[VHFcontesting] I'm crazy, right?

[Les Rayburn]

Little over a week to go before contest. I'm out of town this weekend, and then leave for a shoot in Ft. Worth, TX on Tuesday. Return on Friday. 
During those few days that I'm actually home, I'm trying to accomplish the following: 

1. Build and install three improved (longer) antennas for 144, 222, and 432mhz. 
2. Install loop yagis for 900mhz and 2.3 ghz. 
3. Install a Beko 300 watt 432mhz amplifier. (Loaned to me by a local VHF operator) 
4. Learn to use WSJT software (which I just got running tonight) 
5. Configure N3FJP VHF Contest software including Digital Voice Keyer, and CW keyer. 
6. Install and learn to use a new Icom 756ProIII
7. Install a Mirage 120 watt amp for 222. 
8. Install a DEMI 2304Ghz transverter. 
9. Test my Kenwood TK-981 FM rig for 900mhz. 

This is completely crazy. I've finally and completely lost it. You guys should really print warnings in QST or something. I mean, this is worse than Avian Flu. All this for some new "grid squares"? Not countries, not even states, but grid squares!???? 

I was trying to find and purchase some topographic software at a local map specialty shop today, and I told the clerk that I wanted to be able to view the terrain in "raised relief" type 3-D views. Literally turn it, and move it to visually look at the terrain. She asked what I needed it for. I explained that I was a ham radio operator. She then wanted to know how much territory I wanted to map. I told her just the Southeastern United States. 

She looked at me and said..."Hmm...my neighbor is a ham radio operator and HE TALKS ALL OVER THE WORLD". She was so smug I wanted to choke her. How do you explain to someone that you're just trying to work into Florida? 

To make matters worse, I spent some time at the shack of Jimmy Long, W4ZRZ recently. He was rushing to get ready for the contest too. In his case, he was trying to do a stack of eight 432mhz Yagis at about 100 feet! He was having some trouble with his power divider...and oh yeah, the water cooling for his 1.2ghz amp was acting up too. I tried to feel sorry for him, I really did. 

His place is at 1,400 foot elevation. You could work North Carolina with 5 watts and a dipole. Despite his good nature, I thought about shooting myself on the spot. He also imparted some real "VHF Wisdom" for me. 

"Move". 

I've figured out why there are two annual Sporadic E seasons per year. It's just enough to give you hope and get you through the next six months, right? Hope to work you in the contest. Please QSL. I need your grid. 

73,

Les Rayburn, N1LF



Les Rayburn, director
High Noon Film
100 Centerview Drive Suite 111
Birmingham, AL 35216-3748 
205.824.8930
205.824.8960 fax
205.253.4867 cell