Re: Topband: Sept 12 JT65 on 1838khz...nice opening to Eu.

[James Rodenkirch]

While watching the  waterfall for "spreading" on 160 and 80, Lee I've seen 
similar "results."

My operating "mode"now is:

160: 25 to 30 watts set wid no ALC "ficker"  
  80:  30 to 50 watts set wid no 'flicker'

Note: I run the 'mike input' control to a high enuff input I'll need to "back 
of" the alc adjust control (on the main screen, right hand side) to get the 
'power out' indicator on the KX3 power 'down to' the final output number/value 
I've settled on.

I have worked VKs and JAs on 160 and 80 with these settings.  72/73 de Jim 
Rodenkirch K9JWV



From: Topband  on behalf of KX4TT via Topband 

Sent: Friday, March 17, 2017 7:05 AM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Sept 12 JT65 on 1838khz...nice opening to Eu.

I've used 100 watts on 160 - by accident, as I forgot to turn down the drive - 
I discovered that decoding can be a real problem at high power levels. I've 
seen signals from a station 30 miles  (50  km) away that wouldn't decode 
because of spreading.  I believe the main goal is to have little or no ALC 
action on your transmission; Therefore, I will run up to 50W on 160 and even 
80, but with zero ALC indication (I adjust the audio levels down to just under 
any ALC deflection).  On 40 and up, I stick to 20W most of the time 
(occasionally 30W)...JT modes are great for 160, but I 
still prefer CW, the original digital mode... -)

73 es GUD DX de Lee KX4TT





Citando Jorge Diez - CX6VM :

> Hello
>
> so how much power to use in JT65 on 160 mts for DX ?
>
> 15-25 watts in OK on high bands, but how much pwr people are using on
> 160 mts?
>
> thanks,
> Jorge
>

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Anyone had fair to good success with the bhi noise eliminating inline module sold by dx engineering?

[James Rodenkirch]

The listed part # is BHI NEIM1031MKII.

I just don't have the room for Bog or  simple active short receive vertical 
systemsI have band noise and wonder if that BHI module might help...replies 
off-line are fine.

Tnx Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Fw: Perusing an old book - Construction of radio phone and telegraph receivers for beginners

[James Rodenkirch]

The below From DJ7SW...(look at the treasure trove of old books---  
http://www.americanradiohistory.com/)


From: Lup Schlueter <dj...@kcag.de>
Sent: Saturday, January 7, 2017 4:27 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Subject: Re: Topband: Perusing an old book - Construction of radio phone and 
telegraph receivers for beginners

Hello friends of old books:

The book is already digitized. Load it as pdf:

http://www.americanradiohistory.com/Archive-Bookshelf/Construction-radio-phone-rcvrs-(1922)-sleeper.pdf

I can not write directly to the 160m Group, but read it since several years
with great interest. Can you put this  link to the group?
73 de Lup, DJ7SW




Am 06.01.2017 um 12:30 schrieb James Rodenkirch:
> A neighbor was perusing some old books her father had saved - he was an 
> electrical engineer - and found a 1922 edition of Construction of radio phone 
> and telegraph receivers for beginners authored by M. B. Sleeper.
>
> Started perusing it last night...what a hoot! All about designing rcvrs for 
> the  200 meter band.
>
> Latest edition is 2011 - 
> https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Radio-Telegraph-Receivers-Beginners/dp/1247774619
>  -   so it's  hung around or some time72 Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Perusing an old book - Construction of radio phone and telegraph receivers for beginners

[James Rodenkirch]

A neighbor was perusing some old books her father had saved - he was an 
electrical engineer - and found a 1922 edition of Construction of radio phone 
and telegraph receivers for beginners authored by M. B. Sleeper.

Started perusing it last night...what a hoot! All about designing rcvrs for the 
 200 meter band.

Latest edition is 2011 - 
https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Radio-Telegraph-Receivers-Beginners/dp/1247774619
 -   so it's  hung around or some time72 Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: 160 meter inspiration!!

[James Rodenkirch]

Larry - your reply post on the top band reflector, to me, seems like one of the 
true meanings of being inspired to try 160 meter operations AND have fun with 
new/different antenna arrangement.

I don't need to be "inspired" to turn the rig and tune the antenna for 160 
BUT.I I hope your story stimulates others to give top band a try!!

Thank you and 72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Gentle reminder about a fun 90 minute tonight on Top Band

[James Rodenkirch]

A casual reminder there will be a little QRP operating goin' on this evening on 
160.

The Topband Fox Extravaganza is back for a second celebration tomorrow evening, 
Wednesday, 23 November,  0200Z to 0330Zthat's 2100 to 2230 Eastern, 2000 to 
2130 Central, 1900 to 2030 Mountain and 1800 to 1930 Pacific this Tuesday 
evening.

Best place to mix it up will be 1.810 mHz, plus or minus.

The Fox, the "hunted," calls “CQ FE” (Fox Extravaganza) and the exchange is the 
usual Fox Hunt format: RST, SPC, Name and Power. Note: probably no split 
opsjust simplex.

Visit here for more info on the "normal scheduled" Fox Hunts: 
http://www.qrpfoxhunt.org/

Rememberthis is a "fun event" that several of us have been promoting over 
the past two years as a way to get more operators on 160 - I'm hoping some will 
turn in to regular Stew Perry contest participants --- if you are QRV on 160 
tonight, please listen and make a couple of Qsif you don't want to run QRP, 
that's fine...it's the Qs that matter.

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: 2016 160m Fox Extravaganza, Tuesday, 22 November

[James Rodenkirch]

Back in April Dale, WC7S, sent out a message proposing that there be a repeat 
of 2015’s 160m QRP Fox Extravaganza that occurred for the first time on the 
Tuesday of Thanksgiving week.  (He also suggested that there might be a 
traditional Fox Hunt on 160m to be held at an appropriate date within the 27 
December-3 January 2017 range, that space being a scheduled Fox Hunt recess 
during year-end celebrations) see http://www.qrpfoxhunt.org/ for 
particulars on a QRP Fox Hunt.

Dale hasn’t canceled his earlier recommendation, but since there is now only a 
week before Tuesday, 22 November, it seems appropriate to make, on Dale’s 
behalf, a public announcement.

The date for the second 160m Fox Extravaganza is Tuesday, 22 November 2016, 
with the same UTC times as the regular hunts (0200Z-0330Z early Wednesday 23 
November, Tuesday evening here in the U.S.).  Activity is best centered around 
1.810 mHz (and you can hear a strong signal from W1AW, QRV on 1,802.5 mHz).  
Calling “CQ FE” would be a briefly-sent invitation for QSOs.  The exchange 
should follow the usual FH format: RST, SPC, name, power.

This all meant to be:

1) FUN
2) Promote operating on 160 meters (God knows I spend many a night and morning 
calling CQ, seeing nice RBN reports for my QRP signals but few replies.

If you have the rig turned on Tuesday evening look for stations calling CQ FE - 
they'll be the Foxcall 'em, preferably at QRP power, exchange RST SPC Name 
and Power.they'll be appreciative and we all can pat our selves on the back 
for encouraging new Top Band operators 

BCNU soon for the 2016 160m Fox Extravaganza!
Annd see ya in the 160 ARRL test as well as the BIg Stew. 

P.S. Just received my ARRL 160 Contest certificate for #10 in U.S. and VE  
I've always had a goal to  place in the top 10 of a major 160 
test.whooo hodid it! 

72,

Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV







__._,_.___

Posted by: Charles Moizeau 

Reply via web 
post
 •   Reply to sender 

  •   Reply to group 

  •   Start a New 
Topic
   •   Messages in this 
topic
 (1)

[https://s.yimg.com/ru/static/images/yg/img/megaphone/1464031581_phpFA8bON]
Have you tried the highest rated email app?
With 4.5 stars in iTunes, the Yahoo Mail app is the highest rated email app on 
the market. What are you waiting for? Now you can access all your inboxes 
(Gmail, Outlook, AOL and more) in one place. Never delete an email again with 
1000GB of free cloud storage.

Visit Your 
Group

[Yahoo! 
Groups]
• Privacy • 
Unsubscribe • 
Terms of Use

.


__,_._,___
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: List of 2015 plaque winners

[James Rodenkirch]

Where can we see who won which plaques, Lew?

72 de Jim R. K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: How exciting to make Qs with QRP power during the pre-Stew!!!

[James Rodenkirch]

Thank you to those that heard and worked methis 'ol war horse just can't  
hang in there for long time periods but made 41 Qs in about five 
hoursthrilled to put Lloyd, KH6LC, Eric, NO3M and  Doug, WD5R, in the 
log.

Condx were weird here --- hardly worked any AZ or NM stations and they are 
usually the first to enter my log.  

Will see you in the Big Stew (my dabble in the ARRL 160 test)  hearing all 
of the sigs just made my day, trust me.

72 de Jim R. K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Follow-up

[James Rodenkirch]

Thank you to all who wrote such cheerful and encouraging words...I look forward 
to as many more "Stews" as this tired 'ol war horse can participate ( my 
cancers are attributable to Agent Orange and yes, I am on the Agent Orange 
registry!!)

I am adjusting to this new "timeline in my life" - NSCLC has an abbreviated 
half life, for certain - BUT my "view forward" is focused on how many more 
Stews can I participate in and see N6TR, WD5R, K9YC and others in the 
log...that's what I am talkin' 'bout!!!

A reminder --- you start noticing pain..get the Doc and push him/her to find 
the source -- appropriate blood tests - genomes and IG markers - as 
well as CT and MRI scans are the tools to ensure that pain isn't due to a  
really bad thing"!!

72 de Jim R. K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Pre-Stew coming up this Saturday...........

[James Rodenkirch]

...and hope to hear work many of you.stage 4 cancer inside me 
sooo, only two or three more "Stews" coming up, probably, for me to 
enjoyI'll be QRP and anxious to hand you a 4 point mult.

Thoroughly enjoying years of learning the technical and operating aspects of 
Top Band from this group of savvy hams - thank you all for the info!!! 

72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV


_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Orientation of a 160 meter receive loop?

[James Rodenkirch]

I have a 160 meter rcv loop - kc2tx product - I want to employ this season.

I don't have a lot of band noise here in s/w Utah and don't want to bother with 
a rotor socan I mount the loop in a horizontal configuration and expect 
some improvement in rcv signal strength? I seem to recall Tom, W8JI, cautioning 
me to ensure I have the loop perfectly level. I do have a kd9sv preamp to 
employ and the Zo at the antenna is 50 ohms (verified on my Autek ant analyzer) 
so I can use 50 coax for the feedline.

Thanks, in advance for any 'advice' or reaffirmation I am on solid` ground here.

72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: V63

[James Rodenkirch]

http://v63.webcrow.jp/

According to chat on low band chat room - http://www.on4kst.com/chat/start.php 
- the  two ops suppose to have some focus on 160 aqnd 80 cw and aware of our sr 
"windows"!!

72 de Jim R. K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: A letter imploring asmateur to "get involved"

[James Rodenkirch]

To my fellow CW, RTTY, and other narrow band digital mode users:

I mentioned at the last BVARC meeting that I would provide additional
details regarding RM-11708. I have been in contact with Ted Rappaport N9NB
regarding this, and I would like to copy to you what he sent me:

"Today's ham radio RTTY stations use a well-known signaling convention based
on the baudot code, and this code uses a speed of up to 300 baud, the
maximum signaling speed allowed in the FCC rules for HF. This coding scheme
has a natural emission bandwidth of just under 500 HZ. A fast CW signal has
an emission bandwidth less than 200 HZ. Psk31 uses less than 100 HZ. Jt65
uses about 200 HZ bandwidth or so.

 By asking the FCC to remove  the 300 baud rate limit on HF, the ARRL was
simply asking the FCC (in their petition 11708 filed in November 2013) to
remove an antiquated term and remove the baud rate speed limit (which was
naturally about 500 Hz bandwidth). That seemed fair enough. But, sadly,  the
ARRL asked the FCC to replace the existing 300 baud rate limit with a 2.8
kHz emission bandwidth limit, the same bandwidth limit as SSB signals!

 Thus, the ARRL asked the FCC in Rm 11708 to allow any data signal, including
future RTTY or pactor or new wideband marine modem data signaling types to
be introduced with up to a 2.8 kHz emission bandwidth! This would wipe out
the narrow RTTY and CW signals of today, and hog the low end of all the HF
bands. The ARRL tried this same thing in 2005 but in the SSB spectrum with
its failed RM 11306. In 2007 the ARRL withdrew its petition to the FCC since
hams were very upset.

Unfortunately, what's really bad now about RM 11708 is that the ARRL never
withdrew it, and last week the FCC took it as a proposed rulemaking. This is
the last stage before accepted law!

What is abysmal is the FCC took the ARRL's ideas of eliminating 300 baud
limit in HF, but has tentatively ruled that any data signal may use an
UNLIMITED bandwidth. This means wide band signals of arbitrary bandwidth
will key up on CW and RTTY stations!

A published NPRM means the FCC is about to enact it as law, so unless there
is MASSIVE outcry to both ARRL officials and the FCC in both the commenting
period and the "reply to comment" period, the precious HF lower CW/data/RTTY
bands may be lawfully overrun by serial tone military modems and digitized
voice signals and lots of other stuff with vicious signal  bandwidths of
2.8,5, 10, 20 and 25 kHz Big walls of impenetrable QRM!! Good bye CW and
RTTY and DX! Hello Internet and Facebook for boaters  -:(  "

What we are asking you to do is to contact the FCC and express your
disapproval of this proposed rule. We have until October 11, 2016 to submit
comments and reply comments by November 10, 2016. 

You may submit comments, identified by WT Docket No. 16-239, by any of the
following methods:

* Federal Communications Commission's Web site:
 http://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs/. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.[CLICK ON "SUBMIT A FILING"]

* Mail: Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW.,
Washington, DC 20554.

* People with Disabilities: Contact the FCC to request reasonable
accommodations (accessible format documents, sign language interpreters,
CART, etc.) by email:   fcc...@fcc.gov or phone:
202-418-0530 or TTY: 202-418-0432.

 There is a 60 day " comment" period after NPRM 11708 published in the
federal register, and then after that 60 day window, there is a further 30
day "reply to comment" window where everyone can critique and agree or
disagree with some of the previously filed comments. 

 "If we are to successfully revise (it's too late to repel) this frightful
proposal, which is in the very last stages of official approval at the
Commission (gulp!), we must have tens of thousands of well-reasoned replies
that specially call for bandwidth limits!!! Both during the reply period,
and then ALSO during the Reply to Comment period, we need tens of thousands
of comments so the FCC sees this is a problem ! Otherwise, there is no hope
and they will accept the NPRM as written and published in July 28,2016!"
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 160 Meter Radio Propagation Prediction Table

[James Rodenkirch]

Moscow, Raoul, I believe.72 Jim R. K9JWV

Africa is not part of their world? I thought so, as my radio also seems to say 
I live  in a Black 160m hole.:-) bTW Where is Mos? kind regards,Raoul ZS1C


_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: 160 Meter Radio Propagation Prediction Table

[James Rodenkirch]

..I know, I KNOW . top band propagation predictors are about 
useless  BUT, Hey..anything is worth a looksee.doncha know?!?!

You see this in the write up below the "dashboard" (url at the bottom of this 
post) "A GREEN box means that propagation on the specific path might be 
possible..."

We all know anything is possible..it's when some numerical probability is 
assigned we know some true "measuring" was performed AND we know measuring and 
predicting propagation on top band can approach whimsical BUTconsider this 
a "tool," of sortsI see where the page is updated every five minutes.

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 

P.S. Enjoy the days ahead!!


http://www.spacew.com/www/160pred.html
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Top Band propagation predictor..............

[James Rodenkirch]

...I know, I KNOW . top band propagation predictors are about 
useless  BUT, Hey..anything is worth a looksee.doncha know?!?!

You see this in the write up below the "dashboard" "A GREEN box means that 
propagation on the specific path might be possible..."

We all know anything is possible..it's when some numerical probability is 
assigned we know some true "measuring" was performed AND we know measuring and 
predicting propagation on top band can approach whimsical BUTconsider this 
a "tool," of sortsI see where the page is updated every five minutes.

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 

P.S. Enjoy the days ahead!!
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Working Europe

[James Rodenkirch]

I'll attempt to get on more often in the mornings, Mike.

A couple of weeks back I was on top band cw  every morning for a week...never 
heard anyone on CW calling CQ or answering me...summer time blues were in full 
force...hi hi


From: mstang...@comcast.net <mstang...@comcast.net>
Sent: Saturday, July 2, 2016 8:45 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Cc: Top Band Contesting
Subject: Re: Topband: Working Europe

I totally agree with Jim. We should use the band and not limit our QSo's to 
contesting or hunting DX.

One of my goals in to work WAS QRP. When I have the time (and willpower) I get 
up around dawn to operate 160. I usually hear domestic stations calling DX.

If they don't have any success I call them running QRP. Sometimes it results in 
a nice ragchew. We discuss DX, or the lack of it and our antennas.

Get on the air.

Mike N2MS
- Original Message -
From: James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com>
To: Top Band Contesting <topband@contesting.com>
Sent: Fri, 01 Jul 2016 23:22:43 - (UTC)
Subject: Re: Topband: Working Europe

Mike: I would posit we - the "top band community" - need to promote increased 
operations -- fuggedabout "decent rx antennas" --- just get more hams 
operating on top band:

- emphasize the Maunder minimum
- emphasize the rise of efficiency of small lot antennas, as a resulting 
"benefit"
- emphasize the benefits of a new low band rcv arrays

It's about encouraging hams to explore top band, as the "minimums" descend on 
us.not, necessarily, encouraging "ultimate stations" --- i.e., get 'em on 
the band..

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

Guy said:

>There is the issue of when people are actually listening on 160. *Sounds*
dead because no one is there.

...AND THEN there is the issue of when people *can* actually listen; by
that I mean, they have a decent rx antenna at their disposal.

I've noticed quite a few locals (W1) with increasing interest in 160. The
low-space rx antenna options out there are attracting interest. This is
good. Bring on the minimum.

Mike N1TA
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Working Europe

[James Rodenkirch]

Kevin: I wouldn't disagree with your rationale but...let's emphasize 
gettin' on top band first, improving rcv antenna(s) second.

- BOGs and Beveridges may be a non-starter if space constraints are in play
- DX engineering rcv antenna systems may be "out of reach" due to lack of 
discretionary funds

+ if technical awareness is low, passing on tips to install a small loop will 
work
+ simple rcv loop antenna can "help"and doesn't take up much space
+ there are several "160 meter antennas for a small lot" web sites that can be 
"the hook" to give it a try

Howeverone size does not fit all.I've been a QRP participant since 2012 
and use my transmit antenna for receive - I've done quite well as far as 
scoring and final "position" in many of the CQ and Stew Perry contests so I 
maintain -- get 'em interested, get 'em on the air, worry about receive 
antenna(s) later.  

Appreciate your comments

"fuggedabout "decent rx antennas" 

Jim, I think the two things are both necessary. We need to encourage then to 
get on, but emphasize the need for RX antennas. Without them, 160 is a hard 
sell. I have a buddy that has a perfectly viable TX antenna (better than mine,  
LOL) who never gets on 160 meters because when he does he never hears anything 
interesting. I have so far not been able to convince him that RX antennas 
aren't optional, but a necessary part of 160 meter operating. I would 
have ended up the same way as my friend did before I put up my K9AY, I suspect, 
but fortunately my 160 meter type friends convinced me to give it a try. 
Hopefully, I will get him over one winter night and show him what even a simple 
160 m RX antenna can do. 
  
Same thing with QRP. I've heard of many new hams whose "buddies" sold them on 
QRP only to drop out when the call/QSO ratio was dismal. Better to start with a 
100w rig and "graduate" to QRP once they have some success and come to 
understand propagation, etc. I think the s ame concept applies  on 160, 
why start them out with a situation that would frustrate even veteran 160 meter 
ops? 
  
73, Kevin K3OX 
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Working Europe

[James Rodenkirch]

Mike: I would posit we - the "top band community" - need to promote increased 
operations -- fuggedabout "decent rx antennas" --- just get more hams 
operating on top band:

- emphasize the Maunder minimum
- emphasize the rise of efficiency of small lot antennas, as a resulting 
"benefit"
- emphasize the benefits of a new low band rcv arrays

It's about encouraging hams to explore top band, as the "minimums" descend on 
us.not, necessarily, encouraging "ultimate stations" --- i.e., get 'em on 
the band..

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

Guy said:

>There is the issue of when people are actually listening on 160. *Sounds*
dead because no one is there.

...AND THEN there is the issue of when people *can* actually listen; by
that I mean, they have a decent rx antenna at their disposal.

I've noticed quite a few locals (W1) with increasing interest in 160. The
low-space rx antenna options out there are attracting interest. This is
good. Bring on the minimum.

Mike N1TA
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Summer Stew Perry Topband Distance Challenge - Reminder

[James Rodenkirch]

Annd, don't forget that us weak-kneed ops - ps, weak sounding 
signal ops -- may well be QRP participants and we ARE worth twice the point 
value of our "QRO/Low Power brethren"!!!

Just sayin'   71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

--
Please listen for us up in N EU even if there is little common darkness
between us and US
GL
Len
SM7BIC
-Ursprungligt meddelande-
Från: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] För Tree
Skickat: den 9 juni 2016 15:57
Till: 160 ; cq-cont...@contesting.com
Ämne: Topband: Summer Stew Perry Topband Distance Challenge - Reminder

The next Stew Perry event will be held on June 18/19th.

This is a CW only 160 meter "distance challenge" where you receive points
for QSOs based upon their distance from you.

Full rules and previous results can be found here:

http://www.kkn.net/stew/

While the middle of summer is a tough time to operate 160 meters for us in
the Northern Hemisphere - this is an ideal time to work some of our friends
in the Southern latitudes.

73 Tree N6TR
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: low band propagation at solar min

[James Rodenkirch]

Bob - I couldn't agree morelisten, call CQ every so often (use RBN to see 
how you're "doing"), repeat.take notes, etc.

However, I'll add a slightly slant/entreaty hereI've been on 160 
and 80 in the early morning hours (1000Z to 1300Z) for days (3 to 5) at a time 
(most recently, about three weeks ago) listening, calling CQ, listening, 
watching the ON4KST reflector to see who's on and trying to make 
Qs...nary one other station heard.

Now, one "note" - I am at QRP to just over QRP (10 watts) and I don't employ a 
BOG or Beveridge or other rx-only antenna BUTI do enjoy a relatively quiet 
home location in s/w Utah where S levels are around S3 or so..still no 
calls, no hearing CQs, nada. In short,  I become "bummed" somewhat when I see 
RBN reports from stations in WA, CA, MN, AZ and NV of 20, 14, 16 etc., as I 
call CQ, knowing FULL well there have to be others "on the band."

I wish others wud listen on top band and 80 --- if they hear some "less than 
exotic call sign calling CQ," give the guy/gal a call, send an RST and move on! 

I feel like - NO, I believe firmly - there is a "snooty view" by those ops with 
THE ultimate antenna farms (tx and rcv) that takes over when they get on 160 or 
80 - they light the filaments of their amps, ensure they are selecting 
the"correct" rx array "heading," and listen "vehemently" for any signs of a VK, 
a JA, a "whatever" call sign...as long as it isn't aW/K...! wish others on 
160/80 wud invest one minute to answer a CQ, send the RST and move on. it's 
OK to work a fella W/K ham on top band - it won't sully you image amongst the 
"top band elite." 

I KNOW I do "well" in the CQ, ARRL and Stew events - so, albeit a QRP to 10 
watt limitation, I know it's not my "system"!

I hope some of youz will start listening a little and take opportunities to 
answer CQs on top band, during non-contesting times..understanding there 
are us "peanut whistle" stations out there who, simply, enjoy hearing a reply 
to our CQs OR hope to hear others calling CQ, sans "CQ DX"!

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

Monday, June 06, 2016 2:58 AM
To: jkaufm...@alum.mit.edu ; 'Carl Luetzelschwab' ; topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: low band propagation at solar min

...SNIP...

I believe we still have so much to learn on this subject.
That is why nothing beats listening no matter what the numbers say.
73 and gud DX.  Bob K3UL

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

[James Rodenkirch]

By the by: if anyone needs a competent web-site design/manager, my nephew does 
that sort of thing - he's worked on other sites I'm involved with and does 
excellent worth..71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV

Here's a representative site he runs: https://www.rmspartnership.org/


From: Kip Edwards <kedwa...@ltol.com>
Sent: Friday, June 3, 2016 7:57 AM
To: 'James Rodenkirch'; 'Top Band Contesting'; w...@contesting.com
Subject: RE: Topband: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

Jim,

The Yasme Foundation website is being completely re-done by the
person who did the NCJ website.  Unfortunately our webmaster resigned and it
has taken some time and one false start to find someone capable of doing it
right.  In the meantime the website is embarrassing and, as you noted,
woefully out of date.

My apologies to all--and I'm glad you were able to find the press
release about Tom receiving the Yasme Excellence Award.

73 Kip W6SZN
Yasme Foundation Director/Secretary

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of James
Rodenkirch
Sent: Friday, June 03, 2016 5:19 AM
To: Top Band Contesting; w...@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

Based on some snooping around @ the YASME site, it's obvious no one is
keeping that site up to date - tnx to Mike, W0Btu, for listing the ARRL url
link.

Also, I didn't intend to diss the other current recipients...Tim Duffy (who
I believe shows up here once in a while with comments) and Carole Perry (I
am not familiar with her efforts)...AND, as I understand from a recent post,
our very own Tree has garnered that recognition.BZ to all!

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

P.S. Hope to hear and work ya in the summer Stew...and sure HOPE you hear my
peanut whistle QRP signal...hihi 
From: James Rodenkirch
Sent: Thursday, June 2, 2016 4:07 PM
To: Top Band Contesting; w...@contesting.com
Subject: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

No more deserving...good on ya, Tom! I've enjoyed AND miss your technical
and "how to operate" posts.

Tom Rauch, W8JI: "The Yasme Excellence Award is made in recognition of Tom's
many contributions to the technical advancement of the Amateur Service," the
announcement said. "Tom's willingness to provide education and direction to
amateurs through his website and other communications is a prime example of
hams mentoring, teaching, and training each other in the finest traditions
of Amateur Radio."
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
-
No virus found in this message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 2016.0.7597 / Virus Database: 4568/12243 - Release Date: 05/16/16
Internal Virus Database is out of date.

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

[James Rodenkirch]

Based on some snooping around @ the YASME site, it's obvious no one is keeping 
that site up to date - tnx to Mike, W0Btu, for listing the ARRL url  link.

Also, I didn't intend to diss the other current recipients...Tim Duffy (who I 
believe shows up here once in a while with comments) and Carole Perry (I am not 
familiar with her efforts)...AND, as I understand from a recent post, our very 
own Tree has garnered that recognition.BZ to all!

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

P.S. Hope to hear and work ya in the summer Stew...and sure HOPE you hear my 
peanut whistle QRP signal...hihi 

From: James Rodenkirch
Sent: Thursday, June 2, 2016 4:07 PM
To: Top Band Contesting; w...@contesting.com
Subject: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

No more deserving...good on ya, Tom! I've enjoyed AND miss your technical and 
"how to operate" posts.

Tom Rauch, W8JI: "The Yasme Excellence Award is made in recognition of Tom's 
many contributions to the technical advancement of the Amateur Service," the 
announcement said. "Tom's willingness to provide education and direction to 
amateurs through his website and other communications is a prime example of 
hams mentoring, teaching, and training each other in the finest traditions of 
Amateur Radio."
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: W8JI - recipient of the Yasme Excellence Award

[James Rodenkirch]

No more deserving...good on ya, Tom! I've enjoyed AND miss your technical and 
"how to operate" posts.

Tom Rauch, W8JI: "The Yasme Excellence Award is made in recognition of Tom's 
many contributions to the technical advancement of the Amateur Service," the 
announcement said. "Tom's willingness to provide education and direction to 
amateurs through his website and other communications is a prime example of 
hams mentoring, teaching, and training each other in the finest traditions of 
Amateur Radio."
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: VK0EK confirmation

[James Rodenkirch]

I stand behind my "criticism" of Mr. Brown's "treatment" of a fellow, foreign 
ham!

I received numerous private e-mails thanking me for stating the obvious (the 
kindest comment made about him was his arrogance, the remainder describe him 
pointedly more acerbic, etc.) AND stating they had written the reflector 
manager to post their displeasure re his reply to that SP ham who asked an 
innocent question.

Being eccentric while verbally or, in writing, looking down one's nose at 
someone are mutually exclusive "actions" --- i.e., one does not beget the 
other...except in the case of K9YC! 

One is correct when one states, "You can personally filter-out or just neglect 
content from those you
consider less relevant in your in-box." That works for me, one of many "outside 
viewers/readers".it does NOT work for the offended person, in this case 
the SP ham, who asked an innocent query and, then, got taken to the "verbal 
wood shed"  save your protestation-type indignations for some other 
forumI doubt if you'll find much empathy or sympathy here...especially if 
the call sign K9YC is introduced in to the discussion early on!

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

P.S. I don't care one wit what latest "award" Mr. Brown garnered lately 
--- 


From: Doug Renwick <ve...@sasktel.net>
Sent: Wednesday, May 4, 2016 11:37 AM
To: 'Mark van Wijk'; 'James Rodenkirch'; 'Top Band Contesting'
Subject: RE: Topband: VK0EK confirmation

>From time to time there are those on this list who believe that the regular
lynching of a member is required. These lynchers and SJW decided it was K9YC
s turn to be lynched because of his free speech. More signs of 'gentlemen's
band' decay.

Doug

I wasn't born in Saskatchewan, but I got here as soon as I could.

-Original Message-

Jim,

This "referee" should act only if people start calling each other names or
call
for a public crucifiction or such.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion and response.

You can personally filter-out or just neglect content from those you
consider
less relevant in your in-box.

On a forum like this there will always be the eccentrics, those who are at
the
'edge of the spectrum'.

Sure those are different from the general bubble, sometimes "lack tact" and
because of their nature, are not capable of submitting a "good natured
reply" as
you correctly named it.

Diplomacy is (scientifically) counter effective in their view. And some
shoot at
everything.

And like Einstein, they are arguably not your cute looking next neighbor.

But very much like K9YC, from time to time they also share empirical
knowledge,
something which is a lot more useful than just repeating theoretic content
from
other writers books.

Also there one can argue to some extent, based on personal other results/
experiences on the topic and still be free to continue thinking otherwise.

The eccentrics (sometimes called Gurus) in our hobby offer plenty of
knowledge
on their websites too. We use that to read, try and learn by doing. Maybe to
find the content offers the same result at our QTH, maybe not.

I cannot imagine we would want to avoid the K9YC's of this world.

I hope they continue their act.

I also often skip their, and other peoples' content if I think it is not
relevant to me.


73
Mark, PA5MW



> Op 18 april 2016 om 20:35 schreef James Rodenkirch
<rodenkirch_...@msn.com>:
>
> I don't know who the "referee" is for this august reflector.BUT, read
> below, puleez,
>
> by doing the following:
>
> - find every spot where I annotated K9YC's acerbic and uncalled for
replies to
> SP6EQZ's initial
>  post by inserting "K9YC replied"
>
> - label K9YC as an "ugly American" and, PULEZ, put him, FINALLY, on
notice
> to "clean up his act"
>  or disappear into the internet ether..
>
> - send a personal e-mail to SP6EQZ and apologize for this exhibited
boorish
> behavior...PULZ!!!
>
> How embarrassing!!! Sheesh
>
> Aside note: I got pissed off enuff at K9YC for his acerbic replies to
several
> past posts of mine.and
>
> enjoyed reading several private e-mails from other subscribers regarding
his
> lack of tact and ability
>
> to submit a "good natured reply," vice the caustic, unfriendly notes he's
> noted for. BUT, this latest edition
>
> makes his forays into my "backyard" pale by comparison!!
>
> Run this dood out of town if it keeps up!!
>
> 72 de Jim R. K9JWV
>
> On Mon,4/18/2016 2:56 AM, Andrzej_SP6AEG wrote:
>
> Courtesy of my friend Wlodzimierz Herej SP6EQZ paid a donation of $ 10 for
> VK0EK.
>
> K9YC replied: Sounds like you're one of the last of the big spenders!
>
> To 

Re: Topband: VK0EK confirmation

[James Rodenkirch]

I don't know who the "referee" is for this august reflector.BUT, read 
below, puleez,

by doing the following:


- find every spot where I annotated K9YC's acerbic and uncalled for replies to 
SP6EQZ's initial
  post by inserting "K9YC replied"


- label K9YC as an "ugly American" and, PULEZ, put him, FINALLY, on notice 
to "clean up his act"
  or disappear into the internet ether..


- send a personal e-mail to SP6EQZ and apologize for this exhibited boorish 
behavior...PULZ!!!


How embarrassing!!!  Sheesh


Aside note: I got pissed off enuff at K9YC for his acerbic replies to several 
past posts of mine.and

enjoyed reading several private e-mails from other subscribers regarding his 
lack of tact and ability

to submit a "good natured reply," vice the caustic, unfriendly notes he's noted 
for. BUT, this latest edition

makes his forays into my "backyard" pale by comparison!!


Run this dood out of town if it keeps up!!


72 de Jim R. K9JWV



On Mon,4/18/2016 2:56 AM, Andrzej_SP6AEG wrote:


Courtesy of my friend  Wlodzimierz Herej SP6EQZ paid a donation of $ 10  for
VK0EK.



K9YC replied: Sounds like you're one of the last of the big spenders!



To this day I have not found confirmation of my QSO on LoTW?.
I sent the payment on April 12, 2016
Is the donation has been sent too late and the previous procedure does not
work, can I do something wrong?.



K9YC replied: Did you not read the VK0EK website? Early LOTW confirmations 
would be sent to those who contributed BEFORE the expedition began. Like you, I 
waited until I had worked them on the boat on their way to Heard to send them 
$300. That's much more than I usually contribute to DX trips, but this was a 
VERY expensive one. I sent a check, and got a nice thank you note from KK6EK's 
XYL. She said I'll get my LOTW when Bob returns home.


I guess I will have to again make fee to confirm my QSO using the form:
https://shop.vk0ek.org/


[https://shop.vk0ek.org/assets/HD_Mug_logo_GIF_512.gif]

VK0EK Shop - VK0EK OQRS page
shop.vk0ek.org
Bringing this expedition to reality has been a huge effort, extending over 3 
years. Besides the 14 men who travelled to Heard Island to operate the radios, 
carry out ...




K9YC replied: It would be good for you to again make a contribution, increasing 
the size of your support. This was a VERY costly expedition.


Thank you very much for having responded to my call, and especially to 160 m
what  gave me 263 entities to 160 DXCC.


The way to say thank you is to send more money. :)



K9YC replied: European hams got 52.5% of VK0EK QSOs, NA got 19.4%. EU got 2,372 
Topband Q's, NA got 293 (I got one of them). Many NA hams who DO contribute to 
these trips are getting more than a bit tired of hearing EU stations 
complaining about DXpeditions not working them but not sending money to support 
the costs. Most NA hams are retired, so when we send money it is from our 
savings or our pensions. Here's a partial list of the guys who paid for your 
QSO.

https://vk0ek.org/sponsors-3/

73, Jim K9YC


_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Searching for low band ops plans at the NG3K web site.

[James Rodenkirch]

I'm certain many of you know how to search for specific planned band of 
operation verbiage, e.g., 160 or 80," etc., at Bill Feidt's great website - 
http://www.ng3k.com/Misc/adxo.html


However, just in case > 0 subscribers don't.here's how you can wade through 
the listings more quickly (courtesy of a reply from Bill himself):


- bring up the current ADXO in a browser window and do a couple of passes using 
the browser's search function (typically Ctrl-f), searching for "160" first

  and "80" on the second pass.  That should save having to eyeball search at 
least. [note: if you type in 160, in the search window at the top, you'll see

  every "160" listed - look over at the "Info" column and scroll down...every 
dxpedition listing mentioning 160 will have 160 high lighted in yellow (or 
"yeller"

  if you   live south of the Mason Dixon line and east of the Mississippi river.


71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV





[http://www.ng3k.com/Gif/linklint.gif]

Announced DX Operations
www.ng3k.com
Start Date End Date DXCC Entity Call QSL via Reported by Info; 2016 : January : 
2016 Jan17: 2016 Apr12: Ethiopia: ET7L: LotW: DXNews 20160117: By UW7LL UR4LRQ 
fm ...



_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Preampm for 160 meter receive loop

[James Rodenkirch]

OK - did a little listening yesterday evening and this A.M. on 160 with my loop 
and found band noise way down, relative to my transmitting antenna (an Inverted 
U).

So, I'd like to add a pre-amp at the base of the loop BUT when I google 160 
meter preamp for sale (or 160 meter preamp kit) the only items I find are a DXE 
product and an ARR 1 module.

Either is/are more than I care to spend (not 'cuz I am "cheap," but 'cuz it's a 
loop, not a Beveridge or a K9AY loop, and I don't expect this loop to be that 
competitive with more sophisticated receive antennas).

Any ideas or places to vector me to? I am disabled and can't operate any kind 
of tool BUT do have a friend who'll build a kit for me so a kit wud work. I saw 
the ICE pre-amps and wish they were still around - looks like that would be an 
excel "first start" kind pre-amp to purchase.

Off-line replies are totally ok - don't need any "nah, this unit is better than 
what 'he' just said" sort of replies - just some ideas...thank you, in advance, 
for you replies.

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

You make my case, Cecil...my "requirements" are - I need two - and not in the 
position of buying beaucoup and hoping I can sell, at cost, to others

I forgot the minimum "reqmt" of Newark - thanks for the reminder -- makes 
my position - small companies like W8DIZ' are more relevant when it's a 
onesy-twosy thang!

72 Jim R.

From: Cecil Acuff <chac...@cableone.net>
Sent: Sunday, April 3, 2016 8:40 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

Better check Newarks minimum order policy..."the fine print"...I think it's $20.

Also check Amidons cost per unit cost for the purchase of 100.  Then sell the 
remainder to list members who might be interested.  Also keep some in your 
junque box...you will go down this road again most likely.

Yeah I know...you only need two...

Cecil
K5DL

Sent using recycled electrons.

> On Apr 3, 2016, at 8:06 AM, James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com> wrote:
>
> I couldn't resist..K9YC says"The BEST way to buy ferrite 
> parts is...buy in quantity from industrial distributors"
>
> Well, first off, I don't need quantity - I need one or two ferrite 
> cores.so, I guess I'm "out of luck," eh?
>
> Let's see ---  to test K9YC's hypothesis, I went shopping, on line, at three 
> distributors, one of which was recommended by K9YC, for two ferrite material 
> cores...
>
> 1) Amidon
>
>  2 each FT-114-61 = $4.50
>  Shipping = $13.43
>  Total: 17.93
>
> 2) Newark
>
>  2 each FT-114-61 = $2.60
>  Shipping = $9.30
>  Total: 11.90
>
> 3) W8DIZ' Kits and parts
>
>  4 each FT-114-61 = $7.00
>  Shipping = $5.34
>  Total: $12.34
>
> Hmmm - looks like I can purchase two more of what I need from W8DIZ 
> for $0.44 more than distributor #2..OR, put another wayit would cost 
> me $2.16 more to purchase four cores from Newark than from W8DIZ. Ok, in the 
> context of "fair markup," I guess "reasonable," a term used by myself and 
> K7HP to describe our dealings with W8DIZ, remains an "ok" descriptor.
>
> 71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV
>
>
> From: Topband <topband-boun...@contesting.com> on behalf of Jim Brown 
> <j...@audiosystemsgroup.com>
> Sent: Saturday, April 2, 2016 4:04 PM
> To: topband@contesting.com
> Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations
>
>> On Sat,4/2/2016 12:52 PM, HankP wrote:
>> BTW Kits and Parts has good assortment of cores at reasonable 
>> priceshttp://www.kitsandparts.com/toroids.php  73 Hank K7HP
>
> That depends on how much markup you consider reasonable. The BEST way,
> by far, to buy ferrite parts is to buy in quantity from industrial
> distributors like Newark, Allied, and other more specialized
> distributors that focus on magnetic materials.
>
> 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: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

I couldn't resist..K9YC says"The BEST way to buy ferrite 
parts is...buy in quantity from industrial distributors" 

Well, first off, I don't need quantity - I need one or two ferrite 
cores.so, I guess I'm "out of luck," eh?

Let's see ---  to test K9YC's hypothesis, I went shopping, on line, at three 
distributors, one of which was recommended by K9YC, for two ferrite material 
cores...

1) Amidon

  2 each FT-114-61 = $4.50
  Shipping = $13.43
  Total: 17.93

2) Newark

  2 each FT-114-61 = $2.60
  Shipping = $9.30
  Total: 11.90

3) W8DIZ' Kits and parts

  4 each FT-114-61 = $7.00
  Shipping = $5.34
  Total: $12.34

Hmmm - looks like I can purchase two more of what I need from W8DIZ for 
$0.44 more than distributor #2..OR, put another wayit would cost me 
$2.16 more to purchase four cores from Newark than from W8DIZ. Ok, in the 
context of "fair markup," I guess "reasonable," a term used by myself and K7HP 
to describe our dealings with W8DIZ, remains an "ok" descriptor.

71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV
  

From: Topband  on behalf of Jim Brown 

Sent: Saturday, April 2, 2016 4:04 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

On Sat,4/2/2016 12:52 PM, HankP wrote:
> BTW Kits and Parts has good assortment of cores at reasonable 
> priceshttp://www.kitsandparts.com/toroids.php  73 Hank K7HP

That depends on how much markup you consider reasonable. The BEST way,
by far, to buy ferrite parts is to buy in quantity from industrial
distributors like Newark, Allied, and other more specialized
distributors that focus on magnetic materials.

73, Jim K9YC
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

Thank you to all for the replies/comments/suggestions --- I am all over finding 
a #61 or #43 material core for a xfmr71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV


From: Topband <topband-boun...@contesting.com> on behalf of Jim Brown 
<j...@audiosystemsgroup.com>
Sent: Friday, April 1, 2016 2:55 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

On Fri,4/1/2016 1:36 PM, James Rodenkirch wrote:
> need to find a Fair-rite 61 core

N6RK notes that Fair-Rite #43 will work fine, with slightly increased
loss. Mu is higher, so you will likely need fewer turns to get 100 uH.
#43 is much easier to find.

73, Jim K9YC
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

Tnx, Jim...yes, see now where 43 material works almost as well...will find #43 
core...Jim R.


From: Topband <topband-boun...@contesting.com> on behalf of Jim Brown 
<j...@audiosystemsgroup.com>
Sent: Friday, April 1, 2016 2:55 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

On Fri,4/1/2016 1:36 PM, James Rodenkirch wrote:
> need to find a Fair-rite 61 core

N6RK notes that Fair-Rite #43 will work fine, with slightly increased
loss. Mu is higher, so you will likely need fewer turns to get 100 uH.
#43 is much easier to find.

73, Jim K9YC
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

You are the 2nd fella, Frank, to remind me about a matching/coupling 
xfmr.muchas gracias!!!


71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV



From: donov...@starpower.net <donov...@starpower.net>
Sent: Friday, April 1, 2016 2:25 PM
To: Top Band Contesting
Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

Hi Jim,

A properly constructed loop antenna absolutely requires a preamp.
If signals are so strong that you don't require a preamp then its
likely that the signals you're hearing are not actually coming from
the very inefficient loop but from other sources such common mode
from your coax feed line if its not very well isolated from the loop.

If your loop is operating correctly it will be omni-directional for
skywave signals and it will have an extremely deep null for an
unwanted signal propagated to your antenna from one local
vertically polarized interference source.A well constructed loop
should have a null depth of 60-80 dB and a null beamwidth of just
a few degrees.   A very rigid mechanical mount is required to
keep the deep null pointed directly at your interference source.

A properly constructed loop should be transformer matched
to keep the loop balanced and both the coaxial cable and power
cable must be exceptionally well isolated from the loop.

A low noise figure high gain preamp is essential.

73
Frank
W3LPL






From: "James Rodenkirch" <rodenkirch_...@msn.com>
To: "Top Band Contesting" <topband@contesting.com>
Sent: Friday, April 1, 2016 7:04:25 PM
Subject: Topband: Receive loop observations

I have installed a receive loop (  http://www.qsl.net/kc2tx/  ) and finished 
measuring and observing...


Measurements:


VSWR --- 1.7 @ 1.830

ZO - 77 at 1.830


Observation:


Following ON4UN's comments regarding needing a preamp or not, measured S1 to 2 
noise level with antenna connected during mid-day, S0 with dummy load connected.


During evening hours, notice some improvement - S2 drop in noise level when 
switching from xmt antenna (inverted U) to the loop - but not hearing much in 
the way of receive signals (e.g., hear a fairly strong signal from the west 
coast on the xmt antenna, nothing on the loop and I have it oriented east/west).


I'm uncertain if a low noise amp will help my cause (thoughts??)


I do not have a common mode choke installed, yet...will one make that much 
difference?


The loop is located about 60' away from the Inverted U and radials.


Comments/suggestions appreciated.



Thank you, in advance, for constructive, relative to what I have now, 
repliesnon-"constructive" means I can't erect a BOG, Beveridge or Waller 
Flag so don't ask why I didn't go that route.


71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

Doggone it, Don...I'd seen that presentation before - simply forgot about using 
a xfmr to couple unbalanced coax to balanced rcv antennagood on ya for 
sending that on -- need to find a Fair-rite 61 core.hihi



From: Don Kirk <wd8...@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, April 1, 2016 2:02 PM
To: James Rodenkirch
Cc: Top Band Contesting
Subject: Re: Topband: Receive loop observations

Hi Jim,

I know my following info does not directly answer your question, but I do think 
it's important regarding feedline isolation.

I suggest you take a look at the recommendations of N6RK regarding the use of a 
matching transformer to feed tuned shielded loops as it isolates the feedline 
from the antenna (shield of coax not tied directly to the loop).  I use the 
N6RK matching transformer method on my loops of similar design and think it 
makes the most sense regarding feedline isolation, and maintaining proper 
balance of the antenna.

Here is a link to his paper, and his matching transformer is shown on page 30 
and 33 of his paper.
http://www.n6rk.com/loopantennas/pacificon.pdf

73,
Don (wd8dsb)

73,
Don (wd8dsb)

On Fri, Apr 1, 2016 at 3:04 PM, James Rodenkirch 
<rodenkirch_...@msn.com<mailto:rodenkirch_...@msn.com>> wrote:
I have installed a receive loop (  http://www.qsl.net/kc2tx/  ) and finished 
measuring and observing...


Measurements:


VSWR --- 1.7 @ 1.830

ZO - 77 at 1.830


Observation:


Following ON4UN's comments regarding needing a preamp or not, measured S1 to 2 
noise level with antenna connected during mid-day, S0 with dummy load connected.


During evening hours, notice some improvement - S2 drop in noise level when 
switching from xmt antenna (inverted U) to the loop - but not hearing much in 
the way of receive signals (e.g., hear a fairly strong signal from the west 
coast on the xmt antenna, nothing on the loop and I have it oriented east/west).


I'm uncertain if a low noise amp will help my cause (thoughts??)


I do not have a common mode choke installed, yet...will one make that much 
difference?


The loop is located about 60' away from the Inverted U and radials.


Comments/suggestions appreciated.



Thank you, in advance, for constructive, relative to what I have now, 
repliesnon-"constructive" means I can't erect a BOG, Beveridge or Waller 
Flag so don't ask why I didn't go that route.


71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Receive loop observations

[James Rodenkirch]

I have installed a receive loop (  http://www.qsl.net/kc2tx/  ) and finished 
measuring and observing...


Measurements:


VSWR --- 1.7 @ 1.830

ZO - 77 at 1.830


Observation:


Following ON4UN's comments regarding needing a preamp or not, measured S1 to 2 
noise level with antenna connected during mid-day, S0 with dummy load connected.


During evening hours, notice some improvement - S2 drop in noise level when 
switching from xmt antenna (inverted U) to the loop - but not hearing much in 
the way of receive signals (e.g., hear a fairly strong signal from the west 
coast on the xmt antenna, nothing on the loop and I have it oriented east/west).


I'm uncertain if a low noise amp will help my cause (thoughts??)


I do not have a common mode choke installed, yet...will one make that much 
difference?


The loop is located about 60' away from the Inverted U and radials.


Comments/suggestions appreciated.



Thank you, in advance, for constructive, relative to what I have now, 
repliesnon-"constructive" means I can't erect a BOG, Beveridge or Waller 
Flag so don't ask why I didn't go that route.


71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: VK0EK, Heard Island on the air!

[James Rodenkirch]

Another audio log update.

https://media.vk0ek.org/player.php?id=29

72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

[James Rodenkirch]

The 30' vertical legs are absolutely vertical, Jimhorizontal leg is 51' 
long and I placed a 30 microhenry "end loading coil" at the far end...tunes up 
well via the LDG Z11 ProII auto tuner located at the base of the near vertical 
end.


I used the MMANA antenna design s/w to "put it together on paper" -- erected it 
yesterday afternoon.was nervous about taking down my inverted "El" but sure 
glad I did -- MMANA said the inverted El had 1.6 dbi of gain, the Inverted U - 
sumpin' in excess of 3.5 with a lower takeoff angle


71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV



From: Jim F. <j_fit...@yahoo.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 13, 2016 9:31 AM
To: James Rodenkirch; topband@contesting.com; n...@no3m.net
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

K9JWV... Good luck with that Inv U !   It worked great at my last location but 
not here.
Totally different terrain and the vertical feed leg here is at an angle instead 
of being
perfectly vertical.

Eric, NO3M  Wonderful workmanship in that 1928 MOPA transmitter !  
Congratulations !

When this old PC was turned on this morning an error came up and the date and 
all times
in the log were changed to year 2004 !!!  Gulp !

I know what this year is but,
in order to correct all the log times at least one QSO time reference will be 
needed.

So if someone would send me the time of a QSO it would be greatly appreciated.
  I didn't work many but would like to make sure those who agonized through a
QRP QSO with me get the well deserved credit.

Thank you and 73,

Jim / W1FMR  NH


________
From: James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com>
To: "topband@contesting.com" <topband@contesting.com>; "n...@no3m.net" 
<n...@no3m.net>; Jim F. <j_fit...@yahoo.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 13, 2016 9:48 AM
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

Hearing very few CA ops this A.M. so don't expect to hear few JAs.oh well, 
my new antenna - an inverted U - did well for me (worked far more east 
coast/new England stns this time around)  ...just put it up yesterday80 Qs 
and 915 pts


LOVE Stew Perry events...72 to all de Jim R. K9JWV


From: Jim F. <j_fit...@yahoo.com<mailto:j_fit...@yahoo.com>>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 10:17 PM
To: James Rodenkirch; topband@contesting.com<mailto:topband@contesting.com>; 
n...@no3m.net<mailto:n...@no3m.net>
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

Eric...Mopa sounded great in NH !  Did not hear Jim

KV4FZ was loud about 0500 but no reply.
Worked NP2X about that time who was just above the noise.
Out in the dark at 8 pm laying down radials  And will pull them in
before church in the morning.  Enjoying the condo challenge !

73,

Jim / W1FMR / QRP / NH


From: James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com<mailto:rodenkirch_...@msn.com>>
To: "topband@contesting.com<mailto:topband@contesting.com>" 
<topband@contesting.com<mailto:topband@contesting.com>>; 
"n...@no3m.net<mailto:n...@no3m.net>" <n...@no3m.net<mailto:n...@no3m.net>>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 6:53 PM
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

Will be lookin' for ya, Eric...have a new antenna up (just put it up this 
afternoon) and will be PUSING my 4.9 watts out into the ether72, Jim R. 
K9JWV


From: Topband 
<topband-boun...@contesting.com<mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com><mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com<mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com>>>
 on behalf of Eric NO3M 
<n...@no3m.net<mailto:n...@no3m.net><mailto:n...@no3m.net<mailto:n...@no3m.net>>>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 12:09 PM
To: 
topband@contesting.com<mailto:topband@contesting.com><mailto:topband@contesting.com<mailto:topband@contesting.com>>

Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

I should be QRV this evening with my 1928 MOPA running about 19W input /
11W output.  Already worked some EU stations with it (Four Square TX),
so hoping to catch some west of Rockies guys tonight.

http://no3m.net/vintage/160m-1928-mopa/

Not quite QRP

73 Eric NO3M


_
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: Spring Stew Perry

[James Rodenkirch]

Hearing very few CA ops this A.M. so don't expect to hear few JAs.oh well, 
my new antenna - an inverted U - did well for me (worked far more east 
coast/new England stns this time around)  ...just put it up yesterday80 Qs 
and 915 pts


LOVE Stew Perry events...72 to all de Jim R. K9JWV


From: Jim F. <j_fit...@yahoo.com>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 10:17 PM
To: James Rodenkirch; topband@contesting.com; n...@no3m.net
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

Eric...Mopa sounded great in NH !   Did not hear Jim

KV4FZ was loud about 0500 but no reply.
Worked NP2X about that time who was just above the noise.
 Out in the dark at 8 pm laying down radials  And will pull them in
before church in the morning.   Enjoying the condo challenge !

73,

Jim / W1FMR / QRP / NH


From: James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com>
To: "topband@contesting.com" <topband@contesting.com>; "n...@no3m.net" 
<n...@no3m.net>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 6:53 PM
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

Will be lookin' for ya, Eric...have a new antenna up (just put it up this 
afternoon) and will be PUSING my 4.9 watts out into the ether72, Jim R. 
K9JWV


From: Topband 
<topband-boun...@contesting.com<mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com>> on 
behalf of Eric NO3M <n...@no3m.net<mailto:n...@no3m.net>>
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 12:09 PM
To: topband@contesting.com<mailto:topband@contesting.com>
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

I should be QRV this evening with my 1928 MOPA running about 19W input /
11W output.  Already worked some EU stations with it (Four Square TX),
so hoping to catch some west of Rockies guys tonight.

http://no3m.net/vintage/160m-1928-mopa/

Not quite QRP

73 Eric NO3M


_
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: Spring Stew Perry

[James Rodenkirch]

Too bad, Eric, I couldn't hear you ..lots of qrn last night...this a.m.  
QUIET...turned the pre-amp on a couople of times.


From: Topband  on behalf of Eric NO3M 

Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 11:58 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

Heard Jim, K9JWV, around 0216z with good sigs, but couldn't get his
attention.

Caught Jim, K9YC, calling CQ low in the band, gave it a try and made an
easy QSO.  Jim/YC's QRP sigs have been getting better the last few
contests compared to prior years as we are heading down the backside of
the cycle.  Cpngrats on working CT!

So far worked maybe a couple dozen or more west of the Rockies, KV4FZ,
NP2X, KH6ZM, and GW3YDX with the '28 MOPA; hand still in good shape
despite many CQs on the bug.

73 Eric NO3M

On 03/13/2016 01:32 AM, Jim Brown wrote:
> On Sat,3/12/2016 9:17 PM, Jim F. via Topband wrote:
>> Eric...Mopa sounded great in NH !   Did not hear Jim
>
> Eric found me on my first run frequency. His first call was covered by
> a local, but I heard him. He got me on the next call. Solid signal,
> not loud, good copy.
>
> But -- the prize for me was K1KI, BIG signal, heard me to give me CT
> for #47 state.
>
>> KV4FZ was loud about 0500 but no reply.
>
> No luck with Herb, but KH6ZM heard me first call.
>
> 73, Jim K9YC
>

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

[James Rodenkirch]

Will be lookin' for ya, Eric...have a new antenna up (just put it up this 
afternoon) and will be PUSING my 4.9 watts out into the ether72, Jim R. 
K9JWV


From: Topband  on behalf of Eric NO3M 

Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 12:09 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry

I should be QRV this evening with my 1928 MOPA running about 19W input /
11W output.  Already worked some EU stations with it (Four Square TX),
so hoping to catch some west of Rockies guys tonight.

http://no3m.net/vintage/160m-1928-mopa/

Not quite QRP

73 Eric NO3M


_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: BCB High Pass Filter

[James Rodenkirch]

$28.00 for this one...

http://www.iceradioproducts.com/filtersrf.html


From: Topband  on behalf of Eric NO3M 

Sent: Thursday, March 3, 2016 10:09 AM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: BCB High Pass Filter

It states on the Clifton Labs homepage:

"Clifton Laboratories is no longer in business.
No products are available for sale or repair."

However, the PDF manual including the schematic for the BCB high pass
filter is here:

http://www.cliftonlaboratories.com/Documents/Z10022A%20Manual.pdf

It is a fairly simple filter to build and works very well.  I don't
remember the actual specs of the ones I built off-hand.  I use them in
my signal conditioners (white cores):

http://no3m.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/100_3729.jpg

73 Eric NO3M

On 03/03/2016 11:46 AM, Roger White wrote:
> Everyone, thanks for the info. I really only need a Rx only filter. The DLWC 
> BCB filter looks nice.
>
> BTW, does anyone know if Clifton Labs still in business? I thought I saw 
> somewhere they no longer sell products. I remember years ago they had some 
> high quality products.
>
> Roger White W5RDW
> Murphy, TX
>
>

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Spring Stew Perry in a few more days

[James Rodenkirch]

I'll be lookin' for ya as a QRP contestant, BillGL getting that Atlas up 
and runnin'

71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV


From: Topband  on behalf of Bill Cromwell 

Sent: Wednesday, March 2, 2016 11:28 AM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Topband: Spring Stew Perry in a few more days

Hi,

Somebody mentioned the Stew is coming 'round again so I finally
remembered to look it up. It will be here a week from Saturday. I have
been 'on a roll' at my workbench getting the old radios operational
again. I am going to flog myself attempting to have the station ready to
get on the air with a patched up antenna (frost is still in the ground).
My Atlas 180 is coming along pretty well. I stopped using it about
twenty years ago (where did the time go!) and it has deteriorated just
sitting on the shelf. Magic? It is receiving pretty well now. Most of
the transmitter is trying to work now. It wouldn't even think about it
last week. No RX. No TX. Nada. I printed a copy of the voltage charts
and I'll use that to isolate the trouble. I can see that somebody in the
past made some "improvements" or at least some repairs. I suspect a
broken wire or a solder joint. Maybe one of those pesky electrolytic
caps. At high volume the RX audio is "raspy" and I have been ignoring
that - keep the volume down to just my garage.

And the DX-100 is wanting to work. It would be great to have both
available. The Kenwood R-599 has 160 on it and works as well as it ever
did. Just needs a TX to go with. The matching T-599 does NOT have Top
Band. What's up with that? I do have a real life aside from ham radio
(like most of us) so I will have to *focus* to be on 160 in time for the
Stew. I hope to see you on the air - *soon*.

73,

Bill  KU8H
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Am I the only one in step?

[James Rodenkirch]

Appreciate the reminder re Region 2, Mike.but..will a "common plan" 
amongst all IARU regions, if not adhered to by participants (evidenced here in 
Region 2), be "worth the effort" to bring about???

Again, I am a newbie to 160 AND a QRP operator so DXCC entities, to me, mean 
anything west of the U.S., stopping just past HL/JA/VK lands.

P.S. I'm "new" sobe gentle in your replies!!


From: mstang...@comcast.net <mstang...@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 1, 2016 9:15 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Cc: Top Band Contesting
Subject: Re: Topband: Am I the only one in step?

That is the band plan for the US in ITU Region2.. The problem is different ITU 
regions and countries have different 160 meter assignments.

I common worldwide allocation will mitigate lots of these issues.

We should urge our IARU representatives to work towards a common 1.8 to 2 Mhz 
160 meter band at the next IARU conference.

Mike N2MS

- Original Message -
From: James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com>
To: Top Band Contesting <topband@contesting.com>
Sent: Tue, 01 Mar 2016 15:31:16 - (UTC)
Subject: Re: Topband: Am I the only one in step?

>From what little I've read - I am a "newbie" to 160 meter operating,- I gather 
>a band plan carries little "weight," in the bigger schemes of things?

Below is the 160 band plan, courtesy of that august group, the ARRL:

160 Meters (1.8-2.0 MHz)
1.800 - 2.000 CW
1.800 - 1.810 Digital Modes
1.810 CW QRP
1.843-2.000 SSB, SSTV and other wideband modes
1.910 SSB QRP
1.995 - 2.000 Experimental
1.999 - 2.000 Beacons

.digital modes mean "what?" E.G., JT-9/65 found on 1.840 or so...
..SSB from 1.860 and up observed hourly, each day.



_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Demo of the value of one dB and the cost of sending too fast

[James Rodenkirch]

Bill - I am uncertain, based on your reply below, whether you are a proponent 
of worrying about 1 db or not...so, from a 100% QRP op's perspective, 
saving 1 db, i.e., delivering 1 more db to the antenna, IS important  that 
1 db can be the difference 'tween being heard above the noise, or not.

72/71.5 de Jim R. K9JWV


From: Topband  on behalf of Bill Cromwell 

Sent: Friday, February 26, 2016 5:58 AM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Demo of the value of one dB and the cost of sending too 
fast

Hi,

Doubling the power output translates to less than one "S-unit" at a
distant receiver. Maybe most of those hams who preach otherwise ahve
less interest in weak signals. That is a matter of personal interest and
personal taste. Don't forget that all of this applies on receive, too.

There is not much chance for me to work DX with antennas that will fit
the space I have available and the power levels I use. I'm happy to work
in the region where I live. But I can hear those DX stations. A peeve of
mine is the 'alligator' station - all mouth and no ears. Mine is the
opposite. We aren't going to work them if we can't hear them regardless
of fill legal power output (or more) and huge antenna arrays.

73,

Bill  KU8H


On 02/26/2016 07:35 AM, Mike Waters wrote:
>> - its well worth the effort to improve your signal by as little as one dB
>>
> It certainly is! This is quite interesting.
>
> How many hams have we heard over the years preaching otherwise? "But it's
> ONLY a fraction of an S-unit!".
>
> 73, Mike
> www.w0btu.com
> _
> 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: NORD antenna for top band.....

[James Rodenkirch]

Thank you, Frankhearing similar analysis here so it's sounding like the 
NORD style of antenna isn't for me. Appreciate the "advice."


72 de Jim nR. K9JWV



From: donov...@starpower.net <donov...@starpower.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 2, 2016 11:14 PM
To: Top Band Contesting
Cc: James Rodenkirch
Subject: Re: Topband: NORD antenna for top band.

Hi Jim,

The NORD antenna is a relatively inexpensive low frequency
antenna (typically used at 50-100 kHz) where its impossible to
achieve vertically polarized antennas with close to 1/4 wavelength
vertical height.

The NORD antenna typically consists of an electrically short folded
unipole (typically less than 0.05 wavelength tall) with at three
(or more) umbrella wires attached to the top of the vertical spaced
evenly spaced at 120 degree intervals

Unlike umbrella antennas used on topband (such as in my W8JI/W5ZN
8-circle receiving arrays), the NORD antenna also uses a capacitor
at the end of each umbrella wire.   The three capacitors are used to
tune the antenna, avoiding the need for a lossy loading coil at the
feedpoint of the antenna,

The NORD antenna is a poor choice for Topband where many of us
can use much more efficient quarter wavelength inverted-L antennas
or in some cases full size quarter wavelength verticals.

To learn about the NORD antenna simply Google: "NORD Antenna"

73
Frank
W3LPL



________
From: "James Rodenkirch" <rodenkirch_...@msn.com>
To: "Top Band Contesting" <topband@contesting.com>
Sent: Tuesday, February 2, 2016 4:12:27 PM
Subject: Topband: NORD antenna for top band.

.anyone experimented with a NORD-configured vertical antenna?


I have the Navy antenna publication - 
http://www.hamuniverse.com/US%20NAVY%20Antennas%20and%20Wave%20Propagation.pdf 
- but, other than a brief description, not much to go byany assistance, 
e.g., steerage to a web site or empirical data/analysis results appreciated.

Antennas and Wave Propagation - HAM 
RADIO<http://www.hamuniverse.com/US%20NAVY%20Antennas%20and%20Wave%20Propagation.pdf>
www.hamuniverse.com
NONRESIDENT TRAINING COURSE . Antennas and Wave Propagation. DISTRIBUTION 
STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.




72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Book: The Amateur Radio Vertical Antenna Handbook Capt. Paul H. Lee 2nd Edition

[James Rodenkirch]

OK - have a fellow ham who has the book and will chat with him some...thanks to 
all that replied with the offer to help..72 de Jim R. K9JWV

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Book: The Amateur Radio Vertical Antenna Handbook Capt. Paul H. Lee 2nd Edition

[James Rodenkirch]

If someone owns the subject book I'd like to chat with you about it, off 
line...tnx de Jim R. K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: NORD antenna for top band.....

[James Rodenkirch]

.anyone experimented with a NORD-configured vertical antenna?


I have the Navy antenna publication - 
http://www.hamuniverse.com/US%20NAVY%20Antennas%20and%20Wave%20Propagation.pdf 
- but, other than a brief description, not much to go byany assistance, 
e.g., steerage to a web site or empirical data/analysis results appreciated.

Antennas and Wave Propagation - HAM 
RADIO
www.hamuniverse.com
NONRESIDENT TRAINING COURSE . Antennas and Wave Propagation. DISTRIBUTION 
STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.




72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: W8JI is bailing out of this reflector?

[James Rodenkirch]

NowI just read a couple of posts on the K5P operation where it was 
intimated that Tom, W8JUI, was leaving this reflector!!

Had that been confirmed??

T bad - dang...technical prowess should be cultivated and 
encouraged to keep posting away.friggin' shame if true!

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Stew Beef

[James Rodenkirch]

Mark - I'm with you, sort ofI love contests, especially those with QRP 
categories AND, as a QRP afficionado, I do wish more hams would get on the air 
on Top Band just for the sake of making QSOs  I thoroughly enjoy working 
any ham on 160 CW, find out what my RST is, the other fella's power and antenna 
- that sort of general info - AND experience more about the Propagation 
Princess' vagaries.

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV


From: Topband  on behalf of 
lmlangenf...@tds.net 
Sent: Monday, January 4, 2016 10:13 AM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Stew Beef

Without taking a particular position on this issue, I have to wonder if any 
consideration has been given to this contest's namesake.  How, exactly, would 
Stew Perry have felt about more contests (especially in his name) on Top Band?

Personally, I have no idea.  I pose the question merely for 
reflection/discussion.

73,

Mark -- WA9ETW
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: A "valid" QSO????

[James Rodenkirch]

Jim K9YC wrote, "A valid contact is the exchange of callsigns and one 
additional piece of information, followed by acknowledgement by both stations. 
When running QRP at the limits of propagation, that exchange can take a while."


Where would one find official documentation to support that posit?


I see some verbiage stating that in some sort of ARRL operating manual written 
by Mark Wilson, Jimis that your "source of support"? I've ntalked to ARRL 
staff who contend one doesn't need anything other than the exchange of call 
signs soI'm just "axin'"!!



72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: A "valid" QSO????

[James Rodenkirch]

Again - I submitted a follow-on commentI'm referring to a non-contest, 
general, run of the mill QSO...one would could be "counted" for a DXCC or WAS 
award.



From: Tim Shoppa <tsho...@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, December 27, 2015 7:49 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Cc: Top Band Contesting
Subject: Re: Topband: A "valid" QSO

Ahem... some notable contests require more than one additional piece of 
information. And the acknowledgement of which K9YC speaks can vary greatly 
depending on context and ham.

Many contests involve an exchange that depends on power level at least a 
little. e.g. DX side in ARRL DX, it can sometimes be implied by category in 
sweepstakes, and some QRP contests and events actually require exchange of 
power level. Someone starting with QRP events may well believe that power level 
is part of a full exchange.

RST is not required for ARRL DXCC. An exchanged RST is required for some 
non-ARRL awards, and I think some QRP awards require that it be a real RST.

Tim N3QE

On Sun, Dec 27, 2015 at 7:09 AM, James Rodenkirch 
<rodenkirch_...@msn.com<mailto:rodenkirch_...@msn.com>> wrote:
Jim K9YC wrote, "A valid contact is the exchange of callsigns and one 
additional piece of information, followed by acknowledgement by both stations. 
When running QRP at the limits of propagation, that exchange can take a while."


Where would one find official documentation to support that posit?


I see some verbiage stating that in some sort of ARRL operating manual written 
by Mark Wilson, Jimis that your "source of support"? I've ntalked to ARRL 
staff who contend one doesn't need anything other than the exchange of call 
signs soI'm just "axin'"!!



72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: A "valid" QSO????

[James Rodenkirch]

I believe the gentlemen I conversed with would qualify as holding a position, 
Joel. I always understood a valid QSO to include receiving the otherham's call 
sign and the RST but both gentlemen stated an RST wasn't required...think I'lln 
go back and ask the question again... 

By the bye - I am referring to a every day, garden variety QSO - not a 
contest-related Q. 


From: Joel Harrison <w...@w5zn.org>
Sent: Sunday, December 27, 2015 5:19 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Cc: Top Band Contesting
Subject: Re: Topband: A "valid" QSO

I would be very interested to know "who" at ARRL HQ told you than and
holds that position!

Is it someone in a position to render an "ARRL position"? I have always
been told, have understood and followed the same position Jim has so I'm
just curious if there was a "change" somewhere along the way when I may
have been taking a nap.

I guess exchange and acknowledgement of callsigns constitutes an "exchange
of data".

Lots of bad storms and heavy QRN here in Arkansas so not much Stew
consumption this year.

73 Joel W5ZN



> Jim K9YC wrote, "A valid contact is the exchange of callsigns and one
> additional piece of information, followed by acknowledgement by both
> stations. When running QRP at the limits of propagation, that exchange can
> take a while."
>
>
> Where would one find official documentation to support that posit?
>
>
> I see some verbiage stating that in some sort of ARRL operating manual
> written by Mark Wilson, Jimis that your "source of support"? I've
> ntalked to ARRL staff who contend one doesn't need anything other than the
> exchange of call signs soI'm just "axin'"!!
>
>
>
> 72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>


www.w5zn.org

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: QRPers calling CQ in the SP ?

[James Rodenkirch]

I call CQ during any contest as a QRP entry (is there, really, any other fun 
category?) and have mini-runs of 5 to 10 return calls often, especially during 
the 160 meter events.

I can't say, for certain, the % of Qs that have resulted from a "run attempt" 
but I'm thinkin' in the order of 10 to 15%, at a minimum! The key to run 
"success" is: keep moving up or down the band 'till you quit hearing signals, 
move back down or up 'till you start hearing signals, ratchet down your 
receiver's band width 'till comfortable with the least amount of "interference" 
from the closest contester and start calling CQworked very well for me 
during the Pre-Stew this past October - even added my first of several HI Qs 
for that contest during a "run period"!!

Those suggested "QRP watering hole freqs" do nothing but undermine and 
constrain, mentally, the typical QRP operator's ability to make Qs, whether in 
a contest or not. I subscribe to several QRP focused reflectors and see posts, 
often, where the decision to "get on the air" is hampered by the posting ham's 
reluctance to stray from those "blessed frequencies"; it's difficult to chase 
DX that way and equally difficult to enjoy LOTs of QSOs. 

71.5/72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 


From: Topband  on behalf of Jim Brown 

Sent: Thursday, December 24, 2015 1:05 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: QRPers calling CQ in the SP ?

On Thu,12/24/2015 11:45 AM, Barry N1EU wrote:
> Realistically, 95%+ of the QRO guys hunting for a clear run frequency are
> not going to have a clue that 1810 is anything other than totally available
> to them.

Right. And sometimes I'm part of the QRO crowd. :)

FWIW, I consider reserved frequencies a pretty bad idea. Whether QRP or
QRO, I do my best to find a frequency to run that will be clear at the
DX locations I want to work. And when QRP, I don't CQ a lot -- mostly
when I'm wanting to pass out Qs to locals.

73, Jim K9YC
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: QRP

[James Rodenkirch]

I don't know that I'd use Jim's, "Most of it, yes" phraseology, Rickgo to 
the results pages for any 160 meter contest.look up the top ten scores of 
the QRP entrants, then.go to the Low power and High power line scores  and 
start noodling through the listings - you may be surprised to see well us 
QRPers do, in terms of score, vs. those supposed "heavy lifting LP and HP 
entries" I've participated in many 160 events where I had to struggle to 
hear the other station and, after completing the QSO and making some sort of 
annotation next to the call sign, look to see which category they entered and 
discover they are an LP entry, most often.  Jim's point - needing a very good 
TX antenna(s), lots of operating skill, and lots of attention to propagation - 
applies equally to any other entry category..there's no "lock" on doing 
well when you, regardless of the entry category don't pay attention to the TX 
antenna, propagation and honed operating skill.
 
Besides all of that  thumb your nose at a potential QRP 
entry/participant in any of the Stew Perry events - i.e., don't even bother to 
answer a call from a weak station at or just above the noise - and  you'll find 
your final score can take a serious hit 'cuz we QRP participants are worth 4 
points as compared to 2 for all of 'dem "heavy lifters."

71.5/72 de Jim RodenkirchK9JWV


From: Topband  on behalf of Jim Brown 

Sent: Tuesday, December 15, 2015 2:02 PM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: QRP

On Tue,12/15/2015 12:47 PM, Richard (Rick) Karlquist wrote:
>
> The thing about QRP is that the guy on the other
> end of the QSO from the station receiving the
> award does the heavy lifting.

Most of it, yes. But not all. The QRP station needs very good TX
antenna(s), lots of operating skill, and lots of attention to propagation.

73, Jim K9YC
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: ARRL book on short antennas for 160 meters

[James Rodenkirch]

Anyone read "Short Antennas for 160 Meter Radio" and can/care to comment on its 
"usefulness"?

'

72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 2 wl loop, worth the effort?

[James Rodenkirch]

Kevin - I'm in a more tenuous position with Rob than you!!!   I operate QRP on 
160  you can bet if Rob gets wind of that he'll think I'm REALLY peeing in  
his Wheaties, 'eh 

71.5/72 de Jim R. K9JWV


From: Topband  on behalf of kol...@rcn.com 

Sent: Wednesday, December 2, 2015 11:48 AM
To: Rob Atkinson
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: 2 wl loop, worth the effort?

Well Rob, if you read Gary's email, you will find that he is interested in 
communicating "...with the hams I daily keep in touch with in the 500-600 mile 
range." The loop may be a great antenna for this but not, as you say, so much 
for DXing.

But there is, in my view, a deeper issue here. I t's  the "it's just that I get 
tired of piss weak signals on 160 from hams who seem to think they have an 
exemption from Mother Nature" theorem. For many of us, compromise is built in 
to our situation, we are not being obstinate just to pee you off. In my case, I 
have a 110 X 50 foot property in a residential neighborhood and I am limited to 
a "T" transmit antenna (40 ft up, 92 ft flattop) and a K9AY RX array in a 
somewhat noisy neighborhood. So no, I don't hear or TX like those with a more 
favorable QTH, but I enjoy 160 meters, I have fun and do the best I can with 
what I have. So if I occasionally call out of time (I try not to) because I 
don't have the "ears" you do, don't take it personally...

73 Kevin K3OX


- Original Message -

From: "Rob Atkinson" 
To: topband@contesting.com
Sent: Wednesday, December 2, 2015 12:53:39 PM
Subject: Topband:  2 wl loop, worth the effort?

Hi Gary, It would make a nice receiving antenna.

Let's start with a question:  Would you put up a loop for 20 meters
that is 6 feet off the ground?  Height for horizontal antennas must
always be thought of in terms of _wavelength_.  There is only one
effective transmitting antenna for medium wave, assuming you do not
have 200 foot tall supports for stringing up a horizontal wire
antenna, and that is some sort of monopole over a good ground system.
Period.  And good ground system means a lot of radials.  A lot.  Not
10 or 20.  You don't get to cheat on the laws of physics.  You have to
bite the bullet and do the work.  The excited vertical part has
options.  T, inverted L, or an insulated tower are all fine provided
the vertical part is at least 50 feet tall (more is better).

Don't take this personally--it's just that I get tired of piss weak
signals on 160 from hams who seem to think they have an exemption from
Mother Nature.  A dead giveaway that a ham is using a low dipole, 20
feet or so, is rapid deep QSB.  Even 50 feet is too low.  Inverted Vs
are worse.  the effective height is halfway between the apex height
and the height of the ends.  A big horizontal loop on transmit does
nothing for you but cause more of your RF to get lost to ground
coupling.

73

Rob
K5UJ
_
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: A QRP "test" this evening

[James Rodenkirch]

>From 0200Z to 0330Z tomorrow, this evening here in the U.S., some of us 
>participants in a weekly QRP Fox hunt will be experimenting in a Top Band 
>version centered around 1.810.


Keeping it brief, our Fox "hunts" consist of two or more Fox stations operating 
somewhere within a 20 kHz spread of 20 meters (once a week during the summer) 
and 40 and 80 (twice a week during the winter). The main objective of the 
"hunts" is to collect data on who was worked where, at what RST reports so that 
participants can observe/learn about the affects of propagation.


We have Tuesday evenings off this week and next so we opted to try 160 and see 
how well some of the participants can do on Top Band; we assume, since we'll be 
down at the low end of the band and operating at QRP levels, we won't "bother 
anybody." The Fox station calls CQ Fox and the other participants, the Hounds, 
exchange a report consisting of RST, State, Name and PWR level.


If you hear anyone calling CQ Fox OR hear someone sending the exchange, listen 
in, figure out who's the "calling CQ party" and have a mind to "help out," take 
a moment to work us!! Operating at 5 watts or less is "mo betta" BUT, even a 
call at higher power will be appreciated.


HEY - it's winter, WX sucks and us QRP aficionados are easily amused.72 de 
Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: DxCoffee - Daily updates

[James Rodenkirch]

The DX news, contest calendar down the left hand side, as well as the DX coffee 
news on the right hand side is/are in English and the links for each listed 
dxpedition is in English.


From: Robert Harmon <k...@pacbell.net>
Sent: Monday, November 2, 2015 9:29 AM
To: James Rodenkirch
Subject: Re: Topband: DxCoffee - Daily updates

Is there a way to have english text ?
I would like to see the forum too.
Bob
K6UJ

On 11/2/15 5:36 AM, James Rodenkirch wrote:
>
>
> Just in case you don't know about this DX "info site," check out the first 
> bullet below re monthly dxpeditions at the hamradioweb forum
>
> Here's a link to that site - I like it!!
>
>
> http://www.hamradioweb.org/forums/
>
>
> 72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
>
> [http://www.hamradioweb.org/forums/images/misc/vbulletin3_logo_white.gif]<http://www.hamradioweb.org/forums/>
>
> hamradioweb.org - Powered by vBulletin
> Benvenuto in hamradioweb.org. Se questa è la tua prima visita, controlla le 
> F. A. Q. (Frequently Asked Questions) del forum. Per entrar a far parte della 
> comunità ...
> Read more...<http://www.hamradioweb.org/forums/>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> 
> From: noreply+feedpr...@google.com <noreply+feedpr...@google.com> on behalf 
> of DxCoffee <noreply+feedpr...@google.com>
> Sent: Monday, November 2, 2015 6:17 AM
> To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
> Subject: DxCoffee - Daily updates
>
> DxCoffee - Daily updates<http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng>
> [http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ruswwmm_logo-300x215.png]<http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng>
>
> DxCoffee | expressly for dxers
> Dxcoffee has reached and exceeded 10,000 followers on Twitter!!! We thank our 
> friends and readers for their affection!
> Read more...<http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng>
>
>
>  [Link to DxCoffee]  <http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng>
> 
>
>*   DXpeditions & Contest schedule for November 2015
>*   XT2AW Burkina Faso
>*   VP8STI & VP8SGI South Sandwich Isl. & South Georgia Isl. [Update 1 
> November 2015]
>*   S79C Coetivy Island AF­-119 [Press Release #4]
>
> DXpeditions & Contest schedule for November 
> 2015<http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/dxcoffee/eng/~3/rWANaU1lwJM/?utm_source=feedburner_medium=email>
>
> Posted: 02 Nov 2015 04:14 AM PST
>
> DXpeditions & Contest schedule for November 2015 We are starting a new 
> partnership with our friends from Hamradioweb, the Italian online forum. On 
> the first day of every month, you will find a...
>
>
> XT2AW Burkina 
> Faso<http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/dxcoffee/eng/~3/P8Ytwga7UW0/?utm_source=feedburner_medium=email>
>
> Posted: 02 Nov 2015 01:33 AM PST
>
> Harald DF2WO informs DxCoffee Readers: "Hi Guys. XT2AW will be QRV again. 
> From 07.11.15 to 27.11.15 only 100 Watts, Hexbeam very often with Split up to 
> 5 KC in slow CW and other modes. For...
>
>
> VP8STI & VP8SGI South Sandwich Isl. & South Georgia Isl. [Update 1 November 
> 2015]<http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/dxcoffee/eng/~3/gLgAnGNykJc/?utm_source=feedburner_medium=email>
>
> Posted: 01 Nov 2015 11:08 AM PST
>
> VP8STI & VP8SGI South Sandwich Isl. & South Georgia Isl. 1 November 2015 
> VP8STI/VP8SGI Team informs DxCoffee Readers: At this time, we would like to 
> announce several new aspects of the...
>
> This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download 
> Now<https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4iDaFAchnOw/VI-ssCX2LNI/CMo/JoOmqsV9NAM/w426-h239/Produce_13.mp4>
>
>
> S79C Coetivy Island AF­-119 [Press Release 
> #4]<http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/dxcoffee/eng/~3/c3vtBnMLqmU/?utm_source=feedburner_medium=email>
>
> Posted: 01 Nov 2015 07:00 AM PST
>
> 1 November 2015 David EI9FBB informs DxCoffee readers: S79C Press Release #4 
> "The much anticipated Coetivy Island AF-119NEW DXpedition is soon to begin. 
> After 5 months of intense preparations,...
>
> You are subscribed to email updates from 
> DxCoffee<http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng>.
> To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe 
> now<https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailunsubscribe?k=JljUvrovxScUL82wUNPKC_015H4>.
>   Email delivery powered by Google
> Google Inc., 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>

_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: DxCoffee - Daily updates

[James Rodenkirch]

Just in case you don't know about this DX "info site," check out the first 
bullet below re monthly dxpeditions at the hamradioweb forum

Here's a link to that site - I like it!!


http://www.hamradioweb.org/forums/


72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

[http://www.hamradioweb.org/forums/images/misc/vbulletin3_logo_white.gif]

hamradioweb.org - Powered by vBulletin
Benvenuto in hamradioweb.org. Se questa è la tua prima visita, controlla le F. 
A. Q. (Frequently Asked Questions) del forum. Per entrar a far parte della 
comunità ...
Read more...








From: noreply+feedpr...@google.com  on behalf of 
DxCoffee 
Sent: Monday, November 2, 2015 6:17 AM
To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
Subject: DxCoffee - Daily updates

DxCoffee - Daily updates
[http://www.dxcoffee.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ruswwmm_logo-300x215.png]

DxCoffee | expressly for dxers
Dxcoffee has reached and exceeded 10,000 followers on Twitter!!! We thank our 
friends and readers for their affection!
Read more...


[Link to DxCoffee]  


  *   DXpeditions & Contest schedule for November 2015
  *   XT2AW Burkina Faso
  *   VP8STI & VP8SGI South Sandwich Isl. & South Georgia Isl. [Update 1 
November 2015]
  *   S79C Coetivy Island AF­-119 [Press Release #4]

DXpeditions & Contest schedule for November 
2015

Posted: 02 Nov 2015 04:14 AM PST

DXpeditions & Contest schedule for November 2015 We are starting a new 
partnership with our friends from Hamradioweb, the Italian online forum. On the 
first day of every month, you will find a...


XT2AW Burkina 
Faso

Posted: 02 Nov 2015 01:33 AM PST

Harald DF2WO informs DxCoffee Readers: "Hi Guys. XT2AW will be QRV again. From 
07.11.15 to 27.11.15 only 100 Watts, Hexbeam very often with Split up to 5 KC 
in slow CW and other modes. For...


VP8STI & VP8SGI South Sandwich Isl. & South Georgia Isl. [Update 1 November 
2015]

Posted: 01 Nov 2015 11:08 AM PST

VP8STI & VP8SGI South Sandwich Isl. & South Georgia Isl. 1 November 2015 
VP8STI/VP8SGI Team informs DxCoffee Readers: At this time, we would like to 
announce several new aspects of the...

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download 
Now


S79C Coetivy Island AF­-119 [Press Release 
#4]

Posted: 01 Nov 2015 07:00 AM PST

1 November 2015 David EI9FBB informs DxCoffee readers: S79C Press Release #4 
"The much anticipated Coetivy Island AF-119NEW DXpedition is soon to begin. 
After 5 months of intense preparations,...

You are subscribed to email updates from DxCoffee.
To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe 
now.
  Email delivery powered by Google
Google Inc., 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: SDR Mythbusters - ADC Overload myths debunked...

[James Rodenkirch]

I'm not an RF engineer so any "direction" or "stay inside these boundaries, 
Dood" assistance is appreciated! However, as a Systems Engineer with a 
background in statistics, I missed the "what?" factor when he mentioned Central 
Limit TheoremI shoulda put on my "Huh?" hat so I'm almost 
embarrassedhihi
 
I re-read the "explanation," Rick and Tom, and walked away with a clearer - 
"clearer" = more questions - view of its content.
 
The "Jupiter effect" is another one I shoulda looked for that hat as well anf 
headed to Google to see how I could link that statement/phrase to ADC overload! 
 
Thanks to you and Tom for your comments that caused me to re-read it and end up 
at a point I shoulda arrived at earlier  Sherwood Engineering's rcvr 
measurements are not there to debunk myths.they support real 
comparisons/analysis.
 
 
72 de Jim R. K9JWV

 
> Subject: Re: Topband: SDR Mythbusters - ADC Overload myths debunked...
> To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com; topband@contesting.com
> From: rich...@karlquist.com
> Date: Sun, 11 Oct 2015 00:10:56 -0700
> 
> >   Steve Hicks, N5AC and the VP of Engineering at FlexRadio
> >  has posted an excellent explanation and bust of the
> >  ADC overload myth on the FlexRadio community.  You don’t
> >  need to be registered on the community to read this excellent write up:
> >
> >  
> > https://community.flexradio.com/flexradio/topics/adc-overload-myths-debunked?utm_source=notification_medium=email_campaign=new_topic_content=topic_link
> >
> 
> I have no experience with Flex Radio equipment,
> (it might be great stuff for all I know),
> so I will confine my comments to the theory
> discussed in the "ADC overload myths debunked"
> paper.  A lot of what I read didn't make a
> lot of sense to me, or seemed irrelevant.
> 
> To begin with, I'm not sure as to the exact
> nature of the "myth".  Initally, the myth is
> supposed to be that hams think average power
> of an ensemble of uncorrelated signals is
> the sum of the power of the components.  This
> is not a myth, it is true.  Then it is suggested
> that hams believe peak voltages add up, as
> in a 6 dB increase for two signals.  Supposedly,
> hams don't realize that the high peaks only
> occur rarely.  I'm not aware of any ham lore
> exhibiting this misunderstanding.
> 
> The discussion of crest factor obscures the
> fact that average power still adds.  100 signals
> at S9 still has a power of 20 dB over S9, on
> the average.  Once in a while it looks like 40
> dB over S9.  The rest of the time, the combined
> power of all the signals still tests the
> dynamic range of the receiver.  It's not like
> a bunch of S9 signals is no worse than a single
> S9 signal.
> 
> Then there is this statement:
> 
> "The individual data points that make up a signal
>   you are listening to are almost never going
>   to fall in the same time as the overload, statistically."
> 
> I have no idea what this means in terms of
> Nyquist sampling theory.  The paper goes on to
> say:
> 
> "With a noise blanker, we remove thousands of samples
>   with no negative effects to the signal being
>   monitored and a momentary overload from the
>   addition of many signals summing up will have a
>   much lower effect"
> 
> I don't know whether this means Flex (IE "we") has invented
> some sort of magic digital noise blanker that removes
> samples corrupted by overload (I'm skeptical) or
> whether it means that a noise blanking effect
> just happens as part of the sampling process
> (in which case, I'm still skeptical).
> 
> Then the subject shifts to decimation and "processing
> gain", which are simply references to digital filters.
> These techniques are all based on linearity.  Adding
> digital filtering after a nonlinear front end cannot
> repair the damage caused by nonlinearity.  Just
> like adding crystal filters to the IF in an analog
> receiver won't overcome front end overload caused
> by enabling the receiver's built in preamp.
> 
> There is an assertion that the large amount of
> "noise" added by hundreds of signals results in
> "linearization", which I believe is referring to
> what is usually called "dithering".  This is a
> complete misunderstanding of dithering, which uses
> small amounts of noise and does not involve clipping
> in the ADC.  High quality ADC's have dithering
> and similar randomization processes built in and
> don't need help from external noise anyway.
> 
> The paper then changes the subject to phase noise.
> This has nothing to do with ADC overload.  I will
> note that digital radios are much more sensitive
> to clock jitter (IE phase noise) than analog radios.
> If anything, the phase noise issue is an argument
> against digital.
> 
> There are various distractions such as the Central
> Limit Theorem and the Jupiter effect that don't
> add much to the discussion.
> 
> The dubious argument is made that the
> existence of 1000's of receivers in the field
> without complaints from their owners "proves" that
> overload 

Re: Topband: SDR Mythbusters - ADC Overload myths debunked...

[James Rodenkirch]

His "explanation," if I read it correctly, seems to be a tad "at odds" with 
what Sherwood Engineering's measurements showor am I missing it
 
> From: w...@w8ji.com
> To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com; topband@contesting.com
> Date: Tue, 6 Oct 2015 18:29:09 -0400
> Subject: Re: Topband: SDR Mythbusters - ADC Overload myths debunked...
> 
> 
> From Stu, K6TU
> 
> As with any technological change, there are many myths, past truths or part 
> truths that get repeated endlessly and out of context by those frightened or 
> challenged by the change.
> 
>  Software defined radios are no exception to this in the world of Ham Radio.
> 
>  Steve Hicks, N5AC and the VP of Engineering at FlexRadio has posted an 
> excellent explanation and bust of the ADC overload myth on the FlexRadio 
> community.  You don’t need to be registered on the community to read this 
> excellent write up:>>
> 
> Regardless of the fact they cannot possibly overload, they overload here.
> 
> I don't understand his explanation at all.
> 
> We had ONE transmitter on while trying to receive. The ADC could not handle 
> the level of one transmitter.  Because there was no in-band front end 
> selectivity, the spacing did not matter.  We could not get the strong local 
> signal outside a roofing filter.
> 
> With two transmitters on different non-synchronized frequencies, there will 
> be periods of time when the voltages add. There will be periods when the 
> voltages subtract. Anything following the summing point has to handle the 
> random peaks, even an ADC.
> 
> The Flex we tried here, using it to listen while ONE transmitter was 
> running, just went nuts. It was equally bad no matter what the spacing. At 
> least with a radio with roofing filter, we could move the radio up or down 
> band and use it.
> 
> 73 Tom 
> 
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Results of the 2014 Pre-Stew....

[James Rodenkirch]

Ah ...I'm just earlytnx, Tree
 
From: t...@kkn.net
Date: Wed, 16 Sep 2015 06:52:41 -0700
Subject: Re: Topband: Results of the 2014 Pre-Stew
To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
CC: topband@contesting.com

Hi Jim.

I am the head Bubba.  

The plaques typically get announced around October.

73 Tree N6TR

On Tue, Sep 15, 2015 at 4:29 PM, James Rodenkirch <rodenkirch_...@msn.com> 
wrote:
Soodid I ask the question incorrectly?









From: rodenkirch_...@msn.com

To: topband@contesting.com

Subject: Results of the 2014 Pre-Stew

Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2015 16:34:30 -0600









.and, who won the plaques??



I know the sponsor and worker bees of these contests have day jobs but it's 
been a year and nothing showing at the kkn web site regarding the final 
standings and who won the various plaques.



Dale, WC7S, and I sponsored a QRP-related plaque and I'd like to know who 
won



Who's the head Bubba to contact about all of that???



72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV who will be a participant in the 2015 Pre-Stew 'cuz 
he talked the XYL into waiting until mid-December to leave for Florida BUT 
realizes he'll miss the Big Stew 'cuz he'll be in Florida at that time with his 
RV on a postage stamp sized RV lot.



_

Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband


  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Results of the 2014 Pre-Stew....

[James Rodenkirch]

Soodid I ask the question incorrectly?
 
 

 
From: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Results of the 2014 Pre-Stew
Date: Sat, 12 Sep 2015 16:34:30 -0600




.and, who won the plaques??
 
I know the sponsor and worker bees of these contests have day jobs but it's 
been a year and nothing showing at the kkn web site regarding the final 
standings and who won the various plaques.
 
Dale, WC7S, and I sponsored a QRP-related plaque and I'd like to know who 
won
 
Who's the head Bubba to contact about all of that???
 
72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV who will be a participant in the 2015 Pre-Stew 'cuz 
he talked the XYL into waiting until mid-December to leave for Florida BUT 
realizes he'll miss the Big Stew 'cuz he'll be in Florida at that time with his 
RV on a postage stamp sized RV lot.

  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Results of the 2014 Pre-Stew....

[James Rodenkirch]

.and, who won the plaques??
 
I know the sponsor and worker bees of these contests have day jobs but it's 
been a year and nothing showing at the kkn web site regarding the final 
standings and who won the various plaques.
 
Dale, WC7S, and I sponsored a QRP-related plaque and I'd like to know who 
won
 
Who's the head Bubba to contact about all of that???
 
72 de Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV who will be a participant in the 2015 Pre-Stew 'cuz 
he talked the XYL into waiting until mid-December to leave for Florida BUT 
realizes he'll miss the Big Stew 'cuz he'll be in Florida at that time with his 
RV on a postage stamp sized RV lot.
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: WTB a low noise preamp .....

[James Rodenkirch]

Ops.just read up on the TOI number and the DXE RPA-1 comes in with a 
much better TOI number so...anyone with an excess to their needs DXE RPA-1 or 
similar pre-ampcontact me off-line.
 
72 de Jim R. K9JWV

 
From: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: WTB a low noise preamp .
Date: Mon, 20 Jul 2015 10:15:00 -0600




 of anyone has a spare or excess to your needs low noise pre amp (similar 
to a KD9SV design) you'd sell, please contact me off line72 de Jim 
Rodenkirch K9JWV
   
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: WTB a low noise preamp .....

[James Rodenkirch]

 of anyone has a spare or excess to your needs low noise pre amp (similar 
to a KD9SV design) you'd sell, please contact me off line72 de Jim 
Rodenkirch K9JWV   
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Anyone using the DX Engr. Hi-Z Two or Three element array?

[James Rodenkirch]

If you are using the two or three element version, shoot me an off-line reply 
with your thoughts on its efficacy...tnx, in advance, for any replies72 de 
Jim R. K9JWV
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: New Commercial Remote Service

[James Rodenkirch]

Hahwell done, Larry!!!  Always envious of people who can take a 
topical subkect area and give it a comedic but germane twistgood on ya!!
 
72 de Jim R. K9JWV

 
 From: w...@sbcglobal.net
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Date: Sun, 12 Jul 2015 13:13:17 -0500
 Subject: Topband: New Commercial Remote Service
 
 VERIZON WIRELESS TO OFFER REMOTE AMATEUR RADIO SERVICE
 
  
 
 BASKING RIDGE, NJ (Roytours) - The nation's largest wireless company
 announced today that it plans to enter the remote ham radio station business
 to serve amateur radio operators. Verizon Wireless, a wholly owned
 subsidiary of Verizon Communications, Inc. [VZ, -4.25%] indicated that the
 stations are a natural fit with their existing infrastructure and require
 little additional investment. Customers will be able to talk all over the
 world using only their cell phone. The service will be available via
 subscription to existing Verizon customers. Coverage is expected to be the
 same as Verizon's current 4G coverage area, with all calls routed to high
 powered stations located on the east and west coasts of the United States. 
 
  
 
 At first we really didn't understand why this service was needed said
 company spokesperson Ben Dover. We had a misconception that ham radio
 operators built their own stations and advanced technology. Then we learned
 that there was a subculture in the hobby that tried to talk to as many
 countries as possible using any means available and many were already using
 a personal computer to talk to those countries. Some didn't even own a
 radio. Often they were using a service that offers complete anonymity
 
  
 
 When asked how the new service is different from how Verizon customers
 currently call other countries, Dover hesitated. Well it IS another revenue
 stream, he replied. 
 
  
 
 Software developers have been quick to respond to the announcement. One such
 developer, who prefers to go by the name SchrockRock, is working on iPhone
 applications called DXCodeReadR and ThisisHowIHonorRoll (THIHR for short).
 SchrockRock explained that THIHR continuously monitors a notification system
 called the cluster and checks to see if the ham needs a country that has
 been spotted there. If the ham needs it, THIHR automatically works in
 concert with DXCodeReadR to generate what hams call a QSO to snag that new
 country, even while the ham sleeps. It's all about convincing users that
 they are advancing technology, SchrockRock added in a recent post to
 reddit. 
 
  
 
 Markets also reacted quickly, sending Verizon stock down as much as 6% in
 early trading. Reached on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, trader
 Larry Burke summed up the market's reaction, There was a going-in concern
 about the ethics associated with this type of service as applied to what
 hams call the DXCC program. But when brokers are able to explain that not
 even the national association of amateur radio operators, the ARRL, is able
 to define 'ethics', most concerns evaporate.
 
  
 
 Currently, there are few players in the commercial remote business. The
 largest, RemoteHamRadio.com or RHR for short, operates a network of remotes,
 many of which are located in New York state. Verizon spokesperson Dover said
 his company realized the potential when the FCC chose to look the other way
 with enforcement of Part 97 and common carrier regulations as they applied
 to this type of service.  
 
  
 
 Users of existing services seem to enjoy them. One California ham, who goes
 by the callsign NJ6YOY, had this to say: These remotes are fantastic. Just
 yesterday I had a PL-259 fail on the coax going into the back of my radio.
 The technician told me it would be three weeks before he could come out and
 fix it. Three weeks! What was I supposed to do in the meantime? I thought to
 myself, 'now this is a case for remote stations'. I whipped out my
 MasterCard and signed up for RHR. I didn't even need one of those K3/0
 doohickeys. I just did my DXing with my computer. Things were going great
 and then my internets stopped working. Fortunately for me there was another
 RHR subscriber nearby. I used his internets to work four new ones in one
 day. The guy I talked to in Ireland was really happy to work California on
 six meters, too. He said he thought the band was only open to New York, but
 when I confirmed our QSO on LoTW he was tickled shirtless to see he had
 worked a new state. It is not clear to the uninitiated what all of this
 means, but NJ6YOY sounded very excited about his new conquests. With
 Verizon's new service he won't have to worry about his 'internets' going
 down either. All he will have to do is keep his iPhone charged.
 
  
 
  
 
 [yes, it's satire]
 
  
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Question on common mode chokes

[James Rodenkirch]

Tnx, all, for the comments...learning more and more 
 
 From: charlie-cunning...@nc.rr.com
 To: k...@pacbell.net; topband@contesting.com
 Date: Wed, 3 Jun 2015 21:57:27 -0400
 Subject: Re: Topband: Question on common mode chokes
 
 I agree.  We really  don't want the coax shield to be part of the antenna,
 regardless of whether the antenna is vertical or horizontal. If the coax
 shield is part of the antenna, it can seriously distort  the resonance and
 the driving point impedance - hence the need for some common-mode isolation.
 
 Regards,
 Charlie, K4OTV
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Robert
 Harmon
 Sent: Wednesday, June 03, 2015 4:21 PM
 To: Top Band Contesting
 Subject: Re: Topband: Question on common mode chokes
 
 Jim,
 
 It will be interesting to see what others say but my take on this is that
 the tuner function is to provide an impedance match to the vertical and
 doesnt provide any choking.  You still should have the choke.
 
 73,
 Bob
 K6UJ
 
 
 
  On Jun 3, 2015, at 9:42 AM, James Rodenkirch rodenkirch_...@msn.com
 wrote:
  
  I seem to recall, while reading up on common mode chokes, where I wouldn't
 need one if I employ an autotuner at the base of the antenna...is that
 true/factual?
  
  I have an LDG Z11ProII autotuner right at the base of my vertical - I did
 add a common choke at the input to the autotuner (21' of my LMR-400 coax
 wound around a piece of 4.5 PVC for the low bands) but wonder if that is
 really necessary.  
  
  72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
  

  _
  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: Question on common mode chokes

[James Rodenkirch]

I seem to recall, while reading up on common mode chokes, where I wouldn't need 
one if I employ an autotuner at the base of the antenna...is that true/factual?
 
I have an LDG Z11ProII autotuner right at the base of my vertical - I did add a 
common choke at the input to the autotuner (21' of my LMR-400 coax wound around 
a piece of 4.5 PVC for the low bands) but wonder if that is really necessary.  
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Salt-Water Qth!

[James Rodenkirch]

A LID operating QRO at an excellent northeastern US sea view site with 
excellent antennas -- is still
only a *loud* LID, who is able to cause a lot more interference and 
consternation than a weak LID.
 
The above is an excellent example of confrontational interoperability, and 
close to the examples of good and bad' interoperability I share with my 
students, Guy!!! 
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

 
 
 From: k2av@gmail.com
 Date: Fri, 3 Apr 2015 15:59:39 -0400
 To: donov...@starpower.net
 CC: topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Topband:  Salt-Water Qth!
 
 On Wed, Apr 1, 2015 at 12:17 PM, donov...@starpower.net wrote:
 
  Its not practical to place a vertical closer than 1/4
  wavelength of an ocean beachfront except in a temporary installation
  such as a DXpedition.
 
 Also w...@hudsonvalleytowers.com wrote:
 
 ... Is there any scientific data in print to prove the theory that ocean
 front property is better than a location inland about a mile or so on a
 ridge overlooking salt water for HF. ... I understand the theory that
 verticals literally in or on the water have a huge advantage
 
 
 It is not a theory that there is a remarkable increase in MF transmission
 when closely approaching saltwater waterline. It has been observed over at
 least a half century by what must now be millions of observers, certainly
 the vast majority not hams, observed at least since inexpensive
 transistorized portable radios were available around 1960.
 
 The 1960 date sticks in my mind because of a story that circulates among
 Berea College alumni to this day about transistor radios scattered among
 1200 students stuck in a terribly boring required general assembly lecture.
 Some 15 or 20 of these new all-the-rage radios were scattered all over the
 assembly hall, and were tuned in to the 7th game of the 1960 world series
 between Pittsburgh and the Yankees. Back then there were no earbuds to go
 stealth. Volumes were low, but loud enough to hear without the giveaway of
 the radio resting upon the ear. The winning run in the bottom of the ninth
 resulted in barely suppressed cheers and moans and the cumulative uproar of
 whispers mercifully brought the lecturer to a bewildered halt. We received
 an outraged dressing down from the college president who, to his credit,
 was the first up on the stage to figure out what was going on, and who
 apparently was not a baseball fan. I won't get into why I know it was
 terribly boring. But I digress...
 
 These and millions of others took these radios everywhere with them, and it
 was soon common knowledge that you could hear the New York AM stations all
 day long if you took the radio out over the salt water at east coast ocean
 beaches as far south as Cape Hatteras. Not a bit of theory involved, just
 undeniable observation.
 
 The wow factor of this has severely diminished since the internet, and
 nobody except hams thinks that hearing NYC AM stations during the day down
 the east coast is the least interesting. The question now is why can't the
 complainer text high definition video to anywhere in the world over the
 internet in five seconds or less. But transistor radios were really neat
 new affordable stuff in 1960.
 
 The depth of the drop off walking away from the beach, the inverse of the
 improvement walking toward it, exposes the answer to your question.
 Whatever the theory, the fact remains of an often reported sharp change in
 signals across several hundred meters, sometimes in significantly less
 distance.
 
 The mysteries of near-to-ocean propagation or losses become less foggy if
 one always carefully considers ground media loss in discussions. Ground
 losses continue to be the undiscovered country of top band transmitting
 antenna discussions, remarkably ignored in many discussions about 160 meter
 antennas that require a counterpoise. These ignored counterpoise issues can
 take back expensive amplifier gain with losses as large.
 
 Models depend on a monolithic uniform ground all the way to and beyond the
 horizon and uniform to deep depth. Models need this to simplify computer
 computations so they can run on ordinary PC's in times that are measured in
 minutes rather than months or years. Accurate 160m modeling of what goes on
 from 100 meters out in the water, across a sandy beach to 10 kilometers
 inland cannot be accomplished with available resources and program code.
 Some investigators have set up carefully at a site with antenna and serious
 commercial measuring equipment, and have simply been unable to get
 measurements to match a model, regardless of the ground characteristics
 specified in the model.
 
 At the water line, the remaining difficulty at this point would be support
 of a vertical. An FCP above and parallel to the water line or out over the
 water would be a very efficient counterpoise and quite easy to erect with
 inexpensive materials. A shortened aluminum vertical with large gauge
 appropriately located loading coils could do very 

Re: Topband: ZS6BKW

[James Rodenkirch]

That W8AMZ sloper is a condensed version of this antenna:
 
http://www.iw5edi.com/ham-radio/?a-160-meter-antenna-for-small-lot,105
 
W8AMZ's loading coil (that black thingy between the SO-239 and the 68' feet of 
black wire) is sort of how I constructed my 160 meter antenna for a small 
lot.  I wound the 70' vertical coil into a condensed 4.5 feet of coil at the 
top of the 8' PVC.used about five or six 50' to 70' radials lying on top of 
the groundhad 180+ QSOs in the 2010 and 2011 CQ 160 contests as a QRP entry 
including JAs and KHs 
 
Best of luck, MikeI have a Power Point wiring schema for my antenna if 
interested72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 

 
 From: ma...@ka5m.net
 To: ve...@nbnet.nb.ca; topband@contesting.com
 Date: Sat, 28 Mar 2015 15:58:21 -0500
 Subject: Re: Topband: ZS6BKW
 
 Mike,
 
 I found a website with detailed info on the ZS6BKW antenna.
 
 http://www.nc4fb.org/wordpress/zs6bkw-multi-band-antenna/
 
 To use the antenna on 80M and above the 39.1 ft of ladderline should drop
 down as vertically as possible, and then connect to 50 ohm coax through a
 1:1 current balun (common mode choke). If you connect the station end of
 the coax shield to center conductor and feed it against a radial system the
 coax will be part of the vertical element of what has become a 160M top
 loaded vertical fed against a radial system. How will the coax in your
 installation run from the station to the base of the ladderline? 
 
 Or, if you have a 40 - 45 ft high support (tree) you might consider a W8AMZ
 160M Reduced 1/2 Sloper.
 
 http://w8amz.com/W8AMZ_SLOPERS_Page.html
 
 If you do try the ZS6BKW antenna reconfigured as a top loaded vertical on
 160M by connecting the station end of the coax shield to center conductor
 fed against a radial system, I'd like to know how it works for you.
 
 73,
 Marsh, KA5M 
 
 
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Mike
 Smith VE9AA
 Sent: Saturday, March 28, 2015 1:44 PM
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Topband: ZS6BKW
 
 Thanks very much Marsh.  Obviously you have some serious antenna modeling
 skills and I do thank you for that second analysis.
 
 If I may indulge you for one last request (tweak) pse?
 
 If you could keep everything the same, but instead, leave the ladder line as
 is and short the 50' of coax at the shack end (and add a normal 10' jumper
 to the radio if it makes a difference?) would that make the #'s much
 different?
 
 Ground radials attached to the real 10' jumper /shorted coax interface,
 right at the window. I think in actuality I am going to buy LM240 (is that
 that right moniker for a RG8/x mini equivalent?) so I can sneak it out a
 window, etc.
 
 and if I was able to make the switch-over in the shack (or right at the
 window-ledge) then that would be the way I go.
 
 Thanks for the extra work.  Hope we manage a QSO !
 
 Mike VE9AA  ??#??? this summer.
 
 p.s.-can't wait for snowmelt as I can start building and testing !
 
 Mike, Coreen  Corey
 
 Keswick Ridge, NB
 
 _
 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: What IS troubling about this report....

[James Rodenkirch]

from one of the K1N ops is there is nothing new here.all of his dozen 
plus points is/ae SO fundamental to anyone chasing DX...terrible 
operating habits or approaches by the majority of the DX chasers, obviously...
 
I did work K1N with QRP power on 80, 20 and 15 so feel fortunate to squeak 
in, so to speak...72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV

 
From
Glen W0GJ operating at K1N (as reported in the “Gray Line Report” of the Twin
Cities ARC: 


GOOD
ADVICE FROM SOMEONE WHO WAS THERE  !Feedback and Lessons I learn a lot from
every DXpedition I’ve ever been on.  I’ve put together a summary of my two weeks
of operation from Navassa. I’m sure all of my teammates will concur with what
I’ve observed and learned. European stations complained a lot for the “short
time” we worked Europe. QUITE THE CONTRARY 
This is a MOST interesting point of discussion! If you look at the times
in our logs, we spent MORE time working Europe than working North America. Our
Club Log statistics, however, show that North America had 58% of the contacts,
Europe 32% and Asia 6%. WHY, then, if MORE time was spent working Europe, was 
Europe
about half the number of North American contacts??? Simple answer: RATE.
Period. When you listened to us working North America, we could cruise right
along at 300-350 Qs/hour, or more! I often saw the “rate meter” hanging around
500-600 Qs/hour. (I heard that someone on the team was clocked at 1,200
Qs/hour….. on 160m) When working Europe, we would be extremely lucky to see
rates of 100 Qs/hour. Euro-pean signals are as strong, if not stronger than
North American signals, in the Caribbean. The west coast U.S. is much harder to
work than Europe. South American signals were among the strongest! Here is a
note I received after I returned home. It is from a well-known DXer in Europe:
“I listened to XXX working US pile-up on 80m. Fantastic, at least 10 QSOs per
minute, and when he turned to listen for Europe, the rate was only 10% of that.
Same on the other bands and modes.” The problem is THROUGHPUT. Rate.
Efficiency. Cooperation. Whatever you want to call it. For the time we spent
working Europe, we should have MORE contacts than with North America, but that
did not happen. It COULD have happened! No one more than me would like to have
seen the European Qs outnumber North American Qs. For the “next one,” I have
some suggestions to help DXers, including myself, and particularly DXers in
Europe, to be more successful. 

Here
is what I see are the issues: (This applies to US hams as well for more distant
DX operations – N8PR)1. Not listening to the DX operator. 2. LISTEN to and
LEARN the rate and rhythm of the operator. 3. LISTEN to WHERE the operator is
listening, and to his PATTERN of moving his VFO. You MUST KNOW where he will
listen next if you expect him to hear you! How simple is that? It is part of
the hunt… and the fun of DXing…. and getting rewarded! 4. Learn to use your
radio (split/simplex, etc.). 5. Do NOT jump to and call on the frequency of the
last station worked. The DX station will NOT hear you, because the din is total
unintelligible chaos. Move UP or DOWN from that frequency, as we on our end were
continuously tuning up or down after each Q. So, if one jumps onto the
last-worked frequency, we will not hear you, even if you were the only one
there, as we have already tuned off that frequency. 6. TURN OFF ALL SPEECH
PROCESSORS AND COMPRESSION! Do NOT overdrive ALC. There is a night and day
difference in listening to NA/AS and EU pileups. The horrible distortion makes
it impossible to copy many, if not most European callsigns. I don’t know what
it is, but I would bet that mic gain and compression controls are “firewall
forward,” all the way clockwise. There were MANY loud stations that we did not
work, COULD NOT WORK, simply because we could NOT understand their terribly
distorted callsign. Have you ever listened to yourself in a pileup? We gave many
stations a “19” signal report. Very loud, but extremely unintelligible! You
want to have IN-TELLIGABILITY, not distortion! 7. Give your call sign ONCE and
ONLY ONCE! DO NOT KEEP CALLING! Call. Listen. Call again, if needed. Listen.
Listen. We would tune on by those who did not stop calling. We are looking for
RATE and getting stations into the log. You should be, too!!! 8. If the DX
station comes back with your call-sign, DO NOT REPEAT YOUR CALLSIGN, AS WE
ALREADY KNOW IT, or we would not have answered you. Many stations (in all
modes) would repeat their callsign two, three and even four times or more! This
was so frustrating at times, that we would just move on to the next station. We
ONLY want to hear “5NN” or “59” from you. Anything else is a total waste of
time. Let me repeat, if we come back with YOUR call sign, DO NOT REPEAT it back
to us! (Did I repeat myself?. forgive me!) It CHEATS others out of a chance
to get into the log. Only repeat your call sign if it needs correction, and
then let us know it is a correction. 

Topband: The silence is almost deafening!!!

[James Rodenkirch]

 LOVE it..hihi  Brief respites suit us old farts, occasionally!
 
72, Jim R. K9JWV
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: W9WBL V2L paddle

[James Rodenkirch]

Well, I was fortunate to stumble in to a W9WBL V2L paddle, serial # 84.  Still 
in great condition and going to put it through its paces over the coming week.
 
Anyone ever owned one? If you have, contact me off line as I have a couple of 
questions - if you have a copy of the 3 page instruction paperwork that came 
with it, I'd like a copy - scanned and e-mailed is fine.
 
Thank you, in advance, for any info you  can proffer.  72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: RHR and remote topic

[James Rodenkirch]

Forgot about that ad.HAHan age ol' heuristic comes to mind.money 
talks, vapor(s) walks (heuristic toned down for the PC/squishy crowd) 
 
 From: j...@k2uf.com
 To: w...@sbcglobal.net; topband@contesting.com
 Date: Thu, 5 Feb 2015 17:22:37 -0500
 Subject: Re: Topband: RHR and remote topic
 
 Want to know what the ARRL position is.  Look at page 8 of February QST
 opposite K1ZZ's 'It seems to us'.
 
 Joe K2UF
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Larry
 Burke
 Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2015 5:09 PM
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: RHR and remote topic
 
 With all due respect, such complaints are really kinda sad. Considering the
 long term implications, this topic is one of the more important ones
 discussed here in a long time -- and there continue to be new ideas aired
 this afternoon. Guess this topic has struck a raw nerve with some.
 
 -  Larry K5RK
 
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Tree
 Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2015 2:07 PM
 To: 160
 Subject: Topband: RHR and remote topic
 
 Guys - I think we have hashed out this subject enough for this round.
 I am starting to get a lot of complaints about the topic continuing.
 
 So - let's try to hold back on future posts unless it really moves the
 discussion back to the original intent of this list.
 
 Thanks and good luck to those trying to work K1N.
 
 Tree N6TR
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
 
 
 -
 No virus found in this message.
 Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
 Version: 2015.0.5645 / Virus Database: 4281/9061 - Release Date: 02/05/15
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: RHR and remote topic

[James Rodenkirch]

I agree, Larry..however, I doubt if anyone is refereeing or taking good 
notes as to separating wheat from chaffand, THEN, where does the 
accumulated, condensed and vetted idea(s) (hopefully not more than a couple) 
go
 
In short - we all need a plan as to how to get the ideas winnowed down and on 
to someone who with influence, throw or weightdon't see no stinkin' plan(s) 
being tossed out for consumption and digestion... 
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 

 
 From: w...@sbcglobal.net
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Date: Thu, 5 Feb 2015 16:08:48 -0600
 Subject: Re: Topband: RHR and remote topic
 
 With all due respect, such complaints are really kinda sad. Considering the
 long term implications, this topic is one of the more important ones
 discussed here in a long time -- and there continue to be new ideas aired
 this afternoon. Guess this topic has struck a raw nerve with some.
 
 -  Larry K5RK
 
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Tree
 Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2015 2:07 PM
 To: 160
 Subject: Topband: RHR and remote topic
 
 Guys - I think we have hashed out this subject enough for this round.
 I am starting to get a lot of complaints about the topic continuing.
 
 So - let's try to hold back on future posts unless it really moves the
 discussion back to the original intent of this list.
 
 Thanks and good luck to those trying to work K1N.
 
 Tree N6TR
 _
 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: CQWW160 Remote receiver rule

[James Rodenkirch]

Tom: thank you for placing all of this in the correct context.it's a 
friggin' hobby, not something to start gnashing the teeth over or initiate some 
hand wringing due to a) misinterpretation of rules, b) purposefully 
bending/breaking the rules or c) using some combination of a and b to win 
some certificate!
 
I got caught up in all of that paper/certificate chasing until about two 
years agothe onset of a debilitating disease caused me to stop all if that 
nonsense. Downsizing the shack and returning to a more basic approach - QRP 
and QRPp operating as far as this hobby is concerned is my new 'mantra and 
CONOPS - lots more rag chewing, finding chat type nets, exploring the bands 
to see how propagation is doing, tweaking the antenna system or trying new 
antennas as the disease allows me, etc.
 
If some want to bend, break or reconstruct the rules, have at itI'm 
rediscovering the fun in amateur radio to much fire up one synapses over that 
sort of piddly craphihi
 
71.5, 72 Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
 
 People are putting far too much emotion in this. It is a technical issue. 
 The technology to do this at one site is not all that difficult.
 
 Get a K3 and a reasonable amplifier, and you have minimal composite noise on 
 site. Phase-null the TX antenna out of the RX antenna ahead of any RX 
 amplification, and you can get down to noise floor at 1500 watts with 
 reasonable spacing.
 
 Even if the transmitter is nulled, the contact advantage is minimal in a 160 
 contest. The reason is any good station will run the band nearly dry of 
 contacts. You pick up far more contacts with the operator going slow at slow 
 times to get slow stations than someone would ever get by duplex.  The 
 primary advantage to duplex is in multi-op, where an operator can be 
 dedicated to moving up and down the band picking people off. Successful 
 multi-ops already have space to duplex, at least to some reasonable extent.
 
 The real advantage to remote or split site is a better noise or antenna 
 environment. What we should be debating are the real facts and effects, not 
 what we want to be the facts.
 
 As for DXCC, since sometime in the 1990's (as I recall), we could legally 
 move anywhere or operate anywhere and collect DXCC. Prior to that, it was 
 not unheard of for people to call people on the phone to help them get a 
 new country. 160 meters for many years had a phone-a-friend list. I recall 
 that going on in various forms since the 1970's, at least. Suddenly, it is a 
 major problem that will ruin radio as we know it!
 
 The most tragic thing I recall in Ham radio was hearing W8UDN, Ed,  (a 
 person I rarely spoke to) actually crying on the radio when he was losing 
 his 160 station. Listening to Ed's open distress and sadness at no longer 
 being able to enjoy something he loved for most of his life turned a page 
 for me.
 
 If letting someone who loves radio operate a radio, however he can manage to 
 do it, without unfairly taking away from other's ability to enjoy what they 
 want, I'm all for it.
 
 I think anyone who bases their success or value in life by how they rank in 
 something as silly as a national DXCC list, or worrying about someone making 
 50 more contacts in a contest, deserves all the angst and distress worrying 
 about others creates for them.
 
 I hope the people who write rules eventually let people like VO1HP enjoy 
 radio, instead of false concerns. Radio is all the better when we help each 
 other, instead of holding someone like Ed back.
 
 
 73 Tom 
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Real time band conditions

[James Rodenkirch]

Look for an instructions button down the page  interesting site.
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Real time band conditions

[James Rodenkirch]

http://www.bandconditions.com/





Look for an instructions button down the page  interesting site.
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
 

  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores

[James Rodenkirch]

 I don't know what I was looking for, Russ --- perhaps I was searching for 
other's analysis approaches or takeaways and your example, with the 
spreadsheet approach, is one I hadn't contemplated.
 
I will be in the CQ 160 event and hope to add you to my logappreciate you 
taking the time to reply...72, ma Mon --- Jim R. K9JWV  
 
 Date: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 22:46:42 +
 To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com; topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores
 From: topband@contesting.com
 
 From another QRP perspective, conditions were pretty miserable from here in 
 Michigan, part of the mid-west sorta thang..  I didn't hear a single Euro, 
 KH6, or KL7.  I only heard 2 CA  guys but they couldn't pull me out and 
 worked only 2 in FL which seemed odd.  In the past couple of years I was able 
 to work G, KH6, and CE1 with my puny 5 W.   I gave up early trying to fight 
 the QRO guys (especially those with key clicks) and the endless CQ machines 
 which would look for a response for maybe 500uSec.  I just decided to pound 
 away trying to get as many 3, 6, and 9 pointers as I could.  I did end up 
 with 228 Q's and and 103 grids.  I operated for a total of 9 hrs: 2200Z - 
 0500Z and then 1100Z - 1300Z Sunday morning (this old man just can't stay up 
 all night like I used to.)
 I'm not sure what K9JWV is looking for, but I put my log into a spreadsheet 
 and sorted by grid, with the following results:500-1000mi. - 111 Q's,  FM19 
 was the most with 13 Q's followed by FN42 with 10 Q's which is probably 
 reflective of the ham population in those grids1000 - 1500 mi. - 10 Q's1500 - 
 2000 mi. - 6 Q's2000+ mi. - 2 Q's, NP4X and KV4FZ.
 My station consists of a K3, a T xmit antenna 62' high with a 144' span on 
 the top and 64 radials, K9AY loops for RX.
 So, if I can stay awake, maybe I'll run into you in the CQ160 the end of Jan.
 Russ, N3CO
   From: James Rodenkirch rodenkirch_...@msn.com
  To: Tim Shoppa tsho...@gmail.com; Top Band Contesting 
 topband@contesting.com 
  Sent: Monday, December 29, 2014 8:18 AM
  Subject: Re: Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores

 Forgot to state that both stations I used as examples were QRP entries, Tim 
 k5go is in AR and n9tf is in IL and I chose them 'cuz they are reasonably 
 close to each other, mid-west sorta thang. 
  
 I guessif we all chimed in with our ideas of why the numbers are 
 different, we'd have a shopping list of things/constraints/influencers to 
 consider when setting up the antenna system, rig to use, contest category to 
 enter, time periods to focus our operating time on, etc.
  
 'Nuff said - I can hardly wait to get home and modify my current antenna 
 system to get back on 160miss my old 43' vertical, 25' top loading wires 
 and elevated radials...hihi
  
 72 and Best Wishes to all in 2015 -- here's hoping for improved low band 
 conditions!!  Jim R. K9JWV 
  
  Date: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 07:29:45 -0500
  From: tsho...@gmail.com
  To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com; topband@contesting.com
  Subject: Re: Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores
  
  Oops, braino correction on the last sentence. I temporarily forgot that
  there were bands and contests other than 160M :-). Last sentence should
  read ARRL 160 low power category.
  
  On Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 7:27 AM, Tim Shoppa tsho...@gmail.com wrote:
  
   There are many different factors at play way beyond the antenna system.
   First and foremost, K5GO is QRP so he gets an automatic 3x multiplier for
   all his QSO's. I don't know N9FT's category.
  
   Beyond power category, a station in a densely populated area will get an
   awful lot of 1-pointers and 2-pointers, even working local stations that
   can't load their bedsprings on 160M. A station that is in a remote area 
   but
   within easy low-power reach of one or even better two population centers
   can get fewer QSO's but most of them are 3-, 4-, and 5- pointers (and he
   may get a 1.5 multiplier on every Q if he was low power himself or a 3x
   multiplier if he was QRP.)
  
   Even in contests without distance multipliers and with section+DXCC
   multipliers, there is an advantage to being in low-power reach of multiple
   domestic population centers. For example US midwest rules the ARRL DX low
   power category.
  
   Tim N3QE
  
   On Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 5:56 AM, James Rodenkirch rodenkirch_...@msn.com
   wrote:
  
Is there a way via Stew results to measure the concentration of Qs...
   with relation to the distance of the Q?
  
   For example, looking over the scores posed at the 3830 web site one finds
   N9FT's QSOs to point ratio is 3 pts. while K5GO has a ratio of 8.1.
  
   On the surface, one would draw the conclusion.. that K5GOs Qs were
   farther away, suggesting an antenna system geared to lower elevation of
   radiation while N9FT's antenna may favor shorter hauls?
  
   Also, propagation and local noise enter into the discussion as
   welland, can't

Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores

[James Rodenkirch]

 Is there a way via Stew results to measure the concentration of Qs... with 
relation to the distance of the Q?

For example, looking over the scores posed at the 3830 web site one finds 
N9FT's QSOs to point ratio is 3 pts. while K5GO has a ratio of 8.1.
 
On the surface, one would draw the conclusion.. that K5GOs Qs were farther 
away, suggesting an antenna system geared to lower elevation of radiation while 
N9FT's antenna may favor shorter hauls?
 
Also, propagation and local noise enter into the discussion as welland, 
can't discount more QRP Qs for K5GO, perhaps.  

My QRP friend, WC7S, and I consider all of this one of the joys of working the 
Stew...one can draw/speculate loose conclusions from the scores... sorta. Then 
one goes to QRZ.com to see f the stations of interest list equipment and 
antennas and them MORE speculation crops up  all of this should be 
undertaken during happy hour!
 
72 to all, Jim Rodenkirch  K9JWV  
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores

[James Rodenkirch]

Forgot to state that both stations I used as examples were QRP entries, Tim 
k5go is in AR and n9tf is in IL and I chose them 'cuz they are reasonably 
close to each other, mid-west sorta thang. 
 
I guessif we all chimed in with our ideas of why the numbers are different, 
we'd have a shopping list of things/constraints/influencers to consider when 
setting up the antenna system, rig to use, contest category to enter, time 
periods to focus our operating time on, etc.
 
'Nuff said - I can hardly wait to get home and modify my current antenna system 
to get back on 160miss my old 43' vertical, 25' top loading wires and 
elevated radials...hihi
 
72 and Best Wishes to all in 2015 -- here's hoping for improved low band 
conditions!!  Jim R. K9JWV 
 
 Date: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 07:29:45 -0500
 From: tsho...@gmail.com
 To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com; topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: Speculating via Stew posted scores
 
 Oops, braino correction on the last sentence. I temporarily forgot that
 there were bands and contests other than 160M :-). Last sentence should
 read ARRL 160 low power category.
 
 On Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 7:27 AM, Tim Shoppa tsho...@gmail.com wrote:
 
  There are many different factors at play way beyond the antenna system.
  First and foremost, K5GO is QRP so he gets an automatic 3x multiplier for
  all his QSO's. I don't know N9FT's category.
 
  Beyond power category, a station in a densely populated area will get an
  awful lot of 1-pointers and 2-pointers, even working local stations that
  can't load their bedsprings on 160M. A station that is in a remote area but
  within easy low-power reach of one or even better two population centers
  can get fewer QSO's but most of them are 3-, 4-, and 5- pointers (and he
  may get a 1.5 multiplier on every Q if he was low power himself or a 3x
  multiplier if he was QRP.)
 
  Even in contests without distance multipliers and with section+DXCC
  multipliers, there is an advantage to being in low-power reach of multiple
  domestic population centers. For example US midwest rules the ARRL DX low
  power category.
 
  Tim N3QE
 
  On Mon, Dec 29, 2014 at 5:56 AM, James Rodenkirch rodenkirch_...@msn.com
  wrote:
 
   Is there a way via Stew results to measure the concentration of Qs...
  with relation to the distance of the Q?
 
  For example, looking over the scores posed at the 3830 web site one finds
  N9FT's QSOs to point ratio is 3 pts. while K5GO has a ratio of 8.1.
 
  On the surface, one would draw the conclusion.. that K5GOs Qs were
  farther away, suggesting an antenna system geared to lower elevation of
  radiation while N9FT's antenna may favor shorter hauls?
 
  Also, propagation and local noise enter into the discussion as
  welland, can't discount more QRP Qs for K5GO, perhaps.
 
  My QRP friend, WC7S, and I consider all of this one of the joys of
  working the Stew...one can draw/speculate loose conclusions from the
  scores... sorta. Then one goes to QRZ.com to see f the stations of interest
  list equipment and antennas and them MORE speculation crops up  all of
  this should be undertaken during happy hour!
 
  72 to all, Jim Rodenkirch  K9JWV
 
 
  _
  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: Non-resonant receive antennas

[James Rodenkirch]

I noticed JC's comment below about a low dipole as a receiving antenna.
 
Did I interpret that correctly?  I've read of a Dipole on the ground as a low 
noise receive antenna for 160 but.can a non resonant dipole installed 
at low heights be better, as a receive antenna, than a vertical or L antenna? 
How about a non-resonant dipole, say, two feet above ground, at a length of 100 
feet? Would you feed it with coax or figure out the Zo at 160 and use a 
suitably wound xfmr to match to 50 ohms???
 
Just athinkin' of ways to use available low horizontal space, albeit the 
available space is insufficient for a beverage.
 
Thoughts???  72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
  
 

 From: n...@comcast.net
 To: jkaufm...@alum.mit.edu; topband@contesting.com
 Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2014 23:11:10 -0500
 Subject: Re: Topband: 8 circle: DXE vs Hi-Z
 
 Hi guys
 
 Polarization does play a lot on 160m for two reasons. I can say that because
 I am using my HWF (two horizontal flags end fire) since 2009. The first one
 is local man made noise that propagate only vertical due the attenuation on
 the horizontal component near the ground. And Second the DX signal always
 come in both polarization. 
 The result form the two reasons is an optimized signal to noise ration using
 horizontal polarization. 
 
 I have both WF with the same RDF, during SR or SS there is almost no sky
 noise coming from the back because of the darkness, however local man made
 noise comes from any direction, especially if you live in a city lot like I
 do. Most of the time the noise is coming at the same direction you want to
 hear the DX, and if you add power line noise the situation deteriorates a
 lot for the VWF due vertical polarization. Using my HWF I normally get 10 dB
 better SNR than my VWF that has the same RDF and same aperture of 74  degree
 measures, I can turn the antenna and measure it, they are not optimized for
 best F/B, I optimized them for maximum rejection of local man made noise.
 
 The HWF is not a dipole. The two phased loops take of angle us 40 degree and
 there is a huge attenuation for signals above 60 degree. Low dipole is a
 huge issue if the dipole is resonant, it will interact with all other
 receiver antennas and will destroy directivity of all of them, if you want
 to use a low dipole make it not resonant. Gain in not important so it  can
 be short as a 30 m dipole and still will hear the same way. Another issue
 with low dipoles is the amount of energy absorbed from the TX antenna. If
 you connect a power meter and a 50 ohms load o the low dipole and transmit
 KW on the TX antenna, you can measure several WATTS at the low dipole . You
 can burn you front end with a low resonant dipole.
 
 Adding to all that there is another very interesting observation from my
 last 5 year using a high RDF horizontal RX antenna, when the TX signal
 refract on the ionosphere the signal split in two waves, that was very well
 explained by K9LA. What I observed is that these two waves does propagate in
 different directions. I normally receive VK6 near my SR with better SNR
 horizontal from 210 degree SSW and with better SNR from 280 degree vertical.
 Sometimes the horizontal peak is 20 minutes before the vertical peak that is
 most of the time at my SR.
 
 73's
 N4IS
 JC
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of John
 Kaufmann
 Sent: Wednesday, December 17, 2014 8:59 PM
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: 8 circle: DXE vs Hi-Z
 
 Good points about polarization.  If the signals and/or noise are polarized
 predominantly in one state, then RDF may not be a good predictor of SNR
 performance, particularly if the antenna receives predominantly in an
 orthogonal polarization.  On the other hand, if the polarization state of
 the signals and noise evolve randomly with no preference for any one state,
 which is often assumed for skywave signals, then RDF will be--on average--a
 good receiving metric, subject to the previous stated qualifications about
 the spatial distribution of the received noise.  However, some of the past
 discussions on this reflector about preferential polarization of skywave
 signals on 160 may call into question the assumption of randomly polarized
 signals.
 
 73, John W1FV
 
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Richard
 (Rick) Karlquist
 Sent: Wednesday, December 17, 2014 3:19 PM
 To: Lee K7TJR; 'Terry Posey'; 'John Kaufmann'; topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: 8 circle: DXE vs Hi-Z
 
 All this discussion about RDF overlooks the issue of polarization.  If you
 make an array of verticals with a certain RDF (assuming noise comes from all
 directions uniformly), the array will be better than an individual vertical
 by the RDF factor.  However, what I have found is that a horizontally
 polarized antenna, such as a low dipole frequently receives considerably
 better than a 

Topband: QRP ARCI 160 meter sprint

[James Rodenkirch]

This annual contest is scheduled for Z to 0600Z, 27 November, next 
Wednesday evening.
 
I know, I knowit's QRP and there are few participants amongst you all but 
 if you are on Top Band that evening and hear our pathetically weak sigs 
and are in the moodanswer us and send the desired report (you operating at 
 5 watts I no big deal - see exchange below):
 
ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + ARCI No.
non-ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + power outY'all sure appreciate our 4 
point value during the Stew events so return the favor, por favor, iffn' your 
on the air next Wednesday evening.72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV  
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: QRP ARCI 160 meter sprint

[James Rodenkirch]

This annual contest is scheduled for Z to 0600Z, 27 November, next 
Wednesday evening.
 
 I know, I knowit's QRP and there are few participants amongst you all but 
 
if you are on Top Band that evening and hear our pathetically weak sigs and are 
in the mood,
answer our plaintive CQs and send the desired report.
 
Note: you operating at  5 watts is no big deal - see exchange below:
 
 ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + ARCI No.
non-ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + power out.
 
Y'all sure appreciate our 4 point value during the Stew events so,
return the favor, por favor, iffn' your on the air next Wednesday evening.
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV  


  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: QRP ARCI 160 meter sprint

[James Rodenkirch]

OHCW and SSB modes are utilized for this event. 
 
 From: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2014 07:48:22 -0700
 Subject: Topband:  QRP ARCI 160 meter sprint
 
 This annual contest is scheduled for Z to 0600Z, 27 November, next 
Wednesday evening.
  
 I know, I knowit's QRP and there are few participants amongst you all but 
 
 if you are on Top Band that evening and hear our pathetically weak sigs and 
are in the mood,
 answer our plaintive CQs and send the desired report.
  
 Note: you operating at  5 watts is no big deal - see exchange below:
  
  ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + ARCI No.
 non-ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + power out.
  
 Y'all sure appreciate our 4 point value during the Stew events so,
 return the favor, por favor, iffn' your on the air next Wednesday evening.
  
 72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: QRP ARCI 160 meter sprint

[James Rodenkirch]

I'm hoping there will be SOME QRP participants, Tim, but remember being in it 
two years ago and pickings were slim.  I have promoted it at the QRP-L 
reflector as well.
 
Problem for us out west is that a 1700 local start time is kinda early 
BUT...I'll be there with bells on - hihi 
 
 Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2014 10:43:26 -0500
 From: tsho...@gmail.com
 To: rodenkirch_...@msn.com; topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: QRP ARCI 160 meter sprint
 
 Thank you James! I do not think I have done the QRP ARCI events in the past
 but I will give this 160M one a try. Wednesday right before Thanksgiving
 actually works out well for me. This will be my first SO2R effort, and I
 will be doing some improvements to give me pushbutton receive antenna
 selection at both rigs.
 
 There is also a NAQCC 160M event coming up in January:
 http://naqcc.info/sprint201501_160.html
 
 In the NAQCC 160M events I reliably have good solid exchanges with from
 upper midwest down to Texas. My west-facing pennant is a real winner to
 upper midwest and my K9AY pointing SW works good for Texas and Georgia etc.
 
 Sweepstakes certainly doesn't have much representation on 160M but I was
 very impressed by many impressive QRP station performances on 80M in both
 CW and SSB sweepstakes.
 
 Tim N3QE
 
 On Fri, Nov 21, 2014 at 9:45 AM, James Rodenkirch rodenkirch_...@msn.com
 wrote:
 
  This annual contest is scheduled for Z to 0600Z, 27 November, next
  Wednesday evening.
 
  I know, I knowit's QRP and there are few participants amongst you all
  but  if you are on Top Band that evening and hear our pathetically weak
  sigs and are in the moodanswer us and send the desired report (you
  operating at  5 watts I no big deal - see exchange below):
 
  ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + ARCI No.
  non-ARCI: RST + (state/province/country) + power outY'all sure appreciate
  our 4 point value during the Stew events so return the favor, por favor,
  iffn' your on the air next Wednesday evening.72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
 
 
  _
  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: Phased short vertical receive antenna system

[James Rodenkirch]

Ok OKthis is what I was remembering (courtesy of a reply from Larry):
 
Check out http://www.dxengineering.com/parts/dxe-aaps3-1p or page 77 of
their Autumn/Winter 2014 paper catalog. These receive antennas use 102
whips. 
 
I think I'll go for a two element Hi-Z version - I can put up two 17' verticals 
and some 17' radials, spaced 40 to 50 feetwill work better than my 
top-loaded verticalhi hi
 
Tnx to all for the rapid replies!! m72, Jim R. K9JWV

 
 
From: rodenkirch_...@msn.com
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Phased short vertical receive antenna system
Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 04:14:12 -0700




I recall seeing a phased antenna system for the low bands that employed short 
vertical antennasshorter than what is used in the system for sale at DX 
Engineering these days. I am envisioning an advertisement where the antennas - 
4 to 8 of them depending on how narrow of a pattern you desired - looked like 
whipsperhaps 8 to 10 feet tall
 
Anyone know about what I have stuck up in my cranium or am I simply losing 
it?  
 
72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
 

  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: [Bulk] Re: Phased short vertical receive antenna system

[James Rodenkirch]

Appreciate those comments/thought, Tom I was merely stating/replying that I 
appreciated his concise, K.I.S.S. sort of encapsulation of what he did ad 
works for him. 
 
I am totally aware of the one size doesn't fit all heuristic and appreciate 
your reminder.
 
Tnx, 72 de Jim R. K9JWV

 
 From: w...@w8ji.com
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 12:53:53 -0500
 Subject: Re: Topband: [Bulk] Re: Phased short vertical receive antenna system
 
  Good info, Grant - the sort of concise here's what I did that works info 
  needed.
 
  72, Jim R. K9JWV
 
 
 Jim (and all),
 
 Almost always, the warnings and guidelines for various systems depend on how 
 conservative the designer or manual writer is. Things should never be taken 
 as being cast in concrete.
 
 Part of this occurs because works is always subjective, what one person is 
 happy with and thinks he set the world on fire with is never the same as 
 what someone else is happy with.
 
 Part of this is because installations have different things in and around 
 the antenna that might bothering the antenna system. No two systems, unless 
 they are out in the open over similar earth, act exactly the same.
 
 This is why some companies sell 1/4 wave verticals, or worse 43 ft 
 verticals, and promise the world with no radials or minimal radials, and why 
 other companies might tell customers them need more radials.  It isn't that 
 one antenna system of a similar style is necessarily less critical. The real 
 reason is often that whoever wrote the instructions or advertising was more 
 liberal or more conservative in claims or warnings.
 
 There was a remark a week ago about an antenna system not being supposed to 
 work with a house in the middle of the array. Whether a house bothered the 
 array or not actually depended far more on the particular house and what is 
 inside the house than it does on the array.
 
 Unless a system is over open clear flat soil of a given type, bad things 
 might sometimes happen. Since no one ever knows how a location or things in 
 the location affect an installation, guidelines might wind up too 
 conservative. Some guidelines can be far too loose.
 
 I can say this, the DXE stuff is absolutely better...installation being 
 equal. That doesn't mean it is always noticeable, or that something else 
 won't work. Being better doesn't mean something else won't work almost the 
 same, and it doesn't mean it will work the same. It just means better.
 
 My K3 is far better than my Yaesu stuff for what I do. Doesn't mean I always 
 notice it, or that someone else might ever notice it, and it doesn't mean 
 someone else just hates Elecraft and loves the same Yaesu's I have.  :)
 
 73 Tom 
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: 160 activity

[James Rodenkirch]

Agree, Larry, with all of your points . but.just where ARE other ops, 
like you, who subscribe to the position that having a  15 second QSO on 160 is 
a good thing?
 
I was on 160 many nights and early mornings last winter calling CQ with few 
repliesoh, yes, the antenna was working just fine!
 
I'm not on this fall/winter as we're in our RV out in FL but will get back on 
in mid-January - sure hope there is more activity than just during contests 
but I'm not holding my breath!
 
72/73, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 2014 22:15:38 +
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Topband: 160 activity
 From: topband@contesting.com
 
 I made a point when I was operating W1AW/8 to try to work 160 phone a 
 few times.

The QSO rate was low compared to 20, but I think I made a lot of people 
 happy, at least based on the comments I got, and for a QSO party, I 
 thought that was the point.

 A contest is a different kettle of fish altogether.  In some ways I am 
 glad that 160 seems to be a refuge from the 15 second QSO. Not knocking 
 contesting at all;  I have fun with it and love running a good pileup, 
 and you learn a lot about your station and your skills doing that.  But 
 when a contest is running, and you aren't in it, it's nice to have a 
 place where you can go and have a nice relaxed chat if that's what you want.

 160 is a good band for regional communications at any hour, and an 
 interesting challenge for longer haul at night.  The people on 160 tend 
 to be nicer than those on 80, for sure, another reason to operate 
there.  Although my CW is still a bit rusty, I worked a couple of folks 
 on CW that asked me.  One of the WV team ran RTTY on 160 and had a great 
 time doing it, too.

 BTW, if anyone wants WV for WAS, drop me a line.
 
 Larry
 KD8WSP
 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: TX relays

[James Rodenkirch]

Top Band members will benefit from an end to this squabbling that erupts often 
'tween you two!
 
Sheesh - I've been reading the replies from all and have learned quite a 
bituntil you, Carl, opted to get  into Tom's face for some miniscule reason 
that dips down into the minutiae of life!!
 
Give it a rest, ok  Tom not answering your petty sniffling over a $10.00 
difference 'tween two stinking relays - a tangential topic/subject which has 
ZERO to do with the original poster's query - outta be sending you a message, 
Carl!
 
72, Dood.Jim R. K9JWV

 
 From: k...@jeremy.qozzy.com
 To: w...@w8ji.com; topband@contesting.com
 Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2014 20:35:42 -0400
 Subject: Re: Topband: TX relays
 
  Tom still hasnt answered why there is only a $10 price difference between 
  the RCS-4 and the -8V yet users of the -8V are getting raped for 
  replacement relays.
 
 
  I don't know why any public forum allows you to post the vitriol nonsense 
  you post.
 
  Do you ever do anything in life besides insulting others or picking 
  fights?
 
 
 Typical Tom, accuses others of doing what he does when backed into a corner. 
 Others have said the same on here and elsewhere and it is so very obvious.
 
 Im not insulting any person nor can asking for some straight answers be 
 considered picking a fight by any stretch of imagination.
 
 Come back when you can actually give an honest and complete answerfor 
 once...and stop trying to deflect the subjects.
 The Topband members would benefit.
 
 Carl
 KM1H
 
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: VK9EC

[James Rodenkirch]

I was looking at the VK9EC/VK9EX web site and see where they were able to erect 
an L for top band and made two top band QSOs yesterday --- if the two were any 
of youz  guys/gals, good on ya!
 
72/73, Jim R. K9JWV

  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: K3 vs THE REST

[James Rodenkirch]

YES!!!  Good on ya, Pat!!!  Always fun to chat and challenge others, 
technically, as LONG as we all get on the air, particularly on Top Band!  Keep 
a sharp ear/eye out for us QRP o[s!
 
72, jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
 
 To: topband@contesting.com
 From: n...@linuxcolumbus.com
 Date: Tue, 17 Jun 2014 14:38:35 -0400
 Subject: Re: Topband: K3 vs THE REST
 
 I'm not sure how any of this apples vs oranges debate is going to help get 
 more
 activity in the summer Stew coming up June 21/22.  Therefore, I'd suggest
 everyone on this list get on in the Stew and adjust your rx audio till it 
 sounds
 great!  Just to make sure you have it adjusted correctly, call cq  so you can
 get a variety of signals to listen too.
 
 So remember June 21st, starting at 15z till June 22nd 15z.
 
 I'll shut up now.
 
 Pat N8VW
 Happy K3/100 Owner
 
 PS. vi is best.
 
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Need some 450 ohm ladder line

[James Rodenkirch]

Does aanyone have a roll/spool of 450 ohm ladder line they could unroll 20' of 
and send to me?  I jist don't want to have to order 20' of the stuff and pay 
the high price!
I'd certainly reimburse you for the cost and shipping..reply off line if you 
can help..tnx.
72/83 Jim R. K9JWV
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Radials - open ended or tied together in a grid qrrtangement??

[James Rodenkirch]

I wonder if there is supporting analysis for connecting the radial ends??
I have around 80 elevated radials that range from 50 foot lengths, running east 
and west, and 25 foot lengths running north and south (all of that a function 
of being geographically challenged).  I have not tied the bitter ends 
togethernever really thought about it when I put the radial field together 
but seem to recall reading something about tieing the ends together and having 
a well bounded complete grid underthe antenna.
Thoughts? I tend to think it wouldn't hurt...  72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
  

  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Palomar R-X Noise Bridge

[James Rodenkirch]

Carl:  I've read, at several places, that sleeve baluns are effective at VHF 
and above but not at HF frequencies..thoughts??
72/73, Jim Rodenkirch --- former Tempest inspector for the U.S. 
Navy..ah...Tempest comcerns - the good 'ol days  hi Hi!

 From: charlie-cunning...@nc.rr.com
 To: k...@jeremy.mv.com; topband@contesting.com
 Date: Sat, 15 Feb 2014 11:39:14 -0500
 Subject: Re: Topband: Palomar R-X Noise Bridge
 
 I'm a great believer in ferrite sleeve baluns, Carl!  That's all that I use,
 and with a little work you  can even connect two of them for 4:1 nalance.
 
 73,
 Charlie, K4OTV
 
 -Original Message-
 From: Carl [mailto:k...@jeremy.mv.com] 
 Sent: Saturday, February 15, 2014 11:05 AM
 To: Charlie Cunningham; 'TopBand'
 Subject: Re: Topband: Palomar R-X Noise Bridge
 
 The lowest loss cable I have here is 75 Ohm 1 General Cable Fused Disc; its
 
 under a differnt name these days. Mostly air with poly discs and used for 
 the 200' runs for 10M, 2M, and 222 MHz.
 
 For the 160/80 inverted vee it is 450' of regular foamed 3/4 75 Ohm CATV 
 hardline with a RG-11 jumper and plenty of ferrite to the feed point. Ive 
 been using ferrite sleeve baluns since the mid 70's; I was introduced to 
 them by the company I worked for who was building equipment for the joint 
 CIA/DOD Tempest program.
 
 Carl
 KM1H
 
 
 - Original Message - 
 From: Charlie Cunningham charlie-cunning...@nc.rr.com
 To: j...@audiosystemsgroup.com; 'TopBand' topband@contesting.com
 Sent: Friday, February 14, 2014 10:00 PM
 Subject: Re: Topband: Palomar R-X Noise Bridge
 
 
  All generally true, I expect, but I also believe that dielectric constant
  and dielectric losses also figure in and the lowest loss lines would be
  filled with air, dry nitrogen or evacuated. I expect those would likely be
  the lowest loss AND highest velocity factor cases.
 
  73,
  Charlie, K4OTV
 
  -Original Message-
  From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Jim 
  Brown
  Sent: Friday, February 14, 2014 9:42 PM
  To: 'TopBand'
  Subject: Re: Topband: Palomar R-X Noise Bridge
 
  On 2/14/2014 2:17 PM, Carl wrote:
  Isnt that what lowest loss means? At least that was my intention.
 
  I must not have written clearly enough. I was not questioning the low
  loss, only that the high Vf was the way to get it.
 
  You DO get the low loss by going to larger coax, (like the 7/8-in hard
  line), but it's the fact that it's LARGER and has lower RF resistance,
  NOT the higher Vf.
 
  Think of it this way -- The higher Vf cable has less attenuation per ft
  because the higher Vf allows the center conductor to be larger.
  But a stub made with foam coax with Vf = 0.84 must be 27% longer than
  one with with a solid dielectric and Vf =.66. If those coaxes are the
  same diameter and of comparable quality, the stub attenuation and Q will
  be nearly the same.
 
  73, Jim K9YC
  _
  Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
 
  _
  Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
 
 
  -
  No virus found in this message.
  Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
  Version: 2014.0.4259 / Virus Database: 3705/7095 - Release Date: 02/15/14
  
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: Question - optimum number of radials

[James Rodenkirch]

Besides optimim number(s), I wonder if there is supporting analysis for the 
connection of the radial ends??
I have around 80 elevated radials that range from 50 foot lengths, running east 
and west, and 25 foot lengths running north and south (all of that a function 
of being geographically challenged).  I have not tied the bitter ends 
togethernever really thought about it when I put the radial field together 
but seem to recall reading something about tieing the ends together and having 
a well bounded complete grid underthe antenna.
Thoughts? I tend to think it wouldn't hurt...  72, Jim Rodenkirch K9JWV 
  
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband