I'm trying to get active on weak signal modes on 220mhz prior to the contest season. Don't have the time right now to tackle a transverter kit, so instead I'd like to purchase a used multi-mode rig,
While putting together a new Directive Systems DS224-8R antenna last night, I realized that I lack even basic test equipment for 222mhz. I'd like to add an SWR/Wattmeter that covers 144/222/432, and
I'm traveling to Columbus, Ohio tomorrow on business and regretfully, simply won't be able to pack the IC-910H. I am going to bring along a 5 watt dual-band HT, and a seven element Arrow Yagi Antenna
I'm a big fan of "Rover Log" for contests, but also want to keep a general log for the shack that will help me track progress towards VUCC on all bands up to 1296mhz. I'm interested in hearing from m
Saturday is also the date of our annual Hamfest, so my operating time will be limited. I plan to be on the air by 5AM Central time, hoping to catch some of the Georgia grids as the contest begins in
With thanks to the Worldwide TV FM DX Association (WTFDA) mailing list, and Peter Baskind, AG4KI, here's another great "real time" resource for band openings. Especially as it applies to Six Meters.
My log for this contest is easy. 0 QSO's X 0 Grids=0 Points. Stayed up until 2AM putting a five element 2 Meter antenna, and a 25 element loop yagi on a 18 foot aluminum painters pole. Attached a 2 m
Again, pardon the newbie questions. I've added mast mounted pre-amps to improve the sensitivity of my VHF/UHF rgis. At the moment, I'm using three rigs: 1.) Icom 746 Pro to cover 6 Meters. 2.) Icom I
I'm in a HOA situation, and restricted to attic mounted antennas. Fortunately, it's a large and high attic. Runs back to the shack are fairly long. 75 feet each. I have 1/2" Andrews Heliax for all ru
RF Space, the makers of the fine SDR-IQ software defined receiver have announced plans to build a new SDR unit that will feature both 6 meter and 2 meter reception capabilities. I keep hoping that so
Shopping trip with the wife caused me to miss most of the early action in the event, which is a shame, because locally that seems to be when most contacts occur. Some noted regulars like W4ZRZ, K4AAF
I'm interested in hearing from anyone who has used a SDR "Friendly" converter for VHF/UHF Weak Signal operations. They're available at very reasonable prices from High Sierra Microwave, a company tha
I have high hopes for six meter operation. I was counting on it to be my "bread and butter" but so far the last three days have been disappointing. I see what appear to be large openings, but have he
Sorry for leaving out that detail. The roof is your basic plywood and shingle kind of thing. Nothing crazy...and as I said, signal levels on the local beacon are strong around the clock. Two Meter Ya
Happy to report that while monitoring 50.125 last Thursday evening just before bed time, I heard a weak station calling CQ. I went back to him, and was immediately answered by August Schott, K5HCT in
Heard two stations ragchewing on 144.200 this morning, both W5 calls. I assume Texas since the beam was pointed West. Made numerous calls, but could never raise them. Fun hearing them though...I've c
I hope that you'll all humor some more "newbie" questions. Like many, I monitor the APRS map to determine the likelihood of enhanced propagation. It doesn't take long to figure out that it can be mis
Each new day seems to bring new lessons for my VHF education. Yesterday afternoon, on the ride home from work, I monitored 50.125, but heard little. I threw out a CQ, which was answered by N4DKE, a l
Sorry, OM. "S&P" refers to search & pounce. An operating strategy that many use during openings and contests. You basically tune around and look for the strong signals. On HF, this is usually the onl
I'd like to get recommendations on the "best" software to use for the upcoming VHF June Contests. I'll be operating an IC-910H (2M,432, 1.2ghz), an Icom 746 Pro (6M), and a Yaesu FT-736R (222 only).