Network radio

Quite by accident I found a photo this morning of my network radio. This is basically an Android phone with a PTT. 

It can access things like EchoLink that uses the internet as the backbone. I also used mine to access DMR. 

Mine has not been used for some time.

They need no antennas just an internet connection. I did not get excited by mine.  Maybe when conditions take a dive?

6m QRP FT8 (Saturday)

My 6W FT8 was turned on at breakfast time.

UPDATE 0837z:  10 spots in 3 countries so far.

UPDATE 1518z: 27 stations have spotted me. See map.

Swifts return - NOT amateur radio

 When swifts (birds) return from Africa is an important moment for me. It is a sign that something that has gone on for millions of years despite wars and invasions still exists. It is a symbol that everything is still alright. 

There are fewer nest sites but they still fly thousands of miles to breed here stopping just a few months. I saw a couple a few nights ago and one yesterday. They are back. 

Sunspots - Saturday May 10th

 Solar flux is 136 and the SSN 77. A=15 and K=4.

10m QRP WSPR (Friday)

 My 500mW beacon was turned  on at 1311z .

Slapton Sands - NOT amateur radio

 

This is a long sandbank with a road on it dividing the freshwater Slapton Ley in Devon from the sea. In the next 50 years I expect the road to be moved to the land side of the Ley. This is a massive task.

In WW2 it was used as a practice area for the D-day landings in France. 

6m QRP FT8 (Friday)

My IC-705 at 6W was turned on at 1311z . So far just English spots.

Sunspots - Friday May 9th

 Solar flux is 149 and the SSN 84. A=12 and K=2.

6m QRP FT8 (Thursday)

 Unlike yesterday, 8m has been very quiet, so I have QSYed to 6m FT8 with 6W from the IC-705. Just English 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 stations so far.

Behind closed doors- NOT amateur radio

 For Catholics around the world, the conclave of cardinals is a serious business of electing the pope. 

This is a very ancient and secretive thing done behind locked doors . 

This humorous photo was sent to me by G1KQH. I am sure this doesn’t happen but it’s always good to laugh 😆.