Saturday, May 26, 2012
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR MAY 27TH 2012.
Well this is another good story item. The meat tray was carefully chosen out of the ticket tumbler by none other than Allan VK2JED.
The lucky winner was yours truly - Barrie VK2BXD. I will enjoy the meat tray.
The clubs Major Field Day will now be held on the 16th September – that’s 1 week later than previously advertised because of Fathers Day.
So please note the new date and re write in in your diary. Please, we DO NOT WANT old VCR's, TV's,computer monitors( unless they are flat screens).
Please contact the club if you are not sure if the club needs that item or not.
VK9PN DXpedition to Lord Howe Island
Patrick, VK2PN and Mira OK1NG are on Lord Howe Island for a week, to be joined later by Chris VK3FY. They will operate as much as they can until the morning of the 30th. of May.
They will take part in the CQ WPX CW on the weekend. Operation will be on CW and SSB on the 20, 30, 40, 80 & 160m bands. Check the clusters for VK9PN to see where they are operating.
The Foundation Licence that was set down for yesterday had to be postponed to another date. As soon as a date has been set all candidates will be notified.
Do you know the difference between an iphone,ipad,tablet and an ipod?
The iPhone is a smartphone made by Apple that combines an iPod, a tablet PC, a digital camera and a cellular phone. The device includes Internet browsing and networking capabilities.
The ipad is a 9.7 inch touch screen tablet PC made by Apple. The iPad is basically a netbook without a keyboard,
which allows it to be smaller and lighter without sacrificing much functionality. A tablet PC is a wireless personal computer (PC) that allows a user to take notes using natural handwriting with a stylus or digital pen on a touch screen.
The iPod is a combination portable digital media player and hard drive from Apple Computer. The original version was about the size of a deck of playing cards,
with a monochrome screen and a 5 gigabyte capacity. iPods can be now be purchased with up to 60 GB of hard drive capacity and color screens capable of playing television shows,
videos or movies uploaded from a PC.
WORLD NEWS.
New Handheld on the market. Yaesu FT1D Digital Handheld
One of the most eagerly awaited products at Dayton Hamvention was the new Yaesu FT1D digital and FM handheld. It has, for an Amateur Radio rig, a number of innovations:
- A microphone that uses a mini-USB plug and has a built-in camera for low resolution (320x240) pictures,
- An 80 character group short messaging facility
- 9600 bps data transfer
- Micro-SD card slot
- E-GPS facility
Although the optional extra microphone has a camera, there appears to be no way to display the pictures on the radio which some may see as reducing it's usefulness.
The use of 9600 bps with 12.5 kHz channel spacing (is it 10 kHz in Japan?) was a surprise. Some had expected it to support 5 or 6.25 kHz
channel spacing with a resultant data rate of 4800 bps (digital speech using an AMBE vocoder only requires a 3600 bps data rate).
The modulation used is what Yaesu describes as C4FM otherwise known as 4 level FSK or 4-FSK and is the same as that used for Digital PMR-446 equipment.
4-FSK has advantages over other types of digital modulation such as GMSK. Both ICOM and Kenwood have been producing 4-FSK equipment for the PMR market
since 2007 so in some ways it's surprising that Yaesu beat them both in releasing an amateur version of 4-FSK. As yet Yaesu hasn't announced any mobiles,
base stations or repeaters so it appears that FT1D's can only talk to other FT1D's in digital mode. Check it out on the web.
ARRL launch digital QST magazine
The ARRL has launched an International Membership with a digital version of QST magazine for $39 US ($40 AU). QST is one of the world's leading amateur
radio magazines and the digital version should have an appeal to English speaking radio amateurs around the world. It could be that in certain countries
some amateurs may prefer the digital QST to locally produced publications. According to ARRL the new format offers several advantages including enhanced
content, timely access, and a more interactive experience. The digital edition is easy to navigate; flip pages from cover-to-cover, zoom in/out,
search (full text), print and share, and follow live hyperlinks. Each issue will include unique, digital-edition-only content—video, audio features and extra content.
The ability to print the magazine means you can use free utilities, such as CutePDF Writer, that appear as a printer to create PDF's, however, the quality isn't that good.
As well as the latest issue ARRL members can access the digital QST archive which starts with the January 2012 edition.
Well that's all the news we have this week.
Do you have a news items that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon.
Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR THE MAY 20TH 2012.
At the club yesterday was a small group of members who all bought tickets in the meat tray raffle. John, who had won the last 2 meat trays was there again to try his luck. Well John spun the ticket tumbler and he reached in a selected a ticket. Well well what a surprise when someone else was selected. VK2JED was this weeks lucky winner. Enjoy the your tray this week Allan and congratulations.
Allan ( VK2JED ) advises that a new JAYCAR store will be opening tomorrow at Tuggerah Shopping centre. I believe that there may be lucky door prizes.
The contest logs have been sent away for last Saturday nights VK TRANS TASMAN 80 Contest. A total of 1143 points was scored. Not too bad as the atmospheric noise was very strong. Thanks to all the members who assisted on the night. Well done.
Next contest that the club will be taking part in will be the RD contest in August.
Also in August is the Lighthouse weekend at Norah Head. It is always a good weekend away.
Out in the yard yesterday was Geoff (VK2GL ) who was making and showing our latest Foundation Licence students all about antennas etc We wish them good luck in there examinations.
Westlakes 2012 Field Day has been set down for Sunday 2nd September so please mark your calenders with this date. Please we DO NOT WANT old VCR's, TV's,computer monitors( unless they are flat screens). Please contact the club if you are not sure if the club needs that item or not.
Have you forgotten about the Whafflers net every Wednesday night commencing at 1930 hrs on 2 meters - 146.575 MHz. Listen out for Robert VK2MF who is Whaffler Controller.
WORLD NEWS:
Two New Lighthouse Activations: TC1ILH and TC6KLH. This Fri-Sun May 18-20, 2012, TCSWAT & GITRAD, in collaboration with Coastal Safety Administration, will be operating from some Black Sea coast lighthouses for the first time. TC1ILH Igneada Lighthouse, the most North Western Turkish lighthouse, will be activated by TA1ED, TA1FR, TA1PB, TA1HZ and TB1CIG; while TC6KLH Kerempe Lighthouse will be activated by TA2RX, TA7EA, TA7EB, TA7EM and TA7BB. Activity will be on HF bands, 80m to 10m, and 2m over the Black Sea contacts will be tried as well. QSL via TA1HZ; but please read the QSL info on the website before QSLing direct.
Milestone for wi-fi with 'T-rays'
BBC News report that researchers in Japan have smashed the record for wireless data transmission in the terahertz band, an uncharted part of the electro-magnetic spectrum. The data rate is 20 times higher than the best commonly used wi-fi standard. As consumers become ever more hungry for high data rates, standard lower-frequency bands have become crowded. The research, published in Electronics Letters, adds to the idea that this "T-ray" band could offer huge swathes of bandwidth for data transmission. The band lies between the microwave and far-infrared regions of the spectrum, and is currently completely unregulated by telecommunications agencies. Despite the name, the band informally makes use of frequencies from about 300 gigahertz (300GHz or about 60 times higher than the current highest wi-fi standard) to about 3THz, 10 times higher again.
From...
The Ohio/Penn DX Packet Cluster
DX Special Bulletin No. 1062.2
VK0H, HEARD ISLAND. Dated May 15th: "After 5 months of planning, Cordell Expeditions is pleased to announce a DXpedition to Heard Island, Territory of Australia, in early 2014.We have assembled a core team, arranged for the vessel, and are awaiting the landing permit and radio callsign. Initial team members, collaborating organizations, and other resources will be announced in the near future. The expedition will be multi-disciplinary, with three major activities: Communications, Environmental Science, and Documentation. We will be active on all bands and all modes, implement a variety of innovative real-time communications technologies, and field a variety of scientific projects that are designed to observe and document some of the unique resources on this extraordinary island. We will use the latest version of DXA (www.cordell.org/DXA) for real-time online presentation of log data, images, and video from Heard Island.
This project follows the very successful expedition to Heard Island carried out by this group in 1997. Details of that operation can be seen at www.cordell.org/HI. The website for the 2014 DXpedition is www.cordell.org/HD.
We invite your participation in this project, as a potential team member, supporter, or eventually as a callsign in our radio log! If you have a particular interest in Heard Island or may be interested in joining the expedition, we invite you to contact us.
For information, please contact the Expedition Leader, Dr. Robert Schmieder at schmieder@cordell.org."
NOTE FROM EDITOR: Here at the Dayton HamVention, I learned that a second group is also planning an operation to Heard Island. Hopefully, more details will be forthcoming.....
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Do you have a news items that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR SUNDAY 5TH FEBRUARY 2012
The canteen was all cooks ahead with Penny and Michael looking after the hungry members. The menu was mince meat patties, salad and your choice of sauce. Well done and I am sure everyone appreciates what you do for the club.
Well yesterday was February's monthly meeting and with some faces that we haven't seen at the club for awhile. In the absence of President Geoff and Vice President Steve, Ted VK2UI was asked to chair the meeting. Welcome back Michael VK2ZEN and Keith VK2BKF. Some of the topics discussed was getting the QSL drawers to the Wyong field day on the 26th of this month,
Australia Day wrap up with a nice letter from Max VK2TTI. At the end of the meeting Penny and Michael put on a feast for the members present.Thanks once again.Would be nice to see more in attendance at our meetings.
The piers of the club have been fixed so hopefully the club won't sink into the Lake any further. The cost of repairing the piers was $1000. Money well spent.
Nomination forms for the club committee are now available, so do you think you might be useful on the Committee? Get someone to nominate you and tick the boxes. The club needs new ideas and you might just be the person. As they say New blood is needed.
This weeks lucky meat tray winner was none other than Herb VK2ZVF. Does this name sound familiar? Herb is a regular winner of the meat tray. Congratulations Herb.
Remember, Wyong Field day is on Sunday 26th of this month. Its where you go to spend all your money and meet up with old friends as well as meeting new friends. The gates open at 0630 am for boot sales and the major retailers will open at 0900. See you there.
The club has a number of low band vhf radios to give away. 78 to 80 MHz. These radios are 25 watts Transwest and these radios require crystals. So be early and don't miss out for this bargain.
The radio room is getting a new second hand radio. This transceiver I believe is capable of up to 800 watts CW so the club will have to get serious and build some more antennas. Barry VK2BZ and John VK2BAR will be doing the installation of this transceiver in the radio room. If you have any questions on this transceiver please direct your questions to the above persons.
Steady growth for the ILLW.
Among the latest to join the International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend in August is South Africa, with entries at Great Fish Point and Doring Bays lighthouses.Australia on 31 is in the forefront with Germany having a worthy 20 entries putting it ahead of the USA on 15, followed by England with nine. Among the others are Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, France, Honduras, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Scotland, Sweden and Wales. With only 22 countries and 115 entries so far, there was a long way to go to last year's record of 55 countries and entries reaching 470. The International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend is a 48-hour fun event. For guidelines, an entry form and other information about August the 18th and 19th this year visit the website illw.net
Jim Linton VK3PC
WORLD NEWS.
French Nostradamus HF Radar. A number of countries have installed HF Over The Horizon Radar (OTHR), the French system is called Nostradamus and operates from 6-30 MHz. The Nostradamus radar system is a set of 288 bi-cone antenna elements distributed over the arms of a three-branch star, with a buried infrastructure to shelter the transmission and reception electronics. It is claimed to detect any aircraft flying 700 to 2000 kilometres away.
FISTS marks a milestone.The organisation that supports the use, preservation and education of Morse code is called FISTS and it has been doing its sterling job for 25 years. Available to members are anniversary mugs from England and T-shirts have been produced in the United States of America. Other collectables are likely to be planned. FISTS the CW Club, also known as the International Morse Preservation Society, began in 1987, is organised though area chapters and still going very strong. Its members can he heard particularly on 1.808 MHz, 3.528 MHz, 7.028 MHz, 10.118 MHz, 14.058 MHz, 18.085 MHz, 21.058 MHz, 24.918 MHz and 28.058 MHz.
Jim Linton VK3PC
Well that's all the news I have this week. This is VK2ATZ. Is there anyone with any late news items?
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Well yesterday was February's monthly meeting and with some faces that we haven't seen at the club for awhile. In the absence of President Geoff and Vice President Steve, Ted VK2UI was asked to chair the meeting. Welcome back Michael VK2ZEN and Keith VK2BKF. Some of the topics discussed was getting the QSL drawers to the Wyong field day on the 26th of this month,
Australia Day wrap up with a nice letter from Max VK2TTI. At the end of the meeting Penny and Michael put on a feast for the members present.Thanks once again.Would be nice to see more in attendance at our meetings.
The piers of the club have been fixed so hopefully the club won't sink into the Lake any further. The cost of repairing the piers was $1000. Money well spent.
Nomination forms for the club committee are now available, so do you think you might be useful on the Committee? Get someone to nominate you and tick the boxes. The club needs new ideas and you might just be the person. As they say New blood is needed.
This weeks lucky meat tray winner was none other than Herb VK2ZVF. Does this name sound familiar? Herb is a regular winner of the meat tray. Congratulations Herb.
Remember, Wyong Field day is on Sunday 26th of this month. Its where you go to spend all your money and meet up with old friends as well as meeting new friends. The gates open at 0630 am for boot sales and the major retailers will open at 0900. See you there.
The club has a number of low band vhf radios to give away. 78 to 80 MHz. These radios are 25 watts Transwest and these radios require crystals. So be early and don't miss out for this bargain.
The radio room is getting a new second hand radio. This transceiver I believe is capable of up to 800 watts CW so the club will have to get serious and build some more antennas. Barry VK2BZ and John VK2BAR will be doing the installation of this transceiver in the radio room. If you have any questions on this transceiver please direct your questions to the above persons.
Steady growth for the ILLW.
Among the latest to join the International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend in August is South Africa, with entries at Great Fish Point and Doring Bays lighthouses.Australia on 31 is in the forefront with Germany having a worthy 20 entries putting it ahead of the USA on 15, followed by England with nine. Among the others are Argentina, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, France, Honduras, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Scotland, Sweden and Wales. With only 22 countries and 115 entries so far, there was a long way to go to last year's record of 55 countries and entries reaching 470. The International Lighthouse and Lightship Weekend is a 48-hour fun event. For guidelines, an entry form and other information about August the 18th and 19th this year visit the website illw.net
Jim Linton VK3PC
WORLD NEWS.
French Nostradamus HF Radar. A number of countries have installed HF Over The Horizon Radar (OTHR), the French system is called Nostradamus and operates from 6-30 MHz. The Nostradamus radar system is a set of 288 bi-cone antenna elements distributed over the arms of a three-branch star, with a buried infrastructure to shelter the transmission and reception electronics. It is claimed to detect any aircraft flying 700 to 2000 kilometres away.
FISTS marks a milestone.The organisation that supports the use, preservation and education of Morse code is called FISTS and it has been doing its sterling job for 25 years. Available to members are anniversary mugs from England and T-shirts have been produced in the United States of America. Other collectables are likely to be planned. FISTS the CW Club, also known as the International Morse Preservation Society, began in 1987, is organised though area chapters and still going very strong. Its members can he heard particularly on 1.808 MHz, 3.528 MHz, 7.028 MHz, 10.118 MHz, 14.058 MHz, 18.085 MHz, 21.058 MHz, 24.918 MHz and 28.058 MHz.
Jim Linton VK3PC
Well that's all the news I have this week. This is VK2ATZ. Is there anyone with any late news items?
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR SUNDAY 29TH JANUARY 2012
A WORD OF THANKS.
From Geoff Linthorne VK2GL
A few words of thanks to all the loyal members who attended the briefings and assisted with West Lakes displays on Australia Day at Speers Point Park.
They ignored the nay-sayers, braved the weather, dealt with questions from the public ranging in age from 14 to 70 plus, provided excellent tucker, transported and erected gazebos, set up and manned the display tables, erected antennas, provided batteries and 240VAC supplies.
There were displays of antique radios such as AR88 and Collins transceivers, CW demonstrations both live and also on computers, on air demos on HF equipment, home brewed equipment such as cipher wheels circa 1790, WW11 transceiver, morse keys some from German U-Boat service and many other items. We began the day at 0630 and finished at approximately 1600.
The day could be considered a success several members say we should repeat next year. We certainly informed many people who had no idea who West Lakes Radio Club is or what they do. I hope that some of the enquiries turn into new members.
N.B. I have since attended the debrief and conveyed our thoughts on the site situation and transport accommodation. They were noted. I am assured these will be addressed next year.
Thanks Team for your support.
While at the Speers Point Park the club used the special callsign of AX2ATZ. How many contacts were made? No many people were around on the bands so from a rough count about 6. Did anyone else use the special callsign. Richard VK2FRKO using AX2FRKO made 10 contacts and also reported that contacts were few and far between.
You have most probably found out by now that our repeater has been off the air and is still off the air. This repeater is a backup repeater located at Peter's QTH. A telephone call Peter VK2ZTV was made to advise him of the problem. Not to sure what the problem is or was so hopefully the problem will be sorted out soon.
Last weeks raffle winner Leigh VK2KAL was at the club to pick out of the ticket tumbler this weeks winner. This weeks winner was Norm VK2ZG. Congratulations. Enjoy the meat tray.
The sun is currently undergoing its strongest radiation storm since 2005 and charged particles are expected to blast towards Earth The eruption happened at 22:59 EST last Sunday night, that’s 03:59 GMT Monday and the massive solar flare that spewed from sunspot 1402 was caught by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, according to spaceweather.com as reported by Fox News. Space Weather Prediction Center experts reckon that the impact from this latest solar flare will hit Earth at approximately 9:00 am EST last (Tuesday), that’s 14:00 GMT. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has confirmed that this is the most powerful radiation storm since 2005 and because of this it’s likely that some polar flights on Earth tomorrow will be re-routed over the next hours as a precaution. The geomagnetic storms also usually bring more intense northern and southern light displays, or auroras and can also interfere with communications, satellites and other electronic infrastructures. An alert has been issued by spaceweather.com saying, “There is little doubt that the cloud is heading in the general direction of Earth. A preliminary inspection of SOHO/STEREO imagery suggests that the CME (coronal mass ejection) will deliver a strong glancing blow to Earth’s magnetic field on Jan. 24-25 as it sails mostly north of our planet.” The site also tells high-latitude skywatcher to be ready for the increased chance of auroras. This latest solar flare is an M-9 class, which is close to the edge of being an X-flare, the strongest type. Last week’s solar flare was an M-2 class and the increased solar activity is part of an 11-year cycle expected to peak in 2013. If you have any thoughts about the effects of the solar expected to impact Earth tomorrow then do send us your comments.
CCARC Field Day at Wyong.
Who’s 55 years old and showing no sign of retiring?
The CCARC Field Day at Wyong, that’s who! The 26th of February, 2012, marks the 55th year of Australia’s largest gathering of ham radio enthusiasts. And every year just gets better and better! From the flea market, to the major suppliers of Amateur Radio equipment, the various AR clubs and exhibitors, the Field day is packed with plenty to interest the Amateur Radio fraternity And what would the Field day be without our usual lecture program, which promises yet again, to be a highlight of the day’s activities.
This year’s topics span the years, starting with Vintage Radio Repair, Radar before the Magnetron , right up to the new National Broadband Network. For our final lecture, we are very pleased to have a presentation from Hellenic Amateur Radio Assoc. Of Australia on the 2011 DXpedition to Lord Howe Island which included a member of our own CCARC. Please check the fieldday.org.au website for more information regarding the lecture program and times.
So grab your calendar, mark the date and we’ll see you at CCARC Field Day at Wyong – 26th February, 2012
Record set at Winter Hill.
The Port Lincoln Times reports that Rex Moncur VK7MO acheived an Australian amateur radio 10 GHz record last week of 843 kilometres by using aircraft reflections.
The newspaper reports: Amateur radio enthusiast Rex Moncur set an Australian record last week, sending microwaves 843 kilometres from Port Lincoln's Winter Hill lookout to Mount Macedon north of Melbourne [David VK3HZ] with the help of an aircraft. Normally microwaves only travel "line of sight" but the distance can be extended by reflecting them off an aircraft between two points. Using a pay TV dish with a rifle scope attached for accuracy the Hobart-based retiree waited for the perfect moment to be able to make contact. The connection only lasted for about two minutes but it was enough for Mr Moncur to break the previous record, also set by him, of 828 kilometres, between White Cliffs in New South Wales and Mount Macedon.
Well that's all the news I have this week. Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
From Geoff Linthorne VK2GL
A few words of thanks to all the loyal members who attended the briefings and assisted with West Lakes displays on Australia Day at Speers Point Park.
They ignored the nay-sayers, braved the weather, dealt with questions from the public ranging in age from 14 to 70 plus, provided excellent tucker, transported and erected gazebos, set up and manned the display tables, erected antennas, provided batteries and 240VAC supplies.
There were displays of antique radios such as AR88 and Collins transceivers, CW demonstrations both live and also on computers, on air demos on HF equipment, home brewed equipment such as cipher wheels circa 1790, WW11 transceiver, morse keys some from German U-Boat service and many other items. We began the day at 0630 and finished at approximately 1600.
The day could be considered a success several members say we should repeat next year. We certainly informed many people who had no idea who West Lakes Radio Club is or what they do. I hope that some of the enquiries turn into new members.
N.B. I have since attended the debrief and conveyed our thoughts on the site situation and transport accommodation. They were noted. I am assured these will be addressed next year.
Thanks Team for your support.
While at the Speers Point Park the club used the special callsign of AX2ATZ. How many contacts were made? No many people were around on the bands so from a rough count about 6. Did anyone else use the special callsign. Richard VK2FRKO using AX2FRKO made 10 contacts and also reported that contacts were few and far between.
You have most probably found out by now that our repeater has been off the air and is still off the air. This repeater is a backup repeater located at Peter's QTH. A telephone call Peter VK2ZTV was made to advise him of the problem. Not to sure what the problem is or was so hopefully the problem will be sorted out soon.
Last weeks raffle winner Leigh VK2KAL was at the club to pick out of the ticket tumbler this weeks winner. This weeks winner was Norm VK2ZG. Congratulations. Enjoy the meat tray.
The sun is currently undergoing its strongest radiation storm since 2005 and charged particles are expected to blast towards Earth The eruption happened at 22:59 EST last Sunday night, that’s 03:59 GMT Monday and the massive solar flare that spewed from sunspot 1402 was caught by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, according to spaceweather.com as reported by Fox News. Space Weather Prediction Center experts reckon that the impact from this latest solar flare will hit Earth at approximately 9:00 am EST last (Tuesday), that’s 14:00 GMT. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has confirmed that this is the most powerful radiation storm since 2005 and because of this it’s likely that some polar flights on Earth tomorrow will be re-routed over the next hours as a precaution. The geomagnetic storms also usually bring more intense northern and southern light displays, or auroras and can also interfere with communications, satellites and other electronic infrastructures. An alert has been issued by spaceweather.com saying, “There is little doubt that the cloud is heading in the general direction of Earth. A preliminary inspection of SOHO/STEREO imagery suggests that the CME (coronal mass ejection) will deliver a strong glancing blow to Earth’s magnetic field on Jan. 24-25 as it sails mostly north of our planet.” The site also tells high-latitude skywatcher to be ready for the increased chance of auroras. This latest solar flare is an M-9 class, which is close to the edge of being an X-flare, the strongest type. Last week’s solar flare was an M-2 class and the increased solar activity is part of an 11-year cycle expected to peak in 2013. If you have any thoughts about the effects of the solar expected to impact Earth tomorrow then do send us your comments.
CCARC Field Day at Wyong.
Who’s 55 years old and showing no sign of retiring?
The CCARC Field Day at Wyong, that’s who! The 26th of February, 2012, marks the 55th year of Australia’s largest gathering of ham radio enthusiasts. And every year just gets better and better! From the flea market, to the major suppliers of Amateur Radio equipment, the various AR clubs and exhibitors, the Field day is packed with plenty to interest the Amateur Radio fraternity And what would the Field day be without our usual lecture program, which promises yet again, to be a highlight of the day’s activities.
This year’s topics span the years, starting with Vintage Radio Repair, Radar before the Magnetron , right up to the new National Broadband Network. For our final lecture, we are very pleased to have a presentation from Hellenic Amateur Radio Assoc. Of Australia on the 2011 DXpedition to Lord Howe Island which included a member of our own CCARC. Please check the fieldday.org.au website for more information regarding the lecture program and times.
So grab your calendar, mark the date and we’ll see you at CCARC Field Day at Wyong – 26th February, 2012
Record set at Winter Hill.
The Port Lincoln Times reports that Rex Moncur VK7MO acheived an Australian amateur radio 10 GHz record last week of 843 kilometres by using aircraft reflections.
The newspaper reports: Amateur radio enthusiast Rex Moncur set an Australian record last week, sending microwaves 843 kilometres from Port Lincoln's Winter Hill lookout to Mount Macedon north of Melbourne [David VK3HZ] with the help of an aircraft. Normally microwaves only travel "line of sight" but the distance can be extended by reflecting them off an aircraft between two points. Using a pay TV dish with a rifle scope attached for accuracy the Hobart-based retiree waited for the perfect moment to be able to make contact. The connection only lasted for about two minutes but it was enough for Mr Moncur to break the previous record, also set by him, of 828 kilometres, between White Cliffs in New South Wales and Mount Macedon.
Well that's all the news I have this week. Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
NEWS BROADCAST FOR SUNDAY 18th DECEMBER 2011
The last gathering at Westlakes for 2011 was held yesterday with a surprisingly good attendance for this time of the year. It was Gloria Brown’s final day in charge of the canteen and she presented “the last supper” for all who were there. Steve VK2LW made a small presentation to Gloria in appreciation of her six years of work in the canteen which was acknowledged by applause. Gloria has left her apron on the door knob and it seems like a perfect fit for Barry VK2BZ.
The last meat tray raffle of the year was drawn by Bianca, the small daughter of Adam VK2YK. The ticket belonged to “Stella”, the proof-reader of Westlakes Monthly Magazine. Bianca scored a free chocolate-coated ice cream from the canteen for her effort. We are not sure who was the happiest; Stella or Bianca.
If you were thinking of purchasing a 2012 Callbook from the club, please be advised there are none left. The last one was sold yesterday afternoon.
Several members watched a miraculous repair of an old crystal-locked 2 metre radio in the club’s Activity Room yesterday. The radio had “taken-off” making a horrible howling noise that could not be stopped. Everything was tried from removing and replacing all the crystals, poking the components, and the big thump test. Nothing could stop the howl. Time for an expert. Herb VK2ZVF was called and cured the problem in 1 second. “I just turned the volume up – done that many times before”, he said. It’s easy when you know how. Good one Herb.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you an early riser? Why not join the Stone the Crows net at 6 am on 3.588KHz each Saturday morning. Everyone is most welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au For those people who miss the WIA broadcast, after our broadcast you can look up the news on the WIA webpage. Some articles are a good read. While speaking of broadcasts this is Westlakes last news broadcast for 2011. Our next broadcast will be on Sunday 8th January 2012.
Richard would like to thank everyone who have sent in articles for the weekly broadcasts on Sunday. Richard has also asked that if you would like any other topics covered in our weekly broadcasts please email Richard at vk2frko@tpg.com.au Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our listeners.
Have you one of the latest Android phones? Why not check out the application for receiving Morse Code. Download the application, sit your phone down near you receiver and watch the morse code be decoded in front of your eyes. The application even tells you the speed in which it is being sent. While searching for applications why not check the many others that are available. All I want for Christmas is a new phone.
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO:
FCC adopts rules to control loudness of commercials The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today took a major step toward eliminating one of the most persistent problems of the television age – loud commercials. The Commission adopted a Report and Order that implements the 2010 Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act (the CALM Act), in which Congress gave the Commission, for the first time, authority to address the problem of excessive commercial loudness.
The rules adopted today require that commercials have the same average volume as the programmes they accompany. The rules also establish simple, practical ways for stations and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) to demonstrate their compliance with the rules. They carry out Congress’ mandate to give viewers relief from overloud commercials while avoiding unnecessary burdens on television stations and MVPDs.As the CALM Act requires, the rules will become effective one year after the date of their adoption, or 13 December, 2012. This gives stations and MVPDs until this date to be in full compliance. Equally important, it provides ample time for programmers and networks to provide their distributors with certifications stating the commercials that accompany their programming are fully compliant with these rules. These certifications, though not mandatory, will simplify the safe harbour process for all stations and MVPDs. Maybe someone from the ACMA may take note and follow the same.
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Thank you for listening. Good morning all.
Seasons Greetings.
The last meat tray raffle of the year was drawn by Bianca, the small daughter of Adam VK2YK. The ticket belonged to “Stella”, the proof-reader of Westlakes Monthly Magazine. Bianca scored a free chocolate-coated ice cream from the canteen for her effort. We are not sure who was the happiest; Stella or Bianca.
If you were thinking of purchasing a 2012 Callbook from the club, please be advised there are none left. The last one was sold yesterday afternoon.
Several members watched a miraculous repair of an old crystal-locked 2 metre radio in the club’s Activity Room yesterday. The radio had “taken-off” making a horrible howling noise that could not be stopped. Everything was tried from removing and replacing all the crystals, poking the components, and the big thump test. Nothing could stop the howl. Time for an expert. Herb VK2ZVF was called and cured the problem in 1 second. “I just turned the volume up – done that many times before”, he said. It’s easy when you know how. Good one Herb.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you an early riser? Why not join the Stone the Crows net at 6 am on 3.588KHz each Saturday morning. Everyone is most welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au For those people who miss the WIA broadcast, after our broadcast you can look up the news on the WIA webpage. Some articles are a good read. While speaking of broadcasts this is Westlakes last news broadcast for 2011. Our next broadcast will be on Sunday 8th January 2012.
Richard would like to thank everyone who have sent in articles for the weekly broadcasts on Sunday. Richard has also asked that if you would like any other topics covered in our weekly broadcasts please email Richard at vk2frko@tpg.com.au Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our listeners.
Have you one of the latest Android phones? Why not check out the application for receiving Morse Code. Download the application, sit your phone down near you receiver and watch the morse code be decoded in front of your eyes. The application even tells you the speed in which it is being sent. While searching for applications why not check the many others that are available. All I want for Christmas is a new phone.
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO:
FCC adopts rules to control loudness of commercials The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today took a major step toward eliminating one of the most persistent problems of the television age – loud commercials. The Commission adopted a Report and Order that implements the 2010 Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act (the CALM Act), in which Congress gave the Commission, for the first time, authority to address the problem of excessive commercial loudness.
The rules adopted today require that commercials have the same average volume as the programmes they accompany. The rules also establish simple, practical ways for stations and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) to demonstrate their compliance with the rules. They carry out Congress’ mandate to give viewers relief from overloud commercials while avoiding unnecessary burdens on television stations and MVPDs.As the CALM Act requires, the rules will become effective one year after the date of their adoption, or 13 December, 2012. This gives stations and MVPDs until this date to be in full compliance. Equally important, it provides ample time for programmers and networks to provide their distributors with certifications stating the commercials that accompany their programming are fully compliant with these rules. These certifications, though not mandatory, will simplify the safe harbour process for all stations and MVPDs. Maybe someone from the ACMA may take note and follow the same.
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Thank you for listening. Good morning all.
Seasons Greetings.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
WESTLAKES NEWS BROADCAST FOR DECEMBER 11th 2011
Well last weeks official meat tray winner, Ted VK2UI was at the club to pick out of the ticket tumbler. This weeks lucky meat tray winner was Diane VK2FDNE. Enjoy Diane and that’s your last for 2011.
Next Saturday the 17th December is Gloria's last day of doing the canteen. She wishes to thank those who have supported the canteen over the last 6 years whilst she has run it. We will need volunteers to run the canteen starting the first Saturday in January. If you are willing please speak to a committee member or catch up with Gloria next Saturday and she will only be too happy to show you the ropes.
It was all HO HO HO at the club yesterday with a number of members enjoying the Xmas party. Around 35 members and there wives/partners attended the club yesterday for the Xmas party. It was a great day with Alex VK2ZM bringing out the second BBQ as he thought it was going to rain. It didn't happen Alex. The sausages and steak were cooked to perfection but some of the onions were crispy. The salad was equally as good. Many thanks to the ladies who looked after the salad dept.
Now for a 1st and you can say it ONLY happens at Westlakes. The Archery contest. Everyone, or I should say most of everyone there had a go at shooting the target. VK2CW made the arrows ( I think they were made to go around corners ) and had an old bow. Now the arrows had sponge on the end with red paint so those who were lucky enough to hit the target had a red mark. Some arrows fell short of the target and some went over the target and ended up almost in the swamp. I am pleased announce the winners of the contest. In the ladies division 1st prize went to Denise ( who won 20 sausages ) and 2nd prize went to Penny. In the mens division 1st prize went to Steve VK2LW and 2nd prize went to Geoff VK2EO. However, there could be a protest going in as VK2LW does archery on some of his weekends off. We will just wait and see what transpires in the next week or two. It was great fun.
Next Sunday I believe will be the last broadcast for 2011 so listen out in January when the broadcasts will commence. There may be a special announcement by Santa. HO HO HO.
Do you like to waffle? Why noy join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
NEWS FROM THE WIA
Program gives fillip to amateur radio. Tech Talk Radio is a IT and technology show with a listening audience of thousands of technology enthusiasts and professionals, it is aired weekly across a network of over twenty broadcast stations Australia wide. This weeks show featured an interview with Robert Broomhead VK3DN talking about amateur radio. Want to know more ? Go to the WIA website and look for news. Next years 2012 conference -Register today to attend the 2012 WIA Annual Conference and Weekend of Activities Mildura, May 25th, 26th and 27th
NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
Are you interested in MultiPSK. ALE-400 tutorial video Tony K2MO has made available a tutorial video on the Multipsk digital mode ALE-400-FAE-ARQ. You can obtain a copy of Quick Tutorial on ALE400. The link to watch his video is http://www.southgatearc.org/news/december2011/ale400_tutorial_video.htm The software can be obtained from tp://f6cte.free.fr/index_anglais.htm
Rotuma solar-powered operation Antoine, 3D2AG, will be on a Christmas holiday with his family and plans to do small 'green' radio operation as 3D2AG/p from Rotuma (OC-060) between December 9th and January 9th, 2012. It is reported that this will be a "small ecological barefoot activity on all bands (80-6m) except 160m, sponsored by the French company 'TOTAL' within the framework of the sustainable development of the insular communities of the Pacific (supply of the batteries, the 3 solar panels of 50 watts and QSLs)". His station will be 100w, using all modes (SSB/CW) with an ICOM 706, FT-757GX and Kenwood TS-440S, into a Spiderbeam 5 band antenna, a 5 element yagi for the 6m and doublets for the 40/60/80 meters.
This station will be fed only by batteries and solar panels.A special QSL will be printed on recycled paper to confirm the contacts. QSL via his home callsign, direct only (QRZ.com address).
70cm to help paralyzed patients ?
Bloomberg report on the FCC approval for dedical devices designed to help paralyzed patients by using 426-432 MHz and 438-444 MHz for transmitting signals to incapacitated limbs.
Read the Bloomberg article - Medical Devices That Help Paralyzed Move Will Get Radio Spectrum http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-05/medical-devices-
that-help-paralyzed-move-will-get-radio-spectrum.html
ARRL - FCC Grants Secondary Service Allocation to Wireless Broadband Medical Micropower Networks http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-grants-secondary-service-allocation-
to-wireless-broadband-medical-micropower-networks
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Next Saturday the 17th December is Gloria's last day of doing the canteen. She wishes to thank those who have supported the canteen over the last 6 years whilst she has run it. We will need volunteers to run the canteen starting the first Saturday in January. If you are willing please speak to a committee member or catch up with Gloria next Saturday and she will only be too happy to show you the ropes.
It was all HO HO HO at the club yesterday with a number of members enjoying the Xmas party. Around 35 members and there wives/partners attended the club yesterday for the Xmas party. It was a great day with Alex VK2ZM bringing out the second BBQ as he thought it was going to rain. It didn't happen Alex. The sausages and steak were cooked to perfection but some of the onions were crispy. The salad was equally as good. Many thanks to the ladies who looked after the salad dept.
Now for a 1st and you can say it ONLY happens at Westlakes. The Archery contest. Everyone, or I should say most of everyone there had a go at shooting the target. VK2CW made the arrows ( I think they were made to go around corners ) and had an old bow. Now the arrows had sponge on the end with red paint so those who were lucky enough to hit the target had a red mark. Some arrows fell short of the target and some went over the target and ended up almost in the swamp. I am pleased announce the winners of the contest. In the ladies division 1st prize went to Denise ( who won 20 sausages ) and 2nd prize went to Penny. In the mens division 1st prize went to Steve VK2LW and 2nd prize went to Geoff VK2EO. However, there could be a protest going in as VK2LW does archery on some of his weekends off. We will just wait and see what transpires in the next week or two. It was great fun.
Next Sunday I believe will be the last broadcast for 2011 so listen out in January when the broadcasts will commence. There may be a special announcement by Santa. HO HO HO.
Do you like to waffle? Why noy join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
NEWS FROM THE WIA
Program gives fillip to amateur radio. Tech Talk Radio is a IT and technology show with a listening audience of thousands of technology enthusiasts and professionals, it is aired weekly across a network of over twenty broadcast stations Australia wide. This weeks show featured an interview with Robert Broomhead VK3DN talking about amateur radio. Want to know more ? Go to the WIA website and look for news. Next years 2012 conference -Register today to attend the 2012 WIA Annual Conference and Weekend of Activities Mildura, May 25th, 26th and 27th
NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
Are you interested in MultiPSK. ALE-400 tutorial video Tony K2MO has made available a tutorial video on the Multipsk digital mode ALE-400-FAE-ARQ. You can obtain a copy of Quick Tutorial on ALE400. The link to watch his video is http://www.southgatearc.org/news/december2011/ale400_tutorial_video.htm The software can be obtained from tp://f6cte.free.fr/index_anglais.htm
Rotuma solar-powered operation Antoine, 3D2AG, will be on a Christmas holiday with his family and plans to do small 'green' radio operation as 3D2AG/p from Rotuma (OC-060) between December 9th and January 9th, 2012. It is reported that this will be a "small ecological barefoot activity on all bands (80-6m) except 160m, sponsored by the French company 'TOTAL' within the framework of the sustainable development of the insular communities of the Pacific (supply of the batteries, the 3 solar panels of 50 watts and QSLs)". His station will be 100w, using all modes (SSB/CW) with an ICOM 706, FT-757GX and Kenwood TS-440S, into a Spiderbeam 5 band antenna, a 5 element yagi for the 6m and doublets for the 40/60/80 meters.
This station will be fed only by batteries and solar panels.A special QSL will be printed on recycled paper to confirm the contacts. QSL via his home callsign, direct only (QRZ.com address).
70cm to help paralyzed patients ?
Bloomberg report on the FCC approval for dedical devices designed to help paralyzed patients by using 426-432 MHz and 438-444 MHz for transmitting signals to incapacitated limbs.
Read the Bloomberg article - Medical Devices That Help Paralyzed Move Will Get Radio Spectrum http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-05/medical-devices-
that-help-paralyzed-move-will-get-radio-spectrum.html
ARRL - FCC Grants Secondary Service Allocation to Wireless Broadband Medical Micropower Networks http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-grants-secondary-service-allocation-
to-wireless-broadband-medical-micropower-networks
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR SUNDAY THE 4TH DEC 2011
It would not be a complete Sunday News without the result of the meat tray raffle. Herb VK2ZVF drew the ticket and it belonged to Ted VK2UI. But the story does not end there. Ted donated it back to either Barrie VK2BXD or Greg VK2CW. A toss of the coin was made to decide the eventual winner. In a “rigged” toss with a two-tailed coin, Barrie took home the bacon. But the story does not end there. A second prize of a bag of buns was drawn from the barrel. The winner was Leonie VK2FHRK. She had left for home so a re-draw was called for. The re-draw was again Leonie VK2FHRK. A third re-draw was held and finally Peter VK2GFE was handed the buns.
The lack of involvement by members in club affairs was raised at yesterday’s monthly meeting. Well, here is your chance to get “involved”. The Westlakes Club grounds are to be mowed next Tuesday morning at 9 am. We have plenty of mowers, trimmers, blowers – all that we lack are workers, so how about it?
Michael VK2CCW was already at it yesterday after having learnt how to operate the ride-on mower. Such was his effort that the mowing job is already half done. Good for you Michael.
At yesterday’s meeting, the club’s Contest Coordinator, Dave VK2RD, presented the winner’s trophy and certificate to Leonie VK2FHRK for first place (Foundation Section) in the 2011 Westlakes Cup Contest. Another cup for Leonie’s sideboard – Congratulations.
Two welcome faces, not seen for some time, visited yesterday. They belonged to Les VK2RJ who has moved from Muswellbrook to Newcastle and Ken VK2IBT who is on an extended holiday from the Philippines and is touring Australia foe a few months. It was good to see you both.
Next Saturday at 12 noon the 2011 Christmas Gathering and Archery Shoot will be held in the club grounds. It’s a free barbecue with the works for all members, their friends and family. Prizes for the winners and some of the losers. The bow and arrows are ready – only the target is in doubt. We will be calling for a volunteer to be target on the day – it will probably be the safest place to stand. All you need to bring is a seat, your drinks. A suit of armour is optional. All food for the barbecue is provided.
A few 2012 Call books are still available. They cost $22 complete with the accompanying CD. See the Treasurer next Saturday before he is struck by an arrow.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not give email Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
AO-51 End of Mission
AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew Glasbrenner KO4MA, reports that the amateur radio satellite AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.It is with a heavy heart I report that AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.
The last telemetry data indicated that the third of six batteries was approaching failure to short, and observations indicate the voltage from three cells is insufficient to power the UHF transmitters. The IHU may continue to be operative. Initial tests with the S band transmitter were also not positive, although more attempts are in order. We have tried leaving the satellite in an expected state where if voltages climb high enough, the 435.150 transmitter may possibly be heard.The command team will regularly attempt communications with the satellite over the coming months (and years). There is always the possibility that a cell will open and we could once again talk to our friends while illuminated.Thanks to all who helped fund, design, build, launch, command, and operate AO-51. It's 7 year mission has been extraordinary.
Radio Afghanistan on 7200 kHz On the IARU-R1 website, Uli Bihlmayer DJ9KR reports that Radio Afghanistan is operating in the Amateur Radio 40m band.On November 28, "National Radio of Afghanistan" is again on 7200 kHz.I have heard it at 1530 UTC. It is still on at 1620 UTC, and certainly as yesterday, will s/off at 1630 UTC. The signal is S9+15dB with my dipole. At 1530 UTC it announces "This is National Radio of Afghanistan" with a frequency of 6100 kHz. However this frequency is NOT active. National Radio of AFG is really transmitting on 7200 kHz (carrier) and covering 7195 - 7205 kHz.
Amateur Radio used in medical evacuation
The United States Coast Guard report that amateur radio was used when a man experienced signs of a heart attack aboard his sailboat 170 miles southwest of Bermuda. Read the report at https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/651/1246651/
Top 10 viruses in November 2011 as reported by Sophos Antivirus. Be very careful when searching on the web.
1 Troj/Invo-Zip
2 W32/Netsky
3 Mal/EncPk-EI
4 Troj/Pushdo-Gen
5 Troj/Agent-HFU
6 Mal/Iframe-E
7 Troj/Mdrop-BTV
8 Troj/Mdrop-BUF
9 Troj/Agent-HFZ
10 Troj/Agent-HGT
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
The lack of involvement by members in club affairs was raised at yesterday’s monthly meeting. Well, here is your chance to get “involved”. The Westlakes Club grounds are to be mowed next Tuesday morning at 9 am. We have plenty of mowers, trimmers, blowers – all that we lack are workers, so how about it?
Michael VK2CCW was already at it yesterday after having learnt how to operate the ride-on mower. Such was his effort that the mowing job is already half done. Good for you Michael.
At yesterday’s meeting, the club’s Contest Coordinator, Dave VK2RD, presented the winner’s trophy and certificate to Leonie VK2FHRK for first place (Foundation Section) in the 2011 Westlakes Cup Contest. Another cup for Leonie’s sideboard – Congratulations.
Two welcome faces, not seen for some time, visited yesterday. They belonged to Les VK2RJ who has moved from Muswellbrook to Newcastle and Ken VK2IBT who is on an extended holiday from the Philippines and is touring Australia foe a few months. It was good to see you both.
Next Saturday at 12 noon the 2011 Christmas Gathering and Archery Shoot will be held in the club grounds. It’s a free barbecue with the works for all members, their friends and family. Prizes for the winners and some of the losers. The bow and arrows are ready – only the target is in doubt. We will be calling for a volunteer to be target on the day – it will probably be the safest place to stand. All you need to bring is a seat, your drinks. A suit of armour is optional. All food for the barbecue is provided.
A few 2012 Call books are still available. They cost $22 complete with the accompanying CD. See the Treasurer next Saturday before he is struck by an arrow.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not give email Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
AO-51 End of Mission
AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew Glasbrenner KO4MA, reports that the amateur radio satellite AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.It is with a heavy heart I report that AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.
The last telemetry data indicated that the third of six batteries was approaching failure to short, and observations indicate the voltage from three cells is insufficient to power the UHF transmitters. The IHU may continue to be operative. Initial tests with the S band transmitter were also not positive, although more attempts are in order. We have tried leaving the satellite in an expected state where if voltages climb high enough, the 435.150 transmitter may possibly be heard.The command team will regularly attempt communications with the satellite over the coming months (and years). There is always the possibility that a cell will open and we could once again talk to our friends while illuminated.Thanks to all who helped fund, design, build, launch, command, and operate AO-51. It's 7 year mission has been extraordinary.
Radio Afghanistan on 7200 kHz On the IARU-R1 website, Uli Bihlmayer DJ9KR reports that Radio Afghanistan is operating in the Amateur Radio 40m band.On November 28, "National Radio of Afghanistan" is again on 7200 kHz.I have heard it at 1530 UTC. It is still on at 1620 UTC, and certainly as yesterday, will s/off at 1630 UTC. The signal is S9+15dB with my dipole. At 1530 UTC it announces "This is National Radio of Afghanistan" with a frequency of 6100 kHz. However this frequency is NOT active. National Radio of AFG is really transmitting on 7200 kHz (carrier) and covering 7195 - 7205 kHz.
Amateur Radio used in medical evacuation
The United States Coast Guard report that amateur radio was used when a man experienced signs of a heart attack aboard his sailboat 170 miles southwest of Bermuda. Read the report at https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/651/1246651/
Top 10 viruses in November 2011 as reported by Sophos Antivirus. Be very careful when searching on the web.
1 Troj/Invo-Zip
2 W32/Netsky
3 Mal/EncPk-EI
4 Troj/Pushdo-Gen
5 Troj/Agent-HFU
6 Mal/Iframe-E
7 Troj/Mdrop-BTV
8 Troj/Mdrop-BUF
9 Troj/Agent-HFZ
10 Troj/Agent-HGT
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)