Station Update - KE5TVB

Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 2014-09-27 22:57

Well, aren't I embarrassed! It seems that many months ago when I set up my station here in Mountain Home AFB, ID, I completely messed up the listed frequency for my station! I now have the frequency updated to the proper frequency of 144.930. The station ID is ke5tvb-10

My station started off with a simple copper j-pole that was connected to a KPC-3 and dual band mobile. It wasn't the most optimal setup as I really needed the dual band to perform other duties. I swapped the dual band for a two-channel Motorola Radius. The Motorola is a much better choice for a dedicated packet station that the dual band mobile was and allowed me to make better use of the more flexible radio. Another challenge is that there is a high point in elevation between where my station is and the town of Mountain Home, ID. This has caused issues giving good coverage in town as only spots that are up higher can get the signal from the omni. My backyard is fairly small meaning I don't have enough room to guy wire a tall mast, and my lease restrictions limit my antenna mounting options. To help me out, a local Ham was kind enough to give me a 2m/440 yagi. I was able to point it at about 40.7 degrees which focuses the signal towards town which is where I want the signal going. This should give me enough signal strength to overcome the elevation rise between the two points, but I still need to get to town and do some testing.

Well, if you read this far, thanks! If you are in the area, please try using the station and let me know how it is or isn't working for you. If anyone wants to get ahold of me, feel free to email me via winlink or my email address listed on QRZ. Thanks again!

-Shane Banks
KE5TVB

Winlink Linkomatic