[Repeater-Builder] Re: TX-RX 66-88 MHz Cavity to 6 Meters

[Joe Burkleo]

Burt,
Thanks for the tip. I will give that a try when I get back to working
on that project.

I will let you know how successful we were.

Joe - WA7JAW

--- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
>
> I had a few Sinclair LB cans (from a LB hybrid ring duplexor) some
years ago that were in the 30-40MHz range.  They had a "can" about
12in long by about 3 inches in diameter silver soldered to the
moveable end of the resonator.  Removing these with an acetylene torch
raised the frequency by about 10MHz (ie 35MHz went to 45MHz) in the
center of its tuning range.
> 
> Adding such a "can" or tophat capacitor to your cans should lower
their frequency by the same percentage.  I also had a high band VHF
can that tuned the aircraft band that had a similar can on it except
that it was only 2in long.  More like a cup.  Removing that raised the
range to 132 -150 or more.
> 
> The diameter of the added "can" appeared to be about 2-1/2 to 3
times the diameter of the resonator.  The length would be whatever was
required to achieve the end result.
> 
> Any of these tophat capacitors will lower the Q of the can but at 6m
you have lots of spare leeway with 1 mHz separation.
> 
> Burt  VE2BMQ
> 
> 
> >Has anyone ever converted a 66-88 MHz Tx-Rx BpBr cavity for us on 6
> >Meters? I came across 2 of these and I could get them down to 57 MHz
> >but that was about it.
> >
> >Thanks,
> >Joe - WA7JAW
> >
> >
>

[Repeater-Builder] Desktrac UHF 40 Watts Repeater Default Archive

[Camilo So]

Hi I hope some one on this group can help me on a Desktrac repeater default 
archive, What I mean is I am trying to put a Desktrac repeater together, from 
my junk,
but I need to program the front panel of the Desktrac repeater (not a base 
unit), if only I have the model number to clone it to my Desktrac, I know how 
Motorola restricts there software, but this is not the software I am asking 
for, its the default (ARC) or archive. Thanks.



73
W4CSO

[Repeater-Builder] Re: Carrier Squelch Repeater Operation

[skipp025]

> Anyone who can run their repeater in carrier squelch 
> without problems doesn't know how lucky they are. 

The "technical problems" are most often a lot less versus 
the "people caused problems" and both can be managed or 
"worked around" by paying attention and being resourceful. 

s. 

[Repeater-Builder] Re: Carrier Squelch Repeater Operation

[skipp025]

> "Jim Miller WB5OXQ in Waco" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> I am curious why anyone in modern times wants to use 
> carrier squelch? 

Simple Answer... If you can operate Carrier Squelch without 
gremlins and alpha-hotel operators causing too much grief the 
repeater will tend to attract more visitors, users and become 
a more open meeting place. 

> All radios I have seen for years had ctcss standard.  

ZZ.. 

> Also I am in Texas and the Texas VHF-FM society our 
> coordinator agency frowns on carrier squelch on vhf and 
> does not allow it on uhf.  

If your repeater has as a live control operator around, have 
him or her flip it into carrier squelch while they monitor the 
repeater operation. If there's no interference or co-channel 
operational problems you won't go to jail (Well, I'm not so 
sure about Texas these days...) you "probably won't go to jail". 

> I find ctcss much more sensitive than carrier squelch. 

Might be... but CSQ is more appealing to the casual general 
public. Is every Amateur Radio repeater frequency in Texas 
paired with a nearby co-channel box that none would operate 
in carrier squelch without grief?

> Just wondering?
> WB5OXQ

So am I ... have been for years. 

cheers,
s. 

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[no6b]

At 8/18/2008 16:44, you wrote:
>I have long considered building my own 2m repeater out of 2 Icom 2100 or 
>2200 back to back thru a repeater controller, using a good duplexer and a 
>Comet or Hustler antenna.   Here are my questions:
>
>1.  Nobody seems to like the Comet or Hustler antennas.   Why?   I have no 
>ice here, lots of wind tho.

There are many on this list that feel that any antenna that is not 
"commercial grade" is no good for repeater service.  Certainly the Comets 
are not as rugged as RFS/Sinclair/etc. , but in many locations they survive 
just fine.  I just pulled a GP9N down that had been installed at a 5000' 
mountaintop site for over 5 years, & it appears to be in great physical 
condition.  They are a bit susceptible to lightning damage due to the 500 V 
capacitors used for matching the 440 side (apparently no current flows 
through them on 2 meters).  Once I get the values, I'm going to replace 
them with 2000 V caps.

>2.  Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power amp a 
>bad choice?  Or is it OK?

As others have stated, most amateur grade TXs are going to have higher 
broadband noise than a good quality commercial TX.  If you must use an 
IC-2100 for TX, I suggest backing it down to 25 W & not use an external 
amp.  Even at that power level it's probably going to need a muffin fan to 
keep it cool.  I have a 25 W TM-411 that I occasionally use as a link TX at 
the house, & while it definitely warms the shack a bit, the fan keeps the 
radio's RFPA happy.

>3.  Any suggestions on how to keep the duplexer cavities affordable?

eBay, Dayton.  You should've been to the latter: lots of cheap 2 meter 
duplexers as I recall.  Maybe it wouldn't be cost effective traveling from 
SF, but think of it as the money you save on the duplexer helps to pay for 
the trip  :)

>4.  Which repeater controller?  Or is that a religious question?



LinkComm, SCom.



Bob NO6B

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[Cort Buffington]

Transceivers:
If you don't want a boat-anchor of a GE or Motorola, look for a  
Motorola R1225 repeater transceiver -- not the GR1225, but just the  
R1225. It's the actual repeater and cheaper. I have run several for  
years. Run them at 50% power and use good forced air cooling and  
they'll survive. No, they're not a Micor, but then again, the Micor PA  
was pretty much designed to run continuous duty into a short/open  
circuit :)


Though the other guys are right. You can't beat a big old Mastr II,  
Micor, MSR2000 or even MSF5000, etc. for tough and reliable. I just  
don't like buying my repeaters by the pound anymore!


73 DE N0MJS


On Aug 18, 2008, at 6:44 PM, Dave Gomberg wrote:

I have long considered building my own 2m repeater out of 2 Icom  
2100 or 2200 back to back thru a repeater controller, using a good  
duplexer and a Comet or Hustler antenna.   Here are my questions:


1.  Nobody seems to like the Comet or Hustler antennas.   Why?   I  
have no ice here, lots of wind tho.


2.  Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power  
amp a bad choice?  Or is it OK?


3.  Any suggestions on how to keep the duplexer cavities affordable?

4.  Which repeater controller?  Or is that a religious question?

Anything else I should be wary of?


--
Dave Gomberg, San Francisco   NE5EE gomberg1 at wcf dot com
All addresses, phones, etc. at http://www.wcf.com/ham/info.html
-




--
Cort Buffington
H: +1-785-838-3034
M: +1-785-865-7206

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Jim Miller WB5OXQ in Waco]

Guys I was not trying to stir up discontent.  I got my ticket in 1974 when very 
few if any ham repeaters had ctcss.  It was a lot of fun and when the band 
opened you could work dx on your local repeater.  I really liked that.  Now, 
however, in Central Texas at least, there is so much congestion that you have 
to run ctcss or have your repeater become almost unusable much of the time.  
Then the coordinators got really insistent on ctcss so I got on the wagon.  At 
one time I had 5 repeaters on the air in this area that I had built for various 
hams and we put ctcss on all of them.  We mostly all use 123.0 in this county 
so everyone here knows which tone to program into their radios.  We are too 
close to Dallas and FtWorth not to use tone to stay out of each others hair.  
There are few pairs left around here to put a repeater on 2 meters.  I loved 
the 70s but it is over for many of us.  If you are in a remote area with a good 
antenna site carrier squelch could be fun!  Thank goodness I only have 1 
repeater (on ham bands) to maintain now.  I spend much of my time on 75 meters 
AM and many don't like that mode either!  Everyone have fun, that is what a 
hobby should be
Jim in Waco, TX WB5OXQ  Trustee Texas State Guard ARC 147.320-123.0 ctcss.

 
 

RE: [Repeater-Builder] Motorola R1225 question

[Eric Lemmon]

The R1225 is a 16-channel, full-duplex transceiver; I wonder if you actually
meant M1225, which is a mobile radio.  In HVN9054 RSS:

1.  Go to the "External Accessories" page
2.  Select "General I/O" for Acc External
3.  For Pin 08, choose "Input" or "Output" for direction
4.  If Input, choose from Null, Ext PTT, I/O Hook, RX Audio Mute, Public
Address, Channel Steer 0, Channel Steer 1, or Channel Steer 2.
5.  If Output, choose from Null, Ext Alarm, PL/DPL-CSQ Detect, or CSQ
Detect.

Write the codeplug to the radio, and you're done.

73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY
 

-Original Message-
From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of n2len
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 7:46 AM
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Motorola R1225 question

I have a Motorola 4 channel R1225 mobile radio that I am programming to 
use. I dont see anyway in the RSS to program pin 8 on the 16 pin 
accessory jack.

Will pin 8 on this rig default to COS active low?

Thanks...

RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Mike Besemer (WM4B)]

Chuck,

 

I agree. we're thrilled that we can get away without CTCSS.  Hope we can
keep it that way.

 

73,

 

Mike

WM4B

 

  _  

From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Chuck Kelsey
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 10:02 PM
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

 

Anyone who can run their repeater in carrier squelch without problems
doesn't know how lucky they are. Neither my 440 machines or my 6-meter
machine can run without it for various reasons. And since they are linked to
other repeaters, it becomes even more important.

 

Back in the late 70's/early 80's I gave up on 2 meters because of all the
noise constantly there. No one would consider CTCSS. It left a bad taste and
I now operate on 2 meters two days a year for RACES pumpkin patrol - that's
it. Yes, they all run CTCSS today, but the damage was done and I stay on
other bands as a result.

 

Chuck

WB2EDV

 

- Original Message - 

From: Mike Besemer (WM4B)   

To: Repeater-Builder@ 
yahoogroups.com 

Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 9:39 PM

Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

 

We run two machines on carrier squelch.  

 

 

RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Mike Besemer (WM4B)]

Collin,

 

LOL. you ARE in the middle of nowhere!  Glad Cochran is close enough to the
middle of nowhere that you can work the repeater!

 

I agree. CTCSS has it's place. just glad we can survive without it!

 

73,

 

Mike

WM4B

 

 

 

  _  

From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 9:53 PM
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

 

Mike,
Now wait just a minute. Cochran is not in the middle of nowhere because 
I live in the middle of nowhere. I like the two repeaters with carrier 
squelch. I have always thought of CTCSS as an inconvenience, but maybe 
in more populated areas it is becoming much more needed.

Just my $.02 worth.
Thanks Mike for your hard work, Collin

-Original Message-
From: Mike Besemer (WM4B) <[EMAIL PROTECTED]  net>
To: Repeater-Builder@ 
yahoogroups.com
Sent: Mon, 18 Aug 2008 9:39 pm
Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

We run two machines on carrier squelch. 

 

The first is located right off I-75 and we get a lot of travelers on 
it.  Most of them comment about how nice it is to have a machine they 
can access without having to program a tone. 

 

The second is located in the middle of nowhere and we're keeping it 
open in hopes to attract as many inactive hams as possible.  It's only 
been on the air for about a month as thus far we seem to be stirring up 
some interest from hams who have been inactive for a while and probably 
don't have modern equipment. 

 

YMMV.

 

73,

 

Mike

WM4B

146.85 (Warner Robins, GA)

145.11 (Cochran, GA)

Central Georgia Amateur Radio Club

http://members.  cox.net/cgarc

 

-
---

From: Repeater-Builder@ 
yahoogroups.com 
[mailto:Repeater-Builder@ 
yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jim Miller 
WB5OXQ in Waco
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 8:41 PM
To: Repeater-Builder@ 
yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

 

I am curious why anyone in modern times wants to use carrier squelch?  
All radios I have seen for years had ctcss standard.  Also I am in 
Texas and the Texas VHF-FM society our coordinator agency frowns on 
carrier squelch on vhf and does not allow it on uhf.  I find ctcss much 
more sensitive than carrier squelch.  Just wondering?

WB5OXQ

 

 

 

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Chuck Kelsey]

Anyone who can run their repeater in carrier squelch without problems doesn't 
know how lucky they are. Neither my 440 machines or my 6-meter machine can run 
without it for various reasons. And since they are linked to other repeaters, 
it becomes even more important.

Back in the late 70's/early 80's I gave up on 2 meters because of all the noise 
constantly there. No one would consider CTCSS. It left a bad taste and I now 
operate on 2 meters two days a year for RACES pumpkin patrol - that's it. Yes, 
they all run CTCSS today, but the damage was done and I stay on other bands as 
a result.

Chuck
WB2EDV

  - Original Message - 
  From: Mike Besemer (WM4B) 
  To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com 
  Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 9:39 PM
  Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality


  We run two machines on carrier squelch.  

   

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[n4tua]

Mike,
Now wait just a minute. Cochran is not in the middle of nowhere because 
I live in the middle of nowhere. I like the two repeaters with carrier 
squelch. I have always thought of CTCSS as an inconvenience, but maybe 
in more populated areas it is becoming much more needed.

Just my $.02 worth.
Thanks Mike for your hard work, Collin


-Original Message-
From: Mike Besemer (WM4B) <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Mon, 18 Aug 2008 9:39 pm
Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality









We run two machines on carrier squelch. 

 

The first is located right off I-75 and we get a lot of travelers on 
it.  Most of them comment about how nice it is to have a machine they 
can access without having to program a tone. 

 

The second is located in the middle of nowhere and we’re keeping it 
open in hopes to attract as many inactive hams as possible.  It’s only 
been on the air for about a month as thus far we seem to be stirring up 
some interest from hams who have been inactive for a while and probably 
don’t have modern equipment. 

 

YMMV.

 

73,

 

Mike

WM4B

146.85 (Warner Robins, GA)

145.11 (Cochran, GA)

Central Georgia Amateur Radio Club

http://members.cox.net/cgarc

 


-
---


 From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com 
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jim Miller 
WB5OXQ in Waco
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 8:41 PM
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality


 





I am curious why anyone in modern times wants to use carrier squelch?  
All radios I have seen for years had ctcss standard.  Also I am in 
Texas and the Texas VHF-FM society our coordinator agency frowns on 
carrier squelch on vhf and does not allow it on uhf.  I find ctcss much 
more sensitive than carrier squelch.  Just wondering?



WB5OXQ



 




 

RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Mike Besemer (WM4B)]

We run two machines on carrier squelch.  

 

The first is located right off I-75 and we get a lot of travelers on it.
Most of them comment about how nice it is to have a machine they can access
without having to program a tone.  

 

The second is located in the middle of nowhere and we're keeping it open in
hopes to attract as many inactive hams as possible.  It's only been on the
air for about a month as thus far we seem to be stirring up some interest
from hams who have been inactive for a while and probably don't have modern
equipment.  

 

YMMV.

 

73,

 

Mike

WM4B

146.85 (Warner Robins, GA)

145.11 (Cochran, GA)

Central Georgia Amateur Radio Club

http://members.cox.net/cgarc

 

  _  

From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jim Miller WB5OXQ in
Waco
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 8:41 PM
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

 

I am curious why anyone in modern times wants to use carrier squelch?  All
radios I have seen for years had ctcss standard.  Also I am in Texas and the
Texas VHF-FM society our coordinator agency frowns on carrier squelch on vhf
and does not allow it on uhf.  I find ctcss much more sensitive than carrier
squelch.  Just wondering?

WB5OXQ

 

 

 
 



 

RE: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[Eric Lemmon]

Dave,

Paul made some excellent responses to your questions.  I'd like to provide
additional information regarding your question #2.

 

> 2. Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power amp 
> a bad choice? Or is it OK?



My radio club once had a packet station, operating as a node, that used an
FT-2500M 2m radio.  Since the site was at an elevated location and we had a
DB-224 antenna made for the 138-150 MHz split, we ran the radio at its
lowest power setting- which I believe was around 8 watts.  I was very
surprised when the radio died after more than a year of faithful service.
Like many imported 2m mobile rigs, this radio used a typical 50 watt RF
module as the power amplifier.

After replacing the module, which cost about $85, I ran some bench tests
using a calibrated service monitor and a metered power supply.  I quickly
found out why the radio burned up when set for low power:  The DC current
draw decreased only slightly when the RF power was greatly reduced!  In
fact, the DC input power at 8 watts RF output was about 85% of the input
power at 50 watts output.  The extra power that wasn't generating RF was
expended in heating up the driver and the output module.  I suspect that the
class of operation was tending toward AB or B as the drive level was
reduced.  Regardless of the mechanism at work here, I proved that the radio
ran hotter at reduced power levels than at 50 watts output.

Most commercial radios can run at 50% power levels and still be quite
efficient.  However, many of the Amateur-grade mobile radios I have tested-
by no means an exhaustive sampling- run quite hot at reduced power levels.
YMMV...

73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY

RE: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Mike Mullarkey]

These guys obviously have never built or ran a linked repeater system. Back
home we had several hams that would not upgrade there equipment or run pl.
They felt that since it had pl on the receiver that it was considered a
closed machine. When I purchased the 147.260 repeater in Eugene, Oregon. I
built a new repeater that ctcss encode and decode and that threw all the
older guys for a loop. They thought it was a closed machine and started
complaining. My reply to them was stop bitchin and get involved. They were
not paying any dues or support of any kind. They eventually went out and got
new hand held radios. When I linked it to my North South trunk and started
hearing people in Seattle and Medford Oregon they thought the repeater had
moved to another hill that covered all of that area. 

 

Point here is that things change and pl is a good thing since the bands are
so crowded and most states are out of clean VHF pairs. 

 

Just my 2 cents worth,

 

 

Mike K7PFJ

 

 

  _  

From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jim Miller WB5OXQ in
Waco
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 6:41 PM
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

 

I am curious why anyone in modern times wants to use carrier squelch?  All
radios I have seen for years had ctcss standard.  Also I am in Texas and the
Texas VHF-FM society our coordinator agency frowns on carrier squelch on vhf
and does not allow it on uhf.  I find ctcss much more sensitive than carrier
squelch.  Just wondering?

WB5OXQ

 

 

 
 



 

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Jim Miller WB5OXQ in Waco]

I am curious why anyone in modern times wants to use carrier squelch?  All 
radios I have seen for years had ctcss standard.  Also I am in Texas and the 
Texas VHF-FM society our coordinator agency frowns on carrier squelch on vhf 
and does not allow it on uhf.  I find ctcss much more sensitive than carrier 
squelch.  Just wondering?
WB5OXQ

   
   
   

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[Paul N1BUG]

Dave Gomberg wrote:
> I have long considered building my own 2m repeater out of 2 Icom 2100 or 
> 2200 back to back thru a repeater controller, using a good duplexer and 
> a Comet or Hustler antenna.

My comments are not meant to discourage you but I once started 
out thinking along similar lines and it didn't take long for me to 
find out why it's not a great idea.

Good luck. The receiver is broader than a barn door and I have no 
doubt the transmitter has higher noise surrounding the carrier than 
a good GE or Motorola crystal controlled radio. With the ham grade 
radios you will be far more likely to have desense problems and will 
likely need a larger, more expensive duplexer to have any hope of 
cleaning it up.

> 1.  Nobody seems to like the Comet or Hustler antennas.   Why?   I have 
> no ice here, lots of wind tho.

I once wasted a month trying to make a brand new Hustler G6-144B run 
noise free in duplex service. Every time the wind blew I had loud 
crackling noise on my repeater. This may have been a problem 
specific to that individual antenna, since I know some people do use 
them successfully on repeaters. But it was so aggravating I never 
again tried using a ham grade antenna in repeater service.

> 2.  Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power amp 
> a bad choice?  Or is it OK?

It might be OK if you put a fan on the heat sink. Most radios of 
this type will get far too hot even running at half power. Remember 
the duty cycle of a repeater transmitter is much higher than a user 
radio. Heat may not be the only issue. Some of the internal 
components may just be too marginal to handle high duty cycle service.

> 3.  Any suggestions on how to keep the duplexer cavities affordable?

Nope.

> 4.  Which repeater controller?  Or is that a religious question?

Decide what features you want, then look to see which controllers 
offer what you want. Once you narrow it down to ones that meet your 
needs, you can decide based on price and user satisfaction (ask 
owners of those models how they like them).

> Anything else I should be wary of?

As has already been mentioned, no foil/braid coax cables, and forget 
the single braided shield types too. You really want solid copper 
shield heliax, or at least mil spec RG-214 (double silver shield) if 
you don't want noise problems on your repeater.

73,
Paul N1BUG

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[Ed Yoho]

Dave Gomberg wrote:
> I have long considered building my own 2m repeater out of 2 Icom 2100 or 
> 2200 back to back thru a repeater controller, using a good duplexer and 
> a Comet or Hustler antenna.   Here are my questions:
> 
> 1.  Nobody seems to like the Comet or Hustler antennas.   Why?   I have 
> no ice here, lots of wind tho.
Ruggedness of the amateur grade antennas versus commercial grade. If you 
are going into a commercial repeater site, you will likely need to have 
a certified / insured tower crew install the antenna and feedline. If it 
fails (and the amateur grade antenna is much more likely to fail than 
commercial grade), the cost to get the tower crew to do it will most 
likely be way more than the additional initial cost to have used a 
rugged commercial antenna in the first place. Also, many of the amateur 
antennas use small capacitors (another weak spot) internally to tune the 
antenna.

> 
> 2.  Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power amp 
> a bad choice?  Or is it OK?
Most folks would say you should design the repeater for transmit periods 
of many, many hours straight. Few amateur transceivers can survive that 
even at reduced power without forced air cooling over the heat sink.
Wide band noise specifications can also be a possible problem with an 
amateur transmitter. Most commercial sites will require commercial grade 
equipment.
Although not mentioned, the receiver in an amateur transceiver will not 
have anywhere near the amount of off channel protection that is 
typically found in a receiver designed for repeater service.

> 
> 3.  Any suggestions on how to keep the duplexer cavities affordable?
Not me.

> 
> 4.  Which repeater controller?  Or is that a religious question?
Somewhat. You also should state what else may eventually be connected to 
the system to properly determine how complex of a controller is needed.

> 
> Anything else I should be wary of?
Two meters in the bay area is likely to be pretty busy already and 
difficult to get coordinated. To see how crowded two meters is, visit: 
http://www.narcc.org/
and look at the list of repeaters already on two meters.
You might have a better chance (and cheaper antennas & duplexers) on 
some of the less popular repeater bands (900 or 1200 comes to mind).

> 
> -- 
> Dave Gomberg, San Francisco   NE5EE gomberg1 at wcf dot com


Ed Yoho
W6YJ

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Band Base Antenna Info Wanted

[screwdriver]

The antenna he is trying to tune is designed to use horizontal radials. The 
matching coil in the base of the antenna shunt feeds the vertical element and 
provides a 50 ohm match.
 
Sd

--- On Mon, 8/18/08, Ralph Mowery <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:

From: Ralph Mowery <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Band Base Antenna Info Wanted
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, August 18, 2008, 5:18 PM








> Also I remember there is an optimum angle to
> "droop" them to get the 
> main lobe at the horizon-I want to say between 30 and 45
> degrees down 
> from horizontal. Affects impedance too if I
> remember...it' s late
> 
> 
> 

The ground plane elements are usually drooped about 45 deg to get the impedance 
to around 50 ohms. It is around 36 ohms if left horizontal.

 

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[Chuck Kelsey]

My opinion posted within your questions:
  - Original Message - 
  From: Dave Gomberg 
  To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com 
  Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 7:44 PM
  Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Build your own


  I have long considered building my own 2m repeater out of 2 Icom 2100 or 2200 
back to back thru a repeater controller, using a good duplexer and a Comet or 
Hustler antenna.   Here are my questions:

  1.  Nobody seems to like the Comet or Hustler antennas.   Why?   I have no 
ice here, lots of wind tho.

  These antennas "typically" don't hold up well. If the repeater is at a low 
profile site, like your house, go ahead and use them.


  2.  Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power amp a bad 
choice?  Or is it OK?

  Some radios will start to spur if the power is turned down too low. I'm not 
sure if the models you listed are ham rigs or commercial ones, but it will be 
cheaper, and usually better, to pick up a used Mastr II or Micor and be done 
with it.


  3.  Any suggestions on how to keep the duplexer cavities affordable?

  Steal them ;-)   Seriously, they are expensive unless you happen to get very 
lucky.


  4.  Which repeater controller?  Or is that a religious question?

  Yep, they are both religous and political ;-) 


  Anything else I should be wary of?

  Yes. DO NOT use 9913 or any similar foil/braid coax. Get heliax for your run. 
All jumpers on the radio end should be either superflex or RG-400 (NOT LMR 400!)
  Those are my suggestions. Others may say different.

  Chuck
  WB2EDV

[Repeater-Builder] Build your own

[Dave Gomberg]

I have long considered building my own 2m repeater out of 2 Icom 2100 
or 2200 back to back thru a repeater controller, using a good 
duplexer and a Comet or Hustler antenna.   Here are my questions:


1.  Nobody seems to like the Comet or Hustler antennas.   Why?   I 
have no ice here, lots of wind tho.


2.  Why is a 50w 2m transceiver, derated to 25w and driving a power 
amp a bad choice?  Or is it OK?


3.  Any suggestions on how to keep the duplexer cavities affordable?

4.  Which repeater controller?  Or is that a religious question?

Anything else I should be wary of?


--
Dave Gomberg, San Francisco   NE5EE gomberg1 at wcf dot com
All addresses, phones, etc. at http://www.wcf.com/ham/info.html
- 

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Band Base Antenna Info Wanted

[Ralph Mowery]

> Also I remember there is an optimum angle to
> "droop" them to get the 
> main lobe at the horizon-I want to say between 30 and 45
> degrees down 
> from horizontal. Affects impedance too if I
> remember...it's late
> 
> 
> 

The ground plane elements are usually drooped about 45 deg to get the impedance 
to around 50 ohms.  It is around 36 ohms if left horizontal.



  

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Scanner as repeater receiver?

[Nate Duehr]

JOHN MACKEY wrote:
> Skipp-
> Everything you say below is correct.  But I would still argue that it simply
> isn't worth it to do all the modifications you suggest to a scanner when you
> can pick up a good receiver from a Motrac/Micor/MastrII/MastrPro for $25 at a
> hamfest or ebay and have a receiver that is still better than the modified
> scanner.

Heck, at the hamfest I was at yesterday, there were two Micors already 
duplexed, a Mastr II already duplexed, and a Mastr Pro sitting in a pile 
on a table with a sign that said "$25 takes all", if I read it correctly.

I looked at the MASTR II -- it was a 66-split (VHF).  I assume the 
others were also, don't know.  Didn't check.  I didn't need any more VHF 
stuff...

Seller was "Dutch", K0AWS ... if someone wants to try to hunt him down 
to buy any of it.

His club is: http://www.ab0pc.org/

There ya go... a real "guess what I saw at a hamfest" story, but with 
real follow-up information on who was selling the stuff.

Happy gear hunting...

Nate WY0X

[Repeater-Builder] Re: Kenwood squelch quality

[skipp025]

You've got some of the Kenwood Dealers in the group 
excited... a few probably even slipped off their chairs. 

Carrier Squelch operation of a TKR-x50 repeater is pretty darn 
good. Since I'm running a number of carrier squelch repeaters 
I can happily say the "crash noise" is not objectionable, nor is 
it excessive. 

Squelch Crash noise can actually be eliminated in carrier squelch 
repeater operation when you use an audio delay line... most often 
supplied within the repeater controller (as an option). 

So you can have both bad and good squelch-noise operation on 
multiple brand/type repeaters and they would all sound like a 
quiet breath of spring when you use an audio delay line with 
your repeater controller. 

Otherwise back to square one fundamentals where the stand alone 
Kenwood TKR-750 and TKR-850 repeater squelch operation works 
very well. 

cheers,
skipp 



> "chappyr" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
>
>  A club is considering Kenwood TKR 
> repeaters for 2M and 440. The 2M repeater 
> will be "carrier squelch"--no tone.  
>  Would appreciate comments how well the
> Kenwood squelch works, compared to the famous
> Micor squelch, RLC-MOT, MASTR2, etc.
>  Thanks --  kd4ss
>

[Repeater-Builder] Micor repeater for sale

[David]

I have a complete micor uhf repeater for sale it comes with a 90watt pa
It has a preamp. It has the 4 micor cans it has the 12 volt power supply it
has a rc210 controller with two delay boards and auto patch in it. There are
3 26 amp hour batteries and an astron rs50 amp power supply in it the
circulator has already been modified for tuning I sent the chassis to Scot
Zimmerman and he modified the station card for hookup to the controller this
repeater is in a micor cabinet that stands 6' tall I need to sell the hole
thing and I am looking to get $1200 for it. The repeater comes with 2
crystals set for 443.400 and two pl tones crystals set for 107.2. the cans
have been tuned for 443.400 also anyone interested in it please call me at
678 455 5093 or send me an email david @ my call sign .com


see ya
 
73's
N1IB
David Schornak

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Maire-Radios]

I am talking about the newer Kenwood repeater's TKR's   about the last 2 years 
or so.  Also Kenwood has a new repeater the NXR-800  UHF and the NXR-700 VHF.

Will be testing the NXR-800 soon.

John

  - Original Message - 
  From: wd8chl 
  To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com 
  Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 11:26 AM
  Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality


  chappyr wrote:
  > A club is considering Kenwood TKR 
  > repeaters for 2M and 440. The 2M repeater 
  > will be "carrier squelch"--no tone. 
  > Would appreciate comments how well the
  > Kenwood squelch works, compared to the famous
  > Micor squelch, RLC-MOT, MASTR2, etc.
  > Thanks -- kd4ss
  > 

  You're talking about the newer TKR-750/850, right?
  It seems they are pretty stable in the ones I've listened to over the 
  air. Doesn't have the real quick drop-out of the Micor, but it's reasonable.
  I HIGHLY recommend, however, that the capability of putting the repeater 
  in tone-access remotely be included. You WILL have the need to keep 
  out-of-town signals on the same frequency from bringing up your repeater 
  at some time or another.


   

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[wd8chl]

chappyr wrote:
>  A club is considering Kenwood TKR 
> repeaters for 2M and 440. The 2M repeater 
> will be "carrier squelch"--no tone.  
>  Would appreciate comments how well the
> Kenwood squelch works, compared to the famous
> Micor squelch, RLC-MOT, MASTR2, etc.
>  Thanks --  kd4ss
> 

You're talking about the newer TKR-750/850, right?
It seems they are pretty stable in the ones I've listened to over the 
air. Doesn't have the real quick drop-out of the Micor, but it's reasonable.
I HIGHLY recommend, however, that the capability of putting the repeater 
in tone-access remotely be included. You WILL have the need to keep 
out-of-town signals on the same frequency from bringing up your repeater 
at some time or another.

Re: [Repeater-Builder] MSR2000 DPL

[N0ATH]

Cort - If you have no other luck you may contact me direct 
about the card - I may have one - I have two - near new -
MSR 2000 that I know very little about - 
NØATH Dave
- Original Message - 
From: Cort Buffington 
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com 
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 8:39 AM
Subject: [Repeater-Builder] MSR2000 DPL


Repeater Builders,

Please, nobody laugh me out of the room... What are my chances of 
finding an MSR2000 DPL (TARB, duplex) card in somebody's junk box out 
there?

73 DE N0MJS

--
Cort Buffington
H: +1-785-838-3034
M: +1-785-865-7206



 
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Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com 
Version: 8.0.138 / Virus Database: 270.6.4/1617 - Release Date: 8/17/2008 12:58 
PM

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Maire-Radios]

We are both a radio dealer and have a number of repeaters on the air.  Have a 
Kenwood TKR-751 on 2 meters and it works very good it also has a 210 controller 
on it.  Also a GMRS repeater  Kenwood TKR-850 with a 210, no problems and a 
number of the TRK-740 and 840 repeater in use.  Also have Micor UHF and a 
Johnson UHF.  The Kenwood's 840 work as good if not better than the Micor's and 
the Johnson

thanks 
  - Original Message - 
  From: chappyr 
  To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com 
  Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 10:56 AM
  Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality


  A club is considering Kenwood TKR 
  repeaters for 2M and 440. The 2M repeater 
  will be "carrier squelch"--no tone. 
  Would appreciate comments how well the
  Kenwood squelch works, compared to the famous
  Micor squelch, RLC-MOT, MASTR2, etc.
  Thanks -- kd4ss



   

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[Dave Baughn]

Good question! I was wondering exactly the same thing.
 
Dave BaughnDirector of EngineeringThe University of AlabamaCenter for Public Television and RadioWVUA/WUOA-TV & WUAL/ WQPR/ WAPR FMBox 870150195 Reese Phifer Hall, 901 University Blvd.Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487205.348.8622 cell 205.310.8798[EMAIL PROTECTED]  KX4I>>> "chappyr" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> 8/18/2008 9:56 AM >>>

A club is considering Kenwood TKR repeaters for 2M and 440. The 2M repeater will be "carrier squelch"--no tone. Would appreciate comments how well theKenwood squelch works, compared to the famousMicor squelch, RLC-MOT, MASTR2, etc.Thanks -- kd4ss<><>

[Repeater-Builder] Kenwood squelch quality

[chappyr]

 A club is considering Kenwood TKR 
repeaters for 2M and 440. The 2M repeater 
will be "carrier squelch"--no tone.  
 Would appreciate comments how well the
Kenwood squelch works, compared to the famous
Micor squelch, RLC-MOT, MASTR2, etc.
 Thanks --  kd4ss

[Repeater-Builder] Motorola R1225 question

[n2len]

I have a Motorola 4 channel R1225 mobile radio that I am programming to 
use. I dont see anyway in the RSS to program pin 8 on the 16 pin 
accessory jack.

Will pin 8 on this rig default to COS active low?

Thanks...

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Back up......

[Kevin Custer]

Chris Carruba wrote:

I apologize for my earlier comment..


Okay, maybe you are learning too.
It's good you did - as I was on my way to remove you.


just seems as if the class was punished for the actions of a few.


Yes, the whole group was punished.  The good list members didn't mind, 
though
When you have a class room of 4000+, sometimes the only way to get the 
attention of the group is to pull the trigger.

I never said life (on this list) was fair.  YMWV.


Regards,
Kevin Custer

[Repeater-Builder] MSR2000 DPL

[Cort Buffington]

Repeater Builders,

Please, nobody laugh me out of the room... What are my chances of  
finding an MSR2000 DPL (TARB, duplex) card in somebody's junk box out  
there?

73 DE N0MJS

--
Cort Buffington
H: +1-785-838-3034
M: +1-785-865-7206

Re: [Repeater-Builder] Ham Repeater Controller

[gerald bishop]

GONE  !!

--- On Sun, 8/17/08, Mike Mullarkey <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
From: Mike Mullarkey <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Ham Repeater Controller
To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, August 17, 2008, 10:47 AM



















If anybody is interested, there is a repeater controller on EBay
real cheep for sale. http://cgi.ebay. com/ws/eBayISAPI 
.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=170251934951&ssPageName=STRK: MESE:IT&ih=007 

   

   

Mike K7PFJ