Web-based Antenna Designer and Calculator

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Rob (DM1CM) has created a website for all of us who find trying to understand EZNEC, 4NEC2 and similar packages too hard. Rob says that while the site is simplified and concentrates on common wire antennas, it is still fairly accurate as behind the screen he is using antenna modelling software. As the work is not done on your local PC some operations can take a little while to complete but be patient and it will get there.

As well as supplying dimensions for you to build one of the four "standard" antennas (Linked Dipole, End-Fed-half-wave, Delta Loop or Half Square (more to be added)), it also shows you the propagation pattern, VSWR charts, antenna current diagram and the smith chart for the chosen antenna.

More Information - https://sota-antennas.com/

RTL-SDR Releases V4 SDR Dongle

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RTL-SDR has released their latest V4 model of their USB software defined radio dongle. Updates include:

  • Improved HF reception with use of built-in upconverter.

  • Out of band interference from strong broadcast stations is less likely to cause desensitization.

  • Consumes less current and produces less heat.

The RTL-SDR V4 SDR will be priced around $40.

More Information - https://www.rtl-sdr.com/rtl-sdr-blog-v4-dongle-initial-release/

ID-50E Dual-Band D-STAR Digital Handheld Radio

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ID-50E Dual-Band D-STAR Digital Handheld Radio

Icom has announced details of the ID-50E, a new dual-band D-STAR digital transceiver to complement Icom's popular ID-52E model, providing even more choice for customers when it comes to D-STAR digital communications.

The ID-50E is a compact VHF/UHF dual bander with both D-STAR (Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio) and FM dual modes and looks very much like the popular ID-51E/PLUS.

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