Podcasts about fldigi

Special Public Service Announcement – Free Crypto WebinarIn this brief Public Service Announcement, I'm sharing an exciting opportunity for you to join my upcoming free live webinar, “The Case for Cryptocurrency.” This isn't a full podcast episode, but I wanted to let you know about this important event and why it's a must-attend for anyone curious about cryptocurrency or looking to secure their financial future. During the webinar, I'll explain why now is the time to embrace crypto and how it can empower you to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.Registration is free—just head to preppingacademy.com/crypto to sign up today.Thank you for being part of our community, and I look forward to seeing you at the webinar.Stay safe, and we'll catch up in the next full episode!Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

Patrick takes the Prepping Academy helm once again with a new episode of Grid Down Comms Up. In breaking world news massive power outages in in Spain impact communications infrastructure sending some residents looking for portable radios to receive information. This episode looks at commercially available information sources that have been hardened by FEMA to survive disasters, EMP's and national blackouts too. Do you know where to turn to if internet and cell service stops? What information should you have available before the grid goes down?73PatrickLink the list of FEMA Public Alert Warning System stations. https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/broadcasters-wirelessJoin PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

Foundations of Amateur Radio A recent comment by a fellow amateur sparked a train of thought that made me wonder why there is a pervasive idea within our community that you need a radio transmitter and antenna to be a radio amateur, moreover that for some reason, if you don't have either, you're not a real amateur. I suppose it's related to the often repeated trope that the internet enabled modes like Allstar Link, Echolink and even IRLP, are not real radio, despite evidence to the contrary. Instead of fighting this weird notion, I figured I'd get on with it and find a way to play even if you don't currently have the ability to erect an antenna or key a transmitter for whatever reason. Before I dig in, a WebSDR is a Software Defined Radio connected to the Internet. It allows a user to open a web browser, pick from a massive collection of receivers around the world and listen in. Some of these also have the ability to transmit, but more on that later. Here's the idea. Have you ever considered tuning to a WebSDR, using it to pick a signal and using your computer to decode that signal? I'm aware that some sites provide a range of in-built decoders, but that doesn't cover the wide spectrum of modes that amateur radio represents, let alone the modes that are not specific to our hobby. As I've said previously, many of the modes in use today are essentially the width of an audio stream. This means that if you tune a WebSDR to a frequency the audio comes out of your computer speakers. If that's voice, your job is done and you can hear what's going on. If it's something else, then you're going to have to find a way to decode this to get the message. So, if you send the audio from your web browser into something like Fldigi or WSJT-X, you'll be able to decode the signal if it's supported by those tools. This is true for all the other tools too, Morse, RTTY, you name it. Depending on which operating system you're using the way to implement this will differ. Starting with a search for "WebSDR and WSJT-X" will get you on your way. You might ask why I'm advocating WSJT-X, even though it only supports a small set of modes and that's a fair question. In my experience, it's the simplest to get running and get results. Two tips, make sure you set your configuration to indicate that you don't have a radio, otherwise it's going to attempt to control something that isn't there, and make sure that your computer clock is set accurately using NTP or Network Time Protocol. You can thank me later. Now I hinted earlier at transmitting. There's a growing range of places where your amateur license will give you access to a station somewhere on the internet and with that the ability to get on air and make noise. An increasing number of radio amateur clubs are building remote stations for their members to enjoy. There are also individuals and small groups doing the same independently. A few organisations are offering this as a service to paid subscribers. These tools often implement a remote desktop session where you connect to a computer that in turn is connected to a radio. The supported modes depend on what is installed at the other end. Others implement a slightly different method where you run specialised software locally, sometimes inside a web browser, that connects to a server across the internet, allowing you to run whatever digital mode you want on your own computer. I'll point out that even if you start with receiving digital modes using a WebSDR, you can expand that into transmitting at a later stage. So, no antenna, no transmitter, no problem, still an amateur! I'm Onno VK6FLAB

On this episode of The Prepping Academy, Patrick picks up with a Grid Down Comms Up episode. We begin with a look at the battle rhythm in the first seventy-two hours of the disaster and what that looked like for the people on the outside, who were providing communications support and processing information for those with limited access to reliable information. Next, we look at the fog of war, how that impacted operations from day zero, and how it impacted those in the disaster area, followed by a look at the communications picture inside eastern TN and western NC.   We wrap up with a what-if discussion about how the picture would have looked very different and been much more complex had the Mt Michell amateur radio repeater not been in the picture. This episode illustrates Patick's quote, "Without communication, you are just another person wondering what just happened."  Remember, when the grid goes down, you are on your own, and what you don't know can kill you. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

In today's episode, Patrick discusses how communications systems failed during Hurricane Helene and why the communications situation in western North Carolina and the surrounding mountains deteriorated so quickly compared to a typical hurricane.  We also discuss how amateur and other radio services supported logistics and recovery in the aftermath of the incident. We look at some great successes and failures along with a few lessons learned, including some of the gear in high demand and what skills were needed to keep communications going.  Learn from others' mistakes and what can make a life and death-difference during a cataclysmic natural disaster to improve your communications game from real-world observations and experience, not armchair dystopian fiction.  Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

This week on the Prepping Academy Podcast, Patrick Adams takes the reins to bring a holiday-themed episode packed with practical, thoughtful, and must-have items for the preparedness-minded. As a leading voice in both AmRRON and PrepperNet, Patrick combines his expertise in survival communications and prepping to share his Top 10 Christmas Gifts for preppers in 2024.Patrick begins by emphasizing the importance of giving gifts that enhance self-reliance and preparedness skills. His list covers a wide range of options suitable for anyone looking to improve their emergency readiness, from beginners to seasoned preppers. Whether you're shopping for a family member, friend, or yourself, his curated selection is designed to inspire and equip.Listeners can expect recommendations for essential gear like portable power banks, versatile multi-tools, and high-quality water filtration systems. Patrick also highlights communication devices, such as HAM radios and signal amplifiers, emphasizing their critical role in staying connected during emergencies. Practical tools like durable survival knives and compact first aid kits also make the list, reflecting his philosophy of preparedness: “The best gifts are those that can save a life.”Patrick adds a personal touch by sharing why each item made the cut, blending his years of expertise with anecdotes from his own prepping journey. He also offers tips on where to find these items, ensuring listeners get the best value for their investment.The episode is not just about gift-giving—it's a call to action to prepare smarter and include loved ones in the journey toward greater self-reliance. For those ready to take their preparedness efforts to the next level, Patrick's recommendations are the perfect way to start.Tune in this week to the Prepping Academy Podcast to hear Patrick Adams' Top 10 Christmas Gifts for Preppers and get inspired to give gifts that truly matter this holiday season!Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

Hurricane Helene's impact and lessons learned. Part IIIIn this insightful episode of PrepperNet's podcast, Patrick steps in as the guest host for Forrest Garvin, bringing a fresh perspective and leading an in-depth discussion on surviving the intense Hurricane Helene while at Prepper Camp in the mountainous region of Saluda, North Carolina. Patrick is joined by three remarkable guests: Beth G., Pistol Pete, and Forrest Garvin himself, each of whom played a vital role in the emergency response efforts that unfolded during and after the hurricane.The episode dives into the invaluable lessons learned from Hurricane Helene and examines the profound impact of what they call the “refied effect” on the community, particularly in areas like Spruce Pine and the Avery County Airport. Through personal stories and candid insights, the guests discuss their respective roles and experiences throughout this challenging time.Beth, a dedicated volunteer stationed at the Avery County Airport, shares her experiences managing logistics during the storm. Her account sheds light on the intricate work required to keep supplies flowing to areas in need and the tireless dedication of volunteers who worked around the clock to maintain some semblance of order in chaotic conditions. She details the logistical hurdles she faced and the teamwork that was essential to keeping operations running smoothly.Forrest Garvin, meanwhile, opens up about the immense responsibilities he shouldered as he coordinated supply lines, organized search and rescue teams, and oversaw a dedicated network of volunteers. With a strong background in preparedness and crisis response, Garvin explains how his training and experience helped him manage this large-scale effort under significant pressure. His firsthand insights offer valuable takeaways on leadership, coordination, and resilience in the face of natural disasters.Pistol Pete brings his unique perspective to the discussion, reflecting on the need for effective communication, quick decision-making, and the importance of having a prepared community. Together, they analyze how the community's preparedness played a critical role in minimizing damage and supporting each other.Throughout the episode, Patrick guides the conversation to extract actionable lessons and thoughtful reflections, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of how to prepare for and survive similar scenarios. This episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in emergency preparedness, offering a real-life case study in the power of community, the importance of individual roles, and the collective effort needed to overcome nature's toughest challenges.Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

Hurricane Helene's impact and lessons learned. Part IIIn this insightful episode of PrepperNet's podcast, Patrick steps in as the guest host for Forrest Garvin, bringing a fresh perspective and leading an in-depth discussion on surviving the intense Hurricane Helene while at Prepper Camp in the mountainous region of Saluda, North Carolina. Patrick is joined by three remarkable guests: Beth G., Pistol Pete, and Forrest Garvin himself, each of whom played a vital role in the emergency response efforts that unfolded during and after the hurricane.The episode dives into the invaluable lessons learned from Hurricane Helene and examines the profound impact of what they call the “refied effect” on the community, particularly in areas like Spruce Pine and the Avery County Airport. Through personal stories and candid insights, the guests discuss their respective roles and experiences throughout this challenging time.Beth, a dedicated volunteer stationed at the Avery County Airport, shares her experiences managing logistics during the storm. Her account sheds light on the intricate work required to keep supplies flowing to areas in need and the tireless dedication of volunteers who worked around the clock to maintain some semblance of order in chaotic conditions. She details the logistical hurdles she faced and the teamwork that was essential to keeping operations running smoothly.Forrest Garvin, meanwhile, opens up about the immense responsibilities he shouldered as he coordinated supply lines, organized search and rescue teams, and oversaw a dedicated network of volunteers. With a strong background in preparedness and crisis response, Garvin explains how his training and experience helped him manage this large-scale effort under significant pressure. His firsthand insights offer valuable takeaways on leadership, coordination, and resilience in the face of natural disasters.Pistol Pete brings his unique perspective to the discussion, reflecting on the need for effective communication, quick decision-making, and the importance of having a prepared community. Together, they analyze how the community's preparedness played a critical role in minimizing damage and supporting each other.Throughout the episode, Patrick guides the conversation to extract actionable lessons and thoughtful reflections, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of how to prepare for and survive similar scenarios. This episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in emergency preparedness, offering a real-life case study in the power of community, the importance of individual roles, and the collective effort needed to overcome nature's toughest challenges.Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

In this insightful episode of PrepperNet's podcast, Patrick steps in as the guest host for Forrest Garvin, bringing a fresh perspective and leading an in-depth discussion on surviving the intense Hurricane Helene while at Prepper Camp in the mountainous region of Saluda, North Carolina. Patrick is joined by three remarkable guests: Beth G., Pistol Pete, and Forrest Garvin himself, each of whom played a vital role in the emergency response efforts that unfolded during and after the hurricane.The episode dives into the invaluable lessons learned from Hurricane Helene and examines the profound impact of what they call the “refied effect” on the community, particularly in areas like Spruce Pine and the Avery County Airport. Through personal stories and candid insights, the guests discuss their respective roles and experiences throughout this challenging time.Beth, a dedicated volunteer stationed at the Avery County Airport, shares her experiences managing logistics during the storm. Her account sheds light on the intricate work required to keep supplies flowing to areas in need and the tireless dedication of volunteers who worked around the clock to maintain some semblance of order in chaotic conditions. She details the logistical hurdles she faced and the teamwork that was essential to keeping operations running smoothly.Forrest Garvin, meanwhile, opens up about the immense responsibilities he shouldered as he coordinated supply lines, organized search and rescue teams, and oversaw a dedicated network of volunteers. With a strong background in preparedness and crisis response, Garvin explains how his training and experience helped him manage this large-scale effort under significant pressure. His firsthand insights offer valuable takeaways on leadership, coordination, and resilience in the face of natural disasters.Pistol Pete brings his unique perspective to the discussion, reflecting on the need for effective communication, quick decision-making, and the importance of having a prepared community. Together, they analyze how the community's preparedness played a critical role in minimizing damage and supporting each other.Throughout the episode, Patrick guides the conversation to extract actionable lessons and thoughtful reflections, all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of how to prepare for and survive similar scenarios. This episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in emergency preparedness, offering a real-life case study in the power of community, the importance of individual roles, and the collective effort needed to overcome nature's toughest chalJoin PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Survive the holidays without going broke! Keep Christ at the center of Christmas.It's not just about pinching pennies – how to balance frugality with generosity.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

The Most Awesome Privacy and Security Webinar EVER!!! Disappear ON the Internet!Yes, I said it!This is Forrest Garvin, and I believe that 100%. I have been studying Online Privacy and Security for over seven years—not the corporate stuff. The stuff that will help people like you and me disappear ON the internet. Anyone can disappear off the internet. This webinar is designed to provide valuable insights and practical tips that can immediately improve your online privacy and security. Whether you're a beginner or have some knowledge in this area, there will be something for everyone.  Wait, did I say DISAPPEAR?  Wait, you can't say that!  I did.  lolCome and hang out with me for this free webinar.  If you don't think it's awesome, I will refund you.  LolPlease make sure you SAVE your spot!  It will fill up fast.Go To:   https://www.preppernet.com/paJoin PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the Show.Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

In this episode, we dive into the aftermath of the T-REX readiness exercise, reflecting on the challenges, successes, and key takeaways from this intense three-day grid-down simulation. Join me, along with Patrick, the National Communications Coordinator for PrepperNet, as we analyze how the event unfolded from July 19th to 21st and the invaluable lessons we learned along the way.We'll revisit the various ways participants engaged in T-REX, from those who monitored the exercise to those who were deeply involved in off-grid operations. Discover what worked, what didn't, and the critical adjustments we'll be making to our preparedness plans moving forward. We'll share real stories from the field, including overcoming technical glitches, like Raspberry Pi crashes and power supply failures, and the emotional journey of staying connected during a simulated crisis.As we wrap up, we'll discuss the broader implications of the T-REX exercise on future preparedness efforts. How can we better prepare for power outages and communication breakdowns? What are the next steps for those who participated, and how can others get involved in upcoming drills? Plus, stay tuned for details on the PrepperNet Radio Show, where we'll continue these important conversations and build a stronger, more connected community.Tune in to this episode to reflect, learn, and prepare for whatever comes next!Let me know if you want any changes or additional details!Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the Show.Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

Welcome to the "MAY HAM" episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the three communication paths that PrepperNet advocates to help people achieve greater preparedness. These paths are essential for staying connected during emergencies and disasters: 1. Shortwave & SDR with Digital & Voice (Receive-Only): Shortwave radio and Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) are crucial for receiving information over long distances. We explore how to leverage these technologies effectively. 2. Technician License - Handheld or Mobile (Local Only): Getting a Technician License opens up the world of local communication using handheld or mobile radios. We discuss the importance of this license and how to get started. 3. HF Digital, QRP, JS8Call, FLDigi, WinLink: High-Frequency (HF) digital modes like JS8Call, FLDigi, and WinLink, combined with QRP (low power) operations, provide robust communication options. We share insights into using these tools effectively. Join us at PrepperNet.Net and enroll in our Ham Academy to learn more about these communication paths and enhance your preparedness toolkit. Stay connected, stay prepared! Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net  PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the Show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com  Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/  www.preppernet.net  Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT  www.forrestgarvin.com 

Welcome to the "MAY HAM" episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the three communication paths that PrepperNet advocates to help people achieve greater preparedness. These paths are essential for staying connected during emergencies and disasters:1. Shortwave & SDR with Digital & Voice (Receive-Only): Shortwave radio and Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) are crucial for receiving information over long distances. We explore how to leverage these technologies effectively.2. Technician License - Handheld or Mobile (Local Only): Getting a Technician License opens up the world of local communication using handheld or mobile radios. We discuss the importance of this license and how to get started.3. HF Digital, QRP, JS8Call, FLDigi, WinLink: High-Frequency (HF) digital modes like JS8Call, FLDigi, and WinLink, combined with QRP (low power) operations, provide robust communication options. We share insights into using these tools effectively.Join us at PrepperNet.Net and enroll in our Ham Academy to learn more about these communication paths and enhance your preparedness toolkit. Stay connected, stay prepared!Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the Show.Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

GB2RS News Sunday the 30th of April 2023 The news headlines: RSGB Coronation activities RSGB Membership portal High-altitude balloon launch   As the Coronation weekend approaches, don't forget all the amateur radio activities that are being organised by the RSGB to mark this special event. Ofcom has kindly agreed that UK and Crown Dependency radio amateurs may use the “R” prefix in their callsigns during May and June 2023 – just apply for the Notice of Variation via the RSGB website. The RSGB has also created three new awards you can achieve for taking part in Coronation activities. In addition, the callsign GB23C can be used by individuals and clubs from the 10th of May until the end of June, and there is a special Beaconnect activity throughout May and June. Details of how to get involved with either of these will be announced soon on the RSGB website. Finally, there are ideas for outreach activities for use with people of all ages. Go to rsgb.org/coronation for more information. Are you an RSGB member? Have you logged into your online membership portal recently? It is important to check your personal information and ensure your preferences are up to date. You can also opt into receiving a number of direct benefits such as the weekly email GB2RS newsletter and notifications about RadCom Plus and RadCom Basics. A new option is to receive emails about the RSGB's online events click on that and make sure you don't miss out! Log into the RSGB membership portal via rsgb.org/members or email membership@rsgb.org.uk if you have any questions. hi-impact, based on the Wirral, is planning another high-altitude balloon launch. This one will feature on the team's live-stream platform and be viewed by a number of schools across the UK and beyond. The team is planning to launch two high-altitude balloons. One will be running with a HABDuino and the other with some help from AmbaSat, using LoRA. The HABDuino side will be running on the standard setup – 434.650MHz USB, 50 Baud RTTY, 450Hz Shift, 7N1 data format and with the callsign ‘hi-impact'. If you're planning to upload telemetry to SondeHub, you'll need Dave Akerman's HABBase software and Fldigi. The launch, from Cilcewydd in Wales, will be between 11 and 11.15 am on Wednesday the 3rd of May. More information can be found on hi-impact's Facebook page and on Twitter via @hiimpactconsult The RSGB is seeking to recruit a new Technical Editor for RadCom. Reporting to the Managing Editor, the successful candidate will need a wide range of radio and electronic knowledge, including amateur radio. The RSGB is looking for someone who is positive, enthusiastic about technology, has an excellent command of English and has a good eye for detail. For more information about the role and how to apply, see rsgb.org/careers   And now for details of rallies and events Ripon Radio Rally is taking place today, Sunday the 30th of April, at Hugh Ripley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 2PT. Traders can gain access from 7 am and tables are £12 each. Doors open to the public from 10 am and entrance is £3 per person. For more information and directions visit g4sjm.co.uk Thorpe Camp Hamfest Rally will take place on Sunday the 7th of May. The venue will be Thorpe Camp Visitor Centre and the entrance fee will be £4 per person. Traders should arrive from 7 am. The rally will take place from 9 am to 1 pm. Hot food and drinks will be available on-site. For more information phone Sylvia or Anthony at 07956 654 481. Dartmoor Radio Rally will take place on Sunday the 7th of May at Yelverton War Memorial Hall, Meavy Lane, Yelverton, Devon, PL20 6AL. There will be the usual bring and buy, trader stands, refreshments and free parking available. Doors open at 10 am and admission is £2.50. For more information contact Roger by phone on 07854 088 882, or email via 2e0rph@gmail.com The Braehead Rally will take place on Sunday the 14th of May. The venue will be Braehead Arena Foyer, 150 Kings Inch Road, Renfrew G51 4BN. Free parking will be available. The doors open for everyone at 10 am and admission is £4. The event will feature Bring and Buy and the Central Scotland Repeater Group AGM. For more information and contact details visit www.braeheadradiorally.com   Now the Special Event News Special callsigns PA100PCG, PA100M and PA100K will be active on the 5th, 6th and 7th of May to celebrate 100 years of communication history between Indonesia and The Netherlands. For more information visit QRZ.com. QSL via the bureau. Look out for special event station AU40NRO which is active until the 30th of June. The station is operating to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the founding of the National Institute of Amateur Radio in India. QSL via VU2NRO. A special event callsign DM23BUGA will be active until the 8th of October. The callsign's suffix stands for 'Bundesgartenschau'. This is a biennial horticulture show and festival taking place in Mannheim this year. All QSOs will be confirmed automatically via the bureau, and direct cards via DL2VFR. Celebrating 100 years of broadcasting in Germany, special callsign DB100RDF will be in use until the 31st of December. The first official radio entertainment programme in Germany was broadcast on the 29th of October 1923. QSL via the bureau, or direct to DO2PZ.   Now the DX news Sands, VK4WXW has been on Willis Island, OC-007, since October and today is the last chance to work him. He works at the Australian Bureau of Meteorology's weather monitoring station on the island. In his spare time, he is QRV as VK9WX. The T30UN operation from West Kiribati, OC-017, is expected to be active until the second week of May. Operators plan to be available on the 160 to 6m bands with one CW station, one SSB station and seven FT8 stations. It will be possible to see two FT8 stations on the same band, at the same time, on different frequencies. QSL via Club Log's OQRS.   Now the contest news Today, the 30th, the UK and Ireland Contest Club DX CW Contest ends its 24-hour run at 1200UTC. Using CW on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. UK and Ireland stations also send their district code. On Tuesday the 2nd of May, the 144MHz FM Activity Contest runs from 1800 to 1855UTC. Using FM on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. Also on Tuesday the 2nd of May, the 144MHz UK Activity Contest runs from 1900 to 2130UTC. Using all modes on the 2m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. On Wednesday the 3rd of May, the 144MHz FT8 Activity four-hour Contest runs from 1700 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Also on Wednesday the 3rd of May, the 144MHz FT8 Activity two-hour Contest runs from 1900 to 2100UTC. Using FT8 on the 2m band, the exchange is a report and four-character locator. Stations entering the four-hour contest may also enter the two-hour contest. Next weekend, the ARI International DX Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1200UTC on Saturday the 6th of May. Using CW, RTTY and SSB on the 80 to 10m bands, where contests are permitted, the exchange is signal report and serial number. Italian stations give their province code. On Saturday the 6th of May, the 432MHz to 245GHz Contest starts its 24-hour run at 1400UTC. Using all modes, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. Also, on Saturday the 6th of May, the 432MHz Trophy Contest runs from 1400 to 2200UTC. Using all modes on the 70cm band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. Saturday the 6th of May also sees the start of the UK Six Metre Group Summer Marathon. The event will run until Sunday the 6th of August. Using all modes on the 6m band, the exchange is your four-character locator. On Sunday the 7th of May the 10GHz Trophy Contest runs from 0800 to 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 10GHz band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. Also on Sunday the 7th of May, the UK Microwave Group Low Band Contest runs from 0800 to 1400UTC. Using all modes on the 1.3 to 3.4GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. Sunday the 7th of May also sees the Worked All Britain 7MHz Phone Contest run from 1000 to 1400UTC. Using AM and SSB on the 40m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and Worked All Britain square.   Now the radio propagation report, compiled by G0KYA, G3YLA, and G4BAO on Thursday the 27th of April 2023 What a busy week we've just had! It started with a massive G4 geomagnetic storm that saw the Kp index rise to eight with aurora visible as far south as Cornwall and the Channel Islands. This was due to a coronal mass ejection from a filament eruption on the 21st of April. The 6m band came to life during the early stage of the storm with distorted aurora signals throughout the SSB and CW sections. However, the HF bands suffered, with MUFs down on the morning of the 24th. The 25th wasn't much better with MUFs over a 3,000km path barely reaching 18MHz all day. By Thursday the 27th the Kp index was still at four. However, there were surprises to be had. Phil, GU0SUP reported that at 1300UTC on Monday the 24th, he was amazed to work Yuris, VU7W on the Lakshadweep Islands on 10m FT8, with good signals both ways. He says the Kp index was at six and the regular FT8 frequencies on both the 10m and 12m bands were pretty much dead. On Wednesday the 26th, Peter, G8BCG reported, on the CDXC reflector, that 15m FT8 was open all night via the long path to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. It is always worth checking the HF bands during a major geomagnetic storm as there may be surprises to be had. Next week the Space Weather Prediction Centre thinks that the Solar Flux Index will remain in the range of 135 to 140. The Kp index may remain around two to three. However, as last week showed, we are now really into uncharted territory, in terms of solar activity, with daily multiple solar flares and associated coronal mass ejections. So, don't be surprised if we have another major geomagnetic disturbance with an elevated Kp index.   And now the VHF and up propagation news The weather pattern in late spring often settles into a period of south-easterly winds from a rapidly-warming Europe and the signs are there for just such a flow during the coming week. The sequence starts with unsettled weather and possible rain scatter from heavy April showers into the first weekend but, thereafter, a weak ridge of high pressure will move in to bring a chance of Tropo for next week. Paths along the east coast should do well, especially if there are large areas of sea fog and misty low clouds over the North Sea. At longer timescales, the period towards the following weekend will see eyes looking towards a low to the southwest of the British Isles that could push some thundery rain into southern areas by the end of the week and again bring a chance of rain scatter on the GHz bands. The jet stream pattern remains complex with several potentially useful flows that might be instrumental in prompting some early-season Sporadic-E propagation. Last week, the Portuguese CS5BALG beacon on 50.036MHz in IM67, and CS5BLA on 50.0760MHz, made a welcome return. Sporadic-E can be very fleeting early in the season, but keeping a regular check on the usual beacons should give you a chance of being there at the right time. The daily Sporadic-E blogs start on the 1st of May on www.propquest.co.uk and should give some clues as to any early-season options. Lastly, the Sun has kept everyone busy recently with visible and radio auroras, so check the Kp index for aurora potential. And we are in a period when increasing meteor input is starting to help provide better meteor scatter prospects, as well as fuel for Sporadic-E. The Eta Aquariids has a broad peak zenithal hourly rate of around 50 next weekend on the 6th of May. Moon declination is high and falling, meaning shortening EME Moon windows and peak elevations. We passed apogee on Friday so path losses will fall throughout the week. 144MHz sky noise is low to moderate. And that's all from the propagation team this week.

Foundations of Amateur Radio So, there's nothing on TV, the bands are dead, nobody is answering your CQ, you're bored and it's all too hard. You've run out of things to try, there's only so many different ways to use the radio and it's all too much. I mean, you've only got CW, AM, SSB, FM, there's Upper and Lower Side-band, then there's RTTY, the all too popular FT8, then there's WSPR, but then you run out of things. I mean, right? What about PSK31, SSTV, then there's AMTOR, Hellschreiber, Clover, Olivia, Thor, MFSK, Contestia, the long time favourites of Echolink and IRLP, not to forget Fusion, DMR, D-STAR, AllStar, BrandMeister or APRS. So far I've mentioned about 20 modes, picked at random, some from the list of modes that the software Fldigi supports. Some of these don't even show up on the Signal Wiki which has a list of about 70 amateur modes. With all the bands you have available, there's plenty of different things to play with. All. The. Time. There's contests for many of them, so once you've got it working, you can see how well you go. Over the past year I've been experimenting with a friend with various modes, some more successful than others. I'm mentioning this because it's not difficult to get started. Seriously, it's not. The most important part of this whole experiment is getting your computer to talk to your radio. If you have FT8 already working you have all the hardware in place. To make the software work, you can't go past installing Fldigi. As a tool it works a lot like what you're familiar with. You'll see a band-scope, a list of frequencies and a list of decodes. It's one of many programs that can decode and generate a multitude of amateur digital modes. If this is all completely new to you, don't be alarmed. There are essentially two types of connections between your computer and your radio. The first one is audio, the second is control. For this to work well, both these need to be two-way, so you can both decode the audio that the radio receives and generate audio that the radio can transmit. The same is true for the control connection. You need to be able to set the transmit frequency and the mode and you need to be able to read the current state of the radio, if only to toggle the transmitter on-and-off. If you already have CAT control working, that's one half done. I've spoken with plenty of amateurs who are reluctant to do any of this. If this is you, don't be afraid. It's like the first time you keyed up you radio. Remember the excitement? You can relive that experience, no matter how long you've been an amateur. Depending on the age of your radio, you might find that there is only one physical connection between your computer and the radio, either using USB or even Ethernet. You'll find that your computer will still need to deal with the two types of information separately. Notice that I've not talked about what kind of operating system you need to be running. I use and prefer Linux, but you can do this on any operating system, even using a mobile phone if that takes your fancy. Getting on air and making noise using your microphone is one option, but doing this using computer control will open you to scores of new adventures. I will add some words of caution here. In general, especially using digital modes, less is more. If you drive the audio too high you'll splatter all over the place and nobody will hear you, well, actually, everyone will, but nobody will be able to talk to you because they won't be able to decode it. If the ALC on your radio is active, you're too loud. WSJT-X, the tool for modes like FT8 and WSPR, has a really easy way of ensuring that your levels are right, so if you've not done anything yet, start there. Another issue is signal isolation. What I mean by that is you blowing up your computer because the RF travelled unexpectedly back up the serial or audio cable and caused all manner of grief. You can get all fancy with optical isolation and at some point you should, but until then, dial the power down to QRP levels, 5 Watts, and you'll be fine. A third issue that was likely covered during your licensing is the duty cycle. It's the amount of time that your radio is transmitting continuously as compared to receiving only. For some modes, like WSPR for example, you'll be transmitting for a full 2 minutes at 100%, so you'll be working your radio hard. Even harder might unexpectedly be using FT8, which transmits in 15 second bursts every 15 seconds, so there may not be enough time for your radio to cool down. Investing in a fan is a good plan, but being aware of the issue will go a long way to keeping the magic smoke inside your radio. I'm sure that you have plenty of questions after all that. You can ask your friends, or drop me an email, cq@vk6flab.com and I'll be happy to point you in the right direction. Next time there's nothing good on TV, get on air and make some digital noise! I'm Onno VK6FLAB

Foundations of Amateur Radio When you begin your journey as a radio amateur you're introduced to the concept of a mode. A mode is a catch-all phrase that describes a way of encoding information into radio signals. Even if you're not familiar with amateur radio, you've come across modes, although you might not have known at the time. When you tune to the AM band, you're picking a set of frequencies, but also a mode, the AM mode. When you tune to the FM band, you do a similar thing, set of frequencies, different mode, FM. The same is true when you turn on your satellite TV receiver, you're likely using a mode called DVB-S. For digital TV, the mode is likely DVB-T and for digital radio it's something like DAB or DAB+. Even when you use your mobile phone it too is using a mode, be it CDMA, GSM, LTE and plenty of others. Each of these modes is shared within the community so that equipment can exchange information. Initially many of these modes were built around voice communication, but increasingly, even the basic mobile phone modes, are built around data. Today, even if you're talking on your phone, the actual information being exchanged using radio is of a digital nature. Most of these modes are pretty static. That's not to say that they don't evolve, but the speed at which that happens is pretty sedate. In contrast, a mode like Wi-Fi has seen the explosion of different versions. During the first 20 years there were about 19 different versions of Wi-Fi. You'll recognise them as 802.11a, b, g, j, y, n, p, ad, ac and plenty more. I mention Wi-Fi to illustrate just how frustrating changing a mode is for the end-user. You buy a gadget, but it's not compatible with the particular Wi-Fi mode that the rest of your gear is using. It's pretty much the only end-user facing mode that changes so often as to make it hard to keep up. As bad as that might be, there is coordination happening with standards bodies involved making it possible to purchase the latest Wi-Fi equipment from a multitude of manufacturers. In amateur radio there are amateur specific modes, like RTTY, PSK31, even CW is a mode. And just like with Wi-Fi, they evolve. There's RTTY-45, RTTY-50 and RTTY-75 Wide and Narrow, when you might have thought that there was only one RTTY. The FLDIGI software supports 18 different Olivia modes out of the box which haven't changed for a decade or so. The speed of the evolution of Olivia is slow. The speed of the evolution of RTTY is slower still, CW is not moving at all. At the other end new amateur modes are being developed daily. The JT modes for example are by comparison evolving at breakneck speed, to the point where they aren't even available in the latest versions of the software, for example FSK441, introduced in 2001 vanished at some point, superseded by a different mode, MSK144. It's hard to say exactly when this happened, I searched through 15 different releases and couldn't come up with anything more definitive than the first mention of MSK144 in v1.7.0, apparently released in 2015. My point is that in amateur radio terms there are modes that are not changing at all and modes that are changing so fast that research is being published after the mode has been depreciated. Mike, WB2FKO published his research "Meteor scatter communication with very short pings" comparing the two modes FSK441 and MSK144 in September 2020, it makes for interesting reading. There are parallels between the introduction of computing and the process of archiving. The early 1980's saw a proliferation of hardware, software, books and processes that exploded into the community. With that came a phenomenon that lasted at least a decade, if not longer, where archives of these items don't exist because nobody thought to keep them. Floppy discs thrown out, books shredded, magazines discarded, knowledge lost. It didn't just happen in the 1980's. Much of the information that landed man on the moon is lost. We cannot today build a Saturn V rocket with all the support systems needed to land on the moon from scratch, even if we wanted to. We have lost manufacturing processes, the ability to decode magnetic tapes and lost the people who did the work through retirement and death, not to mention company collapses and mergers. Today we're in the middle of a golden age of radio modes. Each new mode with more features and performance. In reality this means that your radio that came with CW, AM, FM and SSB will continue to work, but if it came with a specialised mode like FSK441, you're likely to run out of friends to communicate with when the mode is depreciated in favour of something new. In my opinion, Open Source software and hardware is vitally important in this fast moving field and if we're not careful we will repeat history and lose the knowledge and skill won through perseverance and determination due to lack of documentation or depreciation by a supplier. When did you last document what you did? What will happen to that when you too become a silent key? I'm Onno VK6FLAB

Foundations of Amateur Radio It's the morning after the day before. I've been calling CQ for 24 hours and for the first time in my life after a contest I still have my voice. That in and of itself is novel. I also don't have ringing ears, that's a blessing. I have learnt heaps and had fun doing it. I made contacts and I heard stations across the globe and I did it all from the comfort of my shack chair. Before I dig in and expand, the contest I just completed ran for 24 hours. I didn't sit at my radio for all of it, nor was my radio on for all of it. I managed to have lunch, dinner, desert, breakfast and morning tea. I snuck in a few naps and I managed to help with bringing in the shopping. My station did not transmit unattended at any time in case you're wondering. My setup consisted of a little 11 year old netbook computer running the current version of Debian Linux and the heart of this adventure, the software called fldigi. The computer is connected to my Yaesu FT-857d via three cables, well, two and a half. A microphone and a headphone lead that combine into the data port in the back of the radio. The other cable is a USB CAT cable, a Computer Assisted Tuning cable, that plugs into the CAT port on the back of the radio. I also used an external monitor to have my main contest screen on and used it to display the main fldigi window. My license class allows me access to a selected number of amateur bands, 80m, 40m, 15m, 10m, 2m and 70cm. I managed at least one RTTY contact on each band. As I described previously, my radio is set to use Single Side Band and the audio from the radio is fed via the microphone socket on the computer into fldigi that processes the information. Similarly, when I transmit, the audio is generated via fldigi and leaves the computer via the headphone socket and goes into the radio as a Single Side Band audio signal. The information in the audio is all RTTY, a digital mode that I've described previously. The software is using Audio Frequency Shift Keying, AFSK, simulating the switching between the two RTTY frequencies. On my screen I have a waterfall display that shows all the signals that are happening within the 2.3 kHz audio stream that's coming from the radio. Fldigi is also decoding this in real-time and showing each decode as a virtual channel in a list. Click on a channel entry and your next transmission will happen at that frequency. If you've ever used WSJT-X this will sound very familiar. That's the mechanics of what I've been doing. So, what did I learn in this adventure? Well, most of Australia goes to sleep at night, at least the ones that do RTTY. I have evidence of exactly one station on-air, and that was only because they were named in the DX Cluster, which by the way this contest allows as assistance. Since then I've found logs from at least two more stations. Local contacts did happen during the more civil hours and in total I managed ten of them. You may think that's not much for say 12 hours of work, but that's 5 Watts QRP, or low power, RTTY contacts, in an actual contest, on a new antenna, from my shack, dodging thunderstorms and learning to use filters and levels. You might not be impressed, but I'm absolutely stoked! During the midnight-to-dawn run, on 40m, when there were double points to be had, which I missed out on, I did manage to hear several stations across Europe, 14,000 km away, which means that I can pretty much count on global coverage with my current setup. Sadly they didn't hear me, too many competing stations, but I'm sure that with practice I'll manage to contact them too. The software crashed once. That's not nice. It seems to have a habit of corrupting one of the preference files, which prevents it from starting up. That's also not nice. I hasten to add that I don't yet know the source of this. It may well be a dud-hard-disk sector on my ancient laptop, rather than the software, so I'm not assigning blame here. Getting started with fldigi is an adventure. It's not point-and-click, nor plug-and-play, more like running a mainframe whilst cranking the handle, but when you get it to fly there's lots to love about this tool. Other things that worked well were that I'd spent some preparation time getting the keyboard macros right. These are pre-defined bits of text that you send as you're calling CQ and making a contact. They're a whole topic in and of themselves, so I'll skip past the detail and just mention that I was very happy with the choices I made, gathered from years of voice-only contacts, reading RTTY contest information and looking for exchange details. From a technical perspective, I used both contest modes, "Running" and "Search and Pounce". Running is when you call CQ, Pouncing is when they call CQ. The running was by far the most successful for me. I'm not yet sure if that was a reflection on how much I still have to learn about levels. One thing that I can say with confidence is that there's absolutely nothing like having a wall of RTTY signals to learn how to make sure you're actually decoding something useful. I spent a good couple of the wee hours tuning my levels. I would like to thank the stations who came back to my call and for those who tried without me noticing them. I had a blast. I'm Onno VK6FLAB

Foundations of Amateur Radio The other day day I managed my first DX contact using a new mode, FT8. It wasn't very far away, all of 2600 km or so, but it evoked memories of my first ever on-air DX contact nearly a decade ago. I should say thank you to YD3YOG for my 15m contact, fitting because my first ever was also on 15m as I recall. Unfortunately I never did log my first. Recently a friend asked me how the two compared. 15m and logging aside, there's a lot of similarities, even though I'm a more experienced operator today when compared to when I made my first ever contact. The preparation and the building anticipation is what made the contact all the sweeter. A while ago I managed to connect the audio of my radio to a computer. This is pretty much the first step in starting to use digital modes. Essentially many common digital modes use an SSB transmission to generate and receive audio that in turn contains digitally encoded information. There are hundreds of modes like this, from PSK31 to RTTY, WSPR, FT8, SSTV and many more. If you've not yet dabbled in this area, I'd recommend starting with WSJT-X. The software is so far the best tool I've found to make sure that your digital levels are correct and offers several popular modes to see how your station is operating. If you're asking for a first mode recommendation, I'd start with WSPR. Just do the receive part first, then work on from there. There are many tutorials available, some better than others, so if the one you find doesn't float your boat, keep looking. A fly-over view is that there are several things that you need to get working and if they don't all work together, you'll get no result. Obviously you'll need to install the software, but that's not the whole story. For the software to be able to control your radio, change bands, frequency and set-up things like split operation, you'll need to set-up the hardware to do this, in my case a CAT cable between the radio and the computer. You'll also need to set-up control software that knows how to talk to the hardware. In my case that's Hamlib on Linux, but it could be Hamlib or flrig on MacOS or something like OmniRig on your Windows machine. The purpose is to control the radio. When you're troubleshooting, keep that in mind, hardware plus software need to work together to control the radio and this is before you actually do anything useful with the radio. Then you need to have both hardware and software to have audio go between the computer and the radio. In my case the headphone and microphone connectors on my computer are connected to the data port on the back of the radio. If your computer doesn't have access to sockets you might need to use a USB sound-card. If your radio doesn't have an easily accessible port, you might need to have an interface. The computer software in this case is likely setting the volume levels using the audio mixer in your operating system. I will add that some radios have a USB socket on the back that combines both CAT control and audio. The principle though is the same. You need to make the CAT interface work, which is essentially a serial connection, and you need to make the audio work, which is essentially a sound-card. Nothing else will make sense until you've managed to make those two work. Then, and only then, can you try to launch something like WSJT-X, point it at the various things you've configured, then you can actually start decoding signals. For WSJT-X to work properly, there's one more thing. An accurate clock is required. Likely you'll need to use a piece of software that knows how to synchronise with something called NTP or Network Time Protocol. The simplest is to point your clock tool at a time-server called pool.ntp.org which will get you global time coverage. Each operating system does this differently, but getting it right is essential before WSJT-X will actually make sense. You can visit time.is in a web browser to see how accurate your clock currently is. So, get computer control of your radio working, get audio working, set the clock, then you can run WSPR, FT8, JT65 or any other mode. I will note that I'm not attempting to give you specific computer support here, just an overview of what's needed before anything will work. If you've been contesting then CAT control might already be operational. If you've been using a computer voice-keyer, then audio might also be ready. Depending on where you are on your digital journey, these steps might be complicated or trivial. Once you've done all that you can start doing things like figuring out where satellites are or how to talk to the International Space Station, or use Fldigi to make a PSK31 contact or send a picture using SSTV or decode a weather fax. When you've made that first digital DX contact, I'm sure that you too will have a sense of accomplishment! I'm Onno VK6FLAB

This episode of Rambling Rhoades is encoded in MFSK32 and can be decoded using FLdigi which can be downloaded for free: http://www.w1hkj.com/ Or you can use Tivar/AndFLmsg: https://sourceforge.net/projects/fldigi/files/AndFlmsg/TIVAR/ ** Articles Preview ** (1) Choose Your Horrific End (2 ) Retekess TR102 Shortwave Radio Review (3) Damn it, Phil! (4) Never Enough Jobs (5) Tap Code (6) Secure Scuttlebutt: Manyverse & Patchwork (7) BASIC Programming In The Modern World? This is a text and images podcast. The text and images have been encoded as audio. I was inspired (obviously) by Shortwave Radiogram (used to be VOA Radiogram) and figured I'd see if people enjoy a podcast version of that same basic format. This is still rough but should help me test the waters. If you listen and decode this episode, tweet me at @howtophil --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/philliprhoades/support

This episode of Rambling Rhoades is encoded in MFSK32 and can be decoded using FLdigi which can be downloaded for free: http://www.w1hkj.com/ Or you can use Tivar/AndFLmsg: https://sourceforge.net/projects/fldigi/files/AndFlmsg/TIVAR/ (I thought you could also install those on iOS but I may be mistaken and it may only work on Android phones) This is a text and images podcast. The text and images have been encoded as audio. I was inspired (obviously) by Shortwave Radiogram (used to be VOA Radiogram) and figured I'd see if people enjoy a podcast version of that same basic format. This is still rough but should help me test the waters. If you listen and decode this episode, tweet me at @howtophil --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/philliprhoades/support

Jeff McGrath N1SC presented using Digital Modes for Field Day at the Utah Digital Communications Conference. Jeff covers the use of digital modes, interfacing FLDIGI with N3FJP logging software, and shares his use of macro's.

Tommy explores FLDigi with his Icom IC-7100 and Mac computer. Peter's Introduction to Satellite TV Pt 2. Emile visits Hammond Hamfest and Crossband repeats. Plus lot of fun and a few headaches. 1:08:20

Tommy explores FLDigi with his Icom IC-7100 and Mac computer. Peter’s Introduction to Satellite TV Pt 2. Emile visits Hammond Hamfest and Crossband repeats. Plus lot of fun and a few headaches. 1:08:20

Ham Radio Micro-controllers & Linux *Listener Review of this show added to bottom of page A long time coming; Jeremy and George gather this time through to discuss Micro-Controllers and Linux for the Ham Radio Operator! Cale is away, so you know it's gonna be a good show with the guys!  Listen in as they describe all the different types of Micro-Controllers, Software and Hardware, Things to avoid and how to get the most from the Makers 'best friend'! Arduino:  https://www.arduino.cc/en/Products/Compare Raspberry PI:  http://www.raspberrypi.org/ Sierra Radio Systems:  http://sierraradio.net "Sierra Radio Hamstack Project Gallery" http://www.sierraradio.net/project_home.html Adruino: K3NG Ultimate CW Keyer - http://blog.radioartisan.com/arduino-cw-keyer/ (He also has a CW Beacon controller, rotator controller, etc) KK5JY Controller to remotely or automatically tune a mag loop antenna ala AlexLoop, etc - http://www.kk5jy.net/AutoCap-v1/ Antenna Analyzers w/ Arduino and cheap DDS boards from K6BEZ - http://www.hamstack.com/hs_projects/k6bez_antenna_analyzer.pdf, or from Jim Harvey:  https://github.com/jmharvey1/DDS_AD9850_AntennaAnalyzer Low powered digital mode using SI chip:  http://hackaday.com/2015/09/13/arduino-masters-ham-radio-digital-mode Hamshield for Arduino:  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/749835103/hamshield-for-arduino-vhf-uhf-transceiver Using Arduino / Raspberry PI in High Altitude Balloons and Model Rocketry - http://makezine.com/projects/near-space-balloon-cam-with-arduino-and-aprs-radio/ SBC Linux ala Raspberry Pi Remote kit running FLDigi for portable digital ops - http://indyham.com/news/rasperry-pi-simple-install-script-for-fldigi-includes-rigcontrol-compiled/ Host for Digital Hotspot (DVAP, DVMega, DV4Mini, DVRPTRv1,MoenComm, etc -http://www.westerndstar.co.uk/html/downloads.html,  http://maryland-dstar.org/html/raspiberry.html , http://www.dvmega.auria.nl/, APRS Software - YAAC - http://www.ka2ddo.org/ka2ddo/YAAC.html and Xastir http://xastir.org/index.php/Main_Page TNC for your PI - http://tnc-x.com/TNCPi.htm OpenRepeater Controller - https://openrepeater.com/ PC Repeater Controller - Jonathan Naylor - https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/pcrepeatercontroller/info ADSB Flight Tracking - https://uk.flightaware.com/adsb/piaware/ Raspberry PI SDR - https://learn.adafruit.com/freq-show-raspberry-pi-rtl-sdr-scanner Other Project - G0HWC - http://www.g0hwc.com/raspberry-pi-ham-radio.html Make Magazine: http://makezine.com/            Linux in the Ham Shack Podcast: http://lhspodcast.info/ Python Training Video: https://youtu.be/tKTZoB2Vjuk   Participate in Winter Field Day!    January 30-31 WFD: WebsiteFacebook: WFD FB Group Thanks for Listening Y'all! Title: Episode 43 is tremendous! Reviewer name: cb_abq Country: USA Date: January 13, 2016 Rating: Comment: Well done gentlemen! That is the most information delivered about microcontroller and embedded Linux systems related to ham radio, and other applications, that I have heard in any podcast, ever. This is great information to enable anyone, whether an EE, or just an interested consumer to build a project based on either of these closely related technologies. KJ6VU and KF7IJZ are really well informed and articulate on all things ham. Fantastic!

  Combining the software development skills from his thirty-five year career in the US Coast Guard and his hearing loss drove David Freese, W1HKJ, into the early HF digital modes and eventually to support GMFSK software. Building on this popular platform, David then went on to develop FLdigi, one of ham radio’s most popular software programs for encoding and decoding digital transmissions. David discusses his ham radio journey that led to the “FL” line of open source software products with Eric Guth, 4Z1UG, in this QSO Today.

Welcome to the first Linux in the Ham Shack for the new year! 2011 is upon us and we wanted to present our listeners with a fantabulous new show. That's …