High-end coax sealing tape (Coax-Seal, etc.) works great, but it’s expensive and gets sticky-messy in heat.
Your station ground needs a common bus bar, but you don’t want to drill into your nice metal desk or filing cabinet.
When things go wrong, these quick tricks can help you diagnose the issue without expensive laboratory equipment. The "Touch Test" for RFI New- Hints and Kinks for the Radio Amateur
The beauty of the "Hints and Kinks" tradition is that it is ever-evolving. As technology shifts from vacuum tubes to SDRs, the ingenuity of the amateur radio community remains the constant. To help me give you more specific advice, let me know: Are you working with ?
Buy a silicone baking mat (meant for cookies, about $10–15). They are heat resistant to 450°F, non-slip, and have a slight lip. The best part: the non-stick surface means solder balls don’t adhere—they just roll into a corner for easy vacuuming. High-end coax sealing tape (Coax-Seal, etc
As a radio amateur, you're likely always on the lookout for ways to improve your skills, upgrade your equipment, and enhance your overall ham radio experience. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting out, there's always something new to learn, and that's exactly what this article aims to provide. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share a collection of hints, kinks, and expert tips to help you get the most out of your hobby.
This new edition (and its successor-in-spirit, the 2025 release Hints & Hacks The "Touch Test" for RFI The beauty of
Your LiFePO4 battery says 13.3V, but you just lost power during a CQ. Voltage is a liar for lithium batteries. The Kink: Glue a 12V automotive incandescent bulb (like a 1157) to a short piece of wire with alligator clips. After charging your battery, clip the bulb on for 30 seconds. Watch how fast the voltage drops.