If you’re ever in Kuala Lumpur and want a break from shopping malls and skyscrapers, take an hour and drop by the Telekom Museum. I went recently, not expecting much — but honestly, it turned out to be one of those rare hidden gems that leaves a lasting impression.

It’s located along Jalan Raja Chulan, right in the heart of the city. The building itself dates back to 1928, originally built as a manual telephone exchange. It’s got that old colonial charm — whitewashed walls, tall pillars, and a very peaceful vibe. Today, it’s owned by Telekom Malaysia and turned into a museum that walks you through the entire journey of communication in Malaysia.

What’s Inside

The museum is spread over two floors, and while not huge, it’s packed with fascinating things — especially if you’re into tech, history, or vintage electronics.

From Smoke Signals to Morse

You start off with the early days of communication — smoke signals, drumbeats, carvings, and messenger systems used before electricity. Then it moves into the Morse code and telegraph era. You’ll see actual Morse keys, telegraph machines, and a setup that lets you tap out messages the old-fashioned way.

Telephones, Racks & Switchboards

One of my favourite parts was the section with the telephone rack, teleprinter and manual switchboards. There’s a full setup of a telephone exchange from decades ago, complete with blinking lights, cables, and physical switches. You can see how operators connected calls manually using cords and jacks — something that feels like ancient history in the age of smartphones.

There are also rows of rotary phones, push-button landlines, and even public phone booths that were once a common sight in Malaysia. If you grew up in the ‘80s or ‘90s, this section will probably hit you with nostalgia.

Radio, Mobile, and Digital Age

Upstairs, the exhibits jump forward into the mobile era — with early “brick” mobile phones, pagers, satellite equipment, and a look at how Malaysia developed its broadband and fibre networks. There’s also a brief section on how the internet arrived, and how Telekom Malaysia evolved to support it.

For Amateur Radio Operators

If you’re into amateur radio like me, you’ll appreciate the little tribute to radio communication history. There’s an actual radio transceiver, a Morse key, and some great info on how early wireless communication played a key role in emergency services, military, and long-distance messaging. It’s not a huge section, but it’s enough to make any ham operator pause and smile.

Plan Your Visit

Here’s all the essential info if you’re thinking of going:

• Location: Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
  (Near Masjid Jamek and Bukit Nanas LRT stations)
• Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  (Closed on public holidays)
• Getting There:
  • LRT: Masjid Jamek (about 10 minutes walk)
  • Monorail: Raja Chulan
  • GOKL Bus: Purple line stops nearby
• Parking: Limited street parking; paid parking lots nearby

Final Thoughts

This museum doesn’t try to be fancy. But it’s peaceful, full of carefully preserved history, and really makes you reflect on how far we’ve come — from clunky switchboards and copper wires to fibre optics and smartphones.

Whether you’re a history lover, a tech enthusiast, or a fellow ham radio operator, the Telekom Museum offers a quiet and meaningful experience. It’s one of those places that doesn’t shout — it just tells Malaysia’s communication story, clearly and proudly.

So if you’re in KL and have an hour or two, go give it a visit. You’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll leave with a bit of appreciation for every call, signal, and connection that came before.

The post A Quiet Tech Time Capsule — Visiting the Telekom Museum in Kuala Lumpur appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

Ir Ts Azizi A. Hadi’s career spans over 35 years, reflecting a blend of military discipline and corporate leadership, with a relentless drive for innovation and progress in the telecommunications industry. His story, from his service in the Royal Malaysian Army’s Royal Signals Regiment to his current roles as Director at Fibrecomm Network (M) Sdn Bhd and Adjunct Professor at the Engineering Faculty of Multimedia University, exemplifies dedication, growth, and a passion for advancing communication systems.

A Strong Military Foundation

Azizi’s journey began in 1987 when he joined the Royal Malaysian Army as an Engineering Officer in the Royal Signals Regiment. During nearly a decade of service, he managed essential tasks such as planning tactical radio networks, evaluating new equipment, and training personnel in advanced communication technologies. This foundational experience deepened his understanding of communication systems, setting the stage for his future career in telecommunications.

Transitioning to the Private Sector

After his military service, Azizi made the transition to the private sector in 1996, taking on the role of Country Business Development Manager at Global One Communications, a prominent international telecommunications service provider. His role focused on managing sales to multinational corporations, marking his entry into the commercial telecommunications field. This experience expanded his understanding of global business operations and strategy, helping to establish his strong foothold in the Malaysian market.

In 2006, Azizi joined Maxis Communications Berhad, where he played a significant role in the company’s broadband expansion and Malaysia’s digital transformation. He led the broadband business unit and later worked in Network Engineering and Operations, gaining crucial experience that contributed to his understanding of mobile telecommunications.

Leadership at Telekom Malaysia

Azizi’s impact on Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape began in 2006 when he joined Telekom Malaysia (TM). Starting as General Manager of Technology & Innovation, he quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his leadership in driving innovation. In 2009, Azizi was promoted to Vice President of Retail Products, where he played a pivotal role in developing TM’s products and expanding its customer base.

His leadership journey continued when, in 2011, he became Executive Vice President (EVP) of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), helping TM establish itself as a leader in the SME market. In 2014, Azizi took on the role of CEO of Webe, TM’s mobile arm, further demonstrating his ability to lead during the company’s digital transformation. His time at TM also included leadership as EVP of TM ONE, where he led the company’s efforts in becoming a fully integrated digital enabler for enterprises and the public sector.

A Visionary Leader Beyond the Corporate World

In addition to his role at TM, Azizi holds directorship positions in several of TM’s subsidiaries, contributing to the company’s long-term direction and ensuring its competitiveness in the global telecommunications landscape. He is also an influential advisor, bringing his experience and strategic vision to the table as TM navigates the ever-evolving digital space.

Amateur Radio Enthusiast – Callsign 9M2ZI

A key part of Azizi’s career has been his lifelong interest in communication technologies. As an amateur radio operator with the callsign 9M2ZI, Azizi connects with a global network of like-minded enthusiasts, sharing knowledge and experimenting with communication systems. His involvement in amateur radio reflects his ongoing commitment to technological exploration and his passion for wireless communication.

Educational Background and Leadership Development

Azizi holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from University Putra Malaysia and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Wichita State University, USA. His educational foundation is complemented by leadership programs from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Cambridge, and Stanford universities, providing him with the skills necessary to lead in a complex and competitive business environment.

Current Roles and Contributions

Beyond his corporate leadership, Azizi serves as a Director at Fibrecomm Network (M) Sdn Bhd, where he continues to contribute to the development of Malaysia’s communications infrastructure. Additionally, since 2022, he has been an Adjunct Professor at the Engineering Faculty of Multimedia University, where he imparts his extensive knowledge to the next generation of engineers, mentors students, and engages in scholarly activities. This role allows him to bridge the gap between industry and academia, fostering the development of future leaders in the telecommunications sector.

Conclusion

Ir Ts Azizi A. Hadi’s career is a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and leadership. From his military service in the Royal Signals Regiment to his influential roles at Telekom Malaysia, CEO of Webe, Director of Fibrecomm Network, and as an adjunct professor, Azizi’s impact on the telecommunications industry and the academic sector is undeniable. His journey demonstrates how a combination of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and a commitment to innovation can shape the future of digital communication in Malaysia.

Azizi’s contributions extend beyond corporate leadership, influencing the development of telecommunications and communication technology both professionally and through his passion for amateur radio. His story is one of continuous growth and leadership, inspiring future generations of engineers and leaders.

The post Ir Ts Azizi A. Hadi 9M2ZI appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

The evolution of military satellite communications (MILSATCOM) is crucial for maintaining robust, secure, and reliable communication capabilities, especially in contested environments. The 2010 Joint Space Communication Layer (JSCL) Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) highlighted an anticipated surge in demand for these capabilities within the 2020-2025 timeframe. In response, the US Air Force initiated the MILSATCOM Design for Affordability Risk Reduction (DFARR) effort in 2012. This initiative aimed to develop and demonstrate a new protected tactical communications system. The effort included the development of prototypes for a Protected Tactical Service (PTS) and a new communications waveform, the Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW).

The Need for PTW

The JSCL ICD forecasted a significant increase in the need for US MILSATCOM in environments where communication could be actively contested. Recognizing this, the US Air Force sought to create a system that could offer wideband, protected communications to tactical edge users operating in anti-access and denied environments. The solution required both advanced technology and cost-effective implementation strategies.

The Role of MIT Lincoln Laboratory

MIT Lincoln Laboratory (MIT LL) was tasked with developing a test bed for the DFARR effort, enabling the demonstration of prototype user terminals and space segment designs. The goal was to ensure these designs could integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure while meeting the advanced requirements set forth for tactical communications.

Key Objectives and Components

The DFARR’s primary objectives were multifaceted, aiming to address user terminals, space segment designs, information assurance, mission management, and ground segment design. This comprehensive approach was necessary to ensure the new system could provide secure and efficient communication links.

1. Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW):
   • Baseband Framing and Modulation: PTW specifications include advanced baseband framing, modulation, and coding techniques to ensure efficient data transmission.
   • Dynamic Link Adaptation: Protocols were developed to adapt link characteristics in real-time, enhancing communication reliability under various conditions.
   • Security Features: PTW incorporates robust security measures, including frequency hopping and time permutation, to protect against jamming and interception.
2. Design for Affordability:
   • Use of Existing Satellites: Initial system operation was planned to leverage existing satellite infrastructure, reducing costs.
   • Terminal Modem Upgrades: By upgrading existing terminal types with new modems supporting PTW, the system could be deployed more rapidly and cost-effectively.

Laboratory and Over-the-Air Testing

The DFARR effort included rigorous testing phases, both in laboratory settings and over-the-air, to validate the system’s performance and reliability.

• Laboratory Testing:
  • Testing focused on ensuring consistent implementation of the waveform specification, from modulation and coding to advanced protection features like frequency hopping and time permutation.
  • The laboratory setup included integrated terminal and hub modems, forward/return link emulation, dual RF interfaces, and extensive packet generation/analysis capabilities.
• Over-the-Air Testing:
  • Conducted with Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellites, these tests demonstrated the system’s ability to integrate with existing terminal types and operate effectively in real-world scenarios.
  • Over-the-air tests also validated link acquisition, tracking protocols, and the mission planning process, essential for fielding the system in operational environments.

End Cryptographic Unit (ECU) Integration

A critical component of the PTW system is the End Cryptographic Unit (ECU), which partitions all critical security functionalities. The ECU was tested for initialization, operation with waveform modes, and link adaptation protocols, ensuring it could handle the secure transmission requirements of the PTW system.

Conclusion and Future Directions

The DFARR effort has laid a solid foundation for the deployment of a new, secure tactical communications system capable of operating in highly contested environments. The integration of PTW and the development of cost-effective implementation strategies represent significant advancements in MILSATCOM capabilities. Future work will focus on further refining the system, improving accuracy in signal processing, and expanding operational capabilities to meet the evolving needs of military communication networks.

By leveraging existing infrastructure and incorporating advanced security measures, the PTW system promises to enhance tactical communication capabilities significantly, ensuring reliable and secure data transmission in even the most challenging conditions.

The post Advancing Tactical Communications: Insights from the Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW) Development appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

In an age where smartphones are ubiquitous, there exists a niche market catering to those who require devices built to withstand the harshest environments. Rugged smartphones are designed to withstand drops, shocks, water, and dust, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and professionals working in demanding industries. Let’s delve into the top rugged smartphone manufacturers, their histories, latest flagship products, and their presence in military applications.

1. Cat® Phones

• History: Caterpillar Inc., renowned for its heavy equipment, entered the smartphone market in 2012. Their rugged phones are built to endure extreme conditions.
• Birthplace: United States
• Latest Flagship Product: Cat® S62 Pro, boasting FLIR thermal imaging technology for professional-grade thermal imaging capabilities.
• Military Use: Cat® Phones are used by military personnel worldwide for their durability and reliability. However, specific details about their use in military operations are not publicly disclosed.
• Battle Proven?: While Cat® Phones are trusted by professionals in rugged industries, it’s unclear if they have been specifically tested and proven in battle scenarios.

2. Sonim Technologies

• History: Founded in 1999, Sonim Technologies specializes in ultra-rugged mobile phones for industries such as construction, logistics, and public safety.
• Birthplace: United States
• Latest Flagship Product: Sonim XP8, featuring a robust design and push-to-talk capabilities for instant communication in challenging environments.
• Military Use: Sonim phones are used by military personnel and first responders globally due to their durability and dedicated features for critical communications.
• Battle Proven?: Sonim devices are widely used in military and public safety applications, but specific battle testing details are not publicly available.

3. Kyocera

• History: Kyocera Corporation, a Japanese multinational, has been producing rugged phones since the early 2000s. They focus on durability and long battery life.
• Birthplace: Japan
• Latest Flagship Product: Kyocera DuraForce Ultra 5G UW, combining 5G connectivity with military-grade durability for reliable communication in harsh environments.
• Military Use: Kyocera phones are utilized by military personnel and law enforcement agencies globally due to their ruggedness and reliability.
• Battle Proven?: While Kyocera phones are trusted in demanding environments, details about specific military testing are not readily available.

4. Panasonic Toughbook

• History: Panasonic Corporation has been a leader in rugged computing solutions since the 1990s. Their Toughbook line includes rugged laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
• Birthplace: Japan
• Latest Flagship Product: Panasonic Toughbook FZ-T1, a compact and rugged handheld device designed for mobile workers in challenging environments.
• Military Use: Panasonic Toughbook devices are extensively used by military forces worldwide for various applications, including field communication and logistics.
• Battle Proven?: Panasonic Toughbook devices undergo rigorous testing and are widely deployed in military operations, making them battle-proven solutions.

5. Ulefone Armor

• History: Ulefone, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, introduced its Armor series in 2016, targeting outdoor enthusiasts and professionals requiring durable devices.
• Birthplace: China
• Latest Flagship Product: Ulefone Armor 11 5G, featuring 5G connectivity, thermal imaging capabilities, and a rugged design suitable for outdoor activities.
• Military Use: While Ulefone Armor phones are not specifically marketed for military use, their ruggedness may appeal to certain military personnel and outdoor professionals.
• Battle Proven?: Ulefone Armor devices may lack explicit battle testing but offer rugged features suitable for challenging environments.

6. Blackview

• History: Blackview, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, focuses on producing rugged phones with high durability and performance.
• Birthplace: China
• Latest Flagship Product: Blackview BV9900 Pro, boasting thermal imaging capabilities, 5G connectivity, and MIL-STD-810G certification for ruggedness.
• Military Use: Blackview phones are not explicitly marketed for military use but are suitable for professionals working in demanding environments.
• Battle Proven?: While Blackview devices may not have undergone specific military testing, they offer rugged features suitable for various applications.

7. Doogee

• History: Doogee, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, entered the rugged phone market with its S series, targeting outdoor enthusiasts and professionals.
• Birthplace: China
• Latest Flagship Product: Doogee S96 Pro, featuring a rugged design, night vision camera, and long-lasting battery for outdoor adventures.
• Military Use: Doogee phones are not explicitly marketed for military use but may appeal to certain military personnel and outdoor professionals.
• Battle Proven?: While Doogee devices may lack explicit battle testing, they offer rugged features suitable for challenging environments.

8. AGM Mobile

• History: AGM Mobile, a Chinese smartphone manufacturer, specializes in rugged phones designed to withstand extreme conditions.
• Birthplace: China
• Latest Flagship Product: AGM H3, featuring MIL-STD-810H certification, thermal imaging capabilities, and a rugged design suitable for outdoor activities.
• Military Use: AGM Mobile phones are not specifically marketed for military use but offer ruggedness and durability suitable for professionals in demanding environments.
• Battle Proven?: AGM Mobile devices may not have undergone explicit battle testing, but they provide rugged features suitable for various applications.

9. Ruggear

• History: Ruggear, a British company, specializes in rugged smartphones designed for professionals in industries such as construction, oil and gas, and public safety.
• Birthplace: United Kingdom
• Latest Flagship Product: Ruggear RG910, featuring a rugged design, long battery life, and push-to-talk capabilities for instant communication in challenging environments.
• Military Use: Ruggear phones are trusted by military personnel and first responders worldwide for their durability and reliability.
• Battle Proven?: Ruggear devices may not have undergone specific battle testing, but they are widely used in military and public safety applications.

10. Crosscall

• History: Crosscall, a French company founded in 2009, specializes in rugged mobile devices designed for outdoor sports enthusiasts, adventurers, and professionals.
• Birthplace: France
• Latest Flagship Product: Crosscall Core-X4, featuring a rugged design, long battery life, and advanced communication features for outdoor activities and professional use.
• Military Use: Crosscall phones are not specifically marketed for military use but offer ruggedness and reliability suitable for various outdoor and professional applications.
• Battle Proven?: While Crosscall devices may not have undergone explicit battle testing, they offer rugged features suitable for challenging environments.

Conclusion

Rugged smartphones play a crucial role in industries where durability, reliability, and resilience are paramount. From military applications to outdoor adventures and industrial settings, these devices provide essential communication and connectivity in harsh environments. While battle testing details may not always be publicly available, the robust design and features of these smartphones make them trusted tools for professionals worldwide. As technology continues to advance,

The post Exploring the Top Rugged Smartphone Manufacturers in the World appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

What is Ubuntu?

Ubuntu is a free and open-source Linux operating system based on the Debian architecture. It is renowned for its user-friendly interface, extensive software ecosystem, and strong community support. Developed and maintained by Canonical Ltd., Ubuntu has gained widespread popularity across various industries, including telecommunications.

Why Ubuntu for Telco Solutions?

1. Stability and Reliability: Telco operations require rock-solid stability and reliability to ensure uninterrupted services. Ubuntu’s long-term support (LTS) releases provide a stable foundation for building telco-grade infrastructure. With LTS releases supported for up to five years, telco operators can deploy Ubuntu with confidence, knowing that they have access to security updates and patches.
2. Scalability: Telco networks must accommodate growing demands without compromising performance. Ubuntu’s scalability makes it an ideal choice for telco solutions, whether deploying on-premises or in the cloud. Its modular architecture allows telco operators to scale their infrastructure seamlessly to meet evolving requirements.
3. Security: Security is paramount in telco environments, where sensitive data and communications traverse the network. Ubuntu’s robust security features, including AppArmor, Secure Boot, and built-in firewall tools, help safeguard telco infrastructure against cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
4. Flexibility and Customization: Telco operators often require tailored solutions to address specific use cases and requirements. Ubuntu’s open-source nature and extensive package repository empower telco operators to customize their infrastructure to suit their unique needs. Whether deploying VoIP services, network function virtualization (NFV), or software-defined networking (SDN), Ubuntu provides the flexibility to adapt and innovate.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: With cost efficiency being a key consideration for telco operators, Ubuntu’s free licensing model eliminates the need for expensive software licenses, reducing overall operational expenditure. Additionally, Ubuntu’s support for commodity hardware and virtualization technologies further enhances cost-effectiveness without compromising performance.

Ubuntu in Telco Deployments

Ubuntu finds widespread usage across various telco deployments, including:

• Virtualized Network Functions (VNFs): Telco operators leverage Ubuntu to deploy VNFs, such as virtualized session border controllers (vSBCs), virtualized evolved packet cores (vEPCs), and virtualized media gateways, enabling agile and cost-effective network architectures.
• Cloud-Native Telco Solutions: Ubuntu serves as the foundation for cloud-native telco solutions, enabling the deployment of containerized applications using technologies like Kubernetes and Docker. This approach enhances scalability, agility, and resource utilization, driving innovation in telco service delivery.
• 5G Network Infrastructure: As telco operators transition to 5G networks, Ubuntu plays a crucial role in building the underlying infrastructure, supporting technologies like network slicing, edge computing, and massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output). Ubuntu’s support for hardware acceleration and high-performance computing accelerates the adoption of 5G technologies.

Conclusion

Ubuntu has emerged as a preferred choice for telco operators seeking reliable, scalable, and cost-effective solutions. Its robust features, coupled with its vibrant ecosystem and community support, make it well-suited for building telco-grade infrastructure that can meet the demands of modern telecommunications.

As telco operators continue to innovate and expand their service offerings, Ubuntu remains at the forefront, driving efficiency, agility, and performance in telco solutions.

Related Links:

• Ubuntu Official Website
• Canonical Ltd.
• Ubuntu for Telco Solutions
• Ubuntu LTS Releases

The post Ubuntu: Revolutionizing Telco Solutions appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/8414601/Classes_Of_Emission.pdf

The post Classes Of Emission appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.

Over time, several countries have created similar radio services, with varying requirements for licensing and differing technical standards. While they may be known by other names, such as General Radio Service in Canada, they often use similar frequencies (26 to 28 MHz), and have similar uses, and similar difficulties with antennas and propagation. Licenses may or may not be required, but eligibility is generally simple.

Some countries have personal radio services in the UHF band, such as the European PMR446 and the Australian UHF CB. Like the American FRS and GMRS services, these are more properly covered in their own articles, as much of this article is specific to the antenna and propagation of the upper HF and lower VHF bands.

Picture of Texas Ranger TR-696M ( Made In Malaysia )
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More Info For Malaysian:-

puB109 –

Class Assign-BI-register –

THE ELEVEN METERS DIVISION PREFIX OF THE WORLD –

Get your Mike Bravo CB Radio callsign now

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See you on 27mhz.

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