Ham Radio Workbench Podcast

In this episode, we meet the guys from CSN Technologies, the makers of the S.A.T., the Satellite Antenna Tracker.  This amazing device connects to your radio and alt/az antenna rotor and will automatically track the satellite as it zips across the sky without the need for a computer.  Mike, Keith and Frank are not only smart and knowledgable hams but also a blast to hang out with.  This is a good introduction to the topic of satellite tracking and how their product works.  We also dip into some other cool products they make including the iGateMini, a self-contained APRS device.

In this episode we meet Jason McCormick, N8EI, one of the main developers of the AllStarLink system.  AllStar is a radio-over-IP system that allows repeaters and individuals to connect over the internet.  Jason is one of the core team of 10 develoers who volunteer their time and expertise to craft a fantastic technology that we all can use and enjoy.  AllStar software and the AllStarLink network of linked repeaters allow users to connect all over the world.  Built on the open source Asterisk PBX platform, AllStar has grown into a very capable software tool.

Iin this episode we meet Dave Gilbert, AB7E, the developer of software for diversity reception.  Dave's innovative software helps the listener pull out individual signals from the noise and clutter of busy ham radio bands.  Dave makes his software available for free for anyone to use.  We talk with Dave about the basics of diversity reception and how he went about developing his software.

In this episode we meet Becky Spiceland N4BKY, Mike Spiceland N4FFF and Barb Asuroglu WB2CBA the amateur radio operators behind the Pebble radio project.  The Pebble is a small 20m HF QRP transciever.  Becky and Mike are avid portable radio operators and wanted a low cost radio that would be great for hams doing POTA and SOTA.  They teamed up with Barb, who led the development of the Pebble radio.  Met the team and their journey from an idea to a working radio.

In this episode we meet Drew Glasbrenner, KO4MA, the new president of AMSAT, the amatuer radio satellite organization.  Drew shares his passion for satellite and operating VHF and up.  With over 20 years of experience at AMSAT, Drew became the new President of AMSAT in late 2025.  Drew and his team of volunteers work tirelessly to advocate for amateur radio satellite interests, build and manage satellites and drive technology outreach.  Drew and team is making a big push to recruit young hams and potential hams to our hobby and aerospace technology.