Photos of the finished antenna at " XR "
I didn't expect to do any antenna work today, but finished work early, and had some time to get the antenna almost ready to raise into the air. I still have to connect the guy ropes, and connect the downlead coming into the room. And then the not going to be so easy job of getting this thing raised into its operating position. Right now it looks like an " all in the family " job to get it up. My wife, and stepson, and stepdaughter, as well as myself. One on each guy rope, and me on the roof pulling it up. Todays work was spent winding the elevated loading coil, and mounting it to the mast, and then, connecting the top
section of mast with the Top Hat, and completing the aluminum taping of the mast sections together. Here is the link to the photos of the work done today:
http://ku4xr.webs.com/apps/photos/album?albumid=10084072
Hopefully I can get this beast in the air in a couple of days,then I'll rewind the variometer to be able to match the antenna.
73 all,
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz ( QRSS-60 )
*** Temporarily OFF, while constructing a new antenna ***
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16" Beacon - XR antenna is in the air
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on October 11, 2010 at 16:33:11.
With the help of my wife and step-daughter. We raised the new lowFER antenna into the air today. I was on the roof pulling one of the guy ropes, and my
step-daughter hand walked this monster into position. I plan to check it out on receive for a few days, then I'll try putting the beacon on it. I don't have
an antenna analyzer, and I don't think they work very well at LF anyway without modifications. So, using the S-meter on the radio; the peak receive noise on the antenna alone is at 283 KHz. I connected it to the variometer, and on 185.300 KHz, it needs 2.45 mH to peak the S-meter. This is a high value,BUT !!! I have never tried an elevated coil before, and the Top Hat is much smaller,
AND---considerably higher, so needing more Inductance is probably normal.
Check out the antenna at:
http://ku4xr.webs.com/apps/photos/album?albumid=10147879
73 all:
[Hifer] RY off for season
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
Posted by John Andrews, W1TAG on October 12, 2010 at 13:29:41.
Hifer RY in Raymond, ME is off until May, 2011 at least. Very few reports received this year.
John, W1TAG
lowFER Beacon - XR testing new antenna in QRSS-60
Posted by Andy - XR on October 13, 2010 at 18:08:27.
It's been a long time coming, and not finished yet. But the new antenna for
" XR " is finally in the air, and matched for RF, so I'll be running " XR " in QRSS-60 mode over the next few days, and in the process will be peaking and tweaking the system for maximum efficiency. The signal can be found at 185,298.7??-ish KHz ... Thanks for any reception reports, 73 to all :
Andy - Beacon " XR " Friendsville, TN. EM75xr
HiFer Stations This Morning -14 Oct., 2010
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 14, 2010 at 07:13:01.
Hearing WV on 13556, EH on 13557, NHVT on 13559, and GNK 13564 KHz. All clearly copied, with NHVT really strong earlier this morning, as was WV a couple of days ago in the afternoon. Both pushing 559 when signals peaking. Has anyone heard the MTI station on 13557.5 KHz? I have listened, but no luck. May be too close in GA for normal propagation on 13 MHz. RX Kenwood R-5000/Ant. 20 ft. vertical pipe & gnd. rod. EdWSlidell,LA
Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
Posted by Paul on October 14, 2010 at 08:59:29.
In reply to [Hifer] RY off for season posted by John Andrews, W1TAG on October 12, 2010
Bummer. May I suggest- Having a beacon off the air defeats the purpose. Leaving a beacon on 24/7/365 is what it's all about.
Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
Posted by John Andrews, W1TAG on October 14, 2010 at 13:39:47.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by Paul on October 14, 2010
Paul,
This beacon is at a site that is inaccessible in the winter months. The chances of that antenna remaining up all winter are limited, and I don't want to waste people's time. I can't copy the Hifer beacon at home (130 miles), so have no way to keep track of it. Lowfer beacon TAG runs year-round from that site, but the antenna is stable, and I can monitor it from home.
That said, I will probably not even bother with the Hifer beacon next year. Most of the weak signal beacon interest has moved to 30 Meters, where power and antenna requirements are less severe. The Hifer stuff started maybe 8 years ago as a summertime way for the Lowfer crowd to play with weak signal programs. That need no longer exists, and I can put RY's nice OCXO to use in another project.
John, W1TAG
Re: lowFER Beacon - XR testing new antenna - UPDATE
Posted by Andy - XR on October 14, 2010 at 16:16:01.
In reply to lowFER Beacon - XR testing new antenna in QRSS-60 posted by Andy - XR on October 13, 2010
Testing up to this point is very promising. The antenna is actually exceeding my expectations. I have did some tweaks, and have the RF current approaching 150 Milli Amps. That is very good !! I did not expect to see this much Antenna current. I am persuaded that the elevated losding coil has been a definite benefit to strictly base loading.... hifer GNK
Reception reports for the first night running QRSS-60 came in from all over the Eastern, and central US. from 300 miles out to a little over 700 miles. More peaks and tweaks ahead, and looking forward to some digi-modes this winter on 1750 meters... 73 everyone; Andy - Beacon " XR "
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on October 15, 2010 at 13:49:43.
Around 12:50 local, good copy on GNK on 13564 kHz, peaking 559 wid some QSB but quite solid through past 13:00 hrs local here in CT. .... Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
later...Sal
Posted by Paul on October 15, 2010 at 20:49:42.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by John Andrews, W1TAG on October 14, 2010
Copy that, John. Good points.
But, doesn't a 30m beacon require an op to be present while it is on the air? A HiFer can be ran unattended.
Or maybe I am incorrect.
73,
Hi-Fer's Heard 16 Oct., 2010
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 16, 2010 at 18:21:00.
Still hearing most of the active Hi-Fer stations which I can identify. WV on 13556, EH on 13557, GNK on 13564, and a very weak K6FRC on 13565 KHz. EH and GNK in with good signals most of the day. The lack of splatter on Saturday from 13570 KHz really helps, although the "sweeping" signal in the band is consistently present. EdWSlidell,LA EM50cg
Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
Posted by Mark Garrett on October 17, 2010 at 11:17:02.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by John Andrews, W1TAG on October 14, 2010
I plan on leaving my HiFer on the air this winter as you never know when the band will be open. I have had difficulty this summer as lightning took out my HiFer and later the antenna came down in a wind storm. Hope to see some reception reports here. Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
SZX 13.563
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 17, 2010 at 17:03:18.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by Mark Garrett on October 17, 2010
Hi Mark. Is your Hi-Fer beacon currently back up and in normal operation? I have been listening for it without success. GNK is in almost every day, for long periods. FRC in during the early and late day times. The propagation seems to be improving with the increase in sunspots. Thanks. EdWSlidell,LA EM50cg
Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
Posted by Paul on October 18, 2010 at 12:53:20.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by Mark Garrett on October 17, 2010
That's great news, John!
Mine is up 24/7/365 also. If you ever read that my HiFer is QRT, check the obituaries. XR is changing to CW mode for a few days
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 18, 2010 at 18:42:54.
Just for a little change of pace, I have set " XR " to run CW at 7 wpm in a repeating sequence, non-stop... Frequency is in the watering hole, 185.299 KHz but shouldn't cause any problems with QRSS operations there. I certainly don't expect to be getting any very long distance reports, if any reports at all. But anyone who would like to give it a try; I would like to know if you copy " XR " in CW mode.. By the way; a mp3 recording would be utterly fabulous if you happen to catch it... Experiment with the law of diminishing return
73 everyone: Andy - Beacon " XR " Friendsville, TN. EM75xr
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 19, 2010 at 16:31:00.
Hi fellow lowFERs:
Well my OCD kicked in again today, and after dinner, I experimented with running some extra ground wires. The first wire I connected made a 5 Milli Amp increase in RF current. I connected an extension wire to the end of one of the radials, and ran it about 20 feet over to the service entrance. I clamped it to the service entrance ground wire, and immediately saw the 5 Milli Amp increase in RF current. The second wire didn't give but about maybe 2 extra Milli Amps. I crawled underneath my mobile home and connected a wire to the grounding block on the mobile home frame, and then ran that out to my radial system. It wasn't a big deal to do, and I considered the extra 2 Milli Amps worth that effort. The next 2 wires that I ran; I decided that the effort needed for a final job, would not be worth the extra 4 to 5 Milli Amps that It looked like I could gain. I laid 1 wire on the ground, and ran it about 100 feet to a power pole on the far side of my property, and connected it to the poles ground wire. I repeated the same effort going to the other side of my property to another power pole about 100 feet away, and connected the wire to the ground wire on
the pole. this effort gave another 5 Milli Amps of RF current. BUT !! here's the law kicking in; the first 2 wires gave 5 Milli Amps of increase and were only about 35 feet of wire. The next 2 wires gave an additional 5 Milli Amps of RF current, but needed 200 feet of wire. In addition to the 200 feet of wire; it would have to be buried !!! and I can't justify all that effort to gain the extra 5 Milli Amps..... So, I disconnected the long wires, rolled them up, and saved them for another project. Overall; the couple of hours of experimenting did result in a gain of 7 Milli Amps of RF current on the ammeter, and I went from 150 up to 157 Milli Amps on peak. Some extra notes; The transmitter seems to be happier now too... The tuning of the Variometer is smooth, and when the transmitter keys; the ammeter " JUMPS " up to its peak whereas before the extra grounding it was slow to climb, and kinda sluggish. I have a few more ground experiments I plan to try in the days ahead to see if I can eeek out another few Milli Amps of RF...
73 all, and good lowFER-ing to you:
Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz ( QRSS-60 )
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16"
Posted by Paul on October 19, 2010 at 20:25:18.
In reply to Experiment with the law of diminishing return posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 19, 2010
Experimentation is what it's all about, Andy. Nice job, OM!
I have built many AM BCB stations, and have done a little experimenting with radial systems. I found a big difference between the top of the AM band and the bottom of the AM band in regards to sensitivity to radial systems changes.
On the low end of the band, the typical 120 radials 1/4 wave long is actually not enough (in my opinion). I have done systems with twice the normal number of radials and noticed a measurable increase in radiation efficiency. On the upper end of the band, you can yank 3/4 of the radials from the ring and not notice much difference at all.
Also have noticed that on the bottom end of the band, bends in radials are a problem, but on the upper end of the AM band, you can surve them around to stay within property lines, etc. and not hurt the performance.
Someday, if there is ever a K6FRC LowFer, it will likely be built on the base of a former AM BCB antenna.
Hifers hrd today
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on October 20, 2010 at 13:57:36.
Today I heard SZX 429 on ~13563, and GNK 539 on ~13564 at 10:27 local wid QSB hr in CT. QRSS Needs Question(s)
later...Sal
Posted by Bill Marvin KB9IV on October 20, 2010 at 19:37:39.
Hi Group I'm very interested in QRSS reception, software, soundcard/computer and receiver requirement needed. Is their a site that explains the minimum nuts & bolts needed for these mode(s)??
At least I'm asking the experts. I'm sure from my confusion comes some wisdom. I like doing radio things that are difficult not just mainsteam.
Thanks
Bill KB9IV (So. MN) Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 20, 2010 at 19:43:09.
In reply to Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return posted by Paul on October 19, 2010
Hi Paul and Andy. Paul, what is the 'normal' configuration for an AM BCB antenna system? Is it 120 half-wave radials, for 88% of ideal efficiency? I have seen some info that(at HF at least) that if the radials are only quarter wave, putting more than 15-20 won't give much better than 40-45% efficiency. Was thinking about an elevated HiFer vertical/Marconi antenna with 16 radials, set up 12 ft.,above the Katrina flood level--planning for the future. The present 20 ft. pipe vertical antenna is set right above the single ground rod, and not a little inefficient. You do well with your 8 ft. vertical whip on the container. Like to know what EH is using for such a consistently strong HiFer signal. EdWSlidell,LA EM50cg
Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return
Posted by John Davis on October 20, 2010 at 21:14:20.
In reply to Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 20, 2010
Ed,
Normal ground configuration for an AM broadcast station is 120 quarter-wave ground radials. Some stations go the extra mile (or rather, feet) and use almost a third of a wavelength. It is not true, even at HF, that there is no additional benefit to more radials--only that you quickly enter the realm of diminishing returns, as Andy aptly titled this thread.
Beyond around 16 radials, you have to sink a lot more money in the ground to see just those final few tiny decibels at the receiver, but for commercial broadcasters, it's worth it. Not only does the efficiency begin to approach theoretical limits as you get above 90 or so radials, but the characteristics of the antenna become more stable with varying weather and soil conditions.
Now, when jumping up to 13.56 MHz and elevating the radials, you're in a whole other ballgame! The objective is no longer to provide as low resistance path as possible through the soil for return currents to the base of the antenna...you're creating a counterpoise to do the job of capturing and returning displacement current, and beginning to leave the earth out of it. In fact, at an elevation of 12 feet, you're starting to leave even the realm of the counterpoise and monopole-like antennas generally, and are instead entering the world of the ground plane vertical. In that world, as few as three or four radials can be fully efficient! There are pitfalls lurking, though.
One of these is the elevation itself. At 12 feet, your radials would be approximately a sixth of a wavelength above ground in the 22 meter band. This is getting close to 1/4 wavelength, which is kind of taboo. That was discovered the hard way in the "olden days" of broadcasting. Trying to conserve real estate, broadcasters in large cities would sometimes install vertical antennas and counterpoises atop tall buildings. Some figured "the taller, the better," but that didn't always prove true. If the height of the building was anywhere near a quarter wavelength at the station's assigned frequency, the very high angle radiation was enhanced, groundwave and low angle skywave coverage were poor, and the base impedance was sometimes unstable and hard to match.
Now, at 12 feet, I'm not saying it won't work. I'm just saying there are better arrangements, if you can manage to do one of them.
One option would be to go up further. If you could raise the base of your antenna to 36 feet or something close thereto, and let your radials droop a bit below horizontal--ie, sectionalize your guy wires with insulators and use the top 18 feet of each of them as quarter-wave radials-- you would achieve close to a 70-ohm match to your coax and excellent efficiency.
(The efficiency would be still be good even if you had to cut the radiating portion back to an eighth of a wavelength for mechanical reasons. What I'm thinking here is that a CB whip on a clamp mount at the top of, say, 35 feet of TV mast would be a whole lot easier to do than balance another 20 foot pole and its insulator atop that same 35 feet! While the shorter radiator would require tuning and no longer be a nice 70 ohm match on its own, the efficiency and the radiation angle would be virtually indistinguishable from a quarter-wave radiator. This is a fact I've been keeping in mind as I design what might become next year's LowFER/HiFER antenna at my own site...for winter LF, 30 or so feet of mast insulated at the base and the guywire-radials serving as a tophat; while for summer HF, the base of the mast would be tied to ground and the guywire-radials would be connected to the coax shield, and the whip above them to be fed from the coax center conductor via a small loading coil.)
The other option might be to keep the base of the antenna nearer the earth in the first place, but add radials on the surface or suspend them just a few feet above ground. Even that relatively small elevation would aid in decoupling the return currents in the radials from the lossy soil beneath (which is even lossier at HF than at BCB frequencies).
John
Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return
Posted by John Davis on October 20, 2010 at 21:36:41.
In reply to Experiment with the law of diminishing return posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 19, 2010
Andy,
I'm both intrigued and a little concerned about part of what you reported:
The transmitter seems to be happier now too... The tuning of the Variometer is smooth, and when the transmitter keys; the ammeter " JUMPS " up to its peak whereas before the extra grounding it was slow to climb, and kinda sluggish.
What I'm wondering is whether the apparent 7 ma increase is matched by equal or improved performance, or whether it might actually represent the introduction of lossy paths to the ground system that could impair signal in the far field.
Not all ground return paths are beneficial. Any number of experimenters have found that tying in to power line grounds, for instance, did indeed provide an additional path for RF current, but to the detriment of less lossy ground components of their ground systems. Introduction of additional resistive losses could, for example, reduce the overall Q of the system and make the variometer tuning a little broader and less peaky.
Just a thought, and one which I hope is not applicable in your case. But at least it is something that can be tested easily enough if you can arrange to have a listener at some convenient distance monitor your signal strength while you disconnect and reconnect the new sections of the ground.
John
QRSS Question
Posted by Bill Marvin KB9IV on October 21, 2010 at 17:55:35.
Hi Group First I would lie to tell you what I have on-hand to perhaps receive QRSS.
First I'm using a P4 with 2 GB RAM. Just a on-board generic Soundcard.
For a receiver I now use a TT RX 320D modified < 1.0 Mhz sensitivity, especially below 250Khz.....some 20 dbm better!!
My antenna is a folded 250' longwire coupled to a 9:1
Results of Groundwave Experiment, XR to WD4NGG
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 21, 2010 at 18:01:02.
Hi all: Here is Todd's report on the lowFER groundwave experiment:
_____________________________________________________________________
Hi Andy,
I got home from work and checked the ARGO screen captures for the day.
It looks like there was a sharp dropoff in signal as usual around
7:15AM EDT my time or right around sunrise. I see it looks like QRSS120
held on to your signal a bit longer than QRSS60 does around sunrise.
It looks like the band recovered a bit a little later in the morning
and copy was so-so up until around noon-1PM. Then by mid-afternoon I
pretty well lost your signal even on QRSS120, so it looks like it didn't
quite bring you up to solid copy all day long, but it held on to your
signal quite a bit longer than QRSS60 does.
I do know band conditions can change from day-to-day on extreme long-range
groundwave and can even change from hour-to-hour so it is possible on
another day your signal might hold up most of the day, but we are not up
to 100% reliability yet.
Thanks for running the test and maybe with a few more tweaks we can get
a reliable groundwave signal out to 300 miles.
I have enclosed 3 screenshots of XR for today on QRSS120 ARGO.
73 - Todd
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
View the screen shots at:
http://ku4xr.webs.com/apps/photos/album?albumid=10219426
73 all, and good lowFER-ing:
Re: QRSS Question (Cont) OOPPS
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz ( QRSS-60 )
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16"
Posted by Bill Marvin on October 21, 2010 at 18:05:29.
In reply to QRSS Question posted by Bill Marvin KB9IV on October 21, 2010
My antenna is a folded 250' longwire coupled to a 9:1 Magnetic UnUn.
The RX 320D is very quite, stable and accurate.
My questions:
How do I interface this receiver to a Soundcard?
Do I need a seperate better soundcard?
Sorry for the double post.....off it went some how.
Regards
Bill KB9IV
Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 21, 2010 at 18:27:16.
In reply to Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return posted by John Davis on October 20, 2010
Andy,
I'm both intrigued and a little concerned about part of what you reported:
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The transmitter seems to be happier now too... The tuning of the Variometer is smooth, and when the transmitter keys; the ammeter " JUMPS " up to its peak whereas before the extra grounding it was slow to climb, and kinda sluggish.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
I can't come up with any good technical reason to explain the difference in the RF current behavior! Can you elaborate a bit on what way the variometer tuning is smoother, too?
_________________________________________
Hi John,and all who read this: OK, I suppose that I tend to look at the whole cake rather than each individual element that makes the cake, from the dish out to the icing, and toppings, so I guess I lumped too much together into the same mix. Trying to explain what I really don't fully understand will probably make things harder to understand in the long run, but in as few words as possible, here goes; BEFORE THE NEW GROUND: when the transmitter keyed, the PA volts would be higher, and start dropping slightly, while the PA current would be lower ( than at peak ) and rise slowly until peak output was reached...The Variometer was a little " bumpy " while tuning... it would have a double peak very close together, but one peak would produce a lower PA current for peak output on the RF meter...On the sluggish comment; the RF ammeter would rise to a point, and then slowly continue to rise another 4 to 5 Milli Amps until it peaked out, and stabilized. Maybe that makes sense. AFTER THE NEW GROUND: All that quirkiness stopped. When the transmitter keys now, the PA volts, and current immediately go to their peak value for 1 Watt DC Input, the Variometer no longer has the double peaks, just one sharp peak, and the RF ammeter immediately rises to peak output level... no more slow rise to reach peak output.... This dosen't explain anything, it only describes what " WAS " happening, and what " IS " happening now. 73 all - Andy
Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return
Posted by Paul on October 21, 2010 at 22:55:51.
In reply to Re: Experiment with the law of diminishing return posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 20, 2010
Yep, 120 radials, 1/4 wavelength long is normal for a broadcast station.
The 8 foot hamstick on the metal shipping container does work well, much better than expected. Tuning was ultra-simple and doesn't drift at all with weather.
With the 100 MPH winds that site gets, I wanted to use an antenna that would handle it. Figured a mobile on a real stout mount was the way to go. So far, so good.
Re: QRSS Question (Cont) OOPPS
Posted by John Davis on October 22, 2010 at 07:07:32.
In reply to Re: QRSS Question (Cont) OOPPS posted by Bill Marvin on October 21, 2010
The nice thing about QRSS is that, unlike some types of software-defined radios, no special sound cards are required. The accuracy of the displayed frequencies will depend somewhat on the accuracy of the sound card clock, as well as the radio, but some of the decoding software allows the user to compensate for slight errors of that sort.
Interface between the receiver and sound card could theoretically be as simple as connecting from the headphone output of the receiver to the line input of the sound card. However, to ensure negligible coupling of noise between the computer and receiver, an audio isolation transformer is a wise idea. The 600 ohm unit Radio Shack sells (sold?) is a good choice. If they don't carry those any more, Mouser or Digikey should have them. If the sound card doesn't have a line level input, you'd also need to improvise a resistive voltage divider to avoid overloading the card.
That's pretty much all you'll need. Re: QRSS Question
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on October 22, 2010 at 07:51:38.
In reply to QRSS Question posted by Bill Marvin KB9IV on October 21, 2010
Hi Bill: #1; Your PC is beyond adequate for QRSS use. I have ran QRSS modes on 335 MHz P-II machines with no problems... #2; the Generic ( On Board ) sound will work, and probably very well, but as John mentioned, the clock on the sound may cause sampling rate errors which will cause the audio freqiencies to be off. I had one that was off by 11 cycles. But, the QRSS software allows for Offset error correction. And, connecting the receiver to the soundcard in your case is simple. According to Ten Tec's info on the 320D; it has a line out jack at 600 Ohms that can connect directly to the line input on your sound card, sorta Plug -n -Play..#3; the Ten Tec 320D sounds like a fascinating receiver, and since you, ( or someone previous ) have done the LF sensitivity mods; you are set to go on LF receive. SJ beacon
Now; from my personal experience; for good reception at LF, your antenna needs to be matched at the frequency band you want to receive. This can be done simply with loading coils, and capacitors to make the antenna resonant. The other solution would be a pre-amp to make up the difference in signal voltage level.#4; QRSS software: Easy - ARGO.. Intermediate level - SPECTRAN.. Advanced level - Spectrum Laboratory.. All free, and easily downloadable from the net.
#5; Do you need a seperate / better sound card ?? That's really a personal preference. Your On Board sound will most likely work fine for casual QRSS once you calibrate it with the software. And it may even be high end sound, and be very good quality ( low noise ).. I use 2 sound cards, and for this purpose; I input the audio into 1 card, and output the audio on the 2nd card. This allows me to use software DSP audio filters " between " the cards ( digitally ), or audio analyzing software, and so forth. A little more detailed, but personal preference.. OK, lots of info, but I hope to cover all the bases, and possible questions that may come up for you. But, always feel free to ask, and someone will try to give a helpful answer.. 73 - Andy-KU4XR
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on October 22, 2010 at 19:59:07.
Well its getting to be that time again and I am getting SJ ready for a season. I am going to be doing tests on cw on a few weekends, the usual 186.85 kHz if anyone cares to tune in. I'll be QRSS20 some time after Halloween when the leaves are all down. Will post at that time. " XR " copied in CW mode
later....Sal
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 23, 2010 at 07:06:28.
I was excited to get this email from Doug - KB4OER this morning:
" QUOTE "
Ok, sun is up now and QRN has quieted down. I can clearly hear your
beacon, though it is very faint. I can easily make out the CW ID,
though having a CQ QSO would still be difficult due to the faintness
of the signal.
Here are a couple of screen captures of your beacon in CW mode. This
is the "full band view" setting on Argo. As you can see, I have a
500Hz CW filter in place. The signal at 700Hz is a PLC, your beacon is
at 800Hz and you can make out the ID on the screen captures.
I'll listen again today when I get back home from helping my nephew
and perhaps I can record a sound sample for you.
73,
Doug
_______________________________________________
Doug is in Watauga, TN. 110 miles away, and the biggest majority of
land mass in this area of the country is mountainous. I'm looking
forward to an audio sample of the signal.
73 all:
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz ( QRSS-60 )
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16"
Re: QRSS Question
Posted by Bill KB9IV on October 23, 2010 at 14:39:48.
In reply to Re: QRSS Question posted by Andy - KU4XR on October 22, 2010
Hi Andy Thanks for the excellent QRSS info. I guess my confusion was because SDR’s required high quality soundcards i.e. 97 Khz inputs.
I’m in the process upgrading my RX 320D input filter so it’s not deaf below 250 Khz (3 parts to change).
The LW sensitivity stock is 45 uV @ 100 KHz AM and 20 uV @ 200 KHz AM.
The part changes it will be 3uV @ 100 KHz AM and 2.4 uV @ 200 KHz AM which generally in CW/SSB mode would be < 1 .0 uV and better CW (300 Hz) filter.
The Stock R320D GUI software from Ten Tec looks limited but has within a host of radio utilities for line in levels, CW offsets and Calibration Frequency +/- @ 1 Hz
step entries. The 320D software is a free download at (TenTec.com), to use or view the GUI software settings. Under “Set-up/User Options” on the upper taskbar.
Seems to have just what is needed for Argo Set-up and use…….I will find out when the upgrade is done shortly.
The 320D is very stable, quite (RF and Audio) no IF or Audio hiss. The Line Out jack output is clean. The DSP Filters ( 300 Hz – 8 KHz) are sharp with no loss on any filter setting, in fact the narrower the filter the better the detection.
My antenna is a multi-folded longwire 250’ with a low frequency 9:1 Balun, (UnUn) that is grounded at the North End at the Balun (N-S Orientation). It doesn’t need tuning as it is Broadband and provides much RF to the 320 D and rejects most all common mode noise on Longwave…..it’s quite. I do use a LF 202 pre-amp for LW
because of the above limited sensitivity issues. However it’s all a work in progress.
Thanks again for info on QRSS equipment needs I’ll have fun seeing how the software & receiver work. Keep you posted for sure.
73
Bill KB9IV Re: " XR " copied in CW mode
Posted by Doug - KB4OER on October 23, 2010 at 18:08:50.
In reply to " XR " copied in CW mode posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 23, 2010
Yep, Andy's signal clearly audible at my QTH, even in the middle of the afternoon. I was able to send him a sound clip of his beacon ID. Great job, Andy! When you think about it, our Lowfer antennas are the equivalent of trying to work the 40 meter CW band with a paper clip for an antenna stuck in the back of a transceiver.
Re: SJ beacon
Posted by Doug - KB4OER on October 23, 2010 at 18:12:11.
In reply to SJ beacon posted by Sal, K1RGO on October 22, 2010
I'll be listening. :-)
A short Audio/Video clip of " XR " received by KB4OER
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 23, 2010 at 19:16:54.
In reply to " XR " copied in CW mode posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 23, 2010
Hi all: for anyone interested, here is the link to an Audio/Video file. The audio is from Doug - KB4OER recorded off air at his QTH in Watauga, TN. Just click the play button when on the page.
http://ku4xr.webs.com/audioclipsandvideos.htm
73 :
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA X R is now sending in QRSS-180 mode HELLO out West
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz ( QRSS-60 )
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16"
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 25, 2010 at 20:54:10.
Hello all: I am sending " X R " in QRSS-180 equivalent. The frequency is 185,298.92 KHz Plus or Minus .01 Hz .. there is a very slight tittling Beacon RM
back and forth as the AC changes the room temp. The signal is best viewed using ARGO in QRSS-120-SLOW mode. A full screen will have 3 " X R " sequences showing. That is if you receive the signal of course. Any reception reports will be greatly appreciated. 73 all, and good lowFER-ing:
Andy - Beacon " X R " Friendsville, TN. - EM75xr
Posted by Roger on October 26, 2010 at 08:07:57.
Lowfer beacon RM 189.8 is off and no plans to be back on at this time.
73 to all. Roger
Hot LW portable radio
Posted by john ferro on October 27, 2010 at 09:08:46.
could someone please list the best performing portable radios for longwave reception? In the past i have owned the eton e1 (not really a portable) and it was excellent on LW. If i recall the sony 2010 was not that great. Also the sony sw7600gr was not very good. The kaito 1103 was deaf in the lw spectrum. Has anyone found a real hot performer in a portable? maybe the eton e5 or e3? or how about the Sangean's? any info would be greatly appreciated.
Re: Hot LW portable radio
Posted by Paul on October 28, 2010 at 10:08:42.
In reply to Hot LW portable radio posted by john ferro on October 27, 2010
Original Grundig Yacht Boy 400.
Reason for QRSS-180 transmission at lowFER Beacon " XR "
Posted by Andy - Beacon - XR on October 29, 2010 at 08:41:26.
Hello all:
I have recently changed to a QRSS-180 equivalent transmission on my 1 watt lowFER beacon on 1750 meters. The best DX while in QRSS-60 was 1185 miles
( 1907 KM ). Recent tests with a couple of operators has shown that the
QRSS-180 length will maintain the signal when QRSS-60 looses it. I'm sure it can be seen that I am hoping to extend that distance. Anyone willing to take the time to look for the signal; I will certainly appreciate your efforts. The signal will be best viewed with ARGO in QRSS-120 set for SLOW scroll, or Spectrum Lab set approriately. SPECTRAN will work also in its QRSS-30 mode with the speed control set to a very slow scroll rate. When viewed in a slow mode, the letters " X R " will be evident if the signal can be seen at your QTH.
Thank you for your time reading this.... 73, and a good weekend to all:
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz
**** Experimental QRSS-180 Transmissions ****
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16" GNK hifer hrd
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on October 29, 2010 at 15:44:28.
Around 12:30 local Today, GNK was coming through for a while on its usual frequency around 539 with big time QSB, fading down to the noise floor at times. Beacon - SJ in Friendsville, TN. 10/30/2010
later...Sal K1RGO
Posted by Andy - XR on October 31, 2010 at 17:15:12.
Very good copy of Sal's beacon " SJ " in QRSS-20 mode. I had copy from the start of his transmission. The distance is 718 miles between us. A screen capture is viewable in the LWCA Community Forums section - Part-15 receptions. 73 to all: Andy - " XR "
Re: Hot LW portable radio
Posted by Larry Lanberg on November 03, 2010 at 11:53:49.
In reply to Re: Hot LW portable radio posted by Paul on October 28, 2010
Hey John, I did really good with the Radio Shack DX-440 (a.k.a. Sangean 803A). All I had to do was sit that portable on a table next to my window and beacons came in from all over. I even got a couple European LWBC stations as well.
Not a RotoHammer, but a good pilot hole starter
Posted by Andy - XR on November 05, 2010 at 17:35:21.
Having come to the conclusion that there has to be a " better way " or at least " another way "; I came up with this idea. I'm sure it's not original, but I can't remember seeing anyone ever post anything about this method of " hole drilling " before. Using a 4 foot piece of Brakeline, and my 3/8th inch B&D hand drill, along with a pitcher of water; I had a pilot hole if you will, drilled, and the Ground Rod instantly sunk 4 feet into the ground, in an hour No Hammering !! Unfortunately, at the 6 foot deep level, the sound of the hammering went from " thunk-thunk-thunk " to a " ting-ting-ting " sound every swing, and the rod stopped moving...pretty soon, so did I. Here's a not too good quality picture of the Homemade Starter Hole Drill Bit:
http://ku4xr.webs.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=105349124
73 all:
Andy - KU4XR - EM75xr - Friendsville, TN. USA
LOWfer Beacon " XR " @ 185.29875 KHz
**** Experimental QRSS-180 Transmissions ****
Coordinates: N: 35º 43' 54" - W: 84º 3' 16"
Re: SMV 186.585 Copied
Posted by Darwin Long on November 07, 2010 at 17:36:37.
In reply to SMV 186.585 Copied posted by Jay on September 01, 2010
Thanks so much for the report, Jay - I just noted it here on the LWCA board today. You may have noticed my signal vanished just a couple days after your reception report... after operating SMV for nearly 3 years from Simi Valley, CA, I packed up the beacon and the rest of my belongings, and moved myself and my wife to Empire, Louisiana to take a new job. I plan to soon begin operating a nearly identical beacon setup here on the Mississippi Delta - a location almost completely surrounded by salt water on a tiny 1/2 mile wide strip of land out in the Gulf of Mexico. The call will be 'EMP', ID cycle timing and format will be identical to that used on SMV, and the frequency will still be 186.585kHz (despite a couple weak PLCs - have to stay in between splatter of LWBC stations booming in from across the Atlantic). I am in process of constructing the antenna and transmitter site now, so should take to the air again very soon. SJ beacon
Take care!
-Darwin
ex-SMV 186.585kHz
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on November 08, 2010 at 17:47:58.
I will resume normal operation of SJ on 186.85 kHz starting on Thanksgiving 11/25/10, if all goes as planned. I have to do some more antenna work (securing things) and a bit more testing. Trying out a more stable receiver also and going to set up spectran on a laptop too. PBO back on the air
later,Sal.......
Posted by Rick on November 08, 2010 at 17:52:36.
Hi all;
I just fired PBO back up today.Im running 840mw into the loop right now.Im hoping to get the final tuned up a bit more( it needs a little more capacitance )before the weekend . Also need to trim some branches from the lower end of the loop.
73
Rick KA2PBO
"PBO" 187.2 KHZ QRSS60
Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
Posted by Lee on November 10, 2010 at 16:37:53.
Beacon JAM 188.1khz will be on it's usual Friday thru Monday schedule this weekend. It accured to me I might be the only part 15 Lowfer operating in CA at this point. SMV Simi Valley moved to Mississippi. Dave formerly PLI in Burbank hasn't been heard from in a while. Is JAM the lone ranger Lowfer in CA? Also I made some changes and was able to get my skirt wire a little higher and away from the mast. This is probably as good as this antenna will ever get. Just in time for the leaves to drop. Heads up East Coast and Great White North.
73zzzz Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
Lee
Posted by John Davis on November 10, 2010 at 20:25:59.
In reply to Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by Lee on November 10, 2010
You know, Lee, that's a very good question. California used to be a hotbed of LowFER activity. Anyone still on out there?
Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
Posted by Andy - Beacon _ XR on November 11, 2010 at 10:28:32.
In reply to Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by Lee on November 10, 2010
I offer this as just something to condsider.. #1; we really could use a more accurate transmit frequency to look for you on. 188.1 KHz is very vague, but, if you can determine, and present a much more defined frequency, it will be tremendously helpful to those who may try to look for your signal. Such as; 188,103.56 KHz, and at a minimum at least Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
down to the single cycle point, ie: 188.103 KHz... A QRSS-30 window is 6 cycles wide, but a QRSS-60 window is only 3 cycles wide. Without a more precise frequency to look on, you could very easily " Be There " in signal, but NOT in the viewing window where someone would be looking. This is the most critical thing the monitors need to know. Point #2; If you can go to QRSS-60, and your frequency stay stable within a few 10ths of a cycle; your chances of being received versus QRSS-30 just about double. As a for instance, I recently ran a daytime groundwave test with Todd - WD4NGG in Hilton Head, South Carolina at a distance of 308 miles. I was transmitting the letter " S " at QRSS-180 which gave an 11 minute sampling time. Todd viewed my signal with 2 ARGO windows, one in QRSS-60-SLOW, and the other in QRSS-120-SLOW... The QRSS-120 sampling rate held on to the signal for about 2 hours longer than QRSS-60 did. So the slower rate will give you a big advantage for distance....I won't say it's impossible, but definitely highly unlikely that I could pull in your signal out here in TN. You have a very high mountain range to contend with, and that certainly dosen't help any. But I will offer to try looking for your signal... As an experiment, if you can't run any slower than QRSS-30, try sending a ZERO ( 0 )
at that speed. That will give 9-1/2 minutes of sampling time, or the equivalent of the letter " T " in QRSS-180. When that is viewed in QRSS-120-SLOW, ( barring any drift ), a nice line will show up on the waterfall for anyone who can receive you.... Let me know if you want to experiment some, and we'll give it a go one night..
73, and good DX to you: Andy - Beacon " X R " Friendsville, TN. - EM75xr
Posted by Lee on November 11, 2010 at 17:07:55.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by Andy - Beacon _ XR on November 11, 2010
Good input Andy. I will try to wrangle a counter with some resolution. In the mean time I did have a report that found JAM at 188.097 khz. Once I come up with a 7 or 8 digit freq I could advertise a 1 digit or 1 character xmit event at QRSS 60. Thanks
73zzzz UNID Beacon - MBD - Heard in Colorado
Lee
Posted by John Bellini on November 11, 2010 at 19:39:32.
I was hunting NDBs last night and recorded a rather strong beacon with the Keying of MBD. Another local member was able to better ID the frequencies. Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
The parameters observed are such:
Key: MBD
Period: 5.2 seconds
Frequency: Keying on 187.52 and possible carrier on 189?
I first observed this signal at 3:20 UTC 2010-11-11 and it was observed to stop at 5:12 UTC.
I am located in Lakewood, Colorado and the other observer was in Westminister, CO.
Any information would be welcome.
Thanks,
John Bellini
Lakewood, CO
Posted by Paul on November 11, 2010 at 23:53:06.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by John Davis on November 10, 2010
Well, I had considered putting a LowFer on the air in N. Cal.
Was hoping to find something sorta 'off the shelf' to use as a TX rather than a complete homebrew. But was not successful.
Ground system is in, antenna figured out, keyer ready to go, no TX.
Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
Posted by Lee on November 12, 2010 at 10:22:40.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by Paul on November 11, 2010
Hi Paul
The only off the shelf xmit I know of is the tested and assembled LF90 at North Country Radio. About 200 bones. I am considering buying one to replace my AM88. Have fun.
Lee
QRSS Question(s)
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 12, 2010 at 11:04:57.
Hi Group I upgraded my RX 320D for better LW performance. I have ARGO installed and have been tinkering with it's settings.
My antenna favors Canada NW-NE coverage, less coverage to the South.
I calibrated the Argo freq offset to WWV no problem. Adjusted the 320D for less than 1 Hz accuracy overall. My question(s) are these:
What are the optimum ARGO settings overall for QRSS for best capture sensitivity. What not to do?
Is their a list of QRSS of LOWFER's for Canada?? Does Canada have this frequency allocated too??
Chances of listed US QRSS beacons are remote in So. MN. Roger (RM) is north of me(220) miles is off the air now so I have little to capture for baseline.
I realize this mode takes patience....no problem. If it was easy I wouldn't be innterested.
Thanks in advance!
Bill KB9IV
A Few Item(s) for Sale
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 13, 2010 at 09:01:46.
Hi Group I have some Longwave Receivers for Sale. These are Pickup or Meet from So Central Minn.
Wells-Gardner RBL receiver. Needs some work but have replaced some caps...$50 PU or Meet Only!
National RBL for Parts Only......good backup for above unit....$50
Philco Model 128A Selective VM with original manual. Complete needs some work!
$50 PU or Meet in So. Central Mn area.
These items a heavy each.....80 lbs or so. I will not consider shipment.
Thanks
Bill KB9IV LowFER Beacon EMP 185.585 kHz now on-air at Empire, Louisiana
Posted by Darwin Long on November 13, 2010 at 10:06:09.
LowFER Beacon EMP is now on the air from my new home QTH of Empire, Louisiana.
Transmitting frequency of the CW signal is 185.585 kHz (center-frequency for the USSB voice is 186.000). Hours of operation are 24-7. Transmitter coordinates are 29.392652°N, -89.603255°W. ID cycle and format is identical to my previous beacon: 60 seconds of CW ident using a 415-Hz sidetone (15 repetitions and then 5-second dash), followed by 60 seconds of alternating voice ID and CW ID (6 repetitions). The voice ID is "This is radiobeacon E M P Empire, Louisiana, U.S.A.". A 5-tone chime identifies the start of each 60-second block.
The antenna system is composed of a base-loaded 33 ft vertical nylon-guyed tower with three guy wires directly connected to the top of the tower, and insulated 17 ft down (37.5° angle). Transmitter is a Curry Communications EXP1750 transceiver. As before, the transmitter, keyer, battery backup, power supply, and variometer are placed in a fiberglass doghouse, bottom-vented with a fan and filter to draw cool air through and out the top. The ground system consists of 3 ground rods (8')... since the transmitter elevation is at exactly one foot below sea level, the rods actually became easier to drive into the ground as I kept pounding.
I selected a frequency 1 kHz below what was formerly used for SMV to avoid interference from LWBC on 183 and a local PLC around 187.5.
Signal appears to rival that from the former SMV setup in Simi Valley, most likely because of the excellent salt-water ground conductivity nearly completely surrounding the transmitter site. I am here in Biloxi, MS, and an excellent signal noted over the 90-mile saltwater path.
Happy DXing!
-Darwin Long Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
Empire, Louisiana
Posted by Darwin Long on November 13, 2010 at 10:27:09.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by John Davis on November 10, 2010
You might very well be correct, Lee. I noted your signal when I was living in Simi Valley (and was able to copy it by ear all the way out to Santa Barbara and Bakersfield). But the other beacons, such as IZJ (Pomona), ELU (Simi Valley), and WD2XFJ (PLI) have not been active for a couple years, and others in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo and San Jose also seem to have fallen silent for several years now. So you may definitely be the 'only game in town' at present.
Now that I have moved out of CA, you should have less splatter from the SSB portion of my beacon's signal. You might want to consider trying a frequency around where my SMV beacon was (186.5-187), because there are very few PLC carriers there, and the splatter from the AM broadcast station from Belogorsk, Russia on 189 kHz is not so bad when they pound in during the winter months.
Take care!
-Darwin Long Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA?
EMP 185.585
Empire, LA
Posted by Lee on November 13, 2010 at 12:00:46.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 188khz only part 15 Lowfer in CA? posted by Darwin Long on November 13, 2010
Hey Darwin K6FRC Hifer
Thanks for the info and reception reports. I think I will take you up and the freq shift tip. Thats a good idea to move a little to the side of that Russian station. Good luck with you relocation. Thanks again.
73zzzz
Lee
Posted by Jeff Hifer NDB on November 13, 2010 at 12:34:00.
Nice copy at 1731Z on the K6FRC Hifer, RST 529, into southwest Arizona, AZ. No other Hifers heard at this location. 73, Jeff Hifer "NDB" 13.262 MHz
Frequency Correction
Posted by Jeff Hifer NDB on November 13, 2010 at 12:43:38.
In reply to K6FRC Hifer posted by Jeff Hifer NDB on November 13, 2010
The correct frequency for the NDB beacon is 13.562 MHz not 13.262 MHz as shown on the previous post. Signal reports are always welcome. 73, Jeff
First QRSS Reception????
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 13, 2010 at 17:19:40.
Hi Group Between 2200-2300Z I recorded my first QRSS30 logging on ARGO.
The frequency was 185.303+/- on ARGO using my TT RX320D receiver. I'm unsure if it is a artifact or a valid logging?? I do not have a website to post the jpeg capture. So if interested email me direct and I can attach in my email to you.
It was quite strong for a hour then the street light came on and 20+dB noise increase ending reception. I'm located in So. Central MN.
Perhaps your eyes can read the image capture. I'm new to QRSS so please don't be too critical :> )
73
Bill KB9IV Re: First QRSS Reception????
Posted by Lee on November 13, 2010 at 18:02:24.
In reply to First QRSS Reception???? posted by Bill KB9IV on November 13, 2010
Hi Bill
You don't need a web site to post your capture. You can post it here at the "New Community Forum" . You just need to sign up. A 24hr manual deal but then your good to go. There is a topic for "Loggings" where you can post the capture.
73zzzzzz Re: First QRSS Reception????
Lee
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 13, 2010 at 18:23:53.
In reply to Re: First QRSS Reception???? posted by Lee on November 13, 2010
Hi Lee I'll just do that tonight.
73
Bill KB9IV
Re: First QRSS Reception????
Posted by Lee on November 13, 2010 at 20:13:17.
In reply to Re: First QRSS Reception???? posted by Bill KB9IV on November 13, 2010
Hey Bill
Here is what ya do. Go to the "New Community Forum" click on that. When you get there on the top of the page there is a link called "Registration" click on that. There you fill in the pertinant info. Like your e-mail info etc.
Lee
Forum Registration
Posted by Webmaster on November 13, 2010 at 20:35:05.
Please read carefully! We certainly want to give everyone a chance to post in the Community Forum who wishes to do so. Sadly, there is a crucial point about registering that some folks missed in the original announcement, and they are still not registered because we don't have the necessary information. I will break it down into two parts this time, in hopes that we'll all be on the same page:
1. You cannot register by posting your request in this board!
You need to choose a password, for instance, and you don't want that sort of information made public.
2. You must use E-MAIL to register, and include this information:
Thanks.
- John
Radio Beacon LA1ASK/B, New location
Posted by Jan on November 14, 2010 at 12:19:21.
LA1ASK/B 509 kHz
NEW LOCATION
Radio Beacon LA1ASK/B is back in operation co-sited with LKB/LLE Bergen Kringkaster/Bergen Broadcasting Station, Frudalsmyrene/Erdal Askøy Municipality, Western Norway.
Modulation: A1A.
Transmitter power 5 Watts.
Transmitter: Skanti life boat transmitter Skanti Marinetta TRP1.
Call sign LA1ASK/B
QTH JP20OK
60 degrees 26 mins 54 secs N
5 degrees 13 mins 04 secs E
Antenna 15 metres vertical(Comrod/Tjøstheim).
ASL 70 metres at mast base.
Reception reports wanted to: la1ask at bergenkringkaster.no
mp3 recordings are especially valued.
At the former location at Toftøy Island, Øygarden Municipality the station had reports from France, Belgium, England, Ireland, Shetland(daytime) Sweden and Finland!
500-kHz-Bake in Bergen,
Südwest-
Norwegen
Neuer Standort
Die Amateurfunkbake LA1ASK/B sendet auf 509 kHz in CW. Standort ist LKB/LLE ex 890/1115 kHz. Gesendet wird mit 5 W an einer 15 m hohen Antenne von der Insel Asköy nahe der Stadt Bergen in Südwest-Norwegen aus dem Locatorfeld JP20OK. Fotos von der Antennenanlage findet man auf der Projektwebseite im Internet.
http://www.bgn.no EMP Beacon on 185.6 KHz--Good Signal
http://www.la1ask.no
http://www.bergenkringkaster.no
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on November 14, 2010 at 20:02:29.
Listened for the 'EMP' LW beacon on 186.6 KHz, and easily found it about 1 KHz lower, on about 185.6 KHz, as noted in a posting on 13 Nov. Some LWBC, PLC, and local hum/buzz, but the CW ID clearly copied. The voice ID much more difficult to copy, likely due to an approaching low pressure system in the Gulf with its lighting noise. Heard using the R-5000 receiver and 141 ft. LW antenna, oriented ENE. A steasy S1 or better, no QSB, and holding its own with the intermittent atmospheric noise crashes up to S8 at times. Not heard at all with the 20 ft. vertical used for 13.56 MHz listening. The path is mostly over water, so that helps. EdWSlidell,LA EM50cg
help identifying beacon website
Posted by john ferro on November 15, 2010 at 07:26:40.
hi, i lost touch with a beacon website. it is no doubt the best worldwide beacon identification website on the net. it allows you to enter frequencies, callsigns, a range of frequencies and to the right is a list of beacon hunters that logged the beacon and the last time heard - its not navaid. it also allows you to search on ham beacons, ndbs or all of the above. it has maps, coordinates - great website - anyone know what i am taking about?
Re: help identifying beacon website
thx,john
Posted by Mark on November 15, 2010 at 08:42:01.
In reply to help identifying beacon website posted by john ferro on November 15, 2010
Maybe your thinking of the RNA/REU/RWW site?
http://www.classaxe.com/dx/ndb/rna/index.php
Mark Re: help identifying beacon website
Posted by john ferro on November 15, 2010 at 09:22:44.
In reply to Re: help identifying beacon website posted by Mark on November 15, 2010
mark, thats it buddy! thank you so much! i'll bookmark it.
john
Re: QRSS Question(s)
Posted by John Davis on November 15, 2010 at 16:30:16.
In reply to QRSS Question(s) posted by Bill KB9IV on November 12, 2010
"Is there a list of QRSS of LOWFER's for Canada?? Does Canada have this frequency allocated too??"
Indeed they do. We have always include Canadian operators in the LowFER list at this site.
There are not as many involved with Part 15 now as there once were, in large part because Canada gave their licensed amateur radio operators access to the 137 kHz ham band and some of the Canadian LF pioneers have migrated there. Beacons MP, EAR, and VE3OHH are still active in the 2200 meter band, though, at least a fair percentage of the time.
At this frequency, few antennas are really all that directional toward just one target. You might be surprised what you'll run into. Start someplace like the so-called "watering hole" frequency of 185.3 kHz, and just see who all shows up within a few hertz either side of that spot over the course of a several nights' monitoring.
Re: QRSS Question(s)
Posted by Douglas Williams KB4OER on November 16, 2010 at 04:21:04.
In reply to QRSS Question(s) posted by Bill KB9IV on November 12, 2010
Hi Bill. I like to keep both the Sensitivity and Constast settings in the lower one third of the slider bars on Argo. Also, you want to adjust the level of the audio out ("volume") on your receiver so that the signal level meter on the left side of the Argo screen stays mostly in the lower one half of it's range. If you see it turn red at any time, lower the volume of the receiver. This will vary depending on band conditions (mostly QRN). I also found it helpful to install an audio isolation transformer in the line between the receiver and the PC sound card input. I simply purchased a "ground loop isolator" from eBay that was designed for an Ipod. It already had the proper connectors installed and my total cost with shipping was something like $10. One last thing...you might want to play with the Windows (whatever version you run) adjustments for the "Line In" level on your sound card. I found that having mine at 100% made the volume adjustment on the receiver to "finicky". I backed it down to 50%. YMMV.
Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now
Posted by Lee on November 16, 2010 at 17:50:03.
Looks like Beacon JAM will get rained out this coming weekend 11/20 and 11/21. So I will just leave it up until the rain gets here.
73zzzz ARGO Problem !!
Lee
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 17, 2010 at 11:36:10.
Hi Group While I was calibrating ARGO to my Soundcard my cat jumped on the cumputer desk causing the mouse to click on something and causing my ARGO program to cease to work.
It comes up with the error "Invalid Floating Point Operation" and "Floating Point Division by Zero". I uninstalled ARGO and reinstalled ARGO.....same errors. The program is locked-up and won't open to operate....only now gives errors.
When things went wrong in "Calibrate" the vertical scale in "Hz" then was in "Scientific Notation????????? !!!!!!
I'm now using Spectran V2 which doesn't have a problem with my on-board but is more complex but flexiable to use.
Thanks in advance!
Bill KB9IV
GNK hrd FB
Posted by Sal, K1GO on November 17, 2010 at 15:09:05.
I copied GNK quite well today at 13:41 local, was pushing 569 for a while before a deep fadeout. Re: ARGO Problem !!
later, Sal
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on November 17, 2010 at 18:10:25.
In reply to ARGO Problem !! posted by Bill KB9IV on November 17, 2010
Bill: I sent you an email direct with some suggestions. I am posting this just in case it lands in your Spam folder so you will know to look for the email.
73: Andy - KU4XR
Re: ARGO Problem !!
Posted by Paul on November 18, 2010 at 08:27:47.
In reply to Re: ARGO Problem !! posted by Andy - KU4XR on November 17, 2010
Would you please consider posting the suggestions here so the rest of us may benefit if similar problem happens to us someday?
Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 18, 2010 at 11:38:40.
Hi Group I'm just thrilled to report my first QRSS logging. I never used Spectran V2 before but all seems fine here. The TT RX320D modified frontend by myself for LF appears to now be a performer.
I guess you can call it beginners luck! The screen capture is on the loggins forum. I have no idea where WSI is located from So. MN.
Best DX
Bill KB9IV
Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN
Posted by John Davis on November 18, 2010 at 13:23:06.
In reply to Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN posted by Bill KB9IV on November 18, 2010
WSI is a new one to us, too.
Operators, you need to let folks know who and where you are! The best possible way to do that is to post right in this message board.
Re: ARGO Problem !!
Posted by Andy - KU4XR on November 18, 2010 at 16:58:43.
In reply to Re: ARGO Problem !! posted by Paul on November 18, 2010
Hi Paul: Yes I will, If he tries the suggestions, and they work to fix his problems with ARGO.
Andy
Re: Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now
Posted by Andy - XR on November 18, 2010 at 17:31:25.
In reply to Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now posted by Lee on November 16, 2010
Lee: I am looking at 188.100 KHz tonite +/- 5 Hz.. Is your beacon still on at the moment ?? email me when you see this. Andy - XR
Re: Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now
Posted by Lee on November 18, 2010 at 20:19:34.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now posted by Andy - XR on November 18, 2010
Hi Andy Re: Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now
It is up now until friday 1200 and then off until the rain clears. Also note I moved the freq to 187khz. When I changed the freq I tweeked my PLL osc. It was off a bit. So I might actually be very close to 187khz. Thanks.
Lee
Posted by Andy - XR on November 18, 2010 at 20:25:01.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now posted by Lee on November 18, 2010
OK; I switched to 187.000 KHz... will watch overnight.. 73: Andy
Are you still running QRSS-30 ??
Posted by Andy - XR on November 18, 2010 at 20:36:04.
In reply to Re: Beacon "JAM" 187 khz is up now posted by Lee on November 18, 2010
QRSS-30 ??
Andy
Re: Are you still running QRSS-30 ??
Posted by Lee on November 18, 2010 at 20:40:23.
In reply to Are you still running QRSS-30 ?? posted by Andy - XR on November 18, 2010
Yes QRSS30, then a 5wpm message, a pause and then back to QRSS30
Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN
Posted by John Davis on November 18, 2010 at 22:45:08.
In reply to Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN posted by John Davis on November 18, 2010
By the way, Bill, what was the frequency of WSI?
Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 19, 2010 at 07:47:53.
In reply to Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN posted by John Davis on November 18, 2010
Hi John As it turns out the Beacon was SIW on 185.2993 and my calibration was off 11.7 Hz. Should be right on freq now. Also I sorry about my decoding error :>)
Best DX
Bill KB9IV
Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN
Posted by John Davis on November 19, 2010 at 17:42:53.
In reply to Re: Beacon WSI Logged in So. MN posted by Bill KB9IV on November 19, 2010
SIW...of course, now I see. Thanks Bill. Looks like pretty solid reception there.
Re: EMP Beacon on 185.6 KHz--Good Signal
Posted by Darwin Long on November 20, 2010 at 13:00:58.
In reply to EMP Beacon on 185.6 KHz--Good Signal posted by EdWSlidell,LA on November 14, 2010
Ed-
Thanks so much for the signal report! I hope to eventually either raise the antenna mast to 40 feet high and / or add to the tophat for more antenna current and a better signal.
This week, I reprocessed the voice audio ID portion to have a 2kHz bandwidth with a much more aggressive compression (to concentrate maximum RF power within 186 to 188kHz due to the high-Q antenna), so the voice ID should be much easier to discern now.
One tip for hearing the SSB voice ID: I have the transmitter tuned to exactly 186.000kHz, and am using a 415-Hz sidetone to generate the SSB. This is so that a person can zero-beat their receiver to any reference station transmitting on xxx.000kHz (an NDB, Am broadcst station, etc), then tune to 186.000kHz in sideband mode. This way, the CW is heard as a 415-Hz tone and the voice pitch is correct.
Take care! Re: EMP Beacon on 185.6 KHz--Good Signal
Darwin Long
EMP 186.585, Empire, LA
Posted by EdWSlidell.LA on November 20, 2010 at 16:02:48.
In reply to Re: EMP Beacon on 185.6 KHz--Good Signal posted by Darwin Long on November 20, 2010
Hi Darwin. Yes, the readability of the voice portion was noticed to be better this past week. The lack of thunderstorms nearby really helped too. I did notice that the voice ID sounds a lot like "E M C" most of the time. Possibly this is caused by the bandwidth limitations of the antenna, lopping off the initial sibillance(?) of the "P" character, and leaving what sounds like a "C". In any event, it certainly is strong, clear, and steady signal. Are you above or below the Empire bridge? At one time, in the early 80's I believe, there was a temporary DECCA(LF Navigation) station set-up down below Empire in the Buras area. It was about 150 ft. tall, with several downsloping top hat wires, each terminated with large insulators having big corona shields on each end. Not something that you or Andy have to worry about. Ed EM50cg
Beacon "BA" 6.95040 MHz.
Posted by Paul on November 20, 2010 at 22:57:30.
Scanning the bands before bed, copying a beacon sending BA over and over at about 5 WPM. Freq. is 6.950.40 on the solid state rig. Anybody have an idea what this is?
I already did the Google search, couldn't come up with a match on this freq.
Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
Posted by Mark Garrett on November 21, 2010 at 09:59:33.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by EdWSlidell,LA on October 17, 2010
I had to replace the Epson and still using a Delta loop antenna on it. I have had some work issues to prevent me from relocating this HiFer on a building using a 20 meter mobile antenna. I may just keep it here and put up a Inverted L antenna but wonder what other HiFer operators are using.
LF AC Noise
Posted by Bill KB9IV on November 21, 2010 at 18:08:32.
Hi Group In the last week I've been getting severe AC Noise on LF. It's more on than Off now.
It isn't in my house or garage and neighbors 50' away either side. It totally dominates below 500 Khz. Sometimes stops for hours then on continious for days.
I have a portable el'cheapo LW-HF receiver that I have narrowed to a boulevard
power xfmer 70' away that supplies AC underground power to numerous houses nearby and mine. When I approach with the radio all heck breaks out unlike similar ground mounted xfrmrs up and down the street for blocks.
I talked to the City W & L and they will come out at some point. The noise levels are 20-25dB+ at 200 Khz. I can send a .wav file if contacted off list.
Good Dx & 73
Bill KB9IV
Re: [Hifer] RY off for season
Posted by Paul on November 21, 2010 at 23:23:57.
In reply to Re: [Hifer] RY off for season posted by Mark Garrett on November 21, 2010
Hi Mark.
My HiFer is using a 20m "Hamstick" mobile antenna on top of a metal shipping container. Seems to work quite well! It's a real set-and-forget installation.
SIW in TN
Posted by Douglas Williams KB4OER on November 22, 2010 at 04:18:15.
Good copy on beacon SIW last night. Rest of the "watering hole" was quiet...but I had my loop oriented so the nulls were North/South.
New Beacon on 13558 KHz?
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on November 24, 2010 at 06:10:01.
Am hearing 'AJO', followed by a long dash, 5 sec. or so, on about 13558 KHz. First noted yesterday, 23 Nov., but only one ID heard at that time. Today, 24 Nov., hearing it continuously, peaking around 449 at maximum signal strength, but generally 339 or less. A little above where the 'HI' beacon was located. EdWSlidell,LA EM50cg
SJ on starting today
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on November 24, 2010 at 13:47:48.
As of today SJ on 186.85 kHz will resume QRSS20 operation. It will be down when I'm grabbing, or for repair. When does most of the grabbing happening? I can set a sked so SJ remains on at those times. LET ME KNOW TIMES, I'm all ears.....hi....I am running a more stable system now for receiving and got a laptop set up wid spectran in the cellar. Re: SJ on starting today
later....Sal....K1RGO
Posted by Douglas Williams KB4OER on November 25, 2010 at 15:07:48.
In reply to SJ on starting today posted by Sal, K1RGO on November 24, 2010
Copied in TN, EM86ui. See community forums for screen capture.
Re: New Beacon on 13558 KHz?
Posted by Ward K7PO on November 25, 2010 at 18:38:25.
In reply to New Beacon on 13558 KHz? posted by EdWSlidell,LA on November 24, 2010
Ed,
Yes there is a new beacon on. I just put it up earlier this week. The frequency is 13.558500, and it is located in SW Arizona near Ajo, AZ, in DM32. I have joined LWCA again after many years, and hope to get my lowfer station on soon. I'll send the details of "AJO" in another post.
Ward K7PO Re: New Beacon on 13558 KHz?
Tonopah, AZ
Posted by John Davis on November 25, 2010 at 19:20:38.
In reply to Re: New Beacon on 13558 KHz? posted by Ward K7PO on November 25, 2010
Excellent news, Ward. We'll be looking forward to the details.
And congratulations on such great results so soon!
John
Hifer AJO on the air
Posted by Ward K7PO on November 25, 2010 at 20:50:03.
A new Hifer beacon is on 24/7 from a location near AJO, Az (DM32mk). Ajo is about 50 miles north of the Mexican border in SW Arizona. Freq is 13.558500 and the antenna is a 1/4 wave vertical. Beacon ID is AJO followed by a long dash. The site has commercial power, but I'll add a battery and solar panel soon for backup. Looking forward to more reception reports!
Ward K7PO
Tonopah, AZ
Re: New Beacon on 13558 KHz?
Posted by Paul on November 26, 2010 at 09:09:02.
In reply to Re: New Beacon on 13558 KHz? posted by John Davis on November 25, 2010
Most excellent! Very nice to see new HiFer on the air! Best of luck to you.
Re: SJ on starting today
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on November 26, 2010 at 18:53:59.
In reply to Re: SJ on starting today posted by Douglas Williams KB4OER on November 25, 2010
Hi Doug, Happy to hear my signal is coming through, cleaning up the branches and tree may have helped.... the field strength looks better. Re: SJ on starting today
later....Sal
Posted by lloyd chastant on November 29, 2010 at 03:33:34.
In reply to Re: SJ on starting today posted by Sal, K1RGO on November 26, 2010
Sal have looked in the morning and also in evening and had nice copy on you hr..Fm19 Coming Back
Lloyd W3NF
Posted by Edward-1 on November 30, 2010 at 07:33:41.
Hello all. I use to read the LWCA newsletter and life got into the way. I'd like to return, and am looking for a supplier of kits to build the first beacon transmitter. Also, is there a list of frequencies currently occupied, so one does not plant a beacon on a crowded frequency? Thank you for any feedback you can supply. Edward-1
Re: Coming Back
Posted by Paul on November 30, 2010 at 08:42:21.
In reply to Coming Back posted by Edward-1 on November 30, 2010
You're in luck!
http://lwca.org/sitepage/part15/index.htm
That page has links to the LowFer, MedFer and HiFer database. That will show you all the beacons the LWCA has listed.
Good luck!
potrzebie