For some people these could be very useful.
They use the cellular network as the bearer rather than the ionosphere, so the range is effectively the whole planet. If you just want to talk, they might be ideal as no amateur licence is needed.
They are like 2m or 70cm handhelds.
My 5W to the V2000 was turned on at about 2030z.
UPDATE 2142z: 4 stations have spotted me including 2 in Germany. Now QRT.
My gear was turned on at about 1000z.
UPDATE 1102z: So far, spotted 23 stations.
UPDATE 1533z: Still 23, so something must be wrong.
UPDATE 1715z: Now, 75 stations spotted. I think the TX audio must be muted as the TX still does not work. I wonder if it is RF getting into the PC? I may try with lower power. e.g. 1W instead of 5W. Going on 5W 6m FT8 TX seemed fine suggesting RF is disturbing something. Now QRT on 10m FT8 RX.
Summits On The Air (SOTA) activity is becoming increasingly popular as well as Parks On The Air (POTA). People climb mountains and hills to "activate" certain summits. Especially for SOTA, weight can be an important factor if the gear has to be lugged up steep hills or mountains.
LNR Precision make some gear aimed at these users. They are compact and lightweight.
See https://www.lnrprecision.com/mountain-toppers/
The photo shows the postbox near our co-op shop looking very festive.
Today is the shortest day .
Even though the mornings get a bit darker later for a few weeks, the evenings are already starting to get darker slightly later. By the end of January it is really noticeable.
It’s odd how we adapt, but I do prefer nights getting darker later.
The "holy grail" of EV batteries is greater range, costs lower than lithium ion, no rare earths, fast charging times, long life an...
