Re: Topband: question about matching network for short vertical RX antenna

2017-03-09 Thread Matt Murphy
I realized the attached Smith chart image did not come through on the reflector so I posted it on the web, here is the chart: https://www.dropbox.com/s/nwfqr6xhsfdgjjb/Screenshot%202017-03-09%2013.03.33.png?dl=0 73, Matt NQ6N On Thu, Mar 9, 2017 at 12:46 PM, Matt Murphy <m...@nq6n.com>

Topband: question about matching network for short vertical RX antenna

2017-03-09 Thread Matt Murphy
In preparation for the Stew I'm thinking of setting up a two element end-fire array aimed at Europe, and possibly another one aimed south. I've done some reading about these types of arrays and I think I understand the approach taken by W8JI in his design of the short verticals he uses, as well

Re: Topband: "Thinking out loud"

2016-12-22 Thread Matt Murphy
This appears to be the 4O3A unit. I hadn't realized these existed, so I'm glad you posted the question: http://www.4o3a.com/index.php/products/ham-radio-gear/crystal-front-end-unit/ On Thu, Dec 22, 2016 at 3:47 PM, K1FZ-Bruce wrote: > > Thanks Mirko, > > > Very Good

Re: Topband: Improving condx?

2016-12-07 Thread Matt Murphy
Superb conditions to EU from IL last night as well. Definitely the best top band conditions I've experienced. Matt NQ6N On Wed, Dec 7, 2016 at 1:56 PM Art Snapper wrote: > Conditions to EU were better than I have seen so far this season I was only > > on from 0430-0500z, but

Re: Topband: advice on simple end fire array

2016-12-05 Thread Matt Murphy
rom LP or QRP stations to the west, than from EU. > > I myself hope to get my array of Two phased K9AYs back together. > > Tim N3QE > > Sent from my iPhone > > > On Dec 5, 2016, at 12:26 PM, Matt Murphy <m...@nq6n.com> wrote: > > > > In preparation for t

Topband: advice on simple end fire array

2016-12-05 Thread Matt Murphy
In preparation for the Stew I'm going to attempt to put up a small end fire array aimed at EU on my small suburban lot. There are a large number of books and articles about this topic, but my short-term goal is to build something simple that I can improve upon over the winter as time allows. I

Re: Topband: Soldering radials?

2016-10-12 Thread Matt Murphy
Is there any danger of damaging stranded copper wire by overheating it with a torch when soldering or brazing? 73, Matt NQ6N On Wed, Oct 12, 2016 at 2:41 PM, Drew Vonada-Smith wrote: > Radials are a lot of work to put in, and the expense of wire is > significant. I

Re: Topband: Handheld Impedance Analyzer

2016-03-28 Thread Matt Murphy
I recently purchased an MFJ 225 two port handheld mini VNA for $269. http://www.mfjenterprises.com/Product.php?productid=MFJ-225 I do not own more expensive gear to test its calibration against, but so far it appears accurate both for measuring Xl and Xc, SWR and also doing frequency sweeps for

Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

2016-03-13 Thread Matt Murphy
Eric, you were 20 over S9 in Illinois. On Sun, Mar 13, 2016 at 5:16 PM, wrote: > You had a pretty strong signal here for only 11 watts. Thanks > for the QSO Eric! > > Charlie, N0TT > OP: W0CW EM29 > > On Sat, 12 Mar 2016 18:58:40 -0500 Eric NO3M writes: > >

Re: Topband: RFI - and lots of it

2015-10-29 Thread Matt Murphy
I'm in the process of setting up my station in a new QTH and plan to install a station ground at the cable entrance. Tom, is there a best practice for bonding to the mains ground? Any approaches to avoid? 73, Matt NQ6N On Thu, Oct 29, 2015 at 7:07 AM, Tom W8JI wrote: > I have

Re: Topband: Use of Remote Receivers During 160 Meter Contests

2015-03-15 Thread Matt Murphy
In my opinion the stew perry rule is in the spirit of contesting. Technically advanced stations might all be able to squeeze out a few more db of SNR yet there are limits and importantly the rule doesn't create an arms race for a single prime location. I don't think we necessarily understand the

Re: Topband: Brave New World

2015-02-25 Thread Matt Murphy
I just ordered a remoterig control box to allow my K3 to control remote stations. I'm not currently able to set up much of a station and so looking forward to being able to operate in more contests using remote stations. With two young kids my wife is less than thrilled at the idea of me being

Re: Topband: REVERSE BEACON

2012-11-29 Thread Matt Murphy
Yes, there is a section on the reversebeacon.net website where you can download data files with all the historical spots. http://www.reversebeacon.net/raw_data/ Matt NQ6N On Wed, Nov 28, 2012 at 8:16 PM, wa3...@comcast.net wrote: I am planning a new 160m transmit antenna to be erected in