Constructing a WSPR Beacon to monitor propagation conditions from the Southern Cape (Part 1)

Now why would one setup a WSPR Beacon in the Southern Cape?  

A WSPR (Weak Signal Propagation Reporter) beacon is set up to transmit low-power signals to monitor global radio wave propagation paths over extended periods, providing data to visualize which radio bands are open and how they are performing

. It's used by amateur radio operators to study atmospheric conditions, test antennas, identify optimal bands for communication, and contribute to a global database of propagation information without requiring manual operation. 

Key Reasons to Set Up a WSPR Beacon

• Propagation Analysis: WSPR allows you to see how your signal travels, identifying which bands are open and in which directions, and when they are most active.
• Antenna Testing and Optimization: By observing where your signals are received, you can evaluate the performance of your antennas and determine their best orientation.
• Band Condition Monitoring: You can view which bands are closed and which are open, giving you insight into atmospheric and ionospheric conditions affecting radio waves.
• Global Network Contribution: Your beacon's data feeds into a central database at WSPRnet.org, helping to build a consistent, long-term record of global propagation for all interested users.
• Low-Power Operation: WSPR is a "weak signal" mode, designed for low-power, unattended operation, making it suitable for experimental setups or continuous monitoring.
• Automated Operation: The software allows for automated transmissions, where the beacon can run for days or longer with minimal manual intervention, even using band hopping.
• Research and Experimentation: WSPR is ideal for research projects, such as studying the long-term effects of solar activity on ionospheric conditions, with accessible components like Arduino and common accessory boards.

 As can be seen from the above there is quite a few reasons for setting up a WSPR Beacon.  

In December 2024 I decided to purchase a Ultimate 3S QRSS/WSPR Beacon Kit produced by QRP Labs.  Locally the kit was purchased from RadioWinkel in Johannesburg.  Needless to say that the kit arrived promptly and was placed in "safe storage" until September 2025 when I decided to build the kit.  Nearly a year later the beacon kit was assembled, setup and tested on the air.  I experienced no issues to build the kit and it works flawlessly.  The manuals for this kit is of great use if you follow the instructions you will be successful in getting the beacon on the air.  I build the kit into a project cabinet which was also in "safe storage" for a very long time.  After calibrating the unit and satisfied that everything was working I opted to purchase and install the OLG2 GPS Receiver kit also from QRP Labs. 

I am not going to explain how I constructed the kit as there are more than enough photos and videos in this article that reflects the building of both these kits.

Particulars of the ZS1I Ultimate 3S Beacon:

• Call: ZS1I
• Freq.: 7.038 600 Mhz
• Band:  40 Meters (7 Mhz)
• Grid:  KF15BT
• Power:  250 mW
• Mode: W-2  (WSPR2)
• Antenna:  EFHW (49:1 Balun)
• TX Period:  Every 10 Minutes
•  Beacon on the air from:  7 October 2025 @ 10h00 SAST
  
•  First Spotter: 10h20 ZS5SAM (Div 1)   Barrydale. (Distance 134 km)
  

In Part 2 we will be looking at the functioning and operating of the beacon as well as reports received and stations that spotted the beacon.

In Part 3 we will be looking at the purpose of the beacon and why build such a beacon.  40 Meters is not going to be the band of choice for this project. 

Images:  Click on images for larger view.

Videos: