Digital Operations

Experimentation

W4FSV

Breadboard Radio – Ham Radio Kits that are easy to build and fun to use!

KM4ACK

Build-a-Pi will allow you to get up and running fast with a Raspberry Pi for ham radio.

Emergency Communications

Voice Operations

Education

ARRL Special Service Club Award

Congratulations! The SSC status has been approved for the Columbia Amateur Radio Club, W4CAE.

Thank you for being so supportive of amateur radio.

Sincerely,
Mike Walters, W8ZY
Field Services Manager
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio®

Columbia Amateur Radio Club is now a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador!

The Columbia Amateur Radio Club is now a Weather-Ready Nation (WRN) Ambassador.

The Columbia Amateur Radio Club is excited to collaborate with NOAA/NWS to help strengthen our nation’s readiness against extreme weather, water, and climate events. If you would like more information, please visit the Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador Frequently Asked Questions. And if you need any additional information, email WRN anytime at [email protected]. You can also find WRN on X (previously Twitter) @WRNAmbassadors.

January 2025 CARC Monthly Club Meeting: Meet KM6LYW: Innovator Behind DigiPi

January Featured Presentation

We are excited to announce that at the January Club meeting, we have a special guest: Craig KM6LYW. Craig KM6LYW is a trailblazer in the amateur radio community, known for blending traditional ham radio practices with cutting-edge technology will be joining the Clubs Zoom meeting. As the creator of DigiPi, a compact, Raspberry Pi-based platform for digital communications, KM6LYW has made digital modes more accessible and affordable for amateur radio enthusiasts worldwide. The Club Zoom meeting details are at the end on this article.

The DigiPi is a versatile and user-friendly solution that supports popular digital modes like FT8, JS8Call, APRS, and more. By combining modern software with low-cost hardware, KM6LYW has empowered operators to explore the exciting world of digital amateur radio without needing expensive, specialized equipment.

Beyond developing the DigiPi, KM6LYW is passionate about supporting the ham radio community. He actively shares his knowledge, engages with fellow enthusiasts, and fosters innovation to ensure that digital amateur radio continues to thrive. Explore the world of digital amateur radio with KM6LYW and DigiPi—where tradition meets innovation.

In addition to exploring the exciting world of DigiPi and digital amateur radio, we’re excited to share that the club will offer our members a variety of amateur radio hobby items. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting, you’ll find a range of gear and accessories to enhance your amateur radio experience. These items are available on a donation basis, and all proceeds will go directly to supporting the club’s activities, resources, and outreach efforts. It’s a great way to get something you need while giving back to the community that keeps the hobby alive and thriving! Bring your $$$.

Here’s how you could present the additional topics for the meeting:

Additional Meeting Topics

Join us for a dynamic and informative meeting as we dive into several exciting topics, including:

  • Harbison 50K Review: This is a look back at the event and the role amateur radio played in its success.
  • Winter Field Day: Preparation and strategies for this popular event to hone emergency communication skills.
  • South Carolina QSO Party: Tips for participating and maximizing your contact logs during this state-focused radio contest.
  • Hams and Eggs & New Lunch and Learn: Discover these engaging opportunities to connect, share, and learn in a casual setting.
  • Hands-On Experience: A practical session to explore and practice amateur radio techniques.
  • April CARC Swapfest: Get a preview of this must-attend event for buying, selling, or trading amateur radio gear.
  • ARRL Summer Field Day: Early planning for one of the most significant events in amateur radio, focusing on teamwork and readiness.

Whether you’re a long-time operator or new to the hobby, there’s something for everyone at this meeting. Don’t miss out!

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85333006112?pwd=SIMA5UTJzYEEf1RPh8rfmIjWbyZMzP.1

Meeting ID: 853 3300 6112
Passcode: 132652

February 2025 CARC Monthly Club Meeting: Meet KB9VBR-Michael Martens

About Michael from his Youtube bio:

Hi I’m Michael‚ KB9VBR‚ and I’m on a mission to inspire and educate the amateur radio community. I’ve been a ham radio operator since 1999‚ so my interests are varied and run deep. But most of all‚ ham radio is more than a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that I enjoy and love to share with others.

My goal is to share positive and uplifting videos. I’ll answer your questions and take deeper dives into some of the mysterious parts of ham radio. Whether you are a new ham or a grizzled veteran‚ I’m sure there will be something you’ll like. Ham Radio Q&A answers your amateur radio questions and explores the different aspects of the hobby.

Ham Radio Q&A is brought to you by KB9VBR Antennas: Supplier of Amateur Radio, Land Mobile, Scanner, Low Power FM, and Airband VHF/UHF Antennas.

Find out more at: http://www.jpole-antenna.com

KB9VBR Youtube Channel

Additional Meeting Topics & Upcoming Events

  • Winter Field Day 2025 Review
  • SC QSO Party
  • Ham & Eggs / New Lunch and Learn
  • April CARC Swapfest
  • ARRL Summer Field Day 2025

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85333006112?pwd=SIMA5UTJzYEEf1RPh8rfmIjWbyZMzP.1

Meeting ID: 853 3300 6112
Passcode: 132652

Walk MS 2025

Volunteer for Walk MS – Columbia, SC – March 29th, 2025

Dear Columbia Amateur Radio Club Members and Friends,

We are excited to announce that the Columbia Amateur Radio Club will be supporting the Walk MS event in Columbia, SC on March 29th, 2025. This important event brings our community together to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis research and support. We are reaching out to you for your support in volunteering for event communications to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Event Overview:
Walk MS is a nationwide event organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It aims to connect people living with MS and those who care about them, bringing us all closer to a world free of MS. Participants will walk various routes, raising funds to support research, programs, and services that improve the lives of those affected by MS.


Why We Need Volunteers

Supporting an event like Walk MS requires a dedicated team of volunteers, and we need all the help we can get! The larger our communications team, the more effectively we can monitor the course, keep walkers safe, and provide instant response to any issues that arise. Whether you’re an experienced radio operator or new to event communications, your participation makes a difference.

By volunteering, you’re not only contributing to an important cause but also gaining hands-on experience in public service communications, a key part of amateur radio’s mission. If you have a radio and a willingness to help, we encourage you to join us in making Walk MS a smooth and successful event!

For more information on how to volunteer, reach out to the Columbia Amateur Radio Club President, Jim Lathan by email at [email protected] or by phone at 803-669-6135. Let’s work together to support Walk MS and make a meaningful impact in our community! 

Event Hours:

  • Event Date: March 29th, 2025
  • Volunteer Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: Riverfront Park, 312 Laurel Street Columbia, SC 29201

Please consider lending your time and expertise to support this worthy cause. Your involvement will make a significant difference in the success of the event and the experience of all participants.

Our Columbia Amateur Radio Club group registration is : https://nmss.galaxydigital.com/need/joinTeam/?hash_t=a763Ik2vX7rzuYyjeNzitIzmvTP55Kt39IWghfOoaviW72ALWAZMRkbeourj2kxU4cxxnO19dIg9Cw4soMRXCQ%3D%3D&hash_s=Z5uaTbTIlUe4%2BxoE2v5i%2BIbMZjnmTvLYq9pKkUlr6WLHpjOBElwFXgSuEuqb9rGP8%2FpRUK2SJ9ZhIZQcxF7x1g%3D%3D

Thank you for your support!

73,

Jim Lathan
President
Columbia Amateur Radio Club

Previous Next

Walk MS 2025

Volunteer for Walk MS – Columbia, SC – March 29th, 2025

Dear Columbia Amateur Radio Club Members and Friends,

We are excited to announce that the Columbia Amateur Radio Club will be supporting the Walk MS event in Columbia, SC on March 29th, 2025. This important event brings our community together to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis research and support. We are reaching out to you for your support in volunteering for event communications to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Event Overview:
Walk MS is a nationwide event organized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It aims to connect people living with MS and those who care about them, bringing us all closer to a world free of MS. Participants will walk various routes, raising funds to support research, programs, and services that improve the lives of those affected by MS.


Why We Need Volunteers

Supporting an event like Walk MS requires a dedicated team of volunteers, and we need all the help we can get! The larger our communications team, the more effectively we can monitor the course, keep walkers safe, and provide instant response to any issues that arise. Whether you’re an experienced radio operator or new to event communications, your participation makes a difference.

By volunteering, you’re not only contributing to an important cause but also gaining hands-on experience in public service communications, a key part of amateur radio’s mission. If you have a radio and a willingness to help, we encourage you to join us in making Walk MS a smooth and successful event!

For more information on how to volunteer, reach out to the Columbia Amateur Radio Club President, Jim Lathan by email at [email protected] or by phone at 803-669-6135. Let’s work together to support Walk MS and make a meaningful impact in our community! 

Event Hours:

  • Event Date: March 29th, 2025
  • Volunteer Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: Riverfront Park, 312 Laurel Street Columbia, SC 29201

Please consider lending your time and expertise to support this worthy cause. Your involvement will make a significant difference in the success of the event and the experience of all participants.

Our Columbia Amateur Radio Club group registration is : https://nmss.galaxydigital.com/need/joinTeam/?hash_t=a763Ik2vX7rzuYyjeNzitIzmvTP55Kt39IWghfOoaviW72ALWAZMRkbeourj2kxU4cxxnO19dIg9Cw4soMRXCQ%3D%3D&hash_s=Z5uaTbTIlUe4%2BxoE2v5i%2BIbMZjnmTvLYq9pKkUlr6WLHpjOBElwFXgSuEuqb9rGP8%2FpRUK2SJ9ZhIZQcxF7x1g%3D%3D

Thank you for your support!

73,

Jim Lathan
President
Columbia Amateur Radio Club

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/walk-ms-2025/

Amateur Radio Emergency Preparedness Act Re-Introduced

From the ARRL Division News Roanoke Division Email:

ANTENNA RELIEF BILL REINTRODUCED – Identical versions of The Amateur Radio Emergency Preparedness Act have been reintroduced in Congress in both the House and the Senate. If passed and signed into law, the legislation would require homeowner associations to accommodate the needs of FCC-licensed Amateur Radio operators by prohibiting the enforcement of private land use restrictions that ban, prevent, or require the approval of the installation or use of Amateur Radio station antennas. Among other provisions, this legislation would prohibit homeowner association rules that would preclude or ban Amateur Radio antennas, specify an approval process for installing Amateur Radio antennas, and provide a federal private right of action to Amateur Radio operators in disputed cases. The bill numbers are HR1094 for the House version and S459 for the Senate bill. ARRL will be coordinating a grassroots campaign to have members contact their congressional representatives for support.

The text of the House Bill can be found at the link below:

Click to access HR1094%20House%20Private%20Land%20Use%20Bill.pdf

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/amateur-radio-emergency-preparedness-act-re-introduced/

February 2025 CARC Monthly Club Meeting: Meet KB9VBR-Michael Martens

About Michael from his Youtube bio:

Hi I’m Michael‚ KB9VBR‚ and I’m on a mission to inspire and educate the amateur radio community. I’ve been a ham radio operator since 1999‚ so my interests are varied and run deep. But most of all‚ ham radio is more than a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that I enjoy and love to share with others.

My goal is to share positive and uplifting videos. I’ll answer your questions and take deeper dives into some of the mysterious parts of ham radio. Whether you are a new ham or a grizzled veteran‚ I’m sure there will be something you’ll like. Ham Radio Q&A answers your amateur radio questions and explores the different aspects of the hobby.

Ham Radio Q&A is brought to you by KB9VBR Antennas: Supplier of Amateur Radio, Land Mobile, Scanner, Low Power FM, and Airband VHF/UHF Antennas.

Find out more at: http://www.jpole-antenna.com

KB9VBR Youtube Channel

Additional Meeting Topics & Upcoming Events

  • Winter Field Day 2025 Review
  • SC QSO Party
  • Ham & Eggs / New Lunch and Learn
  • April CARC Swapfest
  • ARRL Summer Field Day 2025

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85333006112?pwd=SIMA5UTJzYEEf1RPh8rfmIjWbyZMzP.1

Meeting ID: 853 3300 6112
Passcode: 132652

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/february-2025-carc-monthly-club-meeting-meet-kb9vbr-michael-martens/

Harbison 2025 50K Race Photos

Below are some pictures from the different check point (CP) stations.

CP 13- Paul N4PRF & Adam W4AEL

CP 9- Joe K04WAA

CP 3- John W4SFX & Caden W3DEA

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/harbison-2025-50k-race-photos/

Announcement: Columbia Amateur Radio Club Swapfest – April 26, 2025


The Columbia Amateur Radio Club (CARC) is thrilled to invite amateur radio enthusiasts, hobbyists, and collectors to our Annual Swapfest in beautiful Columbia, South Carolina! This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering a fantastic opportunity to buy, sell, and trade amateur radio gear, meet fellow hams, and participate in the vibrant community of amateur radio operators.

Event Details:

  • Event Name: Columbia Amateur Radio Club Swapfest
  • Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
  • Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Location: North Trenholm Baptist Church, 6515 N. Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC
  • Admission: FREE. See the Important Information section for vendor/seller details.
  • Event Type: Regular Hamfest
  • ARRL Section: SC
  • ARRL Division: RK
  • Talk-In Frequency: 147.330 + PL 156.7Hz
  • Website: www.w4cae.com

Continue reading

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/announcement-columbia-amateur-radio-club-swapfest-april-26-2025/

January 2025 CARC Monthly Club Meeting: Meet KM6LYW: Innovator Behind DigiPi

January Featured Presentation

We are excited to announce that at the January Club meeting, we have a special guest: Craig KM6LYW. Craig KM6LYW is a trailblazer in the amateur radio community, known for blending traditional ham radio practices with cutting-edge technology will be joining the Clubs Zoom meeting. As the creator of DigiPi, a compact, Raspberry Pi-based platform for digital communications, KM6LYW has made digital modes more accessible and affordable for amateur radio enthusiasts worldwide. The Club Zoom meeting details are at the end on this article.

The DigiPi is a versatile and user-friendly solution that supports popular digital modes like FT8, JS8Call, APRS, and more. By combining modern software with low-cost hardware, KM6LYW has empowered operators to explore the exciting world of digital amateur radio without needing expensive, specialized equipment.

Beyond developing the DigiPi, KM6LYW is passionate about supporting the ham radio community. He actively shares his knowledge, engages with fellow enthusiasts, and fosters innovation to ensure that digital amateur radio continues to thrive. Explore the world of digital amateur radio with KM6LYW and DigiPi—where tradition meets innovation.

In addition to exploring the exciting world of DigiPi and digital amateur radio, we’re excited to share that the club will offer our members a variety of amateur radio hobby items. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting, you’ll find a range of gear and accessories to enhance your amateur radio experience. These items are available on a donation basis, and all proceeds will go directly to supporting the club’s activities, resources, and outreach efforts. It’s a great way to get something you need while giving back to the community that keeps the hobby alive and thriving! Bring your $$$.

Here’s how you could present the additional topics for the meeting:

Additional Meeting Topics

Join us for a dynamic and informative meeting as we dive into several exciting topics, including:

  • Harbison 50K Review: This is a look back at the event and the role amateur radio played in its success.
  • Winter Field Day: Preparation and strategies for this popular event to hone emergency communication skills.
  • South Carolina QSO Party: Tips for participating and maximizing your contact logs during this state-focused radio contest.
  • Hams and Eggs & New Lunch and Learn: Discover these engaging opportunities to connect, share, and learn in a casual setting.
  • Hands-On Experience: A practical session to explore and practice amateur radio techniques.
  • April CARC Swapfest: Get a preview of this must-attend event for buying, selling, or trading amateur radio gear.
  • ARRL Summer Field Day: Early planning for one of the most significant events in amateur radio, focusing on teamwork and readiness.

Whether you’re a long-time operator or new to the hobby, there’s something for everyone at this meeting. Don’t miss out!

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85333006112?pwd=SIMA5UTJzYEEf1RPh8rfmIjWbyZMzP.1

Meeting ID: 853 3300 6112
Passcode: 132652

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/january-2025-carc-monthly-club-meeting-meet-km6lyw-innovator-behind-digipi/

(tr)uSDX

This little radio was shown at the November 4th club meeting by Jim Lathan W4JLP.

It can be purchased as a kit ~$90.00 or a ready to operate ~$140.00. Make sure to order via the official suppliers list here. You will receive a serial number with an official kit/radio and need the serial number to download future firmware upgrades.

Here is the main website for the radio and more information. https://dl2man.de/

Permanent link to this article: https://w4cae.com/trusdx/