Archive for category Uncategorized
Another antenna issue…
Posted by jeff in Shack Stuff, Uncategorized on March 31st, 2009
Last week it was a high SWR on the beam, today my 6-BTV vertical started acting up with a high SWR on a number of bands, particularly 40 and 80 meters. All bands would be fine one moment, and the next show a high SWR. This ended up being a bad cable feeding my RF choke coil outside next to the antenna. The 40 and 80 problem was a loose connection at the 40 meter part of the radiator. After a few tweaks and replacing the no longer required extension wire to the coil, we’re back solid again on the 6BTV.
Hamfestage!
Posted by jeff in Uncategorized on March 30th, 2009
On Saturday KB3SIK and I made our way to Timonium, MD for the Hamboree and Computer Show. I can’t say I was exactly dissapointed, although I kinda expected some better prices. After a few hours, we walked out with some much needed cables, a wattmeter and an Alpha Delta antenna switch. There was alot to see and if budget allowed, I would’ve walked out with alot more stuff, primarily a Yaesu GX-800 rotor and an Ameritron 811H. At least with my current purchases, my antennas will now be protected by my external transient taps and internally by the switch. Now I must add flipping the switch to common ground when not using the rig.
KB3SIK aces her general!
Posted by jeff in Uncategorized on March 20th, 2009
My girlfriend, Laurie (KB3SIK) aced her General class exam last night.
Welcome to HF!
KB3SIK!
Posted by jeff in Uncategorized on February 24th, 2009
Laurie’s call sign was finally published on the FCC ULS database. She is now known in ham radio circles as KB3SIK.
License upgrade and a new ham!
Posted by jeff in Uncategorized on February 21st, 2009
I missed my scheduled VEC session last night with the local club and last minute found an exam session in Lebanon, some 65 miles away going on at 7:30 this morning.
I passed my General, 33 out of 35 and Laurie got her Technician Class, 34 out of 35.
…now to get that radial field done to go work K5D on Desecheo Island.
Jeff, KB3ELT (temporary AG) 
Officially a member!
Posted by jeff in Uncategorized on February 11th, 2009
Today I had received my membership package to the Lehigh Valley Amateur Radio Club (W3OI). Guess I should get myself over to a meeting sometime soon.
–jeff