May 31, 2013

Remote-control amateur radio antenna band switch with Arduino

 For the best use of multi-band transceivers, many amateur radio operators will run various aerials with stepper switches for various bands  and switch between them when necessary with a physical antenna switch. Operator Dan Zimmerman also does this, but after creating a remote-control solution for his rig for use while away - he needed a way to control the switch as well. Not a problem - with an Arduino, a motor capable of turning the physical switch, and some interesting circuitry Dan can now change remotely via the Ham Radio Deluxe software. It's a clever system, that can self-align the switch position on power up, and read the location of the switch by reading the value of an attached potentiometer. 


Kudos to Dave for his interesting project, of which you can find out more from his website. And for more, we're on twitter and Google+, so follow us for news and product updates as well.

If you're making a similar project and need to control large currents and voltages with your Arduino digital outputs - you'll need a MOSFET. We've got you covered with out NDRIVE: N-MOSFET driver/output module:


This high-power N-MOSFET module lets you switch high-current loads using a tiny microcontroller. Perfect for controlling that set of traffic lights mounted in your living room! Works brilliantly for automotive projects such as switching high-power 12V lights and high wattage LEDs. For more information and to order, visit the product page

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