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AmateurLogic 215: Not another Friday 13th?


AmateurLogic.TV Episode 215 is now available for download.

Cutting a 1/4 wave shorted stub. DR Mode travel prep for automatic repeater memories. ATS 20+ Firmware update improvements. Emile’s latest shack update.

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This episode of AmateurLogic (March 13th, 2026) covers several technical projects and personal updates from the hosts, alongside a birthday celebration for George.

Video Highlights:
Quarter-Wave Stub Project: George demonstrates cutting and retuning a 1/4 wave shorted stub from 101.7 MHz to 107.5 MHz to protect a transmitter’s driver stage (4:31-18:40).
Top Band Antennas: Emile shares insights from Brian Betz (W7JET) regarding advanced antenna systems for 160 meters, specifically discussing an eight-circle antenna array and beverage antennas (19:02-20:59).
Shack Updates & Fiber Install: Emile shows off his new shack setup and the installation of a 600 ft armored fiber optic cable for high-speed internet (23:48-26:49).
DR Mode Travel Prep: Tommy explains how to use D-Star digital radio (DR) mode on an ICOM ID-52A to easily find and program local repeaters while traveling internationally for D-Star and Analog, specifically for a trip to London (31:00-43:55).
Simulated Emergency Test (SET): George announces a statewide emergency drill in Mississippi simulating a disruption of communication services due to a novel pathogen(Zombie virus) (43:59-46:18).
ATS-20+ Receiver Firmware Update: Mike walks through upgrading the firmware on a popular low-cost ATS-20+ radio, utilizing AverDudes to improve the screen display and functionality (51:26-1:01:40).

Ham College 135


Ham College episode 135 is now available for download.

Technician Exam Questions Part 22.
T7C – Antenna and transmission line measurements and troubleshooting: measuring SWR, effects of high SWR, causes of feed line failures, Basic coaxial cable characteristics, Use of dummy loads when testing.
T7D – Using basic test instruments: voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter, Soldering.

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This video, “Ham College 135,” (0:00-0:03) focuses on preparing viewers for the amateur technician exam, specifically covering antenna and transmission line measurements, troubleshooting, and the use of basic test instruments.
Key topics include:
Dummy Loads The primary purpose of a dummy load is to prevent transmitting signals over the air during tests (2:08-2:12). It consists of a non-inductive resistor mounted to a heat sink (6:06-6:09).
SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) An SWR meter is used to determine if an antenna is resonant at the desired operating frequency (3:17-3:21). A reading of 1:1 indicates a perfect impedance match (7:27-7:34). High SWR indicates an impedance mismatch (12:46-13:08) and can cause solid-state transmitters to reduce output power to protect circuitry (8:30-8:35).
Power lost in a feed line due to high SWR is converted into heat (13:34-13:47). A directional watt meter is used to measure SWR (15:23-15:27).
Coaxial Cable Moisture contamination is a primary cause of coaxial cable failure (21:11-21:15). The outer jacket of coaxial cable should be resistant to ultraviolet light to prevent damage and water entry (23:23-23:50).
Air core coax cable requires special techniques to prevent moisture (26:13-26:21) but has less loss per foot than foam or solid dielectric types (25:26-25:33).
Test Instruments
A voltmeter measures electric potential (35:06-35:16) and is connected in parallel to a component (38:03-38:19).
An ammeter measures current and is connected in series with a component (39:16-39:20).
An ohmmeter is used to measure resistance (54:04-54:09). When connected across a large, discharged capacitor, it shows an increasing resistance over time (57:36-58:11). When measuring in-circuit resistance, the circuit must not be powered (1:01:31-1:02:14).
Soldering A cold tin-lead solder joint typically appears with a rough or lumpy surface (47:22-47:34).

Ham College 134


Ham College episode 134 is now available for download.

Technician Exam Questions Part 21.
T7A – Station equipment: receivers, transceivers, transmitter amplifiers, receive amplifiers, transverters; Basic radio circuit concepts and terminology: sensitivity, selectivity, mixers, oscillators, PTT, modulation.
T7B – Symptoms, causes, and cures of common transmitter and receiver problems: overload and overdrive, distortion, interference and consumer electronics, RF feedback.

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AmateurLogic 214: Hamfest, OpenHamClock and Power Pole Hack


AmateurLogic.TV Episode 214 is now available for download.

Explore OpenHamClock, Raspberry Pi Trixie, and the Choyong LC90 Internet radio. Retain your power pole connectors with a cheap hack. Visit with friends at the 2026 Capital City Hamfest.

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This episode of AmateurLogic (0:00-0:06) covers a variety of topics relevant to amateur radio enthusiasts.

Key segments include:

Memory Shortage Discussion (4:08-6:17): The hosts discuss the increasing prices of computer memory, linking it to the rising demand from AI data centers and GPU usage. They also briefly touch upon the increase in SD card prices and mention that the best time to buy SD cards is during Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

ARRL Ham Radio Open House (11:46-12:31): An announcement about the second annual ARRL Ham Radio Open House in April, encouraging clubs and schools to promote amateur radio, science, and technology.

Power Pole Connector Hack (13:09-24:39): A detailed segment demonstrating a cheap hack for retaining power pole connectors, emphasizing correct polarity.

Capital City Hamfest (25:17-33:12): The hosts share their experiences at the Capital City Hamfest in Jackson, Mississippi, featuring conversations with friends and discussions about new radio equipment.
ARRL Insurance Importance (30:41-31:35): A strong recommendation for ARRL insurance to protect equipment from events like lightning strikes, highlighting the limitations of homeowner’s insurance.
60-Meter Band Changes (34:50-36:38): Discussion about recent changes to the 60-meter band affecting general class amateur radio tests, noting the increased complexity and changes in power levels.

OpenHamClock and Raspberry Pi Trixie (39:46-51:25): An in-depth look at OpenHamClock as a potential replacement for the HamClock project, and updates on the Raspberry Pi 5 running the Trixie OS, showcasing new themes, control center, and improved display handling.

Choyong LC90 Internet Radio (47:54-54:20): A review of the Choyong LC90 Internet radio, highlighting its voice activation, AI integration with ChatGPT, and a large index of online radio stations.
Ham Radio Deluxe Upgrade (1:02:52-1:05:08): An announcement about a free upgrade to Ham Radio Deluxe software for all previous purchasers.

Upcoming Ham College Episode (1:08:26-1:09:37): An announcement for a makeup episode of Ham College on Monday, February 16th, focusing on the technician exam.

Ham College 133


Ham College episode 133 is now available for download.

Technician Exam Questions Part 20.
T6C – Circuit diagrams: use of schematics, basic structure, Schematic symbols of basic components.
T6D – Component functions: rectifiers, relays, voltage regulators, meters, indicators, integrated circuits, transformers, Resonant circuit, Shielding.

This episode of Ham College (0:00-39:27) focuses on electrical diagrams and component functions, which are crucial for the Technician Exam. The hosts, Professor Thomas and Dean Martin, go through several multiple-choice questions related to identifying components in circuit diagrams and understanding their roles.

Key topics covered include:

Circuit Diagrams (2:17-2:25): The discussion begins with identifying a schematic as an electrical wiring diagram using standard component symbols.
Component Identification (4:23-17:48): The hosts quiz each other on recognizing various components in schematics, such as:
Resistors (4:23-5:12)
Transistors (5:23-6:16)
Indicator Lamps (6:26-7:12)
Batteries (7:16-8:26)
Capacitors (8:43-9:55)
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) (9:58-11:39)
Variable Resistors (11:49-13:02)
Transformers (13:08-15:02)
Variable Inductors (15:06-16:16)
Antennas (16:30-17:10)
Component Functions (23:36-33:24): The latter part of the episode delves into the functions of various electrical components:
Rectifiers (23:36-24:43) are discussed as devices that convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).
Relays (24:43-25:30) are defined as electrically controlled switches.
Meters (25:30-26:10) are explained as tools that display electrical quantities numerically.
Voltage Regulators (26:11-27:00) are identified as circuits that control voltage from a power supply.
Transformers (27:01-27:56) are highlighted for their ability to change AC voltage.
LEDs (28:25-29:07) are noted as common visual indicators.
Resonant Circuits (29:08-30:16) are explained as combinations of inductors and capacitors.
Integrated Circuits (30:22-31:16) are described as devices combining multiple semiconductors and components into one package.
Transistors (31:20-32:04) are described as controlling current flow.
Viewers are encouraged to send emails to [email protected] to participate in future Icom T-shirt giveaways. Join the Ham College social media groups for updates and community interaction (36:25-38:00).

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AmateurLogic 213: RF Burns


AmateurLogic.TV Episode 213 is now available for download.

In another Tales From The Transmitter, George presents RF Burns. Emile is getting back on the air in the new shack. Mike asks Hey What’s That, WISP?

This episode of AmateurLogic (0:01) covers various topics related to amateur radio and technology. The hosts, George, Tommy, and Mike, discuss personal updates and upcoming events, including the Capital City Hamfest (5:51) and Winterfield Day (6:13).

Key segments include:

George’s “Tales From The Transmitter” (11:49): George shares insights into the components of an FM transmitter, detailing parts like the tube, plate blocker, and harmonic filter. He also shows examples of damaged components due to arcing and lightning strikes, emphasizing the harsh environment within a transmitter site.
Emile’s New Shack Update (30:48): Emile provides an update on his new radio shack setup in Mississippi, showcasing his organized workspace, equipment, and current antenna setup, including a Wolf River coil and an Icon AH7000 antenna. He also demonstrates a custom-built board for connecting radios and antennas.
Mike’s “Hey What’s That, WISP?” (42:38): Mike introduces “Hey, What’s That?”, an online tool for visualizing horizons, elevation profiles, and fixed wireless (WISP) coverage. He explains how to use the site to plot tower locations, define coverage areas, and view different map overlays.

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Ham College 132


Ham College episode 132 is now available for download.

Technician Exam Questions Part 19
T6A – Fixed and variable resistors, Capacitors, Inductors, Fuses, Switches, Batteries.
T6B – Semiconductors: basic principles and applications of solid state devices, diodes and transistors.

Ham College 132, titled “Technician Exam Questions Part 19,” focuses on topics T6A (Fixed and variable resistors, Capacitors, Inductors, Fuses, Switches, Batteries) and T6B (Semiconductors: basic principles and applications of solid-state devices, diodes, and transistors) as part of their technician exam pool. The hosts announce a double dose of questions in this episode and will be doubling up on episodes and questions in the coming months until the current technician study guide expires on June 30th, 2026 (0:40-0:52, 47:13-49:15).

Key topics and questions covered include:

Resistors
The electrical component that opposes the flow of current in a DC circuit is a resistor (2:32-3:57).
A potentiometer is often used as an adjustable volume control (5:24-6:20).
The electrical parameter controlled by a potentiometer is resistance (8:28-9:12).
Capacitors
A capacitor stores energy in an electric field (9:37-10:20).
A capacitor consists of conductive surfaces separated by an insulator (10:48-11:36).
Inductors
An inductor stores energy in a magnetic field (11:51-12:24).
An inductor is typically constructed as a coil of wire (13:06-13:42).
Switches
The function of a single pole double throw (SPDT) switch is that a single circuit is switched between one of two other circuits (13:59-15:01).
Component three in Figure T2 represents a single pole single throw switch (21:26-22:00).
Fuses
A fuse is used to protect other circuit components from current overloads (16:49-17:42).
Batteries
Nickel metal hydride, lithium-ion, and lead acid battery chemistries are all rechargeable (17:55-18:56).
Carbon zinc battery chemistry is not rechargeable (19:00-20:52).
Diodes
It is true that forward voltage drop in a diode is lower in some diode types than in others (28:09-29:30).
A diode allows current to flow in only one direction (30:06-30:52).
The cathode lead of a semiconductor diode is often marked on the package with a stripe (37:26-38:07).
Forward current causes a light-emitting diode (LED) to emit light (38:32-39:37).
The names for the electrodes of a diode are anode and cathode (41:15-42:18).
Transistors
A transistor can be used as an electronic switch (32:40-33:50).
A transistor can consist of three regions of semiconductor material (34:16-35:02).
An FET (Field Effect Transistor) has a gate, drain, and a source (35:26-36:24, 40:29-41:00).
A transistor can provide power gain (42:27-43:02).
The term that describes a device’s ability to amplify a signal is gain (43:11-43:53).
The names of the electrodes of a bipolar junction transistor are emitter, base, and collector (43:58-44:46).

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AmateurLogic 212: Christmas 2025


AmateurLogic.TV Episode 212 is now available for download.

N5ZNO’ First POTA Activation. 2.5 Gbps Fiber to The Shack. New and Classic Christmas Fails.

The video is a “Christmas edition” of AmateurLogic.TV, featuring hosts George, Tommy, Emile, and Mike discussing various amateur radio-related topics and personal updates.

Here’s a summary of the key segments:

Introductions and Personal Updates (0:26-4:25): The hosts greet viewers for the Christmas episode. Tommy shares he’s on vacation until January 2nd and is enjoying more radio time (1:11-1:40). Emile discusses building his radio shack, including installing a fiberglass mast and planning internet connectivity (2:03-2:34). Mike talks about recent heavy snowfall and preparing for Christmas (2:53-3:22). George mentions being on vacation for the rest of the year (3:55-4:14).

AI’s Impact on Tech Prices (4:27-5:23): Mike shares a CNET article about how AI is driving up the prices of computer components, particularly RAM, reminiscent of past memory price spikes due to factory fires.

Tommy Gun Antenna Launcher (5:39-6:10): The hosts showcase the “Tommy Gun,” an antenna launcher designed to quickly deploy wire dipole or windom antennas using combustible ammunition like black powder or WD40.

N5ZNO’s First POTA Activation (6:18-13:50): Tommy (N5ZNO) recounts his first “Parks on the Air” (POTA) activation. He set up his MFJ 1898 antenna and Icom 705 radio in his truck due to cold weather, making 20 contacts in about 25 minutes. He also explains his paper logging process and how he uploaded his logs to QRZ.com and Parks on the Air (POTA) database (14:37-16:42).

FCC Allocates 60 Meter Worldwide Amateur Band (18:47-20:00): News is shared about the FCC allocating a new amateur radio spectrum in the 60-meter band for worldwide use on a secondary basis, approved at WRC15. This band is available to general class license holders and above, with a maximum bandwidth of 2.8 kHz.

Grandpa Rap (20:02-20:52): The hosts briefly play a “grandpa rap” song related to amateur radio, humorously suggesting they should stick to their day jobs.

2.5 Gbps Fiber to the Shack (21:04-35:10): Emile provides an update on his shack build, detailing his network upgrade to 2.5 Gbps internal LAN speeds with 10 Gbps fiber uplinks using Ubiquiti’s Flex 8 series switches (21:47-26:50). He also shows the internal wiring for power outlets and discusses plans for external lighting, security, and various antenna setups, including a 500ft sky loop antenna and a hitch mount for a 36-foot mast (27:00-34:50).

Christmas Fails Compilation (38:49-41:30): A compilation of humorous Christmas-themed fails.

Tim Tam Cookies (43:08-43:51): A brief mention of Tim Tams cookies, bringing back memories for the hosts.

Christmas Gift Ideas for YLs (43:54-50:00): A humorous segment where Emil suggests various Icom amateur radio equipment as “gifts” for spouses, often with comical misunderstandings of what the spouse might actually want. Mike presents some unique gift ideas.

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