Amateur Radio

Welcome! I'm MI0KXX—a relatively new face in the world of amateur radio, but one who's embraced it with enthusiasm. How did I end up joining the global community of amateur radio operators? Well, like many good stories, it began with unexpected change.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everyday life, it also reshaped how I spent my spare time. I found myself searching for something meaningful—a hobby that could stimulate the mind, offer hands-on technical challenges, and, perhaps most importantly, forge new connections with others.

My journey into radio waves actually began years earlier, as a teenager tinkering with CB radios. I somehow convinced my parents to let me install a Moonraker half-wave vertical antenna on the house—an early win! My friends and I spent countless hours chatting, exploring the airwaves, and occasionally catching that elusive DX into Europe. The gear eventually disappeared, as teenage priorities shifted, but my fascination with electronics lingered.

In fact, my first electronics project was a linear power supply for that old CB radio. Since then, I’ve continued to build and repair gear—mostly audio amplifiers, both solid-state and valve. That hands-on curiosity never left me.

For years, I considered getting my amateur licence, but the timing never felt right. Work always seemed to get in the way. Then came lockdown. I discovered that the RSGB was offering online exams—and I jumped at the chance. I decided to go all in and pursue all three levels as quickly as I could. I devoured online resources, studied late into the evenings, and watched countless YouTube tutorials (there's some incredible content out there).

I passed the Foundation licence in May 2021 (MI7GXX), the Intermediate in June (2I0HXX), and the Full licence by the end of July (MI0KXX). After a bit of a spending spree, I was on the air—transmitting, learning, and enjoying every minute.

Whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned operator, I hope you find something here that resonates. This site is my way of sharing the excitement, discovery, and camaraderie that make amateur radio so special.