Understanding the distinction between Baluns, Ununs, and Common-Mode Chokes is a rite of passage in RF engineering and homebrewing. These devices all manipulate RF currents and impedance, but
In an amateur radio antenna system, a counterpoise acts as an artificial radio-frequency (RF) ground. It is essentially the “other half” of an unbalanced antenna, designed to complete
“Short skip” refers to ionospheric propagation where radio signals refract back to Earth at distances much shorter than the typical “skip distance” for a given frequency. It effectively
Exploring the microwave and millimeter-wave (mmWave) bands is often considered the final frontier of amateur radio. Unlike the HF bands where ionospheric skip dictates the day, the spectrum
When deploying emergency communications (EMCOMM) under austere field conditions, the priority shifts from chasing low-angle DX to establishing rock-solid, predictable local and regional circuits. An emergency antenna system
Power supply design and filtering often dictate the ultimate performance of an electronic circuit. In RF and sensitive audio applications, the power supply is practically part of the
The surge in Parks on the Air (POTA), Summits on the Air (SOTA), and casual field operating has sparked a golden age for portable antennas. When you are
Yes, six-meter (50 MHz) amateur radio activity peaks dramatically during the summer solstice. This is driven by an atmospheric phenomenon known as Sporadic-E (Es) propagation, which allows operators
Even with the proliferation of satellite internet and advanced cellular networks, amateur radio remains incredibly relevant in disaster preparedness and response today. In fact, its role has evolved
