Re: LF: Trans Biggleswade contact being planned - revive a Racal Dana 9084

[Roger Lapthorn <rogerlapthorn@gmail.com>]

hi Chris (G3XIZ) and Jim (G7NKS),

Good luck with this 3km test. Given some days' warning and with my loop/preamp and a calibrated soundcard RX, when ready, I shall be looking for you.

I assume you've not had any further news yet from OFCOM regarding the NoV? I chased last week.

73s
Roger G3XBM

On 8 June 2010 10:19, James Cowburn <james.cowburn@virgin.net> wrote:

Dear All,

 

Under the tutillage and guidance of G3XIZ, we are planning to build the kit necessary for an initial “trans-biggleswade” QSO (3km) and then plan for a later attempt at M0BMU (39km) and G3XBM (32km) from our QTHs, NOVs permitting of course!

 

Jim/Roger we will keep you posted as to when we are going to fire up the TXs (post NOV)

 

Chris (XIZ) will be using a modified (initially 500khz) home brew TX capable of 150w+ and I will be planning to use a 70w audio amp for the first 3km attempt.

 

RXs will be tuned loops and longwires direct into SpecLab/Winrad.  I will also press my W & G SPM 19 into service and try to use the PS60 as an exciter in addition to the Farnell sig gen.   

 

TX antennas will be the existing units at G3XIZ/G7NKS for LF/MF with new coils for which the designs will be shamelessly pirated from Horst and Markus’ designs of 480 turns x 7 mounted on interleaved plastic waste bins from the local poundshop (everything a Euro for our EU colleagues!).   

 

A large of reel of 0.2mm wire has found its way into our possession also.

 

I’m also looking if anyone knows anyone who can repair a Racal Dana 9084 sig gen.  I have one but it is out of PLL lock.   I have followed Alan Melia/Mike Dennison’s advice (Thanks Alan & Mike) to check all the internal connections and board seating but this has not improved it.   Any volunteers or nominations would be gratefully received as it is a lovely bit of kit and it would be a shame to have to scrap it.   If I can get it going again it will make a fine exciter for my 136 rig up too.

 

Best 73s and see you on the grabber soon (Ofcom permitting!)

 

Jim G7NKS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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