11 Sept 2025

Buying a new rig

When we buy a new transceiver, we often go through many subconscious stages. This video might help you. 

I don't buy new rigs that often, but it is worth asking why you need it and what bands is it going to be used on, what modes and how. 

Some bands and features maybe a complete waste of money.



Should I carry on with 10m WSPR?

The main reason I carry on with 10m WSPR is because I can use my stand-alone beacon and the PC is unnecessary. The 10m antenna is also free when I go on 6m FT8.

Most times I get a few spots from V51RS, many from the Canary Is, and some from continental Europe. Really, I learn little. 

My inclination is  to QSY to 10m FT8, alternating with 6m FT8 on different days. Of course when on 6m FT8 I can also put the 500mW 10m WSPR beacon on.

Thunderstorm risks

At the moment the risk looks low, although I shall keep an eye on the thunderstorm map  in case things chance. At the moment, the risks are far away.

See https://www.lightningmaps.org/

10m 500mW WSPR (Thursday)

My beacon has been on since about 0830z.

UPDATE 1347z:  4 stations spotting me with the furthest V51RS (8481km).

6m 5W FT8 (Thursday)

My  gear has been on since about 0830z.  

UPDATE 0900z:  8 spots so far. One station in Poland with the rest in England.

Sunspots - Thursday September 11th

Solar flux is 119 and the SSN 94. A=13 and K=2.

10 Sept 2025

More Anglesey Abbey

 This was Anglesey Abbey near Cambridge yesterday.


Lightning threat

 As they threatened lightning today I avoided going on the air until this evening.

Sunspots - Wednesday September 10th

 Solar flux is 121 and the SSN 99. A=18 and K=4.

9 Sept 2025

10m 500mW WSPR TX (Tuesday)

My beacon has been on since 1210z.

UPDATE  1325z:  Spotted by 4 stations including 2 in the Canary Is.  F2?