A New Antenna Option for my Ultra Portable Go-Kit

 Several months ago, I purchased the uSDR transceiver from Ebay for around $120.  I even made a video about it called "The Cheapest HF Radio on Ebay? uSDR Initial Thoughts".  Using this radio, I am aspiring to create the least expensive go-kit I can find.  I'd like to have something small, functional, and inexpensive.  My goal is to prove that you do not have to spend a fortune to have fun in HF portable radio for POTA, SOTA, or whatever.  

My latest purchase to go along with this endeavor is another Ebay find.  I stumbled across N9SAB's store.  He sells under his name "Timortiz" and makes various QRP and QRO dipole and endfed antennas for sale.  One such is the "Rugged Nano Dipole".  This is a QRP antenna and he makes various versions for bands from 40 meters to 6 meters.  I opted for the 20 meter version that ran $36.95.  It was a toss-up on which version to buy.  I spend most of my time when portable on either 20 or 40 meters but decided on the 20 meter option because of size and weight.  Speaking of weight, this thing weighs in at a mere 2.2 oz.  It comes with a small soft cloth carry bag, BNC connector, and the antenna ends terminate with some sort of rubberized insulated pieces for attaching rope to secure the ends of the antenna to something (I've been using tent stakes). 

   

I would say that this antenna is quite well made.  I've had it out a few times with the uSDR transceiver with great results.  I've chased several POTA stations, and last weekend, logged several contacts with the MI QSO party.  I definitely recommend this antenna for any portable QRP go-kit and am contemplating which of Mr. Ortiz's antennas I should buy next.

Check out the video below for more of my thoughts on this little antenna.

73 --Bob

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Panama City Amateur Radio Club Spring Tailgate 2022

 April 9th 2022 was the Panama City Amateur Radio Club's Spring tailgate.  The weather was a little cool, but at least the sun was out.  Honestly, I think it was perfect for the tailgate.  This event was a big step in getting people involved in the club post-Covid.  There were several people that had set up portable radio stations, the ARES group was there (many are members of the club) participating in a Saturday excercise, and there were many people that had come from as far away as Pensacola to sell ham related gear.  Overall, I would say around 30-40 people showed up for the event.  It really was a pleasant surprise to see such interest after a long hiatus of club events and activities.  

I had set up my 2 meter packet go-box and IC-705 and had many people stop by and chat about my setup and show interest in packet radio.  I fully intended to get a large amount of video of the event, but as I was talking most of the time, I only had a chance to check out a few of the portable radio setups people had brought to demonstrate.  The video is below.  I hope you enjoy.

73.  --Bob