Re: Topband: rohn insulators

[Merv Schweigert]

20 mins work with a 5.00 fibre glass rod spun in a lathe,
sort of grossly overpriced exaggeration of a Rohn insulator.

I believe there is a slight misrepresentation here. I've never seen 
these in any Rohn catalog. Rather than
calling them Rohn 25 tower insulators, I think they are better 
described as insulators for Rohn 25 tower.


73, Roger


On 12/17/2015 7:49 PM, w5...@towerfarm.net wrote:
ok,the station wanting the insulators for a rohn 25.there is a set 
available from ab5k.he is listing them on e-bay set of 3.look for 
dxer49 on e-bay.I believe they are new..73 john

_
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: Change of address

[Jo, YC0LOW]

Dear fellow Topbanders, this is to let you all know that there's been
change of my address since I closed the service of my PO Box 147,
Cinere16514, Indonesia (as written in the QRZ.com) recently.

I have ceased DX operations on TB since 2013 due to my illness, then. But,
still eager to reply incoming direct QSL cards for the legit QSO - only
mailed to my home address:

Jl.Puncak Pesanggrahan II/4
Cinere 16514
Indonesia

Via YB Buro is okay but the reply would take additional time since my
limited mobility to go there to collect&reply. So please be more patient.

Season's greetings. Good luck on TB.

Tnx es 73 de Jo,YC0LOW
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: rohn insulators

[Roger D Johnson]

I believe there is a slight misrepresentation here. I've never seen these in any 
Rohn catalog. Rather than
calling them Rohn 25 tower insulators, I think they are better described as 
insulators for Rohn 25 tower.


73, Roger


On 12/17/2015 7:49 PM, w5...@towerfarm.net wrote:
ok,the station wanting the insulators for a rohn 25.there is a set available 
from ab5k.he is listing them on e-bay set of 3.look for dxer49 on e-bay.I 
believe they are new..73 john

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


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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Jim F. via Topband]

Getting no reply calling CQ using QRP is fairly common
but tail ending, search and pounce, and careful timinggreatly increase the 
chances for success.
 
73,


Jim / W1FMR

 

  From: Peter Voelpel 
 To: 'Herbert Schoenbohm'  
Cc: topband@contesting.com
 Sent: Thursday, December 17, 2015 2:42 PM
 Subject: Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015
   
Strange, I work a couple of stateside stations and more then 50 countries
every year in CQ160m qrp.

73
Peter

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Herbert
Schoenbohm

I thought I would try and see what 5 watts 
could actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave vertical and 12 
Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that when the band 
conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each night without a 
single reply.

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


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

Topband: 160M ant advice

[Robert Harmon]

I am planning an install of a 160M inverted L  and would like critique 
from you top banders.
I was originally planning a separate tower for 160 but my XYL has 
squashed the idea  :-)
My tower is 90 feet fully extended with a 18 foot mast currently used 
for a Force 12 WARC plus 10/15 beam

on top and a N6BT DXU-32, 2EL 40 and 3EL 20  12 feet below.
At the top of the top section I have a 10 foot fiberglass pole I plan to 
extend out to support the vertical, so it will be 10 feet away from the 
tower.
I am thinking of feeding the vertical and having 4 elevated radials at 
the 14 foot level.

So the vertical wire will about 76 feet long.

I am wondering if I would be better lowering the feedpoint & radial tie 
ins down from 14 feet say to 8 feet and have more length in the vertical 
portion of the L or better to have the 14 feet elevation for the radials ?


Also the horizontal leg of the L on top will be about 5 feet below the 
40/20 yagi only 10 feet out from the tower,
do you think this is OK as far as interaction between the yagi and the 
160 L ?  Anything else I should consider ?
I have never had a decent 160 antenna, just hoping I can work something 
out with my existing situation


thanks in advance,

Bob
K6UJ

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

Re: Topband: RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTES

[Robert Harmon]

Yes it does, and I'm sure Herb knows it too.  :-)
It's his engineering nature to "fix" things.

Bob
K6UJ




On 12/17/15 4:43 PM, Mike Waters wrote:

That question gets asked every year. :-)

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 6:39 PM, Herbert Schoenbohm <
herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com> wrote:


VladimirWhy not at least hold at least a small portion of the
contest when it is not still daylight in the U.S.?


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



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

Re: Topband: 160m WAS

[Rudy Bakalov via Topband]

A concern? You are being concerned about someone asking for QSOs to complete 
his 160 WAS? Wow

Sent using a tiny keyboard.  Please excuse brevity, typos, or inappropriate 
autocorrect.


> On Dec 17, 2015, at 7:47 PM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:
> 
>  
> A callsign would have prevented any concern.  
> They always say, after a problem, some one should have said something.  
> Bruce-k1fz
>  
>  
> 
> On Thu, 17 Dec 2015 18:37:05 -0600, Mike Waters  wrote:
> 
>  Take it easy on Lou. He's W1QJ, and is a good guy. See 
> https://www.qrz.com/lookup/w1qj
> 73, Mikewww.w0btu.com
> 
> On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 5:43 PM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:
> 
>   
>  
> Thanks Mort,
>  
> They now say See something, say something.   Anyone got real callsign ?
>  
> Name does not work onQRZ
>  
>  
> 
> On Thu, 17 Dec 2015 22:55:52 -, Mort  wrote:
> 
>   And U did it without a call-sign ?
> 
> 73 - Mort, G2JL
> 
> 
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: rohn insulators

[w5jmw]

ok,the station wanting the insulators for a rohn 25.there is a set 
available from ab5k.he is listing them on e-bay set of 3.look for dxer49 
on e-bay.I believe they are new..73 john

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

Topband: 160m WAS

[K1FZ-Bruce]

 
A callsign would have prevented any concern. 
 
They always say, after a problem, some one should have said something. 
 

Bruce-k1fz
 
 

On Thu, 17 Dec 2015 18:37:05 -0600, Mike Waters  wrote:

  Take it easy on Lou. He's W1QJ, and is a good guy. See 
https://www.qrz.com/lookup/w1qj

73, Mikewww.w0btu.com

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 5:43 PM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:

   
 
Thanks Mort,
 
They now say See something, say something.   Anyone got real callsign ?
 
Name does not work onQRZ
 
 

On Thu, 17 Dec 2015 22:55:52 -, Mort  wrote:

      And U did it without a call-sign ?

73 - Mort, G2JL


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

Re: Topband: RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTES

[Mike Waters]

That question gets asked every year. :-)

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 6:39 PM, Herbert Schoenbohm <
herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com> wrote:

> VladimirWhy not at least hold at least a small portion of the
> contest when it is not still daylight in the U.S.?
>
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTES

[Herbert Schoenbohm]

VladimirWhy not at least hold at least a small portion of the 
contest when it is not still daylight in the U.S.?



Herb, KV4FZ

On 12/17/2015 3:15 PM, r7lv wrote:
Boxbe  This message is eligible for 
Automatic Cleanup! (r...@dx.ru) Add cleanup rule 
 
| More info 
 




   Sorry for mistake :


RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTEST will be held from 20.00 to 24.00 UTC, on the
18th December 2015


73! Vlad


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

Re: Topband: 160m WAS

[Mike Waters]

Take it easy on Lou. He's W1QJ, and is a good guy. See
https://www.qrz.com/lookup/w1qj

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 5:43 PM, K1FZ-Bruce  wrote:

>
>
> Thanks Mort,
>
> They now say See something, say something.   Anyone got real callsign ?
>
> Name does not work on QRZ
>
>
>
>
> On Thu, 17 Dec 2015 22:55:52 -, Mort  wrote:
>
>   And U did it without a call-sign ?
>
> 73 - Mort, G2JL
>
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 160m WAS

[K1FZ-Bruce]

 
 
Thanks Mort,
 
They now say See something, say something.   Anyone got real callsign ?
 
Name does not work on QRZ
 
 

On Thu, 17 Dec 2015 22:55:52 -, Mort  wrote:

  And U did it without a call-sign ?

73 - Mort, G2JL
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband


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

Re: Topband: 160m WAS

[Mike Waters]

I think he might have used W1QJ. :-)

Lou, during the Stew Perry contest --the best 160m contest of the year--
it's likely that you can work those states. (Of course, that depends on
your antennas, etc.)
www.hornucopia.com/contestcal/weeklycont.php?mode=custom&week=next#6055
www.kkn.net/stew/

One year during the Stew Perry, with only 100 watts, I worked almost all 50
states with my inverted-L (www.w0btu.com/160_meters.html). I even broke a
big pileup then --on the first try-- working a station near South America.
After that, I began to understand why some people love QRP. :-)

73, Mike
www.w0btu.com

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 4:55 PM, Mort  wrote:

> And U did it without a call-sign ?
>
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 160m WAS

[Mort]

And U did it without a call-sign ?


73  -  Mort,  G2JL
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: 160m WAS

[Louis Parascondola via Topband]

I joined this reflector not quite a week ago.  I am new to 160 meters though I 
have been a ham since 1967.  As I stated before here I was in the 160 meter 
contest looking to work all states.  I got pretty close by working 45 of them.  
Of course I do need Alaska and Hawaii but stateside I need Utah, Nebraska, and 
Wyoming.  If I am off base with this kindly tell me so, but here goes.  If 
anyone out there is in any of these states and would like to give me a QSO on 
CW I would surely appreciate it very much.  Naturally it would have to take 
place when we are both in darkness hours so I am available any evening you 
might be able to try for a QSO.  You can email me direct at gudguy...@aol.com  
if you can try for a QSO with me.   TIA, Lou
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Upcoming 160M contests

[Tim Shoppa]

Thank you Don, for correcting my date on the NAQCC 160M QRP Sprint! Night
of Tuesday Jan 12 works a lot better!

Tim N3QE

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 3:44 PM, Don Lynch  wrote:

> Wait a sec:  For the NAQCC, Wednesday Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC is *Tuesday* 
> evening,
> January 12th, 2030-2230 EST here in North America, or are there two session?
>
> The web site gives the "Wednesday Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC" time frame only.
>
> Am I terribly confused?
>
> Vy 73,
>
> Don W4ZYT
>
>
>
> On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 8:08 PM, Tim Shoppa  wrote:
>
>> 0: I already missed the RSGB 1.8MHz contest for 2015. I was hoping to get
>> at least one valid QSO to improve on my score from last year, but I
>> totally
>> spaced out and missed the contest. In 2013 or 2014 I remember I got one
>> QSO
>> with a G, but I busted his serial number so I got zero points.
>>
>> 1: I plan to try, for first time, the Russian 160M contest. It runs from
>> 3PM to 7PM EST tomorrow Fri Dec 18, or 2000Z-2400 UTC. I plan to be on, at
>> least near the end! I hope some other locals are on too!
>> http://www.hornucopia.com/contestcal/contestdetails.php?ref=202
>> http://www.qrz.ru/contest/detail/90.html
>>
>> 2: Stew Perry is the big one for me. This year, night of Saturday Dec 26th
>> into morning of Sunday Dec 27th. http://kkn.net/stew/
>>
>> 3: NAQCC 160M QRP Sprint. I enjoy the heck out of this one, do it with a
>> straight key too. Wed Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC, or Thursday night Jan 14
>> 8:30PM-10:30PM for EST. http://naqcc.info/sprint201601_160.html
>>
>> Tim N3QE
>> _
>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>>
>
>
>
> --
> Don Lynch MD W4ZYT - EI2IM, 5Z4ZK
> Virginia Beach, Virginia
> ARRL - IRTS - ARSK - Virginia DXCC - PVRC
> FOC 1700  -  RNARS 4473  -  FISTS 3381  -  CWOPS 55
> w4zyt@gmail.com
> ==
> Donald F. Lynch, Jr., MD, FACS
> Emeritus Professor of Urology
> Eastern Virginia School of Medicine
> Norfolk, Virginia, USA
>
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: SB-1000

[Don Lynch]

Also check the contacts on the bandswitch.  I have that amp and have a
similar problem with 160 operation, apparently from burning out one of the
contacts on the switch.  It would be a bear to change out, even if you
could find a replacement, so I just don't run that amp on 160 any more.

Good luck with it.

Vy 73,

Don W4ZYT



On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 8:30 PM, Tom W8JI  wrote:

> Just came off 20M, amp working fine. Went to 160 plate and load controls
>> have no control, no output. Plate current climbs high with any added drive
>> (45-50W) and blew both 10amp fuses.Off comes the cover.jimk2hn
>> _
>>
>
> It might be something else, but  I would bet the contact on the 160
> padding capacitor is burned off. This is what the anti-corona washer
> reduced. Heath did not use that washer.
>
> It arcs there when the loading cap is too far closed (too much grid
> current) for the amount of drive on higher bands, or if the antenna should
> become grossly mismatched when at high power on bands other than 160.  The
> worse band for arcing the 160 padding contact is when on 80 meters.
>
>
>
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Don Lynch MD W4ZYT - EI2IM, 5Z4ZK
Virginia Beach, Virginia
ARRL - IRTS - ARSK - Virginia DXCC - PVRC
FOC 1700  -  RNARS 4473  -  FISTS 3381  -  CWOPS 55
w4zyt@gmail.com
==
Donald F. Lynch, Jr., MD, FACS
Emeritus Professor of Urology
Eastern Virginia School of Medicine
Norfolk, Virginia, USA
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Upcoming 160M contests

[Don Lynch]

Wait a sec:  For the NAQCC, Wednesday Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC is
*Tuesday* evening,
January 12th, 2030-2230 EST here in North America, or are there two session?

The web site gives the "Wednesday Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC" time frame only.

Am I terribly confused?

Vy 73,

Don W4ZYT



On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 8:08 PM, Tim Shoppa  wrote:

> 0: I already missed the RSGB 1.8MHz contest for 2015. I was hoping to get
> at least one valid QSO to improve on my score from last year, but I totally
> spaced out and missed the contest. In 2013 or 2014 I remember I got one QSO
> with a G, but I busted his serial number so I got zero points.
>
> 1: I plan to try, for first time, the Russian 160M contest. It runs from
> 3PM to 7PM EST tomorrow Fri Dec 18, or 2000Z-2400 UTC. I plan to be on, at
> least near the end! I hope some other locals are on too!
> http://www.hornucopia.com/contestcal/contestdetails.php?ref=202
> http://www.qrz.ru/contest/detail/90.html
>
> 2: Stew Perry is the big one for me. This year, night of Saturday Dec 26th
> into morning of Sunday Dec 27th. http://kkn.net/stew/
>
> 3: NAQCC 160M QRP Sprint. I enjoy the heck out of this one, do it with a
> straight key too. Wed Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC, or Thursday night Jan 14
> 8:30PM-10:30PM for EST. http://naqcc.info/sprint201601_160.html
>
> Tim N3QE
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>



-- 
Don Lynch MD W4ZYT - EI2IM, 5Z4ZK
Virginia Beach, Virginia
ARRL - IRTS - ARSK - Virginia DXCC - PVRC
FOC 1700  -  RNARS 4473  -  FISTS 3381  -  CWOPS 55
w4zyt@gmail.com
==
Donald F. Lynch, Jr., MD, FACS
Emeritus Professor of Urology
Eastern Virginia School of Medicine
Norfolk, Virginia, USA
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: SB-1000

[Tom W8JI]

Just came off 20M, amp working fine. Went to 160 plate and load controls 
have no control, no output. Plate current climbs high with any added drive 
(45-50W) and blew both 10amp fuses.Off comes the cover.jimk2hn

_


It might be something else, but  I would bet the contact on the 160 padding 
capacitor is burned off. This is what the anti-corona washer reduced. Heath 
did not use that washer.


It arcs there when the loading cap is too far closed (too much grid current) 
for the amount of drive on higher bands, or if the antenna should become 
grossly mismatched when at high power on bands other than 160.  The worse 
band for arcing the 160 padding contact is when on 80 meters.




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

Topband: Upcoming 160M contests

[Tim Shoppa]

0: I already missed the RSGB 1.8MHz contest for 2015. I was hoping to get
at least one valid QSO to improve on my score from last year, but I totally
spaced out and missed the contest. In 2013 or 2014 I remember I got one QSO
with a G, but I busted his serial number so I got zero points.

1: I plan to try, for first time, the Russian 160M contest. It runs from
3PM to 7PM EST tomorrow Fri Dec 18, or 2000Z-2400 UTC. I plan to be on, at
least near the end! I hope some other locals are on too!
http://www.hornucopia.com/contestcal/contestdetails.php?ref=202
http://www.qrz.ru/contest/detail/90.html

2: Stew Perry is the big one for me. This year, night of Saturday Dec 26th
into morning of Sunday Dec 27th. http://kkn.net/stew/

3: NAQCC 160M QRP Sprint. I enjoy the heck out of this one, do it with a
straight key too. Wed Jan 13 0130-0330 UTC, or Thursday night Jan 14
8:30PM-10:30PM for EST. http://naqcc.info/sprint201601_160.html

Tim N3QE
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Topband: SB-1000

[Jim Murray via Topband]

Just came off 20M, amp working fine.  Went to 160 plate and load controls have 
no control, no output. Plate current climbs high with any added drive (45-50W) 
and blew both 10amp fuses.Off comes the cover.jimk2hn
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: SB-1000

[Tom W8JI]

Thanks to all. I will go over it again today. I initially started out on 
160 and then moved on to other bands. On 160 I could not get any increase 
in grid current, it came up but no increase with plate tuning but may not 
have applied enough drive. Staying below the 200ma grid and 400ma plate 
and just shooting for 500-600 watts on all bands right now. I did go over 
the switch before using the amp and it looked good and also deoxit it. The 
only thing I changed was 115v to 220. Probably just operator error since 
it's been a while doing any maxing and dipping:)Jimk2hn

_



A pi-L also tunes a little weird.

In a normal pi, the plate tune hardly moves with load changes. In a pi-L, 
the plate tune and load interact. But either has to be tuned near rated 
power.


Don't bother spraying a band switch that carries several amperes and 
thousands of volts. It never really does good, and it might do bad. Save the 
deoxit for volume controls and things that only have a few volts and a few 
mA current. 


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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Peter Voelpel]

Strange, I work a couple of stateside stations and more then 50 countries
every year in CQ160m qrp.

73
Peter

-Original Message-
From: Topband [mailto:topband-boun...@contesting.com] On Behalf Of Herbert
Schoenbohm

I thought I would try and see what 5 watts 
could actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave vertical and 12 
Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that when the band 
conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each night without a 
single reply.

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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Robert Harmon]

Herb,

No one is questioning your qualifications or expertise Herb.  I am an 
engineer also.  The point
I attempted to get across is that it is in very poor taste for us to 
post on a public reflector negative
allegations about anyone in the amateur community whether we feel it is 
justified or not.  There are other constructive ways to deal with the 
issue off the reflector.  As our moderator just posted this is not the 
type of message this forum is for.
I hope you understand my intent.  Please forgive me if I ruffled your 
feathers !  I am planning a 160M vertical with elevated radials and will 
be asking for some guidance on the reflector.  I would like your advice too.



73,
Bob
K6UJ



On 12/17/15 8:12 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote:
Bob. I am a broadcast engineer and very capable of measuring 
ground-wave signals. The FCC does exactly that where issuing citations 
for pre-dawn AM broadcast stations who are licensed for QRP and 
actually running QRO. This method has been used for many years.
Ground wave measurement lack the variables you speak of.  Actually my 
post was in sorts complimentary to KP4KE's "magic 160 meter antenna"  
which should in fact if it works this way should be published in the 
Proceedings of the IEEE, don't you think?



Herb, KV4FZ

On 12/17/2015 11:48 AM, Robert Harmon wrote:
Boxbe  This message is eligible for 
Automatic Cleanup! (k...@pacbell.net) Add cleanup rule 
 
| More info 
 


Herb,

Herb,

In order for us to respond to your allegations you will need to 
provide support evidence.  We will need details on his actual antenna 
configuration, was he using a counterpoise of some sort, is he on a 
hill,  how close is he to the water ?  Do you have proof that he was 
running more than 5 watts ?
Comparing his results to your test is meaningless, there are too many 
variables to consider.
You have the burden of proof.  Either provide factual evidence to 
support your allegations or give

KP4KE an apology for potentially damaging his reputation.

Bob
K6UJ



On 12/17/15 5:38 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote:
Well not to appear to be entirely disputatious we should carefully 
consider KP4KE CQ WW 160 meter QRP entry in 2005 which he said he 
accomplished with 4.7 watts to a "magical antenna" which he called a 
"double bazooka" at 60 feet both for RX and TX.  While claiming to 
work 42 countries with this magical antenna (which is actually a low 
dipole) in a few hours of operating, I thought I would try and see 
what 5 watts could actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 
wave vertical and 12 Beverages a few weeks later, and many days 
after that when the band conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 
hours each night without a single reply.  During this contest I 
recall hearing NP4A and Pedro's great set up running full power, and 
very high dipole at 200' and the signals were always the same on 160 
at my location. So either KP4KE has a "magic antenna" or his "QRP" 
entry in the CQ WW 160 meter QRP category totally lacked credulity.


Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ



2005 KP4KE SO QRP 160M 37,345 364/13/42





On 12/17/2015 7:56 AM, Michel Spelier wrote:

The title was changed to better describe the original question.
This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband 
conditions, given

the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in 
this log, during

the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
(the last 3 years = topband newcomer)

(snip)

73,

Michel, ON7EH

_
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

Topband: RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTES

[r7lv]

  Sorry for mistake :


RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTEST will be held from 20.00 to 24.00 UTC, on the
18th December 2015


73! Vlad
-- 
С уважением,
R7LVmailto:   r...@dx.ru   ua...@dx.ru   ua...@mail.ru

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

Topband: RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTEST

[r7lv]

 Dear friends,

RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTEST will be held from 20.00 to 24.00 UTC, on the 19th 
December 2014.

The Rules of the Contest are at 
http://www.radio.ru/cq/contest/rule-results/index2012.shtml

Current Rules were approximated with RDXC Rules, and any RDXC software may be 
used in this contest.

In previous years, various ideas were discussed, both negative and positive, 
but finally
positive ideas predominated, - even from those who are against Rules changes.
Operators from almost 50 Russian oblasts participated in the last Contest.

Please note: THERE IS NO 10-minutes rule for club stations.

Welcome to participate in RUSSIAN 160 METER CONTEST !



73! Vlad
-- 
С уважением,
R7LVmailto:   r...@dx.ru   ua...@dx.ru   ua...@mail.ru

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

Topband: SB-1000

[Jim Murray via Topband]

If it is being driven with 50 watts or more and does not tune into a 50 ohm 
load, I'd carefully inspect the entire tank circuit and wiring of the tank. 
This includes the switch (as Herb suggested).

Thanks to all.  I will go over it again today.  I initially started out on 160 
and then moved on to other bands.  On 160 I could not get any increase in grid 
current, it came up but no increase with plate tuning but may  not have applied 
enough drive.  Staying below the 200ma grid and 400ma plate and just shooting 
for 500-600 watts on all bands right now.  I did go over the switch before 
using the amp and it looked good and also deoxit it. The only  thing I changed 
was 115v to 220.  Probably just operator error since it's been a  while doing 
any maxing and dipping:)Jimk2hn
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Tom W8JI]

In order for us to respond to your allegations you will need to provide 
support evidence.  We will need details on his actual antenna 
configuration, was he using a counterpoise of some sort,  is he on a hill, 
how close is he to the water ?  Do you have proof that he was running more 
than 5 watts ?
Comparing his results to your test is meaningless, there are too many 
variables to consider.


While a list like this isn't the place for accusations, I'd like to offer 
some common sense on this because it goes broadly to the actual topic.


It is difficult to tell power level of people running poor antennas. A 
coaxial dipole actually has loss over a normal dipole and is no better for 
receiving, and we all know a low dipole is generally not good except special 
times.


A low dipole, however, can be surprisingly good at certain times. During 
band peak at sunrise or sunset, it can be competitive or above a tall very 
good vertical. The same is true during geomagnetic storms.


Back in the 60's, before everyone knew a lot about antennas, many stations 
used low power and dipoles and had impressive DX. But to be sure, it took 
months and years to work the DX. Very few people could run DX, it was doing 
good to work even a half dozen DX stations in hours of great effort.  For 
me, it was good to work one or two DX in an entire evening. It took many 
years, not just a contest weekend or two, to work DXCC on 160.


This was partly because of lack of stations, but mostly because people used 
poor antennas and low power. Even high power, prior to the early 1980's, was 
a kilowatt input or about 600 watts output. A California kilowatt was 
something like a 4-1000Awhich could really only make 1300 watts or so 
output normally in grounded grid, and 2 kW out if totally hammered.


If we look back at the TIME spent and the equipment and power levels, it all 
makes sense. No one ever had runs of 160 DX consistently even as late as the 
70's. It wasn't until 1500 watts and Beverages became normal that we were 
spoiled.


It is very easy to tell 5 watts from 500 because it is 20 dB, but it gets a 
little rough to tell 5 from 50. 10 dB (or even more) is easily in antenna 
and location differences even when close to the same area.


If a low dipole stands out from other similar or better antennas by a whole 
bunch, and it consistently better over a long period of time, it is not 
because it is a "special" dipole or "special" location. We know that because 
it is 1960's technology, and back in the 60's using that technology of low 
power and generally crappy antennas DX QSO's were rare and very difficult.


Antenna technology, noise, and QRM has made the spread in performance 
difference between locations much greater.


73 Tom 


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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Ed Sawyer]

Bob, 

 

I am not sure if you are aware that KP4KE allegations and confirmed actions
are legendary.  People have operated from his station and never had the same
result (can't imagine why).  Also, KP4KE was legendary for self spotting.
He asked me to spot him one year in the ARRL DX contest and I just ignored
him.  I noticed later that N1UR spotted KP4KE.  Hard for me to do
unconnected to the internet at the time.

 

There is not a Top bander on the planet that believes KP4KE was using 5W in
many of the claimed contest operations.

 

73

 

Ed  N1UR

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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Tree]

The matter of whether KP4KE is running QRP or not during contests is not
really the type of subject that this list was created for.

Thanks.

Management


On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 8:20 AM, Tim Shoppa  wrote:

> Reversebeacon can shed some light on this today but data does not go back
> to 2005.
>
> I always chortle at the claims of power output that go to such high
> precision like "4.7 watts". Reminds me a lot of when Jim burned down
> Louie's apartment in the TV series Taxi, and Louie is trying to come up
> with a fake dollar number for damage claims:
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QsFDpTEl84
>
> Tim N3QE
>
> On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 10:48 AM, Robert Harmon  wrote:
>
> > Herb,
> >
> > Herb,
> >
> > In order for us to respond to your allegations you will need to provide
> > support evidence.  We will need details on his actual antenna
> > configuration, was he using a counterpoise of some sort,  is he on a
> hill,
> > how close is he to the water ?  Do you have proof that he was running
> more
> > than 5 watts ?
> > Comparing his results to your test is meaningless, there are too many
> > variables to consider.
> > You have the burden of proof.  Either provide factual evidence to support
> > your allegations or give
> > KP4KE an apology for potentially damaging his reputation.
> >
> > Bob
> > K6UJ
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > On 12/17/15 5:38 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote:
> >
> >> Well not to appear to be entirely disputatious we should carefully
> >> consider KP4KE CQ WW 160 meter QRP entry in 2005 which he said he
> >> accomplished with 4.7 watts to a "magical antenna" which he called a
> >> "double bazooka" at 60 feet both for RX and TX.  While claiming to work
> 42
> >> countries with this magical antenna (which is actually a low dipole) in
> a
> >> few hours of operating, I thought I would try and see what 5 watts could
> >> actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave vertical and 12
> >> Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that when the band
> >> conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each night without a
> single
> >> reply.  During this contest I recall hearing NP4A and Pedro's great set
> up
> >> running full power, and very high dipole at 200' and the signals were
> >> always the same on 160 at my location. So either KP4KE has a "magic
> >> antenna" or his "QRP" entry in the CQ WW 160 meter QRP category totally
> >> lacked credulity.
> >>
> >> Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> 2005 KP4KE SO QRP 160M 37,345 364/13/42
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> On 12/17/2015 7:56 AM, Michel Spelier wrote:
> >>
> >>> The title was changed to better describe the original question.
> >>> This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband
> conditions,
> >>> given
> >>> the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
> >>> even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in this
> >>> log, during
> >>> the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
> >>> (the last 3 years = topband newcomer)
> >>>
> >>> (snip)
> >>>
> >>> 73,
> >>>
> >>> Michel, ON7EH
> >>>
> >>> _
> >>> 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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Tim Shoppa]

Reversebeacon can shed some light on this today but data does not go back
to 2005.

I always chortle at the claims of power output that go to such high
precision like "4.7 watts". Reminds me a lot of when Jim burned down
Louie's apartment in the TV series Taxi, and Louie is trying to come up
with a fake dollar number for damage claims:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QsFDpTEl84

Tim N3QE

On Thu, Dec 17, 2015 at 10:48 AM, Robert Harmon  wrote:

> Herb,
>
> Herb,
>
> In order for us to respond to your allegations you will need to provide
> support evidence.  We will need details on his actual antenna
> configuration, was he using a counterpoise of some sort,  is he on a hill,
> how close is he to the water ?  Do you have proof that he was running more
> than 5 watts ?
> Comparing his results to your test is meaningless, there are too many
> variables to consider.
> You have the burden of proof.  Either provide factual evidence to support
> your allegations or give
> KP4KE an apology for potentially damaging his reputation.
>
> Bob
> K6UJ
>
>
>
>
> On 12/17/15 5:38 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote:
>
>> Well not to appear to be entirely disputatious we should carefully
>> consider KP4KE CQ WW 160 meter QRP entry in 2005 which he said he
>> accomplished with 4.7 watts to a "magical antenna" which he called a
>> "double bazooka" at 60 feet both for RX and TX.  While claiming to work 42
>> countries with this magical antenna (which is actually a low dipole) in a
>> few hours of operating, I thought I would try and see what 5 watts could
>> actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave vertical and 12
>> Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that when the band
>> conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each night without a single
>> reply.  During this contest I recall hearing NP4A and Pedro's great set up
>> running full power, and very high dipole at 200' and the signals were
>> always the same on 160 at my location. So either KP4KE has a "magic
>> antenna" or his "QRP" entry in the CQ WW 160 meter QRP category totally
>> lacked credulity.
>>
>> Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ
>>
>>
>>
>> 2005 KP4KE SO QRP 160M 37,345 364/13/42
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On 12/17/2015 7:56 AM, Michel Spelier wrote:
>>
>>> The title was changed to better describe the original question.
>>> This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband conditions,
>>> given
>>> the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
>>> even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in this
>>> log, during
>>> the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
>>> (the last 3 years = topband newcomer)
>>>
>>> (snip)
>>>
>>> 73,
>>>
>>> Michel, ON7EH
>>>
>>> _
>>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>>>
>>
>> _
>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>>
>
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
>
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Herbert Schoenbohm]

Bob. I am a broadcast engineer and very capable of measuring ground-wave 
signals. The FCC does exactly that where issuing citations for pre-dawn 
AM broadcast stations who are licensed for QRP and actually running QRO. 
This method has been used for many years.
Ground wave measurement lack the variables you speak of.  Actually my 
post was in sorts complimentary to KP4KE's "magic 160 meter antenna"  
which should in fact if it works this way should be published in the 
Proceedings of the IEEE, don't you think?



Herb, KV4FZ

On 12/17/2015 11:48 AM, Robert Harmon wrote:
Boxbe  This message is eligible for 
Automatic Cleanup! (k...@pacbell.net) Add cleanup rule 
 
| More info 
 


Herb,

Herb,

In order for us to respond to your allegations you will need to 
provide support evidence.  We will need details on his actual antenna 
configuration, was he using a counterpoise of some sort, is he on a 
hill,  how close is he to the water ?  Do you have proof that he was 
running more than 5 watts ?
Comparing his results to your test is meaningless, there are too many 
variables to consider.
You have the burden of proof.  Either provide factual evidence to 
support your allegations or give

KP4KE an apology for potentially damaging his reputation.

Bob
K6UJ



On 12/17/15 5:38 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote:
Well not to appear to be entirely disputatious we should carefully 
consider KP4KE CQ WW 160 meter QRP entry in 2005 which he said he 
accomplished with 4.7 watts to a "magical antenna" which he called a 
"double bazooka" at 60 feet both for RX and TX.  While claiming to 
work 42 countries with this magical antenna (which is actually a low 
dipole) in a few hours of operating, I thought I would try and see 
what 5 watts could actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave 
vertical and 12 Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that 
when the band conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each 
night without a single reply.  During this contest I recall hearing 
NP4A and Pedro's great set up running full power, and very high 
dipole at 200' and the signals were always the same on 160 at my 
location. So either KP4KE has a "magic antenna" or his "QRP" entry in 
the CQ WW 160 meter QRP category totally lacked credulity.


Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ



2005 KP4KE SO QRP 160M 37,345 364/13/42





On 12/17/2015 7:56 AM, Michel Spelier wrote:

The title was changed to better describe the original question.
This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband 
conditions, given

the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in this 
log, during

the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
(the last 3 years = topband newcomer)

(snip)

73,

Michel, ON7EH

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


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


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


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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Robert Harmon]

Herb,

Herb,

In order for us to respond to your allegations you will need to provide 
support evidence.  We will need details on his actual antenna 
configuration, was he using a counterpoise of some sort,  is he on a 
hill,  how close is he to the water ?  Do you have proof that he was 
running more than 5 watts ?
Comparing his results to your test is meaningless, there are too many 
variables to consider.
You have the burden of proof.  Either provide factual evidence to 
support your allegations or give

KP4KE an apology for potentially damaging his reputation.

Bob
K6UJ



On 12/17/15 5:38 AM, Herbert Schoenbohm wrote:
Well not to appear to be entirely disputatious we should carefully 
consider KP4KE CQ WW 160 meter QRP entry in 2005 which he said he 
accomplished with 4.7 watts to a "magical antenna" which he called a 
"double bazooka" at 60 feet both for RX and TX.  While claiming to 
work 42 countries with this magical antenna (which is actually a low 
dipole) in a few hours of operating, I thought I would try and see 
what 5 watts could actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave 
vertical and 12 Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that 
when the band conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each night 
without a single reply.  During this contest I recall hearing NP4A and 
Pedro's great set up running full power, and very high dipole at 200' 
and the signals were always the same on 160 at my location. So either 
KP4KE has a "magic antenna" or his "QRP" entry in the CQ WW 160 meter 
QRP category totally lacked credulity.


Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ



2005 KP4KE SO QRP 160M 37,345 364/13/42





On 12/17/2015 7:56 AM, Michel Spelier wrote:

The title was changed to better describe the original question.
This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband 
conditions, given

the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in this 
log, during

the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
(the last 3 years = topband newcomer)

(snip)

73,

Michel, ON7EH

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


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


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

Re: Topband: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Herbert Schoenbohm]

Well not to appear to be entirely disputatious we should carefully 
consider KP4KE CQ WW 160 meter QRP entry in 2005 which he said he 
accomplished with 4.7 watts to a "magical antenna" which he called a 
"double bazooka" at 60 feet both for RX and TX.  While claiming to work 
42 countries with this magical antenna (which is actually a low dipole) 
in a few hours of operating, I thought I would try and see what 5 watts 
could actually in fact really do on TB. Using a 1/4 wave vertical and 12 
Beverages a few weeks later, and many days after that when the band 
conditions where hot, I called CQ for 4 hours each night without a 
single reply.  During this contest I recall hearing NP4A and Pedro's 
great set up running full power, and very high dipole at 200' and the 
signals were always the same on 160 at my location. So either KP4KE has 
a "magic antenna" or his "QRP" entry in the CQ WW 160 meter QRP category 
totally lacked credulity.


Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ



2005KP4KE   SO QRP 160M 37,345  364/13/42





On 12/17/2015 7:56 AM, Michel Spelier wrote:

The title was changed to better describe the original question.
This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband conditions, given
the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in this log, during
the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
(the last 3 years = topband newcomer)

(snip)

73,

Michel, ON7EH

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


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

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Tom W8JI]

Good point Tom, beginning with too little drive would require more load C 
than is available.  That and the brass washer should be installed also.




Hi Lou,

The anti-corona washer was not in the SB1000 or early AL80A. It should be 
added if a user might happen to mistune.


But I'd like to reiterate..the LAST thing to do is just start throwing 
padding capacitors in.  That tank will tune fine as designed unless it has a 
component or wiring problem, or unless the drive level is too low to match.


If it is being driven with 50 watts or more and does not tune into a 50 ohm 
load, I'd carefully inspect the entire tank circuit and wiring of the tank. 
This includes the switch (as Herb suggested).


Don't just go throwing parts in.

73 Tom


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

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Louis Parascondola via Topband]

Good point Tom, beginning with too little drive would require more load C than 
is available.  That and the brass washer should be installed also.



-Original Message-
From: Tom W8JI 
To: Jim Murray ; topband 
Sent: Thu, Dec 17, 2015 7:31 am
Subject: Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

> Anybody know how to make an SB-1000 tune properly on 160? Ok on other 
> bands but doesn't like 160, dummy load or well tuned Inv.L. Is it a quirk 
> of the amp needing a modification or possibly a bad component? Saw nothing 
> obvious before putting it to use but have not had the cover off 
> since.Thanks,Jimk2hn
> _

The SB1000 is the same as an early AL80A. It hits the 160 band perfectly as 
long as it does not have a component off value or a wiring error. The tank 
was unchanged all through the run of the AL80A up until the 80B was out.

Which control is bottoming out? The plate or the loading?  How much power 
are you trying to run when tuning it?


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

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

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Tom W8JI]

Anybody know how to make an SB-1000 tune properly on 160? Ok on other 
bands but doesn't like 160, dummy load or well tuned Inv.L. Is it a quirk 
of the amp needing a modification or possibly a bad component? Saw nothing 
obvious before putting it to use but have not had the cover off 
since.Thanks,Jimk2hn

_


The SB1000 is the same as an early AL80A. It hits the 160 band perfectly as 
long as it does not have a component off value or a wiring error. The tank 
was unchanged all through the run of the AL80A up until the 80B was out.


Which control is bottoming out? The plate or the loading?  How much power 
are you trying to run when tuning it?



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

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Louis Parascondola via Topband]

SOmetimes many amps require additional padding on 160m  Add another 200pf to 
what is already there for 160.  It is necessary to put a brass washer around 
the contact on the wafer that adds in the padding cap on 160m.  See photo of 
Al-80A on internet to see where it needs to go.  This is a must or else 
eventually that contact will burn up if it hasen't already.



-Original Message-
From: Rich Cariello 
To: Jim Murray 
Cc: topband 
Sent: Thu, Dec 17, 2015 6:00 am
Subject: Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

Jim,
To get closer to the needed value of the additional transmitting cap I would 
try to find out the max value of the load cap that came with the amp. Halve the 
value and that's what I would install. I recall the amp would kind of tune up 
around 2 mg with max load cap value. Adding an additional 50% cap allowed the 
amp to tune the hole 160 meter band. Bottom line just put in whatever you have 
and see what happens. But if you need to go out and buy something then the 50% 
cap value should do you. 
Rich AA2MF


Sent from my iPad

> On Dec 17, 2015, at 05:33, Rich Cariello  wrote:
> 
> Jim,
> If I remember correctly placing an additional transmitting type cap across 
> the units load cap did the job. Don't remember the value I used. My guess 100 
> or 200 PF. I used a cap I had in the junk box. You will need to remove the 
> cap in most cases for the other bands. 
> Rich AA2MF
> 
> Sent from my iPad
> 
>> On Dec 17, 2015, at 01:17, Jim Murray via Topband  
>> wrote:
>> 
>> Anybody know how to make an SB-1000 tune properly on 160?  Ok on other bands 
>> but doesn't like 160, dummy load or well tuned Inv.L.   Is it a quirk of the 
>> amp needing a modification or possibly a bad component?  Saw nothing obvious 
>> before putting it to use but have not had the cover off since.Thanks,Jimk2hn
>> _
>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

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

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Herbert Schoenbohm]

If you see no dip in the PA current then check and see if the tuning 
capacitor padding capacitor is open or disconnected.  Check the leaf on 
the band switch that corresponds to the `160 meter position which also 
switches in the additional fixed capacitor and make sure it is making a 
good contact.  In some  amps I have seem this auxiliary contact actually 
burn off.



Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ

On 12/17/2015 6:54 AM, Rich Cariello wrote:
Boxbe  This message is eligible for 
Automatic Cleanup! (rlcarie...@verizon.net) Add cleanup rule 
 
| More info 
 




Jim,
To get closer to the needed value of the additional transmitting cap I would 
try to find out the max value of the load cap that came with the amp. Halve the 
value and that's what I would install. I recall the amp would kind of tune up 
around 2 mg with max load cap value. Adding an additional 50% cap allowed the 
amp to tune the hole 160 meter band. Bottom line just put in whatever you have 
and see what happens. But if you need to go out and buy something then the 50% 
cap value should do you.
Rich AA2MF


Sent from my iPad


On Dec 17, 2015, at 05:33, Rich Cariello  wrote:

Jim,
If I remember correctly placing an additional transmitting type cap across the 
units load cap did the job. Don't remember the value I used. My guess 100 or 
200 PF. I used a cap I had in the junk box. You will need to remove the cap in 
most cases for the other bands.
Rich AA2MF

Sent from my iPad


On Dec 17, 2015, at 01:17, Jim Murray via Topband  
wrote:

Anybody know how to make an SB-1000 tune properly on 160?  Ok on other bands 
but doesn't like 160, dummy load or well tuned Inv.L.   Is it a quirk of the 
amp needing a modification or possibly a bad component?  Saw nothing obvious 
before putting it to use but have not had the cover off since.Thanks,Jimk2hn
_
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: 160m LP to LP DX contacts in 2015

[Michel Spelier]

The title was changed to better describe the original question.
This topband newcomer asked what had happened to the topband conditions, given
the rare intercontinental Low Power to Low Power CW QSO’s,
even when riding upon sun propagation enhancements, as noted in this log, during
the last 6 or 7 winter topband contests.
(the last 3 years = topband newcomer)

At such distances, HP to my LP comprise the majority of the QSO’s, the amount of
LP to LP can be counted on one hand.
It is clear that LP to LP QSO’s to be very common, within eg. 3000km range (cfr.
TBDC) but once beyond, LP to LP QSO’s are exceptional
for non-exclusive callsigns.

This is with 100W and (a remotely fed ATU under) a quarterwave inv L (Tx) at
15m, down to 11m, with 50 radials of different lengths.
And with an unterminated Beverage (128m) as Rx-antenna (pointing NW/SE), on
farmers field with plenty of CM choking.

Summarizing your feedback: Two main causes seem to contribute:

1.Noise:

It would be interesting to learn by how much the noise floor has been raised
over more than half a century of topband operation…
How many dB’s were lost over time?

2.Co-channel interference:

I understand a very large concentration of NA-participants in contests to affect
their weak signal Rx-capabilities in a given bandwidth, losing a layer of weak
stations.

But even while Rx-ing (on the mid-size Beverage) during quiet (non-contest)
morning sunrise hours, signal levels (from NA) are so low and provide nowhere
the feeling,
a QSO with another similarly equipped DX-station to be possible…
As expected the log indicates, these handful LP to LP- QSO’s to have all
occurred during these timed & QTH-selective propagation enhancements.


73,

Michel, ON7EH

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

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Rich Cariello]

Jim,
To get closer to the needed value of the additional transmitting cap I would 
try to find out the max value of the load cap that came with the amp. Halve the 
value and that's what I would install. I recall the amp would kind of tune up 
around 2 mg with max load cap value. Adding an additional 50% cap allowed the 
amp to tune the hole 160 meter band. Bottom line just put in whatever you have 
and see what happens. But if you need to go out and buy something then the 50% 
cap value should do you. 
Rich AA2MF


Sent from my iPad

> On Dec 17, 2015, at 05:33, Rich Cariello  wrote:
> 
> Jim,
> If I remember correctly placing an additional transmitting type cap across 
> the units load cap did the job. Don't remember the value I used. My guess 100 
> or 200 PF. I used a cap I had in the junk box. You will need to remove the 
> cap in most cases for the other bands. 
> Rich AA2MF
> 
> Sent from my iPad
> 
>> On Dec 17, 2015, at 01:17, Jim Murray via Topband  
>> wrote:
>> 
>> Anybody know how to make an SB-1000 tune properly on 160?  Ok on other bands 
>> but doesn't like 160, dummy load or well tuned Inv.L.   Is it a quirk of the 
>> amp needing a modification or possibly a bad component?  Saw nothing obvious 
>> before putting it to use but have not had the cover off since.Thanks,Jimk2hn
>> _
>> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband

Re: Topband: Heathkit SB-1000

[Rich Cariello]

Jim,
If I remember correctly placing an additional transmitting type cap across the 
units load cap did the job. Don't remember the value I used. My guess 100 or 
200 PF. I used a cap I had in the junk box. You will need to remove the cap in 
most cases for the other bands. 
Rich AA2MF

Sent from my iPad

> On Dec 17, 2015, at 01:17, Jim Murray via Topband  
> wrote:
> 
> Anybody know how to make an SB-1000 tune properly on 160?  Ok on other bands 
> but doesn't like 160, dummy load or well tuned Inv.L.   Is it a quirk of the 
> amp needing a modification or possibly a bad component?  Saw nothing obvious 
> before putting it to use but have not had the cover off since.Thanks,Jimk2hn
> _
> Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
_
Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband