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

["Dave G3WCB" <ganymede444@btopenworld.com>]

Jim,

 

I have 9khz receive capability, and I have no trouble hearing the "Alpha" stations with my regular 137 kHz "Tee" antenna, suitably resonated.

 

I'd be glad to listen out for your tests. The QRB is 62km, which would definitely be "DX" compared to a cross- Biggleswade contact!  

 

73, Dave G3WCB IO91RM

-----Original Message-----
From: owner-rsgb_lf_group@blacksheep.org [mailto:owner-rsgb_lf_group@blacksheep.org]On Behalf Of James Cowburn
Sent: 08 June 2010 10:19
To: rsgb_lf_group@blacksheep.org
Cc: 'Chris Osborn'
Subject: LF: Trans Biggleswade contact being planned - revive a Racal Dana 9084

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