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.
Fresh From the Logbook
The newest article from N1JUR Field Notes.
Where Do You Want to Go Next?
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.
Start Here →
Activations
POTA, SOTA, Tiles and the lessons that come from actually operating away from the shack.
Explore Activations →
Gear
The radios, antennas and setups I use, test and keep bringing back into the field.
Explore Gear →
Dig Into the Field Notes
Browse the complete collection of articles, projects, experiments, lessons and occasional RF rabbit holes.
APRS.fi iOS App Review: A Comprehensive Tool for APRS Enthusiasts
As an avid amateur radio operator and APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) enthusiast, I have found the APRS.fi iOS app to be an indispensable tool for staying connected to the APRS network while on the go. This well-designed and feature-rich app provides real-time access to APRS data, maps, and messaging, making it a must-have for anyone involved in APRS activities. Here are three standout features of the APRS.fi iOS app that make it a valuable resource for amateur radio operators and APRS users:
Getting Ready for a Winter Field Day: Preparing for Cold-Weather Ham Radio Operations
The thought of operating outdoors in the crisp winter air, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, and making contacts with fellow operators across the globe is truly exhilarating. However, winter field operations come with their own set of challenges, especially when it comes to staying warm and keeping our equipment running smoothly in cold conditions. In this post, we'll discuss some essential tips to help you prepare for a successful and enjoyable winter field day.
Ham Radio Logging Apps? What to choose?
Many new ham radio enthusiasts often ask me which logging apps I use. When I'm asked this question, I pause and ask what they are currently using. Some may be using FT8, while others may be building their POTA setup and trying to improve their logging. Some may even be using paper logging and looking for an upgrade. Regardless of where they are in the process, I try to help them by shedding some light on a few areas that might be useful.
Virtual: Elmer
Throughout my life, I have always aimed to be helpful. I believe that the best way to help myself is by assisting others. When I started learning Ham Radio, it was an excellent opportunity for me to expand my reach and continue helping others.
3 things you shouldn't say to park rangers
We all have had a moment where we are asked - What are you doing? When were activating a park. So here are 3 things you never say to a park
TOP 5 HAM IOS APPS : Part Deux
After the immense interest my previous post received on the Top 5 Ham apps, I decided to create a Part 2. Here are five new HAM apps for iOS that you should definitely have on your smartphone.
Review: RepeaterPhone for iOS
If you're searching for an application that can link to both echolink and Allstar, then your search is over because RepeaterPhone has arrived.
Field Day Memories
Let's use this Field Day as an opportunity to establish connections that will enhance both the hobby and our personal enjoyment of it.
NH POTA Meetup
Our NH POTA Meetup was a great success! We activated Bear Brook State Park and battled the weather, a wedding and poor band conditions.
146.52 MHz is the national 2-meter FM simplex calling frequency. But is anybody listening? Maybe the problem isn't the frequency—it's us.