The Technician exam has 35 questions drawn from a 409-question pool, one per group, and 26 correct passes. See what each topic adds and where to practise.
Find local repeaters with CHIRP's RepeaterBook query or a RepeaterBook export, paste them into your radio's image, and check duplex, offset and CTCSS tone.
FT8 decodes but no replies? Fix it in WSJT-X 3.0.2: check the Tx audio device, drive level, split, clock, Tx frequency and period, then check PSK Reporter.
Complete guide to RF transmission lines for ham radio. Covers coax, ladder line, twin-lead, open wire, when to use each type, and the physics of impedance transformation.
A first POTA activation checklist from the current rules: pick a park, stay inside the boundary, spot yourself, make 10 QSOs in one UTC day and upload ADIF.
Understanding VARA HF and VARA FM digital modes. Covers how VARA works, performance vs other modes, Winlink integration, setup requirements, speed expectations, and why VARA dominates emergency digital comms.
49:1 or 64:1 EFHW transformer? The turns-ratio math (7:1, 8:1), FT240-43 vs FT140-43 cores, winding steps, bench tests and how to read your wire's impedance.
How the Technician question pool works: 409 questions in 10 subelements, one per group on a 35-question exam, 26 to pass, IDs like T5A05, 2026-2030 dates.
A ham radio exam study plan: what each element tests, a topic order for the Technician pool, how to use practice exams, and when you are ready to book.
How varactor-tuned antennas work for ham radio. Covers varactor diode theory, practical circuits, building a voltage-tuned antenna, advantages and limitations of electronic tuning.
IC-7300 or FT-710 AESS? Who should buy which, a side-by-side spec table, the differences you notice on the air, and a verdict for each type of HF operator.
Program your radio with CHIRP: install the current build, pick the right cable, download first, save a backup image, edit and upload, with common mistakes.
Guide to VHF contesting for ham radio. Covers January VHF and June VHF contests, equipment needed, rover operations, grid squares, and strategies for scoring.
Complete guide to Winlink for ham radio operators. Covers setup, connection methods (HF, VHF, telnet), sending email over radio, practical emergency use, and gateway operations.
Practical guide to building wire antennas that last. Covers wire types, insulators, connections, weatherproofing, support methods, and maintenance for long-term outdoor installations.
Complete guide to using the NanoVNA for ham radio antenna analysis. SWR measurement, Smith chart interpretation, cable testing, filter analysis, and calibration tips.
Compare the top CW training apps and methods for 2026. Koch method, Farnsworth timing, LCWO, MorseBandit, and more. Find what actually works for learning Morse.
Curated list of the best ham radio YouTube channels and podcasts in 2026. Content creators covering DX, homebrew, portable operating, contesting, and ham radio education.
