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Understanding Antennas: A Beginner’s Guide

1,790 words, 9 minutes read time.

If you’ve ever tuned a receiver or held a handheld transceiver, you know the thrill of connecting with someone miles away over invisible waves. Yet, no matter how impressive your radio or its features, the antenna remains the real workhorse of your station. Think of it as the engine of a sports car: you can have the finest chassis and interior, but without a capable engine, performance suffers. The same principle applies to ham radio. A well-designed antenna can make even modest equipment sing, while a high-powered rig can struggle when paired with a poorly chosen or installed antenna.

This guide isn’t about licensing or exam questions. Instead, it’s about helping you master the science and art of antennas so that when the time comes to pursue your license, you already understand what makes an antenna work—and why it matters more than most novices realize. By the end, you’ll have the insight to make informed decisions about design, installation, tuning, and optimization, and you’ll understand why the antenna is the heart of every station.

The Big Picture: What an Antenna Really Does

An antenna is, at its simplest, a bridge between your radio and the world. It converts electrical energy from your transmitter into electromagnetic waves that propagate through the air. On receive, it captures those waves and converts them back into electrical signals for your radio to decode. While radios can be complex, antennas are governed by elegant, consistent physical principles.

Key characteristics define performance: frequency, wavelength, radiation pattern, feed-point location, and impedance. Frequency determines physical size; lower frequencies need longer elements, while higher frequencies allow smaller antennas. Wavelength defines the resonant length of the antenna, determining how efficiently it radiates or receives energy. Impedance is crucial for matching the antenna to your radio and minimizing power loss. A mismatch can result in reflected energy, poor performance, or even equipment stress.

The antenna’s shape, orientation, and height relative to the ground all shape its radiation pattern—the “footprint” over which your signal travels. A simple horizontal dipole a few feet off the ground will behave very differently from the same dipole mounted 30 feet high. Understanding these nuances early will save frustration later, especially when space, trees, and rooftops impose real-world constraints.

Antenna Theory for Beginners

When learning about antennas, it helps to think in terms of waves. Radio waves have both a wavelength and frequency. A quarter-wave or half-wave element resonates when its physical length is proportional to the wavelength of your frequency of interest. This resonance ensures maximum energy transfer and minimal loss.

Impedance is another cornerstone concept. Most amateur radios expect a 50-ohm load. An antenna presenting a significantly different impedance causes reflections back to the transmitter, measurable as Standing Wave Ratio (SWR). Understanding SWR is crucial: a high SWR indicates energy is bouncing back toward your radio, while a low SWR shows efficient transfer. Modern antenna analyzers make this process easier, but grasping the principle early ensures you interpret readings correctly.

Height, feedline quality, and nearby obstacles all interact with theory. A well-placed antenna can outperform a technically superior antenna that’s poorly installed. Even the choice of coax or ladder line matters; losses in feedlines reduce overall effectiveness. Understanding these elements before you even cut your first wire sets a foundation that will carry you through your first contacts and beyond.

Exploring Common Antenna Types

Choosing the right antenna often comes down to balancing your goals, available space, and budget. The horizontal dipole is a classic starting point: easy to construct, effective, and versatile. Variations like the inverted-V conserve space while maintaining reasonable efficiency. The G5RV multiband wire is another beginner favorite, providing access to multiple bands with a single installation.

Vertical antennas, including ground-plane designs, offer a smaller footprint and omnidirectional coverage, making them suitable for limited space. However, verticals often require a decent ground system for efficiency. Portable hams often start with rubber-duck handheld antennas or lightweight whips. While these are limited in range and performance, they provide essential practice in tuning, orientation, and handling.

Directional antennas, such as beams or Yagis, allow you to focus power in a particular direction, improving signal strength and reception. While these require more planning, supports, and often rotators, they demonstrate the profound impact antenna geometry has on performance. Even simple directional configurations like a corner reflector or quad can dramatically improve reception without increasing transmitter power.

Installation Considerations

An antenna’s effectiveness hinges on proper installation. Begin with a site survey. Note available supports, nearby obstacles, and ground conditions. Trees, metal structures, and other antennas can influence radiation patterns and SWR. Height is your ally: higher antennas generally produce lower take-off angles, enhancing long-distance performance.

Feedline choice is critical. Coaxial cable is convenient, widely available, and easy to handle, but every foot adds loss, especially at higher frequencies. Ladder line or open-wire feedlines minimize loss but require careful routing and insulation. Matching devices like baluns and tuners correct impedance mismatches and maximize power transfer, but they cannot compensate for poor placement or inadequate height.

Grounding isn’t just about lightning protection—it also improves safety and can reduce RF interference in your station. A properly grounded antenna system protects both your equipment and your home while ensuring more consistent performance.

Tuning and Optimizing

Once your antenna is up, tuning is the next step. Measure SWR across your desired frequency range. Small adjustments—trimming or lengthening elements, adjusting angle or height—can significantly improve resonance. Even a minor shift in a tree branch or support can alter SWR readings.

Baluns and matching networks help achieve impedance compatibility, but efficiency always begins with the antenna itself. Understand feedline losses versus antenna gain. In many cases, a slightly less “ideal” antenna installed correctly outperforms a theoretically perfect antenna with installation issues.

Routine monitoring ensures sustained performance. Seasonal changes, weather, or vegetation growth can subtly affect your antenna. Keeping a notebook with element lengths, feedline types, and SWR readings creates a reference that saves countless hours troubleshooting later.

Understanding the Math Behind Antennas

Even if licensing isn’t your immediate goal, some math from the Technician and General exams is invaluable for designing and tuning antennas. Let’s break it down.

Wavelength and Antenna Lengths

Radio waves travel at the speed of light, roughly 300,000,000 meters per second. The wavelength (λ\lambdaλ) is calculated as:

Where ccc is the speed of light in meters per second and fff is frequency in hertz. For example, a 14 MHz signal:

Using wavelength, antenna lengths are derived. A half-wave dipole, the most common, is approximately:

A quarter-wave vertical would be:

These formulas allow you to calculate almost any basic wire antenna length accurately.

Impedance and SWR

Understanding SWR requires a bit of algebra, but the principle is simple. SWR is the ratio of the maximum to minimum voltage on the line:

An SWR of 1:1 indicates perfect impedance matching. If your antenna presents 75 ohms to a 50-ohm transmitter, SWR rises to 1.5:1. Knowing this math helps interpret readings and adjust antenna lengths to minimize reflected power.

Power Loss in Feedlines

Feedline loss depends on frequency, cable type, and length. The basic relationship is:

Where III is current and RRR is the resistance of the line. While hams rarely calculate exact wattage losses, understanding that longer coax and higher frequency result in more loss helps you make smart installation choices. For example, 50 feet of RG-58 at 14 MHz may lose several tenths of a dB, while the same length at 144 MHz loses significantly more.

Resonance Adjustment

Small adjustments in element length directly influence resonance. For a half-wave dipole, a change of 1% in length shifts resonance by roughly 1% of the operating frequency. Understanding the proportionate effect of element trimming helps you fine-tune SWR without guesswork.

Growth Path: Beyond the Beginner Antenna

Your first antenna is not the end of your journey—it’s the foundation. Once you understand resonance, SWR, feedlines, and radiation patterns, upgrading to more complex systems becomes far less intimidating. Transitioning from a simple dipole to a directional beam, or from a single-band wire to a multiband installation, is much smoother when grounded in fundamental knowledge.

Experimentation is encouraged. Try different heights, orientations, or portable setups. Document every change. Over time, this builds not just skill but confidence. A well-documented antenna journey also creates a valuable reference for troubleshooting or mentoring newcomers in your local club.

Practical Tips and Takeaways

Start simple and test early. A straightforward dipole or vertical, installed thoughtfully, offers a playground for learning without the frustration of complex setups. Prioritize site and installation over chasing high-gain claims; a well-placed, modest antenna frequently outperforms flashy designs.

Keep detailed records. Note heights, element lengths, SWR readings, and observations. Engage with local clubs or online communities to exchange insights. Remember, there’s no “perfect” antenna; each design involves trade-offs. Your goal is functional, efficient, and maintainable—something that gets you on the air while teaching you valuable lessons along the way.

Conclusion

Understanding antennas is the cornerstone of being a competent ham operator. By mastering fundamental theory, experimenting with design and installation, learning to optimize performance, and applying some of the math behind resonant lengths and SWR, you lay a solid foundation for the future. The knowledge you gain now makes licensing less about memorization and more about applying what you already know.

The antenna is more than a piece of hardware; it’s a bridge between your curiosity and the world. Build it thoughtfully, learn from each adjustment, and your first transmissions will carry far further than just radio waves—they’ll carry experience, understanding, and confidence.

Your journey is just beginning, and the airwaves are waiting.

Call to Action

If this blog caught your attention, don’t just scroll past. Join the community—men sharing skills, stories, and experiences. Subscribe for more posts like this, drop a comment about your projects or lessons learned, or reach out and tell me what you’re building or experimenting with. Let’s grow together.

D. Bryan King

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Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

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Outdoor ham radio antenna setup featuring vertical, dipole, and Yagi antennas with labeled components and propagation wave patterns, titled “Ultimate Antenna Guide.”

The Magic of Simplex: Why Direct Contact Still Matters

2,919 words, 15 minutes read time.

AI made this image, but even it can’t handle the tension of a simplex stare-down. 😄📻

There’s a particular electricity the first time you hear another human voice come through your radio with nothing between you but air and your own equipment. No tower, no internet bridge, no repeater bouncing your signal a county away — just you, your antenna, and someone on the other end who heard you and answered. That feeling is at the heart of simplex: the purest, most elemental form of radio communication. This essay is written by someone who’s spent decades behind microphones and on metal masts, teaching newcomers, troubleshooting nets, and running emergency exercises. My aim here isn’t to walk you through licensing steps — it’s to help you understand why simplex matters, why it makes ham radio rewarding, and how practicing simplex will shape you into the kind of operator who’ll pass the test with confidence someday.

What Simplex Is — and Why the Definition Matters

At its simplest, simplex means two stations transmit and receive on the same frequency, speaking directly to each other with no repeater or relay in between. It’s a technical definition, yes, but it’s also a practical philosophy: when you operate simplex you are dealing with the raw radio path between two antennas, and that forces you to pay attention to fundamentals — antenna placement, power, terrain and timing. The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) describes simplex operation as stations “talking to each other directly, on the same frequency,” which is an intentionally plain description because the implications are where the learning happens.

That deceptively spare sentence explains why simplex is both a teaching tool and a proving ground. In repeater-assisted contacts the repeater masks gaps in your setup: a tall repeater on a ridge can make a weak handheld sound like a full-power mobile. Simplex gives you immediate, honest feedback: if you can’t be heard at a given distance, you need to change antennas, move, raise your radio, change power or accept that the path is blocked. Those decisions — micro-choices about equipment and placement — are what make a good operator. They’re also the kinds of problems the licensing exam assumes you understand at a baseline level.

The Magic of Direct Contact: Why It Feels Different

There’s a reason experienced hams talk about simplex like it’s a rite of passage. Making a solid simplex contact has everything to do with competence and everything to do with a primal human delight: connection. Radios are instruments, and like any instrument you improve by removing layers of assistance. Simplex strips away the scaffolding. You feel every dip in the band, every climb in clarity, and when a voice comes back clear it’s unmistakably yours to celebrate.

That sensation isn’t just emotional. It’s instructive. Operating simplex teaches you to be economical and precise with your transmissions. You learn to watch for when the band opens, to pause so the other station can break in, to make quick, efficient exchanges that minimize airtime. In emergency communications, when time and battery are limited and infrastructure might be down, those simplex skills are the difference between a successful relay and an unanswered call.

Repeaters, Duplex, and the Learning Contrast

To understand simplex fully you have to see it beside its foil: the repeater. A repeater listens on one frequency and retransmits on another, often from a high point, extending your range. Repeaters are wonderful community-built tools; they knit large territories together and let handheld radios reach far beyond their physical capability. But the convenience of repeaters can hide important lessons. If you rely only on repeaters, you may not notice your stock handheld antenna’s limitations, or learn how to coax a signal over a ridge.

Repeaters serve many vital roles, but learning to use simplex first — or at least alongside repeater operation — teaches a deeper relationship with the medium. When you understand your station’s true limits, you become a better repeater operator: you can judge whether a direct simplex test is practical, whether you should call simplex to save repeater airtime, and how to manage power for battery conservation during a long event. The difference is akin to driving: learning to handle a manual transmission gives you intuition about engine speed and control that automatic drivers never develop.

Practical Uses of Simplex: From Backyard to Backcountry

Simplex isn’t just an academic exercise — it’s brutally practical. For neighborhood nets, club check-ins, and quick on-the-ground coordination, simplex is the fastest, simplest solution. If you’re helping set up a field event, you don’t want to rely on a repeater that might be full or out of commission; you want to use a pair of radios and an agreed frequency for point-to-point coordination. In public service events, simplex can act as the glue for localized teams while the repeater handles broader comms.

Emergency response plans explicitly recognize simplex’ role. Field manuals and ARES guidance recommend simplex frequencies and encourage operators to use simplex whenever possible to preserve repeater resources and to ensure communications when repeater infrastructure fails. The ARRL field resources manual puts it plainly: “Use simplex, whenever possible.” That sentence lives in countless emergency plans because when the network is scarce, local, direct contact is reliable.

Simplex is also the backcountry’s ally. When you’re hiking or camping, your partner’s handheld is your lifeline. There’s a set of simple protocols — the Wilderness Protocol is one example used by many backcountry hams — that depend on national simplex calling frequencies and periodic check-ins to conserve battery and keep coordination predictable. In those environments, learned habits like speaking concisely and keeping antenna height up can turn a bad afternoon into a simple, solvable logistics problem rather than a dangerous situation.

Range Realities: How Far Can You Go on Simplex?

One of the most common questions I get is practical and blunt: “How far will my handheld reach on simplex?” There’s no single answer, because range is an outcome of many interacting factors: antenna gain, antenna height, terrain, power, frequency, atmospheric conditions and even the orientation of the people holding the radios. That said, rules of thumb exist because operators need expectations.

If you’re using a typical handheld on VHF or UHF with its stock rubber duck antenna, expect a few miles in suburban settings and perhaps five miles as a rough guideline under favorable conditions. In open country or with an elevated antenna, that same handheld can stretch far beyond what you imagine. The Ham Radio Prep range guide summarizes this neatly: “Handheld, FM Simplex, ~ 5 Miles” — a useful ballpark for planning local nets and public service operations. The precise number isn’t the point; the point is that you can estimate, test, and adapt.

If you’re curious about extending that range, there are engineering moves that pay off more than raw wattage. Elevate the antenna. Use a better antenna. Improve coax and connections. Small changes in height and feedline loss can make bigger differences than cranking up power. Simplex teaches you to choose the smart change.

Building Skills Through Simplex: Antennas, Power, and Propagation

Simplex is an experiential classroom. When you work simplex you confront antenna theory in a way that reading a chapter never quite captures. You’ll learn why a quarter-wave vertical performs differently on a handheld than a properly tuned J-pole does from a pole. You’ll discover how nearby metal and your car roof transform patterns. You’ll learn to judge how much power you actually need — and when lower power is preferable.

One of the great ironies of radio is how many gains come from subtraction. Lowering power forces you to be efficient, and efficient operators are prized in nets and field deployments. The ARES field recommendations emphasize this: use minimum power to accomplish the contact, conserve batteries, and avoid keying unintended repeaters. Those are practical habits you’ll carry into any operation.

Propagation is another lesson. Even on VHF and UHF, openings happen. You’ll experience sporadic-E on 2 meters, temperature inversions that lift signals, and the frustrating line-of-sight shadow of a hillside. Those moments build intuition. When you recognize propagation patterns, you make better choices: you pick times to call CQ, you know when to try a different frequency, and you understand what to log for after-action reports.

Educators and seasoned operators have long encouraged hands-on practice. The modern ham educator Dave Casler, who runs widely used training videos, consistently stresses that hands-on contacts and real-world experience are the fastest ways to internalize concepts like antenna behavior and repeater etiquette. Practice on the air, then reflect, adjust, and try again — that iterative loop is how competence forms.

The Brotherhood of Direct Contact: Community and Culture

There’s an intangible social component to simplex that tends to attract a certain kind of person: someone who likes a challenge, enjoys problem solving, and values direct competence. Simplex nets and local on-the-air meetups cultivate that environment. The conversations tend to be lean and practical: signal reports, equipment notes, weather observations, and human stories. Those exchanges create a deep, sustaining community because people who operate simplex regularly develop mutual respect for skill.

This social fabric isn’t gender-exclusive, but it resonates with men who often appreciate the practical, hands-on aspect of ham radio. Simplex provides a proving ground where competence is visible, not theoretical. It’s not about ego — it’s about doing the job well. When a station answers your call on a clear 2-meter simplex patch despite terrain and marginal power, you get a quiet, satisfying validation that you can build on.

How Simplex Prepares You for Licensing — and for Life on the Air

If you’re aiming for a license someday, practicing simplex now is one of the most effective ways to prepare. The Technician exam (and the broader spirit of amateur radio) assumes you know how to operate respectfully, how to pick frequencies, how to manage power, and how to handle basic equipment. Simplex puts all of those in front of you in short order.

Working simplex teaches you radio etiquette in a practical way. It makes you comfortable with call signs, with the rhythm of giving and receiving information in tight exchanges, and with choosing a frequency that won’t cause interference. The ARRL’s primer on first contacts succinctly tells you how to begin a conversation — “To start a contact, call ‘CQ’ or answer someone calling CQ” — but the subtlety of when to call, how to pause for an answer, and how to complete the contact without hogging the channel comes from doing it on simplex.

There’s also a psychological advantage. Licenses test knowledge, but confidence grows from practice. Whether you’re nervous about making your first CQ or unsure about switching from repeater to simplex, the muscle memory you build during simplex contacts makes the licensing experience less abstract and more like a continuation of what you’ve already been doing. That continuity removes anxiety and lets you focus on the test as a step, not a barrier.

Gear and Setup: What You Need (and What You Don’t)

You don’t need a palace of gear to make simplex fun and instructive. A reliable handheld, a charged battery, and a willingness to learn will get you on the air quickly. Many beginner operators start with an inexpensive dual-band handheld and the stock antenna. That’s a fine place to begin because it teaches you what the equipment can and can’t do.

When you want to step up, the highest-leverage investments are not always the most expensive radios. A better antenna, even mounted on a short pole or clipped to a backpack, will often outperform spending double on a radio that’s otherwise similar. Learn to tune and match antennas for the band you use. Learn to test coax for loss. Improve your connectors. Those are mechanical skills that reward attention.

For mobile or base operations, small investments in a mag-mount, a simple external antenna, or a modest J-pole will multiply your range on simplex dramatically. The design lesson is simple: height and efficiency beat brute force. Moving six feet higher, or replacing a lossy coax, will do more than doubling power in many cases. Simplex makes that obvious — because when you try and fail, you’ll immediately understand why the antenna mattered.

Tactics and Habits That Make You a Good Simplex Operator

Operating simplex well is a blend of engineering and social skill. Pick a clear frequency, listen before transmitting, and make short, clear exchanges. Ask for signal reports using the standard RST system for voice or simple readability comments. When you finish a contact, leave the frequency clear unless you’ve agreed to swap information or log the exchange. In public service and emergency work, use minimum necessary power, conserve batteries, and check in at predetermined times.

One habit to learn early is the national simplex calling frequency. For 2 meters in the United States, 146.52 MHz is the national simplex calling frequency, a place operators can use to find local contacts. It’s a meeting point and a place to learn, but like any gathering spot it can be busy; use it respectfully, and be ready to move to another agreed simplex frequency for extended conversation. Knowing these cultural rules and the rationales behind them keeps you from stepping on others and helps you build goodwill.

Another tactical habit is logging. Keep a simple notebook or digital log of your simplex contacts, noting time, frequency, signal report and what you learned about antenna, location, and conditions. Those notes will be invaluable if you later compile a portfolio of experience for public service groups or if you’re troubleshooting why a link worked one day and failed the next.

Stories that Stick: Real Simplex Moments

I’ll give you two short vignettes because stories are how knowledge lands. The first: I once worked a portable activation from a ridge during a club field exercise. My buddy at the bottom of the ridge had a stock handheld and a two-bay building between us. We tried several repeater tests with middling success. When we agreed to move to simplex, I raised a tiny 2-meter J-pole on a tree and he climbed the car with the handheld elevated above the roof. We made a crisp contact at a time when the repeater we’d both used for years had failed due to a power glitch. The point isn’t the drama — it’s that the choices we made about height and position produced a clear path that repeater infrastructure could not substitute.

The second: during an emergency drill, a set of volunteers used simplex links to move messages between checkpoints while the repeater became a hub for consolidated reports. Using simplex saved repeater airtime and kept the tactical teams nimble. Those drills aren’t glamorous, but they are practical proof that simplex skills save time and lives when required.

Beyond the License: How Simplex Becomes a Way of Operating

Once you get comfortable with simplex, you’ll find it lingers in your approach to radio. You’ll be the person who carries a spare antenna to an event, who suggests a simplex test before assuming repeater coverage, who volunteers for on-the-ground coordination because you know how to make it efficient. Simplex makes you a better technician, a more trustworthy volunteer and a more interesting person on the air.

Over time, that competence becomes community currency. People rely on those who understand the terrain of local VHF/UHF, who know when to call CQ on a simplex channel and when to shift to a different frequency, who can quickly set up a link and then step away. That reputation opens doors to public service roles, to mentoring younger hams, and to friendships formed in the honest, crackling medium between antennas.

Final Thoughts and an Invitation

Simplex is less about nostalgia and more about capability. It strips the artifice of infrastructure and asks you to understand what you can control. For someone on the path to an amateur radio license, that understanding accelerates learning, builds confidence, and makes practical experience more meaningful. You’ll pass the test more easily if you have simplex contacts under your belt, and you’ll enjoy ham radio more because you’ll have tasted its elemental rewards.

If you’re thinking about where to start, take a radio to a hill or a park, pair up with a friend, and choose a simplex frequency. Listen first, then call. Make the contact. Log it. Then ask yourself what worked and what didn’t. Those moments will teach you more than reading alone ever will. The direct voice in your speaker, with no help in between, will remind you why we do this.

If this essay resonated with you, I encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter at this link so you never miss the next conversation about radio, technology, and the craft of communication. You’re also welcome to leave a comment below to share your own simplex experiences, or contact me directly through the contact form. Let’s keep the airwaves alive together.

D. Bryan King

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Two ham radio operators communicating directly using handheld radios outdoors, illustrating simplex communication. The image includes antennas and a scenic ridge with the article title integrated.

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Understanding Ham Radio Operating Modes: A Beginner’s Guide to SSB, CW, FM, and More

1,756 words, 9 minutes read time.

As you consider diving into the fascinating world of amateur radio, one of the most important areas to familiarize yourself with is the various operating modes used by ham operators. These modes define how signals are transmitted, which directly impacts the quality, reach, and efficiency of communication. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common ham radio operating modes, including Single Sideband (SSB), Continuous Wave (CW), Frequency Modulation (FM), and more. Understanding these modes will help you not only get a better grasp of how amateur radio works but also make you a more competent operator as you progress toward getting your ham radio license.

What Are Ham Radio Operating Modes?

Ham radio operating modes refer to the different ways a ham radio signal can be transmitted and received. Each mode has its own characteristics, advantages, and limitations, which affect the type of communication it is best suited for. Whether you’re communicating locally or across continents, choosing the right mode can make all the difference in the quality of your transmission. As a newcomer to ham radio, learning about these modes will help you choose the most suitable method for various communication scenarios. It’s a critical aspect of mastering the hobby and ensuring effective communication on the airwaves.

An Overview of the Common Ham Radio Operating Modes

Single Sideband (SSB)

Single Sideband (SSB) is one of the most popular modes used in amateur radio, particularly for long-distance communication. SSB is a type of amplitude modulation (AM) where only one sideband of the signal is transmitted, reducing the bandwidth and power requirements compared to traditional AM transmissions. This makes SSB particularly advantageous for communication over long distances, especially on the HF (High Frequency) bands.

In SSB, the carrier wave is suppressed, and only the upper or lower sideband is transmitted. This results in more efficient use of the frequency spectrum, allowing for clearer signals with less interference. Many ham radio operators prefer SSB for global communication because it’s capable of reaching farther distances with less power, which is important for operators who are working with limited equipment or those trying to make contacts in remote areas.

According to the ARRL (American Radio Relay League), SSB is particularly useful for DX (distance) communications. The frequencies used for SSB typically fall within the HF bands, and operators use SSB to make voice contacts, known as “phone” contacts. The convenience and efficiency of SSB have made it the go-to mode for many long-haul communications on the ham bands (source: ARRL – Ham Radio Modes).

Continuous Wave (CW)

Continuous Wave (CW) mode is a form of Morse code communication. In CW, a signal is transmitted as a series of on-off keying (dots and dashes), which represent letters and numbers in Morse code. While this may seem old-fashioned to some, CW remains one of the most effective modes for weak-signal communication, particularly under challenging conditions where voice transmissions might not be possible.

One of the biggest advantages of CW is its ability to operate effectively in low signal-to-noise conditions. The simple nature of the transmission makes it less susceptible to interference, and even very weak signals can be received and understood using CW. This mode is commonly used by operators seeking to make contacts in very distant locations, especially when there is a lot of atmospheric interference or in regions with poor propagation conditions.

CW is still widely used in ham radio today, especially for operators who are focused on maximizing their reach with minimal equipment and power. The ability to send Morse code manually or via automatic keyers gives CW a distinct appeal to those looking to hone their skills in a very traditional aspect of ham radio. In fact, many experienced ham radio operators swear by CW for its efficiency and ability to make reliable contacts even in adverse conditions (source: K7ON – CW and SSB Basics).

Frequency Modulation (FM)

Frequency Modulation (FM) is another popular mode, particularly on VHF and UHF bands. Unlike AM or SSB, where the amplitude or frequency is varied, FM works by modulating the frequency of the carrier wave. This results in high-quality, noise-resistant signals that are well-suited for local communications. FM is the standard mode used by repeaters, which are devices that extend the reach of ham radio signals by retransmitting signals received from lower-power stations.

FM is especially favored for short-range communication, such as local contacts or communication with repeaters, and it is most commonly used in the 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands. FM’s primary advantage is its resilience to interference, making it perfect for urban areas where noise is more prevalent. The clear, voice-quality signal that FM provides makes it ideal for informal conversations or emergency communication within a local area.

One of the main advantages of FM is the fact that once the signal reaches a certain level, the sound quality doesn’t degrade much, even if the signal strength weakens. However, FM has a limited range compared to SSB or CW and typically isn’t used for long-distance communication. The quality and simplicity of FM make it ideal for casual use and for beginner ham radio operators who are starting to experiment with their radios (source: Ham Universe – Modes of Operation).

Digital Modes

Digital modes have gained significant popularity in recent years due to advancements in technology and the ability to send information more efficiently. Digital modes, such as FT8, PSK31, and RTTY (Radio Teleprinter), use computer-generated signals to send and receive data. These modes can operate at very low power levels, which makes them perfect for weak signal propagation or for operators looking to maximize their battery life.

One of the most popular digital modes is FT8, a mode designed for weak-signal communication that allows operators to make contacts under extremely low signal-to-noise conditions. FT8 operates in narrow bandwidths, allowing multiple contacts to be made on a single frequency, even when propagation is poor. PSK31 is another widely used digital mode, particularly for keyboard-to-keyboard communications. It uses phase shift keying to transmit signals that can easily be decoded by a computer.

Digital modes are a fantastic way for new ham operators to make contacts with minimal power and without needing to master Morse code or voice communication. Digital signals are often more reliable in conditions where noise and interference would otherwise render voice or CW transmissions unusable. Many operators appreciate the challenge of fine-tuning digital signals and enjoy the flexibility that digital modes offer in terms of communication techniques and automation (source: eHam – Understanding SSB (Single Sideband)).

Amplitude Modulation (AM)

Although it is less commonly used today, Amplitude Modulation (AM) still holds a place in ham radio, especially among enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with vintage equipment. AM is a form of modulation where the amplitude of the carrier wave is varied in accordance with the modulating signal, typically a voice or music signal. AM has a characteristic “wide” signal, which takes up more bandwidth compared to SSB. This can result in interference with other stations operating on the same frequency, which is one of the main reasons AM has fallen out of favor for general communication.

However, AM still has its applications, especially in certain historical contexts or for specialized communication, such as in aircraft communications or vintage radio operations. Some ham radio operators prefer to use AM for nostalgia’s sake, or they might enjoy operating within the AM portions of the bands, which can often be quieter and less crowded compared to the SSB portions. For those who enjoy the history and evolution of radio technology, operating in AM mode can be a fun and rewarding challenge (source: QRZ – Ham Radio Operating Modes).

Why Learning These Modes is Important for New Hams

As a new ham, understanding the various operating modes available will help you communicate more effectively and efficiently. It allows you to select the best mode for each situation, whether you’re trying to make a local contact on FM, reach across the globe using SSB, or send a weak signal over long distances with CW or digital modes. Furthermore, many modes are used during contests, emergency communications, and special events, so becoming proficient in multiple modes will enhance your overall ham radio experience.

In addition to improving your communication skills, learning different modes will also help you gain a deeper understanding of how radio waves propagate and how various factors such as power, frequency, and modulation affect signal transmission. This knowledge will not only make you a better operator but also help you troubleshoot and optimize your station setup for various conditions.

How to Get Started with These Modes

Getting started with different ham radio modes doesn’t require a lot of advanced equipment. Many beginners start with simple radios capable of operating in FM mode and gradually progress to more sophisticated transceivers that support SSB, CW, and digital modes. Local ham clubs are a great place to connect with experienced operators who can help you learn the basics of each mode.

Once you’re familiar with the theoretical aspects of ham radio modes, you can begin experimenting on air. Start by making simple local contacts on FM, and then try making longer-distance contacts using SSB. As you gain experience, you can explore CW or digital modes, which offer unique challenges and rewards.

Conclusion

Understanding the various operating modes of ham radio is essential for any new operator who wants to make the most of their hobby. Whether you’re communicating locally on FM or making global contacts with SSB or CW, each mode has its unique advantages and applications. By exploring these modes, you’ll not only enhance your communication skills but also deepen your appreciation for the technical side of amateur radio. So, dive in, experiment with different modes, and enjoy the world of ham radio communication!

D. Bryan King

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Explore the critical roles of transmitters and receivers in #AmateurRadio! Learn how these components work together for seamless communication. 🔊📡 #HamRadio #FCCRules #RadioCommunication

https://bdking71.wordpress.com/2025/04/02/the-essential-role-of-the-transmitter-and-receiver-in-amateur-radio-a-comprehensive-guide-for-beginners-and-enthusiasts/

Crack the Code: Understanding AM, FM, and SSB for Your Ham License

1,254 words, 7 minutes read time.

If you’re aiming to pass your Technician Class Amateur Radio Exam, understanding modulation techniques is crucial. Whether you’ve been fascinated by the world of amateur radio for years or are just diving into the hobby, learning about amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), and single sideband modulation (SSB) will give you a solid foundation to not only pass your test but also excel as a radio operator.

This comprehensive guide will break down the concept of modulation, demystify the technical jargon, and ensure you’re prepared for any related questions on your Technician Class Exam. In addition to exam preparation, you’ll walk away with practical knowledge that can improve your future experiences as an amateur radio operator.

The Basics of Radio Waves

Before diving into modulation, it’s essential to understand the basic principles of radio waves. Radio waves are a type of electromagnetic radiation that carries information from one point to another. They are characterized by their frequency (how fast the wave oscillates) and wavelength (the physical distance between the peaks of the wave).

The frequency of a wave is measured in Hertz (Hz), and in amateur radio, you’ll commonly encounter kilohertz (kHz), megahertz (MHz), and gigahertz (GHz). The higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength, and vice versa. This principle forms the foundation of how different modulation techniques work.

What is Modulation?

In its simplest form, modulation is the process of adding information (voice, data, or video) to a radio frequency (RF) carrier wave. Without modulation, all you would have is a continuous, unvarying signal with no meaningful content. Modulation allows you to transmit information from your transmitter to someone else’s receiver.

In the Technician Class exam, you’ll often encounter questions about the different types of modulation, their uses, and their advantages or disadvantages. Let’s break down the most important modulation techniques: AM, FM, and SSB.

Amplitude Modulation (AM)

Amplitude modulation, or AM, is one of the oldest and most straightforward modulation methods. In AM, the amplitude (strength) of the carrier wave is varied in proportion to the information being sent. For example, when you speak into a microphone connected to an AM transmitter, the sound waves from your voice alter the amplitude of the carrier wave.

One of the main advantages of AM is its simplicity. It requires relatively simple equipment to transmit and receive signals, which is why it was widely used in the early days of radio broadcasting. However, AM is susceptible to noise and interference because any electrical noise (such as lightning or electrical equipment) can affect the amplitude of the signal, leading to poor audio quality.

In amateur radio, AM is still used on some bands, especially on the HF (high-frequency) bands where long-distance communication is common. According to the ARRL, “Amplitude modulation is often used for aviation communication, certain emergency services, and some amateur radio transmissions.” You can read more about AM modulation on the ARRL website.

Frequency Modulation (FM)

Frequency modulation, or FM, works by varying the frequency of the carrier wave rather than its amplitude. This method significantly reduces noise and interference, providing clearer audio quality. FM is the standard for commercial radio broadcasting (such as your car radio) and is commonly used on the VHF (very high frequency) and UHF (ultra-high frequency) amateur bands.

One of the reasons FM is so popular in amateur radio is its resilience to signal degradation. Because the information is encoded in the frequency shifts rather than the amplitude, FM signals can better withstand interference. This is why FM is the go-to choice for local communications, such as repeater operation and mobile radios.

A classic example of FM communication in amateur radio is the 2-meter band, where most VHF repeaters operate using FM modulation. The ARRL’s guide on amateur radio frequencies further explains the practical applications of FM modulation in amateur radio (ARRL Frequencies).

Single Sideband Modulation (SSB)

Single sideband modulation, or SSB, is a more advanced form of amplitude modulation. In a traditional AM signal, both a carrier wave and two identical sidebands (upper and lower) are transmitted. This setup consumes a lot of bandwidth and power. SSB eliminates one of the sidebands and the carrier, transmitting only the necessary sideband (upper or lower).

The primary advantage of SSB is its efficiency. By eliminating unnecessary components of the signal, SSB uses less bandwidth and power, allowing for longer-distance communication. This is particularly valuable for long-distance, high-frequency (HF) communications where power conservation and clear signals are essential.

SSB is commonly used in HF voice communication among amateur radio operators, marine radio, and emergency response networks. According to QRZ.com, “SSB is often preferred for voice communications on HF bands because of its ability to conserve power and bandwidth.” You can explore QRZ’s resources on SSB here.

Comparing AM, FM, and SSB

Understanding the differences between AM, FM, and SSB is crucial for your Technician Class Exam. Here’s a brief comparison to solidify your understanding:

AM is simple but prone to noise and interference. It is still used in some amateur and aviation communications.
FM provides clear audio quality and is widely used for local communications on VHF and UHF bands.
SSB is highly efficient, conserving bandwidth and power, making it ideal for long-distance HF communication.

Each modulation technique has its place in amateur radio, and understanding when and why to use each one will make you a more competent and confident operator.

ARRL Ham Radio License Manual 5th Edition – Complete Study Guide with Question Pool to Pass the Technician Class Amateur Radio Exam

Preparing for the Technician Class Exam

The Technician Class Exam will include questions on all three modulation types. You may encounter questions like:

Which modulation technique is most commonly used for local VHF communication?
Why is SSB preferred over AM for long-distance HF communication?
How does FM reduce noise interference compared to AM?

Using resources like the ARRL Question Pool or HamStudy.org will help you practice these questions and ensure you’re ready for the exam.

Practical Tips for Amateur Radio Operators

Once you pass your Technician Class Exam, you’ll quickly realize that understanding modulation isn’t just about passing a test — it’s about becoming an effective radio operator. Here are a few practical tips:

Start by using FM on local repeaters to get comfortable with VHF/UHF communication.
Experiment with SSB on HF bands for long-distance contacts.
Listen to AM broadcasts or use AM on the HF bands to understand its characteristics.

As you grow in your amateur radio journey, you’ll find that understanding modulation techniques will open doors to more advanced operating modes, experimentation, and worldwide communication.

Conclusion

Mastering AM, FM, and SSB modulation techniques is not only essential for passing your Technician Class Exam but also critical for becoming a proficient amateur radio operator. Each modulation type has its strengths and practical applications, and understanding them will make you a more knowledgeable and capable operator.

For more in-depth study resources, visit the ARRL website or QRZ.com. With the right preparation and knowledge, you’ll be on your way to earning your Technician Class license and joining the amazing world of amateur radio.

D. Bryan King

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Basic Electronics for the Amateur Radio Operator: What You Need to Know for Your Technician License

1,003 words, 5 minutes read time.

If you’re preparing for the Amateur Radio Technician License Exam, understanding basic electronics is a must. While you don’t need to be an electrical engineer, the exam includes fundamental concepts like Ohm’s Law, circuits, components, and RF safety. This guide will walk you through the essential topics, ensuring you’re ready for the test and your first steps as a ham radio operator.

Understanding Electricity: The Basics for Amateur Radio

Electricity is the movement of electrons through a conductor, like a wire. Three key electrical properties define how electricity behaves:

Voltage (V) is the force that pushes electrons through a circuit. It’s measured in volts (V).
Current (I) is the flow of electrons, measured in amperes (A).
Resistance (R) opposes the flow of electricity and is measured in ohms (Ω).

These three are tied together by Ohm’s Law, a fundamental equation in electronics:

V=I×R

This means if you know any two values, you can calculate the third. Understanding this equation is critical for both the exam and real-world troubleshooting.

Direct Current (DC) vs. Alternating Current (AC)

Electricity comes in two forms:

Direct Current (DC) flows in one direction. Batteries and solar panels produce DC.
Alternating Current (AC) changes direction many times per second. Household electricity is AC because it’s more efficient for transmission over long distances.

For amateur radio, most equipment runs on DC power, but you’ll also need to understand AC because radio signals are alternating currents that oscillate at high frequencies.

Essential Electronic Components and Their Functions

Several key electronic components appear on the Technician Exam. Here’s what they do:

Resistors limit current flow.
Capacitors store and release energy, often used in filtering circuits.
Inductors store energy in magnetic fields and are important in tuning circuits.
Diodes allow current to flow in only one direction, useful in rectifier circuits that convert AC to DC.
Transistors act as switches and amplifiers in radio circuits.

Understanding these basics helps you answer questions about circuit behavior and troubleshooting.

Series and Parallel Circuits

Circuits are made up of components arranged in either series or parallel:

In a series circuit, current flows through all components one after another. The same current passes through each, but the voltage is divided.
In a parallel circuit, components share the same voltage, but the current divides among them.

For the exam, you should know how voltage, current, and resistance behave in each type of circuit. For example, total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of all resistances, while in parallel circuits, total resistance is lower than the smallest individual resistor.

Basic AC Concepts and Frequency

Radio waves are AC signals that oscillate at different frequencies. Frequency (f) is measured in hertz (Hz) and tells us how many times per second the wave changes direction. One kilohertz (kHz) is 1,000 Hz, and one megahertz (MHz) is 1,000,000 Hz.

Ham radios operate in different frequency bands, such as:

VHF (Very High Frequency): 30 MHz – 300 MHz (e.g., 2-meter band)
UHF (Ultra High Frequency): 300 MHz – 3 GHz (e.g., 70-centimeter band)

Higher frequencies allow for shorter antennas and are good for local communication, while lower frequencies travel further.

Modulation: How We Send Information Over Radio Waves

Modulation is how a radio wave (carrier wave) carries information. The Technician Exam covers three main types:

Amplitude Modulation (AM): The signal strength (amplitude) changes with the voice signal.
Frequency Modulation (FM): The frequency of the wave changes to encode information. FM is more resistant to noise and is commonly used in VHF and UHF bands.
Single Sideband (SSB): A variation of AM that uses less bandwidth and is more efficient for long-distance communication.

Knowing these helps when selecting modes for different types of contacts.

Power, Batteries, and Safety

Most ham radios run on 12V DC power sources, such as batteries or regulated power supplies. It’s important to understand:

Battery safety: Overcharging or short-circuiting batteries (especially lithium-ion) can be dangerous.
Fuse protection: Many radios have built-in fuses to prevent excessive current draw.

Another key topic on the test is RF exposure safety. High-power transmissions can generate strong radio frequency (RF) radiation, which may cause health risks. To minimize exposure:

Maintain a safe distance from transmitting antennas.
Use the lowest power necessary for effective communication.
Follow FCC RF exposure limits for your frequency and power level.

Ohm’s Law in Real-World Ham Radio Applications

A common exam question might involve calculating current or voltage using Ohm’s Law. For example:

Question: If a radio operates at 12V and draws 2A of current, what is the resistance?

Using Ohm’s Law:

Understanding these calculations can help with troubleshooting and designing circuits.

Final Thoughts: Studying for the Exam and Beyond

The Technician License Exam covers these topics, but learning electronics doesn’t stop there. Once licensed, you’ll continue exploring concepts like antenna design, signal propagation, and digital communication.

Great resources for studying include:

ARRL’s Technician Class License Manual: The official guide with explanations and practice questions.
HamStudy.org: Free practice tests and flashcards.
QRZ.com Practice Exams: Simulated tests with real exam questions.

By mastering these basic electronics concepts, you’ll be well on your way to passing the exam and starting your journey in amateur radio. Keep practicing, get hands-on experience, and soon, you’ll be making contacts on the air!

D. Bryan King

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Understanding the Metric System in Amateur Radio: A Comprehensive Guide for Success

1,426 words, 8 minutes read time.

The metric system is one of the most universally used systems of measurement, and it’s crucial for success in amateur radio. From frequencies to power ratings, resistance, and voltage, the metric system provides a standardized framework for understanding and communicating technical data. For those preparing for the Amateur Radio Technician exam, mastering the metric system is essential to navigating the test with confidence and accuracy. This guide will explain the importance of the metric system in amateur radio, its relevance to the exam, and offer tips and tricks to help you succeed.

The Metric System and Amateur Radio: Why It Matters

In the world of amateur radio, the metric system plays a fundamental role in creating a consistent, universal language for communication. The metric system, or International System of Units (SI), is used worldwide, except in the United States, Myanmar, and Liberia. This system simplifies the process of sharing technical information across borders, ensuring that radio operators in different countries can understand one another’s measurements without confusion.

Whether you’re measuring frequency, power, voltage, or resistance, the metric system provides clear, standardized units for all these parameters. It helps create a foundation for understanding complex radio concepts, such as signal propagation, radio wave behavior, and power calculations. As the most widely used system for scientific and technical applications, it’s indispensable for anyone interested in becoming an amateur radio operator.

For example, frequency in amateur radio is measured in hertz (Hz), and its multiples are expressed in kilohertz (kHz) or megahertz (MHz). Similarly, power is measured in watts (W), with milliwatts (mW) and kilowatts (kW) as commonly used multiples. Resistance is measured in ohms (Ω), with kiloohms (kΩ) and milliohms (mΩ) as commonly used units for different levels of resistance. Voltage is measured in volts (V), with common multiples being millivolts (mV) and kilovolts (kV).

The Role of the Metric System in the Amateur Radio Technician Exam

The Technician Class license exam for amateur radio requires knowledge of the metric system because it is directly related to various technical questions about frequency, power, voltage, resistance, and more. The exam is structured with 35 multiple-choice questions, covering a wide range of topics including basic electronics, radio wave propagation, safety, and regulations. Understanding the metric system is crucial for answering questions related to these concepts.

One of the challenges that exam-takers face is converting between different units within the metric system. For instance, you may be asked to convert a frequency value from kilohertz (kHz) to megahertz (MHz), or convert milliwatts (mW) into watts (W). Having a solid grasp of the metric system and how to make these conversions is key to answering these types of questions correctly.

In the context of amateur radio, conversions often come up when you’re working with different power levels or adjusting to varying frequency bands. The ability to convert seamlessly between units can help you save time and avoid making mistakes during the exam. That’s why it’s essential to know the common prefixes used in the metric system, like milli (m), kilo (k), and mega (M), and their corresponding values.

Understanding Metric Units and Prefixes

To fully comprehend the metric system in amateur radio, you must first understand the most common units and their prefixes. These prefixes are used to represent different scales of measurement. Here are some of the most important prefixes and their values:

Milli (m) = 0.001 or 10^-3
Centi (c) = 0.01 or 10^-2
Deci (d) = 0.1 or 10^-1
Kilo (k) = 1,000 or 10^3
Mega (M) = 1,000,000 or 10^6

These prefixes are applied to various units such as watts, volts, ohms, and hertz, and they help simplify calculations. For instance, you might encounter a situation where you need to convert a signal’s power from milliwatts (mW) to watts (W). To convert from milliwatts to watts, you would divide by 1,000. So, if you have 500 mW, you would divide by 1,000 to get 0.5 W.

Additionally, when working with frequencies, you might need to convert between kilohertz and megahertz. If a radio signal’s frequency is given in kilohertz, but the question asks you to provide the value in megahertz, you can divide the frequency by 1,000. For example, 2,500 kHz is equivalent to 2.5 MHz.

Metric System Practice for the Technician Exam

To perform well on the Technician Class exam, it’s vital to practice working with the metric system. Start by memorizing the common prefixes and their corresponding values. After you’ve committed these to memory, practice applying them to different types of radio-related problems.

One of the most effective ways to practice is by using sample questions from previous exams. These questions often cover the key concepts you need to know, such as frequency conversions, power calculations, and understanding units of voltage and resistance. By solving practice problems, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of the metric system and become more comfortable making conversions under pressure.

You can find numerous online resources that provide practice questions and detailed solutions, such as websites and apps designed specifically for amateur radio exam preparation. These resources will help you hone your skills and identify areas where you need more practice.

Test Tips and Tricks for Metric System Success

Here are a few test-taking strategies to help you succeed in the Technician Class exam when dealing with metric system questions:

Memorize Key Metric Prefixes: The metric system relies heavily on prefixes like milli, kilo, and mega. Make sure you commit these prefixes to memory, as they will appear frequently in exam questions. Understanding these conversions will be essential for quick and accurate answers.
Practice Unit Conversions: While the concept may seem simple, unit conversions can trip up even experienced radio operators. Practice converting units between milliwatts and watts, kilohertz and megahertz, and so on. Familiarity with these conversions will save you valuable time during the exam.
Use Mnemonics: Mnemonics are a great way to remember the prefixes and their values. For instance, you could use a simple phrase like “King Henry Died By Drinking Chocolate Milk” to remember the order of prefixes (kilo, hecto, deka, base unit, deci, centi, milli). Finding your own creative mnemonic can make learning more enjoyable.
Don’t Overthink It: During the exam, it’s easy to second-guess yourself when it comes to conversions. If you know the formula and the units, don’t waste time doubting your answer. Take a deep breath, stick with what you know, and move forward.
Time Management: The Technician exam has a time limit, so don’t get bogged down on any one question. If you’re stuck on a question about the metric system, skip it and come back to it later. Answer the questions you know first, then focus on the more challenging ones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When working with the metric system in amateur radio, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of:

Confusing Similar Prefixes: It’s easy to mix up similar prefixes like milli (m) and mega (M). Remember that milli is 0.001, and mega is 1,000,000. A mistake in identifying these prefixes can lead to huge errors in calculations.
Misplacing Decimal Points: Decimal point errors are common when converting between units. Be careful with your decimal places, as a single misplaced decimal can cause a significant error in your answer.
Ignoring Units of Measurement: Always double-check that your units match when performing calculations. Mixing units, such as milliwatts and watts, can lead to confusion and incorrect results.

Conclusion

The metric system is a crucial aspect of amateur radio, and understanding it is essential for success in the Technician Class exam. By learning the common prefixes, practicing unit conversions, and using effective test-taking strategies, you’ll be well-prepared for the exam and confident in your ability to apply these concepts in real-world radio operations.

For anyone aiming to pass the Technician Class exam, dedicating time to mastering the metric system will make a significant difference in your performance. As with any subject, practice is key, and by utilizing available resources and committing the important concepts to memory, you’ll be ready to tackle the exam with ease.

With the right preparation and understanding of the metric system, you’ll not only pass the exam but also gain valuable knowledge that will serve you well as you embark on your journey as an amateur radio operator.

D. Bryan King

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Holy crap! That's 173,8 km (Brighton UK to Normandy France) on 500 milliWatts #PMR446 handhelds

#RadioCommunication #DX

https://charlietangodxgroup.forumotion.com/t1355-0-5w-handy-to-0-5w-handy-brighton-uk-to-normandy-in-france-video

Whatever protocol it might be, DCS and CTCSS tones are nothing more than basic anti-spam. NOT a privacy thing.

It's just "Don't open the squelch when radio signal is received unless it has the expected tone"

Anyone with anykind of receiver, without CTCSS/DCS tones support OR with these tones disabled will still be able to hear the transmission. I fail to see why so many people fall for the "privacy code" marketing bullshit.

It's not meant for private communications…

#RadioCommunication
2/2

Me when random people pretend CTCSS and DCS tones are "privacy codes", "help you to have a bit of privacy" or are "subchannels to help you when you have a crowded channel", or even "channels"

https://xkcd.com/386/

No, there are neither and there is no such thing as "subchannels". They have nothing to do with "privacy". 1 frequency = 1 and only 1 channel…

On #PMR446, there "only" 16 channels (8 channels on pre-2018-06 devices). Which in MOST cases, is plenty enough

#RadioCommunication
1/2

From Peter Vogel:
"This major communications site in Los Angeles, Saddle Peak, has been overrun and surrounded with one of the many large fires arising from the Santa Ana Winds. Whether the facilities have survived is unknown.
https://peakery.com/saddle-peak-east-california/
I was compelled to make this post while watching the amazing coverage on LA TV station KTLA."

#LAfire #hamradio #hamr #radiocommunication

Photo of a communication site with many many antennas burned black all around the hill.

TBH the services may be better off just hanging on to Airwave, but some parts of the infrastructure are apparently becoming obsolete.

But I noticed the Ukrainian military have been gifted a lot of Sepura TETRA sets (same as used by cops here); which also creates an obvious incentive for Russia to attempt to crack the TEA2 encryption

#radiocommunication

Ham Radio 🎤🎧📻🔌📡 on Instagram: "On this day in 1946, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted Southwestern Bell a license for radio-telephone service, which enabled those in St. Louis … #hamradio #amateurradio #radiocommunication" https://www.instagram.com/p/CsY-hz4IeaT/

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"Exposition aux ondes : Samsung écope d’une amende pour dépassements de DAS.

7 500 euros 🙄 … pas certain que Samsung s’en remette"

#samsung #amende #radio #radiation #radiocommunication #radiofrequence #smartphone #ANFR #DAS #telephone #mobile #frequences #sante #electromagnetique #cancer

https://www.nextinpact.com/article/70417/exposition-aux-ondes-samsung-ecope-dune-amende-pour-depassements-das

140m range (double the whole building area!) from these small €8 #POCSAG transmitters to the pagers at only +18 dBm with a UHF coil antenna (there does seem to be quite decent RF groundplane on the PCB).

For those who are curious the TX is an SI4432 controlled by a STC11L04 MCU

#pager #radiocommunication

a look inside the TX button (2 X LR44 batteries, SI4432 TX)

Test of pager transmitter co-existence worked well (pager is 2,5m away from +33dBm (2W) TX on a *different* frequency (*,050 MHz), small TX at about +17dBm (0,050W) on (*,375 MHz), antenna also 2,5m distance (the new site will be 3km away).

Why a bit of the Bayernhymne?

I wanted something that *definitely* couldn't be misinterpreted by anyone else (area shared frequencies), also in case I accidentally left the small TX on the *,050 frequency with active nurse calls

#radiocommunication

#radioCommunication

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