RSGB Radcom 'The GHz Bands' column


This is the new title for the column previously known as the Microwave column. In response to comments made earlier this year, the title has been changed for 2006. Why the change? The idea of operating at 'microwaves' seems to intimidate some amateurs who more rationally might regard the move to higher frequencies as a natural progession in their hobby. There is nothing dangerous or difficult about using these bands compared to VHF or even HF, but it does require a little more dedication and understanding from the would-be 'microwave' operator in order to get the best from the hobby. Maybe re-naming the column might remove one of the (perceived) obstacles for Radcom readers getting onto these most interesting of bands.

The RSGB Publication Radio Communications has contained a regular Microwave column since the 1970s. The first Microwave columnist was Dain Evans, G3RPE, who was responsible for the setting up of the RSGB Microwave Committee and for introducing the Microwave column. Since Dain there have been a number of well known successors, each bringing their own style to the column. I have now taken on the role of Microwave columnist to succeed Simon Lewis, GM4PLM ( now DL4PLM). I feel honoured to have been asked to take on this role.

Radcom has a circulation of over 24,000. Many readers will not be familiar with amateur microwaves and may still have an outdated image of copper plumbing and dustbin lids being at the heart of amateur microwave equipment. Nothing could be further from the truth. Modern microwave equipment is sophisicated, small, reliable and low cost (and very, very effective at making those sought after QSOs). Amateur microwave enthusiasts are at the forefront of equipment development and propagation research. Regular contacts take place over hundreds of kilometres even up to 24GHz. A long way from line of sight and at distances that would do credit to many VHF and HF QRP contacts!

In the UK there are regular, well attended, meetings of like-minded microwave enthusiasts. At these meetings knowledge is freely exchanged, equipment bought and sold or loaned and long-term friendships formed. This is a non-exclusive area of amateur radio, where everyone can contribute, is appreciated and is welcome. Amateur microwave radio encompasses many other aspects of the hobby, including QRP, DX'ing, ATV, data, moonbounce and equipment development. There is something for everyone.

The GHz Bands column allows us to provide a  view of this part of the hobby to other amateur radio enthusiasts who may not have considered operating in the microwave spectrum. For this reason the column includes operating news, band activity, technical development and announcements about forthcoming events of interest to microwavers and would-be microwavers.

I look forward to you being a regular reader and hopefully a regular contributor.


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Last updated 9 February 2006