Technical deep dives, workshop updates, and reflections on engineering and aviation.
A capable electronics bench bridges analog precision and modern digital analysis. My test bench combines a 500 MHz Tektronix TDS540 4-channel scope, Saleae multi-channel logic analyzer, PicoScope PC scope, RigExpert & NanoVNA RF analyzers, a linear Heathkit triple DC power supply, and a high-impedance Heathkit VTVM meter for tube alignment and RF diagnostics.
View Test Bench Instrumentation PageWhen tolerances demand sub-thou precision that 3D printers cannot reach, miniature machine tools step in. Using Sherline micro-lathes configured with 3-jaw and 4-jaw independent scroll chucks, compound slides, and vertical milling column attachments, I manufacture custom engine bushings, landing gear pivots, and RF brass feedthrough adapters for model aviation and ham radio hardware.
View Sherline Lathes PageAdditive manufacturing is a core tool in my mechanical and electronic prototyping workflow. Utilizing an upgraded Creality Ender 3 configured with an OctoPrint server for real-time web monitoring and automated timelapse captures, I create custom functional components. Designs are authored in cloud-native Onshape for parametric mechanical assemblies and OpenSCAD for programmatic, code-driven enclosures. Check out my public Onshape CAD workspace and Thingiverse design repository below.
Competing in the largest competitive road cycling series in the U.S. requires more than just fitness—it's a study in aerodynamics, tactical geometry, and mechanical efficiency. This season's focus has been on optimizing power transfer and cornering lines across the various technical criterium circuits that make Wisconsin a premier cycling destination.
Race AnalysisReflecting on the legendary International Cycling Classic (Superweek). For decades, these 17+ consecutive days of racing defined the Wisconsin summer. Looking back at the gear of the era—steel frames, downtube shifters, and the pure grit required to endure one of the most grueling series in the world of amateur and pro cycling.
View ArchiveManaging wire in the field can be a headache. I've developed the "Digitenna Spool"—a custom-designed, high-impact spooling system specifically for portable digital mode antennas. It allows for rapid deployment and tangle-free retrieval, making it the perfect companion for field days and portable operations.
Technical SpecsParks on the Air (POTA) requires gear that is both efficient and lightweight. The "POTA Performer" is my latest antenna build—a multi-band vertical designed for maximum gain with a minimal footprint. Initial tests in local Wisconsin state parks have shown excellent SWR across 20m and 40m with very quick setup times.
Field Test ResultsExploring the potential of LoRa-based mesh networking with Meshtastic. I've been deploying nodes across Southeast Wisconsin to build a resilient, off-grid communication net. Focus has been on solar-powered mountain-top nodes and mobile repeaters to expand coverage across the Kettle Moraine area.
Network MapThe FM38 system remains a cornerstone of local ham radio infrastructure. Recent work has focused on hardware reliability upgrades and power supply redundancy at our primary sites. Maintaining these systems ensures that our community has dependable wide-area coverage for both daily use and emergency coordination.
System StatusThere is something fundamentally different about the sound of a radial engine. It’s not just noise; it’s a rhythmic, mechanical heartbeat that speaks to a different era of engineering. This week, I spent time at the museum looking at the maintenance logs for our vintage biplane...
Continue ReadingAs we prepare for this year's KidVenture, I've been refining the "Eagle One" electronic flight timer. The goal was to simplify the interface for younger students while increasing the reliability of the control-line cutoff mechanism. Using a new PCB layout designed in KiCad...
Continue ReadingSpring in Wisconsin is the perfect time for antenna experimentation. I've been working on a new multi-band wire antenna for the HF bands, focusing on minimizing ground losses in our specific soil conditions. The results on 20 meters have been promising so far...
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