Ship RF-related software projects. Explore digital signal processing (DSP), analyze I/Q samples, design your own modulation scheme, make custom firmware for your radio, and much more. Projects can be as simple or complex as you'd like, though pushing yourself will be rewarded. Track your time spent coding with Hackatime and earn Watts (W) to spend on prizes in the shop, from Meshtastic hardware to high-end SDRs.

Get a grant to design and build RF-related hardware projects. Build your own antenna, a Slack client that works in the middle of nowhere over Meshtastic, design a custom PCB for a DMR hotspot or Meshtastic node, and much more. Submit CAD, PCB files, firmware, and a cost optimized BoM, to recieve funding up to $200, depending on the amount of time and effort you've put into the project, and how complex it is. Time spent building the project after you've gotten your grant will earn you Watts (W), which you will be able to spend on prizes in the shop.

Get your amateur radio license, unlock thousands more MHz of possibility, and stop relying on cell networks and the internet. Study with Ham Study, take the exam, and get your callsign (steps may vary for countries other than the US). Exam fee ($5) and FCC application fee ($35) apply, though the ARRL will reimburse the latter for you. Once you've been issued a callsign, we'll ship you a free, hackable radio!

Q: Who can participate?
A: Teenagers aged 13-18, from anywhere in the world, except US-sanctioned countries or countries where Hack Club cannot otherwise do business.
Q: How long do I have to build work on my project/when do I have to submit it by?
A: Expect 2-3 weeks. Exact dates are to be determined.
Q: You said there's prizes?
A: We will have a shop containing prizes that you can buy with Watts (W), the currency obtained by shipping projects. The exact contents of the shop is to be determined, but expect a wide range of radios, grants for radio equipment of your choice, Meshtastic hardware, and SDRs.
Q: Do I need to know how to code or design hardware?
A: Nope! This event is about learning. We will have a resources page where you can find comprehensive tutorials on multiple subjects, and you can ask for help on the Slack.
Q: The Slack? What's that?
A: Hack Club has a massive Slack community of over 100,000 like-minded teens. You will need to join it to participate in this event. See slack.hackclub.com.
Q: Can I use AI for my code or documentation?
A: No, you are not allowed to use AI in part of your project. This includes for code, documentation, READMEs, schematics, renderings, etc.
Q: I'm not in the US, how do I get a radio license?
A: This will depend on your country. Google "[country name] amateur radio license". You need to get a technician equivalent license to qualify.
Q: Does Wi-Fi or Bluetooth count as RF?
A: Projects submitted to spectrum need to go beyond traditional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Look into Wi-Fi Halow or Lora.
Q: I have more questions!
A: Ask in the Slack, or email them to spectrum@thetridentguy.com.