Master Ham Radio Guides & Tutorials

This page brings together in‑depth Ham Radio guides, tutorials, and how‑to articles from DXR Electronics Bits—covering SDR, DRM, propagation, digital modes, receivers, and practical operating techniques, without any news or project‑build posts.

SDR, DRM & Reception Tutorials

Receive DRM with HDSDR and DREAM Decoder Using RTL‑SDR
Build a complete DRM receive chain with an RTL‑SDR dongle, HDSDR, and DREAM, learning both the theory and the exact software signal path.

Getting Started with AIS: Track Ships from Your Shack with a RTL‑SDR
Step‑by‑step guide to AIS, required hardware, free software, antenna options, and how to share your decoded ship data with global networks.

Practical Guide to Receiving HF Weather Fax (WEFAX / Radiofax)
Learn how to receive synoptic charts and satellite images over HF, including recommended frequencies, schedules, receivers, and decoders.

Complete Guide to Flight Tracking with RTL‑SDR: Multi‑Feeding Setup
Configure an ADS‑B station and feed multiple flight‑tracking sites from a single RTL‑SDR setup for maximum coverage and redundancy.

How to Receive Stunning Weather Images from Meteor‑M2 Satellites
Covers antenna options, pass prediction, SDR configuration, and decoding workflow to get high‑quality LRPT images from Meteor‑M2.


Propagation & Operating Guides

Sporadic E Propagation: The Science Behind Long‑Distance FM Radio Reception
Explains Es science, seasons, typical distances, and monitoring tools, plus practical tips for serious FM DXers.

Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS): The Definitive Guide to Reliable Regional HF Radio
In‑depth NVIS tutorial with theory, antenna concepts, and operating strategies for robust 0–600 km HF coverage.


Digital Modes: How‑To & Deep Dives

FT2: The Fastest Digital Mode in Amateur Radio
Technical introduction to FT2’s signal structure and over‑the‑air behavior, aimed at operators who want to experiment with the mode.

FT2 Digital Mode: Latest News, Software Updates, and Ham Radio Adoption
Long‑form background and practical guidance on software, early usage patterns, and what FT2 means for HF digital operation.

FT2 Digital Mode: Speed King With Serious Growing Pains
Analytical article on FT2’s technical trade‑offs, implementation issues, and global operator feedback from real‑world use.

The FT2 Schism: When a New Digital Mode Split in Two
Explains how FT2 diverged into incompatible implementations, why it happened, and the implications for everyday HF users.

The Complete Guide to HF SSTV: From History to Your First Transmission
Full HF SSTV tutorial, from history and mode families to complete station setup and making your first picture QSO.

Beginner’s Guide to HF SSTV Setup with SSB Transceivers
Hands‑on setup guide for running SSTV on uBITX and similar SSB radios, including audio interfacing and software configuration.

Reverse Beacon Network: The Ultimate Guide for Ham Radio Operators
Shows how to use RBN for antenna testing, propagation analysis, contesting, and everyday signal‑report checking.

Getting Started with FreeDV: A Beginner’s Guide to Digital Voice on Amateur Radio
Step‑by‑step FreeDV installation, cabling, and configuration, plus operating tips for low‑SNR HF digital voice.

Integrating JTDX with sBITX for Advanced FT8 Operation
Shows how to connect JTDX to sBITX with proper CAT and audio settings for smooth FT8 operation.


Radios, SDR Platforms & Firmware

Evolution of the ATS Mini: A Technical Deep Dive into V1 through V4
Technical walkthrough of ATS‑Mini hardware and firmware changes and what they mean for real‑world listening.

Mini‑Radio Firmware V3 Adds RTTY/CW Decoding and EiBi Integration
Explains new V3 firmware features and how to use them for standalone shortwave DXing.

LinHT SDR: Open‑Source Linux‑Based Handheld Software Defined Radio for Amateur Enthusiasts
Overview of the LinHT handheld SDR architecture, capabilities, and practical use‑cases.

ZBitx: The Pocket SDR That’s Redefining Portable QRP
Describes ZBITX features, built‑in digital modes, and portable operating workflow.

LILYGO T‑Embed ESP32 SI4732 Radio: In‑Depth Technical Analysis & User Review
Technical and usability review of the T‑Embed SI4732 platform for HF and FM listening.

Build Your Own High‑Res FM Receiver: The DIY CYD 480×320 FM Radio Project
Guide to assembling and programming an ESP32‑S3/SI4732 touchscreen FM receiver with scanning and presets.

Building the LARCSet v3.0: Real‑World Problems and Proven Fixes from the BITX20 Community
Troubleshooting‑oriented guide collecting typical LARCSet V3.0 issues and practical solutions.


Test & Station Utilities

NanoVNA Test Jig: A Practical Guide for Accurate RF Measurements
Shows how to build and use a NanoVNA test jig to characterize RF components and small circuits accurately.

9:1 UN‑UN Long Wire Transformer for HF Antennas
Design‑oriented article explaining how a 9:1 UN‑UN works and how to use it with long‑wire and random‑wire antennas.


Handhelds & Portables

Baofeng UV‑5R Mini: Compact Dual‑Band Powerhouse
Explains what the UV‑5R Mini does well, where it struggles, and how it fits into a practical handheld lineup.