Venue: AISSMS College of Engineering, Department of Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering (ENTC), Pune Date & Time: 13 April 2026, 10:30 AM Theme: Learn about Communication Systems and Antenna Design – Explore Amateur Radio and RF with Pune Hams by Building an Antenna
Workshop Overview
The Pune Hams conducted a 3‑Element Yagi‑Uda Antenna Making Workshop for second‑year ENTC students. The event was planned by Vilas Rabde VU2VPR, who coordinated with the college to make it possible.
The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. S.B. Dhonde (HOD, ENTC), who welcomed Pune Hams to the department. Ajinkya VU39AJ, ham operator and student of Dhole Patil College of Engineering, introduced the basics of Yagi antennas, explaining VHF design principles, gain, and practical applications.
Technical Sessions & Demonstrations
- OM Ranga VU3IZK delivered an engaging presentation on different types of antennas, HF radio, and propagation. His remarks highlighted the “unbelievable enthusiasm among students” and the strong support from the Pune Hams team.
- Amit Gurav VU3SZO spoke on Ham Radio in Disaster Management, drawing from his experience as a registered volunteer for civil defence and disaster management with the Pune District Administration.
- Virendra Kelkar VU33VK guided students through the hands‑on antenna construction process, explaining alignment of elements, mechanical stability, and practical tips for assembling antennas with limited resources.
- VU32OK Omkar Kelkar and SWL Shrinivas assisted students with soldering basics and stub development, ensuring each team understood the fundamentals of electrical connections in antenna systems.
- Manish Ghadge VU3IFQ led the workshop, procuring all required materials and mentoring students throughout. Using the NanoVNA H4, he explained the concept of SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) and showed each of the 14 teams the SWR readings of their antennas. This ensured proper tuning to 144.100 MHz, the TX frequency of the Fox for the upcoming Fox Hunt activity on World Amateur Radio Day.
Student Participation & Antenna Design
- A total of 14 antennas were built by 14 student teams, each comprising 4–5 members.
- The 3‑element Yagi antennas were constructed using UPVC pipes, tie belts, 4‑way joints, T‑joints, and tape measures for elements.
- Student coordinators Shreeyash and Yajuvendra provided excellent support, ensuring smooth logistics and coordination.
- Students from Dhole Patil College of Engineering also attended under the guidance of Prof. Pal Madam.
Acknowledgements
On behalf of Pune Hams, Vilas Rabde VU2VPR expressed gratitude to:
- Principal D.S. Bomane (AISSMS COE)
- Dr. R.R. Itkarkar Madam
- Prof. V.S. Navale Madam
- Dr. S.B. Dhonde (HOD, ENTC)
for inviting Pune Hams to conduct this workshop.
Closing & Future Plans
The workshop concluded with great enthusiasm, leaving students inspired to explore amateur radio and RF systems further. Pune Hams look forward to conducting similar workshops across educational institutions to promote scientific innovation and awareness of amateur radio.
📡 Stay tuned for the Fox Hunt event on World Amateur Radio Day (18 April 2026), where the newly built antennas will be put to use!