APRS with JS8Call on 40M

 I had my first successful APRS position spot over HF on 40M using JS8Call.  Until this point I had only used APRSDroid with APRSIS.  I also had registered and sent successful text messages to SMSGTE through APRSDroid.  So I of course had to test this as well on JS8Call and while I couldn't get the message sent with 5w or 10w I was finally successful with 25w (possibly required as I was transmitting during the overpass of tropical depression Sally).  But in an emergency conditions are probably not going to be optimal.  The only thing left to test is SMS -> APRS where someone like my wife could reach me.

I now plan to order the Mobilinkd TNC and adapter cable for my Baofeng 5VR+ providing a VHF APRS mobile solution.  I of course would have the HF if out camping, etc.  The eventual plan for HF QRP is either a LAB599 TX-500 Discovery or the Xiegu 5105.  The biggest difference from my perspective between these two are the TX-500 is rugged/splash resistant as well as the waterfall display, while the 5105 has a builtin ATU.  Of course as long as I use a tuned antenna then I'm leaning towards the TX-500.

NanoVNA Web on Chrome

 Today I got my NanoVNA connected to my Ubuntu Linux Laptop and used NanoVNA Web to interact with the interface.  This is awesome and allows you to set the Nano VNA down and work with something larger.

Below are some screenshots of the NanoVNA plotting SWR/Resistance on my Slinktenna for bands 160m - 6m.  All bands are tune-able with my Yaesu FT-991 ATU as the highest SWR is 1:2.39, but I also run a MFG-939Y. 👌😁💪

Bands: 160m - 20m

Bands: 17m - 30m

Bands: 6m

 

Dipole Antenna with 1:1 Voltage Balun

So I wanted to create my first dipole antenna for HF reason communication. I bought a 1:1 Voltage Balun DIY lot from Amazon for $22 with prime.

I initially implemented it incorrectly as the first picture shows then corrected it in the second. In the end I was able to work 6-40m using my MFJ-939Y external tuner. 

Now the plan is to get it installed in the attic. Sometime this fall after the heat does down 😉.