Radios

Baofeng Celebrates 25 Years of Two-Way Radio Innovation

August 7, 2026August 7, 2026BenLeave a comment

In 2026, Baofeng celebrates 25 years as one of the world’s best-known manufacturers of affordable two-way radios. Founded in 2001 as Fujian Baofeng Electronics Co., Ltd., the company has grown from a small Chinese radio manufacturer into a global brand supplying handheld radios for amateur radio operators, emergency communications, outdoor activities, security, and commercial users.

Baofeng became especially popular in the amateur radio community thanks to the release of the Baofeng UV-5R. This low-cost dual-band handheld radio made it possible for thousands of new amateur radio operators to get on the air without spending a lot of money. The UV-5R supports VHF and UHF frequencies, is compatible with CHIRP programming software, and has become one of the best-selling amateur radio handheld transceivers ever produced.

Over the past 25 years, Baofeng has expanded its product range well beyond the original UV-5R. The company now manufactures a wide variety of analogue and digital two-way radios, waterproof models, commercial radios, and accessories for users around the world. Baofeng radios are used by amateur radio enthusiasts, emergency volunteers, event organisers, businesses, hikers, campers, and off-road travellers in more than 100 countries.

Baofeng’s success has been driven by its ability to offer reliable communication equipment at affordable prices. While the company continues to improve its radio designs and introduce new features, its products remain known for providing excellent value for beginners and experienced operators alike.

Reaching its 25th anniversary is an important milestone for Baofeng. During the past quarter-century, the company has helped make amateur radio and two-way radio communications more accessible than ever before, encouraging countless people to discover the hobby and stay connected through reliable radio communication.

Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition

The Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition by Radioddity is a limited-edition dual-band handheld amateur radio released to celebrate 25 years of Baofeng. Based on the popular Baofeng UV-5R, this special edition combines the proven performance of one of the world’s best-selling handheld ham radios with modern upgrades, collector’s styling, and USB-C charging. It is designed for amateur radio operators, emergency communication, camping, hiking, off-road touring, and anyone looking for an affordable VHF/UHF handheld transceiver.

Transparent Design and Special Edition Features

One of the standout features of the Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition is its transparent housing, available in Glacier Ice and Solar Flare colours. The clear case showcases the internal electronics, giving the radio a unique appearance that sets it apart from standard UV-5R models. Exclusive anniversary branding includes a commemorative startup screen, a custom 25th Anniversary keypad button, a collector’s badge, and premium packaging, making it appealing to both new operators and long-time Baofeng fans.

See my review below:

Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Specifications

The Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition operates on the 136–174 MHz VHF and 400–520 MHz UHF frequency ranges. It delivers up to 5 watts of transmit power, stores 128 programmable memory channels, and includes dual watch, dual standby, VOX hands-free operation, CTCSS and DCS signalling, an FM broadcast receiver, LED flashlight, and emergency alarm. Like the standard UV-5R, it is fully compatible with CHIRP programming software, making it easy to program repeaters and memory channels from a computer.

USB-C Charging and Everyday Convenience

A major upgrade over many earlier UV-5R models is the included 1800 mAh USB-C rechargeable battery. Users can charge the radio with a standard USB-C cable, reducing the need to carry a dedicated desktop charger while travelling or operating in the field. The package also includes a durable hard-shell carry case that helps protect the radio during transport, making it well suited for portable amateur radio, four-wheel driving, hiking, camping, and emergency preparedness.

Performance and Compatibility

The Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition offers the same reliable performance that has made the UV-5R one of the most popular handheld ham radios in the world. It performs well for local repeaters, simplex communication, public service events, emergency communication, and general amateur radio use. Existing UV-5R accessories, including antennas, speaker microphones, batteries, programming cables, and headsets, remain compatible, allowing current Baofeng owners to continue using their existing equipment.

Is the Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition Worth Buying?

If you are looking for an affordable handheld ham radio with modern features, the Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition is an excellent option. While the radio performs similarly to the standard UV-5R, the addition of USB-C charging, the transparent collector’s design, premium accessories, and anniversary branding make it an attractive upgrade. Whether you are a beginner studying for your amateur radio licence or an experienced operator wanting a unique addition to your radio collection, the Baofeng UV-5R 25th Anniversary Edition offers excellent value for money.

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20m vs 17m

July 25, 2026BenLeave a comment

One day I was checking the bands and noticed the 17m band is open for a short period. I have noticed this over a long period that it often opens and provides reliable DX contacts at a similar time each day. I often could clearly hear operators who were midway through conversation, then suddenly the band would open, and their conversation became a bit more public than it started.

The 20 m Band (14 MHz) is the HF workhorse band for DX, long-distance communication, ragchewing, nets, and contests. It offers the most reliable daytime propagation, often remains open into the evening, and can support worldwide contacts even during moderate solar activity. Because of its popularity, the band is frequently crowded with higher levels of QRM (interference) and contest activity.

The 17 m Band (18 MHz) is a WARC band, meaning major contests are generally not permitted, resulting in a much quieter operating environment. It provides excellent DX propagation during daylight hours, especially when solar conditions are good. The band often has lower noise, less congestion, and more available frequencies for casual operation.

The key comparison between the bands are, 20 m offers the most consistent worldwide HF propagation and longest daily operating window, while 17 m offers a quieter, less crowded experience with excellent DX opportunities.

If you enjoyed this read, here are some more you may enjoy:

20m vs 17m
One day I was checking the bands and noticed the 17m band is open for a short period. I have noticed this over a long period that it often opens and provides reliable DX contacts at a similar time each day. I often could clearly hear operators who were midway through conversation, then suddenly the…
Continue reading →
HF on a Hand Held?
Radioditty sent the new GS-10B Pro to me before it was released as they wanted you to see it first. When sending it, they never told me what to say, only to review it. So below is what I honestly experienced. This handheld radio is not only dualband UHF, VHF radio, it also receives HF,…
Continue reading →
CW Skimmer
CW Skimmer is a popular amateur radio software program used for decoding Morse code signals on the HF bands. The program is widely used by ham radio operators, DX chasers, and contest stations because it can monitor and decode many CW signals at the same time. Unlike traditional Morse code listening, CW Skimmer displays signals…
Continue reading →
15 Metre band
The 15 metre band is one of the most popular HF amateur radio bands for long-distance communication, offering an excellent balance between reliability and worldwide reach. Frequency Range The standard frequency range for the 15m band is 21.000 MHz to 21.450 MHz. Within this range, different segments are commonly used for specific modes: CW (Morse…
Continue reading →
Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) in HF Radio Propagation
Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is an important concept in HF radio propagation and amateur radio communications. It refers to the highest frequency that can be used for reliable communication between two locations by reflecting off the ionosphere. If a radio signal is transmitted above the MUF, it will not return to Earth and will instead…
Continue reading →
Lightning Storm & HF Radio
HF radio and lightning storms are closely connected because lightning creates strong radio frequency interference that affects HF radio communication (3–30 MHz). High Frequency radio is commonly used for amateur radio (ham radio), marine radio, aviation HF communication, emergency communications, and long-distance shortwave listening. HF signals travel long distances by reflecting off the ionosphere, which…
Continue reading →
OpenHamClock
OpenHamClock is an open-source amateur radio dashboard designed as a modern successor to the original HamClock used by radio amateurs worldwide. It provides a real-time visual display of essential ham radio propagation data, world clocks, DX activity, and space weather information in a single, easy-to-read interface. Built with modern web technology, OpenHamClock runs in any…
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What is an Antenna Coupler
An antenna coupler (also called an antenna tuner or matching network) is a device used in radio systems to ensure impedance matching between a transmitter and an antenna. Most transmitters are designed for a specific impedance, commonly 50 ohms, while antennas often vary depending on frequency and design. When the impedance is not matched, reflected…
Continue reading →
Antennas
Amateur radio operators use many different antenna types, each designed for specific bands, space limits, and operating goals. Here’s a clear overview of the most common ones and why hams choose them. Wire Antennas These are some of the simplest and most popular antennas that include: Dipole Antennas End-fed wire Inverted-V Vertical antennas Vertical antennas…
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Dipole Antenna for Portable Use – Make your own!
A dipole antenna is a basic radio antenna made of two conductive elements fed at the center. It is typically a half-wavelength long and is widely used as a reference antenna in antenna theory and practice. Dipole antennas work by converting alternating current into electromagnetic waves. Their radiation pattern is strongest perpendicular to the antenna…
Continue reading →

HF on a Hand Held?

July 3, 2026July 3, 2026BenLeave a comment

Radioditty sent the new GS-10B Pro to me before it was released as they wanted you to see it first. When sending it, they never told me what to say, only to review it. So below is what I honestly experienced.

This handheld radio is not only dualband UHF, VHF radio, it also receives HF, single sideband, and CW. It has a waterfall display as well, plus a load of other goodies which I hadn’t seen in a handheld before. So, let’s have a look.

Some of the things this radio includes is a realtime spectrum display, which is the same as a waterfall. It’s got full HF, single sideband and CW reception. It’s an all band scanner receiver that covers most of UHF, VHF, HF, airband, and FM radio stations. It also connects to the weather station if you have them in your country.

It has two SMA connectors on the top. One that does for UHF and VHF and the other one is for the donut antennas that’s supplied which I will look at soon. You can program the radio either via computer or even by your mobile phone or direct input or each frequency. The direct option is a lot easier than has been before as the menu seems a lot better.

It has a 250 milliamp rechargeable battery that can be charged using USB-C cord and it has dual PTT and dual watch as well.

The 1.77 inch color screen is fantastic especially for the waterfall and I love the display how it shows not only the frequency the frequency name and the channel number when in memory mode it shows a whole lot more like signal strength and all sorts of things.

This upgraded PRO model has 999 channels, so you can store a lot more in there than you ever have before. It can transmit on the normal VHF and UHF bands, but it will also receive right down to 150 kHz.

Looking at the radio itself, the speaker is behind the keypad, which gives the radio a little bit more real estate.

They got quite a lot of menus in the radio making it a lot more functional. I have done a video below on this, which I receomend you watch it.

As an example, menu item 32 is autolock. So you can change that to how many seconds.

So one of the things you might like to do is to listen to HF. So how do you do that? If you go into the menu and I’m going to go to menu 2 4 (which takes me to menu 24). This menu item is where you program what the PF3 key is. I’m going to make sure that that is set to radio, then press confirm. So then if I press this PF3, it’ll go to radio. The next thing you should do is change the antenna to the donut antenna.

Take off the VHF/UHF antenna and next to it is a knob that screws off to reviel where you attach the donut antenna. You can plug in an external antenna if you like.

When listening to HF, if you press and hold down the home key, you get a waterfall right across the band.

The Radioddity GS-10B Pro is a high-power 8W handheld ham radio designed for long-range communication. At the time of this video, it had not been released yet. This new radio is built as an upgraded version of the popular tri-band radio, however, this portable transceiver features a real-time spectrum analyser (waterfall display) on a 1.77-inch color display, allowing you to instantly scan, view, and locate active frequencies in your area. Its precious model without all the extras is widely used by amateur radio operators for satellite communication, emergency readiness, and Parks on the Air (POTA) activations.

This handheld radio has advanced shortwave listening. The GS-10B Pro handheld transceiver includes wideband HF monitoring with SSB (Single Sideband) and CW modes. Unlike standard analog radios, it has a dual-antenna path system with two SMA ports to keep high-frequency and VHF/UHF signals clear and separate. It also comes with two donut antennas.

To make setup simple, the radio features built-in Bluetooth wireless programming, so you can easily configure channels, update your codeplug, and manage repeater offsets directly from an Android or iOS smartphone app without a computer programming cable.

The hardware is optimized for survival gear and off-grid use, with a 2500mAh USB-C rechargeable battery that supports 2A fast charging. It comes equipped with dual PTT (Push-to-Talk) switches for seamless dual-band monitoring and an extra physical channel knob for quick frequency tuning. If you are buying your first ham radio or looking for a budget-friendly backup radio, custom noise reduction, and standard Kenwood 2-pin accessories.

If you go via this link, you will get a discount:
https://radioddity.refr.cc/bensangster then search for your item

If you enjoyed this, here are some more posts you may enjoy:

Baofeng Celebrates 25 Years of Two-Way Radio Innovation
In 2026, Baofeng celebrates 25 years as one of the world’s best-known manufacturers of affordable two-way radios. Founded in 2001 as Fujian Baofeng Electronics Co., Ltd., the company has grown from a small Chinese radio manufacturer into a global brand supplying handheld radios for amateur radio operators, emergency communications, outdoor activities, security, and commercial users.…
Continue reading →
20m vs 17m
One day I was checking the bands and noticed the 17m band is open for a short period. I have noticed this over a long period that it often opens and provides reliable DX contacts at a similar time each day. I often could clearly hear operators who were midway through conversation, then suddenly the…
Continue reading →
HF on a Hand Held?
Radioditty sent the new GS-10B Pro to me before it was released as they wanted you to see it first. When sending it, they never told me what to say, only to review it. So below is what I honestly experienced. This handheld radio is not only dualband UHF, VHF radio, it also receives HF,…
Continue reading →
CW Skimmer
CW Skimmer is a popular amateur radio software program used for decoding Morse code signals on the HF bands. The program is widely used by ham radio operators, DX chasers, and contest stations because it can monitor and decode many CW signals at the same time. Unlike traditional Morse code listening, CW Skimmer displays signals…
Continue reading →
15 Metre band
The 15 metre band is one of the most popular HF amateur radio bands for long-distance communication, offering an excellent balance between reliability and worldwide reach. Frequency Range The standard frequency range for the 15m band is 21.000 MHz to 21.450 MHz. Within this range, different segments are commonly used for specific modes: CW (Morse…
Continue reading →
Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) in HF Radio Propagation
Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is an important concept in HF radio propagation and amateur radio communications. It refers to the highest frequency that can be used for reliable communication between two locations by reflecting off the ionosphere. If a radio signal is transmitted above the MUF, it will not return to Earth and will instead…
Continue reading →
Baofeng UV-5R Mini
The Baofeng UV-5R Mini handheld radio is a popular and affordable dual-band amateur radio transceiver widely used by beginners and experienced ham radio operators. Designed as a compact version of the original UV-5R, this small and lightweight VHF/UHF walkie talkie offers solid performance for everyday communication, making it a common choice for those getting started…
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Lightning Storm & HF Radio
HF radio and lightning storms are closely connected because lightning creates strong radio frequency interference that affects HF radio communication (3–30 MHz). High Frequency radio is commonly used for amateur radio (ham radio), marine radio, aviation HF communication, emergency communications, and long-distance shortwave listening. HF signals travel long distances by reflecting off the ionosphere, which…
Continue reading →
OpenHamClock
OpenHamClock is an open-source amateur radio dashboard designed as a modern successor to the original HamClock used by radio amateurs worldwide. It provides a real-time visual display of essential ham radio propagation data, world clocks, DX activity, and space weather information in a single, easy-to-read interface. Built with modern web technology, OpenHamClock runs in any…
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Radtel P8 PoC radio
The Radtel P8 PoC radio is a Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) device that looks like a traditional walkie-talkie but communicates using 4G/LTE mobile networks instead of UHF/VHF radio frequencies. This means its effective range is not limited to a few kilometres like standard two-way radios, but instead depends on cellular coverage, allowing communication across cities,…
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What is an Antenna Coupler
An antenna coupler (also called an antenna tuner or matching network) is a device used in radio systems to ensure impedance matching between a transmitter and an antenna. Most transmitters are designed for a specific impedance, commonly 50 ohms, while antennas often vary depending on frequency and design. When the impedance is not matched, reflected…
Continue reading →
Antennas
Amateur radio operators use many different antenna types, each designed for specific bands, space limits, and operating goals. Here’s a clear overview of the most common ones and why hams choose them. Wire Antennas These are some of the simplest and most popular antennas that include: Dipole Antennas End-fed wire Inverted-V Vertical antennas Vertical antennas…
Continue reading →
Dipole Antenna for Portable Use – Make your own!
A dipole antenna is a basic radio antenna made of two conductive elements fed at the center. It is typically a half-wavelength long and is widely used as a reference antenna in antenna theory and practice. Dipole antennas work by converting alternating current into electromagnetic waves. Their radiation pattern is strongest perpendicular to the antenna…
Continue reading →
Interference
Interference in Amateur Radio refers to unwanted signals that disrupt radio communication. This interference can reduce signal clarity, make contacts difficult, or completely block communication between amateur radio operators. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is one of the most common problems in amateur radio. It often comes from man-made electronic devices such as phone chargers, computers,…
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6m and TV Channel 0
Prior to 1989, it was illegal to operate between 50 MHz and 52 MHz in Australia. It was a real pain as that was where all the action was when the band opened up. However, after many requests from the WIA to the DoTC back in 1989, it was agreed that this section of the…
Continue reading →

15 Metre band

May 26, 2026May 31, 2026BenLeave a comment

The 15 metre band is one of the most popular HF amateur radio bands for long-distance communication, offering an excellent balance between reliability and worldwide reach.

Frequency Range

The standard frequency range for the 15m band is 21.000 MHz to 21.450 MHz. Within this range, different segments are commonly used for specific modes: CW (Morse code), digital modes like FT8 cluster around 21.074 MHz, and SSB voice communications are usually active above 21.150 MHz. These frequency allocations make it easy for operators to find activity depending on their preferred operating mode. Check your area as this is Australia settings.

Set Frequencies

On the lower end of the band, CW (Morse code) activity is concentrated but they can be anywhere within the band.

For digital modes, there are a few very well-known frequencies. The most popular is 21.074 MHz, which is the standard calling frequency for FT8, one of the most widely used weak-signal digital modes. Just above that, around 21.090–21.100 MHz, you’ll find modes like FT4, PSK31, and other digital activity depending on band conditions and operator preference.

In the upper portion of the band, SSB voice communications dominate. A widely recognised DX calling frequency is 21.300 MHz, where stations often call CQ looking for international contacts. General SSB ragchewing and contesting typically take place between 21.150 and 21.450 MHz, with activity spreading out depending on how busy the band is.

There are also a few special-purpose or informal gathering spots. For example, 21.360 MHz is sometimes used by international nets, and various maritime or traveller nets may appear in the upper SSB segment. During contests, however, these informal frequencies can become very busy or shift as operators spread across the band.

Overall, these set frequencies on 15 metres act like meeting points:

21.000–21.450 MHz → CW DX activity
21.074 MHz → FT8 digital frequency
21.070 – 21.150 MHz → other digital modes
21.300 MHz → SSB DX calling frequency
21.150–21.450 MHz → general SSB voice

Knowing these frequencies helps you quickly find activity and understand what to expect when tuning across the 15m band.

Ionosphere

The 15 metre band works primarily through ionospheric propagation, specifically via the F layer of the ionosphere. Signals transmitted on 21 MHz travel upward and are refracted back to Earth, allowing DX (long-distance communication) over thousands of kilometres. This band is highly dependent on solar activity, especially the sunspot cycle. During periods of high solar activity, the maximum usable frequency (MUF) increases, allowing 15m signals to propagate globally with strong signals. During low solar activity, the band can appear quiet or “closed,” especially for long-distance paths.

What can you expect

Operators can expect fast-changing propagation conditions on 15 metres. When the band is open, signals are often strong, with low noise compared to lower HF bands like 40m or 80m. This makes it ideal for DX contacts, contesting, and digital modes. However, when the band is closed, there may be little to no activity except for occasional short skip (regional contacts) or sporadic openings. Unlike lower bands, 15m does not usually support reliable nighttime propagation, as the ionosphere loses its ability to refract higher frequencies after sunset.

Antennas

Common 15 metre antennas include dipole antennas, vertical antennas, and directional beam antennas (Yagi). A simple half-wave dipole for 15m is about 7 metres long (total length), making it relatively compact and easy to install. Vertical antennas are popular for low-angle radiation, which is ideal for long-distance DX. More advanced operators often use Yagi beams mounted on towers, which provide gain and directionality, significantly improving performance on this band.

Performance

The interaction with ionospheric layers is key to understanding 15m performance. The F1 and F2 layers are responsible for most long-distance propagation, particularly during the daytime. The D layer, which forms during daylight hours, can absorb lower-frequency signals but has less effect on 15m, helping keep noise levels lower. Occasionally, sporadic E propagation can also open the band, especially in summer, allowing unexpected medium-distance contacts even when the F layer is weak.

Band opens

The 15 metre band is generally open during daylight hours, especially from mid-morning to late afternoon. Peak performance often occurs around local noon, when the ionosphere is most ionised. Openings are more frequent during solar maximum years, and less reliable during solar minimum. The band typically closes after sunset, although limited openings can sometimes occur around greyline (sunrise and sunset), offering unique DX opportunities.

Summary

Overall, the 15 metre amateur radio band is valued for its strong DX capability, low noise levels, and relatively small antenna size requirements. It is an excellent band for both beginners and experienced operators who want to explore worldwide HF communication, especially during favourable solar conditions.

Solar Data & Propagation
There are several website that tell you what bands are open in your area. Most people paste them on their QRZ page, but there are some examples below that update every hour. You can see more on their webpage https://www.hamqsl.com/solar.html where all you have to do is paste the code and put on your website.…
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NetTime
When using digital over the radio, it is particularly important you have the correct time. Even a second out will stop you from making contacts. I relied on Windows to update the time and got an email from a helpful amateur telling me my time was out. You can see below it wasn’t out by…
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Barefoot
I’ve heard several amateur radio operators say they are running a Barefoot setup. But what does it mean? It has nothing to do with what is or is not on your feet. But simply means transmitting without an amplifier. While power helps, the best thing you can do to fix your signal is your antenna.…
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Diamond Antenna W-8010 and expanding it to all bands
I purchased the Diamond W series W8010 antenna and quickly put it together. The instructions were a bit hard to read as it was exceedingly small. However, I found someone who did a video on how to put it together. (this is not my video) To me, an antenna is far more important than the…
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NanoVNA-H 4 Antenna Analyser
The Nano VNA-H 4 is my new toy that has just arrived after purchasing via Banggood. This Antenna Analyser is a complicated device, but doesn’t have to be, and can be a powerful tool for the Amateur Radio hobbyist. Charging the device Your NanoVNA should come with a USB cord. To charge it, simply plug…
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DXHeat.com
DXHeat.com is a great website that can update you the current conditions on each band. The website has filtering of incoming DX Spots which can be displayed instantly using great graphical tools. From the main landing page dxheat.com you can do a search by call sign or open DX Cluster. You can also scroll down…
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VARA – VARAC
Ever heard this sound on HF / VHF / UHF? I know I have more and more recently. After a bit of research, someone told me it was VARAC. https://www.varac-hamradio.com/ As I understand it, the project started with Irad Deutsch 4Z1AC. It is free of charge for amateur radio operators. This software provides text base…
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Converting dB to S-metre
The S-meter is an instrument on most radio receivers that measures the strength of the signal being received. It uses a unit: the S-point. HF radios usually have a needle scale, whereas other bands often have LEDs displaying the S-Points. S-Points is the common method of measuring signal strength between operators, however many programs like…
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DNR – Digital Noise Reduction
As per the Yaesu FT-710 manual, the Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) system is designed to reduce the level of ambient noise found on the HF and 50 MHz bands. The (DNR) system is especially effective during SSB operation. Any of 15 different noise-reduction algorithms can be selected; each of these algorithms was created to deal…
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Portable HF all band Antenna and Mount
I recently got the Radioddity M916 Heavy duty antenna magnetic mound with the Radioditty HF-008 all band portable antenna. I had always wanted to use HF more while camping or going on adventures around Australia (see our adventures page if you are interested), and now I am a step closer to doing that. This quick…
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AOR AR1000XLT Fix

May 20, 2026BenLeave a comment

The AOR AR1000XLT is a popular wideband scanner receiver that became well known among radio enthusiasts, amateur radio operators, aviation listeners, and shortwave hobbyists during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The scanner was designed to receive a massive range of radio frequencies, making it one of the most versatile handheld scanners available at the time. Many people used the AR1000XLT for aircraft monitoring, emergency service listening, marine radio, amateur radio, and shortwave reception.

One of the biggest features of the AOR AR1000XLT scanner is its extremely wide frequency coverage. The receiver can monitor frequencies from around 500 kHz up to 1300 MHz depending on the model version. This allows users to listen to HF shortwave bands, VHF communications, UHF signals, FM broadcast radio, aircraft radio channels, marine frequencies, and amateur radio bands all in one portable device. The scanner supports AM, FM, and Wide FM modes, giving users flexibility across different radio services.

The AR1000XLT scanner became popular because of its advanced features for the time. It included 1000 memory channels, fast scanning speeds, search banks, and strong receiver sensitivity. Radio hobbyists appreciated how quickly it could scan channels and search for unknown frequencies. Many users connected external antennas to improve reception for long-distance radio monitoring and weak signal listening.

Another reason the AOR AR1000XLT gained popularity was its compact handheld design. The radio was portable, battery powered, and easy to carry for field use. Aviation enthusiasts often used it for airband listening at airports, while amateur radio operators used it for monitoring repeaters and HF communications. Shortwave listeners also enjoyed using the scanner to explore international radio stations and utility frequencies.

Although the AOR AR1000XLT is still respected by vintage scanner collectors and radio hobbyists today, it does have limitations compared to modern digital scanners. The radio does not support modern digital communication modes such as P25, DMR, NXDN, or trunked radio systems. Because many emergency services now use digital or encrypted communications, the scanner is mainly used today for analog radio monitoring, aircraft listening, amateur radio, marine radio, and shortwave scanning.

Even many years after its release, the AOR AR1000XLT remains a well-known classic scanner receiver in the radio hobby community. Its wide frequency coverage, strong analog performance, and portable design helped make it one of the most recognised handheld scanners of its era.

My keyboard on the scanner stopped working and even though this is an old scanner, I wanted to get it working mainly for old time sake. I knew if I could get the keyboard out, I could clean it and hopefully get it working. But see in my video as to how I went and what I discovered.

10 metres 28.490
On the 10-metre band, 28.490 is the unofficial calling frequency for Australia and New Zealand. This is interesting as the Band plans state it is 28.390 as the recommended intra-VK calling frequency. That said, 28.490 is more recognised as the unofficial calling frequency down under. Most amateurs down under will listen to 28.490 on ten…
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15 Metre band
The 15 metre band is one of the most popular HF amateur radio bands for long-distance communication, offering an excellent balance between reliability and worldwide reach. Frequency Range The standard frequency range for the 15m band is 21.000 MHz to 21.450 MHz. Within this range, different segments are commonly used for specific modes: CW (Morse…
Continue reading →
160 Meters Band
160 meters band is known as the “Gentlemen’s band”. It is right next to the AM commercial band, known as medium wave. The 160-meter band is the radio frequencies between 1.8 and 2 MHz. For many decades it was the lowest radio frequency band allocated for use by amateur radio, before the 630 and 2200…
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20m vs 17m
One day I was checking the bands and noticed the 17m band is open for a short period. I have noticed this over a long period that it often opens and provides reliable DX contacts at a similar time each day. I often could clearly hear operators who were midway through conversation, then suddenly the…
Continue reading →
6m and TV Channel 0
Prior to 1989, it was illegal to operate between 50 MHz and 52 MHz in Australia. It was a real pain as that was where all the action was when the band opened up. However, after many requests from the WIA to the DoTC back in 1989, it was agreed that this section of the…
Continue reading →
ADIF Master
ADIF Master is a popular amateur radio logging software tool used for editing and managing ADIF log files. ADIF stands for Amateur Data Interchange Format, which is the worldwide standard used by ham radio operators to share QSO log information between different logging programs and online logbook services. Many amateur radio enthusiasts use ADIF Master…
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Amateur Radio Nets
A list of Radio nets we have gathered from web pages around the world, as well as friends etc.…
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Amateur TV
Amateur Radio Television (ATV), often called “ham TV,” is a niche part of amateur television where licensed radio operators transmit live video and audio over radio frequencies instead of traditional broadcast networks. It is essentially an extension of amateur (ham) radio, using higher bandwidth signals to carry moving images, typically on UHF and microwave bands.…
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Antennas
Amateur radio operators use many different antenna types, each designed for specific bands, space limits, and operating goals. Here’s a clear overview of the most common ones and why hams choose them. Wire Antennas These are some of the simplest and most popular antennas that include: Dipole Antennas End-fed wire Inverted-V Vertical antennas Vertical antennas…
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Anytone 778UV Key Assignment
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Australian DMR Repeaters
There are several DMR networks around the world, and more and more start all the time. The Australian DMR network currently covers the entire country and is for Australian residents only. It can often be hard to find which DMR repeaters are online, offline and where they are, especially if you travel a bit like…
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World Amateur Radio Day

April 18, 2026BenLeave a comment

World Amateur Radio Day is celebrated every year on April 18, marking the founding of the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) in 1925. The organisation was established in Paris when amateur radio societies from around the world joined together to represent radio operators and protect access to important radio frequencies. This date is now recognised globally as the “birthday” of organised amateur radio.

World Amateur Radio Day is important because it highlights the role of amateur radio (ham radio) in emergency communication, especially during natural disasters when internet and mobile phone networks fail. Amateur radio operators are often able to provide reliable communication using simple equipment and radio frequencies, making them a critical part of disaster response and community safety.

The day also celebrates ham radio communication, radio technology, and experimentation. Amateur radio has played a major role in advancing wireless communication, and many operators enjoy building antennas, testing radio equipment, and making long-distance (DX) contacts around the world.

For many people searching online, World Amateur Radio Day is also about the global ham radio community. It brings together licensed operators, hobbyists, and clubs who share an interest in radio communication, electronics, and learning new skills. Each year, the International Amateur Radio Union often promotes a theme focused on innovation, youth in amateur radio, or emergency preparedness.

In simple terms, World Amateur Radio Day is a celebration of ham radio history, global communication, and the importance of amateur radio operators in both everyday life and emergency situations.

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I purchased this radio from a friend, and it worked well. He hadn’t really used it, so I did a factory reset. This was a bit of a mistake, as it did a few things like turning everything to Chinese. I had to use my phone and google translate to decode it and get it…
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Yaesu 857D
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Amateur TV

April 3, 2026April 5, 2026BenLeave a comment

Amateur Radio Television (ATV), often called “ham TV,” is a niche part of amateur television where licensed radio operators transmit live video and audio over radio frequencies instead of traditional broadcast networks. It is essentially an extension of amateur (ham) radio, using higher bandwidth signals to carry moving images, typically on UHF and microwave bands. Unlike commercial TV, ATV is non-commercial and used for experimentation, hobby activity, and technical learning.

In Melbourne Australia, amateur radio TV activity is centred around the well-known VK3RTV system. This is a digital amateur television repeater that broadcasts across much of the metropolitan area, allowing operators to transmit and receive video signals. It operates continuously and uses modern digital TV standards (DVB-T2 HD), transmitting on 445.5 MHz. The system supports multiple input formats (such as DVB-S/S2 and DVB-T) and provides wide coverage across Melbourne and even towards Geelong.

Melbourne’s ATV community has a long history, with amateur television transmissions dating back to the late 1970s. Originally analogue, the system transitioned to digital broadcasting in the 2000s and was re-established in 2020 after a temporary shutdown. Today it is considered technically advanced, featuring multiplexed digital channels, HD video, and even internet-linked streaming to international amateur TV networks.

Activity in Melbourne ATV is typically community-driven. Enthusiasts participate in scheduled “net nights” (weekly on-air meetups), experimental broadcasts, and live video contacts between stations. Operators may transmit a wide range of content including technical demonstrations, hobby projects, model aircraft footage, or informal chats. Voice coordination is often done on separate 2meter FM frequency, 147.400 MHz, while video is transmitted through the ATV repeater.

Amateur TV is also known as High-Scan TV. A related but distinct mode is Slow-Scan Television, which is also used by amateur radio operators in Australia. Instead of live video, SSTV sends still images over radio, taking several seconds to minutes per picture. This mode is popular for long-distance (HF) communication and even space-related transmissions, complementing the faster “full-motion” ATV systems used locally in Melbourne.

Overall, amateur Radio TV in Melbourne is a small but technically rich hobby combining radio engineering, digital broadcasting, and experimentation. It operates outside mainstream media, relying on licensed operators, shared infrastructure like VK3RTV, and a collaborative community that keeps the technology evolving.

This view shows how I got involved, and found out how to reveive it with the help of people in this video. Although I only show one set top box, I actually have two, plus two screens, so I can receive channel 1 and 2 at the same time. These two channels are independent of each other in some ways, but transmit from the same site.

I really hope you enjoy this video, and it encourages you to this part of the hobby. Please put what comments or questions you have below as I will try to answer them. I am not an expert in this area at all, but still learning and hope to one day transmit onto VK3RTV. If you live away from Melbourne, you can still access it via Discord (see link on video) or via Youtube as shown in the video.

Thank you again to Peter, Steven and Clint for your your endless help.

Some good links are available here:
http://www.vk3rtv.com/
https://amateurradio.com.au/repeaters/vk3rtv
https://www.emdrc.com.au/datv-repeater-vk3rtv/

Have a look at my video for more info

Baofeng UV-5R Mini

March 30, 2026BenLeave a comment

The Baofeng UV-5R Mini handheld radio is a popular and affordable dual-band amateur radio transceiver widely used by beginners and experienced ham radio operators. Designed as a compact version of the original UV-5R, this small and lightweight VHF/UHF walkie talkie offers solid performance for everyday communication, making it a common choice for those getting started in amateur radio (ham radio).

The UV-5R Mini operates on both VHF (136–174 MHz) and UHF (400–520 MHz) frequencies, supporting communication on the 2 metre and 70 centimetre amateur bands. With a typical output power of around 5 watts, it is suitable for short to medium range communication, including simplex operation and repeater use. Many versions include features such as CTCSS and DCS tones, allowing access to repeaters and private channel setups.

This compact handheld radio includes a range of useful functions, such as 128 memory channels, a built-in FM broadcast radio receiver, VOX hands-free operation, and a small LED flashlight. Some newer UV-5R Mini models also support USB-C charging and Bluetooth programming, making them easier to configure using smartphone apps or software like CHIRP programming software on a computer.

Compared to the standard UV-5R, the Mini version is more portable and pocket-friendly, though it often comes with a smaller battery and display. Despite the reduced size, the RF performance is generally similar, making it a convenient option for portable use, hiking, or as a backup two-way radio.

The Baofeng UV-5R Mini is known for being a budget-friendly handheld transceiver, which is one of its biggest advantages. It provides access to amateur radio communication, repeater networks, and frequency scanning at a very low cost.

In Australia, the UV-5R Mini can be used legally for listening to radio frequencies, but transmitting requires an amateur radio licence issued by the ACMA. It is important to note that this radio is not approved for UHF CB (477 MHz) or commercial radio use, which are governed by different regulations.

In real-world use, the Baofeng UV-5R Mini typically achieves a range of 1 to 3 kilometres in urban environments, and up to 5 to 10 kilometres or more when using repeaters or operating from elevated locations. Performance can be significantly improved by upgrading to a better antenna or connecting the radio to an external base antenna.

Overall, the Baofeng UV-5R Mini dual-band handheld radio is a great entry-level option for those interested in ham radio communication, repeater operation, and portable VHF/UHF use. It is especially useful as a backup radio or learning tool.

Please comment if you have any thoughts.

If you go via this link, you will get a discount:
https://radioddity.refr.cc/bensangster then search for your item

Direct link here:

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Lightning Storm & HF Radio

February 27, 2026Ben1 Comment

HF radio and lightning storms are closely connected because lightning creates strong radio frequency interference that affects HF radio communication (3–30 MHz). High Frequency radio is commonly used for amateur radio (ham radio), marine radio, aviation HF communication, emergency communications, and long-distance shortwave listening. HF signals travel long distances by reflecting off the ionosphere, which makes them ideal for worldwide communication without repeaters — but also makes them very sensitive to atmospheric noise.

During a lightning storm, each lightning strike produces a powerful burst of electromagnetic interference (EMI) across a wide range of frequencies. This is known as atmospheric radio noise or QRN (natural static noise). On an HF receiver, lightning interference sounds like loud static crashes, popping, and crackling across the band. The noise can raise the HF noise floor significantly, making weak signals difficult or impossible to copy.

Lightning interference does not need to be local to affect your station. Distant thunderstorms hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away can generate broadband RF noise that travels via ground wave and skywave propagation. Because HF signals reflect off the ionosphere, lightning noise can also propagate long distances. This is why operators often experience heavy static on the 40 metre band or 20 metre band even when the weather is clear overhead.

HF radio is more affected by lightning than VHF or UHF radio because lower frequencies are more susceptible to atmospheric static. Storm activity in tropical regions, including northern Australia during the wet season, can noticeably increase static levels across the HF bands in southern states such as Victoria.

Using HF radio during a thunderstorm can also pose a safety risk. Lightning strikes can induce high voltage into antenna systems, travel down coaxial feedlines, damage transceivers, destroy power supplies, and in severe cases cause fire. Even a nearby lightning strike can create a voltage surge through electromagnetic induction.

To protect HF radio equipment from lightning damage, operators commonly install lightning arrestors, use proper station grounding systems, fit surge protection devices, and disconnect antenna feedlines during storms. Many amateur radio operators physically unplug their coax cable when thunderstorms approach as an added precaution.

Lightning detection systems and weather monitoring networks also use radio frequency monitoring to track storm activity. The radio noise generated by lightning can be detected over long distances, making RF monitoring an effective method for identifying thunderstorm activity.

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Radtel P8 PoC radio

February 6, 2026February 6, 2026BenLeave a comment

The Radtel P8 PoC radio is a Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) device that looks like a traditional walkie-talkie but communicates using 4G/LTE mobile networks instead of UHF/VHF radio frequencies. This means its effective range is not limited to a few kilometres like standard two-way radios, but instead depends on cellular coverage, allowing communication across cities, states, or even countries wherever there is mobile signal.

Unlike conventional radios that require radio licenses, repeaters, or line-of-sight, the Radtel P8 works more like a dedicated PTT phone with a SIM card. Many packages include a pre-installed SIM and a period of included data/service, after which a small ongoing fee may apply. It supports private calls and group calls, making it suitable for team communication, logistics, security staff, events, and transport coordination.

The device includes practical hardware features such as a 1.77-inch display, 3000 mAh battery, USB-C charging, and a durable metal (zinc alloy) housing. Audio is typically clear because voice is transmitted digitally over LTE, though there can be slight latency compared to instant RF radios. Some versions also support dual SIM slots for improved network flexibility.

A key limitation is that the Radtel P8 is completely dependent on mobile network coverage. In areas with no cellular signal—such as remote bushland, underground locations, or disaster zones—it will not function like a traditional UHF/VHF two-way radio. For this reason, it is best understood as an LTE communicator with PTT, rather than a replacement for conventional radios used in off-grid environments.

In summary, the Radtel P8 PoC radio is ideal for users needing long-distance push-to-talk communication, nationwide coverage, and team coordination without radio licensing, provided they operate within areas that have reliable 4G mobile network coverage.

I was really happy with this radio. Not only was it strong, but it was small also. The battery lasted a very long time and had a quick charge also. I’ve used it several ways for different purposes.

A link to the radio is below. Value your thoughts on it also in the comments below.

https://www.radtels.com/products/radtel-p8-rapid-radios-unlimited-range-5000-miles-above-walkie-talkie-nationwide-handheld-poc-for-adults-rechargeable-ptt-long-distance-walkie-talkies-with-lights2-pack?variant=44750867529936

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VK3TBS

Amateur Radio Notes, from Australia