Like many of you, the start of Spring (or maybe just a particularly inspiring QSO!) gets me thinking about what I want to achieve in our fantastic hobby. Amateur radio is such a vast playground, and it’s easy to get distracted by all the shiny new things or venerable old boat anchors!, just read a couple of my last posts for details. So going forward, I’m trying to be more focused and intentional on what I want to do and achieve. I’ve set myself three main goals, centered around organization, operation, and exploration.
Goal #1: The “Grab-and-Go” Radio Arsenal
My shack, like many, can sometimes resemble a controlled explosion of wires, coax, and radios. Adding to the chaos is that My Shack, is also my Home Office, workspace and resting place of any and all geek toys my wife has exiled from other parts of the house. While having everything accessible is great, I realized I wasn’t as portable or prepared as I’d like to be, especially given the piles of boxes, gear and backpacks littering the floor. If I wanted to head out quickly, it involved a scramble. So, my first major goal is to organize my key radios into three distinct “go-bags,” each tailored for a specific purpose:
The EDC (Every Day Carry) HT Bag: This is all about local communication and being ready for impromptu opportunities. Centered around my trusty Handheld Transceiver(s). Leveraging my Kenwood Th-75D or my BTech UV-Pro. Both are 2m / 70CM (the Kenwood also does 1.25m), USB C chargeable and both have a Bluetooth TNC allowing me to connect with my iPhone or iPad for Winlink and other Digital communications. This small pack will contain the essentials: the HT, a spare battery or two, a better aftermarket antenna (like a Signal Stick), and a USB C charging cable Perfect for tossing in the car, taking on a hike, or having ready for community events or ARES/RACES call-outs. Simplicity and readiness are key here.
The Lightweight POTA Pack: Parks on the Air (POTA) has really captured my interest, and my Elecraft KX2 is the perfect rig for portable QRP fun. This bag will be built around the KX2, focusing on minimum weight and maximum efficiency for park activations. Inside: the KX2, a lightweight LiFePO4 battery, a resonant antenna (like an End-Fed Half Wave or a linked dipole), paddles/key, a small notebook or phone for logging, and maybe a small throw line kit. The aim is to be able to hike a bit, set up quickly, make those contacts, and pack out easily.
The “More Power” Portable Ops Pack: Sometimes, you need a bit more punch, whether it’s tougher band conditions, a desire to run digital modes reliably in the field, or maybe even a SOTA activation that justifies the extra weight. This bag will be based around my Yaesu FT-891. It will naturally be heavier, containing the radio, a more substantial battery with Anderson Powerpole connectors ready for a larger external source, a more robust antenna tuner combo, coax, mic/key, and logging tools. This is the bag for extended field operations, camping trips, or situations where the KX2’s QRP signal might struggle.
The stretch goal is to get a couple of radios mounted in my Bronco. Looking to have another FT-891 for HF and a 2m/70CM radio. (I’m really excited about the specs on the new Kenwood Mobile radio the TM-D750A with its Bluetooth TNC). Lastly I am looking to also have a GMRS radio as well for off-roading adventures. But this will require some modifications to the Bronco I need to do first.
Having these pre-packed and ready means less friction when the urge (or need) to operate arises. Just grab the right bag and go!
Goal #2: Sharpening My Operating Skills
Having the gear is one thing; using it effectively is another! This year, I want to significantly increase my on-air time and proficiency.
More POTA Activations: POTA isn’t just fun; it’s fantastic practice. Setting up in different environments, dealing with varying noise levels, efficiently making contacts – it all builds skill. My goal is to activate at least [Number, e.g., 5, 10, 12] new parks this year and become much smoother at the entire process, from setup to logging to uploading.
Diving into Digital: While I enjoy SSB and CW (or maybe just SSB, tailor this!), the world of digital modes beckons. I specifically want to get comfortable with:
- FT8: It’s undeniably effective for weak signal work and racking up contacts/grids. I want to understand its nuances and use it effectively, especially for DX when conditions are marginal.
- JS8Call: This mode intrigues me more for its conversational and networking capabilities. The ability to send messages, leave relays, and have keyboard-to-keyboard chats over HF, even with weak signals, seems incredibly useful and fun. I plan to get it set up reliably for both home and portable use.
Goal #3: Exploring the Digital Frontier with Packet Radio
Beyond the popular soundcard digital modes, I have a persistent fascination with packet radio. The idea of linking computers directly over RF, sending files, accessing rudimentary bulletin boards (BBSes), and exploring protocols like AX.25 feels like a core part of ham radio’s experimental spirit.
This year, I want to move beyond just reading about it. My goal is to:
- Set up a functional packet station (whether using a TNC or software like Direwolf).
- Successfully connect with other local packet stations or nodes.
- Experiment with sending messages, perhaps even small files.
- Learn more about protocols like APRS (which uses packet).
- Understand the potential of packet radio for creating resilient, off-grid digital communication networks, independent of the internet. This feels like a valuable skill in today’s world.
Let’s Do This!
So, that’s the plan! Organization, more operating (especially POTA and digital), and diving deeper into the world of packet radio. It feels like a good mix of practical application, skill-building, and technical exploration.
What about you? What are your ham radio goals for the year? Are you focusing on learning CW, building antennas, chasing DX, or something else entirely? Let me know in the comments below – I’d love to hear what adventures you have planned!
73,
Chris - K5CTW
