DIY Antennas, QRP, SDR & Ham Radio Projects from VU3DXR
Meshtastic is an open-source LoRa mesh networking platform that lets ham radio operators build off-grid text messaging and GPS tracking networks with no infrastructure. Whether you are an experimenter, an emergency communications volunteer, or simply curious about where digital modes are heading, this guide covers everything you need to know to get started with Meshtastic ham radio.
FT2 promises to clear a pile-up in the time FT8 takes to finish a single exchange. But speed always costs something — here is what the global ham community has actually discovered after months of real-world use.
The UA4HAZ 20-meter antenna is a clever modification of the classic half-wave dipole, designed specifically for radio amateurs struggling with limited horizontal space. By utilizing a “folded” or inverted-U geometry, this antenna maintains a resonant length for the 14 MHz band while significantly reducing its physical footprint. This guide covers the theory, construction, and proper coaxial feed techniques required to get this efficient radiator on the air.
Height is often the biggest hurdle for Hams, but what if you could trade verticality for horizontal real estate? This detailed guide explores the 21.3m-per-side hexagonal loop—a low-profile powerhouse that offers multi-band performance with minimal visual impact.
Software Defined Radios have made high-performance spectrum analysis accessible to anyone with a laptop and $30 to spare. This guide covers every worthwhile SDR from cheap RTL dongles to dedicated HF receivers — with software picks, antenna advice, and practical projects to get you on the air fast.
Radio Waves Weekly — Issue #011 focuses on hands‑on amateur radio. Inside you will find a BBC call‑out for historic shortwave recordings, simple HF preselectors, DSP and CW audio filter projects, and several practical multiband antenna ideas from active operators and bloggers.
Tired of antenna tuners? The T2FD antenna offers incredible wideband performance from 3-30 MHz. This guide breaks down the essential components—from non-inductive resistors to spreader geometry—to help you build a reliable, low-noise “all-bander.”
Tropospheric ducting is the ultimate “power-up” for VHF/UHF operators, turning line-of-sight signals into long-haul DX. By understanding how temperature inversions and high-pressure systems create atmospheric waveguides, hams can communicate over hundreds of miles with clarity and ease
Unlock elite DX performance with the Switchable Delta Loop. This detailed guide covers everything from the 141-foot 40m foundation to the ingenious 18-inch tuning tails that enable seamless 30m operation. Perfect for hams seeking a low-angle radiator with a manageable footprint
The Doublet Dipole remains a favorite for hams seeking multiband efficiency without complex hardware. By utilizing balanced feed lines and a 4:1 balun, this antenna design overcomes the limitations of traditional coax-fed dipoles. Our guide breaks down the essential formulas and provides a detailed dimension table for the 80m, 40m, 20m, and 15m amateur radio bands for your next project.