VU2TUM

Namaste

Thanks for dropping by. If you came here, during or after a QSO, you can request for a QSL via OQRS. or drop in an email or text.

VU2TUM's OQRS

eQSL Policy:

All QSOs are uploaded to LoTW, QRZ, HRDLog, eQSL. I use Wavelog and my public log is available at Vistor's Log View (last 1000 QSO available along with a search function)

Operating Conditions:

I operate out of an apartment, hence subject to electronic noise and interference. The antennas are installed at a height of 50m (150ft) from the ground level on the terrace of 15 floor building. I use 1/2 inch hardline cables from the roof to my 11th floor apartment.

I operate barefoot (max power 100W) and lately I have aiming to work 10 CW QSOs per day.

Operating Time:

Weekdays: 2200Z to 2300Z & 1300Z to 1400Z

Weekends: 2200Z to 2300Z. Other hours as schedule permits.

Special Mention:

Thanks to my XYL VU2HUM for her support in all aspects of this hobby. She helps me regularly with antenna installation and mainteance.

My equipments

1. FT991A

2. IC-705

3. PDSDR (low cost alternative to Red-Pitaya)

Antennas:

• Delta-Loop Antenna 40m - 10m. (homebrewed)
• Diamond X-50 for VHF, UHF

Operating Modes:

• CW
• SSB [when chasing rare DX or working Skeds]
• Digital [avoiding for now even for rare DX]
• Satellites [CW, SSB and FM]

Morse keys:

• A clone of Putikeeg key from Banggood. It is my go to key these days.
• Straight key from VU3MUG
• 3D printed paddle key
• Bug key (Coffin Key)

Achievements:

• As on 03rd November 2025: I have ARRL DXCC certificates for
  • CW
  • 10m
  • 15m
  • 20m
  • Mixed
• In 2025, I successfully compeleted the SolderSmoke Direct Conversion Receiver Home brew challenge
• Completed CW OPS Intermediate level course in October 2025

Goals:

• Working my way towards CWOPS
• And, to be a better CW operator
• Promote and encourage new and returning hams to get on the air with CW
• Get better in home brewing and build more projects

SDR:

On the PDSDR, I am running a reversebeacon network note (CW Skimmer + Aggregator). Currently there are three CW Skimmers in India who are publishing to RBN and I am the only one in north.

Also, on the same SDR, I am also hosting a websdr. The websdr is running OpenWebRX+ and I am supporting 5 clients at any given time. The websdr receives when I am away from my shack.

Memberships

• Amateur Radio Soceity of India : (Life Member) - L0650
• FISTS (East Asia) # 22445
• SKCC # 28104
• North American QRP Club # 11745
• Long Island CW Club (Life Member): # 5920
• CWJF GROUP # 1221
• A1Club # 4660
• 30CW # 424
• GQRP # 18238
• AMSAT India #AILM075

Other hobbies & interests:

• Travelling: Travelled over 50+ countries.
• Home automation: Automated my apartment few years ago to make it smart and respond to triggers and conditions. Running Home Assistant

Other tidbits:

• Childfree, athiest and a skeptic by choice
• Avid consumer of podcasts

Get in touch:

eMail

(Last edited on: 25th December 2025)

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