{"id":2214,"date":"2026-09-13T17:04:00","date_gmt":"2026-09-13T05:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/?page_id=2214"},"modified":"2026-09-14T16:40:46","modified_gmt":"2026-09-14T04:40:46","slug":"wsprnator","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wsprnator\/","title":{"rendered":"the WSPRnator"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\" data-section-id=\"6jl5d2\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"11\">the WSPRnator<\/h1>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"gu6k3m\" data-start=\"13\" data-end=\"52\">A standalone, multi-band WSPR beacon<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"54\" data-end=\"112\"><strong data-start=\"54\" data-end=\"112\">2 m \u2013 2200 m \u00b7 25 mW \/ 100 mW \/ 400 mW \u00b7 Wi-Fi enabled<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"no-scrollbar flex min-h-36 flex-nowrap gap-0.5 overflow-auto sm:gap-1 sm:overflow-hidden xl:min-h-44 mt-1 mb-5 not-first:mt-4\">\n<div class=\"border-token-border-default relative w-32 shrink-0 overflow-hidden rounded-xl border-[0.5px] md:shrink max-h-64 sm:w-[calc((100%-0.5rem)\/3)] rounded-s-xl\">\n<div class=\"group\/search-image @container\/search-image relative rounded-[inherit] h-full w-full\">\n<div class=\"absolute end-2 top-2 z-10\">\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-2220\" src=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/built.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1333\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"156\" data-end=\"193\"><strong data-start=\"156\" data-end=\"193\">Designed by Neville Marr \u2013 ZL2BNE<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"195\" data-end=\"345\">The <strong data-start=\"199\" data-end=\"212\">WSPRnator<\/strong> is a homebrew, standalone WSPR beacon designed for amateur radio operators who want to build their own low-power propagation beacon.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"347\" data-end=\"484\">It covers amateur bands from <strong data-start=\"376\" data-end=\"411\">2200 metres through to 2 metres<\/strong>, with selectable RF output of approximately <strong data-start=\"456\" data-end=\"483\">25 mW, 100 mW or 400 mW<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"720\">An <strong data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"500\">ESP8266<\/strong> provides the control and Wi-Fi connectivity, while a <strong data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"564\">Si5351<\/strong> frequency synthesiser generates the RF signal. Once configured, the WSPRnator operates independently \u2014 <strong data-start=\"668\" data-end=\"719\">no computer is required during normal operation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"720\"><strong data-start=\"651\" data-end=\"704\">The WSPRnator was first presented at TopFest 2026<\/strong>, where the project was introduced to the amateur radio community.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"q13oev\" data-start=\"722\" data-end=\"754\"><span role=\"text\"><strong data-start=\"726\" data-end=\"754\">Build your own WSPRnator<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"756\" data-end=\"889\"><strong data-start=\"756\" data-end=\"787\">[ <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Build-Configure-Use.pdf\">Build \u2013 Configure \u2013 Use<\/a> ]<\/strong> &nbsp;&nbsp; <strong data-start=\"801\" data-end=\"818\">[ <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/schematic.pdf\">Schematic<\/a> ]<\/strong> &nbsp;&nbsp; <strong data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"852\">[ <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/gerbers.zip\">Gerber Files<\/a> ]<\/strong> &nbsp;&nbsp; <strong data-start=\"866\" data-end=\"889\">[ <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ibom.html\">Interactive BOM<\/a> ]<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"891\" data-end=\"894\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"1silcsp\" data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"916\">What is WSPRnator?<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"918\" data-end=\"1003\">WSPRnator is a dedicated transmitter for <strong data-start=\"959\" data-end=\"1002\">WSPR \u2014 Weak Signal Propagation Reporter<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1005\" data-end=\"1245\">WSPR is a digital amateur-radio mode designed for very weak signals. Receiving stations around the world can automatically decode WSPR transmissions and upload reception reports, providing a fascinating way to investigate radio propagation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1247\" data-end=\"1366\">With a WSPRnator you can build a dedicated beacon, connect an appropriate antenna, and observe how your signal travels.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1368\" data-end=\"1450\">Try different bands, antennas and power levels and see where your signal is heard.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"1452\" data-end=\"1455\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"refcdp\" data-start=\"1457\" data-end=\"1473\">Why build one?<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"1475\" data-end=\"1571\">The WSPRnator is for amateur radio operators who enjoy <strong data-start=\"1530\" data-end=\"1570\">building, experimenting and learning<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1573\" data-end=\"1623\">It is particularly suited to people interested in:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1625\" data-end=\"1825\">\n<li data-section-id=\"erd8kj\" data-start=\"1625\" data-end=\"1647\">&#x1f4e1; Radio propagation<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"e5hj7y\" data-start=\"1648\" data-end=\"1673\">&#x1f527; Homebrew electronics<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"c8n0q1\" data-start=\"1674\" data-end=\"1701\">&#x1f4fb; WSPR and digital modes<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1sydet2\" data-start=\"1702\" data-end=\"1732\">&#x26a1; Low-power \/ QRPp operation<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1w20ubj\" data-start=\"1733\" data-end=\"1761\">&#x1f9ea; Antenna experimentation<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"fcxr2k\" data-start=\"1762\" data-end=\"1793\">&#x1f4bb; Microcontrollers and Wi-Fi<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"istp2t\" data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"1825\">&#x1f4d0; RF design and construction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1827\" data-end=\"2021\">It can also make an excellent <strong data-start=\"1857\" data-end=\"1892\">radio-club construction project<\/strong>, with the PCB, components, software and construction information providing plenty of opportunities for hands-on experimentation.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"2023\" data-end=\"2026\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"1jpa3nd\" data-start=\"2028\" data-end=\"2061\">One beacon. From 2 m to 2200 m.<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"2063\" data-end=\"2151\">The WSPRnator provides jumper-selectable operation across a wide range of amateur bands:<\/p>\n<div class=\"group TyagGW_tableContainer\">\n<div class=\"TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<table class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-start=\"2153\" data-end=\"2368\">\n<thead data-start=\"2153\" data-end=\"2182\">\n<tr data-start=\"2153\" data-end=\"2182\">\n<th class=\"last:pe-10\" data-start=\"2153\" data-end=\"2160\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Band<\/th>\n<th class=\"last:pe-10\" data-start=\"2160\" data-end=\"2167\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Band<\/th>\n<th class=\"last:pe-10\" data-start=\"2167\" data-end=\"2174\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Band<\/th>\n<th class=\"last:pe-10\" data-start=\"2174\" data-end=\"2182\" data-col-size=\"sm\">Band<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody data-start=\"2201\" data-end=\"2368\">\n<tr data-start=\"2201\" data-end=\"2250\">\n<td data-start=\"2201\" data-end=\"2214\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2203\" data-end=\"2213\">2200 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2214\" data-end=\"2226\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2216\" data-end=\"2225\">630 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2226\" data-end=\"2238\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2228\" data-end=\"2237\">160 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2238\" data-end=\"2250\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2240\" data-end=\"2248\">80 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2296\">\n<td data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2262\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2253\" data-end=\"2261\">60 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2262\" data-end=\"2273\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2264\" data-end=\"2272\">40 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2273\" data-end=\"2284\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2275\" data-end=\"2283\">30 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2284\" data-end=\"2296\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2286\" data-end=\"2294\">20 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2297\" data-end=\"2342\">\n<td data-start=\"2297\" data-end=\"2308\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2299\" data-end=\"2307\">17 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2308\" data-end=\"2319\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2310\" data-end=\"2318\">15 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2319\" data-end=\"2330\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2321\" data-end=\"2329\">12 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"2330\" data-end=\"2342\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2332\" data-end=\"2340\">10 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"2343\" data-end=\"2368\">\n<td data-start=\"2343\" data-end=\"2353\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><strong data-start=\"2345\" data-end=\"2352\">6 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2353\" data-end=\"2363\"><strong data-start=\"2355\" data-end=\"2362\">2 m<\/strong><\/td>\n<td data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2363\" data-end=\"2365\">&nbsp;<\/td>\n<td data-col-size=\"sm\" data-start=\"2365\" data-end=\"2368\">&nbsp;<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"2370\" data-end=\"2490\">The four band-selection jumpers are clearly marked on the PCB, with the required settings printed directly on the board.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"2492\" data-end=\"2495\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"1lt1o7k\" data-start=\"2497\" data-end=\"2528\">Three selectable power levels<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"2530\" data-end=\"2584\">The WSPRnator provides three nominal RF output levels:<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"6lef17\" data-start=\"2586\" data-end=\"2595\">25 mW &#8211;&nbsp;<strong data-start=\"2596\" data-end=\"2606\">14 dBm<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2608\" data-end=\"2680\">A very low-power setting for propagation experiments and QRPp operation.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"7tsjfx\" data-start=\"2682\" data-end=\"2692\">100 mW &#8211;&nbsp;<strong data-start=\"2693\" data-end=\"2703\">20 dBm<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2705\" data-end=\"2760\">An intermediate level for general WSPR experimentation.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"3c28i0\" data-start=\"2762\" data-end=\"2772\">400 mW &#8211;&nbsp;<strong data-start=\"2773\" data-end=\"2783\">26 dBm<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2785\" data-end=\"2833\">The highest output level provided by the design.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2835\" data-end=\"2918\">The output level is selected using the dedicated power-selection jumper on the PCB.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"2920\" data-end=\"2923\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"zx9g0j\" data-start=\"2925\" data-end=\"2957\">Designed to operate standalone<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"2959\" data-end=\"3059\">One of the key features of the WSPRnator is that it <strong data-start=\"3011\" data-end=\"3058\">doesn&#8217;t need a computer to remain connected<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3061\" data-end=\"3139\">The ESP8266 handles the beacon&#8217;s operation and connects to your Wi-Fi network.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3141\" data-end=\"3216\">During initial setup, connect a phone, tablet or computer to the temporary:<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"yg3o8a\" data-start=\"3218\" data-end=\"3236\"><span role=\"text\"><strong data-start=\"3222\" data-end=\"3236\">WSPR-Setup<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3238\" data-end=\"3252\">Wi-Fi network.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3254\" data-end=\"3297\">The configuration page allows you to enter:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3299\" data-end=\"3405\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1rxdvix\" data-start=\"3299\" data-end=\"3311\">Wi-Fi SSID<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"88oytn\" data-start=\"3312\" data-end=\"3328\">Wi-Fi password<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"lj20vt\" data-start=\"3329\" data-end=\"3339\">Callsign<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1yofete\" data-start=\"3340\" data-end=\"3372\">4-character Maidenhead locator<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"kq63a\" data-start=\"3373\" data-end=\"3405\">WSPR transmission start minute<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3407\" data-end=\"3485\">The ESP8266 saves the Wi-Fi information, so subsequent operation is automatic.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"3487\" data-end=\"3490\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"rrtu5k\" data-start=\"3492\" data-end=\"3511\">How does it work?<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"3513\" data-end=\"3622\">The WSPRnator combines several readily available components and modules on a professionally manufactured PCB.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1ica2ga\" data-start=\"3624\" data-end=\"3635\">ESP8266<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3637\" data-end=\"3685\">The ESP8266 is the controller for the WSPRnator.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3687\" data-end=\"3699\">It provides:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3701\" data-end=\"3809\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1sm964x\" data-start=\"3701\" data-end=\"3721\">Wi-Fi connectivity<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"8xh2fm\" data-start=\"3722\" data-end=\"3747\">WSPR timing and control<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1jdfwuw\" data-start=\"3748\" data-end=\"3763\">Configuration<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1ru9cks\" data-start=\"3764\" data-end=\"3790\">USB serial communication<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1h1yczf\" data-start=\"3791\" data-end=\"3809\">Firmware updates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"p5x5um\" data-start=\"3811\" data-end=\"3821\">Si5351<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3823\" data-end=\"3902\">The Si5351 frequency synthesiser generates the RF signal used for transmission.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3904\" data-end=\"4001\">The build process includes a calibration procedure to ensure the generated frequency is accurate.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1hmns43\" data-start=\"4003\" data-end=\"4019\">RF amplifier<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4021\" data-end=\"4117\">The transmitter provides selectable output levels of approximately <strong data-start=\"4088\" data-end=\"4116\">25 mW, 100 mW and 400 mW<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1klr8dq\" data-start=\"4119\" data-end=\"4138\">Low-pass filter<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4140\" data-end=\"4242\">The transmitter output passes through a <strong data-start=\"4180\" data-end=\"4203\">QRP Labs LPF module<\/strong> before being connected to the antenna.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"7cowk9\" data-start=\"4244\" data-end=\"4253\">Power<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4255\" data-end=\"4309\">The completed PCB accepts approximately <strong data-start=\"4295\" data-end=\"4308\">7\u201315 V DC<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4311\" data-end=\"4314\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"19cjndj\" data-start=\"4316\" data-end=\"4332\">Build your own<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"4334\" data-end=\"4404\">The WSPRnator is designed as a <strong data-start=\"4365\" data-end=\"4403\">real homebrew construction project<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4406\" data-end=\"4583\">You don&#8217;t need to manufacture the PCB yourself. The supplied Gerber files can be sent to a professional PCB manufacturer such as <strong data-start=\"4535\" data-end=\"4582\">JLCPCB, PCBWay or another suitable supplier<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4585\" data-end=\"4652\">From there, the project is assembled and configured by the builder.<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"17cdtjh\" data-start=\"4654\" data-end=\"4674\">The basic process<\/h2>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1m7c050\" data-start=\"4676\" data-end=\"4702\">1. Manufacture the PCB<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4704\" data-end=\"4784\">Download the supplied Gerber files and have the PCB professionally manufactured.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"nbjk2\" data-start=\"4786\" data-end=\"4814\">2. Source the components<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4816\" data-end=\"4905\">Use the <strong data-start=\"4824\" data-end=\"4843\">Interactive BOM<\/strong> and schematic to identify and source the required components.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1fdyfzl\" data-start=\"4907\" data-end=\"4930\">3. Assemble the PCB<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4932\" data-end=\"4988\">Populate the board according to the build documentation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4990\" data-end=\"5090\">The build includes the ESP8266, power supply, Si5351 module, RF circuitry and associated components.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1k0w4j1\" data-start=\"5092\" data-end=\"5106\">4. Wind T1<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5108\" data-end=\"5178\">The construction guide specifies a <strong data-start=\"5143\" data-end=\"5170\">10-turn bifilar winding<\/strong> for T1.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1nug2st\" data-start=\"5180\" data-end=\"5214\">5. Install the low-pass filter<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5216\" data-end=\"5279\">The design uses the QRP Labs LPF approach for output filtering.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"kf9099\" data-start=\"5281\" data-end=\"5310\">6. Check the power supply<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5312\" data-end=\"5414\">Before proceeding with the complete build, check that the expected <strong data-start=\"5379\" data-end=\"5401\">5 V and 12 V rails<\/strong> are present.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1v773ku\" data-start=\"5416\" data-end=\"5442\">7. Program the ESP8266<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5444\" data-end=\"5487\">The ESP8266 can be programmed using either:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5489\" data-end=\"5538\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1brfwez\" data-start=\"5489\" data-end=\"5510\"><strong data-start=\"5491\" data-end=\"5506\">Arduino IDE<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"uyypxk\" data-start=\"5511\" data-end=\"5538\"><strong data-start=\"5513\" data-end=\"5538\">esptool.spacehuhn.com<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5540\" data-end=\"5573\">Programming is performed via USB.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"18w9u09\" data-start=\"5575\" data-end=\"5606\">8. Configure Wi-Fi and WSPR<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5608\" data-end=\"5678\">Connect to <strong data-start=\"5619\" data-end=\"5633\">WSPR-Setup<\/strong> and enter your network and WSPR information.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"x7rjmf\" data-start=\"5680\" data-end=\"5707\">9. Calibrate the Si5351<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5709\" data-end=\"5818\">Use the supplied calibration procedure and the ESP8266 serial monitor to calibrate the frequency synthesiser.<\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"wxr3if\" data-start=\"5820\" data-end=\"5846\">10. Connect an antenna<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"5848\" data-end=\"5960\">Select the required band, select the desired power level, connect an appropriate antenna and start transmitting.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"11008\" data-end=\"11011\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"g4ijeh\" data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"199\">Arduino Sketch &amp; Firmware<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"201\" data-end=\"426\">The WSPRnator is controlled by an <strong data-start=\"235\" data-end=\"246\">ESP8266<\/strong>, which runs the Arduino sketch responsible for configuring the beacon, connecting to Wi-Fi, controlling the Si5351 frequency generator and managing the WSPR transmission schedule.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"428\" data-end=\"549\">The sketch can be programmed using the <strong data-start=\"467\" data-end=\"482\">Arduino IDE or ESPTool Web Flasher<\/strong>, making it possible to inspect, modify and recompile the firmware.<\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"551\" data-end=\"576\">What the sketch does<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"578\" data-end=\"645\">The firmware handles the main operating functions of the WSPRnator:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"1034\">\n<li data-section-id=\"1a0ouf0\" data-start=\"647\" data-end=\"701\">Connects the ESP8266 to the configured Wi-Fi network<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"295vhr\" data-start=\"702\" data-end=\"759\">Provides the initial <strong data-start=\"725\" data-end=\"739\">WSPR-Setup<\/strong> Wi-Fi configuration<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"5fj44r\" data-start=\"760\" data-end=\"798\">Stores the Wi-Fi and beacon settings<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1sfkd9b\" data-start=\"799\" data-end=\"834\">Sets the WSPR operating frequency<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"puieeb\" data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"869\">Controls the transmission timing<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"jnd92m\" data-start=\"870\" data-end=\"912\">Generates the WSPR signal via the Si5351<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"18qn82p\" data-start=\"913\" data-end=\"966\">Controls the selected band and output configuration<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"re3qse\" data-start=\"967\" data-end=\"1034\">Provides serial output for setup, calibration and troubleshooting<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"v1rh8t\" data-start=\"91\" data-end=\"117\">Uploading the Firmware<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"119\" data-end=\"185\">The WSPRnator firmware can be uploaded to the ESP8266 in two ways.<\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"187\" data-end=\"214\">Option 1 \u2014 Arduino IDE<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"216\" data-end=\"379\">The <code data-start=\"220\" data-end=\"226\">.ino<\/code> sketch can be opened, compiled and uploaded using the Arduino IDE. This is the preferred option if you want to examine or modify the WSPRnator firmware.<\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"381\" data-end=\"417\"><span role=\"text\">Option 2 \u2014 Upload a <code data-start=\"406\" data-end=\"412\">.bin<\/code> file<\/span><\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"419\" data-end=\"588\">If you simply want to install a pre-compiled version of the WSPRnator firmware, a <code data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"507\">.bin<\/code> file can be uploaded directly to the ESP8266 using the <strong data-start=\"563\" data-end=\"587\">ESPTool web uploader<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"590\" data-end=\"627\"><span class=\"contents\" data-content-reference-start=\"590\" data-content-reference-end=\"646\"><span class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"><a class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/esptool.spacehuhn.com\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ESPTool Web Flasher<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"629\" data-end=\"776\">The web tool runs in the browser and provides a straightforward way to connect to the ESP8266 over USB and flash the supplied <code data-start=\"755\" data-end=\"761\">.bin<\/code> firmware file.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"778\" data-end=\"794\"><strong data-start=\"778\" data-end=\"792\">Important:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"795\" data-end=\"1109\">\n<li data-section-id=\"177r0yy\" data-start=\"795\" data-end=\"843\">Connect the ESP8266 to the computer using USB.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"3gtrta\" data-start=\"844\" data-end=\"924\"><strong data-start=\"846\" data-end=\"924\">Do not connect the WSPRnator&#8217;s 12V power supply while programming via USB.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"19uhzvr\" data-start=\"925\" data-end=\"991\">Select the appropriate serial\/USB port in the ESPTool interface.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"gfsftu\" data-start=\"992\" data-end=\"1035\">Upload the supplied <code data-start=\"1014\" data-end=\"1020\">.bin<\/code> firmware file.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1d97gp0\" data-start=\"1036\" data-end=\"1109\">Once programming is complete, disconnect USB before applying 12V power.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1578\" data-end=\"1617\"><strong data-start=\"1578\" data-end=\"1617\">[<a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/arduino-sketch.zip\">Download WSPRnator Arduino Sketch<\/a>]<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5962\" data-end=\"5965\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"1605pao\" data-start=\"5967\" data-end=\"5980\">WSPR timing<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"5982\" data-end=\"6033\">WSPR normally uses two-minute transmission windows.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6035\" data-end=\"6097\">The WSPRnator is configured to transmit <strong data-start=\"6075\" data-end=\"6096\">every ten minutes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6099\" data-end=\"6175\">The <strong data-start=\"6103\" data-end=\"6119\">Start Minute<\/strong> setting determines when the ten-minute sequence begins.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6177\" data-end=\"6189\">For example:<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6191\" data-end=\"6211\"><strong data-start=\"6191\" data-end=\"6211\">Start Minute = 4<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6213\" data-end=\"6249\">produces transmissions beginning at:<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6251\" data-end=\"6303\"><strong data-start=\"6251\" data-end=\"6303\">04, 14, 24, 34, 44 and 54 minutes past the hour.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6305\" data-end=\"6363\">Once configured, the WSPRnator handles this automatically.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"6365\" data-end=\"6368\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"6bex35\" data-start=\"6370\" data-end=\"6384\">The hardware<\/h1>\n<div class=\"no-scrollbar flex min-h-36 flex-nowrap gap-0.5 overflow-auto sm:gap-1 sm:overflow-hidden xl:min-h-44 mt-1 mb-5 not-first:mt-4\">\n<div class=\"border-token-border-default relative w-32 shrink-0 overflow-hidden rounded-xl border-[0.5px] md:shrink max-h-64 sm:w-[calc((100%-0.5rem)\/3)] rounded-s-xl\">\n<div class=\"group\/search-image @container\/search-image relative rounded-[inherit] h-full w-full\">\n<div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-2219 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/render.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"485\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute end-2 top-2 z-10\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-2223 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/zP3aOx4E8-KUKqbxlYQs5K07H3AtbBjeWtF5IDzMptjHkG8PgPgwa_51gnrG-g7UNhoKb7u0dAUKtgK9j4-e3jytBm45E2CCLaq4e1S8BtU_Vw3DDu-T-1YKDjbk5Qyse4faABalZ5NySDf0Y-DSDD4Yov0dvqBc59MHApK7zYNCsfhrplLEmdbDU1HrRUB-.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"604\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"border-token-border-default relative w-32 shrink-0 overflow-hidden rounded-xl border-[0.5px] md:shrink max-h-64 sm:w-[calc((100%-0.5rem)\/3)]\">\n<div class=\"group\/search-image @container\/search-image relative rounded-[inherit] h-full w-full\">\n<div>&nbsp;<\/div>\n<div class=\"absolute end-2 top-2 z-10\">The WSPRnator PCB brings the major parts of the beacon together on one board.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"6507\" data-end=\"6536\">The completed board includes:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6538\" data-end=\"6754\">\n<li data-section-id=\"c36lqd\" data-start=\"6538\" data-end=\"6557\">ESP-12F \/ ESP8266<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"d2qw4q\" data-start=\"6558\" data-end=\"6573\">Si5351 module<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"f73znp\" data-start=\"6574\" data-end=\"6598\">RF amplifier circuitry<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"nd70uz\" data-start=\"6599\" data-end=\"6628\">Power supply and regulation<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"w2scve\" data-start=\"6629\" data-end=\"6653\">Band-selection jumpers<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"5mn698\" data-start=\"6654\" data-end=\"6677\">Power-level selection<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1djl54o\" data-start=\"6678\" data-end=\"6702\">QRP Labs LPF interface<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"149hkn7\" data-start=\"6703\" data-end=\"6714\">RF output<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1qlt761\" data-start=\"6715\" data-end=\"6754\">USB\/serial access through the ESP8266<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"6756\" data-end=\"6886\">The PCB itself also provides useful information to the builder, including the band-jumper combinations and available power levels.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"6888\" data-end=\"6891\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"1lacuax\" data-start=\"6893\" data-end=\"6910\">Build resources<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"6912\" data-end=\"6994\">Everything required to reproduce the project is provided in the project resources.<\/p>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"arpcma\" data-start=\"6996\" data-end=\"7025\">&#x1f527; <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Build-Configure-Use.pdf\">Build \u2013 Configure \u2013 Use<\/a><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"7027\" data-end=\"7155\">The six-page guide covers the complete process from assembling the PCB through to configuring and operating the finished beacon.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"7157\" data-end=\"7169\">It includes:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"7171\" data-end=\"7417\">\n<li data-section-id=\"xcvh0n\" data-start=\"7171\" data-end=\"7185\">PCB assembly<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"65y5le\" data-start=\"7186\" data-end=\"7203\">U3 installation<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"acdcfz\" data-start=\"7204\" data-end=\"7226\">Power-supply testing<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"x67q3v\" data-start=\"7227\" data-end=\"7256\">T1 transformer construction<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"cj8kv1\" data-start=\"7257\" data-end=\"7287\">Low-pass filter construction<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"6clxx9\" data-start=\"7288\" data-end=\"7309\">ESP8266 programming<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1ef2ldf\" data-start=\"7310\" data-end=\"7323\">Wi-Fi setup<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"49fad6\" data-start=\"7324\" data-end=\"7357\">Callsign and grid configuration<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1ynwj9k\" data-start=\"7358\" data-end=\"7384\">WSPR transmission timing<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"11g9qe2\" data-start=\"7385\" data-end=\"7405\">Si5351 calibration<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1dpaqql\" data-start=\"7406\" data-end=\"7417\">Operation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"7419\" data-end=\"7467\"><strong data-start=\"7419\" data-end=\"7467\">[ Read the <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Build-Configure-Use.pdf\">Build \u2013 Configure \u2013 Use Guide \u2192<\/a> ]<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"7469\" data-end=\"7472\">\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1lawqh3\" data-start=\"7474\" data-end=\"7489\">&#x1f4d0; Schematic<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"7491\" data-end=\"7595\">The complete circuit schematic provides the information needed to understand and reproduce the hardware.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"7597\" data-end=\"7625\"><strong data-start=\"7597\" data-end=\"7625\">[ View the <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/schematic.pdf\">Schematic \u2192<\/a> ]<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"7627\" data-end=\"7630\">\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1fvxwnu\" data-start=\"7632\" data-end=\"7653\">&#x1f9e9; Interactive BOM<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"7655\" data-end=\"7765\">Use the Interactive Bill of Materials to identify components on the PCB and assist with sourcing and assembly.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"7767\" data-end=\"7801\"><strong data-start=\"7767\" data-end=\"7801\">[ Open the <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ibom.html\">Interactive BOM \u2192<\/a> ]<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"7803\" data-end=\"7806\">\n<h2 data-section-id=\"fjifhv\" data-start=\"7808\" data-end=\"7825\">&#x1f3ed; PCB Gerbers<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"7827\" data-end=\"7926\">The Gerber files contain everything required to have the WSPRnator PCB professionally manufactured.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"7928\" data-end=\"7963\"><strong data-start=\"7928\" data-end=\"7963\">[ Download the <a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/gerbers.zip\">Gerber Files \u2192<\/a> ]<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"7965\" data-end=\"7968\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"1l258q2\" data-start=\"7970\" data-end=\"8003\">From the workbench to the world<\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"8005\" data-end=\"8081\">Once the WSPRnator is assembled and configured, the interesting part begins.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8083\" data-end=\"8097\">Select a band.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8099\" data-end=\"8123\">Choose your power level.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8125\" data-end=\"8144\">Connect an antenna.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8146\" data-end=\"8163\">Leave it running.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8165\" data-end=\"8232\">Then watch the WSPR reception reports arrive from around the world.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8234\" data-end=\"8261\"><strong data-start=\"8234\" data-end=\"8261\">How far will 25 mW get?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8263\" data-end=\"8291\"><strong data-start=\"8263\" data-end=\"8291\">How does 400 mW compare?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8293\" data-end=\"8338\"><strong data-start=\"8293\" data-end=\"8338\">Which band works best from your location?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8340\" data-end=\"8396\">That&#8217;s what the WSPRnator is built to help you discover.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"8398\" data-end=\"8401\">\n<h1 data-section-id=\"dw7qf\" data-start=\"8403\" data-end=\"8422\">About the project<\/h1>\n<h2 data-section-id=\"1uopzl2\" data-start=\"8424\" data-end=\"8448\">Neville Marr \u2013 ZL2BNE<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"8450\" data-end=\"8542\">The WSPRnator was designed by <strong data-start=\"8480\" data-end=\"8505\">Neville Marr \u2013 ZL2BNE<\/strong> as a homebrew amateur-radio project.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8544\" data-end=\"8709\">The design and construction information is provided so that other amateurs can build their own WSPRnator, experiment with the hardware and explore radio propagation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"8711\" data-end=\"8973\">Neville has also developed other homebrew amateur-radio projects, including the <strong data-start=\"8791\" data-end=\"8825\">40-metre HomeBrew SDR Receiver<\/strong>, which similarly provides builders with schematics, PCB files, build information and other project resources.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>the WSPRnator A standalone, multi-band WSPR beacon 2 m \u2013 2200 m \u00b7 25 mW \/ 100 mW \/ 400 mW \u00b7 Wi-Fi enabled Designed by Neville Marr \u2013 ZL2BNE The WSPRnator is a homebrew, standalone WSPR beacon designed for amateur radio operators who want to build their own low-power propagation beacon. It covers amateur\u2026 <span class=\"read-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wsprnator\/\">Read More: the WSPRnator &raquo;<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-2214","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2214","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2214"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2214\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2236,"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2214\/revisions\/2236"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/zl2ks.org.nz\/wp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2214"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}