DX ahoy!

Originally posted on 'The wet string chronicles' in April 2010.

I like chasing DX and I’m always interested to see what DXpeditions are planned for the months ahead. A good resource for this information is provided by Bill Feidt, NG3K, on his website. The ‘Announced DX Operations’ page lists most of the scheduled DXpeditions.

I regularly scan the listed operations to see if there are any scheduled to DXCC entities I need. There usually are! I then break this down into those I ‘expect’ to be able to work and those I don’t expect to be able to work, based on my setup and my experience of relative strength (or absence of) signals heard from those parts of the world.

I then also consider which modes the respective operations prefer because I know I’m unlikely to work many on SSB, due in large part to my operating mostly at night when the rest of the house is asleep, but also due to my relatively poor signal. I find that CW really is my best option most of the time!

Armed with this information I will then look out for those callsigns on DX spotting clusters and also listen for those stations on the bands. By this means I can usually work a few new ones that I might otherwise not have.

For instance, as it stands today, I hope to be able to work the following listed operations (in what would be new DXCC entities for me).

• 5Z4/LA9PF - Kenya
• 8Q7NA + 8Q7IA - Maldives
• FR/F5UOW + FR/F4EGZ - Reunion
• 3B8MM - Mauritius
• TT8PK - Chad
• E4X - Palestine
• VK9CLH - Lord Howe Island

There are many more but as I said previously, I’m mindful of which of all those listed I might actually hear. I’ll usually listen for those I see spotted but I’m more often than not, not at all surprised when I can’t hear them on my antenna!

I’ll be happy to snag any 5 of the 7 entities listed and, things being what they are, hopefully a few not listed. Good DX! 

A brief foray onto 40m - FT8 and a mobile whip antenna

Mindful of the impending CQ World Wide DX competitions, and particularly the CW contest in late November, I wanted to deploy an antenna for the CW portion of the 40m band, to which end I purchased a humble mobile whip (I have severe antenna restrictions at my current QTH) and set about tuning it for the low end of 40m. At the same time I thought it would be a good idea to see what daytime FT8 activity there was on this band having only previously used this mode on the higher HF bands (20m thru 10m).

FT8 activity on 40m 2024-10-20

Using my Xiegu G90 and the mobile whip antenna I was pleased to see just how much activity there was on 40m. Granted it was pretty much all local to me but I did see several signals from north American stations, although I was unable to work any of these DX stations. 

I did however work plenty of the closer-in stations over a brief period of operation and was pleased to receive some decent signal reports for my 12w output.

40m spots 2024-10-20 

I also checked on PSKReporter to see where I'd been spotted and this confirmed my operating experience - lots of fairly local spots with a few outliers into eastern Europe, the Baltic states and Scandinavia.

All things considered I was pleased to see that the mobile whip antenna did allow me to get out on 40m and I will look forward to seeing what DX I might be able to work during the CW contest in November. 

I fully recognise that this is a compromise antenna but in my circumstances it's about the best I can do and I will enjoy being able to work some late night CW on 40m with it.

Why you don't need a band scope (a contrarian view)

In recent years, amateur radio manufacturers have been including band scopes in their transceivers. While these flashy displays might catch your eye, they're far from essential. Here are 5 reasons why I believe you can confidently forego the band scope and focus on what really matters in amateur radio.

1. Back to basics: Ears over eyes

Radio is fundamentally about listening. A band scope encourages you to watch rather than listen. By relying on your ears instead of a visual display, you'll develop better listening skills and a deeper understanding of band conditions.

2. Unnecessary complexity

Adding a band scope introduces another layer of complexity to your radio. More features mean more buttons, menus, and potential points of failure. Keeping it simple allows you to focus on operating rather than fiddling with settings.

3. Battery life drain

For portable operations, every bit of power counts. Band scopes, with their constant scanning and bright displays, can significantly reduce your battery life. Skip the scope, and you'll stay on the air longer.

4. Cost

Radios with band scopes generally cost more than their simpler counterparts. The second-hand market is awash with older radios that do not have band scopes and prices for these older (and very capable) radios can be very attractive. If you're on a budget or just starting out, the money saved could then be spent on antennas or station accessories.

5. The thrill of discovery

Part of the excitement in ham radio is stumbling upon unexpected contacts. A band scope can spoil this by showing you everything at once. Without it, each spin of the dial brings the potential for surprise.

While band scopes may look impressive, they're far from essential for enjoying amateur radio. By focusing on developing your listening skills and embracing the core aspects of the hobby, you'll likely find yourself having more fun and making more contacts – no fancy display required.

The agony of choice: Picking a new HF radio in 2024

In the world of amateur radio, choosing a new HF rig in 2024 feels a lot like picking out the last piece of gear you'll ever buy. In my case, that’s not far from the truth—I want this radio to last me a lifetime, and so it’s no small decision. After hours upon hours of poring over reviews, spec sheets, and YouTube demos, I'm finding myself in a frustrating conundrum. With options like the Icom IC-7300, IC-7610, Kenwood TS-890S, Yaesu FTDX10, FT-710, and FTDX101 on the table, you'd think one of them would clearly stand out. But alas, none of these radios ticks all of the boxes I’ve set.

The Wish List (or 'What I’m looking for in my dream HF radio')

User Interface: I like to have all the controls I use most often at my fingertips. I'm not keen on diving into menus to make quick adjustments—especially when you're trying to catch that weak DX station on a narrow band opening. A well-designed user interface with physical knobs for commonly used features is preferable.

Nice Screen: These days, I feel like a decent screen with a good waterfall display isn't too much to ask for, right? But it’s not just about having one—it needs to be visually pleasing and offer the right mix of data at a glance without overwhelming me.

RF Performance: I primarily chase DX using SSB, CW, and data modes like FT8. That means I need a rig with excellent sensitivity, good dynamic range, and the ability to handle crowded bands without folding under the pressure. It’s crucial for me that this radio pulls signals out of the noise, even with my relatively simple wire antennas.

Connectivity: As someone who likes to use digital modes, I need seamless CAT control and straightforward data mode connectivity. Plugging in and getting my PC to talk to the radio shouldn’t be an adventure every time.

Longevity: This is a big one. I’m planning to invest in a radio that will see me through the rest of my days on the air. I want something that’s not only durable but also future-proof in terms of features and firmware updates. 

The Contenders

-Icom IC-7300

It’s hard not to love this little radio. The RF performance, especially for its price, is incredible. The user interface is clean, and Icom's touchscreen is a big selling point. However, the 7300 lacks some of the more robust features found in higher-end radios. Also, its display, while good, is not quite up to the level of the pricier rigs.

-Icom IC-7610

The IC-7610 almost ticks all the boxes. Dual receivers, a better screen than the 7300, and excellent performance on CW and data modes. But then again, it’s a hefty investment. Is it that much better than the IC-7300 to justify the extra cost? Two receivers is a must for many people but not for me.

-Kenwood TS-890S

Fantastic RF performance, one of the best CW rigs out there, and a solid user interface. Price wise it's close to the IC-7610, and it’s just as visually striking. The lack of dual receive isn't a problem for me and I've had a number of Kenwood radios in the past and all were lovely to operate and listen to for extended periods (TS140,TS440,TS480,TS870).

-Yaesu FTDX10

The FTDX10 intrigues me with its compact size and strong RF performance. The screen is good, and the waterfall is smooth. But again, the lack of dedicated knobs for some frequently-used features forces me into menus, which is a pet peeve. It's a great radio, but is it a great fit?

-Yaesu FT-710

The FT-710 feels like a trimmed-down version of the FTDX10, and while it’s got some strong points, it doesn’t quite measure up in the areas that matter most to me—especially in terms of user controls and overall refinement.

-Yaesu FTDX101

The hybrid SDR architecture gives it that edge in dynamic range, and the display is stunning. The downside? It’s big, heavy, and has a price tag to match. And do I really need a rig that complex? There’s a fine line between having advanced features and having so many that I’ll spend half my time figuring out how to use them!

The Struggle

Each of these radios excels in some areas but falls short in others. The Icoms win on the display and general usability front, but I feel like the Yaesu models might have the edge when it comes to pulling in weak DX signals. The TS890s, meanwhile, offer that classic feel and stellar CW performance, coupled with that classic Kenwood audio on SSB.

What’s keeping me stuck in analysis paralysis is the fact that no radio ticks every single box. If only I could combine the best features of each into a custom rig tailored perfectly to my needs! But alas, I’m left weighing trade-offs and wondering if I’ll ever find a radio that feels like 'the one'.

Maybe that’s just the nature of the hobby—there’s always going to be something better on the horizon. But for now, I’ll keep plugging away at reviews, weighing features, and trying to picture which radio will be my companion for the years to come.

I'm hoping very much that when I am finally able to choose, I’ll spend more time on the air and less time wishing I’d picked something else!

Got thoughts on any of these rigs? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear from fellow hams wrestling with the same decision! 

CQ World Wide WPX Contest (CW) 2009

Originally posted on 'The wet string chronicles' in May 2009. 

Day 1: Clear blue skies & soaring temperatures outside but I managed several hours on 20m with brief excursions to 15 and 40m. I managed to work 2 all time new ones in the form of A62A (UAE) and VE3DZ/VP9 (Bermuda) and the overall QSO/country count for my modest first day effort was 91 contacts in 43 different countries.

Day 2: Mindful of being out for much of the day it was an early start for day 2 of my contest effort. They say that the early bird catches the worm and it was oh so true on this occasion when I snagged KL7RA in Alaska for another all time new one at 06:33 UTC followed by KH6MB in Hawaii a few minutes later.

I managed about 4 hours in total, on and off through the day, finally shutting down around 21:30 UTC mindful of work the next morning. In total over the two days I logged 122 contacts in 52 countries with 3 all time new ones and 1 new US state (Idaho), not bad for a seriously compromised antenna and no more than 75 watts output.

Link to CQ WPX contest website: CQ World Wide WPX Contest

CQ World Wide WPX (CW 2009) - the 52 countries worked

The 3 must-have software tools in my shack

As an amateur radio operator, I've spent countless hours tinkering with various software tools to enhance my operating experience. Over the years, I've come to rely on three essential types of software that I believe every ham should have in their digital toolbox. Let me share my personal favorites and experiences with each.

1. Logging software: N3FJP's Amateur Contact Log

Since 2005, N3FJP's Amateur Contact Log has been my go-to logging software. It's user-friendly, feature-rich, and has stood the test of time. What I love most about it is its ability to handle both casual contacts and contest logging with equal ease. The interface is intuitive, making it simple to enter QSO details quickly, which is crucial during fast-paced contest operations.

The software's integration with various transceivers for frequency and mode tracking is a huge time-saver. Plus, its ability to generate reports and statistics has helped me track my progress towards awards like DXCC and WAS. While there are newer options on the market, N3FJP's reliability and regular updates have kept me a loyal user for nearly two decades. Thanks Scott!

2. Digital modes: A suite of specialised tools

When it comes to digital modes, I've found that no single software can do it all. My journey started with Digipan, which served me well for basic PSK31 operations. However, as I delved deeper into the world of digital modes, I expanded my toolkit.

Currently, I use a combination of:

• Airlink Express for PSK31 and AFSK RTTY
• MMTTY for FSK RTTY
• JTDX for FT8

Airlink Express has become my primary software for PSK31 and AFSK RTTY. Its clean interface and robust decoding capabilities making it a joy to use.

MMTTY is my go-to for FSK RTTY. Its superior decoding algorithms have helped me pull out signals from the noise that other software missed. The ability to fine-tune various parameters gives me the edge I need during tough band conditions.

For FT8, JTDX has been a game-changer. Its efficient use of system resources and excellent weak signal performance have allowed me to make contacts I never thought possible. The integration with logging software and online resources like PSK Reporter are also really worthwhile features.

3. Web Browser: The Swiss army knife of software

Last but certainly not least, my web browser is an indispensable tool in my shack. It's my gateway to a wealth of resources that enhance my operating experience:

• Propagation prediction tools like VOACAP and ionospheric maps
• Real-time band condition reports from sites like DX Summit
• Contest calendars to plan my operating schedule
• Online QRZ lookups for quick operator information
• Access to propagation visualisation tools like PSK Reporter and the Reverse Beacon Network
• Ham radio forums for troubleshooting and community discussions

The beauty of using a web browser is that it's always up-to-date and provides access to the latest information and tools without the need for constant software updates.

4. What, no rig control software?

No...not for me. Well not yet at least. I've tried various rig control software over the years but never really taken to them because I very much enjoy the hands-on tactile approach of actually touching and using the radio. Slowly tuning across the bands listening deep into the noise for those distant stations and then using the rig's controls to dig out the signals with filters and noise reduction. I just get a far greater sense of achievement doing it that way.

In conclusion, while the hardware in our shacks often gets the spotlight, these software tools are the unsung heroes that make modern amateur radio operation efficient, enjoyable, and endlessly fascinating. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting out, I highly recommend exploring the myriad different software offerings to find those which best suit your operating habits. 

7 Things I like about the Xiegu G90 (and 2 things I don’t)

The Xiegu G90 has gained quite a following in the world of portable ham radios, and for good reason. After using it for a while, I’ve found there are plenty of reasons to love this radio but it’s not without a few quirks. Here’s a breakdown of seven things I like, and two things I don’t.

7 Things I like about the Xiegu G90

1. Form factor – It’s small

The compact design is one of the first things that caught my eye. At just over 2 pounds and small enough to easily fit in a backpack, it’s perfect for portable setups like POTA (Parks on the Air) or SOTA (Summits on the Air). Its diminutive size makes it easy to carry around and operate anywhere.

The Xiegu G90

2. Build quality

Despite its small size, the G90 is solidly built. The sturdy construction gives me confidence that it can withstand a bit of rough handling during portable operations. The buttons and knobs feel durable, and the overall design suggests it’s built to last. It really is a lovely little radio.

3. Built-in internal antenna tuner

One of the standout features of the G90 is its wide-range, fast antenna tuner. Having this built-in means I can quickly match a variety of antennas without needing an external tuner. The fact that it works so efficiently is a huge plus, especially when experimenting with different antenna setups.

4. Full feature set in a tiny package

The G90 packs a ton of features typically found in larger, more expensive radios. From CW and SSB to digital modes like FT8, this little rig can do it all. It even has a spectrum display, which is quite handy. For such a compact radio, it doesn’t sacrifice functionality.

5. 20W output power

Unlike many portable radios that max out at 5 or 10 watts, the G90 offers 20 watts of output power. This extra power makes a noticeable difference when trying to make contacts, especially in less-than-ideal propagation conditions. It gives me an edge without needing to lug around a larger radio.

6. Price

The Xiegu G90 is affordable compared to many HF transceivers with similar features. For someone like me, who enjoys portable ops but doesn’t want to spend a fortune, the G90 strikes a great balance between cost and performance.

7. The YouTube community

One of the unexpected benefits of owning the G90 is the wealth of “how-to” videos and reviews on YouTube. The community of operators sharing tips, tutorials, and mods is incredibly helpful, especially for someone just getting to know the radio.

Things I don’t like about the Xiegu G90

1. Small tuning knob

As much as I like the form factor, the small tuning knob fitted as standard can be a bit frustrating. For someone with larger hands, it can feel a bit cramped, and precise tuning requires a bit more effort than I’d like. A larger or smoother tuning mechanism would have been a welcome improvement.

2. It gets hot in a hurry

This radio runs hot, especially during extended operations. While it hasn’t caused any serious issues for me yet, I do worry about the long-term impact on the radio’s components. Some external cooling might be necessary for longer sessions to keep it from overheating.

While the Xiegu G90 is far from perfect, the positives far outweigh the negatives. It’s an excellent choice for hams like me who are looking for a portable, feature-packed HF rig without breaking the bank. For portable operation, it’s hard to beat!

HF operations from a narrowboat

"Well that's something you don't see everyday!"...as they say. And it isn't, although I have seen other narrowboats on the UK canal network with what I assume are amateur radio antennas. But not many. 

I have also seen a small number of boats with what I assumed were CB radio antennas. Whatever floats your boat, as they say!

Those amateur radio narrowboats that I have seen usually have an assortment of VHF/UHF whip antennas and at least one, but usually more, end fed wires for HF, with an assortment of steel or telescopic carbon or glass fibre supporting masts. As is typical of the amateur radio operator, there is no lack of engineering ingenuity or creativity when it comes to erecting an effective antenna farm within your own specific constraints.

This is the narrowboat in question with a somewhat closer view of the antennas. I'd love to know the callsign of this operator because as much as I tried to exchange callsigns verbally we couldn't hear each other as we were some distance apart by the time he emerged from his boat.

If this was you, or you know who it might be, please comment below.

K5D - Desecheo Island

Originally posted on 'The wet string chronicles' in May 2009. 

The very smart K5D QSL card

The QSL card arrived today and a very nice card it is, befitting the dxpedition itself which was a slick, well run affair.

I was very pleased with my 30m CW contact because prior to the night I made the contact I’d struggled to hear them at all. Add to that the huge pile-ups I was convinced I’d never get through. But, on the night of the 22nd February 2009, they were much louder so I set about making a few calls, trying to find my way through the pile-up. Half an hour later they were in the log.

I’ve had some good successes on morse code over the past year or two with VP6DX and K5D as two contacts of note. I next hope to work El Salvador for an all time new one later this month when a British team will be operating exclusively on CW as YS1G. Fingers crossed there is some decent propagation come the time.

G0RIF portable from Barr Beacon

Originally posted on 'The wet string chronicles' in May 2009.

Just a few words on todays operation from Barr Beacon (IO92BN) when I setup on 20m with the Par End Fedz 20m dipole suspended vertically on a 10m fibreglass pole.

Band conditions weren’t great and there was fast deep fading. Not as bad as 17m at the weekend but still pretty dramatic. Best DX was VE1ZA/m (Tony) followed by OH0/DL9GTI (Ralf). It seems Ralf wasn’t the only German out and about as I also worked Peter in Croatia as 9A/DL4KM/p and Charlie in Italy as I/DL3KHK. In keeping with this ‘operating abroad’ theme I also worked Dave in Menorca as EA6/M0DLL.

All in all it was an enjoyable few hours on 20m when even the weather was pretty good…until the battery was run down and I’d packed everything away, after which it poured it down. I think I timed that perfectly!