Topband: 160m propagation from left coast

[Bob Kile]

Regardless of my location and presumed super array of which it is not 
the point I emphasize is that there are stations to be worked from W6 
and W7 land during the solar maximum. My comments were directed towards 
the new members of the top-band community wishing to increase their 
country totals.

Western US stations have a sweet spot for propagation to the Pacific and 
beyond that can be taken advantage of during solar maximum and off 
season. I'll give example, I can work JA and UA with fair reliability 
all throughout summer months with the exception of a two to three week 
blackout during summer solstice. We will have to wait another 2 years 
for European path to improve beyond one or two nights a season.

Normal multi-hop propagation is limited to about 10,000 miles. In the 
case of Phil's VK6GX super signal there was ducting involved as he was 
more than 30dBm above average for that path. I have also worked Kev 
VK6LW with about 5W ERP on 160. JA  and CE1 have been worked with 5W 
ERP. At one point a few years ago I worked NP2J with about 200mw.

Out west we don't have the instant 100 country advantage. We have to 
focus on what we can get.

Maybe someday there will be capable stations on from the Maldives or 
India during the the +-equinox period! The catch 22 as always is 
activity needs to be for an extended period for the magic to take place. 
If I live long enough to get my last few Zones on 160CW i will retire to 
160 SSB! LOL

Mix it up, operate and have fun

73,

Bob W7RH