One more bit of advice. Make sure that you take a copy of your amateur
radio license and a copy of QST with the contest info in it. I have never
met a rover who didn't get stopped by the law at least once so make sure you
have your paperwork to explain what you are doing.
73
Jim, W4KXY
-----Original Message-----
From: vhfcontesting-bounces@contesting.com
[mailto:vhfcontesting-bounces@contesting.com] On Behalf Of k4gun@comcast.net
Sent: Sunday, December 23, 2007 1:02 PM
To: vhfcontesting@contesting.com
Subject: Re: [VHFcontesting] Another rookie question
You guys have out done yourselves. Between the posted replies and several
private e-mails, I have a much better idea of how to go into this contest as
a first time "Limited Rover". What I am noticing is that there is not one
single answer for everybody. Each person is doing things different and it
seems like its based on station capabilities, operating style, populations,
location and activity levels. I've found advice in each reply that I can
use in my operating situation. I will be taking a little bit from each of
you.
Just to let you know what I'm working with, I'll give a basic description of
what I have and what the plans are. I have an Icom IC7000 mounted in the
console box of my truck that I have been using for a few months. I'm pretty
comfortable using it on the move and have become fairly adept at using the
functions with a minimum of distraction (I even worked a few split DX
stations while driving 70 MPH down I-95). I also have an IC 746 Pro that is
going into the back seat. I have an aux battery in the tool box of the
truck with a power panel in the cab to run everything.
For antennas, I have two painter's poles that are reinforced with PVC pipe
and bolted to a cargo divider across the bed. On the first pole, I have
stacked loops for 2 meters and 432. On the second pole, I have a single
loop. These are the antennas for use while moving. When I reach a place to
set up, I have an Elk log periodic for 2/432 on a quick detach mount that
goes on the 6 meter loop pole. I also have a Stressed Moxon that goes on
the other pole and attaches with only two thumb screws. The painter's poles
will raise each antenna roughly 19' above the ground. Total set up time
from park to operating is less than 5 minutes.
Both directional antennas will be aimed toward the front of the truck. The
truck has a factory navigation system with a built in compass. I'll rotate
the truck as needed to aim the antennas. The factory nav also has a
function to show exact longitude and latitude. With that and a small paper
map, I'll know exactly when I cross into a new grid.
The plan is to start on a mountain and operate for about 3 hours. I'll then
move to the beach which is at a grid corner and includes two fairly rare
grids (FM26 and 27). I'll be taking a slightly circuitous route which will
put me in two other grids for only a few miles. I will not be stopping in
those but will make contacts while moving to "open" them for the multiplier.
Earlier this month, I made a scouting trip to the beach and found several
suitable places to operate. While there, I made a number of VHF contacts
with both directional and omni antennas. The Elk antenna gives a big
advantage to the 432 stack, but the 2 meter stack proved to be as effective
as the Elk on that band.
At about sunset on Sunday, I'll head North. I found a nice rest stop about
a mile into FM29 on my way home where I could set up if I have the time,
energy and there is enough activity to warrant it. From there, I head home
where I'll finish up close to the house.
Based on everybody's input, I'll be refining this and figuring out how loose
or tight to make my schedule and how and when to run and when to S&P. I'll
likely have a co-pilot to help me log as well. I'm still working out
details, but this list has been invaluable so far.
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