My Journey

CQ, CQ, CQ. VA3BLV Calling CQ, CQ…

Yep! I got the ticket on June 12, 2021 and I’m eager to learn more every day.

My Philosophy

• I value simplicity, efficiency, and practicality in my radio activities.
• I love to DIY whenever possible.
• I believe in trying new things, learning from failures, and experimenting with different modes and methods…

My Interests

• I enjoy being a field radio operator, focusing on Grid-Down/Off-Grid Comms, Survival-Comms.
• I predominantly operate Portable, Low Power and QRP in most of the modes.
• I mainly operate SSB, but sometimes I use FT8/FT4, Winlink, VaraAC, JS8CALL, and WSPR for tactical comms.
• Antennas. Antennas. Antennas! I like reasearching and building field-ready, efficient and resonant systems.
• I’m active on 60/40/20/17/15/10m bands. I have a lot of fun with QRP and Parks On The Air (POTA) adventures.

My Gear

• I build most of my antennas myself, using portable Dipole and EFHW designs.
• Wolf River Coil - SB100 w/ DIY groundspike and BNC Connector
• (tr)uSDX @ 5 watts.
• FT-818ND @ 6 watts.
• Xiegu (“Shi-ay-goo”) G90 @ 10 watts.
• Yaesu FT-819, portable, @ 25 watts, SSB / @ 10 watts digital.

My POTA Stats

When we connect please share one of your best tips or advice…

73,

Marc

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” — Leonardo da Vinci