Ham Radio Is More Interesting Once You Start Doing Things
Field Notes is where I document what I learn along the way—portable operating, antennas, gear, projects, activations and the ideas that need a little more room than a video description.
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Field Notes is only part of the story. Dig deeper into getting on the air, taking radio outside, or figuring out which gear actually earns a place in the setup.
Getting Started
A practical path from wondering where to begin to actually getting on the air.
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Activations
POTA, SOTA, Tiles and the lessons that come from actually operating away from the shack.
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Gear
The radios, antennas and setups I use, test and keep bringing back into the field.
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Dig Into the Field Notes
Browse the complete collection of articles, projects, experiments, lessons and occasional RF rabbit holes.
FT8 Isn’t Killing Ham Radio — But It Is Changing It
Don't worry. I'm not starting another argument about whether FT8 is "real radio." We've done that.
Who Gets to Decide What Counts as a POTA Park?
Not every green space can become a POTA reference. Here's what qualifies as a POTA park, who decides, and why the rules need a line somewhere.
Stop Telling Kids About Ham Radio. Let Them Do It.
Want kids interested in ham radio? Stop making them watch demonstrations. Give them a microphone, Morse key, antenna, and something real to do.
Has POTA Peaked?
POTA isn't dead. Parks are still being activated, pileups are still happening, and somehow we're still finding new ways to carry 70 pounds of "portable" radio gear into the woods.
The IC-7110 ASKS: Why Do We Really Prefer One Radio Brand Over Another?
The new Icom IC-7110 has plenty of modern features. But is that really why we prefer one radio brand over another? Maybe it comes down to something much simpler
Ham Radio Is Becoming an Outdoor Hobby — and That’s a Good Thing
Think about what amateur radio looks like today.
Radios on picnic tables.
Antennas hanging from trees.
Backpacks on mountains.
People standing in fields pointing Yagis at satellites.
POTA, SOTA, satellites, Tiles on the Air, and portable operating are changing where we play radio.
And I think that's a very good thing.
But operating outside also teaches you some lessons the shack never will. Battery problems, forgotten adapters, wind, weather, and the realization that maybe you didn't need to pack three antennas for a 30-minute activation.
In the latest Field Notes, I'm looking at why ham radio is moving outdoors—and a few things I've learned from taking my station into the field.
OLIGHT Oclip Pro Review: Does This Tiny Light Belong in a POTA Bag?
The OLIGHT Oclip Pro combines a floodlight, spotlight, red light, magnetic mount, and clip in one compact package. I tested it around the shack and beside an active receiver to see whether it deserved a permanent place in my POTA bag.
The Xiegu G7250: Staying Level-Headed While Everyone Else Chases the Hype
The Xiegu G7250 looks promising, but a large screen, 100 watts, and an Ethernet connection do not tell the complete story.
Here is a level-headed examination of what has been confirmed, what the specifications suggest, and what still needs to be proven.
Ham Radio Clubs: A World of Variety Awaits!
In today’s digital age, online clubs are becoming increasingly popular. These virtual gatherings allow you to connect with hams from different countries without leaving your home. You can participate in discussions, share tips, and even engage in contests—all from the comfort of your couch! Online clubs often have forums, chat rooms, or even live video meetings, making it easy to forge friendships and share knowledge with fellow enthusiasts.
Don't worry. I'm not starting another argument about whether FT8 is "real radio." We've done that.