🍔 CARC Lunch & Learn: FT8, Net-Logger & Hands-On Builds

🍔 CARC Lunch & Learn: FT8, Net-Logger & Hands-On Builds
📡Event Description
Calling all Midlands hams, makers, and radio enthusiasts! Take a break from your radio shack and join the Columbia Amateur Radio Club (CARC) for our upcoming Lunch & Learn session.
Whether you are a newly licensed technician or a veteran Extra class operator, this is your chance to grab a bite, learn something new, and connect in person.
We are packing this 4-hour session with practical, interactive training and project-building!
📅 When: July 25th from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Where: 4927 Alpine Rd, Columbia, SC 29223
🎙️ This Month's Focus: FT8 Setup, Net-Logger Training, and Hands-On Antenna Builds
🎟️ Cost: Dutch treat (pay for your own lunch)
What to expect at our Lunch & Learn:
-Learning FT8: Master the basics of this popular weak-signal digital mode.
-Learn how to set up your software, interface your radio, and make contacts globally.
-Learning Net-Logger: Get comfortable using Net-Logger to track check-ins, follow along with local nets in real-time, and log your contacts seamlessly.
-Antenna Project Building: Participate in hands-on antenna construction! (We will be working on a specific build; kit details and any associated fees are TBD and will be posted soon.
-Radio Programming & Tuning: Bring your HT or mobile rig to learn how to program local repeaters or use antenna analyzers to dial in your SWR.
🍽️ Lunch Details: At 11:00 AM, the restaurant right next door opens up! Treat yourself to their delicious and hearty Bar-B-Que buffet. Lunch is a Dutch treat, so you can head over, grab your plate, and keep the radio conversation going.
💡 Pro-Tips for Attendees: Pre-Install the Software: To maximize your hands-on time, download and install WSJT-X (for FT8) and Net-Logger on your laptop before arriving.
Pack Your Power Strips: Power outlets can fill up fast! Bringing a small power strip or extension cord ensures your laptop and radio gear stay charged.
Bring Your Interface Cables: Don't forget your SignaLink, Digirig, or USB interface cables if you want help troubleshooting your specific radio-to-laptop connection.
Arrive Hungry: The Bar-B-Que buffet next door is filling, so come ready for a great lunch at 11:00 AM!
Why you should attend:
-Bite-Sized Education: Boost your technical knowledge with focused, practical presentations on gear, software, and theory.
-In-Person Elmering: Get face-to-face mentorship and real-time troubleshooting help for your current shack projects.
-Club Updates: Stay in the loop on upcoming CARC activities, public service events, VE testing sessions, and repeater updates.
-Community Connection: Meet the faces behind the callsigns you hear on the local repeaters and HF bands.
📬 Questions? If you have any questions about the presentations, gear to bring, or building materials, please direct your questions to the club email at [email protected]. Whether you are an official club member or just curious about the hobby, all are welcome! Please click "Going" or "Interested" so we can get an accurate headcount for seating and materials. Keep an eye on the discussion tab for antenna kit updates!
73! (Best regards)