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A Usefull Guide to HF Radio (Shortwave) Operators

This page is part of the project "Understanding HF Propagation."
by Doron Tal, 4X4XM
 

Understanding current ham band conditions requires analyzing three key parameters:

  1. Current Ham Activity: Live reports indicate active bands based on operator usage and propagation conditions.
  2. Current MUF Conditions: The Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) determines the highest frequency that can be used for ionospheric propagation.
  3. Current LUF Conditions: The Lowest Usable Frequency (LUF) defines the minimum frequency required for effective communication.

By monitoring these parameters, operators can determine which bands are optimal for communication at any given time.

Live reports:

  1. Real-Time Map of World-wide Ham Activity on HF Bands designed by Jon Harder, NG0E:
    DXview
    Click on the map above to see the global radio ham activity for the previous 15 minutes on 11 ham bands (1.8–54 MHz).
    JavaScript is required to view the graphics.
     
    1. This map shows the last 15 minutes' worth of real-time global radio activity from amateur stations on 11 bands (1.8-54 MHz). It uses data from WSPRnet, Reverse Beacon Network, PskReporter, and DX Cluster to update once every minute.
    2. MUF (Maximum Usable Frequency) is the highest frequency that allows for two-way communication. Given that the display is based on real-time data, MUF can be considered the highest frequency used on this map.
    3. Data for the map is gathered from WSPRnet, Reverse Beacon Network (CW, FT4, FT8), and DX Cluster, among other online resources. Some of these sources offer information on the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) levels.
    4. The SNR can be used to determine whether a specific path supports particular modes, such as single sideband (SSB) or morse code (CW).
    5. The map indicates SNR levels (dB) with three different shades: SSB (SNR > 10), CW (SNR > -1), or digital modes (which can decode down to an SNR of about -28).
    2.  
  2. The MUF3000 current map shows the status of HF propagation in the past 15 minutes:
    MUF3000 map *** KC2G server does not respond ***
    MUF 3000 km Propagation Map, by Andrew, KC2G
    3.  
  3. Interpretation of Maps: Some HF Band Conditions maps display important parameters such as MUF (Maximum Usable Frequency), foF2 (critical frequency of the F2 region), and signal strength. Understanding these parameters will help you assess the current propagation conditions and predict the best bands for communication. Learn about these topics here
    4.  

Conclusion:

HF band conditions maps offer valuable insights into propagation conditions for radio operators, enhancing communication and exploring long-distance transmission. Regularly checking websites like SWPC and combining map information with other resources enhances HF radio experience.

See HF propagation today and an index of terms for HF Radio propagation.

The project "Understanding HF Propagation" provides a detailed overview and tutorials on HF propagation.
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