QRP Operations

As discussed elsewhere on this site, my operating setup in an HOA and tiny lot environment is challenging. Operating at even lower power levels or QRP appears foolish. It has been said – it is the journey not the destination. Building these small radios from a kit (maybe in the future from scratch) was the main focus of my QRP adventure, but it looks like good old fashion rag chews are gaining favor.  (Link to QRP Blog posts.)

My philosophy of QRP operations:

• Never send /QRP.  If I cannot work a station on the level of my signal, then I just move on.
• If the other station I am working is struggling to copy my weak signal end the QSO clearing the way for the other station to work a copyable station.
• Do not set goals beyond reason.  Keep it simple – work what I can and enjoy.

Current QRP dedicated equipment (The links below take the reading to related posts on my blog that includes comments and pictures.) –

Penntek TR-25: This kit was built in September 2021. It is small well designed and great quality with excellent customer service. I have trouble setting the side tone level and so far, the keyer leaves something to be desired. However, I mainly us a manual key with this radio. In all fairness I have not tried very hard to deal with these two issues.

NorCal 40B: This kit was built in January/February 2024 (picture below centered). This unit has a deep heritage and is a capable little radio.  The red button is to activate the FREQ-Mite addon, so I have a good idea of the tuned frequency.   It was fun to build and has a future in K4DS operations. 

Heathkit HW-8: This rig from yesteryear (pictured below and to the left) was purchased in Apri; 2024.  It looks to be unmodified, and I plan on keeping it that way.  It works and is fun to operate but takes a different skill level as compared to my other radios. 

Elecraft W-1 Power Meter: This kit was built January 2023.