RF Exposure: Understanding The Law
RF exposure refers to the interaction between radio frequency energy and the human body. This exposure occurs when you transmit or receive signals using any radio device, including amateur radios,…
Radio fundamentals
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…
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…
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…
Tips for QRP Success on HF Bands
Tips for QRP Success, operating QRP on the HF bands presents a unique and rewarding challenge. QRP, meaning low-power operation (typically 5 watts or less), forces radio amateurs to rely…
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…
Basics of RF Signals
Basics of RF signals form the foundation of modern wireless communication. RF signals are electromagnetic waves that transmit data through the air without the need for physical connections. They operate…
HF Skip Zones: How To Identify Them
HF skip zones, also known as dead zones, play a significant role in long-distance radio communication. These areas exist between the point where a ground wave signal fades and where…