296 MHz, Repair of an FT-1000 MP Mark V , Cloverleaf Antenna, CWvox

Delta Loop vs End Fed Half Wave on 20m

Antennas/End-Fed
Intrigued by a German OM positive experience with a 20m delta loop, the author replicated the design, noting its favorable 50-ohm impedance compared to their 40m version. Testing against a vertical EFHW, the delta loop excelled within EU but lagged at longer distances. Despite needing more testing, the user leaned towards the EFHW for its overall performance and practicality.

Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2343

Aluminium Push Up Mast , Yaesu FT-710 QST Review, FT-710 Yaesu official web site, Short introduction to D-STAR, ICOM IC-7100 Review , Troubleshooting Data Mode Problems, Fix FT-757GXII blank display

Yaesu FT-817 Audio Enhancement: Heathkit-inspired Homebrew Project

Technical Reference/Audio
Inspired by Heathkit, author aimed to enhance his Yaesu FT-817 with audio and RF processing. Design goals included a compact enclosure, PCB simplicity, matching jacks, a visual meter, and a built-in signal generator. Despite challenges in finding a suitable compressor IC for a 5V DC mic jack, he chose the Analog Devices SSM2165/2166 series. Prototyping with a solderless breadboard, author planned a PCB layout for its versatile performance in communication use.

Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2339

Multiband portable wire antennas, 27MHz CB to 50 MHz Amateur Use Conversion, ICOM IC-7610 Rewind , 6m Oblong Loop Antenna, Programming FT-991A, Operating Amateur Radio Overseas, 6m Beacons Report,

The CW Typewriter: A Morse Code to ASCII Converter

Technical Reference/Morse Code Decoder
The CW typewriter is a compact adapter board that transforms Morse code into ASCII characters using an Iambic key. It connects to a computer via USB, emulating the keyboard. The device features inputs for Iambic keying and a WPM speed potentiometer, and outputs for a key and a speaker for side tone. The device can be used with various software and online typing games for practice, offering a unique and interactive way to learn and use Morse code.

Top Amateur Radio Websites - Issue 2340

End Fed Antenna for WARC Bands, Open-Folded W8JK Antenna for HF, 8010 Enfed Antenna, Repeaters a guide for Beginners, Yaesu FT-710 Brochure, Yaesu FT-818 Details, 23cm Yagi antenna,

ICOM IC-R20

IC-R20 by Icom. Wideband Receiver Professional radioreceiver, allow double receiver, from HF to Microwave, digital recorde, DTCS, Memories and 11 hours countinuous reception.

Build an Arduino CW Decoder

Technical Reference/Arduino/Morse Code
An Arduino-Based Solution for 5-35 WPM Signals. Explore the circuit, controls, and setup of this innovative device designed by Allen Baker (KG4JJH). Decode Morse code efficiently, providing a valuable tool for operators, from novices to veterans, and offering a hands-on experience with Arduino technology.

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