A rather good summary of the radio waves coming from lightning:
He does mention the Inspire VLF-3 radio kit, which you can order here. A neat kit, although it’s admittedly a bit pricey. But, it is complete with PCBs, discrete components, and instructions. You need only add a soldering iron. If you’re looking to explore more than simply QRP transceivers, it’s a good step in the exploration.
Also this:
…if the kingdom is actually the very narrow gateway of communication.
I ordered a 3d-printed iambic key from an Etsy vendor called The Cheap 3D Printer.
Had to take the cover off to adjust the contact points and return magnets. Also, this really depicts how straightforward and simple it would be to build a key. The magnets are arranged to oppose each other, providing the return force and the electrical contacts are nothing more than a few screws.
So, why pay somebody US$35 for this? Easy:
Also, the going rate for iambic keys is, frankly, obscene.
It’s more comfortable to use in my current state than the straight key that I had learned on previously. I’ve misplaced my own timing, so dots and dashes, currently, aren’t. The available alternative of using an iambic key is agreeable. Not perfect, of course — and the dexterity/timing problem is still around, but this does make CW more accessible.
It also helps to have a couple of 3M Command Strips under it to ensure I don’t slide it around the desk. In time, my sense of touch and dexterity will improve.
Okay, not futile… but time consuming.
Also installed all of the data headers and the power connector. And…
…decided that I really don’t like winding toroids. One more to wind: the transformer.
Finishing this will need to wait until I’ve completed a few home-improvements.
In fact, it’s something along the lines that I’ve already done.
Previously, it was the 20m QCX. Now it’s the 40m QCX kit:
I’ll be excluding the protective Schottky diode from the power input because of 1) the energy cost and 2) there’s little risk of reversing polarity. Why? Because I’ll instead use Anderson Powerpoles to greatly reduce the risk of inverting voltage. While I don’t like to claim anything is impossible, once configured, they’re rather idiot-proof.
While I’ve only just started on this, and have already completed its 20m equivalent, I feel that I crave a greater degree of complexity.
I should also see about perhaps an UltimateS3 or a Megaprocessor (more) or maybe something somewhere between the two.
Why?
Because I can.
Ordered another kit from QRP Labs, but the 40m QCX Transceiver because I’ve already assembled the 20m QCX Transceiver… because I really couldn’t resist. So, that’s coming up.
I’ll also see about capturing more photos, maybe even some video of the prep and assembly process when it arrives.
…and, if someone could find a way to make it a bit more work maybe add some frustration and inconvenience to readily spending money online… that’d be great.
the rest of me 