City Of Brisbane Radio Society inc.

Dateline 12/05/2018  “Club Silent Key ,” Sandro Bertolone a former member of our club passed last Thursday his call was VK4II .(Funeral at 2.30 at seasons aged care 881 Kingston Rd Waterford West) He lived at Holland Park for many years and moved out to the Brisbane valley about 10 years ago. Some of past efforts with the club were field day trips and very active in club activities mainly on HF, as most of us, he came from the CB era. Some of the Club conversations are of one Field day trip to Mt Wolvi near Gympie Qld, of which Sandro took part. After the setup the weather came in rather nastily and along with rain coming into the communication tent, a vist from some local cows and bulls; also tried to take refuge, or something to that nature. Im sure there a many other stories which can be told, but I sure he will be missed for other reasons, our thoughts go out to his family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 10/05/2018 “GNU Radio” Watch this space.

 

Dateline 9/05/2018 “Raffle rigged” VK4MJF won the the Club raffle of a very nice multi metre, congratulation to John. Calls of Club corruption have been muted although club officials has denied any odd practices. All other Club business was orderly and a delegation for the up and coming Redfest was discussed, where a Club table will be in the event, full of treasures. See u there.

 

Dateline 8/05/2018 ” Same Place” Yes its on again to nite Club Meeting See You There…

 

Dateline 8/05/2018 “KX3 Drift” With the WIA including digital modes for some of the field days contests it seemed a good idea to see if they were any new fixes for the drift issue with the KX3. After searching though a few more sites, I was confronted with a few views on the fixing which seemed  fair solutions, although one site suggested that Elecraft it self was making changes to the future version of the KX3 or its boards . Well it was time to ask the question, so much has been published on this subject and the for and against are still out there and with a suggested new radio or board made a new mix to this problem. I emailed the support group at Elecraft for an update and along with other replies they sent this official text.

Here is the official statement:

The KX3 was never designed for some of the new narrow-bandwidth digital modes. We always recommend the K3S for those applications. Despite any discussions on the blog-o-sphere, the KX3’s frequency stability for portable use is quite reasonable. Further, the KX3 is specified for operation up to 5 watts for _any_ digital mode as many attempt to run it at up to 15 watts out.

With the release of the 2M option, we also implemented the Temperature Compensation system in the KX3 which added a bit more stability for use with that transverter implementation.

Customer options are:

– Use a K3S for high duty cycle, narrow bandwidth digital modes.

– Run the Temperature Compensation procedure on the KX3 but understand that the KX3’s thermal stability cannot be compared to that of the K3S nor can it be expected.

– Use additional cooling techniques to minimize the temperature shift of the local oscillator. Operators can use the KX3’s metering to monitor the LO temp right from the front panel.

– Elecraft does not recommend replacement of the RF Boards for 2 reasons:

– Cost: At about $700 plus at least 1-2 hours labor, the return on investment is not there.

– Performance Improvement: Will not be significant for a radio designed for portable use.

To date the KX3 has been used on 2.4 and 10Ghz with great success with a 50mhz and 2 metre IF,on SSB and FM.  With the addition by the WIA to include the digital modes this side has not been explored and we will have to fall back on the trusted FT817 with its updated colour screen read out (which was published back on the site).

 

Dateline 3/05/2018 “Meetings on” 8th May Tuesday nite same place 7:00   See U there.

 

 

DateLine  27/03/2018 “Hamfest Postponed” ‘Redfest” the Redcliffe amatuer Radio Club Hamfest normally held early April at the campus near Bribie Island road Caboolture. Has been POSTPONED will advise the date as know.

 

Dateline 21/04/2018 “VI4GAMES” This being a special event call sign for the Commonwealth Games 2018 held @ the Gold Coast. As of yet only VK4NE and MJF have logged a session with them on FT8 after the tragic closing ceremony.  

 

Dateline 20/04/2018 “23 0n 23 “ don’t forget the next 23 on 23 this Monday nite 8pm, see u there.

 

Dateline 15/03/2018 “Cable Guy’s Arrive” It was 9:30am a nice sunny day and VK4MJF was out in the garden gardening, when two familiar voices yelled “well were here and were is it”, the cyclone came to mind but it had gone, so the thought was a coffee, and from there it was all go.  Of course they were here to help repair the new electric tower mod, done a few weeks ago, which finished up with the top pulley failure. So within a hour or two VK4NE and the CRO had the job in hand and a test was conducted with success being the key word, (not to suggest there was a lot chest pounding going on). RF Island is know up on 2m 70cm 1.2 and 2.4GHz with tests being  booked in for later in the evening. Well thanks went all around and a quick trip to the local for a Pensioners lunch of all you can eat for $10.00 was on the menu.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 14/03/2018 “Another miracle”hello out there, all done works perfecto I did it the same way I do all the rotators KR 400 never had an issue with it regards Mic. Not sure what it is but I’m sure we’ll here about the gift soon.(Its odd but I haven’t worked out how you transform a KR400 into a Hi-gain Ham IX, Ham M.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 12/03/2018 “Meeting Tuesday” Same place, Same time, Same interesting information and show and tells as per the normal. see u there.

 

Dateline 10/03/2018″To Lube or not Lube” Recently we had a Club event with the Club trailer were we had a seized nut and bolt just nipped up with a small spanner, well a word galling came to the conversation some had never heard this expression before in a search on the internet Eric (VK4NEF) has found this attached summery.

Stainless Steel Galling (cold-welding)

From time to time, we get complaints from customers regarding galling of stainless steel fasteners.

Here is an excerpt from the Industrial Fastener Institute’s Standards Book:

Thread galling seems to be the most prevalent with fasteners made of stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and other alloys which self-generate an oxide surface film for corrosion protection. During fastener tightening, as pressure builds between the contactin and sliding thread surfaces, protective oxides are broken, possibly wiped off and iterface metal high points shear or lock together. This cumulative clogging-shearing-locking action causes increasing adhesion. In the extreme, galling leads to seizing – the actual freezing together of the threads. If tightening is continued, the fastener can be twisted off or its threads ripped out.

During minor galling, the fastener can still be removed, but in severe cases of galling, a strong bond between the bolt and nut can prevent removal of fastners. Unfortunately, little is known on how to control it, but here are two ways to minimize this effect:

Decreasing installation RPM speed will cause less friction and decrease heat generation.

Lubrication used prior to assembly can dramatically reduce or eliminate galling. Recommended lubricants should contain higher amounts of molybdenum disulfide, such as graphite which is very commonly used as a solid lubricant or special anti-galling lubricants sold by chemical companies.

We provide anti-seize compound with all of our antennas and strongly encourage you to use it to reduce the aggravation of galling. Contrary to popular belief, galling of stainless steel is not a symptom of a “cheap” fastener – it is prevalent in all types of stainless steel, aluminum and titanium fasteners. You can be assured that the stainless steel fasteners we provide with our products are manufactured of high quality.

Save yourself a lot of grief and always use a thread lubricant when working with stainless steel fasteners.

Click here for more

 

Dateline 4/03/2018″ Icom Receiver” IC R8600 has had a new listing in the Sherwood rankings, good to see a receiver up there with the latest SDR transceivers. see details here  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 3/03/2018 ” FT818 its new”FT-818 – 6W HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Portable Transceiver

The new FT-818 incorporates all the many basic and attractive features of the ever-popular FT-817ND while providing upgrades desired by many existing owners. The FT-818 provides 6W of solid output power with an external DC power source. The supplied Ni-MH battery pack (SBR-32MH) has been upgraded to now provide larger battery capacity – 9.6v/ 1900mAh. The recent launch of several new satellites is a certain indicator that the large global community of satellite enthusiast are going to be very delighted to learn that the FT-818 includes a Built-in TCXO-9 oscillator that gives the FT-818 fantastic frequency stability (±0.5ppm). Locally priced at $850.00

Well its” NEW” thats what the advertising suggests, anyway its a shame that the worlds best and well used transceiver is just that and Yaesu believes that doing a few modes makes it a 2018 run out and buy me radio. Well that is all that can be said, most all other brands have decided that a hobby as vast as Ham Radio needs a bit of a wow factor to sell their product with some modern enervation like larger touch screens, SDR friendly , easy to use menus etc. Never mind it seems we are just not the customers and a few more bells and whistles are not the way to sell good radios. (Please read back through this news Blog to see some of the great aftermarket modes made by not Yaesu).

Dateline 25/02/2018″Wyong Report” Our roving reporters were today on their annual pilgrimage south to the Wyong Hamfest, on arrival they reported ,the most noticeable was the trash and treasure (boot sale ); had been place under cover in the main causeway. With the new deluxe tent structure type accommodation for the traders  (not much rain had been reported). They also reported reasonable crowds; and were very happy with bargains and treasure they acquired.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 23/02/2018 “WYONG IS ON THIS WEEKEND”  Sunday 25th February 2018 at Wyong Race Course. Gates open at 8:30am. Traders & Flea market setup open from 6:00am. Traders / exhibitors / Seminars access opens at 9:00am. Some of us will be there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

DateLine 23/02/2018″ 23 on 23″ So its the 23rd of the month and at 8.00pm the 23cm band will be abuzz, see you there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

DateLine  21/02/2018   “ITS ON !”  Well its on  the next Brisbane VHF Group Club Microwave Activity Day on (Sunday 8th April) from a hill or roof top near you, see you there. Keep checking for more detail as they  finalise the days events. Already the interest has been well received, some people are going to Islands as well. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 15/02/2018″Pencil this in” March the 3rd @ CRO’s place for the second attempt of Trailer Wars (Version1.01), Guaranteed fun for all.

 

Dateline 7/02/2018 “Its Out”     Today the first KPA1500 Amplifier left the building for shipment to the lucky owner. Wow 1500 watts and a brunette can carry 2 of them, beats the hell out of the rest were it needs two too legally carry it (15kg).

Click here for more

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 3/02/2018 “1st Day Out” Well we all arrived at the CRO,s place for our first Club trailer shack down. All was set for the morning, even the weather was doing the normal setup drizzle, so the tempers were cooled; so off we went. El commodore gave the morning pray and advise on the preferred settings and all went well, with some needed adjustments and suggestion. After our 1.5 hours of setup, we relocated the Club trailer back in the shed awaiting the next shakedown day. Then we moved on too the luncheon, with a quick 2.4ghz demo provided by MJF, showing a 10 minutes  setup time, and thanks to the weather and Ron’s location under the southern aircraft path, rain scatter and aircraft enhancement. There was a lot of story telling etc and we packed up and all made our way to our next destinations. See u on the next day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 2/02/2018 “Shack down day” Don’t forget 9.00 am saturday 3rd Feb (tomorrow) Club Trailer Trial, see u there. 

 

 

Dateline 23/01/2018″Club Event” Pencil in this date(Club event) 3rd of February 2018,around 9.00am local EST(2300hrs) for the Club Trailer Shackdown @ the Cro’s place See u all there. Advise VK4NE if you are not coming, otherwise we,ll expect u there.

 

 

Dateline 3/12/2017″Xmas Cheers” It was nice to catch up with several of the Club members on saturday evening at the club Xmas do, held at CRO’s QTH. Lots of food and a few drinks whilst telling a few stories. They kicked us out about 10 pm, after last drinks and we all made our way home with renewed vigour.

 

Dateline 30/11/2017 “FT817’s new dial” After our report on the update to the Yaesu FT817 face lift one of our club members has taken up the challenge and install the mod.

 

 

 

 

 

After comparing the two screens, its a no brainer you could spend the money and configure the screen into the system and see what you are trying to do.

 

Dateline 10/11/2017″ The Parties ON” See u at the Cro’s place on Saturday around 5:30 pm, not sure who’s cooking the culinary delights, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 24/11/2017″Spring Field day” A good 1/2 dozen or so operators VK4 southern area, have entered this 2017 Spring Field day, with most contacts being local VK4 and VK2 northern NSW. Club members VK4AMG(George) with 4MJF(John) seem to be the club representives with some assistance from some others for scores, including Vk4KSY in Hervey Bay.

 

 

Dateline 19/11/2017″DSTAR” Well as this mode is not shared by many, this report is basically a quick  run down on one of our local site. Wamuran site (sponsored by Redcliffe Radio Club), Output is 438.675 MHz, input is 431.675MHz (note the -7MHz offset). The gateway is connected to D-STAR reflector REF030C, which has quite a bit of traffic from Europe and North America. It seems to have a combination of home and mobile operators with very SSB varied voices to help recognise the mode. This site will report more on this mode in future news.

 

 

 

Dateline 17/11/2017 ‘IMPORTANT DATE” Club Xmas BBQ will be instead of our December . On the 2nd December 2017; from 5.30 at VK4cro’s QTH @ 286 Boson Road Belmont. Food and soft drinks will be on the menu, BYO if you wish. Please confirm your attendance to VK4NE catering purpose.

 

 

Dateline 15/11/2017 “6 (six)Metres has a great start” If you follow the propagation tree on 6 (six) metres; this season seems to be building too a great season. Lots of activity with the digital modes; FT8, USB contacts and follow the beacons are all ago too date. Contacts across the pond and further north. 23 on 23 is also coming up pencil this date in always a fun nite.

 

15/11/2017″From the Meeting” Club Xmas Party will be at 5:30 pm on the 2nd December 2017 @ the CRO’s place see u there, probably not doing the Spring Field day as the Club trailer will not be ready.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 13/11/2017″Its on again” See you at the November 2017 meeting on the 14th of this Month, YES Tuesday, Tomorrow nite SEE YOU THERE.

 

Dateline 12/11/2017″Coffers run ath over” The three amigos road down to the Gold Coast on Saturday to take part in the Gold Coast Ham Fest. It didn’t seem to be a record number of customers, but the takens were excellent for the club, so we can have extra coffee and biscuts at the next meeting, (which by the way is on the 14th November@ the usual events place). Lots of old Hams to see and chat too, tell lies and stories of the years adventures. We left around 1.00pm and made our way back too our respective abodes, looking forward to the next ham fest maybe Wyong NSW.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 10/11/2017″DX Isles a go” VK9MA and VK9AR, VK9AR/6 are all up and operating on there appointed reeves. Have a read at their site jump on the old dipole etc and give em a number, several modes including digital (FT8). Then  get out and plan you own.

 

 

Date 2/11/2017 “Winter Field day results “ Please take a look  and see how you went in this years Winter field day results for 2017::Check results here.

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 29/10/2017 “See whats on your ft817 screen” Take a look :here

This is a great mod to your FT8-7, really good functions easier to use than the menu.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline28/10/2017 “New Stuff” Elecraft clone from China with lots of extra’s RS-918 HF SDR Transceiver QRP Ham Radio (160-30Mhz). Demo here:     let the demo show you about it.

 

 

 

Main Functions：
Spectrum Dynamic Waterfall Display
Multiple Working Modes: Receive Mode, Transmit Mode, TUNE Mode, VFO Mode, SPLIT Mode
DSP Digital Signal Processing Noise Reduction
Automatic Notch Filter
Humanized Interface Color Display
Receive Fine Tuning Function, Changeable MIC Gain Value
VCC Power Supply Voltage Indication Table
Transmit Signal Strength Display Table
Multifunctional Instrument: SWR Standing Wave Ratio Meter, AVD Audio Frequency Meter, ALC Signal Modulation Meter
Specifications:

Frequency Range
TX: 0.5MHz-30MHz
RX: All HAM HF Bands
Operating Mode
SSB(J3E)，CW，AM(RX Only), FM, FREE-DV
TX Power
5W (Standard, DC 13.8V) , 15W (Full,DC 13.8V)
Receiving Sensitivity
0.11~0.89μV(RFC 50-20)
Minimum Frequency Step
1Hz
Operating Voltage
DC9~15V
Antenna Impedance
50Ω
Frequency Stability
±1.5PPM Power on 5 Minutes (Standard) ; ±0.5PPM if Optional TCXO Used
Maximum Current
3.5A
Product Dimension (W × H × D)
190mm*69mm*45mm
Weight
632g/21.97OZ
Transceiver comes with automatic key generator circuit. Can be connected to the use of automatic keys

 

 

Dateline 21/10/2017″Re invent ourselves” Well off we go again reinvent ourselves, says the WIA.  In its latest find ourselves, workshop to find out how to resolve the age old problem of how get new members and re-spark the hobby. WIA has highlighted the Z-call and foundation calls were introduced, to assist in the lack of interest in the tech savvy youth of today. With the help of a proposed new LCD and other school projects such as SARC (School Amateur Radio Club net), STEM (Science technology Engineering and Maths). With this in mind the WIA consulted widely with members and non-members on the future Licence Condition Determination (LCD). A review and reform of the LCD is now expected to begin soon, to be finalised in 2018. Some of the more traditional communication media such as Facebook, twitter etc, are the ones to target to try to integrate the hobby via and though these other forms. All very interesting reading so take a look. Here.

Also after you have had a read remember the real life of Amateur radio is on the 23 on 23 this month so see you there.

 

 

Dateline 8/10/2017 “Who doing their SPring Cleaning”  or is it time to start? “Ok then,” what are you doing these loverly spring days?, I’ve just cleaned and rearranged the shack,

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 1/10/2017″Daylite What?,and the Job goes on” Daylite savings has started down south and the Club trail work goes on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shiny new winches and pins, no sign of rust.

 

 

 

Dateline 29/09/2017″NEF Picks up Award” At the list Brisbane VHF Group VK4nef was awarded a life membership for his efforts whilst in solved with the Club. Congratulations Eric.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 27/09/2017 ” Shock Horror, WIA!!! ”    Have a read of the next instalment of the new WIA Board.  See Here:: Read carefully.

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 26/09/2017 “Heres a Club Record” “” 20,000 Visitors !!!, “” Who would of thought, such a little club with such a big audience, keep the stories coming in. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline  24/09/2017″23 on 23 was off and running” Well this months 23 on 23 was had a great roll up with signal up and down the VK4-VK2 areas. Some aircraft enhancement with a bit of Troppo mixed in.

 

Dateline 14/09/2017″23 0n 23″ As September 23rd falls on a weekend (next Saturday), it provides the chance for [non-retired] operators to take full advantage of the extra time, and head for the hills to trial their /P station capabilities, investigate new paths and hopefully complete a contact with a new station or two that they wouldn’t normally work from their home station.

It also, and more importantly provides the time and opportunity to activate other uWave bands and reduce the $:QSO for the investment made in our capabilities. 🙂

The recommendation for a 12noon start in July seems appropriate for the September 23-on-23+MAD, so here’s a suggested schedule:

12:00pm (02:00z) – 02:00pm (04:00z) 23cm + 13cm SSB/CW only
1:00pm (03:00z) – 3:00pm (05:00z) 9cm and above uWave bands

For stations in SE VK4 liaison –
147.000 Repeater
40m – 7.150MHz (for those with /P HF capability)
Mobile/cell phone

For all participants –
VKLogger iChat ’23&Above’

As a number of 23cm Plus operators choose not to participate in this forum, please let those who you know may be interested of the event and ask them to also share their plans. [hard to point the dish to someone if you don’t know they’re there!!]

However to allow others to plan their participation, could you please advise your interest, availability and any suggested enhancements to the schedule in this thread?

And once you’ve shared your intended /P location on here, most importantly update your /P profile on VKLogger to ensure that we know where you are!

Scott VK4CZ.

Dateline 13/09/2017″Tropo’s IN” Looks like a great start to the season with Hepburn Charts predicting possible contacts to the North, South and East.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 10/09/2017″Here we are” Yes we all went to the Wombye Hamfest for the Sunny Coast Radio Club, and yes some quality product has been purchased for the Club/Trailer. A good time was had by all, with lots of stories and Radio mates to catchup with, See u next year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 7/09/2017 “Easy to Find Us” Well not sure but if we are out on a field day well be the ones with the brite gear reflecting in the sun. Forget google maps just don the sunnies u’ll find us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amazing what a trailer can do, all brite and shiny for its first outing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 4/09/2017″IC910 bites the dust” 

 

 

 

 

 

Icom Inc will be showing a prototype of a new VHF/UHF/1.2GHz transceiver called the IC-9700 at the Tokyo Hamfair, taking place on September 2nd and 3rd.

Click Here for MORE:

 

This radio has been kept under wraps and we don’t know too much about this radio at the moment. What we can surmise is that the IC-9700 will probably be an SDR successor to the popular IC-910H VHF/UHF transceiver.

Also being shown are other forthcoming Icom radio models including:

• IC-7610 SDR HF/50MHz Transceiver (Base Station)
• IC-R8600 SDR Wideband Receiver (Base Station) with updated firmware which is capable of I/Q output
• IC-R30 Communications Receiver (Handheld)
• ID-31PLUS UHF Digital D-STAR Transceiver (Handheld)

As we have mentioned, the IC-9700 is only a prototype version, and we will not be able to confirm final product features, cost and availability. More details will be provided when we have them.

To keep up to date with all Icom news, stay tuned to this website and social media channels or sign up to our Newsletter.

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 3/09/2017″Looks like Amatuer radio is alive in QLD” most week ends if you glance at the VK Logger you see the evidence. below shows a typical morning.

2m & above: VK2AAE VK2EMA VK2LES VK2XN VK3AUU VK3DUT VK3MEG VK3ZL VK4CRO VK4CZ VK4EMS VK4FLR VK4KJJ VK4MJF VK4NE VK4RF VK4TDX VK4UH VK4ZDP
6m: VK2FAD VK2ZIW VK4NWH VK5PJ VK7DX VK7ZGK ZL1RQ ZL3ADC ZL4JW
HF: G8CYK ZL3OZ

 

Dateline 2/09/2017″Icom IC7610″ Another upgrade from Icom, Seen at the Tokyo Ham Fest 2017.  See more Here:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 1/09/2017″Some New Goodies” KX3, bits

Product Description
KX3 Low-rider Radio Stand
This lovely stand has been designed for KX3 owners who don’t have the Elecraft paddle and want a lower stand. The stand makes your Elecraft KX3 the centre of attraction in your shack or in the field. It looks great and works well! It would make an idea gift for a loved one or friend. Note: this is not a customized product.

Features
Uses the legs of the KX3 to hold it firmly in place on the desk-stand – will not slide off
Bottom edge of radio sits about 1.25 inches (3cm) from desk
Lay flat design allows easy storage and transport – just like your KX3
Laser cut out of black gloss perspex
Designed to allow full use of your KX3
Adjustable angle
Non-slip feet (not shown in photos)
Cut-outs front and rear allow cables to pass neatly under the desk-stand

 

 

Dateline 31/08/2017″Club to get new amps” According to a source close to the President, “The club is negotiating for new 2-6 metre amplifiers which produce 300-400 watts“, will wait till next club meeting in September for the results.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 29/08/2017″Towers are on” New towers are on the move,6 plus metres.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 24/08/2017″Only 3 players” It was a bit light on contestants, 23 on 23 was on last nite and very few operators were available, lets hope the following will front up next month.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 23/08/2017 “Big Wig on 10 Gig” Today VK4NE tested the club 10Ghz gear with the new GPS locked beacon at Edans Landing approximately 10kms south (Sponsored by Brisbane VHF Group) with great results . Direct from the Big Wig’s words we’re, ” this is fantastic 20 over S9”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 22/08/2017″ No Eclipes of us “Australia won’t see a total solar eclipse until 2028.  IN what has been billed as the greatest event in the sky for more than 100 years large parts of the world will be completely in the dark in the middle of the day tomorrow. While this is the most significant eclipse to pass over America in a century — with some parts of Europe, South America and Africa also witnessing the event — Australia will be completely ripped off and won’t see a thing.

WHAT’S GOING TO HAPPEN?
The total eclipse will start at 10am Monday (PDT), in Oregon, and finish in South Carolina at 2.47pm (EDT), 4.47am Tuesday (AEST). A total eclipse was last seen on the US mainland in 1979 but the moon hasn’t thrown this much shade at the US since 1918.
Monash University Associate Professor and Astronomer Michael Brown told news.com.au a total eclipse happened when the moon completely blocked the sun by casting a shadow on to earth. A total solar eclipse can only be seen from some parts of the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 21/08/2017″Just in” It has been muted that some people have been laying down on the job, urged on by others. Our new trailer has had the total service and rebuild, roll on the next Field day

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 19/08/2017 “A Fine Body of Men” Well first of all; at first glance would you hire these Guy’s to do your job. If your answers NO. Then we as a Club have, as the Club trailer is well on its way for its maiden trail. Looks can deceive never judge a bloke by his cover, I guess.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 17/08/2017″WIA has another go”  Click here: Click here good luck take the new survey and help your Clubs funding.

 

Dateline 16/08/2017 “Update on Solar Shacks” Well its time to report on the latest Club Solar shacks contest,  Three(3) Club members in total VK4NE, CRO & MJF have confirmed they have converted in some way to solar. Ranging from totally powered shack ( radios, computers, lights and amplifiers etc.), too getting there shacks ( radio’s, lights etc.) Some have 24 volt and others 12 volt inverters having storage banks of 4-8 batteries, with 6- 20 panels of around 180 watts average per panel. QRM (interference man made) from some of the cheaper brand inverters, has been reported and a lot of voltage / ampere meters , overload switches and fuses have been purchased ; all to watch the sun. (Taking about the sun, HF has been suffering greatly as the sun reeks havoc on the bands.)  If you have been Solar converting your shack and for some reason forgot to report your progress, please contact us , so the contest can be widened.

 

Dateline 15/08/2017 “More 3.6Ghz Bites the dust”

The WIA has lodged a submission responding to the ACMA’s Options paper on the “Future approach to the 3.6 GHz band”.   Want to know more ?

Dateline 14/06/2017″New Digital Mode”The digital mode FT8 although still in Beta testing has caught on, luring many using the popular JT65 weak signal mode. The WSJT-X 1.8.0 beta software has the FT8 mode described as fast with an entire QSO taking about a minute, which is four times faster than JT65.

Developed by Steven K9AN and Joe K1JT – the name FT8 stands for its creators Franke and Taylor and 8-Frequency Shift Keying modulation. Using a 15-second transmit and receive sequences it provides 50 per cent or better decoding probability down to minus-20 dB. Like JT65 it requires accurate time synchronisation.

An auto-sequencing option can also respond automatically to a CQ call decoded reply. An excellent HF DXing mode and multi-hop sporadic-E propagation on 6 metres where deep fading may make fast and reliable QSO completion desirable. Some are comparing FT8 use to that of JT65, and believe more are on air trying the new one. Experimenters have a Facebook page available by clickingthe following Link

 

Dateline 08/08/2017″Don’t forget the meeting 2nd Tuesday of the month.

 Dateline 1/08/2017 “MJF off to see doc.” Back in July 2014 after been well beaten in a BVHF Group shoot out for 2.4Ghz, by Khune LNA’s. One of his projects was to build a 2.4Ghz LNA system for his then portable (deaf spanish) Transverter. The LNA chosen was from mini kits requiring 5volts, with the 2 relays requiring 24 volts and etc. as shown in the 1st picture. As the challage was not to let the smoke out of the LNA , fast forward to July 2017. He took it off to VK4AMG for some doctoren and the end result as shown in picture 2 below thanks to George. Off course its aptly named the Khune Killer and is expected to win the next shoot out which will be some time around October 2017.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 29/07/2017″Get in have your say” Get in and have your input in the kiting out of the Club trailer, VK4NE’s place, tea and coffee with light refreshments, see u there:

 

 

Dateline 25/07/2017 “Its arrived,shes a bueat”  We have our new Club vehicle and the rebuild starts.

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 23/07/2017″Great Fun for all” We had a good time didn’t sell much for the Club, but we made some more radio buddies and ate to much food.

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 21/07/2017″Another Hamfest” See u at the Caboolture Radio Club 22/07/2017. See link for info:    http://www.vk4qd.net

 

Dateline 15/07/2017″Another forgotten event” With borrowed gear, we set up @ the Brisbane VHF Group 10 GHZ SHOOT OUT, although forgetting the 10Ghz dish we were able to finish mid fleet. VK4KJJ offered the use of his dish to allow us to compete in the shoot out.

 

 

 

 

Dateline 13/07/2017 “Sh——z whats this” Its a bit small but we own it.  Clubhouse on wheels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 12/07/2017 “Beacons get receiver” The ultimate 3 beacon have released a small mod to convert the beacon to a transceiver , which probably makes this the lowest priced transceiver on the market. see more here:::  https://www.qrp-labs.com/ultimate3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 11/07/2017″Its on again be there” Don’t miss this month’s meeting guest speakers, all the trappins. see you there.

Dateline 8/07/2017″WIA Directors Shakes up the place” It seems the new board at the WIA is getting to work and making some small be needed changes, with sub committee’s to report at the July meeting. Need to see more:    https://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2017/index.php

Dateline 23/06/2017″BIG WEEKEND”  Booked as one of the biggest week end on the June radio calendar 23-23 on Friday 23rd with the Winter Field day 24th-25th Saturday  and Sunday. Look forward to seeing you all there.

 

Dateline 21/06/2017″BIG WEEKEND”Booked as one of the biggest week end on the June radio calendar 23-23 on Friday 23rd with the Winter Field day 24th-25th Saturday  and Sunday. Look forward to seeing you all there.

 

Dateline 18/06/2017″Field Day Ads” Have a look here, Elecraft have had a go at selling product under the name of Field day. Worth a look, does outline a few good points on the past time. See here::   http://mailchi.mp/elecraft/elecraft-newsletter?e=5c1a5f5e1e

 

Dateline 12/06/2017 “Clubs Dying?” It was reported o the WIA news this week,that our club City of Brisbane Radio Society, was one of the last Brisbane based groups; still operating, thats according to one Geof Emery VK4ZPP.

http://www.wia-files.com/podcast/wianews-2017-06-11.mp3

 

Dateline 24/05/2017″23 on 23″ Good roll up VK4 CZ UH ALF EMS LHD/p KAY VDX ZL KX/p AMG MIL MJF ADM AND VK2MAX (all were heard by author ), others also making use of the vk logger for the event where VK2FLR MRX ZIW (Sydney siders) for some, great roll up; tell your mates, see u all next month

Dateline  23/05/2017 “Meeting wednesday 24th” Brisbane VHF Group, See you there

Dateline 10/05/2017 “Flying to the Moon” Well nearly, a small “Drone called Elfie”; iPhone 6 in size takes  selfies and all other pictures movies and stills, to help in the quest for that picture that wins hearts or the Walkley award. Elfie is drone that hovers still, lt uses your mobile phone as a controller to fly, take both pictures and movies. Very easy to fly, has a battery life of about ten(10) minutes. Useful in our amateur radio hobby,  it is a great tool for checking the tower and antennas for problems etc. Just fifty($50.00) dollars and a peace of mind, before you risk life and limb.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline  9/05/2017″Being There” Tonites the nite for a meeting see u there at the college.

Dateline 29/04/2017 “MSHV” No its not the latest naval ship to grace the Australian navy, its the latest digital software for meter scatter,  too date it seems as if it out performs all the past FSK WSJT/65 formats. LZ2HV has developed this new format, with most computer formats accommodated. Give it a go used on all higher bands 6metres up, mostly on week ends with some activity during the week, usually liaised  with the VK Logger.

 

 

 

 

 

Anyway see u there and      here is a link to the download.

 

Dateline 28/04/2017 ” Trail Exams on Line”   Fore fill your dreams to be on Amatuer Radio Operator   see here  ::::http://www.silvertrain.com.au

Good Day

“We have been working toward on line exams for some time and have come up with a trial exam system as a “proof of concept”.  At the moment two trail Standard theory exams have been created.  There will be a couple of Advanced theory exams put on line as soon as time allows.

The exams are located on the Assessor Information System web site http://www.silvertrain.com.au  To get access, you must first register by going to the web site.

Click on the Amateur Radio tab.

Click on “For Amateur Radio Standard Theory Trial Exams”.

Click on “Request Access”.

Complete the form and and Click on “Submit”.

You will receive a confirmation email.

You will receive another email when you registration has been approved. This email will contain a user name and password to allow exam access.  When this email arrives go to the web site Amateur Radio tab and enter the user name and password to log on.

The exams request first name, email and BEMS id, this is for additional security and is not activated, but you do need to put something in these fields for the trial.

You will need the latest flash player to view the trial exams.

If you have any candidates coming up for a Standard Theory exam they are welcome to to request a login for access to a practice exams.

Thanks to VK3DAC/VK4FE

 

Dateline 23/4/2017 “POWER PLUS” Elecraft has done it. 

 

Our new KPA1500 solid-state amplifier won’t take over your entire desktop: it’s just 4.5 x 13.5 x 11.5” (HWD; 11.5 x 34 x 29 cm). The lightweight companion power supply can be placed on the floor or in any other convenient location.

The KPA1500 was designed with the serious operator in mind. Its no-nonsense front panel shows all important parameters at a glance, with a high-contrast 32-character LCD and fast, bright LED bar graphs. Band switching is instantaneous, via control inputs or RF sensing. Protection and monitoring circuitry is extensive and foolproof, letting you focus on the job at hand — breaking pileups and overcoming the most difficult operating conditions. And it wouldn’t be an Elecraft amp without robust PIN-diode T/R switching. Like our KPA500, the KPA1500 offers fast QSK without a noisy relay.

The amplifier’s rugged internal ATU can handle full power with load SWR up to 3:1, while a wider matching range is allowed at lower power, including up to 10:1 in standby mode.

When it’s time to make waves, you can rely on the compact, quiet, highly integrated Elecraft KPA1500.

Note: We will not be accepting orders for the KPA1500 until we receive final FCC certification.*
KPA1500 Features:

1500W

Very compact design

Fast, silent PIN diode T/R switching

Built-in Antenna Tuner with dual antenna jacks

Compatible with nearly any transceiver

160-6 meters

Introductory price: $5,995.

 

Dateline 22/04/2016 “Club Future on track” RedFEST was a success for the club confers, some people donated goods for sale and with our current stock of treasures we seemed to top last years sales. Thanks to all that helped and contributed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 13/4/2017″ Italian wishes”  See below:
HAPPY EASTER 2017 TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
WE HAVE SUNSHINE HERE TODAY, BUT IT WILL BE WELL AT WEEKEND TOO.

BEST REGARDS,
Giorgio (George)
SWL IV3-57306 in Italy

Dateline 10/4/2017″Management roled @ AGM” The club AGM has seen a retirement of the last years committee members and a roll up of a new team. more to follow: 

 

Dateline  10/04/2017 “Red what?” Red Fest the Redcliffe Amatuer Radio Club is running there next hamfest on the 22/04/2017 just after the Easter week break. Check here: https://www.redclifferadioclub.org.au  The Club has a table to raise funds etc. See U there.

 

LOOK        LOOK        LOOK     LOOK

Dateline 11/3/2017 “A Story to tell”   IC910 a Icom ledgend, a dual receive  transceiver suppling 100 watts vhf  /75 watts uhf with an optional 10 watts 1296 Mhz/shf . This radio lends itself to be an excellent field day and multi usage in the shack, very versatile has its up and down sides but all in all worth owning. Then all of a sudden it all goes out the window, low power on one band or another “ah sugar what to do”. Read all the info on the Internet, blogs user groups etc, with a result of the pockets seemingly  to be emptying with every sentence. Well maybe all is not so !.

 

It all finishes, with a round trip to Wyong NSW 2017 (about 1800 klms) VK4AR, NE and  MJF talking the usual radio stuff, then the subject of the IC910 hit the stage. Following is one cure to the above problem:  Achieve 13.8 volts  seems to be the magic voltage and 22 or + amperes.  VK4MV (Alister) had also hinted to its small problem with power, many month previous.  So VK4NE, and MJF; set out on the task to prove the solution, first lets see, power the radio with tune 144.155 mhz ssb/FM add a dummy load (not MJF), result :13.8 volts/30 watts , next 14.5 volts/33 watts and if you keep adding to the voltage/watts increase, (the icom manual suggests 14-15 volts is ok?). First we changed the power lead with no fuses, :result 13.8 volts/24amps  Sh:: amazing (MJF nearly  fell off is chair), after steadying ourselves we change to another set of leads, this time with 2 fuses as supplied by Icom in the box as new : result 13.8volts/22 amps. Ok,now back to the original power cord, clean and squeeze fuse connectors, also the plug to the radio, result :13.8 volts/20 amps. We then removed 1 fuse cleaned the other with sand paper took away the power poles and added a direct link to the power supply,  :result 13.8volts/24 amps (MJF’s jaw dropped), @14.5 volts/26watts. Total gain on our metre with 13.8 volts: 80-90 watts SSB: 100 watts FM, total outlay a hour or so, some solder, and a lunch at the Beachmere Tavern.  All figures were taken as read, before our luncheon. Hope this helps others with this small problem.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 5/2/2016″Club gets new email”As of today our club has a new email address. Please note and it will be monitored. Club email vk4wiecbrs@gmail.com.au

 

Dateline 4/2/2017 “Don’t be Shocked” We are updating our data base of our club members, so look forward to the new subs in the email. Please remit them to the nominated account. Thanks from your club executives

 

Dateline 29/2/2017  “Whats in a Crowd”   Or maybe it should read who’s in the crowd. We all took to the road last weekend for the annual pilgrimage to Wyong NSW(Field day)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were lots to be seen and seminars to visit, people to meet and lots of other interesting thing to do and see. We didn’t see you there, maybe next year ?

 

Dateline 22/2/2017″Wyong Field day” Here is the site to see whats on. Go and see. Click:   Take a look.      Maybe we’ll see you there.

 

Dateline 22/2/2017 “Its 23 on 23 ” will go to 2.4Ghz & up 23rd February 2017. See you there.

 

Dateline 20/02/2017″Club email address” After several months of issues with the club email address, being  (vk4wiecbrs@gmail.com.au). Seems we have it running as per spects, send us a email to confirm your ok with it.

Dateline 20/2/2017 “When is it” Look up the next VHF-UHF Field day dates and times

here : Field day link.

All you need to know.

Dateline  23/1/2017 “WIA Board explains” Well we are back from the festive season and we’re sure there is lots to cover in coming 2017 season. In the first news at the start of 2017, is the WIA’s fact sheet site,  : click here : , to help clear up some issues that seem to dog the hobby administration.

Dateline 19/1/2017 :seems like a lively 2017 coming up”  Some WIA members have noted accusations and criticisms on social media and elsewhere, and asked that the WIA Board make detailed responses to these issues. The Board has decided to produce this series of Fact Sheets to address the various issues raised.

Dateline 8/1/2017″No Changes” The latest Australian Radiofrequency Spectrum Plan – ARSP 2017 – was published on the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s (ACMA) website on 3 January 2017. It was registered by the ACMA on 20 December 2016 and came into effect the next day, with a commencement date of 1 January 2017. Click here: the read more.

 

Dateline  1/1/2017 “Happy New Year” To all our supporters and members, we are looking forward to the next twelve exciting month with all club activities and events.  Best wishes form the Club Executive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 28/12/2016 “You are supposed to have a copy” WIA has printed a new 2017 Call books now available. Contact Ron VK4CRO to assist making an order for the books, and a profit for our club.

see here: http://www.wia.org.au/members/bookshop/page_data.php?id=259

Dateline 7/12/2016 “Whats in a battery” For weeks know a few club members have been working hard to leave the power grid, or part there of. Solar panels, solar regulators, inverters and of cause batteries. Some have reconfigured their hole house to imitate a modern caravan power system, (12 volt lighting and appliances,  LPG gas cooking and 240 volt inverted lighting and some white goods. Others are turning their Shack to run on either the 12/24 volts also inverted 240 volts, for lighting , computers low powered amplifiers etc. So far the success rate is 99.9 percent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 4/12/2016 “Club bangers for Xmas” Thanks to all the members and friends how came and made  our club xmas party the success it was, thanks again and all the we would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very merry Xmas and a happy New Year. From the executive staff.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 2/12/2016 ” 4 directors rolled WIA” Please read below :Date : 01 / 12 / 2016 

Author : Jim Linton – VK3PC

Under clause 8.3 (b) of the Constitution of the Wireless Institute of Australia a call was made on Tuesday November 29 for a General Meeting of WIA members.

A letter received had four motions, calling for four Directors of the WIA to be “removed immediately as a director of the WIA.”
The four directors are:
– Phil Wait
– Fred Swainston
– Roger Harrison
– Robert Broomhead

The letter called for a General Meeting on the 9th of December. This date would be not possible; however, it does not make the call invalid.

The call document itself was short of the required 100 signatures, and about a quarter were incomplete. However, identical signed letters were found, including one received on Wednesday November 30, meaning that under clause 8.3 (b) of the Constitution, the call for a General Meeting became valid.

The WIA Board of Directors has begun the process of arranging for a General Meeting.
An estimated cost of at least $10,000 would be incurred by printing the notices, mail house enveloping, distributing them by Australia Post to all members, the venue charge and any other expenses.

WIA members can expect notification details by Australia Post, and anticipate the General Meeting is to be held in late January 2017.

– Jim Linton, WIA Secretary

 

 

Dateline 1/12/2016″ IKW Drama still goes on” Seems the WIA is still working with ACMA on the I kilowatt saga. See below ,

 

The Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) is keeping alive its advocacy that Advanced Licensees be allowed to use up to 1kW power. The WIA Spectrum Strategy Committee has put to the ACMA the issue of high power beyond the present limit of 400 watts peak, in its “log of claims” after the now-infamous high power trial in 2013.

Many radio amateurs ask why is it that we just can’t have it, like in so many other countries – New Zealand, America, Canada, Japan and so on? Spectrum Strategy Committee spokesman Roger Harrison VK2ZRH says the central issue comes down to that of compliance with electromagnetic radiation standards in Australia. The ACMA uses the term “electromagnetic emissions” – abbreviated EME – but the acronym EMR (for electromagnetic radiation) is also widely used for the same thing. Australia is unique in the world when it comes to radiocommunications regulation, embodied in licence conditions, and compliance with electromagnetic radiation standards. Here, the two things are linked – but nowhere else in the world.

In Australia, our radiocommunications regulator – the ACMA – has the responsibility to ensure compliance, and every licensee (not just radio amateurs) is required to comply. The ACMA has a responsibility to the public, to ensure that electromagnetic emissions from all radio transmitting systems do not present a harmful situation. In fulfilling that responsibility, the ACMA needs to know where possibly harmful transmitter systems are located and that such locations are recorded on a licence. With that understanding, the Spectrum Strategy Committee is working with the ACMA to develop suitable procedures under which radio amateurs interested in running high power can make an application that meets the ACMA’s technical and regulatory requirements.

Dateline 21/11/2016 “Hows goin solar ?” The usual suspects are at it again, this time its solarising their shacks to start with. Well after a visit to KSY, AMG to mention a few we have decided to go for it suggested MJF.  CRO and NE will be working to go that way too. MJF has turned his new shack and house to mimmic a caravan, with solar to batteries, LPG gas system for cooking and a twelve volt lighting system of LEDS, too inverted power to special power points and 240 volt LED lights as well. The idea is to get off the grid were possible, sell the power back,  for those with to the grid systems and save the pocket, not the planet (if this does well great !).

 

Dateline 23/10/2016 “Who said daylight saving is a waste of time” Some would say it fades the curtains , cows and chooks body clocks are out, the produce suffers and the economy slides backwards. Ask a Hams and their answer is its Tropo time !  Already the skies are full of ducting to ride north to south , east to west. So don’t delay the urge to jump in.

 

 

Dateline 10/10/2016 “Here’s a new Slant” Have a read here:    http://www.remeeus.eu/hamradio/pa1hr/productreview.pdf  Maybe your radio etc is listed here? or not.

 

 

Dateline 25/09/2016 “Standards to go magic band” In January 2017 we should see the below ago:  Lots for Foundation and Advanced  as well.

Review of the Australian Radiofrequency Spectrum Plan

Date : 24 / 09 / 2016
“Roger Harrison – VK2ZRH”

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has opened consultation on its proposed update of the Australian Radiofrequency Spectrum Plan. The ACMA announced it on its website on 22 September 2016.

The Authority has issued a discussion paper and related documents, referring directly to possible changes, and invites submissions before 24 October 2016. The Spectrum Plan includes a table of frequency allocations from 8.3 kHz through to 420 terahertz (THz) that divides up the spectrum to show the general purpose of each band, to which services they are allocated, and associated footnotes relevant to particular allocations. It was last reviewed in 2013.

The Spectrum Plan reflects Australia’s treaty obligations following the International Telecommunications Union’s World Radiocommunications Conference in late 2015. The ACMA acknowledges that Australia was a signatory to the decisions of that ITU conference, was working with those affected domestically, but due to various factors, all foreshadowed changes may not occur by the end of 2016.

Also expected to be reflected in the remake is the  Federal Government’s proposed new legislation that removes prescriptive process to replace these with a simpler, more flexible licensing system.

The updated Australian Radiofrequency Spectrum Plan is expected to begin on 1 January 2017. Once the Spectrum Plan is amended subordinate legislation, such as licence conditions, will also be amended subsequently, as necessary. Any individual or group with an interest in radiofrequency spectrum allocations and use can make a submission.

As the peak representative body for the Australian radio amateur community, the WIA is preparing a submission. See the ACMA’s announcement on its website, via this Link

 

 

Dateline 20/09/2016 “How deaf are icom owners” I (VK4MJF) have had the pleasure of speaking to some of the new IC7300 owners, and you might say the comment made by all is the fact that they hear more !!!!!! . Well I then asked the brand it replaced, too my amazement the answer was in all cases Icom something. Hello how long has the K3 or the KX3 been on the shelf to buy ?????. The other odd thing  that seemed to happen, was their normal heard voice had changed. (I’m sure its not my new location) 

Anyway lets know your verdict and sent me a story.

Dateline 10/09/2016 “Wombye a queit hamfest” We arrived just after 7.00 am set up the table and did the first walk around for goodies and looked for bargins etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 6/09/2016 “Seems the boss is active” VK4NE has reported a chest pounding result on WSPR HF. For those not formulaic with the mode its 200 ml watts to the USA.

2016-09-04 08:00 VK4NE 10.140201 -23 0 QG62nj +23 0.200 K4COD EM73sc 14524 9025

2016-09-04 21:20 VK4NE 10.140206 -24 -1 QG62nj +23 0.200 EA8BVP IL28fd 18900 11744

If and when you make contact with mick , just mention it. Make fell happy.

 

Dateline 24/08/2016″See shack updates”  http://brisbaneradiosociety.net/whats-a-shack/        Or click on menu.

 

Dateline 22/08/2016″Winter FD” Below is a list of the results of the  38 call signs used in the winter field day 2016, hope this is a help.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 16/08/2016 “The CRO crows” Some who in the annals of June 2016 suggested; Ron VK4CRO has been blessed with EME contact, see below:

 

 

 

 

Great Ronnie Grid square KO29IF ( Vincenty Distance: 14564.861 km)

 

 

Dateline 15/08/2016 “Public callsign list restored”

Prospective radio amateurs and those looking at their callsign choices are now able to do that online at the “Public List Of Available Callsigns” on the WIA website.

This follows the resolution of further teething problems with the ACMA’s new SPECTRA system.

 

Dateline 14/08/2016″Results are in” Re 2016 Winter Field Day Results are finally in.

See here:   http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/documents/2016%20Winter%20VHF-UHF%20Field%20Day%20Results%20Summary.pdf

A suitable logging program is VK Contest Log, developed by Mike VK3AVV. It is available for download on the author’s web site by clicking on this: http://www.mnds.com.au/vkcl/

 

Dateline 12/08/2016 “RD is on”  Amateur Radio “Remembrance Day Contest”

The Amateur Radio “Remembrance Day Contest” for 2016. Contest is on 13th & 14th August 2016 0300z to 0300z

This contest commemorates the Amateurs who died during World War II and is designed to encourage friendly participation and help improve the operating skills of participants. It is held on the weekend closest to the 15th August, the date on which hostilities ceased in the southwest Pacific area.

It is preceded by a short opening address by a Guest Speaker transmitted on various WIA frequencies during the few minutes prior to the contest. During this ceremony, a roll call of amateurs who paid the supreme sacrifice during WWII is read.

for more info see here: http://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2016/20160813-1/index.php

 

Dateline 29/07/2016″VK2ZCV ILL” One of the clubs 2 metre buddies has suffered a life threating illness. As reported by Gordon VK2GFC.

“Hello guys,
Just to let those that know Bill Sinclair VK2ZCV, that he has suffered a stroke and will be going into care after he gets out of hospital.
He is no longer able to be at home.
Bill’s QTH is Port Macquarie.”

 

Dateline 26/07/2016 “Anybody Going”

JARL Ham Fair 2016 will be held at Tokyo Big Sight, Ariake, Tokyo
on August 20th (Saturday) and 21st (Sunday).
Last year, they had about 36,000 participants for two days.
 

SP Station 8J1HAM will be on all bands.
At 0400-0435z (1300 JSST) on Saturday 20th it will come up on 21.205 for the ANZA net list taken days prior.

 

DateLine  24/07/2016 ” 23 0n 23 A Buzz” VK4CZ has reported lots of contacts by all who participated in July 23 on 23 weekend,no one from the club was mentioned though. If you require some more in-depth reading please use the site below. see here:http://www.vklogger.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=40&t=13699&start=20

 

 

Dateline 22/07/2016 “Trans Tasman Low Bands Challenge” This contest is to encourage Low Band Activity in Australia and New Zealand – The applicable bands are 160, 80 and 40M. The modes are SSB CW and Digital (RTTY and PSK only) The web site is sorry it missed notifying you all about this event (which was held on the 16/07/2016).  164 entries were logged, so this is one not to miss when next its run. More details here: http://www.vkcc.com/2016/06/28/trans-tasman-low-bands-challenge-2016/

Dateline 17/07/2016 “Sun has a big hole” NASA is monitoring a giant hole spreading across the sun.

http://www.space.com/33047-nasa-spots-huge-hole-in-sun.html

NASA has released footage of a giant hole spreading across the surface of the sun.

A NASA spacecraft uncovered the dark mass which is allowing some of the sun’s heat to escape into open space.

The dark mass has been identified as a coronal hole, with a NASA spokesperson confirming it poses no risk to Earth.

The hole, which can take up a quarter of the sun’s surface, is created by a gap in the magnetic field.

“Coronal holes are the source of a high-speed wind of solar particles that streams off the sun,” the NASA spokesperson said.

The high speed wind, while posing no risk to Earth, can disrupt satellites and communication devices.

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory will continue to monitor the sun’s surface, as it has done since 2010.

 

Dateline 16/07/2016 “HF Digital”    For all HF rigs Icom Yaesu  K3 KX3 Flex and manymore .  Although it seems the mode is a bit slow to take off, the software is free and reasonably easy to set up. Then there is the lack of amount of contacts out there, anyway if you give it a go it could be your next challenge.

need to read more. see here: http://www.areg.org.au/activities-old/hf-digital-voice

Digital voice on HF
I was going to title this post “D-Star’s nemesis” but I thought that would be too provocative and premature! But the much talked-about Codec2 open source voice codec has just surfaced in usable form, in the shape of an easy to use bit of software called FreeDV.

 

FreeDV is available for Linux, Windows and Mac. I installed the Windows version, which is just a matter of extracting the files from a zip archive into a folder.

If you’re set up to run digital modes on HF then you’re half way there already. FreeDV uses the same sound card as your digimode software and the same audio levels. As with PSK31 you just need to make sure you aren’t driving the transmitter into ALC.

You’ll need a second sound card for the receive and transmit audio. Assuming that you aren’t using one sound card for both digimodes and computer sound, this will be the one you use for Windows noises. On my shack PC that’s one of those el cheapo eBay USB sound card dongles. You’ll also need a microphone or a computer headset.

There’s no VOX (perhaps that will come in a later version of FreeDV) so you have to click a button to toggle PTT. Before you can do that you need to set up PTT using a com port. In my case the same serial port used for CAT control and updating the firmware of my K3 was used. The rig went straight into transmit until I ticked the RTS +V check box.

The main challenge is finding other people who are using FreeDV. At the moment the frequency 14.236MHz on 20m seems to be the only calling frequency. It would be nice to have some centres of activity on other bands, but no doubt that will come in due course. There’s a Digital Voice Google Group which will probably become the meeting place for FreeDV users.

A FreeDV transmission is 1.1kHz wide, less than half of the bandwidth of an SSB signal. The audio is best described as telephone quality. It’s a bit boxy, but there is an equalizer called “Filter” in the software that can be used to brighten up both the transmit and receive audio. A nice feature of the software is a button that lets you instantly switch between analogue and digital so you can easily make comparisons. I wish I could include a clip of the audio recorded off air but I couldn’t figure out how to do it.

Right now I’m sitting on 14.236MHz waiting for someone else to come on the frequency. Hopefully as the word gets out more people will get on the air with FreeDV and contacts will be easier to come by.

OR

“When disaster strikes, P25 saves lives”

Project 25 (P25) is a set of standards produced through the joint efforts of the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials International (APCO), the National Association of State Telecommunications Directors (NASTD), selected Federal Agencies and the National Communications System (NCS), and standardized under the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA).

P25 is an open architecture, user driven suite of system standards that define digital radio communications system architectures capable of serving the needs of Public Safety and Government organizations. The P25 suite of standards involves digital Land Mobile Radio (LMR) services for local, state/provincial and national (federal) public safety organizations and agencies. P25 open system standards define the interfaces, operation and capabilities of any P25 compliant radio system.

A P25 radio is any radio that conforms to the P25 standard in the way it functions or operates. P25 compliant radios can communicate in analog mode with legacy radios and in either digital or analog mode with other P25 radios. The P25 standard exists in the public domain, allowing any manufacturer to produce a P25 compatible radio product.

Although developed primarily for North American public safety services, P25 technology and products are not limited to public safety alone and have also been selected and deployed in other private system applications, worldwide. The Project 25 users’ process is governed by an eleven-member steering committee made up of nine U.S. federal, state and local government representatives and two co-directors.

Project 25 has four main objectives:

Ensure competition in system life cycle procurements through Open Systems Architecture
Allow effective, efficient and reliable intra-agency and interagency communications
Provide enhanced functionality and capabilities with a focus on public safety needs
Improve radio spectrum efficiency

P25 BENEFITS

P25 has many various benefits in performance, efficiency, capabilities and quality. Key P25 technology benefits include:

Interoperability

Radio equipment that is compatible with P25 standards will allow users from different agencies or areas to communicate directly with each other. This will allow agencies on the federal state/provincial or local level (or any other agency) to communicate more effectively with each other when required (emergencies, law enforcement, etc.)

Multiple Vendors

The P25 open standard will allow competing products from multiple vendors to be interoperable. This will allow customers of the P25 product to benefit from multiple manufacturing sources (decreased costs, open bidding, non-proprietary systems).

Backwards Compatibility

A basic requirement for Phase 1 P25 digital radio equipment is backward compatibility with standard analog FM radios. This supports an orderly migration into mixed analog and digital systems, enabling users to gradually trade out radios and infrastructure equipment. By selecting products and systems that comply with P25 standards, agencies are assured that their investment in the latest technology has a clear migration path for the future.

Encryption Capability

The P25 standard includes a requirement for protecting digital communications (voice and data) with encryption capability. The encryption used in P25 is optional, allowing the user to select either clear (un-encrypted) or secure (encrypted) digital communication methods. The encryption keys also have the option of being re-keyed by digital data over a radio network. This is referred to as Over The Air Re-keying (OTAR). This capability allows the radio systems manager to remotely change encryption keys.

Improved Audio Quality

With 2800 bits per second of the total 9600 bits per second channel capacity allocated to error correction, P25 digital signals have improved voice quality over standard analog signals, especially at low or noisy RF carrier levels. The IMBE™ voice coder converts voice information into digital data and then the data is protected using error correction codes. The error correction is able to correct for small errors in the received signal. Since the audio is digitally encoded, the background noise typically present in analog systems is also removed.

P25 RESOURCES

PTIG

The Project 25 Technology Interest Group (PTIG) is a group composed of public safety professionals and equipment manufacturers with a direct stake in the further development of, and education on, the P25 standards. PTIG’s purpose is to further the design, manufacture, evolution, and effective use of technologies stemming from the P25 standardization process.

APCO International

The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials – International, Inc. is the world’s oldest and largest not-for-profit professional organization dedicated to the enhancement of public safety communications.

TIA

The Telecommunications Industry Association is the leading U.S. non-profit trade association serving the communications and information technology industry, with proven strengths in market development, trade shows, domestic and international advocacy, standards development and enabling e-business.

 

 

Dateline 14/07/2016 “Ah a 6 metre event” CQ Worldwide VHF Contest 6 metre, look here:http://www.qsl.net/n2sln/contestcalendar.html

 

Dateline 13/07/2016 “Meeting wasOFF” Last notes meeting was a treat to be at, all were interested in the normal run of business as mick spoke on CLUB REPEATERS.

Dateline 11/07/2016 “Schools on” Tuesday nite 12/07/2016

Hi All
Sorry for the late notice, Yes Meeting at Mt Gravatt Tafe, Tomorrow night 7.00, Usual spot and plenty to cover.

Look forward to seeing you all there

Darren Vk4djb

 

 

 

Dateline 10/07/2016 “It’s Time, Upgrade ASAP”Reading the WIA {LCD} has suggested   that if you are reading this and you are thinking of an upgrade from a standard or foundation Licence, or taking the Foundation Test, now is a good time to do just that. You will wait a short while, the new LCD will be complete and you will be rewarded with more power, bands with digital  mode thrown in. Makes sense, so if you get in touch with the secretary VK4CRO (Ron) he will assist you on tour quest.

 

Dateline 8/07/2016″Free Radio based email ” A not well known service, provided by the WIA. 

About The WIA Email Address

What Is The WIA Email Address

The WIA, though its email server, allows you to establish “yourcallsign@wia.org.au” with all emails sent to this address automatically forwarded to either your home or work email account.. See more here: http://www.wia.org.au/members/email/about/

 

 

 

Dateline 7/07/2016 “Inland Troppo ” Upon inspection of coming Hepburn charts, there is another chance of tropo paths extending to areas of VK4 from VK5/3/2, possibly beginning the coming  Thursday morning, so far. This has followed a good week of VK4 from VK5/3/2.

Dateline 6/07/2016 “Licence Reform in other Countries a Go”

Reforms to the Malaysian licence system

The Malaysian Amateur Radio Society (MARTS) has advised that the Amateur Radio certification review was showing some positive future changes in that country. In the new structure there would be three classes of licence, namely Class A that give 1-kilowatts on all bands with upgraded privileges, Class B has most HF bands at 50-watts, and the new entry level Class C gives access to 2m 6m and 70cm.

The Morse code proficiency tests of 12-word per minutes that currently apply to the Class A or top licence, will be removed.
In other news, the minimum age to obtain the Class A will be 15 years, with Class B the middle class licence at 15, and Class C will be at 12 years.

When these changes will take effect is not known, but will follow the normal drafting process for all new rules.

The tiny principality of Andorra in southwest Europe, all of 468 sq. km, has returned access to 60m for the micronation’s amateurs, granted them more power on 6m and added a 200 kHz-wide band 70 MHz for them.

Andorra’s amateurs had limited access to the 5 MHz band up to December 2015, when it was withdrawn following WRC-15. Now, the Andorran government has resolved to provide temporary access to the new WRC15 allocation of 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz, with a maximum power of 15 watts EIRP; CW and USB is permitted, with a maximum bandwidth of 5 kHz. Permission is temporary until 31 December 2016, then permanent from 1 January 2017.

Meanwhile, permitted power on 6m has been raised to 600 watts.

The cherry on top is the new allocation of 70.0 to 70.2 MHz, which appears to be on a secondary basis (no interference), with permitted power limited to 10 watts, all modes allowed, and users must stick to the IARU Region 1 bandplan for 4m.

We have a plan in the pipeline with the AMCA via WIA and we wait and we wait.

Dateline  3/07/2016 “23 on 23 will go to 24Ghz” Great to see more micro wave bands making an entrance. Saturday 23rd July 2016. See you there.

 

Dateline 30/06/2016″VLF section”

The annual transmission on ‘Alexanderson Day’ with the Alexanderson alternator on VLF 17.2 kHz with the call SAQ will take place Sunday, July 3rd, 2016 at 09:00 UTC (tuning up from after 08:30 UTC) and will be repeated at 12:00 UTC (tuning up from after 11:30 UTC).

Amateur Radio Station with the call ‘SK6SAQ’ will be QRV on the following frequencies:
– 7.035 kHz CW or
– 14.035 kHz CW or
– 21.035 kHz CW or
– 3.755 kHz SSB

URL: http://www.southgatearc.org/news/2016/j … ission.htm

 

Dateline 29/06/2016″An interesting observation” 23 cm antennes.

First of all the loop yogi was a NTMS design found here http://www.ntms.org/files/1296%20Loop%20Yagi%20Dimensions.pdf
It was built as closely as the normal yagi and it looked good on the VNA so all I can assume is that it was going as best it could.
We know what the new yagi was but just to refresh its this one of these http://g4cqm.www.idnet.com/antennadesigner/SCQM60UC.htm

So the final results are:
Gain difference 60 element to Loop = 5.8db
Front to back = 31db
Gain over dipole = 21db figure quoted on web site is 21.67dbi (my measurement was made between a dipole at the same height and about 1m offset horizontally)
First nulls off of centre lobe are at 14deg both sides and thats pretty much what the poler plot is showing on the web site.

Im very happy with its performance and it has shown me that what I believed was not the case and that was building a yagi at 23cm was a tall order and fraught with problems.
If you want any more information Im only to happy to post what materials I used and may be in a position to supply the hard to get components, mainly the element mounting blocks.

Roger ZL3RC

This is just my experience passed on for the encouragement of 23 cm activity.

Dateline 23/06/2016″Tower rules”  Queensland Building Regulations 2006, Schedule 1, Section 21, para 2 

 

(2) The building work is prescribed if the device is no more than—

Click here:https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/legisltn/current/b/buildgr06.pdf

 

 

 

Dateline 18/06/2016 “23 0n 23 “ Is this the fastest growing side of our hobby? See u there.

 

Dateline 17/06/2016″Where did the money go” Have a read of the WIA jaunt to  Norfolk Island, pathetic. click here: http://wiarg.org/16th-june-2016-wia-reform-group-news-letter-number-8/

 

Dateline 14/06/2016 “There’s a meeting on to-nite” See U There.

 

 

Dateline 14/06/2016 “Logger to lose repeater list” Having a quick look at the list on VK Logger and you will see that the list has not been update by anybody for some years!!!!   Some members have asked a question about the use of our repeaters. Has anyone missed our six metre ?.

Do you care?

It’s not that hard to key up a repeater and check that it’s operational then make a quick update in the repeater database. In fact all you have to do is click the “submit update” button – no need to type anything unless you have new information to add. Some use the repeaters as an early indication of some enhanced conditions – that’s why you see repeater spots occasionally. I’m pretty sure details of the repeaters are pulled from the database when you make a spot.
A quick check show somes states pay more attention to the database than others – I hear there is a great repeater network in VK2 and VK6 but you wouldn’t know it from looking at the vklogger database.

So, Adam has hinted at a change and he always follows through. No point whining about “There goes Adam again”, the database will go at some stage and we’ll hear Adam talking of old farts and apathy once more.

 

Dateline 12/06/2016 “Did you know” A few beacons to look for. VK5RLZ has beacons on 1296.452MHz, 2304.452MHz, 3398.452MHz, 5760.452MHz and 10368.452MHz.
These are all located at the water tower on Kettering Road, Elizabeth South – PF95HG71VU .
You’d have a good path from Black Road near the intersection with Main South Road – you should hear all of them from there.
There are also the VK5VF beacons on 50.320MHz, 144.450MHz and 432.450MHz at Crafers.
I can’t confirm that the 6m beacon is running but I’ve no reason to think it isn’t. Why is this of interest, well if your into FSK441 then its obvious .

Dateline 6/06/2016  “Check out this page” Licence info your may have an interest in.

Click here:  http://brisbaneradiosociety.net/from-the-exam-room/

Dateline 4/06/2016  “BARC in the rain”. All The Boy’s went to the Fest for the bags of money. It was so wet and cold the officials allowed all customers ammediate entry.   Some may have stayed away but all had fun.

Dateline 30/05/2016″New EME Logger” 144 432 1296  see here: http://www.livecq.eu/logger/default.asp

Dateline 28/05/2016″What’s that” George AMG has written a piece on the FPGA in the Ic7300 to help us out.

John and co,

It was with your comments and observations in mind that I read the review of the IC7300 in the latest AR magazine.

Disappointment quickly overwhelmed me as I found error after error in the article.

Firstly however Fig1 is a reasonable representation of the radio in block diagram.

 

 

However Fig 2 is misleading in that it shows conventional receiver functions in the DSP block, when really instead of a physical BPF, IF amp, detector,etc these functions are performed by digital “magic” (Software Defined Radio).

*********************************************************************

Firstly, to comment on the FPGA. The FPGA in this case is a VERY FAST large (in number of possible programmable digital logic functions), devices. The FPGA is clocked by the reference oscillator (could be loosely termed the Local Oscillator). The FPGA may be programmed as microprocessor(s), digital to analog converter (D/A), analog to digital converter (A/D), etc.

On transmit the FPGA generates the RF signal (e.g. SSB, FM, CW, etc) by converting the input audio (from the mic – A/D then DSP) to digital signal, the FPGA mathematically analysing the digital audio and generates the output RF signal at the output frequency by a D/A. The speed of the FPGA and the D/A can be appreciated by realising it will directly generate RF signal up to 75MHz. To achieve this, the internals of the FPGA and the D/A are operating at 8 to 32 times the output frequency. The higher the clock freq to the D/A the better the quality of the output signal.

On receive, the FPGA provides the local oscillator and mixer functions. To make its job easier (suppress strong off frequency signals, some conventional bandpass filtering and amplification occurs between the antenna and A/D (operating at the RF frequency). The digital version of the input signal is processed by the FPGA to two 36kHz digital IF channels (these are termed I & Q and are in 90deg phase). The DSP processes the IQ IF and provides bandwidth limiting and detection of the wanted signal (SSB, FM, CW, etc).

The result is a far lower part count radio. Therefore, it should be cheap to make and more reliable.

From the IQ digital IF signal thru to the speaker is similar most Icom (and other) receivers. On other modern receivers, the conversion to 36kHz IQ IF is performed by phase locked loop (PLL) local oscillators controlled by microprocessors, diode mixers, crystal and LC IF filters.

I hope this helps.

Thanks George I’m sure this is some help to the budding  Ic7300 purchaser.

 

Dateline 26/05/2016″New M2″

Greetings From M2
Spring is in full swing and it is antenna season. 6M sporadic E activity is picking up. Now is a good time to check out your 6M system before the peak in June.

The ARRL June VHF contest is in a couple of weeks. Make sure your station is in top shape or add a new band to increase your score.

The current solar cycle is winding down unfortunately. This means the high bands are going to require more than just a dipole or small yagi for the best chance at making contacts. We have 5-7 element, long boom yagis for the high bands to help you take advantage of the brief and weak openings anticipated at the bottom of the cycle.

With fewer bands open, activity is going to be more focused and packed on the low bands. Good low band antennas are an investment that will pay off even as the next cycle peaks.

Check out our new 20/40 dual band yagi. I hear rumors of other low band antennas on the design table also.
QUICK LINKS:http://www.m2inc.com

 

 

 

 

Dateline 23/05/2016″Rules are IN” Check here for the Winter Field Day Rules for 2016 season: http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/index.php

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 21/05/2016″KX2 is here” Elecraft has delivered another small or smallest SDR. see here: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/kx2_datasheet_web.pdf

also here: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/kx2_kx3%20brochure_web2.pdf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date 17/04/2016″Club Mascot leaves Club” Chester has gone silent key. All that know VK4KSY (David) also would have meet Chester an avid contester and companion on our Field Day trips. David wrote:

G’day boys.

Just a short note to advise you that we lost Chester today.
He is now guarding the Banana tree that Ron gave us.

 

We all send out our sincere thoughts to his family.

 

 

 

Dateline 10/04/2016 “Meetings ON” Don’t forget our meetings on tonite. See you there:

 

Dateline 1/04/2016  “FPGA ????”   Icom’s new IC7300 has one of these, no oscillator ?.

A field-programmable gate array (FPGA)
Part of the Microprocessors glossary:
A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is an integrated circuit (IC) that can be programmed in the field after manufacture. FPGAs are similar in principle to, but have vastly wider potential application than, programmable read-only memory (PROM) chips. FPGAs are used by engineers in the design of specialized ICs that can later be produced hard-wired in large quantities for distribution to computer manufacturers and end users. Ultimately, FPGAs might allow computer users to tailor microprocessors to meet their own individual need.

Dateline 30/04/2016″Icom up in the sherwood” Of course its not the forrest. No its official Icom has finally made the sherwood Engineering top 20. Interesting to note the Elecraft K series of radios are still in the top 10, with the Flex 6700 taking top billing. Something that is shown in the graph, is  the larger manufacturers have lifted their game. So if you can afford the cost of their new range, you will get something the rates. See here: http://www.sherweng.com/table.html

 

Dateline 26/04/2016 “Mod for 10mhz reference” VK3HZ details:

Under certain conditions, some XRef-VS boards can generate a spurious output when the XRef is supposedly disabled (i.e. no 10 MHz applied).
The XRef-VS is mainly used for the TS-2000 and the IC-910H fitted with a hi-stab OEM oscillator.

The mod is applicable to XRef-VS boards delivered prior to the start of 2015. Later boards already have this modIfication. From the start of 2016, this mod is incorporated in the redesigned PCB.

** Note – This mod is NOT required and MUST NOT be done to an XRef-VT, XRef-FT or XRef-PLL board. **

You need a 10K 1/8W standard (i.e. not SMD) resistor – the smaller the better. You also need a short length of wire.

The mods are shown in red on the PCB overlays below. Note that these overlays show the full set of components used for both versions (VS and VT). The VS does not have anything where the large square outlines are shown (TCXO and adjustment trimpot, only on the VT).

see full info here:

Dateline 17/04/2016 “WIA has another TRY” WIA has had another go at changing the LCD. Read here :

 

Dateline 14/4/2016″Icom gets an SDR”  have a read in  our preferred radio reviews menu section on this new Icom first SDR rig.

 

Dateline 18/3/2016 “Some one needs help” After some stories about CCARG Wyong FD and reading some of the comments on the logger, like. “No Traders to see and browse new gear or buy it“, (some excuse about VK3 show on couldn’t do both). Lots of used stuff in the car park, probably still there. Some one commented (maybe a management member) on the cost of running such a show, but had no reason for the poor showing of anything relevant to the Hobby. Also a comment on the age of people coming to the show, well if you advertise they will come, (see WIA, there is a lost cause). It may have been a power house back then, but it has lost its way now, (ACMA has seen the light). It seems that the people are going to VK3 in droves and the ages are 15-50 years (?), so it seems some one is trying hard to get younger members. Any way this is the report gleamed by the site from the comments made by others.

VK4 has 3-4 shows in the immediate area.  2-3 in the north and west, 1 on the south coast. With an average age about 55 with people coming from northern NSW. It could be said that most of the doable shows are either visited or have a stand at these shows, selling the club wears for $$$$$. Not one trader from the southern states seems to take time to visit these shows, Manufacturers it seems are not interested in investing in sales to this hobby, we don’t need to see or buy new product. Of ( Icom Yaesu etc ). Maybe the hobby is dying as suggest by some. Leave it to you.

 

 

Dateline 14/3/2016″New Boss” Well it appears, the AGM went well and all positions were filled.  Congratulations to all office bearers and the new year is in front of us all. And it goes without saying to thank all out going office bearers, for the past 12 months hard work.

 

Dateline 1/3/2016 “AGM Due” 8th March 2016 we be the next Club AGM see you all there with your hands up for the top jobs.

 

Dateline 18/2/2016″CRO does well””Results are in” Summer Field Day 2016 result are here:http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/documents/Summer2016PreliminaryResults.pdf

Dateline 17/02/2016 “Club Project” CRO is calling for inerest in the 3.4 Ghz transverters on offer from Melbourne, need numbers to assist all costs. Please advise CRO for further interest. (See under Club Projects for details on the new Project), as all other projects are finished and running.

 

Dateline 13/02/2016 “Small turn out” Caboolture radio club had it’s Ham Fest today. We had a  troop there but they reported average takings and low attendances.

Dateline 12/02/2016 “New Directors WIA” check out here:

January 2016 newsletter

Dateline 26/1/2016 “Results maybe in” check here for results:

http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/

Did you do it, we did VK4CRO from the new shack.

Dateline ” 22/1/2016 Tropo’s in”  2 metres has be alive for about a week all over the place VK ZL shit everywhere.

Dateline 26/12/2015″Results are in” 2015 Springfield Day results are

Here: http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/

 

Dateline 23/12/2015 “No 60m operation possible in VK”

Date : 22 / 12 / 2015
Author : Jim Linton – VK3PC

While the Amateur Service gained a new band at 5 MHz at the World Radiocommunication Conference last November, it won’t be available in Australia and many other countries for quite a while. In Australia, a number of land-mobile and defence licensees have long had primary status in the 5 MHz band.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority is aware of the decision made by WRC-15 at Geneva, and expects future discussion on it with the Wireless Institute of Australia. Until the ACMA agrees through the Australian Radiofrequency Spectrum Plan or the Licence Condition Determination, no VK radio amateur is allowed to use those frequencies.

There is now only limited access to spot frequencies on 5 MHz by WICEN and the Amateur Radio New South Wales broadcast, but these are under their land-mobile licences and callsigns. So just repeating, despite a decision being made at WRC-15, and access possible in some countries to radio amateurs under their domestic rules, no such decision has been made in Australia. Transmitting by radio amateurs in Australia on 5 MHz is illegal, until the ACMA gives its approval, which may take many years.

Dateline 20/12/2015 “”We would like to Wish all the Members and their families, a Merry Christmas 2015 & a Happy New 2016 Year.
A big thank you for those that have participated with club events this year and looking forward to the next.

 

Dateline 15/12/2015″Xmas Wishes From Afar”Think about this and have you and family a Wonderful Festive Season.
Merry Christmas 2015 and Happy & Great New Year 2016.

Giorgio (George)
SWL IV3 – 57306
Italy 2015

Dateline 3/12/2015″ Don’t Forget The Field Day” Summer Field Day VHF-UHF Field Day 14th-15th January 2016. (not confirmed need helpers), location to be confirmed.

Dateline 1/12/2015 “Xmas is Here” Would like some Xmas celebrations venues, suggest some.

Dateline 14/11/2015 “Gold Coast Heist” The club did well at the gold coast hamfest, thanks go to all that helped.

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline   8/11/2015″ Don’t Forget The Field Day” Spring Field Day VHF-UHF Field Day 14th-15th (not confirmed need helpers), location to be confirmed.

Dateline 9/11/2015 “Meeting on ” Don’t forget this months meeting Tuesday 10th same place @ MtGravatt TAFE.

Dateline 20/9/2015 “Amatuer Radio” Take a look here:

http://www.youtube.com/user/EssexHams

 

Dateline 11/09/2015 “A portable Tower to Geek at” El Presidenti has posted a new version of a portable tower, cost seems the only drawback.

Anyway click here to see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtIFMNd9RnA&feature=youtu.be

 

Dateline 9/09/2015″Must read changes” WIA and ACMA have change the licensing arrangements. The SPECTRA system means a number of changes to the WIA Exams Service that will affect both the assessors and candidates. Read  more…..

Click here : http://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2015/20150904-1/index.php

 

Dateline 8/09/2015″Its on unite” Don’t forget the monthly meetings to-nite at the MtGravatt TAFE.

 

Dateline 8/09/2015″Jobs for who”  WIA will change management status,

Date : 02 / 09 / 2015
Author : Phil Wait – VK2ASD

Dear Members,

In last months edition of AR, I identified the need to review the way the WIA operated to ensure that it continued to meet the needs of the membership. A review of the operation of the WIA office was recently completed and discussed by the WIA Board. As a result it was determined that the existing office structure did not meet our current and future needs. A decision was made to remove the position of Office Manager and replace it with an Executive Officer. As a result Mal Brooks has left the WIA, we thank him for his past service and wish him well for the future.

The Executive Officer position will take a much more active role in the development and implementation of strategies designed to increase membership and improve member services. An advertisement for this role will be published in due course.

Dateline 4/09/2015 “Web Site Whoo’s” Yes the SCARC Sunfeast  is on Pencil in the 12th of this month. A Club official said, “We are having some problems with our web site”.” It is being advertising  in AR Mag, (Aug & Sept issue) and on WIA news Broadcast for the past 3 months and on the club news & call backs every Sunday for the past 8 weeks. The event ” Wombye Sunfest ” is still on for September 12th 2015 at the Woombye hall. Doors open at 9am (7am for sellers) Entry is still $5.00 and that includes a ticket in the lucky door prize.

For any extra detail you can contact Warwick VK4NW at secretary @vk4wis.org

 

 

 

 

Dateline 29/08/2015 “An Ad”  We are one (A Radio Club) give us a go.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline  27/08/2015″Spectrum Review” It’s official.

The Australian Government will implement all the recommendations of the Spectrum Review conducted over 2014-15 by the Department of Communications together with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

Announced on 25 August, a tight program of changes to legislation and regulations will be carried out over the next two years, commencing in October and running through to mid-2017, when the new regime is intended to start.

A single licensing system is the principal feature of what the Government is calling the “new spectrum framework”. The current apparatus, class and spectrum licensing regimes will disappear, to be replaced with licences that set out the conditions of use for spectrum access detailed in a set of key parameters.

Get the skinny here: http://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2 … /index.php

Dateline 24/08/2015″Icom SDR ?” IC7300 released today at the Tokyo Ham fest 2015.

click here for info: https://youtu.be/KX2tvoleXrk

Also click here:http://sdr-radio.com/Blog

 

 

 

Dateline 21/08/2015″Its here 23-23″ Planned 23-on-23 Plus…. so time to get agreement on the operating protocols for the activation event.

Given the feedback from the last 23-on-23 Plus, I think it was agreed that we separate the 23cm from the ‘Plus’ operating so that the 23cm only and ‘home’ stations are able to maximise the opportunity to work as many of the /P stations before we QSY and chase Qs up the bands.

As such, the earlier suggested schedule seems to be the best option:
23cm SSB/CW
10:00am (00:00z) – 11:00am (01:00z)

23cm Plus uWave
11:00am (01:00z) – 2pm (04:00z)

Liaison –
147.000 Repeater (if the RDRC would be happy with that)
40m – 7.150MHz (is that still the recommended QRG?)
Mobile/cell phone
VKLogger iChat ’23&Above’

Unfortunately a few of the 23cm & uWave operators in SE VK4 don’t participate in this Forum, as such it would be appreciated if you could share this information to all interested operators.

 

Dateline 20/08/2015 “Win10 free” Windows 10 free update from win 7.

Things that work as they should on Win7
HRD – The last free version
Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Go! USB (FT-857D audio I/O)
G4ZLP interface – FTDI USB chip (Data for 857/817 etc)
Omni Rig
VKCL
MMSSTV
WSPR
CHIRP

 

Dateline 20/08/2015 “Forward Thinking”August 23 on 23″.“A Queensland & NTH NSW Field day excuse”

The August 23-on-23 will fall on a Sunday. That means it’s time we start planning a 23-on-23+Plus! :crazy:

It means that if we hold true to the original intentions for the 23-on-23, being a weekend those who are keen to further explore a new paths potential can make the effort and head for the hills and work others (and the home stations too). It also means that we can also take the time to activate a other uWave bands on the day too. :om3: :om2:

After the last 23-on-23+Plus I received some negative feedback due to the ‘band swapping’ etc. So before we embark on this one we’ll seek opinions on how we optimise the time and maximise the effort and fun. This will probably require us to consider a more structured approach to the day with band slots etc used to to coordinate activation and also ensure that on each band we achieve maximum activation!

If we can aim for a start time of (say) 10AM, we should be able to structure activity on 23cm through to 3cm and beyond and wrap up by mid afternoon to pack-up and start the drive home.

With ‘just’ seven (7) weeks to go, start considering your plans, booking in radio time with family and planning potential portable site

Dateline 17/08/2015″Gems from the Boss”.

Also found this gem.

 

Dateline 14/08/2015″good watchen” Al Presidenti has given us a site or two on Antenna’ s worth a look.

These were shown at our Tuesday Meeting in August 2015, here are the links to the videos that were shown.

Antenna Fundamentals 1 Propagation

Antenna Fundamentals 2 Directivity

Antenna Fundamentals 3 Bandwidth

Is also under…..Tech Tips

 

Dateline 13/08/2015″1.2 & 2.4 Ghz” seem to be alive and well in VK4, so well that  over the pond groups of ZL’s are talking; building beacons, beams and interest to take part. Great to see, VK Logger seems to stimulate the hobby in the interested and enquiring minds, great too see. Hers a quote:

Hi Guys,
Just to let you know that there are currently a number of 23cm stations on the air down in ZL3-4.
Zl4IV 200+w and good ant at about 300′ ASL
ZL4OL getting 150w amp on the air and has 45 element loop
ZL3NW, Ive got an amp for him something around 150W also a loop beam way up high.
And myself
ZL3RC currently building up 4 x 55 element loop beams and have 4 x XRF286 amps going just need to box them up. Mainly looking at EME long term but would love to work 23cm across the pond.

All we need over this side of the island is a good big E’s cloud over the Tasman and we maybe in business, any sort of ducting propagation isn’t going to work with the Southern Alps in the way 😥

Looking forward to a better session than the one just passed if Im not wrong we only had one very short opening where Geoff ZL3PX worked a VK2 on 2m.

Still haven’t heard your 23cm beacon over there, but listen a lot, one day. (Brisbane VHF Group has upgraded the 23cm beacon just recently).

Cheers

Roger ZL3RC

 

Dateline “12/08/2015 “Results are in” Winter Field Day results have been posted for those interested in their positions. A post on one of the amateur conversation sites has suggested, they would like to see one form of scoring be adopted. Also we had no entry in this years winter field day so the club does not feature. Its back to you.

Clickhere:http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/documents/Winter%20VHF-UHF%20Field%20Day%202015%20Results.pdf

 

 

 

 

Dateline 11/08/2015 “Meeting here to-nite” Its on, the August meeting at the same place, see you there. Mt Gravatt TAFE.  Who will win the raffle prize.

 

Dateline 11/08/2015″Boaties get updated” It appears someone has been reviewing the VHF radio qualifications, to suit the recreational boating regulations, only taken more than a decade. Are you a boater who uses a VHF marine radio in Australian Territorial Waters (within 12 nautical miles of the coast)? You’ll soon be able to apply for a more appropriate marine radio qualification—the .Australian Waters Qualification (AWQ). more here:

http://www.acma.gov.au/sitecore/content/Home/Citizen/Consumer-info/All-about-spectrum/Marine-and-Amateur-Radio/the-awq-will-launch-soon

 

Dateline 10/8/2015″Mag or no Mag”  Magnetic Loop or Small Transmitting Loop antennas are nothing new, however there seems to be an increased interest in these highly misunderstood antennas. Some seek these antennas out of necessity due to their local housing restrictions, or because they don’t have the area available for larger, more conventional antennas and are therefor limited by size restrictions, others know of their true ability. Do they work, ABSOLUTELY, do they work well, ABSOLUTELY. Whether you have one, want to build one, or are just interested in learning more details about these small wonders, this group is for you. Please submit your pictures, ideas, techniques and success’.

 

Dateline 9/08/2015″Meeting on Tuesday” Same place same, great prize!! ” raffle to be won on the night. ” see you there.

 

 

 

 

Dateline 6/8/2015 “WIA LCD update” Its still going the LCD is been resubmitted, all will be announced in the very near future. Would like to see more, click here    : http://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2014/20140901-2/documents/WIA%20-ACMA%20LCD%20remake%20letter-%2011-07-2014%20-%20Sent.pdf

 

Dateline 4/8/2015 “ACMA Shuts Down”   CMA licensing shut-down announced

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced that it will suspend all apparatus licence processing from Friday August 14 to Tuesday September 1, to replace its licensing and frequency processing system. The ACMA in announcing this two week closure, acknowledges the need to bring a more efficient process to Apparatus licences, which are widely used, including by the Amateur Service.

Announced on the WIA website here: http://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2 … /index.php

Announced on the ACMA website here:  http://www.acma.gov.au/sitecore/content … ugust-2015

 

Dateline 22/07/2015″Coffers still rise” Three club members working hard for the club. Take a well earned rest, at the Caboolture radio ham fest last saturday. VK4 NE CRO and NEF, were court taking a break at the club refreshment area, (snap by caboolture club member).

 

 

 

 

 

Dateline 21/07/2015″WE WHERE DOWN”  Sorry to all that couldn’t enter the club site, we had an update to the software to fix.

 

Dateline 18/07/2015 “Planes for Antennas” It has been report by many of our members that the program Air Scout has been helping to making more contacts on 2 metres and higher bands. Boasting longer and precise contacts with easy to program a schedule of contacts in the early morning weak signal arena, covering eastern states during the week, and more use for the digital signals during the weekend.

 

Dateline 14/07/2015 “Club Meeting” Last nights meeting was very brisk and informative. Talks were give by Peter on Rasbery pi and using different applications, Col gave a talk on Gippstech 2015 with a few tips and pics. Meeting closed rather late and the nation is still running.

 

 

Dateline 12/07/2015 “ACMA misses the point” It appears that the LCD is in and dusted advanced calls have been the winners and Foundation and Standard call staying as what appears as, no changes. They have missed the chance to elevated a few restrictions and get more use of some of the less used bands. see here: https://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2015L01113

Dateline 6/07/2015″ 23 0n 23 “.

Based on the positive feedback from the last 23-on-23, lets run the same approach for the next one…. July 23, 2015! :thumbup:

Format as follows:

Phone/CW
Start time: 10:00z / 8:00pm AEST / 9:00pm ADST

Stations in BNE and more southern stations beaming north
08:00pm – 08:30pm / 10:00z – 10:30z
QRG: 1,296.100MHz

Stations in BNE and more northern stations beaming south
08:30pm – 09:00pm / 10:30z – 11:00z
QRG: 1,296.100MHz

Digital
Start time: 11:00z / 9:00pm AEST
QRG: 1,296.225MHz (Mode JT65)

 

Dateline 22/06/2015″Watch your ???” Cro sent us a tip on power amplifiers.

From: Jack Chomley <vk4jrc@gmail.com>

Reply-To: <members@cqara.org.au>

To: cqara members-only <members@cqara.org.au>

Sent: 18/06/2015 9:11:38 AM

Subject: [Members] Fwd:

Ray,

My remote diagnostics indicate your are transmitting too much power, and overloading your power supply. Please reduce power immediately to 10 watts, for at least a month…….to allow it to cool down
73,

Jack

10801744_10204869131663248_6310902144190424981_n

Dateline 19/06/2015″ACMA under fire” The minister of commications Malcolm Turnbull,has asked for a review of ACMA in one of its bid to trim government spending,

see more here: http://www.itwire.com/government-tech-news/govenrment-tech-policy/68353-turnbull-announces-acma-shakeup

Dateline 12/06/2015 “Second reminder”The Rules for the Winter VHF-UHF Field Day – happening over 20-21 June – have been finalised and posted to the VHF-UHF Field Day page on the WIA website here: http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/

The page content has also been updated. Read it all carefully. It’s new, and fresh. 🙂

Two Field Day enthusiasts – Lou VK3ALB and Andrew VK3MIX – have developed a useful online application, dubbed “Contest Radar”, where you can post your location and see other stations’ locations. Gotta be better than heading for the hills with little or no idea who’s gonna be out there and where! 8)

Advertise your location/s on the Contest Radar website here:

http://www.contestradar.com/

Dateline 9/06/2015 “Check Field Day Rules” Please read new rules on the next two Field Days.

http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/documents/Winter%202015%20Rules_UPDATED_FINAL.pdf

Dateline 8/06/2015 “New Contest Manger hits back” WIA Vhf/Uhf field day’s have been published.

Upcoming Contest Date & Time

Winter 2015 – Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June.

Spring 2015 – Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November.