TRON-RF / RESOURCES
RESOURCES
Everything you need to get on the air — apps, guides, gear reports, and community links. You got an APP? Let us know and we may post it here: [email protected]
Downloadable Apps
Free open-source tool for programming amateur radio memory channels. Supports hundreds of radios.
Windows / macOS / LinuxWeak-signal digital modes including FT8, FT4, JT65, and more. Essential for DX and contest work.
Windows / macOS / LinuxKeyboard-to-keyboard messaging over HF using the JS8 weak-signal protocol.
Windows / macOS / LinuxAPRS client for Android. Report your position, send messages, and track other stations.
AndroidHam Radio Resources
The American Radio Relay League — the national association for amateur radio in the US.
Callsign lookup, logbook, forums, and the largest ham radio community online.
Real-time DX cluster spots from around the world.
Worldwide repeater directory — find local repeaters by location, band, and mode.
Live map of digital mode reception reports worldwide.
New to Radio?
Never held a radio before? Start here. These resources will take you from curious to licensed.
Understand the Basics
Amateur radio (ham radio) lets you communicate locally and globally using radio waves. No internet required. Operators use everything from handheld radios to large antenna arrays.
Get Licensed
In the US, the FCC issues three license classes: Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. The Technician exam covers basic electronics and regulations — most people pass with 2–4 weeks of study.
Study for the Exam
HamStudy.org and the ARRL study guides are the go-to resources. The question pools are public — you can practice the exact questions that appear on the exam.
Find a Test Session
Volunteer Examiner (VE) sessions are held regularly by local clubs and online. Check the ARRL exam search or HamStudy.org to find one near you.
Get Your First Radio
A Baofeng UV-5R is a popular first HT (handheld transceiver) under $30. For your first base station, consider a used Yaesu FT-7900R or ICOM IC-2300H.
New Equipment Reports
HF Transceiver
Yaesu's entry-level HF rig with built-in SDR panadapter. Excellent receiver performance for the price point.
Portable HF/VHF/UHF
Compact all-band portable with D-STAR and a built-in spectrum scope. Battery-powered field operation made easy.
Dual-Band HT
Feature-packed handheld with built-in APRS, D-STAR, and a wide receiver. The most capable HT on the market.
Portable HF
20W SDR-based HF transceiver in a compact form factor. Great value for portable and SOTA operations.