Knowledge is Power
For Your Information
Why Your SWR Meter Might Be Lying to You
Whether you're new to amateur radio or have years of experience under your belt, the SWR meter is likely one of the first tools you learned to use. It's a trusted piece of gear—used to measure the Standing Wave Ratio and determine how well your antenna is matched to...
3D Printing Ham Gear: Useful Prints for Your Shack
The amateur radio community has always embraced a DIY spirit, and now, with affordable 3D printers more accessible than ever, hams are finding new ways to build and customize their shacks. Whether you're printing antenna mounts or cases for your gear, 3D printing ham...
Building Your Own Dummy Load on a Budget
Whether you're a seasoned amateur radio operator or just getting your first rig up and running, a reliable dummy load is a must-have. It's essential for testing and tuning your equipment without broadcasting on the air. But store-bought dummy loads can be pricey,...
Noise Troubleshooting: How to Isolate and Fix RFI in Your Shack
In the world of amateur radio, few things are more frustrating than interference that degrades your signal or masks weak stations. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) can come from inside your shack, from your own home electronics, or even from neighboring properties....
Understanding Operating Etiquette on VHF and UHF
When it comes to amateur radio, understanding operating etiquette is just as important as knowing how to use your equipment. Nowhere is this more apparent than on the VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands, where the majority of local...
Best Handheld Radios for Beginners in 2025
If you're new to amateur radio, one of the best ways to get started is with a handheld radio, often called an HT (handie-talkie). These compact, portable transceivers are ideal for local communications, emergency preparedness, and getting a feel for ham radio...