Radioddity HF-008 Multiband Mobile Antenna
How the tap-coil system works, whip tuning, VNA results, and my two-whip “quick band swap” mod.
Ham Radio
This page is the “shack library” — practical guides and real-world testing you can repeat. Antennas, FT8, station setup, and fixes that solve common problems (especially on the FT-991A).
Quick Navigation
Jump straight to what you need. These sections are built for fast scanning on phones.
Antennas & HF Testing
Real on-air results, tuning notes, and what actually changes performance (not just what the internet says).
Xiegu VG4 vs Traditional OFC Dipole
Back-to-back 40m FT8 A/B testing using PSKReporter maps and real on-air results.
ZYU / Xiegu VG4 Vertical Antenna Review
Real-world performance review with FT8 results, PSKReporter data, and live SSB contacts.
Xiegu VG4 Detailed Assembly
Step-by-step assembly guide with trap orientation, spacing tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
FT8 & Digital Modes
Clean audio, stable decoding, and practical setups that don’t turn into a weekend-long fight with Windows.
FT-991A Setup & Fixes
Guides specifically aimed at getting the FT-991A stable on digital modes: CAT control, USB audio, and common failure points.
Configure Your FT-991A for FT8
Step-by-step menu settings, USB audio setup, and CAT control configuration.
WSJT-X Software Setup for FT8 (FT-991A)
Install + configure WSJT-X: call sign, grid square, audio devices, and CAT control.
Fix WSJT-X FT8 Issues on the FT-991A
Proven fixes for USB audio dropouts, CAT conflicts, Windows sound issues, and lockups.
Station Setup
Shack layout, grounding, logging, and building a station that’s easy to run (and easy to troubleshoot).
Packet Radio & APRS
Real-world packet/APRS use for messaging, tracking, weather, and experimentation.
Getting Started
New to the hobby? Start here — licensing, gear basics, and a realistic path into ham radio without the overwhelm.
Want a Topic Covered?
If you’ve got a station problem, a weird FT8 issue, or a piece of gear you want tested, send me the details.
Use the Contact page and include the make/model plus what you want measured or fixed.