Calling CQ
Amateur radio operators use the phrase “CQ” as an open invitation to communicate. When you call CQ, you are asking for any station listening to respond. Therefore, calling CQ is…
Radio fundamentals
CAT Control and CI-V in Amateur Radio
Modern transceivers often include computer interfaces that allow operators to control and automate many functions. CAT control and CI-V are two of the most common systems used for this purpose.…
DMR Tier 1 & 2: What’s The Difference?
DMR Tier 1 & 2 is an open standard designed for professional, novice, and amateur communication. It operates using TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), allowing two independent voice or data…
VHF/UHF Antenna Placement in EV
VHF/UHF Antenna Placement in EV (electric vehicles) presents unique challenges. Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles, installing transceivers in EVs generate more internal electrical noise, have limited metallic body panels, and carry…
Soil Affects Antenna Performance: Learn The Difference
How soil affects antenna performance, it plays a crucial role in determining its efficiency, particularly for vertical and ground-mounted systems. Soil impacts the ground conductivity and dielectric constant, both of…
HF Radio Propagation: How Weather Effects Propagation
HF radio propagation relies on the ionosphere to reflect signals back to Earth. Because of this, environmental and atmospheric conditions can significantly influence signal behavior. While many factors play a…
Wire Antenna Basics for Beginners
Wire Antenna Basics for Beginners, they form the backbone of amateur radio setups due to their simplicity, effectiveness, and affordability. They function by radiating and receiving electromagnetic energy, primarily across…
What Is Cross Band Repeat
Certain dual-band amateur radios feature a powerful function called cross band repeat. Particularly mobile transceivers. It allows the radio to receive on one band (usually UHF or VHF) and automatically…
Single Sideband: Understanding This Mode
Single Sideband, or SSB, is a highly efficient form of amplitude modulation widely used in amateur radio, marine communication, and aviation. While AM transmits a carrier and two identical sidebands,…
Microphone Fright: How To Make First Contact
Microphone fright is the anxiety or nervousness a person feels when speaking into a microphone. It’s similar to stage fright, but it often strikes when you’re alone or can be…