DJ Eric van Willegen, “Uncle Eric” hosts The Giant Jukebox on the Mighty KBC.
(Source: The Mighty KBC)
For our listeners across the pond:
Uncle Eric is testing Saturday September 26th on 7395 kHz between 23:00 – 24:00 UTC.
Our normal broadcast on 7375 kHz is on Sunday September 27th 00:00 – 03:00 UTC.
Please spread the word and send your reports for 7395 kHz.
SWLing Post reader, Claudiu, writes:
I have a question regarding the ETM (Easy Tuning Mode) function on the Tecsun PL-880 model. Its indicator is visible on the LCD screen [see above], but I couldn’t find any mention of this function for this model. What should one do to enable that indicator and use the function? I’ve seen mention of this for earlier models (PL-380/PL-390), but not for PL-880, even after looking over the hidden features. Do you, or your followers, have any idea on this?
Very good question–it would be nice if the PL-880 had a hidden ETM function, but I suspect the PL-880 may simply use a stock Tecsun display; “ETM” may be standard print.
By chance, has anyone discovered a hidden ETM function on the Tecsun PL-880? If so, please comment.
Are you an application developer?
The VOA Radiogram is seeking a developer to create software for PCs and mobile devices “to simplify the decoding of text and images transmitted by VOA and other radio stations.”
The RFQ and Statement of Work from the Broadcasting Board of Governors can be dowloaded by clicking here.
Note that there is a very short deadline–September 26–to submit your proposal.
One Post reader notes that, “although BBG will make the software available for free, and will provide the source code, this is a paid procurement. Respondents are expected to state their fee.”
The category is $15,000 – $25,000 as can be seen here:
http://www.bbg.gov/partnerwithus/doing-business/
Again, responses are due September 26, 2015!
SWLing Post reader, Muthu Kumar recently asked if I knew of a good source of shortwave radios–specifically, the Tecsun brand–in India.
I’m asked this very question at least a few times each year and have always replied that eBay may be the best option.
I’m curious if any of our readers living in India have good suggestions of shortwave retailers either within the country or who ship to India without many hassles. Please comment.
Many thanks to several SWLing Post readers who shared a link to this post on Gizmodo which focuses on preparations for a major solar storm like the 1859 Carrington Event.
Gizmodo touches on several preparedness basics and specifically mentions tucking away a shortwave radio with your survival gear:
Several preppers suggested keeping shortwave receivers handy, preferably of the hand-crank or solar-powered variety (because, you know, the grid’s out). “Personal two way com should be stored in metal boxes in each family vehicle,” one individual recommended. Another source emphasized the value of hunting down older, “tube type” communications gear. “Modern amateur radio gear is hugely susceptible to EMP,” he said. “Amateurs who have made it a part of their hobby interest to rebuild/salvage discarded military gear, especially heavy receivers, and transmitters, are thought to be very survivable.”
I have opinions about the ideal receiver to keep on hand for preparedness reasons. While it’s true that older tube type gear is less susceptible to EMP damage, much of this gear requires 110-220 volts AC to operate. If the electrical grid is down, you’ll need to have a reasonably robust power supply to bring these rigs to life.
I’ve had a prepper radio post in the hopper for nearly a year now; indeed, this is one of the most common questions I’m asked. Perhaps it’s time for another virtual radio challenge to flesh-out more options? There are a number of Post readers who are experts on this topic.
We’re absolutely chuffed to learn that the Shortwave Radio Audio Archive (SRAA) has made the pages of the October 2015 issue of the British alt music magazine, The Wire. Following are two excerpts from the brief but powerful column by Richard Thomas:
Thomas continues in this vein, his descriptions of the varied content inviting readers to immerse themselves in the SRAA’s static-infused depths.
Finally, Thomas concludes by describing in terms no less than lyrical exactly why he responds–as so many do, myself included–to the recordings found in the archive:
Wow…what a testament to the power of sound. Thanks, Richard and The Wire–we’re humbly grateful that someone shares our passion for this growing project.
And if you haven’t checked out the SRAA yet, take some time to do so; you won’t regret it. Contributions are welcome.
My talented pal, Dave Richards, has built yet another home-brew regenerative receiver––which he dubs the Sproutie MK II––and wow, it’s a thing of beauty.
Dave tells me has been working on this receiver for many months, and upon viewing the following photos of it, it’s clear to see why he took his sweet time. As in his original Sproutie, a vintage HRO dial has taken pride of place as the centerpiece of his rig; it looks stunning.
But the Sproutie MK II is not only painstakingly-crafted on the outside; like Shaker furnishings, wrought for the eyes of God both outwardly and within, the interior of Dave’s receiver is equally well-crafted.
Okay, maybe that’s a little over the top…but if you doubt me, just join me in admiration of this board:
As for performance? Of course, with such a clean interior, the Sproutie II performs like a champ. Dave posted a few videos showing how his new receiver commands the airwaves and aptly handles AM, SSB, and CW.
That’s an amazing piece of kit you’ve created there, Dave! Hats off to your incredible craftsmanship.
Check out Sproutie II on Dave’s blog, where you can read a full account of how he designed and built this gorgeous regen receiver.