Author: Brian McDaniel

Counterpoise 2.0: Another Attempt

During Scout Camp last year, I experimented with adding a counterpoise to my handitalkie. The results were not good. With the Chicago Marathon on my calendar, I decided to revisit the experiment. Reconsidering the...

Critical Frequency and MUF

This article is the second in a series on Portable NVIS Communication. This series focuses on short-haul communication during a disaster. Introduction There are Three Keys to NVIS Communication: Critical Frequency (foF2) Maximum Usable...

Why Marathons Are Better than 5K Races

The 2017 Chicago Marathon is tomorrow. Runners from all over the world are here looking to compete after months of intense training. For the 12,000 volunteers who make the race run, it also is...

What I Pack for the Chicago Marathon

For the fourth year, I will be part of the Medical Communication Team at the Chicago Marathon this weekend. Not only is the event a great time, it is a wonderful volunteer opportunity. If...

What is Near Vertical Incident Skywave?

This article is the first in a series on Portable NVIS Communication. This series focuses on short-haul communication during a disaster in the Amateur Radio Service. The Donut Hole Dilemma When stations are less...

3 Things to Keep Busy This Fall

Fall is upon us. The time for playing outside is coming to an end. I have a few projects planned for my work bench. With luck, I will complete them before it gets too...

Investing Bond Proceeds

Will County issued $175-million in 30 Year Bonds at 3.66% on August 9th. The proceeds will fund construction of a new Courthouse, Sheriff’s Facility, and replace the century-old Health Department building. As custodian of...

Installing a Yaesu YSK-857 Microphone Extender

This is Part 5 of Outfitting a Jeep JK Unlimited for Ham Radio. In this part, I will explain how I installed a Yaesu hand microphone for convenient access by the driver. Amateur Radio...