Detroit Lakes Amateur Radio Club • August, 2025
www.w0emz.orgOn the Air & On the Calendar
Key Up for These Events!Wavelength Wisdom
Your Technical Tip(s) of the Month!Member Spotlights
The Ham Behind the Handle!Stay Connected!
Where The Ragchew Never Ends!REGULAR MONTHLY CLUB MEETING
Saturday, August 16th, 2025 - 9 AM at the Holiday Inn (map)
LAST MONTHS MEETING
Antenna and radio installation at the museum.
Updating club’s website, Facebook, and Instagram pages.
KM4ACK EFHW BUILD
We've received the KM4ACK End-Fed Half-Wave (EFHW) antenna kits! We're excited to get these into your hands and help you build your own high-performing antenna.
We'll be scheduling a build date sometime in September.
The Pixie Transceiver
At our July meeting, Jim Bowlby (KF0SVB) delivered an excellent presentation on the Pixie transceiver a compact and affordable QRP rig popular among amateur radio enthusiasts. His talk covered the design, functionality, and practical applications of the Pixie, making it both informative and engaging.
For those who missed it or want to explore the details further, supporting documents from Jim’s presentation are available at the links below.
MORE DETAILS:
Pixie Operation Charts
Logging POTA Contacts
When activating a park, make sure your logging software includes the correct park reference (e.g., K-1234) in each QSO entry. Many activators use logging tools like HAMRS or N3FJP that are POTA-compatible, making it easier to upload your logs accurately. Also, remember to monitor both local repeaters and HF bands for spotting assistance and band conditions. A portable antenna with a good ground system can make all the difference in a successful activation!
Logging Software for Parks on the Air
HAMRS (multi-platform & POTA-friendly)
N3FJP Amateur Radio Logging Software
Operating Portable
A key to successful portable operation is an effective and easy-to-deploy antenna. Start with a simple dipole or end-fed half-wave (EFHW) antenna, as they offer excellent performance without needing an antenna tuner on a single band. These antennas are lightweight and can be quickly set up using trees or a portable mast, making them perfect for on-the-go operation. Focusing on a reliable antenna system first will make the biggest difference in your on-air experience.
Antenna Resources to Consider
Mike Moher (WA0ZNJ )
CQ All antenna builders:
My name is Mike Moher ....WA0ZNJ. I got my novice ticket way back in 1968. I was in high school and didn't have a lot of money to spend on a hobby. I purchased a ARRL handbook… WOW.. lots of information. I started building wire antennas, zepps.. Loops...fan dipoles... traps dipoles... you name it-I built it. Read more here!
Eric Y (N0ZHD)
Nick N (KF0SOI)
On 2025 ARRL Field Day.
Shaun C (KF0IBC)
Testing the museum's Flexradio on WiFi from his living room.
Gerri P (K0GPX)
He's building a metered variable (0-140 VAC).
Mike M (WA0ZNJ)
Built an antenna pulley system.