Hams may have various reasons for disliking FT8, a digital mode of communication in amateur radio. Here are some common concerns and criticisms:
Lack of Personal Interaction
Minimal Communication: FT8 involves short, automated exchanges of information with little to no conversational content, which some hams find impersonal.
Reduced Social Aspect: Traditional modes like SSB, CW, and phone allow for more personal interaction and socializing, which many operators value.
Skill and Challenge
Lower Skill Requirement: FT8 is relatively easy to use and doesn’t require the same level of operating skill or knowledge of radio theory as modes like CW or SSB.
Less Technical Challenge: Some hams enjoy the challenge of optimizing their stations and skills, and FT8’s automated nature can feel less rewarding.
Impact on Bands
Band Congestion: FT8’s popularity can lead to crowded frequencies, making it harder for operators using other modes to find clear spots on the bands.
Dominance of Bands: The widespread use of FT8 can sometimes overshadow other modes, leading to a perceived imbalance in band usage.
Perceived Value
Questionable Accomplishment: Making contacts with FT8 can feel less like an achievement since it relies heavily on automated software and less on operator skill.
Awards and Certificates: Some operators feel that awards earned through FT8 contacts are less meaningful compared to those earned through more traditional modes.
NOTE I RESPECT FT8 AND ENJOY OPERATING IN ROBOT MODE SO I CAN MAKE LOTS OF CONTACTS WHILE SNORING AWAY IN MY SLEEP
JOHN ips
You made 8 contacts Steve on FT8 and I made 32 on SSB during the hour. I got my activation done so catch ya later!
Hams enjoy operating in Parks on the Air (POTA) events for several reasons:
Connection with Nature
Scenic Locations: Operating from beautiful, natural settings adds an element of enjoyment and relaxation.
Outdoor Activity: Combines the hobby of amateur radio with the benefits of being outdoors, promoting physical well-being.
Challenge and Adventure
Portable Operation: Setting up and operating a station in a remote or temporary location presents a fun and rewarding challenge.
Adaptability: Hams must adapt to different environments and overcome obstacles, such as power sources, antenna setups, and varying weather conditions.
Community and Camaraderie
Social Interaction: POTA events often bring together like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
Engagement: Operators enjoy the interaction with other hams worldwide, exchanging QSL cards and earning recognition.
Skill Development
Technical Skills: Provides an opportunity to test and improve technical skills, from setting up portable antennas to optimizing power sources.
Operating Skills: Enhances operating skills under different conditions, improving proficiency in making contacts (QSOs).
Recognition and Awards
Achievements: Many hams enjoy the recognition and awards associated with POTA, such as certificates and endorsements for activating or contacting multiple parks.
Friendly Competition: Participating in POTA events can add an element of friendly competition, motivating operators to improve their performance and achieve more.
Promotion of Amateur Radio
Public Awareness: Operating in public spaces helps raise awareness about amateur radio, potentially attracting new enthusiasts to the hobby.
Community Service: Demonstrates the capabilities of amateur radio in providing communication in remote or emergency situations.
Personal Fulfillment
Sense of Accomplishment: Successfully activating a park and making contacts provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Relaxation and Enjoyment: Combining a beloved hobby with the tranquility of nature creates a unique and enjoyable experience.
These diverse factors contribute to the appeal of Parks on the Air events, making them a popular activity among amateur radio operators.
Tks Sean
Be ham radio Active and get off the coach and stop watching YouTube videos of hams activating parks. Get out and do your own!!!!
I often get asked, “Why use 20 watts when my radio can do 100?”
Here’s why:
First, it’s about battery and power management. As a QRP enthusiast, operating at 20 watts simplifies my life, especially for SSB (Single Sideband) communication. While CW works great at 5 watts or lower, when readability is crucial, my park activations are at 20 watts. Yes, I operate at 5 or 10 watts SSB when the band permits or when I’m feeling adventurous.
The maximum power output of 20 watts is the sweet spot for effective SSB communications. The difference between a 20-watt and a 100-watt transmission is about 1 to 2 S-units on the receiving end, according to the Collins Radio standard of 6 dB per S-unit.
Most military and Australian bush HF manpacks are rated at 20 watts maximum output power. This level balances communication effectiveness with the practicality of how many batteries you need. Adding compression also provides a 6 dB boost in the modulation envelope, effectively enhancing your output power.
At 20 watts, I use 9 amps instead of 15, which translates to almost double the battery life. I can use a smaller and lighter 9aH battery instead of my heavier 18 or 30 aH battery pack.
I found two 6aH LifePO4 batteries at a liquidation store for $5 each. Wow!
I can pull 10aH out of the battery with no problem on SSB, giving me about an hour of run time, which is fine for a park activation.
Hams may have various reasons for disliking FT8, a digital mode of communication in amateur radio. Here are some common concerns and criticisms:
Lack of Personal Interaction
Minimal Communication: FT8 involves short, automated exchanges of information with little to no conversational content, which some hams find impersonal.
Reduced Social Aspect: Traditional modes like SSB, CW, and phone allow for more personal interaction and socializing, which many operators value.
Skill and Challenge
Lower Skill Requirement: FT8 is relatively easy to use and doesn’t require the same level of operating skill or knowledge of radio theory as modes like CW or SSB.
Less Technical Challenge: Some hams enjoy the challenge of optimizing their stations and skills, and FT8’s automated nature can feel less rewarding.
Impact on Bands
Band Congestion: FT8’s popularity can lead to crowded frequencies, making it harder for operators using other modes to find clear spots on the bands.
Dominance of Bands: The widespread use of FT8 can sometimes overshadow other modes, leading to a perceived imbalance in band usage.
Perceived Value
Questionable Accomplishment: Making contacts with FT8 can feel less like an achievement since it relies heavily on automated software and less on operator skill.
Awards and Certificates: Some operators feel that awards earned through FT8 contacts are less meaningful compared to those earned through more traditional modes.
NOTE I RESPECT FT8 AND ENJOY OPERATING IN ROBOT MODE SO I CAN MAKE LOTS OF CONTACTS WHILE SNORING AWAY IN MY SLEEP
JOHN ips
You made 8 contacts Steve on FT8 and I made 32 on SSB during the hour. I got my activation done so catch ya later!
Hams enjoy operating in Parks on the Air (POTA) events for several reasons:
Connection with Nature
Scenic Locations: Operating from beautiful, natural settings adds an element of enjoyment and relaxation.
Outdoor Activity: Combines the hobby of amateur radio with the benefits of being outdoors, promoting physical well-being.
Challenge and Adventure
Portable Operation: Setting up and operating a station in a remote or temporary location presents a fun and rewarding challenge.
Adaptability: Hams must adapt to different environments and overcome obstacles, such as power sources, antenna setups, and varying weather conditions.
Community and Camaraderie
Social Interaction: POTA events often bring together like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
Engagement: Operators enjoy the interaction with other hams worldwide, exchanging QSL cards and earning recognition.
Skill Development
Technical Skills: Provides an opportunity to test and improve technical skills, from setting up portable antennas to optimizing power sources.
Operating Skills: Enhances operating skills under different conditions, improving proficiency in making contacts (QSOs).
Recognition and Awards
Achievements: Many hams enjoy the recognition and awards associated with POTA, such as certificates and endorsements for activating or contacting multiple parks.
Friendly Competition: Participating in POTA events can add an element of friendly competition, motivating operators to improve their performance and achieve more.
Promotion of Amateur Radio
Public Awareness: Operating in public spaces helps raise awareness about amateur radio, potentially attracting new enthusiasts to the hobby.
Community Service: Demonstrates the capabilities of amateur radio in providing communication in remote or emergency situations.
Personal Fulfillment
Sense of Accomplishment: Successfully activating a park and making contacts provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Relaxation and Enjoyment: Combining a beloved hobby with the tranquility of nature creates a unique and enjoyable experience.
These diverse factors contribute to the appeal of Parks on the Air events, making them a popular activity among amateur radio operators.
Tks Sean
Be ham radio Active and get off the coach and stop watching YouTube videos of hams activating parks. Get out and do your own!!!!
I often get asked, “Why use 20 watts when my radio can do 100?”
Here’s why:
First, it’s about battery and power management. As a QRP enthusiast, operating at 20 watts simplifies my life, especially for SSB (Single Sideband) communication. While CW works great at 5 watts or lower, when readability is crucial, my park activations are at 20 watts. Yes, I operate at 5 or 10 watts SSB when the band permits or when I’m feeling adventurous.
The maximum power output of 20 watts is the sweet spot for effective SSB communications. The difference between a 20-watt and a 100-watt transmission is about 1 to 2 S-units on the receiving end, according to the Collins Radio standard of 6 dB per S-unit.
Most military and Australian bush HF manpacks are rated at 20 watts maximum output power. This level balances communication effectiveness with the practicality of how many batteries you need. Adding compression also provides a 6 dB boost in the modulation envelope, effectively enhancing your output power.
At 20 watts, I use 9 amps instead of 15, which translates to almost double the battery life. I can use a smaller and lighter 9aH battery instead of my heavier 18 or 30 aH battery pack.
I found two 6aH LifePO4 batteries at a liquidation store for $5 each. Wow!
I can pull 10aH out of the battery with no problem on SSB, giving me about an hour of run time, which is fine for a park activation.
After various false marketing claims, poor stitching and wires breaking off (thin wires that cant even handle the current load), I am happy I invested in Power Film brand panels.
We had a very hot and rainy week up north but the s1 noise floors was worth it. CME activity didnt help QRP levels but some great DX was had anyways.
The panel had a lot of juice to charge up my LIfePO4 batteries while we had sunshine.
I know I know you have a Harbour Freight coupon for a big heavy poor QC panel that just doesnt work.
I RELY ON USING THE BEST I CAN AFFORD TO AVOID DISAPOINTM,ENT AND LOST MONEY ON JUNK
After several thousand contacts with the MC-750 I can say that it is still like new. Of course, after a snowfall or rainfall I do wipe the antenna before storage into its excellent case.
I love this antenna because it works with my QRP radios and Ft-891 that do not have a tuner.
Jab spike into grass, extend whip to 14Mhz mark…go operate as SWR is always under 2:1 using its fixed radial length of 10 ft.
4 radials (wait isn’t it counterpoise?) has been proven to be a great performer. I always lay them on the ground and it just works with QRP contacts into Europe on 20m.
I have put all my end feds into a bag as to really work DX you need an efficient antenna without Balun losses and tuners in place (more losses) AND a low angle of radiation. The MC-750 gives you this.
I also tried the antenna on 40m understanding its a bit short so the performance is a bit short (usually an S unit or 2) but the speed of activation and recovery is awesome.
I deployed it this time on the rocks and was rewarded with some good contacts on 40m. The 40m coil is well built and has protection from the elements. I love POTA and my POTA is usually on 40 or 20m.
The Q is very good for the coil and the bandwidth is good so readjustment isn’t really needed when hunting for parks.
JNC is working hard to bring more affordable antenna products to the market place but only are they released after much testing and protyping.
I love the custom case with pockets that contain everything from getting lost. Its stood countless tossing into the truck, rain pour and transport on my bike. This alone is worth $60. The zippers work properly and there is room in the case for coax and even a QRP labs QCX radio. Even a swiss army knife and a energy bar and water flask.
My French River activation and Field day activity included 2 primary antennas (I brought a third for testing) and after the poor results with the end fed long wire with my 9:1 balloon I just kept the MC-750 connected. The band change from 40m to 20m was fast as well. Recover the 40m coil then extend the whip to 14mHz and run back to the cabin to operate.
The team has added some accessories and other items of interest to hams at price points that are affordable and designed and built extremely well. Pride in workmanship is a key company value.
I have had two MFJ telescopic whips fall apart due to poor quality and workmanship but my MC-750 whip although lighter in weight has worked admirably.
Get OUT and operate not sitting on a couch watching YouTube on people activating parks. Operate not watch!
John VE3IPS
Icom 705 at 5 watts with the MAT-705 tuner for the end fed and the Heil headset. QRP works and life is long enough.
My DIY 9:1 hangs off a nail
Working DX on 20m Thanks to the F6 in France using 5 watts SSB.
just some simple macro work cant work DX all day right?
Just stick the ground spike into the crack and go operate. At 17 ft and the base coil its a formidable weapon for 40m activity especially where a dipole cant be put up. I am constantly surprised how well it works on 40m with High Q and great bandwidth.
After various false marketing claims, poor stitching and wires breaking off (thin wires that cant even handle the current load), I am happy I invested in Power Film brand panels.
We had a very hot and rainy week up north but the s1 noise floors was worth it. CME activity didnt help QRP levels but some great DX was had anyways.
The panel had a lot of juice to charge up my LIfePO4 batteries while we had sunshine.
I know I know you have a Harbour Freight coupon for a big heavy poor QC panel that just doesnt work.
I RELY ON USING THE BEST I CAN AFFORD TO AVOID DISAPOINTM,ENT AND LOST MONEY ON JUNK
After several thousand contacts with the MC-750 I can say that it is still like new. Of course, after a snowfall or rainfall I do wipe the antenna before storage into its excellent case.
I love this antenna because it works with my QRP radios and Ft-891 that do not have a tuner.
Jab spike into grass, extend whip to 14Mhz mark…go operate as SWR is always under 2:1 using its fixed radial length of 10 ft.
4 radials (wait isn’t it counterpoise?) has been proven to be a great performer. I always lay them on the ground and it just works with QRP contacts into Europe on 20m.
I have put all my end feds into a bag as to really work DX you need an efficient antenna without Balun losses and tuners in place (more losses) AND a low angle of radiation. The MC-750 gives you this.
I also tried the antenna on 40m understanding its a bit short so the performance is a bit short (usually an S unit or 2) but the speed of activation and recovery is awesome.
I deployed it this time on the rocks and was rewarded with some good contacts on 40m. The 40m coil is well built and has protection from the elements. I love POTA and my POTA is usually on 40 or 20m.
The Q is very good for the coil and the bandwidth is good so readjustment isn’t really needed when hunting for parks.
JNC is working hard to bring more affordable antenna products to the market place but only are they released after much testing and protyping.
I love the custom case with pockets that contain everything from getting lost. Its stood countless tossing into the truck, rain pour and transport on my bike. This alone is worth $60. The zippers work properly and there is room in the case for coax and even a QRP labs QCX radio. Even a swiss army knife and a energy bar and water flask.
My French River activation and Field day activity included 2 primary antennas (I brought a third for testing) and after the poor results with the end fed long wire with my 9:1 balloon I just kept the MC-750 connected. The band change from 40m to 20m was fast as well. Recover the 40m coil then extend the whip to 14mHz and run back to the cabin to operate.
The team has added some accessories and other items of interest to hams at price points that are affordable and designed and built extremely well. Pride in workmanship is a key company value.
I have had two MFJ telescopic whips fall apart due to poor quality and workmanship but my MC-750 whip although lighter in weight has worked admirably.
Get OUT and operate not sitting on a couch watching YouTube on people activating parks. Operate not watch!
John VE3IPS
Icom 705 at 5 watts with the MAT-705 tuner for the end fed and the Heil headset. QRP works and life is long enough.
My DIY 9:1 hangs off a nail
Working DX on 20m Thanks to the F6 in France using 5 watts SSB.
just some simple macro work cant work DX all day right?
Just stick the ground spike into the crack and go operate. At 17 ft and the base coil its a formidable weapon for 40m activity especially where a dipole cant be put up. I am constantly surprised how well it works on 40m with High Q and great bandwidth.
THE W3FF HOMEBREW BUDDIPOLE A PORTABLE ANTENNA DESIGN FOR AMATEUR RADIO History of the Buddipole
In January of 2000, Budd W3FF began experimenting with a “walking portable” ham station. Since then, thousands of stations have been worked on the amateur radio bands, mostly from 10 Meters through 60 Meters.
The radio of choice here is a Yaesu FT-857ND. The new Lithium Ion Nano-phosphate batteries, the A-123’s are the way to go for power. A two pound A-123 gives me two hours of SSB operating with 100 watts and the ‘857d. (A-123’s and chargers are under accessories at Buddipole.com.)
Instructions are on this website for two homebrew HF antennas that are easy to build and very effective…………the Buddipole and the Buddistick, a vertical antenna that uses PVC with a variety of whip options.
The mast is important. I have several, but in order to get the feedpoint up high, I use either a Buddipole commercial mast ( Buddipole.com ) or a painter’s pole with a Center Tee Adapter. That adapter changes the odd Acme thread to a half inch pipe thread. That’s the thread used on the homebrew and commercial antennas I will describe. My son, Chris W6HFP, suggested we go commercial with the Buddipole, and we did that back in July 2002. You can see the commercial products at Buddipole.com. Chris now runs the company, and I do the technical support and help the homebrewers with any questions.
So somehow I have the original Buddipole back to 2003 to the latest BuddiHex and bits and bobs in between (TRSB is a must) along with several masts and a Mastwerks. Do I have 5 zip cases of various Buddipole antennas and tripods? Yes Sir! Total Fan Boy maniac OCD
Heard them…worked them…logged them…
I have made several thousand contacts from 80 to 2m and have always been happy with the excellenet workmanship and proof of concepts actually prototyped for some time before release to market.
THE W3FF HOMEBREW BUDDIPOLE A PORTABLE ANTENNA DESIGN FOR AMATEUR RADIO History of the Buddipole
In January of 2000, Budd W3FF began experimenting with a “walking portable” ham station. Since then, thousands of stations have been worked on the amateur radio bands, mostly from 10 Meters through 60 Meters.
The radio of choice here is a Yaesu FT-857ND. The new Lithium Ion Nano-phosphate batteries, the A-123’s are the way to go for power. A two pound A-123 gives me two hours of SSB operating with 100 watts and the ‘857d. (A-123’s and chargers are under accessories at Buddipole.com.)
Instructions are on this website for two homebrew HF antennas that are easy to build and very effective…………the Buddipole and the Buddistick, a vertical antenna that uses PVC with a variety of whip options.
The mast is important. I have several, but in order to get the feedpoint up high, I use either a Buddipole commercial mast ( Buddipole.com ) or a painter’s pole with a Center Tee Adapter. That adapter changes the odd Acme thread to a half inch pipe thread. That’s the thread used on the homebrew and commercial antennas I will describe. My son, Chris W6HFP, suggested we go commercial with the Buddipole, and we did that back in July 2002. You can see the commercial products at Buddipole.com. Chris now runs the company, and I do the technical support and help the homebrewers with any questions.
So somehow I have the original Buddipole back to 2003 to the latest BuddiHex and bits and bobs in between (TRSB is a must) along with several masts and a Mastwerks. Do I have 5 zip cases of various Buddipole antennas and tripods? Yes Sir! Total Fan Boy maniac OCD
Heard them…worked them…logged them…
I have made several thousand contacts from 80 to 2m and have always been happy with the excellenet workmanship and proof of concepts actually prototyped for some time before release to market.
At Fish n Chips Cheap Ham Lunch Club (we share an order across 3 hams) and order a single X large coffee to share to keep it cheap they confessed:
>We are operating on FT8 right now while we break bread (flashing the biggest grin ever!)
How so?
>The auto robot mode on FT8
So this is an unattended station operating without AI but use of software controls? Don’t you need to be Advanced for that? I think you may be in violation.
>Yeah, its awesome. It just fills my log with contacts even when I am watching TV with my partner
Partner? Sorry what is that Partner. I hear that all the time ? that’s not morse code…… Aren’t you married?
>So I find this mode fascinating and has really got me back into the hobby again. I spend a lot of time listening to nets so this is interesting to me.
Yeah, its gotten very interesting as I see many Freebanders are also using FT8. There was some guy in Belgium sending SSTV on 27.580 and I caught the bottom third of the transmission so couldn’t get his Freeband callsign or number. Do you listen to the OMISS net on 7185? (How do I know?)
>Yes I do every night and I enjoy that. I heard a guy from PEI and everyone wanted to work him.
Do you check in to that net as they are always looking for VE3s? It could be fun
>Oh NO I would never check in to the net
Your killing me here as you just said you never Chicken into the net.
>Hold on let me ask the counter staff for some more Tartar sauce
So guys I was floored the other day when Ten opened up and there was all kinds of EU signals coming in and I made a bunch of contacts with a vertical with 10 watts. Just like the old days in CB when we had 12 watts and a Hustler antenna in the car. Cycle 25 is hear
>What frequency is that I would love to listen
Try 28.400 and then looking at the waterfall you can move the mouse to the drip and click. If you have a Drake TR4cw then move the dial left or right until you hear a signal.
I learned 2 things today:
A partner is a person with whom someone is in a romantic or sexual relationship. The term is often used to refer to individuals who are not married, but who are in a committed relationship. Partners may live together, share financial responsibilities, and support each other emotionally. In some cases, partners may also have legal agreements that define their relationship, such as cohabitation agreements or domestic partnership agreements. The term “partner” is often used in LGBTQ+ communities as a gender-neutral alternative to “husband” or “wife.”. However, many married to the opposite sex are staying to use this term as well due to Identity and Gender ideology shaping everything. The extreme left will tell you this is the way we should explain our marriages to avoid being considered anti-DEI. OK I use partner in a business sense but there is nothing wrong with using wife or husband even if it considered bad politics or incorrect. Who cares about sexuality since its 2024. This is Gender Neutral Language.
2. Some Hams are enjoying the Hobby their own way and they are Happy listening and being a robot .
FT8 has become increasingly popular in amateur radio in recent years, and for a good reason.
This digital mode removes conversation and allows for fast contacts over long distances, even in low power mode and under challenging band conditions.
73s
John
And so it goes in this hobby that has a thousand hobbies even if you sin you will be forgiven by Marconi and Hiram (maybe even Tesla – the ham not the car)
A new study suggests that having one conversation with a friend (Ham) per day can have a significant effect on a person’s mental health. The study published in Communication Research.
However, for some making FT8 contacts in robot mode can be very uplifting. Whatever floats your boat but please wear a life jacket as the water is getting frothy and deep.
A great add on to the MPAS kit or just as a stand alone.
I do find the counterpoise wires o be too thin and prone to breakage and want Chameleon to go back to the #16 Kevlar wire they are known for
Also the short length of the whip on20m is a bit finicky due to the ground I had but a grassy ground is usually pretty good but the radiation resistance was kind of low.
The kit adds items I dont have in my MPAS kit making for a well rounded deployment kit similar to this:
CHA MULTI CONFIGURATION COIL
The core component of the CHA PRV antenna, known as the CHA MCC (Multi Configuration Coil), serves as its foundation. The CHA PRV antenna is skillfully engineered and built to withstand rugged conditions, making it particularly suited for demanding portable applications such as Parks On the Air (POTA), Summits On the Air (SOTA), and other outdoor radio pursuits that necessitate an antenna that’s both efficient and easily transportable. This antenna is also an excellent choice for radio enthusiasts who reside in environments like RVs, apartments, or condos, where space is limited to a small balcony or patio.
Chameleon Antenna has designed the CHA PRV to perfectly complement the latest generation of compact multi-band/multi-mode QRP transceivers, including models like the Icom IC-705, Xiegu G90 or X6100, LAB 599 TX500, and the Yaesu FT-817/818.
SPECS
Power Handling: 500W SSB 300W CW 200W DATA
Materials: Anodize Aluminum OD Green, White Delrin, Stainless Steel and Silver Plated Copper wire
I have been using my PackTenna Linked Dipole for 20m and 40m with great effect – No RFI back to my radio
I have been using my Chameleon, JNCRadio, REZ Antenna and the Gabil vest pocket antenna which are all verticals – No RFI back to my radio
I forgot to bring my chokes and 1:1 ununs to a activation and was so upset to the RFI bleeding into my transmit audio with these long wires with baluns
I put these longwires into a box for donation to the Salvation Army – NO RFO back to the shack
I dont know why the past few years these antennas have exploded onto the market place with 3D prints, Homebrew, etc for an antenna that isnt a DX antenna
When I go to the park I want to work DX and the most far states and provinces I can as life is to short for NVIS contacts into Michigan, Papa Alpha and O-High-O
Ask EA1BUL worked on 20m from the park with and without QRP power many times and also when I was in Spain but then I work Larry VE3LBI and Toby AD2CD on 40m within my NVIS range all the time. I love these two hunters but sometimes I want a date with DX.
The DX Engineering box on the PO Box arrived and the antenna is a beauty
REZ Antenna Systems Recon 40 High Performance HF Antenna Coils are high-performance HF antenna coils capable of tuning 40-10 meters when paired with the REZ-Z17 17-foot telescoping whip (not included). I have the MFJ and Chameleon version.
Made with 14GA enameled copper wire, the Recon 40 is rated for use at up to 500W SSB, 300W CW, and 200W digital (50% duty cycle). The coil body is made from Delrin and 6061 anodized aluminum all CNC machined in the USA. The coil body is 100% weather resistant, thanks to its unique design which incorporates the use of O-rings and gasket seals at each joint. The coil’s machined wire groove provides mechanical support and optimal spacing to ensure a low loss coil. Switching bands is made easy with the integrated weatherproof coil bypass switch.
When you’re ready to move to the higher bands simply flip the switch and tune the telescoping whip to your desired frequency. The Recon 40 also features a rapid-deploy radial system. At the heart of this system is the radial “puck” that accepts up to eight 4mm banana plugs.
This enables quick attachment of REZ Antenna Systems’ 4-wire radial kit (not included) and leaves room to expand your radial field for increased performance. I used the radials from my Ranger 80 antenna.
I did a 3fer park activation running 50 watts off my FT-891 and a bunch of DCPower LiePO4 batteries I picked up at Liquidation Show for cheap.
There was the usual a solar storm and you could hear the band huffing and puffing in the background but we managed to also snag a couple of 2m contacts.
No adjustments were made….SWR was under 2:1 in both cases. Work 40m and then hunt the 13 Colonies on 20m…flick the switch.
The long radials make a big difference.
The QSO map shows that I was able to get a nice signal out on SSB.
This is a nice addition to the Ranger 80 antenna, although they do the same thing. If you swap out the 9 foot antenna for the 17 foot antenna on the Ranger 80, its the same story but a lot heavier. If you just wanted a quick 2 bander then the Recon 40 is a good choice (the whip can be adjusted for 20-10m and 6m as well.
The Recon 40 as its own standalone antenna is more rugged than the JNCRadio MC-750 and a lot heavier. The advantage is that the JNCRadio adds a 40m coil and uses shorter 10 foot radials but still offers a quarter wave on 20m and an 1/8 wave on 40m and a lot cheaper. Also the engraved markings on the MC-750 makes set up a breeze and its carry case is top notch. The MC-750 antenna also uses metric threading so interoperability with my antenna mounts and Buddipole stuff is impossible. I have made over a thousand contacts and very happy with it.
BUT the Recon can handle a lot more power and the whip antenna is more rugged. Its also a longer whip to try to pack. I have made about 100 contacts from the park during the RAC Contest, 13 Colonies QRMathon and POTA 3fer.
I own both and I choose the antenna I need to get the job done.
Please avoid the MFJ 17 foot whip as it likes to fall apart while using it. I am on my third so I am super careful with it but I was that way with the first two.
A great add on to the MPAS kit or just as a stand alone.
I do find the counterpoise wires o be too thin and prone to breakage and want Chameleon to go back to the #16 Kevlar wire they are known for
Also the short length of the whip on20m is a bit finicky due to the ground I had but a grassy ground is usually pretty good but the radiation resistance was kind of low.
The kit adds items I dont have in my MPAS kit making for a well rounded deployment kit similar to this:
CHA MULTI CONFIGURATION COIL
The core component of the CHA PRV antenna, known as the CHA MCC (Multi Configuration Coil), serves as its foundation. The CHA PRV antenna is skillfully engineered and built to withstand rugged conditions, making it particularly suited for demanding portable applications such as Parks On the Air (POTA), Summits On the Air (SOTA), and other outdoor radio pursuits that necessitate an antenna that’s both efficient and easily transportable. This antenna is also an excellent choice for radio enthusiasts who reside in environments like RVs, apartments, or condos, where space is limited to a small balcony or patio.
Chameleon Antenna has designed the CHA PRV to perfectly complement the latest generation of compact multi-band/multi-mode QRP transceivers, including models like the Icom IC-705, Xiegu G90 or X6100, LAB 599 TX500, and the Yaesu FT-817/818.
SPECS
Power Handling: 500W SSB 300W CW 200W DATA
Materials: Anodize Aluminum OD Green, White Delrin, Stainless Steel and Silver Plated Copper wire
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