An interesting day of contrasts where Rob ZL4ROB participated in an AREC exercise using Winlink, Mark ZL1MRT trialled a move in transmission frequency for his encoded CW data communications and Martyn ZL3CK, Harry ZL1BK and Graham ZL1TOF used tried and true GROTA technology. A minor problem: two were operating on 40m and one on 80 – all in relatively close proximity

Rob set up an HF Winlink station to check in for the exercise. Even with a USB connected transceiver, finding the best levels for the TX/RX audio was a bit of a puzzle.

Hey Simon, look how fast this Wizzlink goes. This definitely is the future…
Um great ! I think I need to be somewhere else…

Meanwhile, Mark set up his new supersized, octagonally polarised loop for 40m on the west deck. In between QRM from Rob, it appeared to be working well

The loops just keep getting bigger
A handy windbreak

Meanwhile, the GROTA troops brave the blustery conditions to engage in some proven technology.

Harry on a BC-611 “My IC-705 doesn’t do this” and Graham comparing direct audio from Harry vs radio propagation delays
Hello – it that Guinness Records? I’d like to claim a new distance record. No, no you don’t understand – it’s long path
I’ve created this new short range low power connectivity solution – I think I’ll name it BlueTooth
Only one chair in sight and the ZC1 gets it!

Otherwise, apart from the usual coffee breaks, Dave ZL1DL tried some SMD soldering using his new digital microscope – and declared it to be a superior experience to closeup lenses or magnifying glasses.

The plug pack that was responsible for the HF interference over the previous week was dissected. One cap, the high voltage storage on the mains side is in serious need of a top up. Originally a 22uF / 400v device, it measured 0.08uF. So probably not too surprising that the plug pack was “out of spec”.

The cap that facilitated the noise

Such a nice looking cap. It hasn’t vented so in the interests of waste minimisation, we should repair it. If anyone has a supply of 400v electrolyte for cap repair – please get in touch…

Also needed: a can of striped paint for touchups and a left handed soldering iron.