HamLike v2 Beta is now live. We are still working out a few kinks and still adding features, so if you notice any bugs, broken features, or anything that seems off, please report it using the contact form.

Contact Form

Operator-Driven Community

The social network for radio operators

Real-time signal talk, ranked threads, and callsign-first identity for operators who actually get on the air.

Feed mode: NEW

Want to join the community? Register an account.

text by @W1DVR
Mar 4, 2025

Show Off Your Meshtastic Setup!

Running a Meshtastic device? Let’s see what you’ve got! Whether it’s a simple handheld, a mobile rig in your truck, or some DIY setup with wires everywhere, we want to check it out.

Meshtastic is growing fast, and San Diego’s network is getting stronger. Sharing our setups helps everyone expand coverage, troubleshoot issues, and swap ideas.

What to Share
📸 A pic of your setup
⚙️ What gear you’re running (radio, antenna, power setup, etc.)
🗺️ How you're using it—mobile, home node, emergency backup, off-grid comms?
💡 Any mods, custom enclosures, or cool

Read full post

#Meshtastic 2 comments
text by @W1DVR
Mar 3, 2025

DigiPi: A Powerful, Portable Data Transceiver for Ham Radio

DigiPi is a powerful and compact amateur radio data transceiver designed for Raspberry Pi, offering seamless access to various digital modes over Wi-Fi via a phone or web browser. This innovative device transforms traditional ham radio operations by enabling FT8, JS8Call, APRS, packet radio, Winlink email, and more—just like using a mobile app.

Ideal for portable and remote operations, DigiPi is lightweight and energy-efficient, making it perfect for Summits on the Air (SOTA) and Parks on the Air (POTA). With integrated features like an APRS WebChat interface, Winlink email support, Slow Scan TV, and AX.25 networking, it

Read full post

#Digital 0 comments
text by @admin
Jan 13, 2025

Integrating AI into Everyday Ham Radio Activities

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT have been transforming various hobbies and industries, and ham radio is no exception. Whether you are a seasoned operator or just starting out, AI can become a valuable asset in your radio activities. Here’s how you can use AI to enhance your ham radio experience.

### 1. Technical Troubleshooting and Guidance

When setting up your equipment or troubleshooting issues, AI can act as a knowledgeable assistant. For instance, if you’re unsure about antenna placement or need help calculating the best propagation times, you can ask ChatGPT for advice. AI can also provide

Read full post

#General 0 comments
text by @W1DVR
Dec 27, 2024

Xmas ornaments for fellow ham operators.

I created some Christmas ornaments for my fellow operators using my new Flashforge Adventurer 5M! To achieve the multi-color design, I used pauses at different layer heights during the print. It was a fun project to put my new printer to the test!

Picture:

#DIY 0 comments
text by @admin
Nov 14, 2024

Get Your Own Vanity Call Sign

One of the most common questions new hams ask is, “How do I get a vanity call sign?” Although the process can seem a bit complicated at first, it’s something any ham can navigate with a little guidance. In this article, I’ll simplify the steps so you can get your own custom call sign without any hassle. Keep in mind that the FCC now charges a $35 fee for vanity call sign applications as part of its new license application fees.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to do:

  1. 1. Choose one or more call signs you’d like
  • 2. Find your
  • Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Nov 14, 2024

    Grounding Your Ham Radio Station: Best Practices for a Safe and Quiet Station

    Setting up a solid grounding system is one of the most important steps in establishing a reliable and safe ham radio station. Proper grounding helps protect you and your equipment from electrical issues, reduces noise for clearer signals, and provides a safe path for static and lightning discharge. Here’s a comprehensive look at grounding and how to set up an effective system.

    ### Why Grounding Is Important

    **A well-grounded station serves three primary purposes:**

    **1. Safety:** Grounding provides a safe path for electrical currents,

    Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Nov 14, 2024

    Protecting Yourself from Electrical Shock in Ham Radio Operations

    Ham radio is an exciting hobby, but it involves handling electrical equipment that, if not treated with respect, can pose serious risks. Understanding how to protect yourself from electrical shock is essential to staying safe while you enjoy your radio activities. This article will cover some key precautions and best practices that every ham radio operator should follow to minimize the risk of electrical shock.

    **1. Understand the Dangers of High Voltage**

    One of the first things to keep in mind is that ham radio equipment often operates at voltages higher than household levels. Even small

    Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    text by @W1DVR
    Nov 12, 2024

    Using the DigiRig with FT-891 and Windows 10

    ### DigiRig Quick Start Guide for FT-891 & Windows 10 Setup

    ---

    ### Introduction

    Hey everyone! Today, I’ll walk you through setting up the DigiRig with an FT-891 radio and a Windows 10 laptop. This compact tool makes it easy to get on digital modes in the field. Here’s a quick guide to get you up and running.

    ---

    ### What You’ll Need

    FT-891 radio

    Windows 10 laptop

    DigiRig (with USB, audio, and serial cables)

    Ferrite chokes (recommended to reduce interference)

    Read full post

    #Gear 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Nov 12, 2024

    Random manuals / PDFs

    ### - **COMMUNICATIONS-ELECTRONICS FUNDAMENTALS Wave Propagation, Transmission Lines, and Antennas**

    Download:

    [upl-file uuid=a7732f43-25f9-4d12-b104-dba83bd8c270 size=4MB]tc9-64.pdf[/upl-file]

    .

    ### - **TACTICAL SINGLE- CHANNEL RADIO COMMUNICATIONS TECHNIQUES**

    Download:

    [upl-file

    Read full post

    #Off Topic 0 comments
    text by @W1DVR
    Nov 2, 2024

    Yaesu Ft-891 The Nifty! Mini-Manual

    The Nifty! Mini-Manual
    pretty cool little manual for the Yaesu Ft-891, thank to N6FN for creating this manual. www.niftyaccessories.com

    [upl-file uuid=7221bbf6-9d7d-4151-acd6-5cd48418ca62 size=3MB]yaesu-ft891-mini-manual.pdf[/upl-file]

    [upl-image-preview

    Read full post

    #Gear 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Oct 28, 2024

    SO-50 Satellite

    The SO-50 (Saudi-OSCAR 50) satellite is a popular satellite among amateur radio operators worldwide. Launched on December 20, 2002, SO-50 is one of the most accessible amateur radio satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), providing a reliable platform for satellite communication. This article explores the key features of SO-50, how to access it, and tips for making your first contact.

    ### Overview of

    Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Oct 28, 2024

    The Advantages of Single Sideband (SSB)

    Single Sideband (SSB) modulation is a highly efficient and widely used mode of communication in the ham radio world, especially for long-distance (DX) contacts on HF bands. Understanding its benefits and why it’s preferred by many operators can help you get the most out of your station. This article explores the technical and practical advantages of SSB, demonstrating why it remains a cornerstone in amateur radio communication.

    ### **What is Single Sideband (SSB)?**

    SSB is a form of amplitude modulation (AM) where only one of the sidebands (either upper sideband—USB, or lower

    Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Oct 28, 2024

    Repeater Offsets in Ham Radio

    In ham radio, repeaters play a crucial role in extending the range of communication, enabling contacts over vast distances that would be difficult to achieve with simplex (direct radio-to-radio) communication. A key concept in using repeaters is the *repeater offset*, which is fundamental for ensuring smooth and efficient communication. This article provides a detailed technical explanation of repeater offsets, including how they work, why they are used, and how to correctly set them up on your radio.

    ### **What is a Repeater Offset?**

    A repeater offset is

    Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    text by @admin
    Oct 28, 2024

    Harnessing Solar Power for Ham Radio: A Technical Guide

    In the world of ham radio, reliable power is essential. As ham radio operators, we often find ourselves in remote locations where access to the electrical grid is limited or non-existent. Solar power provides an efficient and sustainable solution, allowing us to maintain continuous operations while also promoting environmental responsibility. This article delves into the technical aspects of setting up and optimizing a solar power system tailored specifically for ham radio use, focusing on equipment, system design, and efficiency.

    ### **Understanding Solar Power Systems**

    Before

    Read full post

    #Off Topic 0 comments
    text by @W1DVR
    Oct 18, 2024

    WebSDR (Web Software-Defined Radio)

    WebSDR (Web Software-Defined Radio) is a web-based platform that allows users to listen to and interact with remote radio receivers using their web browsers. It's particularly popular among amateur radio enthusiasts, shortwave listeners, and those interested in radio frequencies and signals. Here's a detailed explanation:

    ### Key Features of WebSDR:

  • 1.

    **Remote Radio Access**: WebSDR enables users to access radio receivers located around the world via the internet. This means you don’t need your own physical radio

  • Read full post

    #General 1 comments
    text by @admin
    Oct 16, 2024

    EchoLink: A Technical Overview and User Guide

    # EchoLink: A Technical Overview and User Guide

    ## Introduction

    EchoLink is a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) application designed for licensed amateur radio operators, enabling them to communicate via the internet. By bridging radio communication with internet technology, EchoLink allows users to connect with

    Read full post

    #General 0 comments
    Page 5