Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Every tool is free forever — no accounts, no paywalls, no premium tiers. We believe essential ham radio tools should be accessible to everyone.

No. HAMSTATION does not use analytics, does not set tracking cookies, and does not upload any of your tool inputs or log entries to a server. All computation happens in your browser. The only data stored locally is in your browser's localStorage (e.g., logbook entries, slider preferences), and it stays on your device.

Once the page has loaded, the tools work entirely client-side. If you have cached the site (e.g., via a service worker or browser cache), you can use it without an internet connection. The logbook and all calculators will continue to function.

No. There are no user accounts, no sign-up forms, and no email verification. Just open a tool and start using it.

HAMSTATION works on all modern browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. The Morse Code audio playback uses the Web Audio API, which is supported in all of them. For the best experience, keep your browser updated.

The project is built with open web technologies (React, TanStack Start, Tailwind CSS). We encourage community feedback and contributions via the Contact page.

The tools use standard, well-established formulas (e.g., λ = c/f for frequency-wavelength, 468/f(MHz) for dipole length, FCC OET-65 for RF exposure). However, real-world conditions — ground effects, nearby objects, wire insulation — can shift results. Always verify critical calculations against authoritative sources and your own measurements.

The 468/f(MHz) formula (in feet) already includes a ~0.95 velocity factor that accounts for the end effect of real wire elements. The free-space formula 492/f(MHz) would be too long in practice. For insulated wire, use a lower velocity factor (around 0.90).

The default reference follows IARU Region 2 / FCC Part 97 conventions (United States). If you operate in Region 1 (Europe/Africa) or Region 3 (Asia/Pacific), some band edges and mode allocations differ — always confirm with your national regulator.

Yes. The logbook exports to CSV format, which can be imported into most desktop logging software, LoTW, QRZ, or Cloudlog. Click the Export CSV button on the logbook tool.

The translator supports A–Z, 0–9, and common punctuation using International Morse Code. Standard prosigns like AR (·—·—·), SK (···—·—), and BT (—···—) are not yet included but are on the roadmap.

The Maidenhead (QTH) locator divides the globe into fields (18×18, labeled A–R), squares (10×10, labeled 0–9), and sub-squares (24×24, labeled a–x). A 6-character locator like FN31pr identifies a rectangle roughly 5 km × 4 km — precise enough for VHF/UHF contest scoring and QSO logging.

Logbook entries are stored in your browser's localStorage. This data never leaves your device. If you clear your browser storage or use a different device, the data will not be there — export to CSV regularly as a backup.

The site does not set marketing or analytics cookies. Essential cookies may be used only for basic session behavior; no personal data is collected through them.

The site may display ads served by Google (including Google AdSense). These ads may use cookies to serve personalized content. You can opt out of personalized advertising through Google My Ad Center. See our Privacy Policy for details and opt-out links.

localStorage persists across browser sessions — your logbook entries and preferences will be there when you return. However, clearing browser data (cache, cookies, site data) will remove them. Always export important logbook data to CSV.

SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) measures how well your antenna system is matched to your transmitter's output impedance. An SWR of 1:1 is a perfect match. High SWR means reflected power is returning to your radio, which can reduce efficiency and potentially damage your transmitter. Most modern radios fold back power above 2:1 SWR as a protective measure.

An offset is the frequency difference between a repeater's input (your transmit) and output (your receive) frequencies — e.g., ±600 kHz on 2 meters. A tone (CTCSS/DCS/PL) is a sub-audible signal your radio sends to activate the repeater. You need both the correct offset AND the correct tone to use a repeater.

Q-codes are three-letter abbreviations established by the ITU for efficient radio communication. Each can be used as a question or a statement. Common examples: QTH (location), QRZ (who is calling?), QSY (change frequency), QSL (acknowledge receipt). They are used on both CW and voice.

RST is a signal reporting system: R (Readability, 1–5), S (Strength, 1–9), T (Tone, 1–9, CW only). A report of 599 means perfectly readable, extremely strong, pure tone. On phone (voice), only R and S are used (e.g., 59). In contests, 59 or 599 is typically sent by convention.

You do not need any license to use HAMSTATION — the tools are educational and computational. However, actually transmitting on amateur radio frequencies requires a valid license from your national regulatory authority. Always operate within your license privileges.