Amateur Radio Wiki - User contributions [en]

Codes and Alphabets

2016-08-06T22:59:47Z

TheAnarcat: dead link, add archive link, thanks to Lance Sloan

== Phonetic Alphabet ==

A number of phonetic alphabets exist. The NATO version is most common and can be considered to be the "international" phonetic alphabet.

{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
|-
! Letter !!align=left| Code word !!align=left| Pronunciation
|-
|align=center| A || '''Alpha''' ||'''AL''' FAH
|-
|align=center| B ||'''Bravo''' ||'''BRAH''' VOH
|-
|align=center| C ||'''Charlie''' ||'''CHAR''' LEE
|-
|align=center| D ||'''Delta''' ||'''DELL''' TAH
|-
|align=center| E ||'''Echo''' ||'''ECK''' OH
|-
|align=center| F ||'''Foxtrot''' ||'''FOKS''' TROT
|-
|align=center| G ||'''Golf''' ||'''GAHLF'''
|-
|align=center| H ||'''Hotel''' ||HO '''TELL'''
|-
|align=center| I ||'''India''' ||'''IN''' DEE AH
|-
|align=center| J ||'''Juliet''' ||'''JEW''' LEE '''ETT'''
|-
|align=center| K ||'''Kilo''' ||'''KEY''' LOH
|-
|align=center| L ||'''Lima''' ||'''LEE''' MAH
|-
|align=center| M ||'''Mike''' ||MIKE
|-
|align=center| N ||'''November''' ||NO '''VEM''' BER
|-
|align=center| O ||'''Oscar''' ||'''OSS''' CAH
|-
|align=center| P ||'''Papa''' ||PAH '''PAH'''
|-
|align=center| Q ||'''Quebec''' ||KEH '''BECK'''
|-
|align=center| R ||'''Romeo''' ||'''ROW''' ME OH
|-
|align=center| S || '''Sierra''' ||SEE '''AIR''' RAH
|-
|align=center| T ||'''Tango''' ||'''TANG''' GO
|-
|align=center| U ||'''Uniform''' ||'''YOU''' NEE FORM
|-
|align=center| V ||'''Victor''' ||'''VIK''' TAH
|-
|align=center| W ||'''Whiskey''' ||'''WISS''' KEY
|-
|align=center| X ||'''X-ray''' or '''Xray''' ||'''ECKS RAY'''
|-
|align=center| Y ||'''Yankee''' ||'''YANG''' KEY
|-
|align=center| Z ||'''Zulu''' ||'''ZOO''' LOO
|-
|align=center| || ||
|-
|align=center| '''Number''' || '''Code word''' || '''Pronunciation'''
|-
|align=center| 0 ||Zero ||ZE RO
|-
|align=center| 1 || One ||WUN
|-
|align=center| 2 || Two ||TOO
|-
|align=center| 3 || Three ||TREE
|-
|align=center| 4 ||Four ||'''FOW''' ER
|-
|align=center| 5 ||Five ||FIFE
|-
|align=center| 6 ||Six ||SIX
|-
|align=center| 7 ||Seven ||'''SEV''' EN
|-
|align=center| 8 ||Eight ||AIT
|-
|align=center| 9 ||Nine ||'''NIN''' ER
|}

== Morse Code ==

''Main articles: [[morse code]], [[Wikipedia:Morse code]]''

Morse code is a way to encode text through the generation of a carrier wave ([[CW]]). It is used to communicate over long distances or with low power ([[QRP]]).

You do not need to learn morse code to obtain a radio license or operate an amateur radio station anymore.

The code is composed of 5 elements:

# short mark, dot or 'dit' (·) — one unit long
# longer mark, dash or 'dah' (–) — three units long
# intra-character gap (between the dots and dashes within a character) — one unit long
# short gap (between letters) — three units long
# medium gap (between words) — seven units long

{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
! Character || Code || Character || Code || Character || Code
! Character || Code || Character || Code || Character || Code
|-
| '''A''' || '''· —'''
| '''J''' || '''· — — —'''
| '''S''' || '''· · ·'''
| '''1''' || '''· — — — —'''
| '''.''' || '''· — · — · —'''
| ''':''' || '''— — — · · ·'''
|-
| '''B''' || '''— · · ·'''
| '''K''' || '''— · —'''
| '''T''' || '''—'''
| '''2''' || '''· · — — —'''
| ''',''' || '''— — · · — —'''
| ''';''' || '''— · — · — ·'''
|-
| '''C''' || '''— · — ·'''
| '''L''' || '''· — · ·'''
| '''U''' || '''· · —'''
| '''3''' || '''· · · — —'''
| '''?''' || '''· · — — · ·'''
| '''=''' || '''— · · · —'''
|-
| '''D''' || '''— · ·'''
| '''M''' || '''— —'''
| '''V''' || '''· · · —'''
| '''4''' || '''· · · · —'''
|  ''''''' || '''· — — — — ·'''
| '''+''' || '''· — · — ·'''
|-
| '''E''' || '''·'''
| '''N''' || '''— ·'''
| '''W''' || '''· — —'''
| '''5''' || '''· · · · ·'''
| '''!''' || '''— · — · — —'''
|  '''-''' || '''— · · · · —'''
|-
| '''F''' || '''· · — ·'''
| '''O''' || '''— — —'''
| '''X''' || '''— · · —'''
| '''6''' || '''— · · · ·'''
| '''/''' || '''— · · — ·'''
|  '''_''' || '''· · — — · —'''
|-
| '''G''' || '''— — ·'''
| '''P''' || '''· — — ·'''
| '''Y''' || '''— · — —'''
| '''7''' || '''— — · · ·'''
| '''(''' || '''— · — — ·'''
|  '''"''' || '''· — · · — ·'''
|-
| '''H''' || '''· · · ·'''
| '''Q''' || '''— — · —'''
| '''Z''' || '''— — · ·'''
| '''8''' || '''— — — · ·'''
| ''')''' || '''— · — — · —'''
| '''$''' || '''· · · — · · —'''
|-
| '''I''' || '''· ·'''
| '''R''' || '''· — ·'''
| '''0''' || '''— — — — —'''
| '''9''' || '''— — — — ·'''
| '''&''' || '''· — · · ·'''
| '''@''' || '''· — — · — ·'''
|}

== Q-Code ==

These codes were originally developed to shorten transmission times when using CW, but are frequently used in voice transmissions. (eg. ''I am going to go QRT, thanks for the QSO.'')

The ''QRA''...''QUZ'' code range includes phrases applicable to all services and is allocated to the International Telecommunications Union. NATO's [http://www.armymars.net/ArmyMARS/DigitalOps/Resources/acp131-operating-sigs.pdf ACP 131(E)], COMMUNICATIONS INSTRUCTIONS - OPERATING SIGNALS, March 1997, chapter 2 contains a full list of 'Q' codes. Other 'Q' code ranges are allocated specifically to aviation or maritime services; many of those codes have fallen into disuse as voice displaces CW in commercial operation.

The Q-code was originally instituted at the Radiotelegraph Convention held in London, 1912 and was intended for marine radiotelegraph use. The codes were based on an earlier list published by the British postmaster general's office in 1908.[http://www.kloth.net/radio/qcodes.php] More information about the history and usage of Q-codes can be found [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q_code here].

{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;" summary="Most common Q codes used in the amateur radio service, including meaning and sample use"
|----- align="left"
! width="50" align="left"| Code
! Meaning
! Sample use
|+ '''Q Codes Commonly Used by Radio Amateurs'''
|-----
| valign="top" | QRG || valign="top" | Exact frequency
| valign="top" | HE TX ON QRG 14205 kHz
|-----
| valign="top" | QRI
| valign="top" | Tone (T in the RST code)
| valign="top" | UR QRI IS 9
|-----
| valign="top" | QRK
| valign="top" | Intelligibility (R in the RST code)
| valign="top" | UR QRK IS 5
|-----
| valign="top" | QRL
| valign="top" | This frequency is busy.
| valign="top" | Used almost exclusively with morse code, usually as a question (QRL? - is this frequency busy?) before transmitting on a new frequency
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QRM]]
| valign="top" | Man-made interference
| valign="top" | ANOTHER QSO UP 2 kHz CAUSING LOT OF QRM
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QRN]]
| valign="top" | Natural interference, e.g. static crashes
| valign="top" | BAND NOISY TODAY LOT OF QRN
|-----
| valign="top" | QRO || valign="top" | Increase power
| valign="top" | NEED QRO WHEN PROP POOR
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QRP]]
| valign="top" | Decrease power || valign="top" | QRP TO 5 W (As a mode of operation, a QRP station is five watts or less, a QRPp station one watt or less)
|-----
| valign="top" | QRQ
| valign="top" | Send more quickly
| valign="top" | TIME SHORT PSE QRQ
|-----
| valign="top" | QRR
| valign="top" | Temporarily unavailable/away, please wait
| valign="top" | WILL BE QRR 30 MIN = THAT STN IS QRR NW
|-----
| valign="top" | QRRR || valign="top" | Land distress
| valign="top" | A non-standard call proposed by ARRL for land-based or railroad emergency traffic in situations where response from ships at sea (which listened for SOS) was neither needed nor desired.[http://www.qsl.net/ae0q/sos.htm][http://www.arrl.org/tis/info/history.html#sos] Now deprecated.
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QRSS|QRS]] || valign="top" | Send more slowly
| valign="top" | PSE QRS NEW TO CW (QRS operation - a slower dot rate - is useful during weak-signal conditions; a QRSS mode uses an extremely low code rate on a channel less than 1Hz wide to allow reception under extreme QRP conditions)
|-----
| valign="top" | QRT || valign="top" | Stop sending
| valign="top" | ENJOYED TALKING 2 U = MUST QRT FER DINNER NW
|-----
| valign="top" | QRU || valign="top" | Have you anything for me?
| valign="top" | QRU? ABOUT TO QRT
|-----
| valign="top" | QRV || valign="top" | I am ready
| valign="top" | WL U BE QRV IN UPCOMING CONTEST?
|-----
| valign="top" | QRX || valign="top" | Will call you again
| valign="top" | QRX @ 1500H
|-----
| valign="top" | QRZ || valign="top" | You are being called by ________.
| valign="top" | QRZ? UR VY WEAK (Only someone who has previously called should reply)
|-----
| valign="top" | QSA || valign="top" | Signal strength
| valign="top" | UR QSA IS 5
|-----
| valign="top" | QSB || valign="top" | Fading of signal
| valign="top" | THERE IS QSB ON UR SIG
|-----
| valign="top" | QSD
| valign="top" | Your keying is defective
| valign="top" | QSD CK YR TX
|-----
| valign="top" | QSK || valign="top" | Break-in
| valign="top" | I CAN HR U DURING MY SIGS PSE QSK
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QSL]]
| valign="top" | I Acknowledge receipt
| valign="top" | QSL UR LAST TX = PSE QSL VIA BURO (i.e. please send me a card confirming this contact).
|-----
| valign="top" | QSM || valign="top" | Repeat last message
| valign="top" | QRM DROWNED UR LAST MSG OUT = PSE QSM
|-----
| valign="top" | QSN || valign="top" | I heard you
| valign="top" | QSN YESTERDAY ON 7005 kHz
|-----
| valign="top" | QSO || valign="top" | A conversation
| valign="top" | TNX QSO 73
|-----
| valign="top" | QSP || valign="top" | Relay
| valign="top" | PSE QSP THIS MSG TO MY FRIEND
|-----
| valign="top" | QST
| valign="top" | General call to all stations
| valign="top" | QST: QRG ALLOCS HV CHGD
|-----
| valign="top" | QSX
| valign="top" | I am listening on ... frequency
| valign="top" | QSX 14200 TO 14210 kHz
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QSY]]
| valign="top" | Shift to transmit on ...
| valign="top" | LETS QSY UP 5 kHz
|-----
| valign="top" | QTA
| valign="top" | Disregard last message
| valign="top" | QTA, DID NOT MEAN THAT
|-----
| valign="top" | QTC
| valign="top" | Traffic
| valign="top" | STN WID EMRG QTC PSE GA
|-----
| valign="top" | [[QTH]] || valign="top" | Location
| valign="top" | QTH IS SOUTH PARK CO
|-----
| valign="top" | QTR || valign="top" | Exact time
| valign="top" | QTR IS 2000 Z
|}

== RST code ==
The RST code, in its original form, is intended for CW operation. On SSB, the final digit (tone) is normally omitted.

{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;" summary="RST Code"
|----- align="left"
! width="50" align="left" | Number
! R - Readability
! S - Strength
! T - Tone
|+ '''RST Code Commonly Used by Radio Amateurs'''
|-----
| valign="top" | 1
| valign="top" | Unreadable
| valign="top" | Faint signal, barely perceptible
| valign="top" | Sixty cycle a.c or less, very rough and broad
|-----
| valign="top" | 2
| valign="top" | Barely readable, occasional words distinguishable
| valign="top" | Very Weak
| valign="top" | Very rough a.c., very harsh and broad
|-----
| valign="top" | 3
| valign="top" | Readable with considerable difficulty
| valign="top" | Weak
| valign="top" | Rough a.c. tone, rectified but not filtered
|-----
| valign="top" | 4
| valign="top" | Readable with practically no difficulty
| valign="top" | Fair
| valign="top" | Rough note, some trace of filteringfrequency
|-----
| valign="top" | 5
| valign="top" | Perfectly readable
| valign="top" | Fairly Good
| valign="top" | Filtered rectified a.c. but strongly ripple-modulated
|-----
| valign="top" | 6
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Good
| valign="top" | Filtered tone, definite trace of ripple modulation
|-----
| valign="top" | 7
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Moderately Strong
| valign="top" | Near pure tone, trace of ripple modulation
|-----
| valign="top" | 8
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Strong
| valign="top" | Near perfect tone, slight trace of modulation
|-----
| valign="top" | 9
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Very strong signals
| valign="top" | Perfect tone, no trace of ripple or modulation of any kind
|
|}

In CW operation, individual digits may be abbreviated by substituting as follows: 1 = A, 2 = U, 3 = V, 4 = 4, 5 = E, 6 = 6, 7 = B, 8 = D, 9 = N, 0 = T (for instance, RST 599 could be sent as 5NN - a shorter message in CW). These are referred to as "cut numbers" and are obtained by replacing all of the dashes in a CW digit with a single dash. Cut numbers are not suitable for transmitting data which already contains mixed alphanumerics, such as [[callsign]]s.[http://www.qsl.net/zs1an/contesting_faq.html#cut-numbers]

== RSQ code ==

Often used to describe reception and quality of digital modes such as PSK31

{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;" summary="RSV Code"
|----- align="left"
! width="50" align="left" | Number
! R - Readability
! S - Strength
! V - Quality
|+ '''RSQ Code Commonly Used by Radio Amateurs'''
|-----
| valign="top" | 1
| valign="top" | 0% copy - undecipherable
| valign="top" | barely perceptible trace
| valign="top" | splatter over much of the spectrum
|-----
| valign="top" | 2
| valign="top" | 20% copy -occasional words distinguishable
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 3
| valign="top" | 40% copy - readable with difficulty, many missed characters
| valign="top" | Weak trace
| valign="top" | multiple visible pairs
|-----
| valign="top" | 4
| valign="top" | 80% copy - Readable with no difficulty
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 5
| valign="top" | 95%+ copy - Perfectly readable
| valign="top" | Moderate trace
| valign="top" | One easily visible pair
|-----
| valign="top" | 6
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 7
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Strong Trace
| valign="top" | One barely visible pair
|-----
| valign="top" | 8
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 9
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Very strong trace
| valign="top" | Clean signal - no visible unwanted sidebars
|
|}

== RSV code for SSTV transmissions ==

{| class="wikitable" style="line-height: 115%;" summary="RSV Code"
|----- align="left"
! width="50" align="left" | Number
! R - Readability
! S - Strength
! V - Video
|+ '''RSV Code Commonly Used by Radio Amateurs'''
|-----
| valign="top" | 1
| valign="top" | Unreadable
| valign="top" | Faint signal, barely perceptible
| valign="top" | Picture unreadable
|-----
| valign="top" | 2
| valign="top" | Barely readable
| valign="top" | Very Weak
| valign="top" | picture barely visible
|-----
| valign="top" | 3
| valign="top" | Readable with difficulty
| valign="top" | Weak
| valign="top" | Readable with flaws
|-----
| valign="top" | 4
| valign="top" | Readable with no difficulty
| valign="top" | Fair
| valign="top" | Very good picture some flaws
|-----
| valign="top" | 5
| valign="top" | Perfectly readable
| valign="top" | Fairly Good
| valign="top" | Perfect picture no flaws
|-----
| valign="top" | 6
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Good
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 7
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Moderately Strong
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 8
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Strong
| valign="top" | not used
|-----
| valign="top" | 9
| valign="top" | not used
| valign="top" | Very strong signals
| valign="top" | not used
|
|}

In fast-scan amateur television (ATV), signal-to-noise ratio is reported as one of:
:P0 - all image detail lost
:P1 - 3-8dB, barely legible
:P2 - 8-20dB, definitely noisy
:P3 - 20-35dB, somewhat noisy
:P4 - 35-45dB, slightly noisy
:P5 - 45dB+, no discernible noise[http://www.ussc.com/~uarc/utah_atv/psandqs.html]

== CW Abbreviations ==

These abbreviations are commonly used in CW transmissions to shorten transmission times. Not all CW operators use all of them - most will use very few. As a general rule most operators do not abbreviate unnecessarily, especially when communication with an operator that they do not know or whose experience is unknown. In contest conditions, abbreviations are common as operators try to gain as many contacts as possible over the competition period.

{| class="wikitable" style="line-height: 115%;" summary="CW abbreviations"
|----- align="left"
! width="50" align="left"| Abbreviation
! Meaning
! Abbreviation
! Meaning
|+ '''CW Abbreviations'''
|-----
| valign="top" | AA
| valign="top" | All After
| valign="top" | OB
| valign="top" | Old Boy
|-----
| valign="top" | AB
| valign="top" | All Before
| valign="top" | OC
| valign="top" | Old Chap
|-----
| valign="top" | ABT
| valign="top" | About
| valign="top" | OM
| valign="top" | Old Man
|-----
| valign="top" | ADEE
| valign="top" | Addressee
| valign="top" | OP
| valign="top" | Operator
|-----
| valign="top" | ADR
| valign="top" | Address
| valign="top" | OPR
| valign="top" | Operator
|-----
| valign="top" | AGN
| valign="top" | Again
| valign="top" | OT
| valign="top" | Old Timer
|-----
| valign="top" | AM
| valign="top" | Amplitude Modulation
| valign="top" | PBL
| valign="top" | Preamble
|-----
| valign="top" | ANT
| valign="top" | Antenna
| valign="top" | PKG
| valign="top" | Package
|-----
| valign="top" | BCI
| valign="top" | Broadcast Interference
| valign="top" | PSE
| valign="top" | Please
|-----
| valign="top" | BCL
| valign="top" | Broadcast listener
| valign="top" | PT
| valign="top" | Point
|-----
| valign="top" | BCNU
| valign="top" | Be seeing you
| valign="top" | PWR
| valign="top" | Power
|-----
| valign="top" | BK
| valign="top" | Break in
| valign="top" | PX
| valign="top" | Press
|-----
| valign="top" | BN
| valign="top" | Between, Been
| valign="top" | R
| valign="top" | Received, Are
|-----
| valign="top" | BT
| valign="top" | Separation
| valign="top" | RC
| valign="top" | Ragchew
|-----
| valign="top" | BTR
| valign="top" | Better
| valign="top" | RCD
| valign="top" | Received
|-----
| valign="top" | Bug
| valign="top" | Semi automatic key
| valign="top" | RCVR
| valign="top" | Receiver
|-----
| valign="top" | C
| valign="top" | Yes, Correct
| valign="top" | REF
| valign="top" | Refer to
|-----
| valign="top" | CFM
| valign="top" | Confirm, I confirm
| valign="top" | RFI
| valign="top" | Radio Frequency Interference
|-----
| valign="top" | CK
| valign="top" | Check
| valign="top" | RIG
| valign="top" | Station Equipment
|-----
| valign="top" | CKT
| valign="top" | Circuit
| valign="top" | RPT
| valign="top" | Repeat, Report
|-----
| valign="top" | CL
| valign="top" | Closing Station, Call
| valign="top" | RTTY
| valign="top" | Radioteletype
|-----
| valign="top" | CLBK
| valign="top" | Callbook
| valign="top" | RST
| valign="top" | Readability Strength Tone
|-----
| valign="top" | CLD
| valign="top" | Called
| valign="top" | RX
| valign="top" | Receive, receiver
|-----
| valign="top" | CLG
| valign="top" | Calling
| valign="top" | SASE
| valign="top" | Self addressed stamped envelope
|-----
| valign="top" | CNT
| valign="top" | Cant
| valign="top" | SED
| valign="top" | Said
|-----
| valign="top" | CONDX
| valign="top" | Conditions
| valign="top" | SEZ
| valign="top" | Says
|-----
| valign="top" | CQ
| valign="top" | Calling any station
| valign="top" | SGD
| valign="top" | Signed
|-----
| valign="top" | CU
| valign="top" | See you
| valign="top" | SIG
| valign="top" | Signature, Signal
|-----
| valign="top" | CUL
| valign="top" | See you later
| valign="top" | SINE
| valign="top" | Personal initials or nickname
|-----
| valign="top" | CUM
| valign="top" | Come
| valign="top" | SKED
| valign="top" | Schedule
|-----
| valign="top" | CW
| valign="top" | Continuous Wave
| valign="top" | SRI
| valign="top" | Sorry
|-----
| valign="top" | DA
| valign="top" | day
| valign="top" | SS
| valign="top" | Sweepstakes
|-----
| valign="top" | DE
| valign="top" | From, From this
| valign="top" | SSB
| valign="top" | Single Sideband
|-----
| valign="top" | DIFF
| valign="top" | Difference
| valign="top" | STN
| valign="top" | Station
|-----
| valign="top" | DLD & DLVD
| valign="top" | Delivered
| valign="top" | SUM
| valign="top" | Some
|-----
| valign="top" | DN
| valign="top" | Down
| valign="top" | SVC
| valign="top" | Service
|-----
| valign="top" | DR
| valign="top" | Delivered
| valign="top" | T
| valign="top" |Zero
|-----
| valign="top" | DX
| valign="top" | Distance
| valign="top" | TFC
| valign="top" |Traffic
|-----
| valign="top" | EL
| valign="top" | Element
| valign="top" | TMW
| valign="top" |Tomorrow
|-----
| valign="top" | ES
| valign="top" | And
| valign="top" | TKS & TNX
| valign="top" |Thanks
|-----
| valign="top" | FB
| valign="top" | Fine business
| valign="top" | TR & TX
| valign="top" |Transmit
|-----
| valign="top" | FER
| valign="top" | For
| valign="top" | T/R
| valign="top" |Transmit/Receive
|-----
| valign="top" | FM
| valign="top" | Frequency Modulation, From
| valign="top" | TRIX
| valign="top" |Tricks
|-----
| valign="top" | GA
| valign="top" | Go ahead, Good afternoon
| valign="top" | TT
| valign="top" |That
|-----
| valign="top" | GB
| valign="top" | Goodbye, God Bless
| valign="top" | TTS
| valign="top" |That is
|-----
| valign="top" | GD
| valign="top" | Good
| valign="top" | TU
| valign="top" |Thank you
|-----
| valign="top" | GE
| valign="top" | Good Evening
| valign="top" | TVI
| valign="top" |Television interference
|-----
| valign="top" | GESS
| valign="top" | Guess
| valign="top" | TX
| valign="top" | Transmitter, Transmit
|-----
| valign="top" | GG
| valign="top" | Going
| valign="top" | TXT
| valign="top" | text
|-----
| valign="top" | GM
| valign="top" | Good Morning
| valign="top" | U
| valign="top" | You
|-----
| valign="top" | GN
| valign="top" | Good Night
| valign="top" | UR
| valign="top" | You're Your
|-----
| valign="top" | GND
| valign="top" | Ground
| valign="top" | URS
| valign="top" | Yours
|-----
| valign="top" | GUD
| valign="top" | Good
| valign="top" | VFB
| valign="top" | Very Fine Business
|-----
| valign="top" | GV
| valign="top" | Give
| valign="top" | VFO
| valign="top" | Variable Frequency Oscillator
|-----
| valign="top" | HH
| valign="top" | Error sending
| valign="top" | VY
| valign="top" | Very
|-----
| valign="top" | HI HI
| valign="top" | Laughter
| valign="top" | W
| valign="top" | Watts
|-----
| valign="top" | HR
| valign="top" | Hear
| valign="top" | WA
| valign="top" | Word After
|-----
| valign="top" | HV
| valign="top" | Have
| valign="top" | WD
| valign="top" | Word
|-----
| valign="top" | HW
| valign="top" | How, Copy?
| valign="top" | WDS
| valign="top" | Words
|-----
| valign="top" | IMI
| valign="top" | Repeat, say again
| valign="top" | WKD
| valign="top" | Worked
|-----
| valign="top" | LNG
| valign="top" | long
| valign="top" | WKG
| valign="top" | Working
|-----
| valign="top" | LTR
| valign="top" | Later
| valign="top" | WPM
| valign="top" | Words per minute
|-----
| valign="top" | LVG
| valign="top" | Leaving
| valign="top" | WRD
| valign="top" | Word
|-----
| valign="top" | MA & MILLS
| valign="top" | Milliamperes
| valign="top" | WX
| valign="top" | Weather
|-----
| valign="top" | MSG
| valign="top" | Message
| valign="top" | TXVR
| valign="top" | Transceiver
|-----
| valign="top" | N
| valign="top" | No, Nine
| valign="top" | XMTR
| valign="top" | Transmitter
|-----
| valign="top" | NCS
| valign="top" | Net Control Station
| valign="top" | XTL
| valign="top" | Crystal
|-----
| valign="top" | ND
| valign="top" | Nothing Doing
| valign="top" | XYL, YF
| valign="top" | Wife
|-----
| valign="top" | NM
| valign="top" | No More
| valign="top" | YL
| valign="top" | Young Lady
|-----
| valign="top" | NR
| valign="top" | Number
| valign="top" | YR
| valign="top" | Year
|-----
| valign="top" | NW
| valign="top" | Now , Resume transmission
| valign="top" | 73
| valign="top" | Best Regards
|
|}

In 1859, Western Union standardized on the "92 code", a series of telegraphic abbreviations in which numbers (originally 1 to 92) were assigned meanings.[http://www.napasars.org/news/sep07/92code.htm] (dead link, [https://web.archive.org/web/20080905172218/http://www.napasars.org/news/sep07/92code.htm archive]) These were later included as part of the "Philips Code", a series of abbreviations first published in 1879 by Walter Phillips of the Associated Press for use in the telegraphic transmission of press dispatches.[http://www.radions.net/philcode.htm]

While most of the codes have fallen into disuse, the form 19 and 31 train orders remained in railroad use long beyond the end of landline telegraphy, the use of '30' at the end of a news wire story was continued through the teletypewriter era and the '73' and '88' greetings remain in use in amateur radiotelegraphy.

{| class="wikitable" style="line-height: 115%;" summary="Western Union codes"
|----- align="left"
! width="50" align="left"| Abbreviation
! Meaning
! Abbreviation
! Meaning
|+ '''Western Union codes'''
|-----
|'''1'''
|Wait a minute.
|'''25'''
|Busy on another wire.
|-
|'''2'''
|Very Important.
|'''26'''
|Put on ground wire.
|-
|'''3'''
|What time is it?
|'''27'''
|Priority, very important.
|-
|'''4'''
|Where shall I go ahead?
|'''28'''
|Do you get my writing?.
|-
|'''5'''
|Have you business for me?
|'''29'''
|Private, deliver in sealed envelope.
|-
|'''6'''
|I am ready.
|'''30'''
|No more - the end.
|-
|'''7'''
|Are you ready?
|'''31'''
|Form 31 (permissive) train order.
|-
|'''8'''
|Close your key, stop breaking.
|'''32'''
|I understand that I am to ....
|-
|'''9'''
|Priority business. Wire Chief's call.
|'''33'''
|Answer is paid.
|-
|'''10'''
|Keep this circuit closed.
|'''34'''
|Message for all officers.
|-
|'''12'''
|Do you understand?
|'''35'''
|You may use my signal to answer this.
|-
|'''13'''
|I understand.
|'''37'''
|Inform all interested.
|-
|'''14'''
|What is the weather?
|'''39'''
|Important, with priority on through wire.
|-
|'''15'''
|For you and others to copy.
|'''44'''
|Answer promptly by wire.
|-
|'''17'''
|Lightning here.
|'''55'''
|Important.
|-
|'''18'''
|What's the trouble?
|'''73'''
|Best Regards.
|-
|'''19'''
|Form 19 (absolute) train order.
|'''77'''
|I have a message for you.
|-
|'''21'''
|Stop for meal.
|'''88'''
|Love and kisses.
|-
|'''22'''
|Wire test.
|'''91'''
|Superintendent's signal.
|-
|'''23'''
|All stations copy.
|'''92'''
|Deliver Promptly.
|-
|'''24'''
|Repeat this back.
|'''134'''
|Who is at the key?
|-
|}

Two non-standard codes, rarely-used, were coined within the amateur radiotelegraph service. The [[YL|Young Ladies Radio League]] (YLRL) organized in 1939 and quickly coined '33' as "Love sealed with mutual respect and friendship between one [[YL]] and another YL".[http://www.repeater.org/links/links2/73.htm#33] More recently, '72' has been used in [[QRP]] operation to signify a '73' sent with reduced transmitter power.

== See also ==

* [[Calculators]]

{{operation}}

Amateur Radio Wiki:Contributing

2015-10-17T03:20:28Z

TheAnarcat: introduce git-mediawiki

Contributing to this wiki is both easy and important!

It's easy because it's a wiki that anybody can edit (powered by [http://www.mediawiki.org/ Mediawiki], the same engine that runs [http://www.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]). If you have trouble editing the site, see the [[Help:Contents|help system]] or the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/MediaWiki_User's_Guide Mediawiki User's Guide].

Also note that you can keep an offline copy of this wiki using [https://github.com/moy/Git-Mediawiki/wiki/ git-mediawiki support]. You can even make edits offline and then synchronize your changes when you get back on the internet, ideal for mobile stations!

== Why is contributing here important ==

Contributing here is important because there's too many sources of information for amateur radio out there. It's hard both for new people and experienced operators to find the right source and the correct answers to too many questions when you have a problem. We need to build an authoritative documentation of all the spectrum (no pun intended) of knowledge that has gathered on the internet over the years, dusting in old 20th century web pages with turqoise backgrounds and blinking text.

As a newcomer, you need to tell us what's missing here. Feel free to edit pages to ask questions or to outline places you don't understand. You should use discussion pages to ask questions, but feel free to [[Wikipedia:WP:BOLD|be bold]] and just edit the wiki, everything will settle in the end, trust us.

As a new, established or experience operator, sharing your experience here is invaluable. We need sound documentation on everything. A lot of information about ham out there is dispersed or in old books, we need to take it out of there and take it to the world.

When you contribute, do think about [[Project:Copyrights|copyrights issues]]. We need the content here to be free of rights so that it can be reused and edited by other people.

See also the [[Project:Posting guidelines|the posting guidelines]].

== Admin help ==

If you wish to help with the development of this site as a sysop, then please contact Tim at admin1@amateur-radio-wiki.net

Wiki sand box

2015-10-17T03:00:49Z

TheAnarcat: test from git-remote-mediawiki

A sand box is a typical wiki page where you can do whatever you want.

Please feel free to use this page to 'test' your page before posting. For example you may like to upload a file and test linking to it in a document before posting. Once you have finished the test, please erase it so that others can use the page.

[[category:wiki maintenance]]

== TEST AREA BELOW ==

You can test anything here, but please keep stuff above.

Test from git mediawiki remote.

User:TheAnarcat

2012-04-11T21:59:53Z

TheAnarcat: /* Stuff to buy next */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (PN: 2643167851 from [http://www.ibselectronics.com/search_r.asp?mfgpn=2643167851 IBS electronics])
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/4)|| 4 || hardware store || ? || 4.92$ || to connect the boom with the mast, bigger mast, 1.23¢ ea
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/8)|| 2 || hardware store || ? || 1.60$ || to connect the boom with the mast, 80¢ ea
|-
| guy rope || 2x100' || hardware store || ? || 63.98$ || to secure the mast, using poplypropylene/nylon rope, each line should support around 300lbs of pressure, enough for the 500lbs of pressure with a 90mph wind
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 1" hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ? || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| tie wraps, small || 100 || hardware store || ? || 3.09$ || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 19 || hardware store || ? || 26.41$ || to tie-up the boom together (2), the spreaders to the spider (8) and the spreaders themselves (8), +spare (1)
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* VHF/UHF SWR meter
** [http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/meters/2140.html Daiwa CN-801V] 150$ 140-525 MHz. 20/200 Watts ([http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/7378 5 reviews: 4.2/5])
** [http://www.ebay.com/itm/SWR-Power-500-Watt-METER-120-500-MHz-UHF-VHF-Ham-Radio-w-RG8X-Jumper-/380424888249 workman 50$] ([http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/3905 17 reviews: 3.5/5])
** [http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/meters/1739.html the bird 43] 85$ (but only one way at a time) 200-500 MHz. 50 Watts ([http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/7378 39 reviews: 4.5/5])
* Handhelds:
** Baofeng UV-3R MKII radio (<50$) avec cable de prog ou UV-5R
* Cabling:
** 100' of RG8 cabling
* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2012-04-01T19:41:38Z

TheAnarcat: /* Stuff to buy next */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (PN: 2643167851 from [http://www.ibselectronics.com/search_r.asp?mfgpn=2643167851 IBS electronics])
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/4)|| 4 || hardware store || ? || 4.92$ || to connect the boom with the mast, bigger mast, 1.23¢ ea
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/8)|| 2 || hardware store || ? || 1.60$ || to connect the boom with the mast, 80¢ ea
|-
| guy rope || 2x100' || hardware store || ? || 63.98$ || to secure the mast, using poplypropylene/nylon rope, each line should support around 300lbs of pressure, enough for the 500lbs of pressure with a 90mph wind
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 1" hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ? || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| tie wraps, small || 100 || hardware store || ? || 3.09$ || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 19 || hardware store || ? || 26.41$ || to tie-up the boom together (2), the spreaders to the spider (8) and the spreaders themselves (8), +spare (1)
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* VHF/UHF SWR meter
** [http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/meters/2140.html Daiwa CN-801V] 150$ 140-525 MHz. 20/200 Watts ([http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/7378 5 reviews: 4.2/5])
** [http://www.ebay.com/itm/SWR-Power-500-Watt-METER-120-500-MHz-UHF-VHF-Ham-Radio-w-RG8X-Jumper-/380424888249 workman 50$] ([http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/3905 17 reviews: 3.5/5])
** [http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/meters/1739.html the bird 43] 85$ (but only one way at a time) 200-500 MHz. 50 Watts ([http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/7378 39 reviews: 4.5/5])
* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2012-04-01T19:36:10Z

TheAnarcat: /* Stuff to buy next */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (PN: 2643167851 from [http://www.ibselectronics.com/search_r.asp?mfgpn=2643167851 IBS electronics])
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/4)|| 4 || hardware store || ? || 4.92$ || to connect the boom with the mast, bigger mast, 1.23¢ ea
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/8)|| 2 || hardware store || ? || 1.60$ || to connect the boom with the mast, 80¢ ea
|-
| guy rope || 2x100' || hardware store || ? || 63.98$ || to secure the mast, using poplypropylene/nylon rope, each line should support around 300lbs of pressure, enough for the 500lbs of pressure with a 90mph wind
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 1" hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ? || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| tie wraps, small || 100 || hardware store || ? || 3.09$ || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 19 || hardware store || ? || 26.41$ || to tie-up the boom together (2), the spreaders to the spider (8) and the spreaders themselves (8), +spare (1)
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* VHF/UHF SWR meter
** [http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/meters/2140.html Daiwa CN-801V] 150$ 140-525 MHz. 20/200 Watts
** [http://www.ebay.com/itm/SWR-Power-500-Watt-METER-120-500-MHz-UHF-VHF-Ham-Radio-w-RG8X-Jumper-/380424888249 workman 50$]
** [http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/meters/1739.html the bird 43] 85$ (but only one way at a time) 200-500 MHz. 50 Watts
* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-22T22:31:34Z

TheAnarcat: we have all parts now

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (PN: 2643167851 from [http://www.ibselectronics.com/search_r.asp?mfgpn=2643167851 IBS electronics])
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/4)|| 4 || hardware store || ? || 4.92$ || to connect the boom with the mast, bigger mast, 1.23¢ ea
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/8)|| 2 || hardware store || ? || 1.60$ || to connect the boom with the mast, 80¢ ea
|-
| guy rope || 2x100' || hardware store || ? || 63.98$ || to secure the mast, using poplypropylene/nylon rope, each line should support around 300lbs of pressure, enough for the 500lbs of pressure with a 90mph wind
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 1" hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ? || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| tie wraps, small || 100 || hardware store || ? || 3.09$ || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 19 || hardware store || ? || 26.41$ || to tie-up the boom together (2), the spreaders to the spider (8) and the spreaders themselves (8), +spare (1)
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-22T22:29:00Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (PN: 2643167851 from [http://www.ibselectronics.com/search_r.asp?mfgpn=2643167851 IBS electronics])
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/4)|| 4 || hardware store || 4.92$ || ? || to connect the boom with the mast, bigger mast, 1.23¢ ea
|-
| Mast clamps (1"3/8)|| 2 || hardware store || 1.60$ || ? || to connect the boom with the mast, 80¢ ea
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 19 || hardware store || 26.41$ || ? || to tie-up the boom together (2), the spreaders to the spider (8) and the spreaders themselves (8), +spare (1)
|-
| tie wraps, small || 100 || hardware store || 3.09$ || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| guy rope || 2x100' || hardware store || 63.98$ || ? || to secure the mast, using poplypropylene/nylon rope, each line should support around 300lbs of pressure, enough for the 500lbs of pressure with a 90mph wind
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-22T18:17:01Z

TheAnarcat: /* My rig */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (PN: 2643167851 from [http://www.ibselectronics.com/search_r.asp?mfgpn=2643167851 IBS electronics])
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| Mast clamps || 2 || hardware store || ? || ? || to connect the boom with the mast, there are clamps missing
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 4 || hardware store || ? || ? || to tie-up the boom together
|-
| 2" hose clamps || 8 || hardware store || ? || ? || to tie-up the spreaders together
|-
| tie wraps || 8+ || hardware store || ? || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| guy wire (nylon?) || ? || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-21T00:36:27Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| Mast clamps || 2 || hardware store || ? || ? || to connect the boom with the mast, there are clamps missing
|-
| 2"½ hose clamps || 4 || hardware store || ? || ? || to tie-up the boom together
|-
| 2" hose clamps || 8 || hardware store || ? || ? || to tie-up the spreaders together
|-
| tie wraps || 8+ || hardware store || ? || ? || to tie the antenna line to the spreaders
|-
| guy wire (nylon?) || ? || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower
|-
| more sandbags? || 3 || hardware store || ? || ? || to attach the tower?
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

Amateur Radio Wiki talk:Organisation

2011-05-15T04:45:32Z

TheAnarcat:

== <del>Admin gone missing?</del> ==

The [[Project:About]] page originally said that "ams that have the interest and necessary skills to form and be part of a foundation are invited to
contact the owner at admin1@amateur-radio-wiki.net so that sensible discussion can take place." I have tried to contact Tim Roberts and haven't got a response yet. Furthermore, he seems to be inactive in the wiki for at least a year. I am therefore worried about the maintenance of this wiki. I am therefore publicly offering my help to maintain and support this install, but I would need more accesses to do that. I have made a backup of the wiki content and cleanup (see below) to make sure the existing work doesn't die. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 12:35, 17 October 2010 (CDT)

:Admin is there, I got a ping from him, thanks tim! -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 10:36, 18 October 2010 (CDT)

== Backup script ==

I have worked on a Mediawiki backup script. It talks to the [[Special:Allpages]] and [[Special:Export]] pages to export the most recent version of every page of this wiki as a flat file. It then commits that to a git repository, which aims to be usable as a [http://ikiwiki.info/ ikiwiki] backend. The code is currently in [http://anarcat.ath.cx/software/mediawikigitdump.git/ a git repository], use this command to get a local copy:

git clone http://anarcat.ath.cx/software/mediawikigitdump.git/

You can do a backup with this:

mediawikigitdump.py http://amateur-radio-wiki.net/index.php

To restrict to a namespace (in this example, talk pages):

mediawikigitdump.py -n 1 http://amateur-radio-wiki.net/index.php

You can also convert the Mediawiki markup to markdown, the default format in Ikiwiki (see below):

mediawikigitdump.py -n 1 -t http://amateur-radio-wiki.net/index.php

To fetch only the last changes since the last commit:

mediawikigitdump.py -n 1 -t -i http://amateur-radio-wiki.net/index.php

This also works on Wikipedia, and can be useful to get a local copy of all the ham pages, since we can fetch by category:

mediawikigitdump.py -c Category:Amateur_radio http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php

Be careful with Wikipedia: you can't really mirror all of wikipedia with this, and there are [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Database_download|better tools]] out there to do that anyways. In fact, it's [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Types_of_bots#Non-editing_bots|recommended]] that datamining on Wikipedia occurs on a separate database that you can can [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Database_download|download separately]].

I am making regular copies of this wiki while we look for tim. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 12:47, 17 October 2010 (CDT)

== Ikiwiki? ==

Since we're on that topic, I'd like to introduce another wiki engine called Ikiwiki. The above scripts makes some efforts to make the resulting backup usable as a Ikiwiki backend, and while that work isn't complete, it would now be trivial to convert this wiki for an almost completely operational ikiwiki site.

Ikiwiki is interesting for hams as it will work even if the central server (or the internet) is down: being based on git, you can download a copy of the full history of the wiki locally, make changes using a regular editor (and therefore offline) and then push that back to the central wiki once network is available again. This seems to me like a killer feature for hams in emergency operations that want a quick reference (and of course that have power to operate a computer, otherwise books still work! :).

The drawback of ikiwiki is that the user interface of ikiwiki is not very intuitive, or let's say very minimal compared to the polished Mediawiki interface. I particularly like the talk pages, categories and templating system (or transclusion) in MW. In ikiwiki, there's a good tagging system to replace categories, but talk pages are not as nice and I'm not sure there's transclusion. We also need to see if redirections are supported.

I am therefore not advocating that we change wiki engines just yet: too much work, too much confusion, and it could push away our precious little number of contributors. But it's something I'll keep in mind. See also [http://ikiwiki.info/tips/convert_mediawiki_to_ikiwiki/ this page] for more information on how to convert to ikiwiki. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 12:47, 17 October 2010 (CDT)

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:23:56Z

TheAnarcat: another comment test

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online, which raised the overall costs because of shipping.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:21:00Z

TheAnarcat: test with a comment

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

Waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:19:39Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped and for the rain to stop.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:16:10Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

Oh, and it never stops raining here, so this could be an issue.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:15:37Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs++ - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:13:48Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat]. I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:11:59Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat].

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:11:38Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat].

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod.

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T16:10:12Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat].

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T15:57:38Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || attic || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-14T15:56:10Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-11T05:44:26Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos at radioworld, first pass:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees (where from again?!)
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

Manuals

2011-05-11T05:08:06Z

TheAnarcat:

Related wiki pages: [[Apparatus]], [[Books]]

* [http://www.pd5dp.nl PD5DP Free Downloads of Manuals Website], Space donated by HamRadio DeLuxe.

* [http://bama.sbc.edu/ Boat Anchor Manuals]. A massive database of manuals for old and obsolete radio equipment.

* [http://www.vk3kay.id.au/ VK3KAY] A mods and manuals database from Victoria. Over 3GB of files for download. Upload facility also available.

* [http://www.timroberts-vk4yeh.id.au/downloadable%20files.htm VK4YEH], based in Brisbane Australia.

{{websites}}

Quad antenna

2011-05-11T05:07:50Z

TheAnarcat:

== Quad antenna ==

Copied from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quad_antenna Wikipedia], the free encyclopedia (for pictures etc)

The Quad antenna is an antenna which is frequently used by amateur radio operators. It consists of a driven element and parasitic elements, like a Yagi; however, the elements are square loops. If there is only one parasitic element it is referred to as a 'Cubical Quad' (since it will be an approximate cube).

== History ==

It was developed by Clarence C. Moore (patent no. 2,537,191), W9LZX, an engineer at HCJB (a shortwave missionary radio station high in the Andean Mountains). He developed it to resolve issues with large coronal discharges in the thin air with a beam antenna.

Moore describes his antenna as "a pulled-open folded dipole" and describes the time when it was developed:

“ We took about one hundred pounds of engineering reference books with us on our short vacation to Posoraja, Ecuador during the summer of 1942, determined that with the help of God we could solve our problem. There on the floor of our bamboo cottage we spread open all the reference books we had brought with us and worked for hours on basic antenna design. Our prayers must have been answered, for gradually as we worked the vision of a quad-shaped antenna gradually grew with the new concept of a loop antenna having no ends to the elements, and combining relatively high transmitting impedance and high gain. ”

Moore's design eliminated coronal discharge. "End effect", which is inherent with the Yagi, is absent in a quad because its elements have no ends. But other advantages appeared. The higher impedance, mentioned in the quote above, translates to lower current and thus lower loss on the transmission lines. And gain was found to be higher than that of a Yagi.
== Advantages over a Yagi ==

Rigorous testing of the quad antenna, reported in William Orr's authoritative "All About Cubical Quad Antennas", and others, have illustrated the following advantages over a Yagi antenna.

=== Higher Gain ===

The 2-element Quad has almost the same gain as a 3-element Yagi: about 7.5 dB over a dipole. Likewise, a 3-element Quad has more gain than a 3-element Yagi. However, adding quad elements produces diminishing returns. Quoting from William Orr, "Whereas parasitic beams having twenty or thirty parasitic directors are efficient, high gain antennas, it would seem... that maximum practical number of parasitic loop elements for the Quad array is limited to four of five." (Orr, Pg. 48)

=== Radiation Resistance approximately 50Ω ===

Radiation resistance is affected by antenna height above ground, element spacing, and environmental conditions. However, values will be higher than Yagi's and more closely matched to a 50 Ω coaxial feed line.

=== Lower Boom Height ===

"A two-element, three-band quad, with elements mounted only 35 feet above ground, will give good performance in situations where a triband Yagi will not." (Page 12-3 of the 15th edition of The ARRL Antenna Book.)

===Shorter Boom===

William Orr's book shows a 10-15-20 meter, 2-element Quad with boom length of 6'10".

===May be Internally Stacked to form Multi-Band Arrays===

As Orr states, interaction between antennas of a multi-band Quad are quite low, even when fed with a single feed line. (Orr, Pg. 63)

===Lower Angle Radiation===

According to K0SR, (pg. 5 of the ARRL's Jan/Feb 2008 National Contest Journal) the claim that quads "open the band earlier", which suggests that they exhibit a lower angle of radiation than Yagis, has persisted for 50 years in spite of the fact that computer models disagree. He posits that the vertical sides of each element actually radiate the low angle component.

===Broader Bandwidth===

The bandwidth for a 3-element Quad antenna that is tuned for maximum gain is limited because excursions from the design frequency unbalance the near resonance condition of the parasitic elements. However, by lengthening the reflector and director elements, thus sacrificing approximately 1 dB gain, the entire 10 meter band may be worked with an SWR below 1.75:1.

===Quieter to RF Noise===

This is an unsubstantiated, subjective note.

===The E-Z-O variation===

3-Element E-Z-O Antenna PrototypeAn improvement over the Quad design has been claimed by N8PPQ. In 2008 he introduced the E-Z-O antenna which uses flexible dielectric tubes, rather than rigid poles, to support the electrical elements. He claims slightly higher gain over the Quad due to its circular form; circles being the shape that the Quad only roughly approximates. Here is his list of reported improvements over the Quad antenna:

* Lower Cost
* Higher Gain
* Lighter in Weight
* Less Wind/Ice Loading
* Easier to Install and Maintain
* Esthetically Pleasing

The magnitude of the dielectric effect on the outside band elements was surprising. Experimentation was required to establish optimum element lengths. Referencing literature was not to be found. As reported at http://personal.ee.surrey.ac.uk/Personal/D.Jefferies/antennexarticles/diecon.htm, "As far as we are aware, there has been no reported work on encasing loop antennas in dielectric." It appears that "near field" interaction between parallel components increases the magnitude of the dielectric effect. Near field analysis is too complicated for this author.

===Patents===
Patent 2,537,191

== Sample designs ==

See [[User:TheAnarcat]] for his quad design...

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-11T05:04:00Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna and replace the PVC with aluminium for solidity. It should be possible to take the antenna apart and rebuild it if necessary.

=== Parts list ===

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

Total planned price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

None - waiting for parts to be shipped.

=== Discarded approaches ===

Those parts were considered during the design phase but were discarded for various reasons.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

I had a lot of problems finding proper parts (pipes, raw materials like wiring and so on) in Montreal, which made building the antenna quite tricky, as a lot of things needed to be ordered online.

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-11T04:59:44Z

TheAnarcat: /* My rig */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* A shitload of PL259 connectors, usually around 2$ each
* Documentation:
** [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide]: 40$
** [https://www.rac.ca/store/operating-manual.htm The RAC Operating Manual]: 42$ (note: i didn't find this one really useful)
** ARRL Handbook 2011, Softcover: 49.95$USD
** ARRL Antenna Book: 44.95$USD
* Total rig cost so far: 1242.60$ (not counting the quad project below)

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

FAQ

2011-05-11T04:55:58Z

TheAnarcat:

Related wiki pages : [[Dictionary of Ham Radio Terms]]

Got a question that you can't find an answer to? Put it here, and hopefully someone will answer it.

* [[What is amateur radio?]]
* [[Why call it ham radio?]]
* [[How to learn ham radio?]]
* [[What is the best way to learn Morse?]]
* [[impedance|What is impedance?]]
* [[What causes QRN?]]
* [[What is best type of morse key?]]
* [[How does QSLing work in Amateur Radio]]
* [[Why are the country code prefixes as they are?]]
* [[What is a DX cluster?]]
* [[What does the /B suffix signify?]]
* [[What is a cavity filter?]]
* [[What are laser lights made of? How do they work?]]
* [[Has anyone used a tuner with an Off Centre Fed Dipole? How well did it work?]]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-11T04:53:39Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1¼" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (type 1) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 19.80$
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|-
| Clamps || 10-pack || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1868&PLID=161&SecID=129&DeptID=36&PartNo=DXE-CPC-375 dxengineering] || ~0 || 14.95$ || to secure the feedline
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 2 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 DX engineering] || 2.5lbs || 24.90$ ||
|-
| 500' of wiring || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=2012&PLID=159&SecID=77&DeptID=40&PartNo=DXE-ANTW-500 DX engineering] || N/A || 74.95$ || only parts of this will be used (120' to be more precise)
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
|colspan="6"|Nothing! Just waiting for parts to be shipped now. :)
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy] - too hard to find
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-11T04:33:00Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ - actual: 255$CAD (!!) || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-11T03:50:57Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts in shipping)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts to order)
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

Learning Amateur Radio in Canada

2011-05-10T04:03:13Z

TheAnarcat:

== Learning ==

There are various clubs in Canada that can teach you amateur radio, see [[Clubs/Canada]] for more details.

If you want to learn by yourself, there isn't many online resources, so most people go through books or training. The right book to buy to learn everything you need is [http://www.coaxpublications.ca/ Canadian Amateur Radio Basic Qualification Study Guide], which is at its 8th edition and is a great read that covers everything you need to know to confidently start with ham.

Reading through the whole [https://www.rac.ca/en/amateur-radio/beginner-info/exhaminer/ExHAMiner_QB_Basic.zip question bank] (available as part of the [https://www.rac.ca/en/amateur-radio/beginner-info/exhaminer/ ExHAMiner software] which allows you to test yourself (windows only), is also a good way to understand the subtelties behind the tricky questions of the exam. The [http://www.nsarc.ca/ NSARC] also has a [http://www.nsarc.ca/training/basic/basicqb.pdf PDF version] on their [http://www.nsarc.ca/training/main.html courses page].

== Examination ==

To pass the exam, you need to find an [http://www.rac.ca/en/amateur-radio/regulatory/examinations/examiners/index.php examiner] in your neighborhood and meet with them to find a time and place to do the exam. The exam is 100 multiple choice questions and can take up to two hours. You need to hit the 70% mark to pass the exam, 80% to have "honors" that give you access to [[HF]] bands. On top of the [[callsign]] database documented in the [[callsign databases]] page, there's the [http://www.indicatif.ca/rech_ind_dis.php indicatif.ca] site that also has a search engine.

The license itself is free, but the examiner may charge a fee for the exam.

== External links ==
* [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca course] - PDF slides that are a good preparation for the exam
* [http://www.eham.net/ eham.net] - always a good reference for hardware reviews, they also have a quick introduction for [http://www.eham.net/newham/operating basic operation], [http://www.eham.net/newham/bands bands], [http://www.eham.net/newham/callsigns call signs] and [http://www.eham.net/newham/propagation propagation] that gives you a good rough idea of where to go
* [http://www.hamtestonline.com hamtestonline.com] - not totally free, but you can test your skills there and get basic knowledge through the site. has canadian and US exams

[[Category:Websites]]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-10T03:01:59Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 0$ || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s> - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || 0$ || unit price ~2$ - found some
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || 0$|| for spreader/wire attachment - found some
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts missing)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 45$ + 30$ shipping || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 70$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~373.77$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T02:55:37Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts missing)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 2.3lbs || 80$USD || 14oz ea. 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T02:25:50Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| plywood || 3'x4' || home depot? || ? || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts missing)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T02:22:32Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the boom and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts missing)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || ? || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T02:21:13Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Mast
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna and accessories
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="6"|Antenna (parts missing)
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || ? || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

Total planned weight: ~25lbs? - not including 180lbs of sandbags, the pole and tripod...

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T02:16:57Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!colspan="6"|Parts on hand
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || ? || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || ? || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 30kg ea. || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~0 || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~0 || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="6"|Parts missing
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Weight || Price || Notes
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || 17.6lbs || ~160$ || 4.4lbs ea, unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || ~0 || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || ? || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || ? || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 2.5lbs || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ~0 || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ? || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T02:00:44Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5107&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1492 this]? || 12.45$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T01:25:53Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this]? || 7$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~360$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T01:24:37Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this]? || 7$ + shipping ||
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || 80$USD || 40$/ea, seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T01:14:08Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - <s>use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector</s> need to switch to type 1!!!
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || <s>home depot</s> Rick Adams || 0$ || included in the beam/pole fitting
|-
| boom/pole plate || 1 || Rick Adams || 54$ || need to drill holes, includes reinforcement pole
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || <s>1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting</s>
|-
| 4m aluminium boom || 1 || [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this]?
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| spider || 2 || [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adams] || ~40$ ea. || seems strong and sturdy, and Rick helped me through email, let's try!
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>4m 1"PVC</s> || 1 || home depot || ? || according to Rick, this could create interference
|-
| <s>5-way 1"PVC conn.</s> || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways, and I don't trust PVC
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped -
* spreaders: **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* <s>spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]</s> going with rick if we can arrange on shipping
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-09T01:09:09Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped - **oops!** got the wrong spreaders if i'm going with Rick's spreaders, as Rick's are 0.995"OD and 0.812"ID - the idea is that the spreader would fit *around* the spider's legs, so I need the Type 1 spreader instead of type 1L. anyways, the type 1 i stronger
* spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate - rick has some, ~50$ including clamps

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T12:43:12Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped
* spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]
* boom: would prefer aluminium, like [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 this] (7$ + shipping), anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe [http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 this]? (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T12:39:59Z

TheAnarcat:

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

=== Current blocker(s) ===

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped
* spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.) or custom-made, like [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]
* boom: http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 7$ + shipping, anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe this? http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T12:39:04Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

=== Notes ===

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies
* Concerned about the hub kit, that the PVC will either not fit or break, would rather have aluminium like [http://www.rickadams.net/ this] or [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]

=== Current blocker ==

* shipping: waiting for the fiberglass to be shipped
* spider: can't find 5-way connectors anywhere, and worried about the solidity of PVC, considering [http://www.rickadams.net/ Rick Adam's] spider hubs (40$ ea.)
* boom: http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484 7$ + shipping, anything local?
* attachment plate: plywood just won't cut it, maybe this? http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=1075&PLID=186&SecID=1&DeptID=39&PartNo=DXE-MMP-P3 (~12$, need to drill holes) or any aluminium plate

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T12:32:31Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

Notes:

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies
* Concerned about the hub kit, that the PVC will either not fit or break, would rather have aluminium like [http://www.rickadams.net/ this] or [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]
* POssible boom pipe: http://www.dxengineering.com/Parts.asp?ID=5099&PLID=364&SecID=136&DeptID=43&PartNo=DXE-AT1484

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T12:24:20Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] (ordered) || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

Notes:

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies
* Concerned about the hub kit, that the PVC will either not fit or break, would rather have aluminium like [http://www.rickadams.net/ this] or [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T04:28:49Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] - ordered || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

Notes:

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies
* Concerned about the hub kit, that the PVC will either not fit or break, would rather have aluminium like [http://www.rickadams.net/ this] or [http://www.iol.ie/~bravo/Cubical%20Quad.htm this]

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]

User:TheAnarcat

2011-05-08T04:23:12Z

TheAnarcat: /* New quad antenna project */

I am [https://wiki.koumbit.net/TheAnarcat anarcat] and i hope i'm not screwing things up here too much. :)

I just passed my basic qualitification in Canada, with honors (so I can operate HF), yay! I am now AKA VA2ANK. -- [[User:TheAnarcat|TheAnarcat]] 21:50, 10 October 2010 (CDT)

= My rig =

* Transceiver:
** Yaesu FT-100D - [http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180565016542&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT 499$ on ebay] - actual price: ~570$ (to be verified)
* Antennas and gizmos:
** MFJ-941E - antenna tuner and switch [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=2885 155$ at radioworld]
** MAP-G5RV 1/2 - G5RV 50' dipole antenna (10-40m) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=121&products_id=7788 85$ at radioworld]
** <del>J146/440 - dual band VHF/UHF antenna (2m-70cm) [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_191_193&products_id=886 40$ at radioworld]</del> /!\ backorder
** 100' of RG8 coax cabling [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=6831 65$ at radioworld]
** <del>MFJ-260C - 300W dummy load 0-150Mhz dry [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?products_id=8098 50$ at radiowrodl]</del> built into the tuner now
** 3 PL259 connectors [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=73_394&products_id=3244 4$ at radioworld]
** Total, incl. shipping: 452.35$
* Ferrites: ~40$ + 24$ customs fees
* Total rig cost so far: 1046.70$

I uploaded a few photos [http://photos.anarcat.koumbit.org/main.php?g2_itemId=4619 in this album].

== New quad antenna project ==

[[File:Quad-sketch0001.jpg|400px|thumb|right|A sketch of my antenna]]

I am working on building a new antenna, pictured right. It is based on [http://www.hamuniverse.com/n1uue2el1011quad.html this design], which uses a mix of PVC pipes and fiberglass rods, except I adapt it to a 20m antenna.

Here's my parts list.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
! Part || Amount || Where || Price || Notes
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts on hand
|-
| tripod || 1 || addison (done) || 45.56$ || ~2' x 2'
|-
| 3m steel pole || 1 || downstairs || 0$ || to connect the beam and tripod, 1-1¼"
|-
| sandbags || 3 || home depot (done) || 10.76$ || one per leg
|-
| hose clamps || 8 || home depot || ~15$ || unit price ~2$
|-
| 8"x½" plastic tube || 1 || home depot (done) || ~2$|| for spreader/wire attachment
|+
!colspan="5"|Parts missing
|-
| 15' 1" fiberglass || 8 || [http://www.mgs4u.com/fiberglass-cubical-quad-spreaders.htm mgs4u.com] - ordered || ~160$ || unit price 17.10$ - use the type 1L because the type 1 doesn't fit in the 5-way PVC connector
|-
| U clamps and bolts || 4 || home depot || ? || for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| 4m 1"PVC || 1 || home depot || ? || or aluminium?
|-
| plywood || 6'x5' || home depot || 5$? || 1' x 2' used for the beam/pole fitting
|-
| welding wire aluminium || 270' spool || [http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/WeldingSoldering/AccessoriesRodsWire.jsp canadian tire]? || ? || example: [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium 5356 MIG alloy]
|-
| 5-way 1"PVC conn. || 2 || [http://www.creativeshelters.com/Fittings/PVC-Structure-Fitting.aspx creativeshelters.com] || 3.08$ || couldn't order, they don't accept canadian zip codes, and shipping is 30$ anyways
|+
!colspan="5"|Discarded approaches
|-
| <s>1"x½" copper pipe</s> || 8 || home depot || ~5$ || we'll use tie-wraps instead for spreader/wire attachment
|-
| <s>8m ½"PVC</s> || 4 || home depot || ? || PVC pipes are too flexible to hold properly, we need fiberglass
|-
| <s>AUG 12 copper wire</s> || 44.4m || ??? || 29.32$ (addison?) 48.64$ pour 2x12 22m (dubo) || <s>addison doesn't have bare wire, and [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ dubo] only has bare up to 8 gage, too big (it's mainly for grounds)</s> copper wire never comes bare, and i may have better luck finding mig soldering wire like [http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/en/Products/Alloys/Welding/Aluminum-Alloy/Alloy-5356-MIG.aspx Aluminium-5356]
|}

Total price: ~280$

Notes:

* Gauge: 10-16 AWG is okay (see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_wire_gauge AWG], that is 1.2-2.5mm or 1/10" - 1/20"), and can be insulated, according to [http://n6ach.com/calc/quad.html this page]
* Using welding wire is a good idea, as the [http://www.qsl.net/w3df/quad2/quad.html lightning bolt quad] uses
* I was suggested [http://www.dubo.qc.ca/ Dubo] for electric supplies

= Références =

Je collecte ici des bons sites au sujet du ham radio.

* Manuals, courses
** [http://www.visi.com/~tneu/whatsham.html Good overview]
** [http://www.emergencyradio.ca/course/ Emergencyradio.ca online course]
** [http://kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ tech manual]
** [http://www.baproducts.com/ham.htm HAM Radio primer] - un peu vieux (14 ans!) dit que son kit a coûté 1000$
* Hardware
** [http://batlabs.com/ hardware guide] - motorola
* Exams
** [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/fra/h_sf01709.html certification pour licence canadienne]
** [http://wiki.hope.net/index.php/TLH_Amateur_Radio_License_Exams Exams at the Last HOPE]
* Clubs
** [http://www.marc.qc.ca/ Montreal Amateur Radio Club] - Dorval est. 1932, mostly english and west-island-ish
** [http://www.ve2clm.ca/ Rive sud]
** [http://www.rac.ca/ Radio Amateur Canada]
* Other documentation
** [http://www.irlp.net/ IRLP] - Internet Radio Linking Project - using the internet to link stations
** [http://hamcall.net/call Call sign lookup]
** [http://www.rac.ca/acl/ Available call signs in Canada]
** [http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/regulations/bands.html US Ham bands]
** [[Wikipedia:Family_Radio_Service]] - intéressant pour commencer, comme le CB mais plus puissant et sans interférence, pas cher, j'ai acheté un [http://radioworld.ca/product_info.php?cPath=161_381&products_id=5790 cobra FRS]

== Software ==

This needs to be merged into [[Software]]

* the oracles
** http://packages.debian.org/gpredict
** http://packages.debian.org/minimuf - allows you to compute the WikiPedia:MUF depending on salar activity and so on, but has an unusuable interface (you need to enter a series of digits... how about a GUI?!)
** http://packages.debian.org/gcb - calculates the right angle for your antenna
** http://packages.debian.org/xplanet - can show azimuthal projections of the earth on your background, screensaver or window - I use this in myxsession:
xplanet -latitude 45.5 -longitude -73.66 -wait 60 -label -projection azimuthal -fork -radius 90
* testing tools
** http://packages.debian.org/ibp - very useful for training to receive distant comms: show you which beacon is active when, with a map
ibp FN35EM
* packet:
** http://packages.debian.org/gmfsk - for packet radio
** http://packages.debian.org/fldigi - also looks interesting and fairly complete, not tested
** http://packages.debian.org/gpsk31, DebianPackage:linpsk, DebianPackage:phaseshift - same?
** http://packages.debian.org/fbb - mailboxes?
* to be tested:
** http://packages.debian.org/grig - can control your radio from your computer
** http://packages.debian.org/splat
** http://packages.debian.org/wwl
** http://packages.debian.org/wsjt
** http://packages.debian.org/xastir
** http://packages.debian.org/xwota
** http://packages.debian.org/xdemorse
* dismissed:
** http://packages.debian.org/predict and http://packages.debian.org/predict-gsat - console only, doesn't bring much the gorgeous visuals of DebianPackage:gpredict

... others to follow, there's a whole [http://packages.debian.org/sid/hamradio/ hamradio section] in debian.

= Stuff to buy next =

* Another HF radio?
** [http://shop.ebay.com/Fixed-/163857/i.html ebay]
** [http://radioworld.ca/index.php?cPath=184_72 radioworld]
** [http://www.raqi.ca/~ve2bzl/hf.htm local]
* [http://www.paratonnerres.qc.ca/produits.html Call those guys?]