ARRL Field Day
Now as far as Field Day itself. I decided that this year we would try running 5 watts battery instead of 100 watts in years prior. So in order to somewhat compensate for the lower power, I figured I would put up a better antenna.
A Better Antenna
Well the old 130 ft. doublet antenna that used to be up about 40 feet, has slipped down to about 30 feet. So I took it down and replaced it with a 430 foot horizontal loop antenna. I was able to get it up about 50 feet – Oh boy did that help out a bunch! As far as I am concerned, antennas are the name of the game.
My Field Day Gear
For other Field Day gear, we used my Go-Frame that has a Yaesu FT-857D, LDG Autotuner, Signalink, Winkeyer, and a Raspberry Pi computer all built into the frame. The Raspberry Pi uses KM4ACK’s Build a Pi script that installs many useful applications like Winlink, FLdigi, and WSJT-X to name a few. For more info on my Go-Frame click here.
One thing that KM4ACK’s script installs is a WiFi hotspot, which I use every time I do a POTA activation. However with my setup, the WiFi signal is weak. Probably because I used an aluminum case for the Pi instead of plastic. My reasoning was that since the Pi is right next to a 100 watt transceiver, I wanted to go for RF shielding of the Pi while sacrificing WiFi range. Not to worry though, I also have an off-grid wifi router that I always carry with me that gives me excellent Wifi range.
The whole reason for having WiFi is this allows me to run the Raspberry Pi headless – that is, there is no monitor, keyboard or mouse attached to the Pi. Instead I use an application called VNC to remotely control the Pi. So with the Go-Frame set up in the basement, and my off-grid WiFi router, we use our iPads to run the radio.
For my daughter, this is great! as she can set up anywhere within WiFi range and run her FT8. She has been known to set up her hammock out in the yard and run FT8 from it as you can see in the photo below.
FT8 In Style
Speaking of operating, My daughter’s go-to mode is FT8. Mine is CW. When one of us needs a break, the other one takes over. This tag-team style works well for us.
You never cease to amaze me with your ability to adapt and grow and innovate! That was a challenging time with power out for sure. You demonstrated the importance of hams to continue to find ways around issue!
Scott
Thanks Scott! I appreciate it!
We have experienced a two day down total ecomm emergency where city officials are looking for ham radios to use. Not many have experienced the no power no water no internet and no cell phone service after the hurricanes we get here in South La. Seven weeks before everything is up and running. But my generac 22kw and dipoles were available and did get used. Ecomm for me is not only in the field but in my case home…….someone has to get the traffic in and out.
Well done!!