DIY 80m Magnetic Loop Antenna: A Compact Solution for Low Bands

DIY 80m Magnetic Loop Antenna: A Compact Solution for Low Bands: Learn how to build a compact 80m Magnetic Loop Antenna. Includes dimensions, capacitor specs, and tuning tips for efficient HF operation in small spaces.

W3DZZ Multi-Band Antenna 80m-10m Trapped Dipole

The W3DZZ Multi-Band Antenna has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable multiband wire antennas in amateur radio. Designed to cover five HF bands from a single feed point, it offers a simple alternative to fan dipoles or complicated matching networks. With only two tuned traps and ordinary wire, the antenna provides effective operation on 80, 40, 20, 15 and 10 meters.

What makes the design so successful is the way the traps divide the antenna electrically. On 40 meters and higher, the traps act as high-impedance barriers so that only the inner sections radiate. On 80 meters the traps behave as loading inductors, allowing the full length of the antenna to function as a shortened dipole. This clever approach gives multiband coverage without switching or tuners in most installations.

W3DZZ Multi-Band Antenna 80m-10m Trapped Dipole: 

Simple Speech Processor for Homebrew SSB Transceivers

Good speech processing can make a dramatic difference to how a low-power SSB signal sounds on air. In homebrew and QRP SSB transceivers,  transmitter audio is often clean but lacks average power, making signals sound weak during normal conversation. The compact Simple Speech Processor circuit shown here addresses that exact problem by increasing average talk power while preserving intelligibility and keeping distortion under control.

This design, originally shared and discussed on the Small Wonder QRP blog, has become popular among home constructors because it is simple, effective, and well suited for integration into BITX-style and other minimalist SSB rigs.

Simple Speech Processor for Homebrew SSB Transceivers

Shortened G5RV Antenna – DX Power in a Smaller Package

Shortened G5RV Antenna – DX Power in a Smaller Package: A compact, multi-band wire antenna based on the legendary G5RV design —specifically, a shortened version of G5RV antenna optimized for the 14-50 MHz range.