Re: Spectrogram with three unidentified signals
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 24, 2008 at 04:10:40.
In reply to Spectrogram with three unidentified signals posted by Harald on February 23, 2008
Alternate loop feed/tuning
Hello Lowfers,
I thought you might be interested in the alternate feed
arrangement that I'm currently trying on my big delta
loop for 500 kHz. I had been using series tuning and
a 4:1 turns ratio step-up transformer to couple to the
RG-6U feedline. This worked fine on the frequency that
it was tuned to but left a lot to be desired if I moved
away from that frequency. I wanted to do some NDB work
and hence needed a broadband antenna/coupling system.
I measured the loop's inductance to be 200 uH. and then
calculated the inductive reactance over the frequency
range that I wanted to cover. The calculations showed
that a 2:1 turns ratio step-down transformer would give
a reasonable match to the feedline. I wound one using
a binocular core with 16 turns on the antenna side and
8 on the feedline side. It's reactance is much larger
than the antenna's or feedline's.
This seems to work pretty well, at least in the time I
have been testing so far, but the lack of selectivity
does show up. I'm thinking of trying out a in-shack
tuning setup similar to M0BMU's "lazy loop", but will
my matching transformer give me trouble? In essence
I'd be doing the tuning on the feedline side rather
than the antenna side. Any comments are welcome.
73, J.B.
SMV propagation update
Posted by Darwin Long on February 02, 2008 at 11:54:39.
A thank-you to Kirk Wines and also Carl Dabelstein K0SBV for their reception reports and audio recordings of SMV last month from their Tuscon, AZ QTH (~475 air miles distant). CN 186.408 is clearly audible behind SMV in Kirk's recording.
With this antenna setup, I have been noting skywave enhacements and cancellations as close as 100 miles, so skip angle seems to be fairly high compared to a T-antenna.
Through January, the beacon survived 80mph winds followed by over 10 inches of rain, with no ill effects while operating 24/7.
73's
-Darwin Long Re: Class E vs. Class C what's your opinion
SMV 186.585kHz
Simi Valley, CA
Posted by Fritz Raab W1FR on February 02, 2008 at 12:17:17.
In reply to Class E vs. Class C what's your opinion posted by Andy - KU4XR on January 30, 2008
At 190 kHz class D is a better way to go. Use a separate oscillator. You might get 1 W out of a gate-driver IC. Otherwise a pair of small complementary MOSFETs would suffice. Missing US NDB offsets
Posted by Michael on February 03, 2008 at 05:00:39.
Hi all,
When trying to update some missing offsets of US NDBs I prepared this
little list that I'd like you to check. The column "rww" shows the
year when the NDB was last reported to RWW, "n" indicates that it was
never reported there at all. Most likely this list contains many NDBs
that have been switched off for good.
If you can receive any of these NDBs please include some offset info.
Any other comments you might have are of course also welcome.
Call kHz rww Station S/P
FDF 204.0 2004 Fayette AL
AOA 215.0 n Alabaster/Calera AL
MG 245.0 2007 Montgomery/Marra AL
AIV 254.0 n Aliceville AL
GGY 338.0 n Clanton/Gragg-Wade AL
SE 344.0 n Selma/Pollk AL
LHX 239.0 1998 La Junta CO
SBS 245.0 n Steamboat Springs CO
EGE 357.0 n Eagle/Gypsum Co CO
GTN 323.0 2007 Georgetown/Wash. Natl. DC
APF 201.0 2003 Naples FL
DED 201.0 2000 Deland FL
PL 332.0 2004 Tallahassee/Palee FL
GGL 375.0 n Titusville/Geiger Lake FL
EVZ 308.0 2002 Cartersville GA
UTU 326.0 n Butler Municipal/Taylor County GA
BSF 339.0 2007 Camp Pohakuloa/Bradshaw AAF (Army) HI
HP 212.0 2000 Hammond/Anger LA
PMX 212.0 n Palmer MA
LIF 220.0 n Limestone/Loring ME
PQ 209.0 2003 Pascagoula/Tlott MS
BAR 320.0 n Banner Elk/Hemlock NC
TTQ 335.0 n Murphy/Tomotla NC
RD 382.0 2003 Rayleigh/Durham/Greon NC
RLL 263.0 1990 Rolla ND
PD 222.0 2007 Whitman/Philadelphia Int./Speez NJ
EMC 375.0 2002 Winnemucca NV
IW 226.0 n New York/Laurel/Lorrs NY
ZZV 204.0 2004 Zanesville OH
CDI 223.0 2003 Cambridge OH
SLW 400.0 2001 Wooster/Smithville OH
XCB 260.0 2002 Carlisle PA
PT 264.0 2004 Pottstown/Googl PA
VV 299.0 2004 Connellsville/Camor/Uniontown PA
UOS 275.0 2000 Sewanee TN
RU 272.0 2008 San Marcos/Garys TX
UTS 308.0 2008 Huntsville TX
LIQ 335.0 n Athens/Lochridge Ranch TX
JAS 344.0 2005 Jasper TX
LQV 252.0 n Pennington Gap/Long Hollow VA
EMV 346.0 n Emporia VA
MBV 356.0 n South Hill VA
MFV 388.0 2006 Melfa VA
FLD 248.0 n Fond du Lac WI
HBW 251.0 2000 Hillsboro/Kickapoo WI
HL 212.0 2006 Wheeling/Dorch WV
GTC 293.0 n Man/Guyandot WV
--
vy 73 + gd DX,
Michael
SAQ TEST TRANSMISSION on WEDNESDAY FEB 6
Editor of "The European NDB Handbook" & "The North American NDB Handbook"
cf. http://www.beaconworld.org.uk/files/NDBpublications2008.pdf
and http://tinyurl.com/27j5ku
Posted by Todd WD4NGG on February 04, 2008 at 12:15:07.
Hi All,
I just received this message forwarded to me by Steve Ratzlaff from a member of the NDB list about an upcoming test transmission of SAQ on 17.2KHz this Wednesday, Feb 6 at 10:00 UTC including startup meaning I would listen at least 1/2 hour before 10:00 UTC just to be sure I didn't miss anything. That means it would be a good idea to start listening around 04:30 AM EST Wednesday morning just in case they start tuning up early.
73 Todd WD4NGG - Here is the message :
Hi all,
SAQ is the ID of a vintage pre-tube VLF-transmitter at Grimeton, Sweden which is run and maintained by UNESCO as cultural world heritage. Beside the two official annual trans-missions in July and Christmas Eve, test transmissions are made to verify that the alternator and antenna system is in good working condition. I have been informed by an engineer of SAQ that a test transmission will take place on Wednesday, Febr. 6, 2008 at 10:00 utc, (11:00 local time) on 17.2 kHz. The duration inclusive start-up will be approx. 1 hour. Listener reports can be sent to : info@alexander.n.se
Best listening
SM6OMH Willi
Can someone identify
Posted by jack on February 04, 2008 at 23:57:07.
In central oklahoma I am picking up a morse code at about .355 mhz. It sounds like 2 longs a short, then a slight pause then 3 longs. Can anyone identify it? Re: Can someone identify
Thanks!
Posted by Warren K2ORS on February 05, 2008 at 20:53:45.
In reply to Can someone identify posted by jack on February 04, 2008
Jack,
Below are all of the aeronautical beacons in OK between 350 and 360kHz. How accurate is your 355kHz reading?
350 RG 'Gally' Oklahoma City OK
359 DUA Durant OK
359 JWG Watonga OK
Sorry can't be more help without more specifics.
73 Warren K2ORS ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 06, 2008 at 06:49:54.
I have recently purchased a PA0RDT mini-whip and note the requirement to mount on an insulated mast in the clear.
I am looking at mounting it inside an ABS pipe. In the UK, ABS pipe can be obtained in a size 2-inch Class T BS5391. This pipe which is rated at 12.0 bar has an od of 60.3mm and a bore of 45.5mm (which is just greater than the mini-whip. It is a thick walled pipe since it is intended to be threaded for jointing purposes; the other classes have thinner walls and are for solvent welding. Two manufactures of ABS pipe assure me that it will be strong enough if I mount a 10 foot length using T&K wall brackets. This ABS pipe is good temperatures between -40 and +70 degC
My question is this. Whilst ABS has good electrical insulation characteristics, will a 7.4mm wall thickness upset the mini-whip's operation? After all the mini-whip e-probe is intended as a capacitor, what dielectric losses ABS has I do not know.
Thanks Re: Can someone identify
Clive
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 06, 2008 at 07:55:35.
In reply to Can someone identify posted by jack on February 04, 2008
Hello Jack: A couple of possibilities. NDB - " MJQ " in Jackson. Minn. operates at 353KHz with a 1000 cycle tone. listening at 355KHz in LSB mode you would hear the 1KHz CW tone from the 353KHz carrier. dits and dahs can run together sometimes. The " M " is long,long The " J " is short, long, long, long. if you didn't hear the " Q " that could be heard as 2 longs and a short followed by 3 longs. Even the " Q " is long, long, short, long. now combine the " Q " and the " M " and you could hear the 2 longs and one short, followed by 3 longs. Another possibility could be NDB - " TY " McGhee Tyson Airbase south of Knoxville, operating on 353KHz with the same scenario. A little more doubtful on mistaking that one though. Just a possibility. Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
73, and have a great day: Andy - KU4XR
Posted by J.B. Weazle McCreath VE3EAR/VE3WZL on February 06, 2008 at 14:01:29.
In reply to ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe posted by Clive S Carver on February 06, 2008
Hello Clive,
In my Tesla coiling experience I found that ABS
pipe and R.F. don't make for a good combination.
Since the mini-whip weighs next to nothing you'll
not need a lot of mechanical strength, so go with
PVC or some other R.F. friendly material.
73, J.B.
Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 06, 2008 at 15:13:58.
In reply to Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe posted by J.B. Weazle McCreath VE3EAR/VE3WZL on February 06, 2008
Hi
PVC is still on my list. However the two manufacturers that I have spoken to, both reminded me that PVC is only good down to 0degC. It is liable to go brittle below.
Whereas ABS is good for -40degC. Where I live in the UK (2 miles west of the airfield at Hawarden [EGNR])is not usually too severe, however three years ago, across the road recorded 14degC at Christmas! Seeing as I will be supporting the 10 foot pipe at the bottom and say, 18 inches up, I don't want to risk it snapping!
What sort of problems did you have with ABS please?
My main receiving interest on the mini-whip is below 200kHz - which may be relevant re dielectric losses.
Regards
Clive
Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
Posted by Ed, WSlidell,LA on February 06, 2008 at 17:01:49.
In reply to Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe posted by Clive S Carver on February 06, 2008
Hello Clive. I'm not sure if it's the same thing as our Schedule 80 ABS, but 7.4mm sounds similar. A possibility is to use the heavier walled ABS for the main support, and with an ABS coupling join an additional foot of thinner-walled ABS such as our Schedule 40 or even 20, to contain the active antenna. You should be able to shim it with a low loss material such as polyethylene at the top and bottom caps. The dielectric factor of ABS shows as between 2.5 and 3.0, but I didn't find any kind of info on the dissipation factor. A satellite manual quoted 1.5-2.0dB at 4GHZ, and 3.5-4.0dB at 13GHz losses for domes(dry) made from ABS. I doubt that they would be that high below 500KHz. A type of ABS pipe with a cellular core has shown up here, which likely would have lower loss for your purpose, but it is Schedule 40, so not as thick, and costs four times as much as regular pipe. This is why I used the gray electrical conduit for the L-400B active antenna. It withstood the 50-60mph winds last night. Ed Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
Posted by Peter B on February 06, 2008 at 17:17:11.
In reply to Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe posted by J.B. Weazle McCreath VE3EAR/VE3WZL on February 06, 2008
If I may chime in...I sense that Clive is possibly overly cautious to temperature and ridigity issues of pvc and abs. But he wisely considers the dielectric property of carbon-laden abs. Then here's my input from experience.
1) I have used pvc 2" 12-foot pipe to hold up a turnable 6-foot pentagon-shaped multi-turn loop through several winters in N Illinois.
2) If not pvc then suggest a wooden 2x2" 10Ft "pole." Sturdy and RF friendly if treated for moisture pick up. Paint to blend in.
3) Use the ABS but extend it topside with wood or PVC extension, say 2', for encasement for the miniwhip, cut ABS if needed for height.
But beyond this construction (for stealth? ) strongly suggest getting the miniwhip/rx combo working without other obstructions about for a bench mark measure and further enhancement. Then mount if as planned.
Hope this helps, Clive, and GL. Peter
Re: SAQ TEST TRANSMISSION on WEDNESDAY FEB 6
Posted by Todd WD4NGG on February 06, 2008 at 21:57:32.
In reply to SAQ TEST TRANSMISSION on WEDNESDAY FEB 6 posted by Todd WD4NGG on February 04, 2008
Sorry to report conditions were very bad here in SC during the posted SAQ transmission time on Feb 6 at 10:00 UTC. Static noise increased to 20-40dB over S9 that night and only the strongest signals on VLF could be heard at that time and even they were mixed in with plenty of static.
I wonder if any members in Europe tried to listen for SAQ to see if it was on the air?
73 Todd WD4NGG Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
Posted by J.B. Weazle McCreath, VE3EAR/VE3WZL on February 07, 2008 at 16:05:05.
In reply to Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe posted by Clive S Carver on February 06, 2008
Hi Clive,
The black color of ABS can indicate a carbon content.
Carbon of course is a conductor, something that you
don't want to use as a coil form. My logic was to
not recommend a semi-conductor as an enclosure or
support for a mini-whip. Put a small piece of it
in your microwave with a glass of water and see
if it heats up after a minute on high power.
If it does heat up, don't use it.
73, J.B.
Re: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 07, 2008 at 16:13:02.
In reply to ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipe posted by Clive S Carver on February 06, 2008
Thanks Weazle, Ed & Peter
On the basis of your most helpful posts, I am going to modify my plans.
I am going to stick with an ABS pole, Class T so as to get maximum strength, but at the top I will change to thinner walled PVC pipe of the same outside diameter. That should prevent any undesirable effects from the ABS.
I have spoken again to the Technical Department of a UK manufacturer of ABS pressure pipe, and they reckon for my purposes I will be able to satisfactorily join PVC to ABS by using an ABS sleeve joint and PVC solvent cement. Seems that PVC solvent cement will also join ABS, but ABS solvent cement will not join PVC. Their ABS joints and fittings are rated for up to 12 bar (176 pounds sq inch) when correctly joined with solvent cement, so I'm not expecting any problems there. My local dealer kindly gave me the 2 inch od PVC pipe, so that saved me having to buy a 10 foot length. Not so lucky with the Class T. Thats special order (its thick walled for threading) so will have to buy a 20 foot length of that. So looks like I got some supplies in for my next project!
Before I fabricate the casing, I'm going to play around with the two pipes, the ABS and the PVC and see how each affects reception. Hopefully I can get some consistent readings from my SDR-IQ for a weak LF station.
Once again many thanks for your help and advice.
One Noise Solution Another to Go
Posted by Bill Marvin KB9IV on February 08, 2008 at 14:21:02.
Hello Group
I found a interesting solution to a ambiguous type noise encountered I've been having on LW. It's a "Train Chugging Pulse" sound.....rate .8/sec every 10-12 Khz low-moderate signal. Problem solution was earth ground a unused Ham Vertical coax sleave that runs next to my DSL/Phone Fiber Optic Service on
the house..........all gone. Ground unused antenna's.
Next is a 60/120 Hz AC buzz on certain LW freq groups. Stranger yet it improves as the day wains......usually becomes acceptable after 11PM and isn't
in the house??? I guess I'll use my Rycom battery operated Select. VM for longwave tracking and logging.............any idea's?
I ordered a LF Eng Antenna Isolator/Balun box to try.
Thanks dor reading
Bill KB9IV
Re: One Noise Solution Another to Go
Posted by Warren K2ORS on February 09, 2008 at 12:51:01.
In reply to One Noise Solution Another to Go posted by Bill Marvin KB9IV on February 08, 2008
Bill,
Did you make a recording of the DSL noise?
I have something very similar here and I want to find out what it is.
Tnx & 73 Warren K2ORS
Re: One Noise Solution Another to Go
Posted by Bill KB9IV on February 09, 2008 at 14:01:21.
In reply to Re: One Noise Solution Another to Go posted by Warren K2ORS on February 09, 2008
Hi Warren
My 60/120 Hz is quite high right now....give me your ph# off lizt?
Thanks
Bill KB9IV
190.5 KHz carrier
Posted by Sal K1RGO on February 09, 2008 at 14:16:30.
Latest find , after the 163 KHz carrier and others( mentioned in an earlier post) I found that after it went off a carrier came on at 190.5 KHz, stayed on for 2 minutes. I didn't have time to DF it. I don't know what this is all about, anyone observe this occurrence. ABS v. uPVC - Electrical Properties, UK & USA
Sal
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 10, 2008 at 07:36:13.
Following the recent replies to my posting regarding my intended use of 2 inch Class ‘T’ ABS pipe to British Standard 5391, I realised that it would be prudent to investigate further.
Firstly, I must stress that I am in no way criticising those who posted in reply, far from it, since if I had gone along with my earlier thoughts, I would have chosen PVC – this based on easier availability and cost – which, following the reasoning in this post, would not have been a good choice in the UK.
The last time I considered Dielectric Constant and Dissipation Factor was about 40 years ago. And with regard to my current project had not initially given much thought to the materials properties other than its mechanical ones. I had totally disregarded/forgotten Dissipation Factor and my main concern was whether the Dielectric Constant of ABS would “upset” the e-probe aerial.
Google led me to http://www.goodfellow.com/csp/active/gfHome.csp which shows similar Dielectric Constants for ABS and uPVC 3.2-3.3 and 2.7-3.1 respectively. These are shown @ 1MHz which is above my frequencies of interest. Now, for Dissipation Factor ABS is 0.02 @ 1MHz and uPVC 0.025 @ 1 kHz which to me seems to favour ABS. So why the previous adverse comment for ABS? It appears to be down to colour coding standards for USA and UK/Europe. I’m guessing, but I reckon that the high Carbon content in USA ABS pipe is as a colorant. If Google has been kind to me, ABS sold in the USA is black or dark gray in colour. Whereas in UK/Europe, ABS pressure pipe is coloured what they term RAL7001 silver-grey. In fact uPVC pressure pipe sold in the UK is RAL7011 iron-grey, which is darker, thus suggesting more carbon colorant! RAL colours can be seen here:- http://www.indfinspec.demon.co.uk/ral_colour_chart.htm
I decided to test one of my 2 inch ABS end–caps in my microwave oven. After some trials, I got brave and after 30 seconds at 850 watt, the ABS end-cap had not risen in temperature, whilst the Anchor Hocking “Compact Bacon Rack” upon which I had stood the end-cap, had got warm. From that, I think I can safely conclude that the poor Dissipation Factor experienced previously was due to the colorant – carbon.
Interestingly these pipes are used for industrial purposes including water treatment. There is also a uPVC pipe (thin walled) used for domestic drainage purposes available in white, light-grey, black and also underground drainage/sewerage pipe which is a mid-brown. Similarly, electrical trunking in white and black. Other colours of pipe/duct in various materials are blue for domestic water, yellow for domestic gas, purple roadway lighting, black low-voltage electricity (up to 400 volts)
I am contacting georgfischer.com for some information regarding colorants and fillers that they may add to the ABS and uPVC mix for pressure pipes, and I will post this if/when received.
For Trade: Anyone interested?
Posted by Bill KB9IV on February 10, 2008 at 10:00:31.
Hello
I have two Rycom Selective VM's that I'm not using and will consider a trade(s) for a LW Loop and or a indoor antenna phasing unit LW-MW (MWDX-6) etc.
The first Rycom is a Rycom 3121B with front cover and nice outer case. Average condition. Has internal Battery Freq Counter output. Analog Readout.
Rycom 6030 Digital SVM Freq 1Khz-3.5 Mhz. 3.1 and 100Hz narrow filter. Very nice condx. Front Cover & Outer Case.
Contact off list...............Thank You!
New to Argo
Bill KB9IV
Posted by Lee Badman-KC2IYK on February 10, 2008 at 17:46:08.
As an NDB-chaser of slightly more than a year, using modest gear and being fairly content with just my ear and the receiver, tonight I tried Argo. Within 10 minutes, I was able to pick up new-to-me YSK at 209 and QN at 233- both were signals I could hear but not discern (10 years of working around fighter jets and I have a couple of pot-holes in my hearing curve). I was very surprised at how cleanly the CW text lays out. I saw dozens I already have logged, but am impressed at the simple elegance of Argo, and certainly find value in adding it to my listening technique. This NDB stuff is flat-out addicting!
Lee Re: eton e1 LW performance
KC2IYK
Posted by Lee Badman on February 10, 2008 at 17:46:12.
In reply to eton e1 LW performance posted by john ferro on December 31, 2007
As a novice LW'er, I'm finding the E1is actually pretty good on the NDBs- certainly helps to have a good external antenna. Since Christmas, I have heard dozens of new signals down low with the E1- does well toggling between LSB/USB/Am Sync and the three built-in filters. Certainly is no high-performance LW Rxer, but for the $225 I paid for it, I'm thrilled. Re: New to Argo
Posted by Peter B on February 11, 2008 at 08:44:54.
In reply to New to Argo posted by Lee Badman-KC2IYK on February 10, 2008
Hi Lee,
Yes, it's fascinating too. Know what you mean about Argo signal display.
You said you heard those signals partially and Argo brought it together for a true ID. However, you should know that with Argo the signal level can be so small that nothing audible is discerned. But Agro picks it out of the noise as a pattern and presents it for viewing. For this to happen one must know exactly the frequency with which to present Argo. Then, it magically appears visually displayed yet inaudible.
Good Luck hunting, Peter
Re: SAQ TEST TRANSMISSION on WEDNESDAY FEB 6
Posted by Jeff on February 11, 2008 at 11:00:41.
In reply to Re: SAQ TEST TRANSMISSION on WEDNESDAY FEB 6 posted by Todd WD4NGG on February 06, 2008
I did get up and listen, but heard nothing. Blame the weather-- a snowstorm moved in Tuesday evening, taking down my 1/2 mi. long beverage antenna. Rats. Will have to wait for next year.
--Jeff Long wave DRM symposium this week in Berlin
Somewhere in Iowa
Posted by Mike Terry on February 11, 2008 at 13:06:17.
Media Network
February 11, 2008
by Andy Sennit
DRM member Transradio is hosting a symposium on long wave broadcasting this
week. The conference will be held in Berlin, Germany, on 14/15 February and
focuses on long wave DRM broadcasting. The symposium will include a visit to
the T-Systems broadcasting site in Zehlendorf near Berlin.
More information (PDF) Re: New to Argo
http://www.broadcast-transradio.com/Transradio_LW-Symposium.pdf
Posted by Paul Daulton on February 13, 2008 at 20:26:36.
In reply to New to Argo posted by Lee Badman-KC2IYK on February 10, 2008
Lee
Check out the grabber sites at www.w3eee.com and www.lofer.us.
These two sites, and there are others, are on 24/7 with
frequent updates. These grabbers are on the 600,1750,and
2200 meter beacon sites.
I learned how to get copies of lowfer beacons from the
w3eee site. I usually check the grabber sites first thing
when I sit down to see how the propagation is going.
Welcome aboard.
Paul K5WMS What type of signal am I hearing on 48.800 KHz ??
Jacksonville, AR
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 14, 2008 at 11:48:04.
Hello All: I have been playing around the past few nights with the MultiPSK clock seeing if I can get it to sync with the time stations in Germany ( 77.5 KHz ) , Switzerland ( 75 KHz ), and Japan ( 40 KHz ). However, I am hearing a " unusual to me " type of signal on some of the freq's. either some type of RTTY, or maybe FSK. I don't know, but no mode setting on MultiPSK will decode the signal. I can faintly hear it at 37.500 ( Iceland ), I have heard it at times on JJY ( 40 KHz ), the strongest one for me is on 48.800 KHz ( Puerto Rico ) always there; booming strong. If I remember right, I think I even heard it at 73.750 KHz pretty strong too. I am curious if anyone might know what type of signal it is ? Re: NWC 19.8KHz Back On The Air
Thanks for any replys: 73, Andy - KU4XR
Posted by Trond Jacobsen on February 15, 2008 at 06:39:26.
In reply to NWC 19.8KHz Back On The Air posted by Todd WD4NGG on January 27, 2008
Hi Todd
The signal you heard at 17.8 kHz was most likely a TACAMO transmission. The RTTY is often clear text EAMs, followed by data using MSK.
Best regards
Trond Re: WRONG FREQUENCY--- >>>40.800 KHz ??
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 15, 2008 at 11:25:03.
In reply to What type of signal am I hearing on 48.800 KHz ?? posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 14, 2008
The Puerto Rico station is on 40.800 KHz. I have been told that it may be MSK mode from a military installation. WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Andy - KU4XR
Posted by Warren K2ORS on February 15, 2008 at 13:57:00.
WE2XEB/2 is on 184.005kHz in QRSS 60 mode from Wayland,MA FN42hi
Reports welcome and appreciated.
73 Warren K2ORS
WE2XEB/2
Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on February 15, 2008 at 15:28:04.
In reply to WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60 posted by Warren K2ORS on February 15, 2008
I'll give a listen, Warren, and try Argo/ spectran too. Update - UK Special Research Permits (501 to 504 kHz band)
Sal
Posted by Mike Terry on February 16, 2008 at 01:24:30.
February 1, 2008
Following representations made by the Radio Society of Great Britain and negotiations by Ofcom with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Ofcom has decided to extend the period of Notices of Variation (NoVs) for operation in the 501 to 504 kHz band until 28 February 2009. Additionally, the maximum effective radiated power (e.r.p.) limit has been increased to 0 dBW (1 W). Existing NoVs are due to expire at the end of February 2008.
Compared with experimental access granted for 5 MHz, the number of NoVs issued has been very small, but the percentage usage high, with approximately 70% of those holding NoVs having transmitted in the band. Of the remainder some are known to be still constructing suitable equipment, some experiencing difficulty with local noise problems and others are possibly put off by the reports of limitations in coverage on account of the e.r.p. restriction.
The current e.r.p. level limits the coverage area, particularly for those operating in an urban or business noise environment. Some NoV holders have ceased experimentation due to the lack of activity.
There have been no reports of interference and investigation shows that an increase of radiated power to 0 dBW is not likely to cause interference. Moreover, NoV holders are only permitted to operate subject to causing no interference.
Special Research Permits under a Notice of Variation to the Licence are made available to holders of Full Amateur Licences on a case by case basis to applicants who can demonstrate a genuine interest in experimentation at these frequencies and provide adequate supporting documentation for assessment.
Due to the usage of the spectrum around the 500 kHz bands, applicants should pay special attention to demonstrating technical and operational competence in terms of transmitting within the frequency band and Effective Radiated Power (e.r.p.) parameters agreed with Ofcom. Previous experience at 73 kHz as well as 136 kHz will be considered desirable in this respect to ensure adequate steps are taken to limit any potential interference.
Ofcom will monitor any interference reports and also consider limiting numbers if necessary in reviewing operation in the band. On no account will an e.r.p. level of greater than 0 dBW be permitted under any circumstance.
The standard application form (OfW306) for a Special Research Permit can be downloaded at: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/radiocomms/ifi/licensing/classes/amateur/applications/ofw306.pdf
A new NoV will automatically be issued to existing NoV holders; new applications are not required.
Should a new NoV not be required or if you are in possession of an NoV which is not required, please inform the Ofcom Licensing Centre stating your name, call sign and Licence number preferably by e-mail to licensingcentre@ofcom.org.uk or alternatively by post to the address at the end of the text.
Form OfW306 is also available on request from the Ofcom Licensing Centre at:
Ofcom Licensing Centre
Amateur Radio
Riverside House
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Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on February 16, 2008 at 06:56:45.
In reply to WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60 posted by Warren K2ORS on February 15, 2008
Got a good copy on XEB, Warren you are audible here and read -22dB on the spectran wid a ~-60dB floor,nice plot...I'm using the FFR-21 receiver, 2 L-400B's with the noise nuller ....first 1750m lowfer signal received since I got back into LF....hi....time:14:30 UTC on 184 KHz
Later, Sal
DGPS decode with MultiPSK
Posted by J.B. Weazle McCreath, VE3EAR/VE3WZL on February 16, 2008 at 09:07:53.
Is it possible to decode DGPS transmissions with MultiPSK?
If so, what mode should be used? Thanks in advance.
73, J.B.
Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 16, 2008 at 20:55:50.
In reply to WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60 posted by Warren K2ORS on February 15, 2008
Began copying Warrens signal around 9:15pm EST on Fri. 2/15/08. Signal was audible around 10pm. The signal was still 5x9 and audible by ear at 11:15am on Sat. Still copying at 3:30pm in the afternoon which was the weakest point of copy. Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Darn good job Warren for 10 watts ERP.
73's to all: - Andy - KU4XR
Posted by Warren K2ORS WE2XEB/2 on February 17, 2008 at 08:01:15.
In reply to Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60 posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 16, 2008
Andy, Sal thanks for the reports!
One clarification is in order on my part - WE2XEB is licensed for a maximum of 10W ERP but at the moment I am running just under 1 Watt ERP.
I may try to tune up my Nautel TX on 184 and run ssb and or digital modes.
163KHz carrier and its components solved
73 Warren K2ORS
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on February 17, 2008 at 08:44:59.
Well I ran a hunt on the mysterious 1750m carrier and found the source. It was the computer monitor. When my daughter would use the computer at times when I was not aware of, this would occur. So its not GWEN starting up agn...hi
The 190KHz signal was probably when the monitor switched to standby. It was a mystery until I got out side and did the search.
Sal, K1RGO
Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 17, 2008 at 10:43:30.
In reply to Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60 posted by Warren K2ORS WE2XEB/2 on February 17, 2008
1 WATT ERP ???? Unbelievable !! You've got to have one whale of an antenna system Warren. But I think it also goes to show the propogation and communication possibilities on 1750 meters. Your signal was readable the entire time, even late midday. ( 750 miles distance ). Andy - KU4XR Re: 163KHz carrier and its components solved
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 17, 2008 at 11:11:26.
In reply to 163KHz carrier and its components solved posted by Sal, K1RGO on February 17, 2008
Hi Sal: I " hear " your problem !! It can drive you nuts. I have 2 TV's and 3 computers, 2 VCR's, 2 DVD players. Imagine the noise here. I have filtered, grounded, capacitored, tried about every noise reduction out there. Some worked on one device, but not another. My rig computer is a mix and match system. fortunately I have lots of parts and peripherals, so I found a mother board that was quite where I was monitoring at LW, but it is noisy elsewhere. The same with the monitor, soundcard, even the mouse and keyboard radiate, so I kept switching devices until it was quite where I was using it. For the other computers, the only real solution was to plug them into a switchable power strip and turn it off when not in use because as you discovered, they make noise in standby, and horribly so from about 188KHz up to about 191 KHz. The TV's ; I just have to live with, The wife and daughter won't do without their TV. The VCR's and DVD's, one ; a 3 pronged power cord grounding the circuit board worked. other stuff was a " buy it and try it " method. I bought it, hooked it up and tried it out, if noisy; I took it back and traded it until I found one that wasn't noisy. Yeah, a lot of hassle but to me, it was worth it. Re: 163KHz carrier and its components solved
73 to all: Andy - KU4XR
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on February 18, 2008 at 11:33:48.
In reply to Re: 163KHz carrier and its components solved posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 17, 2008
Hi Andy
It sure will drive you wondering where or what these signals are from. In my case it appears that its the switching pwr supply in the monitor. It gave a clean stable carrier(s) that were deceiving. When the monitor is off, the carriers are gone.
Sal
Government Mandated Noise ???
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 19, 2008 at 13:20:34.
Have you ever tried to listen to your reciever with a flourescent light turned on nearby? Most of us know the noise that's generated by the " Energy Conserving " flourescent bulbs. Now imagine what it would be like trying to listen if every bulb in your home, and your neighbors home were flourescent; It could turn out to be a radio noise nightmare. This is a definite possibility now; due to the energy bill that was enacted in Dec. 2007, which will phase out all consumer incandescent light bulbs , in favor of the more energy efficient bulbs such as the flourescent, by the year 2014. The noise that will be generated by these soon to be ( overseas ) mass produced, as cheap as possible, cut all corners devices, may well become the low band radio operators nightmare. Of course there will be alternatives to flourescent lights, but in general, whatever is the cheapest, is what the average consumer will buy. What type of noise filter will we have to build next ??? Re: Government Mandated Noise ???
Jumpin down off the soapbox now:::: 73 to all: Andy - KU4XR
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on February 19, 2008 at 14:04:54.
In reply to Government Mandated Noise ??? posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 19, 2008
You've got that right, those bulbs generate crud from below the 137KHz band through 1750 meters. I can cancel all but one light in the bedroom above the listening post. I have to adjust the noise antenna a bit for that one but a reduction only is achieved which by my standards is unacceptable so it has to be turned off. So there is some hope anyway.. Old Rugby & Criggion VLF/LF Frequencies (UK)
Sal
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 19, 2008 at 14:40:46.
I know that all transmissions from Rugby and Criggion have now ceased, the last being their LORAN test and MSF 60KHz, but does anyone have a list of VLF and LF requencies that did eminate from Rugby and Criggion in the recent years before closure?
GBR 16.0 KHz (and its 15.975 KHz variant)
MSF 60.0 KHz Time Signal
Are both well known.
MT021(?) 73.3 KHz gets a reference here http://wireless.org.uk/news2k1.htm July 27/7 and 22/7
Also, the article here (last paragraph) http://www.oswestry-history.co.uk/criggion-radio-station.html suggests LF transmissions from Criggion besides its VLF use until 2003. Again, anyone with any ideas/info please?
Regards
Clive
Re: Government Mandated Noise ???
Posted by John Hoopes on February 22, 2008 at 06:39:31.
In reply to Re: Government Mandated Noise ??? posted by Sal, K1RGO on February 19, 2008
I'm gearing up to go mobile. The way I see it, I'll just have to drive to a quiet (if there is such a thing) location to DX on LF. Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60
Posted by John Hoopes on February 22, 2008 at 07:01:37.
In reply to Re: WE2XEB/2 184.005 kHz QRSS 60 posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 17, 2008
Hi Warren,
Just curious, what is your PA input power?
John/AB4MS Spectrogram with three unidentified signals
Posted by Harald on February 23, 2008 at 10:09:38.
When I checked today the spectrogrammes of the VLF-range I made during the night from February 22nd, 2008 to February 23rd, 2008, I detected three unidentified signals:
1. a strong signal on 17 kHz, which I know alrady since several years ago. This signal, which is very tiresome when SAQ in Grimeton is working as it prevents the reception of SAQ's signal is 24 hours a day present. Only in the sommer month, this signal is not there ( and until now, it was not present at Alexanderson Day, so I could receive SAQ's signal at Alexanderson Day)
2. three pulses at 18.25 kHz with approximately 500 Hertz bandwidth and a duration of 7 seconds. Between these pulses, there is a break of approximately 2 seconds. I never saw this signal before.
3. a transmitter working on 22.6 kHz. I never registred a transmitter on this frequency and I know no transmitter in Europe listed for this frequency. Which transmitter is it? Is it a signal of Torreta de Guardamar in Spain?
I received this signals in Germany at 48N 43 and 8E 58.
Re: Spectrogram with three unidentified signals
Posted by Clive S Carver on February 24, 2008 at 04:10:40.
In reply to Spectrogram with three unidentified signals posted by Harald on February 23, 2008
I often look at the spectrum displays at the receiver sites of the World Wide Lightning Location Network in order to check transmissions.
http://webflash.ess.washington.edu/
(scroll down the page for the individual receiver sites)
Sheffield in the centre of the UK has a sensitive receiver judging by the Alpha signals.
http://togashef.sheffield.ac.uk/~sferix/vlf.png
You can compare signal strengths at their other sites, say Lisbon or Budapest.
Regards
Clive
Some non-active beacons
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 25, 2008 at 13:35:47.
Hello LOWfers: Here are a couple of beacons that are currently off the air. " R " in Cotter, Ar. ( 169.900 KHz ): Rick has transmitter issues at the moment. And; beacon " WMG " in Pittsburg, Ks. ( 184.325 KHz ) is off the air, William is devoting his time to another project currently. I have been in the process of emailing some of the guys on the list to find out their status, so as to not waste time and electricity listening to a dead frequency. These 2 have responded so far. 73,all - Andy - KU4XR Re: NWC 19.8KHz Back On The Air
Posted by Todd WD4NGG on February 25, 2008 at 14:43:38.
In reply to Re: NWC 19.8KHz Back On The Air posted by Trond Jacobsen on February 15, 2008
Hi Trond,
Thanks very much for your suggestion on the intermittent signal I am hearing on 17.8KHz possibly being a TACAMO transmission.
That makes sense as I only hear it occasionally but it is very strong here in SC, USA suggesting it is somewhere in the continental USA. I would call it a super signal.
I heard it again at 17.8KHz on Sunday morning 02/17/08 for about a half-hour. It started out with conventional-sounding narrow shift RTTY for about 5-10 minutes, then stopped. Then about 2-3 minutes later came up on the same frequency with what sounded like some kind of digital mode, sounding more like hash or a strong hiss than anything else. If I hadn't received it on 17.8KHz running RTTY it would be hard to pinpoint its exact frequency when in digital mode as there was no real carrier to tune to. Never heard anything like it before on VLF. This ran for about 15-20 minutes then disappeared.
73 Todd WD4NGG Re: Some non-active beacons
Posted by John Davis on February 25, 2008 at 17:05:05.
In reply to Some non-active beacons posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 25, 2008
Thanks, Andy. It's supposed to be up to the beacon operators to let us know, so we can inform everyone at once. However, in the real world, we know things don't always work that way.
So, it really helps when a monitor such as you finds out information like this and shares it with everyone. Thanks again!
John LF-/VLF-transmitter Wuhung near Shanghai (China) - still active
Posted by Harald on February 26, 2008 at 11:08:03.
In the book "Aufstieg und Fall des Deutschlandsenders III in Herzberg (Elster)", I found a note, that in the 1930ies at Wuhung near Shanghai in China a 321 metres tall radio mast was built, which was at time of built, world's second tallest architectural structure and which was presumable a mast for long- or VLF-transmission. Is this facility still active? If yes, on which frequency and under which callsign? Non-active beacons - Part 2
Which VLF- and powerful longwave transmitters are listed for Shanghai area?
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on February 26, 2008 at 11:43:54.
Greetings LOWfers: Here's a few more currently non-active beacons. When in doubt; find out !! These operators have been kind enough to reply to my email request for beacon status. Beacon " IP " in Agricola, Ms. ( 185.3011 ) is off the air.Lewis said his antenna came down in a past storm, and he dosen't know when he'll get it back up. Next, Beacon " MO " in Seneca, Mo. ( 189.500 ) is currently off. Dave advises that he sold the xmtr to another operator. He said the new op. hopes to be back on soon from another location using the same call, and freq. ------- ------- And finally for this report; Beacon " YTN " in Monteverde, Fl. ( 161.200 ) is off the air. Al advises me that he can run the beacon for a few weeks in March if anyone is interested in trying to copy it. By All Means: let him know!!---- his email address is:
k2sse - at - embarqmail - dot - com. ... I wrote it that way on purpose. Thanks for your time everyone, and thanks to the beacon operators for their response. 73, for now: Andy Bell - KU4XR
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