At the
next cave radio field meet in the UK, which is likely to be in September (but
the location is not yet decided), it is hoped to make measurements of Loran
signal strength on 87kHz and compare them with those in past years. Cave
rescue organisations which use Heyphones and Molephones are also being asked
if they have noticed any difference in interference levels.
A note will
also appear in the forthcoming CREG Journal alerting people to the
tests.
73
John G3PAI
Hello John.
Thank you for that. I will be interested to know what if any deterioration
in signal levels you measure. As a 'rescue service' any interference to your
group would be considered more important than that caused to 'amateur
radio'.
As most new installations like Rugby go through a well defined period of
commissioning along the lines of:
Installation
Test
Assessment
Modification
Re-test
Hand over to operators
It may be the case that the Trinity House and Loran personnel will be
aware that interference reported during the early stages is likely to be
serious, while interference reported after 4 months of operation may not be that
severe. Consequently, It's probably worth doing any monitoring sooner
rather than later.
Pehaps if you have a cave rescue 'reflector' you could ask for any changes
in reception to be reported at an earlier stage. Having said that it does appear
that the Loran station is off at the weekends.......which is probably the most
popular times for caving.
Many thanks
David
