High frequency (HF) radio propagation is changing for the better as we enter Solar Cycle 25. Antennas are available for most HF bands (for example, triband Yagi antennas that cover 20, 15, and 10 meters, are widely available), but some don’t include the 12 and 17 meter bands. This article presents the construction details of a dual-band Yagi antenna for 12 and 17 meters. This antenna uses a direct feed, so no additional impedance matching devices are required. Read QST
January/February On the Air
The Top 10 Reasons to Try Morse Code
Learning Morse code is a challenge with some big payoffs, including efficiency that leads to completed contacts in situations where other modes fail, pride in the accomplishment of learning a new skill, and the thrill of being able to communicate in a “secret language” that not many people know. If you need more enticement to join the ranks of hams who “know the code,” read The Top 10 Reasons to Try Morse Code. Read On the Air
January/February QEX
Automation Options for the CTR2 HMI
Lynn H. Hansen, KU7Q
This article walks you through the creation of three switching options for the CTR2 HMI station control system that was presented in the September/October 2021 issue. The switching options can be added individually at any time, and in any order, allowing you to build a control system that will suit your needs today, as well as into the future. Read QEX
January/February NCJ
Operating: The 2021 ARRL DX SSB at ZW5B
Manu Siebert, LU9ESD
A recap of Manu’s first-ever SOAB (Single-Operator, All-Band) and SO2R (Single-Operator, Two Radios) contest operation — in this case, at Araucária DX Group’s station, ZW5B, in Brazil. From the pre-contest prep work (lots of listening practice!) to the agonies and ecstasies of the contest itself, Manu describes the whole heart-thumping experience. Read NCJ
Podcasts
Eclectic Tech – Episode 51
This episode of the Eclectic Tech podcast, which premieres on Thursday, January 13, is a chat with H. P. Friedrichs, AC7ZL, about his new book, Marvelous Magnetic Machines, and the pleasures of “extreme homebrewing.” Listen now
On the Air – Episode 25
This episode of the On the Air podcast premieres on Thursday, January 13, and features a conversation with Michael Fluegemann, KE8AQW, about how to get started in CW. Listen now
Upgrade in the New Year
There’s no better time to take the next step and upgrade your license. ARRL’s best-selling license manuals have an expert approach to studying that breaks down difficult concepts. Use them alongside ARRL’s Exam Review for Ham Radio, so there are no surprises on exam day! Upgrade Today
ARRL Learning Center
ARRL recently launched the ARRL Learning Center, an online Learning Management System providing members with access to robust training and skill development. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ham looking to discover new technologies, the ARRL Learning Center offers access to expert training anytime, anywhere. Log on at learn.arrl.org to check out this new member benefit.
Membership
We are pleased to announce a special membership offer that will run throughout 2022. Join or Renew for 3 years and get a free limited-edition Gil cartoon coffee mug with code GIL2. This offer applies to 3-year full memberships only. Drink up more years of membership today!
Reminder: ARRL Member Services has extended our phone support hours to 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM. EST, Monday through Thursday, to serve our customers better.
reDiscover Radio at the National Convention
Register for the 2022 ARRL National Convention program at the DoubleTree Hilton SeaWorld in Orlando on Thursday, February 10, 2022. Registration includes your choice of Training Track — Contest University, Emergency Communications Academy, Hands-On Handbook, or Technology Academy — plus luncheon with keynote speaker ARRL CEO David Minster, NA2AA. The celebration continues at HamCation® on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, February 11 – 13 at Central Florida Fairgrounds and Expo Park. Tickets are sold separately and are available now.
Join Diamond Club in 2022
The Diamond Club is ARRL’s annual giving program exclusively for members, providing endless possibilities to make a difference. The Diamond Club is a unique way for members to contribute, joining others in providing charitable gifts that fund ARRL programs and resources that benefit the entire membership. Learn more at arrl.org/the-arrl-diamond-club.
Conventions & On-Air Events
January VHF Contest | January 15-17, 2022
Winter Fest, hosting the ARRL Midwest Division Convention
Collinsville, Illinois | January 22, 2022
Capital City Hamfest 2022, hosting the ARRL Delta Division Convention
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