KK6ZDB
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So, I am looking to build a new antenna, a G5RV variant (ZS6BKW) and in the process of looking for the supplies I cam across an article from DavisRF on solder vs crinp. While not an expert in either (I have exactly one antenna I’ve built and it was a random wire…) I found this an interesting read. Curious to see what other think.
One comment on the wire size, for electrical grounds the NEC calls for #4 or #6 (AWG) at a minimum. Not that a #8 won’t work, just don’t ask for an inspector to come by 😉
Try Platt for pricing. They may offer better pricing on certain items when compare to the big-box store.
73
It’s my plan to bring along my two girls (6yo and 3yo) and my wife (party of four).
Gear wise, I’m in the process of building a 40m dipole and will bring my KX3 (barefoot). For power I have a solar module from Joe (K6AWA) and will bring a low noise (supposedly) charge controller and a lead-acid battery.
As this is my first mini-DX I’m going to attempt to keep it simple and learn from everyone else. The SOTAs sound fun but I’m not sure how the girls would enjoy it.
For the road(s) up, any special needs on vehicles, sliders, winches, etc.?
I went through this exercise recently setting up my QTH. In short, yes, I did drive an 8′ ground rod. I have a single random wire antenna going through a lightning arrestor, grounded to the rod. the rod is also tied to the rebar in my house foundation. While not currently tied to my electrical ground rod I will be running ~100′ of #6AWG stranded copper connecting the two. Similar to Charlie, when we start getting electrical storms I unplug my antenna and stick the connector in a ceramic jar away from my radio. Also, as Charlie mentioned, Joe (K6AWA) is a good resource of information however, his home is in the coastal mountains ~1,400′ ASL so his situation calls for more drastic measures.
I figure do it once, do it right. In the rare chance a strike does happen at or very close to me I’d like to give my equipment the best chance of survival.Slightly off topic and this needs no response but there are websites and apps (if you’re a smart phone user) that can show you lightning strikes:
Blitzortung73
Aaron
KK6ZDBLast night I tried to make contact with Indianapolis Motor Speedway (W9IMS) as they were having a special event due to the race this weekend. I also listened to someone out of Hawaii (also 20m). One thing that is becoming apparent to me is that a barefoot KX3 has a hard time against the big guns out there. 😉 But, it makes the win that much more delicious.
Other than that I am starting a plan on a mobile set-up for my vehicle (new to me, used Toyota UZJ100 ’05). Looking for a good radio with x-band capability. Not too interested in APRS but I’m also not ignoring it completely. Mobile presents some interesting challenges as everything appears to be a compromise.
