Radio Electronics for Amateur Radio Operators: Volume 2: Analog Circuits and RF Design

Volume 2: Analog Circuits and RF Design builds on the electrical fundamentals introduced in Volume 1 and expands into the practical electronic circuits that form the foundation of every amateur radio station. Readers progress from discrete semiconductor devices through complete analog building blocks while developing the knowledge required to understand, troubleshoot, and design modern radio equipment.

Topics include semiconductor theory, diodes, bipolar junction transistors, field-effect transistors, operational amplifiers, oscillators, filters, amplifiers, mixers, voltage regulation, power supplies, signal conditioning, analog measurement techniques, RF components, impedance matching, resonant circuits, frequency generation, and practical radio-frequency design principles. Each chapter combines clear explanations with worked examples, illustrations, review questions, and practical exercises that reinforce both theoretical understanding and hands-on skills.

Rather than presenting electronics as isolated formulas, this volume explains how individual components work together to create complete radio systems. Readers learn not only how circuits operate, but also why particular design choices affect performance, efficiency, stability, noise, distortion, and reliability.

Written specifically for amateur radio operators, experimenters, students, makers, and anyone interested in radio electronics, this volume bridges the gap between introductory electrical theory and the advanced communication systems explored in later volumes. Whether preparing for more advanced amateur radio projects, repairing equipment, designing RF circuits, or simply expanding technical knowledge, readers gain a strong foundation in analog electronics that will serve throughout their amateur radio journey.

Part of the comprehensive five-volume Radio Electronics for Amateur Radio Operators series, Volume 2 provides the essential analog electronics knowledge needed before progressing to digital systems, communication techniques, and advanced RF engineering.

Throughout the book, readers develop practical problem-solving skills by working through real-world circuit examples, component analysis, troubleshooting scenarios, and design exercises based on equipment commonly found in amateur radio stations. Mathematical concepts are introduced gradually with step-by-step explanations, allowing readers to understand not only the calculations but also the engineering principles behind them. The emphasis is on developing confidence in reading schematics, selecting components, making accurate measurements, and understanding how analog circuits behave in real operating conditions.

Coverage includes passive components, semiconductor devices, transistor biasing, amplifier classes, operational amplifier applications, oscillators, frequency synthesis, tuned circuits, resonant networks, filters, mixers, detectors, impedance matching, RF amplification, power supplies, voltage regulation, signal conditioning, noise reduction, and practical measurement techniques using modern electronic test equipment. Numerous illustrations, circuit diagrams, worked examples, review questions, and practical exercises reinforce the material while helping readers apply each concept to real amateur radio projects.

Whether your goal is building equipment from scratch, repairing vintage radios, understanding modern transceivers, preparing for advanced licensing examinations, or simply gaining a deeper appreciation for radio engineering, this volume provides the knowledge needed to understand the analog circuitry that remains at the heart of every RF communication system.

Terry L. Barlet is an amateur radio operator, technical author, and founder of Ham Radio Base. Drawing on decades of experience in electronics, radio communications, computer technology, and technical education, he develops practical learning resources that simplify complex engineering concepts without sacrificing technical accuracy. His books emphasize real-world application, hands-on experimentation, and a solid understanding of the theory that underpins successful amateur radio operation. The Radio Electronics for Amateur Radio Operators series is designed to guide readers from basic electrical principles through advanced RF system design using clear explanations, worked examples, illustrations, and practical projects.