Re: Topband: QRM Eliminator

[Martin Kratoska]

Nothing against NCC phasers but I would try the PA0SIM phaser

http://www.pa0sim.nl/Phaser%2080%20-%2010%20meters.htm

before making any decisions. It can be better than any NCC, assumed that 
the amplifier on the output has fairly low input impedance and excellent 
IM properties. At least, you can get a  phaser good on 10 MHz and 
above... It is always matter of experiment!


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 09. 10. 22 v 20:58 Jim Brown napsal(a):

On 10/9/2022 11:22 AM, John Pieszcynski wrote:
He also has reviews and comparisons of other RFI fighting products on 
his

web site.


As part of project to document the performance of a pair of phased 
VE3DO loops for 160M, I did extensive bench testing and engineering 
analysis of the DX Eng NCC-1. It's published here. It's a very high 
quality product, very effective below 20M, not much above.


http://k9yc.com/VE3DO.pdf

73, Jim K9YC


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Re: Topband: removing ft8 from dxcc waz was etc

[Martin Kratoska]

Doug, you read my mind. Thanks a lot, OC. I owe you a beer...

73
Martin, OK1RR



Dne 10. 03. 21 v 17:11 Glenn Wyant napsal(a):

Sorry to offend you Dougand Martin
However when another ham tries to tell me what I should or should not
Operate, well I take offense.
In this case Martin  does not like FT8
Thats fine, however when he starts saying it should not count for dxcc waz was 
etc
For dxcc was waz etc , which would affect myself a lot of other hams,
I find it offensive that  he would agree to remove those awards from me.

Martin came on the reflector and basically degraded all those
who use ft8.  I found it offensive and told him his summary
of our operating is not needed there. I did not ask that he be
Banished, as was his claim.

I believe a hams personal operating preference is his option.
We don’t need to judge others based on our own personal beliefs.

If I have offended anyone here , I apoligize.

Glenn


Sent from Mail for Windows 10

From: Doug Renwick
Sent: March 10, 2021 9:40 AM
To: 'Glenn Wyant'; mar...@ok1rr.com
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: RE: *SPAM* Re: Topband: CQ Zones

And Tree continues to let a$$holes like VA3DX to post here. I should look at
changing my callsign to show no similarity to Glenn's.

Doug/VA5DX

Free Climbing - The ultimate test of strength and technique.

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-bounces+ve5ra=sasktel@contesting.com] On
Behalf Of Glenn Wyant
Sent: March-09-21 7:46 PM
To: mar...@ok1rr.com
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: *SPAM* Re: Topband: CQ Zones

And you decide whether any of us deserve to follow our own preferences!
We don't need you as a dumb ass wanna be leader.

Sent from my iPhone


On Mar 9, 2021, at 18:25, Martin Kratoska  wrote:

Glenn (VA3DX),

BRAVO, I applaud!

So you claim the privilege to decide who should leave and who is allowed

to stay. And you will do it for ALL members of the list. You are a brilliant
character. The life with you must be a marvel.

Stay safe, 73
Martin, OK1RR




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Re: Topband: removing ft8 from dxcc waz was etc

[Martin Kratoska]

First - before any comment: I thoroughly tested FT8. Trying to "be on" 
since the very first steps of FT8. Made some ~3000 QSO with 150 
countries DXCC. Studied the protocol into depth to understand what does 
the tricks to resolve very weak signal. Using the best available sound 
card - the Asus Xonar U7 with its famous Burr-Brown AD and DA 
converters. All works in Linux, no gimmicks here. Also compiled the 
sources by myself, the deb packages are made for Ubuntu but my Debian 10 
does not like them. No problem, I am very experienced Linux user, also 
former computer-pro. That's testing bench here.


Without separation of the meat from the bones: the software is an 
excellent example how should be it done! It is a real masterpiece, hat 
off to the authors team!


Anyway, the FT8 main principle is "confirmation of expectable". This 
overcomes the unnecessary redundancy, but at the cost that no QSO except 
the "precooked" one is possible. You should note that the first versions 
of WSJT had problems with unusual calls, I was unable to air my special 
call OL100R.


The cost paid for "weak signal" functionality is simply too high. The 
operator can't do anything other than clicking to station wanted to QSO. 
There is some split needed but the choice of split "deviation" is all 
what the op can do. Thus, a QSO can be never a fully featured chat, in 
contrary to RTTY, PSK31 or others where is possible to say hello.


All such features are highly attractive to the new operators who does 
not know the code, who never learned the adventures with weak SSB 
signals. These guys are not comparable with us, they are different from 
us, they are NOT HAMS, they are just radio users. I don't care if 
someone finds my words offensive. Everybody can learn the code (yes, 
there are some 7% who can't, due to health reasons), who can't learn the 
code is probably able to speak so he can operate SSB. The main reason to 
become "FT8 only" is the LAZINESS which I find unacceptable. Period.


I am ham because it's hard, not because it's easy. See the True Blue DX 
club and its motto (https://www.tbdxc.net/). I am founder member, #4. 
Again, I am NOT biased against any mode. Do you like it? Do it! Do you 
count this as old dog's new trick? Well, do it, go ahead! (BTW there are 
more old dogs, some of them are happy to do old tricks in the same way 
as they did 50 years ago. As Vern Kaspar, W9FAM did! They still going 
strong, some of them unfortunately only in my mind, in my memories)... 
But I never accept/take part in a bicycle race where some participants 
using motor bikes. Now you know why I dislike FT8. My attitude to this 
mode is NEUTRAL, I HATE "FT8 only" radio users promoting themselves as 
hams (radio amateurs).


73,
Martin, OK1RR
https://www.qrz.com/db/OK1RR


Dne 10. 03. 21 v 17:11 Glenn Wyant napsal(a):

Sorry to offend you Dougand Martin
However when another ham tries to tell me what I should or should not
Operate, well I take offense.
In this case Martin  does not like FT8
Thats fine, however when he starts saying it should not count for dxcc waz was 
etc
For dxcc was waz etc , which would affect myself a lot of other hams,
I find it offensive that  he would agree to remove those awards from me.

Martin came on the reflector and basically degraded all those
who use ft8.  I found it offensive and told him his summary
of our operating is not needed there. I did not ask that he be
Banished, as was his claim.

I believe a hams personal operating preference is his option.
We don’t need to judge others based on our own personal beliefs.

If I have offended anyone here , I apoligize.

Glenn


Sent from Mail for Windows 10

From: Doug Renwick
Sent: March 10, 2021 9:40 AM
To: 'Glenn Wyant'; mar...@ok1rr.com
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: RE: *SPAM* Re: Topband: CQ Zones

And Tree continues to let a$$holes like VA3DX to post here. I should look at
changing my callsign to show no similarity to Glenn's.

Doug/VA5DX

Free Climbing - The ultimate test of strength and technique.

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-bounces+ve5ra=sasktel@contesting.com] On
Behalf Of Glenn Wyant
Sent: March-09-21 7:46 PM
To: mar...@ok1rr.com
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: *SPAM* Re: Topband: CQ Zones

And you decide whether any of us deserve to follow our own preferences!
We don't need you as a dumb ass wanna be leader.

Sent from my iPhone


On Mar 9, 2021, at 18:25, Martin Kratoska  wrote:

Glenn (VA3DX),

BRAVO, I applaud!

So you claim the privilege to decide who should leave and who is allowed

to stay. And you will do it for ALL members of the list. You are a brilliant
character. The life with you must be a marvel.

Stay safe, 73
Martin, OK1RR




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Re: Topband: CQ Zones

[Martin Kratoska]

Jim,

FIRST - thank you so much for your excellent technical references. It 
helps a lot, I highly appreciate your unparalleled performance.


SECOND - am I allowed to differ between a QSO between living operators 
(possibly friends) and two machines?
If yes, allow me, please keep the difference forever. In a competition 
(DXCC, WAZ, counties etc.), modes with engaged human brain and senses 
should be kept separately from the modes where the brain and senses are 
NOT (or are minimally) engaged. Am I asking for too much?


I am NOT biased against any mode. Do you like it? Do it! Do you count 
this as old dog's new trick? Well, do it, go ahead! BTW there are more 
old dogs, some of them are happy to do old tricks, in the same way as 
they did 50 years ago. As Vern Kaspar, W9FAM did! They still going 
strong, some of them unfortunately only in my mind, in my memories...


Unfortunately I MUST be biased against no-code guys who spreads out with 
pride to have 300 countries and actually they have 150 on SSB and 150 on 
FT8. I would ask them to say honestly that they have X on SSB and Y on 
FT8 and no-code. I would appreciate such honest guy, he would deserve my 
highest respect.


What I am doing wrong?

73,
sincerely
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 09. 03. 21 v 20:41 Jim Brown napsal(a):

On 3/9/2021 6:36 AM, Martin Kratoska wrote:
Oh, FT8 should be proclaimed as illegal for DXCC (WAZ, WAS etc.) in 
mixed categories.
This "mode" should be counted completely separated from traditional 
modes like CW or SSB.


Why? I'm a VERY old dog who can still copy CW in my sleep, but who is 
still trying to learn new tricks every day. And K1JT's modes are new 
tricks that allow us to defeat the RF noise that is killing weak 
signal work for all of us, whether we realize it or not.


73, Jim K9YC
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Re: Topband: CQ Zones

[Martin Kratoska]

Glenn (VA3DX),

BRAVO, I applaud!

So you claim the privilege to decide who should leave and who is allowed 
to stay. And you will do it for ALL members of the list. You are a 
brilliant character. The life with you must be a marvel.


Stay safe, 73
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 09. 03. 21 v 21:23 Glenn Wyant napsal(a):

And Martin there is no need for you stay here.
Obviously you don't need us , you are so much better than us ft8 Cw ssb rtty 
etc etc ops
Glenn VA3DX

Sent from my iPhone


On Mar 9, 2021, at 11:40, Martin Kratoska  wrote:

Bob et al,

all these rules can be preprogrammed into SV5DKL's robot which can "do the QSO". 
Otherwise I can tell my dog where to paw, he would be possibly a better FT8 "operator" 
than mine.

There is no need of ears, hands, brain or any knowledge. All the task can be 
robotized. This does DEFINITELY NOT qualify as ham radio. I am very sorry that 
I don't have any better news for you.

73,
Martin, OK1RR

P.S. Any FT8 yes/no dispute is meaningless, at least in this mailing list, 
isn't?


Dne 09. 03. 21 v 17:19 Chortek, Robert L. napsal(a):

Actually, it is ham radio.

Have you spent any time with the mode?

For example,

1. Have you identified a country you need for a bond slot or ATNO?

2.  Have you determined the best time of year, time of day, and band to see if 
a station from that country is on?

3. Have you searched the decodes daily for a station from that country?

4. After spending days hunting that DX, have you FINALLY managed to be there 
when the propagation was favorable?

5.  Have you then, after all that, called that DX and made the contact?

If that does not qualify as ham radio, I’m not sure what does.

73,

Bob/AA6VB
Robert L. Chortek

On Mar 9, 2021, at 8:04 AM, ok1tn  wrote:



[External Email]

FT4 FT8 is just a computer game. It's not a ham radio
OK1TN
--
73 Slavek Zeler


-- Původní e-mail --
Od: Chortek, Robert L. 
Komu: Joe Subich, W4TV 
Datum: 9. 3. 2021 16:31:21
Předmět: Re: Topband: CQ Zones
THANK YOU JOE! That pretty much captures the debate.

73,

Bob/AA6VB
Robert L. Chortek


On Mar 9, 2021, at 7:27 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV  wrote:

[External Email]

Oh PLEASE! You sound just like AM phone operators when SSB came
along. And spark operators when CW started to replace it.

The first DX was nothing more than single letters ...

73,

... Joe, W4TV



On 2021-03-09 10:10 AM, Karel Matousek wrote:
I agree wit Martin OK1RR.

I cannot endorse FT4, FT8 for the ARRL DXCC Program.

IMHO, this should NEVER be allowed unless qualified in a separate rules
category!

Karel OK1CF
______

Od: "Martin Kratoska" 
Komu: topband@contesting.com
Datum: 09.03.2021 15:37
Předmět: Re: Topband: CQ Zones

Oh, FT8 should be proclaimed as illegal for DXCC (WAZ, WAS etc.) in
mixed categories.
This "mode" should be counted completely separated from traditional
modes like CW or SSB.

73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 09. 03. 21 v 15:16 Ian Fugler napsal(a):

Hi, Dave

Zone 23 - JT5DX will be your man. He is active in contests and puts

out a good signal.

Zone 24 - will be more of a challenge. I have worked XX9D and a

couple of BY stations. But you may need to use FT8 for the BY stations,
since they seem strongly to prefer that mode.

73 and GL!

Ian G4iiY

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Re: Topband: CQ Zones

[Martin Kratoska]

Bob et al,

all these rules can be preprogrammed into SV5DKL's robot which can "do 
the QSO". Otherwise I can tell my dog where to paw, he would be possibly 
a better FT8 "operator" than mine.


There is no need of ears, hands, brain or any knowledge. All the task 
can be robotized. This does DEFINITELY NOT qualify as ham radio. I am 
very sorry that I don't have any better news for you.


73,
Martin, OK1RR

P.S. Any FT8 yes/no dispute is meaningless, at least in this mailing 
list, isn't?



Dne 09. 03. 21 v 17:19 Chortek, Robert L. napsal(a):

Actually, it is ham radio.

Have you spent any time with the mode?

For example,

1. Have you identified a country you need for a bond slot or ATNO?

2.  Have you determined the best time of year, time of day, and band to see if 
a station from that country is on?

3. Have you searched the decodes daily for a station from that country?

4. After spending days hunting that DX, have you FINALLY managed to be there 
when the propagation was favorable?

5.  Have you then, after all that, called that DX and made the contact?

If that does not qualify as ham radio, I’m not sure what does.

73,

Bob/AA6VB
Robert L. Chortek

On Mar 9, 2021, at 8:04 AM, ok1tn  wrote:



[External Email]

FT4 FT8 is just a computer game. It's not a ham radio
OK1TN
--
73 Slavek Zeler


-- Původní e-mail --
Od: Chortek, Robert L. 
Komu: Joe Subich, W4TV 
Datum: 9. 3. 2021 16:31:21
Předmět: Re: Topband: CQ Zones
THANK YOU JOE! That pretty much captures the debate.

73,

Bob/AA6VB
Robert L. Chortek


On Mar 9, 2021, at 7:27 AM, Joe Subich, W4TV  wrote:

[External Email]

Oh PLEASE! You sound just like AM phone operators when SSB came
along. And spark operators when CW started to replace it.

The first DX was nothing more than single letters ...

73,

... Joe, W4TV



On 2021-03-09 10:10 AM, Karel Matousek wrote:
I agree wit Martin OK1RR.

I cannot endorse FT4, FT8 for the ARRL DXCC Program.

IMHO, this should NEVER be allowed unless qualified in a separate rules
category!

Karel OK1CF
______

Od: "Martin Kratoska" 
Komu: topband@contesting.com
Datum: 09.03.2021 15:37
Předmět: Re: Topband: CQ Zones


Oh, FT8 should be proclaimed as illegal for DXCC (WAZ, WAS etc.) in
mixed categories.
This "mode" should be counted completely separated from traditional
modes like CW or SSB.

73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 09. 03. 21 v 15:16 Ian Fugler napsal(a):

Hi, Dave

Zone 23 - JT5DX will be your man. He is active in contests and puts

out a good signal.

Zone 24 - will be more of a challenge. I have worked XX9D and a

couple of BY stations. But you may need to use FT8 for the BY stations,
since they seem strongly to prefer that mode.

73 and GL!

Ian G4iiY



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Re: Topband: CQ Zones

[Martin Kratoska]

Oh, FT8 should be proclaimed as illegal for DXCC (WAZ, WAS etc.) in 
mixed categories.
This "mode" should be counted completely separated from traditional 
modes like CW or SSB.


73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 09. 03. 21 v 15:16 Ian Fugler napsal(a):

Hi, Dave

Zone 23 - JT5DX will be your man.  He is active in contests and puts out a good 
signal.

Zone 24 - will be more of a challenge.  I have worked XX9D and a couple of BY 
stations.  But you may need to use FT8 for the BY stations, since they seem 
strongly to prefer that mode.

73 and GL!

Ian G4iiY

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-bounces+zen90387=zen.co...@contesting.com] On 
Behalf Of David Olean
Sent: 09 March 2021 13:30
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Topband: CQ Zones

I am not a certificate hunter, but I was curious to see how many CQ
zones I had worked on 160 meters.  Getting all 40 zones on 160 is a
challenge. My list includes 38 of the 40 CQ zones,  and only zones 23
and 24 are still unworked.. My question is how to nab these last two?
Part of my problem is the lack of stations available in those two spots.
A few weeks ago I was CQing in the early evening and worked R8WF on CW.
He is located in Zone 18 and just north of eastern Mongolia. (North of
Beijing)  I was very surprised at that QSO, as the band was empty with
few signals audible on CW. Shortly after we worked, he called again much
louder. It must have been right after his sun rise and he was a good S7
or so. The direct path is 360 degrees here and directly over the North
Pole. I was using my 45 degree beverage. I was stunned at how strong
R8WF was.

So what are the station call signs active in zones 23 and 24? Being a
relative newcomer to 160 and HF in general, I am not so familiar with
active DX call signs from around the world. I would suspect that China
is possible to work at my sun rise, but I have yet to hear anything from
there. Mongolia seems like another difficult nut to crack, hence my note
on who and what to look for!  Any help with call signs would be appreciated.

After the R8WF QSO, I am convinced that an antenna aimed due North is a
necessity in case that path decides to open. I am also going to make a
SE beverage, as I have been told that SE is a good direction for LP QSOs
on 160. I have no antenna for between 90 and 180 degrees azimuth.

Thank you

Dave K1WHS


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Re: Topband: BCB Filter - final selection

[Martin Kratoska]

This one is much better, however you should build it yourself...

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 17. 04. 20 v 12:59 Edward via Topband napsal(a):

Thank you all for your recommendations. Leaning towards this filter below. Any 
objections before I pull the trigger?


http://kiwa-electronics.com/bcb-rejection-filter-20.html



73,
Ed NI6S/7Z1ES
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Re: Topband: FT-8 Contest would be great for Topband

[Martin Kratoska]

I applaud, Dave!

73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 11. 01. 20 v 6:02 Dave AA6YQ napsal(a):

+ AA6YQ comments below

It would seem that the new digital modes have re-invigorated ham radio, at 
least activity wise. But if ham radio is so fragile that it cannot sustain in 
the face of interest in a new mode, maybe it deserves to die. I personally 
don't think it will, it is and has always been a big tent...73, Kevin K3OX

+ If CW, AM, SSB, transistors, integrated circuits, VHF repeaters, packet 
clusters, CW decoders, soundcard RTTY applications, soundcard PSK applications, 
panoramic reception, and software-defined radios haven't managed to kill 
amateur radio, I doubt that FT4 or FT8 will succeed.

+ It's been my experience that many ops consider the technology they were using up 
through age 35 to be "standard". Any technology that appears after they reach 
that age will be considered a  mortal threat to amateur radio.

 73,

 Dave, AA6YQ

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Re: Topband: FT-8 Contest would be great for Topband

[Martin Kratoska]

Quite few happy experimenters, lots of disgusted DXers.

73,
Martin, OK1RR
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Topband: RClamp2502L

[Martin Kratoska]

datasheet here
http://www.ok1rr.com/files/rclamp2502l.pdf

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 11. 10. 19 v 15:17 Martin Kratoska napsal(a):
I did quite lot of research about protective limiters. The best solution 
found is to use the special TVS diodes RClamp2502L by Semtech which 
incorporate surge rated, low capacitance steering diodes and a TVS diode 
in a single package. During transient conditions, the steering diodes 
direct the transient current away from the protected input. The internal 
TVS diode clamps the transient voltage to a safe level. The low 
capacitance array configuration allows the user to protect up to two

high-speed data lines.

RClamp2502L can be used directly "in-line", no additional components 
needed. A new type of "RX front end saver" with Semtech's RClamp2502L is 
in preparation.


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 11. 10. 19 v 13:49 N4ZR napsal(a):
Array Solutions no longer handles the K9AY components, which actually 
came from K9RU's Wolf RF Systems.  It looks like the ICE limiter is 
still out there, and reasonably priced, but I have no idea whether 
it's a good design - it's pretty old - or just a pair of diodes back 
to back.


73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the Reverse Beacon Network
at <http://reversebeacon.net>, now
spotting RTTY activity worldwide.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

On 10/10/2019 10:08 PM, Alan Swinger wrote:
I use a Model 197 RF Limiter/Arrestor by Industrial Comms Engineers 
for my K9AY Loop. I think I got it from DX Eng ~ 10 yrs ago, but also 
chk w/ Array Solutions since I think they now handle the K9AY Loop. - 
Alan K9MBQ



-Original Message-

From: N4ZR 
Sent: Oct 10, 2019 9:30 PM
To: topband reflector 
Subject: Topband: Protecting an Array Solutions K9AY Loop from 
Transmitted RF


I'm in the process of building up a K9AY loop, using the Array 
Solutions

boxes, and it occurred to me that I probably need to work out some way
to protect the preamp in the shack-end box from transmitted RF,
particularly since the K9AY loop is only about 60 feet from the 
vertical

leg of my inverted L and I'll be running 1500 watts.

I can see maybe cutting off the DC to the preamp, but figure that won't
be enough. Alternatively, I can probably work out a way to either open
or short the feedline coming into the indoor box where the preamp is.
Any advice as to which would be best (opening or shorting)?  I only 
have

one spare transistor.

Advice much appreciated

--

73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the Reverse Beacon Network
at <http://reversebeacon.net>, now
spotting RTTY activity worldwide.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

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Re: Topband: Protecting an Array Solutions K9AY Loop from Transmitted RF

[Martin Kratoska]

I did quite lot of research about protective limiters. The best solution 
found is to use the special TVS diodes RClamp2502L by Semtech which 
incorporate surge rated, low capacitance steering diodes and a TVS diode 
in a single package. During transient conditions, the steering diodes 
direct the transient current away from the protected input. The internal 
TVS diode clamps the transient voltage to a safe level. The low 
capacitance array configuration allows the user to protect up to two

high-speed data lines.

RClamp2502L can be used directly "in-line", no additional components 
needed. A new type of "RX front end saver" with Semtech's RClamp2502L is 
in preparation.


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 11. 10. 19 v 13:49 N4ZR napsal(a):
Array Solutions no longer handles the K9AY components, which actually 
came from K9RU's Wolf RF Systems.  It looks like the ICE limiter is 
still out there, and reasonably priced, but I have no idea whether it's 
a good design - it's pretty old - or just a pair of diodes back to back.


73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the Reverse Beacon Network
at , now
spotting RTTY activity worldwide.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

On 10/10/2019 10:08 PM, Alan Swinger wrote:
I use a Model 197 RF Limiter/Arrestor by Industrial Comms Engineers 
for my K9AY Loop. I think I got it from DX Eng ~ 10 yrs ago, but also 
chk w/ Array Solutions since I think they now handle the K9AY Loop. - 
Alan K9MBQ



-Original Message-

From: N4ZR 
Sent: Oct 10, 2019 9:30 PM
To: topband reflector 
Subject: Topband: Protecting an Array Solutions K9AY Loop from 
Transmitted RF


I'm in the process of building up a K9AY loop, using the Array Solutions
boxes, and it occurred to me that I probably need to work out some way
to protect the preamp in the shack-end box from transmitted RF,
particularly since the K9AY loop is only about 60 feet from the vertical
leg of my inverted L and I'll be running 1500 watts.

I can see maybe cutting off the DC to the preamp, but figure that won't
be enough. Alternatively, I can probably work out a way to either open
or short the feedline coming into the indoor box where the preamp is.
Any advice as to which would be best (opening or shorting)?  I only have
one spare transistor.

Advice much appreciated

--

73, Pete N4ZR
Check out the Reverse Beacon Network
at , now
spotting RTTY activity worldwide.
For spots, please use your favorite
"retail" DX cluster.

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Re: Topband: Impressive demonstration of one dB of signal strength improvement

[Martin Kratoska]

What QST? Would be a copy available?

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 21. 08. 19 v 18:24 K9FD napsal(a):

An excellent article is in an old QST called "station design for DX"
It mentions that 1 DB improvement in the station will provide a whole
new layer of DX signals.   Very true.

In the average station you can easily find several DB that can be gained.
If your into DX think of all your missing.

I always have to laugh when the statement is made "I can work all I can 
hear"


that says it all,  its what your not hearing is the problem.

73 Merv K9FD


These recordings are an impressive demonstration of the benefit of
one dB of signal strength improvement in a weak signal situation.


Click on the links on this website:



www.ab7e.com/weak_signal/mdd.html


73
Frank
W3LPL


- Original Message -

From: "David Gilbert" 
To: elecr...@mailman.qth.net
Sent: Wednesday, August 21, 2019 7:02:21 AM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] KPA500 Coax size requirements


That's not a universally true statement.

Several years ago I was trying to decide which antenna to buy, and my
choice came down to two antennas that were 2 db apart. I created some
audio files by recording typical band noise and then overlaying them
with recorded CW messages at various strengths. The difference between
1 dB above the noise level and 2 dB above the noise level can make the
difference between no copy and copy. The files and testing methodology
can be found here:

http://www.ab7e.com/weak_signal/mdd.html

If you're ragchewing it doesn't matter, but if you're trying to make a
contact and your signal is at the level of the mud it does.

73,
Dave AB7E

On 8/20/2019 9:18 PM, Jim Danehy wrote:
ONE DB loss is the LEAST DETECTABLE amount a human can detect. Hardly 
if not impossible to notice.


Jim
W9VNE/VA3VNE

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Re: Topband: 160

[Martin Kratoska]

Gentlemen,

stop this annoying practice, please! Not all are ARRL members!

Thanks for understanding,

73
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 03. 08. 19 v 20:20 donov...@starpower.net napsal(a):


Hi Bob

The "how to" article is right here:


http://p1k.arrl.org/pubs_archive/63144


73
Frank
W3LPL

- Original Message -

From: "Robert Brennan via Topband" 
To: "Cecil" 
Cc: "rich k7zv" , "Harald Rester" , "Alan 
Swinger" , topband@contesting.com
Sent: Friday, August 2, 2019 10:00:03 PM
Subject: Re: Topband: 160

Gentleman,
I have been using ft8 now for a little over a year now and have been relatively 
successful with it.
I also use CW and SSB.
If I can set up my station on ft8 and have it run automatically and collect new 
entities.
I would really like to know how to do that.
Perhaps one of you can write an article for QST.

73 Bob ad6hf

Sent from my iPhone


On Aug 2, 2019, at 2:45 PM, Cecil  wrote:



Sent from my iPad


On Aug 2, 2019, at 4:22 PM, Alan Swinger  wrote:


. Since FT8 operators can walk away and not participate in QSOs, and come back 
after some other activity and see how many new countries and QSOs that the 
computer made, this is unlike Digital modes where operators must remain engaged 
to make QSOs. Therefore, seems to me that such Computer-generated contacts 
should have a separate category in the current award systems since the 
operators are not directly involved in making the QSOs . . . call it 
Computer-Aided Digital or something more clever. No argument that skill is 
required to set up a station to make FT-8 contacts, but a different set than 
what those of us who work DXCC, Challenge, etc use on CW, RTTY, and SSB, 
including those towers, expensive equipment, skills, and years of hard work to 
get the new ones when there was NO FT-8 or similar modes!
So, I do not be begrudge the new low signal computer-aided modes, nor do I cast 
aspersions on the Ops who enjoy using them . . . even though I am unlikely to 
join their ranks, but the Ham community should not penalize those of us who 
used non-FT modes to get our hard earned awards by giving an unfair advantage 
to a new technology. We (Ham Radio) need the New Technology, but these modes 
are sufficiently different in many ways from the older modes that justifies a 
separate category in the award spectrum. Therefore, I urge the ARRL and the CQ 
Magazine leadership to establish a Digital award category that is separate and 
different from the current DXCC et al Digital criteria.
Alan Swinger K9MBQ
Charlottesville, VA



-Original Message-

From: rich_k...@gphilltop.com
Sent: Aug 2, 2019 4:22 PM
To: Harald Rester 
Cc: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: 160

As ham radio changes there will remain at least a niche for CW, SSB, and
RTTY and it's competitions. FT8 will supplement the bands , not supplant
it, IMO. Do you think FT8, FT4 and whatever digital modes come along are
the future or will something else take its place? Who knows... time and
technology moves on. Maybe it might attract some of the Millennials to
fill in the void by us Baby Boomers who will all too soon be making.
Let's set a good example for them to follow.

Rich K7ZV



On 2019-08-02 12:42 pm, Harald Rester wrote:
Think about the time *we all *could have been on the air, while staring
at our screens, typing and reading. I make QSY to the shack - Hpe CU!

Harry, DH1NBE




Am 02.08.2019 um 21:26 schrieb uy0zg:


I do not propose stopping the FT8.

just compete with each other.

But keep in mind - Arnold will be the first -)):

https://www.alamy.com/arnold-schwarzenegger-terminator-2-judgment-day-1991-image66516208.html



---
Nick, UY0ZG
http://www.topband.in.ua

W0MU Mike Fatchett писал 2019-08-02 21:52:

Ah so all FT8 users are cheaters. Does that mean that all Russian
hams use way more power than they should and their scores should not
count either?

The real issue here is change. Ham radio has been in constant motion
and change since it started and I hope in continues that way well
after we are dead.

So we better stop FT8 and protect VE1ZZ?

Sorry no.

Good day.


On 8/2/2019 12:45 PM, uy0zg wrote:

Hello, Mike

This is how the world works so that humanity always has moral
values.

They must be protected.
Example:
in a few years, 334 VE1ZZ countries will lose their value. His
achievements will be eaten by computer programs and robots 

It is right ?
Will there be many talents at 160 meters like Jack?

Will not be !

On the contrary - more and more stupidity and envy



---
Nick, UY0ZG
http://www.topband.in.ua

W0MU Mike Fatchett писал 2019-08-02 18:24:

Cheating is cheating. How many people used remote stations,
exceeded
their power limits, etc. Singling out a mode because you are
upset
that it has taken away activity in your preferred mode is not
helpful
to the hobby. Not everyone that use FT8 cheats. Not everyone
that
uses a amp that exceeds their legal limit uses it in that fashion.

How can you guarantee that everyone on the "Honor Role" 

Re: Topband: DHDL

[Martin Kratoska]

oops, the images didn't come thru. See here:

http://www.ok1rr.com/public/DHDL_OPT.NEC
http://www.ok1rr.com/public/antview.png
http://www.ok1rr.com/public/dhdl_opt-ver.png
http://www.ok1rr.com/public/dhdl_opt-hor.png
http://www.ok1rr.com/public/dhdl_opt-3d.png


73,
Martin, OK1RR



Dne 30. 06. 19 v 20:51 Martin Kratoska napsal(a):

That statement doesn't agree with my quick modeling

just read a few articles about DHDL antennas. One article states, the 
cut off frequency where the antenna becomes useless is when the 
overall length of wire reaches a 1/4WL... 


my results attached

73,
Martin, OK1RR

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Re: Topband: DHDL

[Martin Kratoska]

That statement doesn't agree with my quick modeling

just read a few articles about DHDL antennas. One article states, the 
cut off frequency where the antenna becomes useless is when the 
overall length of wire reaches a 1/4WL... 


my results attached

73,
Martin, OK1RR
CM Double Half-Delta Loop RX Antenna
CM By George Wallner, AA7JV
CM used at Chesterfield DXpedition TX3A
CM optimized by OK1RR
CE
SY h=1.5
SY vh=3.700271
SY l=17.79364
SY R=1126.759
GW  1   10  0   0   h   0   0   h+vh5.e-4
GW  2   10  0   0   h+vhl   0.1 h   5.e-4
GW  3   10  l   0.1 h   2*l 0   h   5.e-4
GW  4   10  0   0   h   l   0   h   5.e-4
GW  5   10  l   0   h   2*l 0   h+vh5.e-4
GW  6   10  2*l 0   h+vh2*l 0   h   5.e-4
GE  -1
LD  5   1   0   0   5800
LD  5   2   0   0   5800
LD  5   3   0   0   5800
LD  5   4   0   0   5800
LD  5   5   0   0   5800
LD  5   6   0   0   5800
LD  4   6   10  10  R   0
GN  2   0   0   0   13  0.005
EK
EX  6   1   1   0   1   0   0
FR  0   0   0   0   1.820
EN
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Re: Topband: VI9NI - Missed em.

[Martin Kratoska]

Me too, regardless of the band. Anytime I tried to reach them they were 
on FT8, not on CW...


73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 15. 04. 19 v 5:09 FZ Bruce napsal(a):

Sorry to hear you missed them. I also missed them as they were after
my sunrise, the many days that I listened.
73Bruce-K1FZ

-From: "Jorge Diez - CX6VM"
To: g...@ka1j.com
Cc: "TopBand List"
Sent: Sunday April 14 2019 6:06:02PM
Subject: Re: Topband: VI9NI - Missed em.

Hi Gary

  I missed them too. Last days that I was QAP, they didnt go to 160 CW
before
  my sunrise. I asked them to go to 160 before 09 utc but the answer
was that
  all i needed to do is "to listen" :-)

  I heard them 2 days ago 25 minutes after my sunrise, but thet didn´t
got me

  73,
  Jorge
  CX6VM/CW5W

  El dom., 14 abr. 2019 a las 7:57, Gary Smith () escribió:

  > Well, I did get them on digital but missed
  > them on 160. Bad timing on my end & do
  > need VK9-N on 160.
  >
  > Next time!
  > 73,
  >
  > Gary
  > KA1J
  > _
  > Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband [1] -
Topband
  > Reflector
  >

  --
  73,
  Jorge
  CX6VM/CW5W
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Topband: CW operators - do you prefer QSK?

[Martin Kratoska]

Please vote in this new poll.

http://www.strawpoll.me/17426016

Many thanks!

73,
Martin, OK1RR
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Re: Topband: Rather use N-type (was Re: The answer to PL-259

[Martin Kratoska]

Harris uses BNCs at this power level (3CX-1500A7) in RF-353 (AM-7224) 
amplifier. They were used under harsh conditions for decades.


73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 08. 12. 18 v 3:07 Tim Duffy napsal(a):

When you look at an N connector, specifically the center pin - remember that
the N connector center pin is the same as the center pin of a BNC connector.

W6NL asked me this question - would you run 1500 watts with BNC connectors?

73
Tim K3LR
(Only 7-16 DIN and TONS of "quality" UHF connectors at this station
TIGHT PL-259s work GREAT - tighten up)

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Mike
Waters
Sent: Friday, December 07, 2018 8:57 PM
To: Frank Donovan; topband; Steve Maki
Subject: Re: Topband: Rather use N-type (was Re: The answer to PL-259

Thank you, Frank and Steve! I just learned something useful. :-)

I bought these N plugs in the early 1980s from Nemal Electronics. Perhaps
what you are describing was not available then? (That's a rhetorical
question. ;-)

If I ever get back on VHF/UHF, I'll get those.

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com


On Fri, Dec 7, 2018 at 7:26 PM  wrote:


Hi Mike,

Captivated pin N connectors for hardline coax fits tightly over
the center conductor.

Captivated pin N connectors for flexible coax typically has a
pin that requires solder.

Floating pin N connectors belong in the trash bin.

73
Frank
W3LPL

--
*From: *"Mike Waters" 
*To: *li...@oakcom.org
*Cc: *"topband" 
*Sent: *Saturday, December 8, 2018 12:10:38 AM
*Subject: *Re: Topband: Rather use N-type (was Re: The answer to PL-259

The one I have in my hand has a solder hole in it. I take it that there

are

newer ones that have contacts that grip the coax center conductor?

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com

On Fri, Dec 7, 2018 at 6:04 PM Steve Maki  wrote:


Well here's the advantage of captivated center pins: the pin is NOT
bonded to the center conductor. IOW, if the coax center conductor
shrinks a bit, it can slide in the center pin and the pin stays put.

And that's exactly what you want it to do - especially with an N

connector.


-Steve K8LX


On 12/07/18 14:25 PM, Mike Waters wrote:


Exactly my experience, even with captivated pins!! And my coax runs

were

only about 100' long.

The captivating washers were made of TeflonR, *and Teflon cold flows*.

This

was when I lived in Toledo, Ohio when the temperature dropped well

below

zero.

Four photos of those N connectors are at
http://www.w0btu.com/files/misc/N_plugs . See the last two.



On Fri, Dec 7, 2018, 1:02 PM Richard (Rick) Karlquist <

rich...@karlquist.com>

wrote:


My two 500 foot RG-216 military surplus cables both eventually

exhibited

retracted pins on the type N connectors at both ends.  I replaced

them

with

PL-259's.  ...  Success anecdotes about install once and never touch

again

commercial sites are probably not relevant to ham applications.


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Re: Topband: Recomended Relays

[Martin Kratoska]

Some experience here:
http://www.bavarian-contest-club.de/projects/misc_projects/hfrelais.txt

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 06. 12. 18 v 17:40 Sam Josuweit napsal(a):

Can anyone recommend a good general use relay for antenna switching in the
800-1000w power range? I know using power relays can be a roll of the dice.

According to modeling peak voltages should be less than 450V.

  


Thanks

Sam(N3XZ)

  


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Re: Topband: Rather use N-type (was Re: The answer to PL-259 soldering/reliability problems)

[Martin Kratoska]

Did he same. Since this change no problem anymore. Confirming what Greg 
says and can only recommend - throw away all PLs and go to N!


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 06. 12. 18 v 5:00 Greg-zl3ix napsal(a):
  


I continue to be mystified by the fact that the amateur radio
community insists on using PL259 connectors. N-type are much more
reliable (used by professional communicators), low cost, can be crimped
easily and quickly and have a well-defined impedance right up into GHz
frequencies.

Back in 2005 I started having contact problems with the
connector on my SteppIR 3-element. There was a thin layer of oxide that
built up around the centre pin of the PL259. I had had similar problems
with other connectors around my shack. I decided to change my entire
station, including the SteppIR, to N-type, and have never looked back.


73, Greg, ZL3IX

On 06.12.2018 13:29, Steve Ireland wrote:




G'day


About five years I discovered this fool-proof and brilliant

way to solder PL-259s invented by Bill Maxon N4AR who taught this to Tim
K3LR. Tim uses this method throughout his contest station and did a
great job of documenting it - see http://www.k3lr.com/engineering/pl259/
[1] and it has totally changed my angry and worried attitude towards
soldering PL-259s.


The key component is Amphenol 83-1SP connectors.

The connector body is silver and the shell is nickel and you can buy
them from Mouser or DX Engineering.


Vy 73

Steve, VK6VZ



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Re: Topband: W7LR

[Martin Kratoska]

WooW, very impressive! Thanks for sharing!

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 01. 12. 18 v 17:09 Hank Garretson napsal(a):

I encourage you all to read W7LR QRZ page.

Top Band Exuberantly,

Hank, W6SX


On Sat, Dec 1, 2018 at 8:01 AM Tree  wrote:


Many of you have probably noticed that W7LR has not been in the pileups
during the past year.  I visited Bob exactly a year ago and Cobi as well -
Cobi had reached 100 years.  Bob is close behind.

Cobi passed away on April 1st and Bob has moved into an assisted living
facility around the same time.  His station is QRT.  I chatted with him
yesterday and it was good to hear his voice.

If anyone is interested in sending Bob a note - I can provide the address.

Tree N6TR
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Re: Topband: Any experience with 2N3553?

[Martin Kratoska]

Lee,

very interesting. Many thanks for that valuable info! BTW is there any 
easy, cheap and quick method to test the J310, possibly without need of 
dedicated complex 'test jig'?


73,
Martin, OK1RR


Dne 2.7.2018 v 02:39 Lee STRAHAN napsal(a):

Thanks Tony,
Agreed the 2N5109 will be around for a long time however as you point out they 
are or will be very expensive. At present I use 100's of 2N3866 transistors which 
are very close to the same die if not selected from the 2N5109 process. My cost in 
100 quantity has gone from about $1.60 each to currently $4.00 each in about 2 
years' time for 2N3866's. The 5109 is currently priced less at $2.22  where the 
3866 used to be less. From all this I conclude that the 2N5109 will follow the 
huge price increases. I could be wrong but I will not plan on using the 5109 
especially where most things are going to surface mount also. Even J-310 FETs have 
gone from <$.20 to $2.41 at 100 level. Worst thing is 20% of the off brand 
j-310s don’t meet spec. The only way to solve this is to go to surface mount where 
you can still get the good J-310 and other great devices. One can often use more 
than one SMD device in an amplifier having it cost less than one expensive leaded  
device. For the hams building a single amplifier the 5109 makes a lot of sense 
right now. Semiconductor times are changing rapidly. I make lots of top-band 
antenna systems using lots of already expensive electronics. For this reason I 
have to do as well as I can to predict the future for my products. My observation 
is that leaded parts are disappearing rapidly and this will continue.

LeeK7TJR
Hi-Z Antennas

-Original Message-
From: N2TK, Tony 
Sent: Sunday, July 1, 2018 2:03 PM

To: 'Lee STRAHAN' ; mar...@ok1rr.com; topband@contesting.com
Subject: RE: Topband: Any experience with 2N3553?

The 2N5109 will be around for many years. It is widely used in the military and 
space community.  It is listed as a JAN part. But it ain't cheap.
73,
N2TK, Tony

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Lee STRAHAN
Sent: Sunday, July 01, 2018 2:15 PM
To: mar...@ok1rr.com; topband@contesting.com
Subject: Re: Topband: Any experience with 2N3553?

Hello Martin and all,
 The 2N3553 device was plagued with a low Ft (high at its introduction)  
making it mostly a low frequency device with questionable high gain high 
frequency use in typical ham preamps. It is no longer available through the 
original manufacturers. Also perhaps you are thinking of the BFQ18A and not the 
BFQ19A device. The BFQ19 is at end of its life cycle and in addition the 18A is 
widely used now in the MATV industry for wideband amplifiers. I have some 
experience with the 18A using it in a wideband Norton style amplifier where it 
is providing 10+dB of gain with a measured noise figure of 2 dB on 160 meters. 
Its typical IMD is at least listed at UHF on the data sheet. My IMD testing 
setup is not adequate to test the range of this device but I can say that it 
exceeds any other amplifiers I have built to date. I typically use the 2N3866 
which unfortunately is pricing itself out of the market now. I suspect the 
2N5109 will follow as inventories shrink.. A pair of the 18A devices at ~$1.00 
USD each single price in a push pull Norton configuration would in my opinion 
make it worth trying as a killer wideband amp.
Just my $.02 USD.
Lee   K7TJR  OR

-Original Message-
From: Topband  On Behalf Of Martin Kratoska
Sent: Sunday, July 1, 2018 9:51 AM
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Topband: Any experience with 2N3553?

The 2N3553 is a brutal 7 watt device in a TO-39 metal package. Chris Trask, 
N7ZMY mentioned some unparalleled IM characterics

'... The BFQ19 (made by NXP née Philips) and the NE46134 (made by NEC) are both 
highly popular within the CATV industry, and are virtually identical in terms 
of linearity. They compare favorably to the 2N5109 in terms of linearity, 
though they pale in camparison with the 2N3553 (as do all the others)...'.

See
http://www.home.earthlink.net/~christrask/Bipolar%20Transistor%20Evaluation.pdf

2N3553 is often mentioned in transmitting applications but I was unable to find 
some other details like IM, noise and gain characteristics in high DR preamps 
for receiving purposes. Any experience?

73,
Martin, OK1RR
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Topband: Any experience with 2N3553?

[Martin Kratoska]

The 2N3553 is a brutal 7 watt device in a TO-39 metal package. Chris 
Trask, N7ZMY mentioned some unparalleled IM characterics


'... The BFQ19 (made by NXP née Philips) and the NE46134 (made by NEC) 
are both highly popular within the CATV industry, and are virtually 
identical in terms of linearity. They compare favourably to the 2N5109 
in terms of linearity, though they pale in camparison with the 2N3553 
(as do all the others)...'.


See 
http://www.home.earthlink.net/~christrask/Bipolar%20Transistor%20Evaluation.pdf


2N3553 is often mentioned in transmitting applications but I was unable 
to find some other details like IM, noise and gain characteristics in 
high DR preamps for receiving purposes. Any experience?


73,
Martin, OK1RR
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Re: Topband: Straws in the wind, continued or, "Where's the DX?"

[Martin Kratoska]

Disagreed!

A mode is matter of person, not software.

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 2.4.2018 v 01:42 Joe Subich, W4TV napsal(a):


On 4/1/2018 6:01 PM, cqtestk4xs--- via Topband wrote:


Every mode other than FT-8 requires a person to tune in a station
and to take part in the contact.


1) FT8 also requires a person to tune in the station and take part
    in the contact *UNLESS* one has programmed additional software
    to automate the contact.

2) There are plenty of other modes - including CW and RTTY - that
    can be automated with the appropriate scripting software and
    encoding/decoding software.  Both can take a feed from CW/RTTY
    Skimmer to "tune the band" looking for CQ calls, use off the
    shelf scripting software to tune the transceiver to frequency
    and call until receiving a response and report.

*DON'T* paint any mode as "bad" until you understand it and know
what is possible using available software for other modes.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 4/1/2018 6:01 PM, cqtestk4xs--- via Topband wrote:

My two cents...


I've got no problem with advances in technology, but I chose to use 
what I want to use...and it ain't FT-8.  Every mode other than FT-8 
requires a person to tune in a station and to take part in the 
contact.  The idea of being able to take a nap and make QSOs while my 
computer is talking to yours leaves me cold.  I understand the use for 
weak signal work, but if I can't "hear" him, I didn't make the Q, my 
computer did.



If that's your idea of fun, go to it.  I'll stick to more buggy and 
whip stuff...like busting pileups or running a 250 hour.  Things that 
require operating technique skill  of a human being.



Bill KH7XS/K4XS




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Re: Topband: 7Q7EI on 160

[Martin Kratoska]

Let me hope that this is an exception and NOT a rule! CW is the DXer's 
primary mode!


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 31.3.2018 v 18:46 wb6r...@mac.com napsal(a):

7Q7EI - no CW on 160 - only FT8

Info here:

http://www.eudxf.eu/7q7ei-status-report/ 


GL - Steve WB6RSE
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Re: Topband: IARU HF Championship 2017 - Multiplier list of HQ stations

[Martin Kratoska]

CRC (OK) should be OL7HQ this year.

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 8.6.2017 v 20:59 OZ0J Joe napsal(a):

Dear all

  

  


The IARU HF Championship Contest 2017 will take place in the weekend 8 and 9
July 2016.

  


Together with Bob, N6TV I will create a multiplier file that fits to the
contest log programs N1MM+, Win-Test and Writelog.

  


The list from 2016 (last year) can be found at

  


https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/2651703/HQ2016.txt

Please send an e-mail to cont...@oz0j.dk if you have any adds or corrections
to the list from 2016. Then I will update the list and Bob will close to the
contest publish a file for download.

  


I know that E2HQ (RAST) will be active in 2017.

  

  


73 Joe, OZ0J

  


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Topband: PA0SIM Noise Canceller - info wanted

[Martin Kratoska]

Hello Topbanders,

has somebody any useful, real life experience with the PA0SIM's noise 
canceller (phaser)?

http://www.pa0sim.nl/Phaser%2080%20-%2010%20meters.htm

I would be interested especially on any info about gain variations while 
turning the differential capacitor.


Many thanks!

73,
Martin, OK1RR

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Re: Topband: Handheld Impedance Analyzer

[Martin Kratoska]

Try SARK-110
http://www.sark110.com/home

beats others mostly hands down.

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 27.3.2016 v 21:08 dick.bingham napsal(a):

Greetings All

I am getting fed up with multiple trips between new antenna matching stations 
and the
tx-source/VSWR and not converging on a good match in quick order !

Please send me - OFF LINE - your recommendation for a handheld impedance 
measuring tool that covers 400KHz to at least 150MHz. I looked at the RigExpert 
AA-220 in the latest QST and it looks like a decent tool.

I certainly do not want to restart this topic but new stuff is becoming 
available and I don't want to settle for second best if 'best' is not 2X more 
costly!

73 Dick/w7wkr CN97uj
-


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Re: Topband: KD9SV-OK1RR relays ??? (RX Front End Protector)

[Martin Kratoska]

Array Solutions offers a 'RX Front End Protector' based on back-to-back 
1N4148 diodes.


Schematic:
http://www.ok1rr.com/public/rxfep.png

more details:
http://www.arraysolutions.com/Products/as_rxfep.htm

manual (also pictures of clipping etc.)
http://www.arraysolutions.com/images/AS-RXFEPdatasheet.pdf

It works as described, no problems although it can cause spurious 
radiations on densely equipped multi-multi contest sites using very high 
power amps. For single TX DXer it can be possibly preferred over relay 
devices we talked about. Anyway, you test!


BTW if the AS-RXFEP will be housed in a plastic box it will provide a 
lot of additional CM suppression.


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 30.8.2015 v 21:52 Mike Waters napsal(a):

How about back-to-back 1N4148 diodes (2 in series) across the RX path, and
a #47 incandescent lamp between those and the Beverage? That's what I do
here, among other things.

Those are in series with my preamp, which is almost always on. There's also
some variable resistance in series with the lamp and the Beverage switching
relays. I do that so that the signal from the Beverage is equal with the RX
signal from the inverted-L.

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com

On Sat, Aug 29, 2015 at 8:06 PM, Charles Cu nningham 
charlie-cunning...@nc.rr.com wrote:



It seems to me that a very fast operating preamp protection circuit could
be
constructed employing a good fast saturating NPN switching transistor
across
the antenna path.


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Re: Topband: KD9SV-OK1RR relays ???

[Martin Kratoska]

It is here:

http://www.somis.org/

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 30.8.2015 v 16:32 Larry napsal(a):

Measures (K6???) did a relay speed-up scheme for QSK on an SB220, I
don't remember the details but it was something like hitting the relay
with higher than usual coil voltage/current and it shortened up the
relay pull-in time. It might be more complicated in this application
than needed. I don't have the URL to Measures' site but it can probably
be found by a search.

73, Larry  W6NWS
-Original Message- From: Douglas Ruz (CO8DM)
Sent: Sunday, August 30, 2015 8:41 AM
To: Tom W8JI ; Charles Cu nningham ; 'topBand List'
Subject: Re: Topband: KD9SV-OK1RR relays ???

Tom and all members of the list thanks for your ideas and time .

I have a plan B:

I added a BNC female connector in the rear panel of my old Yaesu, FT747 (It
is an FT80C, the commercial version with metallic chassis) few months ago.

I was using that BNC to feed an SDR receiver using the same antenna.

If i add a SPDT switch also on the rear panel and RE-WIRE the BNC
connection
i can get an RX port in my old radio and can connect an RX antenna...like
modern radios...Switch Pos A (main antenna at SO239)...Pos B (SO239 for TX
and BNC for RX)...i made few mods to my radio, so, i know it very well...

Maybe that will help...of course, i must add then an Front End
Saver...still
need a fast relay !!!

Maybe the Plan A with a 5mS relay will be more easy...still need a fast
relay too !!!

73Douglas, CO8DM

No creo que haya alguna emoción más intensa para un inventor que ver
alguna
de sus creaciones funcionando. Esa emoción hace que uno se olvide de comer,
de dormir, de todo. - Nikola Tesla
- Original Message - From: Tom W8JI w...@w8ji.com
To: Charles Cu nningham charlie-cunning...@nc.rr.com; 'topBand List'
topband@contesting.com
Sent: Sunday, August 30, 2015 12:27 AM
Subject: Re: Topband: KD9SV-OK1RR relays ???



It seems to me that a very fast operating preamp protection circuit
could be
constructed employing a good fast saturating NPN switching transistor
across
the antenna path. In receive mode the collector-base junction would have
substantial reverse bias and the transistor can be chosen for low
collector-base capacitance. With a fast switch like a 2N708 or something
similar the switching time will, of course, FAR outperform a relay
closure
time.



This thread might have splintered. I was responding to this:

Your FT-747 only has one antenna input. It does not have a second
receiver. It doesn't even have a receive-only antenna input. You cannot
transmit and receive at same time. Why do you need a front end saver?


If it is a transceiver without an RX antenna point, the problem is
adding a receive antenna to a transceiver that does not have a receive
port.

If it is a transceiver with an RX port, the requirement for an
external front end saver and what will work depends on the antennas,
the power, the transceiver, and the antenna spacing.

A front end saver can be very simple with some radios, more
complicated, or not needed at all.

An external switch is never easy to do correctly, unless the radio has
good TX RX switching time sequencing.

I'm unclear what the application is, but a 10 mS relay is really too
slow for either application. The sequencing issues I pointed out apply
to both systems.

73 Tom
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Re: Topband: rx preamps

[Martin Kratoska]

Yes, it is the latest version AFAIK. BTW the PCB is in process, it 
should be double sided, ready for production at Seeed Studio or other 
professional PCB maker. It is not needed for a single unit, WD8DSB has a 
good design well suited for home production. If there interests enough, 
I finalize my design and order the boards. Contact me on my private email:

mar...@ok1rr.com
or
mar...@centrum.cz

73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 29.8.2015 v 21:26 Jim napsal(a):

Martin is the latest incarnation of the infamous W7IUV preamp?  and do you know 
anyone that has PC boards before I reinvent the wheel and make another one?
Jim  WA3MEJ

- Original Message -

Message: 10
Date: Fri, 28 Aug 2015 23:53:10 +0200
From: Martin Kratoska  mar...@centrum.cz 
To: topband@contesting.com
Subject: Topband: W7IUV preamp
Message-ID:  55e0d846.3070...@centrum.cz 
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252; format=flowed

The latest version 6

http://www.okdxf.eu/files/preamp_r60.pdf

73,
Martin, OK1RR

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Re: Topband: KD9SV-OK1RR relays ???

[Martin Kratoska]

Hi Douglas,

I am sorry to tell you that none of the relays you have is good for the 
front end saver. They are usual small signal relays but a reed relay 
should be used. The most important thing is not the capacitance (assumed 
that the front end saver is used on 160, 80 and possibly 40 m), but the 
switching times.


I would recommend to take part in a group buy. AFAIK David, G3WGN, 
organized a group buy/PCB fabrication of 80 units, possibly he may have 
rests for sale.


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 29.8.2015 v 18:15 Douglas Ruz (CO8DM) napsal(a):

Hi Martin, OK1RR,

I tried email direct to you but it was not possible. I am sorry about
the other member of the list.

It is about the FRONT END SAVER relays:

I have two different relays here and i would like to know if i can use
one of them in
your design:

I have HFD2 Subminiature DIP relay:
-Matching standard 16 pin socket.
-DPDT
-100 million operations
- Operate time 4ms and release time 3ms.
-Capacitance: Contact to coil 5pF and contact set to contact 1,5 pF

I have also HFD41 relay:
-SPDT relay
-10 million operations
-Operation time 10mS
-Not sure about capacitance.

Maybe i have to RE-DESIGN the PCB but that is very easy.

Any idea???...Thanks,

73Douglas, CO8DM


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Topband: W7IUV preamp

[Martin Kratoska]

The latest version 6

http://www.okdxf.eu/files/preamp_r60.pdf

73,
Martin, OK1RR
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Re: Topband: Binocular Cores

[Martin Kratoska]

Is somewhere available a list of ferrite mixes indicating the frequency 
where R=X?


73,
Martin, OK1RR

Dne 1.6.2015 v 17:31 Tom W8JI napsal(a):

You really need to do a single loop through the core windows and measure
the impedance with some sort of analyzer. Even an MFJ259B with a short
connection to the jack will work well for this.

If the resistance equals the reactance down somewhere around 2 MHz, it
is 73 material.

If R=X someplace much higher, you can be sure it is a different mix. The
Q=1 frequency, where R=X or where loss tangent crosses reactance, tells
you the material better than anything else you can do.

That is how I quickly sort unknown cores.

73 Tom


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Re: Topband: Rig Question

[Martin Kratoska]

Dne 19.6.2014 21:00, Mike Waters napsal(a):
Is anyone

here controlling their Elecraft K3, etc. with their PC?



73, Mike
www.w0btu.com


Yes, I do. Everything in Linux supporting Hamlib/rigctld via UDP port is 
a good choice. The Linux clone of TR log (by W9CF) works well (choose K2 
as your radio). TR4W with Wine works pretty well. In Win tested N1MM and 
Logger32, both works well.


73
Martin, OK1RR

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Topband: VE3DO Loop

[Martin Kratoska]

A detailed analysis of the VE3DO Loop is on my web site:

http://www.ok1rr.com/index.php/antennas/8-the-ve3do-receiving-loop

A NEC file for further investigation is available via email upon request.

73
Martin, OK1RR
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Topband Reflector

Re: Topband: LOTW Participation

[Martin Kratoska]

I love the LoTW. QSL bureau is in some countries misused to press hams 
into forced membership of their national ham radio organization. AFAIK 
it is here in OK and also in DL... LoTW is then the only way to confirm 
a large number of QSOs.

If somebody has 100 000 QSL cards or more, he would probably need a 
dedicated room to store the collection. Reckon 1000 QSL cards is a pile 
of ~2 ft height (~60 cm)...

73
Martin, OK1RR
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UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK

Re: Topband: MFJ Noise Canceller 1026/1025

[Martin Kratoska]

Try this one:

http://www.pa0sim.nl/Phaser%2080%20-%2010%20meters.htm

Of course, the design is NOT limited to 80m. Excellent results produced 
the BN73-202 binoculars for T1-T4 (2 turns where the schematic requires 
4 uH, 4 turns for 16 u). Not tested the amp with small signal bipolars, 
used my ~12 dB amp with 2N5109 and excessive input filtering (LP in 
series with HP) similar to K9AY 
(http://www.aytechnologies.com/TechData/FilterPreamp_160-80.pdf).

The MFJ design is definitely not a succesful attempt, W8JI tell why...

73
Martin, OK1RR
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UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK