HamCon Colorado 2025
from
Friday, October 24, 2025 (1:00 AM)
to
Sunday, October 26, 2025 (2:00 PM)
Monday, October 20, 2025
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Friday, October 24, 2025
7:00 AM
Registration
Registration
7:00 AM - 8:50 AM
9:00 AM
"Locating and eliminating RFI"
"Locating and eliminating RFI"
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
Starting with the psychology and "zen" of the process, then the specific techniques and equipment used for tracking down and eliminating RFI sources. I have given a similar presentation 4 or 5 times before. I have authored an article in the *National Contest Journal* and contibuted a section on the topic for the *ARRL Handbook*.
CRITICAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR PLANNED EVENTS
CRITICAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR PLANNED EVENTS
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
This presentation provides practices that ensure clear, concise, and complete communications for IWI at planned events. This presentation provides practices that ensure clear, concise, and complete communications for IWI at planned events. Reporting an IWI (Incident Within an Incident), usually a medical emergency, is often the reason for hams to support planned events. There is a wide range of situations and expectations for radio operators, from the Boston Marathon to the Hard Rock 100. Have a written plan that defines who, what, when, and how for IWI messages. Distribute it to all communication personnel. Use a message template to write IWI messages. Writing a message helps the author to focus on clear, concise, and complete text. Reading a message helps lower anxiety and speed, helping the receiver to copy it correctly. Message templates reduce the time and effort of deciding what to write. Only the text in the template fields needs to be transmitted. The receiving station just fills in the blanks. There are several templates for reporting medical emergencies. The US military uses the 9-Line MEDIVAC template. The NWCG Wildfire system uses its 9-Line (Dutch Creek Protocol) template. The All-Hazards system uses the “8-Line” ICS-206 WF template. The NIFOG has template text on the rear inside cover. The ICS-213 General Message template can be used in many situations. All operators copy (write) IWI traffic during the event. They can provide missing and corrected information. They provide event staff with situational awareness. The communications team demonstrates competency before the incident. It drills with event staff drills on the plan before the start of the event. Drills are repeated when new members join the team. Conclusion. Questions
Digital Mobile Radio, A look Under the Hood
Digital Mobile Radio, A look Under the Hood
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
I will present a bit of history of digital transmission. Included are descriptions of how analog voice is digitized and transmitted.
PSWS, HamSCI’s Personal Space Weather Station: Hosts Wanted!
PSWS, HamSCI’s Personal Space Weather Station: Hosts Wanted!
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
HamSCI, the Ham radio Science Citizen Investigation, is building a network of Personal Space Weather Stations for monitoring and researching space weather effects. This talk will begin with background on HamSCI (who, what, why) and then dive into details on the PSWS equipment: What it is, how it operates, what is required to host a PSWS. Observations from past PSWS campaigns, such as the recent North American solar eclipses, will be shared to demonstrate the value of the PSWS network to space weather research. The talk will conclude with an invitation for hams (and SWLs) to participate.
Remote Station Operation using wfview
Remote Station Operation using wfview
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
wfview is a program that allows many modern Icom and Kenwood ham radio transceiver to be controlled via a computer. wfview shows the radios spectrum display on whatever display is connected, including projectors, touch screens, and TVs. wfview allows for full radio control from a computer keyboard and basic control from a numeric keypad. wfview can run on hardware ranging from the $35 Raspberry Pi to laptops to desktops. wfview runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows. wfview supports rig control over ethernet/wifi as well as over the traditional USB serial CIV bus. wfview also allows older radios to be accessed over the internet, for full control and low-latency audio streaming. This presentation will key features of wfview and a live demo utilizing wfview to control a remote radio.
10:00 AM
DMR Programming for Amateur Radio
-
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
DMR Programming for Amateur Radio
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
This forum will cover DMR programming concepts and processes specific to Amateur radio. Topics covered will inclued DMR IDs, Channel information requirements and tips to better understand why things have to be done in certain ways.
FantasticDC-RX
FantasticDC-RX
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
An HF receiver built on a piece of wood featuring a full rich audio response on CW and SSB with a tunable CW-SSB filter: Several modules make up the receiver: RP2350 Pico-2 microcontroller, AD9950 Direct Digital Synthesizer, ADAA1701-DSP 56-bit double-precision pro-audio grade processor, an AD831 strong-active 200 MHz mixer (zero overload). Headset and speaker amps. DC input 9-15V. Power consumption 3W. Pico - Software: The authors goal was to write zero-code. Code to tune the synthesizer and display on color TFT display 100% written by AI using ChatGPT. First-time interesting experience. DSP (audio) software. Graphical user interface of internal ADC-DACs, mixer, amps, and tunable filters. A presentation would involve Power-Point, videos of operating, etc.
Integrating Digital Software with AppleScript
Integrating Digital Software with AppleScript
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
**Ted Asmus, K8UKE** -------------------- Full Abstract, Outline, and Resources: [https://tasmus.com/ham/applescript-integration/][1] Abstract -------- The ham radio Mac OSX community uses two primary pieces of digital modes software: FLDIGI and WSJTX. The operation of FLDIGI software is enhanced by the addition of FLRIG to control the ham transceiver and a logging program such as MacLoggerDX. WSJTX is enhanced by the addition of JT-Bridge that passes contact information between WSJTX and MacLoggerDX. FLDIGI and WSJTX each require a total of three pieces of software to operate well. AppleScript, is a built-in scripting language that allows the direct control of both Mac applications and the Mac operating system itself. This presentation will provide a system of integrated AppleScripts that allow the ham operator to fluidly move between the FLDIGI and the WSJTX software sets, control the operation of the sets, and offers enhancements that reduce operator time and increase operator efficiency. The presentation will first focus on linking QSO information between FLDIGI and MacLoggerDX with the simple click of a button. Controlling the running of the two software sets through the use of a “smart” AppleScript that determines if either of the software sets are running. If a software set is running, a dialog is displayed so the operator can then select which set of software will be run and the three associated pieces of software for the selected set are run. If one of two software sets are running, that set is automatically shut down and the other set is run. This allows for the rapid change between such digital modes as PSK-31 and FT8. A routine that quits either of the running software sets is then presented. A useful AppleScript for logging a QSO in both the WSJTX software and MacLoggerDX is discussed. A final AppleScript provides the ability to insert a custom personalized message into the email that MacLoggerDX creates with an attached QSO card to the contact without any intervention by the operator. Information about where the package of AppleScripts should be placed within any Mac OSX computer so they will run immediately will be presented. Some adjustments to one of the AppleScripts is required so the operator can insert their own name and callsign. This simple process will be demonstrated using the AppleScript Editor. The session concludes with the presentation of three different AppleScript code snippets that are included in the AppleScript package that the attendees should find interesting and useful in the future. This presentation does not stress AppleScript programing nor is it for techies only. It follows the motto of “Keep It Simple Stupid” to help the attendees make their ham radio experience easier and more enjoyable. ---------- Presentation Requirements ------------------------- • Video projector to project the computer with and without Powerpoint. • Screen for video projector • Microphone if room is of sufficient size • Access to the internet [1]: https://tasmus.com/ham/applescript-integration/
Operating multiple HF stations in close proximity such as Field Day
Operating multiple HF stations in close proximity such as Field Day
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
Have you tried to operate multiple HF stations located in close proximity to each other? Maybe an event like Field Day or a special event station. Did it work well and meet your expectations? Or were you plagued with interference? This talk will highlight some concepts and the equipment needed to reduce interference and maximize your fun!
The Deep Space Exploration Society (DSES): Amateur radio, EME, STEM and Science
The Deep Space Exploration Society (DSES): Amateur radio, EME, STEM and Science
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
On the Eastern plains of Colorado is a rare gem for amateur radio enthusiasts - the Paul Plishner Radio Astronomy and Science Center who’s centerpiece is an 18 meter (60 foot) radio telescope owned by the Deep Space Exploration Society (DSES). This unique piece of equipment is shared between the scientific and amateur radio communities. This presentation will cover the history behind the telescope and give conference attendees a photographic tour of the site while showcasing the unique resources that the DSES offers amateur radio enthusiasts. Along the way we will touch on the STEM outreach and science also done by the DSES, then concentrate on the opportunities that our one-of-a-kind facility presents to Deep Space Exploration Society members that are amateur radio operators. The presentation will end with a focus on our remote amateur radio station facility and Earth-Moon-Earth (EME or “Moonbounce”) operations that we do from the site. As one of the “big guns” in EME contests, we have gained a lot of experience and hope to share it with other amateur radio enthusiasts. We will finish with a teaser into our latest endeavor, Earth-Venus-Earth (EVE) communication. This teaser will [hopefully, if it’s scheduled as such] dovetail into Alex Nersesian’s (K6VHF) EVE presentation that will immediately follow this presentation. Presenters: Roger Oakey / W3MIX Paul Sobon / NOØT
11:00 AM
A Visit to the Sun and the Ionosphere
A Visit to the Sun and the Ionosphere
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
A basic introduction to the sun and its effect, and how the ionosphere works. We hear a lot of terms used in our hobby, such as sunspots, CME, K index, solar flux, F layer, etc., but what do they mean, and how can we understand them. What have been the effects of CME’s that have struck the earth? These concepts are presented in an interesting format with the goal of helping us better understand their role. We will also touch on the recent eclipses and their effect. This is a non-technical aid in understanding more advanced presentations With Cycle 25 upon us, this will help in understanding its effects.
DMR Operating Best Practices
-
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
DMR Operating Best Practices
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
This forum will cover best practices when operating on linked DMR repeater networks. Topics will include basic requirements, a review of various linked networks, and tips to make operating DMR more enjoyable.
Fox Hunting for Fun and Service
Fox Hunting for Fun and Service
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
From the day the first man made radio waves were received by amateur radio operators around the world, the question arose, "Where are these coming from?" Not a lot has changed from those early years except the tools we have today to answer this ancient question. In many situations it's a life and death matter but to most hams it's an opportunity to use their radios and build skills in a sporting atmosphere and to make it even more family friendly, you don't even need a license to take part. Wives and kids love the sport of the hunt. In today's presentation we will cover all aspects of this growing world wide sport including history, antennas, radios, techniques and some really fun ways others have cleverly hidden their "Fox Boxes" to challenge the hunters. And to make it even more interesting, we will show you how to build your own world class fox hunting antenna system for less than fifty dollars!
Having Fun With Mountaintop VHF Operating
Having Fun With Mountaintop VHF Operating
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
The Rocky Mountain region has plenty of high summits from which to operate using VHF/UHF radio. Height Above Average Terrain makes a huge difference for these bands, which provides new opportunities and challenges. Mostly, it is just a lot of fun to get outdoors and make radio contacts. This presentation includes Summits On The Air, some Parks On The Air, and VHF contesting.
Women in Amateur Radio - Connect, Learn, and Inspire!
Women in Amateur Radio - Connect, Learn, and Inspire!
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Amateur radio has long been a space for exploration, connection, and innovation, but women have historically been underrepresented in the hobby. That’s changing, and we want to keep the momentum going! Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, this is a place for women in amateur radio to connect, share experiences, and support one another. -Why Get Involved? Amateur radio is a fantastic way to build technical skills, from electronics to emergency communications. It fosters a strong sense of community—locally and globally. Women bring unique perspectives and skills that help advance the hobby and make it more inclusive. -How Can We Support Each Other? Share experiences and advice for getting licensed. Discuss favorite rigs, antennas, and operating modes. Encourage participation in contests, public service events, and technical projects. Offer mentorship to newcomers who want to get started. If you're already involved in amateur radio, what inspired you to join? What advice would you give to a newcomer? If you're new and curious, what questions do you have? Let’s make this a welcoming space to inspire more women to get on the air!
12:00 PM
Lunch
Lunch
12:00 PM - 1:50 PM
2:00 PM
Adventures over the last 177 HAB launches
Adventures over the last 177 HAB launches
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
EOSS has launched over 382 balloons, since 1990. These Balloons have carried thousands of student experiments into the stratosphere or "The Edge of Space". Here are some stories from the last 177 launches.
Amateur Radio Hotspts
-
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
Amateur Radio Hotspts
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
This forum will cover basics of Amateur Radio Hotspots. Topic will include use cases, types, basic configuration and cross mode operation.
Failover and route redundancy for IP based networks
Failover and route redundancy for IP based networks
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Having redundant paths to connect hosts on an IP based network is an important feature to improve robustness and ensure network reliability. The IP and its associated routing protocols offers a range of options for how to implement this. The talks explores different techniques ranging from simple failover, to recursive routing, to using routing protocols such as OSPF to automatically updates routes, considering pros and cons of various approaches. The talk will focus on the implementation using inexpensive Mikrotik routers, but these techniques apply to routers from other manufacturers as well.
Propagation Tools
Propagation Tools
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Every successful DX’r, Contester, and other HF operators use their knowledge of propagation tools to their advantage. Bill will explain what tools are available, where to find them, and how to use them. They include VOACAP, SolarHam, Space Weather Prediction Center, ClubLog, and WSJT-X. Become a better prepared HF operator and get more from your HF station.
RMHAM Multi-State 5 GHz Microwave Network: A Realtime Demonstration of its Functionality and Capabilities
RMHAM Multi-State 5 GHz Microwave Network: A Realtime Demonstration of its Functionality and Capabilities
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
A real-time demonstration of applications using the RMHAM microwave network and the tools used to manage the network.
3:00 PM
Hotspot Workshop
-
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
Hotspot Workshop
Michael Lozano
(
RMHAM
)
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM
This workshop will allow Hams to bring their hotspot and radio and receive assistance getting their hotspot set up and working. The process will include: - Connecting the hotspot to a network - Basic configuration including callsign and freqouencies - Choosing the correct modem and connection settings - Other miscellaneous hotspot settings - Programming a channel on the radio
How to Make 200 Contacts per Hour (and Have Fun Doing It)
How to Make 200 Contacts per Hour (and Have Fun Doing It)
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM
If operating Field Day or you State QSO Party leaves you disappointed, Bill will explain how making 200+ QSO’s/hour is not only possible, but great fun! His W6H Route 66 On the Air team often places first among the clubs who operate it. He will present the tactics and skills necessary to do this like using voice recordings, CW messages, making rapid exchanges, and more. Whether you have a local special event station or just want more contacts in the log, enjoy hearing about Bill’s experiences as he shares them with you.
Radio Operations for Amateur Ballooning
Radio Operations for Amateur Ballooning
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM
Title of Presentation: Radio Operations for Amateur Ballooning Presenter Name(s) and Contact Information: Jim Langsted KCØRPS, Edge of Space Sciences, jmlangsted@gmail.com, 303.870.2802 Brief Bio of Presenter(s): Jim KCØRPS has been involved in amateur ballooning for 22 years and is currently the President of Edge of Space Sciences. Abstract (150–250 words) outlining your topic and its relevance: A variety of amateur radio bands and modes are used during launch, tracking, and recovery of high-altitude scientific balloons, typically launched by amateur radio individuals and organizations. This talk discusses ground tracking, altitude and position reporting, and recovery operations. Balloons of interest include amateur high-altitude latex balloons, around-the-world amateur pico-balloons, and (well, not actually amateur) National Weather Service balloon chasing. This talk discusses the practical issues of analog and DMR repeater operations in eastern Colorado, the ultra-lite (1/2 ounce) solar-powered beacons used for pico-ballooning, as well as a deep dive into the construction of reusable beacons for balloons regularly supporting STEM programs in the Denver area. Audio/Visual and Technical Requirements: PowerPoint presentation with no video, applications, etc.
Using ChatGPT AI and OpenSCAD to generate printer 3D STL files
Using ChatGPT AI and OpenSCAD to generate printer 3D STL files
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM
OpenSCAD is a free software application for creating 3D computer-aided design (CAD) objects. It is a script-based modeler that utilizes descriptive language This presentation will show how ChatGPT AI can be used to with OpenSCAD to generate STL files for 3D printing.
Using WSPR To Find Band Activity
Using WSPR To Find Band Activity
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM
We start with a brief overview of WSPR and how it is so successful at getting through with such low power. A good multi-band antenna, such an EFHW, makes it possible for the WSPR beacon to be transmitted across several ham bands. WSPRnet.org shows the results. We examine results for several different days and times to show the usefulness of this technique.
4:00 PM
APRS vs. Meshtastic: A Comparison of Position Reporting, Telemetry, and Messaging
APRS vs. Meshtastic: A Comparison of Position Reporting, Telemetry, and Messaging
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
**Abstract** Both the Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) and Meshtastic offer position reporting, telemetry, and text messaging capabilities. This presentation compares and contrasts these two systems, focusing on their implementation and application of these core features. **APRS:** Developed in the late 1980s by Bob Bruninga (WB4APR), APRS is a well-established digital communications system within the amateur radio community. It encompasses a wide range of features, including position reporting, telemetry, text messaging, and more. Its position reporting and weather reporting capabilities have seen widespread adoption among amateur radio operators. APRS operates on amateur radio frequencies and, as such, must adhere to FCC Part 97 regulations and established amateur radio practices. **Meshtastic:** In contrast, Meshtastic is a relatively new system. It leverages LoRa (long-range, low-power) devices operating under FCC Part 15 regulations. As its name suggests, Meshtastic utilizes a mesh network topology. The system provides similar functionalities to APRS, including position reporting, text messaging, and various forms of telemetry, such as weather data. This presentation will explore the key differences and similarities between these two systems, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Improving your DX Chase - Station optimization and automation
Improving your DX Chase - Station optimization and automation
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
Come learn about improving your station to become more agile to quickly move between modes, bands, or antennas to catch that rare one you've been chasing. You will learn about some tricks to make your antennas "no tuning needed" to operate across the band, lower your noise floor, and ideas on blocking noise sources you can't do anything about. You'll leave with ideas on how to apply some of these same techniques to your own station to snag that next ATNO.
Using amateur radios in High Attitude Balloon (HAB) operations
Using amateur radios in High Attitude Balloon (HAB) operations
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
Edge of Space Sciences (EOSS) is an organization promoting science and education through amateur radio and high-altitude balloons (HAB). The presentation will cover at a high-level various aspects of operations. the methods by which amateur radio contributes to the support of these operations and showcasing some of the equipment utilized.
Saturday, October 25, 2025
7:00 AM
Registration
Registration
7:00 AM - 8:50 AM
9:00 AM
Climbing Towers Safely - Gear and Equipment
Climbing Towers Safely - Gear and Equipment
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
An introduction to gear and equipment used for climbing towers. Review best practices and industry standards for climbing, working, and hauling equipment safely.
My Favorite Antennas for Portable Operations
My Favorite Antennas for Portable Operations
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
This presentation will focus on antennas used for POTA, SOTA, Field Day, and other portable operations. Several examples of commercial and home-brew antennas will be shown and discussed. The characteristics of each will be highlighted. All of these have been personally field tested during my 20 years of portable operating.
Summits On The Air (SOTA) - Learn more about this unique program
Summits On The Air (SOTA) - Learn more about this unique program
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
In this session, you'll learn what the SOTA program is, how it works, and how to participate. You'll learn about the point system, the data submission, and all things needed to participate. You will also learn about terms you may have heard when talking about SOTA (Prominence, AZ, Mountain Goat, Shack Sloth, etc.) Finally, you will learn about commonly used gear in the pursuit of activating mountain peaks for points. This is an "intro to SOTA" session to help get those interested started.
“Being a Net Controller: Do’s, Don’ts & Benefits”
“Being a Net Controller: Do’s, Don’ts & Benefits”
9:00 AM - 9:50 AM
Hour long presentation of how to be a net controller, responsibilities, do's dont's and benefits.
10:00 AM
Learning Morse Code after Puberty
Learning Morse Code after Puberty
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
Hi all, I would be more than happy to give a presentation on ‘Learning Morse Code after Puberty’. This is not a presentation on Learning Morse Code, but explaining the How’s, Why’s and Way’s to learn. It will be entertaining…if not educational. I have been involved in Ham Radio since 2006. Have Eight Band DXCC. Worked All Zones CW. 323 Confirms. Advisor and co-manager for CW Academy. Thanks for your consideration, 73, Bob WR7Q CWA Admin 8018796566
THE VEE BEAM ANTENNA – A wire alternative to the multi-band Yagi
THE VEE BEAM ANTENNA – A wire alternative to the multi-band Yagi
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
In an easy-to-grasp manner, the presenter describes and discusses the pros and cons of the VEE Beam, a low – cost multi-band HF fixed wire antenna that can be a reasonable alternative to the rotatable multi-band Yagi, which typically requires a support tower and rotator. The VEE Beam can be useful not only at a permanent installation, but also as a portable or temporary antenna that can provide significantly better performance than a dipole and many other wire - based antennas. This presentation is as much about illustrating how antenna modeling software enables the exploration and optimization of design alternatives as it is about the antenna designs themselves. After an overview of the theory of operation of the VEE Beam, an overview of the EZNEC antenna modeling software employed to predict performance and generate elevation and azimuth radiation pattern plots is provided. This is NOT a detailed tutorial on EZNEC, however, some user level instructions are provided as a guide for those navigating their way through the application. The presenter then describes and illustrates an EZNEC – generated model of a typical antenna for a fixed home installation, and provides per-band gain and launch angle tables for comparison with a dipole at the same height. In addition, per-band azimuth and elevation plots are provided that illustrate comparative radiation patterns of the VEE Beam and a dipole, as well as a 2 element monoband Yagi. Comparison tables between the VEE Beam under discussion and a commercially-available HF multi-band yagi are also provided throughout the presentation. Also discussed is an example of a fixed multi-wire, electrically steerable array that can be configured utilizing the same VEE Beam design. Next, the presenter describes several compact iterations of the VEE Beam design optimized for portable use, including the ARRL Field Day. After defining a baseline VEE Beam, unique versions (called “YagVEEs”) are created by combining the VEE and Yagi – type parasitic elements to enhance directional performance on a particular band(s). As earlier, tables of gain and launch angles and EZNEC radiation plots are provided. The Ski Country ARC deployed the YagVEE for the ’25 ARRL Field Day. To complete the presentation, some construction notes and performance observations for the YagVEE are provided.
Tower Safety Considerations
Tower Safety Considerations
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
The safest climber with the best equipment doesn't matter if the structure isn't safe to climb. What makes a tower safe? We'll discuss things to look for, and things you hopefully don't see when you're working on or around a tower or communications site.
WWV Amatuer Radio Club - celebrating more than a century of radio frequency standards from WWV
WWV Amatuer Radio Club - celebrating more than a century of radio frequency standards from WWV
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
WWV Amateur Radio Club The WWV Amateur Radio Club originated from the 100th Anniversary of WWV in 2019. After a very successful celebration event in 2019, including a 5-day Special Event Station as well as an official ceremony hosted by NIST, a small group kept the enthusiasm going with other milestone recognitions. In early 2021 the club officially reorganized and has been active since. In addition to hosting an annual anniversary operating event in late September/early October, the club has supported the effort of the HamSCI Grape Personal Space Weather Station project and its most recent efforts during the 2023 and 2024 eclipses. WWV ARC has hosted an FTP repository for HamSCI the past three years, with this service now migrating to the University of Alabama. Most recently the club has helped facilitate a WSPRsonde transmitter, an 8-channel transmitter from 160m-6m, installed at WWV (WW0WWV), that is one of the most reported WSPR broadcasts. Observations of the 1-watt signal have been closely compared with the NIST high-power broadcasts, showing similar diurnal Doppler shifts as well as possible travelling ionic disturbances. The WWV ARC continues its advocacy of the NIST Time and Frequency division and the services provided to the amateur and scientific communities.
11:00 AM
Building and Sustaining a Thriving Radio Club: Insights and Best Practices
Building and Sustaining a Thriving Radio Club: Insights and Best Practices
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
A thriving radio club faces many challenges, including attracting and retaining new members, engaging and sustaining current members, and growing and developing the next generation of club leaders. This forum offers an interactive discussion among audience members and a panel of club leaders, featuring insights and examples of best practices drawn from their experiences. The goal is to identify the kind of activities and practices that foster and deepen engagement with amateur radio clubs.
Major Events in Morse Code History
Major Events in Morse Code History
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
12 Jan 2025 Hi all, I would be more than happy to give a presentation on some ‘Major Events in Morse Code History’. This will include brief discussions, and some ‘recreated’ audio files of code being sent. Topic to include development of CW; Pony Express; Civil War; Titanic; Military; Contesting; DXing; SOTA & POTA and ways to learn code. I have been in Ham Radio since 2006. Have Eight Band DXCC. Worked All Zones CW. 323 Confirms. Advisor and co-manager for CW Academy. Thanks for your consideration, 73, Bob WR7Q CWA Admin 8018796566
NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave)
NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave)
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Powerpoint discussing theory, applications, and antennas for NVIS.
Planning Your Next POTA Activation
Planning Your Next POTA Activation
11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Presentation summary: Combining radio skills with the outdoors, POTA or “Parks on the Air” has become one of the most popular amateur radio activities. Whether you are an experienced POTA activator, or you’re planning your first POTA activation, during this presentation will learn the tricks and tips of successful POTA activators. Get a crash course based on field proven experience. Presentation Outline: • Planning your POTA activation • What to bring to your POTA activation? • On-site setup • Operating tips • Hazards and warnings • What to do after your successful POTA activation?
12:00 PM
12:00 PM - 1:50 PM
2:00 PM
Beyond SWR with a Nano VNA
Beyond SWR with a Nano VNA
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
The Nano VNA has become an essential tool in the ham shack. However, the Nano VNA can do more than just measure the SWR of your antenna system. This presentation will show how to connect the Nano VNA to a computer and use the Nano VNA to qualify feed lines and design and test matching circuits, baluns, and ununs.
Introduction to Microcontroller Applications in Amateur Radio
Introduction to Microcontroller Applications in Amateur Radio
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Small microcontroller boards offer amateur radio operators an accessible and versatile foundation for building custom projects. This presentation focuses on compact microcontroller platforms like Arduino, ESP32, and similar single-chip solutions. We'll cover the practical aspects of integrating these smaller microcontrollers into ham radio applications, including how to select the right board for your project based on processing requirements, memory needs, and I/O capabilities. We'll demonstrate hands-on techniques for interfacing with common controls and displays, and walk through the essential programming concepts needed to bring your projects to life.
POTA Lessons Learned from the Field
POTA Lessons Learned from the Field
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Learn tips, tricks, and valuable lessons learned by two experienced POTA activators who have spent hours collecting gear, honing their skills, and operating in the field. By attending this forum you will save yourself both time and money by taking advantage of these lessons learned. Lessons learned: POTA antennas POTA equipment and DC power POTA site selection Logging and reporting POTA contacts.
The How's and Why's of DXing
The How's and Why's of DXing
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Hi all, I would be more than happy to give a presentation on ‘The How’s and Why’s of DXing. This is overview of getting started with DXing including a lot of tips and suggestions of how to find and have a better chance of working them. I have been involved in Ham Radio since 2006. Have Eight Band DXCC. Worked All Zones CW. 323 Confirms. Advisor and co-manager for CW Academy. Thanks for your consideration, 73, Bob WR7Q CWA Admin 8018796566
Using Power Tool Batteries for Ham Radio
Using Power Tool Batteries for Ham Radio
2:00 PM - 2:50 PM
Can a power tool battery power your ham radio station? Batteries are expensive. Why buy expensive LiFePo4 batteries for portable operations when most of us already have multiple power tool batteries lying around. Why not just use these batteries? In this presentation Ken Lawrence, K0KEN, will present his findings on how well power tool batteries work for portable ham radio operations, such as Parks on the Air (POTA), Field Day, AuxComm and other remote radio operations. He will cover what equipment is needed, how long you can expect this type of battery to last and whether or not power tool batteries are a good substitute for LiFePo4 batteries and power packs.
3:00 PM
ARRL Forum
ARRL Forum
3:00 PM - 3:50 PM
4:00 PM
Automatic Link Establishment (ALE)
Automatic Link Establishment (ALE)
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
Slideshow showing the technical and practical aspects of ALE. I also plan on having hardware and software implementations of ALE for hands-on demonstrations.
How 3D Printing Fits in the Amateur Radio Hobby
How 3D Printing Fits in the Amateur Radio Hobby
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
A presentation about how 3D printing can fit into the amateur radio hobby, with a short history on W0AEZ personal journey in 3D printing and the lessons learned in addition to some simple tips to help get you started in the 3D printing hobby.
POTA - A fun way to obtain emergency operating skills
POTA - A fun way to obtain emergency operating skills
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
Erik Larson (AD7OV) and Reed Merrick(AF7FW) present a fun look into using POTA activations as ways to improve operating skills for emergency preparedness. Reed and Erik have been activating POTA sites since January 2024 using the club call W7HFV. They currently have over 23,000 contacts from POTA activations and have successfully activated 59 different POTA parks (as of April 2025). Between January 2024 and April 2025, they have performed over 215 park activations, and have a following of "regulars" that keep their club call W7HFV in HamAlert. They share with you their experience operating POTA and how much it has prepared them for emergency activation and operation. Erik is the ARRL ARES Emergency Coordinator for Uintah County, Utah, and sees POTA as a valuable tool to help train hams to set up and operate in an emergency situation as well as a great way to revitalize HAM radio. Reed recently timed himself on a POTA station deployment, and 9 minutes 47 seconds from when he arrived at the park, he was on the air calling CQ for his first contact with a fully operational HF station capable of operation from 40m thru 6m at 100W output, with solar/battery power. The presentation focuses on using POTA as a training tool from the emergency preparedness point of view, and also on having fun while doing it.
The Early Days of Ham Radio and DXing
The Early Days of Ham Radio and DXing
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
This presentation is a fun, non-technical look back at the beginnings of Ham Radio and DXing. We will start in the late 1800’s, and end in the 1960’s. We will touch on the influence of the military, government, clubs, etc., including the friendly but strong competition between England and the U.S. for the first transatlantic contact. A few of the important pioneers in the history of DXing are highlighted. Much of this is from the humorous and personal perspective of the individuals involved
Vehicle Power Systems
Vehicle Power Systems
4:00 PM - 4:50 PM
Modern vehicle power system present a significant challenge to the Amateur Radio community. With advanced charging systems powering 2 way radios is more complex than ever. This paper will look at all of the issues with latest generation vehicle power systems and their impact on mobile operation. Including testing of "Battery Boosters" for RFI generation and mobile radios TX power output under various voltages. If the weather cooperates we will do "hands on" testing of several vehicles. This presentation is an updated version of an RMHAM University presentation from May of 2024.
Sunday, October 26, 2025