Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Cavity/duplexer connection cables
With tuning the cavities /duplexers should we use 50 ohm pads or something else in line with the items when we tune them on service monitors Thank You, Ian Wells, Kerinvale Comaudio, 361 Camboon Road.Biloela.4715 Phone 0749922574 or 0409159932 www.kerinvalecomaudio.com.au ---Original Message--- From: iain.philipps Date: 26/08/2009 15:57:13 To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Cavity/duplexer connection cables --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, John Sehring wb...@... wrote: There seems to be confusion mystery in the crowd of radio buffs that I han out with (not in this group!) on the subject of connecting cable lengths for cavity duplexer use. I've heard that the manufacturers of such devices also tend to be mum on this. These sets of cables are generally known (where I come from) as critical length harnesses. It seems to me that if these devices are tuned up to perform their function(s) (notch, peak, bandpass, bandreject, etc.) with 50 ohms of pure R in out as source load Z, cable length ought not make a difference (within reason, I'm not talking long cables with significant losses) to their performance. Is this so? Am I missing something? Thanx! Common sense would say you're right on the money. However, I think that common sense only applies if the velocity factor of your cable is 100%. There's also something to do with the shape of waves travelling along it, and voltage/current minima and maxima, I suppose :-)
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: DB-4050WB Duplexer
Hi Tim, Is usually a good idea to test the Duplexer while on a dummy load. I usually like to use my Marconi 2955 Duplex mode to tune the duplexer. Once I am happy with that then I go to the antenna see how that looks. I like to use the lowest value element I can find for my bird meter to tackle the reflected power. And I like to use an HT programmed in 1 mhz steps (11 channels, so I can compare 5 mhz up and down) That gives me a reference in what direction I need to focus tuning. If you are on 440, be sure to keep reference to the transmit freq first. Then give it a sanity check on the input freq. Be safe when you head to the hill and be sure you don't go alone. Never know what you can get into in those remote locations right. Good Luck Richard From: tahrens301 tahr...@swtexas.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 3:22:52 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: DB-4050WB Duplexer Hi Richard, Thanks for the info. This is a new installation, and I do have some reflected power. That will be taken care of very soon. Fortunately, all the repeater components are still here at the house. Running the 'real' heliax to the DB-224 on a pole, so it's pretty close to what it'll be like on the hill. Thanks again, Tim W5FN --- In Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com, Richard Fletcher rickflet03@ ... wrote: Hi Tim, The most common cause for desense is connections and not actually the duplexer. Especially if there was no desense prior. First I would check the link from the duplexer to the hard-line (If this fits into your site configuration) put a meter right there where the hard-line comes into the building. If you get any reflected power, then your desense problem is most likely at the antenna or from the meter and up the cable. If you think there is a power reduction there, well that jumper to the hard-line is bad. If that looks good, then check all the connections on the station (before you start turning the screws). Believe me, I have had to re-tune many a duplexer that someone turned the screws on because of desense that was a cabling issue and not the duplexer. God luck on the adventure.. BR -Richard _ _ __ From: tahrens301 tahr...@... To: Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 12:43:30 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] DB-4050WB Duplexer Hi Folks, I was checking e-bay for duplexers last night, and came across a DB-4050 that the user said was a pass/reject duplexer. It looks almost identical to one that has been giving me some desense issues, but had a marking of SP-1894. The cabling looks a bit different, but functionally equivalent. Has anybody used one of these, and is it really a pass/reject, or just a group of notch cavities? I've seen the specs on the data page here, but it only gives the specs doesn't call it anything specifically. I don't plan on bidding on it, as I have a 6 cavity BpBr Wacom coming from a friend, but after all of the pain I've had with the DB prod box, was just curious. Thanks! Tim W5FN
[Repeater-Builder] Re: Diversity FM reception
Back in the late 60's or early 70's we tried this on one of the stations I was involved with. CP can work with separate antennas but only if the vertical and horizontal elements are in the same vertical axis and fed in quadrature or 90 degrees out of phase. And the SWR needed to be absolutely flat, as in 0 reactance or the circular polarization and its benefits were negated.. The results at the time showed some improvement in our mobile coverage but there was a three db hit in general using the same transmitter set up as before the CP experiment. The project was eventually abandoned. Later the roto-tillers, cycloid dipoles, and vees were developed where the circularity was supposedly inherent to the antenna design. I personally like the roto-tiller type as they seem to actually generate a circular pattern with the vertical and horizontal radiation and circularity being fairly predictable. A lot of broadcasters consider circular polarization as a legal back-door method of doubling your ERP. It's pretty much the standard for most FM broadcasters anymore. 73, Al, k9si, retired, mostly Years ago before CP antennas were commonly available, FM stations would feed two separate antennas on the tower. One was H, the other V. Was that then 45 degree polarization??
[Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
go with Lo band, way good coverage, lo band maratracs are in abundant supply, 50.00 or less, no repeater to mess with .. lo band would work well. ymmv mac/mc w5mc - Original Message - From: tahrens301 To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
[Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
Hi Mac, Thanks for the reply. I thought about low band, but they want to use a number of handhelds, I've never been much impressed about the antenna selections on low band handhelds. That has been a couple of years tho, perhaps things have changed some. Tim --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mac McCullough w...@... wrote: go with Lo band, way good coverage, lo band maratracs are in abundant supply, 50.00 or less, no repeater to mess with .. lo band would work well. ymmv mac/mc w5mc - Original Message - From: tahrens301 To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
yup.. walkie talkie does present a new hurdle .. gud luk - Original Message - From: tahrens301 To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:56 AM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar Hi Mac, Thanks for the reply. I thought about low band, but they want to use a number of handhelds, I've never been much impressed about the antenna selections on low band handhelds. That has been a couple of years tho, perhaps things have changed some. Tim --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mac McCullough w...@... wrote: go with Lo band, way good coverage, lo band maratracs are in abundant supply, 50.00 or less, no repeater to mess with .. lo band would work well. ymmv mac/mc w5mc - Original Message - From: tahrens301 To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
RE: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
Tim, Is this a business band thing they are looking at, or can a GMRS repeater be a solution? Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of tahrens301 Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00
[Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
Mac - the guys often go out on the 4 legged mobile units, trying to plug in for +12v is a bit tough! :-0 Thanks Stan, yeah, that's why I was looking for a commercial unit that would be battery friendly. Will probably take some additional mods, but that's ok. Will continue to look. Thanks, Tim --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, tahrens301 tahr...@... wrote: Hi Mac, Thanks for the reply. I thought about low band, but they want to use a number of handhelds, I've never been much impressed about the antenna selections on low band handhelds. That has been a couple of years tho, perhaps things have changed some. Tim --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mac McCullough w5mc@ wrote: go with Lo band, way good coverage, lo band maratracs are in abundant supply, 50.00 or less, no repeater to mess with .. lo band would work well. ymmv mac/mc w5mc - Original Message - From: tahrens301 To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
[Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
Hi Mark, I haven't looked into the licensing issues yet - I believe that there is some kind of Agro/ranch license, but not sure. GMRS might be an alternative. Was starting with the hardware to give them some idea about how it will hit their bottom line. Tim --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mark n9...@... wrote: Tim, Is this a business band thing they are looking at, or can a GMRS repeater be a solution? Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of tahrens301 Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00
[Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas
I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge.
[Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar / Maratrac
Any particular advantage of Maratracs over Motorola Maxtracs? (I've sort of standardized on Maxtracs (for 10 6m) as so many are used in our repeater system so there're lots of resources for 'em in our radio/repeater club.) Are manuals programming software for Maratracs available? They look like Mitreks on the outside Maxtrac on the inside! Bigger radio, more heat sink, I'd guess a higher duty cycle than Maxtracs. I recently did NOT buy four Maratracs in a bundle at a recent hamfest, all programmed up for 10m, 6m, 2m 70cm for $800; price seemed steep to me; seller would not break up this quad; he didn't know anything about Maratracs at all so I couldn't make an informed decision. --John --- On Wed, 8/26/09, Mac McCullough w...@austin.rr.com wrote: From: Mac McCullough w...@austin.rr.com Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 8:50 AM go with Lo band, way good coverage, lo band maratracs are in abundant supply, 50.00 or less, no repeater to mess with .. lo band would work well. ymmv mac/mc w5mc - Original Message - From: tahrens301 To: Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:42 AM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
RE: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas
Doug, Check out the articles on the companion website: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/pdf/wr9aea-antenna-n9sn-hr09-79.pdf http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/wa6svt.html and the master page: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/ant-sys-index.html#antennas A real treasure trove of information! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of n3dab Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 11:14 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge. Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00
Fw: RE: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas
I continue to be amazed by the vast so useful repeater-builder web site! Just cruising it I find so many of my questions answered. Thanks to all who participate in it. --John WB0EQ --- On Wed, 8/26/09, Mark n9...@ameritech.net wrote: From: Mark n9...@ameritech.net Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 10:58 AM Doug, Check out the articles on the companion website: http://www.repeater -builder. com/antenna/ pdf/wr9aea- antenna-n9sn- hr09-79.pdf http://www.repeater -builder. com/antenna/ wa6svt.html and the master page: http://www.repeater -builder. com/antenna/ ant-sys-index. html#antennas A real treasure trove of information! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com [mailto:Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com] On Behalf Of n3dab Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 11:14 AM To: Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge. - - -- Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00
[Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas
Mark - To keep from repeating my self i'll refer you to my response to John's reply. I appreciate your reply but your references were for Yagi's and colinear antennas and not applicable to what i had in mind of building, though the colinear antenna may be a fallback. If Chuck Kelsey is amongst the readers of this post maybe he has some additional info on the 1.2 GHz dimensions i'm looking for. Thanks again for your input. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mark n9...@... wrote: Doug, Check out the articles on the companion website: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/pdf/wr9aea-antenna-n9sn-hr09-79.pdf http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/wa6svt.html and the master page: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/ant-sys-index.html#antennas A real treasure trove of information! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of n3dab Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 11:14 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge. Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: repeater problem ????
Dear sir ; i trying everything to solve this issue but nothing happened the issue i think the handheld (GP360) receive only squelch code without any audio voice i tried to change the dip switch of hlnb nothing happened . is the hlnb compatible with gm160 ? do you think the pin diagram of gm160 not fit with hlnb ??? may be there's a problem with my hlnb ? would you please give me gm160 pin diagram. and tell me what i have to do I'm in embarrassing situation i promise my manager to make these devices work as a repeater . help me plzzz best regards Eng. Hassan --- On Wed, 8/26/09, ae6zm wesbfl...@surewest.net wrote: From: ae6zm wesbfl...@surewest.net Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: repeater problem To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 2:24 AM You may want to check out the information on this site: http://www.batlabs. com/rick. html This is for the rick itself, might help some. Wes AE6ZM VE7ELE ARRL Technical Specialist AEC Placer County ARES Lincoln, CA CM98iv SKCC 5769 --- In Repeater-Builder@ yahoogroups. com, Hassan Hider has_e...@.. . wrote: Dear everybody; i made a repeater by using 2x gm160 with hlnb repeater interface. and i make 1st gm 160 as transmitter and the 2nd as reciever and all work DPL the problem is when i talk by the handheld ( gp360 ) the other one (gp360) receive only carrier without any voice but the Reciever ( 2nd gm160 ) recieve my voice and when i'm talking by transmetr's microphone the handheld recieve my voice greatly ! could you help me please. we look forward hearing from you. yours
RE: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas
No problem - I was merely offering options/suggestions. I understand your desire to have a folded dipole! Good luck! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com On Behalf Of n3dab Mark - To keep from repeating my self i'll refer you to my response to John's reply. I appreciate your reply but your references were for Yagi's and colinear antennas and not applicable to what i had in mind of building, though the colinear antenna may be a fallback. If Chuck Kelsey is amongst the readers of this post maybe he has some additional info on the 1.2 GHz dimensions i'm looking for. Thanks again for your input.
[Repeater-Builder] Re: 50-Ohm Pads
I just use a 50 ohm dummy load on the open ports when tuning a duplexer, or leave one of the cables connected to the Xmtr. or Rcvr. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, John Transue jtran...@... wrote: Bruce, Chuck, Thanks for the quick reply. It appears that minicircuits has everything covered. Bruce, I could not tell whether you are a dealer or just happen to have some extra pads. My need is not specific yet, but I see that 6 dB and 30 dB pads are used quite often. My use of the pads would most likely be to ensure a near-50-ohm impedance when making measurements or tuning a cavity, etc. John -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Repeater- buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Chuck Kelsey Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 8:47 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] 50-Ohm Pads Not sure what your attachment was, it was all scrambled. Attenuators: http://www.minicircuits.com/products/attenuators_coax_fixed.html Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: John Transue jtran...@... To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 8:06 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 50-Ohm Pads [1 Attachment] Can anyone recommend a good source for 50-ohm pads? Also, 50-ohm variable attenuators. John Transue Yahoo! Groups Links Yahoo! Groups Links __ NOD32 4367 (20090825) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com
RE: [Repeater-Builder] 50-Ohm Pads
Bruce, Chuck, Thanks for the quick reply. It appears that minicircuits has everything covered. Bruce, I could not tell whether you are a dealer or just happen to have some extra pads. My need is not specific yet, but I see that 6 dB and 30 dB pads are used quite often. My use of the pads would most likely be to ensure a near-50-ohm impedance when making measurements or tuning a cavity, etc. John -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Repeater- buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Chuck Kelsey Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 8:47 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] 50-Ohm Pads Not sure what your attachment was, it was all scrambled. Attenuators: http://www.minicircuits.com/products/attenuators_coax_fixed.html Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: John Transue jtran...@cox.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 8:06 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 50-Ohm Pads [1 Attachment] Can anyone recommend a good source for 50-ohm pads? Also, 50-ohm variable attenuators. John Transue Yahoo! Groups Links Yahoo! Groups Links __ NOD32 4367 (20090825) Information __ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas
Sorry, I am of no help. I've never seen a folded dipole array for that band. Not sure if anyone ever made one. My article was cloning a Signals brand antenna with lengths changed to cover the ham band. Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: n3dab rb_n3...@tds.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 2:17 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas Mark - To keep from repeating my self i'll refer you to my response to John's reply. I appreciate your reply but your references were for Yagi's and colinear antennas and not applicable to what i had in mind of building, though the colinear antenna may be a fallback. If Chuck Kelsey is amongst the readers of this post maybe he has some additional info on the 1.2 GHz dimensions i'm looking for. Thanks again for your input. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mark n9...@... wrote: Doug, Check out the articles on the companion website: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/pdf/wr9aea-antenna-n9sn-hr09-79.pdf http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/wa6svt.html and the master page: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/ant-sys-index.html#antennas A real treasure trove of information! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of n3dab Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 11:14 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge. Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00 Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Re: 50-Ohm Pads
Unfortunately, transmitters and receivers are likely nowhere near 50 ohms. Best to terminate properly. Laryn K8TVZ --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, n3dab rb_n3...@... wrote: I just use a 50 ohm dummy load on the open ports when tuning a duplexer, or leave one of the cables connected to the Xmtr. or Rcvr.
[Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas
OK. Thanks anyway. Just thought there might be some experimentors out there in RF land. Do you think a 420-430 antenna work on the 3rd hanmonic, similar to using a 2 mtr. antenna with a 440 transmitter, as I have seen mentioned here on occaision There isn't a lot out there in base/rptr. antennas in the Amateur or commercial market for 1.2 GHz. unless it is special order. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Chuck Kelsey wb2...@... wrote: Sorry, I am of no help. I've never seen a folded dipole array for that band. Not sure if anyone ever made one. My article was cloning a Signals brand antenna with lengths changed to cover the ham band. Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: n3dab rb_n3...@... To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 2:17 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas Mark - To keep from repeating my self i'll refer you to my response to John's reply. I appreciate your reply but your references were for Yagi's and colinear antennas and not applicable to what i had in mind of building, though the colinear antenna may be a fallback. If Chuck Kelsey is amongst the readers of this post maybe he has some additional info on the 1.2 GHz dimensions i'm looking for. Thanks again for your input. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mark n9wys@ wrote: Doug, Check out the articles on the companion website: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/pdf/wr9aea-antenna-n9sn-hr09-79.pdf http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/wa6svt.html and the master page: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/ant-sys-index.html#antennas A real treasure trove of information! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of n3dab Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 11:14 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge. Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00 Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas
It might load OK, but who knows what kind of pattern you might end up with. Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: n3dab rb_n3...@tds.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 7:08 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas OK. Thanks anyway. Just thought there might be some experimentors out there in RF land. Do you think a 420-430 antenna work on the 3rd hanmonic, similar to using a 2 mtr. antenna with a 440 transmitter, as I have seen mentioned here on occaision There isn't a lot out there in base/rptr. antennas in the Amateur or commercial market for 1.2 GHz. unless it is special order. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Chuck Kelsey wb2...@... wrote: Sorry, I am of no help. I've never seen a folded dipole array for that band. Not sure if anyone ever made one. My article was cloning a Signals brand antenna with lengths changed to cover the ham band. Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: n3dab rb_n3...@... To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 2:17 PM Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas Mark - To keep from repeating my self i'll refer you to my response to John's reply. I appreciate your reply but your references were for Yagi's and colinear antennas and not applicable to what i had in mind of building, though the colinear antenna may be a fallback. If Chuck Kelsey is amongst the readers of this post maybe he has some additional info on the 1.2 GHz dimensions i'm looking for. Thanks again for your input. --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, Mark n9wys@ wrote: Doug, Check out the articles on the companion website: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/pdf/wr9aea-antenna-n9sn-hr09-79.pdf http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/wa6svt.html and the master page: http://www.repeater-builder.com/antenna/ant-sys-index.html#antennas A real treasure trove of information! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of n3dab Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 11:14 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] 1.2 GHz Base antennas I'm looking for any information and/or construction details for a hi-gain folded dipole omni-directional antenna in the 1.2 GHz Amateur band (similar to the VHF design shown in the ARRL Handbook or the DB products line) for use as a base or repeater antenna. I would like to build the folded dipole type, but am not to familiar with the way to compute the dipole dimensions, stand off from the mast and vertical spacing of the dipole loops. If someone has already built one successfully, I would appreciate them contacting me of list at de underscore n3dab @ tds dot net (no spaces) if they are willing to share their knowledge. Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.409 / Virus Database: 270.13.67/2326 - Release Date: 08/25/09 18:07:00 Yahoo! Groups Links Yahoo! Groups Links
RE: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
Tim, A low-power Motorola R1225 transceiver (1-10 watts) is ideal, since it is full-duplex and contains the controller and IDer. Add a suitable duplexer, a 90-watt solar panel, a 200 Ah AGM battery, and a good solar charge controller, and you're good to go for less than $2,000. I put up just such a commercial system almost 7 years ago, using the higher-power (25-50 watt) R1225 and larger panels and batteries, and it ran 24/7/365 until just recently when I upgraded to a 100-watt MTR2000 and a more powerful solar system. The R1225 is now on standby as a backup system. 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of tahrens301 Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 7:42 AM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
[Repeater-Builder] isolation
Just wanted to say thanks for all replys joel kj4si
[Repeater-Builder] Daniels MT-3 information
Does anyone have either a manual or at least the Channel Designation Table for the VT-3 and/or VR-3 low band MT-2 series radios? Thanks, Ed Yoho W6YJ
[Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators
Hey All, I was having a discussion with a fellow tech and the topic of IMTS came up. Does anyone here remember the reason for the strange channel designators? JL YL JP YP YJ YK JS YS YR JK KR ? Why YL... why not channel B or Ch 2, they must mean something... Jesse
RE: [Repeater-Builder] Cavity/duplexer connection cables
There seems to be confusion mystery in the crowd of radio buffs that I han out with (not in this group!) on the subject of connecting cable lengths for cavity duplexer use. I've heard that the manufacturers of such devices also tend to be mum on this. It seems to me that if these devices are tuned up to perform their function(s) (notch, peak, bandpass, bandreject, etc.) with 50 ohms of pure R in out as source load Z, cable length ought not make a difference (within reason, I'm not talking long cables with significant losses) to their performance. Is this so? Am I missing something? Thanx! You're on the mark. Another one of those topics that comes up here pretty often. If everything is built and tuned correctly to present a load Z of 50 ohms, the interconnect cable lengths don't matter. Duplexers and cavity filters have critical-length interconnect cables as part of their harnesses, and those lengths ARE critical, but the lengths of the cables going to/from the repeater should not be critical if the duplexer is tuned such that it gives a high return loss at the respective pass frequencies at the input/output ports. Unfortunately, some duplexer manufacturers instruct users/techs to tune pass/reject duplexers for least insertion loss without any consideration of the return loss at the pass frequency, which often results in a poor match. I don't know whether they just assume that nobody has a means for measuring return loss, or they just figure that tuning for least insertion loss will get you close enough for field work. Every manufacturer that I know of factory-tunes tunes cavity filters on a VNA looking at both S11 and S21, so why they would recommend something else for field-tuning seems like bad advice to me. For your friends that like to quote magic formulas like the cable length between the transmitter and duplexer should be an even half-wave, ask them from where should you start measuring this magic half-wave? From the transistor collectors? From the combiner that combines the final transistors? From the input of the low pass filter? From the output of the low pass filter? From the input to the T/R relay or the output of the T/R relay (if it has one)? From the antenna jack on the back of the amplifier? I'd be curious to hear the answer :-) --- Jeff WN3A
RE: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators
Jesse, Actually, those are MTS channel designations; the IMTS came several years after MTS was deployed. The eleven Y and J channels were in the 152-158 MHz VHF band, while there were also ten Z channels in the 35-43 MHz Low band, and six Q channels in the 454-459 MHz UHF band. The low-band channels had an 8 MHz split, VHF channels had a 5.26 MHz split, and UHF channels had a 5 MHz split. The oddball VHF channels were later used for taxicabs. I am currently using two of those VHF channels in commercial repeater service, taking advantage of the small additional separation. Back in 1968, I put a two-channel GE Pacer (gasp!) with a Secode mechanical selector attached, in MTS service back in Rantoul, Illinois. Not too many folks in that part of Illinois had mobile telephones back then, and even fewer had a kluge like a Pacer. Despite its appearance, it worked quite well, and I learned to anticipate when the phone would ring by counting the clicks as the Secode unit stepped. I, too, would like to know the origin of the two-letter channel designators. 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jesse Lloyd Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 5:32 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators Hey All, I was having a discussion with a fellow tech and the topic of IMTS came up. Does anyone here remember the reason for the strange channel designators? JL YL JP YP YJ YK JS YS YR JK KR ? Why YL... why not channel B or Ch 2, they must mean something... Jesse
[Repeater-Builder] Re: Low Power VHF Repeater - Solar
Hello Tim, We completed a Solar UHF GMRS repeater site this past May. Its been a huge success. We used a Kenwood 40 watt TKR-850 repeater and 2 100 watt solar panels. We started with 4 GMS batteries and they seem to support the system with plenty of amp hours to spare. You can go to our web site and review the repeater site with pictures. Look for ATL-575 solar site. www.NorthGeorgiaGMRS.com Feel free to contact me with any questions. wqfu...@northgeorgiagmrs.com Gary M. Beckstedt Sr --- In Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com, tahrens301 tahr...@... wrote: A friend of mine who is the foreman for a large ranch asked me about providing radio coverage. As there are a couple of hills (2000' AGL) around the ranch, coverage in some places would be spotty, so a repeater on one of the hills would be the best solution. However, there is no power available, so a solar/wind power solution would be necessary. (we get a lot of sun here!) I've done a couple of solar projects, but this needs to be pretty much commercial quality, so I was wondering if there is a commercial repeater available that would be a good candidate for solar power. I figure the RF power out could be 5 watts or less and still give good coverage throughout the ranch. Thanks, Tim
RE: [Repeater-Builder] Re: 1.2 GHz Base antennas
OK. Thanks anyway. Just thought there might be some experimentors out there in RF land. Do you think a 420-430 antenna work on the 3rd hanmonic, similar to using a 2 mtr. antenna with a 440 transmitter, as I have seen mentioned here on occaision There isn't a lot out there in base/rptr. antennas in the Amateur or commercial market for 1.2 GHz. unless it is special order. We just delivered a Hustler Spirit series 1.2 GHz 10 dBd stick to a customer. Seemed to be built pretty well, no comments back yet regarding performance (it replaced a Comet GP-21). Lead time was about 4 weeks. --- Jeff WN3A
Re: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators
Probably the same logic for designations used for tone frequencies, whatever that was. Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: Eric Lemmon wb6...@verizon.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 9:31 PM Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators I, too, would like to know the origin of the two-letter channel designators. 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY
Re: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators
Folks, A reasonable explanation can be found at URL: http://www.privateline.com/TelephoneHistory3A/mobile.html on how the Bell System used the two-letter Channel Designators as a prefix to the original MTS 5-digit mobile phone numbers. Later, when IMTS replaced the MTS system, Bell went to a seven digit dialing plan with the first three digits being the NPA (Area Code) for the mobile telephone registry. Bill, WA8WG - Original Message - From: Eric Lemmon wb6...@verizon.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 8:31 PM Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators Jesse, Actually, those are MTS channel designations; the IMTS came several years after MTS was deployed. The eleven Y and J channels were in the 152-158 MHz VHF band, while there were also ten Z channels in the 35-43 MHz Low band, and six Q channels in the 454-459 MHz UHF band. The low-band channels had an 8 MHz split, VHF channels had a 5.26 MHz split, and UHF channels had a 5 MHz split. The oddball VHF channels were later used for taxicabs. I am currently using two of those VHF channels in commercial repeater service, taking advantage of the small additional separation. Back in 1968, I put a two-channel GE Pacer (gasp!) with a Secode mechanical selector attached, in MTS service back in Rantoul, Illinois. Not too many folks in that part of Illinois had mobile telephones back then, and even fewer had a kluge like a Pacer. Despite its appearance, it worked quite well, and I learned to anticipate when the phone would ring by counting the clicks as the Secode unit stepped. I, too, would like to know the origin of the two-letter channel designators. 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jesse Lloyd Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 5:32 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators Hey All, I was having a discussion with a fellow tech and the topic of IMTS came up. Does anyone here remember the reason for the strange channel designators? JL YL JP YP YJ YK JS YS YR JK KR ? Why YL... why not channel B or Ch 2, they must mean something... Jesse Yahoo! Groups Links
Re: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators
Well, there, that explains it as good as can be. I recall the days when our phone number started with PL3 (for 753 exchange) and the PL stood for PLeasant. Chuck WB2EDV - Original Message - From: William Becks wbe...@centurytel.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 10:09 PM Subject: Re: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators Folks, A reasonable explanation can be found at URL: http://www.privateline.com/TelephoneHistory3A/mobile.html on how the Bell System used the two-letter Channel Designators as a prefix to the original MTS 5-digit mobile phone numbers. Later, when IMTS replaced the MTS system, Bell went to a seven digit dialing plan with the first three digits being the NPA (Area Code) for the mobile telephone registry. Bill, WA8WG - Original Message - From: Eric Lemmon wb6...@verizon.net To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 8:31 PM Subject: RE: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators Jesse, Actually, those are MTS channel designations; the IMTS came several years after MTS was deployed. The eleven Y and J channels were in the 152-158 MHz VHF band, while there were also ten Z channels in the 35-43 MHz Low band, and six Q channels in the 454-459 MHz UHF band. The low-band channels had an 8 MHz split, VHF channels had a 5.26 MHz split, and UHF channels had a 5 MHz split. The oddball VHF channels were later used for taxicabs. I am currently using two of those VHF channels in commercial repeater service, taking advantage of the small additional separation. Back in 1968, I put a two-channel GE Pacer (gasp!) with a Secode mechanical selector attached, in MTS service back in Rantoul, Illinois. Not too many folks in that part of Illinois had mobile telephones back then, and even fewer had a kluge like a Pacer. Despite its appearance, it worked quite well, and I learned to anticipate when the phone would ring by counting the clicks as the Secode unit stepped. I, too, would like to know the origin of the two-letter channel designators. 73, Eric Lemmon WB6FLY -Original Message- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:repeater-buil...@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jesse Lloyd Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 5:32 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] IMTS Channel Designators Hey All, I was having a discussion with a fellow tech and the topic of IMTS came up. Does anyone here remember the reason for the strange channel designators? JL YL JP YP YJ YK JS YS YR JK KR ? Why YL... why not channel B or Ch 2, they must mean something... Jesse Yahoo! Groups Links Yahoo! Groups Links
[Repeater-Builder] Spectra power up 900mhz
I have a 900 mhz Spectra that will not power up .. i do have it hooked up like i have others, so i believe it is wired correctly.. am i missing a reset or master switch, or am i likey looking at ONE more doorstop here in the shack of plenty already .. mac/mc w5mc
