My MF QRP WSPR (10mW ERP from the earth-electrode antenna) was turned on at about 2020z. So far, 2 stations spotting me. This my first time on 630m this year.
UPDATE 2050z: Now spotted by 3 stations with the furthermost EI0CF (602km).
UPDATE 2137z: Now spotted by 4 stations with the furtnermost GM0UDL (659km)
Yesterday, I posted a circuit that appeared on Rick's KE3IJ's website back in 2012. This website seems to be no longer there. Does anybody have any information please?
My 2.5W FT8 gear was turned on at about 1000z. No spots yet.
UPDATE 1515z: Although I have been on 8m FT8 all day, no spots on RX or TX. This could just be holiday season, or a slack time of year with fewer F2 and Es openings. Also, most people have worked all the stations available. We need more countries and experimenters on 8m.
To all readers of this blog, may I wish you a very happy new year. Ours is a very diverse hobby, that may be enjoyed in all sorts of ways. Whatever your "thing" is, I wish you every success.
Early every month, my favourite site for solar data is updated. It is worth checking to see how things are progressing.
My QRPP 500uW beacon has been on since 1000z. No spots yet.
UPDATE 1436z: Yet again my 500uW 10m WSPR has been spotted in the Canary Islands.
Like many, I like the idea of getting something for nothing.
This circuit was on the website of KE3IJ some years ago. I think the website is no longer there.
The same idea might even work with a microwatt beacon?
As 2023 draws to a close, many make resolutions for the new year ahead, as well a going on diets to try to loose some of the weight gained over Christmas!
The only thing that is certain is 2024 will have some surprises! I often try some resolutions but these usually fade away as the year progresses.
In many ways, the world has become more uncertain looking ahead. There are wars in Ukraine, Gaza for a start and growing tension over Taiwan. The USA seems to be losing its grip as a powerful world player and, of course, 2024 is likely to be an election year in the USA between two old men.
All I wish is that everyone can live in peace with each other and is able to be kind and happy.
My 500uW WSPR TX beacon was turned on at about 1012z. No spots .
UPDATE 1535z: Spotted in the Canary Islands again.
My 8m QRP 2.5W to the dipole was turned on about 1013z.
Via the QSL bureau I (unexpectedly) received QSLs from Slovenia and Croatia for 8m FT8. I shall QSL back direct .... although I shall have to make some cards first!
UPDATE 1335z: No spots today on RX or TX.
Solar flux is 140 and the SSN 48. A=4 and K=1.
With the SSN at 48 I wonder if this is just a "blip" or the start of a long decline?
In the past "appliance operators" keen on working new DXCC entities have been too keen to abandon the higher HF bands. I hope with FT8 they will not be too hasty.
Often bands are open, but there are too few people on to enjoy them! Just listen on 27 MHz CB. My plan is to run 5W FT8 on several higher HF bands as an experiment as long as I am able. This will be a very good use of my tiny QDX transceiver.
There is much speculation that the now old FT817/818 Yaesu had been discontinued about a possible successor. When it was first introduced it had no competition. These days there are many competitors, so Yaesu may decide not to bother.
As a Yaesu fan I would consider a new Yaesu portable at the right price and with the right features. Sorry, but in recent years I think Yaesu has been reactive rather than proactive. They will have a tough time unless there are some "killer" applications.
Just a local spotting is me today so far.
My 500uW WSPR is on , but no spots today.
UPDATE 1130z: Already a spot of my 500uW in the Canary Is..
For the last few nights it’s been clear, so we had a frost last night. It went after a few hours. Later in the day it clouded over.
