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Hi everyone, this time let’s talk a little bit about end-fed half-wave antennas (EFHW). I’ve been using them for a few years, ever since a friend gifted one to me.

My plan for this article is not to deep dive into the physics behind it or turn you into electrical engineers. Rather, I want to share some info about them and maybe light a fire under you to perhaps try using or building one of your own.

The big advantage I’ve found using an EFHW in the field is you can pull up to a site and literally be on the air in moments with barely any tuning or fuss. You can tie off the impedance transformer to a handy post or tree a few feet above the ground and then toss the wire over a convenient limb. When camping, I use my fiberglass telescopic mast attached to the hitch mount on the truck or camper. The possibilities are absolutely endless.

An EFHW is a variation of the half-wave dipole. Both use a half-wave resonant length wire. The primary difference is the feedpoint. Where a standard dipole is fed at the center (low impedance), the EFHW is fed at the end (high impedance) using a 49:1 or 64:1 transformer.

The amount of wire attached is a ½ wave on the lowest band of interest. For instance, a 66-foot wire is a half wave at 40M, a full wave at 20M, three half waves at 15M, and a double full wave at 10M. The 40 to 10M seems to be a popular configuration for this antenna.

There is a lot of information on the web and in print about EFHWs. One source I recommend is this video by Peter Waters, G3OJV.

Peter has a commonsense approach to the EFHW. Some of the takeaways from his video are:

• A counterpoise is not needed. If you believe that it is then feel free to try it for yourself.
• Your EFHW doesn’t have to run in a straight line. You can route the antenna whichever way works best for your installation. Yes, it will change your radiation pattern somewhat, but it will still work and you will still make contacts.

As Peter seems to be fond of saying, “we are amateurs, not professionals.” Don’t be afraid of experimenting—you may be surprised at the results.

The EFHW which was gifted to me by a friend uses a double stacked core. The advantage to double (or triple) stacking cores is that it allows for higher power.

I’ve run this one at 100W CW for hours with no issues. I was told that they are a real pain to wind, but well worth the time. It uses #14 or #12 enameled wire. Lighter wire can be substituted if you are planning to run QRP or are trying to save weight. An afternoon at “YouTube university” will yield much more information about winding your own.

I spent some time looking at the EFHWs available from DX Engineering and bought a couple that interested me.

First was the Spooltenna Parks EFHW4010. I’m really impressed with this one. Its small size fits easily into a backpack, and the manufacturer says it can handle up to 100W SSB (50W CW). The field test sheet that’s included shows the measurements that were taken on that specific antenna.

I installed mine inverted-V style using a mast extended to around 25 feet. The far end of the antenna ran out to a convenient tree. Checking the SWR with my RigExpert antenna analyzer yielded results consistent with what I saw on the field test sheet.

It performs as you’d expect from an EFHW. It has turned into my go-to antenna for a recent camping trip and will find a place in my POTA Go-Box.

The next antenna I tried was the DX Engineering TWIG EFHW QRP Antenna Feedpoint Kit. It couldn’t be any simpler to set up:

• Open the package
• Attach your wire to it
• Toss the wire over a convenient support
• Hook the TWIG to your rig
• Make contacts!

For QRP operations, this antenna is absolutely the simplest and smallest I’ve seen so far.

The connector for the wire at the balun end is similar to the WAGO connectors that I’ve used in the past; simple! The power rating is only 25W SSB/10W CW/5W Digital, so let’s leave those amplifiers at home.

Lastly, let’s talk about your Go-Box. Part of the fun for a lot of people is experimenting with antennas while out in the field. For that you really need an antenna Go-Box. My box contains: 

• Multiple lengths of rope
• Spare feedline
• Spare antennas
• Arborist weight
• An assortment of RF connectors
• Spare wire

Everyone’s Go-Box will be different, but if you frequently head out to the field, you really need one.

And that’s it for now. In an upcoming article, we’ll talk about fast and easy ways to deploy your portable antennas. For now, you know what I’m going to say. That’s right—let’s get out there and activate something!

73 DE WG8X

The post Ham Radio Portable Insights: Reasons to Consider an End-Fed Half-Wave Antenna appeared first on OnAllBands.

Whether it is public safety, parenting or anything in between, there is the “book” way and the “real-world” way. Life doesn’t always follow the book or the rules.  Our job is to figure out how to be the most effective communicator while adhering to the spirit of our hobby and not violating any rules or regulations.

So where do you learn how it really works? Here are a few sources of real-world wisdom to learn from. Remember, you need to take your exposure in each of these areas, measure it against “the book,” and take the best of everything to make it your own. Also keep in mind that every time you go key down, you are an advocate for the hobby.

First You Should Listen

I tell everyone to begin listening to the local repeaters as soon as you can, even before getting your license. This will give you a taste of how things flow on the repeaters in your area. There are commonalities across the hobby, but there may be some local flavor that occurs where you live. By listening early, you will be more confident to make that first repeater contact as soon as you receive your call sign.

When it comes to HF, it is a little more universal and generic. With HF there is truly no local flavor because the world is your neighborhood. Listening is still a great idea. You will learn the nuances that occur between VHF/UHF and HF. A lot of HF is about just making contacts and making a simple exchange. However, there are some interesting nets to get involved with and a lot of preparedness activities to dive into.

When looking for nets to listen to I recommend netfinder.radio. It allows you to see what is happening right now or search by various criteria. A good source for contest information is the WA7BNM Contest Calendar, and for special events check out the ARRL Special Event Listing. Aside from that, just spin the dial and see what you can find. Always keep in mind the FCC Band Plan and your operating privileges before transmitting.

Another source of street knowledge is your local club. I know, I have beat this drum a lot. But clubs are where the hobby, for the most part, lives and grows. This is where you can see that you’re not alone on a deserted island. 

There are other operators who are deeply entrenched in the hobby and would love to impart their years of experience to you either one-on-one or via group presentations. You may also find club and community events to be involved in. Club listings can be found at the ARRL Find-A-Club Tool or the QRZ Radio Club Database.

The final source we will discuss today is YouTube. Again, just like any other resource, you will need to vet the information you receive. You can find a vast array of information on many popular ham radio topics, either as detailed explorations or high-level generic overviews. There are also a wide range of content creators, so you should be able to find one that has a style you like. I recommend that you find a good selection of sources who you can trust to provide accurate information. The DX Engineering YouTube Channel, for example, offers hundreds of videos covering just about every amateur radio topic under the sun, including the sun.

Please study diligently for your test so that you can answer whatever question is given to you, but remember, the book is the foundation on which you build your collection of knowledge and wisdom to become a solid ham radio operator.

Until next time, 73 de AC8OW

The post How Do You Become a Good Ham Radio Operator? Listening is a Great Start. appeared first on OnAllBands.

Explaining that amateur radio is “all of the above” options plus a few more can also be a challenge. At some point, the best choice seems to be just brushing off ham radio as a “nerd” hobby and seeing the confused stares from your audience quickly subside.

This option, however, doesn’t help solve the problem of the ham community getting smaller and the mean age getting older, especially when those opting not to explain it represent the younger segment of the hobby.

How we explain and talk about amateur radio matters if we want the hobby to continue to thrive.

Like many hams, I have been guilty of brushing off questions regarding what amateur radio is or providing an incomplete answer. But after a few years of practice (attending a small public high school as an involved amateur radio operator has provided this opportunity), I’ve been able to improve how I answer the question, “What is it that you post about on Instagram all the time?” without saying, “Oh…just one of my hobbies.”

An effective tactic for answering this question is stripping down the hobby to its most basic activity: talking to people. You can also put this into specific contexts. For example, “Talking to people by using satellites” or “Talking to people around the world,” which can help provide a good transition into what exactly you do with the hobby as well.

It can also be helpful to tailor your description to topics in which your friend is knowledgeable and has an interest. Since an explanation of amateur radio may be hard to comprehend for someone who isn’t involved in technical activities or doesn’t know much (if any) amateur radio jargon, explaining it in terms of what they’re already familiar with can be useful.

Another approach—when possible—is to simply let them experience amateur radio rather than trying to explain it. The concept of talking to a bunch of strangers using very technical-looking equipment can seem completely absurd to many, particularly the younger generations (despite the fact that is essentially what we do with our phones). Having the opportunity to show people exactly what it means when we say we’re “talking to people on the air” can make it a little less intimidating and seem a lot less crazy. This is also helpful for explaining aspects of the hobby that may not be as obvious or well understood by the public (e.g., satellites, digital modes, and fox hunting).

If you’ve gotten past the point of simply explaining to a friend what the hobby is but still aren’t sure how to actually discuss it with them, this can also be a challenge. We naturally want to share our hobbies and things we enjoy with our friends, family, and acquaintances, but it’s not always enjoyable to talk about these things when you need to explain every other word you use.

For the majority of my time in high school, my friends’ reactions to my amateur radio stories were either, “Oh, your nerd hobby again” or telling me afterward they hadn’t understood any of it, but it sounded great. So, I’m familiar with the challenges of trying to share your enjoyment of ham radio with people who don’t understand it. I’ve found the best solution to this problem is telling the story without any amateur-radio-specific vocabulary and relating it to topics your audience is already familiar with. While it can sometimes be nice to share parts of our hobby with our non-ham friends, it can be more fulfilling to expand our circle of ham acquaintances and share there instead.

That’s not to say we should avoid talking about the hobby with non-amateur radio operators. We should, in fact, do the opposite. Talking about ham radio is one of the most common ways for non-operators to become interested in it, and while it can be frustrating sometimes, it’s well worth the effort.

My high school recently hosted an exam session, and a significant portion of my classmates earned their Technician license. As a result of hams talking about the hobby, 14% of my graduating class are now licensed amateur radio operators. Talking to non-hams about amateur radio can have a huge impact and may even inspire your friends and acquaintances to get their licenses as well.

The post Youth Insights: Tips on Explaining Amateur Radio to Your Non-Ham Friends appeared first on OnAllBands.

DX Engineering is the exclusive North American distributor of products from OM Power, a company that has been helping contesters and DXers reach their goals since 2004. Founded by amateur radio enthusiasts in Slovakia, where the company is headquartered, OM Power has grown to become a leader in producing legal-limit tube amplifiers.

With More Power Comes Greater Responsibilities

If you’re updating your station with an amplifier like those from ACOM or OM Power, there may be other upgrades you’ll need to consider. Take a moment to read this excellent OnAllBands article from Mark, K8MSH, “I’ve Got the Power: What Else Do I Need” regarding electrical power requirements, station grounding and bonding, coaxial cable ratings, antenna tuners, cooling and ventilation, RFI control, and other issues you may need to address when adding an amplifier.

OM Power’s Powerful Lineup

OM Power’s compact manual and auto tuning HF, HF+6, HF+MARS, and HF+6+MARS amplifiers feature:

• One or two FU-728F ceramic tetrode tubes (other than the 3501A model, which has one GU78B tube) capable of providing stable, full legal-limit all-mode output power 
• 4.3-inch color touchscreen and front panel indicators that let users view the amplifier’s operational status and provide fast access to advanced features and settings
• Easy maintenance; efficient cooling, even during long on-air sessions; and simplified troubleshooting thanks to built-in memory for faults and warnings
• Advanced protection circuits that safeguard against high SWR, excessive current, voltage errors, excessive temperatures, and more
• Full break-in CW capability (QSK) as a distinguishing feature in all OM Power amplifier models
• Built-in full band change or frequency reading compatibility for modern transceivers; RF sense band change support for legacy transceivers; automatic antenna switching for up to ten antennas; and remote-control operation via LAN and PC program download (auto tune models)

DX Engineering carries these OM Power linear amplifiers.

• OM-2000+: HF Plus 6 Meter Manual Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-2000-MARS: HF Plus 6 Meter and MARS Manual Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-2000A: HF Plus 6 Meter Auto Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-4001HF: HF Manual Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-4001HFMARS: HF Plus MARS Manual Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-4001A: HF Auto Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-4001AMARS: HF Plus MARS Auto Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier
• OM-3501A HF Auto Tune 1,500W+ Linear Amplifier

NOTICE: The legal operation of any linear amplifier within the applicable regional or country amateur radio regulations is the responsibility of the licensed operator.

Also check out the OM Power OM6BPF Bandpass Filter, featuring six individual high-Q hand-tuned bandpass filter boards covering 160, 80, 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters. It removes unwanted interfering noise and signals from all but the single band selected for operation. Also enjoy ultra-quiet reception while eliminating out-of-band emissions from the transmitted signal.

Please see DXEngineering.com for specific features of each amplifier.

The post Guide to Amateur Radio Amplifiers 2026: Part 2: Linear Power Amplifiers from OM Power appeared first on OnAllBands.

Whether you live in Ohio, Florida, or Alaska, bad weather significantly impacts ham radio antennas by altering their resonance, increasing static noise, or causing structural damage. Moisture from rain or snow can cause erratic SWR, while wind and ice can cause antenna failure.

Protecting antennas from weather damage is essential for maintaining performance, longevity, and safety. Because antennas are often installed outdoors—on rooftops, towers, or poles—they are constantly exposed to environmental stress (and whatever mood the sky happens to be in that day). A well-protected antenna system requires attention to both mechanical durability and electrical integrity.

Moisture & Oxidation

One of the primary concerns is moisture intrusion. Water can enter coaxial connectors, baluns, and feedlines, leading to corrosion and signal loss. Over time, even small amounts of moisture can significantly increase resistance and reduce efficiency—kind of like slowly turning your antenna into a very expensive, very ineffective resistor. To prevent this, all external connections should be sealed carefully. A common method involves wrapping connectors with a layer of Temflex 2155 rubber splicing tape, then a protective outer layer such as Scotch 33+ UV-resistant vinyl tape. This layered approach ensures both waterproofing and resistance to sunlight degradation.

Another critical factor is corrosion resistance. Dipole antennas are typically made from conductive materials like copper or aluminum, which can oxidize when exposed to air and moisture. While aluminum forms a protective oxide layer naturally, connections between dissimilar metals (such as copper wire and aluminum components) can cause galvanic corrosion—nature’s way of reminding you that not all metals get along. Using compatible materials or applying anti-oxidation compounds like Jet-Lube or Penetrox at junctions can mitigate this problem. Stainless steel hardware is often preferred for antenna fasteners and mounting because it resists rust and maintains structural integrity over time.

Gone With the Wind

Wind presents a mechanical challenge, especially for longer antennas that span significant distances. Strong gusts can cause dipole antennas to sway, stretch, or even snap—sometimes with dramatic timing during a contest or net. To address this, proper tensioning is important. The antenna should be taut but not overly tight, allowing for some flexibility. Incorporating strain-relief elements, such as end insulators and support ropes made from UV-resistant synthetic materials (such as polyester), helps absorb some mechanical stress.

Additionally, pulleys and counterweights help support dipole antennas between trees, preventing wire breakage caused by wind-induced tree movement. A pulley—ideally stainless steel—is attached to the tree using a sturdy hook, with a rope running over it to hold a weight, keeping the wire taut while allowing it to move. Use just enough weight to keep the antenna from sagging, but not enough to audition for a suspension bridge. A plastic container filled with water or sand, or a 1- to 5-lb. piece of concrete or metal, usually does the trick.

If a weight is impractical, consider using 2- to 3-foot marine-grade bungee cords. Rubber tarp straps are also a good choice. Those made with EPDM are rated to withstand sun exposure for 20 years or more. Storm door springs are another option—look for corrosion-resistant ones.

Ice Cold

Ice and snow accumulation can add substantial weight to the antenna, increasing the risk of sagging or breakage. You’d think a small amount like a quarter inch of ice wouldn’t be much, but it can add approximately 100 to 500 pounds of weight to a single span of power line (depending on length). According to electric utilities, this significant weight can cause lines to sag or begin to snap. A half-inch layer of glaze ice acts as a massive overload, often exceeding power line design limits and causing them to break and cut power.

You can imagine what ice would do to an 80m dipole or sky loop—and it’s usually not good. Adapting antenna systems to colder climates is the best way to minimize damage. Designing the antenna with a gentle slope from the center toward the ends can help shed ice and snow more effectively, minimizing accumulation. An inverted-V with steep slopes would be an even better option. If you have the pulley system described in the preceding section, you could lower the ends until your antenna thaws—assuming you’re willing to venture outside to do it.

Other adaptations include using slightly thicker wire or stranded wire rather than solid wire to improve durability. Stranded wire is more flexible and less likely to fracture under load—because sometimes flexibility really is strength. Using 12- or 14-gauge stranded wire, along with heavier Dacron rope attached to the insulator, improves structural integrity.

Heat & UV

You’d think a sunny day wouldn’t be much of a threat to your antenna. But ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can degrade many antenna materials over time, especially plastics—quietly and persistently, like a slow-motion failure you didn’t sign up for.

Coaxial cables and insulators are particularly vulnerable. To combat UV damage, it is important to use materials specifically rated for outdoor use. UV-resistant jackets on coaxial cables and UV-stabilized plastic insulators can significantly extend the lifespan of the antenna system. Regular inspection for cracking, fading, or brittleness is also important, as these are early signs of UV degradation.

Dark-colored or black ropes generally last longer in the sun because they have UV-stabilized pigments that absorb or reflect harmful rays, preventing them from breaking down the fiber. Polyester and polyethylene blends offer good UV resistance and strength while being lightweight. Also, most modern 550 paracord (Type III nylon) is UV-resistant, making it suitable for long-term outdoor use.

Keep an eye on traps, baluns, and common-mode chokes with plastic housings that are exposed to UV. Cracked plastic end caps or failed seals allow water inside. If this water freezes, it expands, causing the plastic or seal to split further. If you live in an area with summer temperatures in the triple digits, painting those plastic parts with white paint can help prevent meltdowns.

Antenna Mounts

Proper mounting and placement also contribute to weather protection. Positioning Yagi antennas away from trees can reduce the risk of damage from falling branches or abrasion from moving limbs during storms.

At the same time, the mounting structure itself must be robust enough to withstand environmental forces. Using guys for vertical antennas, taller masts, or towers can improve stability in high winds. Concrete bases for taller towers, made to the manufacturer’s specifications, provide the necessary stability and peace of mind when the wind picks up at 2 a.m.

When mounting antennas on roof tripods or securing masts to the house, anchor into roof rafters, not just decking or fascia, and waterproof at roof contact points with roofing sealant or pads. Add a guy wire kit for masts over 10 feet tall to provide extra stability. Use heavy-duty, rust-resistant fasteners, and maintain a minimum of 20 feet from power lines—because that’s one kind of contact you definitely don’t want to make.

I Have a Guy

Guying helps protect against environmental loads such as ice accumulation. In colder climates, ice can form on antennas and masts, adding significant weight. This extra load increases the structure’s stress and can lead to sagging or collapse if not properly supported—gravity is very consistent about this. Guy lines help bear this additional weight by sharing the load with the ground anchors, reducing the strain on the mast itself.

Rope guy lines are extensively used in antenna installations, particularly when non-conductive, lightweight, or flexible support is required. These are common in amateur radio and temporary setups. Rope is used to support the ends of dipoles or the center of inverted-V antennas, tying them to trees, masts, or ground anchors. Small to medium-sized vertical antennas and portable masts frequently use non-conductive rope guy lines to keep the antenna upright without interfering with the RF radiation pattern. Heavy-duty guy lines for towers are typically made of galvanized steel or other corrosion-resistant materials, such as Phillystran, to withstand long-term exposure to the elements. Both the rope and the heavy-duty guys must be properly tensioned—not too loose or too tight (the antenna equivalent of “just right”). Turnbuckles are often used to adjust tension on large towers precisely. The angle of the guy wires is also important; wider angles provide better lateral stability, while multiple evenly spaced wires ensure balanced support.

Shocking Experiences

Lightning and static buildup are additional hazards. Installing a proper grounding system is crucial. This includes grounding the antenna support structure and using a lightning arrestor in the feedline. The arrestor should be connected to a good earth ground, providing a path for excess voltage to dissipate safely—the shorter the path, the better. Disconnecting the antenna during severe storms is another simple but effective precaution. It’s better than learning about lightning the hard way.

Storm Checklist

Here are some suggestions to protect ham radio antennas before a storm:

• Disconnect and ground all coax cables, preferably outside the home.
• Lower temporary masts, wire antennas with pulleys, and crank-down antennas. Tighten guy lines as necessary on poles and towers.
• Check feedline strain relief, drip loops, and connectors before snow/ice loading can happen.
• Power up the station to confirm everything still works before bad weather—troubleshooting in a storm is never fun.
• Have a simple, rapidly deployable antenna (e.g., an end-fed wire) prepared in a “go-kit” for immediate use after the storm, along with backup power (battery or generator).

Keep on Top of Things

Procrastinate and things will always get worse—antennas are especially good at proving this point. Routine maintenance, often overlooked, is essential for long-term reliability. Periodic inspections should include checking for loose connections, worn insulation, corrosion, and mechanical stress points. Any signs of damage should be addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration. Cleaning connectors and reapplying weatherproofing materials as needed can restore performance and extend service life.

Protecting your antenna from weather damage involves a combination of good materials, careful installation, and ongoing maintenance. Key strategies include sealing connections against moisture, preventing corrosion, ensuring mechanical stability against wind and ice, using UV-resistant components, accommodating temperature changes, and implementing proper grounding. By taking these steps, operators can ensure that their antennas remain reliable and efficient—even when the weather isn’t.

The post Ham Radio Tech: Protecting Antennas from Weather Damage appeared first on OnAllBands.

So, how do we combine contesting with POTA? Let’s start by looking at a few contest types that naturally lend themselves to portable operation—primarily State QSO Parties and State Parks on the Air events.

First, a quick reminder: POTA itself is not a contest.

You can activate a POTA park on any band your license allows. However, contesting on WARC bands is generally prohibited by a long-standing “gentlemen’s agreement” in the amateur radio community. Most State QSO Parties explicitly exclude the WARC bands (30, 17, and 12 meters) and 60 meters in their official rules. Always review the rules for the specific event to ensure you’re operating within its guidelines.

State Parks on the Air Contests

One of the oldest examples of State Parks on the Air Contests is Ohio State Parks on the Air (OSPOTA), which began in 2008 as a way to promote amateur radio fun. It’s held each year on the first Saturday after Labor Day. Because it predates POTA by several years, it uses its own unique set of park abbreviations. Also, only Ohio State Parks count as multipliers.

My advice for OSPOTA is simple: Log what you hear during the contest and sort out any issues with the park designator afterward. Since POTA park numbers are not part of the required exchange, this won’t cause problems, but I do recommend keeping a notepad handy to jot down any out-of-state park numbers for later reference.

Other states—including Georgia, Texas, Florida, and Wisconsin—also host similar events. Unlike OSPOTA, most use the standard POTA park numbering system.

State QSO Parties

State QSO Parties are another excellent way to combine contesting with POTA. They tend to be more relaxed and beginner-friendly, often with a casual atmosphere where brief rag-chews can even pop up during the event.

In these contests, multipliers are typically counties within the host state. As a result, portable operators often set up in less common counties—frequently from within POTA parks. While they usually don’t advertise the POTA activation during the contest, they don’t need to.

Here’s an example:

WG8X is operating in the Virginia QSO Party from Smyth (SMY) County, Virginia, at a location within a POTA park. The exchange includes a serial number and county:

• WG8X: “N8DXE, thanks, copy 001 SMY”
• N8DXE: “Thanks, copy 015 OH, 73”

That’s it; no POTA number is exchanged. However, when WG8X uploads logs to the POTA system, N8DXE receives hunter credit for the park contact.

One important tip: Always submit your logs to both the contest sponsor and the POTA website. You may earn a certificate for your efforts.

Most contest logging software can export an ADI file, which can be uploaded to POTA or similar programs like World Wide Flora & Fauna (WWFF).

Tips for Success

If you plan to operate from a park during a contest, consider registering your activation on the POTA website. You can do this by going to the “Scheduled Activations” page. This is one of the few times I regularly use the scheduled activations tool, assuming the contest rules allow self-spotting.

If you’re operating CW or digital modes, scheduling your activation becomes even more valuable. When the Reverse Beacon Network detects your signal, it automatically matches your activation with the signal it detected and spots you on the POTA site. You’ll know it’s working when you start receiving calls from stations that aren’t participating in the contest. Be patient with them. These operators may not understand the contest exchange, so take a moment to guide them through what you need.

Final Thoughts

I like to return to the same location each year for certain contests. It gives me a chance to refine my setup and improve my results. In the end, I’m never really competing against other stations, just against my own past performance.

Are these the only contests that work with POTA? Not at all. While I prefer QSO Parties and State Parks events, nearly any contest can be operated portable with a bit of planning.

A great resource for finding upcoming contests is contestcalendar.com. With a little preparation, the opportunities to combine POTA and contesting are nearly endless.

If you are camping as part of your activation, be aware of and respect quiet hours. Most campgrounds have these posted. Here in Ohio, it’s usually 10 pm to 7 am, but this can vary by location.

Speaking of power levels, it’s best to leave the amplifiers at home. I typically operate at low power—around 30 watts on CW and 100 watts on SSB —and have no trouble making contacts.

I hope I’ll hear you on the air from a park during an upcoming contest. Until then, let’s get out there and activate something!

73, WG8X

The post Portable Ham Radio Insights: Combining Parks on the Air with Contesting appeared first on OnAllBands.

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It’s hard to believe that Dayton Hamvention®, May 15-17, 2026, is less than a month away!

At DX Engineering, getting ready for this annual celebration of everything amateur radio—only about three hours south of DX Engineering headquarters in Tallmadge, Ohio—starts soon after we tear down our booths and say farewell to the Greene County Fairgrounds and Expo Center in Xenia.

Our first thought: What can we do to make next year’s event even more special for the thousands of amateur operators who attend?

Here’s a preview of what you can expect in 2026:

Contest University & Contest Dinner

The day before Hamvention kicks off, another event with a long history of helping hams thrive takes place only a short drive from Xenia—Contest University. It’s a full day of learning hosted by Tim Duffy, K3LR, DX Engineering CEO, and a faculty of some of the most accomplished contesters on the planet.

Registration is still open. Click here and sign up now if you don’t want to miss out. The latest edition of this information-packed event will be Thursday, May 14, 7 am to 5 pm at the Hope Hotel on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Fairborn, Ohio.

On Saturday, May 16, join operators from around the world for the 32nd Annual Dayton Contest Dinner. The dinner will take place at the Hope Hotel and feature keynote speaker Mark Haynes, M0DXR, the chairman of WRTC UK 2026. An Icom IC-7610 will be given away, and there will be a silent auction for a FlexRadio Aurora AU-510M Transceiver and Elecraft KPA500 Amplifier with KAT500 ATU. Monies raised will support WRTC 2026. Get your tickets today. 

To get an idea of why Contest University is not to be missed and to learn the origins of the very popular Dayton Contest Dinner, watch this video from DX Engineering media partner Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio:

Giving Back

You’ll feel good knowing that when you stop by the DX Engineering booths in Building 1 at the fairgrounds, you’re supporting a company that believes in giving back to the amateur radio community. In addition to sponsoring DXpeditions and contributing to youth operator programs, DX Engineering recently donated a fully equipped Hummer with an HF mobile station to the Dayton Amateur Radio Association (DARA).

Pictured below is Tim, K3LR with DARA treasurer and Dayton Hamvention® spokesperson Michael Kalter, W8CI. As the host of Hamvention, DARA plays a vital role in bringing the ham radio community together each year. DX Engineering was honored to contribute to their ongoing effort and the future of amateur radio.

Here’s a video from Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio featuring W8CI that’s sure to get you excited about Hamvention 2026:

Make Eyeball QSOs with the DX Engineering Team

Once again, DX Engineering’s active hams, who have a combined 1,000-plus years of amateur radio experience, will be available from the moment gates open at 9 am on Friday until the final bell at 1 pm on Sunday. You won’t find a friendlier, more knowledgeable group of operators anywhere. Their goal: Help you find the exact gear you need for your station. You won’t get a sales pitch on purchasing equipment beyond your requirements—just honest, straightforward guidance on what’s best for you and your operating goals.

Bring your technical questions and be ready to swap stories about battling pileups! Our folks love to talk ham radio.

Get Your Hands on the Latest Equipment

Okay, this is why most of you traveled to southeast Ohio in the first place—and DX Engineering will not disappoint on this front. Because of DX Engineering’s proximity to Dayton Hamvention®, we’re able to bring truckloads of gear for you to view firsthand and purchase right from our booths. This includes the latest products from the more than 180 manufacturers carried by DX Engineering as well as DX Engineering branded gear, including both new products and longtime station essentials. Here are a few:

• NOMAD Telescopic Fiberglass Portable Masts
• Low-Power Portable Dipole and Winder Kits

• TWIG End-Fed Half-Wave QRP Antenna Feedpoint Kit

• ISO-PLUS Ethernet RF Filters

Check Out Our POTA/SOTA Area

DX Engineering will once again have an entire area devoted to portable operating, featuring the latest gear from manufacturers exclusively available through DX Engineering, such as REZ Antenna Systems.

Pick Up the Brand-New DX Engineering Catalog

Hot off the presses, the 140-page 2026 DX Engineering Amateur Radio Products Catalog will be available free at the show. The cover features members of the DX Engineering team going portable—your assurance that when you call us, you’ll be talking with hams who can help you assemble an effective station for all your POTA, SOTA, and IOTA activations. Plus, you’ll find:

• A full page devoted to FlexRadio transceivers and accessories
• Gear from other manufacturers now carried by DX Engineering, including Armoloq, Begali Keys, DX Launcher, Momobeam, Packtenna, PowerFilm, Sierra Radio Systems, Spooltenna, and others
• A Manufacturer Index that makes it easy to find the products you want
• Select products for outdoor activations highlighted with a “Go Portable” logo for easy reference

Take Home Some DX Engineering Swag

In addition to bringing along loads of gear for sale, DX Engineering will also have logo polo shirts, T-shirts, sweatshirts, hooded sweatshirts, umbrellas, tote bags, cinch bags, ball caps, sports bags, mugs, and more. DX Engineering apparel comes in both men’s and women’s styles from small to 4X-large. Know someone who couldn’t make the trip to Xenia? DX Engineering swag makes a nice way to say, “Hey, I was thinking about ya!”

The post DX Engineering Gearing Up for Dayton Hamvention® 2026! appeared first on OnAllBands.

Mic fright is very common. While it may be an impediment right off the bat, there are plenty of ways to overcome it. I have helped many new licensees at my school’s radio club get through their first contacts and even served as a third-party control operator to let non-hams make QSOs. Thanks to these experiences I have a few tips on how to put mic fright behind you and finally get on the air.

The first thing I would recommend is practicing the phonetic alphabet, particularly the letters that are in your call sign. Phonetic alphabet “fluency” is something that only comes with time, but saying all the words out loud a few times can help you feel more comfortable using them on the air. Using the phonetic alphabet can also feel a little odd by nature if you’re new to it, so practicing first can help it become more natural. We’ve made it a tradition at my school club to practice the phonetic alphabet a few times as a group before our first on-air events of the year, and it seems to dissolve some of the anxiety that comes with getting on the air for the first time.

Another strategy that may be helpful is listening for a while before you actually get on the air yourself. If you’re a Tech, find a repeater that has some activity on it and listen to the conversations for a while to familiarize yourself with the flow of a contact (or more accurately described for a repeater, the “flow of conversation”). Listening like this will also be helpful after you move on to the HF bands and start to operate in different events and contests.

The flow and typical exchanges are different depending on if you are trying to work a DX station, operate in a contest, or participate in a QSO party, so listening to find the rhythm is a skill you’ll probably use later. While listening, take note of any jargon or special terms you’re not familiar with to look up later. It may also help to print out a list of these terms (e.g., Q codes like QRZ, QRL, and QSY) or other hobby-specific abbreviations such as CW, YL, or OM so you can reference them quickly in the middle of a contact.

When preparing for your first contact, writing down the basics of a QSO before you are on the air can relieve anxiety as well. When I made my first contact, I scheduled it with my Elmer on our local repeater. I wrote down a script for myself since I had never made a contact on the air before and was nervous about remembering what to say. I later wrote a script for the new members of my school club to use when we got on the air so they would be more comfortable making contacts. The script shows what both parties will say. This way, the young operator not only knows exactly what they should tell the other station, but they can also infer what the other operator will say to them, which can be comforting as well.

Lastly, if you’re anxious about talking to a stranger for your first contact, you can schedule it with a friend or mentor, or you can check into a net. Scheduling it with someone you know can be a relief if you’re worried about it being awkward or not knowing what to say. Typically, when someone from the school club gets licensed, we make sure that either I or one of the other instructors can make their first contact to take the nerves away.

Checking into a net is also a good option since the format and rhythm of it is relatively easy to understand. You also won’t have to keep a whole conversation going. Nets are normally run in rounds, so you’ll probably only actually talk once or twice. Your contribution could be as simple as saying you wanted to give the net control (the person running the net) another check-in. Some nets or net control operators also have questions that they invite the whole group to answer about the weather, their equipment, or even what they did that day, so it’s unlikely you’ll be at a loss for words checking into a net.

While mic fright can seem like a huge hurdle, it can be overcome with a little determination and planning. The most important thing to remember is that even though it can be intimidating to get on the air for the first time (and maybe even a few after that!), amateur radio operators are all generally kind people who want to help you succeed and will be patient as you start to get on the air and use your call sign!

Editor’s Note: Making QSOs with dependable equipment can also be a way to build confidence when getting on the air. Find high-quality ham radio microphones from leading brands like Heil Sound, INRAD, Icom, and Yaesu at DX Engineering. Also watch this DX Engineering video explaining the types of microphones available for your station.

The post Youth Insights: Tips on Getting Over Mic Fright in Amateur Radio appeared first on OnAllBands.

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Here’s great news for you QRP fans out there! DX Engineering has a nice selection of new gear designed for amateur operators who prefer the challenge of doing more with less power during their POTA, SOTA, and other outdoor activations.

The DX Engineering team is looking forward to once again participating at Vendor Night during the 2026 edition of Four Days in May (May 14-17)—the annual gathering of QRP Amateur Radio Club International in Fairborn, Ohio. This will be the 30th anniversary of the event, which is always pulsing with high energy from the low-power enthusiasts who come from around the world to enjoy a full slate of activities and plenty of good fellowship.

More Ways to Go Low-Power Portable from DX Engineering

Here’s some of the new POTA- and SOTA-friendly QRP gear DX Engineering will have on display at Four Days in May. Want to order today? Check the links below for product availability.

TWIG End-Fed Half-Wave QRP Antenna Feedpoint Kit

This compact feedpoint kit is an essential component for building a QRP end-fed half-wave antenna system. Perfect for portable operations and outdoor activities, it simplifies setup while delivering reliable performance. The TWIG EFHW QRP Antenna Feedpoint Kit is rated for 25W SSB, 10W CW, and 5W digital, delivering an SWR of less than 2:1 without an antenna tuner.

The kit features a 49:1 transformer that matches the impedance of the user-supplied half-wave element wire to 50 ohms, ensuring compatibility with most QRP transceivers. The BNC female connector pairs easily with recommended coax cables. When the element wire is properly tuned, no external tuner is required, reducing the amount of gear you need to carry.

The kit includes a built-in quick connector designed for 24/26 AWG antenna wire. Two end insulators and clips are also provided, ensuring reliable strain relief and easy deployment in the field. No additional counterpoise wire is necessary; the coax cable serves that function when installed correctly. DX Engineering offers these recommended RG-174 orange coaxial cable assemblies with BNC connectors:

• DXE-174VDB025: 25 feet (between TWIG and optional low-power choke)
• DXE-174VDB035: 35 feet (between TWIG and optional low-power choke)
• DXE-174VDB003: 3 feet (between optional choke and QRP transceiver)

For best results, use optional 24/26 AWG wire such as Consolidated Wire CEW-VIZ24-YEL100, a high-visibility, PVC-insulated stranded copper wire.

A typical setup uses a sloper configuration, with the feedpoint about 6-7 feet above ground and the wire sloping upward to 25-30 feet. Adding an optional DX Engineering DXE-LPFC-BNC Feedline Choke at the transceiver end is suggested. While the antenna supports multiple configurations, wire length will vary based on installation.

DX Engineering TWIG QRP 1:1 Choke Balun

This QRP choke balun was engineered as the key component for building a low-power dipole antenna. It incorporates a 1:1 transformer to keep the feedline impedance of the half-wave element wire down to 50 ohms. The connector is a BNC female and matches up with the recommended coax and most QRP transceivers. When properly installed and the element wire is accurately tuned, the system can achieve an SWR below 2:1 without the need for an external antenna tuner. It’s rated for 25W SSB, 10W CW, and 5W digital. Kit comes with the TWIG QRP 1:1 Choke Balun, two insulators, and three clips.

DX Engineering TWIG QRP 9:1 UNUN

This UNUN matches a high-impedance, non-resonant end-fed/random wire antenna (33 to 84 feet long) to the 50-ohm unbalanced load required by amateur radio transceivers. The DXE TWIG-9-1 covers 1.8-30 MHz and is ideal for portable QRP or HOA-restricted antennas. Its BNC female connector mates with the recommended 35 to 50 feet of coax cable, which is used as the counterpoise. In some cases, an external wide range tuner may be needed. This UNUN may not provide a perfect 1:1 SWR on all bands without an additional tuner and may experience heating at higher power due to impedance mismatches.

Typically, 9:1 UNUNs are used for random wire, end-fed long wire, and inverted-L or sloper antennas.

DX Engineering TWIG QRP 4:1 Current Balun

This is designed to be used as the feedpoint of a very low-power off-center-fed dipole (OCF) antenna. The TWIG-4-1C incorporates a 4:1 transformer to convert the OCF antenna impedance of 200 ohms to the desired 50 ohms to match the coaxial cable feedline. It also has a 1:1 feedline choke to prevent current imbalance, detuning, and the addition of unwanted noise.

The connector is a BNC female and mates with the recommended coax and most QRP transceivers. When properly installed and the element wire is properly tuned, you should not need an external tuner. This current balun handles 25W on SSB, 10W on CW, and 5W on digital modes when the antenna SWR is less than 2:1, without the use of an antenna tuner.

DX Engineering HF QRP Bandpass Filters

Thesefilters are designed to confine both transmitted and received signals to one specific amateur band. They significantly reduce out‑of‑band noise, resulting in a noticeably lower noise floor and improved weak‑signal reception. Each filter features a sharp roll‑off just outside the band edges, providing exceptional rejection of adjacent‑band signals and maintaining maximum operating efficiency for QRP applications.

Offered for 80, 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters, they install easily in line with the coax feedline using the BNC connectors provided on each end. With power ratings of 20W SSB and 5W digital, they are ideal for QRP enthusiasts participating in multi‑operator events such as Field Day, POTA, and SOTA.

DX Engineering TWIG Broadcast Interference Filter

This filter lets you improve the performance of your QRP POTA or SOTA station. Engineered specifically for low-power amateur radio applications, the compact module attenuates strong AM broadcast band signals below the 80-meter amateur band. By suppressing these out-of-band signals, the filter helps lower your receiver’s noise floor, resulting in cleaner, more reliable reception of weak signals.

The DXE TWIG BCFIL is equipped with BNC female connectors for quick, inline installation in the field. Ideal for portable, field, and low power fixed station use, it provides an effortless way to reduce unwanted broadcast interference without adding complexity to your station setup. Power is rated at a maximum of 20W PEP.

For more QRP gear, enter “QRP” at DXEngineering.com. You’ll find Par EndFedz® QRP End-Fed Half-Wave Antennas, Moonraker Whizz Whip and Whizz Loops, QRP reference books, transceivers like Yaesu’s FTX-1 Series, and much more.

The post New DX Engineering Gear for QRP Portable Ops: Antenna Feedpoint Kit, Baluns, UNUN & Filters appeared first on OnAllBands.

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For today’s OnAllBands post, we turn our attention to the excellent work of the youth-oriented S21WD DXpedition team. They made more than 73,000 SSB, CW, RTTY, FT8, and QO-100 Satellite QSOs during 12 days of activity from Char Kukri Mukri in the Bay of Bengal.

Despite technical and environmental challenges, the S21WD Next Generation DX Club exceeded its goal of 70,000 QSOs during the venture in late March. Here is a list of S21WD team members and their ages:

• Philipp, DK6SP, 28, lead
• Sven, DJ4MX, 23, co-lead
• Jamie, M0SDV, 25
• Leon, DL3ON, 21
• Anup, S21TV, 46, local logistics
• Apon, S21ABO, 23, local logistics

From the S21WD website:

“The team had the privilege to operate from Char Kukri Mukri, located in the very south of Bangladesh. Reaching this remote location required extensive logistics, including approximately 18 hours of travel one way within the country, using a combination of speedboat, tuk-tuk, cargo tricycle, ferry, and moped.

“A special thank you goes to Apon S21ABO and Anup S21TV for their outstanding involvement and commitment throughout the project. Their local support was essential for both preparation and execution.”

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One of around 700 islands in Bangladesh, 9.7-square-mile Char Kukri Mukri is home to the Char Kukri Mukri Wildlife Sanctuary. Its mangrove ecosystem supports more than 380 species of plants as well as a number of mammals, including the fishing cat and small-clawed otter.

Wondering what a tuk-tuk is? So were we. Also known as an auto-rickshaw, a tuk-tuk is a three-wheeled motorized vehicle mostly used as a taxi for short-distance transport in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Its name derives from the sound of its two-stroke engine.

DX Engineering Helps Make It Happen

A proud supporter of youth-focused ham radio activities, DX Engineering provided a range of equipment used on Char Kukri Mukri, including:

• Icom IC-7300 HF Plus 50 MHz Transceivers

• Samlex 1235M Desktop Switching Power Supplies

• Icom IC-T10 VHF/UHF FM Handheld Transceivers

• Yaesu Data Interface Cables

The team also employed Yaesu FTDX10 Transceivers and ACOM 1200S and 500S amplifiers during the activation.

Watch Tim Duffy, K3LR, DX Engineering CEO, interview members of the S21WD DXpedition team in the video below. Topics include their troubles with RFI, thankfully resolved issues with food poisoning, and what’s next for the talented Next Generation DX Club.

For a look at Bangladesh QSL cards collected by DX Engineering’s team of active operators over the years, click here.

The post Wrap-Up of the S21WD Next Generation DXpedition from Bangladesh (Video) appeared first on OnAllBands.