Contester and DX Engineering technical-support specialist Kirk Pickering, K4RO, has published a current installment of Contesting 101 on building a practical workbench and handling basic station troubleshooting. Using a recent lightning-strike repair as context, he argues that operators are better prepared for a contest or field repair when tools, parts, documentation, lighting, and test equipment have an organized home.
The article emphasizes foundational skills rather than a particular radio: static-safe work areas, sound soldering practice, cable making, and knowing how to use a multimeter. Those are useful reminders for AVRC members maintaining an HF station, assembling a kit, or helping newer operators develop confidence with repairs before a problem interrupts on-air activity.
Original source: OnAllBands — “Contesting 101: Building a Workbench & Basic Ham Radio Troubleshooting Techniques”.
Source: OnAllBands / DX Engineering. This post summarizes and links to the original article; no sponsorship or affiliation is implied.
