Rip off? - NOT amateur radio

As a local resident, we are entitled to a pass that usually grants you access to any Cambridge college, not just King's. 

Several years ago it lasted several years. 

This year it has risen by 33% and only lasts a year. To me this seems like a rip-off when King's College, Cambridge has plenty of money.

You would have thought they would want to encourage locals!

Waiting for the bus - NOT amateur radio

We go into Cambridge by bus as it’s free if you’re old! 😉. This was at the bus station in the city. 

Note how many are on their devices!! I think everyone!

6m QRP FT8 (Wednesday)

My gear (IC-705 and V2000 vertical omni) was turned on at about 0925z. 

Stations spotting my 6m QRP FT8 today

UPDATE 2110z:  Spotted by 37 stations. QRT now.

10m 500mW WSPR (Wednesday)

 My beacon was turned on at about 0925z.

UPDATE 2122:  Spotted by 26 stations with the furthermost ZD7GB (7607km). QRT now. See table.

Rose Crescent, Cambridge - NOT amateur radio

 

This is a pedestrian walk in the heart of the city. At this time of year it is quiet.

Wednesday Plans

 Later this morning I think I'll try 10m WSPR with my 500mW beacon and 6m QRP FT8 with the IC-705.

Cambridge in winter - NOT amateur radio

The photo shows the Wren library in Cambridge in winter. Brave folks on the punt!

70cm activity contest yesterday

Last evening I took part for about 20 minutes in the 70cm activity contest (UKAC). 

As usual, I was running 10W to my 144MHz big-wheel omni. 

3 stations were worked, with the furthermost a portable in Wales.

Sunspots - Wednesday January 15th

Solar flux is 166 and the SSN 106. A=12 and K=3.

FT8

This digital mode is like the UK yeast spread Marmite in that some love it whereas others hate it. 

Personally, I am somewhat ambivalent. Because of my poor voice following my 2013 stroke WSPR and FT8 get used mostly.  FM and SSB even AM get used as well, but less frequently.

This is an introduction to FT8 for beginners.

The danger with FT8 is people cannot chance upon amateur radio as many of us did.