Re: Topband: Stew Perry 160 test this weekend

[Kenneth Grimm]

Steve,
Here in Virginia although I made a few European contacts around 0300 the
band didn't really open until their sunrise grayline around 0400 and was
best for me around 0500.  I only managed around 30 Europeans this year
compared to 70 in Spring 2020 Stew.  I share your observation about the
level of activity but not the condition of the band.  Lots of static and
QSB made it much harder to get the 30 Europeans than the 70 in 2020!
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Sun, Mar 10, 2024 at 1:05 PM Steve Harrison  wrote:

> On 3/10/2024 5:27 AM, Roger Kennedy wrote:
> > Well I think I spoke too soon . . .
> >
> > Although there was DX propagation, signals seemed well down this side of
> the pond.
> >
> > Roger G3YRO
>
> I heard very few east coasters working Europe early last evening. OTOH,
> we seemed to have great propagation between SoCal and all along the
> upper east coast; I was hearing and working whatever I could hear as
> much as 15 minutes BEFORE sunset from the desert, including FK09, FN64
> and FN20! At that time (0145 - ~03Z), I heard only a few other
> westerners; it was as though most the other W6s were waiting until after
> dark before getting on. Static crashes? What static?? The band seemed
> abnormally quiet, to me. Unfortunately, I had to go away after 0430Z.
>
> But my impression was that activity was WAY down; there were kHz between
> CQers, so no adjacent CQing QRM that I heard, and NO activity above 1840
> (at least, not until after 0430Z, when I left), and almost none below 1810.
>
> Steve, K0XP
>
>
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Skirted vertical antennas for MF broadcast

[Kenneth Grimm]

The first time I saw one it was called the Folded Umbrella and was
popularized by the late WB5IIR, John Haerle.  He wrote an article for HR in
May of 1979.  He also described it in his book, "The Easy Way."  I've been
using my own version of the basic design on 160 for several years.
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Apr 7, 2022 at 12:24 PM Mark - N5OT  wrote:

> Conical Monopole
>
> Say that fast 3 times:
>
> Conical Monopole
> Conical Monopole
> Conical Monopole
>
> Right.  The first time I saw one, it was called a Folded Unipole. My 160
> support can be probably 80' or 24 meters.  I have considered my options
> for broad-banding it for 160.  This is one of the choices.
>
> Mark N5OT
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Materials for Beverages?

[Kenneth Grimm]

I've been using black and yellow screw in insulators to support beverage
wires for years with no problemswell, with the insulators that
is...plenty of problems with falling trees, etc.
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Aug 3, 2021 at 6:46 PM Grant Saviers  wrote:

> N7QT & I verified that black ring screw-in insulators are too conductive
> for one or two transmit radials on 160m.  Lot's of arcs and smoke.  I
> now use the yellow 4" long barb wire insulators screwed to trees to
> support 160m elevated Tx radials.
>
> Black may not be a problem with Beverage field strengths.
>
> Grant KZ1W
>
> On 8/3/2021 11:16, Tim Duffy wrote:
> > Two things concern me about black. UV and possible carbon used to color
> > black - which may be conductive at RF frequencies
> >
> > 73
> > Tim K3LR
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: Topband [mailto:topband-bounces+k3lr=k3lr@contesting.com] On
> > Behalf Of Drew Vonada-Smith
> > Sent: Tuesday, August 3, 2021 1:02 PM
> > To: topband@contesting.com
> > Subject: Topband: Materials for Beverages?
> >
> > Gene,
> >
> > I have used those and others in that series with only fair results.
> They do
> > break more often than I'd like.  I replace about 10% of them per year,
> which
> > is acceptable given that they are cheap. But I have not found anything
> > better.
> >
> > FYI - I'd be happy to use black ones, but have never seen them.  My local
> > farm store carries the exact same bright yellow ones you listed.  A link
> to
> > a "preferred type" would be welcome.  I'm a bit of a birder and have not
> > heard of any hummingbird death issues.  References?
> >
> > 73,
> > Drew K3PA
> >
> > 
> >
> >
> > Toda
> > Date: Mon, 2 Aug 2021 16:35:47 -0400
> > From: Gene Smar 
> > To: topband@contesting.com
> > Subject: Topband: Fwd: [TowerTalk] Fwd: Amazon recommends "Zareba
> >  ITY-Z Standard..." and more
> > Message-ID: <78ef5d0e-0d78-c118-0819-e5ccc2dd7...@verizon.net>
> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8; format=flowed
> >
> > FYI.? Materials for Beverages?
> >
> > 73 de
> > Gene Smar? AD3F
> >
> >
> >
> > Hello Gene Smar,
> >
> > We found some items we think you might like.
> >
> > Zareba ITY-Z Standard Snug-fitting T-Post Insulator, 25 per Bag
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=2MTFRAE8L15C=C=https
> > %3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB005MNJOA2%3Fref%3Dem_1p_1_im%26ref
> >
> _%3Dpe_25592930_596352090=G8DP5AILECESZFJ16ZEKALEIXI4A_=pe_25592930_59
> > 6352090>
> >
> >
> >
> > Zareba ITY-Z Standard Snug-fitting T-Post Insulator, 25 per Bag
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=3T14OFHQD55AS=C=http
> > s%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB005MNJOA2%3Fref%3Dem_1p_1_ti%26re
> >
> f_%3Dpe_25592930_596352090=S9VVOYMAZ0WHDM9VXPIU79YL928A_=pe_25592930_5
> > 96352090>
> >
> > $7.66
> >
> > Shop now
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=3HYZC2P2NSYK4=C=http
> > s%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB005MNJOA2%2Fref%3Dpe_25592930_596
> >
> 352090_em_1p_1_lm=1PZ2LMKDILKJ4MXVNJKTYPSHROWA_=pe_25592930_596352090_
> > em_1p_1_lm>
> >
> >
> > Zareba Black GHPB Plastic Gate Handle
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=2IUFT3W6ZK5HC=C=http
> > s%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB07RDM4CZJ%3Fref%3Dem_1p_2_im%26re
> >
> f_%3Dpe_25592930_596352090=RD4KTMRSKYWIPZBPYTSKSI2XHZYA_=pe_25592930_5
> > 96352090>
> >
> >
> >
> > Zareba Black GHPB Plastic Gate Handle
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=1IDW2X3E77BHI=C=http
> > s%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB07RDM4CZJ%3Fref%3Dem_1p_2_ti%26re
> >
> f_%3Dpe_25592930_596352090=BAQQCL9AAI9A2XA49WQJFCTNX5KA_=pe_25592930_5
> > 96352090>
> >
> > $2.99
> >
> > Shop now
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=Y7943QUU89CC=C=https
> > %3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB07RDM4CZJ%2Fref%3Dpe_25592930_5963
> >
> 52090_em_1p_2_lm=PYA8FP4SPMW81SMNOGS8KACDDEYA_=pe_25592930_596352090_e
> > m_1p_2_lm>
> >
> >
> > Zareba PW656Y6-Z Polywire 200-Meter 6-Conductor Portable Electric-Fence
> > Rope
> > <
> https://www.amazon.com/gp/r.html?C=2TYANM4MKLZFE=73FN9LKHJ25R=urn:rtn:m
> >
> sg:20210802180605b24632834e54457396baff00a4b0p0na=2XRFESTHJIOG5=C=http
> > s%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com
> %2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB0079GHH1I%3Fref%3Dem_1p_3_im%26re
> >
> f_%3Dpe_25592930_596352090=TIKMUHNKRTO33K0HJPCHKD7UFQMA_=pe_25592930_5
> > 96352090>
> >
> >
> >
> > Zareba PW656Y6-Z Polywire 200-Meter 6-Conductor Portable...

Re: Topband: ARRL SSB Contest

[Kenneth Grimm]

Roger,
I hasten to disagree with you.  Conditions, as far as I'm concerned, were
quite good last evening on top band.  In only a brief period of time I
managed over 20 QSOs with Europeans, some with honest S9 signals.  While
the "spotlight" seemed to not be terribly important, power was.  500 and
1000 watt stations were easily S5 to S9.  Hundred watt stations were a
little more difficult, but easy copy for the most part.  In fact, I seemed
to have more trouble copying some of the Carribean stations than I did the
European ones!  Stations were spread out from 1.810 to 1.900 and easy
pickings!
I hope conditions will persist and tonight will be a repeat!
73,
-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: s meter

[Kenneth Grimm]

If you have your receiver set to give an accurate S meter reading, you are
definitely not set up for optimal receiving on top band!  Like others, I
give a report based on a subjective decision.  Works for me.  I place much
more emphasis on the R in the RST...and that is a subjective call.
Typically you will get one of four S meter reports from me 2, 5, 7 or
9...arrived at subjectively.  Ninety plus percent of the time my S meter is
reading zero when I'm on top band working DX!
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Jan 18, 2021 at 7:44 AM Ron Spencer via Topband <
topband@contesting.com> wrote:

> For the low bands, I typically listen on my receive antennas. S meter
> readings on them are proportional to the signal strength but not an
> accurate account. I'd estimate it might be 4 or 5 S units down from the
> true signal strength. I never use the S meter reading when giving reports.
> If I did most would be between S0 and S3. Instead I judge based on what I
> hear and how well I hear it. Not meant to be a judgement on how others use
> the S meter. Just how I use it here.
>
>
>
> 73
>
> Ron
>
> N4XD
>
> Sent using https://www.zoho.com/mail/
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: 7Q7

[Kenneth Grimm]

In Virginia on both CW and FT8 nights he was barely readable on NE and SE
beverages.  However, solid copy from before sunset until his sunrise on
570' E beverage.

On Fri, Nov 20, 2020 at 12:28 PM Drew Vonada-Smith 
wrote:

> Tom,
>
> He was about S6 the other night in Kansas.  First heard 2330Z, but much
> better from 0010 to 0030Z.  I worked him at 0020Z in about ten calls.
> Antenna was an inverted L, and RX was a 650 ft Bev to the SE.  He was
> similar strength on the NE Bev as SE, but my noise level is much higher
> NE.
>
> 73,
> Drew K3PA
>
>
> Message: 5
> Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2020 18:12:07 + (UTC)
> From: Thomas Hoyer 
> To: "k2q...@gmail.com" ,  "k2av@gmail.com"
> 
> Cc: "topband@contesting.com" 
> Subject: Re: Topband: Wednesday CW DX Activity Night
> Message-ID: <663192482.321269.1605809527...@mail.yahoo.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8
>
> Would be interested in hearing (no pun intended) what type of antenna you,
> or anyone heraing the 7q7, are using
> TomW3TA
>
>
> 
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Wednesday CW DX Activity Night

[Kenneth Grimm]

7Q7RU was audible from well before sunset here in Virginia until sunrise in
Malawi.  Lots of QSB, but copyable on a 700 foot beverage running E/W.
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Nov 19, 2020 at 1:13 PM Thomas Hoyer via Topband <
topband@contesting.com> wrote:

> Would be interested in hearing (no pun intended) what type of antenna you,
> or anyone heraing the 7q7, are using
> TomW3TA
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Salvatore ["Ted"] K2QMF 
> To: Guy Olinger K2AV ; thoy...@verizon.net
> Cc: Greg Chartrand via Topband 
> Sent: Thu, Nov 19, 2020 12:20 pm
> Subject: Re: Topband: Wednesday CW DX Activity Night
>
>  The 7Q7 was 100% copy here on Long Island!!Tried for over an hour to work
> him!!  No Luck...Ted  K2QMF
>
>  On 11/19/2020 12:15:01 PM, Guy Olinger K2AV  wrote:I
> heard the 7Q7 call sign here in NC exactly once, of course at the tippy
> top of a long QSB cycle, which then immediately dove into the noise not to
> be heard again in the 30 minutes
> before I had to go downstairs.
>
> 8’s and 9’s appeared to be hearing him. Go figure.
>
> 73, Guy K2AV
>
> On Thu, Nov 19, 2020 at 10:44 AM Thomas Hoyer via Topband <
> topband@contesting.com> wrote:
>
> > Observation from my little gun station in eastern PA is that propagation
> > seems to have moved more to the west of me, western PA, Ohio and further.
> > Whereas for the last two weeks or so I was hearing EU fairly well given
> my
> > S5 noise level which is quite for me.
> > Worked the KP2 and YL stations last night but as Roger alludes to some
> > deep QSB made it a couple try QSO.
> > That 7Q7 was drawing a lot of activity bit I could not hear him at all.
> > Seemed like stations to the west of me were hearing better.
> > TomW3TA
> >
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: Roger Kennedy
> > To: topband@contesting.com
> > Sent: Thu, Nov 19, 2020 9:40 am
> > Subject: Topband: Wednesday CW DX Activity Night
> >
> >
> > Once again, lots of stations on the band last night from both sides of
> the
> > pond . . . good have such a nice turnout.
> >
> > However, quite deep QSB on most signals, and propagation didn't seem as
> > good
> > as the night before (when I worked several stations right across to the
> > West
> > Coast).
> >
> > Thanks once again to all that made the effort to come on 160 to have a
> few
> > QSOs . . . let's hope we can keep the DX CW activity going again next
> > Wednesday.
> >
> > 73 Roger G3YRO
> >
> > _
> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> > Reflector
> > _
> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> > Reflector
> >
> --
> Sent via Gmail Mobile on my iPhone
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>
>
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Summer Stew Perry

[Kenneth Grimm]

If it were easy, the Summer Stew would lose its charm!  While working
Europe in the Winter is relatively easy for those on the East Coast, I
really had to struggle to pull out two DLs and a PA in this Stew.  I almost
missed my lone Caribbean contact due to heavy QRN.  What I did notice was
that most of the 160 regulars were there, with the big exception of KV4FZ.
One of my first Qs, in broad daylight, was with VE3MGY.  Don, WD8DSB, you
made it into my log as well.  So did K7RAT.  Still, it's ham against mother
nature and to enjoy the Summer Stew, you have to be a little bit of a
masochist...and I sure would miss it if it ever went away!  
73 and stay safe,
Ken - K4XL


On Mon, Jun 22, 2020 at 7:18 AM Don Kirk  wrote:

> Hi Rick and gang,
>
> The biggest problem with the band in the summer in the Midwest USA is high
> QRN level from lightning.  As an example during the Stew Perry contest this
> past weekend our noise floor during hours of darkness in Indiana was
> running 20 to 30 dB above our normal noise floor due to lightning which
> made it impossible to hear EU if you were just using simple RX antennas
> such as EWEs or Tuned Loops, etc.
>
> It's the high QRN level during the summer months in the Midwest US that
> causes most of us to disappear from 160 meter activity until the lightning
> subsides in Fall which is typically sometime in October.
>
> You (N6RK) as well as K7RAT had nice signals into Indiana during the Stew
> Perry contest, and it was great to get both of you into the log as I was
> only running 100 watts and using small pennant RX antennas.
>
> 73,
> Don (wd8dsb)
>
> On Sun, Jun 21, 2020 at 7:21 PM Richard (Rick) Karlquist <
> rich...@karlquist.com> wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > On 6/21/2020 3:41 PM, List Mail wrote:
> > > I worked K7RAT (with some difficulty) and that was all.
> > >
> >
> > > Luke VK3HJ
> > >
> >
> >  From California, the band was basically only active
> > from sunset until about 0500Z, at which point K7RAT
> > was the last man standing, and it didn't seem like
> > he had much rate.  He was something like 40 dB over
> > S9 here!   After CQing for 10 minutes without
> > any calls, I went QRT.  Only ZL was in the dark by
> > then.  I was too tired to stay up until VK was in
> > darkness.
> >
> > For the brief time when there was some activity, the
> > propagation to the east coast was great.  A dozen or
> > two stations in the FM grid field were easily worked.  After
> > the contest, I got an email from an Ohio station
> > saying I was the only station he heard west of the
> > Mississippi.  So maybe I was in the spotlight.
> > Come to think of it, I didn't heard any east
> > coast stations CQ'ing.  They were all responding
> > to my CQ.
> >
> > K7RAT to some extent made up for KV4FZ not being
> > there :-(  He was often the last man standing in this
> > contest.
> >
> > Anyway, I think we have established that the band
> > works just fine at our Summer Solstice and we just
> > need more activity for this contest.  Before this
> > contest was started a few years ago, I had the
> > mistaken impression that the band was dead in the summer.
> >
> > Rick N6RK
> > _
> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> > Reflector
> >
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: CQ WW Contest

[Kenneth Grimm]

On Wed, Jan 29, 2020 at 5:20 AM Roger Kennedy 
wrote:
>
>

> I just wish there was more Activity from NA on 160m generally.  There must
> be at least ten times more 160m DXers over there than there are here in
> Britain . . . but almost every night there are several of us on the band
> calling CQ DX and getting very few replies ! (yet RBN reports confirm that
> the band is open)
>
> 73 Roger G3YRO
>

Roger,
While this is just my opinion, I look at 160 as a challenge.  If I want to
rag-chew or just rack up QSOs, I either go up to SSB or switch to 80 or 40
CW.  When I'm on 160, I'm looking for a new country or even better, a new
zone.  I have a feeling that this is how a good many 160 ops look at the
band.  It's not as though we don't want to talk to G3YRO, it's because we
are looking for JT5DX at the moment or 9M2AX or XV1X or whatever else we
need on the band.  There are lots of ears in use on 160 when we are in
darkness.  Keyers, not so much.
73,
-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Strong Carrier 1828.5

[Kenneth Grimm]

Yes, it is about 10 over 9 in central Virginia and hearing it best to my NE.
Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Jan 20, 2020 at 6:42 PM Don Kirk  wrote:

> Receiving strong carrier on 1828.5 KHz that sounds like sky wave.  Its
> currently peaking 30 db over my noise floor at 6:40pm EST (2340 UTC), and
> it has an approximate heading of 55 degrees from the Indianapolis area
> (Fishers IN) which puts it on a line that goes from my location through the
> top of Maine.
>
> Anyone else hearing it?
>
> Don (wd8dsb)
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Wednesday 160m DX CW Activity Night

[Kenneth Grimm]

I had company, but I came down to the shack and worked ZD7W at 23:15 and
quickly followed at 23:29 with F9ARC.  Since the ZD7 was a new one for me
on 160, I count the evening as a success!  I'm also very glad that we
didn't have those conditions for the CQWWCW last weekend!
73 and see you next Wednesday,
Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Nov 28, 2019 at 1:19 PM Roger Kennedy 
wrote:

>
> Well conditions were very poor here last night . . . only worked a couple
> of
> NA stations . . . and my DX RBN reports were 20 - 30 dB down on normal, so
> propagation wasn't very good.
>
> Thanks to everyone who made an effort to come on . . .
>
> Hopefully it will be better next Wednesday !
>
> Roger G3YRO
>
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: PreStew coming next weekend

[Kenneth Grimm]

 Nick, when you called me, you were very readable and easy copy.  I think I
even said "good sig" or something like that.  You should have had no
difficulty running. I agree that the problem wsn't with your sigs, but with
receiving conditions in the  US.  I worked over twice as many Europeans
when I was running than when I was S/P.  There were lots of Europeans that
I could have easily worked that were busy trying to work the DX near 1.825
or so.  I think it must have been VP6R who I worked for zero points since
he only sent a sig rpt.  I'm sure that conditions will be better for the
Big Stew!  Weather conditions should have quieted down by then.
73 and thanks for the QSO Nick.  I think you were the longest distance for
me.

Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Oct 21, 2019 at 2:32 PM uy0zg  wrote:

> Hi
>
> In southern Ukraine it was very weak with North America.
>
> None of the NA answered my CQ TEST.
>
> All QSOs are the result of my search.
>
> Many quickly disassembled my signal.
>
> Super RX - K1KI, NO3M.
>
> Doesn't hear anyone K3CCR.
>
> CX6VM I listened only to the vertical!
>
> After sunrise, the XE2X heard me.
>
> _
>
> I am very pleased - good Contest.
>
> ---
> Nick, UY0ZG
> http://www.topband.in.ua
>
> Tree писал 2019-10-13 19:12:
> > The popular PreStew event is coming on Oct 19/20th next weekend
> > starting at
> > 1500Z and running for 24 hours.
> >
> > The band has been improving with good signals from Europe into West
> > coats
> > of North America and daily openings from VK to North America and
> > Europe.
> >
> > Full rules and previous results available at http://www.kkn.net/stew
> >
> > Tree N6TR
> > _
> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> > Reflector
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: XR0ZRC?

[Kenneth Grimm]

Yes, Herb, and I'm afraid that the Bouvet expedition is going to have
similar QRN problems.  Fingers crossed!
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Mar 26, 2019 at 11:55 AM Herbert Schoenbohm <
herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Ken, I will gladly attest to that as XR0ZR was work here from 160-6 all
> modes including RTTY with pipeline condition.  I even work them on 6 meters
> 6 different times when we had time to chit chat and the mainland wasn't
> heard yet.  ig difference.
>
> Herb, KV4FZ
>
> On Tue, Mar 26, 2019 at 12:37 PM Kenneth Grimm  wrote:
>
>> The big difference, as I recall, between XR0ZR and XR0ZRC is the timing.
>> ZR was in November, a month that was better for all concerned with regard
>> to QRN as their 160 total demonstrates.
>> 73,
>> Ken - K4XL
>>
>> On Tue, Mar 26, 2019 at 10:27 AM ok1tn  wrote:
>>
>> > XR0ZRC the signal in Eu is strong but listening is reduced by strong
>> > interference from the lights of the port.
>> > ok1tn
>> > --
>> > 73 Slavek Zeler
>> > https://www.okdxf.eu/
>> > "Telegraph Key Collector".
>> >
>> > -- Původní e-mail --
>> > Od: Tim Shoppa 
>> > Komu: David Olean 
>> > Datum: 26. 3. 2019 15:21:48
>> > Předmět: Re: Topband: XR0ZRC?
>> > "David, some stats from Clublog below:
>> >
>> > In 2013, XR0ZR made a major 160M effort, in South American summer:
>> > 160: 1050 Q's
>> > 80: 2374 Q's
>> > 40: 4579 Q's
>> >
>> > I think it's unreasonable to expect that every single DXpedition will be
>> > fruitful on 160M.
>> >
>> > 2018: XR0ZRC stats from Clublog:
>> > 160: 75 Q's
>> > 80: 1983 Q's
>> > 40: 3562 Q's
>> >
>> > Tim N3QE
>> >
>> > On Tue, Mar 26, 2019 at 10:00 AM David Olean 
>> wrote:
>> >
>> > > I am a bit puzzled by XR0ZRC. I thought they were going to have a
>> major
>> > > effort on 80 and 160, but so far I have heard from little to none from
>> > > them on 160. (I am not on 80 M) Last night, 26th UTC, I did hear them
>> > > but their signal was quite weak and the heavy QRN was making copy
>> almost
>> > > impossible. I think this was the first time I heard them. It was hard
>> > > for me to copy much of anything between static crashes. On other days,
>> > > I saw many spots from hams showing that they are on 160M but I hear
>> nil
>> > > and a check on the Reverse Beacon Network shows no spots for them. (?)
>> > > (Pirates?) Last night, a few stations mentioned that XR0ZRC was loud
>> in
>> > > the SE. VA2WA, who is a couple hundred miles north of me, said
>> something
>> > > like "booming " to describe their signal last night. Not sure of the
>> > > strength required for "booming", but it must be similar to "wall to
>> > > wall, and treetop tall". At my shack I could not tell who they were
>> > > working between the static crashes! I copied fragments between
>> crashes.
>> > > I know my receiving setup is working. Just a few hours later near my
>> > > sunrise I worked VK6 and JA from here in Maine.
>> > >
>> > > I have read a few notes on DX sites (many days old) explaining that
>> they
>> > > are plagued by high noise levels and have poor internet
>> accessibility. I
>> > > understand that, but I am still concerned that I almost never hear
>> them
>> > > QRV on 160. Maybe it is just my turn to be in the barrel? I just
>> wonder
>> > > what is going on. I am curious. I hope no one takes this as a
>> complaint
>> > > about a DXpedition. It is not.
>> > >
>> > > My task for the day is to lay out another RX wire for 140 degrees and
>> > > Bouvet! Unfortunately, all of my wooden stakes with insulators
>> attached
>> > > to them are stored in a shed and the ice around it is so thick, deep,
>> > > and hard, that I cannot get to them!
>> > >
>> > >
>> > > Dave K1WHS
>> > >
>> > > _
>> > > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>> > > Reflector
>> > >
>> > _
>> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>> > Reflector
>> > "
>> > _
>> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>> > Reflector
>> >
>>
>>
>> --
>> Ken - K4XL
>> BoatAnchor Manual Archive
>> BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
>> _
>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>> Reflector
>>
>

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: XR0ZRC?

[Kenneth Grimm]

The big difference, as I recall, between XR0ZR and XR0ZRC is the timing.
ZR was in November, a month that was better for all concerned with regard
to QRN as their 160 total demonstrates.
73,
Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Mar 26, 2019 at 10:27 AM ok1tn  wrote:

> XR0ZRC the signal in Eu is strong but listening is reduced by strong
> interference from the lights of the port.
> ok1tn
> --
> 73 Slavek Zeler
> https://www.okdxf.eu/
> "Telegraph Key Collector".
>
> -- Původní e-mail --
> Od: Tim Shoppa 
> Komu: David Olean 
> Datum: 26. 3. 2019 15:21:48
> Předmět: Re: Topband: XR0ZRC?
> "David, some stats from Clublog below:
>
> In 2013, XR0ZR made a major 160M effort, in South American summer:
> 160: 1050 Q's
> 80: 2374 Q's
> 40: 4579 Q's
>
> I think it's unreasonable to expect that every single DXpedition will be
> fruitful on 160M.
>
> 2018: XR0ZRC stats from Clublog:
> 160: 75 Q's
> 80: 1983 Q's
> 40: 3562 Q's
>
> Tim N3QE
>
> On Tue, Mar 26, 2019 at 10:00 AM David Olean  wrote:
>
> > I am a bit puzzled by XR0ZRC. I thought they were going to have a major
> > effort on 80 and 160, but so far I have heard from little to none from
> > them on 160. (I am not on 80 M) Last night, 26th UTC, I did hear them
> > but their signal was quite weak and the heavy QRN was making copy almost
> > impossible. I think this was the first time I heard them. It was hard
> > for me to copy much of anything between static crashes. On other days,
> > I saw many spots from hams showing that they are on 160M but I hear nil
> > and a check on the Reverse Beacon Network shows no spots for them. (?)
> > (Pirates?) Last night, a few stations mentioned that XR0ZRC was loud in
> > the SE. VA2WA, who is a couple hundred miles north of me, said something
> > like "booming " to describe their signal last night. Not sure of the
> > strength required for "booming", but it must be similar to "wall to
> > wall, and treetop tall". At my shack I could not tell who they were
> > working between the static crashes! I copied fragments between crashes.
> > I know my receiving setup is working. Just a few hours later near my
> > sunrise I worked VK6 and JA from here in Maine.
> >
> > I have read a few notes on DX sites (many days old) explaining that they
> > are plagued by high noise levels and have poor internet accessibility. I
> > understand that, but I am still concerned that I almost never hear them
> > QRV on 160. Maybe it is just my turn to be in the barrel? I just wonder
> > what is going on. I am curious. I hope no one takes this as a complaint
> > about a DXpedition. It is not.
> >
> > My task for the day is to lay out another RX wire for 140 degrees and
> > Bouvet! Unfortunately, all of my wooden stakes with insulators attached
> > to them are stored in a shed and the ice around it is so thick, deep,
> > and hard, that I cannot get to them!
> >
> >
> > Dave K1WHS
> >
> > _
> > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> > Reflector
> >
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
> "
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Topband: Fwd: YCCC 9 circle/5 square

[Kenneth Grimm]

Here is a possibility:  https://www.pi4cc.nl/tech-info/rx-array/

73,
Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Feb 19, 2019 at 1:10 PM Mike VE3CKO  wrote:

> I see the YCCC 9 circle/5 square kits are no longer available from DX
> Engineering. Is there somewhere to buy the kits or at least some key
> parts like the PCBs?
>
> --
> 73, Mike Kovacich - VE3CKO
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: CQ160 Conditions

[Kenneth Grimm]

I agree that conditions were a long way from being  ideal.  Friday was less
ideal than Saturday.  However, from here in Virginia I managed to work 20
sixes, 33 sevens and 60 fives and that with a very good beverage pointed at
Europe.  If I heard a weak signal answering my CQ and I was having
difficulty getting the call, I would quickly switch directions on the
beverage and it was frequently someone from "beyond the midwest." It was
embarrassing to ask for repeats from stations that were then quite strong.
Europeans were tough on Friday and a little easier on Saturday.  There were
a few that I could hear that were alligators.  I worked 41 in zone 14, 45
in zone 15.  This is about half of what I did in last year's contest. So,
no, it wasn't the greatest ever for me eitheron the other hand, I had
the pleasure of exchanging reports with K6RK, W0FLS, W5ZN and VE9AA amongst
the others.  Thanks for those Qs and I hope to see you all again in future
160 tests!
73,
Ken - K4XL
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: ARRL DXCC - 160 Meters & Daytime 40-meter DX

[Kenneth Grimm]

I hasten to point out the obvious, that 40 meters and 160 meters are two
different kettles of fish! Lots of DX on 40 at mid-day doesn't translate
too well to 160.  And while I agree with Clive, GM3POI, that one should
probably not say "never" when talking about propagation, if something
looks, walks and acts like a duck, it is probably a duckin other words,
don't overthink the obvious.

Daytime DX on 40 can sometimes be a nuisance.  For instance I had to give
up my run frequency during SSB Sweepstakes this past weekend due to QRM
from stations in Portugal. 8*)

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Nov 20, 2018 at 3:26 PM Lloyd - N9LB  wrote:

> Just FYI...
>
> I'm hearing the following DX on 40m between 1 and 2 PM CST, November
> 20th.
>
> Dipole antenna at 60' running E-W, obviously hearing well over the North
> Pole.
>
> EA5XC, HA1RB, CO2VK, EA4GJP, ON1AEY, EA1IMP, DF8KI, PD2HAB, EA4GJP, I0WBX,
> DJ0FX, CU8FN, EB1BVP, EA4AQQ, SP6IXF, PC5W, TF1A, OK1ZVP, IK1BQD, R6JY,
> JH1AJT, F4EMG, ON3AD, SP6IXF, DL2VPO, A45XR, F5ADE,   SV2AEL,   JH1AJT,
> IK1BQD, I0OSI, UR5RGS, VK7BBB, YO9HP, SP5EAF, 5T2AI, and all of Canada.
>
> 73
>
> Lloyd - N9LB in snowy and cold Wisconsin.
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Wes
> Stewart
> Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2018 1:56 PM
> To: topband@contesting.com
> Subject: Re: Topband: ARRL DXCC - 160 Meters
>
> One of our SADXA members just wrote a paper about the possibility of
> daytime 40-meter DX during mid-December.
>
> But on this subject I would like to know who made the ONE 160-meter SSB
> QSO with VP6D.
>
> Wes  N7WS
>
> On 11/20/2018 11:57 AM, Clive GM3POI wrote:
> > JC I think you have to be careful about saying this daytime or that
> > qso could not have happened. "It entirely depends where the station is
> located."
> > An example, I have a QSL with three QSOS between me and a JD1 station
> > all within about 15 mins of each other, on different dates and centred
> > on midday here on 40m.  Stations in Northerly location will have a
> > high degree of probability for midwinter daytime DX contacts. They
> > will at other parts of the cycle, have a similar type of opening to
> > the Pacific either side of mid night on the higher HF bands.
> > I agree the OK stuff stinks and considering the previous qsl printing
> > that went on, you cannot believe any of the data for certain.
> > 73 Clive GM3POI
> >
>
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
> Reflector
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Radial wire

[Kenneth Grimm]

Well, electric fence wire comes in various levels of galvanizing.  The
cheap stuff such as RedBrand is class 1 and is galvanized to 0.28 oz of
zinc per square foot.  Bekaert Wire 17ga which is 0.80 oz per sq. ft. and
is also available from Tractor Supply.  I've never seen any electric fence
wire that was better than that.  It goes for the same price as RedBrand,
but typically has to be ordered...at least that's the story from my Tractor
Supply.  So, $29.99 for 1/2 mile.  RedBrand is made in the USA and Bekaert
is made in Belgium.  That exhausts my info on electric fence wire!  8*)

73,
Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Sep 6, 2018 at 1:47 PM, Mike Waters  wrote:

> I don't know which brand is best, but I think the thickness of the
> galvanizing varies. (W8JI said that most "galvanized" steel electric fence
> wire is actually cadmium plated, and not zinc).
>
> I have a Beverage made from 17 gauge plated steel electric fence wire
> that's been up roughly 8 years. The plating is gone from much of it, and
> signal levels are really down now because of that due to paramagnetic
> losses. In contact with moist soil, I would not expect it to last as long.
>
> Where is plated steel electric fence wire available with a good thick
> plating?
>
> 73, Mike
> www.w0btu.com
>
>
> On Wed, Sep 5, 2018, 1:22 PM Kenneth Grimm  wrote:
>
>> If you have a Tractor Supply store near you, the price for 1/4 mile of 17
>> ga. galvanized electric fence wire is $14.99.  You can get 1/2 mile roll
>> for $29.99.  Just how long it will last will vary depending on your soil.
>> However, at that price it is worth a try.
>>
>> 73,
>> Ken - K4XL
>>
>


-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Radial wire

[Kenneth Grimm]

If you have a Tractor Supply store near you, the price for 1/4 mile of 17
ga. galvanized electric fence wire is $14.99.  You can get 1/2 mile roll
for $29.99.  Just how long it will last will vary depending on your soil.
However, at that price it is worth a try.

73,
Ken - K4XL

On Wed, Sep 5, 2018 at 1:10 PM, Herbert Schoenbohm <
herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com> wrote:

> 1/4 mile for $30 is reasonable and would work well for radials.
> https://www.ebay.com/itm/Acorn-International-EFW1714-1-
> 4-Mile-17-Gauge-Galvanized-Fence-Wire/152465194663?epid=4017419194=
> item237fa23ea7:g:xOMAAOSw4A5YwFca
>
> Herb, KV4FZ
>
> On Wed, Sep 5, 2018 at 2:00 PM Herbert Schoenbohm <
> herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > For a cheap solution for radials is to use buried galvanized barbed wire.
> > It is available for pennies a foot.  A preferred way of putting it in is
> to
> > use a is a  Ditch Witch with a vibrating plow attachment that allows the
> > wire to buried with limited handling.  Depending on the soil consistency
> it
> > will be long-lasting.   My sons with metal detectors have unearthed
> barbed
> > wire that was of a style used 50 years ago by local farmers. In Puerto
> Rico
> > AM stations have lost entire copper fields by poachers who sent it off to
> > Rep Dom by containers to be sent by the pound. They have used the
> > galvanized fence wire successfully.
> >
> > Herb, KV4FZ
> >
> > On Wed, Sep 5, 2018 at 1:13 PM JC  wrote:
> >
> >> Hi Guys
> >>
> >> Stay away from aluminum, the aluminum oxide dielectric is a terrible
> >> complication around 2 MHz, it become a capacitor and a diode and will
> >> generate a lot of noise in presence RF currents.
> >>
> >> There is no way to avoid the diodes at the connection with different
> >> materials, like at the ground plate. When these electrical junctions are
> >> very well they will work well for few months, than the noise will start
> >> around Sunset when the RF field from AM BC are more intense, the RF
> will be
> >> there, even if you are far from BC station, the propagation peak is near
> >> Sunset.
> >>
> >> Galvanic corrosion and diode formation is inevitable. Same problem is
> >> very common on rotor, mast and tower contacts originating birds on 1810,
> >> 1820 and every 10 KHz, most of this signals are originate on your own
> >> tower. Just grounding the with a solid contact with the tower can kill a
> >> lot of noise.
> >>
> >> I've seen several situation of aluminum joints becoming a strong noise
> >> source. The same joints are not a problem on 80 or 40m, the issue is
> just
> >> around 2 MHz
> >>
> >> Save yourself a lot of problems, aluminum an 160m antennas are not a
> good
> >> combination.
> >>
> >> 73's
> >> JC
> >> N4IS
> >>
> >>
> >> _
> >> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> >>
> >
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: low inv-vee

[Kenneth Grimm]

There are antennas and there are better antennas.  We use what we have and
always dream of something better.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Mar 27, 2018 at 4:45 PM, Wes Stewart  wrote:

> My first 67 entities worked on 160 were with an inverted-vee with apex at
> about 45 feet and the ends about 5 feet high.  Actually a few were with the
> antenna cut for 80 and using a tuner.  I couldn't even run full power
> (500W) with that configuration.
>
> Wes  N7WS
>
>
>
> On 3/27/2018 11:49 AM, Carl Luetzelschwab wrote:
>
>> Pete N4ZR said one option was to "Suspend inverted vees for 80 and 40 from
>> the top of the rocket launcher (right under the tribander)."
>>
>> Gene AD3F commented on low inv-vees:  "From what I've read on Topband and
>> TowerTalk over the years, a low Vee as you're proposing is likely to be a
>> cloud warmer."
>>
>> Yes, a low inv-vee will radiate more energy at the higher elevation
>> angles.
>> But it still radiates energy at the lower elevation angles that are useful
>> for longer distance contacts. For example, a 160-Meter inv-vee at an apex
>> of 45 feet is about 10 dB down (approx 2 S-units) at an elevation angle of
>> 15 degrees compared to a quarter-wave vertical over average ground.
>>
>> For the CQ 160M CW contest in January 2017, I used a 160-Meter inv-vee at
>> 45 feet, with the last third of each end running horizontal and bent 90
>> degrees from the main portion to fit on our property. Yes, it's a
>> compromise antenna, but I worked 44 states (missed ME, ID, NE, AK), 7
>> Canadian provinces and 17 DXCC entities (mostly Carib, Central Amer and
>> South Amer, with some EU and a North Africa). My amp at 800 Watts
>> certainly
>> helped, along with a Shared Apex Loop array for receive.
>>
>> I wasn't first in most pile-ups, but perseverance got the job done most of
>> the time. So don't count out a low inv-vee if you have trouble putting up
>> something better. The inv-vee is relatively easy to erect and it's
>> efficient in terms of not needing a ground system. Of course an 80-Meter
>> inv-vee at 45 feet will be better than a 160-Meter inv-vee at 45 feet, as
>> it's twice as high in terms of wavelengths.
>>
>> Carl K9LA
>> _
>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>>
>>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Wednesday 160m DX Activity Night

[Kenneth Grimm]

Thanks for the QSO Roger.  If it were not for your exhortation to be on the
band on Wednesday evenings, I would have missed a QSO with UK9AA.  That's a
fairly rare one from this side of the pond.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Feb 22, 2018 at 5:48 AM, Roger Kennedy <
ro...@wessexproductions.co.uk> wrote:

> Well conditions were strange last night . . .
>
> Generally poor propagation . . . and high background noise here (even on my
> Rx aerial) - apologies if you were one of the stations I heard calling, but
> couldn't pull out of the noise.
>
> However, I did manage to work 16 NA stations in the 2 hours I stayed on,
> including across to Texas.
>
> What was more weird was some of my RBN reports from NA stations (which I
> often view when the band's quiet, to check propagation) - several gave me
> over 40dB above the noise, one even +48dB !
>
> Thanks to everyone who came on (inc several EU stations) . . .
>
> I shall be on at the weekend, and certainly next Wednesday again.
>
> 73 Roger G3YRO
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 3C0L

[Kenneth Grimm]

I also heard 3C0L well before sundown and called for about 30 minutes.
Realizing that he was only coming back to Europeans, who were undoubtedly
much louder than I was considering that they were in full darkness and I
wasn't.  I watched TV for a while and when I heard them beginning to work
the US, I got interested again.  Another 30 minutes and I finally got
them.  This doesn't surprise me as I have wasted many kwh fruitlessly
calling Europeans before my sundown.  While I could hear them, they
obviously could not hear me.  I now tend to be much more patient and wait
until the mass of European big guns have got their QSO and the sun is well
down before calling.  Yesterday afternoon, I forgot my usual habit and
started calling when I didn't have a chance...an ATNO has that effect, I
guess!

Conditions were very good for the entire evening and I'm sure a very large
number of stations were able to get their contact.  The superb operating by
Yuris didn't hurt!  I will be interested to hear whether they were running
barefoot with the K3 or also had the SPE amplifier going.  They obviously
got their generator problems sorted out as there seemed to be continuous
operation.  Good conditions, good equipment, and a good operator is what it
takes for a successful expedition. Only two out of the three usually means
that the lids have much more fun.  Speaking of lids, I can usually forgive
the KC cop who sends "up" when someone forgets to push the split button,
but what gets my goat is the particularly vile person who gives a fake
report and the unsuspecting op believes he has made a QSO.  That kind of
behavior stinks!

I hope conditions continue to be good and those in the mid-west and west
manage to get their Qs.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Oct 17, 2017 at 9:48 AM, Tim Shoppa  wrote:

> 3C0L had superb signals on 160M last night and a ginormous pileup.
>
> Their signal started out an hour before my sundown, on my NE-facing K9AY
> loop, but began showing QSB there an hour after my sundown. I then checked
> and was surprised their signal was so much better on my transmit antenna.
> This is something I've noticed several times on African DXpeditions.
>
> I wonder if "Looking to the NE" makes sense before sundown because this my
> shortest path to the most darkness, but the further after sundown a more
> direct E or even southerly path makes more sense.
>
> Tim N3QE
>
> On Tue, Oct 17, 2017 at 3:45 AM, Victor Goncharsky via Topband <
> topband@contesting.com> wrote:
>
> > Sorry fat fingers, 3C0L, of course... great operation by two men crew
> with
> > one dead K3!
> >
> >
> > >Вторник, 17 октября 2017, 7:41 UTC от Victor Goncharsky via Topband <
> > topband@contesting.com>:
> > >
> > >Last night 3C0R have shown once again (remeber EP2A and S21ZED-E) how
> 160
> > meter DX operation, this time from Africa, has to look like. Respect to
> > Juris and Kaspars!
> > >
> > >
> >
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

“You see, the telephone is like a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in
New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Radio operates exactly the
same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only
difference is that there is no cat.”—*Albert Einstein
 (maybe)*
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: west coast in the mornings

[Kenneth Grimm]

I suspect that lack of receiving antennas is the most likely cause.  I
noticed the same thing here on the East Coast when trying to work
Europeans.  Some had very loud signals but couldn't hear very
well...requiring many, many repeats of the call sign.  I thought it was
just me having a problem with the TX antenna, but then noticed that other
stations with even better set ups than mine were having the same difficulty
with the same stations.

However, I did notice that my beverages had very little effect early in the
contest, but by 0400 UTC were beginning to behave normally.  Some weird
propagation was definitely at work.  Heavy QSB at times didn't help
matters.  Still, this is one fun contest!

73,

Ken K4XL

On Sat, Jan 28, 2017 at 9:56 AM, Carl Luetzelschwab <
carlluetzelsch...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi guys and gals,
>
> After walking Snoopy and going out for breakfast this morning, I got back
> on 160m around 1320z (8:20 AM local here in Ft Wayne - about a half hour
> past our sunrise). Between 1324z and 1340z I worked AZ, CO and OR with
> decent signals on my SAL-20 Shared Apex Loop.
>
> I also heard quite a few other West Coast stations, but they kept CQing in
> my face. It could be they have a noise problem or it could be a propagation
> issue (since we don't fully understand all the interesting things that
> happen on 160m).
>
> But it also could be those stations were listening to the west with their
> directional receive antennas, not towards the east since it was daylight
> here. If this was the case, be sure to take a listen back towards the east
> every once in a while. With the Sun in the southern hemisphere, ionospheric
> absorption is minimal on the mid to high latitude northern hemisphere
> paths.
>
> I hope to work some of you tomorrow morning!
>
> Carl K9LA
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: zone 2

[Kenneth Grimm]

Hi Andrzej,

I believe that VO2NS  in zone 2 is planning to be active in the CQWW CW
contest.  That wouldn't help with 30 mx, but should with 20 and 80.

Powodzenia i 73,

Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Nov 17, 2016 at 11:04 AM, Andrzej_SP6AEG 
wrote:

> Dear colleagues, whether known about the activity in the near future with a
> second zone WAZ?
> It seems unbelievable but I have no QSO with the zone 2 on 80/30/20 meters
>
>
>
> Regards
>
> Andy
>
> SP6AEG
>
> 160 WAZ #333
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
"Our major obligation is not to mistake slogans for solutions." - Edward R.
Murrow
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 160 meter starter antennas

[Kenneth Grimm]

160 is a great band.  My first contact was in Texas with 40 watts of AM on
a Viking Ranger in 1957 with a station in Kansas.  I thought that was great
DX.  Many years later, with over 200 countries worked, I am happy that I am
here on the East Coast in Virginia when the DX comes rolling in from Europe
and I am among the first to hear them.  But then, of course, I wished I
were back in Texas this morning when I couldn't even  hear a peep out of
V63KS and folks in the Lone Star State were bragging about how strong he
was.  Like I said 160 is a great band.  There's great DX on it for
everyone...if you dig deep enough into the noise...and hold your mouth just
right.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Sep 22, 2016 at 4:48 PM, Steve Jones  wrote:

> I wish I could hear that good in texas.
> Steve WS5W
>
> On Thu, Sep 22, 2016 at 3:35 PM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > Good Info Dave, Thanks.
> >  In Maine, one contest Weekend, about year 1999-2000  worked 103
> > countries.  Lots of countries in Europe not that far away in the
> Northeast
> > direction. 73
> > Bruce-k1fz
> >
> >
> > On Thu, 22 Sep 2016 14:49:04 -0500, daraym...@iowatelecom.net wrote:
> >
> >   Success also depends a lot on your location. Working 119 DXCC from
> a
> > 70'
> > inv vee from NY is a whole lot easier than doing it, for instance, out
> here
> > in the Midwest (Iowa). YMMV. . .73. . .Dave, W0FLS
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: Joe K2UF
> > Sent: Thursday, September 22, 2016 11:45 AM
> > To: 'Topband'
> > Subject: Re: Topband: 160 meter starter antennas
> >
> > I Have an inv V hanging off of my 70 foot tower. Because I live on a
> > suburb lot the legs of the antenna are bent to fit the lot (really
> ugly). I
> > have worked DXCC (119) with that minimal antenna. It can be done but you
> > have to be patient.
> > 73 Joe K2UF
> >
> > _
> > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> >
> >
> > _
> > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Steve Jones
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
"Our major obligation is not to mistake slogans for solutions." - Edward R.
Murrow
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: midnight peaks

[Kenneth Grimm]

Me too, Bruce. I either work or at least hear and spot the same European
regulars.  I've always associated it with European sunrise rather than
something to do with the midnight hour!

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Sep 19, 2016 at 1:30 PM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:

>
>
> I often get a peak from 11:30 to 12:30 from Europe
>
>  Work F8IQS, G4ERZ, G3ROO, SV3RF, LY2OU, LA7THA, G4UFK, EA1VM and others
>
> Even though its near midnight here, it is aproaching sunrise  there.73
>
> Bruce-k1fz
> http://www.qsl.net/k1fz/beverage_antenna.html
>
>
> On Mon, 19 Sep 2016 13:04:30 -0400, Carl Luetzelschwab  wrote:
>
>   Over the years I have seen a few comments with respect to signal
> peaking
> around local midnight. If you search on "midnight signal peaking" in the
> topband archives, you should come up with four results. The one from DJ8WL
> back in Nov 96 appears to be the only relevant one that I found.
> I don't know if this is somewhat consistent or just coincidental with the
> variability of the ionosphere. Regardless, any physical explanation likely
> involves D region chemistry.
> Carl K9LA
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Pixel vs BOG

[Kenneth Grimm]

Wow!  The BOG blows the Pixel loop away.  The loop sounds like my
vertical!  I wonder if there might be a feedline problem?  Surely the loop
isn't meant to be that noisy.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Apr 25, 2016 at 9:55 AM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:

> Mixed reviews.
>
> Pixel loop antenna vs 200 foot BOG antenna at   VO1HP.
> www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTXvcEwgUsU
>
> 73
>
> Bruce-k1fz
> www.qsl.net/k1fz/bogantennanotes/index.html
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: VK0EK confirmation

[Kenneth Grimm]

There really is no excuse for bad manners.  I know that to be so, because
my mother told me.  So did my teachers.  All of my university degrees do
not excuse me from that simple but essential requirement.  They also taught
me to keep my trap shut if I couldn't say something nice or at least
non-disparaging.  (I think I may have just slightly violated that last
one )

Andrzej, I'm glad you got your cards.  I sent my contribution after they
were tearing down the camp and have not seen anything yet on LOTW.  I'm in
no hurry and am sure that it will appear in time.

73,
-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: VK0EK Operation

[Kenneth Grimm]

While key clicks were noticeable and QRN/QSB were factors, the real problem
for me were the children who kept harassing VK0EKs frequency. Carriers,
dits and dahs, all assaulted my eardrums with my RF gain down and audio
gain up.  Cursing is not my usual thing, but last night I uttered some
oaths that I'm glad my xyl and children didn't hear.  Just as bad, and
actually sometimes even worse, were those "helpers" who insisted on calling
the children "lid", "idiot", "a**" and worse...especially when repeated
several times.  Don't you think that one "lid" or "a**" would be
sufficient?

Ken - K4XL
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: 3DA0IJ and 3DA0CC on Clublog

[Kenneth Grimm]

Both 3DA0IJ and 3DA0CC have posted their logs on Clublog.

The stats are interesting:  3DA0IJ 259 Qs on 160mx and 3DA0CC 168 for a
total of 427 top band QSOs.

They are both to be commended for sticking with their promise to
concentrate on 160 when possible.  Their ears will probably be ringing for
several days from all the QRN they had to endure.  While it was rough in
the Northern Hemisphere where winter condx prevailed, they had to endure
summer condx in Swaziland!

73,

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Stew -vs- 3DA0CC

[Kenneth Grimm]

The 3DA0 experience was a thriller.  Just about the time I was copying
Arunas well enough to call him on Wednesday, he went QRT.  Heard a few
peeps on Thursday and absolutely nothing on Friday.  Tonight (Saturday) he
was an honest 459 and I was thrilled to make the contact!  I'm sorry the
propagation was so spotty and so many missed them.  Hats off to Arunas and
Ark for sticking with it despite the poor conditions.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Sat, Mar 12, 2016 at 8:17 PM, Gary Smith  wrote:

> Very, I was listening for them. Kept working the contest but went
> back & never saw a peep. I need that one on 160 too.
>
> OTOH, I'm digging my new K3s :D
>
> Back to SP
>
> 73,
>
> Gary
> KA1J
>
> > That's sad.
> >
> > 73, Mike
> > www.w0btu.com
> >
> > On Sat, Mar 12, 2016 at 6:39 PM, Joel Harrison  wrote:
> >
> > > It appears they have decided to QSY away from 160 since the band is
> wiped
> > > out with U.S. contest stations (working other U.S. stations that aren't
> > > listening for DX) so a new one lost due to the contest.
> > >
> > _
> > Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> >
>
>
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Tecsun 660

[Kenneth Grimm]

That reminds me of an episode that happened here a while back. When I got
serious about top band I discovered that the noise was too much.  I tracked
down the offending power poles using the method you mentioned.  Noted the
pole numbers from the metal tags that were attached.  Called APCO and in a
couple of days they were out here and quickly verified my findings and
fixed the problems.  A year or so later, we lost power and I called APCO.
They responded very quickly and discoverd that a squirrel had committed
"harikari" and tripped the breaker on the pole.  As they were finishing up,
I went out to thank them and the lineman said, "Oh, you are the guy who
saved us so much time when we came out to fix the hardware on the noisy
poles."  Made my day!

Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Feb 16, 2016 at 4:24 PM,  wrote:

> Hi Stan,
>
>
> There are countless thousands of poles within five miles of my
> QTH, his method could not possibly work here. If I tried, I
> would lose my excellent reputation with my power company
> RFI crew.
>
>
>
> I prefer to leave my shack and verify the pole rather than guessing
> which one it might be. Its not difficult and a little exercise is a
> good thing!
>
>
> tks
>
>
> 73
> Frank
> W3LPL
>
> --
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: VP8STI 160 Meter Path

[Kenneth Grimm]

After frustratingly trying to get a good copy on my beverages, to make the
QSO I switched to the vertical for receiving!  I think that is the first
time that I couldn't get a better copy of a station on one of my receiving
antennas and had to resort to the usually much noisier vertical
transmitting antenna!

73,
Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Jan 21, 2016 at 1:04 PM, David Raymond 
wrote:

> The whole band opening last night from NA to VP8STI on TB was rather
> bizarre.  The opening started in earnest with big signals coming first in
> Maine.  The guys in 1 land reported signals rivaling "locals."  The opening
> then started moving slowly and selectively southward.  Guys in 2 land and
> then 3 land started working them next and then into 5 land.  As the was
> opening into 5 land it also began opening westward, but again, selectively.
> Stations in 8 and 9 land were hearing and working them but not everywhere.
> I sat here in Iowa for over three hours with virtually nothing from them at
> all.  Finally about 0400 I began hearing them.  They slowly improved and,
> at 0424z I put my call in and was answered immediately.  They continued to
> build here peaking to S5-S6 around 0445z.  After that they slowly faded and
> were gone here before their SS.  The opening appeared to be very limited
> and, in some places, non-existent in 4 land.  A handful in 4 land made it,
> several using HWF for RX.  Several big stations reported hearing little or
> no signal.  It seemed odd to be listening to them here with S5 signals and
> the guys in the far SE and FL had none (and they are 1200 or 1500 miles
> closer).  But perhaps the most bizarre thing of all was K4SV and W4ZV
> having to listen to the NORTH to hear them with apparently no signal from
> the direct path.  It would be interesting to know what mode of propagation
> that was.  All in all it was an odd night.  Nevertheless, a LOT of NA
> stations made it into the log.  Joy for many but frustration remained for
> quite a few.  Antennas here a full size ground mounted four square for TX
> and Hi-Z 8 circle optimized for 160.
> 73. . . Dave, W0FLS, in Iowa
> - Original Message - From: "Joel Harrison" 
> To: "topband" 
> Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2016 11:15 PM
> Subject: Topband: VP8STI 160 Meter Path
>
>
>
> Tonight on 160 VP8STI had a good signal. Here in Arkansas their signal
>> arrived from the NE from around 0115z until around 0200z peaking around 5
>> dB above my noise floor. Around 0200z they went "QRX" for a few minutes.
>> When they returned their sig was much weaker and finally faded.
>>
>> As the evening went on their sig returned around 0330z here and was in and
>> out of the noise, still peaking to the NE and somethings shifting E to SE.
>> Right About a half hour before their SR the signal peaked to the SE and
>> remained their until they faded into the sunrise.
>>
>> Best signal level here was 10 dB above my noise floor.
>>
>> Just wanted to pass that on for the folks (K9LA, W4ZV, etc) that keep
>> track of these paths for us.
>>
>> 73 Joel W5ZN
>>
>>
>> www.w5zn.org
>>
>> _
>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>>
>>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Topband Strange Propagation

[Kenneth Grimm]

My take on it was that "the dit marks the spot" either for a buddy or just
as a "public service."  While not as annoying as other forms of
transmissions on the DX freq, it still shows bad manners...however, not as
bad as when I forget to engage the split button.  Maybe that is why I've
never been nominated for the A1 op award.  At least it's why I wouldn't
nominate me.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Sun, Jan 17, 2016 at 12:31 AM, Louis Parascondola via Topband <
topband@contesting.com> wrote:

> I have experienced this single dit when working split on a DX station.  I
> wondered if it was some kind of malicious interference of some sort but
> other than what Gary suggested I don't see how it is terribly annoying to
> the point that one would be making any statement by doing it.
>
>
> W1QJ
>
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: Richard (Rick) Karlquist 
> To: Gary ; topband 
> Sent: Sat, Jan 16, 2016 11:07 pm
> Subject: Re: Topband: Topband Strange Propagation
>
>
>
> On 1/16/2016 12:10 AM, Gary Smith wrote:
>
> > There's an odd behavior that we've all heard & that's the "ditter",
> > the person who on the DX frequency sends the occasional dit, not a
> > string, just a dit & then some odd seconds later does it again. I
> > wonder if they do it to bust the chops of someone like me who tries
>
> > KA1J
> >
>
> Some auto tune linears are set up to change bands or sub-bands
> by sending one dit.  With peak reading meters, they will also
> display RF out and SWR from one dit.  At least this is a lot
> less QRM than tuning up the old fashioned way.  In both
> cases, the solution is to select SPLIT before transmitting
> or just tuning.
>
> Most rigs have IF gain this is optimized for phone, which
> means it is way too low for CW.  This results in an AGC
> threshold that is way above the rig's internal noise level.
>
> Short of redesigning the rig (I actually did this to an FT-757
> by adding an IF gain stage), you should use an audio attenuator
> in front of your headphones so the the rig's audio output stage
> clips before the level in 'phones gets too high.
>
> Rick N6RK
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Weatherproofing F-type connectors

[Kenneth Grimm]

From an auto supply store (Advance or Autozone) VersaChem part no. 15339 -
Dielectirc Connector Grease.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Fri, Dec 18, 2015 at 8:07 PM, Bill Hider  wrote:

>
> Thanks Mike,
>
>
>
> From Home Depot:
> Super Lube,  Model # 91003, Internet # 202932695
>
>
> Bill N3RR
>
>
>
>
>
>
> From: Mike Waters [mailto:mikew...@gmail.com]
> Sent: Friday, December 18, 2015 8:02 PM
> To: Bill Hider
> Cc: topband
> Subject: Re: Topband: Weatherproofing F-type connectors
>
>
>
> I don't, sorry. It's available at auto parts stores. And a Google search
> for "silicone dielectric" should return lots of results.
>
> 73, Mike
>
> www.w0btu.com
>
>
>
> On Fri, Dec 18, 2015 at 6:55 PM, Bill Hider  wrote:
>
> Do you have a part number/manufacturer for the "non-hardening silicone
> dielectric "grease"?
>
>
>
> No virus found in this message.
> Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
> Version: 2016.0.7294 / Virus Database: 4489/11204 - Release Date: 12/18/15
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

"Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician." - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: K1N 5,399 q's on 160 M

[Kenneth Grimm]

And how about the clown last night, around 10pm his local time, when
TI9/3Z9DX was working EU, who got on his frequency and said, NA NA NA, I'm
tired and need my sleep.  I didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Feb 19, 2015 at 8:18 AM, GALE STEWARD via Topband 
topband@contesting.com wrote:

 Exactly the point, Steve! A bunch of the guys around here worked them on
 160 at 0800Z (that's 3AM here). My 160 QSO was around 1030Z.
 I'm really dating myself but back in the day the only way to snag some
 new ones on 80/160 was to be checking the bands in the middle of the night.
 No internet cluster, etc. It's actually a lot easier these days (my
 opinion).

 When my daughter was an infant this was easier as I was usually up in the
 middle of the night at least once!
 73, Stew K3ND

   From: Steve Flood kk...@bresnan.net
  To: topband@contesting.com
  Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2015 6:25 AM
  Subject: Re: Topband: K1N 5,399 q's on 160 M

 Great points Chet.

 Under the Be there category, consider getting up in the middle of the
 night to work them on the low bands.  Even in the first days of their
 operation, I got up at 2 a.m. and worked them easily on 160-80-40 with 100
 watts and no pileups.

 Steve KK7UV






 ---
 This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
 http://www.avast.com

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



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




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Missing K1N 160m QSO records just uploaded to Clublog

[Kenneth Grimm]

OK, fellas, it's time to check Club Log again.  A bunch of you are going to
be very happy...including IT9TJH, ZL3IX, N6TR, NZ3M...Time to have a
cool beverage and relax.  *8)

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Fri, Feb 6, 2015 at 1:55 PM, Art Snapper a...@nk8x.net wrote:

 Mine showed up too.

 Art


 On Fri, Feb 6, 2015 at 1:49 PM, Bill Stewart cw...@embarqmail.com wrote:

  Just cked few mins ago and my 2/4 0115z 160m QSO is now showing.
  Only recent QSOs are not yet up...jolly good...73 de Bill K4JYS
  _
  Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
 
 _
 Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Out-of-Turn Callers

[Kenneth Grimm]

First of all, they haven't reported having their beverages installed.
Secondly, there has been a storm front slowly moving across the Carribean
with lots of QRN.  Hearing the many Europeans who I could easily copy with
my beverages could be very difficult for them listening on their transmit
antenna.

The K1N team is a group for first class operators who, in my opinion, are
not deliberately ignoring Europe or Asia.  They are simply having trouble
hearing those directions.

Also, I would sadly point out that the QSO rate on 40 and higher
frequencies would have been even higher but for the incredible amount of
deliberate QRM and acted out childness by both NA and Eu Lids.

I do hope and believe that the QSO percentages will begin to correct in the
favor of Eu, Asia, AF and Oc as they are fully settled in and weather
conditions improve.

73,

Ken - K4XL (old enough to have worked KC4NI, N0TG/KP1, W0RJU/KP1, KP2A and
6Y5NR all on Navassa)


On Thu, Feb 5, 2015 at 11:29 AM, Fortra for...@siol.net wrote:

 Hi Lou,

 jeez those numbers are worrying.
 Although, path from K1 or and 6Y5 is far more
 easier to EU/US then EP to US

 Got EP from 70' and Navassa as well :)

 Sometimes it pays off, to be that long arround :)
 Incidentally, this is one of the best location in Carrebian :)
 I think that 6Y5 team set several WW on MM on Cw and QRPP
 as well

 Was there in eighties as YU3CR/MM for 9 month...

 We will agree upon vine :)

 73's Nermin S58DX


 - Original Message - From: KE1F Lou lmecs...@cfl.rr.com
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2015 4:14 PM

 Subject: Re: Topband: Out-of-Turn Callers


 Nermin,

 Lets wait for the final result from K1N.

 We do have EP6T data:

 68,045 QSO
 69.6% Europe
 9.8% North America
 17.6% Asia.

 I am willing to bet you a bottle of riesling, (Yellow Tail, my favored
 fermented grape)
 that K1N will do better with European stations than EP6T did with North
 American
 stations.

 Are you on?

 73 Lou  KE1F

 On 2/5/2015 7:42 AM, Fortra wrote:

 Lou,

 is that what you have said, an argument ?
 Let us wait a week, and then we will judge...

 73's Nermin S58DX



 - Original Message - From: KE1F Lou lmecs...@cfl.rr.com
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2015 12:51 PM
 Subject: Re: Topband: Out-of-Turn Callers


 To us EP6T was European QSO Party.

 GL and 73 Lou  KE1F

 On 2/5/2015 1:51 AM, Jan Erik Holm wrote:

 Sorry if I´m a PITA right now but why even bother to
 have this debate about K1N on 160, it´s not even DX
 to NA, like a local station almost.

 Jeez how difficult can it be from the US, anybody with
 100W and a wet noodle for an antenna can work it. On
 80 I´m sure at least from the east coast they can be
 worked all day long.

 I don´t know about 160 since so far they haven´t been
 stronger then S2 due to geo mag storm and poor propagation
 66 degs north where I´m at but so far I´m very disappointed
 in their 80m operation, they never listen for EU or any other
 area, they work 99,5% NA, it is the USA/Canadian QSO party.
 I would have expected a totally different action by that
 bunch of operators, I´m very very sad and sorry to see
 where it all has went to.

 Now this might not be the case on 160, if I´m lucky propagation
 might get better and I might get a shot at it.

 73 Jim SM2EKM
 
 On 2015-02-04 01:15, Hardy Landskov wrote:

 I got up last night for my nightly bathroom ritual and just for grins
 listened to 160. They were calling CQ and I worked them on 2 calls. Not
 many trying to get them. This was 1035Z.
 N7RT

 - Original Message - From: Richard (Rick) Karlquist
 rich...@karlquist.com
 To: ws6x@gmail.com; topband@contesting.com
 Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2015 4:51 PM
 Subject: Re: Topband: Out-of-Turn Callers


  Why not call around 0700Z after the
 band closes to EU and before it opens
 to JA?  A bunch of us in CA got them
 in the log last night fairly easily.

 Rick N6RK
 _


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


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


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




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: EP6T and outside world

[Kenneth Grimm]

 Eddy VE3CUI - VE3XZ lamented:

160 stopped becoming the Gentleman's Band ever since mainstream
manufacturers started incoroporating a spot marked 160 on the front of
their rigs  linears...



I think you are right, Eddy.  However, I can remember as recently as the
70's and maybe into the 80's being in a gentleman's pileup for a DX
station on 160 and finding it completely different.  First of all, no one
called zero beat with the DX.  With signal levels on top band, it is the
height of stupidity and simply bad manners to do that!  Secondly, believe
it or not, if there were three or four stations calling...they generally
took their turn, giving the other guys in the pile-up a clear shot.
Calls tended to be quite short and you didn't call unless you heard the
DX.  Those types of behavior seem to be long gone from top band.

I used to refer to the gentlemen's band at the breakfast table when I was
telling my XYL about interesting DX and QSOs that I had had on top band the
night before.  I don't remember exactly when, but at some point I started
calling it Marconi's band.  She asked about Marconi and I explained his
role in the development of DXing.  She then wanted to know why I had
changed from working on the gentlemen's band and moved to Marconi's
band.  My answer was that  it was the same place, but things have
changed.

73,

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Control cable black conductors

[Kenneth Grimm]

Is it phosphoric acid that gives Coca Cola its peculiar cleaning ability?
 I no longer can imbibe cola drinks due to a very annoying allergy, so I
can't check a label to see if it is listed.  I do know that Coke will clean
oil deposited on your windshield when commercial windshield washing liquids
just cause it to smear...so it has something in it that that may work quite
well, and without turning your hands red!

73,

Ken - K4XL


On Sat, Feb 22, 2014 at 7:38 AM, Tom W8JI w...@w8ji.com wrote:

 All the other 4 conductors are bright clean copper when stripped.
 Could anyone tell me why some insulated copper conductors turn black in
 this way and whether there's a better way of cleaning it off.



 Water inside the insulation plus sulfur and/or irons that formed copper
 sulfide or covellite.

 I've been successful using phosphoric acid. It is sold as a clear liquid
 wire or mag wheel cleaner around here. You'll know it by how red and
 painful it turns your hands.




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




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: TO7CC

[Kenneth Grimm]

Heard bits and dits on 160 last night my sunset gray line, but noise from
snow was too great for solid copy.  Worked them at 0100 on 80 on Wednesday.
 Not strong, but workable.  They have said that they will operate through
their night if there is an opening on 80 and/or 160.

73,

Ken - K4XL


On Fri, Feb 14, 2014 at 12:30 PM, Merv Schweigert k...@flex.com wrote:

 They have been on 160/80 almost every day,  so far I have not heard
 a peep on 160,  seems they are on for their sunset and then move
 to 80.   Right now at 1700Z they are 579 at my sunrise peak on 3510
 Think they start on 160 about 1400-1430Z

 73 Merv K9FD/KH6




  Has anyone heard or worked these guys on 80 or 160?

 73, Jim K9YC


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

Re: Topband: FT5ZM

[Kenneth Grimm]

Cool catch Milt.  New Mexico has just that very small window in the AM
whereas those of us on the east coast wouldn't have a chance at that time.
 Our window is a good bit longer...maybe an hour or so at our SS until
their SR.

73,
-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Verifying integrity of 75 ohm coax.

[Kenneth Grimm]

Gary,

A good reminder for me as I plan to walk my beverages today checking for
problems.  I'll take along my F connector wrench and make sure all are
tight.

73,


On Mon, Nov 18, 2013 at 2:00 AM, Gary Smith g...@ka1j.com wrote:

 Gentleman, and I say that honestly... :)

 I have a resolution to the issue and along with it my thanks for
 those who offered really solid ideas to track down.  more to the
 opportunity to learn, I have much apparently to learn about my 259B
 which is more than just a pretty face.

 However, the cause of the majority of my problems were the F
 connectors being somewhat loose in the RX array. They were all
 connected to the coax properly, it was the connections to the many
 different chassis' involved; It's beyond me how so many of them were
 not tight and I have more than my share of OCD and leaving so many
 loose makes me wonder if I did close them tightly in the early winter
 last year but not tightly enough and perhaps with cooling/heating
 they loosened some more.

 Yeah, that seems like a stretch but whatever it is, there has to be a
 reason they were all loose when I always crank down on outdoor
 connectors to keep water out. That looseness was the cause of most of
 my issues. I wonder if a diode/rectifier effect might have taken
 place and was creating a signal due to the proximity of Amtrak with
 it's catenary suspended 15KV power supply. I'm not enough of an
 engineer to figure that one out but regardless, tightening solidly
 all the F connectors and cleaning the grounds to each antenna in the
 array made all the difference.

 Thanks again to everyone who offered helpful suggestions, it's all a
 learning experience to pass on to the next guy. Or hopefully YL.

 73,

 Gary
 KA1J
   I just downloaded the manual on PDF and read the advanced
  section
   dealing with distance to fault. Sorry to say I must not be as
  sharp
   as I used to be and I can't tell from what I've read if the RG6U
   needs a termination for this distance to fault test or if the coax
  is
   unterminated. Since it's the weekend I can't call MFJ but
  perhaps
   someone knows this answer  can let me know so I can have at it
   tomorrow.
 
  They probably would not know the answer to that.
 
  The distance-to-fault algorythm uses the repeating of minimum
  reactance at
  minimum impedance as frequency is changed to calculate distance to
  fault.
  The further the distance to the lump, the closer-spaced the ripples
  become.
  If you pick the closest-spaced dips you will get the most distant
  bump. If
  you misterminate the cable, obviously you would see that
  mistermination
  distance as a fault distance.  It is best to terminate the far end
  with a
  75-ohm resistor. (I always keep 75-ohm F terminators and a few
  barrel
  connectors in my field bag for testing cables.)
 
  This would also be true if you used a rig or anything else and
  looked at
  SWR. You would really have to terminate the far end in 75-ohms, or
  whatever
  the cable is, to not fool yourself. Otherwise, as you moved along
  the
  cable or as you changed frequency, you could see lumps where there
  really
  are no lumps.
 
  You don't want to check a system that is misterminated at the far
  end from
  the cable's surge impedance, unless you really have a good grasp on
  how
  these things work or you are using a TDR. I can work around it, but
  it is a
  lot more painful for me than just using a correct termination. :-)
 
 
   Apparently I'll need to find the velocity factor of this
  particular
   RG6U and then can do the math they describe. I just need to know
  if I
   test this on an open coax or with a 75 ohm carbon resistor at
  the
   distal end of this 75 ohm coax (or 50 ohm on RG-8). And, does it
   matter if I use either of the  SO239 or the BNC ?
 
  The MFJ269 allows you to enter velocity factor, but it is simple to
  hand
  calculate it with the 259. If you are off 10% in the Vf, it isn't a
  big
  problem on shorter cable runs. Use the resistor. The BNC is only for
  the
  frequency counter mode.
 
  You said you have birdies. What is the nature of the birdies? Are
  they
  signals that mix, like BC stations beating together, or is it wide
  buzzy
  junk from power supplies and stuff??? You might not have a bad
  connection.
  It might be in the antenna system or receiving electronics
  hardware.
 
  73 Tom
 
 




 ---
 This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus
 protection is active.
 http://www.avast.com

 _
 Topband Reflector




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: W8ji ATR-10 design 160M?

[Kenneth Grimm]

On Thu, Oct 17, 2013 at 10:04 AM, Jim GM jim.gmfo...@gmail.com wrote:

 snip

 These transmatches these days T matches just do not have the balls for 160M
 running power.  I melted down a MFJ 998RT arced plates on an MFJ 989B
 melted down a 25uH Millen coil, arced wire burned up insulation all with
 500 watts :-) I tried different configurations.  Short 99 foot inverted L
 does give me a challenge. 0.175 plate spacing arcs over. 0.25 spacing on
 caps is needed or vacuums variables which are not in my budget.

 Capacitor L match ARC over. Vacuums variables or open air variable caps
 with 0.25 inch spacing is needed for 300 watts or better.

 Inductive L match has heat and at times enough heat to melt spacers on a
 Millen coil.

 Who makes a tuner that can take this abuse?

 --
 Jim K9TF


The PalStar AT5K has withstood all the abuse that I've been able to muster
on 160 mx.

73,
-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com

Show me a politician who is poor, and I'll show you a poor
politician. - Carlos
Hank González
_
Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: Vacuum Variable Source

[Kenneth Grimm]

As Tom suggests, Max Gain is a good source for top quality parts.  He also
sells, scratch and dent items that check good for a lower price.
http://www.mgs4u.com/RF-Microwave/vacuum-variable-capacitors-500.htm

73,
Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Dec 10, 2012 at 9:54 AM, Dan Simmonds d...@kk3an.com wrote:

 Jerry,

 I've recently purchased very similar vacuum capacitors to these (10KV)
 from:

 Jiangxi Wanping Vacuum Electric Company, Ltd.
 Email:  feiyu...@hotmail.com


 Also, a source here in the US I've spoken with (but never did business
 with) is:

 LBA Group
 Greenville, NC
 Email:  byron.john...@lbagroup.com


 Dan  KK3AN





 Jerry Keller (K3BZ) wrote:

 I need 2 vacuum variable caps 500 pf 7.5KV or more. Any suggestions for a
 reliable source with reasonable prices?

 73,  Jerry K3BZ
 __**_
 Topband reflector - topband@contesting.com




 __**_
 Topband reflector - topband@contesting.com




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
Topband reflector - topband@contesting.com

Re: Topband: 1.810 signal

[Kenneth Grimm]

Nothing during the day, but S9+5 here in Virginia on my NE beverage.

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Topband: HK0NA and LOTW

[Kenneth Grimm]

From the DARC's DXNewsLetter:
   HK0NA LoTW:
  Bob, N2OO, uploaded the HK0NA QSOs to LoTW. About 15.000 QSOs
  appear to have been lost in the process, but he's working with
  the ARRL to resolve this issue.

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Topband: Soldering in the wild!

[Kenneth Grimm]

After suffering through our infamous derecho here in Virginia, I find
that I've got a* lot* of repair work to do on my beverages.  Most of the
breaks are in 450 ohm window line, located in remote areas and will require
soldering.  My non-AC electric soldering equipment seems to have been
lost in the last move and I need to outfit myself with a wireless
soldering device!  I would be interested in what you use and if you are
satisfied with the results.  Thanks.

73,

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: opinion

[Kenneth Grimm]

Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Fri, Aug 3, 2012 at 1:59 PM, Herb Schoenbohm he...@vitelcom.net wrote:

 The problem was that the Ptolemyic concept of a Geo- Centric universe
 worked for some basic navigational functions, was universally excepted
 and became part of  religious doctrine.  Anyone who promoted truth of
 a HelioCentric Universe whether it was  Galileo, Copernicus and even
 later Kepler were condemmed by the chruch.  It was the decision of
 theologians or the state or the church state that called the shots on
 science.  What this did was suppressed advances for a while. Even today
 we have the impact in our economic survival due to the doxology of
 AlGore on climate change or man-made climate change.  Dr. Edward Gray
 from Bolder was essential drummed out of the very accurate Univ. of
 Colorado hurricane prediction service for even questioning the new
 theology of a political control over climate and people as having any
 significant merit, except for the empowerment of politicians who are
 engaged in dogma.  Why is it always the contrarian views always get in
 the way of new ideas and punish those who express them.

 Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ




 On 8/3/2012 3:26 PM, Bruce wrote:
  It's a balance.  Even a correct new idea sometimes takes it in the
 neck so to speak.  Think of all the crap the first  guy took from those
 that said the sun was circling the earth. After all you could see it for
 half of the circle.
 
  We have to believe what we know is correct, but have an open mind to new
 ideas.
 
  73
  Bruce
  ___
  UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: Reducing Noise in the Shack

[Kenneth Grimm]

Thanks for the link, John.  This is an excellent study that should be read
by anyone plagued by noise.  Not a single mention of a clamp on ferrite
ring however, as this study has to do mainly with power lines and large
industrial noise sources.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Tue, Jun 26, 2012 at 8:39 AM, John Kaufmann john.kaufm...@verizon.netwrote:

 This report on RFI mitigation may be of interest to folks here:
 http://edocs.nps.edu/npspubs/scholarly/TR/2007/NPS-EC-07-002.pdf.  It was
 done at the Naval Post Graduate School and almost appears to have been
 written for ham applications.

 73, John W1FV
 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: 7O6T LOTW

[Kenneth Grimm]

I'm sure it will take a while for all of the 7O6T logs to be transferred
and then a while for the LOTW machines to digest the data and regurgitate
the credits.  I'm amazed that they are doing this as quickly as they are.
 This has really been a class act from start to finish.  I made a
contribution through PayPal as soon as I discovered the web site.

I had all of my 7O6T QSOs confirmed on the LOTW site as of this
morningbut the only one that I was really concerned about was the one
for 160!!!  Thanks again, to Jeff, for that amazing gray line QSO!

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Jun 7, 2012 at 12:49 PM, Lennart M lennart.michaels...@telia.comwrote:

 Frank, Herb et al,
 Same here but only got 160 SSB confirmed.
 Maybe one has to do it all over again?
 Len
 SM7BIC

 -Ursprungligt meddelande-
 Från: topband-boun...@contesting.com [mailto:
 topband-boun...@contesting.com]
 För donov...@starpower.net
 Skickat: den 7 juni 2012 17:29
 Till: Herb Schoenbohm; topband@contesting.com
 Ämne: Re: Topband: 7O6T LOTW

 Herb,

 I made a donation with my OQRS donation and my QSOs showed up in LotW
 today,
 no additional action required.

 73
 Frank
 W3LPL

  Original message 
 Date: Thu, 07 Jun 2012 08:42:23 -0400
 From: Herb Schoenbohm he...@vitelcom.net
 Subject: Re: Topband: 7O6T LOTW
 To: topband@contesting.com
 
 Ken,
 
 
 I did OQSL and a donation but nothing for me yet on any band.  I went
 back to the website of 7O6T but do not see anyway to link my donation
 to an LOTW confirmation.  What is the trick?
 
 Herb, KV4FZ
 
 
 
 
 
 On 6/6/2012 11:23 PM, Kenneth Grimm wrote:
  My 7O6T 160 mx QSO was just confirmed by LOTW!  That's fast!  I can
  start breathing again now.  His sigs were so strong when I worked him
  that I was afraid that it might have been a slim.  My contact was
  grayline on his end at 0148 on the 13th.  Jeff, was that you or Yuri?
 
 
 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Topband: 7O6T LOTW

[Kenneth Grimm]

My 7O6T 160 mx QSO was just confirmed by LOTW!  That's fast!  I can start
breathing again now.  His sigs were so strong when I worked him that I was
afraid that it might have been a slim.  My contact was grayline on his end
at 0148 on the 13th.  Jeff, was that you or Yuri?

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: Don Miller and CW Pileup Management

[Kenneth Grimm]

Yep, that's the way I remember it too.  It is just so sad that he had that
other side of him that got him in trouble with the ham community and
society generally.  Poor guy.  Such a waste.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Wed, May 23, 2012 at 4:45 PM, k...@aol.com k...@aol.com wrote:


 Hi Don

 Yes - we both remember the Don Miller style of working a CW pileup pretty
 much the same way.

 In this case, I quickly realized that if I stuck with the CORE PILE I was
 going to have to really WORK HARD in order to pull out any calls - because
 the guys were totally out of control and calling wildly and non-stop.

 I am not sure how I came to do what I did, except to say - that, like you,
 I knew the opening might not repeat itself (Krassy too had only one night
 at ST0R that was wide open) and he made the most of it  I learned from that
 and from the Miller remembrances.

 So I just winged it and listened up and down for those on the fringes - in
 order to maximize the potential of the opening.

 Glad it worked out because those good condx did not repeat themselves.

 BTW - if you have not already heard, the National Geographic JUNE issue
 (which just came out) has a wonderful colorful spread on Socotra - really
 worth a look.  It is also available ON LINE on their website - much of what
 is portrayed there are things that I got to see on a tour of the island.

 73 and hope you drank at least ONE BEER for me out at Dayton - I wanted to
 come but just could not make it back in time without having had to pay
 double for my airfare and I just wasn't willing to do that - HI.  This trip
 all in was expensive enough

 PS YES DON - We ***BOTH*** ARE GETTING OLD - and I am starting to FEEL IT
 - HI HI

 JEFF  VY2ZM


 k...@aol.com



 -Original Message-
 From: K8MFO k8...@aol.com
 To: k1zm k...@aol.com
 Sent: Wed, May 23, 2012 7:42 pm
 Subject: Re: Topband: 7O6T - 160m story - Part II


 Jeff:

 At Dayton I told some folks that you were doing a Miller-type act, but
 they did not know what I was talking about! Of course you report his
 activities just as they happened at VU2WNV.

 I said at the time, and I still do, that the most impressive operating I
 ever heard was W9WNV/FO8M - Maria Theresa.Forget that the island was
 not even above water, and that Miller may not even have been in the
 vicinity. I was sitting in a college dorm at Michigan State, with no
 chance to work him, but I surely could hear him very well, and I listened
 to him for hours. For something to do, I timed him, and he was knocking
 off over 250 per hour on CW  ...  I know, I did the counting!

 Don would come back to maybe 8 people, send the one RST    let's say
 he had blown one of those calls  --- he would correct it, and then have
 maybe another 8 tail enders, and he would send them the  single RST!
 Never heard anything like that since Your modified version was very
 obvious to me, but maybe not to too many others. Guess that means I'm
 OLD, hi.

 73

 Don K8MFO



 In a message dated 5/22/2012 2:30:17 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
 k...@aol.com writes:
 What I did that night was something I learned long ago from Don Miller's
 operations in the 1960's

 What Don Miller used to do was a little more extreme - Don would answer 10
 stations at a time - send 599 - and then pick out the next 10 and do it
 again. As a kid in High SchooI, I used to listen in awe to him do this from
 VU2WNV - man that guy was really good at it too!)




 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: Fw: 160 meter DXing

[Kenneth Grimm]

Bruce,

It has happened to most of us at one time or another.  Now, when I hear a
KC cop sending UP I immediately check to make sure that I'm on the right
VFO!  Of course checking before I call is the preferred procedure! 8*)

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Wed, May 9, 2012 at 12:03 AM, Bruce k...@myfairpoint.net wrote:


 Garry

 Well I now know how its done. I went away from the frequency with my split
 off. Tuned up the linear, then came back to the frequency. Receive
 frequency
 was correct and transmit frequency was correct.. BUT I forgot to press the
 split button, I did notice and also got a DWN alert  from someone. Thank
 you, who ever, for that.  Will watch for that problem in the future.
  BTW I did get 7O6T.

 73
 Bruce


 - Original Message -
 From: Bruce k...@myfairpoint.net
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Sent: Tuesday, May 08, 2012 8:03 PM
 Subject: Fw: Topband: 160 meter DXing


  Good info Garry, Thanks
 
  Maybe we could promote callers to look at their transmit frequency
 readout
  on the first call.
 
  73
  Bruce-K1FZ
 
  - Original Message -
  From: Garry Shapiro ga...@ni6t.com
  To: Bruce k...@myfairpoint.net
  Cc: Topband Reflector topband@contesting.com
  Sent: Tuesday, May 08, 2012 4:42 PM
  Subject: Re: Topband: 160 meter DXing
 
 
  Bruce,
 
  A few points re frequency cops
 
   * One guy sending up once is not a problem. The problem is that this
 does not occur reliably, and acts as a trigger.
   * If no one tells callers up--a highly unlikely event in this
 contentious DX milieu--the erring operator continues to annoy for a
 while, but eventually realizes his error. The longer he goes on
 before realizing his error, the more chastened and self-conscious he
 is likely to be for a while. I have erred like everyone else, and I
 find that to be true. One guy sending his call on the wrong QRG is
 more tolerable than five guys insulting him and each other.
   * Transmitting on the DX frequency--whether well-intentioned or
 not--further QRM's the DX, excites others to respond aggressively,
 and quickly leads to chaos and name-calling. Frequently the erring
 station and the would-be white knight(s) double each other,
 exacerbating the situation.
   * We all know that challenging a deliberate QRMer quickly spirals out
 of control.
 
  IMHO, better to grind your teeth and refrain from adding to the problem
  by deluding yourself that you are solving it by intervening.
 
  There is a great old saying, attributed, I think, to Will Rogers: Never
  miss a good opportunity to shut up.
 
  Garry, NI6T
 
 
  On 5/8/2012 5:32 PM, Bruce wrote:
 
  Then there are the Frequency policemen that we dislike, but if on one
  tells callers up, how deep would callers be on the DX station
  frequency?
 
  If everyone gets along, remembering that it's a hobby, then we are OK
 
  73
  Bruce-K1FZ
  ___
  UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
 
  ___
  UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
 
 

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: It is not so much propagation

[Kenneth Grimm]

I love my beverages.  However, before I moved out of the city I was also
space limited.  A couple of pennants strung up between some trees provided
a dramatic improvement over listening on my vertical tx antenna.  There are
some good options to beverages that can be tried if you lack the space:
 pennants, flags, K9AY.  All of these will allow you to hear stuff that
would otherwise be buried in the noise.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Mon, Mar 19, 2012 at 2:05 PM, Chet moore chetmo...@cox.net wrote:

 Bill,

 I truly wish that was the case.  I think you may be a bit out of touch
 On how many serious ops have beverages.  I can't stick one on my 1/4 acre
 lot.  You probably have it right that if you don't have room for beverages
 you probably can't be a big gun but lack of beverages doesn't reduce my my
 seriousness or enthusiasm for top band.  That being said,  if you will
 send
 a certified check down here for 400 k I promise that I will  move to  a 2 -
 3 acre lot and put up a 8 beverages to prove exactly how serious I am.
 Bank wire in lieu of a certified check is ok.

 73

 Chet N4FX

 -Original Message-
 From: topband-boun...@contesting.com [mailto:
 topband-boun...@contesting.com]
 On Behalf Of K4OWR
 Sent: Monday, March 19, 2012 11:00 AM
 To: topband@contesting.com
 Subject: Re: Topband: It is not so much propagation

  When I switch to my beverage antenna the noise pretty much goes to
 almost nothing.
 Don't most serious operators have oneor more???
 BILL K4OWR


 On 3/19/2012 10:22 AM, N7DF wrote:
During the summer the storm static is the main obstacle to top band
 operation here   40 over nine crashes every 30 seconds kind of drown out
 everything, QRP or QRO
  In fact the fish beacons still come through around sunrise indicating
 that
 propagation paths are open but SWLing them is not that big a thrill
  Maybe we could get some low power 160 meter beacons operating through the
 summer to see what is really happening
  It would be interesting to get more Field Day stations on 160.  Maybe our
 crowd can get 160 included in local club plans
  a 30 foot high mast with top loading is not to hard to put together and
 can get out pretty well with two or three readials
  it might even get some new people interested in top band
  ___
  UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
 

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: LOTW

[Kenneth Grimm]

On Fri, Feb 17, 2012 at 9:05 AM, gedk...@aol.com wrote:

 It's simple why some don't use LOTH it's called $ $ $ $
 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK


It doesn't cost anything to upload your log to LOTW.  The only time $ $ $
$ is a factor is if someone chooses to use a LOTW verified QSO for award
purposes.  I upload my log to LOTW, religiously, in case someone needs a
verification from my country, state or county.

LOTW offers a zero cost way of making a verification available to those
who need it.

The real reason LOTW isn't used more widely is the level of difficulty of
setting up an account.

73,

-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: Amazing night

[Kenneth Grimm]

Here in Virginia there were quite a few true S9+ signals in the early
evening and then deep QSB on similar signals from Europe as their sunrise
approached.  Interesting conditions.  Too bad they couldn't have come a
couple of days earlier.

73,

Ken - K4XL


On Tue, Dec 6, 2011 at 4:19 AM, DL4UNY - Andre cont...@dl4uny.de wrote:

 Yep, last night was amazing - I also got amazing reports from JA and
 North America, but condx was weird because for example JA5NPV and VU2PAI
 called me with strong signals and from SU9 I was not able to get a
 single dot, even on the 600ft Africa Beverage.
 But last night was really amazing how was it on the other side of
 the globe (means NA/SA, Asia)?

 73 de Andre,
 DL4UNY



 On 12/05/2011 11:39 PM, Josep Torres wrote:
  Hi all,
 
  after long time out of the BAND, I returned today with great success..!
 No RX antennas yet because my K9AY is still down, but managed to work a
 nice bunch of JAs, some of them with nice signals..!
  Expected bad condx due to high numbers and good high bands openings, but
 160 tonight was incredible..!!
  Finally, 35 JAs, 2 BYs and 1 HL in the bag.
 
  73,
  Josep
 
  EA6BF
 
 
  Sent from my iPad
 
 
  ___
  UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
 
 


 --
 *check out www.dl4uny.de http://www.dl4uny.de*

 ~ /73 de Andre, DL4UNY/ ~

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: Bi-Directional Beverage Question - DXE Polarity

[Kenneth Grimm]

From DX Engineering's manual for the RBS-1P Reversible Beverage System
manual:

The antenna ladder-line is connected between the feed point and reflection
units observing the polarity between the units. The + side of the ladder
line on the feed point unit should be connected to the + side of the
reflection unit. Since you may be twisting the ladder line along its length,
correct polarity should be verified using a meter. An incorrect connection
will result in poor front-to-back ratio or sensitivity.

It is my understanding that W8JI designed the RBS-1P.  It would be
interesting to hear his comments on this paragraph.

73,

Ken - K4XL

On Thu, Aug 11, 2011 at 12:43 PM, Bob Eldridge eldri...@direct.ca wrote:

 1.  It could be a convenient accident.
 2.  If on purpose, the answer is probably Just in case this is
 useful.  But then you would expect DXE to draw attention to it .
 3.  Useful that this has been discovered and brought to our
 attention.
 Bob VE7BS
  So other than phasing two Beverages, has anyone found a reason why
  DX
  Engineering does this?

 ___
 UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK




-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: Top Band INactivity from KG4

[Kenneth Grimm]

There is at least some 160 mx activity in KG4 now.  I worked Edwin, KG4KL,
on March 4 at 0307Z on 1.850 SSB.  Thought he might be active in the contest
this weekend, but haven't heard him so far.  Also worked KG4SS on the same
day on 15 mx at 2226Z.

73,
-- 
Ken - K4XL
BoatAnchor Manual Archive
BAMA - http://bama.edebris.com
___
UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK