CD Case Stand for the FT-817

Here's a clever little idea that works like a charm. Folds flat and doesn't weigh much - perfect for the picnic table operator. I made one for myself in about 2 minutes... http://www.kr1st.com/ft817stand.htm

L-Com RG-174 Coax

I needed a short run of coaxial cable to run from my Yaesu FT-817ND to the Par End Fedz 10/20/40 antenna and was pointed to L-com as a good source for coax and accessories. I decided on RG-174/U coax for it's small size, light weight, and flexibility that I needed when operating portable from campsites or out in the woods somewhere. The losses on RG-174 are definitely higher than say RG-8 or other coax cable, at 5.8db @ 100ft, but since I was only using 25ft I accepted the losses (1.45db) in lieu of the greater portability this coax offered. When rolled up the coax fits quite nicely in a quart size Ziploc bag. The cable from L-com is well made with nice stress-protectors where the cable meets the BNC plug and has worked very well to date. For 25 feet with BNC connectors the coax runs about $14 and is well worth it in my mind for portable/backpacking radio work. The thin coax also works very well to run through my dining room window when I have the antenna mounted at home, and is slim enough that I can close the window without crushing the coax. This attribute makes it convenient for those who need a low profile/non-permanent solution to mounting antenna from their home.

25 feet of L-Com RG-174 Coax in a 1qt Ziploc bag.

ICQ Podcasts

I recently came across the ICQ Podcasts by M6BOY and M1MRB while I was looking for something to help pass the time while working. It's a good quality podcast with a great deal of relevant and interesting information concerning Ham radio. My hats off to these fellows who put a significant amount of time and effort into these podcasts for our listening pleasure. You can find more information at: http://www.icqpodcast.com/