Tool collection
Propagation & Reference
DX planning, Maidenhead grids, propagation references and band information.
Combine propagation and reference data
Propagation and reference tools answer a different class of amateur-radio question: not simply how large a component should be, but where a signal may travel and how an operator should describe a location or operating condition. The collection includes Maidenhead grid conversion, bearing and distance work, propagation references, radio-horizon estimates, DX path planning and band information. These tools are best used together. A grid locator can establish the endpoints of a path, a bearing calculation can identify the initial beam direction, and propagation information can then help decide whether the chosen band is sensible. None of these calculations can guarantee a contact because ionospheric conditions, terrain, antenna height, interference and operating practice change the real result. Use current observations when they are available and treat model outputs as planning aids. The reference material is deliberately practical: it explains what a number means and where the simplified model stops being reliable.
Tools in this collection
Grid Square
Convert latitude/longitude to Maidenhead grid square and back. Calculate distance and beam headings between two locations.
Propagation
Real-time HF propagation data, solar indices, band conditions and links to PSKReporter, RBN, WSPR and N0NBH widgets.
Radio Horizon
VHF/UHF line-of-sight radio horizon distance from antenna heights.
Dx Path Planner
Plan a great-circle amateur radio path with distance, bearing and sunrise/sunset information.
Band Plan
Clear US and IARU Region 2 HF/VHF band plan overview: frequency limits, common mode segments (CW, SSB, FT8, digital) and licence-class notes. Always verify current FCC rules.
A practical propagation workflow
Propagation planning works best when several small pieces of information are combined. Start by identifying the two operating locations with Maidenhead grids or geographic coordinates. Use the distance and bearing tools to establish the geometry, then consult propagation information to decide which bands and times are worth trying. A radio-horizon estimate is useful for VHF and UHF line-of-sight work, while HF planning needs an understanding of ionospheric behaviour, solar activity and local noise. Band-plan information provides operating guidance, but it is not a substitute for the current rules that apply to your licence and location. These tools intentionally separate geographic calculations from propagation judgement because no simple formula can guarantee a contact. The strongest workflow is therefore calculate first, compare with current observations, operate within the applicable rules, and then record what actually happened. That makes the tools useful for both planning and learning from real contacts.
Keep the geographic and radio parts of the problem separate. A precise bearing does not imply a usable path, and a favourable propagation indicator does not remove the need for correct frequency choice, operating procedure and current band-plan requirements.