wereboar

Posts about working with and repairing old technology, with the random ramble about nonsense.

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Last Notes

2026-06-02 11:00:00 UTC

The EICO 145 Signal tracer is ready for testing. Does it work? Check that out on projects: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/21/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-8-and-were-done/

2026-05-11 10:06:48 UTC

A funny thing happened while checking my work on the EICO 145 Signal Tracer rebuild. Seems I forgot some things!
Check out what I found on my project page: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/20/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-7-on-the-importance-of-checking-your-work/

2026-05-05 09:23:45 UTC

The EICO 145 rebuild is done, now it's time to check my work. Yeah, always check your work before proceeding.
Always.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/16/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-6e-the-rebuild-is-done/

2026-03-23 11:17:05 UTC

The rebuild continues on the EICO 145 signal tracer with more work in the power supply. I'm not really concerned with part layout here because there's no reducing the hum this thing has - so new things go where they fit. Check out part 6b of the rebuild series on my project page: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/09/29/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-6b-continuing-the-power-supply/

2026-03-17 11:40:31 UTC

It's time to start the rebuild on the EICO 145 Signal Tracer. I'm going to do this in stages to clean up some of the previous owner's mess...this part starts with the power supply. Check it out on my project page: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/09/21/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-6a-starting-the-rebuild/
(Projects is running a little slow for some reason, troubleshooting it now.)

2026-03-09 10:34:33 UTC

I was curious as to the condition of the parts removed from the EICO 145 Signal Tracer that's currently on my bench. They're not as bad off as I thought they were, but heating them up to remove them may have driven them back towards compliance. Check out what I found on my project page: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/09/20/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-component-notes/

2026-03-06 18:58:27 UTC

If you want to follow what’s going on on Projects From the Bottom Drawer, there’s now a telegram channel. It will generally follow the blog, with perhaps a few more messages about events here and there, as well as pictures of things I see while out and about that could be of interest to the channel but don’t warrant a full post. The chat group for this channel is enabled as well, feel free to drop me a line or discuss what you see on the feed.
Check it out: https://t.me/wereboarprojects

2026-03-02 13:42:03 UTC

In part 5 of the EICO 145 Signal Tracer rebuild, we take all of the old parts out so the new parts can be installed. There's surprisingly little inside this unit, but almost all of that needs to go.
Check out the removal process on my project page: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/09/15/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-5/

2026-02-23 12:19:33 UTC

The big event of the year for me is always the Dayton Hamvention. Now happening at the Xenia, Ohio Expo Center / Fairgrounds (HARA Arena is no more,) this 3-day show is both a large flea market and a huge venue where manufacturers present their new radios and other gadgets.
Tickets are currently $26, and can be mail-ordered via the event's webpage. Prices go up to $30 in a week, but that's still well worth the admission price as it's for all three days.
See you there!
https://hamvention.org/purchase-tickets/

2026-02-23 12:15:19 UTC

It's been a while since I've talked about this device - the EICO 145 Signal Tracer sees some basic cleanup with this part. Since the chassis is removed, there's no reason not to wash down the case and drop all the small parts into an ultrasonic bath. Check out this small but important step on my project page:
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/04/29/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-4/

2026-02-09 11:00:21 UTC

Not everything I pick up at hamfests makes it into repair, some items are just curiosities...this Sencore PS120 scope, for example. A rusty, crusty device that's had almost every capacitor in it replaced, it refused to sweep - or even move the trace on the screen. Seeing as how I don't really have much use for it, it gets passed on to someone else. The CRT is probably more valuable than the assembly, hopefully someone can use it.
Check out this device on my project page: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2026/01/07/checking-out-some-recent-acquisitions-2-sencore-ps120-oscilloscope/

2026-02-02 01:33:12 UTC

I picked up a new Connect ZBT-2 for my Home Assistant system.
It took some doing to get both it, and my first matter device attached to the system. As usual, Home Assistant is very poor in letting you know what it needs to complete an action, and I had to turn on some things that were otherwise disabled.
A week later, the matter device has vanished from the network and refuses to reconnect. After doing some reading on the subject, the entire ecosystem seems to be a mess...check out what I've found on my project page:
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2026/01/30/adding-a-new-zbt-2-and-matter-devices-to-my-home-assistant-install-and-the-fun-thereof/

2026-01-28 12:00:04 UTC

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Well, that image didn't work, did it?

2026-01-28 11:59:30 UTC

I've picked up a lot of equipment at hamfests over the last few years, and it's time to start taking a look at it to make determinations as to where it's going - repair, teardown, or goodbye.
This post is the first in a series of checking out some old equipment for operation and just general "what is it."
See what I found at: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2026/01/06/checking-out-some-recent-acquisitions-1/
<img src="https://wereboar.com/projects/fp-content/images/checkout/chk01-si76f-wereboar.jpg" alt="A signal tracer/RC bridge">

2026-01-27 20:32:20 UTC

Photos from the 2025 Fort Wayne, Indiana Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/11/17/photos-from-the-2025-fort-wayne-hamfest/
The Fort Wayne hamfest has been a staple on my plate for a while now, being far enough away from home territory that "all the usual suspects" don't show up with the same wares. This year, as last, however, the show seems smaller. Regardless, there were still many things to see. Check my photos of the event at the link above.

2025-11-17 16:31:33 UTC

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The Scott Antique Market - November 29th and 30th, 2025.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/11/17/the-scott-antique-market-november-29th-and-30th-2025/
The Scott Antique Market is happening Thanksgiving weekend. Not a hamfest, but enough electrical goodies show up there to make it worthwhile, and it's fun to look at (and wonder WTF they were thinking) a lot of the other items that appear. The event is free, but the venue does charge a parking fee. See you there!
Scott Antique Market
Ohio Expo Center
717 East 17th Street
Columbus, Ohio 43211
Saturday November 29th: 9AM - 6PM
Sunday November 30th: 10AM - 4PM

2025-11-17 10:54:44 UTC

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An Eico 145 Signal Tracer - Part 4
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/04/29/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-4/
Part 4 of this series is just some basic cleanup on the unit. It's torn apart, we may as well toss all the handles and knobs in the cleaner.
I'm not going to do a full restore on the cabinet, there's no need - I like the "I've seen stuff" look. Check it out on my project page.

2025-11-13 17:49:49 UTC

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My 2026 Hamfest and Show List
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/11/13/my-2026-hamfest-and-show-list/
With 2025 coming to a close, I find myself thinking about each show I attended this past year, and which ones I want to go back to. While the first answer is “all of them!” - I think I’m going to cut back some this year. The smaller shows are cool, but I started seeing the same vendors and the same items over and over. This will give things a chance to cycle through.
So - instead of 15 hamfests, I think I’ll probably drop back to 8 or so. There may be a few others in there - Athens, OH and Clearfield, PA, but those will depend primarily on “if I feel like it,” and perhaps Fort Wayne if 2025’s show turns out better than 2024.
Check the link for what I'm attending this year.

2025-11-13 17:48:48 UTC

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Photos from the 2025 MARC Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/11/12/photos-from-the-2025-marc-hamfest/
This show, held at the MAPS facility in North Canton, Ohio, seems to have “the stuff we want” - piles of radios, tables of things, and generally a good selection set up the way you remember shows being. This year was no different, and - while the show itself is of moderate size, they sold out every table. The museum exhibits that you can view while at the show are kind of cool, too.
I didn’t pick up much at this show, some parts and a book, but there were a lot of things I would have liked to have. They have to stay where they are, however - I have enough projects for now!
Check out the link for what I saw at the show.

2025-11-13 17:47:36 UTC

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The Fort Wayne Indiana hamfest - November 15th and 16th
https://www.acarts.com/hfmain.htm
The Fort Wayne, IN hamfest is happening this weekend.
This is a show I’ve been attending for some time. Last year was, unfortunately, a lot smaller than normal. Not sure what was going on there, but I’m waiting to see how this year’s show goes before I make plans to attend in 2026.
Fort Wayne Hamfest
Allen Country War Memorial Coliseum
4000 Parnell Ave
Fort Wayne, IN 46805
November 15 16
Opens 9AM
Admission is $10, the venue charges $8 to park.
See you there!

2025-10-27 11:22:18 UTC

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An Eico 145 Signal Tracer - Part 3
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/04/21/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-3/
It's time to order parts for the Eico 145 Signal Tracer.
The benefit of modern parts is that, in general, much better parts are available for low cost. Everything from higher voltages to tighter tolerances are available at a cost that the original builders could only dream of. That doesn't mean you need to go completely nuts, but there's no reason not to pick good stuff.
Check out my parts selections and critique of those parts in this post on the Eico 145's rebuild process.

2025-10-27 11:08:58 UTC

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HAMFest 2025 by MARC
https://mapsairmuseum.org/events/hamfest-2025/
There's a hamfest happening at the Military Air Preservation Museum hanger in North Canton, Ohio this weekend. This was good local show last year, and the included museum admission was quite the bonus. If you're in the area, it's well worth the time to visit.

2025-10-22 15:42:48 UTC

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Photos from The Early Television Museum 2025 Fall Swap Meet
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/10/19/photos-from-the-early-television-museum-2025-fall-swap-meet/
The Early Television Museum's fall swap meet happened this past weekend. I was quite pleased with the targeted vendor turnout - a lot of (surprise!) Antique television stuff with a bit of #hamfest gear, and none of the tat you normally see these days at shows. The museum itself was also an electronic wonderland and I highly recommend it if you're in the area! Check out my photos of the event on my project page.

2025-10-15 14:31:51 UTC

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Early Television Museum Fall 2025 Swapmeet - Hilliard, OH
https://www.earlytelevision.org/2025_swapmeet.html
The Early Television Museum in Hilliard, OH has a fall swap meet happening this weekend - Saturday, October 18th from 10A - 2P.
I've never been to this, but I've been wanting to visit the museum. A good opportunity to do one last show outside and visit a local attraction I've wanted to see for some time.
See you there!
The Early Television Museum
5396 Franklin Street
Hilliard OH
Saturday, October 18th, 10AM - 2PM
Free admission to the swap meet for customers and vendors, bring your own table.

2025-10-13 14:05:16 UTC

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An Eico 145 Signal Tracer - Part 2
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/04/07/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-2/
I've decided to give the front panel parts of the Eico 145 Signal Tracer a bath before proceeding. While not terribly exciting, it does make things nicer in the end - and since they're off, why not?

2025-10-08 11:32:02 UTC

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An Eico 145 Signal Tracer - Part 1
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/03/24/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-1/
I’ve decided to give this Eico 145 tracer a new lease on life and put it into service on my test bench - but to do so will require replacing the bad parts. Which ones? Pretty much all of the passives aren’t any good at this point. The device itself isn’t the cleanest example of it’s kind, with lots of battle scars. Paint and rust decorate the front panel and chassis, and input jacks have been added to the front.
This part is a "What needs to be done to bring this back to life for the next 50 years" post. Check it out on my project page.

2025-09-29 10:48:24 UTC

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An Eico 145 Signal Tracer - Part 0
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/03/17/an-eico-145-signal-tracer-part-0/
Next up is an Eico Model 145 signal tracer. This device, one of many types made during the 1950s-1970s, is a simple replacement amplifier for use in troubleshooting devices. You can follow a signal through a unit, listening to that signal for distortion - or disappearance. They varied from simple amps like this unit, to complex devices that offered ways to substitute output transformers and other circuit components.
The Eico 145, as mentioned, is a simple amp unit, and as such, is an easy rebuild. This first part of the rebuild series is an executive summary look at the inside of the unit and some general musings on what needs to be done. We dive into the unit later, going from old, to stripped, to new over the course of the series. Check it out on my project page, and stay tuned for some more hamfest pictures!

2025-09-24 15:44:40 UTC

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The Cleveland Hamfest - Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea, OH - Sunday September 28th
https://www.hac.org/
There's a hamfest happening in Cleveland this weekend. I went to this one for the first time last year, and came away impressed with the size and number of vendors.
It's certainly worth your time if you're in the area, so check it out!
The Cleveland Hamfest and Computer Show
Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Eastland Entrance
160 Eastland Rd
Berea, OH 44107
September 28
8A - 12P
https://www.hac.org/

2025-09-24 15:37:43 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 11 - Wrapup and final thoughts.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/04/22/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-11-wrapup-and-final-thoughts/
The Heathkit AF-1 is completed and working. There's not a whole lot to say about this rebuild, but I've put down a few thoughts as well as created a list of all parts of the story.
Check it out on my project page.

2025-09-16 11:54:54 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 10 - Final assembly and test.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/04/10/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-10-final-assembly-and-test/
All of the parts in the Heathkit AF-1 - including potentiometers - have been replaced. Now it's time to see how well the device works.
Does it work? Yes....
We're right back to that magical "it works for a given value of it works."

2025-09-08 11:26:19 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 9 - Testing the rebuild.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/03/26/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-9-testing-the-rebuild/
Now that the Heathkit AF-1 has been mostly rebuilt, it's time to do a little testing. Check that out on my project page.

2025-08-25 10:28:29 UTC

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Photos from the 2025 Cincinnati Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/08/13/photos-from-the-2025-cincinnati-hamfest/
This was the first time I attended the Cincinnati #hamfest. It was a fairly small show with a single (long) aisle of vendors and some more in a building. Still, there was plenty to see and I took home some small items. Check out what was there on my project page.

2025-08-18 17:24:36 UTC

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Photos from the 2025 Columbus Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/08/04/photos-from-the-2025-columbus-hamfest/
The #hamfest in Columbus, Ohio is always a surprisingly good one. Other than the few years that it threatened rain, it’s always presented a very good selection of things to see, and a lot of vendors. This year was no different. Prices at this show were what I would consider more reasonable, so it was easy to spend a few bucks. Check out what I saw on my project page.

2025-08-11 11:32:17 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 8 - Rebuilding the rest of it.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/03/25/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-8-rebuilding-the-rest-of-it/
There's not a whole lot more to replace in the Heathkit AF-1, so let's just go ahead and do it.

2025-08-04 11:03:54 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 7 - Rebuilding the filter.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/03/25/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-7-rebuilding-the-filter/
Now that the power supply is working, it's time to start rebuilding the rest of the Heathkit AF-1. I'm going to start with the filter section, since that's the main workhorse portion of the device. Check that out on my project page.

2025-07-28 10:07:31 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 6b - Testing the power supply.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/03/25/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-6b-testing-the-power-supply/
After rebuilding the power supply, it's time to test it before moving on. Check out the results on my project page.

2025-07-22 15:49:53 UTC

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The Shriners (Columbus) Hamfest is August 2nd 2025
https://aladdinshrine.org/hamfest/
This is a small show, about an hour or two of browsing everything twice - but it's always been decent. It's well worth the trip if you're in the Columbus, Ohio area. I'll have pictures from the show when it's over - stay tuned!

2025-07-22 15:45:30 UTC

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Rebuilding the power supply on the Heathkit AF-1
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/03/03/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-6-the-power-supply/
The first thing to do with any rebuild is check the power supply. On the Heathkit unit, the supply is most certainly bad.
This post sees us rebuilding that section of the device so we can do some basic checks on the rest of the unit. Check it out on my project page.

2025-07-14 10:03:12 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 5 - A different approach.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/02/19/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-5-a-different-approach/
Instead of just going in and rebuilding the entire Heathkit AF-1, I'm going to do some testing along the way.
First up is the power supply. I know what's wrong with that, so it's an easy fix...
Check it out on my project page.

2025-07-07 19:36:02 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Intermission.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/28/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-intermission/
One of the things I’ve been considering with the Heathkit AF-1 I have on the bench right now is the potentiometers. The originals were 200Ω wirewound rheostats, but the original owner of the device replaced some with 5kΩ carbons.
I've identified some new potentiometers for this unit, and I'm going to have to stay with what the original builder used. Check it out on my project page.

2025-06-30 10:09:40 UTC

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Stuff I brought home from hamfests
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/06/23/some-interesting-items-i-brought-home-from-hamfests-this-year/
One last hamfest post before summer.
I brought home a couple of interesting things this year, a few of which may be the subject of their own posts later on. Check out my pictures on my project page.

2025-06-23 11:40:40 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 4 - Parts.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/16/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-4-parts/
Now that the shows are over for a few months, it's time to get back to the bench.
The Heathkit AF-1 is waiting for parts, and it's time to identify them. I've come up with a list of things that this unit will need - which is basically everything!
Check out the list on my project page.

2025-06-16 12:30:15 UTC

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Photos from the 2025 Breezeshooters Hamfest.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/06/08/photos-from-the-2025-breezeshooters-hamfest/
The Breezeshooters hamfest date promised rain - and it delivered. We got about an hour wandering around the show ground. There were substantially less vendors outside, probably because of that same threat of rain. Regardless, there was still some good stuff to see and we hightailed it out just as it started to pour.
Check out my photos of the event on my project page.

2025-06-09 16:22:49 UTC

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Saturday’s photos from the 2025 Dayton Hamvention.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/05/19/saturdays-photos-from-the-2025-dayton-hamvention/
Saturday turned out to be a sunny, cool, and quite breezy day at the show. It looked like a few vendors left, and a few new ones showed up with stuff being unpacked throughout the day.
We took a second tour of the flea market and looked inside one of the exhibit halls - things were just too packed in there to worry about.
Check out Saturday's Hamvention pictures at the link.

2025-06-02 14:37:27 UTC

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Friday’s photos from the 2025 Dayton Hamvention.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/05/19/fridays-photos-from-the-2025-dayton-hamvention/
Friday started out to be a nice day, quickly turned angry looking, and remained there for the rest of the day. It was threatening rain, but that all went to the south of the show during the day, and we had a relatively cool, slightly breezy afternoon for browsing the aisles.
This year was more of a “ham radio” year than previous. Yes, this is a radio show, but a lot more rigs and things seemed to show up. One of the vendors stated “Yes, that’s because everyone is dying,” and the older crowd we observed (myself included) seemed to indicate that more of the same would be happening. That’s probably where my stuff will end up in 30 years…
There was still a lot of good stuff to see, although I didn’t find what I was looking for. I did manage to drag a few things home, and overall had a good time.

2025-05-27 12:11:15 UTC

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Photo(s) from the 2025 SVARC Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/05/24/photos-from-the-2025-svarc-hamfest/
The SVARC hamfest in Piketon was small, as expected. This year was more radio gear and a lot of flea market junk. Other than some parts, I didn't bring anything home with me and didn't see much that I thought needed a photo.
You can check out what I did find (not much!) on my project page.

2025-05-21 11:57:08 UTC

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The 2025 Breezeshooters Hamfest - June 8th 2025
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/05/21/the-2025-breezeshooters-hamfest-june-8th-2025/
This is a decent size local show that happens in Butler, PA at the Butler Farm Show event ground. I can usually spend 2-3 hours here, as they have several outdoor and indoor market spaces set up. It’s worth the trip if you’re in the surrounding area.
This is usually one of the first “Dayton Items without the Dayton Prices” shows that I’ll attend. See you there!
Breezeshooters Hamfest
Butler, PA
Butler Farm Show (Kind of a fairgrounds thing)
625 Evans City Rd
Butler, PA 16001
June 8
8A - 2PM
https://breezeshooters.org/ns/hamfest/

2025-05-21 11:56:20 UTC

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The 2025 Scioto Valley Amateur Radio Club Hamfest - May 24th 2025
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/05/14/the-2025-scioto-valley-amateur-radio-club-hamfest-may-24th-2025/
There's a hamfest happening in Piketon, OH at the Pike County Fairgrounds - in case you didn't get enough junk at Dayton. I've been to this show a few times, it usually has something to offer. If you're in the area, check it out.
Scioto Valley Amateur Radio Club Hamfest
Saturday May 24th
Pike County Fairgrounds
311 Mill Street
Piketon, OH 45661
8A - Noonish
https://www.arrl.org/hamfests/scioto-valley-amateur-radio-club-hamfest-3

2025-05-19 15:02:53 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 3 - Schematic Corrections.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/14/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-3-schematic-corrections/
During my rebuild of the Heathkit AF-1, I noticed that the schematic you find online and the unit itself differ. Part 3 is me spending some time correcting the schematic - the first of a couple revisions. Check out what differed on my project page.

2025-05-12 11:37:24 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 2 - Testing.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/02/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-2-testing/
The first step in any rework is to look it over and see what does and does not work. While the Heathkit AF-1 I have on the bench is (sort of kind of) operational, it's going to need some new filters before it even gets to the diagnoses stage. Check it out on my project page.

2025-05-09 11:30:27 UTC

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The Dayton Hamvention is happening in a week.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/05/09/the-dayton-hamvention-is-happening-in-a-week/
Break open mister piggy because it’s almost time for the Dayton Hamvention. You still have time to get tickets at a discount rate, but they’re being held will-call at the ticket booth on site.
Times are:
Friday, May 16th - 9A to 5P <--- Probably the best day to go.
Saturday, May 17th - 9A to 5P
Sunday, May 18th - 9A to 1P <--- Vendors leave, but some have free stuff!
I'll have pictures posted as soon as I can get them processed - probably the following week.
Tickets can be purchased online at: https://hamvention.org/purchase-tickets/
See you there!

2025-05-05 10:22:41 UTC

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Photos from the ACARA Hamfest in Athens, Ohio
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/04/28/photos-from-the-2025-acara-hamfest/
The second show was the ACARA Hamfest in Athens, OH. Somewhat larger that the previous show, this one was a nice sized local and had more of what I wanted to see. Check out my photos of this event on my project page.
Dayton is in two weeks, and I'll have photos from all three days. See you there!

2025-04-28 13:14:21 UTC

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Photos from the 2025 TUSCO Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/04/28/photos-from-the-2025-tusco-hamfest/
There were two shows from this past weekend, the first of which was the small TUSCO hamfest in Dover, OH. Even though this was small, I still managed to find a few goodies. Check out my photos of the event on my project page.

2025-04-20 14:10:02 UTC

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The Heatkit AF-1 Analog Frequency Meter, Part 1.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/02/the-heatkit-af-1-analog-frequency-meter-part-1/
Next up is this somewhat unique frequency meter (not counter!) from Heathkit. Kind of a stopgap measure between no device and digital devices, this (and it's HP big brother) lasted a few years before vanishing. They're somewhat rare, as they were pretty much put out with yesterday's newspaper when digital devices appeared on the market.
This one is in good physical condition, but needs a full electrical rework. Check out part one on my project page.

2025-04-14 10:47:00 UTC

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Photos from the 69th annual CFARC Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/04/09/photos-from-the-69th-annual-cfarc-hamfest/
The 69th Annual CFARC #Hamfest happened on Saturday, April 5th. This has been a well-attended event for as long as I've been going, and this year was no different. The venue had opened up a little more space and added some seating for tired feet, and there was plenty to see.
Prices seem to be creeping up a little, and people weren't as willing to deal. Regardless, there was plenty I wanted to take home (but had to leave there!)

2025-04-07 11:39:29 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator - Wrapup, set-up, and final thoughts.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/11/11/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-wrapup-set-up-and-final-thoughts/
The signal generator is working (although it will continue to need some love now and then) so it's time for the wrapup post. I've tried to write a simple cal procedure for the unit as well, all of that is included in the link.

2025-04-02 11:36:28 UTC

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The 69th annual CFARC Hamfest is this weekend.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/04/02/the-69th-annual-cfarc-hamfest-is-this-weekend/
This Saturday marks the sixty-ninth (yes that's written out on all promo material for the obvious reason) Cuyahoga Falls Amateur Radio Club Hamfest.
Located in the Emidio & Sons Party Center at 48 East Bath Road, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, this show has always been pleasantly surprising in the stuff that shows up for sale. It even includes a well stocked "pay what you want" table where people can leave donations and, of course, pay what they want!
If you're into this kind of thing, and are close by, this is a good show to attend. It's Saturday, April 5th, from 8AM to about 1PM, and admission is $8. Assuming nothing gets in the way, I'll have plenty of pictures for you soon.
https://www.cfarc-hamfest.org/hamfest.php

2025-04-01 14:11:35 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 7 - I think we’re done…
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/11/05/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-7-i-think-were-done/
It's all back together and it's time to check it out. Everything seems to work well, so the next post in this series will be the last - a wrapup and final thoughts is on the way.

2025-03-24 16:11:03 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 6 - We’re back up and running.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/11/05/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-6-were-back-up-and-running/
After replacing the (surprising) failed component, we're back up and running with the Heathkit IG-72. Check that out on my project page.

2025-03-17 10:01:29 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 5 - We’re not done yet.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/29/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-5-were-not-done-yet/
Never say done when you're working with old equipment - something that this piece reminded me of. There are further issues that will need to be addressed before putting this into service, and one of those issues is quite unusual.

2025-03-10 16:45:26 UTC

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What do you mean by bridges?

2025-03-10 16:44:43 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 4 - Final - No need for repairs.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/28/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-4-final-no-need-for-repairs/
Final, or so I thought. While the Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator worked a treat, there was a little surprise laying in wait here. It's not something you normally think of as being defective - but when you're working with old stuff, you have to consider all things suspect. Check out what I found on my project page.

2025-03-04 12:53:24 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 3 - Do I need parts?
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/26/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-3-do-i-need-parts/
The device seems to work ok...do I really need any parts?
Some basic checks seem to say "no." (foreshadowing)

2025-02-28 12:48:20 UTC

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A new documents library home at wereboar.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/02/27/a-new-documents-library-home-here-at-wereboar/
I've been looking for a way to present the documents that I find and use on my project page without simply tossing them into an Apache2 file list page. Some sort of directory listing program would be useful.
I tried a number of them, many don't work well on shared hosts because they're more of a docker thing than just a simple script - but one stood out. Aptly named "Directory Lister" - it does nothing more than presents your file list on a page that flows with screen size, and looks good to boot. There's no upload capability, no passwords - just files.
To that end, I've installed a copy of that on wereboar and have all of the documents - schematics, pictures, manuals, etc. - that I am allowed to present to you available. Some are still held to copyright so I'm not going to post those (if I know about the copyright,) others were purchased items and I ask that you purchase them as well to support the vendor.
Most of the files are PDF, some are of other types. All have been zipped to allow for ease of download. Beyond that - feel free to browse and download as much (or as little!) as you'd like.

2025-02-17 17:11:40 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 2 - Suspicions.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/25/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-2-suspicions/
I had some suspicions about what could be wrong with the signal generator I picked up. Turned out, I was wrong! Read about that on my project page.

2025-02-04 18:12:37 UTC

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A Simpson 715 AC VTVM
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/02/04/a-simpson-715-ac-vtvm/
I was given this Simpson 715 AC VTVM in a box of junk. When I took a look at it, it seemed like it would be somewhat difficult to repair, but I found that it had something unusual about it. Check that out on my project page.

2025-01-31 12:56:25 UTC

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A Heathkit EK-1 multimeter
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/31/the-heathkit-ek-1-multimeter/
I've wanted one of these little meters for a while now, and finally found a good example. What is it? Check it out on my project page.

2025-01-28 00:13:31 UTC

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A Heathkit IG-72 Signal Generator Part 1 - Observations.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/10/23/a-heathkit-ig-72-signal-generator-part-1-observations/
I picked up a nice example of a Heathkit IG-72 audio (sine) generator at a small hamfest in Piketon, Ohio. It seemed to need relatively minimal repair to get it back in operation. This is part 1 of a series, it's observations and basic checks on the instrument to see how it's working before deciding if any repairs are needed.

2025-01-22 13:11:29 UTC

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I don't have a problem, I swear.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/22/what-do-you-mean-i-have-a-problem/
Well, maybe I could let some of this old equipment go.

2025-01-20 12:05:31 UTC

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Pictures from the SCARF 2025 Hamfest
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/20/the-scarf-2025-hamfest-in-shade-ohio/
The SCARF 2025 Hamfest in Shade, OH happened this past Sunday. It was a snowy day, and that probably kept a few people away, but it was still a nice, cozy show. I didn't take many pictures due to the size, but you can view them on my project page.

2025-01-13 18:40:01 UTC

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The Phaostron 666 Multimeter from 1958.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/09/09/the-phaostron-666-multimeter-from-1958/
I was given this multimeter by a retiring co-worker. While it's not of much use today, the overall look at the fact the thing is built like a tank really made appreciate the thing. Check it out on my project page.

2025-01-11 14:29:53 UTC

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A PlayTape unit
https://pic8.co/a/cb5b1442-3a18-455b-a9ce-5ae2f2fd853a/
I ran across this unusual tape player in an antique store. It was kind-of-not-really a competing format to the 8-track. It was quite popular for a short time, gaining about 3000 titles and a major auto manufacturer before 8-track and cassette took over.
Kind of a neat piece, if it wasn't so hard to find tapes it might be a neat device to have.

2025-01-11 02:00:20 UTC

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Replacing the battery in a Kaypro 2X
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2022/03/23/just-because-it-fits-doesnt-mean-it-will-work/
Some time ago I tried to replace the battery in an old computer's real-time clock circuit. While I was able to get the appropriate battery, I wasn't able to get the machine to work properly with it installed. Not sure why, so I pulled it out until I could troubleshoot further. I didn't get around to it, but the machine worked fine without it. The RTC was more of a novelty in this machine. I wrote a post about it with pictures, check it out at the link.

2025-01-09 14:23:36 UTC

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An Unknown 2-dial TRF radio: Identifying things inside.
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2025/01/09/an-unknown-2-dial-trf-radio-part-2-identifying-things-inside/
I picked up an unknown 4 tube, 2 dial TRF coffin set at a show in November. It was next to nothing, I couldn't pass it up.
The previous owner had it stored, so I had no idea where the tubes went. However, I've since been able to identify what kind of circuit it is, and where things should go. Read what I've discovered on my project page.

2025-01-08 12:35:23 UTC

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It’s that time of year - get your Dayton Hamvention tickets early!
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/12/28/its-that-time-of-year-get-your-dayton-hamvention-tickets-early/
Tickets for the Dayton Hamvention are currently on sale at the early boar price of $26 - this is good until March 1st, at which point they’ll go to the normal $30.
You can order online for convenience, and doing so now allows plenty of time for the postal service to deliver them to you - especially if you’re not in the USA.
See you there!
Tickets: https://hamvention.org/purchase-tickets/

2025-01-08 12:33:07 UTC

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The Aerovox Model 97 LC-Checker
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/11/02/the-aerovox-model-97-lc-checker/
This interesting piece came from the 2024 Cleveland Hamfest for $5. The vendor was selling an estate - that seems to be happening a lot lately - and was just looking to return some cash to the estate itself. He knew nothing about the unit, but I took a chance and picked it up.
Aerovox, of course, is a name you’ll probably see on capacitors in older devices. The name Aerovox is still out there, but it seems to be more of an industrial player instead of a consumer devices company.
I'm going to pass this unit on to a friend, but I took a lot of pictures beforehand. You can view those at the link in this post.

2025-01-08 12:29:05 UTC

If you're into old tech, one of the things you need to be aware of is some things were built from kits and may not be of the best quality. This is something to keep in mind when buying sight unseen from places like eBay. There are a lot of "desirable" devices such as pretty much anything with an eye tube - but test equipment of this nature was often wired by the purchaser.
For example, I recently picked up an Olson C-R Analyzer (Capacitor Checker) from a hamfest for $20. It was in physically good condition, but I could open it and saw that it was wired so poorly, it's amazing that it worked. It took a lot of time and wire and some new parts to make this device work again without fear of fire.
I see these same devices on eBay for well over $100 because they're desirable in that they have a meter for leakage testing, and an eye tube for measurements. They look cool, so people price them accordingly. Had I purchased this device for over $100, I'd be very upset that it was in such poor condition, and had tried to use it long term, I could have wound up with some damage to property or myself.
What's the moral of the story? Know what you're buying - especially when it comes to old stuff. If you can't see the inside and you suspect it's a kit build, stay away unless you absolutely need it.
I wrote some posts about this very thing and my adventures in making one work, you can check that out here: https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/12/28/an-olson-te-189-c-r-analyzer-does-it-work-and-final-thoughts/

2025-01-07 17:49:37 UTC

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The Sunday Creek Hamfest
https://www.qrz.com/db/KC8AAV
This is a small but cozy hamfest in Southeastern Ohio, about 90 minutes below Columbus. If you're in the area and like this sort of thing, check it out.
I attended this last year for the first time, and found it to have some good deals and interesting things to see.

2025-01-07 17:39:47 UTC

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The community banner
https://wereboar.com/projects/index.php/2024/09/19/the-mcmurdo-silver-sparx-model-905-signal-tracer-photos/
The banner is the magic inside of a McMurdo-Silver "Sparx" 905 signal tracer. All of the tubes are lit.
This was an antique store find, and was a pretty decent deal in my opinion.

2025-01-07 17:28:41 UTC

Hi everyone. I'm Bryan. I like to talk about old electronics and hamfests and the like, from a hobbyist point of view. Most of my stuff ends up on https://wereboar.com/projects, but sometimes I find a one-off something that doesn't need a story - just a "hey, this is pretty cool."