Antenna Analysers
22 January 2026
Colin Berry M0GXV, showed the group what the club's MFJ269 antenna analyser could do, with some practical demonstrations. He also explained how its internal measurement bridge worked and hence its limitations. Colin then went on the explain how Smith charts can be used to represent complex impedances near a reference point, and why their form enables the effects of transmission lines to be easily represented.
Tom Ellinor G4DFA, then demonstrated the use of a Nano VNA (vector network analyser) to perform similar functions but over a wider frequency range and with an interface to a computer application; and also how it can be used to measure signals passing through filters.
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Bletchley Park DVD
26th February 2026
We watched a programme about the intelligence operations at Bletchley Park in the second world war. As well as covering the deciphering of coded messages, the wider work of Y stations and amateur radio operators was explained; due to variable propagation conditions, CW signals could only be heard in some locations in the UK, so listeners all over the country were needed to pick up as many as possible.
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Construction Evening
26th March 2026
Working in 3 groups, we started assembly of kits for regenerative receivers. This first stage involved soldering components on to the PCB. A later meeting will finish this stage and connect up the sockets and controls so that the receivers can be tested and used.
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Lightning Talks
23rd April 2026
Four different members made a short presentation on a topic of their choice, each followed by questions and discussion:
- Colin Berry, M0GXV - Teaching CW to beginners
- Dave Smith, M0SXD - A Vintage Radio Restoration
- Andrew Pursell, G1COG - ADS-B and Flight Tracking
- David Browning, M0LMF - D-Star
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Outdoor Operating Evening
28th May 2026
Club members set up portable stations on Headley Heath next to the car park, and welcomed visitors to a visibly public demonstration of modern amateur radio practice.
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The Double Bazooka Antenna
25th June 2026
David Browning M0LMF gave an illustrated presentation about the history, theory and practical construction of this unusual antenna design. Nigel Budd M9NJB had recently constructed one for the 6m band from coax feeder, and we viewed the photos of each stage of his construction. The meeting was switched to being conducted over Zoom at short notice to avoid travel in an intense heatwave.
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