The oars of this rowing boat narrowly missed this swan.
23 Apr 2024
Thank you - NOT amateur radio
On my blog is a link to buy me a virtual cup of coffee. This is entirely voluntary.
However, very many thanks to those that have donated. Any money generated will go towards future projects/research.
My wish is that you all have as much fun as I have had on your journey through the hobby. I have particularly enjoyed finding out new things and experimentation.
Two things : The journey is more important than the destination (learn from your mistakes) and you can have lots of fun without spending much.
Pixie transceivers
I have built versions for 80m amd 40m and had QSOs with each. With something this simple there are compromises. The RX, in some cases, lacks selectivity and can be overloaded by strong broadcast stations. Nonetheless they do work and they are hard to beat for the price.
The cheapest I have seen is £1.35, which is less than the price of just 1 part if bought in the UK!
See https://sites.google.com/view/g3xbm4/home/hf-mf-and-lf/homebrew/8040m-pixie-and-micro80-transceivers .
22 Apr 2024
How do they do it?
Both Ali-Express and the original manufacturer, I presume, make a profit!
I just cannot see how they do it. It is made in the Far East, shipped by air across the planet and easily cloned I am told.
21 Apr 2024
8m ISM WSPR (Sunday)
Shortly, I shall be turning on my 10mW ERP 8m WSPR under ISM rules on 40.680MHz USB dial.
This means my QRPP WSPR will be about 1450Hz higher. I am not really expecting any spots as I have yet to sort out my antenna.
I shall ask locals to check I am getting out.
UPDATE 1436z: No spots.