Forum Schedule
See the schedule in a Single Page Table FormatRoom Location Maps
Jump to...
Filter By Room...
Filter By Keyword...
Thursday
Thursday Night Comedy Kick-Off
Juston McKinney
Welcome to the Northeast HamXposition and Marlborough! Start your convention visit off on a laugh with the newest edition to our HamXposition line up! Join us for Juston McKinney and an evening of comedy. Bar opens at 7PM, doors open at 8PM.
Time: 7:00 - 10:00 PM (180 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Welcome to the Northeast HamXposition and Marlborough! Start your convention visit off on a laugh with the newest edition to our HamXposition line up! Join us for Juston McKinney and an evening of comedy. Bar opens at 7PM, doors open at 8PM.
Time: 7:00 - 10:00 PM (180 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Friday
mini Contest University (8:30 AM Registration)
[CON] Contesting isn't only for the big guns and highly competitive folks. Doug will introduce you to getting started in this aspect of our hobby. 9:00 AM Introduction – Doug Grant, K1DG, and Tim Duffy, K3LR 9:15 AM Getting started in Contesting – Randy Thomps
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (480 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
[CON] Contesting isn't only for the big guns and highly competitive folks. Doug will introduce you to getting started in this aspect of our hobby. 9:00 AM Introduction – Doug Grant, K1DG, and Tim Duffy, K3LR 9:15 AM Getting started in Contesting – Randy Thomps
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (480 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Kit Building Workshop - Fri 1-4 PM
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM (180 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM (180 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
Introduction to the TinySA Workshop
[TEK] This Workshop will introduce you to the TinySA Spectrum Analyzer. We will show you how it works and how to use the instrument for Amateur Radio applications.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[TEK] This Workshop will introduce you to the TinySA Spectrum Analyzer. We will show you how it works and how to use the instrument for Amateur Radio applications.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
Installation of Andy's Ham Radio Linux
[TEK] Bring your PC based laptop (not Apple), power supply, mouse, etc, and a desire to install "Andy's Ham Radio Linux". Andy Stewart, KB1OIQ, the creator of "Andy's Ham Radio Linux" will guide you through the installation process, and then show you how to get started with your newly configured computer. Your computer must be a fully functioning computer where we can entirely erase the hard drive prior to installing Linux. It must have at least 4GB of memory and 64GB of disk space. Computers older than about 7 years may be problematic. The USB boot software in the BIOS must be able to boot from an 8GB USB memory stick (thumb drive).
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM (120 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
[TEK] Bring your PC based laptop (not Apple), power supply, mouse, etc, and a desire to install "Andy's Ham Radio Linux". Andy Stewart, KB1OIQ, the creator of "Andy's Ham Radio Linux" will guide you through the installation process, and then show you how to get started with your newly configured computer. Your computer must be a fully functioning computer where we can entirely erase the hard drive prior to installing Linux. It must have at least 4GB of memory and 64GB of disk space. Computers older than about 7 years may be problematic. The USB boot software in the BIOS must be able to boot from an 8GB USB memory stick (thumb drive).
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 PM (120 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
Winlink Workshop
[EMC] More Info to Follow
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM (180 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[EMC] More Info to Follow
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM (180 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
Embracing the Chill at Winter Field Day 2025
[OTA] In this engaging and timely presentation, Marvin will share insights into the annual Winter Field Day event that brings together amateur radio enthusiasts in a unique cold-weather setting. Winter Field Day is not just a contest—it's a community-building experience that challenges operators to set up temporary stations in winter conditions, fostering camaraderie and testing one’s skills. As the president of the Winter Field Day Association, Marvin provides a firsthand look into the planning, activities, and the sense of adventure that makes Winter Field Day a highlight on the ham radio calendar. Please join Marvin on a journey through snow-covered landscapes and radio waves, where passion for communication meets the beauty of winter. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[OTA] In this engaging and timely presentation, Marvin will share insights into the annual Winter Field Day event that brings together amateur radio enthusiasts in a unique cold-weather setting. Winter Field Day is not just a contest—it's a community-building experience that challenges operators to set up temporary stations in winter conditions, fostering camaraderie and testing one’s skills. As the president of the Winter Field Day Association, Marvin provides a firsthand look into the planning, activities, and the sense of adventure that makes Winter Field Day a highlight on the ham radio calendar. Please join Marvin on a journey through snow-covered landscapes and radio waves, where passion for communication meets the beauty of winter. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Zero to Hero - KiCAD Workshop (Part 1)
[TEK] Come in without any prior experience, and come out ready to finish your board in Zero to Hero KiCAD. Taught by Charlie Nicholson, KC1SFR, and Max Kendall, W0MXX. NOTE: Please come with a laptop downloaded with the most recent version of KiCAD.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[TEK] Come in without any prior experience, and come out ready to finish your board in Zero to Hero KiCAD. Taught by Charlie Nicholson, KC1SFR, and Max Kendall, W0MXX. NOTE: Please come with a laptop downloaded with the most recent version of KiCAD.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
TinySA Measurement Workshop
[TEK] In the TinySA Measurements Workshop we will demonstrate typical measurements that can be performed with the TinySA Spectrum Analyzer. If you own a TinySA, bring it to the Measurements Workshop and you can participate in the demonstrations.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[TEK] In the TinySA Measurements Workshop we will demonstrate typical measurements that can be performed with the TinySA Spectrum Analyzer. If you own a TinySA, bring it to the Measurements Workshop and you can participate in the demonstrations.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
What's Noise?
[TEK] Greg will present an introduction to noise--what it is, how it affects us, noise in our equipment--and maybe what we can do about it. His participation in New England's VHF-and-Above conferences is a perennial favorite. We welcome him here. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[TEK] Greg will present an introduction to noise--what it is, how it affects us, noise in our equipment--and maybe what we can do about it. His participation in New England's VHF-and-Above conferences is a perennial favorite. We welcome him here. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
RadioCraft Mod for MineCraft Workshop
Lucas Elliot, W1BTR
[TEK] RadioCraft is a ham radio mod for MineCraft, the most popular online game of all time. This mod enables a full-featured simulation of ham radio, including multi-band transceivers, antennas, solar panels, power supplies, and coax. This two-hour workshop will demonstrate how to load RadioCraft and play the game. We recommend that participants bring a laptop with MineCraft installed. The presentation will be conducted by Lucas, W1BTR, who originated the RadioCraft project.
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM (120 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
[TEK] RadioCraft is a ham radio mod for MineCraft, the most popular online game of all time. This mod enables a full-featured simulation of ham radio, including multi-band transceivers, antennas, solar panels, power supplies, and coax. This two-hour workshop will demonstrate how to load RadioCraft and play the game. We recommend that participants bring a laptop with MineCraft installed. The presentation will be conducted by Lucas, W1BTR, who originated the RadioCraft project.
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM (120 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
2024 Skywarn Spotter Class
[EMC] This is the traditional SKYWARN training class offered by NWS Boston/Norton.
Time: 2:00 - 3:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[EMC] This is the traditional SKYWARN training class offered by NWS Boston/Norton.
Time: 2:00 - 3:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
Zero to Hero - KiCAD Workshop (Part 2)
[TEK] Come in without any prior experience, and come out ready to finish your board in Zero to Hero KiCAD. Taught by Charlie Nicholson, KC1SFR, and Max Kendall, W0MXX. NOTE: Please come with a laptop downloaded with the most recent version of KiCAD.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[TEK] Come in without any prior experience, and come out ready to finish your board in Zero to Hero KiCAD. Taught by Charlie Nicholson, KC1SFR, and Max Kendall, W0MXX. NOTE: Please come with a laptop downloaded with the most recent version of KiCAD.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
The Highs and Lows of Aeronautical Mobile Operation
Kim Peck WA1PBU
[TEK] A brief description of the details of mobile operation from light aircraft. (This talk will be repeated later in the convention.)
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[TEK] A brief description of the details of mobile operation from light aircraft. (This talk will be repeated later in the convention.)
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Zero to Hero - KiCAD Workshop (Part 3)
[TEK] Come in without any prior experience, and come out ready to finish your board in Zero to Hero KiCAD. Taught by Charlie Nicholson, KC1SFR, and Max Kendall, W0MXX. NOTE: Please come with a laptop downloaded with the most recent version of KiCAD.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[TEK] Come in without any prior experience, and come out ready to finish your board in Zero to Hero KiCAD. Taught by Charlie Nicholson, KC1SFR, and Max Kendall, W0MXX. NOTE: Please come with a laptop downloaded with the most recent version of KiCAD.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
DX/Contest Banquet
Yuri Onipko, VE3DZ
[DX, CON] Join your fellow hams for a delicious DXCC/Contest dinner on Friday night to hear Yuri Onipko, VE3DZ, tell us of his DX and DXpedition experiences.
Time: 7:00 - 8:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
[DX, CON] Join your fellow hams for a delicious DXCC/Contest dinner on Friday night to hear Yuri Onipko, VE3DZ, tell us of his DX and DXpedition experiences.
Time: 7:00 - 8:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Saturday
2024 Keynote: STEM and the ARRL Teachers Institute
Steve Goodgame, K5ATA
[INV] Steve leads ARRL’s Education and Learning Department. He has a passion for youth outreach and works constantly to find ways to engage more youth in wireless technology and help teachers elevate their STEM programs.
Time: 9:00 - 9:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
[INV] Steve leads ARRL’s Education and Learning Department. He has a passion for youth outreach and works constantly to find ways to engage more youth in wireless technology and help teachers elevate their STEM programs.
Time: 9:00 - 9:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Tech-In-A-Day
[TNG] Bill Poulin, WZ1L, veteran instructor and volunteer examiner will be conducting a "Tech In A Day" class.
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:50 PM (470 mins)
Room: Sudbury, W4
[TNG] Bill Poulin, WZ1L, veteran instructor and volunteer examiner will be conducting a "Tech In A Day" class.
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:50 PM (470 mins)
Room: Sudbury, W4
VEC Session I
Time: 9:00 - 10:50 AM (110 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
Time: 9:00 - 10:50 AM (110 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
Kit Building Workshop - Sat 10-11 AM
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
TBD
[EM] TBD. Josh will be forwarding Stu a topic for Saturday Presentation
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
[EM] TBD. Josh will be forwarding Stu a topic for Saturday Presentation
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
StratoScience 2024 - Ham Radio and Education to New Heights
[INV] Learn how high altitude balloon programs can be used to inspire and engage youth to push themselves to new heights. As amateur radio operators, high altitude balloons offer us a low cost near-space platform for exciting engineering and radio projects. Learn from the New England Weather Balloon Society's successes and failures and see what some of the work students are doing in the StratoScience Lab program this year.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[INV] Learn how high altitude balloon programs can be used to inspire and engage youth to push themselves to new heights. As amateur radio operators, high altitude balloons offer us a low cost near-space platform for exciting engineering and radio projects. Learn from the New England Weather Balloon Society's successes and failures and see what some of the work students are doing in the StratoScience Lab program this year.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
A Lot Has Changed in 10 Years. Are You Considering a New Radio?
[TEK] Let's demand cleaner transmitters (and better receivers). Rob, an internationally known expert in radio specifications and performance, will use his contesting experience to comment on current popular transceivers.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[TEK] Let's demand cleaner transmitters (and better receivers). Rob, an internationally known expert in radio specifications and performance, will use his contesting experience to comment on current popular transceivers.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
D-STAR Review
[TEK] A review of D-STAR in our region. A chance to ask questions about using D-STAR and its interaction with other digital modes.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[TEK] A review of D-STAR in our region. A chance to ask questions about using D-STAR and its interaction with other digital modes.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
Embracing the Chill at Winter Field Day 2025 (repeat)
[OTA] In this engaging and timely presentation, Marvin will share insights into the annual Winter Field Day event that brings together amateur radio enthusiasts in a unique cold-weather setting. Winter Field Day is not just a contest—it's a community-building experience that challenges operators to set up temporary stations in winter conditions, fostering camaraderie and testing one’s skills. As the president of the Winter Field Day Association, Marvin provides a firsthand look into the planning, activities, and the sense of adventure that makes Winter Field Day a highlight on the ham radio calendar. Please join Marvin on a journey through snow-covered landscapes and radio waves, where passion for communication meets the beauty of winter.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[OTA] In this engaging and timely presentation, Marvin will share insights into the annual Winter Field Day event that brings together amateur radio enthusiasts in a unique cold-weather setting. Winter Field Day is not just a contest—it's a community-building experience that challenges operators to set up temporary stations in winter conditions, fostering camaraderie and testing one’s skills. As the president of the Winter Field Day Association, Marvin provides a firsthand look into the planning, activities, and the sense of adventure that makes Winter Field Day a highlight on the ham radio calendar. Please join Marvin on a journey through snow-covered landscapes and radio waves, where passion for communication meets the beauty of winter.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Ham Shack on Wheels
[TEK] One ham's solution to living in a valley location with poor radio propagation. See how Chris has turned this former TV news van into a complete Ham Shack on Wheels, completely outfitted with radio communications from 160 through UHF including onboard repeaters and a satellite station.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
[TEK] One ham's solution to living in a valley location with poor radio propagation. See how Chris has turned this former TV news van into a complete Ham Shack on Wheels, completely outfitted with radio communications from 160 through UHF including onboard repeaters and a satellite station.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
APRS Secrets
[TEK, OTA] Everything You wanted to know about APRS but were afraid to ask. Why APRS is more relevant today than ever. How to make the most of simple equipment on the cheap. Unlocking the hidden features of today's advanced APRS-equipped HTs. How will the new bandwidth regulations impact the future of APRS and its progeny. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
[TEK, OTA] Everything You wanted to know about APRS but were afraid to ask. Why APRS is more relevant today than ever. How to make the most of simple equipment on the cheap. Unlocking the hidden features of today's advanced APRS-equipped HTs. How will the new bandwidth regulations impact the future of APRS and its progeny. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
New England QRP Forum
[OTA] Gather with the New England QRP Club for introductions, club business, and information for new members.
Time: 10:00 - 11:50 AM (110 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[OTA] Gather with the New England QRP Club for introductions, club business, and information for new members.
Time: 10:00 - 11:50 AM (110 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
Kit Building Workshop - Sat 11 AM-Noon
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
Elecraft K4 update
[TEK] Hear all about the Elecraft K4 transceiver--its ongoing updates and good things to come--all from the radio's designer. Eric will also take questions as time allows.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
[TEK] Hear all about the Elecraft K4 transceiver--its ongoing updates and good things to come--all from the radio's designer. Eric will also take questions as time allows.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Tiny4FSK - A Cutting-Edge High-Altitude Tracking System
[TEK] Come and see Tiny4FSK, an ultra compact, low-power tracking system to be flown at high altitudes. It uses modern technology and combines it with the long-lasting amateur radio hobby to provide a reliable and lightweight tracking system. As the first 4FSK tracking system designed for amateurs, Tiny4FSK brings features like high transmit rates, forward error correction, and weak signal propagation to the hobby in an open source package.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[TEK] Come and see Tiny4FSK, an ultra compact, low-power tracking system to be flown at high altitudes. It uses modern technology and combines it with the long-lasting amateur radio hobby to provide a reliable and lightweight tracking system. As the first 4FSK tracking system designed for amateurs, Tiny4FSK brings features like high transmit rates, forward error correction, and weak signal propagation to the hobby in an open source package.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
AMSAT Current Projects
[OTA,TEK] A presentation of current satellite projects at AMSAT, as well as a summary of educational initiatives.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[OTA,TEK] A presentation of current satellite projects at AMSAT, as well as a summary of educational initiatives.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
The Great Springfield Tornado of 2011
[EMC] An overview of Springfield’s response and recovery actions to the EF-3 tornado in June of 2011 by the ham who was the city's Emergency Manager then.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
[EMC] An overview of Springfield’s response and recovery actions to the EF-3 tornado in June of 2011 by the ham who was the city's Emergency Manager then.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
13 Colonies Special Event
[OTA] Follow the growth of one of the largest summer special events. Learn what it takes to support a week-long operating event. Co-presenting with Larry, W1AST, Bob will review history and information on what it takes to organize and activate and work the 13 Colonies special event. Thirteen Colonies runs July 1-7 every year.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[OTA] Follow the growth of one of the largest summer special events. Learn what it takes to support a week-long operating event. Co-presenting with Larry, W1AST, Bob will review history and information on what it takes to organize and activate and work the 13 Colonies special event. Thirteen Colonies runs July 1-7 every year.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
How I got into EME
[TEK] Georgs will walk us through an in-depth technical review of his experience getting into EME concentrating on the hardware development required to make a successful QSO. He'll bring along a homebrew dual-polarized Receiver and a KW Linear Amplifier.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[TEK] Georgs will walk us through an in-depth technical review of his experience getting into EME concentrating on the hardware development required to make a successful QSO. He'll bring along a homebrew dual-polarized Receiver and a KW Linear Amplifier.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Insights from the Booth: Resurrecting A College Radio Club
[INV] College radio clubs are at the forefront of reaching ham radio youth. However, they often face challenges leading to their decline or dissolution. This presentation aims to provide insights and observations from Hisen's past two years' experience in revitalizing his college radio club. He hopes to inspire and empower other student leaders facing similar challenges by debunking common myths and sharing proven strategies.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
[INV] College radio clubs are at the forefront of reaching ham radio youth. However, they often face challenges leading to their decline or dissolution. This presentation aims to provide insights and observations from Hisen's past two years' experience in revitalizing his college radio club. He hopes to inspire and empower other student leaders facing similar challenges by debunking common myths and sharing proven strategies.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
Introduction to Winlink
[EMC. TEK] Basics of understanding Winlink. What it isn't. What it is. What is needed to get started with Winlink and how to send plain text messages and use basic Winlink forms.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
[EMC. TEK] Basics of understanding Winlink. What it isn't. What it is. What is needed to get started with Winlink and how to send plain text messages and use basic Winlink forms.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
How the MARCONI Program Can Grow Your Club
[INV] Motivating Amateur Radio Clubs to Open New Initiatives (MARCONI) is a program designed to grow your club and help grow less active clubs in your area. It is composed of nine projects that, by providing multiple areas of interest: increase club enthusiasm, recruit new members, and help revitalize clubs that are failing to grow. The presentation will address the nine areas and explain how the whole can be greater than the sum of the parts.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[INV] Motivating Amateur Radio Clubs to Open New Initiatives (MARCONI) is a program designed to grow your club and help grow less active clubs in your area. It is composed of nine projects that, by providing multiple areas of interest: increase club enthusiasm, recruit new members, and help revitalize clubs that are failing to grow. The presentation will address the nine areas and explain how the whole can be greater than the sum of the parts.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
Youth Forum ~ New England Sci-Tech ARS
[INV] What inspires today's youth in the amateur radio hobby? Find out what's on the minds of our youngest hams in this captivating round-table discussion. Great learning opportunity for teachers, scout leaders, or clubs wanting to attract more youth to their local radio clubs.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[INV] What inspires today's youth in the amateur radio hobby? Find out what's on the minds of our youngest hams in this captivating round-table discussion. Great learning opportunity for teachers, scout leaders, or clubs wanting to attract more youth to their local radio clubs.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
Make Your Next Portable Activation a SUPER Activation!
[OTA] It seems like everyone is doing a portable activation these days, and that's GREAT! With today's portable equipment, anyone can drag a radio into the field and call CQ. But how many stations will hear you with low power and a minimal antenna? Mitch will focus on the myriad details of setting up a super operation--one which will shoot fire and brimstone across the bands and result in pileups all day long, resulting in a ton of fun. Can you do that with a portable set up? You bet!
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Duchess, E1
[OTA] It seems like everyone is doing a portable activation these days, and that's GREAT! With today's portable equipment, anyone can drag a radio into the field and call CQ. But how many stations will hear you with low power and a minimal antenna? Mitch will focus on the myriad details of setting up a super operation--one which will shoot fire and brimstone across the bands and result in pileups all day long, resulting in a ton of fun. Can you do that with a portable set up? You bet!
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Duchess, E1
ARRL New England Division Forum
[LEA] Division Director Fred Kemmerer will host a New England Division forum covering League news and Division activities.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
[LEA] Division Director Fred Kemmerer will host a New England Division forum covering League news and Division activities.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Andy's Ham Radio Linux
[TEK] This talk will be about Linux and ham radio related software. Andy (KB1OIQ) has created a software collection called "Andy's Ham Radio Linux" which is freely distributed on Sourceforge. This talk will be a high level overview of the software collection. No Linux expertise is required.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[TEK] This talk will be about Linux and ham radio related software. Andy (KB1OIQ) has created a software collection called "Andy's Ham Radio Linux" which is freely distributed on Sourceforge. This talk will be a high level overview of the software collection. No Linux expertise is required.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
RadioCraft: A Ham Radio Mod for Minecraft
Lucas Elliott, W1BTR
[TEK] RadioCraft is a ham radio mod for MineCraft, the most popular online game of all time. This mod enables a full-featured simulation of ham radio, including multi-band transceivers, antennas, solar panels, power supplies, and coax. Game players can experiment with ham radio and communicate with other users in a realistic environment. This presentation demonstrates the mod and the describes history of its development.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
[TEK] RadioCraft is a ham radio mod for MineCraft, the most popular online game of all time. This mod enables a full-featured simulation of ham radio, including multi-band transceivers, antennas, solar panels, power supplies, and coax. Game players can experiment with ham radio and communicate with other users in a realistic environment. This presentation demonstrates the mod and the describes history of its development.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
EmComm - What You Need To Know
[EMC] Steve will share what he has learned about emergency communications from his years of experience.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[EMC] Steve will share what he has learned about emergency communications from his years of experience.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network - A Tool in the EmComm Messaging Toolbox
[EMC, TEK] AREDN is one tool in the EmComm tool box. The AREDN microwave system complements other tools by supporting IP-based messaging and various common applications that run over the Internet.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[EMC, TEK] AREDN is one tool in the EmComm tool box. The AREDN microwave system complements other tools by supporting IP-based messaging and various common applications that run over the Internet.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
How to Outfit a Camper for Ham Radio and Still Have a Camper the Wife Will Approve Of.
[TEK] Stebe bought a camper new in 2018. His priority (per his wife) has always been that whatever is done to it, it must be a camper first. With that in mind, the changes he made are mostly hidden and only come out when it is used for Amateur Radio. Looking like any other camper, this platform is able to convert into a "Go-Box on Wheels."
Time: 12:00 - 12:00 PM ( mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
[TEK] Stebe bought a camper new in 2018. His priority (per his wife) has always been that whatever is done to it, it must be a camper first. With that in mind, the changes he made are mostly hidden and only come out when it is used for Amateur Radio. Looking like any other camper, this platform is able to convert into a "Go-Box on Wheels."
Time: 12:00 - 12:00 PM ( mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
Introduction to the Incident Command System
[EMC] This session will cover the basics of the Incident Command System. Attendees will have a better understanding of how ICS is used in the field, what ICS means for the radio amateur, and be prepared to pass the ICS-100 exam.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[EMC] This session will cover the basics of the Incident Command System. Attendees will have a better understanding of how ICS is used in the field, what ICS means for the radio amateur, and be prepared to pass the ICS-100 exam.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
NESMC Board Meeting (closed)
Robert DeMattia, K1IW
[OTA] Executive session meeting for NESMC officers (closed to general public)
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
[OTA] Executive session meeting for NESMC officers (closed to general public)
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
Kit Building Workshop - Sat 1-2 PM
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
So You Want to Volunteer as a Ham at the Boston Marathon, What's Next and What to Expect
[EMC,OTA] Everyone has heard of the Boston Marathon. What many people may not know is that there is a significant number of ham radio operators that support communications at the event. This will be a somewhat informal presentation geared for hams that may want to volunteer but may have questions and who don't know anyone in their club to ask.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Duchess, E1
[EMC,OTA] Everyone has heard of the Boston Marathon. What many people may not know is that there is a significant number of ham radio operators that support communications at the event. This will be a somewhat informal presentation geared for hams that may want to volunteer but may have questions and who don't know anyone in their club to ask.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Duchess, E1
Low Cost USB-centric RF Test Equipment for Amateur Radio
[TEK] USB-centric RF test equipment is now becoming common for not only hobbyist, but also in the RF Industry. This talk will review the various options for such test equipment that can often fit in a "ham budget".
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[TEK] USB-centric RF test equipment is now becoming common for not only hobbyist, but also in the RF Industry. This talk will review the various options for such test equipment that can often fit in a "ham budget".
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
Radio & Steam Technology at The New England Wireless & Steam Museum
[INV] This presentation will offer an overview of the New England Wireless & Steam Museum campus which consists of five main buildings and their respective collections. Both radio and steam technology will be discussed; but the emphasis will be on antique and modern amateur radio collections and exhibits. Emphasis will be placed on the contributions of volunteers.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[INV] This presentation will offer an overview of the New England Wireless & Steam Museum campus which consists of five main buildings and their respective collections. Both radio and steam technology will be discussed; but the emphasis will be on antique and modern amateur radio collections and exhibits. Emphasis will be placed on the contributions of volunteers.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
Go Kits
[TEK, EMC] This presentation will go over the creation and usage of a basic field expedient "Jump Kit" that can be carried by and used by a single operator. The presentation will also go over some self contained portable station kits that are easily transportable.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[TEK, EMC] This presentation will go over the creation and usage of a basic field expedient "Jump Kit" that can be carried by and used by a single operator. The presentation will also go over some self contained portable station kits that are easily transportable.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
PSKReporter Then and Now
Philip Gladstone, N1DQ
[TEK] Phil's PSKReporter project has been going and growing for over 15 years. His talk will describe what PSKReporter does for the modern ham and how it can best be used. This will include how to configure WSJT-X to report to PSKReporter. For the more adventurous, we will discuss how MQTT can be used to get a real-time filtered feed.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[TEK] Phil's PSKReporter project has been going and growing for over 15 years. His talk will describe what PSKReporter does for the modern ham and how it can best be used. This will include how to configure WSJT-X to report to PSKReporter. For the more adventurous, we will discuss how MQTT can be used to get a real-time filtered feed.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Advanced Winlink
[EMC, TEK] This presentation will cover advanced Winklink topics including the many ways Winlink can communicate using RF. Also covered will be features in Winlink to manage the data you may receive within Winlink messages. This presentation will help prepare you for using Winlink for EmComm purposes.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
[EMC, TEK] This presentation will cover advanced Winklink topics including the many ways Winlink can communicate using RF. Also covered will be features in Winlink to manage the data you may receive within Winlink messages. This presentation will help prepare you for using Winlink for EmComm purposes.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
YCCC Forum
[CON, DX] Gather with the Yankee Clipper Contest Club for introductions, club business, and information for new members.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Northborough, W7
[CON, DX] Gather with the Yankee Clipper Contest Club for introductions, club business, and information for new members.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Northborough, W7
VEC Session II
Time: 1:00 - 5:00 PM (240 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
Time: 1:00 - 5:00 PM (240 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
25 Years of My QRPme Schtick!
[OTA] Join Rex for a walk down Memory-Lane where he talks about his adventures into the heart of Amateur (QRP) Radio.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[OTA] Join Rex for a walk down Memory-Lane where he talks about his adventures into the heart of Amateur (QRP) Radio.
Time: 1:00 - 1:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
Kit Building Workshop - Sat 2-3 PM
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 2:00 - 2:00 PM (oth mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 2:00 - 2:00 PM (oth mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
FEMA Disaster Communications
[EMC] This presentation provides an overview of the mission and work of FEMA Disaster Emergency Communications (DEC) in Region 1 (New England). DEC staff will go over capabilities, core competencies, the Regional Emergency Communications Coordination Working Group, ESF #2 Communications, and Community Lifelines. We will also offer a live demonstration of a FEMA deployable communications kit.
Time: 2:00 - 3:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[EMC] This presentation provides an overview of the mission and work of FEMA Disaster Emergency Communications (DEC) in Region 1 (New England). DEC staff will go over capabilities, core competencies, the Regional Emergency Communications Coordination Working Group, ESF #2 Communications, and Community Lifelines. We will also offer a live demonstration of a FEMA deployable communications kit.
Time: 2:00 - 3:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
How to Become a POTA Hunter
[OTA] Hunters are essential to the POTA program. Without Hunters, Activators in a park would have no one to work! This presentation will outline the techniques and practices for becoming an effective POTA Hunter. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
[OTA] Hunters are essential to the POTA program. Without Hunters, Activators in a park would have no one to work! This presentation will outline the techniques and practices for becoming an effective POTA Hunter. (This talk will be re-presented later in the convention.)
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
Emcomm Antennas
[EMC, TEK] This presentation will cover the basic concepts and use of Emcomm antennas that can be utilized in the field during a deployment.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[EMC, TEK] This presentation will cover the basic concepts and use of Emcomm antennas that can be utilized in the field during a deployment.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
FlexRadio - Not y\Your Dad's Old HF Radio
[TEK] Join Mike for an insightful and engaging presentation on the advancements in the captivating world of HF radios.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[TEK] Join Mike for an insightful and engaging presentation on the advancements in the captivating world of HF radios.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
NTS Meet and Greet
[OTA] Meet with traffic handlers throughout New England and beyond. We welcome seasoned traffic handlers and those just curious what it is all about. Get questions answered here, exchange information, share stories, and perhaps pick up a tip or two. Questions about NTS 2.0? We'll try to have answers for that, too.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
[OTA] Meet with traffic handlers throughout New England and beyond. We welcome seasoned traffic handlers and those just curious what it is all about. Get questions answered here, exchange information, share stories, and perhaps pick up a tip or two. Questions about NTS 2.0? We'll try to have answers for that, too.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
Off Grid and Portable Operations, 2023 reprise
[EMc, TEK] This presentation is basically the presentation Charles did in 2023 for those who didn’t see it or for those who would like to see it again. It will show what he does as a Net Control Station for ARES, Skywarn, and CERT to stay on the air and get situation reports out, no matter what the conditions. This information applies to anyone operating portable operations, not just EmComm. To see what he has done since last year be sure to attend the "2024 Update." All the notes for this and the 2024 sessions are in one handout.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
[EMc, TEK] This presentation is basically the presentation Charles did in 2023 for those who didn’t see it or for those who would like to see it again. It will show what he does as a Net Control Station for ARES, Skywarn, and CERT to stay on the air and get situation reports out, no matter what the conditions. This information applies to anyone operating portable operations, not just EmComm. To see what he has done since last year be sure to attend the "2024 Update." All the notes for this and the 2024 sessions are in one handout.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
The Highs and Lows of Aeronautical Mobile Operation (repeat)
[TEK] A brief description of the details of mobile operation from light aircraft.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[TEK] A brief description of the details of mobile operation from light aircraft.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
An Effective Contest Station without Towers
[APP] This is an updated version of last year's well received presentation. Come see how John has built a contest station that produces Top 5 scores without using towers. You might just see the potential in your backyard a little differently.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Northborough, W7
[APP] This is an updated version of last year's well received presentation. Come see how John has built a contest station that produces Top 5 scores without using towers. You might just see the potential in your backyard a little differently.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Northborough, W7
Antenna Phasing
[APP] Dale will present a visual demonstration of how energy reception or transmission is enhanced within various antennas, and when combining two or more antennas. This is a NEQRP-sponsored talk but will be enjoyable (as Dale's presentations always are!) to all HamXposition attendees.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[APP] Dale will present a visual demonstration of how energy reception or transmission is enhanced within various antennas, and when combining two or more antennas. This is a NEQRP-sponsored talk but will be enjoyable (as Dale's presentations always are!) to all HamXposition attendees.
Time: 2:00 - 2:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
Kit Building Workshop - Sat 3-4 PM
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
[TEK,TNG] Beginners who need soldering instruction and practice are welcome to join us to build an easy beginner kit in under an hour. New England Sci-Tech volunteers will help anyone age 10 and up learn how. Choose from several kits - Morse Code Oscillator, Blinky Name Badge, Night Light, Spinning Top, FM Music Receiver – all kits were invented by students! Price per kit is between $5-$10, cash only. See our web site for details: http://nescitech.org/hamx
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Atrium/Lobby
Power Line RFI hunting On the Go
[RFI] Case studies about finding power line RFI using laptop PCs, an HF transceiver, and an inexpensive GPS unit.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[RFI] Case studies about finding power line RFI using laptop PCs, an HF transceiver, and an inexpensive GPS unit.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
CT-POTA Activators Group
[OTA] The CT-POTA Activators Group was founded by N2YCH, K1PCN, and KC1NQE to bring activators together to share knowledge about our parks, setups, and overall knowledge of POTA. Learn how to organize similar multi-club events and activities to engage all license classes.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
[OTA] The CT-POTA Activators Group was founded by N2YCH, K1PCN, and KC1NQE to bring activators together to share knowledge about our parks, setups, and overall knowledge of POTA. Learn how to organize similar multi-club events and activities to engage all license classes.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
Leasons Learned as a Ham for Broadcast RF and vice versa
Douglas Evans, K3DRE
[TEK] From broadcast radio, into ham radio and back. Doug takes a look at lessons learned in professional radio and how they lead him to ham radio. From there, he'll move to the things he learned as a ham that helped his career. Doug's been a lot of places and seen very interesting stuff, but found the basics of RF always apply. Today's modern digital broadcasting owes a lot to early hams
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[TEK] From broadcast radio, into ham radio and back. Doug takes a look at lessons learned in professional radio and how they lead him to ham radio. From there, he'll move to the things he learned as a ham that helped his career. Doug's been a lot of places and seen very interesting stuff, but found the basics of RF always apply. Today's modern digital broadcasting owes a lot to early hams
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
What's Noise? (repeat)
[TEK] Greg will present an introduction to noise--what it is, how it affects us, noise in our equipment--and maybe what we can do about it. His participation in New England's VHF-and-Above conferences is a perennial favorite. We welcome him here.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[TEK] Greg will present an introduction to noise--what it is, how it affects us, noise in our equipment--and maybe what we can do about it. His participation in New England's VHF-and-Above conferences is a perennial favorite. We welcome him here.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
VarAC - Basic and Advanced Uses
[EMC, TEK] VarAC is a keyboard-to-keyboard communication tool using VARA, a high-performance HF software modem for fast, error free transmission. It is seeing rising acceptance and incorporation as an important new tool for EmComm use. This presentation will get you started with the setup and use of VarAC.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
[EMC, TEK] VarAC is a keyboard-to-keyboard communication tool using VARA, a high-performance HF software modem for fast, error free transmission. It is seeing rising acceptance and incorporation as an important new tool for EmComm use. This presentation will get you started with the setup and use of VarAC.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Hudson, W3
Off Grid and Portable Operations, 2024 Update
[EM, TEK] Charles will present new information for a Shack-in-a-Stack which he made over last winter that contains three radios, batteries, PWS, Emergency Sat Comms, antennas, a tablet for digital modes, and much more. He also has information on his stealth install of an Icom IC-4100 in his car. All the notes for both sessions are in one handout. As he did last year, this presentation will happen off grid. All the notes for this and the earlier 2023 sessions are in one handout.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
[EM, TEK] Charles will present new information for a Shack-in-a-Stack which he made over last winter that contains three radios, batteries, PWS, Emergency Sat Comms, antennas, a tablet for digital modes, and much more. He also has information on his stealth install of an Icom IC-4100 in his car. All the notes for both sessions are in one handout. As he did last year, this presentation will happen off grid. All the notes for this and the earlier 2023 sessions are in one handout.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Boxborough, W5
New England Spectrum Management - Annual Meeting
Robert DeMattia, K1IW
[OTA] This is annual meeting of New England Spectrum Management (NESMC), the amateur radio repeater frequency coordinator for Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Repeater owners, users, members, and non members are all invited.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[OTA] This is annual meeting of New England Spectrum Management (NESMC), the amateur radio repeater frequency coordinator for Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Repeater owners, users, members, and non members are all invited.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
Antenna Matching
[APP] This show-and-tell presentation builds on Dales Antenna Phasing demonstration, with an emphasis on various methods used for maximum energy transfer between an antenna and your radio. This is another NEQRP-sponsored talk intended to enthrall all HamXposition attendees.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
[APP] This show-and-tell presentation builds on Dales Antenna Phasing demonstration, with an emphasis on various methods used for maximum energy transfer between an antenna and your radio. This is another NEQRP-sponsored talk intended to enthrall all HamXposition attendees.
Time: 3:00 - 3:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Marlborough, W9
ARRL Technical Coordinator Program
[TEK] In existence for many decades, the ARRL Technical Coordinator Program, under the auspices of the ARRL Lab, brings a support network to the amateur radio community that significantly benefits the hobby. Each ARRL Section Manager appoints a Technical Coordinator who then recruits Technical Specialists who work with local radio amateurs as well as clubs to answer questions and help solve hobby-related problems. Technical Specialists range from generalists to subject-specific experts.
Time: 4:00 - 4:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[TEK] In existence for many decades, the ARRL Technical Coordinator Program, under the auspices of the ARRL Lab, brings a support network to the amateur radio community that significantly benefits the hobby. Each ARRL Section Manager appoints a Technical Coordinator who then recruits Technical Specialists who work with local radio amateurs as well as clubs to answer questions and help solve hobby-related problems. Technical Specialists range from generalists to subject-specific experts.
Time: 4:00 - 4:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
RI Section Meeting
Nancy Austin, KC1NEK
[LEA] Come to a “town hall” meeting with the ARRL Rhode Island Section Manager.
Time: 4:00 - 4:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[LEA] Come to a “town hall” meeting with the ARRL Rhode Island Section Manager.
Time: 4:00 - 4:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
Eastern Mass Section Meeting
[LEA] Come to a “town hall” meeting with the ARRL Eastern Mass Section Manager.
Time: 4:00 - 4:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[LEA] Come to a “town hall” meeting with the ARRL Eastern Mass Section Manager.
Time: 4:00 - 4:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
Grand Banquet
Dr. Tamitha Skov, WX6SWW
Enjoy this year's convention banquet. Dr. Tamitha Skov, WX6SWW, will be the invited guest speaker for the Saturday evening Grand Banquet. Known as the "Space Weather Woman" on network TV and in social media, she forecasts and analyzes space weather processes in the heliosphere and exosphere.
Time: 7:00 - 8:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Enjoy this year's convention banquet. Dr. Tamitha Skov, WX6SWW, will be the invited guest speaker for the Saturday evening Grand Banquet. Known as the "Space Weather Woman" on network TV and in social media, she forecasts and analyzes space weather processes in the heliosphere and exosphere.
Time: 7:00 - 8:50 PM (110 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Sunday
Western Mass Section Membership Meeting
[LEA] The WMA meeting which will be an open forum to provide information on activities and to answer questions from you. Our SEC Chuck, WS1L, will also provide an update on ARES. Please visit us and see what we are doing to make Western Mass grow and to be an active part in it.
Time: 9:00 - 9:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[LEA] The WMA meeting which will be an open forum to provide information on activities and to answer questions from you. Our SEC Chuck, WS1L, will also provide an update on ARES. Please visit us and see what we are doing to make Western Mass grow and to be an active part in it.
Time: 9:00 - 9:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
The Quirks of Arduino-based 2.4 GHz Operating
Stephen Kercel, AA4AK
[TEK] Using an NRF24L01 transceiver with a microcontroller is an inexpensive way for hams to get on the 13cm band. The transceiver can be programmed for ham frequencies and operated under ham (instead of ISM) regulations. The catch is that it is fairly tricky to get the controller to communicate with the NRF module and to get two transceivers to communicate with each other without excessively many time-outs. This session explores the hardware and software issues and the practical solutions to them. It Includes a live demonstration of two transceivers performing two-way communications.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[TEK] Using an NRF24L01 transceiver with a microcontroller is an inexpensive way for hams to get on the 13cm band. The transceiver can be programmed for ham frequencies and operated under ham (instead of ISM) regulations. The catch is that it is fairly tricky to get the controller to communicate with the NRF module and to get two transceivers to communicate with each other without excessively many time-outs. This session explores the hardware and software issues and the practical solutions to them. It Includes a live demonstration of two transceivers performing two-way communications.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
How to Become a POTA Hunter (repeat)
[OTA] Hunters are essential to the POTA program. Without Hunters, Activators in a park would have no one to work! This presentation will outline the techniques and practices for becoming an effective POTA Hunter.
Time: 10:00 - 10:00 AM ( mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
[OTA] Hunters are essential to the POTA program. Without Hunters, Activators in a park would have no one to work! This presentation will outline the techniques and practices for becoming an effective POTA Hunter.
Time: 10:00 - 10:00 AM ( mins)
Room: Salon B, E4
APRS Secrets (repeat)
[TEK, OTA] Everything You wanted to know about APRS but were afraid to ask. Why APRS is more relevant today than ever. How to make the most of simple equipment on the cheap. As well as unlocking the hidden features of today's advanced APRS equipped HTs. How will the new bandwidth regulations impact the future of APRS and its progeny.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[TEK, OTA] Everything You wanted to know about APRS but were afraid to ask. Why APRS is more relevant today than ever. How to make the most of simple equipment on the cheap. As well as unlocking the hidden features of today's advanced APRS equipped HTs. How will the new bandwidth regulations impact the future of APRS and its progeny.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
MARS: How Hams Train with DoD Using HF Communications
[EMC, OTA] Ham Radio Operators that have registered with the Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) train on US and Allied radio communications procedures and work with the DoD customers to deliver accurate and timely situational awareness. Often this awareness is from personal observation, but they also gather it using Part 97 and Part 90 radio services. Join us as we discuss the excitement and benefits of participating as a MARS member or providing information to MARS operators on ham nets.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[EMC, OTA] Ham Radio Operators that have registered with the Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) train on US and Allied radio communications procedures and work with the DoD customers to deliver accurate and timely situational awareness. Often this awareness is from personal observation, but they also gather it using Part 97 and Part 90 radio services. Join us as we discuss the excitement and benefits of participating as a MARS member or providing information to MARS operators on ham nets.
Time: 10:00 - 10:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Introductory and Advanced FLDIGI Configuraiton and Usage
[EMC, TEK] Don will discuss the motivation to use FLDIGI for emergency communication. He will explore the basic configuration of FLDIGI, FLMSG and FLAMP and important points to consider when using FLDIGI in nets. He will then discuss a variety of advanced topics regarding configuring FLDIGI for more advanced net and communications usage.
Time: 10:00 - 11:50 AM (110 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
[EMC, TEK] Don will discuss the motivation to use FLDIGI for emergency communication. He will explore the basic configuration of FLDIGI, FLMSG and FLAMP and important points to consider when using FLDIGI in nets. He will then discuss a variety of advanced topics regarding configuring FLDIGI for more advanced net and communications usage.
Time: 10:00 - 11:50 AM (110 mins)
Room: Southborough, W6
VEC Session III
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (120 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (120 mins)
Room: Westborough, W8
Helical Antennas and Circular Polarization
Stephen Kercel, AA4AK
[A&P] A straightforward way (i.e., no drama with phasing lines) to send or receive circularly polarized signals is by using a simple helical antenna. At 2.4 GHz, it is easy to construct helical antennas with table-top dimensions. This session looks at the design, construction, and measured performance of several homebrew 2.4 GHz helical antennas. It will also demonstrate the effects of using properly matched polarization modes, finding the effect of using opposite polarizations for the receiver and transmitter helices, and the effect of using a linearly polarized antenna on one end and a helix on the other end.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[A&P] A straightforward way (i.e., no drama with phasing lines) to send or receive circularly polarized signals is by using a simple helical antenna. At 2.4 GHz, it is easy to construct helical antennas with table-top dimensions. This session looks at the design, construction, and measured performance of several homebrew 2.4 GHz helical antennas. It will also demonstrate the effects of using properly matched polarization modes, finding the effect of using opposite polarizations for the receiver and transmitter helices, and the effect of using a linearly polarized antenna on one end and a helix on the other end.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
Getting Started in Remote Operations
[TEK] (Insert talk summary here.)
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
[TEK] (Insert talk summary here.)
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Princess, E9
The National Traffic System: What is it? Why do We Care? Where Can We Find More Information?
[LEA] An introduction to NTS, the importance of NTS and current work being done to improve and enhance it. We'll cover training opportunities, as well as efforts to coordinate the NTS and ARES programs, information about the NTS2 website and its content, and the NTS Letter.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
[LEA] An introduction to NTS, the importance of NTS and current work being done to improve and enhance it. We'll cover training opportunities, as well as efforts to coordinate the NTS and ARES programs, information about the NTS2 website and its content, and the NTS Letter.
Time: 11:00 - 11:50 AM (50 mins)
Room: Wayland, W1
MARS Closed Meeting
[MARS] MARS Meeting for current Army or Air Force MARS members only.
Time: 11:00 - 11:00 AM ( mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
[MARS] MARS Meeting for current Army or Air Force MARS members only.
Time: 11:00 - 11:00 AM ( mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Receiving Weak Signals at 2.4 GHz
Stephen Kercel, AA4AK
[TEK] This session considers the issue of reliably detecting 2.4 GHz signals over a dynamic range of 70 dB. Considerations include the minimum discernible signal, noise versus bandwidth, ambient noise, cascading low-noise amplifiers, logarithmic detection, using 16-bit analog-to-digital conversion with differential voltage measurement with an Arduino, preventing RF leakage from a 2.4 GHz generator, and the practicalities of using splitter-combiners. It will include a live demonstration of recording of a time-series of voltages from a weak 2.4GHz signal. No guarantees of success on this one! The thing works at home, but the 2.4 GHz background din at the venue might totally blank out the test signal.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
[TEK] This session considers the issue of reliably detecting 2.4 GHz signals over a dynamic range of 70 dB. Considerations include the minimum discernible signal, noise versus bandwidth, ambient noise, cascading low-noise amplifiers, logarithmic detection, using 16-bit analog-to-digital conversion with differential voltage measurement with an Arduino, preventing RF leakage from a 2.4 GHz generator, and the practicalities of using splitter-combiners. It will include a live demonstration of recording of a time-series of voltages from a weak 2.4GHz signal. No guarantees of success on this one! The thing works at home, but the 2.4 GHz background din at the venue might totally blank out the test signal.
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Seminar, E3
MMRA Meeting and Raffle
Larry Banks, W1DYJ
To Be Supplied
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
To Be Supplied
Time: 12:00 - 12:50 PM (50 mins)
Room: Sterling, W2
Closing Ceremony & Prize Drawings
Closing remarks by the committee, followed by the grand finale door prize drawings. See the HamXposition home page for a list of the major prizes. You need not be present to win for the majors, however you must be present to win the many smaller prizes which will are also offered.
Time: 1:00 - 2:30 PM (90 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2
Closing remarks by the committee, followed by the grand finale door prize drawings. See the HamXposition home page for a list of the major prizes. You need not be present to win for the majors, however you must be present to win the many smaller prizes which will are also offered.
Time: 1:00 - 2:30 PM (90 mins)
Room: Salon A, E2