10 Post-Apocalyptic Foods

*Canned or dried beans-Shelf-life: 30+ years
Kidney, pinto, black, or Lima — take your pick. Beans are the ultimate survival food because they're high in protein, easy to store, and come in many different varieties.
When combined with rice (another survival food) beans form a complete protein. That means the meal contains all of the nine essential amino acids to support your body. 

*Hard liquor-Shelf-life: Indefinite
In a time of crisis, alcohol is a must-have.
Unopened bottles of hard liquor like vodka, whiskey, and rum don't really go bad, though they may lose some of their "kick" as the years pass. Be careful about leaving them out in the sun though.
This is one of the more expensive items to have in your survival cupboard, but it has many practical uses besides drinking, like cleaning wounds. Having it available for a post-apocalyptic party doesn't hurt either.

*Honey- Shelf-life: Indefinite
Honey may crystallize over time, resulting in a heap of thick, sugary gunk at the bottom of containers, but in terms of safety, the golden liquid is practically immortal.
Honey can last for centuries if stored in a sealed jar, according to the National Honey Board.
Though it doesn't pack the same nutritional value (in terms of vitamins and minerals) as other foods, honey can add extra flavor to food, provide simple sugars, and can also be used to treat wounds and burns.
   Honey helps wounds in several ways. Its thickness provides a protective barrier. The hydrogen peroxide it contains is released slowly, killing germs in the wound. Some asyetunknown ingredients reduce inflammation, while others, perhaps amino acids and vitamin C, speed the growth of healthy tissue. Honey even makes wounds smell better, possibly because when bacteria in wounds eat honeys sugars, they give off sweetersmelling gases.

*Meals, Ready to Eat- Shelf-life: 5+ years
Commonly known as MREs, these pre-packaged meals have been sustaining American troops on the battlefield since 1981. Each foil pouch, which can be easily carried, prepared, and eaten, contains about 1,200 calories.
It's not just standard meat and potato dishes either. There are a wide range of entrees to choose from, including beef brisket, lemon pepper tuna, and vegetable lasagna for plant-eating preppers.
Depending on storing conditions, an MRE bag can stay fresh for up to five years. If you're less concerned about flavor, the pocket-size army grub can hold up for more than a decade. 

*Peanut Butter-Shelf-life: 2-5 years
Creamy, chunky, or organic, peanut butter is a cupboard mainstay for many Americans. Kept in low humidity the thick spread will last for quite some time. A high amount of Vitamin E prevents peanut butter from spoiling.
This is the one situation where you'll want to stay away from the all-natural stuff, which requires refrigeration because it does not contain preservatives.

*Pemmican-Shelf-life: Indefinite
Invented by Native Americans, pemmican was traditionally made from the lean meat of large game like buffalo, elk, or deer. The meat was dried over an open fire, mixed with fat, and pressed into little cakes. Sometimes berries were tossed in for extra flavor.
Pemmican makes the perfect survival treat because they're easy to make (there are only three basic ingredients), it's a good source of energy and protein, and it does not have to be refrigerated, cooked or heated.

Today, US Wellness Meats (http://www.grasslandbeef.com/StoreFront.bok) in Missouri makes packaged beef pemmican snack sticks and bars, which they say last up to two years in the freezer. 
Here's a recipe for homemade pemmican — for when your post-apocalyptic-self butchers an elk — which can supposedly last forever. 

Pemmican consists of lean, dried meat (usually beef nowadays, but bison, deer, and elk were common then) which is crushed to a powder and mixed with an equal amount of hot, rendered fat (usually beef tallow). Sometimes crushed, dried berries are added as well. A man could subsist entirely on pemmican, drawing on the fat for energy and the protein for strength (and glucose, when needed). The Inuit, Stefansson noted, spent weeks away from camp with nothing but pemmican to eat and snow to drink to no ill effect. Stefansson, a Canadian of Icelandic origin, often accompanied them on these treks and also lived off of pemmican quite happily, so its sustaining powers weren’t due to some specific genetic adaptation unique to the Inuit. In fact, when Stefansson returned home, he and colleague adopted a meat-only diet for a year, interested in its long-term effects. A controlled examination of their experience confirmed that both men remained healthy throughout.
So, pemmican has a reputation as a sort of superfood. While I’m usually leery of such claims, the fact that the stuff is essentially pure fat and protein (plus Stefansson’s accounts) made me think that maybe there was something to it. I set out to make my own batch.
I got about a pound and a half of lean, grass-fed shoulder roast, let it firm up in the freezer, then sliced it thin. After adding liberal amounts of salt and pepper, I set the oven to the lowest possible temperature (around 150 degrees) and laid out the strips of meat directly onto the rack. I cracked the oven door to prevent moisture buildup. At this point, I also put a handful of frozen wild blueberries on a small oven pan to dry out with the meat.

I let the meat dry out for about fifteen hours, or until it was crispy jerky that broke apart easily. I tossed the jerky in the food processor until it was powder. After the meat, in went the blueberries to process. Again, you want a powder.

Now I was ready to render some fat. I used grass-fed bison kidney fat, which was already diced into tiny pieces. I put about half a pound of that into a cast iron pan and cooked it slowly over super-low heat.

I made sure to stir the fat as it rendered out, and watched closely so that it wouldn’t burn. When the fat stops bubbling, the rendering is done.

Use a strainer to avoid all the crispy bits; you just want the pure, liquid fat.

Mix the meat and berry powder together, then slowly add the hot liquid fat. Pour just enough so that the fat soaks into the powder.

I think I poured too much too quickly, so I added a bit of almond meal to firm it up. Let it firm up, then cut it into squares or roll it into a ball. I went with a ball.

Pemmican will keep almost forever. Pure, dried protein and rendered (mostly saturated) fat are highly stable, so I wouldn’t worry about it going rancid. If it does, you’ll know.
Now, my pemmican wasn’t exactly delicious. In fact, it tasted a bit like bland dog food. Maybe I’ll jazz it up next time with some more salt and spices, but I don’t think pemmican is meant to be eaten for pleasure. This is utilitarian food, perfect for long treks through the wilderness. It gets the job done, and I’ll probably make it again. It definitely doesn’t taste bad; in fact, the taste grows on you after awhile.
My dog certainly enjoyed cleaning up the bowl.

*Powdered milk-Shelf life: Indefinite
Powdered milk is a mainstay of fallout shelters and food aid supplies when fresh milk isn't available. The dried stuff many not be very appealing, but it pretty much lasts forever and is useful for cooking and baking.
It's also easy to tell if the product has gone bad. If your powdered milk turns yellow, it's time to toss it.

*Ramen noodles-Shelf-life: 10+ years
The Japanese noodle is filling, easy to prepare, and light-weight. Some college kids even live on these squiggly pastas for years.
It makes sense: The dried bricks come with different-flavored packets and can be purchased for as little as 16 cents a pack. Mixed with some dehydrated vegetables, the noodles can make a nice meal.

*Rice-Shelf-life: 25+ years
Rice has long been a main food source for more than half of the world population. The hearty grain will continue to keep humanity strong and well-fed in the event of a disaster. 
Rice is also dirt cheap, comes in many types, and is easy to prepare.

*Twinkie-Shelf-life: 30 years
We're hopeful you scooped up a good amount of Twinkie boxes after Hostess announced plans to shut down its baking operations back in November.
The iconic golden snack cake may not be the most health-conscious munchy to bulk stock — it's mostly fat and sugar — but we figure when times get tough, the tough turn to junk food.
Though Hostess contends that the little cake's shelf-life is closer to 25 days, a science teacher from Maine once told the Associated Press that he harbored a Twinkie in his classroom for 30 years and despite being a little stale, it was probably still good enough to eat.

MX-P50A- A HF Power Amplifier for QRP Transceivers

MX-P50A hf power amplifier for QRP transceivers. Can be used both as a base and mobile unit, Extremely Small Compact and light weight, Full integration with the FT-817 using the supplied interface cable.
The amplifier incorporates various protection circuits such as high VOLTAGE,front mounted LED display.
This amplifier can be successfully used with other QRP rigs such as the ICOM IC-703(and Elecraft KX3), though automatic band switching will not be available and the band must be manually selected via the front band select switch.
Specifications:
Frequency (Band) Range : 80m 40m 20m-17m 15m-10m
Operating Modes : SSB CW AM RTTY and FM-Reduced duty cycle
Rf input : 5W
Out power : 50/60W
Band mode : AUTO/Manual
Power requirement : 13.8V 8A,(Cable Color Polarity Ж RED “+” BLACK “-”)
Cooling method:passive air cooling
Antenna connector : SO-239 50Ω
Size : 15/13/5 (cm) D/W/H
Weight : 1.2KG
Package list:
1x MX-P50A
1x Power cord
1x for FT-817ND ACC control cable
Price: $140 USD

source
http://www.12got.com/product/10805156121/MX-P50A+FT-817+IC-703+HF+amplifier+KX3+shortwave+shortwave+power+amplifier+power+amplifier

100 Years of Amateur Radio

December 13, 2012 marks the centennial anniversary of perhaps the the most important event in amateur radio history in the USA. The Radio Law of 1912, passed in August 1912 became effective on December 13, 1912. Radio schools at naval yards and army posts were crowded with amateurs of all levels of experience to get a license from the Department of Commerce.

Irving Vermilya, 1HAA, later W1ZE, became the first licensed amateur in the USA being issued Certificate of Skill #1 and is known for all time as Amateur Number One. A number of other amateurs followed suit and rather than seeing amateur radio die out as the Law's authors obviously intended, amateur radio began to flourish with a combination of adopting new technology (Edwin H. Armstrong invented the regenerative receiver in September 1912) for reception and later transmitting (CW emissions became feasible after the World War) along with organizing message relay routes. Amateurs led the way finding that the wavelengths shorter than 200 meters were not useless through the new technologies and, by the early 1920s, a declining solar cycle that enabled communications not only for transcontinental paths, but intercontinental as well.

A century later we enjoy this hobby of amateur radio precisely due to the unintended consequence of a law designed to kill amateur radio that did not state its intention exactly and instead allowed it to live and thrive for 15 years! In 1927 more comprehensive radio legislation was enacted and in 1934 the Communications Act created the FCC that we know today.

For more information visit the United States Early Radio History site by Thomas H. White. Thomas' site is not limited to amateur radio, however, and is quite comprehensive on a lot of radio topics. The ARRL publication, 200 Meters and Down by Clinton B. Desoto documents much of the early amateur radio history. An article by David Newkirk, ex WJ1Z, now W9VES, The Coming of The Law (available to ARRL members), published in the November 1993 issue of QST also documents the forces behind the enactment of the Radio Law of 1912 and how radio amateurs responded to it. The December 2012 issue of CQ has The Radio Act of 1912: A Century of Radio Regulation and Licensing by Rich Moseson, W2VU, providing another perspective on this red letter day. Certainly, more articles on this topic have been published over the years and make for good reading.

As of December 13, 2012 amateur radio will officially be 100 years old complete with examinations and licenses. Happy anniversary!

http://forums.qrz.com/showthread.php?371663-A-century-of-amateur-radio-licensing-December-13-2012&highlight=1912

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SWPC Product Announcement

New Experimental Products Available:

Two new, experimental forecast products are now available, the 3-Day Forecast and the Forecast Discussion, both produced twice daily at 0030 and 1230 UTC.  The 3-Day Forecast is a concise, one-page summary using NOAA Space Weather Scale terminology and the Forecast Discussion provides detailed information covering observations and forecast rationale tailored for the user requiring in-depth, scientific information.
 
These products are available in the Data and Products section of the website at http://www.swpc.noaa.gov/ftpdir/latest/three_day_forecast.txt and http://www.swpc.noaa.gov/ftpdir/latest/forecast_discussion.txt, respectively.  Users can also subscribe to these products in the Product Subscription Service under the Forecasts and Summaries product category.
  
Feedback on these products is welcomed through January 11th.  Please submit feedback to: www.nws.noaa.gov/survey/nws-survey.php?code=3DSWF (3-Day Forecast) and www.nws.noaa.gov/survey/nws-survey.php?code=SWFD (Forecast Discussion). 

These two products will supplement the existing product suite and no current products will be discontinued at this time.

Quality Knives for your Go Kit or Collection

Here’s an off topic post~
My very good friend of mine is selling his knife collection. He has everything from pocket knives to hunting knives. He is also selling several custom made knives that he has acquired over the years.
Check of his blog, facebook and E-Bay pages for a great deal.
Christmas is around the corner and these items will make for great stocking stuffers~

Superstorm Sandy: How You Can Help

This was e-mailed to me~ 

Volunteers in New Jersey are being coordinated through an emergency response hotline, 1-800-JERSEY-7 (1-800-537-7397). Alternate numbers, for when the hotline isn’t staffed, include 609-775-5236 and 908-303-0471 or emails can be sent to Rowena.Madden@sos.state.nj.us.
The New York City agency NYC Service is coordinating volunteers for various relief projects in New York City. Go to its Facebook page  or email nycservice@cityhall.nyc.gov with your name and email address.
The American Red Cross is collecting funds and coordinating blood donations. The organization sheltered more than 3,000 people across nine states during the worst of the storm. You can donate $10 by phone by texting the word REDCROSS to 90999.
Sandy has caused the cancellation of about 300 American Red Cross blood drives.
“Patients will still need blood despite the weather,” said Dr. Richard Benjamin, chief medical officer of the Red Cross, in a statement.
To schedule a blood donation at a center near you or for more information about giving blood or platelets, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) takes donations to rescue and shelter animals affected by the storm. Nearly 300 animals are staying with their owners in shelters in the New York City area, the agency said.
The ASPCA is also setting up a distribution center in Syracuse, New York with 4,000 sheltering units, which contain pet food, crates, food bowls, toys, and anything else an animal may need.
The Salvation Army: You can donate $10 to the Salvation Army by texting “STORM” to 80888. If you are already volunteer-certified, you can sign up to help out with disaster relief.
AmeriCares: You can donate to AmeriCares’ relief fund to help the organization, which is distributing supplies to 130 clinics in the 13 states affected by Sandy.
To follow news from some of the most affected areas and see how local residents are faring, here are links to Patch sites:
Greenwich Patch (CT)
Hoboken Patch
Ocean City Patch 
Point Pleasant Patch

Emergency Information for Sandy Victims

Hurricane Sandy Emergency Information

What to do after a hurricane (ready.gov)

Google crisis response:

Map with power outages, shelters, weather and more

State info:

CT

·

DE

·

MA

·

MD

·

ME

·

NC

·

NH

·

NJ

·

NY

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PA

·

RI

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VA

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VT

NYC info:

nyc.gov

MTA map

Notify NYC alerts

Transit

Survival Preparedness

Who would have thought that some of the most populated areas in the U.S. would be going 5 days + without electricity, water, food & other necessities.
Many of you have laughed at me for storing food and survival gear, even some of my East Coast friends.
I not laughing at them and I do feel bad for them. It saddens me to see so many in dire straits (state of extreme distress.)
I pray several times a day for all those effected in this disaster.
It’s never too late to plan for a disaster.
Hurricane Sandy developed from a tropical wave in the western Caribbean Sea on October 22.
officials advised residents to prepare and or evacuate as early as October 24, 2012.
Here we are, it's November 2, 2012 and all hell is starting to break loose on the East Coast.

Some news links

Drivers Waiting 6 Hours For Gas in NYC...
Tempers Rise in Wake of Storm...
'Finding bodies left and right'...
'They forgot about us'...
CHUCK SCHUMER CONFRONTED: 'We Are Gonna Die!'
CUOMO: 'No reason to panic'...
Utility workers pelted with eggs...
Misery...
Mile-long lines, price hits $6...
Residents Furious RED CROSS Offering Cookies & Hot Chocolate, Not Blankets Or Clothes...
Two massive generators power NY media, not masses...
Staten Islanders Plead for Help: 'We Need Food'...
'Please don't leave us'...
VIDEO: Stranded New Yorkers Defecating in Apartment Buildings...
DIRE...

You should have supplies to last you a minimum of 4 weeks.
Here is a small list~
-----------------------------
    Personal locator beacon (PLB)
    Cell Phone
    Handgun
    Shotgun
    Riffle
    Ammo
    B.B. / Pellet Gun
    Pepper or Bear Spray
    Slingshot
    Shortwave Radio
    AM / Weather Radio
    Ham Radio
    C.B. Radio
    Survival Laptop
    Water Bottles
    Lantern
    Flashlights
    L.E.D. HeadLamps
    Batteries
    Solar Charger
    Ultimate Survival Kit
    MultiTool
    Can Opener
    Pocket Knife
    Knife (we recommend the SOG Knives – The Seal Pup Elite Knife)
    Cable Ties
    Portable Camping Stove
    Propane
    Waterproof Matches
    Emergency Candles
    Lighter
    Fire steel
    Magnesium Fire Starter
    Tinder (for fire starting)
    Plastic Freezer Bags
    Plastic Trash Bags
    Eating and Cooking Utensils
    Emergency Food or MRE’S
    Energy Bars
    Salt
    Medications
    Multi-Vitamins
    Sunglasses
    Sunscreen
    First Aid Kit
    Personal Hygiene
    Dental floss
    Rubbing Alcohol
    Binoculars
    Whistle
    Compass
    Flares
    Signal Mirror
    GPS Device
    4 Season Tent
    Plastic painters tarp
    Bivy sack
    Hiking Backpack
    Hiking Tarp
    Hiking Hammock
    Sleeping Bag  (Extreme Cold)
    Space blanket
    Mylar blanket
    Water Storage
    Water-purification tablets
    Water Filter
    Canteens
    Sewing Kit
    Maps
    Duct Tape
    Plastic Tubing
    Tool Kit
    Scissors
    Crowbar
    Machete
    Camp Axe
    Shovel
    Saw
    Snare Wire
    Emergency Credit Card
    Personal Identification Papers
    Family Photos (moral Booster)
    Dust Mask
    Good Hiking Boots
    Bandanas
    Gloves
    Extra Socks
    Gloves
    Rain suit or  poncho,
    Wide Brim Hat
    Chemical hand warmer packets
    Chlorine Bleach
    550 Paracord
    Fishing Pole
    Fishing line
    Bible
    Playing Cards
    Fire Extinguisher
    Jumper Cables
    Oil (for your vehicle, can also be used to start a fire or create smoke for a signal fire)
    Fuel Cans for/ with gasoline.  50 gallons
    Generator
    Tire Repair Kit
    Hard Candy ( can give you a boost of energy and a boost to your moral)
    Money ( Putting a $50 and a $100 in you kit might come in useful some day)
    Pet Supplies (if needed)

Tropical Storm SANDY

Tropical Storm SANDY
Thursday, October 25, 2012 17:30:00 UTC

Government Forecasters Warn of 'Frankenstorm'...
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/hpcdiscussions.php?disc=pmdepd

TROP STORM WARNINGS: FLORIDA..
.http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/storm_graphics/AT18/refresh/AL1812W5_NL+gif/204249W5_NL_sm.gif

Computer Models...
http://icons.wunderground.com/data/images/at201218_ensmodel.gif

Threat for mid-Atlantic, Northeast from hurricane Sandy...
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capital-weather-gang/post/mega-storm-threat-growing-for-mid-atlantic-and-northeast-early-next-week-from-sandy/2012/10/24/0b7f1148-1e06-11e2-9cd5-b55c38388962_blog.html

BIG WINDS, BIG RAINS FOR NYC?


Extraordinary Circumstances Needed for Historic Storm...
http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/extradinary-circumstances-need/618156

Ultimate QRSS Transmitter Kit

The ultimate QRSS Transmitter Kit is produced by Steve G0XAR and Hans G0UPL in 30, 40 and 80m versions. The kit contains the PCB, LCD, programmed micro controller and all board-mounted components. Download the instruction manual using the link above. The PCB is quite compact and moderate care is required in the construction. A rich array of functionality is provided by the design; please read the instruction manual to understand the facilities provided. Builder modifications will be shown on this page as they are developed!

Note for WSPR users: the 30m kit has a 10.140MHz crystal which is suitable for either the QRSS sub-band or the WSPR frequency. Therefore on 30m the kit can be used as a standalone WSPR transmitter. On other bands you may need to supply a suitable crystal for the WSPR frequency on that band. Alternatively you could use this kit in the AF output mode, fed into a conventional SSB transmitter set to the frequency of your choice.

The kit supports the following modes:

• QRSS mode (plain on/off keyed slow CW)
• FSK/CW mode (frequency shift keyed slow CW)
• DFCW mode (dual frequency CW)
• WSPR mode (Weak Signal Propagation Reporter)
• Slow-Hellschreiber (frequency shifted slow-Hell)
• Full-speed Hellshreiber
• Half-speed (“DX”) Hellshreiber
• CW (plain CW)
• Customisable FSK patterns

Other features:

• 24-character LCD + two-button user interface
• User-programmable (callsign, message, speed, FSK, mode, etc.), settings stored in EEPROM
• GPS interface, for locking the frequency in slow-speed modes
• On-chip generation of WSPR encoded message (no PC required)
• WSPR maidenhead locator can be generated from GPS-derived latitude/longitude
• Selectable “frame” size, for stacked QRSS reception
• Plain CW callsign identifier at selectable interval
• Produces 150mW RF output, or AF output for driving an SSB transceiver
• Higher output power by additional PA transistor and/or higher PA supply voltage

 For more info; Click Here
http://www.hanssummers.com/qrsskitmm.html

The MST (Minimalist Sideband Transceiver)

The MST (Minimalist Sideband Transceiver) is an easy to build and fun to use single sideband QRP transceiver for the 40M or 80M amateur bands. The MST transceiver follows a minimalist design making it inexpensive and simple to build yet still delivering excellent performance and being a pleasure to operate.

The MST PCB contains a complete transceiver except for a VFO. You can add a VFO of your own, as long as it has the correct frequency range and drive level, but to obtain best results it should be used with the companion DDS VFO. The DDS VFO offers drift free performance and features a clear backlit LCD display, selectable frequency steps and programmable IF offset.
MST Features:
1.Complete SSB transceiver on a single PCB (just add a VFO).
2. Superhet receiver using a 4 pole 10MHz crystal filter.
3. 5W PEP minimum power output using a rugged power MOSFET output stage.
4. Unwanted sideband suppression is typically 40dB.
5. All spurious transmit outputs below -45dBc.
6. AF and microphone gain controls.
7. Easy to adjust and set up.
8. Front panel LED transmit power and modulation indicator.
9. Plenty of audio output to drive a loudspeaker.
10. High quality double sided PCB with ground-plane, solder mask and silk screen.
11. Simple and easy to build using all through hole components.
12. No complicated coil winding required. Uses inexpensive commercial coil assemblies for tuned circuits.

DDS VFO Features:
1. Stable frequency no more drift!
2. Simple to operate using a single rotary encoder control with press button switch.
3. Bright 16 character by 2 line LCD display. Can be used with non-backlight display to reduce current consumption.
4. Output frequency range of 1MHz to 10MHz.
5. Selectable 1KHz, 100Hz or 10Hz frequency steps.
6. Tuning lock control.
7. Displays power supply voltage.
8. Programmable IF frequency. Ensures the displayed frequency is the same as the transmitted frequency.
9. Programmable IF offsets: Minus, Plus, None.
10. Draws only 80mA at 13.8V DC (with LCD backlight).
11. Spurious outputs at least -45dB.
12. Typically 300mV pk-pk sine wave output.
13. High quality double sided PCB with ground plane, plated through holes, solder mask and silk screen.
14. Simple and easy to build using through hole components apart from one SMD chip. To assist constructors the PCB comes shipped with the SMD chip already installed.




Reviewing and testing the ozQRP.com MST400 40m SSB QRP transceiver kit. Link http://www.ozqrp.com/index.html

Airlink Express Digital Mode Software

Airlink Express is a user friendly digital mode software package for the Amateur Radio Operator. The software is compatible with Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows Vista, and Microsoft Windows 7. It offers PSK, MFSK and RTTY digital modes with logging and macro capabilities. If you have ever used the Digipan software you will be immediately familiar with Airlink Express.
With the release of Windows Vista and Windows 7, Microsoft introduced a new sound architecture. Airlink Express is developed to support this new sound architecture, yet it maintains complete backward compatibility with Windows XP. Airlink Express brings back the familiar volume slider interface you’ve become used to from older Windows versions.
The DSP engine used in Airlink Express is MMVari by Makoto Mori, JE3HHT. This engine is very flexible and decodes as well, if not better, than any other soundcard mode engine currently available. It is used by many other software products like Logger32 and the N1MM contest logger.
FEATURES
These are just some of the features available in Airlink Express:
Automatic Multi Channel Display with PSKReporter capability
Country, Continent, Distance and Bearing Information
PSK, QPSK, MFSK and RTTY
Radio Control (CAT)
Center Bandpass Tuning
True FSK Keying
Macros
Bandpass Filters
Logging with ADIF Import and Export
Replay Last 60, 30, or 15 Seconds
Error free sending and receiving text and binary files (using ARQ)

Airlink Home Page; Click here
http://www.airlinkexpress.org/index.html

Download version 2.5.2.732

KATSUMI EK-160 Electronic Keyer / Paddle

The EK160  Electronic Keyer / Paddle is a commercial grade electronic keyer with a precision dual paddle built in.

Terminals are provided for connecting a paddle and/or bug or straight key (to use the keyer as an oscillator and to buffer the keying of a transmitter via the relay).  The keyer itself will function in "bug" (semi-automatic) mode at the flip of the front panel switch.

Speed setting is done via a front-panel control which is calibrated in characters per minute (5cpm = 1wpm, approximately ).

The adjustable paddles are switch - reversable for left-handed operators, and the contact spacing is easily adjusted on the front panel.   Iambic keying features full dot and dash memories. The weighting ("code ratio" can be adjusted from 1:3 to about 1:4.  There's a built in monitor with volume control on the front panel and pitch control on the back,  and a jack for headphones or external speaker (8 Ohms, 300mW).

Built-in high-speed reed relay supports negative-keyed rigs  with up to 280VDC and 2A on the key line, or use JFET keying for transistor-keyed +V rigs and save wear and tear on the relay..

Specifications:
Speed range: 6-50wp,
Keying circuit:  reed relay or JFET
Power Source:  110VAC  o r 220VAC
Size/Weight:  9x4x2.5in,  2 Lbs,  12 Oz.

for Link; Click Here
http://www.mtechnologies.com/katsumi/

Sky Sat Communications of Montenegro & InnovAntennas

Sky Sat Communications of Montenegro appoints InnovAntennas Exclusive Distributor for its Advanced Contest Solutions Product Line in the North American and United Kingdom Markets
Sky Sat Communications, founded by internationally renown amateur radio contester Ranko Boca, 4O3A, today announced the appointment of InnovAntennas as exclusive distributor of its Advanced Contest Solutions line of ultra high performance Filters, Switches and Automation & Control Devices that ‘no serious shack should be without’ for the North American and United Kingdom markets with immediate effect.
The Sky Sat 4O3A product line is the result of many years of contest winning experience and development. The pitfalls of under performing mainstream products have been overcome to provide high-performing products giving serious contesters––and DXers––trouble-free functionality to ensure the points––and new DXCCs––keep racking up! In two short years Sky Sat’s customer base has expanded to include many of the world’s leading contesters and contest stations including 4O3A, OH8X, ES5TV, PY5EG, S51A, WX3B, YT3M, DR1A, LZ9W, LX8I, K3WW, UA3AB, S52X, CR2X, II9P, et al.
Sky Sat’s CEO Ranko Boca, 4O3A said “I have been looking for the right partners to expand Sky Sat’s reach into North America and the United Kingdom for some time and was delighted to discover that InnovAntennas, with operations on both sides of the Atlantic, could cover both markets. InnovAntennas fully understand the needs of contesters and DXers, the amateur radio world’s most demanding customers, and are well suited to provide sales and support for our products.”
InnovAntennas is now stocking and supporting the Sky Sat 4O3A filter products and will be making available the balance of the product line during the second half of 2012. Available immediately are the High Power 5-pole and 3-pole Monoband Band Pass Filters (Series S & Series L) for the HF contest bands: 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m and 10m, and the High Power HF Triplexer/Combiner. Stations using Tribander antennas to cover 20m, 15m and 10m can use the High Power HF Triplexer/Combiner in combination with Series S filters to operate simultaneously with a high level of isolation on all three bands with multiple transceivers sharing the same antenna – perfect for serious contest efforts from home, Field Day and DXpeditions. All 4O3A filters, including the Triplexer/Combiner, are rated for full legal power at high duty cycle modes such as RTTY.
InnovAntennas America co-founder & executive chairman William Hein said “InnovAntennas strives to sell only the absolute best, no compromise antennas and accessories and have found a kindred spirit in Ranko, 4O3A. My new personal contest station in Colorado is being designed around 4O3A-designed products in the shack and of course our own InnovAntennas products in the air. We look forward to a long, productive relationship with Sky Sat and can’t wait to see what comes next out of Ranko’s lab!”
About Sky Sat Communications
Ranko Boca, 4O3A, founded Sky Sat Communications, a producer of digital and analog transmitters for commercial TV and FM broadcasters as well as custom telecom products for a global market, in 1990.
Unsatisfied with the performance and quality of performance products made for hams, Boca and Sky Sat launched a Ham Radio Department in 2010. Boca (ex-YU6AD, YT6AA, YT6A) married his decades of hands on contest experience with the latest technology to create unique, ultra-high performance products designed and manufactured without comprise for the amateur radio world’s most demanding users: contesters and DXers.
About InnovAntennas
Justin Johnson, G0KSC, launched InnovAntennas, Ltd. in 2011 after his antenna designing hobby led to a flood of requests to “please make one for me” from amateur radio operators who recognized that Johnson’s designs outperformed anything they could buy from a store. InnovAntennas America, Inc. was launched in January 2012 by William Hein, AA7XT and is based in Glade Park, Colorado. The company’s antennas and accessories are available directly via InnovAntennas.us (for North America), InnovAntennas.com (for the rest of the world) and via a worldwide dealer network.

More info here
http://www.4o3a.com/index.php/products

Heil USBQ Microphone Preamp

The Heil USBQ Microphone Preamp w/ USB Out brings professional quality, low noise microphone preamplification complete with two band shelving equalization, on-board headphone amplifier and D/A converter in a compact, portable package. Not just an adapter, but a true single channel mic preamp complete with balanced XLR input mic level, switchable phantom power, Bass and Treble controls and adjustable headphone output level. The Heil USBQ is ideal for professional recording, commercial broadcasts and communicating over the internet. No batteries, just plug into USB and enjoy.
Heil USBQ Microphone Preamp w/ USB Out Features

• Low noise pre amp with 16 bit up to 48 kHz sample rates.
• Frequency Response 20 Hz. – 20,000 kHz.
• Equalization + or – 12 dB Bass center 80 Hz, + or – 12 dB Treble center at 8 kHz
• +48 volt Phantom switch
• +40 dB adjustable microphone gain
• Headphone amplifier 60 mW into 32 ohms
• 1.2 kHz. Input Impedance
• 4 3/4″ long, 1″ diameter anodized aluminum case
• Comes to you with USB cable

Price: $79.95 USD
Link

73

"The best number is 73. Why? 73 is the 21st prime number. Its mirror (37) is the 12th and its mirror (21) is the product of multiplying, 7 and 3. In binary, 73 is a palindrome, 1001001 which backwards is 1001001." Amateur Radio Operators often use the number 73 as an abbreviation for "best regards", typically when ending a QSO (a conversation with another Amateur Radio Operator).

YAESU HF/VHF/UHF Transceiver FT-898A

Just Photo published. No more information yet. Stay tuned.
I only received this picture in an e-mail~No info yet.
Looks cool to me though~

Mountain Man of Amateur Radio.

West Michigan's Amateur Radio Mountain Man
KD8BIG- Mark Strait

SimpleSat Look Down from W9KE

SimpleSat

Tom, W9KE has written a program which looks for satellite passes where communications between two different grid locations is possible.

Tom invites interested testers to download the program from http://www.tomdoyle.org/simplesat/simplesat.html.

It is a zip file. Un-Zip the files into a folder and run the SimpleSat.exe file.

No install is required and the three files it will create are stored in the same folder as the SimpleSat.exe program. It does nothing to the registry. It downloads sat data from the net so use a computer connected to the net when you run the program.

Contact Tom directly at tomdoyle1948@gmail.com with any questions or comments

SimpleSat Look Down’ is a satellite tracking program designed for ease of use and is particularly well suited for demonstrations, educational environments and people new to the satellite hobby.

This program requires .Net 4 so you will have to install it if you do not have it installed already. Not sure ? Try running the program – if it runs you have it – if you do not have it you will see a message box telling you that you do not have it. Unlike most ham radio programs this program uses most all of the new bells and whistles of .Net 4 and WPF. Unfortunately this means that it may not run on a few computers even thought most all the other ham programs run just fine.

http://www.microsoft.com/net/download

The program runs well on Windows 8, Windows 7, Vista or XP. How well the program runs depends on a couple of things: Your computer speed – if you have an old computer that does not run very well this program will probably not run well. Your internet connection – if you have a poor internet connection the Tracking Map scroll will not be very smooth.

If the vertical screen resolution on your computer is less that 768 pixels you will have some problems. Many netbooks have only 600 pixels of vertical screen resolution so they may not be entirely satisfactory. I have run the program on a old netbook running XP that has a 768 pixel vertical resolution emulation mode for its 600 pixel screen and it works great.

Here are links to three videos you should watch before running the program. The videos are in high def and look decent in full screen HD. You can access this same page from the ‘Help’ button on the program main screen.

http://youtu.be/PYUmiUDr6YA

http://youtu.be/uZWTjMm9mwY

http://youtu.be/RQr0Efnatos

FAQ:

Q: Does the program require internet access.
A: If you do not have internet access the program will work but the tracking map will not
be displayed.

Q: Why don’t you just cache the map data.
A: Still need internet access to authenticate my Bing Maps license number.

After you have looked at the video and read everything on this page you are ready to try the program. The program does not have to be installed on your computer. It does not store files all over your computer or alter your registry. It runs fine off a modern USB thumb drive. This is actually quite handy as you can take the program with you in your pocket.

Unzip the zip file onto your computer – the desktop works just fine as a location. Go into the extracted folder and double-click on the .exe file. There is an online help button which you my want to try out. SimpleSatLookDown.zip

Version with rotor control – beta version. Click on the ‘Help’ button on the main program window for information on the rotor control function. SimpleSatLookDownRotor1.0.zip

13 Colonies Special Event 2012

 A message from Ken Villone (KU2US) 

For the 4th straight year the "Original 13 Colony States" will be on the air! The 13 Colonies Special Event will start June 30th, Saturday, as a bonus day and end July 5th, 2012. Thats six days this year.

The event will start June 30th at 9am eastern Saturday (13:00 UTC)and end Thursday night July 5th at midnight (24:00 eastern-04:00 UTC). All modes will be represented which includes SSB, CW, Digital and Satellite.

A great certificate, which is different every year will be offered (Go to KU2US on qrz.com for photo and link to our website).

This years theme will be the Colonial era Navy and Tall ships. The USS Constitution is featured on the certificate. Also dont forget to collect all 13 Colony states QSL cards. Most are different this year, also featuring colonial tall ships.

We accomplished over 40,000 QSO's in 2011 and expect much more for this year. Join us on June 30th for this special event honoring our Constitution, the 13 original colony states and our men and women past and present in the military..Hope to put you all in the log. 73 KU2US/Event Manager.

KD8BIG; Storm Chaser

I was going to work DX today but I ended up wiring up my Ford Expedition to install a couple of rigs & other electronics.
Hi-Q-6/160 RT/MC-3-H antenna was also ordered.
Thinking of making it a Storm Chase Vehicle.

Stay tune for pictures and more info. 

Digifest 2012

This is a friendly reminder to those who love exotic digital modes and/or still don’t have nice RigExpert Antenna Analyzer :-).
The Annual Digifest will be held as usual on the 1st  full weekend of June (2012 dates are June 2nd  and 3rd ).
This is going to be Digifest’s 5th year and its popularity is growing with last year’s received LOGs number of more than 200.
Peculiarity of this Contest is the great variety of different categories of the participants in 5 digital modes: RTTY 75, BPSK 63, MFSK 16, HELLSCHREIBER, OLIVIA
and the most fair points calculation based on the distance between the stations.
The Contest consists of 3 convenient periods (8 hours each) during the weekend.
To add more adrenalin into this competition a special feature will be offered to those who like competing in real time – online results will be presented on a server.
And, of course, a lot of real nice prizes, mostly RigExpert AA-230 and AA-30 Antenna Analyzers and RigExpert USB Interfaces. All prizes sponsored by RigExpert Ukraine Ltd.
Since the number of the participants is relatively small and the most populated competing area is Europe, the “far away” stations from NA, SA, Africa, Asia and Australia are at great advantage.
From the last years’ experience those stations were the most prize winners. Considering this and also to support growing participation from Europe,
the sponsors “double” the prizes – i.e. separate main prizes are now available both for Europe and for the “rest of the World”.
But wait, that’s not all! For those of you who won’t be able to win “main prize” in respected category, there will be a lot of  small gifts, like T-shirts and paper awards.
All the prizes will be mailed to participants’ home addresses.
The results are usually available just 2 weeks after the end of the Contest,
So, lets just meet on the 1st weekend of  June and have fun!
Complete rules can be found at http://www.mixw.net/misc/DigiFest/index.html
and  http://www.rigexpert.com/index?s=main&f=digifest end http://ut7fp.kiev.ua

Internet Doomsday; July 9, 2012

Google plans to warn more than half a million users of a computer infection that may knock their computers off the Internet this summer.
Unknown to most of them, their problem began when international hackers ran an online advertising scam to take control of infected computers around the world. In a highly unusual response, the FBI set up a safety net months ago using government computers to prevent Internet disruptions for those infected users. But that system will be shut down July 9 -- killing connections for those people.
The FBI has run an impressive campaign for months, encouraging people to visit a website that will inform them whether they're infected and explain how to fix the problem. After July 9, infected users won't be able to connect to the Internet.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2012/05/25/google-warns-hundreds-thousands-may-lose-internet-in-july/#ixzz1vvgQYoEk

MI QRP Memorial Day CW Sprint

The Michigan QRP Club sponsors one contest and three sprints per year. As well as being a lot of fun the contest environment offers us an opportunity to test that new kit, home brew, or antennas. Gives us a format to further develop our operating skills as well as re-acquaint with old friends and meet new fellow QRP'ers.
If you're not a hard core contester, come and join in the fun anyway if for nothing else think of the skill development value. All members and visitors from around the world are welcome and encouraged to join in.

For more info; 
The MI-QRP Club, WQ8RP
http://www.qsl.net/miqrpclub/contest.html

HORYU-2 Satellite

Amateurs Asked to Listen for HORYU-2 Satellite:

The Japanese HORYU-2 http://kitsat.ele.kyutech.ac.jp/index_e_new.html research satellite was launched May 17 at 1639 UTC as part of a mission that included the JAXA climate observation satellite Shizuku. HORYU-2 was built by students at the Kyushu Institute of Technology (KIT) and it carries the call sign JG6YBW. The satellite will conduct a variety of experiments including high-voltage power generation and space debris measurements. Amateurs have been asked to monitor HORYU-2's Morse code and 1200-baud AX.25 packet telemetry at 437.375 MHz. Telemetry decoding software is available for download http://kitsat.ele.kyutech.ac.jp/Documents/ground_station/Horyu2%20Data_Analysis_Program_japanese.zip. To encourage hams to submit reports, KIT will conduct a monthly prize drawing. Details are available here http://kitsat.ele.kyutech.ac.jp/Documents/ground_station/english/Receive_competition_eng.pdf.

Source:

The ARRL 

Yaesu FT1D digital FM handheld.

One of the most eagerly awaited products at Dayton Hamvention was the new Yaesu FT1D digital FM handheld.
It has, for an Amateur Radio rig, a number of innovations:
- A microphone that uses a mini-USB plug and has a built-in camera for low resolution (320x240) pictures,
- An 80 character group short messaging facility
- 9600 bps data transfer
- Micro-SD card slot
- E-GPS facility
Although the optonal extra microphone has a camera there appears to be no way to display the pictures on the radio which some may see as reducing it's usefulness.
The use of 9600 bps with 12.5 kHz channel spacing (is it 10 kHz in Japan?) was a surprise. Some had expected it to support 5 or 6.25 kHz channel spacing with a resultant data rate of 4800 bps (digital speech using an AMBE vocoder only requires a 3600 bps data rate).
The modulation used is what Yaesu describes as C4FM otherwise known as 4 level FSK or 4-FSK and is the same as that used for Digital PMR-446 equipment. 4-FSK has advantages over other types of digital modulation such as GMSK.
Both ICOM and Kenwood have been producing 4-FSK equipment for the PMR market since 2007 so in some ways it's surprising that Yaesu beat them both in releasing an amateur version of 4-FSK.
As yet Yaesu hasn't announced any mobiles, base stations or repeaters so it appears that FT1D's can only talk to other FT1D's in digital mode.
After Dayton some questions remain:
- Does it have APRS? The website of at least one amateur radio dealer had been saying the rig did APRS but the brochure makes no mention of it only refering to E-GPS
- Which Vocoder does it use? The AMBE seems the obvious choice but the brochure doesn't say
- What will it cost? Yaesu currently sell the VXD-10 high power digital handheld to the leisure market for 63,000 yen ($796) hopefully the FT1D will be cheaper!
http://tinyurl.com/VXD10-Handheld
- When will the FT1D be available? Well one Japanese retailer indicates that it could be another six months, see
http://tinyurl.com/CQCQDE-Shop
The FT1DR/E brochure can be seen at
http://www.radioworld.ca/product_brochures/amateur/
yaesu_brochures/ft1d_brochure_front.pdf
http://www.radioworld.ca/product_brochures/amateur/
yaesu_brochures/ft1d_brochure_back.pdf
N9XLC Blog on FT1D
http://n9xlc.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/yeasu-ft-1d-redux.html
2005 Icom and Kenwood demo 'Very Narrowband Digital Communications Technology'
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/apr2005/
icom_kenwood_demo.htm

QRP in the Park

Hi Everyone,
We will be firing up the grills and putting our amateur radio skills into action as we kick off our first QRP IN THE PARK for 2012! If you ever wanted to work low power portable on CW, SSB phone, or the digital modes with HF, UHF, VHF bands; we invite you stop by and operate with us. All operators are encouraged to operated from battery for this event. No generators will be provided.
Where? HELDER PARK
3751 104th Avenue
Holland, Michigan
When? SATURDAY MAY 26TH – 3PM TO DUSK
Note: This event is weather permitting and will cancel if severe
weather is expected for the area. Please monitor this reflector and 147.06 K8DAA
repeater the evening of the event for any changes of times or event cancel.
See You There!
Jeff KB8QAP 
Holland Amateur Radio Club
source 

---------------------------------------------------------------

In addition to the fun starting at 3 pm, there will be a few 15
milliwatt transmitters hidden within the park. You are more than invited
to find them. There is no competition with this hunt, just the fun of
finding these little boxes.

Bring your own equipment, or there will be gear there to be loaned out
for you to hunt within the park.

IRA Fox Hunt; West Michigan

Independant Repeater Association Hamfest

Fox Hunt

Saturday, June 2, 2012
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Our fox for the day, Ole Tom, K8TB, says that NOBODY will find him this year.
...we will see, ...we will see!

Click Here for Fox Hunt Info.

2012 Annual IRA Hamfest

Saturday, June 2, 2012 8:00 AM until about 1:00 PM
Hudsonville Fairgrounds, 5235 Park Avenue
Hudsonville, MI 49426

Click Here for 2012 Hamfest Brochure

YAESU FTDX3000 HF/50 MHz 100 Watt Transceiver

The new FT DX 3000 HF+50 MHz 100 Watt Transceiver is another excited new product that is certain to capture the hearts of determined DXers and Contesters as well as Casual operators looking for solid communications. Using the newest down conversion and sharp edged crystal roofing filter technology, this fabulous radio attains outstanding receiver performance inherited from Amateur Radio’s leading HF radio; our proud FTDX5000.
The market has been waiting for a reasonably priced transceiver that takes a major performance leap forward – the FT DX 3000 is that feature filled compact radio package.

Technical info PDF File
Link

Vanity Callsign Fee to Increase .80 ¢

I am so happy that I am not in the market for a vanity call. 

Is it really worth the money? 

The FCC has released a Notice of Proposed Rule making that,
among other things, would raise the cost of obtaining a
vanity callsign to $15.00 for a ten year license term.  The
current cost is $14.20 which in essence means an increase of
only 80 ¢ if the rule making is approved.  (FCC)

BSA Announce "Interpreter Strip" for Morse Code

The Boy Scouts of America have just announced a new
"Interpreter Strip" for Morse Code.  An "Interpreter Strip"
on the uniform means that the Scout or adult leader is able
to communicate in a particular language.  
--

Those older Scouts and former Scouts among you may remember
the Boy Scout requirements that said a Scout had to learn
Morse Code or signal flags to send and receive a message.
And, even though that requirement has disappeared and Morse
Code is no longer mandatory to get any amateur radio license
in the United States, the BSA is reviving Morse Code as a
"language" worth learning.

You can probably credit Jim Wilson, K5ND, for getting this
one from concept to reality.

He's the BSA's "Jamboree on the Air" organizer and the
volunteer chairman for the next K2BSA operation at the 2013
National Boy Scouts Jamboree at the Summit in West Virigina.

Wilson works at BSA headquarters in Texas and is a big
promoter of amateur radio in Scouting.
So much so, Wilson says he organized a national Radio
Scouting advisory committee last year to get stronger
support in the amateur and Scouting community for JOTA.

Earlier this year, Wilson says a member of that committee
made a suggestion about getting some additional Scouting
recognition for amateur radio.

Wilson says there were some ideas that eventually evolved
into exploring the "interpreter" strip worn on the Scout
uniform to show a Scout has some ability to speak a certain
language.

Wilson admits he came up with the idea for "Morse" on the
strip - but in the letters of the language - dah-dah, dah-
dah-dah, di-dah-dit, dit-dit-dit, dit."

Wilson says he quickly moved the idea over to the BSA's
national awards committee where it got a favorable reception
and approval within months.

So how does a boy earn it?

Wilson says there are three requirements, the first....

"It's carrying on a 5-minute conversation in Morse Code at a
speed of at least 5 words per minute," Wilson explains.
"And, then the second one, copying correctly a 2-minute
message sent in Morse Code at a minimum of 5-words-per-
minute.

"And, copying of course means writing the message down as
it's received. And, then, three, sending a 25-word written
document in Morse Code at a minimum of 5 words per minute."

Wilson says Scouts can be certified by their Scoutmaster or
maybe even a ham who's an adult Scout leader.

Wilson says the idea is to further cement the bonds of
brotherhood between Scouting and ham radio operators. And,
of course, Wilson is....

"Eager to increase participation in amateur radio to provide
an opportunity for Scouts to get involved in a fun hobby, a
hobby that promotes communicating with lots of Scouts and
others around the country and around the world," Wilson
says. "And, it's science, it's technology, it's engineering,
it's math - the stem items that are of enormous interest
right now and frankly have been in Boy Scouting for quite
some time."

Articles of Interest

Amateur Radio Operators Train For Emergencies:

Amateur Radio Operators and Weather Spotting:

Monster Sunspot Threatens To Unleash Powerful Solar Flares

BA's New Police Radio System Blocks Public Scanner Access

FCC Seeks Higher Vanity Call Sign Fee

Valley Group Honors Young CERT Member

Ham Radio Operators Appreciated As A 'Treasure Of Oswego County'

Senate Approves Two New FCC Commissioners

Senate Approves Two New FCC Commissioners, Commission to Be at Full Strength

ARRL -- Six months after President Barack Obama nominated Jessica Rosenworcel and Ajit Varadaraj Pai to the Federal Communications Commission, the Senate confirmed their appointments on Monday, May 7. Rosenworcel, a Democrat, fills the seat vacated by Michael Copps who retired from the Commission earlier this year; her term runs through June 30, 2015. Pai, a Republican, replaces Meredith Attwell Baker,...

Michigan Summer Family Outing

ARRL Michigan Section Presents the 14th Annual

Michigan Summer Family Outing
July 5-8, 2012

Woodland Conference Center and Campground - Hale, MI

Includes a tape measure antenna building project and a 4-transmitter fox hunt

Click Here for project website and schedule
Click Here for Family Outing Brochure

7O6T Yemen DXpedition

The Daily DX is reporting that the 7O6T Yemen DXpedition will start 2100 UTC Monday, April 30 and will continue through 2100 UTC May 15. Yemen currently sits at #5 on DX Magazine’s most wanted list, behind North Korea, Navassa, Bouvet and Heard Island. The ARRL DXCC Desk will review the 7O6T DXpedition’s documentation before granting approval for the operation to count for DXCC credit.

The DXpedition will be on Socotra Island -- the largest island in the four-island Socotra archipelago located in the Indian Ocean -- about 353 kilometers south of the Yemen mainland. Socotra Island (AF-028) is also ranked #1 on the RSGB’s Islands on the Air (IOTA) list, with only .3 percent of IOTA participants claiming it. Due to Socotra’s location, Yemen is one of the few DXCC entities that cross continental borders (Asia and Africa). Socotra also counts for one of the three Diamond DXCC Entities that make up today’s Yemen (including Aden City and Yemen itself) from the 1937 DXCC List.

The DXpedition is led by Dmitri Zhikharev, RA9USU, and assisted by Harry Booklan RA3AUU, and Dave Collingham, K3LP. Currently, there are 11 operators on Socotra, with a rotation planned later in the operation. Operators plan to be on 160-10 meters on six stations using CW, SSB and RTTY. Five of the stations are equipped with an Elecraft K3 and ACOM 1010 amplifier; the sixth station has a Kenwood TS-590 and THP-400 amplifier. There will be various beams, verticals and vertical arrays, as well as Beverages and other receiving antennas.

 Look for 7O6T on the following frequencies:

160     CW 1.824 MHz    SSB 1.845 MHz             RTTY 0000
80       CW 3.504 MHz    SSB 3.780 MHz             RTTY 0000
40       CW 7.004 MHz    SSB 7.065/7.180 MHz    RTTY 7.035 MHz
30       CW 10.104 MHz                                      RTTY 10.140 MHz
20       CW 14.024 MHz  SSB 14.145 MHz           RTTY 14.080 MHz
17       CW 18.074 MHz  SSB 18.145 MHz          RTTY 18.100 MHz
15       CW 21.024 MHz  SSB 21.295 MHz          RTTY 21.080 MHz
12       CW 24.894 MHz  SSB 24.945 MHz          RTTY 24.920 MHz
10       CW 28.024 MHz  SSB 28.495 MHz          RTTY 28.080 MHz

Logs, photos and propagation forecasts will be posted to the 7O6T website as the DXpedition continues. QSL via Nick Averyanov, UA3DX. Updates regarding OQRS, direct, bureau and LoTW QSLing will also be posted to the website.

Only one Amateur Radio operation has taken place from Socotra Island: VS9SJF (VS9 Socotra Joint Forces), operated by John Farrar, G3UCQ (ex 5B4JF) during a Royal Air Force/Army expedition. At that time, Socotra was under British rule. “The Expedition was on the island for two months (December 1964-February 1965) and I contacted over 100 countries with my little 75 W rig, including, many from USA,” Farrar recounted. “The Heathkit DX-40U transmitter gave 74 W input on CQ and 60 W input controlled carrier modulation (AM). The receiver was an RCA AR88D. No electronic keyers in those days, so a good wrist was needed! The antennas comprised a W3DZZ trap dipole (80-10 meters) and a V-beam was later erected, aimed at USA, with the legs about 200 feet long and 30 feet high.”

Except for two brief periods, Socotra Island belonged to the sultans of Mahra. During the early 16th century, it was occupied by the Portuguese. In 1886, it became part of Britain’s Aden Protectorate until 1967, when it was joined with the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen (South Yemen), which became the Republic of Yemen in 1990.

Thanks to The Daily DX and the K8CX Ham Gallery for some information