ham radio
231 videos tagged ham radio across 5 categories.
All videos
Radio Fire Watch & The Importance of a Simple Analog Repeater
How volunteer ham radio operators coordinated a fire watch during the La Habra, California fire to prevent spread, demonstrating practical emergency communication.
Is 500 Watts Enough for POTA? Putting the KPA 500 to the Test
Practical evaluation of the Elecraft KPA-500 amplifier for Parks on the Air operations: power requirements, performance tradeoffs, and whether 500W is sufficient for off-grid HF radio work.
GMRS vs. Ham Radio Explained: Frequencies, Licensing, and Emergency Communications
Two-minute breakdown of GMRS, ham radio, and license-free MURS systems—which frequencies you can transmit on, licensing requirements, and how to choose the right radio for emergency communications.
44Net Connect: Portable, Public, Static IP Addresses for Amateur Radio Stations
70-minute technical presentation on using 44Net IP addressing to make amateur radio stations reachable during grid-down scenarios and emergency communications.
Diamond CR320A Tri Band Ham Radio Antenna
Overview of the Diamond CR320A tri-band antenna for ham radio communication and emergency preparedness.
Ham Radio Preparedness: The Mission Defines the Gear
How to choose ham radio equipment for emergency communications: start with your mission (who, where, range), then select radios, bands, and antennas that match the task.
Portable HF Antenna Test for Off-Grid Communications
Hands-on testing and setup of a portable HF antenna for decentralized, tower-independent radio communications.
Linked Repeater Etiquette and Operating Tips for New Ham Operators
Twenty-two minutes on repeater protocol, proper operating procedure, and technique for new amateur radio operators using both linked and standalone repeaters.
The City of Cerritos vs My Ham Radio Antenna – A Small Update
Follow-up on zoning and PRB-1 antenna regulations after community pushback; practical walkthrough of navigating municipal restrictions for ham radio emergency communications.
3 Free Tools for Ham Radio: DX Cluster, ADIF Editor & Logging Software
Walkthrough of three free, cross-platform tools for ham radio operators: DXSpider cluster access, ADIF log editing, and OpsLog logging software for field operations.
Hamstick as a Counterpoise: Does It Actually Work?
Field test of using a mobile hamstick antenna as a ground system for a vertical antenna, measured with SWR analysis to evaluate portable station optimization.
Full HaleHound Build – Fire Weasel and Cinder Ferret
54-minute walkthrough building and comparing two ham radio emergency communication kits, covering assembly differences and performance trade-offs.
Baofeng DM-32UV Programming with CPS Software
27-minute step-by-step walkthrough programming a Baofeng DM-32UV dual-mode ham radio for analog and DMR channels using the CPS software.
Essential Tips for Successful Field Operations
ARRL Lab expert shares practical tips for optimizing portable radio power, antenna performance, and field station reliability during outdoor amateur radio operations.
VHF/UHF Band Openings, Calling Frequencies, and Ham Radio Basics
Introduction to VHF/UHF band openings, standard calling frequencies, and practical radio operation tips for new ham radio operators.
HamClock App for Amazon Fire TV: Setup and Overview
Five-minute walkthrough of installing and configuring the HamClock app on Fire TV for amateur radio timekeeping and coordination without a dedicated computer.
Kenwood TM-D750 vs ICOM ID-5200: Mobile Radio Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of two dual-band mobile transceivers: hardware, build quality, interfaces, and practical usability for ham radio stations.
Shadow Slot VHF/UHF Antenna Review
Sixteen-minute walkthrough of the Shadow Slot low-profile antenna for Amateur, GMRS, and MURS bands, with performance notes and installation details.
Why Your Antenna Tuner Doesn't Actually Tune Anything
Technical breakdown of how antenna tuners (transmatches) work: impedance matching between radio and feedline, SWR, and why the name is misleading.
Low Power Hour: QRP Operating with K0KLB & KO4GSM
Live discussion on QRP (low-power) ham radio operations, field deployments, and practical techniques for reaching distant stations with minimal power.
Pebble HF CW POTA Activation in Poor Band Conditions
55-minute field demonstration: morse code operation on a portable HF radio during a Parks on the Air activation, with real QSO examples and practical troubleshooting in challenging conditions.
$20 Mod Fixes Kenwood TM-D750 Clicking Issue and Panel Cable Problem
Step-by-step fix for audio clicking and panel connectivity issues on the Kenwood TM-D750 transceiver using standard CAT6 cables and adapters.
Copper Wire vs Electric Fence String—Resonant Length Comparison for 20m Dipole Antennas
Eight-minute experiment comparing resonant lengths and SWR performance of copper wire versus conductive electric fence string in half-wave dipole configurations for the 20-meter amateur radio band.
From Military Communications to a Technician License | Hayato KO6OLN
Ham Radio Prep student testimonial: transitioning from military radio experience to amateur radio licensing, and discovering civilian emergency communications.
AI in the Ham Shack: Testing Gemini and Claude on Radio Projects
Twenty-one minutes testing AI tools on practical ham radio tasks: antenna design, radio configuration, RFI troubleshooting, and QSL card creation, with guidance on when to verify results independently.
The Best Free Ham Radio Tools: HR4NT Apps
Overview of three free amateur radio software tools—Pocket Elmer, Antenna Forge, and Radio Rosetta—for learning, antenna design, and radio programming.
Yaesu FT-857D & ATAS Antenna: Mobile HF Setup Field Testing
Hands-on demonstration of a portable HF radio system in the field, showing mobile deployment, antenna tuning, and real-world operating conditions for remote communications.
What SWR Really Means for Your Antenna
42-second breakdown of Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) and why a low reading doesn't guarantee antenna efficiency or power transmission.
Ham Radio Deals for Prime Big Deals Day 2026
Roundup of amateur radio equipment, antennas, test gear, batteries, and solar panels available during Amazon Prime deals, with product links and specs.
Overcoming Mic Fright: Getting Started with Amateur Radio
How to push past hesitation and make your first ham radio contact as a new operator, with encouragement from the welcoming amateur radio community.
The 1964 Alaska Earthquake: Ham Radio's 70-Hour Emergency Response
Historical account of how a single ham radio operator maintained emergency communications for 70 hours after the 1964 Alaska earthquake when all other infrastructure failed.
Ask Dave: Difficult Grounding—Alternative Techniques for Dry and Rocky Areas
Ham radio grounding solutions for operators in dry, rocky, or desert terrain where standard methods won't work.
What is the BKG (Brass Knuckle Gang)?
Introduction to the Brass Knuckle Gang ham radio community: membership, required gear, antenna building, and practicing morse code on local repeaters and satellites.
Portable Ham Radio Logging Apps: Ham2K PoLo Walkthrough
57-minute hands-on walkthrough of Ham2K Portable Logger app for field ham radio operations, covering portable gear upgrades, app selection, and step-by-step feature demonstration.
Icom's New ID-5200: Built-In TNC + APRS Walkthrough | Dayton Hamvention 2026
Four-minute walkthrough of Icom's new ID-5200 dual-band radio with built-in TNC, APRS, color display, and GPS—plus new antenna tuner and desktop microphone from Dayton Hamvention 2026.
Tour the ARRL Headquarters Antenna Farm
Tour of ARRL's Newington headquarters showing multiband HF beams, VHF/UHF Yagis for satellite tracking, repeater verticals, and emergency weather monitoring dishes.
Kenwood TM-D750 Advanced Features
Setup walkthrough for digipeating, cross-band repeating, D-STAR reflector access, and APRS bulletin transmission on the Kenwood TM-D750 dual-band radio.
Incoming and Outgoing QSL Bureau Explained for New Ham Operators
18-minute walkthrough of ARRL QSL bureaus and call-district procedures for ham radio operators establishing contact logs and emergency communication readiness.
Icom 5200 Struggle Stream
Walk through Icom 5200 unboxing, Bluetooth TNC setup, and initial configuration for digital radio modes.
Spec5 Raider 1-Watt Meshtastic Node: Unboxing and Setup
Unboxing and field-ready setup walkthrough for the Spec5 Raider, a 1-watt Meshtastic mesh radio node designed for off-grid decentralized communications without carriers or towers.
Cleaning Up a Crusty Old Yaesu FT-8800 to Like-New Condition
19-minute walkthrough restoring a used Yaesu FT-8800 mobile transceiver with cleaning and basic maintenance, demonstrating that older ham radio gear can be brought back into reliable service.
User Review of the Comet SBB7 VHF/UHF Mobile Antenna, and Repeater Vandals Strike Freedom Link
Hands-on review of the Comet SBB7 dual-band mobile antenna, plus discussion of local repeater infrastructure vandalism and community support.
How to Stop RF in the Shack: Common Mode Chokes Explained
36-second technical tip on diagnosing and fixing common mode current interference in ham radio stations using common mode chokes.
Offline Ham Lookup Mobile App
One-minute demo of an offline amateur radio call-sign lookup app that works without internet connectivity.
The Kenwood TM-D750 Microphone Cable Clicking Problem
Troubleshooting audible clicking on Kenwood TM-D750 transmissions when using extended CAT6/CAT8 microphone cables, and proper shielding techniques.
Can This AliExpress Bag Replace My Gigaparts Bag
Side-by-side comparison of a budget AliExpress radio gear bag against a premium Gigaparts Explorer model to assess durability, functionality, and value for portable ham radio setups.
2026 Amateur Radio ShakeOut - Preparedness for Everyone
Hour-long nationwide training session on amateur radio emergency communications and household preparedness planning, presented by RATPAC with expert speakers and supporting documentation.
Building a Decentralized Truck Node
Walkthrough of setting up a mobile mesh radio node in a vehicle for off-grid, carrier-independent communications without towers or permission.
Emergency Communication Options for Preppers and New Ham Operators
Overview of ham radio communication equipment and options available to preppers and new operators, with local repeater resources for Melbourne, FL and Atlanta, TX areas.
Kenwood D750 Review
Balanced assessment of the Kenwood D750 mobile radio's strengths, limitations, and practical considerations for ham operators.
I Thought This Facebook Ham Radio Deal Was Going To Be A Scam
Real-world walkthrough of buying used ham radios on Facebook Marketplace: spotting scams, vetting sellers, testing gear, and what actually works in the field.
ARRL Lab-Tested Devices Comparison Tool: How to Use It for Radio Purchases
Tour of ARRL's interactive online tool for comparing lab-tested transceiver, receiver, and amplifier performance specs to inform ham radio equipment buying decisions.
Building a Full-Wave HF Loop Antenna: 283 Feet of Wire, Performance Results
Seventeen-minute walkthrough of constructing and testing a large HF loop antenna, covering wire layout, balun selection, tuning, and measured performance.
Atlanta TX Ham Expo 10/10/26, Meshcore Weather Alert Update, Coax Splicing Tips for New Hams
Introduction to coax splicing techniques for ham radio operators, plus local repeater information and announcement of the Freedom Link ham radio expo in Atlanta, Texas.
Find and Program Repeaters with RepeaterBook Connect
12-minute walkthrough: using RepeaterBook Connect software to wirelessly discover and program ICOM ham radio repeaters for emergency communications.
Mobile Ham Radio Install: Bulletpoint Dash Mount & Faceplate Setup
Step-by-step installation of a Bulletpoint dash mount for a mobile ham radio control head, covering drilling, hardware fastening, and reassembly.
Stop Wasting Repeaters! Use the REVERSE Button
How to use the reverse button on a handheld radio to check if you can communicate directly with another station, preserving repeater capacity for those who need it.
How a Blind Ham Radio Operator Saved Two Lives in Hurricane Katrina
True story of a ham radio operator who coordinated a Coast Guard rescue during Hurricane Katrina when conventional emergency systems failed, demonstrating ham radio's value in grid-down scenarios.
Mobile Ham Radio: Real-World Testing on the Road
Twenty-four minutes of practical ham radio operation during a road trip, demonstrating Allstar and HF radio setups for decentralized off-grid communications.
Antenna Super Cheap Easy DIY 2 Meter Antenna
Thirteen-minute walkthrough building a jungle antenna for 2-meter ham radio in under five minutes from basic materials.
A New Group and the Ham Radio Community | Community Discussions
Hour-long panel discussion with six ham radio operators on community, decentralized comms, mesh networks, and off-grid connectivity.
ICOM ID-5200 First Setup: Testing KISS TNC, D-STAR, APRS, WinLink
Fifty-nine-minute unboxing and initial configuration of the ICOM ID-5200 dual-band transceiver, covering D-STAR digital modes, APRS packet radio, and WinLink email over radio.
Power a 100-Watt Ham Radio Portable and Off-Grid
How to set up a portable 100-watt ham radio powered by solar panels, MPPT charge controller, and LiFePO4 battery for off-grid field operation.
How to Power a 100W Ham Radio with Portable Solar Panels
Step-by-step assembly of a 100W portable solar power system for field ham radio operations: solar panels, MPPT charge controllers, LiFePO4 battery, and Powerpole connectors, with full wiring demonstration.
CFT-1 5-Band CW Transceiver: Build Series Part 2
47-minute walkthrough completing the assembly of a CFT-1 ham radio transceiver, covering final construction steps and testing.
Building a GoHam Manpack Kit for the BTECH UV-50Pro
Step-by-step assembly of a portable amateur radio manpack using the BTECH UV-50Pro radio, battery, and support gear for off-grid field operations.
17-Foot Chopsticks: Budget 20-Meter Groundplane Antenna Array
Building and testing a DIY antenna array from coupled telescopic whips for portable 20-meter ham radio field deployment, with SWR measurements and practical performance results.
Tips for New Hams: Proper Microphone Use and Setup
Nineteen minutes on microphone technique for ham radio operators: distance, positioning, menu-based vs. knob radios, and common setup mistakes.
Elecrow Thinknode M9 Security Advisory: Malware Risk on TF Cards
Warning about a worm virus found on some Thinknode M9 SD cards that can infect Windows systems and spread to connected storage devices.
Ham2K Power Logger: Cross-Platform Rig Control and Field Logging
Walkthrough of Ham2K Power Logger, a free portable ham radio logging app with rig control, now available on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android—designed for field operations and emergency comms.
QMX+ Rugged Field Case by CQ Homestead Supply – Under 7 Minute Swap
Hands-on walkthrough of installing a USA-made heavy-duty field case for the QMX+ portable radio transceiver, with focus on field deployment speed.
HelioClock: Decentralized Weather and Space Data for Off-Grid Operations
Demo of HelioClock, a self-hosted weather and space-monitoring tool that pulls from public data sources with zero cloud dependency or subscriptions — designed for off-grid operations.
EmComm Jeep Kit: BTECH UV-PRO and UV-50 Mobile Communications
Thirteen minutes assembling and organizing a vehicle-based emergency communications system: radio selection, antennas, power, cabling, storage, and field-readiness considerations.
Ham Radio Doesn't Have to Be Expensive: Tips for New Hams and Preppers
Overview of ham radio as an emergency communications tool, with budget-friendly entry points and cost breakdowns for new operators interested in grid-down comms.
Tech Tip Tuesday: How to Access an FM Repeater
Three essential settings for connecting to an FM repeater: output frequency, input frequency, and PL tone (CTCSS) explained by an amateur radio operator.
9/11: He Stayed With the Transmitter. She Was 10 and Just Got Licensed.
Two ham radio operators' stories from September 11th: a broadcast engineer maintaining WTC communications and a newly-licensed ten-year-old running a Red Cross shelter's radio operations.
Disaster Communications: All About SATERN
Overview of the Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN): how amateur radio volunteers provide emergency communications when conventional systems fail during disasters.
Easy Portable Antenna Setup: Using a Pneumatic Line Launcher
Forty-nine seconds on deploying wire antennas into tall trees using a pneumatic line launcher for portable ham radio operations and field deployments.
Heil BM-17 Ham Radio Headset Review
Hands-on evaluation of the Heil BM-17 headset for ham radio use, testing audio quality and practical features.
Ham Radio Apps You Should Know About
Walkthrough of practical apps for amateur radio, mesh networking, and off-grid communications—what each does, how to set them up, and when to use them.
Day 2 of the Queen Wilhelmina Hamfest — History and Interview
Day-two coverage of a regional hamfest, including an interview with a ham radio operator on the event's history and community.
Solar Activity and Radio Propagation: Fall 2026 HF Forecast
Fourteen minutes on how solar activity affects radio propagation, with a forecast of HF band conditions for fall 2026.
Jungle Antenna: 2-Meter Quick and Easy Emergency Antenna
Build a functional 2-meter ham radio antenna from simple materials for field or emergency use.
Kenwood TM-D750 Triband Mobile Ham Radio: Features, Setup, and Menu Walk-Through
Thirteen-minute walkthrough of the Kenwood TM-D750 triband mobile transceiver, covering menus, external features, D-STAR, APRS, and Bluetooth TNC setup for off-grid ham radio operations.
Extend Your EMCOM Range: BTECH UV-PRO and BS50 Bluetooth Mic
Seven-minute walkthrough on using a Bluetooth microphone to remote-operate a handheld radio from elevated positions, improving emergency communications range and portability.
Tips for New Ham Operators: Who Owns Repeaters, Who Maintains Them, and Who Pays
Sixteen-minute primer on ham repeater infrastructure: ownership structures, maintenance responsibilities, funding models, and how community repeaters sustain emergency communications networks.
BTECH UV-50X2 Go Box with Solar Charge Controller and Switch Panel
DIY walkthrough of a portable ham radio go box: 12V LiFePO4 battery, 60W solar panel, charge controller, and USB outlet panel for field communications and charging essentials.
Radioddity VB70 70-Watt Mobile VHF Radio Tested
Fifteen-minute hands-on review of the Radioddity VB70, a 70-watt 2-meter VHF transceiver for mobile, off-grid, and ham radio use.
Faith, Fear, and Prepping: Lessons from Antarctica
Learn how extreme-environment preparation principles apply to home readiness, featuring insights from a communications expert heading to McMurdo Station.
CFT1 Full Ham Radio Build: Part 1
82-minute step-by-step soldering and assembly of the CFT1 ham radio kit, with tool recommendations and troubleshooting for beginners.
The Art of NVIS: Local and Regional Emergency Communication
Twelve minutes on Near Vertical Incidence Skywave propagation: how NVIS antennas work, why they're valuable for local/regional communication in emergencies, and on-air demonstration with practical gear.
POTA33B Telescopic Carbon Fiber Mast Review
Thirteen-minute hands-on review of a portable telescopic carbon-fiber mast: construction, durability, deployment, and field performance for Parks on the Air operations.
Power Delivery Adapters for Ham Radio: VFLEX Review
Five-minute walkthrough of VFLEX power adapters and battery/cable pairing for portable ham radio setups in emergency scenarios.
Microtelecom Perseus22 Four-Channel SDR Receiver Product Review
ARRL Lab Senior Engineer Rick Ciervo reviews the Microtelecom Perseus22 four-channel software-defined radio receiver for emergency communications and spectrum monitoring.
Nepal Floods: A Powerful Lesson in Emergency Communication
How communication redundancy—combining ham radio with mobile, satellite, and internet systems—keeps disaster response resilient when any single system fails.
When Communication Fails, Ham Radio Can Be a Lifeline
How amateur radio operators support emergency response during disasters: radio discipline, net coordination, message protocols, and reconnecting separated families when other systems fail.
Ham Radio: A Lifeline During Disasters—Lessons from Nepal Floods
Why amateur radio and communication redundancy matter when normal systems fail; case study from Nepal flood response and practical steps for operators to prepare.
When Mobile Networks Fail, Ham Radio Can Save Lives
How amateur radio operators establish communication during disasters when mobile networks and internet infrastructure are unavailable, using independent power and radio frequency propagation.
2023 RAV4 Mobile Ham Radio Antenna & Hood Lip Mount Install
Step-by-step installation of a Diamond K400 hood-lip mount and Comet CA-2X4SR antenna on a Toyota RAV4 for non-invasive mobile VHF/UHF ham radio coverage.
Antennas and Antenna Parts: Tips for New Ham Operators
Eighteen-minute walkthrough of ham radio antennas and components, aimed at operators new to the hobby.
How to Shop a Hamfest Flea Market: 5 Essential Tips
Five practical tips for finding quality ham radio gear and making smart purchasing decisions at hamfest flea markets.
Hams and Hurricane Season
ARRL Emergency Coordinator discusses ham radio's role in Atlantic hurricane season response and preparedness.
Ham Radio to the Rescue: Emergency Communications When Phones and Internet Fail
Real-world account of ham radio operators deployed during an emergency when conventional communication systems failed, plus the history of wireless technology from Maxwell through Marconi.
Kenwood TM-D750 First Setup Recommendations: Get Up and Running Fast
Initial setup and configuration walkthrough for the Kenwood TM-D750 dual-band transceiver, covering FM simplex, repeater, D-Star, and APRS operation.
Huntsville Hamfest Walk Through 2026
Tour a major amateur radio equipment marketplace to survey available gear, vendors, and current pricing for communications infrastructure.
Inside a Real Ham Radio Trailer: Mobile Rover Setup
Tour of a fully-equipped ham radio mobile rover station used for emergency communications during special events and grid-down scenarios.
RadioMsg on Android: Download, Setup, and Message Transmission
44-minute walkthrough installing and configuring RadioMsg on Android for ham-radio digital messaging, with hardware setup and transmission examples.
One Test Away From a Different Hobby
53-second encouragement to pursue ham radio licensing, with a link to a free exam-prep course.
Communications Training with 2 Alpha Solutions: Ham Radio, GMRS, MURS, UV5R
Hands-on radio communications training covering ham radio, GMRS, MURS, and UV5R walkie-talkies with a veteran instructor and local radio station.
My New Favorite POTA Gear: CaHR-Tenna Hydra
Seven-minute walkthrough of the Coffee and Ham Radios Hydra portable antenna mount: how it connects to transceivers, handles multiple antenna types, and integrates into field radio deployments.
Ham Radio: From Hilltop Repeaters to the International Space Station
Overview of ham radio infrastructure, repeater systems for extended range, emergency communication during large events, and amateur radio contact with the ISS.
When Mobile Networks Fail, Ham Radio Works!
Why ham radio remains a reliable emergency communication tool when cellular and internet infrastructure fails during disasters, with real-world examples from earthquake and flood response.
Telugu Ham Radio Innovators: DIY Transceiver and SDR Design
Profile of ham radio enthusiasts from Telugu-speaking regions who designed and built affordable transceivers and software-defined radios using locally sourced components, reducing costs from ₹2 lakh to ₹10,000.
Red River Amateur Testing Team and WMZX Testing: Build Your Ham Shack on a Budget
Introduction to ham radio testing teams and practical tips for assembling a budget-conscious home radio station without overextending financially.
Mat 125S Tuner With HRD 25' Telescopic Whip: Hands-On Test
Twelve minutes testing whether an automatic tuner can match a 25-foot telescopic whip antenna across multiple ham radio bands without manual adjustment.
JS8Call Message Storage and Retrieval Over Ham Radio
How to send and receive ham radio messages without direct radio contact or internet, using store-and-forward relay stations on HF bands.
Ham Radio: From Homemade Equipment to Worldwide Communication
Amateur radio operator VU2RDM demonstrates how to build functional ham radio equipment from low-cost local components, covering licensing, emergency communication procedures, and ham radio's role during disasters when grids fail.
Ham Radio: More Than a Hobby — Communication, Technology & Public Service
Overview of amateur radio for emergency communications: licensing, affordable equipment, real-world disaster response examples, and how to establish communication when conventional networks fail.
Ham Radio: The Lifeline When All Communication Fails
15-minute primer on amateur radio history, physics, equipment basics, antenna construction, and deployment during natural disasters and communication blackouts.
They Called This Hobby Worthless: A True Story
Historical narrative demonstrating how amateur radio operators expanded global communication networks, making the case for ham radio as a resilience tool.
Build a Vertical Off Center Fed Dipole Antenna
16-minute antenna build and testing: constructing and tuning an off-center fed dipole for portable ham radio operation.
Why Ham Radio Still Matters in the Age of 5G and AI
A seminar on amateur radio's role in emergency communication during disasters when mobile networks and infrastructure fail, featuring four decades of operational experience.
2 Meter Flower Pot Antenna by K5ACP Review
Nine-minute hands-on review of a portable 2-meter ham radio antenna, testing design and performance for field use.
Portable Antenna Homebrew Magic with Rich N4VS
Interview on homebrewing portable HF antennas for field radio operations and outdoor communications deployments.
Ham Radio Activation at Monte Sano: Live Demo and Beginner Gear Tour
Forty minutes of live ham radio activation in the field, with gear walk-through and practical tips for newcomers learning emergency communication skills.
What Happened to Ham Radio? It's Not What You Think
Analysis of FCC licensing data showing ham radio's shrinking traditional base and growing outdoor-activation community, with insights on licensing barriers and community trajectory.
Portable Ham Radio NVIS Winlink Session | N9SAB Linked EFHW
Field demonstration of portable HF ham radio using NVIS antenna for regional communications via Winlink gateway without grid infrastructure.
N9SAB 80M Linked EFHW Ham Radio Antenna | 40M NVIS Field Test
Field test of a lightweight multiband HF antenna for portable ham radio and emergency communications, with SWR measurements and one-watt Winlink performance data across 80–10 meters.
Ham Radio Basics: RST Reports, Morse Code & Emergency Communication
27-minute introduction to ham radio fundamentals: RST signal reporting, Q-codes, Morse code basics, and ham radio's role in disaster and grid-down communication.
Tips for New Hams: VHF/HF Communications and ARES/RACES Emergency Net Procedures
Twenty-minute walkthrough of amateur radio fundamentals for beginners, covering routine VHF/HF operations and emergency net protocols including ARRL radiogram and ICS 213 form procedures.
3 Game-Changing Ham Radio Tools Under $100
Three budget-friendly test and measurement tools for ham radio experimenters: antenna tuning, signal analysis, and circuit work without expensive lab gear.
Build a Link Dipole Ham Radio Antenna
18-minute walkthrough building and tuning a DX Engineering link dipole antenna kit for amateur radio, with soldering and assembly details.
₹1,000 Walkie-Talkie: Global Communication Through Repeater Networks
How Chinese manufacturing has made handheld transceivers affordable, and how repeater networks and internet-linked systems extend their effective range for emergency communications.
Basic Antenna and Radio Troubleshooting Tips for New Ham Operators
Troubleshooting walkthrough for antennas and radios: diagnosis steps and fixes for new ham radio operators preparing for emergency communications.
Portable Satellite Tracker Build: Radio Station Setup
24-minute walkthrough assembling a portable satellite tracking radio station: radio, rotor, controller, antenna, and coax selection and integration.
LiNK500MP MK2 Wireless GPS for Ham Radio: When Is It Coming?
Technical breakdown of wireless GPS integration challenges in the Lab599 TX-500MP radio interface, and the proposed Bluetooth solution for off-grid field communications.
Shreveport Bossier Hamfest Walkthrough
31-minute walkthrough of a regional hamfest: portable ham radio gear, antennas, power systems, and hands-on operating demonstrations at a live event.
3-Element Beam Antenna on an Electric Tricycle
Building and field-testing a directional three-element parasitic antenna array mounted on a mobile platform to explore practical portable radio.
Choosing Your First Ham Radio HT (Handheld) | Best HT Radio Advice for New Ham Operators
15-minute guide to selecting your first handheld ham radio: comparing analog vs. digital, battery life, repeater compatibility, programming, and common beginner mistakes.
Alpha Antenna Delta Loop: Fast Portable Ham Radio Antenna
Thirteen-minute walkthrough of the Alpha Antenna Delta Loop portable HF antenna for emergency ham radio communication and field deployment.
I Finally Ran 12V Into My Explorer the Right(ish) Way!
Step-by-step install of a 12V DC charger and proper battery wiring in a vehicle to power portable ham radio and external battery systems.
The Mission Defines the Ham Radio Tools We Use
How to design emergency communications gear and field stations around mission requirements, PACE redundancy planning, and off-grid deployment capabilities.
Ham Radio General Grade Exam Journey: Two Months of Training and Morse Code Mastery
45-minute documentation of a two-month ham radio General Grade licensing program, covering Morse Code training, exam preparation, and group study structure for emergency communications.
Let's Hit The ISS With APRS!!
Live walkthrough of APRS beacon transmission through the International Space Station using handheld radio gear, frequencies, and portable setup.
Testing the N9SAB Linked EFHW Ham Radio Antenna
Hands-on test of the N9SAB Linked EFHW antenna, evaluating performance and setup for off-grid ham radio communications.
Setting Up Your Ham Radio Estate for When You Become a Silent Key
Fourteen minutes on planning and documenting your ham radio equipment, frequencies, and contacts so family or successors can maintain your communications capability if you become unavailable.
Portable Ham Radio Setup: On the Air in Under 60 Seconds
Sixteen minutes on a lightweight, bike-friendly ham radio rig designed for rapid deployment in the field, with practical tips for quick activation.
Making His First Ham Radio Contact at W1AW
A new ham radio operator makes his first QSO from ARRL headquarters, demonstrating the entry point into amateur radio for emergency communications.
Unlocking More Capabilities From Your Ham Radio Handheld
Practical walkthrough of advanced ham radio features (Winlink, SSTV, APRS, Packet BBS) achievable with entry-level handhelds like the Baofeng for emergency and grid-down communication.
Heil BM-17 Headset Review for Parks on the Air
15-minute hands-on review of the Heil BM-17 ham radio headset, including unboxing, field setup, and on-air audio quality testing.
VHF/UHF FM Antenna Polarization and Online VE Testing
Technical overview of VHF/UHF antenna polarization principles and how to prepare for and take amateur radio licensing exams online.
Why You Need An N6ARA TinyFilter
27-minute technical review of the N6ARA TinyFilter, an RF suppression device for two-meter ham radio bands that reduces desense and spurious emissions in signal-saturated environments.
What Should I Bring to Defcon 2026?
Discussion of portable ham radio gear recommendations and emergency communication equipment selection for field deployment and off-grid scenarios.
Power Line RFI and Shack RFI Issues
Eleven minutes on identifying and solving radio frequency interference from power lines and household equipment—critical for reliable ham radio operation in emergency scenarios.
Baby Steps: My CW Copy Improvement in Six Days with Vail CW School
Seven minutes on accelerating Morse code proficiency using structured online training, with tracking metrics from 10 to 26 words per minute.
Ham Radio Village at DEFCON 2026: Equipment and Field Day Gear
Tour of ham radio equipment and portable communication setups from participants at DEFCON 2026's Ham Radio Village, featuring field-tested gear for emergency scenarios.
Xiegu G7250: New 100-Watt Base Station Ham Radio from China
Overview of Xiegu's new G7250 base station radio and discussion of beginner-friendly ham radio equipment for emergency communications.
A Better Way to Download Android JS8Call
Step-by-step setup for installing and updating the JS8Call Android port via GitHub, for off-grid text messaging.
Ham Radio Protection and Organization: Gear Setup for Portable Operation
Eight-minute walkthrough of padded organizer bags and portable ham radio gear setup, including handhelds, cables, and accessories for field deployment.
Think Hamfests Are Dead Think Again
Tour a regional ham radio hamfest to discover used equipment deals, vendor networks, and how these gatherings sustain amateur radio communities.
Ham Nation #627: The Repeater Has an AI Assistant?
Episode covering ham radio repeater technology, an AI-assisted repeater concept, ionospheric propagation, amateur radio news, and gear evaluations.
Best Ham Radio Power Supplies & RG-8X Coax Explained
How to select the right power supply for HF radios, plus coax cable selection and installation tips from 30+ years of operating experience.
Mobility as a HAM Radio Emergency Communications Enabler
How vehicle mobility and positioning enhance ham radio effectiveness during emergencies and grid-down scenarios, with practical equipment context.
Activating a POTA Park With a Simple Kit and QRP Radios
24-minute walkthrough of a portable ham radio kit for Parks on the Air activation: transceiver, antenna, mast setup, and practical field deployment.
Young People Have a Huge Advantage in Ham Radio | Air Force MARS, FT8 & Modern Radios
Why younger operators may have an edge learning amateur radio today, plus practical setup tips for FT8 digital modes and modern menu-driven equipment.
Which Ham Radio HT is Right For You?
Fifty-one-second overview of handheld transceiver options, from budget starter rigs to feature-rich digital models, for emergency communications.
QRP Portable JS8Call on Android
Testing JS8Call data communications on Android for portable, energy-efficient emergency radio deployment without laptops.
Ham Radio Communication: Distress, Urgency & Safety Signals Explained
Seven-minute walkthrough of five critical radio signals—MAYDAY, SOS, PAN PAN, SECURITE, VVV—and when to use each in emergency and disaster communication.
Ask Dave, August 2026: More About AM
Technical walkthrough of AM carrier signals using oscilloscope and spectrum analyzer, for radio operators building emergency comms skills.
Antenna Adapters Every Radio Operator Should Own
Eight-minute walkthrough of RF connectors (SMA, BNC, PL-259, SO-239) with practical guidance on building a field-ready adapter kit to solve antenna-to-radio mismatches.
Why Ham Radio Never Fails During Disasters
Overview of ham radio as an independent emergency communication system: how it functions when cell towers and internet fail, propagation mechanics during severe weather, and licensing/educational value.
What Is The Deal With All These AI Ham Radio Applications?
Overview of AI-generated ham radio applications: what they are, how they work, and their practical utility for emergency communicators.
Field Day 2026: Hustler Vertical Antenna Performance in a Portable Setup
14-minute walkthrough of portable amateur radio station setup for Field Day, covering antenna placement, equipment choices, and power management for outdoor operation.
Portable Ham Radio FT8 Adventure in KP34XT Finland
Three-minute field demonstration of portable QRP ham radio setup (Icom IC-705, Chameleon antenna) operating FT8 digital mode in remote Finnish backcountry.
Ham Radio Field Day on Solar Power
Solar-powered ham radio field deployment techniques and equipment for off-grid communications and emergency preparedness.
Live QRP Field Day at 8283 Feet With The W6TRW Radio Club
Live portable ham radio demonstration at high elevation: QRP techniques, field-deployable gear, antenna setup, and power management for emergency communications.
Why Amateur Radio Matters When Cell Service Fails
Discussion of ham radio's role in emergency communications when cellular infrastructure goes down, with political backing for amateur radio operators.
I've been using this $30 for years: Honest review
Six-minute long-term durability review of the Baofeng UV-82X handheld dual-band radio, covering real-world performance, 220 MHz reception, battery life, and practical tips for budget-conscious preppers.
Ham Radio Everywhere: 3D Printed Base Loaded Vertical Antenna & QRP Labs QMX
17-minute walkthrough of a portable ham radio station setup using 3D-printed antenna and compact QRP transceiver, with honest assessment of performance trade-offs.
Introduction to Digital Modes
ARRL technical editor explains digital modes in amateur radio: what they are, why preppers should learn them, and how to get started.
How & Why to Log Ham Radio Contacts | QRZ Logbook vs Logbook of The World Explained
Twenty-minute walkthrough of ham radio contact logging: why operators keep records, QRZ Logbook and ARRL LoTW systems compared, and practical workflow for tracking your QSOs.
Tidradio TD-H9 Ham Radio Review
Side-by-side comparison of the Tidradio TD-H9 and Baofeng UV-5R handheld ham radios, covering features and power output.
Ham Radio Antenna Citation: Regulations, Legal Resources, and Solutions
How one ham operator resolved a municipal citation on radio antennas, with guidance on ARRL legal resources and regulatory compliance for home station setup.
Why This Radio Is Illegal: Signal Purity and FCC Compliance
Fifty-four seconds on unwanted radio signals (spurs), FCC enforcement risk, and how a diplexer cleans up transmission—essential for legal off-grid communications.
I Built A Solar Powered Emergency Wi-Fi DMR Hotspot That Runs Indefinitely
Live demonstration of a grid-independent DMR radio hotspot powered by car battery and Starlink, showing how digital modes survive when infrastructure fails.
ARRL Radio Review Database and Portable Radio Gear Guide
Walk through the new ARRL radio comparison database, review key metrics for emergency radios, and explore portable ham gear options for grid-down communication.
Portable Antenna Forum: Live from Dayton Hamvention 2026
Live presentation on designing and deploying portable antennas for parks, summits, and remote locations; practical field radio techniques for POTA and SOTA operations.
Morse Code Decoder Review: MorseNexus DitStorm Cypher
29-minute review of the MorseNexus Cypher, a Morse code decoder accessory for ham radio operators, including setup, software updates, and practical use cases.
QST: Ask Dave, July 2026, Band Plan Overview
22-minute walkthrough of amateur radio band allocations: what frequencies are available, which radio modes operate where, and how to navigate the official ARRL band chart.
Simulated Disaster Emergency Radio Communications
Hour-long hands-on walkthrough of multiple methods to transmit and receive radio signals during a simulated disaster, with gear recommendations and real-world testing.
My First Parks on the Air Activation (POTA), Part 2
First-hand account of a portable ham radio activation using a go box: equipment setup, antenna deployment, and making 15 contacts on 20 meters with 20 watts.
Pikes Peak SOTA Activation: Amateur Radio at 14,115 Feet
27-minute field demonstration of portable ham radio equipment and techniques during a high-altitude mountain activation, covering antenna setup, radio operation, and practical comms skills.
Portable Ham Radio Setup: QRP Station with Off-Center Fed Dipole
Forty-four-second walkthrough of a portable ham radio station: QRP radio, carbon-fiber mast, and multi-band dipole antenna deployable in five minutes.
Inside the New ARRL QST Product Review Comparison Database
Walkthrough of the ARRL's new searchable database of lab-tested ham radio transceivers, receivers, and amplifiers—how to filter by performance metrics and find gear for your station.
The Coolest Ham Radio Project You Haven't Heard About
Tour of Graywolf, an all-in-one APRS station with web UI that simplifies setup of beacons, digipeaters, and iGates.
WSPR Watch & HamAlert: Two Free iPhone Apps for Ham Radio Operators
Eight-minute walkthrough of two free iPhone apps for amateur radio operators: WSPR Watch for real-time spot visualization and HamAlert for DX alerts via push notifications, with setup tips and real-world demos.
The Magic and Importance of HAM Radio
Two-minute overview of HAM radio capabilities and why communications infrastructure matters for household emergency preparedness.
Ham Radio Tech: New Presentation & Cool Technology
46-second overview of emerging ham radio technology and amateur radio gear shared with local clubs.
How to Use AI Narrow Intelligence in Improving Your Ham Radio Knowledge & Skills
Using ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity to accelerate ham radio learning: when AI supplements (not replaces) traditional Elmer mentorship for operators building emergency comms skills.
CW Morse Code Activation on Modified Budget Handhelds
Three operators activate a remote summit using modified $20 Quansheng handhelds for CW Morse code transmission—hands-on demo of portable radio setup and field comms.
My Yaesu FT-891 Go Box
Building a portable ham radio station with a Yaesu FT-891 transceiver and FC-50 tuner for off-grid communications capability.
7 Fldigi Settings For Advanced Users
Twenty-five minute walkthrough of seven advanced Fldigi settings for ham radio digital mode operation, with links to foundational setup and troubleshooting guides.
Spooltenna EFHW Antenna Review and Performance Test
Twenty-five-minute hands-on review of an end-fed half-wave antenna: setup, tuning, performance testing, and practical assessment for emergency communications.
Mapping Winlink - WaveTalkers LIVE 125
Live training on Winlink packet radio system: setup, mapping, and field deployment for grid-down emergency communications.
Best GMRS & Ham Radios - My Top 3 Ham Radio GMRS Radio List For 2024
Reviews three affordable handheld radios for emergency communications, comparing features and capabilities of GMRS and ham options.
GMRS & HAM Radio CTCSS Tones Can Be Dangerous! Why You Should Not Use Tones Or Privacy Codes
Learn why enabling privacy tones on your radio can block critical emergency transmissions and potentially endanger lives.
Ham Radio Crash Course Podcast - I Talk With Josh About Everything
Wide-ranging discussion with Josh from Ham Radio Crash Course covering FCC enforcement, licensing, and the current state of amateur radio.
Replacing IC-7300 Failing Encoder Knob
Step-by-step repair of a worn encoder knob on the Icom IC-7300 transceiver—practical maintenance for long-term radio reliability.
My Daughter's First 2 Meter Ham Radio Experience
Step-by-step walkthrough of a first ham radio contact using a Kenwood handheld and repeater, with antenna and equipment details.
K6ARK Adam's Ever-Smaller Inventions
Interview with a search-and-rescue veteran and electronics engineer on designing pocket-sized transceivers, portable antennas, and failing forward in radio equipment projects.
Dishing out Pi with KM4ACK Jason
53-minute interview with ham radio operator Jason KM4ACK on building Raspberry Pi-based field stations for portable digital modes, emergency communications, and Parks on the Air operations.
Solar Flares, Carrington Events, and EMPs: How Solar Storms Affect Ham Radio
Twelve minutes on solar flare risks, Carrington Event history, EMP mechanics, and protective precautions for ham radio operators and household communications resilience.
How to Connect Your Mobile Ham Radio to Power — Various Options
Eight-minute walkthrough of power-supply options for mobile ham radio installations, with practical setup examples for truck-mounted equipment.
Variable EFHW Antenna - X-Tenna's 3-in-1 EFHW Setup, Test & Review
Thirteen-minute review and field test of a switchable end-fed half-wave antenna for ham radio emergency communications, with live tuning demonstrations.
DX Commander Signature 9 Build
36-minute walkthrough building and installing the DX Commander Signature 9 vertical antenna, including ground radials and mounting techniques for off-grid ham radio operation.
Top Prepper HF Ham Radio Antenna
34-minute walkthrough of HF antenna options for amateur radio operators, comparing types and deployment for off-grid communication resilience.
Changing Your Ham Radio Call Sign Using the FCC Vanity Call Sign Process
Step-by-step walkthrough of the FCC vanity call sign application process for amateur radio operators seeking a personalized call sign.
Chameleon Antenna CHA LRT (Loop Remote Tuner)
3:45 gear walkthrough of the Chameleon CHA LRT remote-tunable loop antenna system for portable ham radio communications.
Common Myths of Ham Radio for Prepping
25-minute breakdown of misconceptions about ham radio equipment, licensing, and capability in grid-down and off-grid household communication scenarios.
Making Your First Ham Radio Call
Step-by-step walkthrough of making your first ham radio transmission: equipment setup, frequency selection, call protocol, and common beginner mistakes.
Amateur Radio Emergency Communications for Public Service
21-minute overview of amateur radio skills and equipment for grid-down emergency communications, drawn from 30 years of ARES volunteer disaster-response experience.
Chameleon Antenna F-Loop V3.0 and RV Operations
Four-minute review of the Chameleon Antenna F-Loop V3.0 portable antenna system and its use in RV-based ham radio operations.
West Chester UHF/VHF Radio Installation Walkthrough
Step-by-step installation of UHF/VHF ham radio equipment for emergency communications and disaster response scenarios.
Ham Radio Field Day with NFARL
Tour of North Fulton Amateur Radio League's Field Day 2022 setup: antennas, operating modes, live contacts, and a connection to the International Space Station.
Long Wire Antenna Raise
Seven-minute walkthrough of raising and installing a long wire antenna for emergency ham radio communications after storm damage.
End Fed Wire Antennas: Design, Installation, and Field Stories
65-minute technical presentation and peer discussion on end-fed wire antenna design, performance, and residential/remote installations for ham radio emergency communications.
New Radio from Stone Mountain Hamfest
A 9-minute walkthrough of what's available at a hamfest and what equipment the creator selected for their station.
Ham Radio Challenges in Search and Rescue Operations
How amateur radio operators in remote British Columbia coordinated communications during a mountain search-and-rescue operation, overcoming terrain and distance obstacles.
VHF Propagation: Point-to-Point Analysis Tool for Ham Radio Communication
Eleven-minute walkthrough of the RF Line-of-Sight tool: how to use Google Maps and topography data to plan and troubleshoot long-distance radio paths for emergency communications.
Radio for Preppers: A Crash Course
67-minute breakdown of radio options for preppers: AM/FM, weather, shortwave, scanners, CB, FRS/GMRS/MURS, amateur radio, and SDR, with emphasis on safety and practical recommendations.
How to Setup Yaesu FT 2980R and Diamond x30
Four-minute walkthrough setting up a Yaesu FT 2980R radio and Diamond x30 antenna, with signal-quality comparison to previous equipment.