Re: KPH
Posted by Mike KB6WFC on September 01, 2003 at 14:33:02
Ray,
I think they have; I think they will. Last year, they operated over New Year's Eve/Morning Straight Key Night. I imagine that is what they will do again.
73 & GD DX
BTW - Fall is a great time to build antennas for the Winter. Point those loops, bevvies, Pendants, K9AYs, EWEs out West :O)
location of NDB's
Posted by L. Wayne on September 02, 2003 at 10:09:12
Does anyone have or know of a site list where the NDB transmitter sites are found? I have been doing some listening to their frequencies, but I have no idea where to find where they are broadcasting from. Can anyone help? Thanks.
.......wayne
Re: location of NDB's
Posted by Webmaster on September 02, 2003 at 12:15:21
The place to begin is our Longwave Home Page, lwca.org. From there, click the Utility Stations link. That page contains links to the two most useful searchable databases for North America.
Also, scroll down our Home Page to the More Topics of Interest section. It contains a story about some other files and beacon guides that you may find useful.
John Davis
Re: KPH
Posted by Ray, W2RS on September 02, 2003 at 19:41:33
Mike,
If they're on during a darkness path, I'll be listening, with the loop in their direction. The best time would obviously be around our sunrise, which in late December occurs around 0720 local time, or 0420 PST or 1220 GMT.
73,
Ray
TAG in QRSS3
Posted by John Andrews on September 02, 2003 at 21:08:13
Because Ray issued the challenge, I will be running TAG in QRSS3 mode on 185.297 kHz for the next few days. This should be a northeast-only phenomena!
John Andrews, W1TAG TAG/RY Status: http://webpages.charter.net/w1tag/
Re: TAG in QRSS3
Posted by Jay Rusgrove on September 02, 2003 at 22:39:12
TAG in QRSS3 mode:
http://www.advancedreceiver.com/capture/TAG090203.jpg
Jay Rusgrove, W1VD
Change of Policy Regarding Pictures in Posts
Posted by Webmaster on September 03, 2003 at 00:36:19
Because of severe time limitations anticipated for the next several months, plus the fact that so much manual labor is required to prepare messages which contain pictures, we must discontinue the practice for the foreseeable future.
Should you wish to make reference to an image that resides in your own webspace on another server, that is fine. Several users of this board already use this approach. For a good example, see the message posted by Jay Rusgrove in reply to "TAG in QRSS3" on September 2nd (directly above this message). Feel free to do this yourself at any time, so long as the message and image meet the guidelines for posting, of course.
If you do not have access to a server, you can e-mail the file to us at msgboard@lwca.org with a request to store it for a message that you plan to post in the near future. If your file requires little or no adaptation by us and is modest enough in size (this may be the sticking point), then we will upload it to lwca.org and send you a URL to include in your message. We will not prepare or post the message on your behalf; you will need to do that yourself *after* we send you the URL. Please note that this service is strictly on a time-available basis, and could take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
We will also no longer amend links in posts to make them "live" except in extraordinary circumstances. This service may be reinstated some time next year.
John
Norwegian longwave project suffers setback
Posted by Mike Terry on September 03, 2003 at 13:43:32
3 September 2003
Plans to build a new longwave station in Norway have suffered a setback. Svenn Martinsen of Northern Star International Broadcasters tells Media Network that Northern Star have just had a message from transmitter operator Norkring. The message says that in view of general environmental considerations, and the decline of AM in Norway, including the bleak prospects for the Sveio shortwave site, Norkring does not consider it possible to make further plans for AM 216 from Sveio. However, Mr Martinsen says the project will continue as Norkring is prepared to operate a longwave service from a different location if one can be found.
© Radio Netherlands Media Network.
Re: location of NDB's
Posted by AL KA5JGV on September 04, 2003 at 21:08:26
An excellent database of NDB IDs and locations is the WWSU database located here:
http://members.rogers.com/wiecek6010/
Al KA5JGV
Re: location of NDB's
Posted by John Davis on September 04, 2003 at 21:32:13
>>> An excellent database of NDB IDs and locations is the WWSU database...
Be aware that this is an application you have to download from Alex's Web site, and then periodically download updated database files as well.
That's OK, but for many of us the online lookups such as Navaid or a guidebook such as Kevin Carey's or Michael Oexner's may be more convenient in the long run.
John
HF very low power QRSS test transmissions
Posted by rik on September 05, 2003 at 09:47:43
Following may be a bit off topic for longwave, but of interest for QRSS enthousiasts :
In the period november 2003 - april 2004 a number of Belgiam hams will conduct a number of low power (30-500mW) QRSS test transmissions on the 80m, 40m and 30m bands.
This QRSS test series is called the "UBA Candlelight Challenge 2003-2004" and awards will be issued to those who manage to copy one or more of these tranmissions.
More info on : http://www.qsl.net/on7yd/candlelight.htm
73, Rik ON7YD
RTÉ trials Ireland's Radio 1 on 252
Posted by Mike Terry on September 05, 2003 at 11:51:54
From ukradio.com
Thursday, 4 September 2003
RTÉ is now studying the possibility of transmitting Radio 1 on LW 252
We are advised that tests are currently being carried out so that listeners tuning to that frequency may hear music or chat.
The decision whether to proceed awaits an examination by RTÉ of the costs involved and the overall distribution of our services. 1st October is the target start date, subject to the outcome of that examination.
At present all four RTÉ Radio services are available to domestic listeners on FM and the Internet. Radio 1 and 2FM are also on Medium Wave.
Overseas, RTÉ radio broadcasts its four services on Satellite to the UK and Ireland, Radio 1 is also available throughout Europe on satellite and segments of R1 output are on Satellite and Short wave throughout the world.
The transmission of Radio 1 on Long wave provides an exciting opportunity to broadcast to the whole island of Ireland on a single frequency. The service would also be available throughout a large portion of the UK, particularly the midlands.
http://ukradio.com/news/articles/52F029002ADE4325B6176A805ADEA96B.asp
LF Carrier Current Weak Signal Modes...
Posted by Robert on September 06, 2003 at 01:00:45
Since Part 15 Campus broadcasters, using AM mode, can send their signals over citywide distances, how far could we send a weak LF Part 15 signal over the powerlines using weak signal modes? Not too many companies make carrier current transmitters, and those that do, use AM and FM mode. If we use CQSS, PSK31, or standard CW...how far could an apartment-bound op get out?
Re: TAG in QRSS3
Posted by Ray, W2RS on September 06, 2003 at 11:34:07
Hi all,
Many thanks to John, W1TAG, for being so patient. After three days of tests at QRSS3 and one day at QRSS10, I have still not been able to see TAG on the screen. The rather awkward distance between us of 151 miles, too long for ground wave and too short for sky wave, seems to have won out this time.
For those of you interested in the performance of receiving systems, I can report that an upconverter with a 28 MHz IF (Datong VLF) into an FT-102/FV-102DM, is very capable of using QRSS3, especially after several hours of warm-up. The drift, by the way, is virtually all in the IF receiver: at 28 MHz, 1 ppm is 28 Hz. QRSS10 is marginal, with wavy lines on the screen, but still would have been good enough to copy a CW signal if it were in there. QRSS30 and above are useless with a set-up such as this; they require a receiver designed for LF operation rather than a converter into an HF receiver.
73,
Ray
Re: LF Carrier Current Weak Signal Modes...
Posted by John Davis on September 06, 2003 at 16:49:20
>>> Since Part 15 Campus broadcasters, using AM mode, can send their signals over citywide distances... >>>
Sorry, Robert, that's an incorrect assumption. Recognized educational institutions can use carrier current, but they are only allowed to use it on their own campuses. They are *not* permitted city-wide coverage. A carrier current system that gets out "better" than it should is inviting complaints from local broadcasters and an unwanted visit from the FCC shortly thereafter.
In fact, they are obliged to measure radiation beyond the campus borders and keep it within limits specified in sections of Part 15 that are a lot more restrictive than the alternative provisions most of us operate under. Limits for conducted RF on powerlines are very low!
Ironically, there's a de facto exception for the power industry itself between 9 and 490 kHz, but that doesn't apply to us--except insofar as it precludes amateurs from being allocated a ham band at LF.
Even more ironically, operators of what's called "broadband over powerlines" (BPL), in cahoots with the power industry, are presently petitioning the FCC to take leave of their senses and drastically increase conducted RF limits in the HF bands so they can provide a (largely unreliable) broadband Internet service in local neighborhoods without having to run wire of their own to individual houses.
Apart from the obvious question of what happened to all those planned wireless data services that were supposed to go in the auctioned UHF spectrum that's being taken away from TV broadcasters, not to mention the existing microwave wireless Internet rules, BPL will render SWLing impossible in the affected area and make licensed hams subject to overwhelming numbers of interference complaints...if they're able to hear any stations to work, in the first place. Steve Dove, W3EEE, recently verified how spectrally "dirty" these systems are at one of the demonstration cities in Pennsylvania. It's pretty darned awful!
So, to summarize: the carrier current idea is pretty much a non-starter up to 490kHz except for the electric utilities themselves; highly restricted throughout the broadcast band except for educational institutions; and presently highly restricted, but maybe soon to be swamped by commercial interests, at shortwave.
It is conceivable that narrowband modes could be used effectively within the present tight conducted-emission limits within one's own neighborhood. Beyond the first substation, though, forget about it.
John
Re: location of NDB's
Posted by Jim - WB0IXI on September 06, 2003 at 21:44:49
For those serving aero needs, I like www.airnav.com
GA and GG (?) captured in Norway
Posted by Steinar Aanesland on September 08, 2003 at 18:11:29
Hi
After a long period with no HIFER signal, GA was back on my screen again this morning. I think the frequency is 13.555,445 MHz +/- .
See: http://home.c2i.net/saa/Images/08_09_03/
I have been experimenting with a version of Argo I downloaded from:
http://home.wanadoo.nl/nl9222/index.htm It covers a wider frequency area, and I can see a weak signal on 13.555,350 MHz.
Is it possible that this is GG ??
Steinar Aanesland
HiFER or LOWFER 2 way QSO?
Posted by Robert H on September 08, 2003 at 22:51:40
I've read of some pretty amazing one=way beacon receptions. But, how many of you have used your LOWFER, MEDFER or HiFER stations for regular QSO's over local or intermediate distances.
Especially in the 13.560 MHz ISM range, I will be happy to listen for you as soon as my troublesome IC-703 gets out of the shop!
I heard some pirates once on 13560 USB from Sydney, Australia some years back. They were admitting to running two watts, and were amazed to hear each other across town. If only I could QSL them....
73 Robert H
Re: RTÉ trials Ireland's Radio 1 on 252
Posted by Mike Terry on September 09, 2003 at 01:57:16
With the fall approaching & the conditions becoming more favorable to LW listeners in North America, a periodic check of 252 is a good idea to see if there is any activity in the coming weeks!
Especially if you are on the Eastern side!
Re: HiFER or LOWFER 2 way QSO?
Posted by John Andrews on September 09, 2003 at 07:45:54
Robert,
Lowfer and Hifer QSO's are not common, but they do occur. LEK, BRO and RM have a long-standing New Year's Eve CW schedule on LF. MP and RY accomplished a Hifer QSO in the summer of 2001. NC and TAG spent a long evening trying a WOLF QSO that never quite completed.
The QSO stuff was much more common 10 years or more ago when everyone was running CW beacons. For better or worse, the focus has moved to slower data rates with reception reports via the Internet.
John Andrews, W1TAG
A positive identification of GG located in Wenworth-Nord, QC
Posted by Steinar Aanesland on September 09, 2003 at 17:02:08
Hi
This morning I captured a positive identification of Gaétan Gauthier`s GG hifer beacon on 13.555,350 MHz. The signal is weak but readable. See:
http://home.c2i.net/saa/Images/09_09_03/
This is my fourth Hifer beacon from the American continent :)
Steinar Aanesland
Re: HiFER or LOWFER 2 way QSO?
Posted by Robert H on September 09, 2003 at 21:24:49
I ask, because I live in an apartment, and want to try very low power experiments. Can LOWFER techniques adapted for 1750 meters work on the 160, 80 and 40M ham bands -- since I have little room for a 1750M vertical nor a groundplane?
Under FCC rules, could I leave a QRP beacon running on the lower ham bands, or must I monitor the output?
If I choose the 10M beacon band, would CQSS or other modes work for line-of-sight experiments?
The ICOM IC-703 worked well with a makeshift antenna for receiving below 500 kHz, and the DSP knocked the static way down. It's in the shop now. Seems like the CW keyer would either lock up or stay off if I used any external key.
So, that's my setup. I will have the IC-703, and would enjoy LF beacon monitoring, and applying LOWFER techniques to ham QSO's
73 Robert
4 HiFER beacons on 1 screen
Posted by Tony Levstik on September 09, 2003 at 21:51:34
I was able to pick up 4 HiFER beacons on one screen capture here in Texas.
RY , GA , MP , square wave "NC" ??
Here is the link.
http://home.att.net/~levstik1/hifer4.jpg
Tony Levstik
Re: HiFER or LOWFER 2 way QSO?
Posted by John Andrews, W1TAG on September 10, 2003 at 08:58:17
Robert,
Slow speed CW would certainly work in the ham bands. At HF, 3 seconds per dot is entirely practical. Given fading, Doppler shifting, etc., the really slow speeds just don't work out. Slow speed BPSK would definitely work, and programs like MultiPSK offer some options. Jason and BPSK at MS100 rates are really useful only at LF where propagation is more stable.
Regarding beacon operation in the ham bands, I believe that unattended beacons are legal only in a portion of the 10 meter band and segments of the higher frequency bands. So your 160, 80 or 40 meter beaconing would require a control operator.
Just remember that running a beacon is a pretty dull affair. The fun comes in setting it up and getting signal reports. The rest of the time can be passed by reading a good book.
John Andrews, W1TAG
Re: HiFER or LOWFER 2 way QSO?
Posted by Robert H on September 10, 2003 at 10:45:59
When my rig worked, I used an indoor antenna and five watts on 40M on CW, and had no problem either getting an answer to my CQ calls or answering other stations. So, I'm looking at some experiments with more exotic transmission modes.
I do already have an extra electronic keyer that will work for CQSS, and an extra 10M Radio Shack HTX10, plus a 10M antenna. Just need to figure out how to the the HTX10 on CW, or send tone modulation on SSB -- so it looks like CW.
Will let you know when my rig comes back. Look forward to monitoring LF and 13.560 MHz
73 Robert H
Re: A positive identification of GG located in Wenworth-Nord, QC
Posted by Gilles Auger on September 10, 2003 at 14:07:20
Hi Steinar
An other good transatlantic catch for you. I dont remember if the dipole antenna orientation is good for you ? Anyway Gaétan VA2HGG will be happy to see that his Hifer is still working very well. GG is still at -100 hz fromm GA, if my memory is good this offset will shrink with the coming winter.
Very good Steinard for your perceverance.
Gilles Auger
ISM Limits?
Posted by Robert H on September 11, 2003 at 10:47:16
I know of 27.120 and 40.680 MHz, 902 MHz, and on up. What are the watts into a dipole figures for these bands?
Radio Shack has wireless intercoms for 902 MHz with a plug for external audio. That would work for voice NBFM, packet beacons, PSK31 over NBFM (QST had a neat article on that in the ham bands) and MCW beacons.
And, how did longwave experimenters end up on 13.560 MHz? Seems like each internet reference ends up with longwave links -- not the expected ham QRP links!
73 Robert H
Re: ISM Limits?
Posted by John Andrews on September 11, 2003 at 12:43:01
Robert,
To answer your last question quickly, the HF stuff surfaced a couple of years ago as something to do during the summer months when LF copy is difficult due to short nights and high noise levels. We brought over some of the slow-speed techniques from LF, and they provided better results than the CW and AM modes used up there in the past.
You'll see the level of interest drop shortly, as conditions get better at LF during the fall. Some of the HF beacons (such as mine) are off the air during the winter months.
John Andrews
Re: ISM Limits?
Posted by John Davis on September 11, 2003 at 16:04:48
>>> And, how did longwave experimenters end up on 13.560 MHz? Seems like each internet reference ends up with longwave links -- not the expected ham QRP links! >>>
I think this boils down to hams already having bands allocated in which they can use QRP power levels of their own definition.
It was up to us LowFERs, already accustomed to squeezing the most out of the stricter limits of Part 15 Rules, to uncover the joys and challenges of Part 15 HF operation.
John D.
Re: ISM Limits?
Posted by John Davis on September 11, 2003 at 16:29:20
>>> I know of 27.120 and 40.680 MHz, 902 MHz, and on up. What are the watts into a dipole figures for these bands? >>>
This is just a quick calculation. But in the most optimistic way of looking at them, the first two are not that encouraging, and the UHF and microwave bands are not going to get beyond the horizon anyway:
26.96 - 27.28 MHz = 18 microwatts
40.68 MHz = 0.18 microwatt
902 - 928 MHz = 0.45 milliwatt
John
FCC to raise HiFER power limit (Re: Part 15 Ham operation?)
Posted by J. Jason Wentworth on September 12, 2003 at 02:11:38
Speaking of HiFERs, I just heard from Jonathan Smick that the FCC is increasing the emissions limit on 13.5 MHz from 10 to 15.5 mV/m at 30 m from the antenna, ^a doubling of power^ which puts it on a par with the limit the Canadians already had. Although it is not yet in effect it should be soon, around Christmas. While it is intended for the benefit of RFID users ^anti-theft tags, etc.,^ since it will be integrated into Part 15.225 there should be no restrictions imposed on the type of operation. -- Jason
Re: FCC to raise HiFER power limit (Re: Part 15 Ham operation?)
Posted by John Davis on September 12, 2003 at 17:47:20
>>> Speaking of HiFERs, I just heard from Jonathan Smick that the FCC is increasing the emissions limit... >>>
Could have heard it a little sooner, actually. See the LW Message Board correspondence from Tony Levstik and me on August 5, or refer to the September LOWDOWN.
Note that Christmas is an approximate time frame. The actual date will be 120 days from whenever the change is published in the Federal Register. We're trying to keep an eye out for exactly what date that was/will be.
John
Re: RTÉ trials Ireland's Radio 1 on 252
Posted by paul strickland on September 12, 2003 at 10:52:41
RTE radio 1 is on more or less continuously at the moment with very good reception here, near Liverpool, UK. I think they're using 100kw most of the time. I have not noticed any interference from R. Algeria over the last few days so they may be off the air or it could be just poor propagation conditions. This station normally badly interferes ith the RTE signal even here on the west coast of England.
Re: A positive identification of GG located in Wenworth-Nord, QC
Posted by Steinar Aanesland on September 12, 2003 at 13:15:46
Hi Gilles
My antenna is a single dipole tuned to the 22m band. It is orientated east west about 8 meter above the ground level.
If I remember correctly you planed to make a homepage with picture of your GA beacon. Is it ready yet ? And if sow ; what is the address ? I also wonder if Gaétan Gauthier has a web address.
Steinar http://www.aanesland.com
TAG wolf copy in Maryland
Posted by lloyd chastant on September 12, 2003 at 21:45:33
Well goog to see some lowfer signals--tried to copt TAG wolf last nite and today with no luck until this evening when had this nice Wolf copy on TAG-185.8
C:\Wolf>wolf -q 912.wav WOLF version 0.61 TAG copy by W3NF Sept 13,2003 0000z t: 24 f:-0.718 a: 0.1 dp: 83.8 ci: 1 cj:148 K2Z30UB8THV.9H6 ?
t: 48 f: 0.753 a:-1.2 dp: 82.2 ci: 4 cj:214 VHSSBFP2/LP.O 9 ?
t: 96 f:-0.571 a:-1.2 dp: 81.0 ci: 8 cj: 75 5I.DAM8A*Y28DFH ?
t: 192 f:-0.088 pm: 24 jm: 77 q: -6.1 -8.5 G9*PDRE/*P/RYFU ?
t: 288 f:-0.088 pm: 40 jm: 77 q: -3.1 -4.5 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 384 f:-0.078 pm: 52 jm: 77 q: -2.0 -2.6 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 480 f:-0.078 pm: 59 jm: 77 q: -1.9 -2.0 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 576 f:-0.078 pm: 64 jm: 77 q: -1.0 -1.1 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 672 f:-0.078 pm: 73 jm: 77 q: 0.2 -0.1 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 768 f:-0.078 pm: 88 jm: 77 q: 0.7 0.8 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 864 f:-0.078 pm: 106 jm: 77 q: 1.1 1.1 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t: 960 f:-0.078 pm: 109 jm: 77 q: 1.1 1.2 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t:1056 f:-0.078 pm: 113 jm: 77 q: 1.4 1.0 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t:1152 f:-0.078 pm: 114 jm: 77 q: 1.4 0.9 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t:1248 f:-0.078 pm: 124 jm: 77 q: 1.7 1.3 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t:1344 f:-0.078 pm: 141 jm: 77 q: 2.2 1.6 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t:1440 f:-0.078 pm: 150 jm: 77 q: 2.4 2.1 TAG TAG 185.800 -
t:1536 f:-0.078 pm: 160 jm: 77 q: 2.7 2.4 TAG TAG 185.800 -
de Lloyd W3NF FM19MH
Caught him before the off time for the ZL6 test-will also be monitoring that test also..
Re: TAG wolf copy in Maryland
Posted by lloyd chastant on September 12, 2003 at 21:47:38
Sorry about those misspelled words--wasn't checking too closely :-)
Lloyd
ZL6QH
Posted by Mike KB6WFC on September 13, 2003 at 18:40:21
Hi,
While not offically authenticated by Bob Vernall ZL2CA yet, I can share with you my Argo screen captures. They are nothing like that from Laurence Howell KL1X. I was using a drifty Icom IC-735 (my HP3586B is out of service for the time), 2.3kHz BW filter in CW mode with the PBT fully cranked CCW yielding perhaps a BW of 0.8 or 1.0kHz along with a active whip antenna, base at 21' height. The IC-735 receives CW is "LSB" if you will, so the "Q" ID will be inverted. 137.7888kHz pertains to 625Hz in the Argo screen captures. Greater than 625Hz is actually lower frequency than 137.7888kHz, and lower than 625Hz is greater than 137.7888kHz. I had chosen 60" dot, normal Argo mode in effort to circumvent the possiblity of transmission drifting out the FFT display window in 120" dot Argo mode. From the pix, one can see that the IC-735 drifted about 0.4Hz over that time. I attained the 625Hz calibration using the RIT control to align it with the rig's 250Hz CW-N filter but forgot to switch the filter in, hi! So, I believe ZL6QH is possible even with the most mediocre of rigs.
Here's the pix:
http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/zl6qh030913_00006.jpg http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/zl6qh030913_00007.jpg http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/zl6qh030913_00008.jpg http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/zl6qh030913_00009.jpg
A brightened version of the above may be viewed from:
http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/brightened_zl6qh030913_00006.jpg http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/brightened_zl6qh030913_00007.jpg http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/brightened_zl6qh030913_00008.jpg http://www.geocities.com/silversmj/brightened_zl6qh030913_00009.jpg
73 de Mike KB6WFC Daly City, CA USA CM87sq 37:40:26N 122:28:32W
How did you start in longwave listening?
Posted by Robert H on September 13, 2003 at 22:02:02
I monitored and received QSL cards from about 70 NDB's from 1985-1987. My new QTH had too much static. Then, my radio was a Radio Shack DX-400 with a homemade loop antenna made from junkbox parts. Sent my loggings to Sheldon Remington, and he was kind enough to include them in his "West Coast NDB Listener's Checklist". Then, I was the only Arizona reporter.
Best DX -- RG-352, Rarotonga, Siberia LWBC on 182 and 236 kHz, and a number of 10 watt USCG beacons that are long out of service.
I received MEDFER beacons from Los Angeles and Arleta, CA, and the ops sent QSL cards.
And, my friend, Al, WD6ETH, put up a 1630 kHz AM MEDFER beacons "Six Echo" that ran for 48 hours, starting December 24, 1989. The tube transmitter literally burned up, and the tubes would cost over a hundred dollars to replace! Considering I paid $1.00 at a hamfest for the little Graymark transmitter, we decided to take up other radio experiments instead. When it ran, we received a reception report from Tucson, AZ, over 120 miles distant.
If my ICOM IC-703 ever gets out of the shop, I hope to do much more listening for NDB's and 13.560 MHz experimenters.
73
Robert H
RTÉ
Posted by Mike Terry on September 14, 2003 at 03:23:21
RTÉ TO TEST LONG WAVE 252 FREQUENCY THIS WEEKEND
ALL IRELAND HURLING FINAL ON LONG WAVE 252 AT 2PM THIS SUNDAY
RTÉ is studying the possibility of transmitting Radio 1 on LW 252. At present tests are being carried out and listeners tuning to that frequency may hear music or chat.
This Sunday 14 September sees a significant test of the coverage and potential of the new service. For Sunday afternoon the LW 252 signal will be brought to its full power of 500kw and will carry Radio 1's coverage of the All Ireland Hurling Final at 2pm. It is expected that the transmission of this event will generate interest in the potential of the service and will enable RTÉ to gather data on the reach and quality of the 252 signal. It is envisioned that this test would then be repeated on Sunday 28 September to enable transmission of the All Ireland Football Final.
The decision whether to proceed awaits a review by RTÉ of the overall distribution of our radio services on terrestrial and digital platforms and of the costs involved in a long wave service. That review is ongoing and is expected to conclude in October. The target start date has therefore been revised to the 1 January 2004.
At present all four RTÉ Radio services are available to domestic listeners on FM and the Internet. Radio 1 and 2FM are also available on Medium Wave.
Overseas, RTÉ radio broadcasts its four services on Satellite to the UK and Ireland, Radio 1 is also available throughout Europe on satellite and segments of R1 output are on Satellite and Short wave throughout the world.
The transmission of Radio 1 on Long wave provides an exciting opportunity to broadcast to the whole island of Ireland on a single frequency. The service would also be available throughout a large portion of the UK, particularly the midlands.
We are particularly interested in public feedback and would encourage those hearing the service to contact us on a dedicated email address -
longwave@rte.ie
The All Ireland Minor and Senior Hurling Finals can also be viewed on Network 2. Coverage starts at 12.25pm.
For further information please contact: Jennifer Taaffe, Senior Press Officer, RTÉ Radio, (01) 208 2312, 087 968 2085
Issued by RTÉ Radio
12 September 2003
http://www.rte.ie/about/organisation/releases/pr_longwave_test120903.html
Maintenance DLF Donebach 153 kHz
Posted by Mike Terry on September 15, 2003 at 12:55:55
The Deutsche Telekom T-systems longwave site DLF Donebach on 153 kHz was off three weeks for maintenance during July 2003, Mon-Sat 0610-1900 UT.
But didn't finnish the work then. Now the site is totally off on September 14th/15th again, probably at 0610 to 1900 UTC.
So, I guess the Romanian co-channel longwave transmitter Brasov Bod is widely heard in Central Europe today and tomorrow.
73 wb df5sx BueschelW@t-online.de (BDXC News list)
Wellbrook ALA 1530 Loop Antenna
Posted by Al Rugel on September 15, 2003 at 19:36:06
Has anyone had experience with the ALA 1530 Loop antenna on LW and MW for dxing? Are you satisfied with performance? I would really appreciate your thoughts! Thanks. Al Rugel
wd2xdw dot 120
Posted by Laurence on September 15, 2003 at 21:56:25
The Anchorage 137Khz beacon changed to QRSS120 (120 sec dots) with a modified dot dash ratio of 2 (instead of 3).
Latest frequency check was 137.77345 Khz. Work continues on modifying the beacon frequency source for two frequency CW - cheers
Re: Wellbrook ALA 1530 Loop Antenna
Posted by Jacques d'Avignon on September 16, 2003 at 07:01:55
I have been using an ALA 1530 for the past 3 years qand find it a superb antenna. I even have a second one for DXpedition operation. I can hear WWVB at S3 from Ottawa on a regular basis.
This loop, at ground level, allowed me to copy a NDB in the Azores while DXing in New Brunswick, not bad for a one meter loop!
I have no share in the company!!
Jacques
German Long-Wave Activity Weekend
Posted by Mike Terry on September 19, 2003 at 15:07:22
Hohenstaufen P41, a local association of the German national society, the DARC, is arranging a Long-Wave Activity period next weekend, the 27th and 28th of September. Between 1200UTC on Saturday and 1400 on Sunday, it will be transmitting CW on 136.50kHz using the club call DK0UH and the callsign of the operator. In the evening, it will use QRSS-CW with 3-second dots. Please reply on exactly the same frequency. QSL please via the bureau and to the operator. The station Locator is JN48TM, south of Göppingen.
http://www.rsgb.org/news/gb2rs.htm
HIFER YEN
Posted by AL on September 20, 2003 at 14:12:49
HI
MY HIFER YEN IS FINALLY BACK UP AND RUNNING 24/7 HERE IN CENTRAL FL NEAR MICKEY MOUSE.
ITS ON 13558011 OR SO ACCORDING TO MY OLD COUNTER.
ANY RECEPTION REPORTS WOULD BE APPRECIATED.
THANKS
AL K2SSE CENTRAL FL
Re: HIFER YEN
Posted by lloyd chastant on September 21, 2003 at 09:53:41
Al, had a nice copy on your YEN hr in Maryland this morning(Sunday,1330z)..Read your frequency as 13.557.830 Can send you capture if you would like....
de Lloyd W3NF FM19MH
Re: Wellbrook ALA 1530 Loop Antenna
Posted by Ray, W2RS on September 21, 2003 at 15:39:19
Al,
I have no first-hand experience with the ALA 1530, but I do have a Wellbrook LFL 1010. It's been up for about 9 months, with the base about 5 feet above ground, and does quite well for its size (about the same as the ALA 1530) in the LF and lower MF ranges. The nulls are very evident.
The specs say that it works up to 10 MHz, but I find that its 160m performance is well below a Marconi or an 80m dipole.
Depending upon whether you want to use the antenna at higher frequencies, you might want to consider the LFL 1010 as an alternative.
73,
Ray, W2RS
Re: HIFER YEN
Posted by lloyd chastant on September 21, 2003 at 19:00:17
Here is the capture of YEN today
www.geocities.com/lacwman/yenhifer.jpg
de Lloyd W3NF
Re: ZL6QH
Posted by Mike KB6WFC on September 24, 2003 at 12:22:33
Reception has been officially confirmed by Bob Vernall ZL2CA.
WD2XDW 137.77350 Khz Beacon
Posted by Laurence KL1X on September 26, 2003 at 16:20:19
Temp Shut down at 0017Z 27th Sept 03 until advised.
Ireland - full 252 test again on Sunday
Posted by Mike Terry on September 26, 2003 at 18:09:42
This Sunday will see another significant test of the coverage and potential of RTÉ Radio 1 on 252kHz long wave. For the afternoon, the signal will again be brought to its full power of 500kw and will carry RTÉ Radio 1's coverage of the All Ireland Football from 2pm. It is expected that the transmission of this event will generate interest in the potential of the service and will enable RTÉ to gather data on the reach and quality of the 252 signal.
This follows a similar test for the All Ireland Hurling Final on 14th September, from which RTÉ Radio received a lot of valuable feedback from listeners throughout Ireland and further afield. Detailed observations on signal strength were posted and comments on the proposed service were very positive.
http://www.radiowaves.fm/news/index.shtml
More delays for Isle of Man Longwave Station
Posted by Mike Terry on September 28, 2003 at 18:32:48
The hearing of the Petition of Doleance against the Communications Commission has been delayed still further and will not now be heard before November, following a request from the objector's advocate for a further adjournment as he is off work with shingles. Despite protestations from the Government
Advocate and IMIB representatives Cains that the Petitioner's case should be ready and any advocate could present the evidence, and that the case should only take two days and not the four requested, the Acting Deemster has granted a further adjournment. The hearing will be relisted as soon as a new date can be arranged.
"We are very frustrated to be stymied yet again by this complaint, which has already been described in court as frivolous and vexatious" said IMIB's founder Paul Rusling. "The objector has been found to be not affected by our proposals and we don't understand his continued interest or his meddling in the matter. He has failed to communicate his fears to us direct, despite our invitations to do so, and we have placed in the public domain all the evidence that proves the fears are unfounded. Eighteen months have been lost as a result of this petition, costing not only our shareholders anxiety and delays, but also depriving the Island as a whole a powerful radio voice which could be useful in boosting its exports and raising its profile."
"We are however very determined and this extra delay will not deter us from pressing on.," Mr Rusling assured the Company's shareholders yesterday. "We have now had thousands of messages of support and expressions of good will;
the project has become much more than just a commercial project or yet another radio station. It has become a torch for many who believe in widening the choice of programme supplier and new innovative broadcast techniques. It also offers a unique opportunity for the Isle of Man.
Everything else is ready to run and we are determined to launch the station at the earliest opportunity."
26 September 2003
http://www.longwaveradio.com/News.html
What does NDB OTS INDEFLY mean?
Posted by AL KA5JGV on September 29, 2003 at 10:01:22
When I check the status on NDB SYG-338 below
http://www.airnav.com/cgi-bin/navaid-info
Note 1 at the bottom reads NDB OTS INDEFLY. What does this mean, please. (I'm picking up SYG on 402kHz rather than 338kHz.)
Thank you.
AL KA5JGV
Re: What does NDB OTS INDEFLY mean?
Posted by John Andrews on September 29, 2003 at 11:16:44
Non Directional Beacon Out of Service Indefinitely, I think. Doesn't explain what you're hearing though!
John Andrews
Re: WD2XDW 137.77350 Khz Beacon
Posted by laurence KL1X Anchorage on September 29, 2003 at 18:47:38
WD2XDW back on.
137.77350 Khz QRSS 120 will be (relays willing) back on at 0001Z 30th Sept 03 Laurence KL1X Anchorage Int Airport rain, rain, leafs, leaves...
185.3 last nite
Posted by lloyd chastant on September 30, 2003 at 07:16:17
Did some overnite captures and even though I did not get all on one capture -4 stations were seen-Conditions certainly were not prime and the signals were weak and broken much of the time but it sure looks like a start for the season....
185.301---- VD
185.300---- WA
185.299---- NC
185.299---- TAG(DFCW)
de Lloyd W3NF Maryland FM19MH
University of Tennessee Amateur Science Survey
Posted by Amateur Science Survey on September 30, 2003 at 10:26:55
We would like to invite you to participate in the Amateur Science Information Survey (AMSIS). The AMSIS is being conducted by information professionals at the University of Tennessee. This anonymous survey is an attempt to determine where and how amateur scientists find information related to their scientific interests. The online survey takes approximately 10 minutes to fill out. The results of this survey will help libraries provide services and materials to better meet the diverse needs of amateur scientists. To take the survey please go to http://www.lib.utk.edu/cic/amsci/amscisurvey.htm.
Re: please
Posted by jose moreira alves on September 30, 2003 at 12:33:40
Hi, i'm live in Macau/china close to Hong Kong and olso long wave listining, and this i have log wire antenna 80mt.Satardey ivining i open the Sony icf 77 and one long wave from russia araived and the radio...Who ? i dont now,please ist true or,thank's best 73 from Macau/china.
Eating Crow on 198 kHz
Posted by John Andrews on September 30, 2003 at 19:55:38
As I sit here dining on a fine plate of crow while listening to BBC4 on 198 kHz, I must correct my posting of August 14 which replied to a message from Brian Ripley. He asked if he would be able to copy the above station in Orlando, FL. I replied that I had not heard it in Massachusetts, and cited the aero beacon DIW as a source of interference.
Well, I'm listening to a somewhat noisy BBC broadcast, with DIW ID's in the background. So the task is not impossible from Massachusetts. I remain skeptical about the possibilities from Orlando, however.
Anyone need any feathers?
John Andrews, W1TAG
Re: please
Posted by John Davis on September 30, 2003 at 21:01:45
Hello Jose,
Did you happen to notice what frequency was tuned at the time you heard the station?
73 John
www.lwca.org
potrzebie