Society Presentations and Radio Knowledge!!

Welcome to the HADARS SPARK Archive

Your Hub for Society Presentations and Radio Knowledge

Explore the complete collection of HADARS SPARK—a growing library of engaging lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and expertly crafted resources. This is where the past, present, and future of amateur radio come together to inspire enthusiasts of all levels.

Each entry in the series is designed to ignite curiosity and expand your knowledge, featuring:

  • Videos of lectures and demonstrations
  • Downloadable presentations and guides
  • Links to products, tools, and additional resources

Whether you’re revisiting a favourite topic or discovering something new, HADARS SPARK is here to fuel your journey in amateur radio.

Check out our latest entries below and dive into a world of radio expertise and innovation.

The NanoVNA Revisited

The NanoVNA is a compact, cost-effective Vector Network Analyser (VNA) that has become an essential tool for amateur radio enthusiasts. In The NanoVNA Revisited, Hardy (G4HWB) provided a practical guide to using this versatile device for antenna tuning, filter design, and transmission line analysis.

The talk covered:

  • How the NanoVNA works – from generating RF signals to analysing reflected and transmitted waveforms.
  • Practical applications – including SWR measurement, return loss, and line loss testing.
  • Calibration essentials – ensuring accurate results by calibrating correctly at the measurement point.
  • Smith Chart basics – a simplified guide to understanding impedance plots.
  • Common limitations – including harmonics, parasitics, and power considerations.

Whether you’re fine-tuning an antenna or exploring more advanced RF analysis, the NanoVNA is a powerful tool that fits in your pocket. The full presentation  & videois available here.

Soldering School!

Our latest HADARS Club Night featured Soldering School, a hands-on session led by Max, G4SDX. Using the presentation as a guide, members explored the fundamentals of soldering, from selecting the right iron to mastering proper technique. Whether trying their hand at soldering for the first time or refining their skills, attendees had the chance to put theory into practice with expert guidance.

It was a fantastic evening of learning, sharing tips, and developing practical skills that are invaluable in amateur radio and electronics projects.

To help you revisit what we covered, we’ve put together a collection of resources: