Table of Contents

EZNEC 3.0		Kantronics		RigPix Database

NJ-QRP Club

High SierrA Antenna

Gotcha!!

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What's Old Sol up to today?

WWV Propagation Forecast.		WWDX Propagation Service Center (PSC)

Antenna Modeling:   EZNEC 3.0

Antenna time's here, gang!! WX is finally warm enough...days are long enoough. The time to procrastinate is over. And, I ran across the EZNEC website (see QST May 2001, p. 144). The website opens with W7EL's banner, followed by several screen-shots of antenna plots. Neat. Next, you can click for more screen shots. Nice graphics! And, lots of downloadable stuff, including a full manual for version 3.0. Ok, so you can download the demo of EZNEC 3.0, too. And, it's the full program, not some abbreviated version; however, in the demo version, you're a bit limited by the level of complexity for antennas you might wish to design/model. But, hey... for those of us who just want to play around with designs, that ought to suffice! Well, the ad said I could check out the site, and even download a free demo, so that's just what I did! The download went FB! Took maybe 3 - 4 minutes, but I do use a cable ISP, so that may be faster than normal. Initially, I didn't download the printable manual, as it's reportedly 4.3 MB! But, I reconsidered!!. In reviewing the online Help, I'm getting lost...and that's just in the Test Drive mode! Of course, being a technical writer, I tend to get caught up in the writing as much as the info written! Sorry, too many manuals to read and proof! It's probably just me. Well, the manual is 124 pages; but, I've gone as far as p. 17, and still no steps in how to use this program! I'm sure EZNEC is a powerful design program, but do you have to be a programmer/developer to learn to use it? C'mon...really. Take the Test Drive you say? Did that! It starts on p. 51 of the manual. Sure isn't like taking a Ford or Chevy out! And, the info there is the same as the Help version--which isn't surprising; the manual IS a text version of the Help; only benefit is that you can have it open on your desk and still see the EZNEC screens. Well, tell you what....I'm not gonna give up, but you don't need the grief until I do figure it out, so, let's move on for now, ok?

ToC

What's new at Kantronics?

Well, in the June issue of QST (p.35), New Products reviews the KAM XL. You'll find that info at New Product Preview: KAM XL. Billed as a "Multi-Mode DSP Controller," this modem lets you operate on HF, VHF, and UHF. In addition, from what I'm seeing, it sounds like Kantronics has made this modem upgradeable for the future. And, it's also compatible with DSP. Other products listed at the site include: UHF/VHF Modems KAM '98 Single- Port Multi-Mode Digital Controller Accessories The site also supplies a FAQ & Support Page. All-in-all, the Kantronics site is well-designed and organized. You'll find what you're looking for...and you can order online.

ToC

Thanks to John, N3ASE, here's neat site to visit: RigPix Database

"There are currently 1658 radios in the database...." Wow, that's impressive!! And, the site's searchable, too. And, there are some 54 categories of amateur gear, ranging from Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu to Clegg, Collins, Drake......well, you get the picture," HI! So, whether you're a collectors buff, or just want to see some of the more current gear, looks like it's all here! Ok, now I see why it's classified as a database. There's more here than just a pix. Such as, when the gear was built, as well as some specs on the specific piece. What, no Drake TR-3?!!! Guess I'll have to pull mine out and photgraph it. Seriously, though, if you want to check out a particular piece of gear, it's probably here. Good show!!

ToC

Tnx agn to Frank, K3DZ for his suggestion that I check out NJ-QRP Club

If you're a homebrewer, or looking for something different to try, you can find it here. I checked out the 4017 Transverter (just looking, HI!). This may be a project I'd be interested in--although I have no idea what they mean by Manhattan style. Guess I'd find out, huh? Price is right anyway: $35 bucks. Might be a neat add-on for my Atlas 210 XL! Nice idea for a club, too. The projects I mean. Might just give your club the extra oomph it needs to perk up meetings. Worth a try anyways. Literally, "on the other side" NJ-QRP has an impressive list of club activities. Looks like an organization that's pretty lively. I'd say there's a tale or two here for most clubs. If I counted correctly, they've got some fifteen activities either underway or recently completed, with reports posted for members (and the rest of us) to read. Activities like The NJQRP FIELD DAY Planning Guide Spring QRP Homebrewer Sprint ... see results! The NJQRP Honor Roll Atlanticon QRP Forum ... recapping its success! FT-817 & Super Antenna's MP-1 [a review] Portable PSK And, as I said, the list goes on and on. Go check this site out! You won't be sorry. Much to read and do.

ToC

Well, Field Day's just days away, so check out High SierrA Antenna

Neat URL!! Simple site, but impressively done. All the info's at your fingertips, and navigation's easy. The only thing I didn't find were any gain specs or lobe projections. That might be useful in making decisions. On the other hand, you certainly can't fault High SierrA for inflated gain claims, HI!

ToC

And, tnx to Frank (K3DZ) AGAIN! for Gotcha!.

Ok, Frank....you got us on this one, HI!! All-in-all, though, not a bad place to close this session.

ToC Well, that wraps it up for today. Please, drop me an email and let me know what you think about The Ham Weblog, ok? Also, I'm always open to ideas and suggestions for other content to publish on this site. What do you want to read about? It's easy; just Email K3LBP!

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