Portable Winter Ham Radio Operations CW QRP

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In amateur radio, QRP operation refers to transmitting at reduced power while attempting to maximize one's effective range. QRP operation is a specialized pursuit within the hobby that was first popularized in the early 1920s. QRP operators generally limit their transmitted RF output power to 5 watts or less for CW operation and 10 watts or less for SSB operation.[1] Reliable two-way communication at such low power levels can be challenging due to changing radio propagation and the difficulty of receiving the relatively weak transmitted signals. QRP enthusiasts may employ optimized antenna systems, enhanced operating skills, and a variety of special modes, in order to maximize their ability to make and maintain radio contact. Since the late 1960s, commercial transceivers specially designed for QRP operation have evolved from vacuum tube to solid state technology. A number of organizations dedicated to QRP operation exist, and aficionados participate in various contests designed to test their skill in making long-distance contacts at low power levels.
Elecraft KX2 with an ATU eliminates tedious length adjustments. Just select a band, tap the antenna tune switch, and go for it. The AX1 is resonant on 20 meters in one switch position, while the other is designed for efficient 17 and 15 meter matching using an ATU.
Whether you use the AX1 as a ‘stealth’ field antenna, for pedestrian mobile, or as a versatile backup, it’ll be ready when you are.
Resonant Frequencies
20 m (~14 MHz) and 17/15 m (~19 MHz). Resonant frequencies may vary +/- 300 kHz or more due to changes in terrain, body capacitance, and antenna height.
Supplied Radial Wire 13 feet (4.0 m) long. Wire has pre-installed lug for attachment to the transceiver’s ground screw.
Max. Power
30 Watts. If RFI symptoms are observed, reduce power or move antenna farther from the transceiver.
Construction
Corrosion-resistant whip and hardware; Lexan outer tube; high-Q inductors wound with 20 AWG, high-temp enamel wire.
Dimensions Whip: 6” (15 cm) collapsed, 45” (115 cm) extended. Base: 6” (15 cm) long x 0.75” (19 mm) diameter.
Weight Antenna: 3.2 oz. (90 g); supplied radial wire: 0.6 oz. (17 g).

[@TechGearJunkie]

I like the camera work and the Chil-laxing montage at the end!

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks so much I like to think I bring the viewer into the scene... Minus the mud and skeeters

[@paulscomputerandradio6201]

I really appreciate the subtitles. I am learning CW and having non-computer generated MSG's to listen to is great.

[@redman840]

Paul's Computer and Radio Play the video back and match the characters sent to the CW tones themselves.Tom does a pretty good job of spacing between each character,so it shouldn’t be too hard to copy what he is sending.CW QSO’s don’t vary too much.They are pretty basic,and routine in general,and after a bit,you should be able to understand what is being sent with just a little practice.

[@theexperimentalcqdx4208]

Toms videos are always very rewarding I like them so much....great CW teacher too

[@hamradiocq]

You are so nice. Thank you.

[@Ron_C]

Nice job Tom!! That was a fast contact!

[@hamradiocq]

Cant remember if it waa 1 call or 2 before a reaponse. So easy

[@Zebra2870]

Must be beautiful in the fall when the colors change. Good ham video.Thanks KF0GG

[@hamradiocq]

Yep, we had a bad wind storm and it ripped the leaves from the trees in 1 weekend.

[@n8nkqrp595]

Now THAT is an awesome vid Tom. Nice job. I can't imagine how much work and dedication goes into that! Takes a lot of creativity too. I built a free vertical that absolutely cranks out the DX using QRP... 4 bands, cost nothing. It's crazy. I want to show you but feel dirty putting a link here. lol. Doesn't feel right. It would be awesome portable especially if you elevated the feedpoint and radials a few feet. Not at all the antenna to use for an outing like this one, but if you were camping or something it would be great. Mostly meant for home use. 73 OM. AWESOME rig there btw

[@hamradiocq]

Now THAT is an awesome comment! Yes, a lot of work and experience does go through these, but these comments make it worth while knowing that someone IS watching! The worst part is the weather / comfort / driving. Everything else is FUN. Yeah, KZbin will typically not let links or email addresses be posted on comments. Feel free to contact me from a QRZ.COM lookup. I get a lot of people contacting me through there. I will def try elevating the feedpoint if I can.

[@TridentMissileTech]

Love the subtitles. That’s important

[@hamradiocq]

Yeah, it's very important for those learning and / or want to know.

[@Scif64]

I would like to say that i have really enjoyed all of your youtube video's that i have watched so far, i passed my UK city and guild's examine back in 1989 followed by cw test to get my A class licence shortly after, but i have not been active for over 20 years now due to constraints irl. I am currently in the process of reactivating my licence and callsign (G0LQP)hope to be back on the airwaves soon. I sold every bit of my radio gear back then, so will looking out for what i need for my situation... loving the look of the ic-7300 and is high up on the possible list. once again great videos.

[@hamradiocq]

Thank yo so much for the nice comment Scif!

[@juiceman977]

I'm just starting out on the CW journey so your videos with the text inserts are of a great benefit to me. Try Ski salopettes, they should help keep you warm!

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks Juice. I'll looking Ski salopettes asap.

[@alternative3d87]

Another great video. I really enjoyed this. Thanks for all your efforts

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks for the nice comment friend

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Hi agn Tom nice video, you are definitely getting better at this, your video editing is gud!. I watch a lot of Sandy's video's G0VQW, he does a lot of woodland. radio stuff. and your videos are sneaking up on his editing skills. And as one viewer mentioned he likes the cw captioned. because he is learning cw. I mentioned that in one of your other videos that was nice and would help beginners. and this one proved that out. got to make you feel gud. Also like the fact that you did not edit out any mistakes, it shows we all do it and are human. Thank you very much for these video's I m 76 and don't get much chance to go Hilltopping.or qrp'ing in the woods any more so enjoy going along with you Thanks again, for taking the time to do them and for sharing. 73 gud dx! de Ellis WA1RKS

[@hamradiocq]

Hey thanks for the great comment. I had to look up G0VQW. Is that Wiltshire Man? I want to check out his videos. I told my wife today, I make these videos for people that can't get out and do this stuff. I imagine there's even kids that watch these that don't have the equipment. I try to make it feel as though you are there with me sloshing around in the mud.... always trying to improve the colors and the focus to make the story interesting. I'll always leave in the mistakes. Did you see my camping video where a dog peed on my tent? That was in the video and it was the best part! lol. Thanks again for the great comment lets me know I"m on the right track.

[@aldewitt9]

I know right where you are. You picked a great spot!

[@hamradiocq]

Well Babler was closed for a managed hunt I discovered. Found this place as a next best. So funny you know the spot

[@aldewitt9]

I went looking for one of the state ranges once to go shooting and got woefully lost in that area. Very pretty, very remote. Not a lot of people around, but it looks like you had a good spot. I miss MO when I see your videos. I was with the club in Jeff City. Still learning CW, and I can actually decode yours. So I watch yours every chance I get.

[@mdnghtrdrr]

I went out yesterday and set up a G5RV high up in the trees using the same slingshot and trigger you have. Next time going to try an end-fed as it’s easier just to make one shot. I also use the 33’ mast on a satellite tripod staked into the ground and 4 radials with great results. But I’ve been watching your videos and have seen your setups change and improve along the way. It seems like we learn more when we go out and try new things and make mistakes and think about how to improve. I’ve picked up some good ideas and have adapted my portable ops based on some of your comments in the field. Have you thought about announcing a date and time and frequencies you plan on operating? Btw, I also find it useful when you comment on non-ham related stuff like your tent and camping gear.

[@hamradiocq]

That is a great comment, congrats on the G5RV. I like how flexible it is on the bands. I try to do different things to challenge myself and keep people interested. I like to try everything and learn, and once I feel I conquered it, I kinda move on. Right now here in MO it's been wet and miserable out so I'm stuck inside mostly. I thought about announcing when I will be out, but it kind of adds more pressure to the video. I have to know exactly when I'll have free time, I have to feel like going at that time, then if I can't go I disappoint people. Plus I have to worry about camera gear and radio gear and setup and tear down all within like a 2-3 hour window. Adding the pressure of an announced visit just makes it more difficult. I have done some live feeds at home though. Maybe this spring I will announce more live stuff. I love your comment it gives me things to do. Next time I go camping I'll tell what I like and hate about the gear I have. Always honest.

[@ai5dd]

wow, your KX2 is picking up a lot of QRN, have a merry Christmas and happy New Year. 72 de AI5DD

[@sparky42]

Hi Tom , your really comical and I enjoyed the vid. a lot . I almost spit my coffee out on my monitor when you showed us your new sneakers ! LOL Pennsylvania is very much like your state , looks wise and weather wise per your description . Just not that many nice days . Anyway, please see my QRZ for more operating info . I am going to subscribe to you . P.S. I recently went out to operate a bit in the wilderness . There was a coal bank we used to climb as kids with a nice wooded plateau on top not very far from my house . It is a bit off the beaten path and I haven't been there in 40 years or more ( age 65 here ) . When I got there the mountain was gone ! seems like the local coal company strip mined the mountain for its anthracite . Then they fill in the hole that they create . It is called reclamation in these parts . You own your home but not what is 100 foot below it . They own the mineral rights . Anyway gotta find a new place . Best 73 de ka3fad

[@hamradiocq]

Wow, great comment and story... You can also so we don't own our home either because if you don't pay taxes they take it away. I appreciate the compliment on comical. I literally bought those shoes earlier in the day and then muddied them the same day. I don't know why but the mosquitoes here in MO are the worst I've ever encountered in my 46 years of living in the US. It's either too hot and muggy and buggy, or too cold or too rainy. None of the in between. : )

[@martinl9137]

Love your videos. When you get a chance, could you direct me to a forum or video or make a video that shows all the equipment I would need to get started in portable QRP CW? Reasonably priced, pre-build transceiver, antennae, etc. thank you!

[@franklyre]

Good video....I love the inserts you use...like when you showed us the radio he was using. Side note....you need to buy yourself some nice wool hiking pants...will keep you warmer.....new to ham radio...thanks for sharing, KJ7LAN

[@hamradiocq]

Yeah thanks so much. Pants were wrong for aure. I was worrying more about camera and radio logistics

[@hamradiocq]

The inserts or b roll is there...hopefully to display the equipment used and forward the story

[@TXLorenzo]

Just a constructive comment. You might want to avoid those wire cables along the fence, possible negative effect on tuning. I run a similar setup with fiber pole and end fed antenna as a sloper to the highest tree as possible. It seems to work well for me. I run a Hyendfed multiband and don't need a tuner.

[@hamradiocq]

I hear ya Lorenzo. Thanks for the comment.

[@hcy0]

If you operate from the car do you take the power from the car battery?

[@hamradiocq]

Good question...but no. I typically like to operate away from the car, but it was muddy out and there were no tables....so I just setup here.

[@BretBoggs]

Love the videos! Inspired to operate while camping. BTW K4IA tone was a 7 or maybe 8 at best. No way it was a 9.

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks, Bret! That's the fun of it!

[@wf2v]

You need a bit of blackberry brandy to keep you warm out there!

[@hamradiocq]

I have whiskey on my camping trips where driving isny necessary

[@MrAlanmcd]

Another good video Tommy - thanks. You're using remote key and didn't explain - I suppose because out of the back of the car it's difficult ergonomics? Alan

[@hamradiocq]

I think you mean my camera remote

[@hamradiocq]

I use that to turn cam on and off to avoid long scenes of nothing

[@MrAlanmcd]

@@hamradiocq no - you previously used the elecraft precision keyer didn't you paddle - was I imagining that?

[@hamradiocq]

I did but I didn't like it. It was loose and flakey.

[@MrAlanmcd]

@@hamradiocq thanks - good to know. But now that piko are discontinued what would you recommend?

[@barrykery1175]

You may have muddy shoes and you may be cold, but it still looks like you had a fun day. Sounded like a high noise level for being in the woods? Barry, KU3X/QRP

[@hamradiocq]

YEah, I know right? Maybe power lines.

[@4428314]

Great video, as usual. I really enjoy your work, and I always learn something. I live on the bank of the Mississippi River, where it is sunny and seventy-five degrees. I wish that you have weather like this to shoot your videos. Thanks for the your efforts, they are much appreciated. KG5OBD

[@hamradiocq]

Thanks man but how are the mosquitoes? I am not too far from where the Mississippi and Missouri converge

[@4428314]

We use CUTTER mosquito repellent down here.

[@robertzingery8888]

Hey Tom I know you have trouble making a SSB contact on KX2. Have you tried another radio on the same antenna set up and made a contact? I am intrested in the KX2 and just wondering.

[@hamradiocq]

I really haven't tried it hard enough but I think thats a great idea for a video

[@Joe-wp6zg]

What kind of key are you using? Im planning on buying a KX2 for QRP and want to get a paddle. Thank you!

[@hamradiocq]

I don't remember in that video, but I use a Pico paddle, very tiny, and I bought a nice Begali at hamvention 3 years ago. It's blue.

[@Joe-wp6zg]

@@hamradiocq Awesome thanks! 73!

[@caputo_py5cap]

Your channel is very nice!! And your antena stand (support) is very cool...i realy need one like yours. Did you buy it or is it a DIY? 73´s from Brazil. py5cap

[@hamradiocq]

I bought that support from Sotabeams, a UK company I believe.

[@caputo_py5cap]

@@hamradiocq TKS. 73!!

[@willian.direction6740]

I cpi the CU ??? as cu agn meaning cu again.

[@hamradiocq]

Yes that's right.

[@wushock92]

And top of all that, it snowed the next day.

[@hamradiocq]

Yup, I got out and did this on Saturday because I knew it was coming.

[@cwqrpportable]

i really enjoy your videos Tom. 72 de Brent VA3YG

[@hamradiocq]

Oh thank you so much Brent. My brothers name is, Brent. Rare name.

[@cwqrpportable]

@@hamradiocq I live in a small town in Ontario and I never met another Brent until my first year of high school. My given name is John and middle name is Brent but I've always been called Brent. Have fun Tom and keep enjoying our wonderful hobby. 72 de Brent VA3YG

[@cwqrpportable]

@@hamradiocq Tom, I forgot to ask you. Do you remember where you bought the drive on pole holder I see in this video?

[@mikethees6434]

7.055 ? I'll have to keep and ear out 73 KD2RVW

[@hamradiocq]

It's a place for the straight key folks I hear.

[@GreyGhost-r4z]

Watch out for Bigfoot. Bring your gun when you are out in the woods. Stay safe.

[@hamradiocq]

: ) Thanks Ghost

[@GreyGhost-r4z]

Ham Radio CQ 73 🙌

[@hamradio599]

Do you feel cold man? Good DX 73!

[@hamradiocq]

Yup