[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-post-skywarn-how-amateur-radio-helps-keep-southwest-missouri-safe-during-severe-weather-1":3,"blog-post-more-skywarn-how-amateur-radio-helps-keep-southwest-missouri-safe-during-severe-weather-1":25},{"id":4,"title":5,"slug":6,"body":7,"excerpt":8,"status":9,"publishedAt":10,"authorId":11,"createdAt":12,"updatedAt":12,"author":13,"tags":17,"featuredImage":24},"3da9b89d-92cd-4f8c-bb76-01180ba452cd","SKYWARN: How Amateur Radio Helps Keep Southwest Missouri Safe During Severe Weather","skywarn-how-amateur-radio-helps-keep-southwest-missouri-safe-during-severe-weather-1","\u003Cp>\u003Cem>When severe weather threatens Southwest Missouri, a network of trained volunteers stands ready to provide critical information from the ground. For decades, amateur radio operators have played an important role in this effort through a program known as SKYWARN.\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Southwest Missouri is no stranger to severe weather. From powerful thunderstorms and large hail to flash flooding and tornadoes, our region experiences a wide variety of weather hazards throughout the year. While modern technology has dramatically improved how meteorologists track and forecast storms, one important piece of the warning process still depends on people: knowing what is actually happening on the ground.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>That's where SKYWARN comes in.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>What Is SKYWARN?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>SKYWARN is a nationwide volunteer storm spotting program established by the National Weather Service (NWS). Its purpose is to provide meteorologists with timely, accurate reports of significant weather conditions that may not be fully visible through radar or other weather monitoring technology.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>SKYWARN volunteers, commonly called storm spotters, receive training to recognize severe weather hazards, identify important storm features, and communicate their observations effectively.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>These reports can include:\u003C/p>\u003Cul>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>Tornadoes, funnel clouds, and other significant storm features\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>Large hail and damaging thunderstorm winds\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>Flash flooding and rapidly rising water\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>Storm damage, including downed trees and structural damage\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>Significant winter weather conditions\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003C/ul>\u003Cp>By combining reports from trained observers with radar, satellite imagery, and other meteorological data, National Weather Service forecasters can make better-informed decisions when issuing and updating severe weather warnings.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>Why Are Storm Spotters Still Needed?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>With today's advanced weather radar systems, it's reasonable to wonder why storm spotters are still necessary.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>The answer is simple: \u003Cstrong>radar can't see everything.\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Doppler radar provides meteorologists with an extraordinary amount of information about storms, including precipitation intensity and wind movement. However, radar observations are made above the ground, and there are limitations to what they can reveal about actual conditions at the surface.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>For example, radar may indicate strong rotation within a thunderstorm, but it cannot always confirm whether a tornado has touched the ground. Likewise, radar may suggest that a storm is producing large hail, but an observer can provide a direct measurement of the hailstones reaching the surface.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>A trained spotter reporting a tornado, measured hail, or dangerous flooding can provide valuable confirmation of what forecasters are seeing remotely.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>These firsthand observations are often referred to as \u003Cstrong>ground truth\u003C/strong>, and they are an important part of the severe weather warning process.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>The Role of Amateur Radio in SKYWARN\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>Although anyone can become a trained SKYWARN storm spotter, amateur radio operators have historically played an important role in supporting storm spotting operations.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>During severe weather events, radio operators can participate in organized SKYWARN nets, allowing spotters throughout a region to communicate with net control operators and relay weather observations.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>A typical SKYWARN radio net has a designated net control operator responsible for coordinating communications, collecting reports, and keeping radio traffic organized. As significant weather develops, trained spotters share their observations over the radio, and information can be relayed to the National Weather Service.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Amateur radio offers several advantages during severe weather:\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Reliable regional communication:\u003C/strong> Repeaters can extend the range of VHF and UHF radios, allowing operators across multiple communities to communicate.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Organized reporting:\u003C/strong> A directed radio net provides a structured way to collect important observations without unnecessary congestion.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Communication flexibility:\u003C/strong> Amateur radio can continue operating independently of commercial cellular networks and internet services, provided the necessary radio infrastructure and power sources remain available.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Community coordination:\u003C/strong> Radio operators can help connect trained spotters across county lines, making it easier to share information as storms move through the region.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Amateur radio is not the only way to submit storm reports, but it remains a valuable tool for coordinating trained volunteers and passing time-sensitive information.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>Southwest Missouri Regional SKYWARN\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>Here in the Ozarks, one organization helping bring amateur radio operators and storm spotters together is \u003Cstrong>Southwest Missouri Regional SKYWARN (SWMO SKYWARN)\u003C/strong>.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>SWMO SKYWARN is a volunteer organization supporting storm spotting and amateur radio communications across the National Weather Service Springfield forecast area.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>The organization serves \u003Cstrong>37 counties across Southwest Missouri and Southeast Kansas\u003C/strong>, including 34 counties in Missouri and three in Kansas.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Its focus is on developing a coordinated regional network of trained storm spotters who can provide timely, accurate weather observations to the National Weather Service in Springfield.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>During severe weather activations, trained amateur radio operators use an organized radio network to relay important observations. Outside of severe weather events, regular training and practice help operators develop the skills needed to communicate clearly and effectively when conditions become dangerous.\u003C/p>\u003Ch3>Weekly SKYWARN Training Net\u003C/h3>\u003Cp>One of the easiest ways for licensed amateur radio operators to become familiar with SWMO SKYWARN is by participating in its weekly training net.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>The SWMO SKYWARN training net takes place every Tuesday at 7:00 PM Central Time\u003C/strong> across the linked \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"https://n0nws.com/\">N0NWS repeater system\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>These nets provide an opportunity for operators to practice checking in, become familiar with net procedures, and develop confidence in communicating over an organized radio network.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>New operators are encouraged to participate. You don't need years of experience or expensive equipment to begin learning how emergency and severe weather communications work.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>For repeater information, net schedules, training opportunities, and details about getting involved, visit:\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"https://www.swmoskywarn.org/\">\u003Cstrong>Southwest Missouri Regional SKYWARN — \u003C/strong>\u003C/a>\u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"http://swmoskywarn.org\">\u003Cstrong>swmoskywarn.org\u003C/strong>\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>Do You Need a Ham Radio License to Become a Storm Spotter?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>No! One of the most important things to understand about SKYWARN is that \u003Cstrong>you do not need an amateur radio license to become a trained storm spotter\u003C/strong>.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>The National Weather Service offers free storm spotter training to interested members of the public. These classes cover topics such as thunderstorm development, recognizing severe weather features, understanding reporting criteria, and staying safe during hazardous weather.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Anyone interested in weather and public safety can benefit from this training.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>However, obtaining an amateur radio license opens additional opportunities to participate in organized radio nets, communicate with other spotters, and support local severe weather operations.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>For anyone interested in both weather and technology, SKYWARN can be a rewarding introduction to the practical, public-service side of amateur radio.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>How Can You Get Involved?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>Getting started with SKYWARN is easier than you might think.\u003C/p>\u003Col>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Attend a SKYWARN training class.\u003C/strong> The National Weather Service Springfield office offers free storm spotter training, typically ahead of the spring severe weather season. Training teaches participants what to look for, what to report, and how to remain safe.\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Learn about local SKYWARN operations.\u003C/strong> Visit \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"http://swmoskywarn.org\">swmoskywarn.org\u003C/a> to learn about Southwest Missouri Regional SKYWARN, available resources, training, and regional communications.\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Get involved in amateur radio.\u003C/strong> If you're interested in using radio to support severe weather communications, consider earning your amateur radio license and participating in local SKYWARN training nets.\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Practice before severe weather arrives.\u003C/strong> Effective communications require practice. Participating in nets and training activities helps ensure operators are prepared when their skills are needed.\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003C/ol>\u003Cp>Above all, remember that storm spotting is about observation and reporting, not chasing dangerous weather. Never place yourself in harm's way to obtain a report, and always prioritize personal safety.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>Amateur Radio: A Hobby That Serves the Community\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>Amateur radio offers countless opportunities to learn, experiment, and communicate. From making contacts around the world to exploring digital communications and building antennas, there is something for nearly everyone.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>But perhaps one of its most meaningful applications is public service.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Programs like SKYWARN demonstrate how amateur radio operators can use their knowledge, equipment, and communication skills to support their communities during potentially dangerous situations.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Whether you're an experienced operator, a newly licensed ham, or simply someone interested in severe weather, there is a place for you to learn and contribute.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>To learn more about regional storm spotting activities, visit \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"https://www.swmoskywarn.org/\">\u003Cstrong>Southwest Missouri Regional SKYWARN\u003C/strong>\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>And if you're interested in exploring amateur radio for yourself, consider connecting with the \u003Cstrong>Nixa Amateur Radio Club\u003C/strong> to learn more about the hobby and opportunities to get involved in the local amateur radio community.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cem>When severe weather approaches, preparation, communication, and accurate information can make all the difference.\u003C/em>\u003C/p>","\u003Cp>\u003Cem>When severe weather threatens Southwest Missouri, a network of trained volunteers stands ready to provide critical information from the ground. For decades, amateur radio operators have played an important role in this effort through a program known as SKYWARN.\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Southwest Missouri is no stranger to severe weather. From powerful thunderstorms and...","PUBLISHED","2026-11-13T20:40:59.333Z","d4bc135b-5f26-4924-9836-8d33168ced71","2026-11-13T20:40:59.335Z",{"id":11,"firstName":14,"lastName":15,"callsign":16},"Preston","Roesslet","KE0JGH",[18],{"postId":4,"tagId":19,"tag":20},"b2474275-b7a6-49cc-810b-d63609e08715",{"id":19,"name":21,"slug":22,"createdAt":23},"Education & Training","education-training","2026-07-11T00:06:35.361Z",null,[26,38,54],{"id":27,"title":28,"slug":29,"body":30,"excerpt":31,"status":9,"publishedAt":32,"authorId":11,"createdAt":33,"updatedAt":33,"author":34,"tags":35},"5ae54757-51a7-4d7d-b573-ff6689d65bf8","Your First Amateur Radio Net: Getting on the Air with NARC","your-first-amateur-radio-net-getting-on-the-air-with-narc-1","\u003Cp>\u003Cem>New to amateur radio? Looking for an easy way to make your first contact or get more involved in the local ham radio community? The Nixa Amateur Radio Club's weekly net is a great place to start!\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You've studied for your amateur radio exam, earned your callsign, and finally have a radio in your hands. Now what?\u003C/p>\u003Cp>For many newly licensed operators, one of the biggest challenges isn't passing the exam or figuring out how to program a radio. It's simply working up the confidence to press that push-to-talk button and say something.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>If that sounds familiar, you're certainly not alone!\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Fortunately, one of the easiest ways to get started is by participating in a local amateur radio net. Here in Southwest Missouri, the \u003Cstrong>Nixa Amateur Radio Club (NARC)\u003C/strong> hosts a weekly net where operators can connect, share information, and become more comfortable communicating over the air.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Whether you've been licensed for 20 minutes or 20 years, you're welcome to join us!\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>What Is an Amateur Radio Net?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>An amateur radio net is an organized gathering of radio operators who communicate on a particular frequency or group of linked repeaters at a scheduled time.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Think of it as a meeting over the radio.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Most nets are coordinated by a \u003Cstrong>Net Control Station (NCS)\u003C/strong>, an operator who manages check-ins, recognizes stations, shares announcements, and helps keep communications organized.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Some nets focus on emergency communications, severe weather spotting, or technical discussions. Others, like the NARC weekly net, provide an opportunity for operators to stay connected with the local amateur radio community.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Participating in a net is a great way to practice using your equipment, meet fellow hams, and stay informed about what's happening in amateur radio around the Ozarks.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>Join Us for the NARC Thursday Night Net!\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>📻 \u003Cstrong>Nixa Amateur Radio Club Weekly Net\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\u003Cul>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>When:\u003C/strong> Every Thursday at 7:30 PM Central\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Where:\u003C/strong> NARC repeaters throughout Southwest Missouri\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Who:\u003C/strong> All licensed amateur radio operators are welcome\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003Cli>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>What:\u003C/strong> Club announcements, check-ins, and an opportunity to connect with other local operators\u003C/p>\u003C/li>\u003C/ul>\u003Cp>The NARC net operates through repeaters associated with the Southwest Missouri Linked Repeater System (SMLRS), helping connect amateur radio operators across the region.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You don't have to live in Nixa or be a NARC member to participate. If you're a licensed amateur radio operator and can reach one of the participating repeaters, we'd encourage you to check in!\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>What to Expect During Your First Net\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>If you've never participated in a net before, don't worry. The process is straightforward, and our operators are happy to welcome newcomers.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Here's what a typical check-in looks like.\u003C/p>\u003Ch3>Step 1: Tune In and Listen\u003C/h3>\u003Cp>Before the net begins, make sure your radio is programmed for one of the participating repeaters.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>At 7:30 PM on Thursday evening, you'll hear the net control operator begin the net with an opening announcement, often called a \u003Cem>preamble\u003C/em>.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>The net control operator will explain the purpose of the net, share any necessary instructions, and begin accepting check-ins.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>If it's your first time, feel free to listen for a few minutes and hear how other operators participate.\u003C/p>\u003Ch3>Step 2: Give Your Callsign\u003C/h3>\u003Cp>When net control asks for check-ins, wait for an opening and clearly state your callsign.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>For example:\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Net Control:\u003C/strong> \"We'll now take check-ins from any stations wishing to participate.\"\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>You:\u003C/strong> \"KE0ABC.\"\u003C/p>\u003Cp>That's all you need to do initially!\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Depending on how busy the net is, net control may acknowledge several stations before returning to each one individually.\u003C/p>\u003Ch3>Step 3: Introduce Yourself\u003C/h3>\u003Cp>When net control calls on you, it's your opportunity to say hello.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You might say something like:\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Net Control:\u003C/strong> \"KE0ABC, go ahead.\"\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>You:\u003C/strong> \"Good evening! This is KE0ABC, Alex in Ozark. I just got my license last week, and this is my first time checking into the NARC net. No traffic tonight.\"\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Congratulations! You've just completed your first net check-in.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You don't need a lengthy introduction or anything special prepared. Your callsign, name, location, and a few brief comments are more than enough.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>And if it's your first time, don't hesitate to mention it! We enjoy hearing new voices on the air.\u003C/p>\u003Ch3>Step 4: Enjoy the Net\u003C/h3>\u003Cp>Once you've checked in, stick around and listen!\u003C/p>\u003Cp>During the net, you may hear club announcements, updates about upcoming activities, or discussions about amateur radio projects and events.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>It's a great opportunity to learn more about what's happening in the area and get familiar with other operators.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You might even discover a local event, technical project, or amateur radio activity that interests you.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>What If I Make a Mistake?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>Here's something we'd like every new amateur radio operator to understand: \u003Cstrong>you don't have to be perfect to get on the air.\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Maybe you stumble over your callsign, forget what you wanted to say, or accidentally transmit at the same time as someone else.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>It happens!\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Even experienced operators make mistakes from time to time.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>If you're unsure what to do, simply ask. If you didn't hear an instruction clearly, request that net control repeat it.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Nobody expects a newly licensed operator to know everything about amateur radio. In fact, helping new operators learn is an important part of what makes the amateur radio community so valuable.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Our goal is to make amateur radio accessible, enjoyable, and welcoming to everyone.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>A Few Tips for Your First Check-In\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>Before joining us on Thursday evening, here are a few simple suggestions to help everything go smoothly.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Listen before transmitting.\u003C/strong> Make sure the frequency is clear and wait until net control invites stations to check in.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Pause after pressing the microphone button.\u003C/strong> Give the repeater a moment to activate so the beginning of your transmission isn't cut off.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Speak clearly and at a normal pace.\u003C/strong> You don't need to talk quickly or use complicated radio terminology.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Keep your comments reasonably brief.\u003C/strong> This helps ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate, particularly on busy evenings.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Follow net control's instructions.\u003C/strong> Different nets may have slightly different procedures, so pay attention to how check-ins are being handled.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Don't be afraid to say you're new.\u003C/strong> We welcome new operators and want your first experience on the air to be a positive one!\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>Having Trouble Reaching the Repeater?\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>If you try checking in and net control doesn't hear you, don't get discouraged.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>There are several reasons your transmission might not be getting through.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>If you're using a handheld radio inside your house, your signal may have trouble reaching the repeater due to building materials, terrain, or distance.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Double-check that your radio has the correct repeater frequency, offset, and access tone programmed. You can also try moving closer to a window or stepping outside to improve your signal.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Because NARC's net uses repeaters serving different portions of Southwest Missouri, you may find that another repeater provides better coverage from your location.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Take a look at the club's \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"https://nixahams.net/resources/nets\">regional net listings\u003C/a> and \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"https://nixahams.net/resources/repeaters\">repeater information\u003C/a> to learn more about the available options.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>And if you're still struggling, reach out to us! Helping other operators troubleshoot equipment and get on the air is part of what amateur radio is all about.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>There's a Net for Almost Everyone!\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>While we'd love to hear you on the NARC Thursday Night Net, there are plenty of other opportunities to get involved in amateur radio throughout Southwest Missouri.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Regional nets cover a variety of interests, including general amateur radio discussions, emergency communications, SKYWARN severe weather operations, and digital voice modes.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Some nets are designed for casual conversation, while others help operators practice structured communications that can be useful during emergencies or public service activities.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>To make these opportunities easier to find, the Nixa Amateur Radio Club maintains a \u003Cstrong>Southwest Missouri Area Nets directory\u003C/strong> on our website.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You can explore regional nets, review their schedules, and filter listings by day of the week or operating mode.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" class=\"text-primary-600 underline hover:text-primary-700\" href=\"https://nixahams.net/resources/nets\">\u003Cstrong>Explore Regional Amateur Radio Nets\u003C/strong>\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Whether you want to make a few contacts each week, explore new modes, or develop emergency communications skills, there's likely a net that matches your interests.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>More Than Just a Check-In\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>One of the best things about amateur radio is the community behind it.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>A simple check-in on a Thursday evening can be the beginning of a new friendship, an opportunity to learn something new, or an introduction to a part of the hobby you hadn't considered before.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>At the Nixa Amateur Radio Club, we believe amateur radio is best enjoyed when operators are active, learning, and sharing their experiences with others.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Our club brings together amateur radio enthusiasts from Nixa, Springfield, Ozark, Republic, and communities throughout Southwest Missouri.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>In addition to our weekly net, we offer opportunities to connect through club meetings, license testing, Field Day, our annual hamfest, and other activities.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Whether you're a brand-new Technician or an experienced Amateur Extra, there's always something new to explore.\u003C/p>\u003Ch2>We'll Hear You Thursday!\u003C/h2>\u003Cp>If you've been listening to amateur radio nets but haven't worked up the nerve to check in yet, consider this your invitation.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Join us \u003Cstrong>Thursday evening at 7:30 PM Central\u003C/strong> for the Nixa Amateur Radio Club's weekly net.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You don't have to be a club member, and you don't have to have anything special to say.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Just tune in, listen for net control, and give us your callsign.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>We'd love to hear you on the air!\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>","\u003Cp>\u003Cem>New to amateur radio? Looking for an easy way to make your first contact or get more involved in the local ham radio community? The Nixa Amateur Radio Club's weekly net is a great place to start!\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You've studied for your amateur radio exam, earned your callsign, and finally have a...","2026-11-13T21:29:43.164Z","2026-11-13T21:29:43.167Z",{"id":11,"firstName":14,"lastName":15,"callsign":16},[36],{"postId":27,"tagId":19,"tag":37},{"id":19,"name":21,"slug":22,"createdAt":23},{"id":39,"title":40,"slug":41,"body":42,"excerpt":43,"status":9,"publishedAt":44,"authorId":11,"createdAt":45,"updatedAt":45,"author":46,"tags":47},"8e9a3723-1301-463b-9673-40f7a3720da2","147.015 Transmit Power Update","147015-transmit-power-update","\u003Cp>On a whim, James, KB0NHX, went to check the power output on the 147.015 several days ago because it seemed weaker than usual in some areas and found it was only transmitting 40-Watts out of the duplexer.   Previously, we drove the amplifier with 6.5 watts to get 225 Watts out.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Thanks to another local ham and group that will remain anonymous until we have permission to mention it, they have loaned us a 250w amplifier so that we can get back up to full power until we can resolve our amplifier issue.  We did crack open the amplifier and found one side of an inductor in the DC input charred and unsoldered from the board as well as the DC input to two of the transistors unsoldered from the circuit board.  We have got those repaired and hope to test tomorrow\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>We are back up to 157-W out of the duplexer now, so about a 6 dB increase in output power.  The transmit side of the duplexer was spot-on, but we touched up the receive side to get another 8 dB of notch which may help weak signals access the repeater a little better.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Stay tuned for more updates - and feel free to post any improved signal levels at your QTH!\u003C/p>","\u003Cp>On a whim, James, KB0NHX, went to check the power output on the 147.015 several days ago because it seemed weaker than usual in some areas and found it was only transmitting 40-Watts out of the duplexer. Previously, we drove the amplifier with 6.5 watts to get 225 Watts out.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Thanks...","2026-07-31T03:30:16.848Z","2026-07-31T03:30:16.849Z",{"id":11,"firstName":14,"lastName":15,"callsign":16},[48],{"postId":39,"tagId":49,"tag":50},"e62fb9eb-ceb5-4474-9fc7-39d55cfe4e69",{"id":49,"name":51,"slug":52,"createdAt":53},"Repeater Updates","repeater-updates","2026-06-30T23:11:03.203Z",{"id":55,"title":56,"slug":57,"body":58,"excerpt":59,"status":9,"publishedAt":60,"authorId":11,"createdAt":61,"updatedAt":61,"author":62,"tags":63},"d0846d5d-0cbb-4264-b188-b975122e671c","APRS Digipeater Update","aprs-digipeater-update","\u003Cp>Clayton, KB0WZI, and James, KB0NHX, made a trip to the K0NXA Digi site in South Springfield last Friday and Clayton found a few things that we think have gotten us rolling!\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>First, the receive audio is controlled by the volume pot on the radio.   It was turned down too low.  In order to adjust it, we enabled the ability to log into the WX 3-in-1 Plus 2.0 controller.   The GUI has a transmit and receive audio adjustment procedure so we went through that with a communications service monitor to ensure proper packet deviation.   Within minutes we were seeing many stations populate the log.   The GUI offers up many diagnostic and monitoring capabilities that we are going to look into making available for users and interested folks.  \u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>The site is also repeating local APRS packets by radio now as well and not just gating them to the Internet.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>We also found that we were not authenticated with APRS-IS and were using the default server in Poland.  We changed it to the North American server and are now logged in and authenticated with APRS-IS and properly gating packets to the Internet - APRS.fi\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>Some other housekeeping items, such as the proper symbol on the map, and other minor things were addressed.\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>You can go to https://aprs.fi/info/a/K0NXA and see the plethora of stations now hearing us and also stations we are hearing.\u003C/p>","\u003Cp>Clayton, KB0WZI, and James, KB0NHX, made a trip to the K0NXA Digi site in South Springfield last Friday and Clayton found a few things that we think have gotten us rolling!\u003C/p>\u003Cp>\u003C/p>\u003Cp>First, the receive audio is controlled by the volume pot on the radio. It was turned down too low. In...","2026-07-31T03:28:15.500Z","2026-07-31T03:28:15.501Z",{"id":11,"firstName":14,"lastName":15,"callsign":16},[64],{"postId":55,"tagId":49,"tag":65},{"id":49,"name":51,"slug":52,"createdAt":53}]