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.