Skip Distance and Dead Zones
Learning skip distance and dead zones is essential for DX contacts. Skip distance is the minimum distance between a transmitting station and the point where a skywave signal returns to…
Information
RIT Control: How To Use It
RIT control, or Receiver Incremental Tuning control, is an essential feature found on most modern ham radios. Because operators often encounter slight frequency mismatches during conversations, the RIT control allows…
Diversity Reception for Weak Signal Work
Diversity reception plays a vital role in improving communication when working with weak signals. Many amateur radio operators face fading, interference, and noise that make it challenging to copy distant…
Mastering Split Operation for DXing Success
Mastering split operation is a critical skill for any amateur radio operator who wants to excel at DXing. When a rare or highly sought-after station goes on the air, hundreds…
Reading Solar Reports: Important Information
Solar activity directly affects high-frequency (HF) radio propagation. When reading solar reports, you can predict when HF conditions will be favorable or challenging. The sun constantly emits charged particles and…
IF Shift vs. RF Shift: Clearing Up the Confusion
IF shift vs. RF shift are two important tools built into many modern ham radios, and both are designed to improve signal clarity. Because crowded bands often make it difficult…
The Noise Blanker: Use It Effectively
Running a ham radio often means battling with unwanted interference. This is when the noise blanker is effective. This tool helps reduce specific types of noise that commonly mask weak…
Understanding MUF, LUF, and FOT
Amateur radio operators must understand how radio signals travel through the ionosphere to maximize their success on the air. Three essential terms define the limits of high-frequency communication. By understanding…
Meteor Scatter Communication: Setup and Tips
Meteor scatter communication is an exciting and reliable method of achieving long-distance radio contacts, especially for amateur radio enthusiasts. It takes advantage of the brief but intense ionization trails left…