What is a serial port interface?
In simple terms, a serial port interface translates signals from a computer serial port to be used to place a transceiver into transmit or send CW (morse code) characters.
Category: Technical
Geomagnetic Indices and Conditions
Here you can find a laymans guide to the various geomagnetic conditions which affect radio propagation.
This article was originally written by Paul Harden, NA5N.
Shack Computers
Main Computer
Like almost every other radio ham, I use a computer for log keeping, digital modes and other tasks. For the majority of computing processes in the shack I employ the use of a home built Windows PC. The hardware was originally based around an ECS GF8100vm-m5 motherboard with 4GB RAM and a 500GB hard drive.
This machine started showing a problem with one of the SATA channels. At very infrequent random periods data would get corrupted – not good. Therefore, I replaced the motherboard before I lost any crucial data. An Asus M5A78L-M is now installed as the replacement for the ECS motherboard.
Powerpole Connectors
Anderson PowerPole connectors have a unique genderless design, meaning there is no male to female requirement. Therefore, when assembled in pairs this design makes it impossible to insert them the wrong way round. The design also allows any pair to mate with any other pair.
PowerPole connectors are available in different current ratings and colours. The most common connectors used in amateur radio are the red and black connectors with a current rating of 35 Amps.
How To – Mobile Radio Installation
Some careful considerations are required to install a mobile transceiver into a vehicle. Below is a list of a few things you should think about before simply throwing the radio into the vehicle.
Getting power to the radio
Possibly the most important consideration is the power source. A quick glance around inside the car and there is the most convenient power source.
The APRS system
Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a digital system that uses radio to send small packets of data to transmit information and messages over the amateur radio network.
The most common use for these small packets of data is to report the GPS co-ordinates and information which can then be decoded and mapped to show the position of the transmitting station.