Re: Beacon BR 185.585 (ex EMP) now on-air in Buras, Lousiana
I heard it was really bad there in SoCal this week - a couple TV stations lost their antennas too. Hopefully your JAM antenna survived - using wire struts from your tophat corners to the tower helps immensely with wind damage resistance (and gives you bonus capacitance, too). I lost mine in Simi Valley once due to 104mph wind. Really don't miss those dry Santa Ana winds with single-digit humidity, firestorms, and flying tree limbs... but when they're really light, it's wonderful weather.
Take care!
-Darwin Re: Beacon BR 185.585 (ex EMP) now on-air in Buras, Lousiana
BR 185.585 Buras LA
Posted by Darwin Long on December 02, 2011 at 15:53:54.
In reply to Re: Beacon BR 185.585 (ex EMP) now on-air in Buras, Lousiana posted by EdWSlidell,LA on November 29, 2011
Thanks for the report, Ed! Good to hear you are having an easier time with the new signal. No antenna damage, despite gale-force winds last weekend. At least I didn't have to ground the antenna - the expected thunderstorms never materialized here.
Take care!
-Darwin Long Antenna JAM SoCal still pointy side up
BR 185.585 Buras, LA
Posted by Lee on December 02, 2011 at 20:31:37.
Antenna JAM SoCal still pointy side up. I fully expected to find it horizontal Thurs morning. It was a little askew but still verticle. Hopefully it will last the season. I plan to rebuild it as a center/elevated loaded verticle with elevated ground radials for next year.
Lee
Searching for a Rycom 6040 Service Manual
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 03, 2011 at 06:08:27.
Yes, I'm looking for better alternatives than my TS-440S which is somewhat deaf on LF. I have tried the upconverter route with some success, I certainly have got a sensitive receiver in my trusty Realistic DX-160; thought it was time to learn something about applying a selective level meter to LF and VLF reception.
While I can locate an Instruction Manual and Specs online for the 6040, I'm searching for a Service Manual and Schematic. Also, if you have some practical tips / hints for using the 6040, I'd be interested in hearing about how you leverage the device.
For example, are you using headphones with the unit? Did you build a Z-match / transformer interface or do I really want to get a pair of 600ohm headphones?
Any help for a newbie appreciated.
Thanks and 73s, Re: Antenna JAM SoCal still pointy side up
KJ4VPI, Sam
Posted by Darwin Long on December 03, 2011 at 09:04:19.
In reply to Antenna JAM SoCal still pointy side up posted by Lee on December 02, 2011
Center-loaded will give you a nice signal improvement. Good to hear your antenna is still up!
Darwin Long Re: beacon heard at 513kHz
BR 185.585 Buras, LA
Posted by Jim Swaters on December 05, 2011 at 19:31:15.
In reply to Re: beacon heard at 513kHz posted by James S. on November 02, 2011
It is possible that you are hearing Ponca, "PN", an aero beacon to your south.
Time Stamps in Messages Changing to GMT
Posted by Webmaster on December 05, 2011 at 23:58:17.
Since the beginning of this board, the time stamps on messages have mainly been Pacific Standard or Pacific Daylight Time, depending on the season. This was because our hosting providers for most of that time were based in Seattle. Even now that our current provider has relocated to Boston, they kept the local time on the server as if they were still out West.
As of tonight, we are experimenting with Greenwich Mean Time in new posts (aka GMT, Z, Zulu, or [approximately] UTC). Note that both the time and date will be a number of hours ahead of U.S. civil time this way. However, it means we will no longer be jumping between Daylight and Standard Time.
Your comments are welcome.
John sstran amt5k testing - update
Posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 07, 2011 at 17:23:56.
i just did some testing with the amt5000 at 1550 it went
1/4-1/2 mile from inside a first floor apartment of a reinforced concrete
and brick building clustered with other buildings of the same type. some
directions got 1/4 of solid signal. i have it grounded to the cable tv coax
shield in the apartment and hung the 3 meter wire from the wall and tuned it
per instructions. this is a good little transmitter. it also sounds good
with just an ipod and internal transmitter processing.
i was using a grundig g5 pocket radio to test range. i can't imagine what it Re: sstran amt5k testing - update
would do with my asymmetrical audio processing, tuned for proper class e
operation, and back where i lived in NJ being we had a creek in our back
yard. bet i could have covered all of town there if it was over a good
ground plane buried near the creek with some good 8ft ground rods in the
ground to hit the water table. one bad ass transmitter (cost 230.00) and it
out does my 1000.00 rangemaster!!!! it would be my guess i'm getting both a carrier current effect and a direct radiation effect due to the unique installation. i'm interested in every ones opinion on the subject. FYI; signal get stronger anytime i come near to an electrical system and/or building. it seems to cover the apartment complex with a strong signal but dies out a short distance from the property which from a legality perspective could be a good thing. very odd result considering the installation.
Posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 07, 2011 at 17:26:23.
In reply to sstran amt5k testing - update posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 07, 2011
I love radio. it's just in my blood and i'm a obsessive compulsive experimenter with QRP radio setups on both ham and part 15 and getting results like this from different setups is what keeps me interested in this hobby.
SJ lowfer on
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 09, 2011 at 01:34:37.
SJ on 186.850 kHz is on now QRSS20 ...I'm setting up for receiving also. SJ will be on unless I'm listening or down or if I forget to turn it back on.... 185-189 khz band
later.......
Posted by Neil on December 09, 2011 at 19:53:39.
I would like to look for signals this weekend on the 187 +/- band. Please post your freq and times you expect to transmit. My QTH is N. Utah, DN41ac
Re: 185-189 khz band
Posted by Paul on December 09, 2011 at 21:50:49.
In reply to 185-189 khz band posted by Neil on December 09, 2011
Hi Neil,
Welcome aboard.
Most everyone in the 160-190 kc. band is running a beacon station. That means it is on the air 24/7. You should see signals just about any time after dark.
Very best regards,
Paul
Re: 185-189 khz band
Posted by Lee on December 10, 2011 at 00:55:09.
In reply to 185-189 khz band posted by Neil on December 09, 2011
My station JAM is 187 khz. Located in So Cal it operates Friday noon to Monday noon weather permiting. Re: 185-189 khz band
Lee
Posted by Neil on December 10, 2011 at 01:01:46.
In reply to Re: 185-189 khz band posted by Lee on December 10, 2011
Lee and Paul, thanks for your replies. I will be looking.
No Joy
Posted by Neil on December 10, 2011 at 14:25:15.
Nothing seen around 187 khz that I could identify last night. I need to know what mode and exact freqs people are on, IF they are on. I am seeing parts of lines that might be a qrss mode.
Re: No Joy
Posted by Webmaster on December 10, 2011 at 16:34:52.
In reply to No Joy posted by Neil on December 10, 2011
Neil, are you using the beacon list at this site? The frequencies in it start out being as close as the operators can measure, and over time tend to be refined somewhat by listener reports since there are some very experienced listeners who can measure the actual received frequency even closer.
As for who is actually on at any given moment, that's harder to determine. You can judge the likelihood to a reasonable approximation using the date of last contact shown in parentheses in the list. That's either the most recent time the operator contacted us or posted his schedule in a place where I could find it, or else the latest time someone reported copying the station. A date within the past few months indicates a geater chance of it still being on.
Some lines that a person will see on a spectrum analyzer waterfall display are power line control carriers (PLCs), and they are the bane of a LowFER's existence. It can take a quiet receiving location and a fair amount of patience to distinguish them from real signals. There have been any number of times that I've gotten my hopes up thinking I might finally be seeing a particularly difficult station, but with long enough observation it turned out to be random "keying" of a PLC very near the intended frequency.
If you would care to post details of your receiving setup, perhaps someone would have additional suggestions for you.
73 Re: No Joy
John
Posted by Neil on December 10, 2011 at 18:40:31.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Webmaster on December 10, 2011
Please refer me to the "beacon list" you mentioned. Not sure if I have been to it or not. Thanks for your reply.
Re: 185-189 khz band
Posted by Darwin Long on December 10, 2011 at 19:14:30.
In reply to 185-189 khz band posted by Neil on December 09, 2011
Beacon BR 185.585kHz CW, 186.000kHz voice SSB. Operating 24-7. Location: Buras, LA. Grid EL59hh.
-Darwin Long Re: No Joy
Posted by Lee on December 10, 2011 at 20:06:18.
In reply to No Joy posted by Neil on December 10, 2011
JAM 187khz is sending the letter J twice at QRSS30 and then a 5 wpm message,over and over and over...... Re: No Joy
Lee
Posted by Lee on December 10, 2011 at 20:10:41.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Lee on December 10, 2011
Oh I forgot, my freq is measured at 187.000 khz using a high quality counter. Re: No Joy
Lee
Posted by Lee on December 10, 2011 at 20:13:07.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Neil on December 10, 2011
Beacon List. Longwave Club home page. Bottom of page. Lowfer, Medfer, Hifer Tab. Re: 185-189 khz band
Lee
Posted by Neil on December 11, 2011 at 02:32:23.
In reply to Re: 185-189 khz band posted by Darwin Long on December 10, 2011
Darwin, thanks for your info. Will look for ur CW.
Re: No Joy
Posted by Neil on December 11, 2011 at 02:34:16.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Lee on December 10, 2011
Lee, thanks for ur info. I am looking.
Strange "code" on 187.5 kc
Posted by Neil on December 11, 2011 at 02:48:59.
If you go to my "sky drive" at the following link, you will see an ARGO capture of what I am seeing on 187.5 khz tonight (at the 700 mark in the pix). I am wondering who or what it is. Anyone recognize it??
https://skydrive.live.com/?sc=documents&cid=c5dbc8db73e7d762#cid=C5DBC8DB73E7D762&id=C5DBC8DB73E7D762%21527&sc=documents MBD QRS30 on 187.48
Posted by Mark Dittmar on December 11, 2011 at 03:03:59.
I'm Transmitting QRSS 30 now on 187.480 khz, with the ID "MBD". I'll leave it running for 3 or 4 hours tonight, maybe longer. Will post message when I shut down.
I'm not running crystal control tonight,so might drift a few hertz. May not be good enough for QRS30, but nothing ventured nothing gained.
73 Mark Re: No Joy
Posted by Neil on December 11, 2011 at 03:05:03.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Lee on December 10, 2011
Lee,I have a strange signal right on top of ur freq. It seems to be blocking any chance of me seeing you tonight.
Re: MBD QRS30 on 187.48
Posted by Mark Dittmar on December 11, 2011 at 03:39:47.
In reply to MBD QRS30 on 187.48 posted by Mark Dittmar on December 11, 2011
I just switched to regular CW on 187.48. My VFO is not stable enough for QRS30, it has drifted 30 hertz since I started, not good enough for QRS30. Re: No Joy
Give it a listen anyway, you never know !
I'll try to get my crystal control setup back on line this week.
Posted by Lee on December 11, 2011 at 05:17:56.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Neil on December 11, 2011
Your probaly seeing MDB CO. He admits to drfting so he is probably Stepping on JAM. MDB is 187.480 and he is closer than Socal. JAM 187khz is PLL locked and Temp compensated. It will not be far from 187.000khz. Re: 185-189 khz band
Lee
Posted by Darwin Long on December 11, 2011 at 06:37:07.
In reply to Re: 185-189 khz band posted by Neil on December 11, 2011
Thanks!
Before 0620Z, minor hiccup, and was off due to a blown MosFET while downtown. Came home, popped a new pair in (they seem to blow once/year), and was on again by 0620Z.
Good luck - should be able to get a decent shot at the signal there. Furthest reception thus far of BR is western New Mexico.
-Darwin
Re: No Joy
Posted by Darwin Long on December 11, 2011 at 07:23:24.
In reply to No Joy posted by Neil on December 10, 2011
BR has the following alternating format:
Minute #1 is 60 seconds of pure CW sending 16 repetitions of "BR", followed by a 5-second dash; then
Minute #2 is 60 seconds of one SSB voice ID (female) and one CW ident of "BR", alternated 7 times. The female voice ID says "This is radiobeacon B R Buras Louisiana USA".
The start of each Minute is denoted by a 5-tone chime, and Minutes #1 and #2 alternate continuously. Each 60-second cycle are timed to the exact millisecond for spectrum scanning and long-term monitoring
The CW is centered right on 185.585kHz with the SSB voice centered at 186.000kHz. This is so that if you're tuned to 186.000, you'll hear the CW as a 415Hz tone and the voice ID will sound normal.
-Darwin
Re: No Joy
Posted by John Davis on December 11, 2011 at 19:22:21.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by Darwin Long on December 11, 2011
Darwin's SSB signal is lower sideband, just to avoid any confusion, with the carrier at 186.
Receiver & Ant Questio(s)
Posted by Bill KB9IV on December 12, 2011 at 02:20:37.
Hi Group I have relocated to NW Mich. from So. MN but to late to errect an antenna. Perhaps next season for sure.
My questions are these:
What receiver?? SDRIQ? R75? I want top performance and stability.
What Antenna?? A K9AY set-up or Clifton Labs Unit??
Boy So. MN has dirty electricity.....set the car radio to 530 Khz and just awfull dirty noise at alarming levels everwhere.
Thanks for reading
Bill KB9IV
Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 12, 2011 at 02:41:27.
Well, I recently purchased a Rycom 6040 off eBAY. Cosmetically, it is a bit rough and in need of some TLC, but functionally, lucky for me, all the controls and displays seem to work as expected. I know though, when you are not sure what to expect - it's hard to know if the device is performing to spec.
I still search for a Service Manual and Schematics... even if it were for a 6041, it would be helpful to have.
The battery: Enersys (Hawker) Cyclon (12V/5AHr - PN 0809-0020) is a Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery and was DOA. Now that was to be expected. I debated saving some $$$ and using something else that would fit the dimensions of the battery area, but decided to purchase an exact replacement off Amazon for $45 + $9 for shipping.
When I get the battery, I'll see if the charge circuit still works well and will try using the unit outside with some of my loop antennas. It doesn't get that cold in GA in the winter. I'm used to multiple feet of snow or wind-chills below 0F. Actually, now that I think of it, the loops worked decently below grade in my basement with my Realistic DX-160, so I might practice inside with one of the loops to begin with. This way, I figure I'll look more polished for the curious neighbors that might see me.
I had absolutely no problem picking out a number of NDBs the past couple of nights using either a 100ft longwire, or my 100' long elevated G5RV. The G5RV is a quiet antenna compared to the longwire, but I'm sure I could probably improve on the longwire's performance.
The automatic setting for RANGE seemed to function well, and when I found myself dealing with a really powerful signal or a lot of noise, could back the unit's sensitivity down using the CAL LEVEL adjustment and still get good copy. I found I could also manipulate the IMPEDANCE control for an extra degree of freedom / control over the received signal - but mainly kept it on 50ohms when connected to the G5RV.
The 50Hz SELECTIVITY setting is too narrow to do much with (that immediately comes to mind - any ideas?) while the 3100Hz filter setting seems to work just fine for Morse copy. I like the ability to switch from AM to LSB or USB... for some of the NDBs, switching made the audible copy much easier.
I have not used headphones yet, merely the built-in speaker. Plenty of volume and no issues with competing ambient noise: a nearby HVAC unit running, or a clothes dryer upstairs. I could even determine dot/dash reception using the vertical deflection on the analog TUNING INDICATOR display for some of the NDBs. Visually, this does not really seem practical with the LCD dBm display although I didn't really try everything possible.
I purchased a Line Transformer off eBAY to better match the 600ohm output to an 8ohm set of headphones, and to route audio to my EMU-202 audio unit connected via USB to an older laptop. With the latter, obviously I want to test the SLM with ARGO (or SPECTRAN or Spectrum Lab). I imagine the device will remain quite stable without too much drift over long periods. It's a very solid device.
There is a 10Hz and 1Hz setting for SIGNAL COUNT to provide down to 10Hz or 1Hz measurements of frequency. Generally I could leave the unit set to PASSBAND and do just fine.
Sometimes AFC ON was helpful, but in general, I left it off. There seemed to be some noise associated with the circuits trying to tune the signal to the same spot within the 3100Hz filter that compromised audible copy. Maybe I was using that control setting incorrectly.
If anyone has any favorite tips or tricks to hunting NDBs or Part15 LOWFERS using a SLM (Rycom or otherwise), please, post them.
I must say, using this device is a lot of fun!
73s,
KJ4VPI, Sam
Re: No Joy
Posted by Darwin Long on December 12, 2011 at 03:10:05.
In reply to Re: No Joy posted by John Davis on December 11, 2011
Ah, yes - a most important last detail. LSB of 186.000.
With 415 Hz tone, the CW falls on 185.585kHz. If you're looking at a waterfall display, you'll see one minute with a bright line around 185.585 (pure CW), and the next minute with a dashed line at 185.585 (the CW IDs between voice IDs).
-Darwin
Re: Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs
Posted by Lee on December 12, 2011 at 04:06:11.
In reply to Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 12, 2011
Good info. Thanks for the Driving instructions. I own an older Rycom 3121B SLM but have only used it for casual local stuff. Sunday HiFERs 11 Dec
Lee
Posted by John Davis on December 12, 2011 at 06:51:23.
The ionosphere seemed quite unsettled this afternoon. At the low end of the band, I could only find MP, SIW, and NC, all of which would individually fade out completely for a minute or two at a time and then would peak briefly. Sometimes two would disappear for a little while. (NC has drifted yet a little higher in honor of the cool months.)
No sign of USC today, which had been a pretty reliable signal throughout the fall.
I did manage to copy some conventional CW stations by ear, notably WV, EH, AJO (first time in a while!) and bits of FRC. These, too, tended to be gone for a few cycles, then just appeared out of nowhere for an ID or two...sometimes only one or two letters at a time, in fact.
John Re: Receiver & Ant Questio(s)
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 12, 2011 at 12:59:43.
In reply to Receiver & Ant Questio(s) posted by Bill KB9IV on December 12, 2011
Bill.
You are aware of this page, right?
http://www.sherweng.com/table.html
Would an SDR like SDRIQ be more sensitive on LF/VLF? How about an HP3586 SLM? Re: Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs
Sam KJ4VPI
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 12, 2011 at 21:36:41.
In reply to Re: Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs posted by Lee on December 12, 2011
Thanks for the encouragement. Those impressions weren't meant to be a full driver's manual per se, but I would like to put together some good notes to help others looking to leverage SLMs on LF. What is out there is sort of sparse.
Marconi N.S. Radio Station
Posted by EdWSlidell,LA on December 13, 2011 at 03:50:14.
The link article on Marconi's LF radio station was very good. The Marconi Towers antenna site looks something like the one south of here in Buras. EdW Slidell,LA EM50cg
Re: sstran amt5k testing - update
Posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 13, 2011 at 17:07:18.
In reply to Re: sstran amt5k testing - update posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 07, 2011
i am quite surprised that there are no comments on my testing of this new transmitter kit. if someone here does choose to buy this new transmitter and you have the room to ground mount it and put a large ground plane under it i would appreciate any reports of how well it works under those condition's using a 3m antenna and the internal tuning and also using a 3 meter antenna and a large cage wound coil. while i have the materials for such a setup i do not have access to the real estate to do such a setup.
Re: sstran amt5k testing - update
Posted by Paul on December 13, 2011 at 19:49:18.
In reply to Re: sstran amt5k testing - update posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 13, 2011
Wasn't aware that you were seeking comments from others. I have had one for a few years. Also tried some different mounting arrangements.
Mine is used on the AM BCB to broadcast old radio shows (from MP3 player) to listen on old radios. However, each Christmas, I broadcast old Christmas broadcasts from the 30's and 40's all day, and some people in my rural neighborhood want to listen.
First installation was with a wire stapled to the wall inside a closet, and it covered the house fine. No signal outside at all. Later moved it to another location and the wire stuffed into a wall next to a phone line. Suddenly, it would be heard over 1/2 mile away, and neighbors were tuning in. I suspected it was being inductively coupled to the phone line and being carried on the overhead poles down the street.
Since interest from neighbors (closest one is 500 feet away) was shown, decided to try a 'real' setup and get some range. Moved transmitter to an outbuilding with a great ground system. transmitter mounted on small shelf up high with a lead out the wall and connected to a stainless steel 8 foot CB whip mounted to the lip of the roof at the highest peak. Total antenna lead (whip + wire to whip) was 9 feet. Transmitter grounded to the metal shelf, which was grounded to a huge web of radials around the communications building. Thought the range was going to kick butt. Was sadly disappointed. Range was maybe 500 feet. Tried all sorts of tuning, moving around, etc. No good.
Moved transmitter back into the house and stuff wire antenna into the same wall next to the phone wire. Range improved. With some additional tuning/experimenting, getting about 3/4 mile reliably. The closer you are to the telephone poles, the better.
Re: sstran amt5k testing - update
Posted by Rev. Robert P. Chrysafis on December 13, 2011 at 20:41:59.
In reply to Re: sstran amt5k testing - update posted by Paul on December 13, 2011
were you using the 3000? this one is brand new design based on the hamilton rangemaster. it's suppose to be capable of class E operation. i thought maybe with a large cage antenna and a 3 meter copper mast over 16 or 32 x 20ft radials might do fairly good. it seems to do well from and indoor environment here but as you stated i have mine grounded to the shield of the cable tv coax that is presumably connected to an entrance ground to the building it gets out about 1/4 mile but as you stated get near a building or pole with service it got very strong. the 3000 i believe uses a very poorly designed class c output. the class e design in this tx i have been told will be hard for the average user to get class e out of it, but should be a better output design than anything currently available. hopefully someday i will into a location where i'm able to try out my experiment and post results. over all this seems to be a good transmitter and of all the open frequencies here the one at mid band (1550 in this case) seem to give the best result as opposed to the x band (1700) or low band (850). i hope someday to come up with a simpler but better design. i have thought of using a tube final section because tubes are hi voltage low current as opposed to transistors which are hi current lo voltage. short 3 m whip at am b,cast are high voltage and not high current a tube output might be an easier better match to a electrically short antenna instead of a transistor. i have heard this idea suggested elsewhere too.
Re: Marconi N.S. Radio Station
Posted by Joe VO1NA on December 14, 2011 at 03:19:39.
In reply to Marconi N.S. Radio Station posted by EdWSlidell,LA on December 13, 2011
Marconi was forced out of Newfoundland shortly after his
experiment 110 years ago by the telegraph co. His Table
Head station was in Nova Scotia and not Newfoundland
unfortunately.
The Poldhu Amnateur Radio Club and Marconi Radio Club of Newfoundland celebrated the 110th anniversary yesterday.
73 Re: Marconi N.S. Radio Station
Joe
Posted by Darwin Long on December 14, 2011 at 18:53:22.
In reply to Marconi N.S. Radio Station posted by EdWSlidell,LA on December 13, 2011
All but one of the towers appear to be long gone (one of the freestanding towers, I think, is used now for cellphone and VHF repeaters stuck to it). I guess I'm the only longwave station left down here. Marine beacon V 293 in Venice (off since 1996) and GNI 236 in Grand Isle (tower has been toppled since 2003) are long gone. It's like having island beachfront property to yourself from a ground conductivity standpoint.
-Darwin
Archives Updated! / Community Forum Future?
Posted by Webmaster on December 15, 2011 at 23:36:52.
When you opened the Message Board for this session, you probably noticed that it finished about four times faster than it has been doing. That's because I finally got around to some long neglected maintenance. All the older messages have been moved to their appropriate archive pages, thereby shrinking the message list to manageable proportions. This enables us to once again resume archiving every month, which in turn allows older messages that aren't being read regularly to "evaporate" from the list, and yet remain where they can be searched and browsed whenever you like.
Now, turning to this Message Board's companion tool, the Community Forums--I notice there haven't been any new posts in over three months now, and nobody has requested to be registered for the Forums for an even longer time.
The Community Forums were envisioned as a place that could serve two needs which various folks had identified, but which are hard to do with a simple Message Board such as this:
1. Enable us to post pictures and other files along with our messages.
2. Provide individual forums for those who want to discuss specialized topics.
There just doesn't seem to be any demand for that second idea, and lately the first one hasn't received a lot of use either. That surprised me because, based on early reactions, I halfway thought the Forums might eventually take over from this Message Board.
I'm happy that the Message Board is still here. And I don't mind also keeping the Community Forums around if anyone thinks we should (and we certainly wouldn't discard the material that's already there, by any means). But it would be helpful to have feedback from you on what the fate of the Forums should be, and any ideas that might make them more useful. Thanks!
John
Re: Archives Updated! / Community Forum Future?
Posted by Lee on December 16, 2011 at 09:28:57.
In reply to Archives Updated! / Community Forum Future? posted by Webmaster on December 15, 2011
My suggestion for the community forums is to edit it a bit. The posting history shows that it is not getting that much use. So why not make it a supplement to the original board if you want to post media. A reception report with screen capture cat, A hardware/media cat, an antenna/media cat, and a general received somthing hard to receive/media cat.
Lee
Re: Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 16, 2011 at 19:33:25.
In reply to Re: Rycom 6040 SLM First Impressions Hunting NDBs posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 12, 2011
This is a follow-up to my initial post. I purchased an exact replacement Cyclon Battery for the 6040. I am glad I did, and did not try to use another Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery, because, the battery compartment - specifically the holder is designed for the Cyclon with the holes through the top-side. Mounting another battery would be tricky and require some modifications to the bracket used to hold the battery in place.
JAM 187khz
Posted by Lee on December 17, 2011 at 00:47:46.
Because of high winds, JAM 187khz SoCal won't be up untill late Sat 12/17
NDB Beacon List and Question about Plotting Lat/Longs
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 17, 2011 at 12:52:50.
First, I just wanted to comment on W.R. Hepburn's North American NDB database:
http://www.dxinfocentre.com/ndb.htm
Wow - what a lot of work and what a valuable resource! Thank you for compiling that list Mr. Hepburn.
For the first time, I know what I'm listening to on 209 and 230KHz (previously a mystery to me). Also, this list has helped me a good deal over the past few days while I check out the new-to-me Rycom 6040.
For many of the NDBs I'm capturing, I've been recording the Lat/Long coordinates. Is there an easy method of plotting these on a map of the Southeast, for example, I'm in GA, so the surrounding states of FLA, and TN, NC, etc? Re: NDB Beacon List and Question about Plotting Lat/Longs
73s de KJ4VPI, Sam
Posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 17, 2011 at 14:11:59.
In reply to NDB Beacon List and Question about Plotting Lat/Longs posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 17, 2011
Sam,
the definitive listing for NDBs is at http://www.classaxe.com/dx/ndb/rna/. You might want to check out the programs WWSU and NDBweblog at http://www.classaxe.com/dx/.
I'm not familiar with all the software that allows you to plot the NDBs you receive, but no doubt there's plenty. I use a free software package called DIY ("do it yourself"; see http://www.backspace.com/mapapp/).
73, Garry, K3SIW, EN52ta, Elgin, IL
Re: Sunday HiFERs 11 Dec
Posted by Pat Bunn on December 17, 2011 at 16:17:03.
In reply to Sunday HiFERs 11 Dec posted by John Davis on December 12, 2011
USC is OTA and has been continuously since its startup. I gues the propogation has shifted a bit.
Re: Archives Updated! / Community Forum Future?
Posted by Darwin Long on December 18, 2011 at 02:02:21.
In reply to Re: Archives Updated! / Community Forum Future? posted by Lee on December 16, 2011
I agree with Lee. The Community Forums could simply serve as a place for users to post uploads.
The main difference from the Message Board and the Forums is basically that you can upload files, are categorized, if you want to 'chat' in that category, too. I could see if we had several hundred regular users - then the Forums format would be very useful so you wouldn't have to wade through a bunch of posts to find one of your interest.
-Darwin
Re: NDB Beacon List and Question about Plotting Lat/Longs
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 18, 2011 at 14:22:26.
In reply to Re: NDB Beacon List and Question about Plotting Lat/Longs posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 17, 2011
Gary, Re: JAM 187khz
Thank you kindly for the information you have provided. Both links are very helpful to me.
73, KJ4VPI, Sam
Posted by Neil on December 18, 2011 at 16:50:12.
In reply to JAM 187khz posted by Lee on December 17, 2011
Lee, please check for an email from me on ur "fccpart15" email account. Thanks. Neil in Utah.
Sunday HiFERs 18 Dec
Posted by John Davis on December 19, 2011 at 04:11:39.
Didn't get a chance to go to the field today until very late afternoon. Alas, only one of the eastern HiFERs was visible...good old MP, steady as could be. No SIW today, no USC, and not even NC. It's odd that MP was so steady under the circumstances. Even WWV on 10 MHz (which I use to check the receiver and Argo calibration) was weak and fluttery, with Doppler shift smearing the carrier over a good 2 Hz range, maybe more.
Looking farther west, though, I was delighted to hear AJO and FRC. Plenty of QSB, but the signals were sometimes nice and clear for several seconds.
By the time I gave up and tuned to LF, the sunset fade had begun at 1750 meters. Both WMS and SIW were visible, but weak and broken up a bit. From time to time, a bit of BR's lower sideband transmission made it through the edge of my CW filter's response.
At 137.78, there was plenty of--who else--MP. Had to cut Argo's sensitivity way back. No other signals were showing up yet, though.
At sunset, the LW broadcasters were rather weak, but an hour later, they were all very strong. Unfortunately, static was picking up too, so it wasn't as enjoyable to listen as it would have been otherwise. Also, there was the drawback of having the powerful carrier from Iceland trying to drown out LowFER EAR (and succeeding), plus a couple of other signals at unfamiliar spots. Although Europe 1 was not very prominent tonight, I ended up hearing someone else I'd never noticed before a few kHz down on 177 kHz. I expect it was DGI, but couldn't testify to it.
John More on the 6040 Selective LevelMeter
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 19, 2011 at 15:18:39.
Well, I've had some ups and downs using the meter to hunt NDBs. Thought I would post about them as I gain a bit more experience.
First is I'm happy to report using this unit has been much more successful and enjoyable than past attempts using either my Radio Shack DX-160 or Kenwood TS-440S. Even in the daytime, I can hear a number of NDBs clearly, and as I mentioned before - using a G5RV antenna.
My next thing to try is an active antenna designed by WA3IAC and compare what I can hear, one vs. the other. I just need to build the kit already.
Unit works well when on it's back. If I orient the unit so the display faces me normally, it goes deaf. There's obviously something loose inside. I'll have to do some sleuthing - hopefully the problem will be easy to find.
The battery works well, charging circuit works fine. Interestingly, the signal is quieter when running on AC power. This suggests, I probably should supply an additional ground using the supplied banana jack when set to "UNBAL(anced) input". Hmmm, my antennas come into my basement with their shields grounded as they come through the window (MFJ Antenna Window Feedthrough).
The ability to change the Impedance setting, and also switch between AM, LSB and USB, CAL LEVEL and FINE-TUNE controls - all have proved very flexible to me - I continue to leave RANGE control set to "AUTO RANGE" - very nice. Results using only my ears thus far - very easy copy.
Unit is designed for a high-Z set of head-phones. I don't have one of those. So I purchased a 70V Line Matching Transformer off eBay which I have put between the unit and my trusted Sony headset. Works perfectly, and I am also able to take the output of the transformer and route it over to my E-MU 0202 for use with ARGO or one of the other signal processing tools.
ARGO - hmmm. Not happy with this program yet. I personally do not like setting a mode for QRSS copy (3, 10, 60sec, what have you) only to have the program change the mid-point of the horizontal display frequency... I would like instead for it to remain locked on the frequency I chose initially in the FULL BAND display that sent me to the Horizontal Scrolling mode. Then, I would like another feature that would allow me to set the SPAN or extent of the horizontal mode's frequency range. I will be contacting i2phd about this. Obviously I have not got the hang of the program yet, but this is a basic Usability issue for me.
73 de KJ4VPI, Sam
Lowfer report
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 19, 2011 at 15:55:35.
Well I set up my 127C and noise nuller and 2 active antennas (L-400B), one in the cellar (noise antenna ) and the other loosely coupled to my 250' long wire, and into the laptop with spectran. I had no luck in the last 3 sessions. Nothing copied in the watering hole, and tried for PBO wid no luck either. At night, noise was overwhelming so I tune in in late morning and afternoon. I also had no report of my beacon being copied. Oh well its still early in the season.......... Re: Lowfer report
later......Sal,K1RGO
Posted by John Davis on December 19, 2011 at 20:17:47.
In reply to Lowfer report posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 19, 2011
Hang in there, Sal. I know Garry Hess in Illinois has been copying SJ from time to time this month, including last night about 0500. I'm not sure why he hasn't contacted you directly, but some of the captures are quite solid. (I would have tried last night myself, but I forgot to take a copy of The LOWDOWN to the field with me, and couldn't remember the frequency to save my neck. Which very nearly needed saving in the wee hours when a thunderstorm sneaked in while I was napping in the car.)
John
Re: Lowfer report
Posted by Garry K3SIW on December 19, 2011 at 23:29:14.
In reply to Lowfer report posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 19, 2011
Sal, I've copied your signal in NE IL (1288 km) every time I've looked since SJ went QRV. That includes last night. Gave me hope of seeing something from PBO but like you I didn't. I generally report receptions via http://mailman.qth.net/pipermail/lowfer/2011-December/date.html, along with compressed screen captures. When the Archives get finalized perhaps I can add them here too.
73, Garry, K3SIW, EN52ta, Elgin, IL
PBO off the air a few days
Posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 20, 2011 at 01:47:38.
Hi all ,
I will shutting down PBO for a fe wdays to do some listening. Will announce when Im back on.
Rick Jam 187khz SoCal upgrade
KA2PBO
Posted by Lee on December 20, 2011 at 04:56:53.
JAM 187khz SoCal will be off for 2 weeks for some upgrading. I think it is early enough to make the changes worth undertaking now. Target date to be back up is Friday 12/30 Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz
Lee
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 20, 2011 at 12:22:42.
I'm a newbie, so be kind. Why on Spectran, or Spectrum Lab, and also in my ears do I detect two pulse trains, one seemingly 1Hz and the other 0.333Hz when I'm listening in the general vicinity of 185.22Khz. Spacing is about 2K apart? Is there a LOWFER transmitting these? Re: Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz
Thanks,
73 de KJ4VPI
Posted by John Davis on December 20, 2011 at 18:55:58.
In reply to Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 20, 2011
Odds are, these are beat notes between closely spaced PLC signals (carriers fed along powerlines for control and status monitoring purposes). Quite a few of those are in the 160-190 spectrum, and you will often be able to detect them from multiple sources simultaneously...with the result that they will sometimes be of nearly equal strength and closely enough spaced to produce a distinctly pulse-like effect, even if they are not actually keyed on and off.
John
Re: Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz
Posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 20, 2011 at 20:54:13.
In reply to Re: Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz posted by John Davis on December 20, 2011
John, thanks.
Do you think I might see something like this also down around 138Khz? I've really only begun "looking for" signals on LF that I can't immediately identify as NDBs by ear. These PLC signals if that is what they are are very annoying!
Do you know where I might read some more on them?
SAQ TRANSMISSION ON CHRISTMAS EVE !
Posted by Todd WD4NGG on December 20, 2011 at 23:24:38.
This has been posted on other mailing lists but just to make sure we don't miss anyone here is a copy of the recent announcement from Lars Kalland on the upcoming SAQ broadcast on Christmas Eve:
SAQ TRANSMISSION ON CHRISTMAS EVE
DECEMBER 24TH, 2011
There will be, as before, a transmission with the Alexanderson 200 kW alternator on VLF 17.2 kHz from Grimeton Radio/SAQ on Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24th, 2011.
The message transmission will take place at 08:00 UTC. The transmitter will be tuned up from around 07:30 UTC.
There will be no activity on amateur radio frequencies with the call SK6SAQ this time.
QSL-reports are kindly received:
- E-mail to: info@alexander.n.se
- or fax to: +46-340-674195
- or via: SM bureau
- or direct by mail to: Alexander - Grimeton Veteranradios Vaenner, Radiostationen, Grimeton 72
S-432 98 GRIMETON
S W E D E N
Also read our web site: www.alexander.n.se
Yours
Lars Kalland
SM6NM
Re: Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz
Posted by Lee on December 22, 2011 at 04:52:37.
In reply to Re: Pulse Trains near 185.22Khz posted by Samuel Ernst-Fortin on December 20, 2011
I suggest online Wikipedia for more info on PLC signals. I used Wiki in the spring when I received my PLC tone generating Power Company "SmartMeter". Wiki is great to get the instant scoop on any new technology.
Lee
Vendor of Parts JPM Supply
Posted by Lee on December 22, 2011 at 09:52:22.
Vendor of Parts JPM Supply. I Ordered some diodes and such and they seem to be a good thing. The day after I ordered I got notified it shipped. I know a lot of folk are looking for on-line vendors of transistors, inductors, diodes, caps, etc. Check these guys out.
http://www.jpmsupply.com or on eBay
Lee
Kiwa Medium Wave Loop For Sale
Posted by Jim on December 23, 2011 at 19:12:03.
A bit off topic, but I have my Kiwa Medium Wave Loop for Sale. Smoke free invironment, EXCELLENT condition. Never left the shack, and is the best looking used loop that I have seen on the internet. The loop is all original, no modifications, and works very well (had it operating last evening). All windings are tight, and all controls work smoothly as new. The regeneration feature greatly improves my ability to dig out BCB signals. This loop is like a piece of art, the attention to details, both electrically and mechanically, are amazing. If you owned one or used one before, you know what I mean.
Price is $695.00 plus the cost of shipping and insurance to the lower 48 states.
I have pictures available upon request. Pictures reflect the actual equipment that is offered for sale.
Jim
SAQ Broadcast cancelled
Posted by Alan Gale on December 24, 2011 at 08:33:06.
Hi All,
After waiting patiently for the Christmas Eve SAQ broadcast to appear, but not hearing a dickie bird, I've just seen a posting on the UDXF mailing list that said the transmission was cancelled. Nothing about the reason why on their website as yet though!:-(
Alan.
Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled
Posted by John Davis on December 24, 2011 at 09:34:01.
In reply to SAQ Broadcast cancelled posted by Alan Gale on December 24, 2011
Thanks for letting us know that, Alan. I didn't hear anything here in southeast Kansas, in the middle of the U.S., but thought it was because of the unexpected return of really bad QRM.
Knowing that it indeed wasn't there gives me some small hope that I might stand a chance of hearing it in future.
John
Re: Lowfer report
Posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 24, 2011 at 13:54:35.
In reply to Lowfer report posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 19, 2011
Sal, after the SAQ disappointment I monitored the 185.3 kHz watering hole and only saw my local beacon SIW. However, when I looked at 186.85 kHz with QRSS20 SJ was in there. Also saw BR fine on 185.585 kHz. Wonder if the WM and WMS transmitters are working at the moment. Conditions were good as bits of DK7FC were copied again on 136.172 kHz. Re: Lowfer report
73, Garry
Posted by John Davis on December 24, 2011 at 17:21:44.
In reply to Re: Lowfer report posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 24, 2011
Garry, I also looked at the 185.3 watering hole and wondered the same thing about WMS. (Haven't previously seen WM here, so i wasn't as concerned about its absence.) Saw SIW fine, both during the "dress rehearsal" just before sunset and again after the scheduled SAQ time.
Also heard BR consistently in CW, and voice part of the time, too.
Since I wasn't figuring on being out in the 20 degree weather long enough to do much LowFER monitoring, I neglected to bring the beacon list and once again couldn't remember SJ's frequency. After all these years of retirement, I can still recite the number to call to make your pledge to Georgia Public Television...but I have to write down every beacon frequency I'm interested in. :)
I will try again as soon as the coming month's columns are finished and gone to HQ.
John
Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled
Posted by Alan Gale on December 24, 2011 at 18:24:17.
In reply to Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled posted by John Davis on December 24, 2011
Hi John,
Yes a great shame, especially as this one is at a time of year more favourable to North America, but maybe next time. I received the following post from Lars Kalland about the cancellation, let's hope the problem isn't too bad, or too expensive for them:
CQ DE SAQ
We deeply regret we did not managed to get "The Old Lady" (87 years) on the air as usual this Christmas morning, due to technical reason.
Anyway we wish you all,
A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR.
We will let you know when the next planned transmission will take place.
Rgds
Lars/SM6NM
Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled
Posted by Paul on December 24, 2011 at 21:26:12.
In reply to Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled posted by Alan Gale on December 24, 2011
Yes, I had a small group here at my home with a lot of equipment set up, all trying to catch SAQ.
We were monitoring the SAQ website during the attempt, and also watching on the SDR located near the station. We were a little worried when we did not see any testing signals. The SAQ team was logged in to the SDR and participating in the chat too. Shortly after 08:00z we saw the announcement in the chat screen from SAQ that the broadcast was cancelled due to a speed regulation problem.
(The following is a rant) A bunch of scumbags were saying some very rude things on the SDR chat screen, knowing that someone at SAQ was logged in too. "I stayed up all night for this" and other negative comments about their station, maintenance ethics, technical ability, etc. The rudeness from some of the radio community was sickening. I posted on there a Merry CHRISTmas greeting to the SAQ crew, and best wishes, then logged off before saying something negative to the dirtbags.
As part of a radio "museum" station myself, I know what it's like to be on the other end of a technical difficulty with antique gear that causes a scheduled broadcast to be delayed or cancelled. It's pretty stressful when your super old equipment won't work as planned, and you can just feel the thousands of ubernerds growing impatient.
My sincere best wishes to the SAQ Grimeton staff and friends.
Re: Lowfer report
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 25, 2011 at 16:32:33.
In reply to Re: Lowfer report posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 24, 2011
Garry, the lowfer band has been plagued with hash here even with the noise nuller , my floor is 15 to 20 dB higher on spectran leaving most in the noise. WM not copied yet here and don't know if he is fired up yet. Format Tweak for BR 185.585 - QRSS Ident Added
later........
Posted by Darwin Long on December 26, 2011 at 09:07:12.
I am trying something new with the format of Beacon BR - effective now, I have added a 10-minute block of QRSS at the top of every hour during which time one complete CW ident of "BR" is transmitted (QRSS10?? Dot/intra-dit 0:30, dash length 1:15, space length 1:35). The remainder of each hour (00:10:00 to 00:59:59 will continue to feature alternating minutes of all-CW and mixed Voice + CW identification.
Fine adjustment of the timing of the hour-long audio file will likely be necessary over the coming days to ensure the beacon remains as much on-schedule as practical to start on-the-dot each hour with WWV. The file length needs to be compensated for track-reload time and the slight MP3 player playback rate difference. Time will tell how much temperature will also affect the MP3 player's day-to-day gain/loss of time - may need to physically re-sync each week. Also, during QRSS mode, there is about a 4-Hz carrier frequency shift when the transmitter goes from a long zero-key period to full-carrier (and transmitter components begin warming up again), so one might see dips at the start of each line on a waterfall scan (different than during normal keying and voice mode when the transmitter is more consistantly outputting and "warmed-up").
The intent is to try to have BR provide the largest variety of receive options the equipment can yield, so if there are any requests or input for tweaks to the format or timing (maybe scheduling longer /slower QRSS blocks), feel free to let me know.
-Darwin Long Re: Format Tweak for BR 185.585 - QRSS Ident Added
BR 185.585kHz CW/QRSS, 186.0kHz LSB voice
Posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 26, 2011 at 11:36:51.
In reply to Format Tweak for BR 185.585 - QRSS Ident Added posted by Darwin Long on December 26, 2011
Hi Darwin,
Was going to ask if you had added a QRSS ID because I saw it last night. Didn't save the full ID but clearly noted "short" and "long" carrier periods with slightly different frequencies before 0739Z and a last isolated "dit" at 0739:30.
Lowfers WMS and SJ were also decent copy last night and TAG decoded on Wolf mode, but the graphical WM was just barely noticeable. Perhaps the ice storm back ice detuned the antenna.
73, Garry
Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled
Posted by Alan Gale on December 26, 2011 at 16:28:50.
In reply to Re: SAQ Broadcast cancelled posted by Paul on December 24, 2011
Hi Paul,
Sorry to hear about the behaviour of the idiots, I'm sure no one was more upset that the broadcast couldn't take place than the SAQ team, who, like all volunteers, give up their own time and often at their own expense to give us these broadcasts. You just have to wonder about the metality of some of these people, even modern transmitters break down, and they should think themselves lucky that an 87 year old one still exists and is able to be run at all.
When it didn't appear I assumed it must be something like that, as I've been listening to them for years and they would never miss a broadcast if they could help it.
They do a great job, and I'm sure most genuine listeners really appreciate their efforts, I just hope they don't take the rudeness of those idiots to heart. Well done for putting them straight.
73 for now and all the best for the New Year, Alan.
Re: Receiver & Ant Question(s)
Posted by John Davis on December 26, 2011 at 17:13:40.
In reply to Receiver & Ant Questio(s) posted by Bill KB9IV on December 12, 2011
Bill, for stability, it is hard to beat the R75 with the premium oscillator option.
As to other aspects of performance, I could not say how the SDRIQ does from personal experience. I do notice that some users have chosen to use it with an upconverter, which is also how you get the best performance at LF from the R75, so I infer that the SDRIQ front end has no significant performance advantage.
Obviously, a software defined radio has the potential to be very creative with digital IF filtering. On the other hand, you can do a lot of post-receiver processing in the audio domain with software, too, so a conventional stand-alone receiver is not at a huge disadvantage in that regard, either.
Which leads us to the main thing which has kept me from investing in a software-defined brick thus far: you must use a computer all the time with most SDRs, but you can grab a stand-alone receiver and go to the field without depending on any further equipment beyond your own ears.
(If I were to go software-intensive anyway, I think I'd just skip ahead to a next-generation unit like the Winradio Excalibur. When you perform A/D conversion right at the front of the receiver at full RF, you avoid having to control a lot of analog circuitry prior to digitization, which I personally don't feel a lot of digital designers are very good at. If you're going to go digital, you might as well do it right up front and remain in the digital domain thereafter.)
I don't really recommend Selective Level Meters for general-purpose LF listening. They are fine for NDBs or LWBC, where amplitude modulation is the norm. But not all SLMs have BFOs, which means you won't be able to detect plain A1A CW, or other digital modes that require a beat oscillator to output an audio frequency for further processing.
Best antenna can be a very complex question. In a noisy environment, a loop may have some advantage because of its directionality. But if a person finds a quiet location for an active whip--and takes the necessary measures to isolate its feedline from noise sources--it often works just as well as a loop, and you don't have to know ahead of time from which direction the signal will be arriving.
John
Re: Format Tweak for BR 185.585 - QRSS Ident Added
Posted by Darwin Long on December 27, 2011 at 00:16:30.
In reply to Re: Format Tweak for BR 185.585 - QRSS Ident Added posted by Garry, K3SIW on December 26, 2011
Yes Garry - I was testing the format starting at 00:30Z, and originally had the QRSS at the bottom of the hour (so is why you saw it at that time). Then, I tweaked the timing of the file so the QRSS starts at the top of every hour, so you should now be able to see a nice neat "_... ._." in the waterfall at those times.
-Darwin
K9AY on LW?
Posted by Bill KB9IV on December 28, 2011 at 01:51:05.
Hi Group Has anyone used a K9AY on LW? I have plenty of yard space if not, I'll use a Clifton Lab system. What say yee
Bill NW MI
Re: Lowfer report
Posted by Doug Williams KB4OER on December 28, 2011 at 10:44:04.
In reply to Lowfer report posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 19, 2011
Hey Sal. I got a readable capture of your ID last night here in TN. Distance 611 miles. Screenshot: http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j231/Goranothos/SJ-1.jpg.
-Doug
Re: Lowfer report
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 28, 2011 at 16:23:37.
In reply to Re: Lowfer report posted by Doug Williams KB4OER on December 28, 2011
Cool, I'll keep it on Doug, hopefully no storms take the antenna down. We had some big winds last night but all ok. Lots of noise on lowfer band lately , hope to catch a break. SJ Tonite
later........
Posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 29, 2011 at 04:22:10.
Well Sal,Im glad to see SJ is still doing well here in the Poconos.My receive antenna isnt doing so well right now. Im using a single turn loop mounted almost on the ground with an NE602 downconverter. Here is a screenshot:
http://www.ka2pbo.com/webcaptures/sj.jpg
I ll keep "PBO" off the air for a little longer as Im almost done with Johns buffer-amp build from the Lowdown .I ll be trying it out on A 50FT "T" antenna by the weekend I hope.Then Ill take another look for SJ if your still in TX mode.
73 Re: SJ Tonite
Rick KA2PBO
Posted by Sal, K1RGO on December 29, 2011 at 15:55:00.
In reply to SJ Tonite posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 29, 2011
Hi Rick, Re: SJ Tonite
The SJ antenna got off to a rough start , had lots of branches to clear after the halloween snow storm. Dodged the bullet as far as power being lost, just a few flickers.
I'm having noise issues here hope it clears up soon. I tried DFing it and may be coming from a street light 100 meters down the road.
later......
Posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 29, 2011 at 16:49:46.
In reply to Re: SJ Tonite posted by Sal, K1RGO on December 29, 2011
Hey Sal; here's a daytime capture. Looking good!
http://www.ka2pbo.com/webcaptures/sj%20daytime%2012-29-11.jpg
Rick
136 kHz TA reception
Posted by Doug KB4OER on December 30, 2011 at 10:13:40.
Conditions continue to be good, and I tried for a transatlantic reception of DK7FC last night with success. Managed to get a screen capture of his full ID.
http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j231/Goranothos/136172Hz.jpg
As a bonus, I see what appears to be two other QRSS signals in the capture, though I cannot make out the IDs.
That's a distance of 4409 miles/7096 kilometers.
Re: 136 kHz TA reception
Posted by John Davis on December 30, 2011 at 10:43:02.
In reply to 136 kHz TA reception posted by Doug KB4OER on December 30, 2011
Congratulations, Doug!
That's stronger copy than I was getting from most of the North American stations last night/this morning. Only saw MP at 137, and BR, WMS & SIW at 185 kHz.
John
Re: SJ Tonite
Posted by John Davis on December 30, 2011 at 10:48:58.
In reply to Re: SJ Tonite posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 29, 2011
I made it a point to try for SJ twice overnight here in Kansas. Although there were hints of signal, there was nothing I could ID positively.
The latest time was about 4 AM Central. At that time I had just finished capturing WMS at its usual slot and SIW at the alternate 185.185 frequency. Afterward, I tried to EAR without success. That's not too surprising, though, considering how loud the Iceland LWBC station was blasting in.
John
WM copied
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 30, 2011 at 17:01:24.
Finally got a break from the noise, and checked out the watering hole, and copied WM today at 11:20 local. At least its a start.. Re: WM copied
later.......
Posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 30, 2011 at 17:13:49.
In reply to WM copied posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 30, 2011
Does this mean you are in listening mode now ?
Re: WM copied
Posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 30, 2011 at 20:33:19.
In reply to Re: WM copied posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 30, 2011
Hi Rick, I listen on and off , first I check the noise , if ok , then I start spectran. sometimes I'll run 2hrs or more then SJ is put back on. Usually rx in late morning and near sunset. Too noisy at nite here. tecsun pl-660
later......Sal
Posted by john ferro on December 31, 2011 at 03:28:42.
hi, has anyone tried the tecsun pl-660 for longwave ndb dxing?? is it any good below 530khz? i was suprised to see i goes down to 100khz. i have the pl-600 and it's not great on LW and it does not have a longwave antenna jack. does the pl660 have an external antenna jack for longwave? thanks and happy new year!
JAM 187khz SoCal upgrade completed
Posted by Lee on December 31, 2011 at 04:49:49.
JAM 187khz is back up Friday noon till Monday noon. The upgrade was to raise the coil 8 feet up to the roof line. The 7 feet of 1/2 inch copper pipe removed from the mast now connects the bottom of the coil to the grd rod/radials. The radiating mast and top hat are now above the roof line and radiating to the horizon instead of the previous set up that coupling RF into the stucco exterior walls, sheet metal water heater enclosure, plaster chickenwire in the wall, cast iron bath tub, cast iron sewer pipe, aluminum window frame, cold water pipe, etc etc. The first obvious change I noted was I needed to use 10 or 11 more coil turns to resonate. Not a problem because of the multiple taps on the coil. This makes sense because I'm no longer getting as much capacitive coupling to the structure. Good RF current also. Yea! I will post a picture of the new configuration. Next move would be to get some tuned elevated ground radials. Re: WM copied
73zzz and Happy New Year
Lee
Posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 31, 2011 at 17:10:36.
In reply to Re: WM copied posted by Sal,K1RGO on December 30, 2011
Sal;
I have trouble with noise here also. Mainly between 9:00 pm and midnight. Its one of my neighbors im guessing.
I will probably go back into TX mode today . I put up a 50ft "T" for receive and built Johns buffer-amp .I must have messed somethin up though. It isexcellent on VLF but its Deaf on LF . I had to go back to my single 10ft loop to copy SJ and WM. So; until I figure out what went wrong I ll put PBO back on the air.
73 "PBO" back on the air
Rick
Posted by Rick KA2PBO on December 31, 2011 at 18:24:01.
Hi all;
Due to my receive antenna issues Im going back to TX mode . Ill leave it running until further notice .
73
Rick
potrzebie
