Re: Topband: 160m last morning

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Things move quickly!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Oct 5, 2024, at 1:52 PM, Andree DL8LAS  wrote:
> 
> yes!
> 
> Gesendet von AOL auf Android 
> 
>  Am Sa., Okt. 5, 2024 at 19:25 schrieb Ken Claerbout:   
> Club call.
> 
> Ken K4ZW
> 
>> On Saturday, October 5, 2024, Mpridesti via Topband  
>> wrote:
>> That’s surprising about working W1FV as he is now a SK (RIP)
>> 
>> Regards,
>> 
>> Mark, K1RX
>> 
>> 
>>>> On Oct 5, 2024, at 12:19 PM, Andree DL8LAS via Topband 
>>>>  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Hey topbanders,this morning I had a sked with Matt KC1XX for antenna 
>>> test.I called CQ, not much RBN spots but I made a hand full QSOs.KC1XX, 
>>> N2KW, W1OP, W1FV, K4NA.Condx were really bad, but it was possible to work 
>>> NA from EU.Monday the first teammembers  starts to Nauru C21MM.We will be 
>>> QRV on topband with 22m spiderpole, also on 80m.Receiving antenna will be a 
>>> BOG or DHDL for NA/EU,we must check it on the Island how much space we have 
>>> for our receiving antenna.
>>> 73 Andy DL8LAS
>>> 
>>> 
>>> www.dl8las.com
>>> www.swing-company-bigband.de/
>>> www.uni-big-band-kiel.de/
>>> _
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>> 
>> 
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Re: Topband: 160m last morning

[Mpridesti via Topband]

That’s surprising about working W1FV as he is now a SK (RIP)

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Oct 5, 2024, at 12:19 PM, Andree DL8LAS via Topband 
>  wrote:
> 
> Hey topbanders,this morning I had a sked with Matt KC1XX for antenna test.I 
> called CQ, not much RBN spots but I made a hand full QSOs.KC1XX, N2KW, W1OP, 
> W1FV, K4NA.Condx were really bad, but it was possible to work NA from 
> EU.Monday the first teammembers  starts to Nauru C21MM.We will be QRV on 
> topband with 22m spiderpole, also on 80m.Receiving antenna will be a BOG or 
> DHDL for NA/EU,we must check it on the Island how much space we have for our 
> receiving antenna.
> 73 Andy DL8LAS
> 
> 
> www.dl8las.com
> www.swing-company-bigband.de/
> www.uni-big-band-kiel.de/
> _
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Topband: Personal decision

[Mpridesti via Topband]

> I plan to NOT work any Russian stations during the ARRL DX SSB contest as
> I  object to the in unprovoked war they started.
> 
> Ukraine hams have already shut down.

Regards,

Mark, K1RX

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Re: Topband: gd condx in DL today

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Sounds like Joe KM1P was operating from a Rental station (Maine) and not the 
K1KI contest station.  

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Dec 29, 2021, at 1:41 PM, Andree DL8LAS via Topband 
>  wrote:
> 
> 
> Hey gentlemen,the last two days here in DL the band was good open to NA.Today 
> I worked  16x NA, yesterday also.JA and VK during the evening worked  also  
> yesterday on topband.For me it is a good ending for 2021.Here you can hear  
> the biggest signal from today...
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87Sc-MzrS0k
> 73 Andy, DL8LAS
> 
> www.dl8las.com
> www.swing-company-bigband.de/
> www.uni-big-band-kiel.de/
> _
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Re: Topband: CQ WW CW2021

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Nope it’s just the high EU QRM level you are fighting!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Nov 30, 2021, at 11:15 AM, David Olean  wrote:
> 
> Hello Nick,
> 
> You were my contact #2 on 160. Vy FB signals!  I had much trouble being heard 
> in EU both nights.  I called many weak and strong stations and got no 
> replies.  After awhile I quit.  It was like my TX antenna fell down!
> 
> 73
> 
> Dave K1WHS
> 
>> On 11/30/2021 11:05 AM, uy0zg wrote:
>> Hi
>> 
>> It was raining and foggy all weekend in southern Ukraine. There was a lot of 
>> noise. I suggest listening to some sound recordings:
>> 
>> http://www.topband.in.ua/2021/11/30/sound-recordings-qsos-in-cq-ww-cw-2021-band-160-m/
>>  
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Topband: KM1R

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Looking for contact for KM1R here. No response on the email address found on 
QRZ.

Any one have his info?

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


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Re: Topband: New Subject: 160M array feedline question

[Mpridesti via Topband]

If the radials have a good chance be being submerged in fresh water, I would 
consider elevating the radials. 

Had an experience here where my 40 radials on each of my 4 square verticals 
were often times below the water level and radiation efficiency dropped like a 
rock. Great receive performance but transmit signal was poor (think boiling the 
water). When I raised about 20 radials out of the water and disconnected the 
ones now trapped in mud, etc. the 4 square started to play well. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Mar 22, 2021, at 9:54 AM, Wes  wrote:
> 
> What's the perceived problem with the cable being submerged?
> 
> Wes  N7WS
> 
>> On 3/21/2021 1:25 PM, Carl Braun wrote:
>> Hello Topbanders
>> 
>> I am currently awaiting the snow to melt here in the Northwoods of Wisconsin 
>> before starting the construction of my low band vertical array.  My 
>> verticals will be mounted in a low ground area near a lake and the area 
>> tends to get wet and sometimes floods in the early spring.  Water levels 
>> could reach 6" to 12" above ground.  My concerns relate to the hardline 
>> coaxial cable that will run from my lighting arrestor panel at the outside 
>> of my shack to the center of the two element vertical array which is 250' 
>> away.  I will be using 1 5/8" hardline that I was able to snag for a very 
>> good deal but am concerned about having the cable lying on the ground and 
>> possible become submerged should we get significant rain with the snow melt.
>> 
>> My plan is to elevate the feedline approximately 24" above the ground using 
>> old sections of Rohn 25 tower spaced every 10' or so.  Each vertically 
>> mounted 5' chunk of Rohn 25 will be buried 2' into the ground have a 3' 2x6 
>> board laying horizontally across the tower that would act as a coaxial 
>> "shelf" that will keep the hardline out of the water and prevent any 
>> significant drooping between these Rohn support sections.
>> 
>> My question for the forum is related to the fact that I will have an 
>> elevated coaxial feedline with two ground mounted vertical antennas.  I plan 
>> to use an UNUN or similar line isolator/choke that would keep the hardline 
>> from becoming a extra radial.  Any thoughts from the forum on this set up? 
>> Any extra precautions I should take to keep return currents from flowing on 
>> the feedline?
>> 
>> Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
>> 
>> Carl W9LF
>> 
>> _
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Re: Topband: CQ 160

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Wes thanks for our Q

Worked at least 2 NE, 2 SD, 4 KS, and 1 ND stations so they were there!  Heard 
one VE4 and no VE5.  Signals from that area were weak (spotlight). The joy and 
excitement of top band!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Feb 1, 2021, at 3:23 PM, Wes  wrote:
> 
> I noticed that too.  NE, KS, SD, ND all missing.  No one on or do we have a 
> skip zone?
> 
> Wes  N7WS
> 
> 
> 
>> On 2/1/2021 5:15 AM, Artek Manuals wrote:
>> Odd hole in the N. America prop� no ND, SD or VE5 all right together 
>> geographically...h??? 
> 
> 
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Re: Topband: CQWW a bust this year

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Something I did once was to call the suspect station with low power and pointed 
away from him (I have a directional antenna with 15 to 20 dB front to back) and 
still that station heard me! So yep, he was using an SDR in the US while 
operating his transmitter in EU. 

SDR was SW of my location. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Dec 1, 2020, at 2:28 PM, mw_comerc...@wp.pl wrote:
> 
> Hi,
> 
> isn't the same station that were disquialified in the last CQ 160 exactely 
> for using RX web sdr on other continent?
> 
> There is no need to talk abut miracles, there are at least two easy ways to 
> check if someone from EU is using remote RX in USA:
> 
> 1) listen to the suspicious station on some web sdr in USA. In normal 
> situation there will be stations the guy is not replying to.  If he amazingly 
> replies to all you can hear on sdr, it's 100% he is also there.
> 
> 2) the guy replies to W0, W5 stations (a case from my land) and does not 
> reply to local EU callers. Or replays "later".
> 
> And off course, you must be sure you have good working rx antennas at your 
> QTH. Also, be aware that on 160m 500km can make huge difference in 
> propagation.
> 
> Delays in responding or doublings are not always a proof.
> 
> 73's
> Mac SP2XF / SN2M
> 
> 
> 
> -Oryginalna wiadomość- From: uy0zg
> Sent: Tuesday, December 01, 2020 2:18 PM
> To: Tom | SP5XO
> Cc: topband@contesting.com ; Topband
> Subject: Re: Topband: CQWW a bust this year
> 
> Hi
> 
> Weeks conditions ?
> 
> For the best of the ex USSR countries, this is not a problem!
> 
> 
> Very good HIGH + WEB SDR+ very kind and democratic American judges  =
> 
> 
> super result is ready!
> 
> http://lists.contesting.com/archives//html/3830/2020-11/msg08693.html
> 
> 
> .
> 
> 73 !
> 
> ---
> Nick, UY0ZG
> http://www.topband.in.ua
> 
> Tom | SP5XO писал 2020-12-01 14:21:
>> Compare to recent weeks conditions were marginal during CQWW. Only two Zone
>> 4 stations were audible here and it took long time to work them. Whereas a
>> week ago band was wide open from MI, IL to CO or even down to TX.
>> I worked only mults and Dx's this time. Only 13 stations from Zone 5 in my
>> log. Except for VY2ZM all NA's were weak including KC1XX and W3LPL!
>> Hopeful things improve for next weekend and will work some more in ARRL 160.
>> CU
>> Tom
>> sp5xo
>> 
>> Conditions certainly didn't favor 160 over the weekend CQWW contest here in
>>> Florida at least.
>>> 
>>> Looking back in 2019 I worked 50 countries on 160 during CQWW, this year it
>>> was only 17, only 3 Europeans and those were very weak. I'm sure the lack
>>> of expeditions due to CV-19 played a part but on whole I think many guys
>>> in hindsight will be glad they didn't spend the money to go.
>>> 
>>> Maybe things will pick up next weekend for the ARRL 160 test though that 
>>> tends
>>> to be largely a USA to USA test and it is hard to hear the DX through the
>>> local mob
>>> 
>>> CU guys in the pile up
>>> 
>>> Dave
>>> NR1DX
>>> --
>>> Dave manu...@artekmanuals.com www.ArtekManuals.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>> _
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Re: Topband: 160m this morning in DL

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Andy

Just as a point of reference, was using 60 watts and an inverted Vee at 20 m 
for our QSO.  My main antenna is disconnected during the summer.  

The point of my being on the air was to test a Hi Z 4 el receive array. Much 
nicer copy compared to the inverted Vee of course.  

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Aug 6, 2020, at 12:21 AM, Andree DL8LAS via Topband 
>  wrote:
> 
>  Hey,this morning the band was very quiet with no qrm,W1AW beacon had a 
> strong clear signal on beverage and bog.
> RBN spots were very strong wit 20-33 db.Worked K1RX, N4XD and VA1RST.After 
> many weeks a nice opening again.I am calling every morning from 02:00 UTC
> 73 Andy DL8LAS
> 
> 
> 
> www.dl8las.com
> www.swing-company-bigband.de/
> www.uni-big-band-kiel.de/
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Topband: Fwd: RF Issues with Heart Pacemakers

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Hi George
> 
> Several years ago my XYL went through the same and had a pacemaker put in. At 
> the time, I was seriously into contesting and at one time I had multiple 
> stations in a multi multi setup. During that time I had concerns too and 
> invited the Medtronics tech to my house to confirm no issues. Amazingly my 
> wife was ok doing what I considered a worse case test. Fired up 4 stations, 
> 1500 watts each, with what yagis were in play, all pointed to the house. 
> Thought I might affect the laptop/sensing unit from the tech but no. Not a 
> single issue with anything (Good!). Closest tower was 100 ft away. 
> 
> Not sure if it’s exactly the same unit but the Medtronics stuff excellent in 
> this environment.  I don’t think you will have any problems. 
> 
> Regards,
> 
> Mark, K1RX
> 
> 
>> On Mar 8, 2020, at 10:24 AM, George Taft via Topband 
>>  wrote:
>> 
>> A few years ago, my Cardiologist was recommending a pacemaker for my heart 
>> health.  I was concerned over RF issues with my DX operating and polled the 
>> TB reflector for personal reports from those who current had pacemakers 
>> installed.  I got several encouraging reports, but at that time my heart 
>> health was stable and I opted not to have it done.
>> 
>> I currently suffer from A-fib and the condition is worse than that previous 
>> period.  My Cardiologist is now recommending a new pacemaker device:  
>> Medtronics Micra.  It  is installed directly into a heart chamber and has a 
>> supposedly battery life of ten years or more. My specialist says there is no 
>> danger from RF issues with the "Micra" implant.
>> 
>> I mostly operate low bands on my two phased arrays which are some distance 
>> (400 - 500 ft) from my shack.  And of course I use an Amp with output of 
>> 1000-1500 w.
>> 
>> Is there anyone on the TB reflector with experience with this new pacemaker 
>> device?  I would appreciate comments either on or off line, thanks
>> 
>> 73  George  W8UVZ
>> _
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Re: Topband: T Top Verticals and yagis

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Interesting topic

Rick

To your comment regarding close in signals on 160, have some thoughts here:

Agree on the 40 and 80 stuff. I use a low inverted Vee for local contacts. 
Typically I can barely hear the locals on my vertical system (80). Very 
dramatic difference in signal level. 

On 160, I have also have a low inverted Vee (65 ft) and a 4 square of inverted 
L elements. It is very apparent the inverted L array does carry horizontal 
(high angle) polarization as it works well with both low and high angle stuff. 
I still find the close by stations are sometimes better on the inverted Vee 
(100 miles) but vertical system is not too far behind. 

My conclusion is the same effect we see on 80 (vertical vs. horizontal) is 
nearly the same as 160 except because my vertical system still has some high 
angle takeoff, the difference is not as pronounced. Certainly confirms the top 
L portion generates a fair amount of high angle.  It’s the best I can do at 
this place. 

Just one man’s story. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX
603-231-8965

> On Mar 2, 2020, at 12:13 AM, Richard (Rick) Karlquist  
> wrote:
> 
> 
> 
>> On 3/1/2020 7:44 PM, Don Kirk wrote:
>> Hi Rick,
>> My first example is why NVIS can be useful.  I often can't hear stations 150 
>> miles away on 160 meters using my TX vertical, but they are booming in on my 
>> pennant that has a much better response to higher angle signals (I could 
>> definitely generate more points in a 160 meter contest if I had the option 
>> to switch to an NVIS TX antenna at times). We can deal with fading, phase 
>> cancellation at times, etc. in our hobby, but in the AM broadcast industry 
>> they want to preserve signal and audio quality as much as possible all of 
>> the time so it's really a different situation.
>> 73,
>> Don (wd8dsb)
> 
> OK, Don, that's a fair argument.
> 
> I should be able to do some simple tests on the BCB
> comparing my car radio with a whip to a pocket radio
> with a ferrite rod antenna.  The ferrite rod antenna
> is omnidirectional wrt to elevation on account of
> symmetry.  At sunset, the SF Bay Area stations reduce
> power and become hard to hear 70 miles away here in
> Sacramento county on the car radio.  My Sangean radio
> should pull these in a lot better.  I will do some A/B'ing.
> 
> I completely agree that for 80 and 40 meter contests,
> vertical miss out on all the close in stations.  I
> have 80 and 40 meter cloud warmers for SS, etc.
> I'm just not so sure that this happens on 160 meters.
> 
> Rick N6RK
> 
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Re: Topband: 4SQ Arrays in proximity

[Mpridesti via Topband]

I had heard several negative mentions of placing an 80 m system inside a 160 m 
4 square.  At my place, I placed my 80 m 4 SQ northeast of my 160 m 4 SQ. 
Closest elements are 75 feet away. Thinking I might get some negative 
interaction, I took K3LR’s suggest of opening the feed points of the 80 m array 
while I am using 160. Built a relay box that shorted the cable ends (1/4 wave 
75 ohm lines) so electrically opened the feed points. Pretty simple.  

Then spent a lot of time listening to WebSDR receivers in EU and switched that 
relay box on/off to see if I saw any gain variation with the 160 antenna. I saw 
no difference. However I have found a very slight improvement in F/B or F/S 
when the 80 m array was open circuited (shorting relays engaged). 

On the flip side of this, I have not seen any impact on 80 to the SW as I beam 
through the 160 array. I have reference antennas on each band to check array 
performance. 

I continue to experiment on 160 - fun retirement project with lots of exercise!

Seems array interaction varies with different stations.  I did not model my 
setup. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Jan 28, 2020, at 10:47 AM, Tree  wrote:
> 
> W7IV asks:
> 
> " --I am planning a 160m TX 4SQ and another for 80M.   Their centers are
> going to be about 300' apart - is this far enough away?  I have a little
> bit of room to move them apart, but am lucky enough as it is to have the
> space to get this.  The closest verticals will be about 200' apart."
> 
> My experience supports the post K9YC just made that you don't need to worry
> about this.
> 
> I used to have an 80 meter 4 square with my 160 meter TX antenna right in
> the middle of it and
> everything worked great.  You can also see this in the ON4UN antenna
> system.
> 
> 73 Tree N6TR
> 
>> On Tue, Jan 28, 2020 at 12:33 AM Paul F. Merrill 
>> wrote:
>> 
>> HI - I have a couple questions -
>> 
>> --I am planning a 160m TX 4SQ and another for 80M.   Their centers are
>> going to be about 300' apart - is this far enough away?  I have a little
>> bit of room to move them apart, but am lucky enough as it is to have the
>> space to get this.  The closest verticals will be about 200' apart.
>> 
>> --I'll be using N6BT vertical dipoles, so there will be no radial issues.
>> 
>> --WRT TX chokes - I'm worried about constructing feedline chokes for the
>> feedpoints and still having enough cable (.85vf) to get to the phasing
>> box.  How have others done this?  Do you have a choke and did you add it to
>> pre-cut phasing lines or did you wind the chokes and work backwards towards
>> the center to get the required electrical or physical length?  Did you used
>> magnet wire for the choke instead of coax?
>> 
>> I've come across N6RO's helpful 2017 writeup of his 4SQ refurbishment and
>> it touches on these issues.  Anyone else have time to share some wisdom?
>> 
>> Thanks in advance, Paul / W7IV
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Re: Topband: Musings on multiple 160m QSOs

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Steve

Am in total agreement on all of your points. My thrill is just making the 
contact!  DXCC is not interesting to me although I have 6Band DXCC with QSL 
cards but never submitted. I am a life member of ARRL. Started managing my log 
with LotW for those looking for my confirmation but not interested in the 
country count. Happy to help those that are on the hunt. 

My Motivation is playing the antenna game, eeking out the best signal I can, 
given whatever restrictions I face. Testing of my antenna experiments is done 
during the major contests although I spend a lot of non contest time evaluating 
them and setting strategies based on results. This is when I look to the RBN 
world or a good WebSDR to see how things are working along with all the 
regulars guys!

Like you Steve, I enjoy making all contacts!
I CQ frequently (of course not to the level Jon, AA1K hits the band) only 
because I feel I can now hear about 90% of the people that call. Years ago, was 
too much of an alligator but now with a concentrated effort on the antenna 
side, I feel like taking the plunge and call CQ. Still others can out hear me 
(the true challenge of this band) or have a bigger signal but it’s all fun. 
Like all of us, I wait for those fleeting moments when the band becomes 
spectacular. Would be way more fun during contests, but it is, what it is!

Am blessed to now be retired and have a supportive XYL to pursue my lifelong 
love. 

See you all on the band!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Jan 7, 2020, at 11:49 AM, VE6WZ_Steve  wrote:
> 
> Speaking of multiple QSOs with the same stations on 160m….
> please do not hesitate to call me if you hear me on Topband no matter how 
> many QSOs we have had!  I am a 160m QSO collector. The more the better.  I 
> don't  get bored working the same guys over-and-over-and-over on TB. Each 
> opening is a new adventure for me.  It ‘aint rocket science to know that if 
> we wait to work only new stations on the band then things will get pretty 
> slow!
> 
> Everyone is motivated in different ways, and at different times for what 
> excites them about Ham radio.  For myself, the thrill of working DX on 
> 160m….ANY DX, even multiple QSOs in the same season works for me.  I am much 
> less excited about doing that on 80m, or 40m, or the higher bands, but I know 
> there are those that love to work DX on ANY band all the time, any time.
> The thrill for me started when I was 13 years old, under the covers in bed at 
> night with a small transistor radio (1971) listening to distant AM broadcast 
> stations with the sound of summer QRN.
> Because 160m is so un-predictable and usually completely dead and devoid of 
> ANY signals (here in VE6 at least) it really is magical when the DX finally 
> makes it to my ears.  I mean sincerely magical, because I reflect back on 
> listening to those AM signals on that transistor radio…the 160m band is just 
> above the AM band. How cool is that!  We are just Ham guys with backyard 
> antennas!
> 
> I understand completely those that find it boring working the same guys 
> over-and-over, and how the chase for the next DXCC band counter is what 
> really matters.  For many years after I built my 80m Yagi I was somewhat 
> “marooned" on 80m working as much DX as possible.  I still love 80m, but the 
> intrigue has faded and I don't find myself calling CQ there much anymore.  
> Perhaps the same will happen on 160m, but because the trans-polar propagation 
> from VE6 to EU (under the AU oval) can be absent for YEARS (!) on end, I 
> expect that when the condition are good I will remain engaged.  I must 
> confess that working JA’s are not as exciting from here (perhaps like working 
> EU from the EC?).
> The chase for the DXCC band totals is not my main motivator anymore as much 
> as just hearing what DX might make it through each night or morning.
> 
> To work a lot of DX on 160, you NEED to call CQ.  If we all just listen, 
> waiting for others to call, the only guys we will work are the few that are 
> calling CQ (wow, crazy eh?).   I understand that with poor RX and high local 
> noise the alligator risk is high, but you never know.  I have received a 
> number of JA and EU QSLs indicating 100w TX and modest antenna setups.
> 
> Lets keep the band alive.  Get on the band, ionize the ionosphere and call CQ 
> and see what happens.
> 
> 73, de steve ve6wz
> 
> So…here is the VE6WZ 2018-19 season “top repeat QSO list”
> 
> From my log export for this winter season (4 months) beginning September till 
> now, I have worked 422 unique EU callsigns. (1,228 total QSOs)
> 
> Here is the top 25 list for Europe:
> (rank, call, number of QSOs)
> 
> 1SM5EDX  40
> 2DF2PY  38
> 3LA1MFA  38
> 4SM4DHF  33
> 5OM2XW  26
> 6RA4LW  23
> 7LY7M  23
> 8ON7PQ  23
> 9YL2SM  22
> 10PA3FQA  21
> 11RC3FL  19
> 12G3PQA  16
> 13G3XHZ  15
> 14IK7JTF  15
> 15F5IN  13

Re: Topband: 7X7X

[Mpridesti via Topband]

It was a struggle to work him from here during the weekend. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Dec 30, 2019, at 11:10 AM, Jorge Diez - CX6VM  
> wrote:
> 
> I heard Ash several times during TPDC contest and yesterday on 80 mts, but
> very frustration he didnt heard me.
> 
> I think Europe and USA signals are very strong to him, so no chance for us
> at least if he not try other directions for a while
> 
> -- 
> 73,
> Jorge
> CX6VM/CW5W
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

_
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Topband: YP5XMAS operation on top band

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Just exchanged emails with the operator regarding being heard in NA.  

Unfortunately the station is adjacent to a new factory that is generating a 
huge amount of broadband noise despite their use of an EWE RX antenna. So it 
may mean they will work very little DX. 

Like many in this kind of situation, creates frustration on both sides! Thought 
I would share this info with the group. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


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

Re: Topband: Morning (W6 time) opening to European Russian today at ~1300Z during ARRL contest

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Hi Nick

When we worked, your signal was weaker than normal times. But still good to get 
you in the log!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Dec 9, 2019, at 2:09 AM, uy0zg  wrote:
> 
> Hi
> 
> The north and east of Ukraine really worked in the evening W6 / W7 and VE6 + 
> KH6 + KL7.
> 
> 
> Really did it - UW2M, UR5AS, UX1UA.
> UW5ZO succeeded in QSO with KL7SB.
> 
> There are no others who from Ukraine could hear WC in this ARRL 160 !
> ---
> It was much worse in my south.
> 
> I have 69 qso and only at night or in the morning.
> 
> More than 40 stations from the USA did not hear me -
> 
> K5NA, W9RE, K3UA, K9CT,N4OGW, W2FU ,NR1DX... and further, further...
> 
> But there were very good QSOs 3-4 zone -
> K7RL, VE6WZ, N0NI, KV0Q,N0FW, NA8V, N8OO, WB9Z, K9NW,
> AG4W, K4WI, W5MX, K4RO.
> 
> Thanks
> 
> Nick, UY0ZG
> http://www.topband.in.ua
> 
> Richard (Rick) Karlquist писал 2019-12-09 04:35:
>> 11 or so years ago, I worked UA3AGW at 1500Z during the ARRL contest
>> using only 100 watts then.  That was of course at a sunspot minimum.
>> We are now at the next SS minimum and this morning in the 1300Z hour,
>> I again worked UA3AGW who called me during the contest.
>> I also worked RK4FF, UD4F, RM4F, RA4LW, and RW3PZ plus LY7M and UW2M.
>> I would like to thank all the callers for sticking with me till
>> I got your call, although some were armchair copy.
>> I was using 1,500 watts today.
>> I hope to see this opening again in the upcoming Stew Perry
>> where it will worth a lot more than 5 points.
>> Rick N6RK
>> _
>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

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Re: Topband: VE6WZ at sunset in Ukraine

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Hey Wes

Thanks for the QSO!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Dec 7, 2019, at 10:50 AM, Wes  wrote:
> 
> I wish.  I often hear more than I can work, even without the "required" RX 
> antenna.
> 
> Wes  N7WS
> 
>> On 12/6/2019 12:54 PM, K9FD wrote:
>> Puts real meaning into the commonly used phrase of so many
>> 
>> "I can work all I can hear"
> 
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

_
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Re: Topband: Saturday night

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Dave

I’ll give you some more disappointment. At about 7 PM Saturday night (00Z) an 
incredible noise came on and wiped out all of bands.  Something local and from 
the SW. Pointed my 10 m Yagi to the source. Killed my interest at that point 
and went to bed. 

Got going again at 1130z and the noise was thankfully gone. If it shows again, 
will have to do some DFing. 

Thought conditions Saturday night were starting out better than the first 
night. 

When you worked UW2M, worked him after but fighting that noise big at the time. 
PITA

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Nov 24, 2019, at 1:46 PM, David Olean  wrote:
> 
> Hi Top Banders
> 
> I was dabbling in the CQ WW contest last night (Nov 24 UT) and noted a few 
> things that seemed quite different to me here in NE USA. The normal situation 
> at my sunset occurred. I could hear many many EU stations but almost none of 
> them could hear me. I am used to that. I quit and had dinner and spent some 
> quality time with the XYL for the evening. At about 0300 UT I was QRV again.  
> A storm was blowing through New England and There was a fair amount of 
> lightning static, but I was able to call many stations who were very good 
> copy, but almost always got the impression that I was barely audible with 
> them. I am running 1300-1400 watts output. Most stations took three or four 
> calls to get my call correct. A few gave up and had my call wrong but went on 
> to other callers. Other loud stations CQed in my face. This was very 
> different from many of my past experiences. I actually went and checked the 
> electrical passband of my TX antenna to make sure it was performing normally. 
> (It was) I also kept looking at the wattmeter to make sure that I was 
> transmitting into the antenna!
> 
> I did note that there was deep and rapid QSB over a 30 second period. I am 
> wondering what the hearing conditions were in Europe Saturday night on 1.8 
> MHz. I suspect that noise was a big problem.
> 
> Around 1000 UT until my sunrise arpund 1200, I did a fair amount of listening 
> but heard very little in the way of Pacific DX.  I was operating un assisted 
> so do not know who was QRV, but tuning across the band produced only two HI 
> stations heard from the Pacific. No KL7, no islands, and no VK/ZL. A few CQs 
> produced no QSOs for points.  Very disappointing morning.
> 
> 73
> 
> Dave K1WHS
> 
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

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Topband: Great condx last night

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Really enjoyed the band conditions last night. Outstanding signal levels from 
EU. 

Got on band late but did manage to catch some good fun!  Tough pileup on JW7QIA 
and unable to get over the EU callers but still great fun!

Here’s to an exciting season!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


_
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Re: Topband: AM interference on 1840

[Mpridesti via Topband]

I have a local AM station here (about 3 km away) that operates on 930 kHz. 
Their second harmonic is 1860.  Seems they are operating within specification 
and abide by FCC regulations. But still the second harmonic wipes out any DX on 
or near that frequency. Signal strength is around S7. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On May 20, 2019, at 11:54 AM, Jorge Diez - CX6VM  
> wrote:
> 
> I think HK authorities must do something with this.  Local radio Clubs must
> act
> 
> https://www.lavozdelpueblo920am.com/programacion
> https://www.facebook.com/mauriciovargaslavozdelpueblo/photos/a.1922152811350449/2377754772456915/?type=1&theater
> https://twitter.com/mauriciov920
> https://raddio.net/134431-colmundo-radio-ibague/
> 
> 73,
> Jorge
> CX6VM/CW5W
> 
> 
> Libre
> de virus. www.avast.com
> 
> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>
> 
> El lun., 20 may. 2019 a las 12:47, Herbert Schoenbohm (<
> herbert.schoenb...@gmail.com>) escribió:
> 
>> Interference from them makes 1840 useless for me.  Since they don't
>> respond to my emails maybe WSJT-X could assign 1844 or 1848 to 160 in their
>> next release.
>> 
>> Herb Schoenbohm, KV4FZ
>> 
>> On Mon, May 20, 2019 at 11:21 AM Jorge Diez - CX6VM 
>> wrote:
>> 
>>> Hello
>>> 
>>> do you notice a second harmonic on 1840?  It´s very strong
>>> 
>>> I determined that is from LA VOZ DEL PUEBLO 920 AM, in Colombia
>>> 
>>> https://www.lavozdelpueblo920am.com/
>>> 
>>> I sent them an email with no answer yet.
>>> 
>>> Maybe if they receive many emails will take care about that and ask the
>>> technic to solve it, what do you think?
>>> 
>>> --
>>> 73,
>>> Jorge
>>> CX6VM/CW5W
>>> 
>>> <
>>> https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail
 
>>> Libre
>>> de virus. www.avast.com
>>> <
>>> https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail
 
>>> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2>
>>> _
>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>> Reflector
>>> 
>> 
> 
> -- 
> 73,
> Jorge
> CX6VM/CW5W
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

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Topband: Hi Z 4 el. RX array LNA protection

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Don’t recall if the owner of Hi Z monitors this site. 

Question 

Is there any protection for the individual LNA’s for strong signals?  Am 
planning to add a RX protector where it connects to the RX antenna port and of 
course that that does not protect the LNA’s. 

As much as I would love to put the array many hundreds of feet from the TX 
antenna, it’s just not possible.  Please advise!  Thanks

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


_
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Re: Topband: Thank you for the QSO

[Mpridesti via Topband]

And I was pleased to be Al’s first USA. Very special QSO for me as well. 

Congrats on now bagging two states!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Apr 22, 2019, at 8:37 PM, FZ Bruce  wrote:
> 
> Hi Al,
> Glad to make the contact with you. many are complaining about the band
> being dead, but I am very close to salt water and that helps a lot.
> Happy to QSL
> 73 
> Bruce-k1fz
> 
>-From: "MediaSchool" 
> To: k...@twc.com
> Cc: 
> Sent: Monday April 22 2019 8:21:54PM
> Subject: Thank you for the QSO
> 
> Many thanks Bruce for the 160m CW QSO.
> I nearly fell off my chair when you called me!
> In fact, you are only the second USA station I’ve worked on 160m,
> after decades of trying.
> Simple setup here - a Yaesu FTDx1200 with 100W and a vertical,
> ground-mounted Hustler 6-band aerial that I’ve modified to work on
> 160m (plus quite a few buried radials in situ).
> I’d be delighted to have your QSL card for this contact, and will
> get in touch by post as per your QRZ.com page.
> I’m a great fan of the wonderful state of Maine. I spent my
> honeymoon there with my wife 25 years ago. My late father lived in
> Norwalk, CT, so we had a superb drive from CT up to Acadia National
> Park, where we stayed for a delightful week. I’m a student of the
> American Civil War and greatly admire Joshua Chamberlain, having
> visited Gettysburg and Bowdoin College.
> Best 73 from Caversham, near Reading in Berkshire!
> Alastair Bolton G4VSQ
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

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Re: Topband: Fresnel Zone

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Think single handedly you are creating upticks in two markets: communications 
infrastructure and real estate!  Not to mention the ambient noise level in 
Europe!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Apr 19, 2019, at 7:48 AM, Ray Higgins  wrote:
> 
> Mark,
> 
> Yes, it’s good fun! :)
> 
> Maine isn’t the only place! I got approved by town board last night for 
> towers at this location. No saltwater but nice takeoff from 2300’ hill. 
> https://photos.app.goo.gl/sb6NcwZ54ydgVfkNA
> 
> 
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> 
>> On Apr 18, 2019, at 11:48 PM, Mpridesti  wrote:
>> 
>> Good fun Ray
>> 
>> Looks like a killer location!  Good luck with the station build. 
>> 
>> Regards,
>> 
>> Mark, K1RX
>> 
>> 
>>> On Apr 18, 2019, at 11:20 PM, Ray Higgins  wrote:
>>> 
>>> Tough crowd! :) 
>>> 
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>> 
>>>> On Apr 18, 2019, at 8:32 PM, Gary Smith  wrote:
>>>> 
>>>> Maine has a problem with wild goats that 
>>>> chew aluminum & hardline, best to get your 
>>>> money back while you can.
>>>> 
>>>> You can leave what you can't carry here in 
>>>> CT on your flee.
>>>> 
>>>> You're welcome.
>>>> 
>>>> Gary
>>>> KA1J
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>>> I heard wild Maine blueberries were now a protected species and that
>>>>> you cannot build there.
>>>>> 
>>>>> On Thu, Apr 18, 2019, 11:45 Mpridesti via Topband
>>>>>  wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>>> Ray
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Didn´t you get the memo regarding Maine is now closed to any new
>>>>>> Amateur stations?  Thought it was full up!
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Ref. Fresnel zone - looks real bad :)
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Regards,
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> Mark, K1RX
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> On Apr 18, 2019, at 10:48 AM, Ray Higgins 
>>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I have two questions about fresnel zone.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I just purchased 22.5/ac near the ocean near Machiasport, ME. This
>>>>>>> is in
>>>>>> the Northeast corner of Maine about 30 miles south of Eastport and a
>>>>>> Lubec. This is going to be my personal Remote Contest station! I
>>>>>> plan to be contesting from this new qth starting in 2020 but will be
>>>>>> QRV by mid 2019 for testing.
>>>>>>> This qth is anywhere between 1-3 miles from the ocean or the bay,
>>>>>>> it
>>>>>> sits on a high plateau 150´ asl thats slopes in all directions to
>>>>>> saltwater (peninsula) except N/NW. The property has a saltwater
>>>>>> river and marsh that runs the perimeter from south to north favoring
>>>>>> the NE direction,  the marsh is only 50-100' wide and 1500-2000´
>>>>>> away from the property. The land has a gradual slope to the marsh.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> My questions:
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 1.) Is the saltwater river bed/marsh wide enough to be an
>>>>>>> effective
>>>>>> field in the Fresnal Zone?
>>>>>>> 2.) What is the wavelengths needed to be within the Fresnal zone
>>>>>>> of a
>>>>>> river/marsh compared to an ocean?
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> In this photo album (last pic) I have outlined the river saltwater
>>>>>>> marsh
>>>>>> and property boundry from a google earth shot.
>>>>>> https://photos.app.goo.gl/ui79t2jFo95b29et6
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> I´m only concerned about 80 and 160m in the Fresnal Zone.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Any input would be welcomed.
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Thanks,
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Ray W2RE
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> 
>>>>>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>>>>> _
>>>>>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>>>>> Reflector
>>>>>> 
>>>>>> _
>>>>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>>>>> Reflector
>>>>>> 
>>>>> _
>>>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>>>> Reflector
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _
>>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector
>>> _
>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector
>> 
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Re: Topband: Fresnel Zone

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Good fun Ray

Looks like a killer location!  Good luck with the station build. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Apr 18, 2019, at 11:20 PM, Ray Higgins  wrote:
> 
> Tough crowd! :) 
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> 
>> On Apr 18, 2019, at 8:32 PM, Gary Smith  wrote:
>> 
>> Maine has a problem with wild goats that 
>> chew aluminum & hardline, best to get your 
>> money back while you can.
>> 
>> You can leave what you can't carry here in 
>> CT on your flee.
>> 
>> You're welcome.
>> 
>> Gary
>> KA1J
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> I heard wild Maine blueberries were now a protected species and that
>>> you cannot build there.
>>> 
>>> On Thu, Apr 18, 2019, 11:45 Mpridesti via Topband
>>>  wrote:
>>> 
>>>> Ray
>>>> 
>>>> Didn´t you get the memo regarding Maine is now closed to any new
>>>> Amateur stations?  Thought it was full up!
>>>> 
>>>> Ref. Fresnel zone - looks real bad :)
>>>> 
>>>> Regards,
>>>> 
>>>> Mark, K1RX
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>>> On Apr 18, 2019, at 10:48 AM, Ray Higgins 
>>>>> wrote:
>>>>> 
>>>>> I have two questions about fresnel zone.
>>>>> 
>>>>> I just purchased 22.5/ac near the ocean near Machiasport, ME. This
>>>>> is in
>>>> the Northeast corner of Maine about 30 miles south of Eastport and a
>>>> Lubec. This is going to be my personal Remote Contest station! I
>>>> plan to be contesting from this new qth starting in 2020 but will be
>>>> QRV by mid 2019 for testing.
>>>>> This qth is anywhere between 1-3 miles from the ocean or the bay,
>>>>> it
>>>> sits on a high plateau 150´ asl thats slopes in all directions to
>>>> saltwater (peninsula) except N/NW. The property has a saltwater
>>>> river and marsh that runs the perimeter from south to north favoring
>>>> the NE direction,  the marsh is only 50-100' wide and 1500-2000´
>>>> away from the property. The land has a gradual slope to the marsh.
>>>>> 
>>>>> My questions:
>>>>> 
>>>>> 1.) Is the saltwater river bed/marsh wide enough to be an
>>>>> effective
>>>> field in the Fresnal Zone?
>>>>> 2.) What is the wavelengths needed to be within the Fresnal zone
>>>>> of a
>>>> river/marsh compared to an ocean?
>>>>> 
>>>>> In this photo album (last pic) I have outlined the river saltwater
>>>>> marsh
>>>> and property boundry from a google earth shot.
>>>> https://photos.app.goo.gl/ui79t2jFo95b29et6
>>>>> 
>>>>> I´m only concerned about 80 and 160m in the Fresnal Zone.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Any input would be welcomed.
>>>>> 
>>>>> Thanks,
>>>>> 
>>>>> Ray W2RE
>>>>> 
>>>>> 
>>>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>>> _
>>>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>>> Reflector
>>>> 
>>>> _
>>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>>> Reflector
>>>> 
>>> _
>>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband
>>> Reflector
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> _
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Re: Topband: Fresnel Zone

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Ray

Didn’t you get the memo regarding Maine is now closed to any new Amateur 
stations?  Thought it was full up!

Ref. Fresnel zone - looks real bad :)

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Apr 18, 2019, at 10:48 AM, Ray Higgins  wrote:
> 
> I have two questions about fresnel zone. 
> 
> I just purchased 22.5/ac near the ocean near Machiasport, ME. This is in the 
> Northeast corner of Maine about 30 miles south of Eastport and a Lubec. This 
> is going to be my personal Remote Contest station! I plan to be contesting 
> from this new qth starting in 2020 but will be QRV by mid 2019 for testing.
> This qth is anywhere between 1-3 miles from the ocean or the bay, it sits on 
> a high plateau 150’ asl thats slopes in all directions to saltwater 
> (peninsula) except N/NW. The property has a saltwater river and marsh that 
> runs the perimeter from south to north favoring the NE direction,  the marsh 
> is only 50-100' wide and 1500-2000’ away from the property. The land has a 
> gradual slope to the marsh. 
> 
> My questions:
> 
> 1.) Is the saltwater river bed/marsh wide enough to be an effective field in 
> the Fresnal Zone?
> 2.) What is the wavelengths needed to be within the Fresnal zone of a 
> river/marsh compared to an ocean?
> 
> In this photo album (last pic) I have outlined the river saltwater marsh and 
> property boundry from a google earth shot. 
> https://photos.app.goo.gl/ui79t2jFo95b29et6
> 
> I’m only concerned about 80 and 160m in the Fresnal Zone. 
> 
> Any input would be welcomed. 
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Ray W2RE
> 
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> _
> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector

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Re: Topband: Fw: Speaking of phased beverages...

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Pete, N0FW

Sent you an email a couple of weeks seeking more info about your TX array - 
suspect it may not have reached you. 

Appreciate the opportunity to discuss via email Pete!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX
Email: k...@arrl.net


> On Apr 15, 2019, at 10:35 AM, David Olean  wrote:
> 
> I tried a phased beverage array. I assume that it is working, but have 
> nothing to compare it to directly. I live in hilly terrain. In fact, the 
> phased beverage is on the side of "my" hill.  The two wires are spaced about 
> 360 to 380 ft apart and both are around 1100 ft long. Both are aimed at 
> northern Europe. They do take up a lot of room. I figured about 10-11 acres! 
> I have two separate feedlines that are quite long, 1000 and 1400 ft long.  
> Beverage #1 is on flat ground at the base of a ridgeline that is 200 ft 
> higher. Beverage #2 is on top or on the slope of that ridge running parallel 
> to #1. The interesting fact that I have observed is that beverage #2 (the 
> higher one) hears quite a bit better than beverage #1. I use an NCC-1 box to 
> combine both wires. If both are in phase, the signal gets stronger, so I know 
> it is adding properly. I can also null out stuff in other directions, but it 
> takes some finesse and gain adjustments to achieve good nulls.
> 
> So why is the higher beverage working better? I assume it is the local 
> terrain. My next plan is to assemble a third wire up on top of the ridge to 
> check out my theory, but the feedline will be 1800 ft long! I need a better 
> way to get the signals back home!
> 
> Dave K1WHS
> 
>> On 4/14/2019 9:27 PM, daraym...@iowatelecom.net wrote:
>> Phased Bevs are great. . .if you have the room and not have to take them 
>> down seasonally for crop work, etc.  I put up the Hi-Z 8 circle/160 array 
>> about seven years ago, have not put up a Beverage since. . .and not looked 
>> back.YMMV. . .73. . . Dave, W0FLS
>> 
>> From: Peter Meyer
>> Sent: Sunday, April 14, 2019 3:05 PM
>> To: Brian Campbell ; John Harden, D.M.D. ; daraym...@iowatelecom.net ; 
>> w...@w5zn.org ; uy0zg ; l...@k7tjr.com
>> Subject: Re: Topband: NA activity CW topband 
>> 
>> My RX is up 24/7.  I eliminated the Hi-Z-8-Pro a few years ago because of 
>> all the lightning/static issues.  Now running phased beverages in 7 
>> directions. I haven't really looked back.
>> 
>> Nick - I am QRV 160m all summer.  Just when my SS
>> gets so late, it gets harder to stay up later for the EU SR.
>> 
>> 73/DX - Pete N0FW
>> 
>> _
>> Searchable Archives: http://www.contesting.com/_topband - Topband Reflector
>> 
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Re: Topband: 4sq vs SAL 30 Mkii in a forest

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Would be interested in responses to this query as well. Am planning to erect 
the 4 el Hi Z with 80 ft spacing in a forested area. Trees are a mix of hard 
and soft wood. Average heights are 70 ft. 

Gut feel is zero impact. Have 4 SQ for TX on both 160 and 80 in woods and seem 
to work just fine. 

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Feb 18, 2019, at 2:56 PM, Mike Fischer  wrote:
> 
> Hi all, newb to the topband 160 reflector here so thank you for any coaching 
> or corrections on protocol…
> 
> I live on a heavily forested (douglas firs - almost all of which are 100’+) 
> piece of land. 
> 
> I have enough room left to put up either an SAL 30 or a  4sq of 20’ verts 
> with 80’ spacing. HiZ probably
> 
> Problem is regardless of which I choose, there will be at least one or two 
> trees in the “infield“ and foliage around the edges.
> 
> Any experience with the same or  thoughts? Grateful for the coaching please 
> feel free to reply direct to  mikebfisc...@comcast.net  
> 
> 73
> K7XH
> 
> Sent from my iPhone
> _
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Re: Topband: Guatemala TG on TopBand

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Juan 

Welcome!

Please make yourself known on CW!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Feb 14, 2019, at 5:55 PM, TG9AJR Juan Munoz  wrote:
> 
> Hello everyone, first message here and greetings from Guatemala.
> 
> I am finishing installing a 160m antenna and I am planning to be around
> 160m FT8 or perhaps CW with around 500W, on 16 February from around 
> until 1200Z so if anyone needs TG let me know and we try to be on the look.
> I will try on other days as well but for now this is the best day.
> 
> I will also be looking for V84SSA (fingers crossed) for an ATNO !
> 
> 73
> 
> Juan
> TG9AJR
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Re: Topband: Lack of Activity

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Bob

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had high hopes for a great season as I 
spent a great deal of time erecting a long anticipated antenna system. (New 
QTH, retirement mode)

Countless winter days spent adjusting, laying radials and taking measurements, 
only to find so little activity to get nightly reports as a way to check my 
progress, that makes one question the overall Return-on-investment. 

I know there are plenty of distractions and perhaps I ask for too much, but it 
sure would nice to have more activity and certainly better conditions (which 
stimulates activity naturally).  I hear the same complaint about 80 m too. 

I do enjoy saying hello to the same 5 DX stations most nights, just hope they 
will stay patient with me!  So here’s to looking for that redemption with a 
wild band opening!

Regards,

Mark, K1RX


> On Feb 14, 2019, at 4:00 PM, W7RH  wrote:
> 
> Roger and group,
> 
> It's not your imagination, activity on CW has been very low. Add to that 
> propagation has been absolutely horrid all season from a left coast 
> perspective. While some northern folks have been able to get a hop under the 
> aurora curtain it just is not possible from my Arizona location. I can 
> appreciate the joy of the eastern stations working EU. Out west it's our 
> equivalent of working the east coast. 4000 km vs. 8000 km.
> 
> The last two openings that were very good were in mid and late December. 
> Since that time I have had only 4 EU QSOs. Meanwhile only a _few JA,UA0 and 
> HL5IVL_ have been active. XX9D has been on in the morning with great SR 
> signal but due to location and antenna restrictions his noise level is not 
> penetrable. The trans-equatorial path has been quite good here. VK3IO solid 
> S9 and V84SAA S9 both near sunrise this morning. They all have been worked 
> leaving nothing else to do. There are only limited number of stations active 
> the western pacific and all of those are 15,000 km away!
> 
> I have joined the group of K7ZV, W0FLS, AA0RS, N7XM and K0RF calling CQ with 
> no response inside JA window morning after morning. Even propagation to JA 
> has been spotty, with little activity. Add to that I've worked one new entity 
> this winter. Guess what? QSL direct only. The unmarked envelope with card and 
> green stamps was pilfered in the mail.
> 
> As always I'll be a Top Band die hard as well. I retired in February 2017 and 
> listen almost everyday at Sun rise and Sunset. Changing the active aurora is 
> beyond my powers no matter how much effort in antenna system or even power 
> for the matter.
> 
> CU all on top band. The ARRL DX CW contest is really the last opportunity 
> from out west. By and large the worst top band season I've seen in a long 
> time
> 
> 73
> 
> Bob, W7RH
> 
> Bob, W7RH
> 
> 
> 
> -- 
> W7RH DM35os
> 
> "It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our 
> humanity." - Albert Einstein
> 
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Topband: D4C feedback

[Mpridesti via Topband]

Talked with IK2NCJ who was operating remotely. Unfortunately he had no ability 
to control RX antennas but their team is working on it. Sorry for that. 

Regards,
Mark, K1RX


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Re: Topband: Laser Com introducing a breakthrough Top Band antenna at Dayton

[Mpridesti via Topband]

April 1

Regards,
Mark, K1RX


> On Apr 1, 2018, at 12:01 PM, donov...@starpower.net wrote:
> 
> 
> 
> 
> Laser Com Announces New Topband Antenna System 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> Reported by Woody K3YV 
> 
> 
> Laser Com, Inc. of Titusville, Florida recently announced their 
> development of a revolutionary new 160 meter antenna system 
> based on their proprietary laser communications system. 
> 
> 
> Dr. Benjamin Dover, Laser Com’s chief engineer, cited their research 
> into laser-based space communications as providing the “happy 
> accident” that led to the discovery of the laser based 160 meter 
> antenna system. 
> 
> 
> Dr. Dover said that an accidental connection of the wrong cable 
> led to the discovery. A cable that had been carrying 1.8 MHz 
> signals was inadvertently connected to the modulation input of the 
> laser transmitter that that Ben was testing. “Imagine our surprise,” 
> said Dr. Dover, “when we noticed that 1.8 MHz radio frequencies 
> were being radiated all along the laser beam. This is something we 
> never expected. The possibilities are endless.” 
> 
> 
> 
> Laser Com plans to market the laser antenna not only as a commercial 
> product, but also as a low cost 160 meter amateur radio antenna. 
> Dr. Dover set up the prototype as a demonstration of the product’s 
> simplicity. 
> 
> 
> The secret to the 160 meter laser antenna is in the base unit’s 
> modulation transformer that directly modulates the Plesseo-Dyminium 
> laser crystal. The user simply places the laser box on the ground and 
> adjusts the laser beam straight up into the air. As the laser beam rises 
> into the sky, the 160 meter signal travels up the laser beam and is 
> radiated all along the length of the optical beam. 
> 
> 
> The laser beam shines nearly a mile into the atmosphere. However, 
> due to path losses along the beam, the actual 160 meter radiation is 
> only transmitted by the first few hundred feet of the laser’s beam. The 
> result is an omni-directional vertical 160 meter antenna that is several 
> hundred feet high. 
> 
> 
> Acting like a co-linear antenna array, the over all antenna gain is 
> approximately 10 to 15 dB in the 160 meter band. 
> 
> 
> Dr. Dover said, “We're really excited about this product. There are no 
> antenna restrictions on an invisible light beam, no lightning risks, and 
> no damage from wind storms. The only down side is s ignal attenuation 
> due to heavy fog, which can attenuate the 160 meter signal by as much 
> as 6 dB. Otherwise, this is as near to a perfect antenna as you can 
> hope for.” 
> 
> 
> Laser Com plans to introduce the amateur version of this antenna at the 
> Dayton Hamvention this May. 
> 
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