Features and In-Depth Analyses
WRTC 2026: The World Championship of Radiosport Comes to East Anglia
On July 8, 2026, fifty teams of two operators each begin arriving in the English counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Cambridgeshire for the tenth World Radiosport Team Championship. The comparison to the Olympics gets made so often that it has become a cliche, but the structure actually earns it. A four year cycle. A host nation that changes every time. Years of qualification through real contest results rather than an application essay. And a level playing field so strict that every competitor operates a station they have never seen before, with identical antennas and identical power, on a callsign drawn by lot the same day they learn it.
This is the tenth time it has happened since 1990, and the first time it has happened in Britain.
Read MorePolar Modulation Comes to Production HF: The FlexRadio Aurora
FlexRadio’s Aurora series folds a full software-defined transceiver, a 500-watt amplifier, an automatic tuner, and a power supply into one compact chassis. Its real novelty is the transmitter: instead of a linear amplifier, Aurora uses polar modulation, a technique dating to the 1950s but only now reaching production HF hardware from a major manufacturer. The claimed efficiency of up to 80 percent promises far less heat and weight. Early owners report the radio stays cool even at full power, though independent lab measurements are still pending and skeptics question the price. A known principle, commercialized at genuinely meaningful power.
Read MoreUHF Connectors: The Practical Pros and Cons
In conclusion, while UHF connectors may not be the top choice for high-frequency applications, their durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use make them a valuable component in many amateur radio setups. Understanding their strengths and limitations allows operators to make informed decisions, ensuring their equipment performs reliably under various conditions.
Read MoreThe history of contesting
The history of amateur radio contesting is a testament to the ingenuity, passion, and dedication of hams worldwide. From its humble beginnings in the early 20th century to the sophisticated digital contests of today, contesting has continually evolved, reflecting broader technological and societal changes. As we celebrate this rich history, we look forward to the future, confident that amateur radio contesting will continue to thrive and inspire generations of radio enthusiasts.
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