This has never really "floated my boat", but it may appeal to some especially when HF conditions are poor. Also, if you just want to chat this may appeal. Unlike "real" radio, this does not need real transceivers or HF propagation. Instead the "bearer" is the internet.
See https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/virtual .
26 Mar 2018
On 2m FT8 again
This mode/band never fails. Although only 0934z I have already spotted 16 unique stations in 4 countries. A recent TX period (2.5W) resulted in a couple of spots with the best being in Devon.
UPDATE 1910z: 62 uniques in 7 countries so far today on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 2112z: 71 uniques in 7 countries currently on 2m FT8 today.
UPDATE 1910z: 62 uniques in 7 countries so far today on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 2112z: 71 uniques in 7 countries currently on 2m FT8 today.
25 Mar 2018
BST and GMT - NOT amateur radio
It will take me a while to realise GMT is 1 hour different from BST. Already I have had to correct a posting on this blog!
Philosophical questions - NOT amateur radio
These sort of questions have been mentioned here before. As one get older, I guess thoughts turn to our finiteness more and more.
Those with a religious belief probably believe in some sort of continuity after death in a form we cannot understand. Some believe we just cease to exist: we were not aware of life before we were born, so why worry about death?
I guess the truth is we just do not know. With quantum physics and multiverses, it is a brave person who says he/she knows. My own view is all religions are struggles to come to terms with our finiteness. None is probably right, but all hint at a deeper meaning.
If we have a faith at all, what we believe is largely an accident of where we were born. If in the UK or USA were probably more likely to be Christian, whereas if we were born in India we are more likely to be Hindu. There are 1.03 billion Hindus in the world!
It probably hinges on whether or not we believe existence "exists" beyond our own minds. One thing is certain: we all die and we all struggle with our finiteness.
Those with a religious belief probably believe in some sort of continuity after death in a form we cannot understand. Some believe we just cease to exist: we were not aware of life before we were born, so why worry about death?
I guess the truth is we just do not know. With quantum physics and multiverses, it is a brave person who says he/she knows. My own view is all religions are struggles to come to terms with our finiteness. None is probably right, but all hint at a deeper meaning.
If we have a faith at all, what we believe is largely an accident of where we were born. If in the UK or USA were probably more likely to be Christian, whereas if we were born in India we are more likely to be Hindu. There are 1.03 billion Hindus in the world!
It probably hinges on whether or not we believe existence "exists" beyond our own minds. One thing is certain: we all die and we all struggle with our finiteness.
The rise and rise of FT8
There is no doubt in my mind that FT8 has been phenomenal.
Every day this new digital mode seems to attract more and more people. It works with the briefest of openings and the software needed is free. It takes up about 60Hz only and works with weak signals. On a recent (rare for me) visit to 20m, DX from all over the world was spotted.
Even on 2m VHF, most days I spot signals from all over western Europe under flat conditions even with my omni antenna.
What will the Es season bring on 6m this year with this mode?
See https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/hf/hf-ft8
Every day this new digital mode seems to attract more and more people. It works with the briefest of openings and the software needed is free. It takes up about 60Hz only and works with weak signals. On a recent (rare for me) visit to 20m, DX from all over the world was spotted.
Even on 2m VHF, most days I spot signals from all over western Europe under flat conditions even with my omni antenna.
What will the Es season bring on 6m this year with this mode?
See https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/hf/hf-ft8
Slow decline?
It has been my view for some time that amateur radio is in a slow decline.
Recent figures of licenced amateurs in India on Southgate News paints a mixed picture. Although there quite a few new licences, the number of renewals indicates a gradual decline, on average. In the UK most radio amateurs are older men. Yes, there are exceptions, but unless more young people are attracted and retained, the hobby will be in terminal decline. As the market shrinks there will be fewer products, fewer magazines and fewer adverts. The future is in our hands.
See http://southgatearc.org/news/2018/march/india-releases-ham-radio-license-figures.htm#.WrdqxUxFzIU
Recent figures of licenced amateurs in India on Southgate News paints a mixed picture. Although there quite a few new licences, the number of renewals indicates a gradual decline, on average. In the UK most radio amateurs are older men. Yes, there are exceptions, but unless more young people are attracted and retained, the hobby will be in terminal decline. As the market shrinks there will be fewer products, fewer magazines and fewer adverts. The future is in our hands.
See http://southgatearc.org/news/2018/march/india-releases-ham-radio-license-figures.htm#.WrdqxUxFzIU
Sunspots - Sunday March 25th 2018
Solar flux is 68 today and the sunspot number still zero. A=9 and K=4.
Auction of Promises - NOT amateur radio
2m FT8
Same pattern as yesterday. After a brief TX period (2.5W, omni antenna). 4 spots, but no QSOs. Best DX on TX was GW6TEO (371km). On RX 14 uniques in 6 countries already at 0945z.
Most days at least one person has their QTH locator showing them in the middle of the sea. Today we have someone who thinks he is in the middle of the English Channel! I expect he will soon realise his mistake.
UPDATE 0937z: 23 uniques in 6 countries currently.
UPDATE 1035z: 40 uniques in 6 countries.
UPDATE 1230z: Well we still have 2 stations on 2m FT8 with webbed feet. One is in the North Sea and one in the English Channel 😕. Now 46 uniques in 6 countries in last 6 hours on 2m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1938z: Now 92 uniques in 8 countries in just the last 12 hours on 2m FT8. And these are flat conditions. Best DX on 2m FT8 RX is DK2DTF (644km). Unbelievable.
UPDATE 2017z: Now 94 uniques in 9 countries in last 12 hours. Incredible.
Most days at least one person has their QTH locator showing them in the middle of the sea. Today we have someone who thinks he is in the middle of the English Channel! I expect he will soon realise his mistake.
UPDATE 0937z: 23 uniques in 6 countries currently.
UPDATE 1035z: 40 uniques in 6 countries.
UPDATE 1230z: Well we still have 2 stations on 2m FT8 with webbed feet. One is in the North Sea and one in the English Channel 😕. Now 46 uniques in 6 countries in last 6 hours on 2m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1938z: Now 92 uniques in 8 countries in just the last 12 hours on 2m FT8. And these are flat conditions. Best DX on 2m FT8 RX is DK2DTF (644km). Unbelievable.
UPDATE 2017z: Now 94 uniques in 9 countries in last 12 hours. Incredible.
24 Mar 2018
ICOM D-star portable
See http://southgatearc.org/news/2018/march/icom-id-31e-plus.htm#.WrbLokx2vIU
Village Cafe - NOT amateur radio
View - NOT amateur radio
2m FT8
Once again, I am on 2m FT8. After a brief period on TX calling CQ (no replies, but spotted by a couple of Gs), I am now RX again. At the moment (0952z) I have received 24 unique stations in 6 countries already.
UPDATE 1242z: Currently 43 uniques in 6 countries in the last 6 hours.
UPDATE 1550z: Now 63 uniques in 7 countries today alone on 2m FT8. This mode is getting more popular daily. It is good to see so much activity in flat conditions.
UPDATE 1742z: Now an amazing 76 uniques in 7 countries already.
UPDATE 2146z: Currently 81 unique stations in 7 countries. Remember these are flat conditions and with just an omni antenna!!
UPDATE 1242z: Currently 43 uniques in 6 countries in the last 6 hours.
UPDATE 1550z: Now 63 uniques in 7 countries today alone on 2m FT8. This mode is getting more popular daily. It is good to see so much activity in flat conditions.
UPDATE 1742z: Now an amazing 76 uniques in 7 countries already.
UPDATE 2146z: Currently 81 unique stations in 7 countries. Remember these are flat conditions and with just an omni antenna!!
British Summer Time - NOT amateur radio
British Summer Time (BST) starts tonight. This seems hard to believe after (what for us) has been a hardish winter. Some parts may even see snow over Easter. As far as I am concerned this news about BST is great. Evenings get 1 hour lighter and I do not care about the mornings.
We lose 1 hour of sleep tonight when the clocks go forward.
We lose 1 hour of sleep tonight when the clocks go forward.
Sunspots - Saturday March 24th 2018
Solar flux is 67 today and the sunspot number zero. A=16 and K=2.
23 Mar 2018
472kHz WSPR RX
For about an hour now, I have been on 472kHz WSPR RX. So far 6 unique stations spotted with best DX EA3AER (1142km).
UPDATE 2218z: So far this evening 8 unique stations spotted on 472kHz WSPR using the earth-electrode "antenna".
UPDATE 2218z: So far this evening 8 unique stations spotted on 472kHz WSPR using the earth-electrode "antenna".
QRP Marathon in April
This came in from Oleg today:
Dear QRPers,
after a week, from 1'st to 30'th April annually QRP Marathon "Look In
the Horizon" have a place. Remind rules on the Club 72 (club72.su) web
page, please. Registration form will be open in 00.01 UTC April 1'st.
Check-in and add your QSOs on the on-line form daily.
Have enjoy and wish you all good "Luk" collection!
72! Oleg RX3G / KH6OB "Mr. 72"
Dear QRPers,
after a week, from 1'st to 30'th April annually QRP Marathon "Look In
the Horizon" have a place. Remind rules on the Club 72 (club72.su) web
page, please. Registration form will be open in 00.01 UTC April 1'st.
Check-in and add your QSOs on the on-line form daily.
Have enjoy and wish you all good "Luk" collection!
72! Oleg RX3G / KH6OB "Mr. 72"
More rallies
25 MARCH 2018 : CALLINGTON RADIO RALLY
Callington Town Hall, Callington, Cornwall PL17 7BD. Doors open at 10am and admittance is £2.00. There will be a Bring & Buy and trade stands. Catering available on-site. Ample free parking in the adjacent carpark. Rally organised jointly by the Devon & Cornwall Repeater Group and Callington Amateur Radio Society (CARS). More information and bookings from Roger on 07854 088882 or email 2e0rph@gmail.com.
25 MARCH 2018 : 33rd WYTHALL RADIO CLUB HAMFEST
Wythall House, Silver Street, Wythall B47 6LZ. Doors open at 10am with access for disabled visitors from approximately 9:30am. Free on-site parking is available. Admission £4.50 with 4 separate halls of traders including club stands and a Bring & Buy. Information from Ian Reeve on 01386 839655 or by e-mail to wrc4hallsradio@outlook.com [http://www.wythallradioclub.
25 MARCH 2018 : CAUSEWAY COAST GLENS ARC RADIO RALLY
Bushmills Community Centre, 14 Dunluce Road BT57 8QG. Doors open from 11am to 4pm with disabled guests gaining access at 10.45am. Admittance is £3. There is on-site parking and on-site disabled parking. Light refreshments available ie tea, coffee, sausage rolls sandwiches, etc. There will be a Bring & Buy, RSGB Book Stall and trade stands. Stevie Morrow, MI0ULK, 07544 923 956, CausewayCoast_GlensARC@yahoo.
A list of rallies can be found at http://rsgb.org/main/news/
Callington Town Hall, Callington, Cornwall PL17 7BD. Doors open at 10am and admittance is £2.00. There will be a Bring & Buy and trade stands. Catering available on-site. Ample free parking in the adjacent carpark. Rally organised jointly by the Devon & Cornwall Repeater Group and Callington Amateur Radio Society (CARS). More information and bookings from Roger on 07854 088882 or email 2e0rph@gmail.com.
The Callington rally was the first rally I ever attended back in the 1960s. I went with a fellow SWL called Derek Wilson. At the time I coveted a Heathkit Twoer. Must have been 1966?
25 MARCH 2018 : 33rd WYTHALL RADIO CLUB HAMFEST
Wythall House, Silver Street, Wythall B47 6LZ. Doors open at 10am with access for disabled visitors from approximately 9:30am. Free on-site parking is available. Admission £4.50 with 4 separate halls of traders including club stands and a Bring & Buy. Information from Ian Reeve on 01386 839655 or by e-mail to wrc4hallsradio@outlook.com [http://www.wythallradioclub.
25 MARCH 2018 : CAUSEWAY COAST GLENS ARC RADIO RALLY
Bushmills Community Centre, 14 Dunluce Road BT57 8QG. Doors open from 11am to 4pm with disabled guests gaining access at 10.45am. Admittance is £3. There is on-site parking and on-site disabled parking. Light refreshments available ie tea, coffee, sausage rolls sandwiches, etc. There will be a Bring & Buy, RSGB Book Stall and trade stands. Stevie Morrow, MI0ULK, 07544 923 956, CausewayCoast_GlensARC@yahoo.
A list of rallies can be found at http://rsgb.org/main/news/
Trade war? - NOT amateur radio
Although I understand President Trump's wish to impose heavy tariffs on steel imported at knock-down prices from China, he must know the Chinese will likely retaliate against the USA. A trade war could follow.
As many in the USA could lose jobs as are gained in the steel industry. He is treading a very dangerous path. Those "adding value" in the USA (such as car manufacturers) will have to bear higher costs with steel costing more.
There is no guarantee that the republicans will come out on top in the mid term elections in the USA later in the year. We have to be very careful and realise we live in a very interconnected world these days. The USA does not, and cannot, live in splendid isolation.
We cannot turn clocks back to the 1950s in the USA or the UK. This is 2018 and not 1952.
As many in the USA could lose jobs as are gained in the steel industry. He is treading a very dangerous path. Those "adding value" in the USA (such as car manufacturers) will have to bear higher costs with steel costing more.
There is no guarantee that the republicans will come out on top in the mid term elections in the USA later in the year. We have to be very careful and realise we live in a very interconnected world these days. The USA does not, and cannot, live in splendid isolation.
We cannot turn clocks back to the 1950s in the USA or the UK. This is 2018 and not 1952.
2m FT8
Since just before breakfast, I have been on 2m FT8. After a very brief TX period (2.5W to my omni) in which I was copied in Devon, I have been mainly on RX. So far 16 unique stations spotted in 6 countries and it is only 1005z.
UPDATE 1310z: Currently 32 unique stations in 7 countries spotted today on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 1455z: The score is currently 35 uniques in 7 countries. A few minutes ago I called CQ but got no replies, although I was spotted by 3 Gs (best DX 334km - not bad for 2.5W and an omni!).
UPDATE 1604z: Now 39 uniques in 7 countries. A brief TX period was disappointing with just 2 people spotting me, with the best DX just 80km.
UPDATE 1704z: Now 45 uniques in 7 countries spotted on 2m FT8 RX today.
UPDATE 1310z: Currently 32 unique stations in 7 countries spotted today on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 1455z: The score is currently 35 uniques in 7 countries. A few minutes ago I called CQ but got no replies, although I was spotted by 3 Gs (best DX 334km - not bad for 2.5W and an omni!).
UPDATE 1604z: Now 39 uniques in 7 countries. A brief TX period was disappointing with just 2 people spotting me, with the best DX just 80km.
UPDATE 1704z: Now 45 uniques in 7 countries spotted on 2m FT8 RX today.
Sunspots - Friday March 23rd 2018
Solar flux is 67 today and the sunspot number still zero. A=7 and K=3. Not promising!
22 Mar 2018
Indoor 160m antenna
Sadly, since then, the local noise level has gradually crept upwards.
See https://sites.google.com/site/g3xbmqrp3/antennas/160m_loft_ant .
Home QTH
Bank incompetence - NOT amateur radio
My father-in-law would have turned in his grave.
Yesterday, because a bank letter was unclear, I needed to contact my bank. 33 minutes later and 3 people later, I got my answer. 2 of these people were overseas. Not one knew who I was. A clearer letter would have made this call totally unnecessary. Could they write this basic data in the letter? No - idiots.
This week, also, we went into a different bank to close 2 accounts that managed to lose money! Then they wrote a letter to say they could not verify the bank details into which funds should be paid. Thankfully, they enclosed a first class stamped envelope. Whilst in the branch all details could have been verified. Again, idiots.
Maybe I am just a grumpy old man, but is it really too much to ask for a decent, competent and personal service? Every bank, it seems, makes billions in profits. Maybe they should try harder at making customers feeling more valued. They could start with their staff.
Yesterday, because a bank letter was unclear, I needed to contact my bank. 33 minutes later and 3 people later, I got my answer. 2 of these people were overseas. Not one knew who I was. A clearer letter would have made this call totally unnecessary. Could they write this basic data in the letter? No - idiots.
This week, also, we went into a different bank to close 2 accounts that managed to lose money! Then they wrote a letter to say they could not verify the bank details into which funds should be paid. Thankfully, they enclosed a first class stamped envelope. Whilst in the branch all details could have been verified. Again, idiots.
Why would my father-in-law turn in his grave? Because, years ago, banks were personal, you could ring your local branch and bank officials were respected. Now you are just a number in a call centre overseas. I suspect most bank staff have, maybe, a training in domestic studies or football. Most appear to know nothing about banking. Most seem stupid and incompetent.
Maybe I am just a grumpy old man, but is it really too much to ask for a decent, competent and personal service? Every bank, it seems, makes billions in profits. Maybe they should try harder at making customers feeling more valued. They could start with their staff.
Rally
24 MARCH 2018 : LAUGHARNE RADIO RALLY & MICROWAVE SYMPOSIUM
Millennium Memorial Hall, Clifton Street, Laugharne SA33 4QG. Doors open 10am with disabled visitors gaining access at 9.45am. Entry is £3. Matthew, 07936 152 846, Matthew.twyman63@btinternet.
A list of rallies can be found at http://rsgb.org/main/news/
Laugharne is in Wales.
Millennium Memorial Hall, Clifton Street, Laugharne SA33 4QG. Doors open 10am with disabled visitors gaining access at 9.45am. Entry is £3. Matthew, 07936 152 846, Matthew.twyman63@btinternet.
A list of rallies can be found at http://rsgb.org/main/news/
Laugharne is in Wales.
OFCOM and mobile phone repeaters
Some mobile phone repeaters will be licence free in future.
See http://ofcom.cmail20.com/t/ViewEmail/i/5543AFE536DFD1E52540EF23F30FEDED/59D1BD3EA2F08127C67FD2F38AC4859C
See http://ofcom.cmail20.com/t/ViewEmail/i/5543AFE536DFD1E52540EF23F30FEDED/59D1BD3EA2F08127C67FD2F38AC4859C
Hacking? - NOT amateur radio
For a while now, my own blogs appear to have not been the targets of hackers.
Meanwhile, far more important systems are vulnerable to cyber attacks such as the NHS, banks and our fuel infrastructure. No doubt our "back room boys" in MI5 and GCHQ and the like are keeping a more watchful eye after the nerve gas attacks in Salisbury on an ex Russian spy and his daughter.
There is little doubt that cyber warfare is a real danger to any nation these days.
Meanwhile, far more important systems are vulnerable to cyber attacks such as the NHS, banks and our fuel infrastructure. No doubt our "back room boys" in MI5 and GCHQ and the like are keeping a more watchful eye after the nerve gas attacks in Salisbury on an ex Russian spy and his daughter.
There is little doubt that cyber warfare is a real danger to any nation these days.
2m FT8
After yesterday's success with in excess of 77 stations spotted in 10 countries, I am again active on 2m FT8. A couple of brief TX periods (2.5W to my omnidirectional antenna) resulted in spots from as far away as Pembrokeshire and Devon. On RX, I have (so far) spotted 15 unique stations in 5 countries.
UPDATE 1041z: For the first time I used the "auto sequence" feature in WSJT-X V1.9 to have a QSO with G8ALS (127km). Still 2.5W to the omni antenna here. In all,7 stations have spotted me today on TX. My "score" today is 22 uniques in 6 countries on 2m FT8. Of course, to spot a station only needs 15 seconds of opening (maybe less as I am no expert!), so even the briefest opening gets spotted.
UPDATE 1230z: Now 25 uniques in 6 countries spotted today on 2m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1600z: Now 44 uniques in 8 countries today, so far, on 2m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1632z: Now 45 uniques today. A couple of stations seem unable to get their QTH locators right - either that or they like swimming in the North Sea. I suspect it is the former!
UPDATE 1720z: A very easy QSO with G8NRY (158km) in IO93 square. He answered my CQ call. 2.5W to my omni antenna on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 2050z: The map shows where my 2.5W (into an omnidirectional antenna) was copied in the last few hours on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 1041z: For the first time I used the "auto sequence" feature in WSJT-X V1.9 to have a QSO with G8ALS (127km). Still 2.5W to the omni antenna here. In all,7 stations have spotted me today on TX. My "score" today is 22 uniques in 6 countries on 2m FT8. Of course, to spot a station only needs 15 seconds of opening (maybe less as I am no expert!), so even the briefest opening gets spotted.
UPDATE 1230z: Now 25 uniques in 6 countries spotted today on 2m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1600z: Now 44 uniques in 8 countries today, so far, on 2m FT8 RX.
UPDATE 1632z: Now 45 uniques today. A couple of stations seem unable to get their QTH locators right - either that or they like swimming in the North Sea. I suspect it is the former!
UPDATE 1720z: A very easy QSO with G8NRY (158km) in IO93 square. He answered my CQ call. 2.5W to my omni antenna on 2m FT8.
UPDATE 2050z: The map shows where my 2.5W (into an omnidirectional antenna) was copied in the last few hours on 2m FT8.
Sunspots - Thursday March 22nd 2018
Solar flux is 68 today and the sunspot number remains zero. A=4 and K=1.
21 Mar 2018
MLS Open Day to demonstrate IC7610
Although well outside of my price bracket, you may be interested in this special demonstration day featuring the ICOM IC7610 transceiver. At just under £3.5k, there is no way I am ever going to get one unless Father Christmas decides I have been a very good boy and comes in April! Even the PSU is just under £500, which to me is silly money. As I have said before, each to their own when it comes to disposable income. Some spend silly money on other hobbies and I am not one to judge.
See https://www.hamradio.co.uk/amateur-radio-base-station-radio-icom-base-station-radio/icom/icom-ic-7610-now-in-stock-pd-7032.php
See https://www.hamradio.co.uk/amateur-radio-base-station-radio-icom-base-station-radio/icom/icom-ic-7610-now-in-stock-pd-7032.php
Hidden disabilities - NOT amateur radio
Like many, since my stroke in 2013 I have had a hidden disability. Many say, "you do look well" or similar. Indeed to most people I look just fine.
What few realise is that for over 4 years I have felt unbelievably giddy when on my feet. Looking up is dreadful for me. It is like being permanently drunk. Just walking along a pavement (sidewalk) can be troublesome. Crossing a roads is a nightmare. Rushing along is now very hard. Add to that my voice is now very poor. Just chatting is now much harder to the point that I rarely start a chat because others will probably not understand. I'll have to repeat myself, which is exhausting.
Others too may have impairments that are hidden, making people think there is nothing wrong. To coin a well known expression, "never judge a book by its cover". Other people may well be fighting a battle inside that we cannot see or experience. Never, ever, under-estimate the struggles others may have to deal with.
One thing I have learnt is never judge others. Inside they may be having a very rough time, be it physical or mental.
What few realise is that for over 4 years I have felt unbelievably giddy when on my feet. Looking up is dreadful for me. It is like being permanently drunk. Just walking along a pavement (sidewalk) can be troublesome. Crossing a roads is a nightmare. Rushing along is now very hard. Add to that my voice is now very poor. Just chatting is now much harder to the point that I rarely start a chat because others will probably not understand. I'll have to repeat myself, which is exhausting.
Others too may have impairments that are hidden, making people think there is nothing wrong. To coin a well known expression, "never judge a book by its cover". Other people may well be fighting a battle inside that we cannot see or experience. Never, ever, under-estimate the struggles others may have to deal with.
One thing I have learnt is never judge others. Inside they may be having a very rough time, be it physical or mental.
Overnight on 472kHz WSPR
Last night, I stayed on 472kHz WSPR RX until the battery in the shack PC "died". This happened a little after 0310z. No new stations were spotted after I went to bed. In all, 12 unique stations were spotted using the earth-electrode "antenna" in the ground.
Sunspots - Wednesday March 21st 2018
Solar flux is 69 today and the sunspot number zero. A=8 and K=2.
2m FT8
Just before breakfast I went on 2m FT8 RX, after a few minutes on TX during which short time my 2.5W was spotted by 3 stations.
Up to now (it is only 0908z) I have spotted 16 unique stations in 5 countries. Best DX on RX is EI3KD (583km).
UPDATE 1202z: Already 35 uniques spotted in 6 countries on 2m FT8 RX since breakfast.
UPDATE 1635z: Now 42 uniques in 6 countries with best DX OZ1BEF (721km) in central Jutland, Denmark.
UPDATE 2028z: 64 uniques in 9 countries. What a day!!
Up to now (it is only 0908z) I have spotted 16 unique stations in 5 countries. Best DX on RX is EI3KD (583km).
UPDATE 1202z: Already 35 uniques spotted in 6 countries on 2m FT8 RX since breakfast.
UPDATE 1635z: Now 42 uniques in 6 countries with best DX OZ1BEF (721km) in central Jutland, Denmark.
UPDATE 2028z: 64 uniques in 9 countries. What a day!!
20 Mar 2018
472kHz WSPR RX
For the last hour I have been charging the shack PC's battery, so that I can operate on PC battery power this evening. Unbeknown, I had the 472kHz RX connected, even though the noise floor would have been high. Remarkably, 5 unique stations were spotted with the best DX LA2XPA (1310km). I am now operating on battery power with a lower noise floor for the rest of the evening.
UPDATE 2306z: 12 uniques so far. I'll leave things running until the PC battery dies,which should be about 0300z. I doubt I'll spot much more though.
UPDATE 2306z: 12 uniques so far. I'll leave things running until the PC battery dies,which should be about 0300z. I doubt I'll spot much more though.
10m FT8 RX
Since just after breakfast, I have been on 28MHz (10m) FT8 RX. Only 2 stations spotted with best DX 9A7JCY (1424km).
UPDATE 1930z: As well as a few EU stations I spotted a couple of Brazilians and VP8LP (12773km) in the Falkland Is on 10m FT8 today. Oh, by the way, the sunspot number is zero!
UPDATE 2012z: Wonder what antenna other people recommend for 10m? Presently I am just using a low Par triband end fed, which is not ideal on 10m. Some have recommended the Solacon I-MAX 2000, which is a CB 5/8 vertical.
UPDATE 1930z: As well as a few EU stations I spotted a couple of Brazilians and VP8LP (12773km) in the Falkland Is on 10m FT8 today. Oh, by the way, the sunspot number is zero!
UPDATE 2012z: Wonder what antenna other people recommend for 10m? Presently I am just using a low Par triband end fed, which is not ideal on 10m. Some have recommended the Solacon I-MAX 2000, which is a CB 5/8 vertical.
Cottage - NOT amateur radio
OFCOM - again about auctions!
Why do they spend so much time and effort telling us this again and again?
See http://ofcom.cmail19.com/t/ViewEmail/i/05E79BE1B139A0112540EF23F30FEDED/59D1BD3EA2F08127C67FD2F38AC4859C
In my mind they should work a bit harder on actual enforcement and less on dribble. As I have said many times, we live in a democracy and others may have totally different views. This is my personal view.
What I see is the law being flouted and little being done to make sure those who break the law are tracked down. I am thinking of dirty SMPSUs and similar.
In the days of the GPO they actually enforced the laws and were less bothered about auctions. Yes, my blood is boiling. All we seem to be driven by these days is money and how to make it. Nothing else, it would appear, matters. Meanwhile, Rome burns.
See http://ofcom.cmail19.com/t/ViewEmail/i/05E79BE1B139A0112540EF23F30FEDED/59D1BD3EA2F08127C67FD2F38AC4859C
In my mind they should work a bit harder on actual enforcement and less on dribble. As I have said many times, we live in a democracy and others may have totally different views. This is my personal view.
What I see is the law being flouted and little being done to make sure those who break the law are tracked down. I am thinking of dirty SMPSUs and similar.
In the days of the GPO they actually enforced the laws and were less bothered about auctions. Yes, my blood is boiling. All we seem to be driven by these days is money and how to make it. Nothing else, it would appear, matters. Meanwhile, Rome burns.
472kHz (630m) WSPR last evening
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