Jake Bechtold

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It’s May 1st so here is that tweet about my month. Please enjoy my month responsibly.

The absolute best advice I got while learning CW is just get on the air, you're more ready than you think. And it was absolutely the truth. I couldn't agree with this write-up more! qrper.com/2026/04/n1rwj-…

@mwfoutch1 As we like to tell new licensees, a ham radio license is a license to learn!

Ham radio is an excuse to learn new things. Of all the things ham radio is, the inspiration to learn is one of the most valuable to me.

It's too close to the wall and needs an AC disconnect at the unit.

The Lance Family 𝘪𝘴 Bison Family. Congrats to our guy Bryce on being drafted by the @Saints!

@hamateur_hour The Meshtastic/Meshcore split kinda drove me away from mesh altogether, and this is only adding fuel to the fire

Glad I didn't switch to Meshcore like everyone seemed to be telling me to 🙃

@K3TripleR @NE6ZULU I've had my FTX-1 since it was released and absolutely love it. But yes, Yaesu did a rush job to have it ready for Dayton last year and it definitely showed; it took a few months to get some of the bugs worked out.

Well, this is embarrassing. I knew nothing about the "current Yaesu FTX1F debacle." I've been so busy finishing up writing five books during the past year that this was only a slight recollection that there was some issue based on my ham radio YouTube video I saw a long time ago. I looked into it and got a response from Google AI. Note: I am not taking sides. I just want to know if the following is truly reflective of both then and now for this rig. "The "debacle" surrounding the launch of the Yaesu FTX-1F (also referred to as the FTX-1 or FTX-1 Optima) in early-to-mid 2025 stems from significant early-adopter reports of software bugs, hardware limitations, and high pricing, despite generally positive reviews on build quality. The radio is marketed as a portable, all-mode SDR, but many users have found it to be unreliable in the field during its initial release phase. Key Issues and Reported Failures Transmit Failures (QRP/POTA): A major issue reported by users is that the radio cuts out during transmission, particularly during voice POTA/SOTA operations. Firmware Bugs & Freezing: Several users have reported that the screen and controls freeze, requiring a power cycle. Failed Firmware Updates: Some users have reported that firmware updates have caused the radio to become unbootable, forcing a return to Yaesu for repair. APRS Inoperability: The APRS functionality has been reported to be unstable, with random failures and freezing, particularly when not using the optional FGPS-5 unit. Missing Features/Software: The radio launched without provided computer programming software, requiring users to manually enter up to 999 channels, which has been described as a major oversight for a $1,500+ unit. RT Systems Compatibility: Initial firmware updates caused incompatibilities with RT Systems programming software. Design and Performance Controversies Weight and Bulk: While marketed for field use, some users consider the FTX-1 heavy and bulky, especially with the 100W Optima package, leading to debates on its suitability for backpacking compared to the Icom IC-705. Overheating and Power: Early, unverified reports suggested that the radio might suffer from high current draw and heat generation, particularly during internal tuner use. High Cost: Potential buyers have expressed dissatisfaction with the high price point, particularly given that crucial features (like Bluetooth and GPS) were initially considered optional extras. Status of the Situation Firmware Patches: Yaesu has released firmware updates to address some of the issues, including fixes for the main CPU and display. Fix Efforts: Users have found success in resolving some issues through a "Master Reset" after updating firmware. Mixed Reception: Despite the bugs, some users have reported that the radio is functional after the initial fixes and has good build quality, hinting that it will be a solid radio once the software matures."

Will be interesting to see what ICOM unveils at Hamvention next month…

The musak at Green Mill in Bemidji is playing Animal by Miike Snow, and I think I'm the only one here who knows that song, much less has played it on the radio.

@hamateur_hour @kg6nlw Bands were hot garage today, at least for the hour or so I was on. Had time for a quick POTA and it took over an hour to get my 10 contacts hunting. I should have just called CQ.

@kg6nlw Well the bands are garbage or my antenna needs some maintenance because I'm not getting much. Should have just kept it in the bag today 😂

Hate to admit how long it's been since I've been on HF. I did a POTA activation in late February and never even unpacked my 891 from my bag until today 😬 #hamradio

I won't be at NAB this year unfortunately, which means I'll be missing some of the Las Vegas hijinks like this:

@GraymanPOTA @USPS @Lensunsolar Odds are quite good. Your panel is getting a nice vacation!

The @USPS has transferred the @Lensunsolar panel to the Indianapolis distribution center for the 3rd time. What is the over/under that Post Office will shit the bed again and send it back to Chicago?

Whoever ordered the snow... you've delivered at the wrong house by mistake

I'm almost positive the Musak at Menards is pitched 1%. And I'm not sure what's worse... the fact they would do that or fact I noticed it.

Gas station has Def Leppard cranked up inside. Today is going to be a good day.

Walk into my hotel for the weekend (handling some more contract work), front desk knew my last name and already my reservation pulled up for check-in. In case it wasn't obvious that I stay at this hotel a lot.

Yesterday while wrapping up some work at one of my contract stations, I got compared to Winston Wolfe from Pulp Fiction, and I don't think I've ever been paid a higher compliment.

False, it's actually Voltaire.

Correct. Because you shouldn't be sending attachments in 2026 anyway.

First day of Spring means its time for the season lidlifter for my Traeger

I'll always remember Chuck Norris as the man who changed the course of dodgeball history by casting the deciding vote that allowed Average Joes to play in the championship of the Las Vegas International Dodgeball Open where they upset the heavily favored Globo Gym Purple Cobras. RIP. 🙏