Michael

Pakistan’s Ambitious DRM Project Set to Revolutionize Broadcasting Landscape

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In a momentous stride toward enhancing its broadcasting capabilities, on July 30, 2023, Radio Pakistan embarked on the groundbreaking ceremony for an expansive transmission facility, poised to connect the diverse tapestry of nations spanning from the Mediterranean to the Pacific.

The heart of this transformative endeavor revolves around the installation of a cutting-edge 1,000 kW Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) transmitter at the eminent Radio Pakistan high-power transmission complex, strategically situated near the capital city of Islamabad. This monumental project comes with a price tag of approximately 4 billion rupees (nearly US$14 million) and is slated for completion by the year 2025.

Central to this project’s significance is its alignment with the Digital Radio Mondiale standard, which is a monumental leap into the digital age for Radio Pakistan. This groundbreaking move underscores Radio Pakistan’s commitment to modernization, leveraging state-of-the-art technology to usher in a new era of broadcasting excellence.

Image via https://www.radioworld.com/

Guiding this landmark occasion was the honorable Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Marriyum Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb highlighted the pivotal role that this initiative would play in expanding Radio Pakistan’s reach, resonating across 52 nations spanning South Asia, Central Asia, the Far East, Middle East, and even Eastern Europe.

Quoting her words:

It’s worth noting that Radio Pakistan, since its inception in 1947, has primarily relied on analog medium, and shortwave transmitters. However, this transformational project acknowledges the changing tides of technology. Out of its current inventory of 20 transmitters, 14 have outlived their utility. This forward-thinking initiative is set to redefine broadcasting norms by empowering Radio Pakistan to transmit up to four distinct signals concurrently with remarkable efficiency. Moreover, the energy-efficient design of the 1,000 kW DRM transmitter is expected to reduce energy consumption by an impressive 33%, subsequently leading to substantial savings in operating costs.

Beyond the transmitter’s exceptional capabilities, Marriyum Aurangzeb revealed another ambitious plan that aligns seamlessly with the government’s vision. A new media city is poised to take shape in Rawat, complementing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visionary commitment to bolstering investment in information technology and media technologies. This holistic approach aims not only to cultivate enhanced employment opportunities but also to actively engage the youth with the captivating world of radio.

As the groundbreaking ceremony set the wheels in motion for this transformative endeavor, Pakistan takes a bold step toward shaping the future of broadcasting. With the fusion of tradition and modernity, the country’s rich tapestry of culture, identity, and communication is set to resonate across borders, reaffirming the enduring power of the airwaves to unite, inform, and inspire.

This article was reproduced by Tecsun Radios Australia from the original article posted on https://www.radioworld.com/

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Michael

It is that time of year again, the International Lighthouse Lightship weekend!!

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If you have a passion for maritime history, adventure, and connecting with fellow radio enthusiasts, then this one is for the calendar – the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)! This annual gathering has become a global celebration of lighthouses, lightvessels, and navigational aids, bringing together radio operators from over 40 countries for a weekend of camaraderie and exploration.

What is the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)?

The ILLW had its roots in the Scottish Northern Lights Award, originally organised by the Ayr Amateur Radio Group (UK) in 1998. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most anticipated events on the amateur radio calendar, drawing in more than 500 lighthouse entries across the globe.

Held on the third full weekend of August each year, the ILLW allows amateur radio operators to set up their portable stations at lighthouses, light vessels, and other historic maritime locations. The objective is to establish contacts with fellow operators and share the fascinating stories and significance of these iconic beacons of light. 

August: A Month of Lighthouses

The month of August has become synonymous with lighthouses, thanks to the ILLW’s growing popularity. As we have seen, different countries have embraced the spirit of preserving and honouring their maritime history in various ways. In the United States, August 7th is celebrated as National Lighthouse Day, designated by Congress to pay tribute to these historical structures.

Across the pond in Britain, the Association of Lighthouse Keepers (ALK) organises the International Lighthouse Heritage Weekend during the same time as the ILLW. 

The ALK encourages lighthouse managers, keepers, and owners to open their sites and visitors’ centres to the public, aiming to raise awareness about these vital navigational aids and preserve their legacy for future generations.

 

Why participation is so high for this event.

The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is unlike any other amateur radio event. Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking part or following this historic gathering:

  • Fascinating History: Lighthouses have played a crucial role in maritime history, guiding ships safely through treacherous waters. The ILLW provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the captivating stories behind these structures and their keepers.
  • Global Connections: With participants from over 40 countries, the ILLW is a unique chance to connect with fellow radio operators worldwide, share experiences, and make lasting international friendships.
  • No Pressure, Just Fun: Unlike traditional contests, the ILLW emphasises enjoyment and camaraderie. There are minimal rules, and the focus is on celebration, not competition. Plus, it’s free to participate!
  • Preservation of Maritime Heritage: By participating in the ILLW, you contribute to raising awareness about the importance of preserving lighthouses and navigational aids, ensuring that their historical significance is not forgotten.

Want to get involved? Here’s how!

Participating in the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is easy and exciting. If you’re an amateur radio operator, consider setting up your portable station at a lighthouse or maritime location during the event weekend. Contact your local club to see if they are already planning to get involved. Engage in conversations with other operators, exchange stories, and celebrate the magic of maritime history.

If you’re not an amateur radio operator, you can still be part of this historic event by following the ILLW activities, learning about different lighthouses, and supporting the preservation efforts.

Join the ILLW Celebration!

The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is an exceptional experience that combines the thrill of amateur radio with the allure of maritime history. Whether you’re an avid radio enthusiast or simply intrigued by lighthouses, this event promises a weekend filled with adventure and discovery.

Wondering if Australia takes part? Here is a list of Australian lighthouses that have previously taken part in this event: 

  • Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse – Western Australia
  • Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse – Western Australia
  • Split Point Lighthouse (Aireys Inlet Lighthouse) – Victoria
  • Cape Otway Lightstation – Victoria
  • Point Lonsdale Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Macquarie Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Cape Byron Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Montague Island Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Kiama Blowhole Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Barrenjoey Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Point Perpendicular Lighthouse – New South Wales
  • Cape Nelson Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Cape Schanck Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Cape Wickham Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Low Head Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Tasman Island Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Maatsuyker Island Lighthouse – Tasmania
  • Point Hicks Lighthouse – Victoria
  • Griffiths Island Lighthouse (Port Fairy Lighthouse) – Victoria
  • Warden Head Lighthouse – New South Wales

The list has grown substantially in Australia this year, you can view the lighthouse list by clicking here https://wllw.org/index.php/en/#VK

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are likely many other lighthouses in Australia that have participated in the ILLW. Additionally, participation may change from year to year, so it’s best to check the official ILLW website https://illw.net/ 

The Best Radios for Your ILLW Adventure

To make your ILLW experience truly extraordinary, we recommend the Xiegu G-90 transceiver! This high-performance portable HF multimode transceiver covers an impressive 0.5-30MHz general coverage receiver and 10-160-meter amateur band Tx/Rx coverage with 20 watts of RF output. The Xiegu G-90 ensures crystal-clear communication and unparalleled reliability throughout the weekend.

Enhance Your Reception with Tecsun Communication Headphones
We understand that excellent audio quality is vital to your radio pursuits. That’s why we offer Tecsun Communication headphones, providing you with an outstanding dynamic range through efficient 50mm NdFeB magnet drivers. Plus, the 3m connection cable guarantees ample length for comfortable headphone use during the ILLW activities.
Here are some of our top products to enhance your event experience.

1.Tecsun PL-330: This pocket-sized portable receiver comes with SSB capability and direct frequency entry, making it the ideal choice for listening to shortwave radio utility stations, amateur radio transmissions, and regular shortwave broadcasts.
2.PL-880: Featuring digital Signal Processing on the HF band, the PL-880 is a quantum leap forward for receiving weak signals. It also offers selectable IF bandwidth for fine-tuning your listening experience.
3. PL-990x: Considered Tecsun engineering at its finest, the PL-990x High-Performance Shortwave Radio utilizes multiple frequency conversion and modern DSP digital demodulation technology, resulting in improved receiving sensitivity, selectivity, and image rejection.

4. The newest addition to the Tecsun radio range, the H501x DSP Shortwave Radio is the result of years of research and development by Tecsun’s engineering department, incorporating feedback from shortwave radio listeners. Its hybrid desktop portable design ensures uncompromised performance without sacrificing size.

Coincidentally, these fantastic radios are also compatible with our premium headphones, ensuring you enjoy the best audio quality during your shortwave radio adventures.

We need to also mention the TRA HF Portable Dipole antenna, your ultimate radio companion! With a power handling capability of 100 Watts PEP, this antenna is designed to deliver exceptional performance. It comes conveniently packed in a durable canvas carry bag, making it easy to carry and set up wherever you go. Plus, we’ve got you covered with 10 meters of Rg58 cable for effortless connection to most transceivers.

Mark your calendars for the third full weekend of August, and let’s celebrate “Lighthouse Month” together! Join the ILLW community in commemorating these timeless beacons that have guided sailors throughout history. Step into the world of amateur radio, explore maritime heritage, and make connections that span the globe. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be part of an international tradition like no other!

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Michael

Exploring the Magic of Shortwave Radio: A Science Adventure for Kids!

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This blog is perfect to share with younger generations, be that grandkids, nieces, nephews, and friends! We even have some fantastic dot to dot drawings printed in the back of our shortwave radio listener guides that come free with all radios purchased on our webstore. Perfect for the upcoming school holidays!!!

Hey there, curious minds! Are you ready to embark on a scientific adventure that combines learning, exploration, and a touch of magic? Today, we’re diving into the captivating world of shortwave radio and discovering how this fascinating technology can be an educational powerhouse for kids like you. So, buckle up, grab your lab coats, and let’s dive into the science of shortwave radio!

What is Shortwave Radio?

Shortwave radio is a form of radio communication that uses high-frequency signals to transmit messages over long distances. Unlike FM or AM radio, shortwave signals can bounce off the Earth’s atmosphere and travel across continents, making it possible to tune in to stations from around the world.

The Science Behind Shortwave Radio:

Shortwave radio operates on a principle called “skywave propagation.” It involves the reflection and refraction of radio waves in the Earth’s ionosphere, a layer of charged particles high in the atmosphere. When shortwave signals encounter the ionosphere, they can be refracted or bounced back to the Earth’s surface, allowing them to travel far beyond the transmitter’s line of sight.

Exploring Radio Wave Behavior:

Understanding the behavior of radio waves is like uncovering a secret code. With shortwave radio, you can experiment and observe how different factors affect signal strength and quality. For instance, you can build your own simple antennas using everyday materials to discover how their size, shape, and positioning affect reception. It’s a hands-on way to learn about physics, electromagnetism, and the importance of engineering in communication systems.

Language Learning and Cultural Exploration:

Shortwave radio provides a unique opportunity to explore different languages and cultures from the comfort of your own home. Tune in to stations broadcasting in various languages and experience the beauty and diversity of global communication. Immerse yourself in different accents, music, news, and stories, expanding your language skills and developing a global perspective.

Building Emergency Preparedness Skills:

Shortwave radio is not just about science and culture; it also plays a vital role in emergency communication. During emergencies or natural disasters, traditional communication networks may fail, but shortwave radio can remain operational. Learning how to use and listen to shortwave radios equips you with valuable emergency preparedness skills. It empowers you to stay informed, connect with others, and even assist in disseminating vital information during times of crisis.

Igniting a Lifelong Passion:

By exploring the science of shortwave radio at a young age, you may ignite a passion for science, technology, and communication that will last a lifetime. You could become an amateur radio operator, build your own radios, or even pursue a career in engineering, telecommunications, or physics. The possibilities are as vast as the airwaves themselves!

So, young adventurers, as you journey through the captivating world of shortwave radio, remember that science is all around you, waiting to be explored. By tinkering with antennas, observing radio wave behavior, embracing cultural diversity, and preparing for emergencies, you can become a true radio explorer. Unleash your curiosity, ask questions, and let the magic of shortwave radio inspire you to reach for the stars!

Are you ready to embark on this exciting scientific journey? Grab your headphones, tune in to the frequencies of knowledge, and let the science of shortwave radio whisk you away to places both near and far.

Happy exploring, young scientists!

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Michael

Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club 47th Annual Field Day 2023

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This Kings Birthday Long Weekend, Saturday and Sunday the 10th and 11th of June 2023, the Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club cordially invites visitors and members to attend the ORARC 47th annual Field Day.

This is a two day event that includes fox hunts on both the Saturday and Sunday. Browse the disposals or take your own gear to sell ( no commissions taken).

There will be a barbeque lunch on both days with a bacon and egg breakfast available on Sunday morning.

Sunday is the trading day. The Field Day dinner is at 5 pm on the Saturday night in the Seaview Room at the Port Macquarie Golf Club with a menu to suit all tastes. The Wauchope Showground permits camping and is pet friendly. For two people an RV or caravan is $20 per night and a tent is $10 per night with power and the use of toilets and hot showers. Contact the on-site caretaker 0475 111 074 for bookings.

The June 2023 Friday Night Get Together will take place at 7 pm on Friday the 16th of June 2023 in the SES Building, Central Road, Port Macquarie.

These field days are a great excuse to get out, talk to like-minded radio enthusiasts, and possibly even pick up a radio or some great gear to add to your radio shack.

The aim of the Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club is to foster the hobby of Amateur Radio and associated electronics, to encourage persons interested in the scientific development of radio communications and associated electronics, and to provide a central meeting point for people interested in Amateur Radio and associated electronics where they may receive and give instruction and advice on matters pertaining to Amateur Radio Communications.

For more information, head to the official event page https://www.orarc.org/?p=70424

 

 

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Michael

Do You Know About All the Features Of The Tecsun Radios Australia Website?

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We are not just a radio store. We are proud to be a place to come to learn about shortwave, keep up with shortwave news, download guides, and even listen to our live SDR.

I am sure you are aware by now Tecsun stocks a range of shortwave and internet radios already. All of these radios have been hand tested by Tecsun Radios Australia Owner, and radio enthusiast Garry.

This is your assurance that you are purchasing a quality radio.

Each radio comes with a shortwave listeners guide, which was written by Garry himself and contains loads of useful information, like what to listen to, how shortwave works, and troubleshooting advice.

Unlike other online retailers, we provide trouble shooting advice from the owner himself, who has over 50 years experience in evaluation, using, and troubleshooting radio receivers. What we like to call good old fashioned customer service. Something you don’t get much these days!

On this very topic of customer service, we published a blog about customer service earlier this year after a rather extraordinarily bad experience connecting a new apartment to the internet.
In fact, our fantastic blog on our website has, over the past 7 years, featured everything from road testing products to radio reviews right through to the latest news and radio competition updates.

On the blog you can also see a cute video of penguins at an Antarctic base dancing to some shortwave music and learn how Tecsun Radios Australia has kindly donated over two dozen radios to this base,

Thinking about buying a new radio but not sure where to start? Each radio has a very comprehensive description and list of features, what’s more, previous customers have left reviews on most of our products so you can also read how other people have found that radio or product!

We have a variety of downloadable guides available on our website, simply head to the radio guides tab of the website, there you will find a drop-down menu that includes a digital copy of our shortwave listener’s guide, A shortwave explained guide, MW stations listing, and a DAB+ Explained guide. In addition, we also have some radio guides available for the visually impaired.

Tecsun Radios Australia also provides an online shortwave radio listening platform. Simply head to our website menu and click on Tecsun SW radio online. Then click to start OpenWebRX.
The screen will come up with some static sound and a waterfall screen, then simply follow the instructions below. Signals that are on the air are represented by vertical lines down the screen.

Using the drop down menu on the RH side of the screen:

  • Enter the desired frequency in the box marked “kHz” in top left hand white box
  • Or use the “select band” menu to jump to a pre-defined band.
  • Use the zoom icons to zoom in or out from the frequency you have entered.
  • Tune by clicking on the waterfall, spectrum or the cyan/red-colored station labels.
  • Select a mode. Shortwave stations use AM, amateur radio stations use LSB 10Mhz and below and USB for 10Mhz and above. 
  • If you are looking for a DRM station click the DRM mode button and select a station from the drop down schedule.

  When you purchase a radio from Tecsun Radios Australia you are supporting a small Australian business that support local jobs and local industry. We conduct all of our warehousing, marketing, advertising, printing, from local businesses and source our Australia pined AC chargers with C tick approval from an Australian supplier. Tecsun Radios also extends a wealth of product knowledge and experience to customers through our email and phone support channels to ensure customers receive the best advice and get the most from their radio purchase.

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Michael

Satellite Failure Provides Additional HF Traffic For Shortwave Enthusiasts.

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The recent temporary failure of an Inmarsat satellite serving the Pacific, has forced commercial aircraft to rely on the backup HF communications system used between air traffic controllers and pilots over the Pacific.

On April 16 the satellite began experiencing a service outage affecting aircraft transiting through the North and South Pacific Major World Air Route Areas (MWARA).

Increased traffic was heard on 5643, 8867, 13261, 17904 kHz in the South Pacific (San Francisco, Auckland, Brisbane, Nadi, Tahiti and 5628, 6655, 8951, 10048, 13339, 17946 and 21925 kHz in the North Pacific (San Francisco, Tokyo) areas. All frequencies listed are USB.

The services did not fully recover until April 21. The satellite had experienced a previous failure in 2008 and is 5 years past the predicted operational lifetime. Bearing this in mind, enthusiasts may discover increased HF traffic during this period of satellite uncertainty, proving that HF radio is far from obsolete.

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Michael

2023 World Amateur Radio Day- April 18th

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 A celebration of how amateur radio has been serving people for over 100 years.

With over 3 million radio amateurs worldwide this day is the perfect time to tune in and connect with fellow hobbyists.

Date: Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Time : All Day

This year’s theme is “Human Security for All, HS4A” 

The theme is born from a first time partnership between the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security and the World Academy of Art and Science in conjunction with IARU, in a campaign to highlight the role that amateur radio plays in addressing the world’s most pressing needs.

Human Security measures security at the individual level. First introduced by the U.N. in 1994, the concept identifies seven interrelated dimensions of security that are essential to an individual’s wellbeing: economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community, and political.

The partners believe Amateur Radio is uniquely positioned to address people-centered, context-specific security challenges by promoting technical knowledge, practical skills, innovative technology, and the deployment of backup systems at the community level that can be called upon in times of emergency. The pandemic, climate change, natural disasters, and armed conflicts on several continents undermine our security, and respect no boundaries. Amateur Radio has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to address human security needs. It is a truly global communications medium comprising some three million radio enthusiasts connecting communities and the peoples of the world.

Every year on April 18, Radio Amateurs worldwide take to the airwaves in celebration of Amateur Radio Day. This year the IARU and its member-societies will be conducting a special two-week on-the-air event 11–25 April. Special event stations will be operating from around the world, making two-way radio contacts to call attention to the HS4A campaign. There are a number of stations involved.

Simply click this link to participate https://hs4a.iaru.org/,to read more and participate,  look for the blue participate button on the top right of the page and register.

We would love to hear if you are planning to participate.

Products we recommend for this event are the XIEGU G90 HF Transceiver, our HF Amateur Radio Dipole Antenna, and of course, our ultra-comfortable TRA communications headphones, so you can block out the world and improve your listening comfort!

 

 

 

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Michael

SYDNEY TO HOBART FREQUENCIES 2022

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sydney to hobart radio listen

For the last 77 years, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race has been run on Boxing Day December 26. After 1 year off due to Covid in 2020, the race was run again last Boxing Day in 2021

We are excited to announce that the cannon will sound at the start of the race once again this Boxing Day as the ​​Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht race commences again this year on 26 December 2022 and ends on December 31, 2022

The 628 nautical mile race starts at 1 pm, and this year 111 yachts will take part.

 All radio sked frequencies and times remain the same as last year and are listed below.

Radio Relay Vessel, JBW will shadow the fleet throughout the race and will dock in Hobart with the fleet.

As the name suggests, the race is from Sydney to Hobart. Installation of an operational HF transceiver is mandatory for all vessels entered in the race.

HF and shortwave radio enthusiasts can listen in to position and weather reports during the race by monitoring the following frequencies:

Primary HF frequency: 4483 kHz USB

Secondary frequency: 6516 kHz USB

6516 kHz USB is constantly monitored by relay vessel “JBW” owned and donated for use during the race by Mr John Winning, owner of Appliances Online. JBW is a 70 foot motor cruiser.

Weather forecasts (Bureau of Meteorology):

4426 kHz, 8176 kHz, 12365 kHz and 16546 kHz, USB at 1030, 1430 and 1830 AEST daily, 2201 kHz, 6507 kHz, 8176 kHz and 12365 kHz USB at 0230, 0630 and 2230 AEST daily.

Tasmanian weather forecasts on the above frequencies at: 1130 and 1530 AEST

Tasmanian maritime radio:

2524 kHz, 4146 kHz, and 6627 khz USB at 0745, 1345, 1633 and 1903 AEST

Position reports:

4483 kHz USB at 1935, 2035 and 0635AEST daily

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Michael

The SPRING VHF/UHF Field day 2022- All The Details

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Spring VHF/UHF Field Day 2022

SPRING VHF/UHF Field day 

Contest is this Saturday November 26th at  01:00 UTC ( around midday Sydney time)

Running for 34 years now, the VHF/UHF Field day was originally run as a trial in January 1989. It was very well received and consequently became an annual event. An additional event was trialled in Spring, a Spring Field day, which also proved very successful, so much so that a 3rd event was launched, the Winter Field day which was introduced in 2008

The duration of the Field Day is 24 hours and consists of separate sections for both group and individual entrants giving radio operators an opportunity to “head for the hills” to see how many stations they can work and from how far away.

It is possible to do very well with only modest antennas if you pick a good hilltop. Another option, if your station is easily transportable, is to operate from more than one location during the contest period.

Interestingly, the Field Days  generate a lot of activity from home stations, so there is also a separate Home Station section.

All contacts must be simplex: There is plenty of FM activity, but one feature of the Field Days is a high level of SSB activity. (contacts through repeaters or satellites are not allowed).

Aim Of The Contest

The overriding aim is to get away for the weekend and have fun! But next after that, the aims are:

  To encourage more activity on VHF and microwave bands;

  To encourage people to work greater distances than usual by operating portable, and

  To provide opportunities for people to activate or work into new grid squares.

 

Contest Rules

Full details of the contest rules are available in the “Files for Download” section below.

Contest Scoring

VHF-UHF Field Days employ distance-based scoring, using your 6-character Maidenhead locator (the Sub-Square).

 

Full details of the scoring system are set out in the Rules.

 

Further Information on Maidenhead Locators

 

Each four-digit Maidenhead locator (Square) identifies an area which covers one degree of latitude and two degrees of longitude. Detailed explanation of the Maidenhead locator system can be found in the Download section below. Also available is a computer program that can convert latitude and longitude into grid locators, and vice versa.

 

To find the six digit Maidenhead locator for any location, click this Link.

Submitting Your Log

Logs should be accompanied by a cover sheet, as described in the rules. A sample scoring sheet is available for download at the bottom of this page.

 

Only electronic logs in ASCII (.txt) format are accepted now, unless some disability necessitates a paper log, which must be submitted as set out in the Rules. Upload your log files to the Field Day website via this Link

Contest Results

The aim is to have results finalised approximately four weeks after the Field Day, with the results posted here, publicised via the usual WIA channels and then published subsequently in Amateur Radio magazine.

 

Contest Award

Each top-scoring station in every Section–Sub-section will receive a colour certificate in .PDF format, sent to the contact email address on their log cover sheet.

 

Top-scoring Foundation stations will also receive a colour certificate.

Logging Software

Any logging software can be used so long as the necessary information is included in the log. Please refer to the rules for details about this.

 

 This information has been provided by the https://www.wia.org.au/ Wireless Institute of Australia all rights reserved.

The National Association for Amateur Radio in Australia

Click here for further information 

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Michael

The Best Radios For Use When Travelling

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Shortwave radio for travelling

Australia is an incredible place to travel, essentially offering something for all tastes. Being the world’s 6th largest country by land area- Australia offers some of the most varied travel experiences and indeed there is something for all types of travellers’ tastes and budgets.

Whether you are after rainforest treks, snowy mountains, historic towns, country hospitality, desert explorations, sparkling harbour cities, or perfectly pleasant seaside retreats, Australia has it all.

Even prior to travel restrictions in recent years, Australians have been enjoying exploring what this beautiful country has to offer.

Communities of “grey nomads” and gap year families have hit the road for the ultimate adventure and unplug for a while and experience a simpler lifestyle while exploring nature and learning about this beautiful country.

Speaking of Grey nomads, also called “roving retirees” the top 5 most popular places to visit in Australia by this ever-growing group are The Whitsundays, Margaret River, Byron Bay, Mandalay Beach, Noosa, Wineglass Bay. All such relaxing sounding destinations. Are any of these on your list in the future?

With the summer fast approaching we will see a further increase in travelers, set out to tour this vast country, so we felt it fitting to feature our most popular radios for travel, particularly in the outback where there can be little to no reception.

This is where shortwave radio comes in. Shortwave radio travels much further than AM/ FM  and broadcasts can be received over a distance of several thousand miles in places where there is little to no local reception.

We have a variety of radios available, like travel in Australia, we have something for all tastes and budgets!

Starting with The Tecsun PL310ET Multi-Band Radio

The Tecsun PL310ET Multi-Band Radio boasts features you would traditionally find on a much larger radio including provision for an external antenna, Digital Signal Processing (DSP), and selectable IF bandwidth which produces amazing audio performance from such a small receiver. 

The Easy Tune Mode (ETM) ensures stations already stored in the receiver memory are not overridden when an automatic scan is conducted. Tecsun’s inclusion of ETM in the features of the PL310ET Multi-Band Radio make this model one of the most fully featured portable radios for travellers.

Features

  • Alarm / Sleep Function
  • Easy Tune Mode
  • Digital Signal Processing for increased audio clarity
  • Auto Tuning Storage with ETM
  • AM / SW Selectable Bandwidth
  • Direct Frequency Entry
  • Dual Sleep Timers
  • Signal Strength Meter
  • External Antenna Socket (3.5mm)
  • Headphone Socket (3.5mm)
  • Battery Power Level Display
  • Dimensions 141 x 87 x 30mm

 

shortwave radio

 

Next on the list is the  Tecsun PL-368 DSP Handheld HF SSB Receiver  is the latest hand held version of the popular PL-360/365 series of receivers.  The form factor of this radio makes it very convenient to store in your grab bag or glovebox. This latest version includes a keypad for direct frequency entry, and a synchronous detector to help overcome fading on shortwave signals. The SSB capability offers 10Hz tuning steps. The external antenna socket operates on MW as well as SW, which is a great advantage for MW Dx’ers. Current stock has firmware version 3684 installed.

 The Tecsun PL-330 is the latest pocket sized DSP portable receiver offering SSB capability. This feature, coupled with direct frequency entry makes the PL-330 the ideal radio for those wishing to listen to shortwave radio utility stations, amateur radio transmissions as well as regular shortwave broadcasts.  The Tecsun PL-330 is powered by a BL-5C 1000mAh Li-ion battery offering up to 24 hours of continuous operation. The Tecsun PL-330 is the first receiver to offer ETM+, a search function that populates  24 time specific memories according to the hour of day in which the signal was received.   For example, stations stored between 0900 and 0950 will be stored in memory E09. Using this system an individual ETM memory can be made for each hour of the day.  Pressing the ETM button once the initial frequencies have been stored, automatically selects the frequencies previously stored at that time of day. The Tecsun Pl-330 also features AM synchronous detection of the shortwave bands, a feature rarely found on such a small sized receiver.

When you are on the road the community in many of the holiday parks is incredible, with many a social gathering, particularly in the evening time, which can often be during some of the best shortwave broadcast times. A great way to listen in privacy is with your very own set of TRA Communications headphones, featuring super soft memory foam that contours to your ear shape for the most comfortable listening experience.

In addition these headphones offer good dynamic range,which is achieved by the use of efficient 50mm NdFeB magnet drivers. The 3m connection cable means there is always sufficient length for headphone monitoring whilst engaged in other activities in your radio shack.  These headphones can be used with any communicatons product with  either a 3.5mm or 6.35mm stereo output socket. The durable, vacuum formed carry case, ensures your headphones are protected when not in use.

 

 

 

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