Articles written by: OnAllBands

Ham Radio Antenna Tuner
Technical Articles

When is an Antenna Tuner not an Antenna Tuner?

When is an antenna tuner not an antenna tuner? Answer: all the time! “Antenna tuner” is really a bad name for the devices that present a low SWR to our transmitters and […]

Thimbles for antenna guy line
Products & Product Reviews / Technical Articles

Mailbag: Using a Thimble with EHS Guy Wire or Phillystran Guy Line Big Grips

Q: When should I use a thimble with EHS Guy Wire or Phillystran Guy line Big Grips? A: Whenever a Big Grip is attached to a metal guy bracket or guy anchor, you should always use an appropriately-sized thimble. The thimble […]

HDR Rotator software screen shot
Technical Articles

Tech Tip: Ham Station Computer Operations

Computer-based radio operations are fun! Completely integrate your station with your computer, starting with THE all-in-one software solution, Ham Radio Deluxe. “HRD” is an advanced, visually appealing program that displays and […]

Guy Line Thimble install video still
Technical Articles

How to Install Cable Grips on Phillystran Guy Line

Tim, W3YQ, and Tom, A8AZ, demonstrate the proper way to install Cable Grips on Phillystran Guy Line. Once you see how this done properly, it makes the task much easier […]

DX Engineering horizontal antenna module, mounted
Antenna Tech / Technical Articles

Horizontal Antennas–Why Higher is Better When it Comes to Mounting

Dipole and broadband antenna efficiency is a constant debate. Efficiency most commonly is watts in, watts out. It’s well known that to radiate well, horizontal antennas should be at least […]

Yaesu Mobile ham Radio Transceiver
Technical Articles

Cheap and Easy Ways to Improve Mobile Radio Receiver Performance

Question: What’s an easy and inexpensive way of improving my mobile radio receiver performance? Most mobile installations, for safety reasons, position the radio out of the way, under the dashboard, on […]

MFJ Wire Antenna
Events

3 Field Day Must-Haves

Are you ready for Field Day? DX Engineering can help you stock up on supplies and gear to ensure your club’s event goes off without a hitch. Take some time […]

DX Engineering cable builder screen shot
Amateur Radio News

DX Engineering’s Custom Cable Builder Allows You to Custom-Build Cable in 3 Easy Steps!

No two Amateur Radio stations are the same, so buying an “off the shelf” coaxial cable assembly usually means dealing with several feet of extra, unwanted cable. Not only does […]

SWR Meter
Products & Product Reviews

SWR Meters–and Why You Need One!

Your SWR (standing wave ratio) meter looks at forward (used) power and reflected (wasted) power as a measure of antenna system efficiency. This basic measurement has been used for decades […]

close up of rf coaxial connectors
Technical Articles

Two Rules to Avoid Confusion About Coaxial Connectors

Rule 1: Coaxial connectors are not pipes. RF connector gender is determined by center pin, NOT by their threads. Coaxial cable connectors have specific designations and their gender is determined by […]