Author Archives: m0spn

An Introduction to JS8CALL

Posted on June 16, 2020 by m0spn

Most introductions to JS8CALL cover configuration and calling CQ. Whilst this is useful I feel it overlooks the power and flexibility of the mode. In this article I hope to jump straight to the more interesting capabilities. Firstly, the very … Continue reading →

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Current Status

Posted on June 7, 2020 by m0spn

CALL: OH3SPNBAND: 40PWR: ~30WANT: dipoleMODES: JS8CALL, FT8/4 & SSB Voice The station currently consists of a Hermes Lite 2 SDR with ~70W kit-built linear amplifier, situated in the cellar and remotely operated via network from the main office/shack upstairs. Due … Continue reading →

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Configuring Hermes Lite 2 SDR, Quisk, Direwolf and Hamlib

Posted on March 23, 2020 by m0spn

After multiple failed attempts to trigger Quisk PTT via CAT on a virtual serial port, I discovered later Direwolf versions include support for Hamlib. This itself was also not straightforward as by default, Direwolf is not compiled with Hamlib support. … Continue reading →

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GridTracker; a JTAlert for Linux?

Posted on February 1, 2020 by m0spn

As a Linux user I’ve never used or understood the advantages of JTAlert. Attempts to explore this have also failed due to JTAlert not playing well in WINE. However, I recently saw comments online suggesting GridTracker is JTAlert for Linux, … Continue reading →

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70W HF Linear Amplifier Project

Posted on February 1, 2020 by m0spn

Whilst very happy with the performance of the Hermes SDR, I’ve been considering a matching HF linear to provide a moderate (6-9dB) increase in output power. I have ideas about operating portable using battery power; ~50W seems a nice balance … Continue reading →

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Hermes Lite 2 SDR Transceiver

Posted on January 8, 2020 by m0spn

The Hermes-Lite is a low-cost direct down/up conversion software defined amateur radio HF transceiver based on a broadband modem chip and the Hermes SDR project. It is entirely open source and open hardware, including the tools used for design and fabrication files. Over … Continue reading →

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QRP FT8 Operating Tips

Posted on January 21, 2019 by m0spn

A few tips on making the most out of FT8, especially when operating QRP. Listen on odds and evens *before* selecting a TX frequency. Just because you can’t hear anyone on the receive cycle doesn’t mean you’re not colliding with … Continue reading →

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OH3SPN FT8 Activity

Posted on January 18, 2019 by m0spn

I’m now active from Tampere, Finland using the call OH3SPN, primarily FT8 on 30/20/17m due to antenna restrictions; FT817 (typically 2.5W out), G4ZLP MinoProSC interface, indoor SPX-100 antenna or short wire connected to LDG Z100 Plus. I’m very happy to report … Continue reading →

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CQ DE OH/M0SPN

Posted on April 23, 2018 by m0spn

As of April 2018 I’m now located in Tampere, Finland, Locator: KP11UL.  You may see my call appearing in various logs with an OH prefix whilst I’m awaiting my official Finnish callsign. I’m currently maintaining both (M0SPN and OH/M0SPN) callsign … Continue reading →

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Over Voltage Protection

Posted on October 24, 2016 by m0spn

I recently re-homed several cheap 13.8V linear PSUs from rallies, ranging from 3 to 10A. My intention is to power smaller items of equipment; TNCs, FT817s and similar. However, after inspection it became apparent that all lacked any form over over … Continue reading →

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