Linux BASH shell Script to automatically update TLE files for Predict Software

An automated way for keeping the TLE files up to date

I'm setting up a way for a script to have predict email me the passes of specific satellites, and needed to automate the updating of the TLE files.

Checking in on the status of active amateur radio satellites automatically (work in progress)

I wanted a way to see if there was away to automatically check the current status of amateur radio satellites.

There are websites currently that have some information, but I wanted a way to possibly check the status on particular satellites, and maybe even have it email me, send me an APRS message, or update my website automatically.

Homebrew Altoids Tin DIY build of a dual 24 Hour clock, 1 for local time, and 1 for UTC time.

A quick an easy project, that takes very little time to complete.

What hasn't been stuffed in an altoids tin?  Like most tinkerer's, I too have strong curiously strong desires to stuff as many possible projects into these minty fresh boxes as humanly possible.  24 hour dual time zone clock is what I stuffed into one here.

Building a receive only iGate using MultimonNG, RTL SDR dongle and a Raspberry Pi

I noticed multimonNG can use an inexpensive RTL SDR dongle (which I have) and decode APRS packets and send them off to the APRS-IS network.

I've been wanting to build some sort of iGate for APRS for some time, and eventually I'd like to include transmit capabilities possibly using a cheap Baofung UV-5R, but doing some research the multimonNG software caught my eye.

Reference for VHF/UHF amateur radio FM simplex frequencies for 6 Meter / 2 Meter / 1.25 meter / 70cm

I've compiled some suggested channels and frequencies to use on these bands

Try something new, these frequencies should be stored in every HT or mobile.  I enjoy messing around with VHF/UHF radios but repeaters usually bore me.  These frequencies are compiled from the ARRL "official" band plan as well as other forums and sites I have come across over time.

Fun things to do with APRS

Email, Text Message, Callsign lookups, are only a few other things that you can do with APRS.

GPS tracking is a well known use for APRS, but there are many other things you can do with your radio and using the APRS network.  I've just started experimenting with APRS with my Kenwood TH-D72a HT dual band radio and wanted to document a few things I've been playing with.

Using a Kenwood TH-D72a HT to send and receive email via APRS

There are several ways to send an email using the APRS network.  In these examples I am using a Kenwood TH-D72A HT radio that has a built in TNC but you can certainly use this information to send emails using whatever APRS setup that works for you.

Here's a quick start guide to start using GPS and sending APRS beacons

I plugged the HT into the supplied wall charger included with the radio and left it overnight.  Now I want to start having some fun.  I will be using either MCP-4A or Chirp software to program local repeaters, simplex, FM sat frequencies, but before that I want to turn it on and tune into some APRS.

Purchased a new Kenwood TH-D72A HT, here's some basic info

I compiled some firmware/software/mods/etc together to get you up and running with this radio. 

After trying to pick one up on eBay for the past 3 month or so, losing every auction, I finally gave in a purchased a brand new one from Ham City https://www.hamcity.com/store/pc/home.asp. 

Podcasts and videos related to ham radio

Brief summaries and reviews on ham radio related podcasts and videos that are available now. 

I try to watch a few episodes of these video podcasts every week.  You can keep up on all of happenings around the globe in ham radio, learn how to build and test your radio gear, get reviews on new radios, and have a few laughs.