Vol 102 No 5 May 2026
Credit Card Offer
Practical Wireless May2026
Expected delivery 5 to 7 days
£5.99 GBP
Single Issue Digital Copy
Download digital issues of Practical Wireless from just £5.99 an issue.
The May 2026 issue of Practical Wireless is now available.
Here are some of the highlights:
Keylines: Don reflects on working 3Y0K and has some thoughts about the new FT2 mode.
The Secret Life of Miss Ruby Payne-Scott (1912-1981): Georg Wiessala reappraises pioneering Australian radio astronomer Ruby Violet Payne-Scott (1912-1981), whose achievements reflected both the technical progress and the socio-political prejudice of her time.
Tuning with Feeling: Samuel EI9FZB tackles the challenge of decent tuning knobs with a smooth feel.
Valve & Vintage: Bernard Nock G4BXD waxes lyrical about an Eddystone treasure, the Eddystone 910.
HF Highlights: This month, as Steve G4JVG reports, has seen a lot of DXpedition activity from several continents.
Vintage Television & Radio: Keith Hamer and Garry Smith continue their in-depth feature detailing the early days of BBC Broadcasting House in London, focusing on an infamous statue in 1933. An advertisement from the archives features a ‘Chakophone’ universal aerial tuning unit from 1932. The series highlighting broadcasting events from exactly 100 years ago looks at May 1926. The ‘In Focus’ series continues to look at the history of the BBC Crystal Palace transmitter. Coverage detailing the early years of BBC-2 features technical preparations in January 1964. The series featuring the development of Icelandic radio and television looks at disquiet from USA television production companies.
Servicing and restoring BayGen/Freeplay spring-driven radios (Part 1): Phil Harris G4SPZ starts a two-part feature on how to service the once-popular Freeplay wind-up radios.
Data Modes: Mike G4WNC describes how to build a low-cost WSPR beacon that you can maybe send to a friend abroad.
Tatonka Lastenkraxe carrier used as a backpack shack: Jonathan Hare G1EXG describes how to & the Transistor: Tony Jones G7ETW looks at the early history of the transistor.
Antennas: Keith G4MIU discusses a circular alternative to the basic Loop on Ground before reporting on the latest AN-SOF offering and explaining how to use your VNA to measure crystals.
The World of VHF: Tim GW4VXE starts this month with a discussion on the pros and cons of the new FT2 mode in respect of VHF working.
Improved car portable cable access: Steve Clements G1YBB tackles the challenge of a weatherproof solution for car-portable operation.
Review: The CW Sprint Lite Morse Trainer: Daimon Tilley G4USI checks out a newly-launched Morse trainer.
50 years ago in PW: 50 years ago (May 1976) and RF Rayer G3OGR was still going strong. In that issue he offered a Three band RF mini amplifier.
A Lab Tutorial: Jeff continues his discussion of impedance.
Signal measurements using a TinySA: Ross G6GVI discusses Zero-ing in to the time domain. Simple Portable Power Pack: Bernard Nock G4BXD explains how to repurpose a handy DiY power supply for your radio needs.
Letters: This month’s Letters talk about radio for free, circuit boards, black holes and more!
Transparent Postage Costs – No Surprises!
We're committed to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free shopping experience. Postage costs may vary depending on the delivery location, but rest assured, you can select your preferred destination in the 'Delivery & Billing Options' section without sacrificing the convenience and high-quality service you expect. Shop confidently, knowing every detail is thoughtfully handled for you!
Welcome to our Privacy Policy section, where we value your trust and prioritize the security of your personal information.
Here, you'll find detailed information about how we collect, use, and protect your data. Your privacy matters to us, and we are committed to being transparent about our practices to ensure your peace of mind. Click the link below to learn more about how we safeguard your information and uphold the highest standards of privacy protection.
Welcome to our Terms of Sale section, where clarity and fairness define our customer relationships.
Here, you'll find comprehensive details outlining the terms, conditions, and responsibilities associated with purchasing our products or services. We believe in transparent and mutually beneficial transactions, and our terms reflect our commitment to providing a seamless and satisfactory shopping experience for you. Click the link below to understand your rights, obligations, and the guidelines that govern our sales processes.
