Projects
Building My Hamshack Part 5
Now that I have a plan for my shack layout and the stations I will have, it’s time to begin construction. As I explained last month, I’m not much of a woodworker, so I need to be realistic about what Read more…
Now that I have a plan for my shack layout and the stations I will have, it’s time to begin construction. As I explained last month, I’m not much of a woodworker, so I need to be realistic about what Read more…
One of the great things about having a clean slate is the freedom to build exactly what you want. After spending some time sitting in the empty upstairs bedroom that would become my hamshack, I decided that I wanted to Read more…
In parts 1 of this series, I looked at two possible locations in my home to set up my amateur radio operating room. I considered requirements in six categories, and identified my top two priorities. Namely, I wanted short and Read more…
A closer look at grounding According to ARRL, grounds fulfill three distinct functions: Safety ground. This protects you from a shock hazard if one of the mains or high voltage power supply wires contacts the chassis due to some kind Read more…
In part 1 of this series I share my thoughts on selecting the best spot in my home in which to build my humble shack. I live in a historic home in a small town in North Carolina. I’m a Read more…
When it comes to antennas, the phrase “height is might” is often used. Let’s take a closer look at the physics and do some math to understand this in practical terms. Antenna height at HF HF antennas tend to be Read more…
In February the big news in the shack has been the addition of my new favorite radio, the FTDX5000MP. According to Sherwood Engineering this radio has great specs across the board. Its not the best, but it is still in Read more…
Around Thanksgiving I was able to pick up a used linear amplifier from a local seller, Bob, K4HA. He had purchased it from Raleigh area repeater legend Danny Hampton, K4ITL, so I am the third owner. The amp is a Read more…
I’m 55 years old. Although I no longer have the balance, agility, speed or stamina I had in my youth, I want to retain as much of these things as I can. I plan on remaining active for many years Read more…
Why a Yagi? There are four 2 meter FM frequencies I want to talk on regularly. Three of these are club repeaters to my Northwest. The fourth is the simplex calling frequency. K4ITL 145.21 -offset 144.61 TXW4DW 146.64 -offset 146.04 Read more…