Ham Radio Workbench Podcast

In this episode we meet David Gleason, NR9V, who makes radio interface devices to connect to AllStar and other Radio Over IP applications.  We introduce you to AllStar, talk about some of the technical details of the system, and explore the pros and cons of digital voice CODECs.  David's company AllScan offers a veriety of radio interfaces, computers and accessories.

In this episode we talk about our workbench projects AND take a deep dive into gift recommendations for your favorite ham.  Topics include gifts for the workbench, the shack, portable operations and stocking stuffers. Warm up your wallet !  

In this episode we meet Paul, KI7ADC, and Raoul, W7RPS, both avid users of the Icom IC-905 VHF/UHF/SHF radio.  We talk about what attracted them to operate on the microwave bands and what it took to get their portable stations all set up.  Paul and Raoul live in the Portland metro area and have had experience on the ground and mountain topping with the IC-905.  They have explored using SSB, FM, D-STAR and ATV modes on 1.2 GHz, 2.4 and 5.6 GHz. If you have ever been interested in moving up the frequency spectrum to the microwave bands, the IC-905 is a very easy way to get up and on the air.

In this episode we meet Richard Dillman, W6AWO, one of the key people responsible for putting historical shore station KPH back on the air.  In this fascinating interview, Richard tells us about the history of KPH, when it was decomissioned and his efforts to put the station back on the air.  This project is managed by the Maritime Radio Historical Society.  Today KPH is on the air using commercial HF marine frequencies and on the ham bands as K6KPH. Many thanks to our good friend Kevin Mattison, KM6WUM, for pulling this show together.  You can hear more about Kevin and his portable satellite tracker project in HRWB episode 120.

In this episode we meet Tony, K1KP, the developer of polar modulation that is being used in the new Flex Radio Aurora radio.  Polar modulation is a technology breakthrough that allows Flex Radio to make an integrated 500 watt HF/6m transciever, power supply and antenna tuner in a small light weight package.  With better than 80% efficiency, the Aurora produces less heat, consumes less power and is smaller than conventional radios.  Tony, K1KP, has been developing this technology for over 10 years.  In this episode we will hear about Tony's journey as he pioneered polar modulation in amateur radio.