10 meters (Tech HF)

You have that new, or in some cases old Tech license and you want to try HF, the only problem is we are at the bottom of the sunspot cycle and 10 meters is dead. Well, that's not really true, 10 meters is very active even at the bottom of the sunspot cycle.  During E-Skip (Sporadic E) season the band can generate very good long and short skip openings on an almost daily basis. Ten meters is a great band for beginners, with many friendly OT's and loads of newly licensed hams it is a great way to learn good operating skills.

It takes only a modest radio and antenna to operate 10 meters successfully. All U.S. Technician Class licensees are now authorized on 28.000 to 28.500 MHz. Even when you don't hear activity you will be suprised what calling CQ can generate. If you hear beacons it is open to somewhere.

Some popular frequencies to try:

28.070…………..CW

28.120…………..PSK31

28.345…………..SSB

28.385…………..QRP SSB

28.400............SSB

28.420…………..SSB

Be sure and monitor beacons on 28.200 - 28.300 MHz to find openings. Even if you don't know morse code beacons can be helpful in alerting to band openings.

There are many 10 meter events that help keep the band busy.

Heres a list:

April 24-25, 10-10 SPRING QSO Party  (CW)

May 1-2  10-10 SPRING QSO Party  (Digital Modes)

June 5-6 10-10 OPEN SEASON

Jun 28- Jul 4 SPIRIT of 76

August 7-8 10-10 SUMMER QSO Party (Phone)

October 10, Every Year 10-10 Day Sprint (all Modes)

October 23-24 10-10 FALL QSO Party (CW)

October 30-31  10-10 FALL QSO Party (Digital Modes)

January 1 -December 31 ANNIVERSARY (48)  and MEET the VOLUNTEERS

 Hope you will try it out and join us on the 10 meter band.