HF Net tonite 6:30 pacific @ 7190

[xtatik]

HF Net Saturday Afternoons, 2:30 pm pacific @ 14.325

PLEASE NOTE: CHANGE OF BAND AND NET TIME BELOW!!

This will be an experiment. An HF net for overlanders/offroad enthusiasts. Intended for people who like venturing into more remote locales that are repeater-less (is that a word?) Anyhow, it'll be run loosely, but modeled after the maritime nets that serve the same purpose. If you're able (have the time, and proper license) stop by. We'll be looking for feedback and ideas as to how it should be run.
Saturdays on 14.325, + or - 5 khz for QRM/N
Warm-up @ 10:30z (2:30 pacific). Net @ 11:00z (3:00 pm pacific)

 

[Sportsman Matt]

How did the net go?

73

Matt NA1Q

 

[xtatik]

How did the net go?

73

Matt NA1Q

Well, it didn't, hihi.
The idea was started over on another offroad forum (oausa.net), and was posted here a bit late unfortunately. I don't believe there are many that are capable (General, or better licensed) over there to really make use of it, even though they make amateur radio an emphasis (Hmmmm?). Most, (not all) of the members there seem to be more focused on local offroading and are FM repeater oriented.....we've got scads of em' in SoCal close to town.
There were two there that had chimed in on posts that they may try meet on the band, and they may have tried, but weren't heard in any case. I'm certain I was getting out as I made the telnet (DXwatch) with an EU station. Perhaps the band was a bit long...these stations would've been within 100 miles. Who knows?
We may try again next week.

 

[AKRover]

If I saw this earlier I would have gave it a try.

Here in about an hour I should have the shack set up and I'll be tuning around. Shoot me a PM if your on.

 

[xtatik]

If I saw this earlier I would have gave it a try.

Here in about an hour I should have the shack set up and I'll be tuning around. Shoot me a PM if your on.

PM'd

 

[BigJimCruising]

Wish I had known about this. I don't usually check the forums over the weekends or I would have been there. It sure seems like a great idea and I think over time it would be a big help to the overlanding community. Keep trying it with more notice and I think it would catch on!

 

[xtatik]

We'll try again this Saturday. For specifics see first post. Warm-up for relays at 6:30 Pacific, Net and first "Coyote Calls" at 7:00
40 meters on 7190, + or - 5 for QRM/N.

 

[bj70_guy]

I'll put the Chameleon antenna on a tripod throw up in the back yard and see if I can hear you...

 

[AKRover]

After looking at the computer model for my buddipole at 40 meters I think I'll only be listening if I'm lucky. It has a 90 degree take off angle. I think with it set up as a vertical dipole it gets down to 27 degrees but then I need a non conductive mast. I guess we'll see.

 

[xtatik]

After looking at the computer model for my buddipole at 40 meters I think I'll only be listening if I'm lucky. It has a 90 degree take off angle. I think with it set up as a vertical dipole it gets down to 27 degrees but then I need a non conductive mast. I guess we'll see.

Yeah, It'll be a cloud warmer. I think I touched on that in the other thread. Configured as a dipole, try to get the antenna up at least a 1/4 wave and your model will begin to broaden and flatten. Or, configure it as a vertical.

As for the net, keep this in mind guys.... We're looking for ideas, and there will be some experimentation as to which band, which day, and what time of day.
As for the band, 40 meters is about the most any froader is going to put together in a "mobile" antenna. There are certainly antennas available that will do reasonably well for even 80 meters. I'm talking about the Hi-Q's the Scorpion and larger High Sierra and Tarheel models. But, they are larger, require heavy duty mounts, and more susceptible to damage due to vibration. Each of these mfr'rs makes smaller versions that work from approx. 6-40 meters.
20 meters is also being considered. But, the net would have to move to an earlier daylight hour when the MUF is higher. 20m will also travel further with less power in most cases...this is the best DX band. Even simple "Hamstick" type antennas will work reasonably well.
As for the day of the week, I'd bet that most of us are weekend warriors. Although many will travel for extended times, most of our trips will begin, end or span a weekend. So, Saturday seems to make more sense than a weekday and would probably see more participation.
So, I'm looking for input as to which band. Let me know.

 

[xtatik]

Note: Change of band and net time. See first post.
Stop by on Saturday!

 

[AKRover]

If I'm home I'll give it a try. Hope to talk to you then.

 

[xtatik]

Yeah, 20m just makes it a lot easier when it comes to antennas....you won't have to get your Buddipole quite so high.

 

[BigJimCruising]

Mid afternoon on a saturday?? I'm out.

 

[xtatik]

BJC,
Sorry you're out. Keep in mind this net is primarily intended for those out in the boonies. Most people could handle the mike while driving or camped somewhere.
40m is simply not functioning in the early PM. Later into the night, and into the morning hours, it's fine. 20m meters is functioning better than any band currently (always does), but only during the day. At this time of year it shuts down pretty abruptly after the greyline/twilight. As for 80 meters.....how many offroaders have an 80m antenna on their truck? I hope you see the dilemna.
However, we will always need extra ears and relays. If you get a chance in the future give a shout.