DX Code of Conduct- A reminder

A reminder from VA3QV

Getting the 3 element StepIR working- Joy and Frustation

Almost two years ago now I purchased a used 3 element StepIR antenna. It has been in storage ever since, awaiting a mast to which I could attach it. I finally obtained the mast and decided I should check that the StepIR was working correctly, and that all parts were available and functioning, I began first of all my setting up a test rig with  a short section of tubing that will eventually be attached to the top of the mast so that I could access the antenna using a step ladder. I first set up the short mast with the rotator and tested the functioning of the rotator which had also been in storage for 2 years. I then attached the boom of the StepIR and tested the rotator again. I then set about fitting each of the elements, and finally wiring up the control cable. Unfortunately I have a habit of leaving things in my ham shack where my wife decides they should not be, and she then moves them to places unknown. So it came to be that the power supply for the StepIR controller went missing. No problem, I’ll buy another with my wife’s money and she will have to put up with the antenna being in the middle of the back yard, just above head height for some weeks while I wait for it to arrive.

DV Adaper converts an Analog Radio to a Digital Voice Radio.

I came across this bit of kit this morning, in a search for ways to do D-Star. The DV Adapter uses your present Radio for D-Star contact’s.

I can’t afford one at present, but I think I’ll put it on the Christmas wish list haha

http://dstarradioclub-international.com

Hallicrafters TO Keyer a Fine Addition to My Retro Shack

Some time ago I purchased this 1950’s vintage Hallicrafters Keyer, and it finally arrived from the US. It is quite cool to have a digital device driven by vacuum tubes  as part of my retro shack. Here I am demonstrating it. This was the very first time I attempted to send using it, and it has a completely different feel to my usual electronic keyer. It does not store key presses like electronic keyers, so your timing has to be spot on. Practice is the  key.

A quick adjustment of the keyer. Weighting adjustment requires an analogue ohm meter.

Baofeng Dual Band HT Finally Arrived Today

Today the Baofeng HT arrived after a short stop over in Darwin hihi. These radios are so cheap everyone should own at least one of them for a knock about HT.

I also ordered the programming cable, but I ordered it at a later date, so it is not here yet. So far the only complaint is the stupid power pack adapters that seem to be so prevalent these days, but for the price I understand.

Also can’t seem to hit the VK4RAT repeater properly from Kelso at present. I can open it up but no audio heard so maybe I am operating on low power (haven’t checked the setting yet) , but more likely it is the big lump of granite that is in the way 🙂