Playing Around with APRS

In the past few weeks, I started playing around with APRS again. Interest in APRS seems to come and go for me over time. It has the technical intrigue of figuring out how it works and the fun of exploring radio propagation paths. (If you are not familiar with APRS, K9DCI has a good introduction … Read more

NASA Amateur Radio Video from ISS

Well, this one has actually been out on the web for several weeks, but I finally got around to viewing it. Col. Doug Wheeler Wheelock (KF5BOC) gives a short tour of the ISS and then demonstrates amateur radio operating (2 Meter FM) from the ISS. Col. Wheeler Wheelock was very active on the ham radio … Read more

Has Amateur Radio Missed Out on Instant Messaging?

Earlier today, I was examining the various mobile phone service plans and “smart phones.” This caused me to reflect on how text messaging has become such a big deal in the mobile wireless world. Text messaging, more properly called  SMS (Short Message Service), supports simple text messages up to 160 characters. Even with a limited … Read more

CQ VHF Magazine

My radio interests have always been peaked on the VHF and higher bands, so that is one reason why I really enjoy  CQ VHF magazine. CQ VHF is published once a quarter and contains a variety of fun content on radio operating above 50 MHz. With the >50 MHz focus, it is a great fit … Read more

2010 Fall TechFest

Here is an excellent opportunity to build your ham radio knowledge and skill. The 285 TechConnect Radio Club (www.na0tc.org ) is once again sponsoring the Fall TechFest (Saturday November 6th). This educational event is aimed at the Tech advancing to General, with a good selection of workshop topics. I often get new Technician licensees (or … Read more