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Remembering Bob Heil
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bob Heil, a legendary figure in the world of ham radio. Bob Heil was widely known for his expertise in microphones and his contributions to the audio industry. For over 30 years, we had the privilege of representing Bob Heil and his professional microphones in both the ham radio market and the professional market. His dynamic moving core microphones were highly regarded for their wide frequency range and transparency, making them perfect for announcements and close miking of instruments. Bob's legacy will be remembered fondly by all those who knew him.
Celebrating Martin Jue's 80th Birthday
In happier news, we are thrilled to celebrate the 80th birthday of our dear friend Martin F.Jue, the founder of MFJ Enterprises. Martin has been an integral part of our business for many years, and we have had the pleasure of working with him since the early days of our company. Martin's engineering skills and innovative products have made MFJ Enterprises a leading company in the industry. We have shared many memorable moments with Martin, from enjoying meals together to engaging in serious discussions about technology and antennas. We are delighted to see Martin reach this milestone and wish him many more years of success and happiness.
The Joy of CW Morse Code Operation
One of the topics that has garnered a tremendous response from our audience is CW Morse code operation. It is heartening to see the number of CW operators who still enjoy this aspect of the hobby. In fact, many individuals have been inspired to learn CW as a result of our videos. Personally, our very own Peter Waters has been operating 100 percent on CW for the past few months and has found it both enjoyable and a great way to test propagation conditions. Working with weak stations and exploring the lower end of the frequency spectrum has provided valuable insights into the nuances of propagation. We look forward to sharing more about my CW experiences in the future.
Supporting Antennas with Fiberglass Poles
One of the challenges of erecting antennas is finding suitable support structures, especially when using fiberglass poles. Thankfully, we came across a helpful video by GM0OPX, who demonstrates a practical solution. His meticulous attention to detail in selecting materials and constructing various antenna setups makes his channel a valuable resource. Whether you are using a spider pole or a similar fiberglass pole, we highly recommend checking out this video for useful tips and ideas.
Yaesu's Cashback Offer
For those looking to purchase Yaesu’s products, now is an excellent time to do so. Yaesu has launched a new cashback promotion that includes a range of radios, such as the FTDX 101 MP, FTDX 101D, FT991A, FT-710 AES, FTM-500DE, and FT5DE handheld. In addition to the cashback offer, we also offer a part exchange option, allowing you to save even more. Simply provide a copy of your invoice to Yaesu UK, and they will refund a portion of your purchase price. Take advantage of this opportunity to upgrade your ham radio equipment and save money in the process.
The Importance of EMF Safety
As ham radio operators, it is crucial to be aware of electromagnetic field (EMF) risks and take appropriate measures to ensure our safety and the safety of those around us. The RSGB has developed an EMF calculator that makes it easy to assess the potential risks associated with your antenna setup. By inputting details such as frequency of operation, power output, and type of coaxial cable, the calculator provides valuable information on safety distances to avoid any potential health risks. We encourage everyone to use this calculator to ensure their setups are within safe limits.
Introducing DX Engineering
We are delighted to announce that we have taken on the responsibility of importing DX Engineering products. DX Engineering has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality antennas and equipment. Their innovative solutions, such as the device that allows for separate transmitting and receiving antennas, are unique and valuable additions to any ham radio station. We are currently in the process of adding DX Engineering products to our website, we look forward to showcasing their range of offerings in the near future.
Amplifier Considerations
With the recent change in licensing regulations, ham radio operators in the UK can now run up to 1000 watts at the feed point of their antennas. However, it is essential to understand that this limit applies to the feed point and not the output of your amplifier. When using an amplifier, it is crucial to consider the quality of your connectors, coaxial cable, and overall setup. Automatic tuned amplifiers offer convenience and immediacy, while valve amplifiers with a P network provide manual antenna tuning capabilities. Choose the option that best suits your needs and ensures that your setup can handle the increased power output.
The ARL Antenna Book
For those interested in antenna design and propagation, the ARRL Antenna Book is a valuable resource. It covers a wide range of topics and is often referred to as the bible of HF antenna design. While it can be quite expensive to purchase in the UK, I recently discovered that it is available for a much more affordable price on Amazon. The latest edition, which includes four volumes, is priced at only £61.80, including postage. This is an excellent opportunity to add this essential reference to your ham radio library.
Conclusion
Thank you for your continued support. We appreciate all of your orders and are committed to providing excellent service. Whether you're in need of connectors, accessories, or a new rig, we are here to assist you. Wishing you all happy ham radio adventures.