Oct 14, 2025
Topic: Moxon Antennas
Presenters: Gary VE6GDS and Ian VE6IXD
Moxon antennas are easy to make and easy to deploy in the field, particularly for the UHF and VHF bands. Garry and Ian have been working on a project to document the construction and use of the antennas for portable operation.
Garry starts the presentation by describing what a Moxon antenna is and when a Moxon antenna might be useful. He includes design tools and performance information.
Ian then shows pictures of how he has used Moxon antennas for VHF and HF operations before moving on to the suggested method of construction. He makes the antennas using ¼” copper tubing and PVC conduit from your local hardware store.
They also describe the “Moxon Triad” project, which is an easily deployed antenna for use where there are multiple repeaters in range and reflections cause multi-path fading.
YouTube Link of presentation: https://youtu.be/Hr3lkkojEXs
May 12, 2025
Topic: Introduction to Slow Scan TV (SSTV)
One of the more overlooked topics in amateur radio is the sending of still images via HF radio. This technology was first developed in the late 1950s and was even used on early space missions, including sending back the first pictures from the moon. The ISS still uses SSTV to send photos back to earth every now and then. Much has happened since the original black and white pictures were sent via crude cameras and displayed on long persistence phosphorous CRTs. Today, higher resolution colour images are now the norm and computers, interfaced with radios do all the heavy lifting.
This presentation is on how to try out this interesting aspect of ham radio at essentially no cost – assuming you can already send and receive digital modes such as RTTY or FT8. SSTV is something I have just tried for the first time and found it to be easier than expected. And it was a lot of fun too!
Link to Russian replay of images: https://ariss-usa.org/ARISS_SSTV/
Presentation Slides: SSTVINTRO.pdf
YouTube Link of presentation: https://youtu.be/m_8GJNdBhuQ
April 14, 2025
Topic: Using WSPR to Compare Antennas
Jim, VE6JF, presented ways to use WSPR as a tool to perform analysis, measurement and testing of antennas and radios. He described on-line tools and methods to measure precise improvements or changes made to these items. Discover how you can compare your dipole to your vertical, which works best, when and on what bands. This will allow you to make a qualified decision on which way to orient your antenna based on actual data for your location. We also talked about ways to evaluate antennas for both transmit and receive. Jim also showed how to use the WSPR system to see real-time changes in propagation. In general, the discussion focused on how to eliminate much of the guesswork configuring or improving your station.
Presentation Slides: AntennaTestingWSPR_VE6JF-small.pdf
YouTube Link of presentation: https://youtu.be/9jnc9F5CdSY
March 11, 2025
Topic: Introduction to Working Amateur Radio Satellites
Several of our members have asked for a primer on working amateur radio satellites, including the ISS (International Space Station). I attempted making a voice QSO via satellite several years ago and failed. So with the idea of giving a brief presentation in mind, I dusted off the antenna, which was hanging on hooks in the garage, found the diplexer that was in a box in my stores closet, and began to re-familiarize myself with the subject. A lot of things have changed since then, including many of the satellites and finding no free apps anymore for my smartphone. Also, my smartphone had grown in size so I needed to home brew a new cradle that would fit it, to attach to the antenna.
At last month’s SASTAR meeting, I mentioned this subject and Syd, VE6SYD, volunteered to share with the group how he managed to make digital contacts through the ISS. In the past few days, Syd has managed more contacts and together, we fashioned a short PowerPoint on how he was successful.
So this month’s Zoom session will feature two short presentations on working satellites. And if any of you are experienced in this and have actually made QSOs via satellites, please join the discussion and help us out. I am still looking for my first QSO via the “birds” but hope to succeed shortly (waiting for warmer weather).
Presentation Slides: IntroToHamSatellites.pdf and APRS thru ISS_Edit2.pdf
YouTube Link of presentation: https://youtu.be/9i2OacBci2I
Feb 10, 2025
Topic: Introduction to HF Propagation Modeling – VOACAP
VOACAP (Voice Of America Coverage Analysis Program) is now free online and no longer needs to be downloaded to run on a PC. The presentation walks you through the various inputs (such as your station’s antennas, power output and noise floor) and outputs (best times, bands, modes in order to contact the target location) so that you can make sense of it all. In addition, several key pitfalls are pointed out so that you can achieve the most realistic models for your scenarios.
Presentation Slides: VOACAPIntro.pdf
Jan 13, 2025
Topic: Ham Radio & Band Plans
A brief presentation on Ham Radio and Band Plans, as was requested by several of our members. For those new to ham radio or even for those returning after some time away from the hobby, this might be a timely topic for you. While most of the discussion is focused around the HF bands, those who operate on VHF/UHF bands should also be aware of frequency and mode allocations, as well as common courtesies most other operators expect.
Presentation Slides: BandPlan.pdf
Dec 9, 2024
Topic: Ham Radio & Kit Building
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
A brief presentation on Ham Radio and Kit Building. We look at some kits at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, as well as some of the must-have tools that help to get the job done properly.
Presentation Slide: HamRadioAndKitBuilding.pdf
Nov 11, 2024
Topic: HF Vertical Antennas – Basic Concepts and Comparisons
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
A brief presentation on basic concepts pertaining to HF vertical antennas and a comparison of some of the more popular brands.
Presentation Slide (and linkable websites): Verticals_presentation.pdf
Sept, 2024
Topic: Getting started with the Nano VNA
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
An introduction to the NANO VNA. What is a VNA? How does a NanoVNA work? Using the NanoVNA.
Presentation Slide (and linkable websites): NANOVNA_INTRO_VE6TL-c.pdf
May, 2024
Topic: Introduction to HF DXing
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
A detailed presentation on what DXing is and how to get involved.
Presentation Slide (and linkable websites): IntroToHFDxing_VE6TL2024-c.pdf
February, 2024
Topic: Radio Noise
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
A detailed presentation on Radio Noise. What it is, how to identify it, and how to reduce or eliminate it.
Presentation Slide (and linkable websites): Noise-c.pdf
January, 2024
Topic: QSLing – Paper & Electronic
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
A presentation on QSL. Paper QSL Cards and Electronic logging..
Presentation Slide (and linkable websites): QSLing-c.pdf
May 10, 2023
Topic: Favorite HAM related websites
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
Sastar participants share their favorite websites and links to information.
Presentation Slide (and linkable websites): HamSitesAndVideos.pdf
April 12, 2023
Topic: Introduction to HAM Radio NETS
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
We discuss the basics of HAM Radio Nets.
Presentations: NetBasics.pdf
February 8, 2023
Topic: Introduction to Ham Radio Logging
Presenter: Jerry, VE6TL
Ham radio has come a long way from the paper logging of contacts. This is am introduction into logging and related activities.
Presentations: IntroToLogging.pdf and Jerry’s-FT8-Tips-for-WSJT-X.pdf
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/7ESmmdvudnk
December 14, 2022
Topic: Solar Modules for Hams
Presenter: Robin, VE6RBN
How can we integrate Solar (Photovoltaic) Modules into our mobile setup? Maybe you are interested in operating during a Field Day event and wish to play with solar as an emergency power option. Or you are exploring a remote setup such as public service event or a weekend out camping where you may not have the battery capacity for the full time you are out. We will take a look at how Solar PV modules operate and what would be needed to incorporate them in a mobile or even stand alone system.
Presentation: Solar PV for the Amateur Radio Addict-compressed.pdf
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/lmBtes9fVDU
November 9, 2022
Topic: Antenna Tuners – For Beginners
Presenter: Jerry VE6TL
Sorting out HF antennas for city lots can often be challenging. Sometimes you can’t quite get one to fit and need to rely on a matching network. There are also times when the built-in tuner in the rig won’t do the job. Here are some basic ideas of how to proceed with an external tuner (ATU). Note that this will be discussed with the emphasis on experience and not on theory. We hope to hear from those who have experience with tuners and get their views too.
Presentation: AntennaTuners101.pdf
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/Y0yF4RMidHUB
October 12, 2022
Topic: WPSR
Presenter: Joel VE6EI
Summary: Joel does a great job of presenting WSPR, as well as a live demo of a ZachTec Transmitter as well as WSJT-x software.
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/Jo1xVfZ6fm8
September 14, 2022
Topic: Ham radio and balloons
Presenters: Bruce Coates VE5BNC
Summary: Bruce VE5BNC is based in Saskatoon and has been involved in high altitude balloons since 2013. Here he gives a presentation to SASTAR on balloons and Ham Radio. Their club’s latest launch was called Saber-31 which took place on July 23, 2022.
Club Link: https://sadarashack.org
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/y5P8lM386XA
May 16, 2022
Topic: Small Magnetic Loop Antennas
Presenters: Jerry VE6TL and Ameer VA6QAS
Summary: There are many uses for small magnetic loop antennas. Here, the word “small” refers to antennas that are typically less than one tenth of the operating wavelength. Some of the more typical uses include direction finding (fox hunting), SOTA/POTA activations, HF operating from an apartment/condo balcony, access to HF bands that would require much larger wire antennas, and receive-only antennas for the 80m/160m bands. Another advantage to these small magnetic loops is their ability to reduce/eliminate vertically polarized (man-made) noise. Yet, like all antennas, there are trade-offs and compromises. We will discuss the basics of these interesting antennas and hope to follow-up with sharing of personal experiences.
Slides: IntroToMagLoopAntennaspptx.pdf
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/jU9qLRi3bgo
April 18, 2022
Topic: Push2Tune circuit for IC-7300 radio
Link: https://youtu.be/8EBK5nTPcBg
April 18, 2022
Topic: End-fed Half Wave Antennas
Peter, VE6KK, has offered to enlighten us on this topic. He will be basing his presentation on that of Steve Dick, K1RF. If you are feeling ambitious, you can find the presentation at: http://gnarc.org/k1rfs-presentation-on-end-fed-half-wave-antennas/. Also, Peter recommends checking out the Steve Ellington YouTube channel, which is loaded with videos on EFHWs.
Slide Deck: End Fed AntennaNotes – VE6KK.pdf
Link: https://youtu.be/YWZ7vJg_IPk
March 21, 2022
Topic: The HAM CLOCK – presentation by Jerry, VE6TL, followed by demonstrations and/or discussion from those who have built their own.
Slide Deck: Ham Clock.pdf
YouTube Link: https://www.clearskyinstitute.com/ham/HamClock/
Feb 21, 2022
Topic: Go-kits: Design Considerations – Presenter: Vince, VE6LK
Slide Deck: Go-Kit building Design Considerations.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/s2S-IHjjt9Y
Jan 24, 2022
Topic: Portable Antennas for SOTA, POTA and other Outdoor Activities
Presenter: Ken Smith, VE6AGR
Ken is passionate about ham radio and operating portable, having activated many summits over the past several years. In doing so, he has gained a wealth of knowledge in discovering which antennas perform best in a variety of situations and conditions. Join Ken and your SASTAR friends for an interesting discussion on this popular topic.
Slide Deck: Lightweight Portable Antenna Options v3.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/gtHX1zyrdxI
Nov 22, 2021
Topic: Part 2 of Communicating with your PC via the COM/USB ports. Bud, VE6BUD, will give us a primer on how computers connect up with radios and other hardware.
Slide Deck: Same as Part 1: (Oct 25)
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/Fek_86XDzcc
Oct 25, 2021:
Part 1: Bud, VE6BUD, and Jerry, VE6TL presented on Communicating with your PC via the COM/USB ports. Bud, VE6BUD, gave us a primer on RS232 and in Part 2 will show us how computers connect up with radios and other hardware.
Slide Deck: SerialPorts101_VE6BUDandVE6TL.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/RxOJJZyLhpI
May 31, 2021:
Joel, VE6EI, and Dann, VE6TD, presented an introduction to the Winlink system. Winlink provides email connectivity over ham radio. After discussing the underlying technologies and infrastructure required to run it, a live demo both on HF and UHF will be presented.
Slide Deck: Winlink_Intro_and_Demo.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/0dnJqAl8E28
May 17, 2021:
Ameer, VA6QAS, and Matt, VA6AMX, provided a demo on Wires-X and followed up with everyone else who wanted to try it, and answered questions about this digital mode. The second hour continued with the digital discussion and other topics.
YouTube video: https://youtu.be/BiStFFI_bnE
The following artifacts were presented during the presentations and can be used for reference:
May 3, 2021:
No formal presentation was planned. Instead, this session focused on asking the Newbies where they are at and where they’d like to go with the hobby. A lively and energetic exchange was enjoyed by all. These sessions are not recorded, as per the request of may individuals, and so a transcript is not available. Please feel free to post questions and topics you wish to be discussed on sastar.groups.io.
April 19, 2021:
Topic: Interference and Noise troubleshooting – Endre Balogh VA6BGE
Endre discusses methods for detecting and addressing noise sources in the shack. He profiles his shack and the remediation performed for the issues that were identified.
Slide Desk: Interference, Noise-VA6BGE.pdf
YouTube video: https://youtu.be/VVn-bfSAVvY
April 5, 2021:
Topic: VHF/UHF Operating Considerations and Repeaters – Vince, VE6LK
Vince put together a training session that addresses a number of questions from various people that he has received recently. The focus is on repeaters, how to use them and some radio programing advice.
Slide Desk: VHF UHF mobile operating basics.pdf
YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2gVaKSyi58
Mar 22, 2021:
Topic 1: Introduction to HF DXing – Jerry, VE6TL
Slide Desk: IntroToHFDxing_VE6TL2021.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/yaOX-KM0Ywc
Topic 2: QSLing – Paper and Electronic – Jerry VE6TL
Slide Deck: QSLing.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/sBmwSa93Zco
Mar 8, 2021:
Topic 1: Basic tools, test gear and skills for the shack – Joel, VE6EI
Topic 2: Introduction to kit building – Joel, VE6EI
Slide deck: Basic Tools and Kit Building.pdf
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/blOEupkE-bw
Feb 22, 2021:
Station Grounding – Part 1: Basics – Safety concerns, protection (lightning, surges, power lines, etc.) – Peter, VE6KK
Station Grounding – Part 2: Troubleshooting (RFI, noise reduction, artificial grounds, etc.) – Peter, VE6KK
Slide deck: Station Current Control a.k.a. Grounding_V3c-min.pdf
YouTube video of presentation: https://youtu.be/OyNNH3h8JHE
Feb 8, 2021:
Topic 1: Summits On The Air (SOTA) – Ken, VE6AGR and Joe, VE6JHH
SOTA slide deck of presentation
Topic 2: Portable power systems – Dann, VE6TD
Portable Station Power presentation deck
January 25, 2021:
This evening was dedicated to amateur radio mobile. Ameer, VA6QAS, talked about what he has done (with pictures) to get on HF, VHF and UHF in his truck. Others joined in and shared their own experiences (and photos) as we attend a roundtable discussion.
January 11, 2021:
Topic 1: “Ham radio in public service and volunteering”. Vince, VE6LK, has years of experience in the field and will talk about what you can do to get involved in your community.
Presentation Slides in PDF => Public_Service_2021-01-11.pdf
Topic 2: “Introduction to emergency communications with amateur radio”. Vince, VE6LK, will be joined by Keith, VA6KL, to talk about how amateur radio can help when faced with local emergencies. Keith is now heading up the local ARES organization (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) and will focus on how newer hams can get involved.
Presentation Slides in PDF => Emcomm_2021-01-11.pdf
December 28, 2020:
Topic 1: What are all those buttons and knobs on an HF radio? This was a question asked by one of the SASTAR participants in the first session. Joel, VE6EI, will attempt to provide an easy to understand explanation of what everything does. Knowing that your radio might have two different noise blankers or a fast and slow AGC could be important when faced with certain types of noise. Be sure to have lots of questions for Joel. (PDF of the presentation images here: Buttons & Knobs and New or Used-compressed.pdf)
Topic 2: Choosing a first HF rig. New or used? Joel, VE6EI, will build on the knowledge gained in the first part of the session by suggesting what to look for in buying your first HF rig. Most hams are cheap and want to get on the air for as little as possible. But buying a used rig, especially a vintage one at a low price, might not be the best idea for a beginner. If you’ve narrowed down the choice to a few radios, feel free to ask for advice. We won’t tell you which model to buy but rather, we may ask you questions to see if it meets your needs.(PDF of the presentation images here: Buttons & Knobs and New or Used-compressed.pdf)
December 14, 2020:
Topic 1: Introduction to learning CW. Rob, K6RB, teaches CW at the CW Academy https://cwops.org/cw-academy/ and has graciously agreed to speak to our group after chatting with Jim, VE6JF. If you’ve ever thought about learning CW, you don’t want to miss this.
Learning CW at the CW Ops Academy
Topic 2: A taste of HF radio without an HF radio. Ameer, VA6QAS, will present a number of options for those without HF radios to either listen through remote radios or to chat with other hams in other parts of the world through a PC or VHF radio.
Getting on Air without a radio
November 30, 2020:
Topic: Getting on HF – Antennas. Peter Risdahl VE6KK
Getting on HF – Antennas.