Re: Topband: best headphones for cw
I own or have tried them all. For high level of isolation plus non-fatiguing full fidelity sound, go for the Beyerdynamic DT770M. They are significantly more isolating than the other phones mentioned. Barry N1EU On Fri, Jun 17, 2016 at 4:07 PM, Charles Yahrling <cfytech2...@gmail.com> wrote: > Looking for tips for headphone types for K3, CW only, so need 1/4 inch > stereo jack. > > Object is to isolate from ambient noise in the shack, such as relay clatter > from 1K-FA amp when keying. > > Been using a cheap set that came with Yamaha keyboard - I like how they > attenuate hi freq band noise, but > tend to overdrive at high audio gain levels. Main problem is relay noise, > which throws off my keying at times. > > tnx in advance > > 73, chuck AB1VL > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: BCB High Pass Filter
That mirrors my experience. I've also got a pair of the ICE BCB receive only filters and would only recommend them if you don't need very deep attenuation. 73, Barry N1EU On Thu, Mar 3, 2016 at 12:25 PM, Jim Brown <j...@audiosystemsgroup.com> wrote: > Most of the bandpass filters I reviewed and published in NCJ a few years > ago provide very good rejection on the AM broadcast band. The ICE bandpass > filter is the exception. > > http://k9yc.com/BandpassFilterSurvey.pdf > > At the end of the article there are links to response plots for each of > the filters tested. > > 73, Jim K9YC > > On Thu,3/3/2016 7:59 AM, Roger White wrote: > >> Anyone have a BCB High Pass Filter that they would recommend? Seems like >> there were a >> > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: BCB High Pass Filter
I like this filter: http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dlw-fl1718 73, Barry N1EU On Thu, Mar 3, 2016 at 10:59 AM, Roger White <rwhitete...@verizon.net> wrote: > Anyone have a BCB High Pass Filter that they would recommend? Seems like > there were a number of sources for these a number of years ago, but Google > only came up with a few now. > > Roger White W5RDW > Murphy, TX > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: A35T on Low Bands
What is their tx power and antenna? Thanks & 73, Barry N1EU On Tue, Feb 23, 2016 at 8:17 PM, Anthony DeBiasi <k...@comcast.net> wrote: > For those of you who have inquired, the A35T team plans to continue > coverage > of both 80 and 160 daily as much as possible during their dark hours. ( SS > 06:13z SR 17:35) They advised the SAL20 receiving antenna system is up and > hearing well. Last evening they had good rates and coverage into the US, > EU > and AS. They are scheduled to depart on Feb 28th so there are several more > days before they will need to start tearing down. Thank you for the several > reports and comments which I have passed on to the Island. > > > 73, Tony K2SG > A35T Pilot > > > > > > > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: DX condx better higher in the band?
It's easier to get across the pond because it is easier to find a frequency clear of US and EU stations, not because of propagation. It is fairly typical in contests to find US and EU stations cq'ing on top of each other because they don't have good receiving antennas (or are in noisy locations). It's generally easier to be clear of this mess by going higher in the band. 73, Barry N1EU On Mon, Feb 1, 2016 at 6:52 AM, Tim Shoppa <tsho...@gmail.com> wrote: > I could not help notice, that several prominent well-known DX'ers were > CQ'ing up well above 1850kc over the weekend. > > One reason I'm sure was that the QRM was thinner up there, and the mix > certainly was tending towards more low-power Europeans than lower in the > band. > > But I wonder if there is some magic corner frequency for topband > propagation, where sometimes getting across the pond is easier up there > than just 40kc lower? > > Tim N3QE > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: DX condx better higher in the band?
Yeah, it's funny how readable all those 75W DL's were that were calling on 1863. 73, Barry N1EU On Mon, Feb 1, 2016 at 12:41 PM, Jim Brown <j...@audiosystemsgroup.com> wrote: > On Mon,2/1/2016 8:09 AM, Tim Shoppa wrote: > >> I have been told by a DL that above 1850 they are limited to 75W (and >> other >> Europeans may have similar limits). That makes the very nice run of >> Europeans I had at 1863kc Saturday night (more DL's than I have ever >> worked >> in a night on 160M, much less an hour) even more impressive. >> > > Like Italians are limited to 500W? > > 73, Jim K9YC > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: On their way!
Here's the correct URL for location tracking: http://www.intrepid-dx.com/vp8/location.php 73, Barry N1EU On Wed, Jan 27, 2016 at 8:51 AM, Jim Monahan <k...@msn.com> wrote: >For those who haven't seen this: > > > > January 27 – Antonio EA5RM – VP8STI/VP8SGI Chief Pilot – informs that > finally, yesterday the team was able to collect all gear from Thule Is. All > team members are OK and they are on the way to South Georgia where they > will arrive after three days sailing. They will try to be on the air for > eight days as VP8SGI. > Personally, Antonio wants to thank to all who send support messages > expressing their concerns about VP8STI team situation. > > Delorme tracker is working, you can see Braveheart progress at: > http://www.intrepid-dx.com/vp8/location< > http://www.intrepid-dx.com/vp8/location> > > Link to: > > http://www.dx-world.net/vp8sti-vp8sgi-south-sandwich-and-south-georgia/< > http://www.dx-world.net/vp8sti-vp8sgi-south-sandwich-and-south-georgia/> > > Jim, K1PX > > K1PX at msn.com<mailto:k...@msn.com> > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: VP8STI QRT.......!!!!!!!
-- Forwarded message -- The following update is from EA5RM, Toni Gonzalez Today at 21:20 UTC, Nigel Jolly, Braveheart owner, declared an emergency and ordered to VP8STI team to cease all operations and return to the ship. A large ice flow that had broken away due last nights storm starts to block the entrance to the Bay where they were camped. There was strong potential for the ice flow to prevent Braveheart to get them. Team is now safely aboard the Braveheart and they are moving away from Southern Thule Is. All the equipment and personal gear is still on the island. They hope to return to camp site during next good weather window. Once they retrieve their equipment, they could make a determination as to whether they can proceed to South Georgia to do VP8SGI as planned. VP8STI QRT ! ___ _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: VP8STI news
Great news Tree! None of the USA will be in mutual darkness with VP8STI without Europe also being in darkness - we might be in for an interestingly challenging pileup. Good luck everyone! 73, Barry N1EU On Wed, Jan 20, 2016 at 7:21 PM, Tree <t...@kkn.net> wrote: > Yay!! > > *January 20* – Finally the 160 antenna system is ready so tonight they > will be QRV on Top Band. Also tonight plans include to be QRV on 80 meters > for JA. In addition, VP8STI will be on 60M later today using frequencies: > *USB* TX: 5403.5 RX: 5.371.5 // *CW* TX: 5405 RX: 5373. Operation schedule > was not confirmed but they will try during Thule Island darkness hours. > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Strange propagation
touche' Barry N1EU On Fri, Jan 15, 2016 at 9:00 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm < herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com> wrote: > Climbing Mt. Everest is something of vast personal acheivement but land on > top with a helicopter and having your picture taken to prove you were there > is quite another. > > > Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ > > On 1/15/2016 8:31 AM, Mark van Wijk, PA5MW wrote: > >> Boxbe <https://www.boxbe.com/overview> This message is eligible for >> Automatic Cleanup! (pa...@home.nl) Add cleanup rule < >> https://www.boxbe.com/popup?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.boxbe.com%2Fcleanup%3Ftoken%3D4obUY75ucAP6WimyMpEJ6C9wF0MTMCe3fRl%252BQmmfdxcgSrNUOm0spWxU%252BrP3kf%252FlE46pc%252F2yfFOO%252BhkwbJxHsM%252B09FqFBhFNOKJ1cytL3rZA%252Fdj6HvrhfJ%252Fs3pXMLgB2xTDlbm7onjY%253D%26key%3DCzfxnCGn2vTJTkjxfjclL%252FR3VhH0Az%252BPHSfdPAtxL9o%253D_serial=24018723564_rand=1844821468_source=stf_medium=email_campaign=ANNO_CLEANUP_ADD_content=001> >> | More info < >> http://blog.boxbe.com/general/boxbe-automatic-cleanup?tc_serial=24018723564_rand=1844821468_source=stf_medium=email_campaign=ANNO_CLEANUP_ADD_content=001> >> >> Can they add /RHR or such please? >> So I can choose if I want to make this kind of QSO. >> >> BTW, I require a remote solution for climbing Everest or participate in >> Car Racing. >> That is currently not possible from where I am sitting and I demand the >> option. >> >> 73 Mark, PA5MW >> >> >> >> -Original Message- From: Louis Parascondola via Topband >> Sent: Thursday, January 14, 2016 11:47 PM >> >> When a ham operates a remote station using his call sign that is within >> the continental US, it makes no difference. If a ham is operating at an >> alternate QTH he does not have to sign/X any longer. Those days are gone. >> SO even if you look him up it does not mean he is at that location. The >> rub comes in when you want credit for an award like WAS, so what credit do >> you get? I suppose he needs to know where the station is located so he can >> write it on a QSL card for your credit. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> -Original Message- >> From: Barry N1EU <barry.n...@gmail.com> >> To: topBand List <topband@contesting.com> >> Sent: Thu, Jan 14, 2016 5:06 pm >> Subject: Re: Topband: Strange propagation >> >> This is a BIG issue to grapple with. It would make sense to me that a >> callsign transmitted over the air should correspond to a station location >> in a publically viewable registry and if the location of the transmission >> deviates, the callsign needs to append /XX to reflect the station >> location. >> >> 73, Barry N1EU >> >> _ >> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband >> > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Strange propagation
This is a BIG issue to grapple with. It would make sense to me that a callsign transmitted over the air should correspond to a station location in a publically viewable registry and if the location of the transmission deviates, the callsign needs to append /XX to reflect the station location. 73, Barry N1EU On Thu, Jan 14, 2016 at 9:52 PM, Herbert Schoenbohm <he...@vitelcom.net> wrote: > Dave, What will happen then is that the RHR gurus will just jack up the > rates to take the hams with deepest pockets. Additionally the laws of > supply will kick in and more RHR station and others will invest in this > scheme to put more stations on the air. As this progresses the value of > the entire DXCC program will diminish. There must be some brakes put on > this before is is to late. The other night I was thrilled to have an > Italian station calling me on 160 only to learn later he was actually on > the mainland via an RHR station. Is this the way amateur radio is supposed > to trend? > > > Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ > > > On 1/14/2016 5:28 PM, Dave Blaschke, w5un wrote: > >> Look at the situation; There are just a few stateside RHR for rent >> locations. As more and more "hams" begin to use these sites to work >> DXpeditions, the queue length to access one of these sites will become >> hopeless long. JUST A THOUGHT. >> >> Dave, W5UN >> >> On 1/14/2016 6:33 PM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote: >> >>> I have lost my amateur station in three major hurricanes over the years >>> here, everything including radios (from water) and antennas. I have also >>> rebuilt them a four different locations until I finally scrapped enough >>> money together and bought a home next to a large salt pond. I have full >>> remote station here but it only functions for contest operated by a cliff >>> dweller in NYC who cares not for DXCC credit. The problem with the US RHR >>> deals is that it completely skews the process as far as the propagation >>> differences across the fruited plan. I would love to add to my DXCC totals >>> as I close into the 300 mark. USA stations can do this but is it ethical. >>> It sure makes money for a pay to play amateur radio scheme. But is it the >>> way you want low band Dx-ing to become? I hope not as you only will need a >>> computer and an internet connection and everything else that used to a >>> worthwhile effort is trashed. >>> >>> I remember a former 160 meter DX pioneer, Charles O'Brien who originally >>> from Illinois used a 1/4 wave bent Marconi and 25 watts to work a G >>> station. This is what we are or what we used to be. RHR I am afraid is the >>> end of an era were perseverance and not vast amounts of QRO muscle and >>> money decided who was on top. That is a shame and perhaps to some a >>> disgrace as it really chances everything including the respect we have for >>> those who did so much with so little.` >>> >>> Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ >>> >>> On 1/14/2016 12:43 AM, Dave Blaschke, w5un wrote: >>> >>>> I will say this: >>>> operating a remote station (for money) owned and managed by someone >>>> else will never be as satisfying as operating your own station, built by >>>> your hands. But than again, if you have no station, and are unable to build >>>> one up, what's your choice? I built (and rebuilt) a beautiful station and >>>> antenna system here over the past fifteen years, only to see much of it >>>> destroyed by storms in recent years. Now I am unable to rebuild anymore. >>>> >>>> Dave, W5UN >>>> >>>> On 1/14/2016 2:26 AM, Carl Luetzelschwab wrote: >>>> >>>>> Ed N1UR said "It seems non-trivial to me as to how to maintain these >>>>> remote >>>>> stations." >>>>> >>>>> My guess is it was someone using the Portland, OR station in the >>>>> Remote Ham >>>>> Radio network (http://www.remotehamradio.com/the-stations/). The >>>>> stations >>>>> are available for a price. >>>>> >>>>> I don't know whose actual station that is - but I'm sure it is >>>>> someone's >>>>> home station (just like all the others in the network). >>>>> >>>>> Carl K9LA >>>>> _ >>>>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband >>>>> >>>>> >>>> _ >>>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband >>>> >>> >>> _ >>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband >>> >>> >> _ >> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband >> > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Stew Beef
Sorry, I think this is nonsense, especially directed toward SPTBDC. If you want to know "how well you got out" and better yet, how well you're hearing, just look at your results listing in columns BestDxKM/MAXP/QRP/LOW and compare with similar stations in your region. Also check whether you appear in anybody else's BestDX column listing. 73, Barry N1EU On Fri, Jan 8, 2016 at 9:12 AM, Rob Atkinson <ranchoro...@gmail.com> wrote: > I completely agree with Don on this. the incessant and utterly > meaningless "599" or "59" because it is programmed in and the operator > too lazy to think about a real signal report makes the minimal value > of contests sink to zero. > > They have become nothing more than a vehicle to keep the ham radio > economy running and the "play" part, after consumer hams have done the > plugging. > > 73 > > Rob > K5UJ > > > << that > your RST is likely to be "599" regardless, even when the other op can just > barely dig you out of the noise. Same with contests on other bands, both > phone > and CW. That nonsensical practice has eliminated what was erstwhile > perhaps > the most useful function of contesting, and IMHO, diminishes the > worthiness of > contests altogether. Back when the signal report was a real part of the > exchange and contesters tended to exchange honest reports, a major contest > could be an opportunity to determine how well your station got out, and > into > what localities you put the best and worst signal strength, providing some > insight to improvements you might wish make to your transmitter and antenna > system. >>> > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Stew Beef
You don't USE signal reports in Stew Perry, just grid squares. The only place anybody might use real signal reports in contests these days is QRP contests. 73, Barry N1EU On Fri, Jan 8, 2016 at 12:20 PM, <mstang...@comcast.net> wrote: > > I agree. This is my biggest gripe about contests, meaningless signal > reports. > > You hear SIG 599 PSE RPT. Any data sent which does not convey information > is noise. > > This turns off hams, and more importantly, prospective hams. > > Hopefully we are using real signal reports during the Stew Perry contest. > Stew would have wanted it that way. > > Mike N2MS > > - Original Message - > From: Rob Atkinson <ranchoro...@gmail.com> > To: topband@contesting.com > Sent: Fri, 08 Jan 2016 14:12:31 - (UTC) > Subject: Re: Topband: Stew Beef > > I completely agree with Don on this. the incessant and utterly > meaningless "599" or "59" because it is programmed in and the operator > too lazy to think about a real signal report makes the minimal value > of contests sink to zero. > > They have become nothing more than a vehicle to keep the ham radio > economy running and the "play" part, after consumer hams have done the > plugging. > > 73 > > Rob > K5UJ > > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: JD1BMH
I find reports like this useful and it would be even more useful if folks would mention receive antenna and QTH. Thanks & 73, Barry N1EU On Tue, Jan 5, 2016 at 10:56 AM, Roger D Johnson <n...@roadrunner.com> wrote: > Wow! I heard Harry this AM for the first time ever! Unfortunately, he was > weak and in the noise most > of the time. Here's hoping propagation makes it's way a bit further north > soon. > > 73, Roger N1RJ > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: RBN spotters on TopBand
Can anyone recommend some RBN nodes with good/decent 160M antennas in western Europe and west coast USA? I'd like to run some comparison/analysis on signals from this weekend. Thanks & 73/HNY, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: directional receive and contests
I can't imagine doing a 160M contest WITHOUT dual receive. With 580ft two-wire Beverages at right angles, and a foot switch to reverse both of them, I can easily hear in a 360 degree arc: listen 1-2 sec NW and SW, step on switch, 1-2 sec NE and SE, call CQ, repeat. When it's pre-dawn, I generally only listen NW, SW. 580ft Beverages might give up a bit of ultimate S/N over longer Beverages but I find them the perfect length to cover 360 degrees like this and also hear just enough in the reverse direction for me to know there's a caller. 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: QRPers calling CQ in the SP ?
Rumor says that it's 1810KHz but I don't really see it being relevant in TBDC 73, Barry N1EU On Thu, Dec 24, 2015 at 1:23 PM, jh-...@sbcglobal.net <jh-...@sbcglobal.net> wrote: > Me neither. And Jim B is a QRPer (howdy from PG, Jim), so pray-tellde > W6UQZ > > > From: Jim Brown <j...@audiosystemsgroup.com> > To: topband@contesting.com > Sent: Thursday, December 24, 2015 10:19 AM > Subject: Re: Topband: QRPers calling CQ in the SP ? > > On Thu,12/24/2015 10:03 AM, Jim F. via Topband wrote: > > Will try to make an attempt this year on the hour around the QRPwatering > hole. (QRPers know where that is ! ) > > I don't. And why conceal it? > > 73, Jim K9YC > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > > > > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Diversity-capable transceivers
Thanks Tom. FWIW, Ten-Tec offered an upgraded subreceiver (RX366) for the last year or two of Orion2 production (very similar to main rx, adapted from their Eagle xcvr). At the same time, the Orion firmware was updated to offer a front panel feature to manually adjust the RX366 oscillator frequency in 0.1Hz steps to precisely zero beat again the main rx. It works well and maintains the phase relationship over time as well as across the bands. 73, Barry N1EU On Tue, Dec 1, 2015 at 12:19 AM, Tom W8JI <w...@w8ji.com> wrote: > Barry, > > It is more than just second receiver quality. For maximum diversity > effect, the receivers must use a common time base for both channels. They > do not have to be phase synced (unless blended into mono), a person's brain > will learn around that. The channels should not drift phase when on a given > frequency, and if phase changes with tuning, it should be very gradual. > > This can be checked by running a common oscillator or carrier signal into > both channels and listening in mono. Another test is observing background > noise with a single antenna common to both channels. Listening in mono can > be as simple as laying the headphones on the desk. There should be no beat > warble or no fading and peaking on a carrier, and when the band is swept on > noise any change in apparent audio level with frequency change should be > very gradual. Ideally there should be no changes at all. > > My R4C's, because I used one receiver's oscillators to run both channels, > were perfect. The K3's I have are imperfect, they have a gradual phase > change between channels with frequency. > > My FT1000D was terrible, as was the Orion I had. They gave some diversity > effect, but were so far unsynced they did not give the deep noise digging > the K3 or R4C system would. > > If you never use a system that is phase locked, you might not realize the > difference. The channel audio phase relationship has to be stable without > drift to get the real enhancement. > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: Diversity-capable transceivers
I'm not familiar with the Yaesu/Icom/Kenwood offerings. Other than the K3/K3S and Orion/RX366, do any of the other knobbed (non-SDR) hf transceivers offer a down-converting second receiver that can be used in stereo diversity mode? Thanks & 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Diversity-capable transceivers
A little research reveals that the TS-990S uses a down-converting subreceiver on the low bands. Can anybody comment on the stereo diversity capability and performance of the TS-990S and generally how it performs on low-band cw? Thanks & 73, Barry N1EU On Mon, Nov 30, 2015 at 6:05 AM, Barry N1EU <barry.n...@gmail.com> wrote: > I'm not familiar with the Yaesu/Icom/Kenwood offerings. Other than the > K3/K3S and Orion/RX366, do any of the other knobbed (non-SDR) hf > transceivers offer a down-converting second receiver that can be used in > stereo diversity mode? > > Thanks & 73, > Barry N1EU > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Mag loop 400W if possible.
Wish you all the best with the antenna project Jon but not sure your apartment neighbors are going to love your indoor 400W on topband ;-) 73, Barry N1EU On Sun, Nov 15, 2015 at 12:59 PM, jonathan white < jonathan.whit...@btinternet.com> wrote: > Hi I am in a bit of trouble I will be mooing to a flat/apartment ,so can > anyone give me details of a mag loop that will fit in a room and also be > able to be taken apart and resembled on a beach,will use big vac cap 1000pf > 40kv Russian type,any takers,and please dont laugh I love topband. > 73`s Jon g8ccl > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: get some old garden hose
Except rodents definitely love garden hose. Barry N1EU On Tue, Nov 10, 2015 at 6:31 AM, Charles Yahrling <cfytech2...@gmail.com> wrote: > Get some old garden hose and use it as an above-the-ground conduit. beats > taking it to the transfer station. > > -- > de AB1VL > NAQCC #6799 > > ab1vl.com > _ > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: ADC Overload
It might be a matter of terminology, but the technique actually involves RAISING the AGC Threshold so that gain compression only kicks in on the strongest signals and there's a linear gain curve for everything below that level. From s1 to s9 is a delta of ~48dB, so a full implementation of K3NA's advice (with HIGH headphone isolation) would involve a threshold set above s9. 73, Barry N1EU On Tue, Oct 13, 2015 at 8:18 PM, W5JR Mike <w5jr.li...@gmail.com> wrote: > That's exactly how I set mine up. Lower the AGC-T to where the band noise > and weak/moderately weak signals aren't hitting the threshold. So maybe > S4-5+ signals do hit the threshold. I'm able to still hear the "at noise > floor" signals without pain in the ears from strong signals. They're loud, > but manageable. > > tnx > Mike / W5JR > Alpharetta GA > > > On Oct 13, 2015, at 6:25 PM, Stephen Hicks, N5AC <st...@flexradio.com> > wrote: > > > >> On Tue, Oct 13, 2015 at 3:56 PM, Barry N1EU <barry.n...@gmail.com> > wrote: > >> > >> But my main > >> point here is that a high end xcvr vendor should hopefully not hamstring > >> the receiver AGC with a lower dynamic range and prevent such techniques. > >> > >> Thanks for listening & 73, > >> Barry N1EU > > > > You can certainly adjust the levels to whatever suits you -- I threw > 40dB > > out as a typical number. For more dynamic range, you can lower the AGC > > threshold. You can, of course, turn it off and have the full dynamic > > range, but I don't know of anyone that would find this comfortable. > > > > 73, > > Steve > > > > > > Stephen Hicks, N5AC > > VP Engineering > > FlexRadio Systems™ > > 4616 W Howard Ln Ste 1-150 > > Austin, TX 78728 > > Phone: 512-535-4713 x205 > > Email: st...@flexradio.com > > Web: www.flexradio.com > > Click Here for PGP Public Key > > <https://sites.google.com/a/flex-radio.com/pgp-public-keys/n5ac> > > > > > > > > *Tune In Excitement™* > > PowerSDR™ is a trademark of FlexRadio Systems > > _ > > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: ADC Overload
Thanks Mike for explaining the context! I've done extensive weak signal listening with an Apache Labs ANAN-100D (DDC SDR running OpenHPSDR software/firmware) compared with a slew of highly regarded analog and hybrid (dsp i.f.) receivers and if anything, the SDR betters them slightly. My subjective impression is also that the DDC SDR sounds slightly "cleaner" with slightly less "grundge". And a response to one of Mark's comments - the filter shaping in the DDC SDR is not normally brickwall shaped. The shape is configurable by selecting dsp buffer size and there's a trade-off between receive latency and filter slope - see http://anan-100d.wikidot.com/100d-buffer for passband plots - my dsp filter slopes are on par with xtal filter slopes. 73, Barry N1EU On Tue, Oct 13, 2015 at 1:35 AM, Mike Waters <mikew...@gmail.com> wrote: > Hi Barry, > > Thanks for your input. Yes, I believe we included direct sampling digital > receivers (SDR) versus superhet receivers. > > The post I made here today is not complete; rather that re-post > everything, I included a link to the early August discussion, which > explained in detail what I meant. This is what I asked: > > "I'd like to know whether it's ever been established that some very > talented > hams can out-hear the best SDRs and/or DSP available. Can a skilled > ear-brain combo (such as some highly-skilled and talented 160 meter > contesters) beat state-of-the art digital signal processing when it comes > to copying the very weakest of signals buried in the noise? > > "I always thought Linrad was the best DSP software, though I never got it > working right here (older sound card issues in Xubuntu). > > "I asked the following question at > > http://www.eham.net/ehamforum/smf/index.php?topic=104388.msg861047#msg861047 > : "Are there any people who can hear weak signals with a good analog > receiver, who --if they could instantly switch their antenna and headphones > from the analog RX over to the best SDR made today-- simply couldn't hear > any better with today's best SDRs and/or DSP software?" > > "There's been a few opinions, but how about multiple valid tests?" > > There were a number of replies, both on the Linrad and the Topband > reflectors. Sounds like you don't agree with most. What direct-sampling > receiver did you mean? > > 73, Mike > www.w0btu.com > > On Mon, Oct 12, 2015 at 6:53 PM, Barry N1EU <barry.n...@gmail.com> wrote: > >> On Mon, Oct 12, 2015 at 10:28 PM, Mike Waters <mikew...@gmail.com> wrote: >> >> > But as a recent thread here* established, there is *NO* SDR that can >> > perform as >> > well as a good ear-brain combo for copying the very weakest of signals >> > buried in the noise. Maybe someday, but the future has not arrived yet. >> :-) >> > >> > >> The statement is a bit ambiguous. I don't know what you mean by "SDR" in >> the statement above. If you're talking about dsp noise reduction versus >> no >> noise reduction, I agree. But if you're talking about direct sampling >> digital receivers (SDR) versus superhet receivers, I categorically >> disagree. >> >> 73, Barry N1EU >> > > _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: ADC Overload
On Tue, Oct 13, 2015 at 8:26 PM, Stephen Hicks, N5AC <st...@flexradio.com> wrote: > > The only AGC that exists is to map the total dynamic range (in excess of > 100dB) into the available "comfortable" dynamic range of your ear (the ear > has a total dynamic range of something around 130dB, but for comfortable > listening we assume something in the order of 40dB. It is not comfortable > to strain to hear a weak signal at the bottom volume level only to have a > strong signal blow your earphones off). This is a slight skew in topic but wanted to make a quick comment on the dynamic range figure Steve. I hope the Flex 6K AGC provides configurability for the user to exceed 40dB audio dynamic range if desired. Back in 2006, there was much interest in understanding why some receivers seemed to homogenize multiple signals in a calling pileup (use case: you're calling CQ in a contest or on a dxpedition and many are responding on frequency). K3NA in particular published article(s) promoting a technique to use highly isolating headphones to drastically lower the audio noise floor, together with high dynamic range receiver audio to provide the greatest perceived amplitude difference between weaker and stronger calling stations. The idea was to have the band noise/weakest signals close to the hearing threshold and the strongest signals right below the ear's attenuation reflex level. I believe the resulting dynamic range that was targeted was approximately 60dB. Several contesters implemented K3NA's technique with good results and improved pileup readability. But my main point here is that a high end xcvr vendor should hopefully not hamstring the receiver AGC with a lower dynamic range and prevent such techniques. Thanks for listening & 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: ADC Overload
On Mon, Oct 12, 2015 at 10:28 PM, Mike Waters <mikew...@gmail.com> wrote: > But as a recent thread here* established, there is *NO* SDR that can > perform as > well as a good ear-brain combo for copying the very weakest of signals > buried in the noise. Maybe someday, but the future has not arrived yet. :-) > > The statement is a bit ambiguous. I don't know what you mean by "SDR" in the statement above. If you're talking about dsp noise reduction versus no noise reduction, I agree. But if you're talking about direct sampling digital receivers (SDR) versus superhet receivers, I categorically disagree. 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: FS: MFJ-1025 rx antenna phaser
The MFJ-1025 has been sold. Thanks 73, Barry N1EU On Thu, Mar 26, 2015 at 3:04 PM, Barry N1EU barry.n...@gmail.com wrote: I have a like new MFJ-1025 Noise Canceling Signal Enhancer that was used only once for topband receive antenna phasing and worked perfectly. Complete with original box and manual. Please email me directly if interested. Thanks 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: FS: MFJ-1025 rx antenna phaser
I have a like new MFJ-1025 Noise Canceling Signal Enhancer that was used only once for topband receive antenna phasing and worked perfectly. Complete with original box and manual. Please email me directly if interested. Thanks 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: K1N On Line Log
I had an unambiguous 160M QSO a few nights ago that isn't in the log. I'll work them again but just mentioning it here to let others know they aren't crazy if their QSO also disappeared. 73, Barry N1EU On Fri, Feb 6, 2015 at 6:32 AM, Charlie Cunningham charlie-cunning...@nc.rr.com wrote: Hi, Jim Well, it was a bit of a wait, but all 6 of my QSOs are back online now, including 160. I also got 'em on 80 and 160 - but - wonder of wonders - I wkd 'em on 160 fairly quickly on 160 with my 80m GP that, at the moment has only one radial! I've been off the air for a while struggling with a bout of MS - that's better now. My antennas are a mess and need some work and my beat-up old antenna tuner needs some repairs also. So, I'm a happy camper and glad that Navassa is close and the path loss is not so bad! Glad the logs are back on line! With the zoo of packet-rat tuners and the deliberate jammers, it's nice to get log confirmation online - but of course we didn't have that in the old days of hunt pounce and paper logs! Glad your Qa are back online! 73, Charlie, K4OTV -Original Message- From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Jim Brown Sent: Friday, February 06, 2015 12:41 AM To: topband@contesting.com Subject: Re: Topband: K1N On Line Log On Thu,2/5/2015 8:24 PM, Tom Haavisto wrote: The way I look at it, I got them on 80/160, so anything else is a bonus. Chiil -- there were some Qs that got logged on the wrong band, so they started from scratch, reloading to ClubLog. My 160 and 40 Q went away, now all six are there. 73, Jim K9YC _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Fwd: 19th Stew Perry Top Band DX Challange
I applaud K7FL for sponsoring the Top Score 100% Search/Pounce plaque. Such an award should be available in EVERY major contest. 73, Barry N1EU On Mon, Dec 8, 2014 at 1:59 AM, Lew Sayre w...@arrl.net wrote: Greetings to All 160M Denizens present and future, The Boring Amateur Radio Club reminds all Top Band and potential Top Band inhabitants of the upcoming Stew Perry Top Band Distance Challenge happening Dec. 27 and 28 of this year. This is a unique radio contest with unique rules. Please browse on over to the noted website below and inhale the rules. http://www.kkn.net/stew/ This contest requests that far thinking contesters develop the categories for which the participants strive toward. These stalwarts advance $60-63 for a plaque that they feel will spur on the competitive work by Top Band contesters. You can join this cutting edge group by notifying me of what category you'd like to sponsor. This list will grow as your imagination and contributions proliferate. DonorCategory KL7RA Top # of QSOs North Pole Contest We are cogitating TF4M Top Score 160M mobile (must actually be able to move) N0TT Top Score 21 years old 200 QSOs TF4M Longest Distance QSO- 2 plaques AA6VB Top Score,base loaded Vert 60' tall AA6VB Top Score big city 50K, little pistol 100W KH6LCVK-ZL Challenge: Top Score VK-ZL N5IA Most Grids worked N5IA Highest score daylight operation only K7FL Top Score 100% Search/Pounce NA0YTop Score USA K6NDK6SE Memorial-Top Score World K1EPTop Score by First time Entrant K2POTop Score,S/O,Low Power, Zone 3 TF3KX Aurora Borealis Award- Top Score N of 60 deg N geomagnetic latitude VK6VZ VK6HD Memorial- Top Score by N hemisphere station working S hemisphere stations. Winner gets Flying Doctors of VK baseball cap. Dr. Beldaur-L1AR Top score utilizing temporary antenna. (All parts of temporary antenna including radials must be installed after Dec. 14, 2014. This antenna must be the only antenna for TopBand at the station, and may be left up, because as we all know, temporary means until I die.) For newly minted radio people this contest is a serious but low key contest utilizing Morse code only on the 160M band. It uses grid squares as multipliers rather than a host of many other silly things. Start now with bargaining time during the Holidays with your loved ones for a stretch of time you can devote on the evening of Dec. 27 to exchange RF greetings on one of the best bands available. All categories have been approved by the Plaqueing Committee of The Boring Amateur Radio Club. Some of the donors wish to remain semi-anonymous. This is fine with us as the categories are not prurient and the plaque fees have been received. Let me know if you'd like to sponsor a plaque, anonymous or not. Further Stew Perry TopBand Extravaganza notices will be promulgated as the starting bell gets closer. Plan on participating in one of the best contests ever designed, that among other things utilizes layers of our atmosphere on Dec. 27-28. 73 and I remain, Leww7ew The Boring Amateur Radio Club Exhortation Committee w...@arrl.net _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Budget high-performance topband transceiver
On Sun, Jun 22, 2014 at 2:09 PM, Steve Ireland vk...@arach.net.au wrote: For those topbanders like Barry N1EU who are interested in SDR, the latest version of the PowerSDR/OpenHPSDR software and its associated firmware places the coding involved with CW generation inside the main FPGA associated with the HPSDR/Hermes/ANAN radio. The radio’s sidetone is generated completely in the FPGA and is not sent to PowerSDR, so there should be zero latency between a key press and the radio’s sidetone appearing. I haven’t tried this software on my HPSDR yet, but am looking forward to doing so, as this improvement apparently removes the last hurdle for a SDR transceiver to be a truly attractive alternative to the K3 etc for a serious CW DX/contest operator. Steve, unfortunately the latest firmware/software hasn't addressed the cw RECEIVE latency (I measured 160msec) which has always been the more significant cw issue. There are no current plans to address this to the best of my knowledge. This is a show stopper for serious cw contesting with the OpenHPSDR radios. And we haven't spoken about ssb. The Flex 6000 series has an order of magnitude less latency, which its internal dsp architecture allows. Their software is slowly catching up with their hardware and I expect a lot of contest activity from the Flex 6000's in the 2014-2015 upcoming contest season. The new Flex 6300 may turn out to be a real bang for the buck super-star . 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: A CFL Bulb Issue
Google seems to indicate that they don't ban CFL bulbs in Green Banks WV, but maybe they should. 73, Barry N1EU On Wed, Mar 26, 2014 at 6:34 AM, Bruce k...@myfairpoint.net wrote: Had originally installed 26 watt CFL's to replace 100 watt filament type. Many noise problems as time passed. Have now replaced all with Halogen 72 watt soft white. Still have some power saving, but no noise from them, so far. 73 Bruce-K1FZ www.qsl.net/k1fz/beveragenotes.html When a CFL fails it is invariably the electronic ballast that goes - often breaking down (arcing internally) under the high voltage. ... Joe, W4TV On 3/25/2014 1:37 PM, Steve wrote: these CFL bulbs can generate some strong RF noise just before going out. Mack - had a similar issue here several years ago...s9+ buzz throughout the longwave band for a month. Steve / VE7SL Mayne Island, BC WEB - The VE7SL Radio Notebook: http://members.shaw.ca/ve7sl _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: on the webcam issue
I love that slow drift. Frequency stability is boring and overrated! 73 Happy New Year, Barry N1EU On Thu, Jan 2, 2014 at 2:55 AM, w7...@juno.com wrote: I have been reading with great interest the different forms of person/computer assistance one can expect to get while operating a CW contest. Not wanting to be left out of this fray and realizing freedom of speech issues are at the core of this discussion, I set up a web cam (Sony DCSC-P41) at the station 160 meter operating position, and feel it is my responsibility to let anyone look at it if they wish. There has been no editing, the signals heard are real, and individual calls and station operating practices are laid out for all to experience. http://youtu.be/sXhhHo5BKnE I wish to offend no one. mike w7dra Do THIS before eating carbs #40;every time#41; 1 EASY tip to increase fat-burning, lower blood sugar decrease fat storage http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/52c51b981d9cc1b9704f2st03vuc _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: CA/OR/AZ activity during Stew Perry - anecdotal data
I thought I'd share some data points from my Stew Perry log. Even though propagation to the west coast seemed good from upstate NY, I had the impression of less activity than expected from California so I looked closer at my log. What I found was 13 q's from California and 14 q's each from neighboring Oregon and Arizona (each with 1/7 of the ham population of CA). Perhaps the ham population in California is disproportionately urban/suburban with less topband activity, Californians disproportionately go QRP in SP or ??? 73 Happy New Year, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: Stew Perry qso recordings
I recorded the bulk of the contest, as heard in stereo diversity through my Orion II plus RX366 subreceiver into 580ft long Beverages. If anyone who worked me would like a soundclip of their signal, please drop me a private email and I'll endeavor to get an mp3 out to you. Thanks for the q's and 73/Happy New Year, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Wideband interference
I've had many helpful private emails from folks who've seen/listened to what I posted. An RFI occurrence may or may not have a characteristic fingerprint, but you're not going to know unless you ask around or search the Web for a similar recording. If someone posted a recording of interference similar to what I've personally identified in the past, I could certainly respond with my past findings and potentially help them. In any event, this is the first step I choose to take before heading out the door in the dark and bitter cold weather to snoop around the surrounding area. But thanks for your encouraging finger pointing to do just that. Barry N1EU On Fri, Dec 13, 2013 at 12:12 PM, Jim Brown j...@audiosystemsgroup.comwrote: On 12/13/2013 7:49 AM, Barry N1EU wrote: The noise occurs early AM, before sunrise. The consensus among RFI professionals who hang out on the RFI list is that recordings and spectrum plots are not usually helpful, but walking around with a portable RX is. 73, Jim K9YC _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: Wideband interference
Sorry for yet another plea for help identifying an interference source. Please see the video/audio I just uploaded to http://youtu.be/AN9VNCanEJM The panadapter clearly shows wideband rhythmic interference centered on the 160M band. The interference is predominant in the northeast Beverage and also audible on the inverted L. There's audio in the recording for cw and AM. Is this consistent with a faulty high pressure street light? Thanks 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Re: Topband: Wideband interference
From what I've been able to discern so far this morning, this doesn't look like a street light issue but still no hunch on what it could be. 73, Barry N1EU On Thu, Dec 12, 2013 at 11:06 AM, Barry N1EU barry.n...@gmail.com wrote: Sorry for yet another plea for help identifying an interference source. Please see the video/audio I just uploaded to http://youtu.be/AN9VNCanEJM The panadapter clearly shows wideband rhythmic interference centered on the 160M band. The interference is predominant in the northeast Beverage and also audible on the inverted L. There's audio in the recording for cw and AM. Is this consistent with a faulty high pressure street light? Thanks 73, Barry N1EU _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
Topband: 49 contest stations caught on tape this AM
I had the tape running this morning around 1100Z as I scanned the band and I caught 49 stations, and I posted the sound clip to http://n1eu.com/mp3/cq160ssb26Feb12_1100Z.mp3 That's what it sounded like in Albany NY on my Orion and Beverage antenna. Unfortunately the stereo diversity was lost in the recording (my bad). Below is the list of stations in order: W0AIH N4HB WW8OH ND8DX K4WW N2EOC WA7LT W8CO NT8Z AB5MM C6ANM W0MR KK1KW NF8J WD5COV N2CW WB9Z VE3MIS N3RR K2GE W8GP W6YI KG7H N9UY W2ID K3STX W2MF W8XXX W5PR AK5DX W3TS AB2DE ZF2AM WA4ZXV N3HBX K1AR W3KL W1XX K1LZ K8PO CO2GG VE3DC WJ2D K9NW N4BCC W0MR KA1IOR AB5MM N2EOC 73, Barry N1EU ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
Re: Topband: What do you use as a RUN Antenna?
The best omnidirectional RUN setup for 160M is using a transceiver with dual high performance receivers in stereo diversity so you can listen with two antennas simultaneously. I've used both the K3/KRX3 and Orion/RX366 and they're the only rigs I'd recommend for serious 160M running in diversity. I've got a home brew Beverage switch box with a foot switch input so I can listen hands-free in 2+2=4 directions for callers Barry N1EU On Wed, Feb 1, 2012 at 12:30 AM, D Michael damich...@verizon.net wrote: Hello All, What do you use as a RUN antenna in the CQ 160 contest? I tried using my TX TEE but my neighbor now has a plasma TV and all I hear is that thing. How can they pass emmission testing and be legal? Any way I have 2 x 300 foot long reversable beverages but I need a better way to run so I don't miss so many callers. I live on a 150'x 200' town lot so I don't have much antenna seperation space. I am doing the beverages with understanding neighbors who allow me to string them along above their fences. So I am looking for a better RX RUN antenna setup. TNX es 73, Mike W3TS ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
Re: Topband: Topband Conditions---MEH!
On Tue, Dec 20, 2011 at 11:36 PM, Eddy Swynar deswy...@xplornet.ca wrote: The current state of affairs sure does remind me a lot of the post-Christmas drought on 1.8-MHz last year...only this year the Grinch came early! John (ON4UN) asserts in his newest edition of LOW-BAND DX'ING that the overall best season for DX on the band probably occurred in the winter of 2008-2009...and I'm inclined to agree with him 101%... Sure condx are generally down. But then there's a morning like Dec 14. I never heard HL in all of 2008-2009. 73, Barry N1EU ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
Re: Topband: 2011 ARRL 160 Contest Results - N9LB
West coast stand outs here on Friday night through the dismal codx were K7OX and VE6BBP. 73, Barry N1EU On Wed, Dec 7, 2011 at 8:56 PM, Gary Smith g...@ka1j.com wrote: I worked K7KU during the test Dec 3 @ 02:30 Definitely strong in CT Gary KA1J Lloyd Berg N9LB wrote: shack it was 0113z. First station worked was K7KU in WY. After that, K7KU was incredibly strong here in CA. Was he strong in the east too? Rick N6RK ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
Re: Topband: Easy Inverted L for 169 (NCJ M/A 2011) Info Needed
On Tue, Nov 8, 2011 at 6:57 PM, W0MU Mike Fatchett w...@w0mu.com wrote: If the feedpoint is elevated you should have 4 tuned radials. The antenna efficiency will improve as you add more elevated radials beyond just 4. Eight to fifteen feet of feedpoint elevation isn't sufficient to reach theoretical efficiency with just 4 elevated radials on 160M. And no, the radial length isn't necessarily the same as the radiator length - they need to be tuned and pruned as they are installed and greatly influenced by ground proximity. Tuning is typically done in pairs. Barry N1EU ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
Re: Topband: 160M Beverage antenna help requested
I use 450 ohm window line in upstate New York and it's done just fine through 10 winters here. You don't need to slope the ends - performance is independent of how quickly you bring the wire ends down to ground. If you have the inkling, there's no reason not to homebrew the matching circuit and there are several references that provide the info, including ON4UN's book and online/Google. Barry N1EU On Wed, Nov 9, 2011 at 5:17 PM, W0MU Mike Fatchett w...@w0mu.com wrote: Great feedback! I can see how the heavy 450 ohm stuff could easily ice up and become very heavy! You guys keep all that ice back east! Mike W0MU J6M CQ WW DX CW Contest 2011 J6/W0MU November 21 - December 1 2011 W0MU-1 CC Cluster w0mu.net On 11/9/2011 7:28 AM, Jeff Woods wrote: One cautionary note on using window line for beverages: I tried window line last year, unsuccessfully, for a 2-wire bi-directional beverage. While the electrical performance was satisfactory, the increased wind load area of the ladder line made it impossible to keep operational. Initially, it broke free from the termination and feed points. After several rounds of improvements on the connections, eventually the line itself broke. This was the good stuff, too - heavier gauge stranded wire. I'm out in the open plains of Iowa where the winds are strong and steady and the ice/snow load adds to the problem. My normal beverages using 17 ga. aluminum electric fence wire occasionally break, but it's infrequent enough to be tolerable. The window line beverage needed to be repaired nearly every week until it was decommissioned for good. In a more benign environment this type of construction can work. 73, Jeff - W0ODS From: wa3...@comcast.netwa3...@comcast.net To: topband@contesting.com Sent: Tuesday, November 8, 2011 2:56 PM Subject: Topband: 160M Beverage antenna help requested Good afternoon to ALL! I am getting ready to put up a beverage for top band. I have decided that I want to put up a two wire system using window line because of the ease of assembly. I am not sure if I will use it in the null steering mode or just switch from front to back. I will decide that after I get it up. ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK ___ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
