Adam Laczkó, OM2ADM, an 18-year-old ham from Slovakia, built a QO-100 station as his final school project, with an IceConeFeed from nolle.engineering. Here is how it went.
The Beginning: Seeking Knowledge and Support
Adam, like many young HAM enthusiasts, was intrigued by high-frequency communication. For his school project, he chose to build a QO-100 setup—an ambitious task that had never been attempted at his school. However, building a functional helix antenna proved challenging. To overcome this, Adam reached out to nolle.engineering to inquire about purchasing an IceConeFeed antenna.
He promptly received information on how to purchase the IceConeFeed V2.1. Recognizing the educational value of Adam’s project, nolle.engineering offered a sponsorship discount, understanding that this was a blend of personal interest and academic pursuit. Adam expressed his appreciation, hoping that his QO-100 station would inspire others at his school.
Overcoming Challenges and Building the Setup
Like many technical projects, Adam encountered obstacles along the way, including issues with a faulty upconverter. Nevertheless, he remained committed and kept nolle.engineering updated with his progress, sharing images of his developing setup. Despite these challenges, his enthusiasm for the project persisted, supported by the encouragement from the nolle.engineering community and other fellow HAM radio operators inside Slovakia who helped out design and finalization of the project.
After weeks of effort, Adam successfully completed his QO-100 setup, with the IceConeFeed antenna becoming a key component of his station. His first QSOs (contacts) were successful, marking the completion of his project.
A Project with Purpose
What makes Adam’s project noteworthy is not just the technical achievement, but his broader vision. Beyond fulfilling his school assignment, Adam aimed to promote HAM radio within his school and potentially across Slovakia. He plans to present his project in a competition known as SOČ (Stredoškolská odborná činnosť), which recognizes outstanding student projects. Adam hopes that his QO-100 setup will inspire his school to establish a permanent station.
Outlook
We are glad the IceConeFeed was part of Adam’s project and wish him many QSOs via QO-100.
If you are a student or teacher planning a similar school project, contact us.