The European Radio Amateurs' Organisation has an interesting video about a "Go Box" project:
EURAO
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Radio Amateur breaks the news of the Falklands Invasion
Without Amateur Radio the UK Government would not have been aware at an early stage of the Falklands Invasion.
See the BBC report on this event:
BBC News
See the BBC report on this event:
BBC News
Thursday, December 27, 2012
The Raspberry Pi and Amateur Radio
ICQ Amateur Radio Podcast talks about using the Raspberry Pi for Amateur radio projects.
This podcast is made in the UK and is interesting and well produced, listen to the pre-Christmas edition at:
ICQ Podcast
This podcast is made in the UK and is interesting and well produced, listen to the pre-Christmas edition at:
ICQ Podcast
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Monday, December 24, 2012
Saturday, December 22, 2012
A new callsign database
While this may seem old news to some amateurs, I have only just been made aware of an Amateur Radio callsign database which has been established this year after acquiring callsign information (without permission) from www.qrz.com.
Because the information for "www.qrzcq.com" was obtained without permission, much of the data is displayed inaccurately (as was my own information). Why not check to see if your callsign is available on the database; should you wish you can edit the data or request that it be removed.
I asked for my information to be removed and received a prompt response from the owners who complied with my request.
(John GD0NFN)
Because the information for "www.qrzcq.com" was obtained without permission, much of the data is displayed inaccurately (as was my own information). Why not check to see if your callsign is available on the database; should you wish you can edit the data or request that it be removed.
I asked for my information to be removed and received a prompt response from the owners who complied with my request.
(John GD0NFN)
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Become a doomsday radio station!
The end of the World is forecast to be Friday 21-12-12. There will be lots of stations on the air for their last QSO; why not join in and register your station on:
The end of the World
and call CQ Doomsday!
The end of the World
and call CQ Doomsday!
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
AGM - Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society
The Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society held it’s 64 AGM on Tuesday 11th December 2012.
The following was noted from the meeting:
About 20 people attended the meeting.
The Secretary read the minutes of the last AGM.
The Chairman reported as follows:
A repeater update was made available from the repeater keeper and this regretted no progress with GB3GD and GB3IM antenna situation (Snaefell), see www.manxrepeaters.com.
A brief comment was made about the “State of the Society”.
It was noted that the mobile shack is almost completed and is now located with Mike Webb, it is expected to be used during 2013 at some events.
Two new radio’s (FT897’s) have been purchased for the Society use, after the sale of older equipment the Society funded £15 towards the purchase cost.
Note was made of some events which had taken place during 2012.
The Foxdale shack has been re-organised and improved.
The Society held one training course during the year and two candidates achieved Foundation status.
The Society will celebrate it’s 65 year by holding a special event station, previous Society members will be welcomed to this event.
The Chairman's award was presented to the Secretary - Andy Morgan.
Mike Webb (co-opted on to the committee) stated that he had made his contact details available so that he could raise concerns about the Society with the committee, he stated that he had received no emails or phone calls and that he was aware of a small group of individuals who were unhappy about certain matters.
Treasures report stated that there were 32 registered member during the year and the Society was in a strong financial state with some £4,286 available.
The Secretary reported that as there were no nominations received for Committee membership and therefore the current committee should continue to be in office, this was proposed by Rose Caine and seconded by Mike Webb.
It was proposed by Andy Morgan and seconded by Steve Kelly that Mike Webb previously co-opted on to the Committee should now become a full committee member this was accepted by the meeting.
AOB proposed changes to the Society constitution as follows:
The statement that the repeater keeper will be appointed was amended.
The statement about members subscriptions was amended.
The statement about responsibilities of the QSL manager was amended.
Written details of these changes are to be made available.
Please be aware that the above details represent an attenders view of the meeting and are not to be considered as an official record; formal minutes of the meeting are expected to become available to members of the Society.
The following was noted from the meeting:
About 20 people attended the meeting.
The Secretary read the minutes of the last AGM.
The Chairman reported as follows:
A repeater update was made available from the repeater keeper and this regretted no progress with GB3GD and GB3IM antenna situation (Snaefell), see www.manxrepeaters.com.
A brief comment was made about the “State of the Society”.
It was noted that the mobile shack is almost completed and is now located with Mike Webb, it is expected to be used during 2013 at some events.
Two new radio’s (FT897’s) have been purchased for the Society use, after the sale of older equipment the Society funded £15 towards the purchase cost.
Note was made of some events which had taken place during 2012.
The Foxdale shack has been re-organised and improved.
The Society held one training course during the year and two candidates achieved Foundation status.
The Society will celebrate it’s 65 year by holding a special event station, previous Society members will be welcomed to this event.
The Chairman's award was presented to the Secretary - Andy Morgan.
Mike Webb (co-opted on to the committee) stated that he had made his contact details available so that he could raise concerns about the Society with the committee, he stated that he had received no emails or phone calls and that he was aware of a small group of individuals who were unhappy about certain matters.
Treasures report stated that there were 32 registered member during the year and the Society was in a strong financial state with some £4,286 available.
The Secretary reported that as there were no nominations received for Committee membership and therefore the current committee should continue to be in office, this was proposed by Rose Caine and seconded by Mike Webb.
It was proposed by Andy Morgan and seconded by Steve Kelly that Mike Webb previously co-opted on to the Committee should now become a full committee member this was accepted by the meeting.
AOB proposed changes to the Society constitution as follows:
The statement that the repeater keeper will be appointed was amended.
The statement about members subscriptions was amended.
The statement about responsibilities of the QSL manager was amended.
Written details of these changes are to be made available.
Please be aware that the above details represent an attenders view of the meeting and are not to be considered as an official record; formal minutes of the meeting are expected to become available to members of the Society.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Advanced examination problems in Northern Ireland
It seems that two candidates who had studied together in Northern Ireland had their results disallowed because they both got wrong answers to the same questions.
Examinations
(Southgate ARS News)
Examinations
(Southgate ARS News)
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Gx100RSGB Special event callsign
The RSGB will be celebrating 100 years of service to the Amateur Radio Community in 2013 and have issued in conjunction with OFCOM a special callsign to be used around the regions (Gx100RSGB - the x will change dependant on the region using the callsign).
Monday, November 26, 2012
How many UK Amateurs are there?
Not as many as the Ofcom statistics indicate - interesting article from Southgate ARS News.
Hams Data
Hams Data
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Who is looking at the Blog?
Over the last month, more people from the USA have looked at the blog than any other country.
Amateur Radio on the Isle of Man sends all our viewers best wishes!
Amateur Radio on the Isle of Man sends all our viewers best wishes!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Air Cadet Organisations can now coduct there own Examinations
Air Cadet Organisation can now administer their own Amateur Radio Foundation examinations.
10 Cadets passed their Foundation at RAF Halton earlier this year.
(RSGB News)
10 Cadets passed their Foundation at RAF Halton earlier this year.
(RSGB News)
Friday, November 09, 2012
Norway gets new allocations
The
Norwegian P & T Authority has made changes to the Norwegian amateur
licence regulations. The major changes are that permission has been
given to use 472 to 479kHz with a maximum 1W EIRP. The former permission
to use 493 to 510kHz has been stopped. Permission has been given to use
70.1875 to 70.2625MHz, except in the three Norwegian southwest counties
of Hordaland, Rogaland and West-Agder, where there still is commercial
traffic within this frequency segment. Other segments allowing 100W
transmitter power and maximum 16kHz bandwidth include 70.0625 to
70.0875MHz, 70.3625 to 70.3875MHz and 70.4125 to 70.4625MHz.
(RSGB NEWS)
(RSGB NEWS)
Monday, November 05, 2012
GT8IOM scores 56th (out of 971 EU Stations)
An Island station recently scored well in the ARRL 2012 International DX Phone contest.
Well done to those Amateurs for once again putting the Island on the International map.
Saturday, November 03, 2012
Radio Amateurs establish critical communications during the Sandy Hurricane.
Radio Amateurs provide vital communication links during the American Sandy disaster.
Emergency Communications
Emergency Communications
Friday, November 02, 2012
GB3GC, a new six metre repeater
A
new six metre repeater, GB3GC, is up and running in south east
Cornwall, on the same site as the 2m repeater GB3PL. This 6m repeater
has its input on 51.230MHz FM and 500kHz spacing for its output at
50.730MHz. The CTCSS tone is 77Hz. Any enquiries should be directed to
Roger, 2E0RPH, whose details are correct on QRZ.com.
(RSGB News)
(RSGB News)
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
GT8IOM did the CQWW contest.
Two members of the GD8IOM group recently
entered the CQWW contest (SSB: October 27-28, 2012) this is the largest contest in the
World, usually getting around 30,000 contesters.
The group achieved around 1,760 QSO’s
with about 80 multipliers; this should produce a significant score.
Such an achievement certainly gets the
IOM well known around the World.
http://www.cqww.com/
Monday, October 22, 2012
UK to phase-out IRCs
Phil, G3SWH, has received the following info from the
Royal Mail:
"Due to declining international mail volumes and electronic
substitution, customer demand for International Reply Coupons has been
falling dramatically over the last few years.
"Overall sales of International Reply Coupons have been very low indeed - on average just 4 per annum bought from each Post Office branch. Therefore, it was no longer commercially viable to maintain the sale of coupons and Royal Mail has taken the decision to withdraw them from sale.
"International Reply Coupons have not been withdrawn globally from sale. Under UPU regulations Royal Mail through Post Office Counters is obliged to redeem International Reply Coupons presented having been purchased overseas, but we are not obliged to sell them. However, I can confirm that customers have up to December 2013 to redeem IRCs."
Phil states, "This seems to be much more in line with the Royal Mail's
responsibilities under their UPU membership. Looks like they're safe until 31st December 2013. It may be that the UPU will change their rules after that date (which would be no bad thing IMHO)."
SARS News
"Overall sales of International Reply Coupons have been very low indeed - on average just 4 per annum bought from each Post Office branch. Therefore, it was no longer commercially viable to maintain the sale of coupons and Royal Mail has taken the decision to withdraw them from sale.
"International Reply Coupons have not been withdrawn globally from sale. Under UPU regulations Royal Mail through Post Office Counters is obliged to redeem International Reply Coupons presented having been purchased overseas, but we are not obliged to sell them. However, I can confirm that customers have up to December 2013 to redeem IRCs."
Phil states, "This seems to be much more in line with the Royal Mail's
responsibilities under their UPU membership. Looks like they're safe until 31st December 2013. It may be that the UPU will change their rules after that date (which would be no bad thing IMHO)."
SARS News
Friday, October 19, 2012
Ofcom to legalise AM and SSB CB apparatus
Ofcom
has announced that it intends to legalise AM and SSB CB apparatus,
subject to the MOD agreeing to the use of spectrum allocated to it.
According to the statement on the Ofcom website, the relevant ECC
Decision about harmonising CB across Europe should probably be
implemented in the UK by the end of 2013. The statement indicates that
there are several legislative and other steps that must first be carried
out. It also points out that, until these changes are implemented, it
will remain an offence to install or use AM, SSB or any other CB
apparatus other than in accordance with the current exemption
regulations and Interface Requirement. The full Ofcom statement is at http://tinyurl.com/Ofcom-SSB-CB.
(RSGB NEWS)
(RSGB NEWS)
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Monday, October 15, 2012
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Nothern Lights
How solar storms create the Northern Lights
In this BBC News video Professor Dag Lorentzen explains how solar storms affected the Earth's magnetic field to create the Aurora BorealisWatch the video at
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-19898445
Consultation on the use of 143 to 156 MHz
The RSGB, jointly with the BATC and AMSAT-UK, has submitted a response
to Ofcom’s consultation on the future use of VHF spectrum formally used by the
Home Office, 143 to 156MHz. The unique nature of this spectrum, and that it
surrounds our existing 2m band, suggested a creative response would be needed
in order to be competitive with the likely responses from Business Radio (PMR).
Details are on the Committees section of the RSGB website under Spectrum Forum.
(RSGB News)
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society asks for feedback!
It seems that the Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society is once again unhappy about older Amateurs on the Island “Usually (in my experience) the worst detractors are older (in age)” says the Society Secretary. This comment is supported by the Society Chairman “My sentiments exactly! If the moaners don’t like the way that IOMARS is being run then either speak up and help sort out the problems, or vote with your feet!”
People have indeed voted with their feet as speaking up has failed to resolve some of the issues and the Society has seen a rapid decline in membership over the last 2 years (70+ down to 30+).
The current committee has been subject to significant criticism and this continues to be the case, but there may be light at the end of the tunnel as a co-opted committee member GD6ICR (callsign at manx.net) is offering to represent, disaffected members and has asked that this be known to amateurs who don’t read the Societies ‘official’ blog.
It is very sad to see such an old Society going down the drain; Amateur Radio is a fine hobby and is currently being affected on the Island by personality conflicts; why not contact GD6ICR and express your thoughts and moans and allow the Society the chance to recover from its failures.
People have indeed voted with their feet as speaking up has failed to resolve some of the issues and the Society has seen a rapid decline in membership over the last 2 years (70+ down to 30+).
The current committee has been subject to significant criticism and this continues to be the case, but there may be light at the end of the tunnel as a co-opted committee member GD6ICR (callsign at manx.net) is offering to represent, disaffected members and has asked that this be known to amateurs who don’t read the Societies ‘official’ blog.
It is very sad to see such an old Society going down the drain; Amateur Radio is a fine hobby and is currently being affected on the Island by personality conflicts; why not contact GD6ICR and express your thoughts and moans and allow the Society the chance to recover from its failures.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
70MHz contest
On Sunday 23rd September, the Practical Wireless 70MHz Contest runs from 1200 to 1600UTC. It has Low Power, that’s 10 watts in this contest, and Open sections. Scoring is 1 point per contact, multiplied by the number of Locator squares worked. Using all modes on the 4m band, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator. As this is the 80th anniversary year of Practical Wireless, expect a good turnout.
(RSGB News)
(RSGB News)
Sands Contest Group to activate Isle of Man
Members of Sands Contest Group (Morecambe Bay area ) will be activating the Isle of Man, IOTA reference EU-116, from 23 to 29 September.
The group will use the club call MT0SCG and will be active on most HF bands using SSB and datamodes.
The base location is next to a small beach, close to the town of Ramsey at the NE end of the island, locator IO74UH. The group is likely to activate at least one SOTA summit during the week, probably on 2m FM.
(RSGB News)
The group will use the club call MT0SCG and will be active on most HF bands using SSB and datamodes.
The base location is next to a small beach, close to the town of Ramsey at the NE end of the island, locator IO74UH. The group is likely to activate at least one SOTA summit during the week, probably on 2m FM.
(RSGB News)
Tuesday, September 04, 2012
The Soap-Box maintains regular monthly activity:
Pages viewed on the blog over the last month and the viewers location:
Isle of Man 448
United States 236
United Kingdom 76
Russia 43
Germany 39
France 21
Ukraine 19
Australia 12
Canada 7
China 7
The most viewed pages related to GT8IOM and lighthouses activity.
Isle of Man 448
United States 236
United Kingdom 76
Russia 43
Germany 39
France 21
Ukraine 19
Australia 12
Canada 7
China 7
The most viewed pages related to GT8IOM and lighthouses activity.
Monday, September 03, 2012
Philippines ARS get 7201 - 7300 MHZ
The Philippines Amateur Radio Association (PARA) has announced new frequencies for Philippine radio hams
They report that after countless meetings of the Amateur Radio Consultative Panel (ARCP) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the following changes came into effect on August 30, 2012:
- Recognition of only one national amateur radio organization: Philippine Amateur Radio Association.
- Person who passes the exam but does not own a radio will be given an operator certificate with his own call sign.
- New license class: Foundation License class (must pass element II, VHF only privilege). [Class D]
- Vanity call sign.
- NTC to maintain a database of licensees and made available to the public domain.
- Additional frequencies: 135.7 kHz to 137.8 kHz; 472 kHz to 479 kHz; 7.201 MHz to 7.300 MHz
- Class B and C allowed to operate mobile HF.
- Minimum age for Class D is 9 years old.
- Convergence with internet now explicitly allowed (echo link, voip, etc).
- Question pool committee, oversight committee officially organized.
They report that after countless meetings of the Amateur Radio Consultative Panel (ARCP) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the following changes came into effect on August 30, 2012:
- Recognition of only one national amateur radio organization: Philippine Amateur Radio Association.
- Person who passes the exam but does not own a radio will be given an operator certificate with his own call sign.
- New license class: Foundation License class (must pass element II, VHF only privilege). [Class D]
- Vanity call sign.
- NTC to maintain a database of licensees and made available to the public domain.
- Additional frequencies: 135.7 kHz to 137.8 kHz; 472 kHz to 479 kHz; 7.201 MHz to 7.300 MHz
- Class B and C allowed to operate mobile HF.
- Minimum age for Class D is 9 years old.
- Convergence with internet now explicitly allowed (echo link, voip, etc).
- Question pool committee, oversight committee officially organized.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
GT8IOM enjoy working the World
GT8IOM enjoyed a good week end of radio operating for lighthouses on the air;
Lighthouses
Over 700 contacts were made by the motley crew in poor working conditions!
Friday, August 17, 2012
Thursday, August 16, 2012
15th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE/LIGHTSHIP WEEKEND
GT8IOM will be active during this event over the forthcoming week end.
Why not give the station a call so that they can fill up the logbook!!
Entrants list 2012
Why not give the station a call so that they can fill up the logbook!!
Entrants list 2012
Friday, August 10, 2012
Friday, August 03, 2012
New version of Ham Radio Delux
The latest version of HRD is about to become available, a previously free programme will now cost $79.95.
HRD
HRD
Thursday, August 02, 2012
Digital speach for Amateur Radio
Click on the link to hear a very interesting YouTube lecture on a Codec for digital speech on vhf or hf radio.
Digital speech
Digital speech
Friday, July 27, 2012
Contests (RSGB)
The 24 hour IOTA Contest finishes as 1200UTC today, 29 July. The exchange is signal report, serial number and IOTA reference, which is EU-005 for mainland Great Britain and EU-115 for mainland Northern Ireland.
The times given for the 80m Sprint contests in the August RadCom were incorrect. They have all been shortened to 1900-2000UTC. The 2m Backpackers on 4 August should have read 1300-1700UTC. The exchange for this 4th contest in the series is signal report, serial number, locator and postcode.
Also on the 4th, the 144MHz low power contest takes place from 1400 to 2000UTC. Using all modes the exchange is also signal report, serial number, locator and postcode.
The following day, on the 5th, the 432MHz low power contest takes place from 0800 to 1200UTC, Using all modes, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and postcode.
RoPoCo 2 is the first of this month’s HF contests. It takes place for 90 minutes, 0700 to 0830UTC on Sunday 5th, using CW only on the 80m band. In your first QSO you send a signal report and your own full postcode. For subsequent QSOs you send the postcode of the station you worked in your previous QSO. This contest relies on accuracy of the exchange, so if you receive a postcode that you know is wrong, eg impossible, or a corrupted version of your own, you should pass it on as you receive it, not corrected or amended.
The UK Microwave Group’s Microwave Field Day also takes place on 5 August from 0900 to 1700UTC. Using the 1.3 and 10GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
The times given for the 80m Sprint contests in the August RadCom were incorrect. They have all been shortened to 1900-2000UTC. The 2m Backpackers on 4 August should have read 1300-1700UTC. The exchange for this 4th contest in the series is signal report, serial number, locator and postcode.
Also on the 4th, the 144MHz low power contest takes place from 1400 to 2000UTC. Using all modes the exchange is also signal report, serial number, locator and postcode.
The following day, on the 5th, the 432MHz low power contest takes place from 0800 to 1200UTC, Using all modes, the exchange is signal report, serial number, locator and postcode.
RoPoCo 2 is the first of this month’s HF contests. It takes place for 90 minutes, 0700 to 0830UTC on Sunday 5th, using CW only on the 80m band. In your first QSO you send a signal report and your own full postcode. For subsequent QSOs you send the postcode of the station you worked in your previous QSO. This contest relies on accuracy of the exchange, so if you receive a postcode that you know is wrong, eg impossible, or a corrupted version of your own, you should pass it on as you receive it, not corrected or amended.
The UK Microwave Group’s Microwave Field Day also takes place on 5 August from 0900 to 1700UTC. Using the 1.3 and 10GHz bands, the exchange is signal report, serial number and locator.
Special Olympic Prefix update (RSGB)
A number of UK amateurs have asked for clarification on the applicability of the special letter O prefix. Despite being very busy with the Olympics, Ofcom has responded to the Society’s request on this matter. It has been explained that the special prefix is a temporary one that is only available to individuals and clubs where the licensee’s callsign has not been changed by a Notice of Variation, NoV. Thus, it is not applicable to Short Contest Calls or Special Event Station callsigns, as these require the use of a callsign different from that of the NoV holder. For licence variations such as the 5MHz and 500kHz NoVs it would be allowable to use the special O prefix, as the licensee’s callsign has not been varied by the NoV. Amateurs should be aware that this clarification does not affect the other terms and conditions within the licence, or a related NoV. Note too that the use of the special prefix started at 00.00BST on 21 July and finishes at 23.59BST on 9 September. Radio amateurs in the UK may still apply for an NoV to use the letter O in place of their regional identifier. Details are on the RSGB website, www.rsgb.org/olympics. Anyone logging stations using this special prefix can apply for the Olympic QSO Party Award. Again, full details are on the RSGB website at www.rsgb.org/olympics/qsoparty
Friday, July 20, 2012
Changes to IOTA Rules
The IOTA Contest takes place on 28 and 29 July and there are some important rules changes for participants. The scoring for Island-World and World-World QSOs has changed, to increase the importance of working island stations. The World Multi-op category has been discontinued. A QSY rule for Island Multi-Op stations has been introduced, because some entrants have been operating with more than one multiplier station. Finally, low power expedition entrants are now allowed to use any antenna. The 2012 rules are on the Contest Committee section of the RSGB website. All operators are asked to please be careful to use contest preferred band segments, as penalties will be applied to stations who do not observe these limits.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Saturday, June 30, 2012
70cm band at risk in Australia
The Australian Communications and Media Authority's Spectrum
Conference this year saw the ongoing work associated on the
review of 400 MHz spectrum. This is a band of frequencies
that also includes the 70 centimeter ham radio allocation.
Currently, the Australian amateur service has a secondary
status between 420 and 450 MHz. In the last report from the
Australian Communications and Media Authority on its review
issued April 2010, it advised that the allocation for the
amateur service between 430 and 450 MHz would not be
affected from any rearrangement. However, they cited, a
possible need for some temporary use by other services in
the segment 440 to 450 MHz during the transition period.
In the Amateur secondary segment 420 to 430 MHz, in some
geographic areas around Australia, amateur use of that
spectrum has already been withdrawn. At the conference, the
Australian Communications and Media Authority indicated that
they will be seeking to consult with the Wireless Institute
of Australia on withdrawal of the amateur service in this
segment across the rest of that nation.
Currently, the major use of this band segment by amateurs is
fixed links and the like. The Australian Communications and
Media Authority database lists around 126 assignments to
some 35 licensees. It is expected these can be relocated to
the 430 to 450 MHz portion of the band.
For the Amateur Radio Newsline, -- Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF,
Friday, June 15, 2012
Segment of 2m to be used for Olympics
Ofcom has announced that a small block of the amateur radio 144 MHz band is to be used for the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games.
The RSGB have issued the following announcement:
Following negotiations to minimise the impact on amateurs, Ofcom has now announced that it will temporarily authorise a small block of 12.5kHz channels, ranging from 144.0125MHz to 144.1375MHz, for the period
27 July to 28 August 2012 only.
The frequencies to be used specifically exclude 144.0500MHz (CW Calling) and 144.1000MHz (Perseids Meteor Scatter CW Calling).
Ofcom are aware of the various amateur contests scheduled for 4 and 7 August and will work with Game users to keep operations to a minimum on these dates.
Usage of this spectrum by Games users will be in the vicinity of London Olympic venues and will be limited to handheld equipment operating on a maximum of 5W output. Ofcom emphasises that use of Primary Amateur spectrum is only for the specified time period and does not constitute a change of usage.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
CEPT agreement not working in Europe
| German amateur arrested in Greece |
| Last week, news reports came out from Greece that Baldur Drobnica, DJ6SI, had been arrested on the Greek island of Kos. He was reportedly taken into custody for the crime of espionage, which was quickly reduced to operating amateur radio equipment. This came about even though both Greece and Germany are both signatories to the CEPT pan-European Amateur Radio licensing agreement. The Radio Amateur Association of Greece are concerned that public services and institutions, particularly the police, have not been informed properly about amateur radio. DJ6SI has since returned home and is awaiting a further trip to Greece for trial. (RSGB News) |
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Thursday, May 24, 2012
ARRL first digital edition of QST magazine
The ARRL have issued their first digital edition of the monthly QST magazine.
The edition is displayed using Adobe Air and looks very nice on the screen, easy searching is available and it is possible to see archived editions of the magazine.
A first for ARRL, I wonder if the RSGB will follow?
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
GT8IOM and the CQWW WPX Contest
GT8IOM will be operating in the CQWW WPX Contest on 26th May (00:00z) to 27th May (23:59z).
They will be using all bands and a number of Manx operators will be warming up their keys.
This CW element of the contest is supported throughout the World and is very busy every year.
The blog is advised that Mike GD4WBY will be in charge of brewing the tea!
They will be using all bands and a number of Manx operators will be warming up their keys.
This CW element of the contest is supported throughout the World and is very busy every year.
The blog is advised that Mike GD4WBY will be in charge of brewing the tea!
Friday, May 18, 2012
Follow the Olympic torch as it makes it trip around the countries.
Worked all Britain (WAB) are offering a special award for working G4WAB and G7WAB as the stations operate around the route of the Olympic torch.
Have a look at WAB
for more information.
Have a look at WAB
for more information.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Wednesday, May 09, 2012
RAYNET Isle of Man
At a meeting of the Isle of Man Amateur
Radio Society last night (08-05-12) it was agreed to cease RAYNET activity on
the Island until such time that significant interest was generated from Amateurs
on the Island and/or the first responder services.
The meeting had been very well advertised
and was open to the general public, a small number of individuals attended and
it was very clear from the discussion that it was not possible to established a
viable RAYNET on the Island able to provide a well trained and organized service
which could ensure an adequate response from individuals as required.
Interesting discussion also took place
about the possibility of litigation against the organization or it’s
individuals in the event of things going wrong when RAYNET participates in an
activity or emergency situation; clearly the risks for a voluntary organisation
getting it wrong are much greater in today’s society than was previously the
case.
The Society will continue to review this
matter and remains willing to reopen discussion if required.
Friday, May 04, 2012
Tynwald Day
The IOMARS will not be present at Tynwald day this year; for many years this has been a fine opportunity to demonstrate Amateur Radio to the public, but as a result of changes recently made by Government to the funding and arrangements for the day it is no longer possible for the Society to participate.
Tuesday, May 01, 2012
RAYNET Isle of Man
The IOMARS would like to review RAYNET on the island as it has been
some time since RAYNET was active. To gauge local interest the Society invite all interested parties (irrespective of membership of the
IOMARS) to a meeting at the Sea Cadet Hall Tromode Road,
Tromode on Tuesday 08th May 2012 at 19:30 hours.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Understanding AM and FM modulation
1964 US Army training films explaining AM and FM modulation.
Whilst these films are old they are excellent presentations well worth viewing.
Monday, April 23, 2012
OFCOM restrict Amateur frequencies during Olympic games
Amateur Radio - Spectrum Use During the Period of the 2012 Games (28th June 2012 to 23rd September 2012)
OFCOM Information
OFCOM Information
Sunday, April 22, 2012
New Laxey Node frequency on 70.350 MHz
The Laxey node (GD0NFN) is now operating on
70.350 MHz using 110.9 CTCSS for access.
The node is connected to the AllStar
network, the node number being 27236.
This node is also connected to the IOM Hub
and therefore access to the Island 70cm repeater network is possible through
this node.
All reports on this node please to
gd0nfn@manxbroadband.com.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Improvements to Carnane Repeater!!
Regarding Carnane, we discovered that the feeders leaving the building had come adrift from their proper places and one had been rubbing against the wall. The result was that a 4-inch section of the outer sheath and the inner braid and foil screen had worn away on one side of the cable. This probably began a couple of months ago and has been a slowly deteriorating situation ever since.
I say this because we dissected the damaged section and found no significant water ingress. Had this been a longer-term issue, there would definitely have been a lot more corrosion.
Myself (Dave Osborn the repeater keeper), Ed, Matty and Andy went to the site last Saturday and cut out the offending section of feeder and re-connected it. It is true to say that the improvement has been dramatic!
So, yes, work was done and we are all glad to see the difference it has made.
There are pictures on the GB3IM page at http://ManxRepeaters.com
Many thanks to all the workers.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Changes to this Blog!
You will note that this Blog no longer represents the Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society as it has done for many years; the Society Committee feels that they can no longer post on a Blog edited by a none committee member.
I will continue to post information about Amateur Radio activity on the Island as long as interest in this Blog continues and as before all Amateurs are welcome to post information about their activities, items for sale etc.
John GD0NFN
gd0nfn@manxbroadband.com
Monday, April 16, 2012
MD0DXW resignation from the IOMARS Committee
Having had numerous telephone calls from radio amateur’s on the island and two off asking why I had resigned from the committee of the Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society (IOMARS).
I thought I would clear matters up I have only resigned from the committee and not from the club I must make that clear.
My reason for resigning from the committee.
Well, it’s a bit varied and, I don’t wish to overstate specifics, suffice to say that I was not complacent in the attempt to expunge a well-known and long term radio amateur on the island and fervently disagreed with the chairman’s actions as I considered them to be ultra vires and in the end my views were upheld.
Also, having been a reasonably well connected civil servant (now retired) and having time to knock on the “highest of highest” doors in Government I therefore, offered my assistance on several occasions to the club only to have it ignored and the inference that I was interfering with other people’s empires.
The last email I had from the committee when I asked a question regarding RAYNET- I was informed that because of “leaks in the past” I was not going to be emailed answers to my questions.
Over the Christmas period I was not too well and did not attend the club or committee meetings – apart from one committee member who contacted me to see if I was OK the rest were quiescent.
I can now see why older members are no longer in the IOMARS – I have been involved in amateur radio since I was ten or so years old and, had great mentor in GD3FOC.
The club needs to keep the older members… not try to expunge them or ignore them – this is a marvellous hobby we have and most of us have been in it since children share the hobby.
Dr. W Morgan Griffiths
MD0DXW
W Morgan Griffiths LL.B P.hd
MIAP. MA Law
Member of the Health and Safety Lawyers Assotiation
Member of the Local Government Lawyers Assotiation
Trained Arbitration Service
MD0DXW RSARS 3568
I thought I would clear matters up I have only resigned from the committee and not from the club I must make that clear.
My reason for resigning from the committee.
Well, it’s a bit varied and, I don’t wish to overstate specifics, suffice to say that I was not complacent in the attempt to expunge a well-known and long term radio amateur on the island and fervently disagreed with the chairman’s actions as I considered them to be ultra vires and in the end my views were upheld.
Also, having been a reasonably well connected civil servant (now retired) and having time to knock on the “highest of highest” doors in Government I therefore, offered my assistance on several occasions to the club only to have it ignored and the inference that I was interfering with other people’s empires.
The last email I had from the committee when I asked a question regarding RAYNET- I was informed that because of “leaks in the past” I was not going to be emailed answers to my questions.
Over the Christmas period I was not too well and did not attend the club or committee meetings – apart from one committee member who contacted me to see if I was OK the rest were quiescent.
I can now see why older members are no longer in the IOMARS – I have been involved in amateur radio since I was ten or so years old and, had great mentor in GD3FOC.
The club needs to keep the older members… not try to expunge them or ignore them – this is a marvellous hobby we have and most of us have been in it since children share the hobby.
Dr. W Morgan Griffiths
MD0DXW
W Morgan Griffiths LL.B P.hd
MIAP. MA Law
Member of the Health and Safety Lawyers Assotiation
Member of the Local Government Lawyers Assotiation
Trained Arbitration Service
MD0DXW RSARS 3568
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Committee resignation
Dave Cain, 2D0YLX, the Chairman of the IOMARS wishes to inform all Manx based amateurs of a recent resignation from the IOMARS committee.
W Morgan Griffiths, MD0DXW has today 10th April 2012 asked the society secretary Andy Morgan, GD1MIP to 'accept my immediate resignation from the committee of the Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society (IOMARS)'.
The Chairman accepts Morgan's resignation and thanks him for the time he has devoted to the IOMARS since he was elected as an ordinary member to the committee in December 2009.
The chair invites any person interested in taking this vacant position on the committee to get in touch to discuss the matter.
Sent by the secretary of the Isle of Man amateur radio society, Andy Morgan GD1MIP.
W Morgan Griffiths, MD0DXW has today 10th April 2012 asked the society secretary Andy Morgan, GD1MIP to 'accept my immediate resignation from the committee of the Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society (IOMARS)'.
The Chairman accepts Morgan's resignation and thanks him for the time he has devoted to the IOMARS since he was elected as an ordinary member to the committee in December 2009.
The chair invites any person interested in taking this vacant position on the committee to get in touch to discuss the matter.
Sent by the secretary of the Isle of Man amateur radio society, Andy Morgan GD1MIP.
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Saturday, March 31, 2012
News from the RSGB
a) Individual insurance arrangements formerly through Bluefin:
Following the previous announcements about the withdrawal of Bluefin from the amateur radio insurance on the 31st March 2012 (for new policies and renewals), the Society is pleased to announce that two brokers are now offering insurance cover for radio amateurs. Whilst we do not and cannot recommend or endorse insurance companies, we can confirm the details as follows:
South West Broking Ltd
This company is offering insurance that has been negotiated specifically for amateur radio enthusiasts. They have gained the commitment of an insurer within Lloyd’s of London who offer cover for both radio equipment and third party liability insurance. Cover is available to both individual members and clubs.
Contact: Julian Dent of South West Broking Ltd. On 01454 806503 or by email at:Julian@southwestbroking.co.uk and they will be pleased to provide further information.
Quotedesk
A specialist insurance cover is also now available from a company Quotedesk. They are offering an all risk cover for your Amateur radio equipment along with Public Liability cover.
Contact: Phone +44 (0) 845 073 7137 or visit www.quotedesk.co.uk
b) Public liability Insurance for beacons and repeaters.
This policy expires today. Earlier this week we were told that the insurer (AXA) wanted to decommit from the business. They were embarrassed that, despite the renewal having been under discussion for weeks, they bounced this on us. They have now agreed to extend existing cover for a 14 day period and we have a proposal with them now which I hope will solve the problem.
c) NoVs for beacons
A large number of NoVs for beacons expire 31 March. We have agreed with Ofcom a process for extending existing NoVs until 31 December 2012, to allow an orderly issuing of new NoVs. Sadly the extension NoV wording has been delayed in Ofcom, and we now expect it next week. As soon as it is available we will go live with a portal on the RSGB website which will be similar to the NoVs for GQ and GO calls, which will allow beacon keepers to extend their NoVs through a webform.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
RSGB second announcement on Bluefin amateur radio insurance
On the 9 March we announced that the RSGB had learnt that Bluefin, also known as Amateur Radio Insurance Services, was leaving the amateur radio insurance market. Prior to this Bluefin had advised the Society of their intention to move the existing insurance business to a new underwriter and broker. Unfortunately it appears that they were not successful in this which has resulted in them writing to their customers informing them that they will not be taking on any new amateur radio insurance business or renewing existing policies when they expire.
The RSGB has no direct involvement with amateur radio insurance and this announcement was unexpected.
The RSGB is aware that other brokers are interested in offering amateur radio insurance and hopes that an announcement on a new insurance provider might be made by the 31 March when Bluefin ceases to take on new business. We will keep members informed of any developments.
Thursday, March 08, 2012
USA New Frequencies 60 Meter Band
As of March 5, US amateurs have new privileges on the 60 meter band. In addition to an increase in effective radiated power from 50 to 100 W, hams can now transmit CW and PSK31 on the following channel-center frequencies:
Channel 1: 5332.0 kHz
Channel 2: 5348.0 kHz
Channel 3: 5358.5 kHz
Channel 4: 5373.0 kHz
Channel 5: 5405.0 kHz
Amateurs can also transmit USB voice and PACTOR III on the following suppressed carrier frequencies (the frequencies typically shown on transceiver displays):
Channel 1: 5330.5 kHz
Channel 2: 5346.5 kHz
Channel 3: 5357.0 kHz
Channel 4: 5371.5 kHz
Channel 5: 5403.5 kHz
Channel 1: 5332.0 kHz
Channel 2: 5348.0 kHz
Channel 3: 5358.5 kHz
Channel 4: 5373.0 kHz
Channel 5: 5405.0 kHz
Amateurs can also transmit USB voice and PACTOR III on the following suppressed carrier frequencies (the frequencies typically shown on transceiver displays):
Channel 1: 5330.5 kHz
Channel 2: 5346.5 kHz
Channel 3: 5357.0 kHz
Channel 4: 5371.5 kHz
Channel 5: 5403.5 kHz
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Blogger activity is increasing.
Views of the IOMARS Blog are increasing over time - here are today's statistics (26-Feb-2012).
Click on the picture for a clear view!
Monday, January 23, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Band Plans
New Region 1 band plans are now available on the RSGB web site; please note that there have been a large number of changes and the new plans are effective from 1st January 2012.
Please check before you transmit!
Band Plans
Please check before you transmit!
Band Plans
Monday, January 16, 2012
An easy way to design and send QSL cards
The following website allows you to design your personal QSL cards, send them your log and the cards are automatically printed and sent to the RSGB for distribution.
Easy, not expensive and works well. RSGB advise that they support the service.
QSL CARDS
Easy, not expensive and works well. RSGB advise that they support the service.
QSL CARDS
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Friday, January 06, 2012
USA BPL system is closing down! (ARRL News)
IBEC -- one of the very few remaining operators of Access BPL systems -- has announced that it is closing down. In an undated announcement that appeared on the IBEC website, the company announced that it has "no other option than to close our doors and cease operations." IBEC claims that it cannot recover financially from the April 2011 tornadoes in Alabama that "ravished some of our major service areas." IBEC provided Internet service via broadband over power lines (BPL) to rural communities.
"While we regret the loss of jobs brought about by IBEC's BPL business failure, in the long run the rural areas that IBEC was trying to serve will be better served by broadband technologies that are superior to BPL and do not pollute the radio spectrum," said ARRL Chief Executive Officer David Sumner, K1ZZ. "While initially IBEC was cooperative in addressing the ARRL's concerns about interference to licensed radio services -- including Amateur Radio -- the ARRL was dismayed to find that the systems as actually deployed fell short of meeting even the inadequate requirements of the FCC's rules. We hope that this latest in the long string of Access BPL failures will persuade the few remaining fans of BPL to turn their attention elsewhere."
"While we regret the loss of jobs brought about by IBEC's BPL business failure, in the long run the rural areas that IBEC was trying to serve will be better served by broadband technologies that are superior to BPL and do not pollute the radio spectrum," said ARRL Chief Executive Officer David Sumner, K1ZZ. "While initially IBEC was cooperative in addressing the ARRL's concerns about interference to licensed radio services -- including Amateur Radio -- the ARRL was dismayed to find that the systems as actually deployed fell short of meeting even the inadequate requirements of the FCC's rules. We hope that this latest in the long string of Access BPL failures will persuade the few remaining fans of BPL to turn their attention elsewhere."
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