Makers

The ability to generate a signal at a known frequency an essential tool for your shack.   Dean, KK4DAS demonstrates this simple-to-build Arduino-based signal generator that can be used as a reference signal or even a local oscillator for a receiver.     Watch the presentation on YouTube:  (1) Using Arduino components to build a signal generator – YouTube…

Satellite (2M & 70cm) Yagi.  This directional antenna was designed to hold a 2M-7ocm FM handheld tranceiver (HT) in order to communicate with amateurs via repeaters on low-orbit amateur satellites [to learn about amateur-radio satellites, visit the AMSAT website]. In this design, the driven element is the HT’s antenna. There are only directors for each band: 3…

QRP Kits.  Building miniature transmitters and receivers is a ham tradition that continues to grow in popularity. This aspect of amateur radio is facilitated by several reputable ham-owned companies and clubs that sell well-designed, relatively inexpensive kits.  The QRP-Amateur Radio Club, Inc. (QRP-ARCI) has created a webpage of QRP kit sellers which you can peruse and from…

KM4KMU Jeep VHF/UHF Rover Perhaps VWS’s biggest attraction at Field Day is John Young’s (KM4KMU) amazing VHF/UHF rover.  John has been using his rotatable jeep-top array to set scoring records as a stationary FM mountaintop station in the VHF contests. You can read all about John’s Jeep-altering builds by scrolling down though lots of photos, videos and…