-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  [Dial] Did you know about this?
Date:  Wed, 06 Sep 2006 09:39:10 -0400
From:  K8CM <K8CM@...>
To:  dial@...



*
From: Dial Radio Club email list
*

A recent posting on e-ham (http://www.eham.net/articles/14660)
describes 60-some receivers, around the world, and accessible via the Internet.

Interesting concept.

73  <>  Carl

_______________________________________________
Dial mailing list
Dial@...
http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/dial

----- Original Message -----

From: StraitMD4@...

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 7:53 PM

Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection

Hi Al,      My computer is connected directly to the cable. Got rid of splitters in the line and the signal still comes and goes.

                                                              KD8BIG

 

-------------- Original message --------------
From: "Al Pepping" <kv8x@...>

Hi Mark.....  Not surprising.  The overwhelming problem in these cases is lack of adequate signal at the point it comes into your home.  CATV signals appear to come in OK, but  broadband high speed data, signal levels need to be at a higher level above the noise floor.   Comcast appears to be deficient in attaining this level in many cases.  Good luck in getting them to admit the flaw is on their end.  One question :  is your computer connection direct into the 10/100 card from the cable or are you using wireless at 2.4 gHz. thru a router????                                          KV8X    -------Original Message-------   From: StraitMD4@comcast.net Date: 09/05/06 15:13:14 To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection   Hi all ,         The Tech showed up . Went through every thing I did . Not wanting to believe that I checked everything and that I had a suggestion to a remedy. She packed up and left.            I'm Still having problems . She had no idea what to do .    She did call Dennis Berens. He is on vacation this week . She said they will have another tech come out tomorrow.     This is the kind of service I've been dealing with from Comcast.     Anyway, I would like to thank you all for your help and suggestions. I guess I'll see what they do tomorrow. Maybe time to go to Verizon.   One would think I deserve a discount for bad service.                                                          73's                                                             Mark                                                                                 "KD8BIG"   -------------- Original message -------------- From: <k8mhz@k8mhz.com> If you get a good tech out there the problem will be fixed.   My situation was noise coming from the lines messing with my 2 meter rigs.  Ted Hawk came out first and could not find the problem.  Rather than give up he contacted another tech, Dennis Berens N8VWH.  I assisted Dennis using my trusty fox hunt gear and we found the source.  After it was corrected Ted called my cell phone and left me his number to call him if I had any more problems.   Better advise....hold off broadband until we get our WiFi service in Muskegon.       ----- Original Message ----- From: Al Pepping To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 13:55 Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection Hi Mark....welcome to the crowd.   I live on a "fringe" leg of  Comcast, and had them out to check their end and everything was OK.    The best solution is to go down and buy yourself a preamplifier, but you have to make sure it is "Bidirectional"..   meaning it will allow commands you send from your computer to get back to the net.  I bought mine, an RCA model DT100M at best Buy and paid around 30 dollars for it.   Not only will it have enough gain to support multiple computers, it will get rid of the "fuzzy channel" syndrome as well.   I have not had problem one with connecting after I installed this preamp.  Best advise....dont bother with Comcast...it's a waist of time.   This is a sure fix.    I guarantee it.....   KV8X       -------Original Message-------   From: muskegonjimquay Date: 09/03/06 23:01:19 To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Subject: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection   Over the last few weeks I have had problems with the signal to my cable modem . I lose the signal to my modem but still have my digital cable .    I have all new cabal "18 awg " and have eliminated splitters . I also tried running a direct line and not having ant televisions connected and still have a problem . I bought a new ethernet cable .   The other thing is I seem to lose my signal more during the hours from 9am-8pm. I do lose the signal through-out the night, just not as often . When I lose the signal it will be lost from anywhere 3-10 minutes. Then it comes back for a few minutes and goes away.    Should I build an amp ? giving me a 10-15 db gain in signal strength or should I look at some thing else ? I did try another modem with no success.     I called comcast and they say things look good at there end . They will send out a tech again . the tech seems to have problems diagnoseing the problem .     I think it may be in the ISP's network port. They think other wise .                         73's                              Mark "KD8BIG"             Yahoo! Groups Links   <*> To visit your group on the web, go to:     http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WestMichiganHams/   <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:     WestMichiganHams-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com   <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:     http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/           Internal Virus Database is out-of-date. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.6/428 - Release Date: 8/25/2006

----- Original Message -----

From: Al Pepping

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 10:00 PM

Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection

Hi Doc....        Sounds like you are down to a couple of options.  DSL from Verizon or other provider, or take the Nestea plunge and do the pre amp route.  I  didn't like spending the money to get a signal I felt should have been there in the first place, but it's  necessary, especially if you have multiple taps.  In my case, I didn't need a tech to determine the problem, I measured the signal  here with a 100 mHz O-scope and found the signal level inadequate, especially with taps in line.   The thirty bucks I spent was worth not having to jump hoops.  I now have enough signal to run many taps with no corporate entanglements.  Most places have a return policy, my suggestion would be to go buy one, see if it solves the problem and if it doesn't, return it and get your money back.  Until a price competitive high speed internet option comes ! to this area, we are forced to play ball with the only kid on the block who has a ballfield.   Grand Rapids, Holland, Grand Haven and even Whitehall has wireless broadband (WiFi), but not here.   Since I don't have a landline phone here,  my cheapest way to go fast is with Comcast.  Sort of like owning a wooden boat..... it floats, but you have to get used to  splinters.....                                                                                                                                    KV8X       -------Original Message-------   From: StraitMD4@comcast.net Date: 09/05/06 20:31:23 To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection   Hi Al,      My computer is connected directly to the cable. Got rid of splitters in the line and the signal still comes and goes.                                                               KD8BIG   -------------- Original message -------------- From: "Al Pepping" <kv8x@comcast.net> Hi Mark.....  Not surprising.  The overwhelming problem in these cases is lack of adequate signal at the point it comes into your home.  CATV signals appear to come in OK, but  broadband high speed data, signal levels need to be at a higher level above the noise floor.   Comcast appears to be deficient in attaining this level in many cases.  Good luck in getting them to admit the flaw is on their end.  One question :  is your computer connection direct into the 10/100 card from the cable or are you using wireless at 2.4 gHz. thru a router????                                          KV8X    -------Original Message-------   From: StraitMD4@comcast.net Date: 09/05/06 15:13:14 To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection   Hi all ,         The Tech showed up . Went through every thing I did . Not wanting to believe that I checked everything and that I had a suggestion to a remedy. She packed up and left.            I'm Still having problems . She had no idea what to do .    She did call Dennis Berens. He is on vacation this week . She said they will have another tech come out tomorrow.     This is the kind of service I've been dealing with from Comcast.     Anyway, I would like to thank you all for your help and suggestions. I guess I'll see what they do tomorrow. Maybe time to go to Verizon.   One would think I deserve a discount for bad service.                                                          73's                                                             Mark                                                                                 "KD8BIG"   -------------- Original message -------------- From: <k8mhz@k8mhz.com> If you get a good tech out there the problem will be fixed.   My situation was noise coming from the lines messing with my 2 meter rigs.  Ted Hawk came out first and could not find the problem.  Rather than give up he contacted another tech, Dennis Berens N8VWH.  I assisted Dennis using my trusty fox hunt gear and we found the source.  After it was corrected Ted called my cell phone and left me his number to call him if I had any more problems.   Better advise....hold off broadband until we get our WiFi service in Muskegon.       ----- Original Message ----- From: Al Pepping To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 13:55 Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection Hi Mark....welcome to the crowd.   I live on a "fringe" leg of  Comcast, and had them out to check their end and everything was OK.    The best solution is to go down and buy yourself a preamplifier, but you have to make sure it is "Bidirectional"..   meaning it will allow commands you send from your computer to get back to the net.  I bought mine, an RCA model DT100M at best Buy and paid around 30 dollars for it.   Not only will it have enough gain to support multiple computers, it will get rid of the "fuzzy channel" syndrome as well.   I have not had problem one with connecting after I installed this preamp.  Best advise....dont bother with Comcast...it's a waist of time.   This is a sure fix.    I guarantee it.....   KV8X       -------Original Message-------   From: muskegonjimquay Date: 09/03/06 23:01:19 To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com Subject: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection   Over the last few weeks I have had problems with the signal to my cable modem . I lose the signal to my modem but still have my digital cable .    I have all new cabal "18 awg " and have eliminated splitters . I also tried running a direct line and not having ant televisions connected and still have a problem . I bought a new ethernet cable .   The other thing is I seem to lose my signal more during the hours from 9am-8pm. I do lose the signal through-out the night, just not as often . When I lose the signal it will be lost from anywhere 3-10 minutes. Then it comes back for a few minutes and goes away.    Should I build an amp ? giving me a 10-15 db gain in signal strength or should I look at some thing else ? I did try another modem with no success.     I called comcast and they say things look good at there end . They will send out a tech again . the tech seems to have problems diagnoseing the problem .     I think it may be in the ISP's network port. They think other wise .                         73's                              Mark "KD8BIG"             Yahoo! Groups Links   <*> To visit your group on the web, go to:     http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WestMichiganHams/   <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:     WestMichiganHams-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com   <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:     http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/           Internal Virus Database is out-of-date. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.6/428 - Release Date: 8/25/2006

There is a third alternative to Comcast and Verizon. A company out
of GR has two wireless ports in the Muskegon area. I have been using
them for years and it works great. They use a secure Ghz connection.
They installed a Yagi that looks at one of their two towers. One is
on Lorin Industries building on Roberts near Laketon and the other
is just south of Craig's Cruisers on Pontaluna Rd. These towers have
an effective radius of 4 miles. However, most hams have a tower to
mount the Yagi on, so you could go further.

They have several plans to choose from. There is an intitial
connection fee. It is for the special router and antenna system. I
understand they are hooked directly into several T10 lines. I know
we have a very fast connection and it isn't loaded up like Comcast
can get.

Here is there web address: http://www.wmiswireless.com/

Other than being a customer, I have no affilation with them

Ross
N8GMY

Hi Al, My computer is connected directly to the cable. Got rid of splitters in the line and the signal still comes and goes.
KD8BIG

-------------- Original message --------------
From: "Al Pepping"
Hi Mark..... Not surprising. The overwhelming problem in these cases is lack of adequate signal at the point it comes into your home. CATV signals appear to come in OK, but broadband high speed data, signal levels need to be at a higher level above the noise floor. Comcast appears to be deficient in attaining this level in many cases. Good luck in getting them to admit the flaw is on their end. One question : is your computer connection direct into the 10/100 card from the cable or are you using wireless at 2.4 gHz. thru a router???? KV8X

-------Original Message-------

From: StraitMD4@...
Date: 09/05/06 15:13:14
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection

Hi all ,

The Tech showed up . Went through every thing I did . Not wanting to believe that I checked everything and that I had a suggestion to a remedy. She packed up and left.
I'm Still having problems . She had no idea what to do .
She did call Dennis Berens. He is on vacation this week . She said they will have another tech come out tomorrow.
This is the kind of service I've been dealing with from Comcast.
Anyway, I would like to thank you all for your help and suggestions.
I guess I'll see what they do tomorrow. Maybe time to go to Verizon.
One would think I deserve a discount for bad service.
73's
Mark
"KD8BIG"

-------------- Original message --------------
From:

If you get a good tech out there the problem will be fixed.

My situation was noise coming from the lines messing with my 2 meter rigs. Ted Hawk came out first and could not find the problem. Rather than give up he contacted another tech, Dennis Berens N8VWH. I assisted Dennis using my trusty fox hunt gear and we found the source. After it was corrected Ted called my cell phone and left me his number to call him if I had any more problems.

Better advise....hold off broadband until we get our WiFi service in Muskegon.



----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 13:55
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection


Hi Mark....welcome to the crowd. I live on a "fringe" leg of Comcast, and had them out to check their end and everything was OK. The best solution is to go down and buy yourself a preamplifier, but you have to make sure it is "Bidirectional".. meaning it will allow commands you send from your computer to get back to the net. I bought mine, an RCA model DT100M at best Buy and paid around 30 dollars for it. Not only will it have enough gain to support multiple computers, it will get rid of the "fuzzy channel" syndrome as well. I have not had problem one with connecting after I installed this preamp. Best advise....dont bother with Comcast...it's a waist of time.
This is a sure fix. I guarantee it..... KV8X



-------Original Message-------

From: muskegonjimquay
Date: 09/03/06 23:01:19
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection

Over the last few weeks I have had problems with the signal to my
cable modem . I lose the signal to my modem but still have my
digital cable .
I have all new cabal "18 awg " and have eliminated splitters . I
also tried running a direct line and not having ant televisions
connected and still have a problem . I bought a new ethernet cable .
The other thing is I seem to lose my signal more during the hours
from 9am-8pm. I do lose the signal through-out the night, just not
as often . When I lose the signal it will be lost from anywhere 3-10
minutes. Then it comes back for a few minutes and goes away.
Should I build an amp ? giving me a 10-15 db gain in signal
strength or should I look at some thing else ? I did try another
modem with no success.
I called comcast and they say things look good at there end .
They will send out a tech again . the tech seems to have problems
diagnoseing the problem .
I think it may be in the ISP's network port. They think other
wise .
73's
Mark "KD8BIG"






Yahoo! Groups Links














Internal Virus Database is out-of-date.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.6/428 - Release Date: 8/25/2006

Hi all ,

The Tech showed up . Went through every thing I did . Not wanting to believe that I checked everything and that I had a suggestion to a remedy. She packed up and left.
I'm Still having problems . She had no idea what to do .
She did call Dennis Berens. He is on vacation this week . She said they will have another tech come out tomorrow.
This is the kind of service I've been dealing with from Comcast.
Anyway, I would like to thank you all for your help and suggestions.
I guess I'll see what they do tomorrow. Maybe time to go to Verizon.
One would think I deserve a discount for bad service.
73's
Mark
"KD8BIG"

-------------- Original message --------------
From:
If you get a good tech out there the problem will be fixed.

My situation was noise coming from the lines messing with my 2 meter rigs. Ted Hawk came out first and could not find the problem. Rather than give up he contacted another tech, Dennis Berens N8VWH. I assisted Dennis using my trusty fox hunt gear and we found the source. After it was corrected Ted called my cell phone and left me his number to call him if I had any more problems.

Better advise....hold off broadband until we get our WiFi service in Muskegon.



----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 13:55
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection


Hi Mark....welcome to the crowd. I live on a "fringe" leg of Comcast, and had them out to check their end and everything was OK. The best solution is to go down and buy yourself a preamplifier, but you have to make sure it is "Bidirectional".. meaning it will allow commands you send from your computer to get back to the net. I bought mine, an RCA model DT100M at best Buy and paid around 30 dollars for it. Not only will it have enough gain to support multiple computers, it will get rid of the "fuzzy channel" syndrome as well. I have not had problem one with connecting after I installed this preamp. Best advise....dont bother with Comcast...it's a waist of time.
This is a sure fix. I guarantee it..... KV8X



-------Original Message-------

From: muskegonjimquay
Date: 09/03/06 23:01:19
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection

Over the last few weeks I have had problems with the signal to my
cable modem . I lose the signal to my modem but still have my
digital cable .
I have all new cabal "18 awg " and have eliminated splitters . I
also tried running a direct line and not having ant televisions
connected and still have a problem . I bought a new ethernet cable .
The other thing is I seem to lose my signal more during the hours
from 9am-8pm. I do lose the signal through-out the night, just not
as often . When I lose the signal it will be lost from anywhere 3-10
minutes. Then it comes back for a few minutes and goes away.
Should I build an amp ? giving me a 10-15 db gain in signal
strength or should I look at some thing else ? I did try another
modem with no success.
I called comcast and they say things look good at there end .
They will send out a tech again . the tech seems to have problems
diagnoseing the problem .
I think it may be in the ISP's network port. They think other
wise .
73's
Mark "KD8BIG"






Yahoo! Groups Links














Internal Virus Database is out-of-date.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.6/428 - Release Date: 8/25/2006

It's been proven that 2.4 GHz 802.11b can be heard "barefoot" (300
milliwatts or less) over a 125 mile path, as long as it's line of sight
and no atmospheric absorption from humidity, etc.  See
http://tinyurl.com/eawpa  Of course, they were using 3 metre (9 feet) or
larger dishes, which is impractical for most installations in Michigan.

These folks gave presentations at the SW Ohio Digital Symposium in 2005
and 2006 - they're very sharp cookies.

They say the folks who use cantennae don't really understand antenna
theory nor practice.  Most any parabolic reflector is orders of
magnitude better than cantennae.

73 de n8xx Hg

========= Original Message follows ===========================


Re: WiFi Polarization
Posted by: "k8mhz@..." k8mhz@...   k8mhz
Tue Sep 5, 2006 1:38 pm (PST)
Al,

I found some plans for the SBA. The predicted gain is 14dBi.

It does not look very hard to construct. The material is copper and may
be pricey but there is a metal shop here in town that stocks it and will
sell cuts.

Mark K8MHZ

----- Original Message -----
From: k8mhz@...
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 14:56
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

Yes,

Plans and info for the SBA would be interesting.

I don't really know what the range of the Cantenna is. 15 miles is very
doubtful.

With the new MiMAX coming to other townships first I would like to try a
little DXing then.

----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 04:11
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

The cantenna is what I had in mind....with a little variation. Back in
the 60's a physicist working with the USAF developed a unique antenna
called the SBA, or short backfire antenna. It works on the same
principle as the cantenna, but picture a cookie tin used as the
waveguide as opposed to a coffee can. It has a larger diameter and less
depth than a coffee can. From what I've read so far, the SBA is a big
hit with the WiFi group in Europe. I'll pass along a couple of links
from the IEEE group with photos and such if you are interested.
What distances have you covered with the cantenna design so far?? My
radio range is roughly 15 miles at 2.4 gHz, and I have multi mode RX
capability on that band . Just need to build an antenna, hoist it up 80
feet and see what we can hear. This could prove very interesting !!!
KV8X

-------Original Message-----
--

From: k8mhz@...
Date: 09/04/06 21:23:37
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

May I suggest a Cantenna? Mine works well as a waveguided directional.

Parts are 1 coffee can, 1 chassis mount PL259 connector, a piece of #12
solid wire 1.21 inches long, four screws, a 1/4x20 nut and some
electrical tape. Fits nicely on my camera tripod.

----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 20:12
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

Vertical it is by popular consensus.... Now to build the antenna.......KV8X

-------Original Message-------

From: Joe Veldhuis
Date: 09/04/06 14:43:20
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

Every access point/router/unit with an external antenna I have ever seen
has used vertical polarization, though it seems that the PCMCIA cards
must be using horizontal antennae. Vertical is probably the preferred
polarization.

-Joe, KD8ATU

Al Pepping wrote:
  > Anyone know if there is a "standard" protocol for what type of
  > polarization is used for WiFi antenna systems?
  >
  > KV8X

-------------- Original message --------------
From: Tom Nickisch <w8amz@...>

Hi Mark,

 

Your problem should be soon taken care of. I contacted a friend of mine, a senior technician at Comcast.  He is now looking into getting your problem corrected, If there is anybody at Comcast that can do it he can.

As for amplifiers, that?s issue.  At no time should it be necessary to put in an amplifier.  They legally obligated to provide enough signal to maintain a minimum of 0db at each device such as TV, modem for total of four devices. We always tried to provide 8-12db at the ground block. Should the customer need to run more devices then they have to provide for that by law also. Now, unfortunately a large number of the technicians there do not have the understanding for RF like we do. But there are a few that do.

 

Scott Christmas will be checking into this, he may not be the one coming out, but he will follow up and see that it gets resolved. He is stuck working in the head-in for the next few weeks.

 

I have been instructed to give you or anyone else that may be having this problem his direct Nextel number. You or anybody else who needs his number can give me a call @ 231-767-1095 and will be happy to pass it on.

They actually do want the problem fixed, they realize the competition is coming.

73?

Tom W8AMZ

 

 

StraitMD4@comcast.net wrote:

Hi all ,

The Tech showed up . Went through every thing I did . Not wanting to believe that I checked everything and that I had a suggestion to a remedy. She packed up and left.
I'm Still having problems . She had no idea what to do .
She did call Dennis Berens. He is on vacation this week . She said they will have another tech come out tomorrow.
This is the kind of service I've been dealing with from Comcast.
Anyway, I would like to thank you all for your help and suggestions.
I guess I'll see what they do tomorrow. Maybe time to go to Verizon.
One would think I deserve a discount for bad service.
73's
Mark
"KD8BIG"

-------------- Original message --------------
From:
If you get a good tech out there the problem will be fixed.

My situation was noise coming from the lines messing with my 2 meter rigs. Ted Hawk came out first and could not fi nd the problem. Rather than give up he contacted another tech, Dennis Berens N8VWH. I assisted Dennis using my trusty fox hunt gear and we found the source. After it was corrected Ted called my cell phone and left me his number to call him if I had any more problems.

Better advise....hold off broadband until we get our WiFi service in Muskegon.



----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 13:55
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection


Hi Mark....welcome to the crowd. I live on a "fringe" leg of Comcast, and had them out to check their end and everything was OK. The best solution is to go down and buy yourself a preamplifier, but you have to make sure it is "Bidirectional".. meaning it will allow commands you send from your computer to get back to the net. I bought mine, an RCA model DT100M at best Buy and paid around 30 dollars for it. No t only will it have enough gain to support multiple computers, it will get rid of the "fuzzy channel" syndrome as well. I have not had problem one with connecting after I installed this preamp. Best advise....dont bother with Comcast...it's a waist of time.
This is a sure fix. I guarantee it..... KV8X



-------Original Message-------

From: muskegonjimquay
Date: 09/03/06 23:01:19
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [WestMichiganHams] BroadBand Connection

Over the last few weeks I have had problems with the signal to my
cable modem . I lose the signal to my modem but still have my
digital cable .
I have all new cabal "18 awg " and have eliminated splitters . I
also tried running a direct line and not having ant televisions
connected and still have a problem . I bought a new ethernet cable .
The other thing is I seem to lose my signal more during the hours
from 9am-8pm. I do lose the signal thro ugh-out the night, just not
as often . When I lose the signal it will be lost from anywhere 3-10
minutes. Then it comes back for a few minutes and goes away.
Should I build an amp ? giving me a 10-15 db gain in signal
strength or should I look at some thing else ? I did try another
modem with no success.
I called comcast and they say things look good at there end .
They will send out a tech again . the tech seems to have problems
diagnoseing the problem .
I think it may be in the ISP's network port. They think other
wise .
73's
Mark "KD8BIG"






Yahoo! Groups Links














Internal Virus Database is out-of-date.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.6/428 - Release Date: 8/25/2006

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, Joe Veldhuis <kd8atu@...> wrote:
>
> Well, this week's net went fairly well. 2 checkins, Jerry KC0HLN from
> Waterloo, IA at about 320 miles (strong signal!) and Mike KC9DOA from
> Fond du Lac, WI at about 120 miles. Nothing was heard from Brian N2MLP,
> we'd need a lot more enhancement than we had this evening to make the
> 600 mile trip between here and east PA.
>
> Thanks to all who dropped in, hope to see even more of you next week!
> -Joe, KD8ATU
> Grand Haven, Michigan - EN62wx
>

Joe,

Are you going to try and hold a net Friday (Sep. 8th)?  If so, I'll
try and check-in.  I assume 144.150MHz +1500Hz means a 144.150MHz dial
frequency with the audio centered at 1500Hz.

Mark Moss, KC8DEI

Yep, I've been doing it every Friday for over 2 months now, and now that
I'm actually getting checkins I don't plan to stop! You are correct, the
net is on a dial frequency of 144.150 MHz and audio at 1500 Hz (actual
frequency 144.1515 MHz). Hope to hear you on there.

-Joe, KD8ATU

kc8dei wrote:
> Are you going to try and hold a net Friday (Sep. 8th)?  If so, I'll
> try and check-in.  I assume 144.150MHz +1500Hz means a 144.150MHz dial
> frequency with the audio centered at 1500Hz.

----- Original Message -----

From: wingerham

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 17:33

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] Internet Connection

There is a third alternative to Comcast and Verizon. A company out
of GR has two wireless ports in the Muskegon area. I have been using
them for years and it works great. They use a secure Ghz connection.
They installed a Yagi that looks at one of their two towers. One is
on Lorin Industries building on Roberts near Laketon and the other
is just south of Craig's Cruisers on Pontaluna Rd. These towers have
an effective radius of 4 miles. However, most hams have a tower to
mount the Yagi on, so you could go further.

They have several plans to choose from. There is an intitial
connection fee. It is for the special router and antenna system. I
understand they are hooked directly into several T10 lines. I know
we have a very fast connection and it isn't loaded up like Comcast
can get.

Here is there web address: http://www.wmiswireless.com/

Other than being a customer, I have no affilation with them

Ross
N8GMY

---

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There's a fourth alternative.

If your area is "stuck" on dialup, and/or if you're cheep, and live in
what is considered a "rural" area of Western Michigan, UTMI
(http://www.utmi.net) offers 384K DSL on top of their inexpensive
telephone service (typically cheaper than the local telephone
companies).  I'm paying $9.95 per month for (384K bps) DSL on top of
$29.95 per month for local phone service including call waiting.
There's the usual FCC fees and taxes, of course.

They're not perfect, but since we don't have cable at this address,and
the cable company won't run 1/2 mile of cable for only 2 or 3
subscribers, this is a much better solution than tying up a phone line
at a higher cost.

It's available in most parts of western Michigan - I don't know the
details of their coverage area.

73 de n8xx Hg

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, "wingerham" <N8GMY@...> wrote:
>
> There is a third alternative to Comcast and Verizon. <snip>

----- Original Message -----

From: Hank Greeb

To: West Michigan Hams

Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 18:15

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] "DXing" on WiFi/802.11b

It's been proven that 2.4 GHz 802.11b can be heard "barefoot" (300
milliwatts or less) over a 125 mile path, as long as it's line of sight
and no atmospheric absorption from humidity, etc. See
http://tinyurl.com/eawpa Of course, they were using 3 metre (9 feet) or
larger dishes, which is impractical for most installations in Michigan.

These folks gave presentations at the SW Ohio Digital Symposium in 2005
and 2006 - they're very sharp cookies.

They say the folks who use cantennae don't really understand antenna
theory nor practice. Most any parabolic reflector is orders of
magnitude better than cantennae.

73 de n8xx Hg

========= Original Message follows ===========================

Re: WiFi Polarization
Posted by: "k8mhz@k8mhz.com" k8mhz@k8mhz.com k8mhz
Tue Sep 5, 2006 1:38 pm (PST)
Al,

I found some plans for the SBA. The predicted gain is 14dBi.

It does not look very hard to construct. The material is copper and may
be pricey but there is a metal shop here in town that stocks it and will
sell cuts.

Mark K8MHZ

----- Original Message -----
From: k8mhz@k8mhz.com
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 14:56
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

Yes,

Plans and info for the SBA would be interesting.

I don't really know what the range of the Cantenna is. 15 miles is very
doubtful.

With the new MiMAX coming to other townships first I would like to try a
little DXing then.

----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 04:11
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

The cantenna is what I had in mind....with a little variation. Back in
the 60's a physicist working with the USAF developed a unique antenna
called the SBA, or short backfire antenna. It works on the same
principle as the cantenna, but picture a cookie tin used as the
waveguide as opposed to a coffee can. It has a larger diameter and less
depth than a coffee can. From what I've read so far, the SBA is a big
hit with the WiFi group in Europe. I'll pass along a couple of links
from the IEEE group with photos and such if you are interested.
What distances have you covered with the cantenna design so far?? My
radio range is roughly 15 miles at 2.4 gHz, and I have multi mode RX
capability on that band . Just need to build an antenna, hoist it up 80
feet and see what we can hear. This could prove very interesting !!!
KV8X

-------Original Message-----
--

From: k8mhz@k8mhz.com
Date: 09/04/06 21:23:37
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

May I suggest a Cantenna? Mine works well as a waveguided directional.

Parts are 1 coffee can, 1 chassis mount PL259 connector, a piece of #12
solid wire 1.21 inches long, four screws, a 1/4x20 nut and some
electrical tape. Fits nicely on my camera tripod.

----- Original Message -----
From: Al Pepping
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 20:12
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

Vertical it is by popular consensus.... Now to build the antenna.......KV8X

-------Original Message-------

From: Joe Veldhuis
Date: 09/04/06 14:43:20
To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] WiFi Polarization

Every access point/router/unit with an external antenna I have ever seen
has used vertical polarization, though it seems that the PCMCIA cards
must be using horizontal antennae. Vertical is probably the preferred
polarization.

-Joe, KD8ATU

Al Pepping wrote:
> Anyone know if there is a "standard" protocol for what type of
> polarization is used for WiFi antenna systems?
>
> KV8X

---

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http://ses.symantec.com/

Has anyone heard anything about the Feidaxin FD-150A/450A Programmable
Handheld Radio?  These are currently being sold on e-Bay from store in
Hong Kong, Australia, and perhaps elsewhere.  They're made in China,
sell for about $60 including shipping from e-Bay stores.  Since I
haven't seen them in any QST write-up, I wonder if they are type
accepted for US Ham use.   There's one review by a ham in France on e-ham.

Perhaps China is making a run to be a low cost supplier of VHF and UHF
radios?

The link for the description on e-Bay is http://tinyurl.com/hbtcm

73 de n8xx Hg

----- Original Message -----

From: Hank Greeb

To: West Michigan Hams

Sent: Friday, September 08, 2006 02:17

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] Feidaxin FD-150A/450A

Has anyone heard anything about the Feidaxin FD-150A/450A Programmable
Handheld Radio? These are currently being sold on e-Bay from store in
Hong Kong, Australia, and perhaps elsewhere. They're made in China,
sell for about $60 including shipping from e-Bay stores. Since I
haven't seen them in any QST write-up, I wonder if they are type
accepted for US Ham use. There's one review by a ham in France on e-ham.

Perhaps China is making a run to be a low cost supplier of VHF and UHF
radios?

The link for the description on e-Bay is http://tinyurl.com/hbtcm

73 de n8xx Hg

---

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I seem to attract more flames than anything else.  I guess I'll give
up and slink away from this "know it all" conference, which seems to
be antagonistic to ideas which aren't congruent with the self-
styled "leaders."

I would counsel the folks who are receptive enough to ideas to
research their subjects of interest using internet searches via
google.com, yahoo.com, kartoo.com, ask.com, or other search
engines.  A bit of research can result in considerably less dead
ends and less frustration.

(But, then the above may bring more flames, so, I won't say more.)

73 de n8xx Hg

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, <k8mhz@...> wrote:
>
> "They say the folks who use cantennae don't really understand
antenna theory nor practice."
>
> I say the sharp cookies in SW Ohio don't even understand how to
spell common English words!  There, one sweeping generalization
deserves another.
>
> (The plural form of a radio antenna is antennas.  Antennae is
plural for what a bug uses to sense the surrounding environment.)
>
> This user of a Cantenna understands that the total cost of the
project was about 3 dollars as the only purchased part needed was an
SO 239.  The project can be made in less than an hour.  The Cantenna
is a waveguide and does not have the gain of a parabolic.   The
construction of a true parabolic requires the correct shape
reflector with the driven element in a precise location and is
difficult to construct from discarded materials.  Once constructed
it requires some bracketing on the outside of the reflector for a
mount.  All the Cantenna requires is a 1/4-20 nut taped to the
outside of the can and it can be nicely situated on a camera tripod.
>
> The Cantenna is very cheap and easy to construct and shows an
estimated 3 dB gain over a dipole and has directivity and a decent
front to back ratio.  The best bang for the buck as far as
directional 2.4 Ghz antennas go.  Sure, much higher gain is possible
but can it be done in a few minutes for a few bucks?  The Cantenna
is so easy to build it could probably be done expeditiously.
>
> I know that the distance record for 2.4 gig is considerable.  They
were using CW if I remember.   That distance is not achievable with
broadband data transfer, I suspect.
>
> So, who really knows antenna theory and practice?  Very few, and I
doubt they congregate in Ohio.  Many are not even hams.
>
> Any individual can bolster their knowledge about antennas by
building them and using them.  A very good place to start for 2.4
gig is the Cantenna.
>
> 73
>
> Mark K8MHZ

----- Original Message -----

From: Hank Greeb

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, September 08, 2006 03:58

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] Re: "DXing" on WiFi/802.11b

I seem to attract more flames than anything else. I guess I'll give
up and slink away from this "know it all" conference, which seems to
be antagonistic to ideas which aren't congruent with the self-
styled "leaders."

I would counsel the folks who are receptive enough to ideas to
research their subjects of interest using internet searches via
google.com, yahoo.com, kartoo.com, ask.com, or other search
engines. A bit of research can result in considerably less dead
ends and less frustration.

(But, then the above may bring more flames, so, I won't say more.)

73 de n8xx Hg

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, <k8mhz@...> wrote:
>
> "They say the folks who use cantennae don't really understand
antenna theory nor practice."
>
> I say the sharp cookies in SW Ohio don't even understand how to
spell common English words! There, one sweeping generalization
deserves another.
>
> (The plural form of a radio antenna is antennas. Antennae is
plural for what a bug uses to sense the surrounding environment.)
>
> This user of a Cantenna understands that the total cost of the
project was about 3 dollars as the only purchased part needed was an
SO 239. The project can be made in less than an hour. The Cantenna
is a waveguide and does not have the gain of a parabolic. The
construction of a true parabolic requires the correct shape
reflector with the driven element in a precise location and is
difficult to construct from discarded materials. Once constructed
it requires some bracketing on the outside of the reflector for a
mount. All the Cantenna requires is a 1/4-20 nut taped to the
outside of the can and it can be nicely situated on a camera tripod.
>
> The Cantenna is very cheap and easy to construct and shows an
estimated 3 dB gain over a dipole and has directivity and a decent
front to back ratio. The best bang for the buck as far as
directional 2.4 Ghz antennas go. Sure, much higher gain is possible
but can it be done in a few minutes for a few bucks? The Cantenna
is so easy to build it could probably be done expeditiously.
>
> I know that the distance record for 2.4 gig is considerable. They
were using CW if I remember. That distance is not achievable with
broadband data transfer, I suspect.
>
> So, who really knows antenna theory and practice? Very few, and I
doubt they congregate in Ohio. Many are not even hams.
>
> Any individual can bolster their knowledge about antennas by
building them and using them. A very good place to start for 2.4
gig is the Cantenna.
>
> 73
>
> Mark K8MHZ

---

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My QTH is on a hill.One of those 20min.popcorn storms the other day
flooded my garage.Michigan,gota love it.Hill or not the important stuff
(generator,freezer---)were already on 4x4 vertical orientation
adjusters.


                                              73 KD8CBJ

The theory and practice of building a parabolic antenna is documentd
quite well.

Get hold of a recent or perhaps not so recent Antenna Book or VHF
manual from the ARRL.  My last one of each is dated in the 80's, so
I can't speak for the newer one, but one or both of those books
described how to make a parabolic reflector, the tolerances and grid
spacing (if you use a mesh type reflector) which were recommended
for various wavelengths, and recommended construction techniques.
Since memory fades, this may have been for 432 MHz moonbounce work,
with large ground based parabolas, but the theory presented should
be valid.

I'm sure a search of back issues of QST, the index for which is
available on the web to ARRL members, would turn up articles on the
subject also.  RSGB produces several antenna publications, though my
library contained  only one of them concerning inexpensive HF wire
antennae.  Nothing popped out whe I did a cusory glance at their on
line store.

Andy Meng, N8MX, one of the fellows who helped set the WiFi record,
says they found Direct TV and/or Dish parabolas in their search.
Perhaps a note to him might give you hints of how to find them.

73 de n8xx Hg

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, <k8mhz@...> wrote:
>
> Hank,
>
> Sorry to hear you thought my post was intended as a flame, it was
not although some self defense may have been evident.
>
> My initial response was based upon my research on the Internet as
you suggested.  The Cantenna was a result of that research.  I built
it and use it regularly.  My comments about the parabolic were also
based upon the type of research you suggested.
>
> I have considered using discarded Direct TV dishes to build a
parbolic but have not come across one yet.  I don't have the ability
to construct a true parabolic reflector as I have no way of forming
the parabola.  If you do please share it with us.
>
> Instead of 'giving up' how about building a parabolic so we can
compare it to a short backfire or a waveguide and have a reasonable
assessment of cost and effort vs. gain?  The short backfire looks
like it can be constructed without having to deal with complex
curves, the same as the waveguide but requires raw materials instead
of discards.  The predicted gain however is considerable at 14 dB.
>
> I have already built a Cantenna.  Al KV8X and I are both
interested in the short backfire design and you should see a
prototype soon, why not join us and produce a parabolic to help
round out the effort?
>
> 73
>
> Mark K8MHZ

Good day everyone.
I put up a brand new G5RV a few weeks ago. It is horizontal and
about 45 - 50feet in the air.  I hooked up brand new coax and
connectors and I get a SWR that is to high for the antenna tuner to
work with.  I have tried RG8 and RG213 as well as changed up the
length of coax.  I also made a air balun.  Still a high SWR.  I have
redid the connectors twice and no luck.  MFJ said it is my coax or
my connectors and it could not possible be a defective antenna.
Here are the readings I am getting on my MFJ269 when it is connected
to the coax that is connected to the G5RV
3.85-4.00 average of 9.5:1
7.225-7.3 average of 1.5:1 This is the only decent reading!
14.225-14.350 average of 4:1
18.11-18.168 average of 7:1
21.3-21.450 average of 7:1
24.930-990 average of 5:1
28.3-29.7 average of 7:1

Anybody have suggestions?  Better yet, anyone available to come out
and take a look to see if I am messing something up?

Thank you
Doc, KD8BGQ

7 pm eastern/6 pm central on 144.150 USB. Didn't have any checkins last
week, probably since everyone was tied up with various Labor Day
festivities. Hopefully that won't be the case tonight!

-Joe, KD8ATU
Grand Haven, MI - EN62wx

----- Original Message -----

From: Hank Greeb

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, September 08, 2006 16:13

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] Re: "DXing" on WiFi/802.11b

The theory and practice of building a parabolic antenna is documentd
quite well.

Get hold of a recent or perhaps not so recent Antenna Book or VHF
manual from the ARRL. My last one of each is dated in the 80's, so
I can't speak for the newer one, but one or both of those books
described how to make a parabolic reflector, the tolerances and grid
spacing (if you use a mesh type reflector) which were recommended
for various wavelengths, and recommended construction techniques.
Since memory fades, this may have been for 432 MHz moonbounce work,
with large ground based parabolas, but the theory presented should
be valid.

I'm sure a search of back issues of QST, the index for which is
available on the web to ARRL members, would turn up articles on the
subject also. RSGB produces several antenna publications, though my
library contained only one of them concerning inexpensive HF wire
antennae. Nothing popped out whe I did a cusory glance at their on
line store.

Andy Meng, N8MX, one of the fellows who helped set the WiFi record,
says they found Direct TV and/or Dish parabolas in their search.
Perhaps a note to him might give you hints of how to find them.

73 de n8xx Hg

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, <k8mhz@...> wrote:
>
> Hank,
>
> Sorry to hear you thought my post was intended as a flame, it was
not although some self defense may have been evident.
>
> My initial response was based upon my research on the Internet as
you suggested. The Cantenna was a result of that research. I built
it and use it regularly. My comments about the parabolic were also
based upon the type of research you suggested.
>
> I have considered using discarded Direct TV dishes to build a
parbolic but have not come across one yet. I don't have the ability
to construct a true parabolic reflector as I have no way of forming
the parabola. If you do please share it with us.
>
> Instead of 'giving up' how about building a parabolic so we can
compare it to a short backfire or a waveguide and have a reasonable
assessment of cost and effort vs. gain? The short backfire looks
like it can be constructed without having to deal with complex
curves, the same as the waveguide but requires raw materials instead
of discards. The predicted gain however is considerable at 14 dB.
>
> I have already built a Cantenna. Al KV8X and I are both
interested in the short backfire design and you should see a
prototype soon, why not join us and produce a parabolic to help
round out the effort?
>
> 73
>
> Mark K8MHZ

---

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/438 - Release Date: 9/5/2006

----- Original Message -----

From: ravennaelectronics

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Friday, September 08, 2006 16:35

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] HIGH SWR WITH G5RV

Good day everyone.
I put up a brand new G5RV a few weeks ago. It is horizontal and
about 45 - 50feet in the air. I hooked up brand new coax and
connectors and I get a SWR that is to high for the antenna tuner to
work with. I have tried RG8 and RG213 as well as changed up the
length of coax. I also made a air balun. Still a high SWR. I have
redid the connectors twice and no luck. MFJ said it is my coax or
my connectors and it could not possible be a defective antenna.
Here are the readings I am getting on my MFJ269 when it is connected
to the coax that is connected to the G5RV
3.85-4.00 average of 9.5:1
7.225-7.3 average of 1.5:1 This is the only decent reading!
14.225-14.350 average of 4:1
18.11-18.168 average of 7:1
21.3-21.450 average of 7:1
24.930-990 average of 5:1
28.3-29.7 average of 7:1

Anybody have suggestions? Better yet, anyone available to come out
and take a look to see if I am messing something up?

Thank you
Doc, KD8BGQ

---

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/438 - Release Date: 9/5/2006

----- Original Message -----

From: Hank Greeb

To: West Michigan Hams

Sent: Thursday, September 07, 2006 9:17 PM

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] Feidaxin FD-150A/450A

Has anyone heard anything about the Feidaxin FD-150A/450A Programmable
Handheld Radio? These are currently being sold on e-Bay from store in
Hong Kong, Australia, and perhaps elsewhere. They're made in China,
sell for about $60 including shipping from e-Bay stores. Since I
haven't seen them in any QST write-up, I wonder if they are type
accepted for US Ham use. There's one review by a ham in France on e-ham.

Perhaps China is making a run to be a low cost supplier of VHF and UHF
radios?

The link for the description on e-Bay is http://tinyurl.com/hbtcm

73 de n8xx Hg

----- Original Message -----

From: k8mhz@...

To: WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Thursday, September 07, 2006 10:30 PM

Subject: Re: [WestMichiganHams] Feidaxin FD-150A/450A

Hank,

 

These radios show up on eBay all the time.  The 2 meter rigs can transmit outside the amateur band on police frequencies.  The 440 rigs can transmit on FRS/GMRS bands, both without mods.

 

I seriously doubt they are FCC approved or approved by any US agency.  I would also question the quality of the signal and it's ability to stay in it's bandwidth.

 

60 bucks is cheap though....

 

----- Original Message -----

From: Hank Greeb

To: West Michigan Hams

Sent: Friday, September 08, 2006 02:17

Subject: [WestMichiganHams] Feidaxin FD-150A/450A

Has anyone heard anything about the Feidaxin FD-150A/450A Programmable
Handheld Radio? These are currently being sold on e-Bay from store in
Hong Kong, Australia, and perhaps elsewhere. They're made in China,
sell for about $60 including shipping from e-Bay stores. Since I
haven't seen them in any QST write-up, I wonder if they are type
accepted for US Ham use. There's one review by a ham in France on e-ham.

Perhaps China is making a run to be a low cost supplier of VHF and UHF
radios?

The link for the description on e-Bay is http://tinyurl.com/hbtcm

73 de n8xx Hg

---

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/438 - Release Date: 9/5/2006

Hi, Doc:

Sounds like you have a "very interesting problem.  I've had similar
problems with other things which "should work but don't."  Often
it's something which is obvious to a disinterested observer, and I
beat my head against the wall for not figuring out the situation on
my own.

The MFJ folks are probably correct, because the antenna is just
wire, so unless there's a short or open connection in it,
it "should" work.  Telling you that certainly doesn't resolve your
problem though.

You might wish to look at the original G5RV article by the inventor
of this antenna.  It is described at

http://www.astrosurf.com/lombry/qsl-g5rv-2.htm

This article gives many suggestions and tips on how it should be
constructed, watchouts, etc.

I'd check for continuity between the feed ends of the coax and the
radiator part of the antenna, and that there's not a short someplace
in the setup.

At W8B, our setup in Brown County Ohio during the Ohio QSO party, we
used a G5RV as an inverted V, with the apex about 40' above ground,
the ends about 10' above ground.  The internal matchbox in an Icom
706 was capable of tuning on 40 and 20 metres.  We had a very short
piece of coax between the ladder line and the rig, which may have
been the difficulty with matching on 75 metres.  We didn't have
extra coax with which to experiment, so we made a totally different
antenna.

Perhaps someone on the reflector has an antenna bridge you could
borrow to "look" at your antenna to determine the resistance and
reactance on the various bands.  This is the definitive way to
understand an antenna.  With it you could determine the resonance
point near the bands of interest.

To get on the air on your favorite band you might try lengthening
the antenna by putting a couple coils in series with the twin lead.
I had a wierd impedance on the CW setup at W8B, and I made two coils
out of some extra 18 gage bell wire which I found on site.  I cut
the wire into two pieces of identical length and wound the pieces
around a couple of plastic soda pop bottles.  The length I
used "magically" extended the feeders to a point where I could match
on 80 meters, though I was prepared to experiment with taps on the
coil.

BTW, I've used dipoles fed with twin lead for some years, and find
that they work very well.  Did you consider using a balanced
transmatch, putting it between the coax and the twin lead, or
extending the twin lead into your shack? G5RV says this is often the
preferred method of feeding the antenna when it's physically
possible.

If no one lives closer to you than Rockford, I'll volunteer to come
out to your place (about 34 miles from me) next week.  I'm far from
an antenna expert, but might be able to spot something that you
missed.  The earlier would be next Monday (after the Grand Rapids
Hamfest), or possibly Wednesday, certainly Thursday.

Come to the Hamfest on Saturday and we can talk about it in person.
I'll be around the ARRL booth whenever I'm not assigned to other
duties.

73 de n8xx Hg

--- In WestMichiganHams@yahoogroups.com, "ravennaelectronics"
<ravennaelectronics@...> wrote:
>
> Good day everyone.
> I put up a brand new G5RV a few weeks ago. It is horizontal and
> about 45 - 50feet in the air.  I hooked up brand new coax and
> connectors and I get a SWR that is to high for the antenna tuner
> to work with.  I have tried RG8 and RG213 as well as changed up
> the length of coax.  I also made a air balun.  Still a high SWR.
> I have redid the connectors twice and no luck.  MFJ said it is my
> coax or my connectors and it could not possible be a defective
> antenna.
> Here are the readings I am getting on my MFJ269 when it is
> connected to the coax that is connected to the G5RV
> 3.85-4.00 average of 9.5:1
> 7.225-7.3 average of 1.5:1 This is the only decent reading!
> 14.225-14.350 average of 4:1
> 18.11-18.168 average of 7:1
> 21.3-21.450 average of 7:1
> 24.930-990 average of 5:1
> 28.3-29.7 average of 7:1
>
> Anybody have suggestions?  Better yet, anyone available to come
> out and take a look to see if I am messing something up?
>
> Thank you
> Doc, KD8BGQ

GRAHamfest 2ØØ6 Saturday September 9th!!!!

The GRARA sponsored annual GRAHamfest will be held this year on
Saturday, September 9, 2006, once again at the Kent County Fairgrounds
in Lowell.  Doors open to the general public at 8 AM. Swap table setup
starts at 6 AM on Saturday and from 6-10 PM on Friday evening
beforehand.

Volunteers are needed anytime on Friday after 3 P.M. to help with
facility setup. Also there will be a potluck dinner at 7 PM on Friday
evening, bring a dish to pass.

For more details visit the GRAHamfest 2ØØ6 web page at
http://www.w8dc.org/swap.htm