Podcasts & Newsfeeds

ARRL The Doctor is In

ARRL The Doctor is In is a podcast based on the popular QST magazine column "The Doctor is In." Hosted by QST Editor in Chief Steve Ford, WB8IMY, and columnist Joel Hallas, W1ZR, the podcast is a lively 20-minute discussion of a wide range of technical topics. Sponsored by DX Engineering.
ARRL The Doctor is In
  1. Originally distributed in September 2016

  2. The episode was originally distributed in June 2016.

  3. Originally distributed in April 2016

  4. The Doctor answers a number of interesting questions from listeners.

  5. Repeaters aren't the only ways to span long distances in the world above 50 MHz.

  6. Rhombics, Lazy Hs, Curtains, oh my! The Doctor talks BIG wire antennas for the HF bands.

  7. There is more to an antenna switch than meets the eye. The Doctor explains.

  8. The Doctor discusses a legendary receiving antenna -- not adult drinks!

  9. Awful puns notwithstanding, antenna traps are clever devices, but not many amateurs understand how they work. The Doctor explains . . .

  10. Water is one of the great enemies of coaxial cable, causing severe loss and other issues. The Doctor explains how to keep H2O at bay.

  11. The Doctor discusses the wide variety of coaxial cable connectors, including some you may not recognize.

  12. What sort of ground do you need -- RF or electrical safety? It makes a big difference, as the Doctor explains.

  13. The Doctor separates myth from fact about this very popular antenna for the HF bands.

  14. Different tools for different applications. The Doctor explains the differences.

  15. Your antenna's polarization can make a big difference in how well you can hear, and be heard -- especially on VHF and up.

  16. There are many types of cable for many applications. Which type do you need?

  17. The Doctor answers questions from listeners!

  18. Trees make handy supports for wire antennas, but getting an antenna into a tree -- and keeping it there -- can be a challenge.

  19. The answer to the question is an emphatic "no," and the Doctor explains why.

  20. A discussion of UTC as well as the importance of accurate time for a number of digital modes.