After the break in May, I decided to set up all the antennas on Černecký Hill again: 4 x 5-element DK7ZB and 2 x 8-element DK7ZB Yagi antennas. This time, this antenna system also had a ½ coaxial cable feed.
In the morning, thunder could be heard in the distance. Shortly before seven o’clock, a few raindrops even fell on the car. It seemed wettest in Stará Turá, but as I drove through the hills near Myjava, blue skies were already breaking through. Upon arrival at Černecký vrch, the thermometer read +22°C.
The surrounding fields were covered with 30 to 40 cm of grain. First, I set up the 4 x 5-element DK7ZB array. The eight-element Yagis are divided into three sections. For the connections, I use M4 screws with plastic heads and wing nuts. Even such a small detail makes the setup easier.
Next comes the telescoping mast. I extend it using only the guy lines. This isn’t a delay, because the mast extends more easily without a load, and I’ll have the guy lines precisely measured by then. Next comes lowering the mast, mounting the antennas, the combiner, and the coaxial cable. Now I can really feel the weight, but it’s manageable. Finally, using a compass, I just fine-tune the azimuths of both antennas. Setting up the mast with two 8-element antennas takes about 40 minutes.
I’m starting to get warm. I’ll set up the work area and connect the cables. The total setup time is just over an hour and a half. I still have some time to spare. So I’m testing the antenna switching: it works exceptionally well. The fixed antennas are rated up to an azimuth of 315°, but they’re also usable at 300°. They also show greater gain than the 4 x 5-element DK7ZB Yagi.
Number of contacts and new multipliers in a 15-minute interval
While testing, I discover that although AirScout is working, it isn’t transmitting data to KST4Contest. It’s frustrating, but I can’t figure out how to fix it. During the VHF PA, I’m forced to rely more on AirScout, which does pay off, though. I manage to make contact not only with DG7AC but also with OM0AB. I managed to capture this on video—it’s not very good, but hopefully it gives an idea of what a bounce off an airplane allows.
Even before the contest starts, I find SN9W. I decide to try calling him so I won’t have to hunt for a multiplier later. The JO90 locator isn’t far away, but activity from there isn’t very high. After that, I focus on making contacts. The conditions seem better than usual.
Directional map of contacts
Directional map of points
The ability to switch antennas is very convenient. Since the Alpe Adria UHF/SHF Contest is taking place at the same time, there are also many stations at the KST lodge.
In the first hour, I made 43 contacts, and among them, I easily reached Roberto I1BPU at a distance of 778 kilometers. I managed to make the aforementioned contact with Jožko OM0AB https://youtube.com/shorts/UTJdMpCwvFQ?si=_04IqbnPGKi-GMjW
Video of the contact via bounce off an airplane: OM0AAO – OM0AB
A little later, T7/I4GHG and IK4GNG come on the schedule. The signals are excellent! Shortly after noon, Petr OK2HF also slips in among the callers (TNX!). I also try DG7AC via aircraft bounce. This sked is a success, too! I log JO52 from a distance of 661 kilometers. And a moment later, Paulo IZ1ESM comes through as well, 798 kilometers!
Map of VHF contacts PA 06 / 2026
Toward the end, I somehow can’t seem to find any new stations. I try YO5AVN, but he was apparently also working the 70-cm band. OK1VUB can boast the last, 100th contact. These 100 contacts are worth 390 points and 27 multipliers. It was already quite hot; by the time I made two or three contacts, I was slurring my words. Packing up took exactly one hour.
