This calibration requires entering the radio’s service menu. Precautions: Connect the radio to a quality Dummy Load and an external calibrated wattmeter before starting. Service Menu Entry: Turn the radio…
Upgrading the Heathkit SB-200 Amplifier
I have always had a love affair with the Heathkit SB line of gear. It is what I drooled over as a kid in the1968 ARRL Handbook, on page…
SSB ALC Modification for the Icom IC-7300
Sometimes after giving my station report, another operator will comment on my claim of a ‘modified‘ IC-7300 and/or “average PEP to the antenna is 130 to 140 Watts”— and ask…
An 80/20 OCF Dipole for 8 Band Coverage
As I began planning my most recent ‘antenna farm’ adventure, the first criteria was set in that any horizontal wire design must cover at least 5 bands, with a native…
The Rabbit Ranch
Tradition long ago established the weather report of one’s QTH as a standard part of an initial QSO. In my intro patter, I often mention that my Ambient Weather WS-2902…
Antenna Farm Plan for My QTH
Antenna systems generally emerge organically–constrained by property boundaries and the position of trees or other elements to elevate them. Fifteen years ago my choice was simple, to stretch along some…
ChatGPT for Antenna Design Advice?
In years past, one of my favorite performers has been the venerable 134′ doublet. While the dipole is easy to construct, some issues and compromises emerge concerning various lengths of…
Is Your Balun Big Enough?
I was going through some old shack photos, and ran across this “Magic Smoke Moment” from 2012. The 4:1 current balun on the left was wound on an FT240-31 ring–I…
The Venerable VTVM
Alright Sherman, it’s time to join Mr. Peabody and “Set the Wayback Machine” for 1970. We have arrived in an average-sized Midwestern town where we will visit two electronics operations—one…
