Author Archives: k4swl

The Ten-Tec Model 418 100 Watt Amplifier update and spec sheet

Posted on May 14, 2012 by k4swl

Along with the newly released specs of the Ten-Tec Model 539 Argonaut VI transceiver, Ten-Tec has kindly provided QRPer with a spec sheet of their new Model 418 100 watt solid-state linear amplifier. This versatile amp shows promise, and may … Continue reading →

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FlexRadio Systems announces a “game changer”

Posted on May 13, 2012 by k4swl

This year at the 2012 Dayton Hamvention, FlexRadio Systems will be joining the line-up of manufacturers introducing new products.  On the FlexRadio front page, they’ve posted the following graphics along with the promise of more to come.  It’s a Dayton … Continue reading →

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Telegraph operations in the Great Auroral Storm of 1859

Posted on May 10, 2012 by k4swl

These days, CMEs and solar flares get a great deal of media attention. But it’s mostly speculation–for even with our advanced abilities to measure the potential impact, we can’t be sure what will happen each time this occurs. Might this … Continue reading →

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Kenwood publishes first photo of the Kenwood TS-990S

Posted on May 7, 2012 by k4swl

When you open your June 2012 issue of QST, you will find that Kenwood has published a photo and ad (see below) of their new TS-990S in advance of Dayton. We also know a few specs/features: Full HF bands and … Continue reading →

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The ultimate Field Day tent?

Posted on May 6, 2012 by k4swl

Power Film Inc. is a developer and manufacturer of thin, flexible solar modules.  The company designs, manufactures and retails their products in Ames, Iowa–a quality made-in-USA product. Last year, at the Dayton Hamvention, PFI’s booth was very popular. Why? Their sale … Continue reading →

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Updates: The Ten-Tec Model 539 QRP Transceiver and the Model 418 Amplifier

Posted on May 2, 2012 by k4swl

I just received this update from John Henry (Ten-Tec Software Engineer) this morning: Hi Tom, We are making progress in several areas on the 539, it is coming along, and improving every day. We don’t have a price point we can … Continue reading →

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The Toronto Star publishes my thoughts on the cuts to Radio Canada International

Posted on May 1, 2012 by k4swl

Other than being a QRPer, I’m also an avid shortwave radio listener and international broadcasting supporter. Below is a post from my other blog, the SWLing Post, that I hope you will read and share: (Originally posted on the SWLing … Continue reading →

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Vlado’s challenge: home-brewed QRP DXCC

Posted on April 20, 2012 by k4swl

My good friend, Vladimir (Vlado) Karamitrov (N3CZ/ZS6MG) is someone who likes to challenge himself. Perhaps this is why he’s such an accomplished DXer and contester. Recently, at his QTH, he showed me one of his latest projects: a home brewed … Continue reading →

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Kenwood press release for the TS-990

Posted on April 19, 2012 by k4swl

Kenwood released the following press release today. I had hoped it would contain more information. We did recently learn about some TS-990 facts, and now, through this Kenwood PR,  we learn that the TS-990 will not see production until late … Continue reading →

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QTH.com offers a warning about classified scams

Posted on April 10, 2012 by k4swl

I have used the excellent QTH.com classifieds site for many years to buy and sell radio equipment. I think it’s a great alternative to eBay. I subscribe to the QTH.com classifieds newsletter and, this morning, Scott (KA9FOX) sent the following … Continue reading →

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