Author Archives: James

(32-bit) Time is running out !

Posted on 2020-05-07 by James

When I was compiling a new version of the ntpsec package that I use for my Stratum-2 NTP server, I noticed an interesting warning that is well known but I had never paid attention to: WARNING: This system has a … Continue reading →

Posted in General | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

MFJ-4117 Bias Tee – 0.06dB loss

Posted on 2020-04-15 by James

In order to remotely power my SG-230 Smartuner which will (temporarily) live in my attic to “tune” a large vertical loop antenna, I opted to use a bias-T to inject DC power onto the coax. Bias tees are passive components … Continue reading →

Posted in General, Lab / Testing | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

Electronics EDA software – Time for change (enter KiCad)

Posted on 2020-04-11 by James

Since roughly 2010, I have been using (formerly) CadSoft’s EagleCAD electronic design automation software quite happily. It took a lot of getting used to (it had a very steep learning curve) but I became quite good at using Eagle. I … Continue reading →

Posted in General | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Testing and improving station frequency accuracy & precision

Posted on 2020-04-01 by James

So your digital mode software is configured to control your transceiver via CAT control (excellent!). The software indicates that you are currently on the 20m band in FT8 mode, so your radio has been tuned to 14.074MHz USB (or digital … Continue reading →

Posted in Operating | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments