Why are the Repeaters so Quiet?

by | May 8, 2019 | Amateur Radio

This is a common question asked by hams, new and experienced alike: where is everybody. When you turn on the local 2 meter repeater, more often than not it’s nothing but crickets. I’m sure you can relay the stories about how the repeaters would be active 24/7- there...

Icom IC-2800H Retro Radio Review

by | Jan 18, 2019 | Reviews

If you were starting out in ham radio in the late 90’s or early 2000’s you’d remember this radio. The Icom IC-2800H was the pinnacle of the Icom line when it was introduced in 1999. This dual band FM mobile transceiver was quite innovative for its time. Although It’s...

Ailunce HD1 DMR Dual Band Handheld Radio Review

by | Oct 19, 2018 | Reviews

In previous videos we looked at the Retevis RT82 and the RT3S DMR handheld radios. Both are great handhelds serving particular price points and market niches. But the Ailunce HD1 is a little different. As the flagship of the Retevis line, the HD1is much less a...

Maidenhead Grid Square Locator System

by | May 31, 2017 | Ham Radio Q and A

You’ve seen these printed on QSO cards, but what do they mean. I’m talking about grid squares, a unique method of geolocation that is popular with HF digital and VHF & UHF operators. When I say unique, I mean the grid square system has the ability to convey your...