The deployment has proven itself low-noise preamplifier HA8ET na 144 MHz in VHF PA? But let's start with a tip first, which may be suitable for portable operation.
You will read:
HINT: connection of devices into a block
I connected the TCVR, preamplifier, rotator and SDR clamping strap with a ratchet to the block. This allows me to connect the TCVR to the preamplifier and SDR and pre-prepare the cabling. Although the whole does not look very presentable, but it is simple and freely configurable.
VKV Operational assets February 2023
Despite fears, the snow has melted even at this altitude. Of course I got wet, a lot of things didn't work. But in order.
I am coming to JN88ST 7.45 morning. The weather looks quite pleasant, +8°C. Despite wind warnings and rain warnings, the situation is very good. The field is quite wet, but what would i want at the end of february?
I also manage a small snack. Moments before the Operating Asset, I start the power plant. However, a surprise follows - the power supply for TCVR and accessories does not work! After some research I find a bad 230V cable. That's it 9.01, it's high time to start.
But TCVR does not want to perform. I suspect the sequencer at the preamp, which blocks the TCVR's ALC. When rummaging in the wiring - of course in the tight space in the back seats - the coaxial cable also moves and the TCVR audibly makes a more pronounced noise. Connector! I also carry a spare coaxial cable. It's just thinner, shorter and of course it needs to be replaced. How else - in the rain.
I throw the wet windbreaker and hat into the trunk and finally start broadcasting. Is 9.25 when I make the first connection. Although it seems, that filming antennas by computer does not work (bad calibration?), but one can exist without it. I go through the zone and search. After the first lesson, they are enrolled 22 contacts.
Feel the benefit of the HA8ET preamplifier. Emotionally, I got to the state, that my reception is better than the range of the transmitter. That's the status, when I receive signals for the first time, but the opposing station repeats the data. He comes to the challenge SO2V allows close up, but quite a rare JN87 locator. Behind him E70SIC na 559 kilometers and other longer connections. Audibility with the preamplifier is excellent. I try to call too I4GHG, but it doesn't look like a connection at the moment, and due to the almost half-hour delay, I have a small number of connections for it, to try this connection longer.
HINT: using a second monitor
An older LCD 15-inch monitor expanded the desktop. I have on it AirScout, PstRotor and map of locator squares rendered by the N1MM logo. It makes the operation much more transparent.
team, that the broadcasting comfort is greater, so I'm trying to collect some skeds via ON4KST chat. Connection with IK4GNG, behind him DJ7R. The longest connection is but IK4LFI na 704 kilometers. Finally, I'm still trying IK4ZHH, but the operational asset ends.
The logo is 82 QSOs to 23 locators: JN54, JN59, JN64, JN75, JN76, JN77, JN78, JN79, JN85, JN86, JN87, JN88, JN89, JN93, JN95, JN97, JN98, JN99, JO70, JO80, JO90, KN04 a KN05. But it is interesting average , which is 197 km / QSO (in January 175 km / QSO a v November 171 km / QSO). The preamplifier proved to be excellent!
