Welcome to the online home of WA4LV—a personal portal where passion for amateur radio meets the art of communication and technical exploration. As an avid ham radio operator with a deep appreciation for all things wireless, I’ve crafted this space to share my journey, experiments, and lessons learned on the air. Here, you’ll find detailed insights into my station set‑up, reviews of gear ranging from vintage transceivers to state‑of‑the‑art digital modes, and stories of memorable contacts made across the globe. Whether you’re a fellow ham looking to exchange tips, a beginner taking your first steps toward your license, or simply curious about the world of ham radio, this website is designed to inform, inspire, and invite conversation.

Drawing from years of operating and experimenting with various modes—from traditional Morse code to cutting‑edge digital modes like FT8—this site serves as both a personal diary and a technical resource. I showcase everything from the intricacies of homebrew antenna projects to the thrill of participating in on‑air contests and emergency communications exercises. In addition to written content and technical articles, the site also features a vibrant gallery of images to bring the world of amateur radio to life. Below are some suggested photos that could adorn the front page of your website:

A detailed view of my home station featuring state-of-the-art transceivers, homebrew equipment, and custom-built antennas.

An outdoor shot capturing the expansive antenna array and scenic surroundings that provide an ideal environment for long-distance DX contacts.

A portrait of me, WA4LV, in front of my operating station—symbolizing the personal commitment and passion behind every transmission.

My active involvement in ham radio goes far beyond just setting up a station. I thrive on participating in a wide array of on-air activities—including local emergency nets, DX contests, and public service events—which not only test my technical skills but also my ability to adapt to various operating scenarios. Engaging in field day contests and nets has given me the chance to connect with fellow hams, exchange vital operational information, and prepare for situations where reliable communication can be a lifeline. Additionally, I regularly experiment with digital modes like FT8 and JT65, as well as classic CW operations, to better understand propagation characteristics and refine my operating techniques.

My journey in amateur radio is marked by significant milestones in licensing. I began with a Technician license and progressed through the General class, ultimately achieving the Amateur Extra license under the current regulations. In earlier days, I held previous versions of these licenses that reflected the evolving standards of the hobby, each upgrade bringing expanded privileges and new technical challenges. These milestones have not only broadened my on-air capabilities—from accessing a wider range of frequency bands and modes—but have also deepened my appreciation for the historical and technical evolution of amateur radio. Each level of certification has empowered me to explore different facets of the hobby, from HF and VHF experimentation to repeater operations and emergency communications, making WA4LV a true reflection of a lifelong commitment to ham radio.

First licensed in 1998, I have been active in many aspects of Amateur Radio. I started out as a Technician Plus, which included passing the 5wpm Morse Code exam. I finally made my way to the Amateur Extra class a few years later. I have been interested mainly in building solid state amplifiers and integrating Arduino into my shack.