Building a Ham Radio Dashboard

Ham radio has always combined technical ingenuity with a spirit of exploration. After returning to the hobby, I wanted a simple, clear way to monitor activity. The result is a lightweight online dashboard that brings live information together in a single, readable view.

You can see it at g0ikv.qsy.to.

What it shows

The dashboard gives real-time visibility of the data that matters while operating:

• Stations heard (RX) and stations hearing me (TX)
• Weather and RF conditions
• A live video feed from the International Space Station, which adds an extra dimension

The aim was a quick reference tool: immediate feedback on operating conditions, in a display that is good to look at.

I first considered building the system around a Raspberry Pi. While researching options I found an excellent open-source project by VA3HDL, whose HamDashboard provided a robust foundation. I adapted it for use in the UK, modifying the settings to suit my own station, G0IKV, and local needs.

How it works

The dashboard is built from a series of embedded iframes, each drawing live data from a public online source. The approach has several advantages:

• Minimal server load: there is no need to maintain direct API connections or databases
• Simple hosting: it can run on lightweight webspace, or even locally
• Modularity: new sources or views can be added by embedding additional frames

Because it relies on existing, reliable online services, it stays lightweight and avoids unnecessary technical overhead, which suits a personal or small station setup.

Reflections

Building this dashboard has added a new dimension to my radio activity. Instead of relying on logs alone, I now have a live window into band conditions, propagation patterns and station performance.

The project reflects a wider truth about amateur radio: blending traditional skills with new tools keeps the hobby flexible and always evolving.

Anyone interested in the original project can find VA3HDL’s HamDashboard on GitHub. It is an excellent starting point for building your own personalised version.

Thanks to VA3HDL for the inspiration. Radio is better when ideas are shared.