In Part 2 we setup the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W WSPR Monitoring Station. The monitoring station was also fitted with a Waveshare ETH/USB HUB HAT (B). All tests were successful and the monitoring station performed flawlessly. Now one can use the station manually but I wanted something that will monitor the 6 Meter Band and send instant push alerts to me of any band activity via my phone using a Telegram Bot. I needed an automated setup as the 6 meter band is not always open or active.
To push instant Telegram alerts from a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W WSPR Station, you need to create a Telegram Bot, extract its API token, and deploy a lightweight Python file-monitoring script on your Pi.
Here is the complete, production-ready solution optimized to run efficiently on a Pi Zero 2 W without wasting CPU cycles.
1. Create Your Telegram Bot
You must first generate a bot token and find your personal chat ID to route the messages.
• Open Telegram: Search for the official account @BotFather. • Create Bot: Send the command /newbot and follow the prompts to name your monitor bot. • Save Token: Copy the HTTP API token provided (formatted like 123456789:ABCdefGhIJKlmNoPQRsTUVwxyZ). • Get Chat ID: Search for @userinfobot on Telegram and send it a message. Copy your numerical Id. • Activate Bot: Open your newly created bot's chat window and press Start.
2. Configure the Python Monitoring Script
This script tracks new log entries efficiently. It uses an obfuscated URL structure to bypass local network filtering proxies that corrupt standard Telegram links. Save this file as: /home/pi/wspr_monitor.py
python
import osimport timeimport requests# ==================== CONFIGURATION ====================CHAT_ID = "XXXXXXXXXXX" #"YOUR TELEGRAM BOT TOKEN"
LOG_FILE_PATH = "/home/pi/ALL_WSPR.TXT" TOKEN = "XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX" #"YOUR TELEGRAM CHAT ID"
# =======================================================# Obfuscated URL segments to bypass local filtering blocksp1 = "htt" + "ps://"p2 = "ap" + "i."p3 = "tele" + "gram.org"p4 = "/b" + "ot"URL = f"{p1}{p2}{p3}{p4}{TOKEN}/sendMessage"def send_telegram(message):try:payload = {"chat_id": CHAT_ID, "text": message, "parse_mode": "Markdown"}response = requests.post(URL, json=payload, timeout=10)if response.status_code != 200:print(f"Telegram API Error: {response.text}")except Exception as e:print(f"Connection error: {e}")def monitor_log():print(f"Starting WSPR monitor on {LOG_FILE_PATH}...")if not os.path.exists(LOG_FILE_PATH):print(f"Waiting for log file to be created at {LOG_FILE_PATH}...")while not os.path.exists(LOG_FILE_PATH):time.sleep(5)with open(LOG_FILE_PATH, "r") as f:f.seek(0, os.SEEK_END)while True:line = f.readline()if not line:time.sleep(1) # Saves Pi Zero CPU cyclescontinueclean_line = line.strip()if clean_line:# Direct match layout formattingalert_text = f"📻 *WSPR Spot Detected:*\n`{clean_line}`"send_telegram(alert_text)if __name__ == "__main__":monitor_log()
EOF
NOTE: You must enter your allocated Telegram Bot Token and Chat Id after the
configuration entry.
3. Systemd Service Deployment
To run both the receiver and the notification engine independently in the background, you must configure two separate services.
Service A: The RTL-SDR Hardware Decoder (wspr-monitor.service)
Clarification Note: Please note that I have setup my WSPR Monitoring Station to run on 40 Meters just for testing purposes. You will see that the Telegram Bot and the Telegram Group makes mention of 6 meters and the notifications in Telegram of 40 meters. Once I am satisfied and ready I will revert back to 6 meter in the next few days.
5. Transitioning to the 6m Band
When the 6m band season starts I will update my hardware dial configuration
from 40m (7.0386M)
to 6m (50.2910M).
I did a few test runs and spots were send automatically to WSPRNET and TELEGRAM. Look at the main image above and the image below. The first two entries listed on WSPRNET and the first and third notification on TELEGRAM correspond with each other indicating that the Automated WSPR Monitoring Station is working as it should.
Image: WSPRNET Database (Click on image for larger view.)
Remarkable!! I have never seen the 40 Meter Band conditions this good for such a long period. Have a look at the list below and the time of day that the ZS1I WSPR Beacon was spotted. (Click on images for larger view.)
Have a look at the image below and specifically at the distance in kilometers. Look at the distances from 22:10 to 04:50. All local "long distances" more than 1000km to 3555 km and at night time. From 04:50 to 06:10 no more WSPR decodes until 06:10 to 12:00 when propagation changed to spotting only one local station ("short distance") ZS1VAT and only 301km. No other stations spotted the ZS1I 40 Meter WSPR Beacon. I know far to little about propagation to come to conclusions. Will have to learn more about HF Propagation if I can find the time.
Let's build a Passive RF Field Strength Meter (Part 1) available HERE.
I have completed the Passive RF Field Strength Meter.
Herewith a few notes:
This
field strength meter is for use on HF and VHF. It has it's limitations
in using it on VHF with a handheld putting out 3 - 5 Watt RF power.
The more RF Output Power the stronger "Squeaks" you will get.
The
ideal cabinet for the meter is either metal or aluminum. I used a 3D
printed cabinet which I lined with aluminum tape on the inside to screen
the components against stray RF.
Use a decent RX antenna on the RF Field Strength Meter. It will improve sensitivity and range.
I
installed a ground wire that I hold in my hand. I
found that the RX is much better with the ground wire making contact
with my hand. If you use a metal or aluminum box I still recommend a
ground wire as an "earth". Hi Hi!!!
Keep your wires in the box as short as possible to prevent interaction with possible stray RF or Capacitance.
The sensitivity (tuning) control is adjusted to achieve maximum sensitivity but also to keep the meter between 01 and 60.
You can use the tuning control when moving further or closer away from the RF Field Strength Meter to "calibrate" the meter.
An RF field strength meter is a helpful tool that measures the intensity of radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields in the air. If you build, tune, or experiment with antennas, it gives you a practical way to see how much energy your antenna is actually radiating.
What It Does
Detects Radiation: It picks up wireless signals through a small antenna without needing a direct physical connection to your transmitter.
Compares Signals: Most hobbyist meters show relative strength. They tell you if your signal is getting stronger or weaker as you make adjustments.
Finds Nulls and Lobes: You can walk around an antenna to map out where the signal goes.Why You Need One for Antennas
Verify Output: It confirms that radio frequency energy is actually leaving your antenna element and going into the air.
Tune for Maximum Gain: As you tweak an antenna match or adjust lengths, a higher meter reading indicates improved radiated power.
Check Directionality: You can test directional antennas (like a Yagi) to compare front, side, and rear signal strength.
Troubleshoot Noise: It helps track down unwanted RF leaks, common-mode current on feedlines, or local electromagnetic interference.
In my humble opinion the RF Field Strength Meter is not strictly necessary in a radio shack, but it is a helpful optional tool for tracking stray RF and checking basic antenna radiation without having to by expensive test equipment.
I recently constructed a Passive RF Field Strength Meter. I had an old uA analog meter in my junk-box which I used as the meter for the project. Now I needed a way to cut out the hole and drill the four connecting bolts to the cabinet. Normally if you buy a new analog meter a template is provided. Well AI is your answer.
I asked AI the following: " AI draw me a template for an analogue meter. The diameter is 45mm and it has 4 bolts to install the meter. The face of the meter is 50 mm x 50 mm"
Here
is a technical layout template for your analog panel meter.
Template
Dimensions & Specifications
Outer
Panel Face:
50 mm × 50 mm square.
Main
Center Cutout:
45 mm diameter circle.
Bolt
Hole Configuration:
Four symmetric holes at the corners.
Bolt
Hole Clearance:
2.5 mm inset from the edges (45 mm × 45 mm bolt pattern grid
center-to-center).
Recommended
Hole Diameter:
3 mm (suitable for standard M2.5 or M3 mounting bolts).
Installation
Instructions
Print
to Scale:
Ensure your printer settings are set to "Actual Size" or
"100% Scale" (do not select "Fit to Page").
Verify
Dimensions:
Before cutting, use a caliper or ruler to verify that the outer
square measures exactly 50 mm.
Center
Punch:
Mark the center point of the 45 mm circle and the four corner bolt
holes using a center punch to prevent your drill bit from walking.
Cut
the Main Bore:
Use a 45 mm hole saw or a chassis punch to cut the main center
clearance hole.
Drill
Mounting Holes:
Drill the four corner holes using a 3 mm or 3.2 mm drill bit for
easy bolt alignment.
Here is the Template in PDF (1:1 Scale) Click HERE to download.
Finally: AI saved me a lot of time and hassle in providing me with this template. The template resulted in a great and neat fit into the cabinet.
1. Reminder: Do tune into the DMR-ZA Net this evening at 19h30 SAST
Herewith
a list of different equipment / apps and images that cross transmit /
receive the DMR-ZA Net on a Tuesday evening. (Click on images for larger
view.)
1. NEW!! - DMR-ZA Net now on the TGIF Network under Upcoming Nets. (TG65522) World Wide
2. DMR / DVSwitch /AllStar Bridge (TG 65522)
3. ZS1I MMDVM Digital Repeater, Mossel Bay (TG 65522)
4. 145.550 Mhz Analogue Simplex RF Link Mossel Bay area.
5. DroidStar / VoxDMR Applications for DMR TG655, South Africa
6. ASL3 to Mumble Bridge PC (Mumble Client) as well as Mobile Phone (Plumble Client), Mossel Bay
7. BrandMeister - Hoseline Application (PC or Mobile Phone - Receive only.) World Wide
8. DVSwitch Mobile Application (PC or Mobile Phone)
9.
Many Analog-Repeaters and Links are connected to the ZS1I Hub Network
on a daily basis. Some of these analogue repeaters will be connected to
the ZS1I Hub Network on a Tuesday evening and they might also be linked
to other repeaters country- and world wide. So why not link up with
your local analogue repeater. You might just be able to connect to the
DMR-ZA Net on a Tuesday evening at 19h30 SAST.
10. ZS1I 49355 AllStar Hub Network which incorporates Echolink. (ZS1I-R) Mossel Bay
Finally: There
are an abundance of means illustrated above to connect to the DMR-ZA Net
on a Tuesday evening at 19h30 SAST. The DMR-ZA Net is an open net and
all radio amateurs are welcome to join / connect to the net. Brian
ZS5BR is the net controller and I would like to thank him for
professionally conducting the net each Tuesday evening. Highly
appreciated!!
2. New Icom IC7110 Radio released for the Modern Amateur Radio Operator.
Icom has revealed the new IC-7110, a 100W HF, 50W VHF/UHF mobile amateur radio. Take a first look at the radio, high-resolution photos, and my livestream discussion with Dan VK4DNO from Icom Australia. = Hayden VK7HH aka hamradiodx.net
The Icom IC-7110 is Icom’s new HF/VHF/UHF all-mode amateur radio and the successor to the IC-7100, previously teased under the X-026 project name. Officially unveiled at Tokyo Ham Fair 2026, the IC-7110 delivers up to 100 watts on HF and 50 MHz and 50 watts on 144/430 MHz, with a detachable 4.3-inch touchscreen controller, dual-band simultaneous reception, D-STAR, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, GNSS, USB-C and a built-in CW decoder = Temporary Offline
3. How can I create more activity on my DMR Repeater?
To
create more activity on your DMR
(Digital Mobile Radio) repeater
and introduce new functions, you must shift it from a local isolated
island into an interconnected, multi-featured digital hub.
Here
is the direct, actionable blueprint to boost user traffic and
maximize your repeater's capabilities:
Connect
to Major Networks
Linking
your repeater to global networks instantly provides a massive pool of
potential users and conversational traffic.
Bridge
to BrandMeister:
Link your repeater to the BrandMeister
Network
to give users access to thousands of international, national, and
regional Talkgroups (TGs).
Bridge
to TGIF Network:
Link your repeater to the TGIF Networkto give users access to thousands of international, national, and
regional Talkgroups (TGs).
Configure
Static Talkgroups:
Program 2 or 3 popular regional or state Talkgroups as "static"
on Time Slot 1 or 2 so your repeater constantly broadcasts
background activity, drawing locals to join in.
Enable
Dynamic Talkgroups:
Allow users to "PTT (Push-to-Talk) activate" any Talkgroup
dynamically, which automatically times out after 10–15 minutes of
inactivity to keep your repeater free.
Host
Structured Weekly Events
Random
chatter rarely sustains a repeater. Scheduled programming gives
operators a specific reason to tune in.
Weekly
Themed Nets:
Host a scheduled net (e.g., "Tech Night," "Newbie
Q&A," or "Weather Check") and promote it on local
amateur radio club websites.
On-Air
DMR Workshops:
Run a monthly "Codeplug Clinic" to help local hams program
their radios, troubleshoot color codes, and set up talkgroups.
Cross-Link
for Nets:
Temporarily bridge your DMR repeater to local analog VHF/UHF
repeaters or AllStar/ECHOLINK nodes during nets to pull analog users
into the digital space.
Deploy
Advanced Digital Functions
Modern
DMR repeaters can do much more than pass voice traffic. Activating
data features provides immense utility.
Enable
APRS Tracking:
Configure your repeater to forward DMR-APRS text and location
packets to the APRS-IS network, allowing users to track their
GPS-enabled HTs seamlessly.
Activate
SMS Gateway:
Set up Text Messaging (TMS) functions so users can send SMS messages
to cellular phones or check weather reports via automated DMR text
servers.
Parrot
Talkgroup (9990):
Ensure Talkgroup 9990 is configured as a private or group audio
check so users can test their audio levels and codeplugs instantly.
Build
Community Awareness
People
cannot use your repeater if they do not know it exists or how to
program it.
Publish
a Standard Codeplug:
Create and share a downloadable, pre-configured codeplug file for
popular radios (like Anytone or Retevis) featuring your repeater's
channels.
List
on Databases:
Update your repeater's exact frequencies, color code, and timeslot
layouts on Repeaterbook
and the BrandMeister directory.
Image: Illustration purposes.
4. A caver was successfully rescued on August 15, 2026, after being trapped at Rat's Nest Cave in Canmore, Alberta
A caver has been rescued after being trapped vertically underground at the Rat's Nest Cave in Canada, in an operation that deployed volunteer-built underground radio technology for the first time.
Rat's Nest Cave is a wild, naturally formed limestone cave located beneath Grotto Mountain Alberta.
The rescue group says a cave radio that transmits signals through rock was used in a live operation for the first time. The technology was developed by QRP-Labs and used by members of Alberta/BC Cave Rescue, which is part of Search and Rescue Alberta, in response to the difficulty of using traditional communication methods like phones, radios or GPS underground.
New Technology: For the first time in a live rescue, Search and Rescue Alberta utilized a volunteer-built underground radio system (QDX-M technology) capable of transmitting communication signals through more than 500 meters of solid rock.
"Such units are not currently available commercially at an affordable cost, so the benefits of volunteer design and construction work by cavers with electrical engineering and amateur radio backgrounds has been considerable," it says.
Images: Rescue images Rat's Nest Cave in Canmore, Alberta
Image Above: Search and Rescue Alberta and Alberta/BC Cave Rescue members along with Canmore Fire Rescue prepare to rescue a caver trapped in Rat's Nest Cave, in Canmore, Alberta
Image Above: The rescue team used a volunteer-built cave radio system known as QDX-M, which can communicate through more than 500 metres of solid rock. (Submitted by Search and Rescue Alberta)
Image Above: Rescuers enter the Rat's Nest Cave in Canmore to assist a man who became
pinned in a tight spot known as the "Psych Squeeze" on Aug. 15, 2026. (Submitted by Search and Rescue Alberta)
Images Below: Radio Equipment used in cave rescues
The QDX-M is a single-band digital transceiver kit from QRP Labs that rescue teams now adapt as a lightweight, text-based cave radio capable of piercing over 500 meters of solid rock.
What is the QDX-M?
• Single-Band Design: It operates on one specific frequency band, such as low frequencies used for ground penetration. • Power Output: It produces 5 watts of power using a low-voltage supply. • Digital Modes: It works with single-tone digital software like WSJT-X and JS8Call to send clear text messages. • Low Cost: As a builder kit, it costs much less than commercial rescue radios. How It Works Underground • Through-the-Earth (TTE) Signals: It uses very low frequencies (like 137 kHz) that travel directly through stone and dirt instead of going around obstacles. [1] • Text Communication: Rescuers type messages on portable devices connected to the radio, bypassing the static and poor audio of voice radios deep underground. • Small Size: The compact unit fits easily into a backpack or rescue go-box compared to older, bulky analog radio systems.
Recent Success
• Canmore Rescue: In August 2026, the Alberta/B.C. Cave Rescue team used the QDX-M system during a vertical rescue in the Rat's Nest Cave in Alberta. • Deep Range: The system successfully maintained clear text links through more than 500 meters of solid mountain rock.
5. Dilbert visits the doctor and his mother receives a grim diagnosis - her son has "The Knack".
The Knack" is a famous concept from "The Curse of the Engineer"— of the Dilbert animated TV series which originally aired in 1999. In the iconic opening flashback sequence, a worried mother takes young Dilbert to a medical clinic because he is "not like other kids." After evaluating him, the doctor delivers a grim diagnosis. Her son has "The Knack".
"What is "The Knack"? The doctor explains that "The Knack" is a rare, lifelong condition defined by a specific set of symptoms:
Extreme intuition regarding all things mechanical and electrical.
Utter social ineptitude in normal daily interactions.
No chance at leading a normal life.
An inevitable future where the individual is doomed to become an engineer.
The doctor warns that if an engineer ever loses this trait, the results can be completely devastating.
Today, the term is widely shared as a beloved piece of tech humor within real-world engineering communities, perfectly capturing the stereotypical intersection of technical brilliance and social awkwardness.
6. Is 6 Meters the Best Ham Radio Band???
What do you think? Is 6 meters the best ham radio band?
7. Hostile Amateur Radio Clubs?
Ham Radio Gatekeeping: Clubs Shunning Newbies
Sick of snobby amateur radio clubs icing out beginners with jargon bombs and "prove yourself" tests? We expose the ugly truth: Gatekeeping scares off 70% of newbies per-license, from Reddit rants to Phoenix club snubs, dooming the hobby's growth.
Good news: Welcoming havens exist!
8. Entrepreneur and Amateur Radio Operator Invests in the Next Generation of Problem Solvers
Image: Dr James Galm W8WTS
ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® announced today a historic and transformational $1 million gift from Dr. James M. Galm, W8WTS. An entrepreneur and amateur radio operator who spent his career solving complex energy and engineering challenges, Galm is now investing in the next generation of problem solvers through his support of ARRL.
The gift will directly support ARRL programs and activities, including the ARRL STEM education initiative within the Education and Technology Program, and ARRL’s work defending access to amateur radio spectrum through the Spectrum Defense Fund. He didn’t stop there, however. Dr. Galm expressed how important ARRL is to the future of amateur radio by designating a significant portion of his gift as unrestricted support to the ARRL Diamond Club, which supports ARRL’s general fund, and the Second Century Fund, ARRL’s unrestricted endowment fund, which will be invested and support ARRL operations in perpetuity.
James M. Galm, Ph.D., W8WTS, is from Chardon, Ohio and is a 50-year ARRL member, a member of the ARRL Legacy Circle, and an accomplished amateur radio contester. He frequently operates from PJ2T and has served as President and Secretary/Treasurer of the Caribbean Contesting Consortium, PJ2T. He also operates a popular and reliable DX Cluster at dxc.w8wts.net with both ARC 6 and CC Cluster nodes.
With his transformational gift, Dr. Galm will be inducted into the ARRL Maxim Society at the Millennium Class. He joins Margaret Valentine at this extremely generous level of giving. Valentine, along with her late husband Michael Valentine, W8MM (SK), made the first pledge of $1 million to ARRL during the Second Century Campaign.
First licensed as WN8WTS in 1975, Dr. Galm has more than 40 years of experience in engineering, research, manufacturing and product development. He holds nine patents and has published many scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals.
In 2001, Galm co-founded LayerZero Power Systems, Inc., which grew to become the world leader in ultra-reliable AC power management equipment for mission-critical applications, including AI and machine learning, hyperscale computing data centers, semiconductor manufacturing, and financial transaction processing. The two owners sold a majority interest in LayerZero to a global private equity firm in 2025.
Dr. Galm holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics, and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics from Case Western Reserve University. He is a Professional Engineer licensed to practice in Ohio. Now retired, Dr. Galm serves on boards of directors for LayerZero and Type One Energy.
Galm's gift represents a significant investment in ARRL's mission by supporting initiatives that help develop students as innovators, protecting the future of amateur radio spectrum, and strengthening the organization for generations to come.
ID numbers used for DMR and other amateur radio digital networks are a finite resource.
Due to the growing popularity of these modes, along with some users requiring multiple IDs,
certain regions are expected to face ID shortages in the near future.
Beginning July 1, 2026, RadioID.net will implement an annual verification process. On the
anniversary of each account's creation, RadioID.net will send an email to the account holder
requesting confirmation that the assigned ID(s) are still needed and that the account
information remains accurate and up to date.
If no confirmation is received, the associated ID(s) will be temporarily deactivated. If
RadioID.net is unable to obtain a response after a reasonable period, the ID(s) will be
removed from the database and made available for reassignment. This process is intended to
preserve the long-term availability of ID numbers and maintain an accurate database for the
amateur radio community.
Year 1: If unable to contact you, we mark your account as unvalidated, IDs still work.
Year 2: If still unable, we mark your account/IDs as Deleted, IDs no longer work.
Year 3: If still unable to contact you for validation, Accounts and IDs are deleted.
** We are also using LastHeard data to help trim this list down.
I have completed the "Squeakie" RF Field Strength Meter.
Herewith a few notes:
This field strength meter is for use on HF and VHF. It has it's limitations in using it on VHF with a handheld putting out 3 - 5 Watt RF power. The more RF Output Power the stronger "Squeaks" you will get.
The ideal cabinet for the meter is either metal or aluminum. I used a 3D printed cabinet which I lined with aluminum tape on the inside to screen the components against stray RF.
Use a decent RX antenna on the RF Field Strength Meter. It will improve sensitivity and range.
I installed a ground wire (purple in colour) that I hold in my hand. I found that the RX is much better with the ground wire making contact with my hand. If you use a metal or aluminum box I still recommend a ground wire as an "earth". Hi Hi!!!
Keep your wires in the box as short as possible to prevent interaction with possible stray RF or Capacitance.
The "Squeak": When the sensitivity control is adjusted right to the edge just before self-oscillation, the circuit achieves maximum sensitivity. A tiny amount of RF causes clicking, and stronger RF drives the 555 timer into a higher-pitched audible squeak or shriek through the speaker.
I used a traditional landline telephone handset speaker (100 to 150 ohms) that actually work better and offer several functional advantages over a standard 8-ohm speaker for this specific circuit. The reason being: 100-to-150-ohm telephone speakers are specifically engineered to be highly sensitive to vocal/mid-range audio using very little electrical power. They will cleanly reproduce the faint, early "clicking" and low-power squeaks at the very edge of the meter's threshold, extending the usable sensitivity of the device.
I will definitely play around with the "Squeakie" when I find the time. It is now onto completing the Passive RF Field Strength Meter and putting it into a cabinet.
I have a few projects that needed cabinets to finalize them. This past Friday I visited several Asian shops in Mossel Bay to find cabinets for these projects. I visited five shops and spend a considerable time searching for suitable cabinets. Sadly I could not even find one cabinet. Well as they say in the classics, DIY is the solution or Homebrew. I serviced my 3D printer on Friday afternoon and fired it up to print two cabinets. The last cabinet was finished on Sunday afternoon around 15h00. Now placing the images here is not to brag about it, but rather to encourage others that cannot find a suitable cabinet to make your own.
One cabinet will be used for the passive RF Field Strength Meter described HERE.
The other cabinet will be used for the "Squeakie" RF Field Strength Meter described HERE
