9M2SE Pulau Indah, AS-074 Selangor Malaysia

9M2SE – Pulau Indah, AS-074
Thursday Aug 22, 2013


9M2SE (Malaysian Special Expedition Team) will be active from Pulau Indah AS-074 in celebration of Malaysia’s 56th independence day.
On air from 31st August 2013 0000 UTC to 1st September 2013 0900 UTC, the team are looking for DX stations to share their anniversary’s fun. QRV on 40-10m CW & SSB.
Operating equipment will be a 100 watt transceivers, vertical and a tri-bander yagi.
QSL info via QRZ.com

 

48 jam hubungi stesen radio berfrekuensi tinggi




MUHAMMAD AIMIL sedang menghubungi stesen-stesen radio di luar negara.



BERSENGKANG mata selama dua malam dan kurang rehat semata-mata untuk memburu kejuaraan berkomunikasi di ruang udara menggunakan peralatan radio amatur berfrekuensi tinggi.
Bunyinya agak pelik tapi itulah yang dilalui 10 anak muda kelahiran Melaka yang menyertai cabaran 48 jam Pertandingan WPX Sedunia CQ 2013 anjuran CQ Magazine, sebuah majalah radio amatur dunia dari New York, Amerika Syarikat, baru-baru ini.
Atas dasar ingin tahu penulis telah berkunjung ke sebuah rumah inap di Kampung Parit Penghulu Sungai Rambai, Melaka yang dipilih kumpulan Melaka DX Club (MDXC) dengan kod panggilan khas 9M4SG (disebut Nine Mike Four Sierra Golf).
Difahamkan pemilihan lokasi, contohnya dekat dengan laut memainkan peranan penting dalam penentuan sesebuah kumpulan tersebut berjaya menghubungi beribu-ribu stesen radio yang aktif dari seluruh pelosok muka bumi ini yang dibahagikan mengikut entiti geografi tertentu oleh badan telekomunikasi antarabangsa.
Isyarat radio
Walaupun dipisahkan jarak dan waktu, isyarat radio yang sedang dipantulkan itu seolah-olah sebuah jaring labah-labah gergasi yang tidak kelihatan di mata manusia.


KEKUATAN antena turut mempengaruhi kemampuan untuk peserta radio amatur berkomunikasi dengan stesen lain.



Kalah atau menang tidak penting kerana peluang menyertai 'kegilaan' dan keseronokan bersama kira-kira 30,000 peserta secara individu ataupun berkumpulan itu lebih utama. Ia membabitkan lebih 100 buah negara dan lebih 50 kategori.
Pemenang setiap kategori akan menerima sijil khas dan anugerah yang 'diterbangkan' kepada mereka yang disumbangkan majalah terbabit dan organisasi radio amatur antarabangsa lain.
Pengasas MDXC, Syamsul Bahri Mohamad, 32, dengan kod panggilan antarabangsa 9M2ESM (disebut Nine-Mike-Two-Echo-Sierra-Mike) berkata, kumpulan mereka ditubuhkan hasil idea bersama rakan-rakan yang bosan bergerak sendirian dalam cabaran hubungan radio jarak jauh atau lebih dikenali sebagai DXpedition atau DXing.
Dia yang menceburi dunia radio amatur sejak tahun 2010 dan menerima pelbagai anugerah daripada persatuan radio amatur luar negara berkata, aktiviti DXing merupakan aktiviti utama penggiat radio amatur dari luar negara.
"Sebagai contoh, walaupun YDXC Yokohama DX Club di Jepun mempunyai kira-kira 20 orang ahli, kumpulan itu menjadi idola kepada ahli-ahli baharu kerana kehebatan mereka dalam aktiviti DXpedition.
"Kami mahu menggalakkan lebih ramai operator radio amatur yang aktif di frekuensi sangat tinggit (VHF) untuk berjinak-jinak dengan komunikasi radio amatur berfrekuensi tinggi ( HF).


KOMPUTER digunakan untuk memasukkan data-data stesen yang berjaya dihubungi.



"Aktiviti ini juga membolehkan penggiat radio amatur mempraktikkan amalan tradisi turun-temurun radio amatur seperti Kad QSL (kad yang ditukar sesama operator sebagai bukti perhubungan radio telah dicapai) dan komunikasi Kod Morse, selain memahami budaya dan sejarah dunia," jelasnya.
Uji kemampuan
Muhammad Aimil Abdul Rahim, 25, dari Jasin, Melaka (9M2AUR) berkata, walaupun set peralatan peralatan HF ini lebih mahal tetapi keseronokan dan kepuasannya lebih hebat berbanding komunikasi jarak dekat kerana kita berpeluang berhubung dengan operator radio dari seluruh dunia.
Selain untuk mengumpul mata, Muhammad Aimil berkata, pertandingan tersebut juga dapat menguji kemampuan peralatan komunikasi dan kemahiran peserta sebagai aktiviti sosial yang berfaedah.
"Ia merupakan suatu kebanggaan apabila dapat bersaing bersama pelbagai bangsa dan negara seluruh dunia, walaupun tidak kelihatan di mata namun aktiviti ini seumpama mengibarkan bendera Malaysia dan Melaka di persada dunia," ujarnya.
Muhammad Aimil memberitahu, antara stesen istimewa yang berjaya dihubunginyaialah stesen HD2A, kod panggilan khas dari negara Ecuador di Amerika Selatan yang jaraknya ialah 20,200 kilometer dari Melaka.
Bercerita mengenai cabaran yang dihadapi, Aimil berkata, komunikasi radio di ruang udara bergantung kepada kekuatan antena, kuasa pancaran radio serta keadaan propogasi udara iaitu pancaran radio dioptimumkan kerana pengaruh semula jadi.


Artikel Penuh: http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/content.asp?y=2013&dt=0824&pub=Kosmo&sec=Varia&pg=va_02.htm#ixzz2cxPPsxVc
Hakcipta terpelihara

World Radiosport Team Championship 2014

1. Contest Period
The WRTC 2014 competition will be held during the IARU 2014 HF Championship.
Start:Saturday 12 July 20141200 UTC (0800 Local time)
End:Sunday 13 July 20141200 UTC
2. Frequencies/Bands
Only the 3.5, 7, 14, 21, and 28 MHz bands may be used. All participants must obey the frequency regulations of the U.S. Federal Communication Commission.
3. Modes
CW and SSB.
4. Language
Only English language and common international abbreviations can be used when operating either SSB or CW.
5. Contest Exchange
5.1 WRTC stations must send signal report plus ITU zone (W1 area is ITU Zone 08). A complete exchange must be sent and logged for each valid QSO.
5.2 No abbreviations are allowed when sending the exchange either on SSB or CW. You must say 5-9 8 on SSB and 5nn 8 on CW. Additional cut numbers such as enn8 are not allowed. You may increase the speed of the exchange up to a maximum of 50 WPM. Voice recorders are allowed to send the exchange on SSB. It is recommended, but not required to send your call sign in every exchange.
6. Valid QSOs
The same station/callsign may be worked once on CW and once on SSB per band. Cross-band or cross-mode QSOs are not allowed.
7. QSO Points
Each valid two-way CW or SSB QSO receives the following QSO points:
QSO WithPoints
ITU Zone 082
Outside ITU Zone 08 and within North America3
Outside North America5
IARU member society HQ stations and IARU officials2
8. Multipliers
8.1. The total number of DXCC countries plus IARU member society HQ stations on each band will count as multipliers, once per band regardless of the mode. IARU officials represent a maximum of four multipliers per band (AC, R1, R2 and R3).
8.2. IARU member society HQ stations and officials do not count for DXCC country multipliers.
9. Score
The final score will be:
Score = (Total number of multipliers) x (the sum of QSO points).
The judging committee will calculate the final score for all entries based on Cabrillo logs submitted after adjudication.
10. Champions
The WRTC2014 Champion will be the team with the highest score.
11. Special Awards
  • The WRTC2014 SSB Leader will be the team with the highest QSO total on SSB.
  • The WRTC2014 CW Leader will be the team with the highest QSO total on CW.
  • The WRTC2014 Multiplier Leader will be the team with the highest total multiplier.
As WRTC is a mixed mode contest, a minimum of 35% of the total number of QSOs must be made on the other mode to qualify as a QSO Leader in either SSB or CW.
12. Special Rules and Disqualification
12.1. WRTC team contest stations must be QRT for at least 15 minutes prior to the contest start (by 1145 UTC). The receiver volume of both radios must be turned fully off and no monitoring or transmitting is allowed within this 15-minute timeframe. The radios may be left powered on.
12.2. The operators are not allowed to identify themselves (i.e., revealing their own callsigns) before or during the contest or reveal their team identity in any way. Any attempt to do this such as by radio, telephone, SMS, internet, email, etc., will result in immediate disqualification. Requesting QSOs (e.g., setting schedules with special identification procedures in any way) before the contest period is strictly forbidden.
12.3. You may request QSOs with any station on another band/mode. All requests must occur during the contest with no other attempt to reveal the team’s identity. All requests can only be made on HF CW or SSB, and by no other means.
12.4. Use of DX spotting (e.g., Packet, Web, etc.), skimmer or any other spotting and supplementary information network is not allowed. You are not allowed to receive any assistance to learn the callsign or exchange of any station other than by tuning the radio and listening by human ear.
12.5. The use of any callsign database or the ‘Super Check Partial’ tool is not allowed. If the logging software incorporates this kind of feature, it must be disabled. The logging computer(s) may display a ‘Check Partial’ list based only upon the callsigns already worked during the contest.
12.6. The WRTC Contest is the equivalent of the Ham Radio Olympic Games. To maintain the spirit and credibility that this name implies, the judging committee may disqualify a team that commits any of the following (but not limited to) actions:
  • Violates the rules of the contest.
  • Shows unsportsmanlike conduct.
  • Takes credit for excessive unverifiable QSOs or unverifiable multipliers.
The decisions of the judging committee are final.
13. Callsign Allocation
The callsigns assigned to the competitors will be selected from special calls in a “to be determined” series. The process of assigning calls, stations, and referees will be randomly designated by lottery on Friday (July 11, 2014) before the contest. The competition callsigns will be given to the teams by their referee at the station 15 minutes before the contest. Team members are not allowed to know the callsign before this time.
14. Logging
14.1. Computer logging is required.
14.2. Each WRTC 2014 team must submit their log file in Cabrillo format to their referee within thirty (30) minutes after the contest has ended.
14.3. All competitors are required to use one of the following logging programs:
  • Writelog
  • Win-Test
  • TR4W (TR for Windows)
  • N1MM Contest Logger
Other software that meets the requirements of Cabrillo output and database limitations may also be acceptable with written permission from the WRTC2014 committee at least 90 days prior to the contest. The team is solely responsible to ensure the software conforms to WRTC2014 standards as defined in these rules.
14.4. In all cases, the competitors are responsible for creating Cabrillo-compliant output with the software used in the contest. The Committee does not assume any responsibility for the conversion of log data into Cabrillo format.
15. Recording
15.1. After the contest, each team must provide to the referee a continuous stereo recording of Radio A and Radio B on one of the following:
  • USB2 compatible device (USB flash memory, USB hard drive)
  • CD/DVD disk
The recordings should be separated into two audio files, one for each radio. You may record in one of the following 2 formats:
  • Two (2) separate files, one for each radio.
  • One file with each radio on a separate channel.
15.2. The judging committee has the right to remove any claimed contacts not found in the recordings.
16. WRTC 2014 Station Setup
16.1. Each participating WRTC team must bring everything needed for their station except items listed in Station Description.
16.2. Each WRTC 2014 station will have two radios – Radio A and Radio B.
16.2.1. Radio A and Radio B can each use only one antenna connector. This means that every transmission and reception must go through a single antenna connector of that Radio. No external receive antennas are allowed. External bandpass filters are allowed in the receive line if desired.
16.2.2. Use of any sub receiver in radios that are so equipped, is not allowed. This includes diversity receiving. Radios are not allowed to receive on two frequencies simultaneously. For a two-channel (or multi-channel) radio (which has sub-receiver or parallel reception capabilities), which allows reception of signals on different frequencies simultaneously, the sub-receiver (or that parallel reception) must not be used.
16.2.3. You are allowed to share audio between Radio A and Radio B. Each operator may listen to the other operator’s radio and vice versa.
16.2.4. Both Radio A and Radio B are allowed to transmit. The contest is a full Two-Operator Two-Transmitter type operation. The only limitation is that each radio must transmit on a different band regardless of mode (e.g., if Radio A is on 15M SSB, Radio B is not allowed on 15M SSB or 15M CW during the same time period).
16.2.5. Spectrum scopes (pan adapters) are allowed provided that they are used solely for instant spectrum visualization of the current amateur radio band of Radio A or Radio B. The spectrum scope may be built-in to the radio or be a separate device. It may be connected to the radio or PC-A/B with the following limitations:
  • The only output from the spectrum scope can be video.
  • Data transfer to the logging program or any other software is not allowed.
  • Only the current band/frequency data of a single Radio (A or B) can be transferred to one spectrum scope for that radio.
  • The spectrum curve may be displayed in any suitable device, including the PC-A/B monitor screen.
  • No additional computers may be used for SDR signal processing; only PC-A/B computers may be used.
  • The spectrum scope must not be used to control any other device (e.g., tune Radio A/B).
  • No signal demodulation or any other secondary spectrum processing (e.g., station detection, peak holding, or waterfall display) is allowed.
16.3. All radios must be commercially manufactured transceivers, meeting all manufacturer specifications.
16.4. Competitors are allowed to have a backup radio. The backup radio may only be used in case of malfunction of the station’s primary radio and with approval of the referee.
16.5. Radio A and Radio B are each limited to 100 watts (KEY DOWN) maximum power output. The power will be measured by a peak power monitor provided by organizer. The monitor has two detectors which must be connected directly to Radio A and Radio B’s respective antenna connectors. The power monitor acts on forward power only. Any devices connected after the detectors must not amplify the transmitted signal.
16.6. Band-pass filters are allowed for both Radio A and Radio B. External antenna tuners are allowed for all antennas. These devices must be connected after the power detector. Any power losses from these devices may not be compensated for in any way.
16.7. Two networked PCs are allowed (PC-A at Radio A, PC-B at Radio B). The PCs must be named as PC-A and PC-B before the contest begins. Any wireless interconnections (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.) in a team’s equipment must not be used to connect outside of your own station’s environment. (e.g., wireless computer keyboard and mouse are allowed, Wi-Fi to mobile phone or modem is NOT allowed). A wired network by Ethernet UTP, RS232, etc. is preferred.
16.8. The teams must provide an audio output for both radios that the referee can monitor. This may be in parallel with the recording device described in rule 16.9 if desired. The audio must be isolated so the referee may listen to either channel or both at the same time. The team may provide headphones for the referee or the referee may bring their own. In either case, it is the team’s responsibility that the referee can monitor both radios continuously. If the referee uses his or her own headphones, it must not interfere with the team’s audio in any way.
16.8.1. The audio output should be terminated in a 3.5mm headphone female jack for the referee to plug into. If desired, the referee may bring an audio switch box to choose Left/Right or Both audio channels.
16.9. The teams must provide the equipment for recording the WRTC contest operation, including both the received and transmitted audio of Radio A and Radio B. The recording must be complete for the entire operation. A third PC is allowed for this purpose, but may not be networked to PC-A or PC-B in any way. Operators are not allowed to review the recorded audio except for troubleshooting purposes while under the referee’s supervision.
16.10. Teams may re-orient and adjust wire antennas at any time, as long as the feed line is not extended and the resonance is within the designed (nominal) band. Antenna adjustments must be made while standing on the ground. No climbing of the antenna structure or other objects is permitted.
16.11. Participants are not allowed to change or cut antenna coaxial cables provided by the organizer. All such cable lengths must remain unchanged. Any filters or other devices allowed as previously described must be connected after the entire length of cable provided.
16.12. Before the competition the Teams are allowed to use third party technical support to organize and install the station as well to install and test software or other permitted devices and peripherals.
16.13. During the competition the Referee may permit repair of any equipment or antennas reported damaged during the operation. This can be done by the operators or WRTC support staff only. No third party is allowed in the operating area at any time during the competition.
16.14. All equipment used by any team must be located inside of the tent (except generator, antennas and cables). Participants must stay in the referee’s field of view.
17. Definitions
17.1 Radio
AB
1. Allowed to transmit
2. Main receiver reception
3. Sub-receiver reception is not allowed
4. VFO A and VFO B transmit
5. A triplexer should be used on the triband antenna to provide 10/15/20 meter antenna inputs. See special triplexer section in the station description.6. Allowed to use band-decoder
7. Allowed to use audio and RF filters
8. Can share audio with Radio B
9. Must share audio with Referee
10. Can be replaced by back-up Radio (in case of failure)
11. Radio A cannot transmit on the same band as Radio B. You may listen on the same band as Radio B at any time. After one QSO is made on a band, all QSOs for that band must be made on the same radio during that time period. Either radio may use any antenna but may not share that antenna with the other radio.
1. Allowed to transmit
2. Main receiver reception
3. Sub-receiver reception is not allowed
4. VFO A and VFO B transmit
5. A triplexer should be used on the triband antenna to provide 10/15/20 meter antenna inputs. See special triplexer section in the station description.6. Allowed to use band-decoder
7. Allowed to use audio and RF filters
8. Can share audio with Radio A
9. Must share audio with Referee
10. Can be replaced by back-up Radio (in case of failure)
11. Radio B cannot transmit on the same band as Radio A. You may listen on the same band as Radio A at any time. After one QSO is made on a band, all QSOs for that band must be made on the same radio during that time period. Either radio may use any antenna but may not share that antenna with the other radio.

17.2 Computer
AB
1. May be interconnected with Computer B
2. Allowed to key Radio A only.3. Can exchange messages with Computer B
4. Voice and CW keyers are allowed
5. Super Check Partial is not allowed
6. Log must be converted to Cabrillo format after the contest
1. May be interconnected with Computer A
2. Allowed to key Radio B only3. Can exchange messages with Computer A
4. Voice and CW keyers are allowed
5. Super Check Partial is not allowed
6. Log must be converted to Cabrillo format after the contest

17.3 Operator
AB
1. Operator of Radio A
2. Operator A can change position (chair) with Operator B at any time
3. Allowed to populate the band-map
4. Can exchange messages with operator B
5. Must share audio with the Referee throughout the contest
6. Can share audio at any time with Operator B
7. Can operate any of the allowed devices
1. Operator of Radio B
2. Operator B can change position (chair) with Operator A at any time
3. Allowed to populate the band-map
4. Can exchange messages with operator A
5. Must share audio with the Referee throughout the contest
6. Can share audio at any time with Operator A
7. Can operate any of the allowed devices
18. Conditions of entry
By submitting an entry in the WRTC Contest you agree that:
  1. You have read and understood the rules of the contest and agree to be bound by them;
  2. You have operated according to all rules;
  3. Your log and your audio recording, as well as photo and video materials of your operation prepared by the organizer may be made open to the public;
  4. All actions and decisions of the WRTC Judging Committee are official and final.
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http://www.wrtc2014.org/

Selection Areas and Teams
To ensure a diverse international pool of teams for the competition, the world has been divided into Selection Areas that are used for grouping and calculating the qualifying scores. Team Leaders are selected from each Selection Area as shown in the table below.
ContinentTeams from ContinentSelection Area Countries in Selection AreaTeams from Area
Europe27 teams(maximum 2 per country, except maximum 3 from DL)EU #1C3-CT-CU-EA-EA6-EI-F-G-GD-GI-GJ-GM-GU-GW-ON-PA-TK-ZB5
EU #23A-9H-DL-HB-HB0-I-IS0-IT9-LX-T75
EU #3ES-JW-JX-LA-LY-OH-OH0-OJ0-OY-OZ-R1FJ-SM-TF-YL4
EU #4HA-OE-OK-OM-S5-SP5
EU #54O-9A-E7-ER-EU-LZ-SV-SV5-SV9-TA1-UR-YO-YU-Z3-ZA5
EU #6UA1-6, UA23
North America15 teamsNA #1W11
NA #2W21
NA #3W31
NA #4EW4 (NC-SC-VA)1
NA #4WW4 (AL-FL-GA-KY-TN)1
NA #5W51
NA #6W6-W7(AZ-NV-UT)2
NA #7W7(ID-MT-OR-WA-WY)1
NA #8W81
NA #9W91
NA #10W01
NA #11VE1/2/3/9/VO/VY2, OX1
NA #12VE4/5/6/7/8/VY1, KL71
NA #13CQ Zones 6-7-8, 4U1UN, VP91
Asia5 teamsAS #1CQ Zone 17, UA9 in zone 161
AS #2CQ Zones 18-19-23 (except BY)1
AS #3CQ Zones 20 (AS portion), 211
AS #4CQ Zones 22-24-26-BY/23, 9M2, 9V1
AS #5CQ Zone 25 (HL-JA)1
South America2 teamsSA #1CQ Zone 11 (PY-ZP)1
SA #2*SA North – or – SA South1
Africa1 teamAF*AF North/West – or – AF South/East1
Oceania1 teamOC*OC South – or – OC North1
Total51 teams 51
* In order to reduce geographical and propagation differences in sparsely populated areas, the following Selection Areas are further divided for score comparison:

Selection AreaScore Comparison Area
SA #2SA North – CQ Zones 9-10
SA South – CQ Zones 12-13
AFAF North/West – CQ Zones 33-34-35
AF South/East – CQ Zones 36-37-38-39
OCOC South – CQ Zones 29-30-32
OC North – CQ Zones 27-28 (except 9M2/9V)-31

For brevity, some DXCC countries are left out of the lists above. It is obvious which area most belong to (ex: HV=EU #2; FP=NA #11). Antarctic stations use their CQ Zone to determine their selection area.

12 Suggestions for Success Working AMSAT-OSCAR 51 (Echo)

[This was originally posted as 8 suggestions in a post on the AMSAT-BB. Several people wrote to me and asked that I post it on the website, and a few were scratching their heads. It was late after a midnight AO-51 pass when I wrote it, and after reading my post the next morning I decided to add a few things and include a few graphics.
I don't remember who told them to me (KK5DO perhaps) but I'd like to thank all my elmers - you know who you are.]

  1. THE ONE TRUE RULE for HT success (and even for FM base station users) - keep your SQUELCH OFF. If you ignore every other rule in this list, don't ignore this one. Working satellites starts off as a process of finding weak signals, so don't expect the satellite to be anywhere as strong enough to break squelch like your local repeater. I know it's noisy, but that's part of the process. Noise can also be an aid in locating the satellite because when the frequency starts to exhibit QUIETING, that's a sure sign that you are hearing the satellite, and you should get ready.
  2. LISTEN FIRST! Even though you only have 5 watts, it's still possible to jam other stations. Expect to hear other stations before you transmit. If you can't hear other stations and need to check your uplink, don't call CQ, just transmit your callsign. If others hear you, they will want to work you.
  3. Use a good antenna for your HT. A good gain whip antenna like the AL-800 is very good. Using an Arrow dual-band handheld antenna is better, and if you prefer to homebrew your antenna, Alex Diaz XE1MEX has an excellent Yagi-Uda design.
  4. When you identify yourself, always say your CALLSIGN followed by "HANDHELD" - I've found most operators will give way to HT users if they identify themselves that way. "Portable" is also good.
  5. AO-51 Doppler CorrectionSet up your radio so you can to tune for DOPPLER. If your HT only has 5KHz tuning steps, start listening 5 KHz above the center frequency - you will hear the satellite sooner and clearer. When you hear the downlink signals get scratchy or fuzzy, tune down 5KHz and it should be clearer. Follow the signal down in frequency as the pass continues. (See the graphic to the right.) If your HT doesn't allow you to use split frequencies in VFO mode, consider programming a couple of memory channels in this way, then just move to the next memory channel. For 5KHz tuning step radios it's debateable whether or not tuning the transmit frequency is helpful. If you have 1KHz or finer tuning steps it definitely helps.
  6. Facing the SatelliteBack to the satelliteDon't hold your whip antenna upright. Vertical antennas are not good, and a HT held upright isn't either. The satellite isn't on the ground (which is what HT's and vertical antennas were designed for). TILT IT about the same amount as the satellites ELEVATION. This means that if you are FACING the satellite, tilt it down towards the ground from HORIZONTAL an equal amount. If the satellite is to your back, tilt it up an equal amount away from the satellites position off the vertical. You will be surprised at the difference.
  7. Make sure you know where the satellite is. Even if you don't have a palm sized computer running a tracking program such as PocketSat or PetitTrack you can estimate this. If you know the AOS azimuth and the satellite pass time, you can just estimate how much to move until you find the satellite. On ASCENDING (South to North) with the satellite EAST of you or DECENDING passes (North to South) and WEST of you, move your body anti-clockwise (counter-clockwise for people in the US). If the satellite is ASCENDING WEST or DECENDING EAST, move clockwise.
  8. HEADPHONES are very important, especially if you are working full duplex. You are much better off listening with two ears than one. If you have a full duplex HT like a Icom IC-W32A you can listen to your own downlink (a good thing). Your brain is far better at discriminating signals than most expensive DSPs.
  9. Know your gridsquare as that is a quick way of identifying your location. Saying CM87 is much quicker than saying "San Francisco, California". The ARRL and Icom have some dandy gridsquare maps, the latter of which are free at most amateur radio stores. You can download both from the respective websites.North America Population Centers
  10. Map out a strategy for contacts. This isn't rocket science, but close. So preparation and planning is important. Not every pass is workable with an HT, so don't go after the 10 degree passes. Pick your passes, and work the ones you know will give you the best chance. It's not a battleground out there, but it's not a walk in the park either. You are competing with other stations for a limited resource so it helps to plan. If there are population centers (bright spots on the map) to the east of you, work western passes. If they are south of you, listen north. If you live on the coast, try passes out over the ocean.
  11. If you don't plan to write down your contacts, try to work out someway to record them. You can hook a MP3 or Cassette recorder into the headphone jack on the receive side to record your contacts so you can review it later. On many HTs you can just use a simple "Y" cable available from Radio Shack. Even if you don't make contacts, it helps to accustom yourself to the callsigns, voices and personalities of the other operators. When I first started out, I found it more valuable to know which contacts I missed rather than the ones I made.
  12. Ask questions! Find an elmer or look up the AMSAT area coordinator for your area. You can locate an Area Coordinator on the AMSAT website. Posting specific questions on the AMSAT bulletin board will also help you find answers.
Most of all - Join AMSAT! It will help you get plugged in to a very good organization, keep you informed of the latest developments, and contribute to the success of the amateur satellite program.

Contributed by Emily Clarke W0EEC,
AMSAT Area Coordinator, San Francisco Bay


http://www.amsat.org/amsat-new/echo/EchoHT.php

9M4LHE Rumah Api Bukit Jugra ILLW 2013


Kesempatan untuk mengikuti aktiviti ILLW 2013 di Rumah Api Bukit Jugra pada hari tidak dilepaskan memandangkan cuti sekolah tinggal 2 hari lagi.

Aku memandu dari Bangi sebelum mengisi tangki minyak terlebih dahulu bagi memastikan perjalanan ke Banting berjalan lancar. Memasuki PLUS highway dan keluar melalui Nilai terus melalui Labohan Dagang berjalan lancar walaupun jalan basah akibat hujan gerimis. Melalui jalan ini packet yang aku dapat sangat baik sepanjang perjalanan. Kebanyakannya daripada 9M4RTB-3 di Telapa Burok bekerja dengan baik sekali. Sehingga di Banting 9M4RTB bekerja dengan sangat baik.

Selepas di kaki Bukit Jugra barulah aku menerima packet dari 9W2EDK-1 jam 10:15:09 dengan jarak 26.9km di Shah Alam. Seterusnya terima packet daripada 9M2TPT-1 pada jam 10:15:33 dengan jarak 44.8km di Sungai Buloh. Kemudiannya 9W2SZR-5 pada jam 10:15:40 dengan jarak 16.7km di Klang.

Puncak Bukit Jugra berdekatan Rumah Api aku telah menerima dua packet daripada 9W2BWA-4 pada jam 11:02:55 dan 12:06:14 dengan jarak 141.7km di Gunung Ledang. Ketinggian yang dapat dibaca puncak Bukit Jugra adalah 134m dari aras laut.


Sampainya di sini kelihatan rakan ham di dalam kawasan Rumah Api dan terdapat 3 jelopi yang mempunyai antena radio dan bercallsign. Sahlah aktiviti ILLW ada diadakan disini.

Ketika aku sampai kelihatan seorang rakan dikeliling beberapa orang mengelilinginnya  sedang QSO. Akupun bersalaman dan memperkenalkan diri.

Mereka adalah Rahmat Hj Arifin 9M2RMT, Ahmad Ismail 9M2AIA, Azlan Aziz 9M2AGC, Shahidan 9W2BSH dan Nicholas 9M2CCC serta abg Pak Guard yang menjaga Rumah Api tersebut.


Sedikit fakta mengenai rumah api ini;

Rumah Api Bukit Jugra
Nama Tempat: Banting, Selangor Darul Ehsan
Kedudukan 2 50.1' Utara dan 101 25.1' Timur
Ciri-ciri lampu F1,W 1es
Julat Penglihatan: 24 Batu Nautika
Ketinggian Lampu: 146m
Ketinggian Bangunan: 25m
Tahun dibina:1976

Berbalik kepada aktiviti Dxing ILLW 2013 9M2RMT diaktifkan di rumah api ini. Mereka telah bermalam sehari sebelum dan mendapat beberapa contact.

Bekerja menggunakan Alinco HF transceiver DX-70 bersama MFJ-945E dengan menggunakan antena dipole pada pengamatan aku. Manakala untuk VHF menggunakan Kenwood 271.

Sepanjang berada di sini beberapa contact di buat melalui band 40m dan 2m. Aku sempat monitor QSO antara stesen rumah api yang lain seperti 9M4LHO, 9M4LHN, 9M4LHJ dan lain-lain lagi.

Abg Shah 9W2BSH sempat simplex di V40 bersama 9M4LHO kendalian Abg Salehan 9W2SBD di Rumah Api One Fathom Bank
One Fathom Bank ILLW 2013 MY0015
Location: 2°53.40' N 100°59.80' E - locator OJ02LV93OO - show map - static map
50.8 km Southwest bearing 224° from Kampong Dungun, Malaysia [?]
52.8 km West bearing 252° from Klang, Selangor, Malaysia
81.5 km West bearing 250° from Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Menggunakan antena riben mendapat audio sangat baik 59 di puncak Bukit Jugra ini. Selepas Abg Salehan sign-off masuk pula abg Lan 9W2LPM di Sungai Buloh dan juga abg Yup 9W2YUP di Damansara.

Aku juga mengharapkan 9W2DYA-12 dapat didengari oleh 9W2RUT-6 di One Fathom Bank tetapi kemungkinan stesen itu mungkin tidak diaktifkan semasa berada di Bukit Jugra ini.

Berkenalan dengan mereka ini sangat menguntungkan aku kerana banyak perkara dapat dipelajari daripada mereka yang sangat berpengalaman. Itulah untungnya jika selalu terlibat dengan pelbagai aktiviti dxing diluar memberi kita seribu pengalaman.

Berbalik kepada rumah api ini juga memberi aku peluang masuk ke kawasan larangan ini. Tanpa aktiviti ILLW tentu susah untuk menembusi kawasan yang dikawal ketat.

Selepas stesen ditutup, kami berpeluang untuk melihat aktiviti paragliding yang dikendalikan oleh pengendali yang berpengalaman.



Pelancong dapat terbang diawangan menggunakan paragliding yang mempunyai peralatan keselamatan yang tinggi. Sukan luncur udara ini pada pengamatan aku mendapat sambutan yang sangat menggalakkan. Kelihatan ramai pengunjung berkumpul dan pelancong dengan pakej terlibat mencubanya.

Kami menanti dengan penuh kesabaran menanti paragliding dapat berkembang dengan baik untuk memulakan take-off ke udara. Sempat juga kami melihat 5 penerbangan berjaya dibuat terbang ke ruang udara bagaikan burung. Jika tiupan angin yang tidak kuat dan sesuai ia tidak dapat dikembangkan dengan baik dan sangat merbahaya untuk penerbangan. Apabila ia betul-betul sesuai berkembang dengan sangat baik sekelip mata selepas itu terus berlepas terbang ke udara.

Selepas puas melihat penerbangan yang dibuat, kamipun bersalaman untuk pulang ke base masing-masing.

Kali ini aku terus pulang melalui Dengkil dan terus ke Bangi. Perjalanan pulang penerimaan packet kurang memberangsangkan berbanding semasa pergi tadi.

Harap tahun depan banyak lagi rakan-rakan terlibat dengan Rumah Api ini yang biasanya dibuat hujung minggu akhir bulan ogos.

Sekali lagi terima kasih kepada 9M2RMT, 9M2AIA, 9M2AGC, 9W2BSH dan 9M2CCC atas tunjuk ajar dan pengalaman yang sangat berguna. Maaf gambar tiada kali ini kerana telefon sedang dibaiki.

73, Jojet, 9W2DYA

http://9w2dya.blogspot.com



Hari Terbuka Rumah Api 2013


Hari Terbuka Rumah Api 2013 dianjurkan oleh Jabatan Laut

Malaysia, dengan tema - Kerlipan Cahaya di Laut. Acara pada

tahun ini merupakan sebahagian daripada aktiviti sambutan

ulangtahun ke-60 Jabatan Laut dan Lembaga Dius Api, yang telah

di sambut pada 30 April 2013 yang lalu. Hari Terbuka Rumah Api

ini memberi peluang kepada orang awam untuk mengenali dengan

lebih dekat mengenai rumah api, khususnya Rumah Api Fort

Cornwallis, dengan lebih rapat.

Rumah api merupakan struktur penting yang dibina untuk memberi

panduan kepada pelaut yang belayar di persekitaran perairan

tersebut. Terdapat 11 buah rumah api yang masih beroperasi di

sepanjang pesisir pantai Semenanjung Malaysia. Rumah api yang

tertua dan masih beroperasi di Malaysia ialah rumah api Tanjung

Tuan (Cape Rachado) di Melaka yang dibina pada tahun 1863.

Selain dari peluang untuk melawat persekitaran kawasan rumah api

Fort Cornwallis, pengunjung juga akan dapat mendalami pelbagai

maklumat lain mengenai latar belakang dan fungsi rumah api dan

juga peranan Jabatan Laut Malaysia serta Lembaga Dius Api.
 

XTVT APRS pagi ini 15 Ogos 2013


Berikut adalah stesen yang dapat didengari oleh 9W2DYA QTH Cheras Igate:

1. 9W2RSH-7 jarak 20.1km di Petaling Jaya
2. 9W2PRP-9 jarak 14.1km di Pusat Bandar Damansara.
3. 9W2EDK-9 jarak 20.9km di Seksyen 27 Shah Alam.
4. 9W2AA-9 jarak 11.6km di Ampang.
5. 9M2TPT-13 jarak 28.4km Sungai Buloh.

Manakala di sebelah petang pula mendapat 9W2CEH-9 dengan jarak 8.5km

73, Jojet, 9W2DYA

http://9w2dya.blogspot.com



What you can do to reduce RF exposure to the public


To minimize  RF exposure to the public:

1. You should radiate as little RF power as possible. The power level regulations have always required amateurs to use the least amount of transmitter power necessary to perform their  communications.

2. Make it  practice to operate without your linear amplifier whenever possible.

3. Never use an amplifier that has its shielded metal cover removed. The cover keeps RF energy from escaping into the environment.

4. Reduce the duty cycle. Keep transmissions short, especially when operating at the VHF/UHF/microwave level.

5. Transmitting antennas should be mounted as far away from residences and populated areas as possible and the higher the antenna the better.

6. Since feed lines can radiate, route open-wire line ( or even coaxial cable if the standing wave ratio is high ) away from populated areas.

7. Do not transmit when people are near a ground-mounted or mobile antenna.

Amateur Radio and RF exposure guidelines by Riley Hollingsworth, K4ZDH.
Riley's ramblings  July 2013 CQ page 69

OpenTracker+

OpenTracker+ (OT1+)


Please note that the OT1+ is currently being phased out due to component obsolescence. The OpenTracker USB has replaced it as our entry-level APRS tracker.

The OpenTracker+ is an APRS tracker that can also receive data from other stations and has waypoint output capability. Use the OT1+ to report position, course and speed, time, and altitude when connected to a GPS -- not just from a vehicle, but anything, including a bicycle, weather balloon, or backpack. Or, use the OT1+ to encode and transmit data from a supported weather station. The tracker will also report telemetry from its onboard temperature and voltage sensors, and an external counter input can report a cumulative total of counter events or the number of events since last transmission. The OpenTracker+ replaces the OT1x and OT1m series. The OT1+ added waypoint output capability, increased program space and RAM, and a simplified hardware design. Available as a kit or fully assembled.

The OpenTracker+ SMT is a surface-mount version of the OT1+, with a 24-pin DIP form factor. This board has the same features as the OT1+, except it does not include a built-in temperature sensor or LEDs. Only available assembled.


Major features include:

  • APRS telemetry output
  • Fixed location operation for telemetry with no GPS
  • NMEA waypoint output
  • Dual configuration profiles with flexible selection
  • On-board temperature and voltage sensors
  • Supports 1-wire and Peet Bros WX stations
  • Drive an external relay for radio power control
  • Supports 1200 and 300 baud AFSK operation
  • PSK31 support for PropNet^31 Operation
  • Base91 compressed positions with 1-foot resolution
  • SmartBeaconing™ for adaptive beacon rates
  • Digital event counter, cumulative or since last transmission
  • Free firmware upgrades directly from the website, no special hardware needed
  • Source code released under Modified BSD license

Specifications:

OpenTracker+OpenTracker+ SMT
VoltageDC 6.5 to 28V DC 6.5 to 28V unregulated or
5V DC regulated
Current8 mA idle, 20 mA transmitting
Max 200 mA @ 5 V available for GPS
8 mA idle, 20 mA transmitting
Max 200 mA @ 5 V available for GPS
Modes1200 bps AFSK (send and receive)
300 bps AFSK, PSK31 (send only)
1200 bps AFSK (send and receive)
300 bps AFSK, PSK31 (send only)
Radio Connector DB9 female (Kantronics pinout) pin header
Serial Connector DB9 male (RS-232 DTE configuration) pin header
Dimensions2.5" x 1.6" x 0.75" 1.22" x 0.72" x 0.2"(excluding pins)
31mm x 18mm x 5mm
GPS Interface NMEA in/outNMEA in/out

Brochure

OpenTracker+ Brochure (two page .pdf).

OpenTracker+ Support

Configuration Program

The otwincfg.exe configuration program can be used with all models of OpenTracker and Tracker2. For otwincfg connection problems, see the FAQ.

Firmware

The easiest way to update the firmware is to use the 'Load Firmware from Web' option in the configuration program.
The following firmware files are provided for off-line use. This firmware is only for use with the OpenTracker+.
otplus.s19OpenTracker+ standard firmware build 54908March 18, 2009
otplus-1wirewx.s19Dallas 1-wire weather station supportDecember 17, 2008
otplus-peetbros.s19Peet Bros weather station supportDecember 17, 2008
otplus-kiss.s19KISS firmwareDecember 17, 2008
otplus-smt-telem.s19Extended telemetry support for OT1+ SMTDecember 17, 2008
otplus-i2ctx.s19OpenTracker+ firmware for RTrakApril 12, 2008
otplus-psk31.s19PSK31 (31.25 bps BPSK) support for OT1+ SMTAugust 6, 2007

Revision History, Manuals, and Schematics

OpenTracker Discussion Forum

OpenTracker Yahoo Group

Purchase

Purchase the OpenTracker+

http://www.argentdata.com/products/otplus.html

XTVT APRS portable Bukit Mahkota


Cuti hari raya ini dari hari jumaat hingga kini aku portable di Bukit Mahkota. Sejak sampai di sini aku mengaktifkan aprs tetapi tiada stesen dapat mendengarnya.

Hari sabtu selepas 9W2CEH-9 pulang ke basenya pada tengahari dan mengaktifkan 9W2CEH-3 barulah 9W2DYA-12 mendapat packet dari stesen itu. Jarak ke 9W2CEH-3 adalah 6.4km dan kedudukan 355 darjah.

Ketinggian di Bukit Mahkota ini dapat dibaca adalah 57 meter. Biasa juga 9M4RDG-3 dan 9M4RTB-3 boleh mencapai hingga ke sini. Tunggu dan lihat kedua stesen ini samada boleh mendengar ataupun tidak.

Jarak 9M4RTB-3 di Gunung Telapa Buruk adalah 28.8km dan jarak 9M4RDG-3 di Genting Highlands adalah lebih kurang 60km.

Kali ini aku terpaksa menggunakan high power untuk memancar terus ke mana-mana stesen yang berdekatan. Hasilnya dapatlah 9W2CEH-3 di Bangi dengan jarak 6.4km

73, Jojet, 9W2DYA

http://9w2dya.blogspot.com

XTVT APRS semasa di Kota Bharu


Pada 4 dan 5 Ogos yang lalu aku memandu ke Kota Bharu. Perjalanan melalui Lebuhraya Pantai Timur semasa pergi dan melalui Gua Musang semasa pulang semula ke Bangi.

Kali ini semasa pergi packets kurang memberangsangkan hanya terhenti di Lanchang sahaja. Ingatkan bolehlah mendapat packet di Kuantan tetapi tidak juga. Begitu juga di Kemasik aku tidak menerima sebarang packet.

Pada hari kedua selepas sahur aku mengaktifkan aprs dan jam 5.28 pagi beacon aku dapat dikesan oleh 9W2YEO-4 QTH di hentian Titiwangsa lebuhraya timur-barat. Jaraknya paling jauh dapat dicapai adalah 93.4km. Jumlah keseluruhan packets dari stesen ini adalah sebanyak 32. QTH terakhir hingga ke Machang aku menerima packets dari Kota Bharu kerana aku hendak pulang ke Bangi melalui Gua Musang.

Selepas memandu di Kuala Lipis aku mengaktifkan semula aprs dengan harapan Genting Highlands dapat mengesan aku. Malangnya sehingga di Betong barulah aku dapat menerima packets dari 9M4RDG-3.

73, Jojet, 9W2DYA

http://9w2dya.blogspot.com


Yaesu FTDX1200

Yaesu FTDX1200

Features
  • TX Frequency Coverage: 160 to 6 meters
  • RX Frequency Coverage: 30 kHz to 56 MHz
  • Spectrum Scope
  • IF Width & IF Shift
  • Roofing Filters (3/6/15 kHz)
  • 5 to 100 watts (2 to 25 watts AM)
  • 32 Bit High Speed IF DSP
  • 4.3 in TFT full color display
  • Automatic Tuner
  • Contour, DNR, IF Notch and APF

The Yaesu FTDX1200 provides sophisticated operation on 160 to 6 meters with up to 100 Watts on SSB, CW, and FM (25 Watts AM carrier) and a rugged state-of-the-art highly balanced receiver circuit configuration for top performance on today’s crowded bands. It uses 32-bit high speed floating point DSP. Yaesu’s acclaimed superior DSP algorithm is highly effective in weak signal processing and enhancement. The 1st IF frequency is protected by selectable 3 kHz, 6 kHz and 15 kHz roofing filters that effectively attenuate interfering signals. The triple conversion circuit structure allows highly flexible gain distribution at each stage. This enables elimination of unwanted signals through filters at each stage as well as optimized gain distribution. A built-in 4.3-in TFT wide full color High Resolution Display with loads of information provides superior operability and visibility for the FTDX1200 owner. A High Speed Spectrum Scope located just below the LCD, displays the information needed to place them at the right place on the band with the right receiver set-up. Sophisticated optional accessories offer additional features that make the FTDX1200 a true high performance platform for all hams – no matter what mode they chose to operate. The FFT-1 supports advanced functionality, including the AF-FFT Scope, RTTY/PSK31 Encode/Decode, CW Decode and CW Auto Zero-in. The optional SCU-17 USB Interface supports CAT, USB Audio in/out, TX control (PTT, Key, Shift) and firmware update functions. The FTDX1200 is supplied with MH-31B8 hand mic, DC cord, spare fuses and manual.

http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/1200.html

Radio dua hala ketika KE7B Everest FELDA 2013

My Comm Center
 
Posting kali ini nak cerita sedikit kerja-kerja komunikasi di Kem Felda. Apip sebagai krew Biro Komunikasi dan tugas-tugas di EBC.

Khemah Komunikasi bersebelahan dengan Khemah Utama (Dining). Satu radio komunikasi diletak dan dipasang 24 jam jenis Yaesu model FT-2900R/E dan handy model FT-250R. Antena komunikasi dipasang dibelakang khemah komunikasi.
Apip duty di khemah komunikasi
 
15 handheld radio / walkie-talkie digunakan untuk pendaki utama, sherpa dan medic. Setiap komunikasi antara basecamp dengan pendaki utama direkodkan. Status pendaki, kesihatan pendaki dan lain-lain keperluan pendaki dicatatkan dalam sheet yang disediakan.
 
Aliph turut menjaga komunikasi
 
Tugas lain memastikan walkie-talkie full charge sebelum pendaki utama mendaki, sama ada untuk acclamatize mahupun summit attempt. Frekuensi Team Felda kebetulan sama dengan satu team di sebelah Tibet dan masing-masing sering mendengar komunikasi antara satu sama lain.
recharge walkie-talkie di dining tent
 
walkie-talkie dibawa bila bersiar-siar di EBC
 
 
Artikel dan gambar di atas merupakan penulisan Apip Embi melalui blog beliau iaitu Gerbang Gunung. Sebagai pendaki sokongan semasa XPDC KE7B Everest FELDA 2013 beliau turut berperanan dalam komunikasi.
 
Berdasarkan artikel dan gambar yang ditunjukkan peralatan yang digunakan semasa xpdc adalah peralatan radio komunikasi yang biasa bagi kita sebagai pengamal radio amatur.
 
Syabas dan tahniah kepada mereka kerana menggunakan kemudahan radio dua hala bagi memastikan anggota xpdc sentiasa berada dalam keadaan selamat.
 
Seorang lagi rakan yang sedang QSO menggunakan rig merupakan seorang pemegang AA lesen B iaitu Aliph lupa pula callsign dia.
 
Aliph pernah menceritakan pengalamannya di EBC ketika bertemunya di Konvensyen Radio Amatur UKM Bangi baru-baru ini.
 
Keadaan persekitaran yang ekstrim menyukarkan mereka mengendalikan radas yang ada. Berkat pengalaman dan daya usaha yang tinggi mereka berjaya memastikan segala peralatan dapat digunakan dengan baik sehingga kejayaan menawan bumbung dunia.
 
Apa yang Aliph kesalkan ialah tidak membawa peralatan HF bagi terbang lebih jauh lagi. Mungkin xpdc seterusnya selepas ini peralatan HF boleh dibawa untuk dxing pula.
 
Namun begitu, pengalaman beliau di EBC ini sangatlah berharga bagi pengendali radio. Mungkin kalau beliau di puncak dunia bolehlah Summit on the air (SOTA).
 
Apapun tahniah kepada Apip dan Aliph kerana berjaya menggunakan radas dengan baik sekali untuk memastikan kejayaan xpdc ini berjaya.
 
73, Jojet, 9W2DYA
 
 

Empat belon kaji cuaca RS41-SG dilepaskan

  Tengah hari ini empat belon kaji cuaca dari Singapura telah dilepaskan. Ketiga-tiga merupakan radiosonde RS41-SG keluar\n Vaisala yang ser...