I keep seeing people having trouble with this setup. Every time I go to RTTY Mode, something is not working. It seems that some of the parameters in MMTTY and in the Radio keep resetting themselves. There are some other posts on this blog that may help, but here are a few reminders. Mode -... Continue Reading →
Using N1MM+ Serial (OTRSP) Data for Two-radio Antenna Switching
I have been investigating ways to automatically switch antennas in a 2-Radio (SO2R) station for use in Contesting. Using multiple antennas is nearly a must for HF contesting, including Yagis, Veticals, and any of a variety of wire antennas. When working a Contest, Band Switching is a key time-waster, and steps need to be taken... Continue Reading →
Trying an HF Horizontal Loop Antenna
I was looking for a new antenna to try this weekend. I will be in the NAQP CW Contest and there will be many stations active across the US, Canada, and hopefully some DX. I have been thinking about a Loop antenna for some time. My main use for it initially will be as an... Continue Reading →
R.I.P DX Doubler (Updated 8 Aug 2018)
I recently heard that the DX Doubler (DXD) SO2R Controller by TopTen Devices, has been discontinued. Looking at their Web Site, it has completely vanished, along with the Radio-specific cables, User Manuals, etc. This controller was a great addition to my shack a few years ago. It is a very simple design, with no Microprocessors... Continue Reading →
DXDUSB Next Version with Custom PC Board – UPDATED
After using some DXDUSB prototypes with DX Doubler SO2R boxes for several months, I finally got around to completing the PC Board layout for the next version. This one will add some power conditioning and choice of operation from +5 or +12 VDC. It also should be able to survive use in a Mobile environment... Continue Reading →
DXDUSB – DX Doubler USB Interface Update
DXDUSB Development Status I have had some requests to provide DXDUSB prototypes to couple people. The latest prototype (Protot3) is still very rough. I have a couple in ongoing testing and they seem to be working well. However, these are very rough - assembly is hand soldered wires attached to the Arduino board. While I... Continue Reading →
VA QSO Party 2016 – Two for the Road
I went mobile again for the 2016 Virginia QSO Party, using the callsign KT4KA. I use that callsign so as not to confuse everyone when calling CQ (with my normal "3"call). The goal this year was to beat last year, and hopefully win the Mobile all-Band category. No matter what happens, this is always enjoyable.... Continue Reading →
It Really is all About Antennas
As I try to continually improve my Station, I keep coming back to the antennas. I have a couple very nice Radios, but I am still not very competitive in Contests, especially DX contests. I have always used mainly wire antennas and generally if I can hear them, I can work them. Now I know... Continue Reading →
USB For DX Doubler First Prototype
I recently completed testing of the first prototype of the USB interface for DX Doubler using N1MM+ software. This was a rough prototype, so it isn't pretty but it does seem to work fine. It currently handles RX and TX Focus, and STEREO for listening to both radios at once. There is an FTDI chip-based... Continue Reading →
VA QSO Party 2015 – Plaque Sponsorship
I have the opportunity this year, for the first time, to sponsor an award plaque for the 2015 VA QSO Party. The plaque I will be sponsoring is for the Single Operator Station that works the most VA Counties and Cities. This award is available to any station. I am especially happy to sponsor this... Continue Reading →