Auburn amateur radio club to commemorate university’s 160th anniversary

On Saturday, April 9, the Auburn University Amateur Radio Club, K4RY, will host a special event in commemoration of the university’s 160th anniversary. The club will set up in front of Samford Hall, and from 9 a.m. to mid-afternoon will send out the call sign, “W4E,” which is a nod to Auburn’s battle cry, “War Eagle."

The FCC only issues short, three-character call signs for radio operators who are commemorating a special event. Ham radio operators from around the world may receive the W4E call sign via Morse code, voice or digital signal, and they will recognize “W4E” as a special event. Those who respond will receive a message from W4E stating 2016 marks the 160th anniversary of Auburn University.

Those who get in touch with university amateur radio operators will have an opportunity to receive a QSL card, which is a written confirmation of communication during the special event. Internationally, ham radio operators frequently make it a hobby to contact special event stations and collect QSL cards, and the card sent for W4E will feature a photo of Samford Hall.

Participating Auburn students and community amateurs radio operators hope to make contact with people in all 50 states and numerous locations throughout the globe.

The event has been organized by Stew Schneller (K4JOP), professor of chemistry and biochemistry. John Hung (KI4NHX), professor of electrical and computer engineering, is the faculty advisor to the Auburn University Amateur Radio Club.

The public is welcome to stop by and learn more about W4E, K4RY and ham radio special events. For more information, contact Stew Schneller at schnest@auburn.edu.