practica JUNE 1993 £1 - WorldRadioHistory.Com · practica JUNE 1993 £1.90 FREE INSIDE THIS BUMPER ISSUE 72 -Page Nevada Communications Catalogue MORSE SPECIAL ISSUE Constructional

practica JUNE 1993 £1.90

FREE INSIDE THIS BUMPER ISSUE72 -Page Nevada Communications Catalogue

MORSE SPECIAL ISSUEConstructionalMaking Morse Keys

FeaturePreparing For The Morse Test

ReviewedThe MTR1 Morse Tutor Kit WithReplayAndThe Amazing Kenwood TS -50S HFMobile Transceiver

WIN AVIBROPLEX

ORIGINALDELUXE BUG

KEY

sicSouth Midlands Communications Ltd, S.M. House, School Close, Chandlers Ford Ind. Est., Eastleigh, Hants S05 3BY

BACK BY POPULAR DEMANDSMC'S TWO YEAR WARRANTY

on all YAESU, ICOM andKENWOOD transceivers.

Also

0% INTEREST FINANCE ONYAESU EQUIPMENT.

Once again SMC aim to offer the best insales and service.

`BEST COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVER 1992'

YAE SU001011/.4.1.5.011 MIC10101 FRO -100

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FRG -100As awarded by the World Radio TV Handbook in their '1993 Radio Industry Awards'.

What do we need to say!

TRY ONE TODAY!N Prices and availability subject to change without prior notice. N Carriage charged on all items as indicated or by quotation.N Free Finance on selected items, subject to status. Details available on request. I Yaesu Distributor Warranty, 12 months parts and labour.I Up to £1000 instant credit, a quotation in writing is available on request, subject to status. I Same day despatch wherever possible.

HQ & Mcdl Order Southampton (0703) 255111 Leeds (0532) 350606\- Birmingham 021-327 1497 Axminster (0297) 34918 Chesterfield (0246) 453340 .1

JUNE 1993 (ON SALE MAY 13)VOL. 69 NO. 6

ISSUE 1035

NEXT ISSUE (JULY)ON SALE JUNE 10

9 CompetitionWin a Vibroplex Original Deluxe 'Bug' key worth£136, or a Morse Tutor Kit In our Wordsearch

20 The PW 144MHz QRPContestDr Neill Taylor G4HLX Invites you to join in thefun with the 11th annual 'fun' contest

21 Review - The KenwoodTS -50S HF Mobile TransceiverThe Rev. George Dobbs G3RJV tries the newmobile rig and reluctantly has to give It back toKenwood

24 Preparing For TheMorse TestRon Wilson G4NZU and the Nottingham MorseTest team pass on hints and tips to help youpass the test

26 Defending theElectronic KeyerThe PW cartoonist John Worthington GW3C0I,defends the users of electronic keyers In hisown Irreverent way

28 Review - The MTR1Morse TutorClive Hardy G4SLU builds and tries out twoInteresting new products to help your Morse

30 Making Morse KeysPart 1Dr Jim Lycett GOMSZ tells you how to make atraditional Morse key to be proud of, both on airand on the mantlepiece

33 Morse ShowcaseThe PW team guide you through what'savailable in the world of Morse and c.w. relatedequipment

36 Simple Printer CWinterfaceBen Nock G4BXD explains how you can use yourcomputer in c.w. operation

39 Antenna WorkshopPeter Dodd G3LDO suggests you try a dip meterwhen working on antenna projects

45 Bits & Bytes - TheComputer In Your ShackPeter Hunter GOGSZ looks Into his mailbag toanswer your computer queries

46 Book Reviews - TheSecret of Learning Morse Code& Introducing Morse

48 Valve & vintageAs usual Ron Ham opens the vintage wirelessshop especially for PW readers

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISEMENT OFFICESPractical WirelessArrowsmith CourtStation ApproachBroadstoneDorset BH18 8PW(0202) 659910(Out -of -hours service by answering machine)

CREDIT CARD ORDERS(0202) 659930(Out -of -hours service by answering machine)FAX (0202) 659950

EditorRob Mannion G3XFDArt EditorSteve HuntTechnical Projects Sub -EditorNG ("Tex") Swann G1TEXProduction/NewsDonna VincentEditorial AssistantZoe Shortland

Advertisement ManagerRoger Hall G4TNTPO Box 948London SW6 2DS071-731 6222Cellphone (0850) 382666FAX 071-384 1031

Advert Copy and Sales (Broadstone Office)Lynn Smith (Sales), AiIse Turbett (Production)(0202) 659920FAX (0202) 659950

51 VHF ReportDavid Butler G4ASR listens in to and reports onthe fascinating world above 30MHz.

53 HF BandsPaul Essery GW3KFE with your reports on theh.f. bands, and a look at DX the hard way - usingORP

54 Packet PanoramaRoger Cooke G3LDI reports on what's appearingon screen from the packet radio keyboards

55 Satellite ScenePat Gowen G3IOR looks up into the world ofamateur radio in orbit

57 Focal PointAndy Emmerson G8PTH appears on screen forhis bimonthly report on amateur TV activities

59 Broadcast Round UpPeter Shore tunes Into short wavebroadcasting, and special souvenirs fromaround the world

Other Regular Features67 Advert Index60 Arcade, All PW services under one roof61 Bargain Basement16 Club News9 Keylines12 Newsdesk '9346 Radio Diary10 Receiving You

Front cover: Our thanks go to EasternCommunications of Happisburgh, Norfolk, forthe Vibroplex Original Deluxe "Bug' keyfeatured on the front cover and donated as aprize for our June competition.

COMINGNEXT MONTH

Practical Wirelesslooks into the

challenging worldOf QRP

DON'T MISS IT!

Copyright PW PUBLISHING LTD. 1943. Copyright in all drawings, photographs and articles published in Practical Wireless is fully protected and reproduction in whole or partis expressly forbidden. All reasonable precautions are taken by Practical Wireless to ensure that the advice and data given to our readers are reliable. Wecannot howeverguarantee it and we cannot accept legal responsibility for it. Pnces are those current as we go to press.Published on the second Thursday of each month by PW Publishing Ltd., Arrowsmith Court, Station Approach, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8PW. Tel: 102021 659910. Pnnted inEngland by Southernprint (Web Offset) Ltd. Distnbuted by Seymour. Windsor House, 1270 London Road, Norbury, London SW16 408, Tel; 081-6791899, Fax. 081-679 8907, Telex:8812445. Sole Agents for Australia and New Zealand - Gordon and Gotch (Asia) Ltd.; South Africa Central News Agency. Subscriptions INLAND 01, EUROPE E23, OVERSEAS

(by ASPI E25, payable to PRACTICAL WIRELESS. Subscription Department. PW Publishing Ltd., Arrowsmith Court. Station Approach, Broadstone, Dorset 13/418 8PW Tel 102021659930. PRACTICAL WIRELESS is sold sublect to the following conditions, namely that it shall not without written consent of the publishers first having been given, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade at more than the recommended selling price shown on the cover, and that it shall not be lent, re -sold, hired out orotherwise disposed of in a murdered condition or in any unauthorised cover by way of Trade, or affixed to ores parr of any publication or advertising, literary or pictorial matterwhatsoever. Practical Wireless is Published monthly for 545 per year by P.W. Publishing Ltd. PW Publishing Ltd.. Arrowsmith Court, Station Approach. Broadstone, Dorset BH188PW, U.K.Second Class postage paid at Middlesex, N.J. Postmaster. Send USA address changes to Practical Wireless, c/o Permit to post at Hackensack pending. The USPS(United States Postal Service) number for Practical Wireless is 007075.

Practical Wireless, June 1993 1

IL\ALINCO A R

eDcusticrart Davisoill ifm;a1,12zcKENWOOD MFG 0 MICREISET®

0ICOM YAESU YUPITERU

Did you know that the best deals are alwaysavailable at RADIO HAMSTORES. Part -exchange,trade-ins and second-hand purchases are alwayswelcome. We help radio enthusiasts to own theequipment they really want, all top brands areavailable at prices to suit your pocket.Did you also know that RADIO HAMSTORES areauthorised service engineers for Yaesu, Kenwoodand ICOM equipment. All servicing being carriedout at our Herne Bay branch.We stock AEA, AKD, Alinco, AOR, Barenco,Comet, Cushcraft, Davis, Dee Comm, Diamond,!corn, JRC, Kenwood, Lowe, Microset, MFJ, RSGB

Books, Toyo, Yaesu,Yupiteru, new, second-hand & ex -demo gear.Payment by Access,

0ICOM

Visa, Switch and RSGB card are welcome andfinance can be arranged (subject to status).Interest -free credit is also available on selectednew ICOM products.If you cannot visit a RADIO HAMSTORE inperson, why not take advantage of our efficientMAIL ORDER SERVICE. Stock items normallydispatched within 24Hrs.We give full warranty on all ICOM productsbought from authorised ICOM UK dealers. Insome cases the equipment will be replaced if thefault is beyond speedy and satisfactory repair.ICOM equipment purchased from an unauthoriseddealer is not covered by ICOM warranty.Gordon G3LEQ & John G8VIQ at Birmingham,Chris G8GKC at Herne Bay and Doug GOLUH &Paul G7MNI in London look forward to your visit.

BIRMINGHAMHAMSTORE

LONDON11 Watford Way,

Hendon,London NW4 3JL.Tel: 081 202 0073Fax: 081 202 8873

HERNEBAYUnit 8, Herne Bay West

Industrial Estate, Sea Street,Herne Bay, Kent CT6 8LD.

Tel: 0227 741555Fax: 0227 741742

BIRMINGHAMInternational House,

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Tel: 021 552 0073Fax: 021 552 0051

LONDON STORE OPEN:MON TO FRI 09:00-17:00 & 09:00-16:00 SATS. HERNE BAY & BIRMINGHAM OPEN:TUES TO FRI 09:00-17:00 & 09:00-16:00 SATS. N.B. Herne Bay closed for lunch 1300-1400.

0302 325690kcyr

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VISA42 Nether Hall Road, Doncaster DN1 2PZOpen: Monday -Saturday 10-5pm Closed Thursdays

KENWOOD

.?9490_: 7.:

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FT990 FT990DC FT890ATFT890 FT747GX FT736R

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FT411E FT415

FT470 FT530

OICOM

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IC765 IC729 IC737

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IC3230H IC2410H ICR7100

IC229H IC228H IC28H

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ICW2E IC2SRA

IC2SE IC2GE

IC24E IC2E

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444.-...4.1.' ,

. 'Mali ' :- -

DR570T DR599T

DR112T DR119T DR1200T

=7....=''''POON11,41

DJF1T DJF1TH

DJ162T DJ580T

PACKET

AEA PK232 PK88 AEA -FAX

_ .04'54P"'

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o\GO°

GPI

TFIRIG SAVER'SLIMLINE Allows you to safely mount your hand-held ormobile radio where you can see the controls

£24.95+ £2p&p

HEAVY DUTY I Mounts any single flat surface. Adaptable to any vehicle or

station use.Construction made of high quality

aluminium.

£29.95+ £2pap


WATERS & STANTON ELECIIIONICSALINCO KENWOOD YAESU ICOM DIAMOND MFJ MICROSET TONNA REVEX

'Highly SensitiveFrequency Counter

Optronics "2300"Self powered - it can sniff frequenciesfrom over 100ft! IMH: -2.4GH:

£169.95 inc. nlcads & charger

riad,,,siscaralan01.1mom

RADIO KITS

Howes MTX-2020m 10 Watt transmitter for CW Inc. xtal 13.8V.A bargain! 529.95

Howes CTX-40 or 803 Watt CW QRP transmitters. Xtal is Included.Build in an evening 515.95

Howes VFO'sModels for 80, 40, or 20m. Ideal for their QRPtx's above. 511.95

Howes DC-RX SeriesSingle band direct conversion receivers for20m, 40m or 80m. Requires 2 pes of SOpfvariable capacitors. 516.95

Howes CW OscillatorIdeal as sidetone or practice unit. Goodbeginners project. 59.95

Ramsey P4BMComplete packet radio kit. Powered fromcomputer. Software inc. 559.95

Ramsey FR -1462m FM and marine radio. Dual conversion.Complete except for case. 53I.95

Ramsey AR -1AM airband radio kit. All you need to monitorI18-136MHz 529.95

Ramsey FR -1FM broadcast receiver Ideal project for novice.Drives small speaker. 522.95

Ramsey HR -receiversSingle band 80. 40 or 20m models complete withvaricap tuning. 531.95

Ramsey QRP-TransmittersSingle band models for 80. 40 or 20m. All youneed including xtal. 53I.95

MFJ Super - Regen ReceiverThis super kit has everything down to the caseand last screw. Covering 3.5 - 22MHz it isamazingly sensitive even on a short wire.SSB/CW/AM. 571.95

Yupiteru MVT-7100Factory Fresh AM-FM-SSB-CW

ScannerSPhone

530kHz - 1650MHz1000 memories500 pass memories50Hz dual resolution30 steps per second

Free credit on Yupiteruwhen you buy direct!

DJ -180ERx. 130-170MHz FMTx extendexport only

£209

ALINCOALINCO DJ

-FiERx. AM Airband + FM

ELECTRONICS Tx extendexport only

DJ-F4E 70cmsModel £289

LCD display10 memories2 Watts out5 Watts (12V)Ni-cad packAC chargerAuto power offBattery saver5kHz-25kHz stepsHelical aerialMemory expansions12 month warranty

£279144-146MHz FM

40 memories5 Watts (12V)

Ni-cad packAC charger

Reverse repeaterDTMF tones

S -meterProgrammable steps

8 scanning modesRotary dial

12 month warrantySend for glossy brochuresYou're safe with Alinco!

ALINCOALINCOELECTRONICS GmbH.

"Frequency" selected* You get 50 Watts* 20 memories* 100 memo option* CTCSS encoder*130 - 174MHz RX* Extended TX option* Programmable line out* Reverse repeat* 1750Hz tone and more!

£349.952.5w

The New DR -130Frequency readout...

channel numbers!The new DR -130 gives you dual option.Use it like any regular mobile an enjoyhigh performance from one of thesmallest mobiles in the business. You'lllove the new large display and the caseof operation. Select the "secret" channelmode and your rig is locked to providechannel readout only. What's more onlyloaded channels are displayed."Channel" selected

DR -112E 2M FM 45W14 memories6 frequency stepsFull scanningExpanded receive1750Hz toneMic & hardware iittrrYYour chance to purchasea top performer at a discount

Free Credit!On HF rigs

Now you can get our quality service whilstspreading your payments over a manageableperiod. And all at zero interest!

Ken wood - Icom - Yaesu

KENWOOD HF... PHONETS -8

TS -50 mobile &phoneMicro size HF

MFJ1270 TNCMall box, HF/VHF, 32K RAM

£149I'm wit

j(S5 p&p)

MFJ949 ATU300W, dummy load, wire, coax balanced

£169(55 P&P)

MFJ1278 Data controllerPacket, AMTOR, RTFY, FAX, SSTV etc

TS -450 &phoneMidi size base

FOR A DEAL50 &phone

Full feature base

The UK'slargestselling

HF DEALS!Get a new HF station using ourlow deposit interest free creditscheme. For callers we have atri-band beam. You can partexchange your old gear andadd accessories and aerials.You'll get a warranty backed byour in-house engineers. (Ask tosee our workshop). We havethe gear, the knowledge andthe prices!

2 (0702)

206835

e Short WaveInternational

Frequency HandbookThe UK's Best SellingFrequency Director'

* Completely Updated* Over 10.0(51 Entries* 400kHz - 30MHz* Full Duplex Information* Air. Sea and Land* Times. Calls. locations* Press. Broadcast. Utility etc.* SSB. CW. Data. Fax.

Replacing the old title. Shur Wave Listener's ConfidentialFrequency List. this handl).* has been compiled fromactual on -air monitoring by experts. Don't confuse it without dated listings copied from other publications. You getfrequencies, call signs. times. modes of operation. stationlocations and comments. You also get some interestingeditorial on short wave monitoring. Ideal for new scannerowners. it runs to 200 printed pages'

19.95 Postage II _i()

Head office: Retail and Mail Order: 22 Main Road, Hockley, Essex SS5 4QS.Tel: (0702) 206835/204965. Fax: 205843

Retail only: 12 North Street, Hornchurch, Essex. Tel: (0708) 444765

LiALINCO

ALINCOELECTRONICS

kiOA)tV8)

2M & 70cms DualBander DJ-580SP

£449.95inc VAT

NOW WITH FULL CT CSS

The DJ-580SP handheld is the mostadvanced design ever offered to the

radio amateur. Building on the winningformula of the DJ -560E, ALINCO have

now reduced the size dramatically andintroduced a combination of

innovative features that will makeyour operating even more fun and

certainly more versatile.

It goes without saying that ALINCO offeryou all the standard features you expectfrom a hand-held including dual watch,

dual controls, scanning, searching, priority,etc. Of course ALINCO's standard of

engineering and reliability is now becomingthe envy of its competitors. (They're also

pretty envious of ALINCO's prices!)Naturally you get a full 12 month warranty

including parts and labour. It's the extrafeatures that really make this a winner.

For example you now have ALINCO'spatented circuit that retains full operationwith dry cells even when battery voltage

falls by 50%. Great for emergencyapplications. You get a programmable auto

power off feature, battery saver, digitaltelephone dialler and three output power

levels. And we've only just started! Key in aspecial code on the keypad and your rig will

turn into a fully operational automaticcrossband repeater. Key in another code

and you will open up the reciever for a.m.airband reception and frequency segmentsup to 950MHz! You can even use the DTMFfeature to send and receive two digit code

messages.

To learn more about thetransceiver that has already

taken the Japanese andAmerican markets by storm,

phone or write for a full colourbrochure.

"The MostComprehensiveSpecification EverOffered!"Available direct or from your localdealer

Auto repeater modeAM Airband ReceptionExpanded Receive to 950MHz

AUK "Gold Seal"

WarrantyNow with every unit.

Look for the sign on the box!

SpecificationTx

Rx

144-146MHz430-440MHz

AM 108-143MHzFM 130-174MHzFM 400-470MHzFM 810-950MHz

Steps 5, 10, 12.5, 20, 25kHz

Memories 42

PowerOutput 2.5/1.0/0.3 Watts

5 Watts with 12V DC

Scan 8 Modes

Tones 1750Hz plus DTMFand CT CSS built in

Sensitivity 12dB SINAD -15dBu

Size 140x58x33mm

Weight 410g

Accessories SuppliedNi-Cad pack, AC charger, belt clip,carry strap, dual band antenna andCT CSS unit.

WATERS & STANTON ELECTRONICS

22 Main Road, Hockley, Essex. Tel: (0702) 206835. Fax: (0702) 205843Retail and Mail Order: 22 Main Road, HOCKLEY, Essex SS5 4QS. Tel: (0702) 206835 / 204965

Retail Only: 12 North Street, HORNCHURCH, Essex. Tel: (04024) 44765VISA & ACCESS MAIL ORDER: 24 Hour Answerphone. Open 6 days a week 9.00am - 5.30pm

Rail: Liverpool Street/Hockley or District Line/Hornchurch

LOWE ELECTRONICSLOWE The Professionals

in Amateur Radio

KENWOOD'S TS5OSNOW YOU CAN REALLY GO HF MOBILE!Kenwood's new mobile HF rig has caused a real stirin the market place. At last, an HF rig that will fitunder your car's dash and stillleave room for a passenger!Let's face it, the so-calledHF mobiles that havebeen available of latehave hardly beenportable, let alonemobile, but thenew TS5OS willset new standardsin size andperformance. Youcan really do thatDXpedition now asyou can take therig and the auto ATU as hand -luggage!

Colin G3XAS atBOURNEMOUTH27 Gillam Road,Northbourne,BournemouthBH10 6BWTel: 0202 577760

Quite how Kenwood have squeezed so muchinto such a tiny package, I can only marvel at. They

haven't, however, skimped onperformance: All modes,

gen. coy. RX, 0.250sensitivity on ssb, a

dynamic range of105dB and a full

100W output.

Words are notenough but we'll behappy to send youthe brochure. Bestof all, pop into oneof our manybranches and try

one out.Take some money though - it is seriously tempting!

A LOWE ELECTRONICS EXCLUSIVE . . .

The KENWOOD TS450SDXTmA DXER'S DREAM FOR THOSE ON A BUDGET!

Full details for personal callers at any of our branches

LOWE

Fred G4RJS atLONDON223/225 Field End Road,Eastcote,MiddlesexHA5 1QZTel: 081 429 3256

LOWE

Dave G4KFN atNEWCASTLENewcastle Airport,Woolsington,Newcastle Upon TyneNE20 9DFTel: 0661 860418

LOWE

Tony G4NBS atCAMBRIDGE162 High Street,Chesterton,CambridgeCM 1NLTel: 0223 311230

LOWE

Tony G4CYE atBRISTOL79/81 Gloucester Rd,Patchway,BristolBS12 5JQTel: 0272 315263

LOWE

NEW

Sim GM3SAN atCUMBERNAULDCumbernauld Airport,Cumbernauld,ScotlandG68 OHHTel: 0236 721004

LOWE

6 Practical Wireless, June 1993

Head OfficeMain Showroomand Mail Order

DERBYSHIREHere to help you are:

Rob G8MPT, Bill G8LXNBeryl G7LME, JulieTom G6PZZ, Richard G3OQTJohn G3PCY

LOWE

Chesterfield Road, Matlock,Derbyshire DE4 5LE

Tel: 0629 580800Fax: 0629 580020

Steve G6URJ

KENTChatham Road,Sandling,MaidstoneKent ME14 3AYTel: 0622 692773

LOWE

Steve G1WSY atHEATHROW6 Cherwell Close,Langley,Slough, BerksSL3 8XBTel: 0753 545255

LOWE

Tom G4LAR atLEEDS34 New Briggate,Leeds,LS1 6NUTel: 0532 452657

NEW BRANCHDEREK G7ESZ& Peter G6ZKOThe BasementRoyal Fleet ClubDevonport, Plymouth, Devon PL1 4PQTel: 0752 607284

LOWE

KANTRON ICSWORLD LEADERS IN DIGITAL

COMMUNICATIONSOnce again Kantronics assert themselves as leadersin the world of digital communications. The ever -popular KAM has been fully upgraded to meet thedemands of the latest digital modes. The new KAMPlus will become the standard by which all the othersare judged, and the new facilities now include:

New User and Expert command sets

On-line help messages for each command

128K RAM

1 Megabit EPROM

Socketed lithium battery to back up RAM andon -board clock

Expanded personal mailbox

PACTOR now fitted as standard (V6.1)

Enhanced CW operation - dot/dash weighting,Farnsworth spacing, tone transmission, andprogrammable CW filter bandwidth and centrefrequency

Programmable mark and space tones Extended RTTY and AMTOR character sets

The KAM Plus should be available about now,but you don't need to throw away the old one! Simplybuy the new KAM Expansion Board to upgrade to

all the new features. Both still run with Hostmastersoftware, now available for the PC, C64 and theMacintosh.

The KPC3 continues to be the world's mostpopular VHF TNC. Designed to be user friendly(even to new Packeteers!!), this amazing TNCdelivers high performance in a very small package.It's less than half the size of its nearest rival butmanages to pack in many more features.

The KPC3 features an improved DualLevelTMcommand set that gives new users just 23commands (all most people will ever need!) that getyou up and running but with the full 130 pluscommands available in Expert mode for thosewishing to exploit the full potential of Packet.

The power consumption is so low it can be runfrom a PP3 battery, ideal for portable operation andRaynet use. Runs on 6-25V.

Additional features include Kantronics PBBSwith reverse forwarding, message header editing, amail waiting led, remote sysop access andKantronics KA-Node. Kiss mode and KantronicsHostmode are also included for TCP/IP compatibilityand advanced operation. If that's not enough, it alsodecodes WEEFAX with appropriate software.

Hostmaster software expandable RAM and RealTime Clock are a few of the options.

FULL DATASHEETS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Some people still regard Packet as a difficult mode to operate (probably when they see their friends TNCmanuals! Don't worry, it's a lot easier than you think! We'll also help you out by providing an RS232 lead, alead to your radio and some free terminal and fax software to get you on the air with the minimum of fussand delay. Ask for your FREE Packet Package when buying a TNC at any of our branches. Don't forgetour Branch Managers if you need help in setting up - many of them have been doing this for years and willhappily help you out.Specialist help available at our Maidstone, Cambridge, Cumbernauld and Matlock branches.


S.R.P. TRADINGSANGEANDirect key -in world

ATS 803Areceiver with quartz alarm clock timer

" fin AI.. ;an: :::: " r ;:. .:: : r 7,:,'

MI MB MIS

MI MI VIII

MI - NMMN Milli

.-,.

DIMENSIONS: 29.2cmx16.0cm(11.5inx6.3inx2.36in).

rwiOUTPUT: 1200mW (10%THD)

Illneablellf0SW.,

WEIGHT: 1.7kg (3.75lbs) without batteries.

Wide/narrow filter switch.

£119.95 + £5 check, test and p&p.

Also, suitable mains unit available, only £9.95

Specifications and features* 150-29.999 continuous tuning with no gaps. Phase locked loop -doubleconversion Superheterodyne * Full shortwave/AM/SSB 150-29999kHz no gaps! +FM87.5-108 mono/stereo * Five tuning functions: Direct press button frequencyinput auto scanning, manual scanning memory recall and manual tuning knob* Built-in clock and alarm. Radio turns on automatically at preset time andfrequency. * Large digital frequency display. * Fourteen memories - ninememory channels for your favourite station frequencies. Last setting of mode andwaveband stored in five memories. * Direct press -button access to all 12shortwave broadcast bands. * Two power sources - battery or AC mains adaptor.* General coverage of all AM bands in LW/MW/SW (dedicated broadcast bandcoverage on all versions), plus of course the FM band for quality soundbroadcasts in headphone stereo. * SLEEP function turns the radio on or off afteran adjustable time of 10-90 minutes. * Separate BASS and TREBLE controls formaximum listening pleasure. * External antenna jack for better reception.* Adjustable RF GAIN control to prevent overloading when listening close to otherstrong stations or if there is interference. * New improved wide/narrow filter(6/2.7kHz) * BFO control (Beat Frequency Oscillator) enables reception ofSSB/USB/LSWB (single side band) and CW (Morse Code) transmissions.* Illuminated display to facilitate night-time use. * Designed for both rtable anddesk top use. * Five dot LED signal strength indicator.

100 ChannelNetset PRO -46. Covers137-174, 406-512 andwith backlight, search,delay, memory backup"AA" batteries or Adaptor.

Scanner £199.9966-88, 108-136.975 (AM),

806-956 MHz. LCD displaypriority, lockout, scan -circuit. Belt clip. Requires 4

20-9305

Channel ScannerNetset PRO -44. Covers 66-88,137-174 and 380-512 MHz. LCDbacklight, search, lockout, scankeyboard lock. Memory backupchanging batteries. Belt clip. Requiresbatteries or AC/DC Adaptor.

Scanner £219.9966-88, 108-136.975

and 806-960 MHz.scan, 10 channel monitor

scan -delay, LCD display withcircuit. Belt clip. Requires

Adaptor. 20-9303

Pro 43 £249

..is NEW

Ir,IM11. 0 -011.40e3= 0 IN.

4. 0111.0i

£149.99108-136.975 (AM),

display with-delay andcircuit for

6 "AA"

1

.

...._

200 ChannelRealistic PRO -39. Covers(AM), 137-174, 380-512Hyperscan search andback, priority, lockout,backlight. Memory backup6 "AA" batteries or AC/DC

Pro 2006 £299

el tME

mx , -

SRP Trading, Unit 20, Nash Works,Forge Lane, Belbroughton,

Nr. Stourbridge, Worcs.Tel: (0562) 730672. Fax: (0562) 731002

8

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Practical Wireless, June 1993

Occasionally, something I mention in`Keylines' strikes a chord among readersand we receive letters on the topic in theoffice. This reaction is just what my editori-als are designed to do of course. Despitethis, I'm sometimes astonished at the reac-tion from readers on certain topics and myinvitation to readers asking for opinions onthe `No Code HF Licence' really opened thefloodgates!

It's getting on for nearly four years sinceI first sat in the Editor's chair at PW, and Ican honestly say that the `No Code' topichas beaten all records for letters in my time.We've had strongly worded letters, and sen-sibly written letters. But, there's no doubtabout it (as far as PW readers are concerned)it's a topic which everyone seems to have anopinion on, whether it's for or against a `NoCode' h.f. licence in the UK.

Incidentally, I would like to draw read-ers' attention to my comment on the`Receiving You' pages. There, I have pro-vided the name and address of theRadiocommunications Agency official whois waiting for your comments. Judging bythe letters I've received...she's in for a verybusy time!

So, now that everyone else seems to havehad their say, I'll have a go and state mypersonal opinion for what it's worth. But,before I do so, please bear in mind that it ispersonal, and it comes from a very keenc.w. operator who thoroughly enjoys usingMorse, whether it be QRP or QRO.

Although I know I run the risk of being hung, drawn and quar-tered by many of our readers, I really think that we will soon havethe first 'No Code' h.f. licences with us soon. In practice, I thinkthat the authorities will introduce concessions on the h.f. amateurbands for specialised modes. And, in my opinion the first conces-

r

sion will go towards packet radio operations.Once h.f. packet radio operation is permit-

ted without the operator having a Morse quali-fication, I think there's also a possibility ofseparate non -amateur radio frequencies beingallocated for packet radio. In fact, I feel thatmany computer enthusiasts, with no interest in`traditional' amateur radio will go for thisoption, if it's introduced.

I think, that following the introduction ofthe packet only h.f. licence, the other spe-cialised modes including RTTY, AMTOR,FAX and SSTV, will be granted the samefacilities. In my opinion, operators of thesespecialised modes will also have a strongargument that they don't really need to knowMorse.

Will I be proved right? Only time will tell,and judging by the amazing variety of opin-ions, I've no doubt that our hobby will beshaken to its very foundations during the dis-cussion period. In the meantime, I'm going tocarry on enjoying c.w. operations and hopethat whatever happens with the qualificationsaspects of the hobby regarding h.f. operations,I'll always be able to work other people on thekey and help others enjoy amateur radio inwhatever mode they enjoy the most.

After all, amateur radio should be enjoy-able. And, speaking for myself, I'm deter-mined that through PW, we'll carry on enjoy-ing the hobby, never forgetting that it is ourhobby. I'm going to leave the in -fighting andsquabbling to the politicians!

RoiNagirkffOXFO

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IPractical Wireless, June 1993

This month we are offering two special prizes to match the PW Morsetheme. You could win yourself the first prize which is the superbVibroplex Deluxe mechanical `bug' Morse keyer featured on the frontcover, worth £136 and kindly donated by Eastern Communications(see `Morse Equipment Showcase'). The second prize winner willreceive a MTR I Morse Tutor with replay kit, donated by Brian Jordan(see the review by Clive Hardy G4SLU in this issue). So, get busy anddecode the Wordsearch, and you might win your own Morse Tutor kit!

Words to find: Worthington Jordan Electronic Morse Keyer Test Workshop Dobbs Focal Hunter Bits Bytes

NameAddress

Send your entry (photocopies acceptable with corner coupon) to:Competition Corner, Wordsearch Competition, June '93, PW PublishingLtd., Arrowsmith Court, Station Approach, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8PW.Editors decision on the winner is final and no correspondence will beentered into. Entries to reach us by Friday 25 June 1993.

No CodeLicence

Dear SirI would like to give

my complete agreementto the comments in theletter from Leslie Blissabout the proposed 'NoCode HF Licence'. It isabsolutely scandalousthat such a proposalshould ever be consid-ered.

I was taught Morseduring the last war butmy concern is for all ourdedicated amateurs whohave knuckled down intheir spare time andhave become veryexpert in this fascinatingmode. Throw the motionout at once.

Finally, do you missbeing at your last place,the Quay at Poole? (oneof my favourite spots).

Regards and thanksfor a super magazine.John Densem G4KJVChippenhamWiltshire

Editor's comment:The view, the shipsand being near thesea in our old officeswere a delightfulexperience John, butthe parking andtraffic problems werenot so pleasant. I'mpleased to report thatwe don't have thatproblem inBroadstone.

Send your letters tothe editorial offices inBroadstone. Theymust be original, andnot duplicated in anyother magazine. Wereserve the right to

edit or shorten any let-ter. The viewsexpressed in lettersare not necessarilythose of PracticalWireless. The StarLetter will receive a

voucher worth £10 tospend on items fromour Book, or other ser-vices offered byPractical Wireless. Allother letters willreceive a £5 voucher.

MorseQualificationDear Sir

No valid reason canbe advanced for retain-ing the requirement forAmateur Radio opera-tors to have a Morsequalification.

The requirementwas introduced into theRadio Regulations,Washington in 1927, butwas already in forceprior to that. It was toensure thatExperimental Stationswhether professional oramateur (this was in thedays before theAmateur Service exist-ed) could be contactedby official stations

wherever necessary,e.g. if causing interfer-ence.

The need for allamateur stations to beable to be contacted byMorse had disappearedby the end of WorldWar Two. By thenequipment was bothstable and efficient tothe extent that the riskof interference wasslight. The presentlicensing regulations (inthe UK at least) are ade-quate to protect otherservices from interfer-ence.

What possible rea-son can there be fordenying access to theh.f. bands to operatorswho are qualified by the

RAE but who wish onlyto communicate bytelephone, RTTY,fascimile or SSTV?Class B Licensees arejust as competent tooperate equipment asClass A Licensees andif they venture on toMorse without learningthe craft, only theysuffer.

Abolition of theMorse qualificationwould not prevent theuse of Morse anymorethan the lack of operat-ing skill prevents use ofthe RTTY. It would, infact, be equal in statusto radio -telephone,RTTY, data, fascimileand SSTV.

I would strongly

**** Star Letter ****

PW 144MHz QRP ContestDear Sir

Reference 'Keylines' April issue PW and "alternative energy -poweredQRP Contest entrants". Shame on you Rob Mannion! Where has youramateur spirit gone! Since when did it become necessary to "verifyevery competitor"?

I thought it usual on entering a log to any competition, for a RadioAmateur to sign a statement to the effect that he/she had kept "withinthe rules and spirit of the contest."

Contests are for fun, and if the entrants cannot be trusted to keep tothe rules (whatever they are in any one case) then the contest is notworth entering or winning! - or could that be why some people don't likecontests?

I note that 'The Amateur's Code', (Paul M. Segal, W9EEA, in ARRLHandbook) says "The Amateur is considerate" - never knowingly usesthe air to lessen the pleasure of others - ie. you don't win contests bycheating on your power source declaration.

Also "The Amateur is progressive" - the Station is well-built and effi-cient and his operating practice is above reproach - ie. don't win contestsby using 10W, and saying that it was only 1W.

Perhaps the contest should run from 2000 to 0800 hours for Solar -powered entrants only. Then you can penalise any who were enterpris-ing enough to solar -charge their NiCads on the previous sunny day!

Best wishes to all at PW, keep up the good work, In true Amateurspirit from your old friend,Peter Welch G3OFXBitterne ParkSouthampton

Editor's defence: Readers will probably realise I'm being 'got at'by an old friend (Peter's photograph appeared on the 60thanniversary issue, representing the amateur from 1932!).Perhaps our new s.w.l. category QRP Contest entrants could lis-ten out for supposedly solar -power stations, and check to see ifthe sun was out when they were on the air?

oppose any move tointroduce a separate'Code Free' licence inaddition to our existingClass A and Class Blicences.

Abolition of theMorse qualificationwould remove the needfor separate Class A andClass B licences leavingus with just one generallicence for all modesand frequency band.The use of Morse cancontinue to be encour-aged through voluntaryqualifying schemessuch as that run byRNARS. Personally Iwould like to see a simi-lar scheme operated bythe RSGB.

These considera-tions apply equally, ofcourse, to the NoviceLicence situation, thereonly need be oneNovice Licence.Wilfred M. DunellG3BYWHaslingfieldCambridge

Code FreeLicenceDear Sir

A code free licence,why not? but first ensurethat the present c.w. sec-tions of bands are pre-served solely for c.w. bymaking it a condition ofthe licence.

At the same time Iwould then favour abol-ishing the radio ama-teurs examination, andmaking the licence freelyavailable to the generalpublic over the postoffice counters.

Standards havedropped in amateurradio, and when thiscode goes it won't takelong for a new campaignto start to get rid ofsomething else!G. P. Hamblin G4VBBBurton -upon -Trent


No Code LicenceDear Sir

As an experienced radio propagationresearcher, I would like to be able to get aticket for h.f. without having to learn Morse,which holds no interest other than as an evo-lutionary stage of radio history.

Despite my reservations, I believe thatMorse c.w. still has its place as an effectiveform of long range, narrow bandwidth radio,so I would not discourage its use.

A good compromise might be to bring ina new no -code h.f. licence which would limitradiated h.f. power to less than 20W. Thiswould give access to the bands and encour-age voice DXing, by taking advantage of iono-spheric openings rather than pouring c.w.power into a piled -up ether.Tony HopwoodUpton -on -Severn, Worcester

No Code Amateur Radio LicenceEditor's note: Readers interested in thediscussion regarding the possibilities of a'No Code' h.f. licence have been invitedto submit their views to theRadiocommunications Agency. Judgingby the large number of letters received atthe PW office, the subject has aroused agreat deal of interest. In a recent letterto me, the RA have confirmed that theywish interested parties to write in tothem directly, and your letters and com-ments will be taken into account whenthe subject is discussed at the RA laterthis year. I urge everyone who haswritten into PW, to write again and sendtheir letters directly to: Mrs Karen Scott,Room 712, RadiocommunicationsAgency, Waterloo Bridge House,Waterloo Road, London SE1 8UA.

Morse TestDear SirSo 'the Old Brigade' areforming ranks to protecttheir privileges on the h.f.bands, especially whenthey have no true foun-dations for most of theirarguments!

To obtain a drivinglicence we do not need todemonstrate an ability tocontrol a 1898 steamroller. Nowadays, withcomputerised communi-cations, satellites andother sophisticated wiz-ardy why should we haveto pass a Morse test touse the h.f. bands?

If the test is to beretained, then maybe it'stime we introduced otherskill tests for 'phone,packet, AMTOR, RTTY,SSTV and FAX?

A large proportion of

radio amateurs who haveobtained Class 'A'licences soon get rusty.Just listen to some of theMorse on h.f. Surelyunder the correct regime,anyone who can't pro-duce adequate Morseshould lose his/her 'A'licence and revert to 'B'licence status only?

If changes aredeemed necessary theyshould be to the RAE, tocover the 'new' modes,EMC, interference, band -plan useage and opera-tional procedures. Surelyif we are to retain theMorse test, we shouldalso consider reintroduc-ing valve theory into thecurrent RAE?.

Come on! Join the'Scrap The Test'CampaignA. R. ClaytonBunny, Nottingham

The MorseRequirementDear Sir

As a one-timelicensed amateur andmarine radio officer Iwas in favour of keepingthe Morse requirementfor the h.f. bands. Butnow that Morse is nolonger a requirement tolicence a marine radioofficer it is illogical tokeep it for the amateurlicence.

In other words youneed to know Morse tobecome a amateur, butto become a professionalyou don't! If future ama-teurs don't or won't learnMorse, the loss is theirs,as one can reach theother side of the worldon c.w. with one watt, orless.A. J. LongCambridge

The British AmateurRadio Licence

Dear SirHow the acquisition of a British amateur

radio licence has become easier since 1945:1: Pass written RAE (exemption for cer-

tain qualifications) and 12w.p.m. Morse Test.First year, c.w. only, 25W maximum input top.a. Full operation permitted only after satis-factory completion of this probationary year.

2: Pass RAE (other qualifications notaccepted) and 12w.p.m. Morse test.

3: Pass RAE. A v.h.f. licence availablewith no c.w. test, but Morse test still requiredfor h.f licence.

4: Written RAE replaced by multi -choice(pick -and -tick) exam.

5: Novice licence.Future possibilities (predictions?):1: Scrap the cw test.2: Scrap the RAE (you don't need a

knowledge of radio theory to use a semi-automatic black box).

Enough said!Walter Farrar G3ESPAckworth, Pontefract

Code FreeLicence

Dear SirI have just read

the four lettersregarding the 'CodeFree H.F. Licence' inApril PW. What drivel!Anyone would think itwas proposed to bancode.

I have yet to heara logical or rationalargument for keepingthe code requirement.I wonder why thearmed forces have allbut ceased to use it?Perhaps its too slow,ordinary speech aver-ages about 100 wordsa minute. Try sendingor reading code atthat speed without amachine!

In 1905 no exami-nation or Morse testwas required andthere was no fee orcall sign either. Theapplicant had to'...prove to the satis-faction of thePostmaster Generalthat the sole object ofobtaining a licence isto enable him to con-duct experiments inwireless telegraphy...'

By 1910 call signshad been introduced

and in 1913 a newcondition that appli-cants had to have'...the necessary scien-tific qualifications...'and a fee of oneguinea (£1.05) wascharged but still noMorse test.

In 1919 the PostMaster Generalannounced newlicences would beintroduced. Applicantswould have to '...havein view some definiteobject of scientificvalue... be certified asa competent investi-gator ... have knowl-edge of adjusting andoperating the appara-tus .... and have aMorse operatingspeed of 12 words aminute...' Betweenthis date and 1939when all licences wereagain cancelled therewere many variationsof conditions.

The first post-warlicence was issued in1947. And as a resultof negotiations by theRSGB, many of theold limitations wereswept away. The only'qualifications'

required were an RAEpass and the Morsetest or suitable servicequalifications, theselatter were withdrawnin the 1950s. In 1964the 'B' licence wasintroduced for v.h.f.without the Morsetest.

The reasons for theintroduction of theMorse test are nolonger valid. I can seeno justifiable reasonfor retaining it exceptfor the minority whowish to use it. Somepeople seem to thinkthe rules should neverbe changed. Perhapswe should go back tothe 1905 terms - thatmight leave us with afew genuine experi-menters.

I referred to theRSGB book World AtTheir Fingertips byJohn Clarricoats G6CLfor various quotationsin this letter, it tellswhat the RSGB doesand has done in thepast for the RadioAmateur.E. Mitchell G8CONWaterloovilleHampshire


Silent Key - StanCrabtree C30XC

Regular readers, particu-larly those who enjoy thehistoric side of radio, willbe saddened to hear ofthe death of StanCrabtree G3OXC onWednesday 17 March1993 at the age of 62.Stan's speciality washistoric wireless, and hislast article 'Back To TheFuture In 1901', pub-lished in the March issueof PW, featured thefascinating story of thefirst known wirelessrepeater station.

Stan Crabtree's workwas always interestingto read, and I've nodoubt readers will misshis regular contributionsto PW. I have written toStan's widow Helen andtheir children Elaine andDavid, on behalf of thePWteam and ourreaders, extending ourdeepest sympathy.Rob Mannion G3XFD

Practical Wireless1933 Archives

Can you help thePractical Wireless teamrestore the archives?We have discoveredthat the PW archives aremissing Volume 2,No. 45, July 29 1933. Ifyou have one and it's inmint condition completewith cover, please con-tact the Editorial officesat Arrowsmith Court,Station Approach,Broadstone, DorsetBH18 8PIN, tel. (0202)659910.

Forest Of Dean Foxhunt

The delightful Forest of Dean is the setting for a fox -hunt that's guaranteed not to attract a single huntsaboteur! The popular d.f. hunt to be held on 10 and11 July, is organised by the Swansea DF Group,under the auspices of the RSGB. The aim of the week-end is to promote interest in 144MHz 'foxhunting' andalso encourage inter -club and national competition.

There's a choice of camping sites in the Forest ofDean, but the Swansea group plan to stay at theForestry Commission site at Braceland, National GridReference S0560130, which is 5km east ofMonmouth tel. (0594).33057. A barbeque is plannedfor the Saturday evening.

There's two double fox events on Saturday.They begin at 1030 with Phil GW7MMG and ChrisGW1WTZ, and then at 1600 with James GW7KZSand Carl GW7KIL. On the Sunday, one double -foxevent is planned at 0930 with Kevin GW7OKM andChris GW7KBP.

Further information on the weekend is availablefrom Phil Smith GW1XBG, tel. (0792) 642001.Additionally, anyone entering the foxhunting areaon Friday evening or on Saturday and Sunday,requiring information should contact Ian GWONLYwho will be monitoring the foxhunting frequency of144.725MHz.

Amateur Radio RepeaterLicence Change

The RadiocommunicationsAgency have announced intheir Press Notice P/93/139(dated 15 March) that a licencechange should make the ama-teur radio repeater networkmore effective. The change,which took place on April 1,should make the network moreeffective, cut costs by lighten-ing the management ofrepeaters and devolve moreresponsibility to the people thatrun them.

The RA announced onMarch 15, that from April 1,approval for repeater stationsto operate will be granted bythe issue of Notices of Variationto the repeater keeper's person-al Amateur Radio Licences. TheRSGB has been the licensee forall stations in the amateur radiorepeater network, and thechange will relieve it of theheavy cost of administering andlicensing the stations from itsown resources.

A Notice of Variation will beissued to any amateur whoseapplication to run a repeaterstation has complied with therequirement set out in theagreement between theSecretary of State for Trade &Industry and the RSGB. TheNotice of Variation will effec-tively delete the general prohi-bition on amateurs from operat-ing a repeater, and set out in aschedule the details of the sta-tion the repeater keeper isallowed to use, such as loca-tion, callsign, frequency, classof emission, maximum powerand antenna characteristics.

The repeater keeper will bemade responsible for the cor-rect operation of the repeaterand for the monitoring of theuse of it, and taking steps theythink fit in liaison with the RAand the RSGB to limit messagesthat are not permitted in theamateur service. The keeperwill also be required to provide

up-to-date and effective close-down arrangements that arenecessary in case of interfer-ence being caused by therepeater.

The RA and RSGB are nego-tiating the terms of an agree-ment whereby the RSGB will actas agent for the Secretary ofState for distributing theNotices of Variation. This meansthat much of the present proce-dure with applications/ informa-tion being submitted throughthe RSGB will continue. Themain change will be that thelicensee responsible will be therepeater keeper, rather than theRSGB. There will be no extralicence fee charge on repeaterkeepers for applicationsapproved, nor will they beapproached by the RSGB for acontribution to recover the soci-ety's costs. The Radio-communication Agency canbe contacted (publicenquiries) on 071-215-5000.

Hands Free Operation FromHeatherlite

After many requests for a hands -freecontrol box from the amateur radiofraternity, Heatherlite Microphones arenow producing a unit which could solveindividual problems. NorthHumberside -based Heatherlite are now

producing a separate control box to usewith a range of microphones and ear-phones to suit the individual operator.They come with or without 1750Hztoneburst, and include scan buttons forup/down control, side jack sockets formicrophone and ear/speaker attach-ment, and I.e.d. display for transmit -receive indication.

The control box canuse its internal batterysupply or utilise powerfrom the in -line socket if apower feed is available.The control units are wiredup with the appropriate(in -line socket type) to suitthe individual transceiver.The control boxes costs£30, and further informa-tion is available direct fromHeatherlite Microphonesat 75 St. CatherinesDrive, Leconfield, NorthHumberside HU17 7NY,tel. (0964) 550577.

practkal a:)S3

Practical WirelessSubscriptions HeldUntil August!

Don't miss your chanceto save money on yourPractical Wirelesssubscription. Despiteour recent cover priceincrease, we are able tohold the subscriptionprices at the old leveluntil August 12 1993.So, don't lose out, andget your PW delivereddirect to your door foronly £21 (UK), £23{Europe) $45 (USA),£25 (rest of world).

practical


Clayesmore Morse Festival Weekend1993

The first Clayesmore Morse Festival Weekendtook place over the weekend of March 27-28 atClayesmore School, Iwerne Minster, betweenBlandford and Shaftesbury in Dorset. The week-end was formally opened by the ClayesmoreHeadmaster, Mr David Beeby, who welcomedeveryone and during his short opening speechrecounted the techniques he used to learn Morseduring his schooldays.

Morse weekenders attended from as far awayas South Wales, Staffordshire, London, East Angliaand the West Country. The youngest Morseweekender was aged seven and the oldest was 82!

Along with the chance of taking the MorseTest, the RSGB Dorset Morse Test team were onhand to give advice, and George Gunnill G4DLEthe Chief Examiner for Dorset gave an introducto-ry talk on the subject.

The weekend activities and entertainment alsoincluded talks from Bob Kent of Kent Keys, andGeoff Arnold G3GSR gave a talk on the specialistMorse magazine, Morsum Magnificat, and TonyDewsbury gave a talk on the specialised Morseequipment available from Dewsbury Electronics.

The Saturday evening included a private visitto the Royal Signals Museum at Blandford Camp.At the museum the visitors were given a personal-ly guided tour by the Curator, Major Roger Pickard.Roger Pickard even arranged a special surprise forthe visitors, in the form of a display of the muse-um's comprehensive collection of Morse keys.

On the Sunday, after lunch, the weekend wasjust rounding off with a question and suggestionsession for the projected 1994 event when the TVnews cameras from HTV in Bristol arrived. Theweekend activities, including interviews and amock Morse testing session, eventually featuredin HTV's evening news programme on the follow-ing Tuesday. Further details on the planned1994 Morse Festival Weekend can beobtained from the Clayesmore Radio Society(GORSC), Clayesmore School, IwerneMinster, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8PH.

New Venue ForRoyal NavalAmateur RadioSociety Rally

The ever popular RNARSRally moves to a newvenue on Sunday 13June this year. Followingthe impending closure ofthe old location at HMSMercury, where it hasbeen held for 32 years,the 1993 rally moves toits new location at HMSCollingwood, in Farehamjust off the M27.

As usual, there willbe many trade stands,an on -the -spot QSLprinter, bring & buy,

demonstrations and lotsof entertainment for thewhole family. The rally,to be held on the sportsfield at HMSCollingwood, opens at10am and there will betalk -in available on 144and 430MHz to guidevisitors in from the A27and the nearby M27(leave at Junction 11 andfollow towardsFareham). Furtherinformation from rallyorganiser Cliff HarperG4UJR at 34 NevaRoad, Bitterne Park,Southampton,Hampshire SO2 4FJ,tel. (0703) 557469.

Wavetek 60MHz Professional Oscilloscope

WavetekLtd.InstrumentsDivision,based inStourbridgein the WestMidlands,haveintroducedthe newBeckmanIndustrial60MHz,two -chan-nel dualtimebaseoscillo-scope tojoin theirother products. The new instrumentfeatures multiple triggering and themanufacturers consider that it will beideal for field service, production,test, repairs laboratory andeducational applications.

Featuring a conservatively rated60MHz bandwidth, the Beckman 9016features dual sweep generators toprovide a normal waveform displayor enable the user to zoom in' on anexpanded portion of a complexwaveform after a continuouslyvariable delay. The instrument is alsofitted with a variety of triggercoupling choices, including TV

modes. Additionally, 'Alternate trig-gering' also known as 'vertical mode'selects alternately from both channelsto display two asynchronous wave-forms in a stable manner, while con-tinuously variable 'hold off' aids trig-gering on complex signals. The 9016costs £799 and further details areavailable from: Roger Doyle ofWavetek Instruments Division(formerly the InstrumentationProducts Division of BeckmanIndustrial Ltd.) at Astec Building,High Street, Wolaston,Stourbridge, West Midlands DY84PG, tel. (0384) 442394.

WavelengthIntroduce NewVoltage ControlledOscillators

Wavelength Electronics,0 based in Broadstairs

Kent, have announcedthat they have intro-duced a new range ofvoltage controlledoscillators suitable forindustrial and avionic

applications. The v.c.o.sare available in both thelead type and surfacemounting formats.

The Wavelengthv.c.o.s combine a verywide frequency range(100MHz to 26GHz) withhigh linearity, low noiseand low microphony.Options include narrowband, multi -octave andthermostated types. The

company have justreleased a surface mountnarrow band v.c.o. usinga standard size MMICpackage with a centrefrequency between200MHz and 3.5GHz.

For further detailscontact Paul Glover atWavelengthElectronics (quotingref. WA101) on (0843)602869.


Edgware RadioSociety StraightKey Evening

Once again the Edgware& District Radio Societyare organising a straightkey evening for c.w.enthusiasts. The 1993event takes place onMay 21, the third Fridayin the month.

The 1993 StraightKey Evening is the 12thannual event, and thesociety is hoping to haveGB2SKE on the air tocelebrate the occasion.It's hoped to haveGB2SKE on the air in theprevious afternoon also.

The organisersstress the SKE is not acontest, and it's intend-ed to encourage every-one to plug a straightkey into the rig andenjoy themselves. Theidea is for everyone toindulge in some relaxedand friendly operating.

The evening startsfrom about 1900 (Britishsummer time) for aslong as you like or canstay on air. The frequen-cies are around3.550MHz, call CQ SKE.The GB2SKE callsignwill be active on 3.5 and7MHz and for Novicestaking part, eitherGB2SKE or GX3ASR (theED&RS club callsign)will be operating above3.560MHz. Furtherdetails can be obtainedfrom the SKE organiserJohn Bluff G3SJE at53 Winchester Road,Kenton, Harrow,Middlesex HA3 9PE,tel. 081-204-1034.

Qy

Oft

Vibroplex Bug Book

If you collect Morse keys in general, are keen onor own a Vibroplex mechanical 'bug' key, you'llbe particularly interested to learn about a veryinteresting book published by EasternCommunications, entitled The Vibroplex Co, Inc.The book tells the story of the company that

developed the 'revolutionary' design of mechani-cal Morse key between 1890 to 1990.

The book, written by specialist collector andauthor Bill Holly K1BH, charts the history ofthe key, with plenty of illustrations to help

collectors to date their own keys. It alsoincludes interesting information on patents and

a very interesting section on the various platesmounted on the Vibroplex

keys, and how theyhave

changed over the years.The book costs £19.85 inc. p&p, forthe standard copy, or £23.95 (inc.p&p) for a copy signed by theauthor. EasternCommunications at CavendishHouse, Happisburgh, Norfolk,tel. (0692) 650077.

0 0 3 1 5

nag.

TUE: VOIRORLIC =MAW IN G.

Portable Power Pack From KeySolar Systems

Well-known solar power andalternative energy specialist Bob KeyesGW4IED of Key Solar Systems, hasintroduced a new portable batterypower pack. The neat shoulder or waistcarried pack

comes complete in its own stout can-vas bag and provides power for both 6and 12V equipment.

Weighing only 1.8kg, the LVM77pack has a 4Ah capacity at 12V and 8Ahat 6V, enough to power an averagevideo camera for eight hours. Thepower pack is rechargeable fromanother battery in three to four hours,direct or via the supplied cigar -lighterplug. It can also be recharged with theLVM78 charger unit, and cannot be

overcharged. It's claimed that over1000 recharge cycles are possiblewith the sealed -for -life lead acidbatteries. The LVM77 cost £81.20

inc. VAT plus carriage.For further details on the LVM77

and LVM78 units, contactBob Keyes GW4IED of

Key Solar Systems at4 Glanmor Crescent,

Newport, Gwent NP9 8AX,FAX or tel. (0633) 280958.

Versatile UPVCSheet From Octa

The Octa range ofextruded UPVC sheetfrom KlocknerPentaplast provides forextensive applicationsand uses across a widerange of industriesincluding building, elec-tronics, machinery con-struction, air condition-ing, printing and dis-play purposes.

The adaptable, costeffective and strongmaterial which ismanufactured to a veryhigh specifications isavailable in a range ofsizes and types includ-ing: Octaclear clearUPVC sheet between 1and 6mm thickness,Octatech opaque UPVCsheet between 1 and10mm thickness andOctalight foamed UPVCsheet between 1 and10mm thickness.

All the productsoffer resistance tochemicals, are flameretardant and are recy-clable. Attractions forthe radio hobby enthu-siast include the factsthat the Octa range canbe cut, sawn, punched,drilled, milled, welded,bonded, nailed,screwed and heatformed.

For specific detailson the Octa productrange and suitableapplications contactTony BlackburnKlockner PentaplastLtd., Station Road,Theale, Reading,Berkshire RG7 4AA,tel. (0734) 303277.

Radio Amateur PresidentOf Society Of Cable TVEngineers

Doctor Roger Blakeway G1PXM,Corporate Director ofEngineering and Developmentfor the Videotron Corporation,has recently undertaken the roleof the new President of TheSociety of Cable TelevisionEngineers (SCTE) for a two-yearterm.

The SCTE, founded in 1945,is a learned body and isdedicated to raising the standardof cable television engineeringto the highest technical levels. Itorganises technical seminarsand produces a quarterly

publication called CableTelevision Engineering.

The SCTE seeks, by co-operation between membersand by the specialist knowledgeof individual members, toelevate and improve the statusand efficiency of all thoseengaged in cable televisionengineering. The society alsoembraces the widertelecommunications aspectsnow emerging through cabledistribution technology.Membership is growing fast andcurrently stands at 700 mem-bers.

Roger Blakeway is active onthe 50 and 144MHz and is a keen'Worked All Britain' enthusiast.

He wouldbe inter-ested inhearingfrom anyotherradioamateurinvolvedin thecable TVindustry with the aim ofproviding a listing of 'like souls'in the SCTE magazine. DropG1PXM a line...he's QTHR, orcontact him through VideotronCorporation Ltd., VideotronHouse, 11 - 29 Belmont Hill,London SE13 5AU, tel. 081-244-1297.


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Practical Wireless,June 1993 15

Cheshire Dorset Greater Manchester

Please send in all of your

Club News' items to

Donna Vincent at the

editorial offices in

Broadstone.

Avon

North Bristol ARC. Fridays, 7pm.Self Help Enterprise, 7 BraemarCrescent, Northville, Bristol. RAE &Morse tuition available for members.May 14 - Rig Maintenance & Repairsby Castle Electronics, 21st - PoliceCommunications by Avon Police,28th - Video by GORFB & WAB Visitto Outer Skerries by GOMEM, June 4- committee meeting. Tony G4ROXon (0272) 513573.

Bedfordshire

Shefford & DARS. Thursdays,8pm. Church Hall, Ampthill Road,Shefford, Bedfordshire. May 20 -visit to Jordens Mill, June 3 -Pedestrian DF Hunt. Paul G1GSN on(0462) 700618.

Berkshire

Maidenhead & DARC. The RedCross Hall, The Crescent,Maidenhead, 7.30pm. May 18 -preparations for HF & VHF FieldDays, June 5/6 - HF National FieldDay. Neil G8XYN on (0628) 25952.

Newbury & DARS. Wednesdays,7.30pm. Bucklebury Memorial Hall.May 26 - home construction hints.(0635) 46241.

Reading & DARC. 2nd & 4thThursdays, 8pm. The WoodleyPavilion, Woodford Park, HaddonDrive, Woodley, Reading. May 28 -construction & alignment evening,June 5/6 - HF NFD contest, 7th -Novice RAE, 10th - VHF NFD plan-

ning. Nick Challacombe GOLGG on(0734) 722489.

Buckinghamshire

Aylesbury Vale RS. 1st & 3rdWednesdays, 8pm. Village Hall atHardwick. May 19 - Meters In TheShack by I. Eamus G3KLT. MartynG4XZJ on (0296) 81097.

Mid -Cheshire ARS. CotebrookVillage Hall, Cotebrook, nr.Northwich, Cheshire. May 19 -Setting Up An HF Station by G4XUV,

GOIRA & G4CAX, 26th - Identifying

Components by GOIRA, June 2 - Junk

Sale, 9th - on the air night. MikeBaguley G7LQD on (0606)331210.

Stockport RS. 2nd & 4th

Wednesdays, 7.45pm. Room 14,

Dialstone Centre, Lisburne Lane,Offerton, Stockport, Cheshire. May 27- clinic evening, June 9 - DXpeditionsby HSO/G3NOM. Jim France G3KAF

on 061-439 4952.

Wirral ARS. 1st & 3rdWednesdays, 7.45pm. Ivy Farm,

Arrowe Park Road, Birkenhead,Wirral. May 18 - natter night, 19th -pre NFD meeting, 25th - natter night,

June 1 - natter night, 2nd manned 2mOF Hunt, 8th - natter night. Alec Seed

G3F00 on 051-644 6094.

Cleveland

Wrexham ARS. MaesgwynCommunity Centre, Maesgwyn Road,Wrexham. May 18 - annual construc-tors contest. Ian Wright GW1MVL on

(0978)845858.

Cumbria

Eden Valley RS. Odd months,

7.30pm. BBC Club, Penrith. May 27 -talk & slides from the Anglo ScotRepeater Group, Morse practice &demonstration of building circuitry.John Pape GONYO, 2 Mill Hill,Appleby -in -Westmoreland on(07683) 52106/52148.

Derbyshire

Buxton Radio Amateurs. LeeWood Hotel, Buxton, 8pm. 25 May -SWL - An Enjoyable Hobby byBrendan G1OHD, June 8 - quiz night.

Derek Carson 641H0 on (0298) 25506.

Devon

Appledore & DARC (Devon). 3rdMondays, 7.30pm. AppledoreFootball Clubroom. May 17 - Radio

Noise by Ken Symonds GODLC, 18th -

construction evening. Reg LyddonG4ETJ QTHR on (0237)477301.

Plymouth RC. Tuesdays, 6.30pm

RAE class, 7.30pm Morse class, 8pmclub activities. (As from June for thesummer, meetings will be fortnightly).The Basement, The Royal Fleet Club,

Devonport. May 25 - Rig Analysis byPeter Thornhill G6ZKQ, June 1 - nat-

ter night. G7NMA, 50 BellingtonCrescent, Plympton, Devon PL7 3QP.

Torbay ARS. Fridays, 7.30pm. ECC

Social Club, Highweek, NewtonAbbot. May 21 - Junk Sale. W.Hipwell G3HTX on (0803) 526762.

Dorset Police ARS. The DorsetPolice ARS will now be holding regu-lar monthly meetings, at force HQ onthe first Thursday of every month, at7.30pm. Membership is open toPolice Officers, serving and retired,Civilian employees, SpecialConstables and their immediate fami-ly. June 3 - visit to Hum AirportRADAR & Tower. Further info from PC915 Richard Newton at FemdownPolice Station on (0202) 229351.

Down

Bangor & DARS. 1st Fridays, 8pm.Winston Hotel, Queens Parade,Bangor, Co. Down. June 4 - informalchat. Des Buckley GI3HCP on (0247)460251.

East Yorkshire

North Ferriby United ARS.Fridays, 8pm. North Ferriby Utd. FC

Social Club, Church Road, NorthFerriby, East Yorkshire. May 14 -Surplus Equipment Sale, 21st - nighton the air, 28th - discussion. FrankLee G3YCC on (0482) 650410.

Essex

Bishop's Stortford ARS. 3rdMondays, 8pm. British Legion Club,Windhill, Bishops Stortford. JohnDudeney on (0799) 550313.

Braintree & OARS. 1st & 3rdMondays, 8pm. Community Centre,Victoria Street, Braintree. May 17 -AGM. J. F. Button G1WQQ c/o G4JXG,88 Coldnailhurst Avenue, Braintree,Essex CM7 5PY.

Vange ARS. Thursdays, 8pm.

Barnstaple Community Centre, LongRiding, Basildon, Essex. May 20 -Bert's Bugs by Bert Thompson, 27th -Port Connections by Roy G3ASH.

Doris on (0268)552606.

Greater London

Acton, Brentford & ChiswickARC. 3rd Tuesdays, 7.30pm. ChiswickTown Hall, Heathfield Terrace,London W4. May 18 - QRP problems -open discussion. Colm MulvanyGOJRY on 081-749 9972.

Edgware & DRS. WatlingCommunity Centre, 145 Orange Hill

Road, Burnt Oak, 8pm. May 21 -straight key evening, 27th - construc-tors contest & NFD Briefing by IanCope, June 5/6 - NFD. G4IUZ, 10th -

Experiences In Sri Lanka by DougGoodison GOLUH. Howard Drury

G4HMD on (0923)822776.

Southgate ARC. Winchmore HillCricket Club Pavilion, Firs Lane,Winchmore Hill, London N21. May 27- DF workshop. Brian SheltonGOMEE on 081-360 2453.

Rochdale & DARS. Mondays. T. S.

Frobisher, Greenbank Road,

Rochdale. June 6 - HF Airband by

GOPUD. Brian on 061-6538316 or

Dave (0706)32502.

Tameside ARS. 2nd & 4th

Tuesdays, 7.30pm. ATC Camp,

Moorcroft Street, Droylsden,Tameside. A. N. Laughlan G1YCM, 8

Kempton Close, Droylsden, Tameside,Manchester M35 7U.

Gwynedd

Dragon ARC. 1st & 3rd Mondays,7.30pm. Four Crosses Hotel, Menai

Bridge. May 17 - talk by David LastGW3MZY. Tony Rees GWOFMQ on

(0248) 600963.

Hampshire

Basingstoke ARC. 1st Mondays,7.30pm. Forest Ring Community

Centre, Sycamore Way, Winklebury,Basingstoke. May 23 - 2m directionfinding competition 0S174 -Fox: Eddie

G4SQZ, June 7 - construction compe-tition & VHF NFD planning. (0256)

25517.

ltchen Valley RC. 2nd & 4th

Fridays, 7.30pm. Scout Hut, BrickfieldLane, Chandlers Ford. May 14 - Radio

Investigation Service of the DTI, 28th -To The Border & Back by MikeG6AIQ. Les Kennard G3ABA on (0703)

732997.

Southampton ARC. 1st Mondays.Millbrook Community School, GreenLane, Maybush, Southampton, also

3rd Mondays at the home of one ofthe club members. Malc Troy G1UWLQTHR.

The Three Counties ARC. Every

other Wednesday, 8pm. RailwayHotel, Liphook Hampshire. May 26 -

GRP, June 9 - demonstration ofsweep generator techniques withGraham G4WNT. Kevin Roche G8GOS

on (0420) 83091.

Winchester ARC. 3rd Fridays,

7.30pm. Red Cross Centre, Durngate

House. May 21 - Radio Astronomy by

Alan Dodwell. Peter Simpkins G3MCLon (0962)865814.

Hereford & Worcester

Bromsgrove ARS. 2nd & 4thTuesdays, 8pm. Lickey End SocialClub, Alcester Road, Burcot,

Bromsgrove. May 25 - technical top-ics, June 8 - aerial construction. Mr D.Edwards G4ZWR on (0527) 546075.

Woodpecker RG. Mondays,8.30pm. Richmond Place Club, Edgar

Street, Hereford. Bob G1HWP on(0432)277591.


Hertfordshire

Cheshunt & DARC. Wednesdays,8pm. Church Room, Church Lane,

Wormley, nr. Cheshunt, Herts. May 19- outdoor meeting, Baas Hill Common,Broxborne, 26th - natter night. RogerFrisby G40AA on (0992) 464795.

Dacorum AR & TS. 1st (informal)

& 3rd (formal) Tuesdays, 8pm. TheHeath Park, Cotterells, HemelHempstead. May 18 - talk by MrArmstrong from AKD. Dennis BoastG1AKX on (0442) 259620.

Hoddesdon RC. AlternateThursdays, 8pm. Conservative Club,Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Herts. June 10- social night. Roy G4UNL on 081-804

5643.

Stevenage & DARS. Tuesdays,7.30pm. Stevenage Day Centre, ChellsWay, Stevenage. May 25 - practicalnight. Neil Ravilious 2E1ASZ on(0438) 350882.

Kent

Bredhurst T&RS. Thursdays,8.15pm. Parkwood CommunityAssociation, Parkwood Green,Rainham, Kent. Martin PearsonG7JBO on (0634) 365980.

Bromley & DARS. 3rd Tuesdays,7.30pm. The Victory Social Club,Kechill Gardens, Hayes, Kent. May 18- TV Principles by Ian Daniels. AlanMessenger G7GBH on 081-777 0420

Sevenoaks & DARS. May 17 - PCBoards For The Amateur by JohnTurnbull G1TVJ. The Secretary, c/oSevenoaks District Council, CouncilOffices, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks,Kent TN13 1HG.

Lancashire

Hesketh ARC. Every other Tues-

day. Birkdale, Southport. May 25 -radio quiz night, June 8 - Honey In TheEther. Bernie G7DEM on (0704) 63344.

Leicestershire

Charnwood ARCC. 1st & 3rdSundays. The Albion, Loughborough.May 16 - 160m night on the air, 30th -club field day, June 6 - VHF contestplanning. Phil on (0509) 232927.

Lincolnshire

Grantham RC. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays,8pm. Kontak Sports & Social Club,Barrowby Road, Grantham. June 1 -

inter -club quiz. John Kirton G8WWJon (0476) 65743.

Spalding & DARS. Fridays, 8pm.The Riverside Centre, The Old FireStation, Double Street, Spalding,Lincolnshire. May 14 - Motor Sport &Radio Communications. DavidJohnson on (0778) 425367 (6-7pm).

Merseyside

Liverpool & DARS. Tuesdays,8pm. Churchill Club, Church Road,Waver -tree, Liverpool. May 18 - NFD

preparations, 25th - Surplus Sale. IanMant G4WWX on 051-722 1178.

Wirral & DARC. Irby Cricket Club,Mill Hill Road, Irby, Wirral, 8pm. May16 - RSGB '93, NEC, 19th - D&W, The

Harp, Ness, 26th - Egg Race IV, 27th -31st GB8WA Special Event Station,

June 2 - D&W, The Greave Dunning,Greasby, 9th - practice DF Hunt,Heswall lay-by. Paul Robinson GOJZPon 051-648 5892.

Middlesex

Echelford ARS. Community Hall,

St. Martin's Court, Kinston Crescent,Ashford, Middlesex, 7.30pm. May 27 -Surplus Equipment Auction. P.Townshend G6PMT on (0344) 843472.

Norfolk

Norfolk ARC. Wednesdays,7.30pm. The Norfolk Dumpling, TheLivestock Market, Harford, Norwich.May 16 - trip to RSGB Exhibition atNEC, 19th - practical tuning -up, 26th -

final HF NFD briefing. Jack SimpsonG3NJQ on (0603) 747992.

Northants

Kettering ARS. Tuesdays, 7.30pm.

Electricity Sports & Social Club,Eksdale Street, Kettering. May 15/16 -Special Event Station, 25th - AmateurRadio Direction Finding by GeorgeWhenham G3TFA. Len GORDV (but

QTHR as G7EHM) on (0536) 514544.

Nottinghamshire

Nottingham ARC. Thursdays,7.30pm. Sherwood CommunityCentre, Mansfield Road, Nottingham.May 20 - Foxhunt No 2/Activity, 27th -construction evening, June 3 - Forum,10th - BBC1. Ian Miller G4JAE on

(0602) 232604.

South Notts ARC. HighbankCommunity Centre, FarnboroughRoad, Clifton Estate, Nottingham, orFairham Community College,Farnborough Road, Clifton Estate.May 14 - on air HF & VHF, 21st - talk -

in on S22/open forum, 28th - con-struction at Fairham College, 30th -First Fox Hunt, June 4 - on air HF &VHF. Julie Brown GOSOC, PO Box 4,Nottingham NG11 9DE.

Scotland

Dundee ARC. Tuesdays, 7pm.

College of Further Education, GrahamStreet, Dundee. May 18 - DARCawards evening, 25th - constructionnight. George Millar GM4FSB, 30Albert Crescent, Newport -on -Tay,Fife DD6 8DT.

Wigtownshire ARC. Thursdays,RAE & Morse, chats, etc. CommunityEducation Office, StranraerAcademy, 7.30pm to 10pm. Ellis

Gaston GMOHPK on (0776) 7215

evenings or (0294) 217979 day.

South Glamorgan

Barry ARS. Alternate Thursdays.Old College Inn. Ann MacKayGWOMIT, QTHR.

South Yorkshire

Devonshire Arms ARC. Mondays.Devonshire Arms Public House,Herries Road, Sheffield. David GOJJR

on (0742) 446282.

Sheffield ARC. Mondays 7.30pm.Firth Park Pavilion, Firth Park Road,

Sheffield. May 17 - RSGB video, 24th

- practical night, 31st - Bank Holidaydrop -in. (0742) 446282.

Mexborough & DARS. Fridays7.00pm. Harrop Hall, Dolcliffe Road,

Mexborough. Tom Sheppard GOSKon (0709) 586329.

Suffolk

Felixstowe & DARS. May 24 -ESWR planning, 30th - 17th Annual

East Suffolk Wireless Revival, June 7- night on the air. Paul WhitingG4YQC on (0394) 273507.

Leiston ARC. June 1 - TV1 by Ray

Petri. David Ferguson G6FS, 3

Aldeburgh Road, Leiston, SuffolkIP16 4JY.

Sudbury & DARC. 1st Tuesdays,

8pm. Five Bells Inn, Great Cornard,

Sudbury, Suffolk. June 1 - construc-tion competition project is set. ColinMuddimer GOPAO on (0787) 77004.

Surrey

Surrey RCC. Terra Nova' The

Waldrons, Waddon, Croyden, Surrey.May 17 - natter night, June 7 -History Of The Original London

Aerodrome. Berni G8TB on 081-6607517.

Sutton & Cheam RS. 3rdThursdays, 7.30pm. Sutton United

Football Club, The Borough Sports

Ground, Gander Green Lane, Sutton,Surrey. Natter nights - 1st Thursdays.May 20 - AGM, June 5/6 - HFNational Field Day. John PuttockGOBVVV, 53 Alexandra Avenue,

Sutton SM1 2PA.

The Kingston & DARS. 3rdWednesdays, 8pm. Alfriston, 3Berrylands Road, Surrey KT5 8RB.

May 19 - Surplus Equipment Sale.

Ray Fuller on 081-3981128.

Wimbledon & DARS. 2nd & lastFridays. St. Andrews Church Hall,Herbert Road, Wimbledon SW19.

May 14 - Surplus Equipment Sale.

28th - Developments In CellularRadio. Chris Frost GOKEB on 081-397

0427.

Warwickshire

Stratford -Upon -Avon & DRS. 2nd

& 4th Mondays, 7.30pm. Home GuardClub, Main Road, Tiddington,

Stratford -Upon -Avon, Warwickshire.May 24 - DF Foxhunt. Alan Beasley

GOCXJ on (No 82495.

West Midlands

Barr Beacon RC. 1st Mondays &3rd Wednesdays, 7.30pm. 112 WalsallRoad, Aldridge, West Midlands. C. J.Baker GONOL on (DM) 36162.

Midland ARS. Unit 22, 60 RegentPlace, off Caroline Street,Birmingham B1 3NJ. Wednesdays -RAE classes. Thursdays - natternights. John Crane GOLAI on 021-628

7632 evenings.

Solihull ARS. 3rd Thursdays. TheShirley Centre, 274 Stratford Road,

Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands. IvorMantell G4NRY. May 20 - PacketRadio by Derek Waller GOFPN. (0827)

53344 daytime.

West Yorkshire

Denby Dale & DARS. Pie Hall,

Denby Dale, nr. Huddersfield, 8pm.May 19 - rally meeting, June 2 - foxhunt. Ivan Lee, Clayton Lodge,

Sunnyside, Edgerton, HuddersfieldHD3 3AD.

Halifax & DARS. 1st & 3rdTuesdays, 7.30pm. May 18 - visit to

Police Headquarters, RichmondClose. David Moss GODLM on (0422)

202306.

Keighley ARS. The IngrowCricket Club, Ingrow, Keighley, 8pm.

May 13 - horse racing/natter night,20th - natter night, 27th - horse rac-ing/natter night, June 3 - natter night,10th - Radio Controlled Models by R.

Horrell. Kathy Conlon GORLO on

(0274) 496222.

Wiltshire

Devizes & DARC. Weekly 8pm,

Hare & Hounds Inn, Hare & HoundsStreet, Devizes. May 14 - Simple

Active Filters. Noel Woolrych G4TIX.

Trowbridge & DARC. 1st & 3rdWednesdays, 8pm. Southwick VillageHall, 8pm. May 19 - natter night, June2 - 144MHz direction finding contest.

Ian GOGRI on (0225) 864698.


NEVADA EVER

SCANNINGRECEIVERSNEW - MVT-7100,Set to be THE handheld of 1993This radio must be heard to bebelieved. It provides effortlessreception of SSB and CW signalsusing TRUE carrier injection with50Hz resolution. It can even (withaccessories) be hooked up for FAXand DATA reception.

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Each set is supplied with all accessoriesincluding: UK Charger, NiCad Batteries,Earphone, Telescopic Antenno,Griginal YupiteruEnglish Manual PRICE £449

IYUPITERU MVT 7000HANDHELD Receives 8 to 1300 MHz

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HP2000 HANDHELDStill our most popular handheldscanner.

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MS 1000 Base/mobileA mobile iiiersieri et Ine r -r z,;ju r, :' H but

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MVT-8000Mobile version of the 7000 c/v,, mainsadaptor. Especially sensitive aRecommended £389.00

AR3000AOur most popularbase scanner. Latestupdated version.1100kHz-2036MH)£899

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AR1500 HANDHELDCovers 500khz' I 300Mmz re-ceiving NFM/WFM/AM and SSB.Supplied with a large selection ofaccessories including:-

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£119

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YAESU RADIOYaesu FRG100 HF receiverA superb new radio covering50kHz to 30MHz - our top sellinggeneral coverage receiver ....£559

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Yaesu FT747GX - Still an unbelievableperformer across the H.F. bonds and one of thetop 5 in budget H.F. Transceivers. Top Band toTen, you won't be disappointed......._..£785

Thew FT -890 - Recent reviews answerall your questions Based on a winningcombination, available with or withoutauto A.T.0 £1175

Thew FT -530 -A Twin Bond Handheld anda host of features including Dual In -Bond RX,CTCSS DTMF all fitted. Wideband coverageplus optional speaker mic with LCD displayGuaranteed to be the next No. 1 £449.95

Yoesu FT -1000 -You will never wantanother H.F. Transceiver! The FT -1000 does itall. This has to be the ultimate word in H.F.communications.Full brochure available £3275Yoesu FT990 All mode HF TCVR £1995

Yoesu FT757GX HF TCVR £995

Yaesu FT767GX HF + VHF/UHF £ 1597

Yoesu FL7000 500 Watt HF amp £1795

Yaesu FT736R VHF/UHF multimode £1569

Yaesu FT650 6/10/12 mtr TRCVR £1221

Yaesu FRG8800 receiver £599

DRAKE

Drake R8E - Number one in the U.S.since 1943. Drake is known right acrossthe globe for its technology and aboveall, reliability - remember the "B" lineseparates (mine are still going!). Widefrequency coverage, excellent dynamicrange Superb filtering In fact it's simplythe best shortwave clarity you'll find.Outperforming many other receiverscosting much more. Whatever yourinterests - Drakes' R8E can handle it!!!

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OptionsR8E Matching Speaker £49.95

VHF Cony.(35-54 & 108-174MHz) £225.00

P.0 Computer Drive Software £59.95

Full Technical W/ShopManual £29.95

KENWOOD RADIOKenwood TS50

Just arrived. This new "micro" 100watt HF mobile rig is in short supplybecause of its popularity. We havepurchased large quantities - call forinfo or part exchange price on yourold HF rig £999Kenweed R-5000 - Tried and tested in allcorners of the world. This receiver keeps goingand going. 150kHz-30MHz.All mode with many options - whatmore could you want £949Kenwood T5450/6905 - Two superb H.FTransceivers capable of delivering the 'punch'when necessary. 100W O/P, optionalAuto A.T.U. plus general coveragereceive ....TS450 - £1249: 6905 - £1399TH28/48/781's - The family of 3 "designer-type- hondhelds that feel comfortable in thehand whether Two Meters, 70 Cms (idealnovice band) or 2/70 Twin Bander is whatyou're after - take a serious look at the'TH. range £CallKenwood TS$50S - Another sure winnerfrom Kenwood! Designed with the seriousoperator in mind and built to last... why notconsideryoorold83ruspgrooding or port -exchanging

£1599

Kenwood TS140S HF transceiver £849Kenwood TS950SDX £3499Kenwood TS790E £1799Kenwood TS711E £1099Kenwood TR751E £699Kenwood TM741E £758Kenwood T1922 £1699Kenwood TAA702E £499Kenwood TAA732E £599

MICROPHONESAdonis 5086Desk mic* FM/SSB audio

selector* Electret insert

* Slide switch to allowselection of 2 radios99.95

Adonis 308 Low noise desk mic £84.95

Kenwood MC50 Desk mic £49.95

Kenwood MC60A Desk mic £99.95

Kenwood MC80 Desk mic £59.95

Kenwood MC85 desk mic £119.95

Kenwood MC435 Hand mic £22.95

Kenwood MC44E h/mic £29.95

Kenwood MC45E h/mic £29.95

Kenwood MC44 DME h/mic £45.95

Kenwood MC45 DME E49.95

Sadelta XL30 Deskmicrophone. Made inSpain especially forKenwood Icom andYaesu radios - Theelectret insert gives

outstanding clarity £46.00

SAGANT ANTENNASHigh quality Japanese manufactured -outstanding performance.

End fed zepp antennas Using vinylcoated annealed copper wire - suppliedwith matching unit for coax feed.ZA3.5F (39 mtrs £79.95ZA7 (20 mtrs long) £79.95ZA14 14 MHz(9.9 mtrs long) £89.95

Antenna partsEL4OX (3.5/7MHz) 12.9 mtrs £89.95EL40XC Pair of 40 mtr trap, £19.95BL4OX Bolun 1.12kW S0239.. £29.95

EXTENDAMAST 10 METRE RETRACTABLE MASTSuitable for. D,poles, Long Wires. VHF/uni Beams. 051V and many wrier antennas

A new and inexpensive aluminium 10 metre retractable mast that may beused at home or for portable use. Easy to erect in minutes - your antennascan now be independant of sees, buildings and other make shih fixingpoints! The steel guying rings are corrosion protected to provide years ofuseful life. Because individual requirements vary guy wires ore not included.A base fixing plate is available as an extra.

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transceiverwith Auto ATU, Electronic Keyer, goodreceiver an a host of extras £1350

Icom IC -728 - If you like Icom, you'lllike the 728 HF Transceiver. Asexpected, built to a high standard. Fullcoverage, 100W o/p, manyaccessories £Under 1000

Icom IC -735 - This is more than justanother transceiver - well designed &stylish in looks with on enviableperformance. All the usualfeatures and still £1069

kern IC-W21E - Twin band handiewith full duplex "Whisper' mode. C/WNiCad and charger £425

Icom R-100 - The mobile monitoringstation. 500kHz to 1.8GHz. What moreis out there? 100 mems, AM, FM &WFM modes £565

Icom R-7100 - An affordable -professional grade receiver. Hosting 25-2000MHz coverage & a whole 900memories to play with! Full colourbrochure available £1259

incl. free discone

kern R-72 - Lets not forget all theS.W.L's - Icom haven't with this generalcoverage H.F receiver 100kHz-30MHzAll mode (FM optional) with 99 mein' forfavourite frequencies £759

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SCANNINGANTENNASWB1300 Discone -(25-1300MHz) Stainless steel top ofthe range "N" type connector.Complete with short mounting pole andclamps. 8 elements with vertical whip.Suitable for transmit on 6m, 2m, 70cm,32cm, and 23cm bands. Length 1 7mtrs £49.95'Nevada Scanmaster -(500kHz - 1 500MHz).New high quality wide -band receiving antennauses fibre glass/stainlesssteel with 4 small radials."N" type connector. Length

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Micro -Scan - (180-1 300MHz). New low costbudget ground plane antenna £12

Skyband -(25-1300MHz). Ourmost popular stainless steel economywidebond discone. Recommended.Bargain Price ONLY £27.95

SONY ACTIVE ANTENNASAN1 - An external active antennawith built-in pre -amp, covers150kHz-30MHz. Fully portable with

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AN3 - Active antenna for Aircraft andVHF reception, suitable for Sony Air 7plus many others £54.00,

fat

EARTALKEREartaiker -A completely newconcept in microphonetechnology. The Eartalker is acombination of earphone andmicrophone which is worn within

the ear. It provides outstanding transmittedaudio quality and is suitable for all leadingbrands of handheld (Call for details on yourparticular model), Separate volume, PTT switchand control box £39

MICRO-READERERA Microreader -Data Communications decoder - decodes RTTY,CW, AMTOR (A) & SITOR (13). 16 characterLCD display needing only connection toreceiver extension speaker socket. Shortly tobecome available will be the large Mine LCDdisplay with built-in parallel printer driver port.Variable in-built morse tutor. (Call and reserveyour optional display now) £169.00

ALINCO & STANDARDAlinco DJ -580 - Fast becoming the lopselling Twin Bond hondheld here in the U.K.Complete with all 'mod -cons" including AMAirband RX Comes ready to go just plug-in andcharge the perfect way to operate2M & 70 Cms £399Mince DJ -F 1 E - Don't take my word for it butmy customers agree that this is the perfectcompanion when considering a 2M handheld.Full coverage and again offered withAirband receive £249Mince DR -599E - Replacing the 590E This

little unit has an impressive 50W on eachbond, automatic remote repeater function (idealroynet exercises) and o host of extra facilitiesincluding ext.RX. Full colour brochure available -call us now! .£599.95 incl. free duplexerStandard C528 - This Twinband handheldis the model the others were based on! Still apopular choice with many features includingremote cloning and repeater talk-thrul £365Alinco DJ-F4E -A popular novice bondradio on 70cms. Simple to operate handheldwith 40 memories and 5 Watts output £269

LOW LOSS CABLESuperb Japanese lowloss cable withaluminium foil and braiddouble earth screening,tough weather resistantyet flexible. Fantasticlow loss - suitable forhigh power and frequencies up to 3, ' ..

5D -F8 (8.1mm - 0.055dB/mn) £0.65/mtr8D-F8 (11.1mm -0.03988/m*1 £1.65/mtr10D-F11113.1mm -0.031dB/mtr) £2.42/ mtrLosses quoted at 100MHz

CONNECTORS !tar above)

"N" Types £3.56BNC £3.75PL259 £1.50

KENPRORADIOKT -44 - 70 cms handheld.'numb wheel frequency control.Full 10MHz! Ideal novice orrepeater user, c/w NiCad, beltclip& charger £159.00

KT -22 - Popular 2M version ofthe KT -44 with simple NO FUSSoperation. Ideal standby handheldor for use on Packet £149.00

NEW HAND-HELDSALAN CT -145 - Fully featured2M handheld with options forDTMF & CTCSS Paging. 5 wattsoutput is available when poweredfrom external 12V DC supply. Nowwith extended receive - 130-169MHz. Excellent reliability &performance £199.00

SONY SHORTWAVEAs a Sony Shortwave centre, we stock acomplete range of Sony Shortwave product,Here is a selection of our best sellers:-

SW77 - One of the best new editions to theSony range. The SW77 covers 150kHz-30MHz plus on additional 76-108MHz. Witha rotary tuning dial, 125 scan memories, thereception of AM/FM/USB/LSB and CWmodes is a breeze. Fitted tape record facilityfinishes this superb all round receiver. £349.95

SW1E - Pocket Shortwave plus VHF Commercialradio. Each unit is supplied with headphones.case and shortwave guide. This model will nothurt your pocket..e139.95 this month only

SW5S -A new portable that gives goodreception of SSB and all modes from 150kHzto 30MHz and 76-108MHz VHF £269.99

SWR/POWER METERSDiamond SX100(1 6-60MHz) 3kW £124.95

Diamond SX200(1.8-200MHz) 200W

Diamond SW400(140-525MHz) 200W

Revex W520(1 8-200MHz) 200W

Zetagi Mod 700Professional lineusing 2 separatesensors 2-3MHz,120-500MHz, crossneedle power/SWRup tolkW £99.95

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TRADING POSTWe buy as well as sell new andused radio equipment, pleasefeel free to call Paul or John onour Hotline for an instant quoteon either P/X or Buy -Ins.

Yaesu FT -690 6m Porto -pact . £345

Yaesu FRG -9600 25-950MHz RX £365

Yaesu FT29OR 2m Porta-pack . £325

kern R72 -30 wave RX, boxed £625

Trio JR500/S Receiver £149

Tokyo HC200 ATU (80-10m)... £99

Trio R1000 Snort wove receiver £275

Yaesu FT-902DM Hr IX, v.g.c £625

Sommerkamp FT -1012D HF TX £495

Adonis 308 Desk mic (boxed) £65

Yaesu FT747GX HF 12V TX £650

Yaesu FT -890 HF TX, c/w WM ..£1175

kern R100 scanning RX.. £425

Tokyo HT -120 20m mobile TX £245

CT1600 2m H/H c/w 8525+h/set £165

Yaesu FT -470 Twin band h/held £365

Kenwood TR-77 Twin band h/held £325

Alinco DJ560 Twin band h/held £345

Kenwood TS -530/S HF TX, v.g.c £549

Kenwood AT -230 ATU, v.g.c £169

kom IC -240 2m mobile £149

Tokyo HX-240 HF transvertor £185

Adonis AM -508 '.1c (compressor) £75

Yaesu FRT-7700 RX ATU. £49

Uniden B/Cat 200X17 H/H scanner £140

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The Practical Wireless 144MHzQRP ContestOnce again the contest Adjudicator Neil! TaylorG4HLX, invites you to enter the PW QRP Contest.And for the first time, we're able to invite s.w.l.s tojoin in, with the chance to enjoy themslves and win aspecial prize in their own section.

The eleventh annual PracticalWireless 144MHz QRP Contestpromises to be another great dayfor the v.h.f. QRP operator. Asregular entrants know, the eventprovides a chance for even themost modest station to competeeffectively.

For the second year running,well known PW advertisers aresupporting the contest. Shropshire -based Specialist AntennaSystems, in conjunction withCushcraft Antennas from theUSA will be donating a 144MHzCushcraft beam, and Bob KeyesGW4IED of Key Solar Systemsis donating a portable batterypower pack system.

The high level of activity fromwell -sited stations means thateveryone can enjoy some DXcontacts, despite the 3W outputpower limit. If you are new tov.h.f. contests, this is an idealchance to join the fun for the firsttime.

Newcomers might like to lookat the introductory articlepublished with last year's rules, inthe June 1992 Practical Wireless.A photocopy of the article isavailable free, by eithertelephoning or writing to the PWoffices in Broadstone (no s.a.e.required).

Second prize for the 1993contest is a portablebattery power packdonated by Bob KeyesGW4IED of Key SolarSystems.

New ListenerCategory

A new feature of the PW contestthis year, is the separate categoryfor listeners. This will give thev.h.f. listener a chance to competeagainst others in logging the largenumber of stations to be heardfrom many locator squares.A special prize, kindly donated byMike Devereux G3SED ofPortsmouth -based NevadaCommunications, will beawarded to the winning listener.The prize will be presented at the1993 Leicester Show.And once again, along with thechance of valuable prizes for theleading stations, certificates will beawarded to entrants who lead invarious categories. Plus, of course,the coveted Winner's Cup for theoverall number one station, whichI'm looking forward to presentingat the Leicester Show in lateOctober.

General Rules

There are no major changes to thegeneral rules this year. So pleaserefer to the rules published inPractical Wireless June 1992 (freephotocopies available from theBroadstone offices, no s.a.e.required), making the followingchanges:

Rule 1. The duration will befrom 0900 to 1700UTC on 20thJune 1993.

Rule 6. Entries must bepostmarked no later than 5thJuly 1993. Any photographs maybe forwarded later to arrive by7th August 1993.

Rule 8. Delete lastparagraph. Certificates will beawarded to leading stations invarious categories, including theleading station in each locatorsquare.

First prize for the Practical Wireless 144MHz QRP Contest1993 will be a 144MHz antenna, donated by SpecialistAntenna Systems and Cushcraft (USA).

To obtain a copy of the fullrules of the contest, please writeto the Practical Wireless office atBroadstone (see contents pagefor address).

Listeners' Challenge

Entries are invited from v.h.f.listeners who hear and log stationson the 144MHz band during thecontest period. The rules forlisteners are based on the generalrules (see above).

1: The listeners' contest isopen to any individual or group,receiving s.s.b., c.w. or f.m.signals in the 144MHz band. Thereceiving station may not changeits location during the contest.The duration is as stated in thegeneral rules (above).

2: Stations heard and loggedmay be any station engaged in acontact (CQ, test, or othergeneral calls may not be loggedfor points), whether taking partin the contest or not. Therestrictions of general rule 2shall apply, in particular withregard to repeater and satellitecontacts being invalid.

3: Scoring for listeners'entries will be done in a similarway to that specified in generalrule 4, i.e. the score will be thenumber of stations heard,multiplied by the number ofdifferent locator squares heard.

4: Listeners' logs shouldconform to the requirements of

general rule 5 except that thecolumns must show:

(i) time UTC(ii) callsign of station heard(iii) callsign of station being

worked(iv) RS(T) report of signals

heard(v) RSIT) and serial no. (if

any) sent by stationheard

(vi) locator (or location) assent by station heard.

Only log entries whichcontain all this information willcount for points. If you hearboth sides of a contact, writeseparate log entries for eachstation. The same callsign mayappear in column (iii) no morethan once in every ten logentries.

5: As far as they areappropriate for receivingstations, general rules 6, 7 and 8shall also apply. Be certain tosupply information (a), (c), (d),(g), (h) and (k) in rule 6.

Enjoy The Contest

Well, that's the lot from me beforethe contest. I wish you all the verybest of luck, and I hope that you'llenjoy the contest as much as Ienjoy organising. I hope we'llhave good weather, a goodturn -out again, and I'm reallylooking forward to seeing a lot ofs.w.l. entries.

Here's to Sunday 20th June,good weather, good conditionsand good fortune. 73 from NeillTaylor G4HLX.

0900 - 1 noUTC Sunday 20 June 199320 Practical Wireless, June 1993

The Kenwood TS -50S HFMobile Transceiver

The newly -introducedKenwood TS -50S100W mini h.f. mobiletransceiver reviewedby George DobbsG3RJV.

In small proportions we just beauties see; And inshort measures, life may perfect be.

- Ben Jonson 1573-1637

These days the press has much to say about the sinsof the modem age. What a shame they always seemto miss out the chief one - covetousness. We'retaught to want.

So how sad it is, that I fell into the trap as soon asI got my hands on the review Kenwood TS -50Stransceiver. Within half an hour I was convinced thatI needed one!

Small And Handsome

The TS -50S is small and handsome. Measuring only179 x 60 x 233mm and weighing 6.4 Ibs, it'sprobably the smallest full feature h.f. transceiveravailable. It looks more like a 144MHz mobiletransceiver than a 100W h.f. rig.

The case is a rugged metal structure with apleasantly styled and uncluttered front panel. It looksgood.

Obviously aimed at the h.f. mobile market, theTS -50S is supplied complete with mobile mountingbrackets. There's also an internal noise blanker tofilter ignition noise.

The standard MC -47 microphone comes completewith scan and programming buttons for ease ofmobile operation. My review TS -50S also came withthe AT -50 automatic antenna tuner designed formobile or fixed station use.

The AT -50 is a matching box and runs in anautomatic 'hands - off' mode in conjunction with theTS -50S. It can also be used in semi -automatic modewith other transceivers.

Full Feature Transceiver

The TS -50S is a full feature microprocessor -controlled transceiver. It has all the usual facilitiesassociated with such equipment plus one or twothoughtful little extras.

The transmitter offers 1.s.b., u.s.b., c.w., f.m. anda.m. modes at selectable power levels of 100, 50 orIOW. The receiver is general coverage in the range500kHz to 30MHz. All of the TS -50S features areaccessed from a few controls on the front panel.

Nowadays, it's easy to get lost in the bowels of

The Rev. George Dobbs G3RJV, hasfound time to put his soldering irondown to try out the new and trulyamazing little 100W mobile rig fromKenwood. And true to form George hasfound a suitable quotation!

the software on modem transceivers. However,although there are plenty of software facilities in thistransceiver, the main operating facilities are notshrouded in the mysteries of multiple buttonpressing.

Is it possible to use the transceiver withoutconstant reference to the manual? To find out, Iswitched on the TS -50S and attempted to use itwithout reading the manual and unlike sometransceivers, this is perfectly possible with the TS -50S.

The main operating controls are clearly marked,and they do what the legends suggest, and so thelittle beastie is easy to drive. However, the 'clever'features are another layer down and do require theuse of the manual.

Front Panel Controls

Let's start by quickly looking through the front panelcontrols. The Power switch gives a cheerful 'hello'for about a second before the display comes up.

The AIP/ATT button activates the AdvancedIntercept Point and/or the Attenuator functions. Theattenuator provides a fixed 20dB attenuation onreceive and the a.i.p. provides an automatic r.f. gaincontrol below 9.5MHz.

The AIP/ATT button toggles between both offeither on or both on. Although I would havepreferred a manual r.f. gain control, I found thatthese features, especially when used together, enablethe TS -50S to cope well on the 7MHz band duringthe busy evening period.

The NB button provides a noise blanker, designedfor pulse noise and especially ignition noise duringmobile operation. The Audio gain control is gangedwith the Squelch control.

The squelch is active in all modes. Although itshould be turned right down, except in f.m. or a.m.use, I found it interesting to try on 7MHz s.s.b.operation.

The RIT control is ganged with the IF Shiftcontrol. When the RIT button is activated, thefrequency shift is indicated on the display.

I would have liked to have seen an RIT reminderl.e.d. with the button. But perhaps I'm just morecareless than other operators! This control alsodoubles as a scan speed control.

The IF Shift is a very useful facility and workswell. Being able to shift the if. filter pass -band,


Fig. 1: The KenwoodTS -50S mini h.f.transceiver, with theAT -50 matchingautomatic antennatuning unit mountedon top. Both unitsare fully portable,operating from abasic 12V d.c. powersupply. The TS -50 isa very compact 100Wtransceiver, and onlymeasures 179 x 60 x233mm.

when you've mastered it, can be a great help indodging adjacent channel interference and thisversion works well.

Memory Functions

The five buttons which control the memoryfunctions are grouped near the RIT button. There are100 memories with full scan facilities. All veryuseful I think, although I can never work out whatwe are supposed to do with 100 memories!

The transceiver's two v.f.o.s are operated withthree buttons: A/B toggle, Split frequency workingand A=B, which are conveniently placed next to themain tuning knob. Incidentally, the tuning controlhas an adjustable torque level hidden below theknob.

Naturally, when the rig is in the v.f.o. mode, theknob controls the operating frequency but this alsoincludes 'Fuzzy Logic Control. This means that therate of frequency step changes automatically,depending on how fast the control is turned.

Conveniently Placed

To the right of the tuning control are the modeswitch buttons, conveniently placed for 'third fingeroperation'. The s.s.b./c.w. button toggles betweenc.w. and the appropriate I.s.b. or u.s.b.mode for theselected band, although it can be set to toggleI.s.b./u.s.b./c.w.The multi -function s.s.b./c.w. button also selects theappropriate a.g.c. speed - fast for c.w. and slow fors.s.b. The FM/AM mode switch toggles thesemodes.

Above the tuning control are four larger buttons:F.Lock, MHz, Down and Up. The 'Down' and `Up'buttons switch up and down the amateur bands. Butthey can also move the frequency up and down by1MHz if the MHz button is on.

The 'Down' and 'Up' buttons also select memorychannels and menu settings. The F.Lock button locksand unlocks the tuning control and many otherfunctions, and it's also used to enter the menu set-up.

Fixed And Mobile

On the air, I used the TS -50S over several days froma fixed station and mobile locations. I concentratedon s.s.b. operations as I was asked to check thetransceiver for mobile use.

At home I used the TS -50S into a very averageantenna. It was a doublet, some 37m long, open wirefed to a Z -match antenna tuning unit.

A little casual operating on several bands usings.s.b., with a few c.w. QSOs proved to be a verypleasant experience. The TS -50S was easy to use and

gave a good account of itself.I used it at the 50 and

IOW levels. Thisis because myusual operation isQRP, and my a.t.u.is modest and mybi-directionalWattmeter onlyruns to about 20W.

The TS -50S didall that would beexpected from thepower level andstation set up.Altogether I found

the TS -50S very userfriendly.

I did spend a fair amount of the testing time on7MHz s.s.b. in the evening, considering this to be agood test of the transceiver. It held its own very well.

I was able to join the struggle with the best ofthem! My subjective view of the advancedinterception point (AIP) facility is that it is veryuseful in crowded band conditions. Adding theAttenuator enabled the TS -50S to cope with the7MHz band at its worst.

Key Operation

My operation on the key, using c.w. was limited. Iwould have liked more time because I suspect Icould have got to like the transceiver on c.w.

It would have been interesting to try the optional500Hz c.w. filter. However, I should mention thatthere are two c.w. facilities on the TS -50S which Ienjoyed using.

The c.w. reverse (CW-R) facility enables theoperator to swap sidebands on receive to dodgeQRM. The c.w. receive pitch can be changed in50Hz increments from 400Hz to 1kHz.

Recent research has suggested that a pitch lowerthan the usual 800Hz, is less fatiguing and makes foreasier operating. But, anyone who is musical alreadyknows that from Gregorian Chant to modern music,440Hz has been the preferred human pitch!

Not To Plan

My mobile operating did not quite go to plan. I tookthe TS -50S out to the Pennine hills above my housewith a new Sandpiper h.f. whip to test.As I began to set up the Sandpiper mobile antenna insitu and the rain began it does that in the Pennines!).I quickly got into the car and decided to allow theAT -50 automatic antenna tuner to take up the tuning.

The a.t.u. did the job very well. Despite the factthat the Sandpiper mobile antenna had not beenaccurately set up, I had a very enjoyable afternoon ofstatic mobile s.s.b. operation.

In mediocre conditions on 14MHz, I had acontinuous string of contacts from all over Europe,and a good lengthy QSO with W2MEL in Florida.The microphone button controls were useful, and thetransceiver was convenient to use in the crampedconditions of the car. Several stations alsocommented on the quality of the audio.

Summing Up

In summing up, I must say I like the TS -50S.Kenwood have produced an attractive andworthwhile product.

The rig is an ideal mobile transceiver whichwould also make a compact and domesticallyacceptable fixed station. It's easy to use andperforms well.

The final comment comes from my wife Jo'GOOWH, who is a very reluctant s.s.b. operator.After working UH8EA in a minor pile-up on thecrowded 7MHz band, she said "Can we afford to buyone?" And she's the usually more shrewd in thehouse regarding our financial affairs!

My thanks for the loan of the reviewtransceiver go to Mike Atkins of Kenwood UK(Comms Div.) Dwight Road, Watford,Hertfordshire WD1 8EB, tel: (0923) 816444, whoadvises me that the recommended price forTS -50S is £999.95. The matching automatictuning unit , the AT -50, is available £299.95. A500Hz crystal filter unit for c.w. is also availablefor £54.95.


SpecificationsGeneralModeNumber of memory channelsAntenna impendanceSupply voltageGrounding Method

Current drainTransmitReceive (standby)

Usable temperature rangeFrequency stabilityFrequency accuracyDimensions

Weight (main unit only)

Transmitter Frequency Range

*I Europe, France 1.810MHz, *2 Belgium,

Power output1.810 to 28MHz (s.s.b., c.w., f.m.)1.810 to 28MHz (a.m.)Modulation typeSpurious emissionsCarrier suppressionUnwanted sideband suppressionMaximum f.m. deviationMicrophone impedance

Receiver CharacteristicsReceiver freq. rangeCircuit type (s.s.b., c.w., a.m.)Circuit type (f.m.)

Sensitivity(s.s.b., c.w.)

(a.m.)

(f.m.)

Selectivity(s.s.b., c.w.)(a.m.)(f.m.)Image rejection

First i.f. rejectionSquelchsensitivity (s.s.b., c.w., a.m.)Squelch sensitivity (f.m.)Receiver independent tune (RIT)Audio outputAudio output impedance

J3E(1.s.b., u.s.b.), A I A(c.w.), A3E(a.m.), F3E(f.m.)100505213.8V d.v. ±I5%Negative ground

20.5A (maximum output)1.45A

-20C to + 60°C (-4°F to + 140°F)Within ±10p.p.m. (-10°C to + 50°C)Within ±10 p.p.m. (at room temperature)179 x 60 x 233mm

2.9 kg (6.4 Ibs)

1.800 - 2MHz *1, *23.500 - 4MHz *37.000 - 7.3MHz *410.100 - 10.150MHz14.000 - 14.350MHz

18.068 - 18.168MHz21.000 - 21.450MHz24.890 - 24.990MHz28.000 - 29.700MHz

France 1.850MHz, *3 Europe 3.8MHz, *4 Europe 7.1MHz

Max. 100W, Med. 50W, Min. IOWMax 25W, Med.12.5W, Min. 2.5WBalanced (s.s.b.) f.m. (variable reactance) a.m. (low level)-50dB or less40dB or more (mod. freq. 1.5kHz)40dB or more5kliz (=10% -20%)60052

500kHz to 30MHzDouble conversion (1st .i.f. 73.045MHz, 2nd 10.695MHz)Triple conversion (1st. i.f. 73.045MHz, 2nd. 10.695MHz, 3rd. 455kHz)

500kHz to 1.5MHz <0.251,iBV (at 10dB S+N/N)1.5. to I .7MHz <0.35µV1.7 to 30MHz <0.251.1V500kHz to 1.5MHz <0.250/ (10dB S+N/N)1.5 to 1.7MHz <0.351.1V1.7 to 30MHz <0.25µV28 to 30MHz <0.5p.V (at 12dB SINAD)

-6dB at 2.2kHz, -60dB less than 4.8kHz-6dB more than 5kHz, -60dB less than 40kHz-6dB more than 12kHz, -50dB less than 25kz>70dB>80dB

500kHz to 30MHz <21.1.V<0.32µV>1.1kHz (10Hz steps) >2.2kHz (20Hz steps)2W (into 852 at 5% distortion)852

Fig. 2: An inside view of theTS -50S, showing the massiveheat -sinking required for thecompact 100W transmitterand the exceptionally neat andun-cluttered p.c.b.

Fig. 3: Main board view of theTS -50S. The well designed

lay -out is deceptive, as itdisguises the complex nature

of the microprocessor -controlled transceiver.

I


Feature

Ron Wilson G4NZU,Senior MorseExaminer forNottinghamshire,passes on some ofhis experience anduseful advice foranyone about totake the Morse test.

Preparing for theMorse Test

Over 280 candidates have passed through theNottinghamshire RSGB Morse Testing centre.We feel our experience as examiners andtrainers will help those preparing for the test,or anyone helping candidates prepare.

The opinions expressed here, are personal.They don't necessarily reflect any 'officialview' of the RSGB Morse Testing Service.

The Student

Our aim, quite simply, is to ask the student tothink about the what, why and how of theirstudies.

Any aspiring c.w. operator soon finds outthere are many schools of thought, eachthinking they're the 'right' or 'only' methodof learning and using Morse. We can't enter into thisargument! We only ask the learner to listen andthink, which suits their needs best.

So once you're learning, how do you knowyou're ready for the receiving test? Unfortunately,there's no clear cut answer that applies to everystudent.

Assuming you're a regular listener to theGB2CW broadcasts, then a good 'rule of thumb'would be that they are able to obtain 'good' copy ofa passage at about 15 words per minute (w.p.m.).This means that most of the passage is correct.

Candidates who are 'comfortable' at 15w.p.m.will know that they have some 3w.p.m. in reserve.They'll be more confident, knowing that they cancope with the test speed.

A Danger

There's a danger in reaching the stage where15w.p.m. becomes 'easy'. That's when the testspeed is often reported as 'sounding slow' and thecandidate could end up causing problems forthemselves in the receiving section.

If you're at this stage, we recommend youconcentrate on the 12w.p.m. texts for a week or sobefore the examination in order to 'tune' the ear andbrain. Reaching the 'comfortable' stage also tellsyou that it's time to go for the test!

The Test

Now to the test itself. After the candidates havetaken the 'receive' passage, there'll be a short pausebefore the scripts are collected.

This is where you can ensure your writing iscapable of being read by the examiner. It's best towrite on alternate lines, as you then have room tomake any alteration quite clear and legible.

A problem which can strike any individual nomatter how expert, is missing the odd letter. Thenatural reaction to missing a letter is to leave a gap.This is correct if the operator is dealing with groupsof random letters of a code, and so cannot doanything about the missing letter.

The last candidates at the Nottinghamshire testcentre taking the old style test with theirexaminers. Back row (left to right) threecandidates and Bill G3ZVG. Front (left to right) RonWilson G4NZU, candidate, Charles G3XTL andTrevor GOIXR (Charles G3DXZ and Colin GOFOGweren't on duty.

In the amateur Morse test, the candidate isworking with English, abbreviated or not. Becauseof this, the gap will be surrounded by otherinformative letters which 'make sense' and so amissing letter can be rescued.

You can now apply your thinking, by consideringwhat the space or gap you have left could stand for.Is it a single letter, or two, or a letter and a wordgap? Or is it a word gap and a letter?

The uncertainty can be avoided if the beginnerdevelops the habit of putting a dot each time a letteris missed. If the habit of 'miss it - dot it' isdeveloped then the problems are minimised.

A dot means a missing letter and you still retainthe ability to indicate the word gap. It can be usefulwhen on the h.f. bands under difficult conditions.

There are two further advantages to the method.Firstly, as progress is made the dots per page show aclear drop. Secondly, as the corrections are put in, astudent will quickly identify their 'problem' letters.

Generally, candidates don't know that theomission of word gaps does not constitute an error,and also that the maximum number of errors in asingle word is two. Thus three errors in a singleword would only count as two, as would an omittedor inserted word.

Single Tutor

Many candidates seem to stick with a single tutor,whether it's a friend or a GB2CW station. However,it's best to make every effort to hear different styles,or 'fists' because hearing keying variety is helpful.

Many tutors use an electronic keyer and theirMorse should be well formed. This is fine,especially in the early stages of learning the code,but please bear in mind the real life situation.

Firstly, many operators use a hand key on air.Secondly, the examiners will use a hand key in thetest.

All hand keyers develop their own characteristicstyle. It's therefore helpful to the student to hear avariety of different 'fists'. This will help them toadjust to the examiner's style as quickly as possibleduring the practice piece.


Operating The Key

Generally speaking, the methods of operating thekey when sending Morse, are almost as many as thenumber of candidates. The variety is staggering!

The Nottinghamshire team have seen keysmounted on marble, still needing Blu-Tack toprevent them moving over the table. We've also seenthe table bending in sympathy with the Morse, andso on!

It's obvious that many candidates take nopractical advice on the operation of the key. Perhapsthis is because so many students learn in isolation.

Key Comfort

In amateur radio, perhaps the most important factorwhen operating a key, is that of comfort. This meanscomfort in the operating position, comfortableposture and comfortable 'grip'.

The radio amateur has relatively short periods ofoperation. Consequently it's difficult to train themuscles to support an arm. The famed 'brass' or`glass' elbow is another version of tennis elbow,each brought about by unnecessary muscle strain.

The aches and pains (nowadays known asrepetitive strain syndrome) led to the development ofthe mechanical keyers. Fortunately nowadays, thediscomfort can be avoided by a little thought andexperiment.

Firstly, it's necessary to give careful considerationto the type of key required. The next question to besettled relates to the working position in which thekey is to be used, the height relationships of theworking and seating surfaces.

With a high table and low chair, there'll bedifficulties in obtaining a comfortable and naturaloperating position. This is because the forearm willbe forced into an upward angle.

If a key whose knob is several inches above theworking surface is selected, the problem worsens. Alow flat key would be better. Alternatively, youcould position the key at a lower level.

The opposite situation of the high chair and lowtable is less constraining. Here, the ann will be ableto hang naturally from the shoulder - the ideal - andso avoid strain.

The Grip

Secondly, we've to consider the 'grip'. But does itmatter how we `grip' the key? In the final analysisany 'grip' which allows the operator to produce'good' Morse is acceptable.

The proviso is that the `grip' is comfortable. Itshould allow the operator to control the mechanics ofthe key, and allow the sending speed to reach thedesired standard.

The `grip' used by an individual will dictate, tosome extent, a third factor, the positioning of the keyon the bench. But, if you are comfortable with anyparticular method - stick with it.

Sending Test

A loss of standard half way through the Morsesending test may be due to the candidate trying tosend at a speed which they think is l2w.p.m. Perhapsdue to their inexperience, they seem to pick a speedsomewhat below the l2w.p.m.

The candidate can then lose their rhythm, makean error, correct it, but lose the 'flow'. Things thenseem to go from bad to worse.

Many learners seem to develop a natural speed ofabout 14w.p.m. Wouldn't it be better for thecandidate to use this natural speed? Personally, I'm

sure the examiners wouldn't be stressed and wouldappreciate the improved sending.

An advantage of the faster speed is that there willbe time for the correction of the odd error. Thisalways happens at the end of the longest word in thepassage!

Examination Tension

The Morse test is an examination and there will besome tension in the situation. Despite this, thereshould be no need for the reports of terror andjangled nerves so frequently talked about bylearners.

The psychological symptoms betray a lack ofconfidence on the part of the student. Confidence canbe developed by the B class amateur, by actuallyusing Morse on the air, for example on 144MHz.

A successful examination will be easier foranyone preparing for the new style Morse test,particularly if they take the opportunity to practiceby having QS0s on air. This is because they'll knowhow to conduct themselves, unlike those who tookthe old style test!

Instead of you sending practice Morse to a friendand them sending likewise, you can carry on aconversation. It will be hilarious at first as you getused to 'sending from the head', but as in all thingsconnected with Morse, all it requires is practice.

Examiners Talk

Why don't you invite the local examiner(s), to give atalk about the test? You'll see that they're not reallymonsters!

The examiners are normal human beings whoreally want candidates to pass if at all possible.There's another advantage in meeting them beforehand, because the appearance of a familiar face inthe examination room must help.

New Format

With the new format test, it will still be necessary tosend plain language and plain number passages inorder that candidates may learn the characters.They'll also have to formulate QSO style piecesready for the new test.

The new format test specifies the number ofletters and figures in a passage. So, there's apossibility that the receive passage will conform to arather stereotyped format which should make iteasier for the candidates.

Because of the new Morse test format, thecandidate should have little fear of having a real liveQSO once they're on air. The new test should also beeasier as it's (a) related to the real world of Morsecommunication, and (b) shorter than the old test butwith the same number of permitted errors.

Final Thoughts

I'll finish with two final thoughts. Although manycandidates learn Morse in isolation, it really helps ifyou have a class or group where the various ideasand problems can be discussed.

The final thought is that the Morse test couldperhaps be the easiest examination in the world toprepare for. You only need to know 26 letters and 10digits!

My thanks go to my fellow examiners -G3DXZ, G3XTL, G3ZVG, GOFOG and GOIXRfor many stimulating discussions, help andadvice, the candidates themselves and thestudents in my Morse class which led to thisarticle being prepared. PW


Feature

John WorthingtonGW3C0I, takes timeoff from his PWcartoonist's drawingboard to defend theelectronic Morsekeyer in his ownirreverent way!

The affliction knownas 'brass arm'.

"I do most of my c.w.operating from a deeparmchair".

Defending theElectronic Keyer

Over the last few years I've observed thegrowing lobby of hand Morse key enthusiasts. In away, it's the same as the parties of climbers whotackle mount Everest without oxygen. I see thesimilarity because for the most part, manual keyadvocates insist that true Morse can only be sent on ahand key, and that the best c.w. is heard only thatway.

The hand Morse key lobby will go on to say thatwhat's heard from the majority of automatic keyers ismainly rubbish. And they'll say this is because the'bug' keyer operator will try to send too quickly, andmistakes form 90% of transmissions.

Well, readers should know where I stand on thisvery grave matter. To this end, I would say brieflythat since five years of enforced manual keying in theRAF, I've seldom used a hand key, unless nothingelse is available.

Simple Comfort

My reason for using electronic keyers, is the simpleone of comfort. Even when I used a hand key daily, Iwas never able to eliminate the affliction known asbrass arm - a very tiresome ache in the forearm andelbow -region.

I envied the apparent ease displayed by someoperators. They could flail away on a hand keywithout any signs of discomfort.

Of course, it may well be that these very chaps,some of whom must be even older than me andtherefore approaching Royal Telegram time, are theones who actually started the Staunch HAnd KeySociety (known as Shacks).

Fair To Middling

So, having declared my interest I must go on to saythat my own c.w. on a hand key is fair to middling

when I'm fresh. Unfortunately, it rapidly deterioratesinto extremely hard to read Morse!

On the other hand, my sending on a keyer is notreally any better. But I can keep it up for a goodtime, owing to the lack of physical strength required.

What gets my goat about these self-righteous'manual bashers', is their insistence that only theirmethods can produce the perfect copy. This is plainlynot so, if a reasonably lengthy study is made of thebands and some research is done.

On collating the research information later, it willbe seen that bad Morse is fairly evenly widespread.But in my experience it is generally a clear victoryfor electronic keyers in the matter of good clearreadable c.w.

In My Opinion

On the other hand, in my opinion, it will be seen thata high proportion of hand keyed Morse will not be aseasy to read. Yes, I do realise that badly 'bugged'Morse is just as easy to come across, but the culprit isnot likely to be a dogmatic preacher on keying habits.

From time to time, designs for electronic keyerswill appear with claims that 'bad Morse is impossiblewith this one'. But until the day that the ultimatekeyer is produced, it will still be possible to send badMorse.

I know that modem keyboard Morse senders willcome close to the ideal. Despite this, the operator stillhas to insert the space manually and anyway, I thinkthat keyboard senders are part of the RTTY concept.

Magnificent Model

A close friend of mine used to send awful copy onhis magnificent brassbound Navy hand key. Andwhen he made one of the first generation ofelectronic keyers (designed by OZ7BO) he was soonsending awful Morse with that too!

So, the moral is plain to see. You can be a baddiewhether your weapon is a wooden truncheon or anExocet missile!

The modem generation of electronic keyers is thebest thing that has ever happened to my c.w. Forexample, I do most of my operating from a deeparmchair with the key across my lap.

The keyer is also quite happy in a vertical positionwith its rear end on the floor. Or even under thebedclothes for a spot of nocturnal DXing!

Slow Morse

Another winning feature of the modem electronickeyer is its ability to send really slow Morse. This isvery handy when instructing would-be operators.

It's so easy to sit down for half an hour and usethe electronic keyer, whereas a hand key demandssacrifices of strength, nerve, patience and stoicism.You need stoicism for the pains that arise fromholding your arm in the 'busted collar, bone position'for long stretches!

If there's a contest on this weekend, especiallyand solely for hand key users, it will be veryinteresting to listen and find out whether the generallevel of excellence is any higher than usual! PW


THE THREE POINTS OF THE KENWOOD TRIANGLE REPRESENT ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, QUALITY AND STYLE

4

BE SEDUCED BY ITSPERFOR ANCE.

can make a dual -

band transceiver as small

and feature -packed as this, who

cares about its looks?

Especially if it's also so sturdy that

it shrugs off the knocks and shocks of

a lifetime's use.

And especially if it has a host of

product features, from built-in DTSS

and paging functions to alphanumeric

memory, simultaneous

dual -frequency receive and

message paging.

We'll tell you who cares

Kenwood cares.

Which is why the TH78E isn't just

the neatest dual -band transceiver you

can buy, it's also the best designed.

Right down to thoughtful touches like

the sliding keypad cover.

So visit your nearest Kenwood

approved dealer, pick up the TH78E

and admire its ergonomic curves at

close quarters. Or simply take in the

wonders of its specification.

Either way, it's love at first sight.

Kenwood TH78E is part of a range of

hand portables from £240 to £430.

KENWOOD

HOME AUDIO, CAR AUDIO, COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT, TEST AND MEASURING INSTRUMENTS, TELECOMMUNICATIONS

MTR1Morse TutorClive Hardy G4SLUhas built and testedtwo kits, producedby a newmanufacturer to helpyou learn Morse,and judging by hiscomments, heenjoyed the projects.

28

I was very keen to take up the Editor's latest challenge,and build a special Morse code training aid. In fact, theMorse Tutor with replay kit, is the first product from anew manufacturer, Brian Jordan G4EWJ.

When built on its single -sided 79 x 99mm p.c.b.,the completed kit sends Morse in 5 -letter, 5 -number, ormixed five letters and numbers groups. It sends atspeeds from five to 36 words per minute.

The groups are sent in blocks of ten, with randomlyselected characters. Each block can then be replayed atthe push of a button. One push on a button generatesanother block.

When you're ready for sending, the project willrecord and play back about 90 seconds (at 12 wordsper minute) of Morse input by the operator. It also actsas a Morse practice oscillator.

The pitch of the unit's audio tone can be varied. Theoperator can also adjust the volume and the delaybetween the characters generated by the tutor.

Display And Dictionary

There's also a display and dictionary p.c.b. This is anadd-on unit for the Morse tutor with replay kit. It'sbuilt on the same size board, and is attached more orless vertically to the rear of the tutor kit board.

With the extra display board fitted the, replayoptions are extended and two extra facilities are added.The character being replayed can then either be heardin the usual way, or seen on a red l.e.d. matrix display.

The visual option does not apply to Morse input bythe operator. There's also a dictionary containing 5000words which can be accessed randomly in blocks often words, and 150 passages of text similar to the newQSO type Morse test.

The Jordan kits are supplied in large clearly labelledpolythene bags. And, each type and value ofcomponent was in a separately labelled, smallerpolythene bag.

One item that caught my eye was a lead bendingtool. It was just a small piece of perforated board forbending the leads of the diodes and resistors.

The lead -bending tool was simple but veryeffective. A nice touch to include it in the kit. I wasalready looking forward to starting construction!

Clear And Informative

The instructions were very clear and informative. Eachstage is given a letter of the alphabet starting, naturally,with the letter A.

The components required for each stage are in thepolythene bag labelled with the appropriate letter ofthe alphabet. The label also lists what's in the bag andthe component numbers.

The boards are a good quality item and are screenprinted on the upper side with the component layoutand numbers. There's also a copy of the layouttogether with a description of the various componentsincluded in the kit.

Following the instructions closely, it took me alittle over an hour to build each kit, and they bothworked first time. Everything fitted the boards well,the holes in the boards being very accurately drilled.

So exact are the holes, that the polyester capacitorsmust be offered to the board absolutely square. If thisisn't done correctly, both leads will not align with theholes.

I also found that the leads of the three push -buttonshad to be straightened from their original kinked state

The completed MTR1 Morse tutor kit andMDD1 display kit built by Clive HardyG4SLU.

before they would easily fit onto the board. However,those are my only two comments on, rather thancriticisms of the kits.

The only tools required are a soldering iron, solder,a pair of small wire cutters, and a multimeter to checkthe 5V supply to the i.c.s. There are two i.c.s on thetutor board and three on the display board.

When you're building the kits, a pair of small plierswill help. These can be used when you're fitting thelinks between the two boards as this can be fiddley.

You'll also need a 9V PP3 battery and headphones(the Walkman type are perfect). Finally, a Morse keyfitted with a 3.5mm jack is required for sendingpractice.

When it comes to fixing the battery, it can beattached to the tutor board with a supplied piece ofdouble -sided tape. However, I preferred to anchor thebattery to the board with a couple of cable ties.

Finally on the battery topic - don't do as I did andleave the battery connected when not in use because itwon't last long, and I quickly opted for an a.c. adaptor.

Various Options

The various operating options are selected by means ofpush -buttons. The volume and delay are adjusted bymeans of small potentiometers on the tutor board.

Two similar potentiometers on the display boardcontrol how long each character is displayed and thedelay between groups or words. It didn't take me longto learn which buttons to press for each function.

Summing Up

In summing up, I remember using a sound -only tutorto good effect, but it didn't have any of the features ofthe MDD1 or the replay facility of the MTR I. As ameans of checking on sending ability it is very handy.The display option will be particularly helpful forstudents in the early stages of learning Morse.

I thoroughly enjoyed building and using the kits,which are well produced with excellent instructions,and should be within the capabilities of the noviceconstructor (there's a help -line if you run itoproblems). The end product is easy to operate and auseful aid to the budding A class licencee.

My thanks go to Brian Jordan G4EWJ of 42Ben Nevis Road, Birkenhead, Wirral, MerseysideL42 6QY, tel: 051-643-8506, for supplying thereview kits which are available direct from him at£29.95 including p&p for the MTR1 tutor kit, and134.95 inc. p&p for the MDD1 Display kit. PW


THE THREE POINTS OF THE KENWOOD TRIANGLE REPRESENT ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, QUALITY AND STYLE

KENWOOD APPROVED DEALERS

AXMINSTERReg Ward & Co, 1 Western Parade,West Street, Axminster, Devon.Tel: 0297 34918

BELFAST

GM Electronics, 1-3 Evelyn Avenue,Belfast, Northern Ireland.Tel: 0232 471295

BIRMINGHAMSouth Midlands Communications,504 Alum Rock Road, Alum Rock,Birmingham. Tel: 021 327 1497

BIRMINGHAMWard Electronics, 422 Bromford Lane,Ward End, Birmingham.Tel: 021 328 6070

BOURNEMOUTHLowe Electronics, 27 Gillam Road,Northboume, Bournemouth.Tel: 0202 577760

BRISTOLLowe Electronics, 79 Gloucester Road,Patchway, Bristol. Tel: 0272 771770

BRISTOLAMDAT, 4 Northville Road, NorthvilleBristol. Tel: 0272 699352

CAMBRIDGELowe Electronics, 162 High Street,Chesterton, Cambridge.Tel: 0223 311230

CARDIFFPMR Ltd, Industrial Estate, Gwaelod-y-Garth, Cardiff. Tel: 0222 810999

CLACTON ON SEACoastal Communications, 19 CambridgeRoad, Clacton on Sea, Essex.Tel: 0255 474292

CORKlntronic Ltd, Windsor Hall,Glounthaune, Cork, Eire.Tel: 010 353 2135 4422

COUNTY TYRONETyrone Amateur Electronics,44 High Street, Omagh, Co Tyrone,Northern Ireland. Tel: 0662 242043

CUMBERNAULDLowe Electronics, Cumbernauld AirportCumbernauld. Tel: 0236 721004

DONCASTERAlan Hooker, 42 Nether Hall Road,Doncaster, South Yorkshire.Tel: 0302 325690

EALINGMartin Lynch, 286 Northfield AvenueEaling, London. Tel: 081 566 1120

EASTCOTELowe Electronics, 223 Field End Road,Eastcote, Middx. Tel: 081 429 3256

EDGWAREHaydon Communications, 132 HighStreet, Edgware, Middx.Tel: 081 951 5782

FIFEJaycee Electronics, 20 Woodside Way,Glenrothes, Fife. Tel: 0592 756962

HANGER LANEA R E, 6 Royal Parade, Hanger Lane,London. Tel: 081 997 4476

HAYWARDS HEATHBredhurst Electronics, High Street,Handcross, Haywards Heath, WestSussex. Tel: 0444 400786

HOCKLEYWaters & Stanton Electronics, SpaHouse, 22 Main Road, Hockley, EssexTel: 0702 206835

LEEDSSouth Midlands Communications,Nowell Lane Ind Est, Nowell Lane,Leeds. Tel: 0532 350606

LEEDSLowe Electronics, 34 New Briggate,Leeds. Tel: 0532 452657

MAIDSTONELowe Electronics, Chatham Road,

Sandling, Maidstone. Tel: 0622 692773

MATLOCKLowe Electronics, Chesterfield Road,Matlock, Derbyshire. Tel: 0629 580800

NEWCASTLELowe Electronics, Newcastle Airport,Woolsington, Newcastle.Tel: 0661 860418

NEWPORT PAGNELLPhoto Acoustics Ltd, 58 High Street,Newport Pagnell, Bucks.Tel: 0908 610625

NEWTON LE WILLOWSAmateur Radio Comms Ltd, 38 BridgeStreet, Earlestown, Newton Le WillowsMerseyside. Tel: 0925 229881

NORFOLKEastern Communications, CavendishHouse, Happisburgh, Norfolk.Tel: 0692 650077

NORTH HUMBERSIDEPeter Rodmell Communications, FieldHead House, Legonfield, NorthHumberside. Tel: 0964 550921

NOTTINGHAMR A S Nottingham, 3 Farndon Green,Wollaton Park, Nottingham.Tel: 0602 280267

PORTSMOUTHNevada, 189 London Road, PortsmouthHants. Tel: 0705 662145

SLOUGHLowe Electronics, London Heathrow,6 Cherwell Close, Langley, Slough,Berks. Tel: 0753 545255

STOURBRIDGEDewsbury Electronics, 176 Lower HighStreet, Stourbridge, West Midlands.Tel: 0384 390063

KENWOOD

HOME AUDIO, CAR AUDIO, COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT, TEST AND MEASURING INSTRUMENTS, TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Construction

Have you everthought of making aquality hand -builtMorse key foryourself? Dr. JimLycett GOMSZ has,and now shares hisconsiderable talentand expertise so youcan end up with ahand key to beproud of

The latest in along line oftraditional hand-made Morse keysbuilt by Dr JimLycett GOMSZ. Thisparticular modelstands on a granitebase.

Table 1:Dimensions of PopularMorse Keys

30

Making TraditionalMorse Keys Part 1

IC;

arm

Have you ever regrettedthrowing something out ? It always

seems that no matter how long you keepsomething, for those 'just in case' moments, soon

after you get rid of it, you find you need it.The one time which remains with me, with sorrow and

regret, is the time I discarded numerous rough brasscastings and their wooden pattems - you've guessed it, ofMorse keys. This happened when we decided to close thefamily business of electrical rewinders in the late 1970s.

From early childhood days I can recall the foundry binwith castings of arms, trunnions etc, and I even rememberattempting to assemble a key from the miriad of bits andpieces in my early teens.

A few years ago, I found an interest in amateur radio,and these memories came flooding back. This article isoffered as an introduction to key design for the homeconstructor.

Machining has been kept to a minimum, so thedesigns offered here can be made using hand tools. Butfirst a little of the theory!

The hand key (or straight key) consists of a lever arm,which is usually metal, a pivot (fulcrum or trunnion)block, base, adjustable contacts, adjustable spring and anoperating knob. The key is a precision instrument and isin essence a hand switch with a spring return.

I set about investigating what makes a good key 'key'.Very quickly the investigation lead me into theconsideration not only of the static requirements, such asgeometric size and weight, but also the dynamicrequirements of the key.

The Requirements

Let's firstly take a look at the static requirements of thekey. A universal key layout was produced to recordimportant dimensions of several popular keys this isshown in Fig. 1. The front of the key being defined as theknob end, and Table 1, tabulates the dimensions of thekeys examined.

The ratio of arm length (L) to contact positions (L:Fand L:B), and the ratio arm length to spring distance(L:S) form useful guides to the statics of the key. Theseare summarised in Table 2. The analysis of the ratios L:Fand L:S reveal the relative merits in terms of hand

movement, keying pressure andspring tension (compression).

Next, the ratio L:F effectivelydetermines contact pressure andkeying movement. High valuesindicate a high mechanicaladvantage, and hence a contactpressure L/F times that of thekeying pressure.

The gap is set by adjustingeither the front or back contactheight, and hence the handmovement. The ratio L:S gives thespring tension advantage.

High values of L:S meanstronger springs are needed, andthus they're more difficult tofinely adjust. Trade-offs existbetween hand movement andcontact pressure, and thus anoptimum must be sought as itsignificantly effects the feel of akey.


Make

High Inertia Keys

F B S

Kent 90 37 43 20bG4ZPY 90 50 40 40bHK703 90 32 32 19b1056A 76 38 32 15bGW 125 45 32 18f

Admiralty Keys8558 100 65 65 30uAP7681 45 45 45 20b

WWII Army KeysWT No2 67 29 25 15fWT No3 67 25 29 15f

Low Inertia KeysJunker 83 32 28 17fJ-41 79 35 30 19fRS 79 35 22 22f9618 43 43 27 15c

material bearings

brass b.racebrass bushbrass 4 ballbrass T.pinbrass pin

brass springbrass point

brass p.pinbrass p.pin

steel pointbrass pointsteel 4 ballsteel spring

Low Inertia

The well-known Second WorldWar American J -4I low profile(McElroy style key), and theJunkers type fall into the lowinertia category of key. This isbecause their key arms areformed from pressed sheetmetal approximately 3mm thick.

At the other extreme (whenit comes to arm section) we havethe high inertia keys constructedfrom solid bar stock material(such as the British -made Kentkey) or metal castings (as in thePost Office PO I056A type).Incidentally, it's said thatkeying speeds of up to 45 wordsper minute are possible withhigh inertia keys.

Simplest Key

37

1111

13 111

IF)

Alternative (low profile) arm layout

Possibly the simplest type of Morse key, consists of a flatflexible metal strip which bends and touches the fixedstud contact when keyed. The relatively modem ex -Army thigh key of 1978 is similar in principle to thisbasic key.

Without doubt the Admiralty key displays the mostadvanced state of the art in spring suspension. It's abeautiful key to use. The diagram, Fig. 2 shows thetypical arrangement and principle involved in this key.

Samuel Morse first used a tablet consisting of metalsections arranged to form the code for the individualcharacters. A metal stylus was drawn across the tablet,completing the electrical circuit as it contacted the metalsections.

The hand key started to evolve when operators of thestylus realised they could beat out the code without thepredefined patterns of the tablet. But another contact onthe key was needed, as single current working of thetelegraph system required a 'make' and a 'break' contactas well.

It's interesting to note that nearly all modem keys stillmaintain the evolutionary design of the 'front' and back'contact. Although nowadays the back contact is used onlyas a stop.

Three major concepts in key design can be identified.Firstly, there's the low inertia keys favoured by American'speed' keyers (this style is reflected in some modem bugkey designs such as the Bencher).

Secondly, there's the high inertia key, popular inBritain, and used by the Post Office and armed forces.Finally, there's the spring suspension type used by themaritime operators.

Predominate Feature

The lever arm is the most predominant feature of astraight (hand) key. providing both style and character.A long arm generates the impression of smoothness andpurpose associated with a thoroughbred race horse.

A short key arm may be compared to the agility of apony, and Fig. 3 shows a number of popular styles of arm.The choice is yours!

In considering the basics, I've found that bymaintaining symmetry about the fulcrum (pivot point) forthe front and back contacts, the rest of the design fallsneatly into place. So. with this simple criteria laid down,let's considerthe positionof the knob.

Theearlieranalysisshowed thatthe ratio L:Fdeterminedboth thehandmovementfor a givencontact gap,and contactpressure fora given handkeying force.I found thatvalues of L:Fin the range

Make L:F L:B

KentG4ZPYHK -7031056AGW

2.431.872.812.002.78

2.092.252.812.373.91

4.52.254.745.076.94

8558 1.54 1.54 3.33AP7681 1.00 1.00 2.25

WT No2 2.31 2.68 4.47WT No3 2.68 2.31 4.47

JunkerJ-41RS9618

2.592.262.261.00

2.962.633.591.60

5.534.163.592.86

75

"Th

125

Fig. 1: The 'universal'Morse key layoutdeveloped by GOMSZfrom his studies ofmany different typesand individual styles ofkeys (see text andTable 1).

Table 2: Ratio ofdimensions

Fig. 2: The well-knownAdmiralty type Morsekey (see text.

Spring Suspension type (after Admiralty key '8558'1


Fig. 3: Illustrationshowing a number ofdifferent popular stylesfor key arms (see text).

Straight Arm Marconi 10.5'Sid)

er)

Admiralty 855810.375' x 0.625')

Hi -Mound 70310.375" x 0.5')

Pan 1056A (0.375' x 0.625')

Cross Sections

- B

bossesz\

2:1 to 3:1 produced a good positive feel to the key, whilstwith values approaching I:I it became difficult to keyquickly.

You'll appreciate that the guidelines I've mentionedare highly subjective. But they're included for youinformation and assistance.

The Design

The design, arrived at by computer simulation, givesan aesthetic and practical optimum for the value of L:F as2.84. This means that if you want an arm approximately200mm long, then L= 125, F= 45, B= 45, or for a(254mm) long arm then L=I65, F= 58. B= 58.

The arm, following the Marconi style of key, is 0.5 insquare brass, which is readily obtainable through materialstockists (see supplier list in the next pan). The wholedesign can also be scaled down to use 3/8in squarematerial or the metric equivalent. (Editorial note: To tryand avoid confusion, we have minimised conversionsfrom metric to imperial and vice versa as much aspossible. The imperial dimensions have been kept wherethese appear to be standard stock sizes).

If however, the reduced section is used. I wouldstrongly suggest bearing bosses be sweated onto each sideof the bar. This increases the arm width.

The maximum bar length for the smaller section

should not exceed125mm, otherwisenoticeable flexing willoccur. Selecting arectangular section ofsay 0.375 wide x 0.5inch deep makes apractical alternative to0.5in square section.

A suitable armlength for the largersection is 200mm.This is is a little longerthan the presentgeneration of excellentstraight keys availableto the radio amateur,and falls well into theold professional keylength.

Next, carefullymark out the holes forthe adjusters (front andback contact, and

spring), pin locking screw and knob stud, on the top of thearm along the longitudinal centre line. It's essential thatthe hole for the bearing pin is perpendicular to the sideof the arm. If it's not, the finished key will be askew andnot very nice to look at.

Personal Preference

When building the key, use your personal preference inselecting the style of spring adjuster and its location 'fore'or 'aft' of the pivot. Threaded holes must be drilled withthe correct tapping drill size. For a 2BA thread, a drillsize of 4.4mm is needed.

The next job is drilling and tapping (threading) theholes. Then the arm may be shaped to your choice using ahacksaw and file.

When you're shaping the arm, you can remove largeamounts of brass and finish off by filing. Don't forget toput a small radius on all sharp edges.

Finally this month, I'll leave you with a word ofwarning. Be selective in the amount of material youremove, staying well clear of the pivot and adjusterholes.

In part 2, I'll describe the making of the pivot block,the adjusters, contacts and the base details. In next to notime, you'll soon have a good-looking key to encourageyou to venture onto c.w. once again! PW

Summary of Abbreviations

Suffix after figures in S column 9618 - military key (knee strap) 5805-b - spring position back of key 99-949-9618f - spring position front of key AP 7681 - admiralty key pattern 7681 -c - cantilever construction Goodburnu - spring suspension (no bearings) GW - GW Morse Keysbrace - sealed ball bearing race and pin G4ZPY - Marconi style key, by G4ZPYbush - self lubricating bush and pin Paddle Keys4 ball - 4 balls in cup bearing HK703 - Hi -Mound hand key HK703P.pin

point- parallel pin bearing- pointed pin and cup bearing

J-41

Junker- US Army Telegraph Set TG -5-B,- German naval key

T.pin - taper pin bearing Kent - Solid Brass Key, by R A Kent(Engineers)

Keys Examined RS - Radio Shack (Tandy) Morse Key1056a - Post Office Key (single current WT No2 and 3 - military keys WT 8amp No2 and

Morse key 3 (various MKs) c1940 after8558 - admiralty key 5805-99-580-

8558Whitely W.B 8amp Morse keyintroduced 1938,


Once again as we have a Morse 'theme', the PW team takes another opportunity to present a guide to helpyou find and choose equipment to learn, practice, read, use and enjoy the c.w. mode to the best advantage.

This showcase displaysequipment ranging from thebasic mechanical to the mostsophisticated electronictransmission and reception aids.You are all catered for, whetheryou want to just bash away onthe hand key or use a keyboardor electronic key.

So, enough chatting, let'sopen the 1993 showcase.

Basic Keys And Keyers

If you're interested in traditionalsending, there's everythingavailable, from the very basichand keys to superbly hand-crafted brass keys. If you'rekeen to try other ideas, there'severything from simpleelectronic keyers to theformidable -looking electronickeyer that looks like it doesn'tneed you.

Coltec ElectronicsAlthough they may not be veryfamiliar to PW readers, anyonewho is a regular rally -goer willhave already met this company.Based in Birmingham, ColtecElectronics attend many rallies,and they are yet another British -based organisation producingbudget -priced kits for theamateur radio market. Ofparticular interest for c.w.enthusiasts is their Cl' 122IKiambic keyer, which Coltecclaim will key all rigs. Theyalso state they're prepared to do'one off' projects if you needsomething special. For furtherdetails and prices contact thecompany at 330 Brays Road,Sheldon, Birmingham B262PS. Tel: 021-722 2429.

G4ZPY Paddle Keys International. Gordon Crowhurst is the well-known moustache under the 'G4ZPY Paddle Keys' sign and you'llfind him at many rallies. Gordon produces a distinctive range ofstandard hand and paddle Morse keys, finished to a high standard.One key is produced in kit form.

All the keys have a good firm action, although Rob MannionG3XFD feels that the model with the heavy base made from lakelandstone was the most popular key.

For further details of their full range of products contact them at:41 Mill Dam Lane, Burscough, Ormskirk, Lancashire L40 7TG.Tel: (0704) 894299.

Eastern Communicationsare importers of the Vibroplexrange of traditional bug keys.These keys use a mechanicalaction to smooth out the timingof the dot action, the dash timeis still up to the operator. Inthese days of complex

electronics a littledated perhaps, but theelectronic type doesn't

look as nice as a chrome platedVibroplex key on the shackbench. For more informationabout these keys and otheritems contact them at:Cavendish House,Happisburgh, Norfolk NR12ORU. Tel: (0692) 650077

Kanga Products. Well-known to members of theG-QRP Club, their products areaimed at the low -poweroperating fraternity. Based inKent, Kanga produce a varietyof c.w. transmitters, receiversand accessories in kit form. Ofparticular interest to the c.w.enthusiast is their budget -pricediambic keyer kit. For furtherdetails of the keyer kit and thefull range of products (freecatalogue) contact: KangaProducts at: Seaview House,Crete Road East, Folkestone,CT18 7EG. Tel/FAX: (0303)891106 (mobile) (0860) 363915.

Kent Keys. Produced byBob Kent's company based inPreston Lancashire, theseMorse keys are hand -made andfinished to a high standard.Bob produces a wide variety ofkeys, with kit options availableon various models if you fancybuilding one yourself. Forthose people who can't get onwith iambic paddle keys, thiscompany also produce a neatlittle single paddle side -to -sidekey. Their latest electronickeyer comes with a superbsmall double paddle key.

For further details andinformation on their products,contact them at: 243 CarrLane, Tarleton, Preston,Lancashire PR4 6YB. Tel:(0772) 814998), FAX: (0772)815437.

Samson Keys have beenproduced for the last 26 yearsby Herman Samson DJ2BWfrom his works in Germany.The product information guideclaims that the keyers are inuse all over the world and atmany coastal stations. Theyinclude the well-knownETM/SQ twin -paddle key. TheSamson ETM-9C electronickeyer, with built-in twin paddlekeys, is claimed to beparticularly easy to operate,and their other model, theSamson ETM-9COG keyer isdesigned for use with externaltwin -paddle keys.

Contact address at the top ofpage 34.


Full Samson Keysproduct details,information andprices of the keysand keyers etc., areavailable from thesole UK Agent:

F. H. Watts G5BM, Woodland View, Birches Lane, Newent,Gloucester GL18 1DN. Tel: (0531) 820960.

S.E.M. Based in the Isle of Man, this manufacturer produces,along with other amateur radio equipment, several items of particularinterest to the c.w. enthusiast. Their range includes a twin -paddle keyand the well established iambic keyer (which for versatility uses areed relay for switching) plus the latest addition to the range, theCosmic Keyer. For further information and product details contactMr G. P. Crapper, S.E.M., Union Mills, Isle of Man. Tel: (0624)851277.

Aids And Tutors

As the equipment on offer hereis so varied, we've groupedeverything together under theone title. After all, they aremade to help you get the bestout of using the Morse mode!

Comar Electronics supply arange of decoding systemsdesigned mainly for the shortwave listener. For Morse codethey have PC-SWL. Thisprogram for the IBM andclones, comprises software andan interface unit that connects tothe serial port of the computer.The Morse module hasautomatic or manual speedsetting from 1 to 40 w.p.m. Anon -screen indicator is includedto aid tuning. There is also anadjustable c.w. filter andlistening log database. For moreinformation contact Comar at:Unit 10, Samuel WhitesEstate, Medina Road, Cowes,IoW P031 7LP.

Dewsbury Electronicsproduce an interesting range ofMorse -related equipment. TheSupa-Tuta has been reviewed in

PW, and it's now well -established. The Supa-Tutarange is, as the name suggests, ateaching device. The units areportable (requiring an external9-14V d.c at about 300mA so itwill run on almost any powersupply). The Supa-Tuta comeswith built-in courses designedto suit all. From the totalnewcomer through to advancedoperator. There is now a Supa-Tuta 'Plus', with acomprehensive keyer facilityadded to the teaching aids of thebasic Supa-Tuta. Their range iscomprehensive and it hasrecently been extended. For thelatest details contact DewsburyElectronics at 176 Lower HighStreet, Stourbridge, WestMidlands DY8 1TG. Tel:(0384) 390063/371228, FAX:(0384) 371228.

Enterprise RadioApplications are better knownby their company's initials,ERA. Their well -establishedERA 'Microreader MkII'(reviewed in an earlier PW) hasa very effective Morse tutorbuilt-in to it. The sending speedis fully adjustable in 2 w.p.m.steps up to 26 w.p.m. There is

also a built-in sounder toprovide the side -tone. Thiswell-known unit, is designedalso to decode (and display)Morse and RTTY signals .Merely connect the audiooutput from the receiver to theunit. Incoming signals aredecoded and displayed on thebuilt-in l.c.d. screen. Thecompany also produce aseparate RS232 display unit, soyou don't have to tie up yourcomputer while receiving. Forfull details on this and otherproducts, contact ERA at:5 Clarendon Court, WinwickQuay, Warrington WA2 8QP.Tel: (0925) 573118.

Grosvenor Softwareprovide continuing support forthe Dragon computer. A Morsetutor is available on tape thatprovides random sending from8 to 99 w.p.m. Inter -characterspacing can be adjusted andtext can be letter or figuregroups mixed and includingpunctuation and random words.The software packages,covering most of the popularcomputers, are readilyavailable. The IBM PC issupported by theBMKMULTY package whichprovides any combination ofup to seven decoding andtransmission modes. TheMorse module features fullyautomatic tracking of signalsup to 100 w.p.m. One usefulfeature is the ability to detect areal Morse signal in randomnoise. This is particularlyuseful when monitoring aspecific frequency for activity.Grosvenor Software(G4BMK), 2 Beacon Close,Seaford, E. Sussex BN25 2JZ.

ICS Electronics. Thiscompany, based in West Sussex,has tended to specialise incomputer -based amateur radioand data receiving equipmentfor some time. Of the manyproducts that ICS stock thereare several to interest the Morseenthusiast. One of their well -established products is the AEA'Morse Machine'. Thiselectronic memory keyerfeatures a multi -functionelectronic keyer, plus acomprehensive training mode(reviewed in PW). The machinealso has a simulated QSOprogram, which is designed tohelp you practice a under 'real'QSO conditions. If you're reallykeen, you can even use thebuilt-in simulated DX Contestprogram and join in or justlisten in for practice! The AEA'Morse Machine' is fullycomputer compatible, and itoffers a host of features. For fulldetails, prices and informationon this and other productscontact ICS Electronics Ltd. at:Unit V, Rudford IndustrialEstate, Ford, Arundel, WestSussex BN18 OBD. Tel: (0903)731101, FAX: (0903) 731105.

J & P Electronics have aMorse program suitable foroperation with a wide range ofpopular computers, including:Spectrum, MSX, Amstrad464/6128, CBM64, C16, 8, +4,BBC B, Electron, Atari400/800/XL. The program isdesigned to take the absolutebeginner to speeds of up to 20w.p.m. In addition to adjustablespeed (6-20 w.p.m.), the sendingpattern can be adjusted fromsingle characters and numbersthrough to full test passages andmore. The speed can also be set

Datong D70 Morse Tutor. This famous product is well-known,among amateurs. It's a very compact portable unit that operates froman internally mounted 9V battery. The tutor can send a randomselection of either letters, numbers or a mix of the two. Rotarycontrols on the front panel, allow speed adjustment from 6.5 throughto 37 w.p.m. You can also increase the inter -character space fromnormal to just over 4 seconds. The side tone is supplied via aninternal speaker which can also be used for sending practice. Theportability of the D-70 means it can be taken anywhere. For the D70or any of their other products, contact Datong at: Clayton WoodClose, West Park, Leeds LS16 6QE.


to give increased delay betweencharacters. This facility helps topreserve the rhythm of theMorse. You can enter text fromthe keyboard - which is usefulwhen you start to learn thestored messages. J & PElectronics Ltd., Unit 45,Meadowmill Estate, DixonStreet, Kidderminster DI'101HH.

Brian Jordan G4EWJ, is anew name on the market,although he intends to becomeone of the bigger boys. He hasstarted off with a rather niceMorse tutor with replay. Thisunit and an optional display andplain language dictionary arereviewed in this issue. For moreinformation on these, and hisplanned products, Brian may becontacted (callers byappointment only please) at: 42Ben Nevis Road, Birkenhead,L42 6QY. Tel/Fax: 051 6438506

Technical Software produceversatile Morse tutor programsto run on BBC B, CBM64,Spectrum and VIC20computers. You can graduallyincrease the range of characters

being learned. You can also setthe program to send some of thedifficult characters morefrequently. Plain language canbe sent from the keyboard, orfrom one of the forty text filessupplied with the program.

Another program, TX -3, asthe name suggests, is aimed atthe radio amateur as it includesa transmit facility. An additionalbonus is the provision of RTTYand ASCII modes. The c.w.option features automatic speedtracking from 4 to over 250wpm. This makes life very easyfor the operator. All receivedtext is held in a review store thatcan be directed to the screen orprinter. The decoding sectionalso includes auto -word wrap toprevent words becomming splitacross two lines. TechnicalSoftware, Fron, UpperLlandwrog, Caernarfon,Gwynedd LL54 7RF.

Velleman Morse DecoderKit. An extensive range ofVelleman kits, originating fromHolland and Belgium, is nowstocked and distributed byMaplin Electronics. Of specialinterest to the c.w. enthusiast, orsomeone who would like tolearn or read Morse, is theVelleman K2659 MorseDecoder with display. This unitis self-contained and when builtdoes not require any connectionto the radio, as the receivedMorse is picked up by theK2659's built-in microphone.All the operator has to do isplace the decoder near the radio,switch it on and watch thedecoded Morse as it's displayedon the I.c.d. screen. The I.c.d.screen displays 16 characters

Kent Keys Along with their full range of hand -made Morse keys(address and details, provided above) Kent's produce a completelyself-contained Morse receiving practice unit. The Kent Morse Tutor isa hand -sized unit, housed in a plastics case, providing a range ofsending speeds, spacing, delays and volume settings. As the tutor hasa built-in battery power supply and internal speaker and earphonesocket, it can he used for personal practice anywhere. All controls andcommands are entered in via the key -pad on the front panel. Furtherdetails from Kent's Preston address above.


and the manufacturers claim itwill decode Morse at almost allspeeds. For further details, seethe Maplin Electronics catalogue(page 591) which available fromW H Smith and other largenewsagents, or direct fromMaplin Electronics, PO Box 3,Rayleigh, Essex SS6 8LR. Tel:(0702) 554161, FAX (0702)553935.

Well, the PW team hope thatthis 'showcase' will help youchoose the equipment you needto enjoy c.w. mode on thebands. If nothing, it will surelyshow that you're not alone inwanting to enjoy and make themost of the Morse mode on thebands!

PW

A spring driven Morseinker of about 1870, afield sounder and anearly Morse key onparade with a'Bathtub' key from a

R1155/T1154installation.

This Morse Showcase is togive you some idea of what isavailable and where to get itfrom. We were given help andinformation by all of thesuppliers, mentioned in thesepages. We were also givenmuch help and encouragementfrom what might beconsidered a rather strangedirection.

Major Roger Pickard, thecurator of the Royal SignalsMuseum at Blandford camp, isin charge of a fascinatingmuseum of signalling.

A Day At TheMuseum

The Royal Signals Museum isconcerned with the militaryhistory of the Royal Signals,and has many exhibitscovering the many differentways of communication thathave been used by the army inits various campaigns.

Among the many exhibitsin the museum, is a largevariety of Morse related items.Some of the exhibits date backto the first years of Morse

transmissions, someof the beautifully

made keys and sounders areshown in this panel.

Displayed items range, intime, from the days of the warsremembered by CorporalJones of Dad's Army, to ultra-modern satellite comm-unications.

Secret Sets

Another section of the museumhas displays of the manytransmitters and receivers usedby the resistance movements orprisoners of war. You couldgain some ideas for your nextportable rig from these displays(or hide the brand-new all -singing all -dancing rig from thebetter half).

The museum is openbetween 10am and 5pm eachworking day. During thesummer months of June toSeptember, the museum is openat weekends between 10am and4pm.

The museum within theBlandford Army camp inDorset, is well worth a day'svisit. Just turn up at the gate, orfor more details contact the

museum on BlandfordMilitary, tel: (0258)452581.

This beautifullycrafted fieldsounder ofabout 1890 isanother of theexhibits in themuseum.

Construction

Ben Nock G4BXDdescribes a simpleinterface to allowyou to send Morsecharacters from theparallel printer portof your computer.

Fig. 1: This is thelogical diagram of thesimple interface.Output lines 01 to 07are not used atpresent. The output 00is the least significantbit.

Simple Printer CWInterfaceI have owned a variety of computers, and one of the ideasthat came to mind was to transmit Morse characters fromthe computer. There are programs available that make thesounds of the Morse characters.

These programs can sound out the characters, but theycan't control the transmitter switching. I was looking for asystem to do both.

Looking at several computers, I noticed that they allhad different types of controlled output lines. How could Imake a system that was portable from computer tocomputer?

On looking deeper into the various systems, I wasstruck by the fact that even the cheapest computer seemedto come with a simple parallel (or Centronics) printerinterface. In this type of low speed interface, a single byte(eight bits) is placed onto eight output lines. Anotheroutput line, I'll call it the 'character ready' line for clarity,is then pulsed, to signify to the printer that a character isthere.

The printer then reads in the value placed on the eightlines, and signals back to the computer that it has read thecharacter in. On receiving this printer ready signal, thecomputer places another character onto the eight lines andpulses the 'character ready' line again. Timing the outputof the characters is dependent on the receipt of the printerready signal.

I won't go into all of the logic to explain anymore, I'lljust get down to describing how I did it. Theaccompanying diagram details a simple interface that canbe driven from the standard Centronics parallel printerport. The interface can operate the transmit line of atransmitter and so relieve the fist bashing.

I have given the bare bones of a program, that could bewritten in almost any version of BASIC. The moreadvanced reader could rewrite the program into Pascalor C.

I have used character strings within the program to holdthe station details. This idea should make the unit veryuseful during a contest.

The Interface

The interface shown in Fig. 1, in its simplestconfiguration, consists of a data latch and f.e.t. switching

device. The data latch is an 74LS373 data device betweenthe printer port and the switching f.e.t.

There are other outputs on the '373 i.c. which could beused to drive other lines, and I leave this up to the reader toelaborate on the circuit. A second i.c. (a 74LS122) suppliesthe computer with the correct signal to fool it into thinkingthat real printer is connected.

The transmitter switching device is a VN 10 f.e.t. ,andis driven from one output of IC I. It is connected across thekey terminals.

Leaving the key in circuit gives the facility of beingable to 'go manual' if need be. In my set up, an Epson PCcomputer is coupled to a TS -430 transceiver, which has avery low voltage/current keying circuit

The Program

The program is written in GWBASIC, although a versionin Pascal is now being written so that it can be compiledinto a stand-alone program. I shall now describe theoutlines of the GWBASIC program, and I'll tell you laterhow to get my most up-to-date version.

To create the Morse character, the computer builds upthe character by 'key on' -pause -'key off' -pause timing, asnecessary. In fact, in exactly the same way you createthem. Only the dot time is variable, and all other timingsare taken from this time period.

So by altering this period (DELAY) in line 1000, theoverall speed of sending can be altered. The DELAY valuewill need to be experimentally determined for eachdifferent computer type. If the variable DELAY is variedthe speed of the characters alters but not the ratio of dot todash.

Further morse characters can be formed similarly to theprogram lines 200 onwards. A semicolon (;) is neededafter each LPRINT commands for the timing to workcorrectly. We simply turn the relavant Centronics bit lineon and off in the correct sequence and with the correcttiming. This method, in effect, causes the morse letter to becreated as usual.

I have used two sub routines, one to make a dot, andone to make a dash. The difference between the tworoutines is timing. As a dash is three times the length ofthe dot the maximum value of 'T' in the dash sub routine

ga0

0S

'Characterready'

C=>

18

17

14

13

8

7

4

3

D7 07 -19D6 06 -ISD5 05 -15D4 04 -12D3 Q3

9D2 02 -6131 01 -5DO 00

ICI

74373OE

Outputs 01-08 are not used

RI

1k GIR3

33k

D

Tr1VN1OK

SK2

vll

Strobe (from the computer)

=>'Printer ready signalsto the computer

6

IC2

74122

74,5To IC1 Pin 20

11,2

1C3

780513 R2

OUT 161

C710k COM

To IC1 Pin 10It Ou1 mim C2

,717

«12V

C30121

0

Pin 7 of IC2 is OV


sfPe-dhc7r-Zelectronics

BREDHURST ELECTRONICS LTD.

High Street, Handcross, W. Sussex RH17 6BW

(0444) 400786 Fax (0444) 400604

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This is the Centronicsplug looking onto thepins. Pin number 1 istop left, pin 18 is topright. On the bottomrow, pin 19 is on theleft underneath pin 1.while pin 36 is belowpin 18 on the right

is three times as long as it is in the dot routine.Lines 200 onwards are used to form each individual

Morse character. Similar lines can be written for D -Z, 0-9,/ & or any other character that you need. But remember tofinish off with a return instruction.

The routine starting at line 100 is used to enter, fromthe keyboard, the text for transmission. It loops roundcontinuously unless a 'breakout' routine is built in.

Program Halted

At this point after the program has halted after running, by

jumping to the routine at line 160, (useGOTO 160 instruction) a final sign -offstring of characters is sent, before theprogram halts again. This string ofcharacters could be repeated data for

transmission shown in line 1050. Ofcourse you will put your details ininstead of mine.

Several different message stringscan be set up to give the informationneeded at different parts of a QSO.

Then some sort of menu would be needed so that thechoice of string sent could be transmitted.

A completed program and interface were used in arecent I.8MHz c.w. contest with very good results. Asmost computers, of the IBM type, have built in clocks thenan automated log book facility could easily be added,simply writing the time and date along with station workedto a data file on the disk.

For those of you unable to fill in the missing bits ofprogram, I shall be glad to supply a copy of my c.w. QSOprogram for the IBM PC, all for the the cost of a disk andpostage. PW

Listing One

1 REM There is no need to type in anything after the 'REM command in each line10 GOSUB 1000 :REM Set up variables20 REM Various other setup options can be made in this area

90 REM to create Morse characters, type the command GOTO 10099 STOP100 A$ = INKEYS110 GOSUB 200120 GOTO 100.

160 L = LEN (S$)165 FOR X = 1 TO L170 A$ = M1D$ (S$,X,1)175 GOSUB 200180 NEXT X190 STOP

200 IF A$ = "A" THEN GOSUB 600: GOSUB 700210 IF A$ "B" THEN GOSUB 700: GOSUB 600: GOSUB 600: GOSUB 600220 IF A$ = "C" THEN GOSUB 700: GOSUB 600: GOSUB 700: GOSUB 600

:REM gets a character from the keyboard:REM Output the character.

..IF A$ = " " THEN GOSUB 800:490 RETURN500

600 A = 1610 LPRINT CHR$ IA);620 FOR T = 1 TO DELAY: NEXT T630 A = 0640 LPRINT CHR$ (A);650 RETURN

700 A = 1710 LPRINT CHR$ (A);720 FOR T = 1 to 3*DELAY: NEXT T730 A = 0740 LPRINT CHR$ IA);750 RETURN

800 FOR T = 1 TO 5 * DELAY805 NEXT T810 RETURN

:REM SETS STRING LENGTH:REM LOOPS AROUND THE STRING:REM SELECTS EACH CHARACTER IN TURN:REM RUNS IT DOWN THE LIST:REM LOOP END:REM Stop if you get to this point

:REM Delay for a space character:REM To the calling program line(:REM. room for your own routine in here

:REM This outputs a Morse DOT:REM turn on control bit:REM wait for a shrt time

:REM turn off control bit:REM to canting section of the program

:REM this outputs a Morse DASH:REM turn on control bit:REM wait for three short times

:REM turn off control bit

:REM Delay for a space between words

999 REM Set up variables such as DOT Period and Fixed messages lin strings1000 DELAY = 100 :REM Dot period

1050 S$ = "DE G4BXD. TNX FER CALL. NAME IS BEN BEN ES QTH IS HULL. SO BST 73 ES GD DX. 73 DEG4BXD1060 CQ$="CQ CQ CQ DX CQ CQ CQ DX DE G4BXD G4BXD K"

1090 RETURN


An inductor and capacitorconnected together form a tunedcircuit, with a natural resonantfrequency, and is said to have'lumped' (actual) values. At thisfrequency the energy storagecapacity of the inductor andcapacitor are equal.

An antenna element also hasa resonant frequency, but in thiscase the inductances andcapacitances are distributedalong the conductor. This typeof circuit is said to be a linear ordistributed circuit.

Any length of wire will workas an antenna to some degree.The strength of theelectromagnetic field producedby this wire will depend on thecurrent flowing in it. Thisassumes that all other things areequal, such as antenna height,length and environment.Maximum field strength willonly be produced if the voltageand the current are in phase.

Antenna Reactance

If the antenna has somereactance, then the powerradiated will be limited by thecurrent and voltage phasedifference. If the antenna is tooperate efficiently, the reactancemust be tuned out and theantenna made resonant at the

In this month's antenna workshop Peter Dodd G3LDOlooks at antenna element and transmission line resonance,

what it is and why it's so useful to be able measure it.

operating frequency.An antenna element can be

made resonant at an operatingfrequency by changing itslength, or by connecting a tunedcircuit to it. It follows thatresonant antennas work overnarrow bands of frequencies

An antenna does not have tobe resonant to accept power.The aperiodic, or broad bandantenna usually employs aresistive component to reducethe antenna reactance.

The effect of nearby objectson an antenna or on its radiationpattern can sometimes be quitedramatic. Re -radiated signalsfrom a nearby object canenhance or degrade the signal ina particular direction. In fact, theoperation of many beamantennas depends on it.

Electrical Resonance

Wires or tubing making upantennas, its supportingelements and transmission linesto and from the antenna, all havean electrical resonance at somefrequency.

When the resonant frequencyof a metal object, within an r.f.field, is not the same as the r.f.field, little power is absorbed.When the object is resonant withthat field, power is absorbed.

Fig. 1: The circuit of the Jandek dip -meter, discussed in the text.

The absorption principle isused in the absorptionwavemeter or diode fieldstrength meter. This comprises acalibrated tuned circuit, with adiode r.f. voltmeter to indicaterelative power.

Dip Oscillator

The most useful and directmethod of measuring tunedcircuit or antenna elementresonance is the dip oscillator.With the dip oscillator (or dip -meter) radio frequency powerfrom a calibrated, tuneableoscillator is absorbed by aresonant circuit when theoscillator is tuned to the circuit'sresonant frequency.

The dip oscillator usually hasa meter to monitor the oscillatorpower level, that's why it'scommonly known as the 'dip -meter' of course! A dip in thereading occurs as the oscillatorfrequency is swept through theresonant frequency of the circuitunder test.

The dip -meter is no longer aspopular with antennaexperimenters as it used to be. Isthe measurement of resonanceless important these days?Personally, I think there are acouple of reasons and one ofthese concerns power.

Fig.2: The coils for theg.d.o. are wound on aDIN loudspeaker plug.


I've got an old valved griddip oscillator (g.d.o.) whichoperates very well up into thev.h.f. band. The circuit is veryprimitive, and consumes somefour or five watts. But it gives amuch greater electromagneticfield around the coil couplinginto the circuit under test. Bycomparison, the dip -meterdescribed in this article uses only30 to 40mW

Coupling a low poweredoscillator with a small diametercoil into a 30mm diameter tubesection of an antenna is difficult.It may explain why the dip -meter may have fallen out offavour. But improved couplingbetween the dip meter and theantenna element can beimproved considerably. Thesecret is in the design of the coil.

Dip Kit

A dip meter circuit, that doesn'tuse a tapped coil, is shown inFig. 1. It's the dip meter kit,produced by Jandek in the WestMidlands.

In the Jandek kit, the coils arecleverly wound on DIN

loudspeaker plugs as shown inFig. 2. A selection of them canbe seen in Fig. 3, along with theinstrument.

A Colpitts oscillator, tuned byL 1 and VC I a/b, has the level ofoscillator power measured bymonitoring the voltage on thesource of Ql. This variation involtage, as the oscillator is tunedthrough resonance of the circuitunder test, is small comparedwith the total source voltage.

The resonance dip isenhanced by offsetting the meterreading using a network formedby R6, R7 and VR I. Using acentre zero meter, VR1 is set sothat the meter is central when theinstrument on but not coupled toa resonant circuit.

This instrument is quitesensitive. The one I use willdetect my 'standard' tunedcircuit at 90mm. The 'standard'circuit comprises 10 turns of22s.w.g. enamelled copper wirewound on a short length of40mm diameter plastics wastepipe. A 100pF capacitor isconnected in parallel with thecoil and it resonates at around7.1MHz.

Turn created in the antenna wirelooped over the g.d.o. coil

May be taped at this pointp to hold the coil in place

Gate (or grid) diposcillator (g.d.o.)

Fig. 4: To increase coupling to the antenna element,make a small loop in the antenna wire as shown.

Common Reason

Probably, the most commonreason for measuring resonanceis to ensure that a drivenelement, such as a dipole, is cutto the resonant length. Most

Fig. 3: The Jandek dip -meter and its associated tuning coils, tried out and discussed byG3LDO (see text.

antenna books give a formulafor L of, L =143/f(MHz)m.Where L is the element length.

However, if the element isconstructed from taperedsections, is bent, or is an odd -shaped loop then this formula nolonger works. In this case, thedirect measurement ofresonance is the best way todetermine the correct length.

Before you can measureresonance of an antenna elementyou must disconnect the feeder.If you don't do this the feederbecomes part of the resonantcircuit and will give misleadingreadings.

If the element is split at thefeed point, as a dipole, the splitmust be shorted out with a shortlength of copper wire. Thisjoining wire can become thecoupling link.

The resonance of a mobileantenna, is easier to measure.Antennas with a wide frequencyrange, such as loop antennas area little more difficult. If youhave problems measuring theresonance of a wire elementwith a dip meter then additionalcoupling can be achieved byforming a small loop in the wire


element and taping it as shownin the diagram of Fig. 4.

Coupling to tubular elementsis more difficult. If a dip cannotbe obtained in the normal way,the dip -meter coil can bemodified by increasing thecoupling.

The coil is seven turnswound on a short board, 150mmwide 12mm thick. This coiltuned from 8 to 18 MHz.

The board also provides aplatform for the dip meter, notepad, and even the frequencycounter. You can also rest themeasuring kit against theelement while measurements arebeing made. This layout isshown in use in the photographof Fig. 5.

Feeder Resonance

If the antenna feeder has aresonance at the transmitfrequency it can easily absorbsome of the transmitted power.The resultant 'antenna currents'can then absorb and re -radiater.f. power and degrade theperformance of the antenna.

A transmission line is alinear circuit with a well definedseries of harmonic responses. Adip meter is a useful instrumentfor measuring these resonances.

The resonant frequency of afeeder can be measured byshorting one end of the feeder.You then fit a small wire loop tothe other end so that the dipmeter can be coupled to it.

I use a PL259 socket with acoupling loop soldered to it.This arrangement plugs into the

thondoru,...104 MM.

PI M }(X.04

YHI

A :CH,

CHol 0 I I le

042 0: ISMIlt na,40,

saes

A irAte,

-noPlertof

Fig. 5: I use an extra large coupling coil when measuringlarge diameter elements. The frequency meter on the rightis to give an more accurate reading.

connector at the end of thefeeder.

Feeder Resonance

Some people think that trying tomeasure feeder resonance with adip meter is confusing, as anumber of resonantpoints may be detected. I find

Range 1- 1.6 to 4MHz

Range 2 - 3.36 to 4MHz

Range 3 - 6.3 to 15.7MHz

Range 4 - 11.9 to 35.2MHz

55 turns of 30s.w.g.,random wound



55 turns of 30s.w.g.,close wound

Table 1: Tuning ranges covered by the Jandek dip -meterkit.

them useful though, and todemonstrate the point, let'sconsider a length of the feederthat's not known.

The method of finding thelowest resonant frequency, andhence the electrical length of thefeeder, is to look for a series ofresonances using the higherfrequency coils of the dip meter.The frequency differencebetween these resonances isapproximately the lowestresonant frequency of the feeder.

On the coaxial cable from myshack to the antenna on the roofI measured resonances at 47.24,35.4 and 23.7MHz. Thedifferences between thesefigures are 11.84 and 11.7.

Using the coil covering about11MHz, I measured the lowestresonant frequency as11.76MHz. This is the electrical,not the physical length. The

Further Reading

To help you further in thisinteresting aspect ofworking with the dip -meteror older grid dip oscillator,the PW team have gatheredtogether the followingselection of further readingfor you:

'Getting Started ThePractical Way', April 1992issue of PW page 33 to 37,has a simple design andconstruction information fora dip -meter by the Rev.George Dobbs G3RJV, andin the May issue G3RJVdescribes how to use theinstrument around theworkshop. Photocopies ofthe article (85p each part,total £1.70 inc. p&p) areavailable from the PW office.

The AntennaExperimenter's Guide byPeter Dodd G3LDO, hasmore details on the use of adip -meter for antenna tuningand is available from the PWBook Service, at £8.90 plus£l-00 p&p

'Antenna Workshop -AnHF Mobile Antenna' onP26 of the March '93 issueof PW, shows antennaresonance measurement witha dip -meter

difference between the electricaland physical length is due to thevelocity factor of the feeder.However, it did show that myfeeder was not resonant in anyof the amateur radio bands.

So you see using a dip metercan prove very useful! Mythanks for the loan of the dip -meter go to Derek PearsonG3ZOM of Jandek at 6Fellows Avenue,Kingswinford, West MidlandsDY6 9ET, tel. (0384) 288900who can supply the kit for £28plus £1 p&p.

PW


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10 P,P55

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-Reg Ward & Co Ltd.-1 Western Parade, West Street, Axminster, Devon, EX13 5NY.

Telephone: Axminster (0297) 34918

(Largest Amateur Radio Shop in the South West)One Stop for Yaesu Icom Kenwood

HF TRANSCEIVERSYAESUFT890 Compact TXCR

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FT890

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TS850

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VHF/UHF MOBILESYaesu FT212RH 2m. 45 wattYaesu FT2400RH New 2m. 50 wattYaesu FT5200R 2m 70cm. Full Cross Band

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Yaesu FT530 New 2m70 Dualband Handy

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DC adapt Noise

DC lead

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Mini speaker Mic.

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loam ICW2 The 270 Dualbander.

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(CLOSED MONDAYS) STOCK ITEMS USUALLY IN BRACKETS

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COMPACT 80m CW QRP Tx/RxOTR3 Kit - f87.50 P&P f3.00 Ready Built - f140.00

*Stible 410 *Sidelond * Audio filler*flquirse 12/14 VDC *Very detailed

Instructions *Black Meal UN*Printod panel

40m & TOP BAND VERSIONSALSO AVAILABLE

ANTENNA TUNING UNITSTU1 Kit - f41.25 Ready Built - f57.50TU2 Kit - (51.00 Ready Built - f72.00

P&P f3.00* Large dia. coil * High grade capacitor * Built in balun * Circuits to matchyour antenna * Up to 30 Watts of CW * TU2 has sensitive ORP/SWR meter

* TU1 is ideal tot SWL

QRP SWR METER* Specially designed for ORP * HF 1-30MHz

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TUA1 Kit - complete with cam & motor f18.00 PAP [1.00

CARLTON (Receiver)

80-40-20m Dc Rx* Receives USB, LSB and CW * Very sensitiveand selective * Simple modular construction* 12-14 volt battery operated * Printed facia

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LAKE ELECTRONICS7 Middleton Close, Nuthall, Nottingham NG16 1BX

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Nan.

WM.

KITS AND READY BUILT PRODUCTSA wide range of quality kits & modules for the home constructor

LINEAR WITH PREAMP, 2 or 4 or 6 metre versions. RF switched, allmode SSB/FM/CW-DATA. Powers available, 2.5W in 25W out. 5W in 25Wout, 5W in 40W out. 100/ in 40W out, state requirements when ordering.RX gain 0-20dB panel adjustable. RX NF <1dB typical. Types TARP2S,TARP4S. TARP6S. BOX KIT £72.75, BOX BUILT £98.25.

LINEAR AMPLIFIER, 2 or 4 or 6 metre versions, RF switched, at modeSSB/FM/CW/DATA. Powers available, 2.5W in 25W out, 5W in 25W out,5W in 40W out. 10W in 40W out. state requirements when ordering.Types TA2S1, TA4S1, TA6S1. BOXED KIT £56.25, BUILT £70.50

TRANSVERTERS from 10 metres for 2, 4 or 6 metres. 0.5W output RXgain 15dB, NF <1dB. NEW larger box allows inclusion of 25W linearamplifier. see below. Types TRC2-10, TRC4-10, TRC6-10. PCB KIT£55.50, PCB BUILT £89.50, BOX KIT £78, BOX BUILT £116.

TRANSVERTERS for 1mW 10 metres drive, including buffer board,otherwise as above. Types TRC2-10b. TRC4-10b, TRC6-10b. PCB KIT£64.25, PCB BUILT £100, BOX KIT £85.75, BOX BUILT £132.

TRANSVERTERS from 2 metres for 4, 6 or 10 metres, 0.5W output.Includes interface to accept 0.5-5W drive. Types TRC4-2i (built only).TRC6-2i, TRC10-2i. New larger box to include linear. PCB KIT £64.25,PCB BUILT £100, BOX KIT £85.75, BOX BUILT £132.

LINEAR AMPLIFIERS to suit the transverters above. 0.5W in 25W out.Types TA2S3, TA4S3, TA6S3. PCB KIT £60, PCB BUILT £80.75

COMMUNITY BROADCAST TRANSMITTER, 88-108MHz, 0.5W.Wideband FM meets the requirements of the DTI Restricted ServiceLicence. Synthesized 40 channel in 50KHz steps giving a 2MHz portion ofthe broadcast band. Audio passband 150Hz to 15KHz. Types CTX100,ready built £110.00. Also 25W continuous rated matching Class Camplifier type TA100C3, ready built £110. Omnidirectional folded "J" aerialfor the above, £30 inc P&P.

101 VAT & P&P inclusive prices. Send SAE for free full catalogue

8 SPECTRUM COMMUNICATIONSUnit 4 Grove Trading Estate, Dorchester, Dorset. Tel 0305 262250

Opening times: 9-1 2-5 Tue-Fri, 9-1 Sat. Closed Sun & Mon


PETER HUNT ER GOG S Z

As the theme of this month'sPW is the Morse code, Ithought I'd review one or twoc.w. training programs in thecolumn. But first, I'll startwith your letters.First from the post -bag is BillNicoll GM4LFZ, who sent mesome h.f. FAX pictures he'captured' on 14.3MHz. Welldone Bill, glad you'reenjoying the mode.

As a keen 'BBC-er' Billhas set-up a 'Program DataBase' system. He'd be gladto share this with other BBCusers. If you send him ans.a.e., he'll send you details.

Bill also uses a PK232and would like to includeSSTV. If you can help, pleasecontact GM4LFZ at 124Hilton Avenue, AberdeenAB2 2LH, Grampian Region,Scotland.

ImpoverishedStudent

Redvers Davies, says he's a"poor impoverishedstudent". Despite this, he'sbecome an expert atprogramming the Spectrum.

If you need a program forYOUR Spectrum, write (withan s.a.e.) and let me know, I'llpass it on to Redvers.

Nick Ray wrote to PW,suggesting a 'GettingStarted' section for thosehaving problems withShareware programs. WellNick, that is exactly what'Bits & Bytes' is! (Though itdoesn't stop with sharewareprograms).

If you need help, pleasewrite in. A lot of readershave done so already. Verysoon I shall be compiling alist of the most commonlyasked questions, togetherwith the solutions.

InterestingMessage

I was about to send thismonth's article in to PW,when a very interestingpacket message arrived. So,I thought I'd share it withyou.

The message is fromPeter SP9WAV in Poland.Peter likes reading 'Bits &Bytes' so much, hetranslates parts of it for

With his first monthly page, Peter Hunter GOGSZ joins in withthe Morse theme and looks at c.w. training programs, but startsoff by looking at some of your letters.

'posting' on his local BBS.Good for you Peter! I'm

always glad to receive newsfrom outside the UK, keepwriting!

Morse Trainer

The Scottish -based BOSCADcompany recently sent metheir PC Morse Trainer. Withthe software you get aninterface cable, Fig, i,thatplugs into the computer'sserial port.

Next, you connect yourMorse key (straight orpaddle) to the computer forsending practice. Althoughsome may criticise thefacility for sending, otherswill insist it's an essentialpart of the training program.

There's no printedmanual with PC MorseTrainer. However, there's anbuilt-in manual as part of theprogram. This 'help' file canbe printed, giving you a hardcopy for reference.

According to thepaperwork that comes withthe BOSCAD unit, it'll workon any IBM compatible PC,using any type of monitor.Installation should be easyenough, even if you've neverused a computer before.

The PC Morse Trainer isfully configurable to suit theoperator. In my opinion itshould help any aspiringamateur to pass the c.w. test.

A free demo disk isavailable, and the fullpackage costs £30 (inc. p&p)from BOSCAD Ltd, 16 AytounGrove, Baldridgeburn,Dunfermline, Fife KY12 9TA,Scotland, tel: (0383) 729584(evenings only please).

Morse Program

The second 'commercial'Morse program I've got thistime is called QRSCW. Itgenerates random on -the -air -working QSOs.The random QS0 facilitymakes QRSCW ideally suitedfor the new UK Morse test. Ireally liked this aspect of theprogram.

I ran the program directlyfrom the disk that it came onand found no problems. So itshould work well, even on anAmstrad PC1512.

The currentprice of QRSCWis £10 inc. p&p,and it's availablefrom: M. D.Waller GOPJO,Chellows,Erwarton,Ipswich, SuffolkIP9 1LJ.

SpecialistMagazine

The next diskcame via thespecialist Morsemagazine MorsumMagnificat The diskcontained a set of programs,written by Dr Gary BoldZL1AN.

The first program, TEACH,is a start -from -scratchprogram that teaches allcharacters by their sound.Not only are thesecharacters sent randomly,but it sends the most difficultto learn characters first.

I've never heard of themethod before, but it seemsthe ideal way to learn. Assoon as the computer thinksyou know a symbol itintroduces a new one, andso it goes on. At the end ofeach session the programgives you a progress report.

Another program iscalled RNDM. This generatesrandom groups of code. Itthen prints each group onthe screen after sending.This is an excellent programfor improving your speedonce you know all thecharacters.

Next comes FSEND. Thissends any ASCII file asMorse code.

Another program, which Ilike a lot is KBD. This sendsout, as Morse code, anythingthat's typed at the keyboard,and displays it on the screen.

The keyboard idea makesit ideal for anyone who cantype (even with one finger!)to help with your practice,you can turn your back to thecomputer and write downwhat you hear.

Finally there comesMREAD. This givesinstructions for wiring aMorse key to your serial port.Whatever you send will bedisplayed on the screen

Fig. 1: The BOSCAD PC MorseTrainer, disk and cable. tried outby Peter Hunter GOGSZ.

(garbage and all!).All the programs are

FREE! So, to get your copy,please send a formatted 3.5indisk, with an s.a.e. for itsreturn, to: Tony Smith G4FAI,Consultant Editor, MorsumMagnificatmagazine, 1 TashPlace, London, N11 1PA.

Atari Computer

Now a couple of programsfor the Atari ST computer.The first is called OSOBASEwhich is a QS0 databaseprogram, and sounds verymuch like an electroniclogbook!

The other program iscalled the 'Ultimate MorseTutorial'. Reading thedocumentation, it seems tobe a very good Morsetraining program for the AtariST range.

Both the Atari programsare in the Public Domain. Formore information pleasecontact: George ButlerG4BXU, at LucidPublications, 18 HobartRoad, Ramsgate, Kent CT126NW, tel: (0843) 582939.

Finally

Finally, please keep theletters, messages and'phone calls coming. So,until next month, 73 DE PeterHunter GOGSZ. You can writeor contact me at 2 MayesClose, Bowthorpe, Norwich,Norfolk NR5 9AR, tel or FAXme on (0603) 748338. Packet:GOGSZ @

GB7LDI.#35.GBR.EU.

E N D


THE SECRET

OF LEARNING

MORSE CODE

BY

MARK FRANCIS

N101,IiCe

A UNIQUE GUIDE TO LEARNING MORSE CODE- - -QUICKLY AND PROFICIENTLY -

The Secret Of Learning Morse CodeBy Mark Francis, published by Spa Publishing Ltd., Hoeklev Essex.

This book by Mark Francis GOGBY, has been successfully used by many aspiring h.f. bandoperators, and it's recently been up -dated for the Novice Licence. Particularly popular withclubs, the 84 -page book contains a lot of general interest on the Morse subject and it has acomprehensive approach to the learning of the code. The book has comprehensive chaptersexplaining 'How it all started', 'Making up your mind', 'Learning the basics', and 'Receivingthe code', before leading the reader on to the stage where you're 'Sending Morse', 'Improvingyour speed' and so on. There's even useful adviceon how not to get flustered - by 'dotting' yourgaps!

The book is packed throughout with usefulinformation on the Q -code, sample tests and muchuseful information. The Secret Of LearningMorse Code is available from the PW BookService for £4.95 plus £1 p&p.

Introducing MorseThis popular Practical Wireless re -print has long been a favourite with those wanting to take upMorse, and those wanting to read about suitable projects. It's packed through with ideas andMorse training techniques including 'The Origins Of Morse' by Tony Smith G4FAI, 'LearningMorse' by G3YPL, 'Morse Sending Trainer', 'Morse Keyer', an 'Iambic Keyer' and much more.Introducing Morse is certainly an excellent introductory guide for anyone interested in buildingprojects for c.w., and enjoying the mode to best advantage. £1.25 plus £1 p&p from thePW BookService.

Radio DiaryIf you're travelling long distancesto rallies, it could be worth'phoning the contact numberbefore setting off, to check all iswell.

May16: Fingal Radio Club Radio &Electronics Exhibition will be heldat Jury's Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin.Doors open 11.30am to 4.30pm.Admission f1, accompaniedchildren free. Used equipmentstands, radio, electronics &computer trade stands,demonstrations of v.h.f. & h.famateur equipment IRTS stand.Car parking, restaurant & bar, doorprizes & raffle, talk -in S22.Brendan O'Kane EI4CYB, 79Martello Court, Portmamock, Co.Dublin, Ireland.

May 16: The 2nd National VintageCommunications Fair will be heldat the NEC, Birmingham. Doorsopen 10.30am to 5pm. Hundreds ofitems for sale, including vintageradios, telephones, gramophones,jukeboxes, radiograms, etc.Admission will be E3. Jonathan Hillon (0398) 331532.

May 16: The Parkanaur Rally willbe held at the Silverwood Hotel,Lurgan, Co. Armagh. Doors open12 noon. Admission £1. Plenty ofparking. Usual traders.Refreshments available. Talk -inS22. All proceeds of this rally willgo to the Stanley Eakins MemorialFund, a very worthy charity. W. A.Hutchman, 35 Carlingford Park,Newry, Co. Down, N. Ireland B1342NY.

May 30: Maidstone YMCA RadioRally will be held at YMCA Sportscentre, Melrose Close, Maidstone,Kent ME15 6BD. Doors open10.30am (10am for disabled). Entryis £1 per adult. Exhibition stationGX3TRF (on h.f.). All -day videoshow for juniors. Refreshments &

snacks available. Bring & Buytables for hire. Brenda PuncherGOIJK on (0622)850277.

May 30: The 17th Annual EastSuffolk Wireless Revival will beheld at the Maidenhall SportsCentre, Ipswich, Suffolk. Bring &Buy, car boot sale, vintage radiodisplay & RAIBC, BYLARA, scoutradio, RAYNET stands, etc. Non -radio stalls & children's play area.Refreshments & bar. Admission f1,which includes car parking. Talk -inon S22 )GB4SWR). Send s.a.e. forfree maps. Bob Baal G7HIV, 14Gainsborough Road, Felixstowe,Suffolk IP11 7HS.

May 30: Plymouth Radio Club Rallywill be held at Plymstock School,Church Road, Plymstock. Tradersstalls, Bring & Buy, refreshments,talk -in S22, parking facilities. Doorsopen 10.30am. Derek Foster G7ESZQTHR.

June 6: Spalding & OARS areholding their Jubilee Mobile Rallyat Springfields Gardens, Spalding.Doors open 10.30am. Admission f1,children & disabled visitors free,Trade stands, indoor flea market,car boot sale pitches. Car parking,catering facilities, bar. Talk -in onS22. Mr T. Kettlewell G4TWR on(0775) 722940.

June 13: The Royal Naval ARShave their Annual Mobile Rally atSports Field HMS Collingwood,Fareham, Hants. Doors open at10am to 5pm There will be dozensof trade stands, Bring & Buy tenton -the -spot OSL printing, fleamarket large arts & craftexhibition, radio controlled powerboats, local radio clubs & repeatergroups, vintage fire engine, twogrand raffles, amusements foryoungsters and refreshments,making this a great day out for allthe family. Talk -in on 144 &430MHz, free parking, no dogsexcept guide dogs. Cliff Harper

G4UJR, 34 Neva Road. BittemePark. Southampton SO2 4FJ. Tel:(0703) 557469.

June 20: Denby Dale & DARSAnnual Mobile Rally will be held atShelley High School. Doors open11am 110.30am for disabledvisitors). Ample parking, traders,car boot sale, food. Talk -in S22 &SU22. Philip G4FSQ on (0484)

6441127.

June 27: The 36th LongleatAmateur Radio Rally (follow thebrown signs for 'Longleat House'from Warminster, Wiltshire).Extensive trade show, RSGBbookstall, large number of local &national societies exhibiting.Display of The Journeaux HistoricWireless Collection, large craftfair, camping & caravanningfacilities by the rally for the wholeweekend. Licensed bar andcatering on site. Shaun G8VPG,QTHR on (0225) 873098.

July 4. The York Radio Rally will beheld in the Tattersall Building, YorkRacecourse, Knavesmire, York.Door open at 11am. Admission f1.Amateur radio, electronics andcomputers, arts & crafts, Morsetests. Ample free parking, licencedbar & cafe. Talk -in on S22. AndySuter GOGXI on (0904) 708164.

July 10: The Cornish Rally will beheld at Penair School, Truro.Bernie Thomas GONNR on (0872)862046.

July 11: Galway ExperimentersClub will be holding its AnnualRadio & Computer Rally atNewtownshire, Galway. Doorsopen at 12 noon, large trade show,Bring & Buy, free parking &refreshements available. Talk -in onS22. EI7DIB on 091-53592.

July 25: Colchester Radio &Computer Rally (including Car BootSale), will be held at St Helena

School, Sheepen Road, Colchester.Frank G3FIJ on (0206)851189.

July 25: Norfolk Amateur RadioClub & Hewett School Radio &Electronics Group will be holdingtheir Rally at the Hewett School,Hall Road, Norwich. Doors open10am. Admission £1 adults,OAPs/disabled/children 50p. Freeparking. Trade stands, Bring &Buy, displays. Sheila GOKWP on(0603)618810.

August 1: The 10th McMichaelRally & Car Boot Sale will be heldat the Haymill Youth & CommunityCentre, Burnham Lane, Slough (nr.Burnham Railway Station). Doorsopen 10.30am, admission is £1.50.Car boot sale is f6 per pitch on theday. Free parking on site & talk -inon S22. Neil GOSVN on (0628)25952.

August 8: Derby Mobile Rally willtake place at the LittleoverCommunity School, Pastures Hill,Littleover, Derby. Usual attractions,including the famous monster junksale. It is hoped to provideimproved facilities for disabledvisitors in 1993. Martin ShardlowG3SZJ on (0332) 556875.

*August Flight Refuelling ARSHamfest will take place at theFlight Refuelling Sports Ground,Merley, Wimborne, Dorset. Doorsopen 10am to 5pm. Usual mix oftraders, Bring & Buy, craftexhibitors, car boot sale & fieldevents. Overnight campingfacilities available for Saturday 7th.Talk -in on S22. Richard HoganG4VCC1 on (0202)691021.

August 30: Coleraine & DistrictARG Radio Rally & Bring & Buy willbe held in The Golf Links Hotel,Portrush. From 12 noon to 5.50pm.Traders welcome free of charge,refreshments available. Admissionft Talk -in S22. Raymond GI4MFMon (0266) 558230.

September 5: Milton Keynes &DARS will be holding their 7thAnnual Radio Boot Sale atCranfield Airfield, Cranfield, Beds.Ray G1LRU on (0908)660798.

September 5: Vange AmateurRadio Society Annual Rally will beheld at the Laindon CommunityCentre, Laindon High Road/AstonRoad, Laindon, Basildon, Essex.Doors open from 10.30am.Admission 75p. Trade stands, Bring& Buy, raffle, refreshments, carparking. Talk -in on S22. Sign -posted approach roads. MikeMusgrave G4NVT on (0268)543025.

September 11: The ScottishAmateur Radio Convention will beheld in Cardonald College, 690Mosspark Drive, Glasgow G52. Fulltrade show, lecture theatres, Bring& Buy, Morse tests, bar &restaurant. Free parking. Talk -inS22. Tom Hughes GM3EDZ on 041-882 5753.

September 12: Lincoln SWCHamfest will be held atLincolnshire Showground &Exhibition Centre, four miles northof Lincoln on A15Lincoln/Scunthorpe Road. Doorsopen 10.30am. Usual trade stands,Bring & Buy, refreshments,licensed bar. Lots of attractions forwhole family. Admission f1 bylucky programme, free parking,caravans welcome byarrangement. Talk -in S22. DenisG1XZG on (0522) 684214.

September 12: The BARTG Rallywill be held at Sandown ExhibitionCentre, Esher, Surrey. Bring & Buy,refreshments, many exhibitor &special interest groups. Doorsopen 10.30am to 5pm. Admission£1.50 adults & £1 OAPs, under 14sfree if accompanied by an adultWell sign -posted. Peter Nicol on021-453 2676.


C.M.H WESCOMMUNICATIONSTOP QUALITY HOWES KITS!

III It VI

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This month, Ron Ham breaks off from polishing thatbeautifully walnut -veneered cabinet in the corner ofthe 'Valve & Vintage' shop, to describe an interestingAmerican made receiver, and warn us abouttop -capped valves.

Welcome to the 'Valve & Vintage'wireless shop. And as usual, mythanks go to all of you who havewritten in and for your kindremarks about 'Valve & Vintage'.

Your comments andmemories about the bygone daysof radio are much appreciated.Because they are personalexperiences, it adds that little bitextra to a technical chat columnlike this.

However, although I don'thave the space to include everydetail about a particular item,subject, or diagram, my intentionis to point you in the rightdirection. We'll then perhapsdiscuss it again in a later issue.

Don't forget also, that yourpractical and technical tips aresure to help someone. Youradvice could help another readerto understand the piece ofequipment they're handling thatmuch better.

Military Valves

When comparing military valvenumbers with their civilianequivalents recently, I used theletters 'CV' to guide you. But, likeevery other aspect of radio,there's much more behindmilitary valve coding.

Les Painter (Swansea) tellsme that because each of thethree services had their ownvalve numbers in the early daysof the Second World War, therewas some confusion. As a resultthese were abandoned, and aCommon Valve (CV) number wasallocated to each type. Finally,Les also reminded me that theletters 'JAN' on American valvesstand for Joint Army Navy.

Valve Safety

Now it's time to look at valvesafety. One of our readers hasasked me to warn you that not alltop caps are grid connections.Some of the 7 -pin pre-war valveshave their Anode connections ontop of the valve.

The anode connectioncarries the full h.t. voltage.

Touching the anode cap couldgive you a powerful electricshock.

Vintage Valves

The more vintage sets that youadd to your collection, the moreyou need to know about valves,their base types and connections.Along with British 4, 5 and 7 -pinbases, you're also likely to meetthe Mazda -octal type.

The Mazda -octal base differsfrom the more widespreadInternational -octal (10) type (thecentral Bakelite spigot is not thesame size as the 10 base).Additionally, some American setsuse a 'UX' base.

"Valve manuals are stillproduced in Germany by FranzesVerlog, D-8000 Munchen," saysJ.C. James (Congleton,Cheshire). The last one costDM.33. in Cologne and was "Wellworth the outlay," he remarked.

Among the specialised valvetitles in the large collection ofwireless books that J.C. Jameshas collected are RadioReceiving Tube Characteristics,Transmitting Tubes, Valves andVacuum Tube Theory. All goodstuff to look out for in the second-hand book shops!

Elderly American

The PW Editor G3XFD, found anelderly American mains radio,Fig. 1, for £1, at a car boot sale.The stylish polished wooden casewith its fancy feet, 'magic -eye'tuning indicator (top centre, Fig. 1)

Valveand ornamental dial assembly istypical of the 'bedside' receiversproduced in the USA in the1937/43 era.

I can see from thephotograph, that the receiver'sfrequency range, 550kHz to16MHz, is spread continuouslyacross three wave -bands.

Another photograph showsthe inside condition of G3XFD'svintage receiver. The setappears to have six valvesockets, plus the magic -eye (topcentre). The latter being athermionic valve with afluorescent screen at the top,providing the familiar green 'fan'shape for tuning indication.

Basic Receiver

At this point, let's say that a basicdomestic superheterodynereceiver has five valves. Thesewill usually include a frequencychanger, i.f. amplifier, a doublediode triode, an audio outputvalve and a rectifier.

If 6.3V valves were used inseries (6.3 x 5), this would onlyamount to 31.5 volts. This,deducted from 240V leaves208.5V to lose in either a largerresistance, known as a mainsdropper, or a special mains leadwith the dropping resistancewound inside it often describedas 'hot -leads' or 'line -cords'.

To help reduce the electricalsize of the dropper resistance,certain valves of the same typewere manufactured with a choiceof 6, 12, 25, 35 or 50V heaters.

For example, many types of

Fig. 1: An American set bought at a car bootsale for Et

half -wave rectifiers and outputvalves, were made for use inseries chains. They included the25Z4G (25.0V at 0.3A) and35Z4G (35.0V at 0.15A) and25L6G (25.0V at 0.3A) and35L6G (35.0V at 0.15A)respectively.

Sixth Socket

Judging by the chassis layout,Fig. 2, the sixth valve socketcould be for another U. amplifier.It could also be for a 'ballast lamp'(a plug-in dropper resistancemounted inside glass envelope).

In Fig. 2, it looks as thoughthe two rivet heads at the bottomof the chassis secure the rearchassis fixing bolts. If this is so,the heads, plus the front onesunderneath the cabinet, MUST becovered with an insulatingmaterial because the chassis islive.

Take care with 'live chassis'receivers. To be safe, use anisolating transformer whenyou're working on this type ofset.

Closer Look

Because I can't see a mainsdropper or evidence of a 'hotlead', I must assume that the farright-hand holder is for the'ballast'. Unless the set wasdesigned for 110V operation,then, with high heater voltagevalves a large 'ballast' may nothave been required.

The valve to the right of thevariable capacitor could be either

Fig. 2: Rear, internal view of the Americanreceiver.


re

the output valve or the rectifier.But the wiring would have to beexamined carefully beforedeciding the correct valvepositions.

From Fig. 2, the receiver'sloudspeaker looks as though it isthe energised type. This meansthat the magnetic field for thevoice coil is produced by theenergising coil, used instead of apermanent magnet. In somea.c./d.c. receiver types, as theAmerican receiver appears to be,the energising coil was used asthe main smoothing choke.

Series Heater

Most a.c./d.c. (universal)receivers I've serviced, had aseries heater chain, with halfwave rectification for the h.t. anda live chassis. In other words thevoltage of the valve heaters istotted up and the differencebetween that figure and theincoming mains supply is madeup with a heavy duty wire -woundresistance.

The valves must draw thesame current. In some cases aline -cord was used for 'dropping'in place of the on -chassisresistance.

There were variousreplacement line cords, pre-formed by the set -makers. But thetype generally used in theworkshop came on a drum fromRadiospares (still with us today asRS Components) with, frommemory, a resistance of about1801I per foot.

Replacement line -cord usuallyhad two wires plus the resistanceline inside a cotton braid. Theresistance wire was coiled onwhat I assume was an asbestosstring, and covered with whatlooked like an asbestos matting.

Having the droppingresistance inside the mains leadmeant a bit more space, and a bitless heat inside the cabinet.Obviously this lead could neverbe shortened because its lengthhad a given electrical resistance.However, if a non -technical'handyman' did shorten it, the

increase in voltage across thevalve heaters either drasticallyshortened their lives or burnt themout completely!

Hallicrafters Receivers

There's a similarity in the controllayout throughout the series ofHallicrafters range ofcommunications receivers, shownin Fig. 3. Lucky reader GrahamCamning (Eccles, GreaterManchester) has inherited aHallicrafters Sky Champion S -20R and although he has heard itworking, he'd like to know moreabout its operation.

have found the a.n.l. is useful.They're very good for taking the'bite' out of ignition interference atthe high frequency end of thereceiver.

Unfortunately, I can'tremember how the send -receivetoggle, far right, is wired in the S -20R. However, some receiversI've seen, it usually switches -offthe receiver's h.t. The switch canalso energise a relay to control atransmitter.

The mains on/off switch isincorporated in the audio tonecontrol to the right of the a.n.l.toggle. The band -change switch ispositioned between the audio and

r.f. (radio

Fig. 3: A Hallicrafters S -20R receiver.

I can't help you with a manualGraham, but I suggest you try oneof our advertisers or perhapsanother reader may be able tohelp. But I do have a photograph,Fig. 3, from which I can give you afew tips.

Fortunately, the controls on theS -20R in the photograph are stillclearly marked. So, let's start withthe toggle switches from left toright along the lower centre of thefront panel.

The switches on the S -20Rindividually control the automaticvolume control (a.v.c.), the beatfrequency oscillator (b.f.o.) andaudio noise limiter (a.n.l.)respectively. Each control has itsuse at the right time.

For example, control over thea.v.c. is of great help when tryingto hold a weak signal. The b.f.o.pitch, when being used to read aMorse or to resolve an s.s.b.signal, is adjusted to suit, by thecontrol immediately below theloudspeaker.

On some of these early sets, I

frequency)gain controls.

Whenyou firstswitch -on,don't forgetto allow thereceiver timeto warm-up.Then selectthe wave-band you

require and use the tuning and theother controls accordingly.

The 'Main Tuning' and'Bandspread Tuning' controls arein the centre left and rightrespectively. Briefly, there are twovariable capacitors behind themain dial (left) and thebandspread dial (top centre).

The bandspread capacitor hasa very low capacity relative to themain tuning capacitor. This isbecause it's designed to 'spread'the tuning range around the fre-quency selected on the main dial.

To use the bandspread, youfirst 'set' the main control to thesection of the band you require.Then, by careful use of thebandspread, you can 'fine tune' upand down in frequency.

All wireless sets gather dust.And if your Hallicrafters has beenstored for a long period it's worthremoving the loud -speaker forcleaning. The loudspeaker usuallyhas four bolts, and after removingthem, take the unit out.

Then clean out any muck that

has gathered around the voice coiland between the outer edges ofthe speaker cone and its metalframework. Muck and dust cancause distortion because itrestricts the free movement of thepaper cone which in turn distortsthe reproduced sound.

Rural Exchange

Having read about the ruraltelephone exchange in February'sV&V, ex-G.P.O. telephoneengineer, John Woodcock(Basingstoke) wrote to tell me heremembers the "all 600 Watts" ofthe issued 'VAX' bowl fire, and themany times he tried to get hishands warm enough on winterdays to adjust the exchangeequipment!

Can You Help?

I'm finishing off this month with'Can You Help' requests. We startwith John Tye, who requires anaccumulator glass -jar. If you haveone to spare, please ring John on(0362) 638142.

Next, we have the Editor, RobMannion, at the PWoffice inBroadstone. He'll be delighted tohear from anyone who has theprecise instructions for replacingthe dial drive cord on anEddystone 888A communicationsreceiver.

Finally, Mr J.0 James wouldbe grateful for any informationabout an Inverter, type 200.Reference and serial numbers are5U/5083 and 855 respectively.Other information on the plate isDC Volts 25/28; r.p.m. 8000; a.c.Volts 115; Phase 1; VA 360; PF.1.0; Cycles 1600; and RatingCont. Answers please, to'Braeside', 95, Lower Heath.Congleton, Cheshire, CW121NJ.

That's it now, and it's time toclose up the old wireless shoponce again. We're open nextmonth, and don't forget to 'call'again by writing to me at'Faraday', Greyfriars,Storrington, West Sussex,RH2O 2HE.


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DAVID BU TLE R G4ASR

It's auroral events first.Although I only recorded oneopening during February, onthe 17th. But many morewere detected in March,especially during the period8-16 when 'Scottish -type'events were noticed everyday, mainly around 1700UTC.

The term 'Scottish -type'means literally that. It's aweak opening wherecontacts from centralEngland, for example, arerestricted to stations inScotland and surroundingareas.

Scottish stations will notonly be able to work aroundthe UK, they'll also be able towork into Scandinavia andnorthern Europe. This isbecause they're situatedfurther north and are in amore favourable location toutilise the aurora. So, whatmay be a weak event forstations in southern UK maybe quite reasonable if youlive in Scotland.

Little 144MHz DX

Very little real DX wasreported on the 144MHzband during March. But afew stations reportedworking SM4KYN (J079) onMarch 11 and LA9BM (JP40)on March 15.

The beacons GB3LER(144.965MHz), OY6VHF(144.885MHz) and SK7MPI(144.960MHz) seem worthchecking as all of thesewere putting in good auroralsignals.

The 50MHz Band

Little DX was reported on the50MHz band during themonths of February andMarch. There was a smallamount of Sp -E propagationon February 2, 3, 15 and 17,with European stations suchas EH3CUU, ES5QA, OH3MF,OK1MAC, SM70GX, SP5CCCand S55ZRS being worked bystations throughout England.

No DX was reported inMarch, although stations incontinental Europe had amuch better deal. They wereable to make contacts via

This month David Butler G4ASR has news of interestingactivity on microwaves and provides a possible solution to amystery DX station on v.h.f. packet radio.

Fig. 1: Antennas at the 0TH of SM4DHN (see text.

t.e.p. with African stationsincluding ZS6AXT ZS6PJS,7Q7JL and 7Q7RM.

The beacons V51VHF(50.018MHz) and ZD8VHF(50.032MHz) were alsoreported in central Europe.Don't give up, our turn willcome!

By the time you read this,we'll be entering thebeginning of the summerSporadic -E season whenmuch DX can be worked.And if you're prepared toignore the multitude of S9+European stations and digdown a layer or two, you'llalso discover the REAL DX!

Perhaps therefore, it'sworth noting that UWOSThas recently obtained apermit for the 50MHz band.He's expected to be activefrom locator square 0007during the summer.

Belarus Republic

Another country to look outfor is the Belarus Republic(UC) or Byelorussia as it wasformerly known. HansMueller DL5BAC hasprovided details of an multi-national expedition tolocator squares K033, K041,K042 and K043 betweenJune 20-30.

The group will use amultitude of callsignsincluding EV5B, EV5C, EV5D,EV5K, EV5M, EV5N and

UC1AWZ. They'll be activeon both the 50MHz and144MHz bands. More newsnext month.

If the band doesn't livenup, you could try making asked with Arie BaltesPA2TAB (J032). He's lookingfor c.w. or s.s.b. contacts onthe 50MHz band primarily atweekends.

Arie is also QRV on the70MHz band with aconverter and an HB9CVantenna. You can make asked for either band withPA2TAB via packet radio @PI2DAZ.

MicrowaveBands

Last month I gave you detailsof the first UK e.m.e.contacts on the 10GHz bandbetween G3WDG/G4KGC,SM4DHN and WA7CJO. Thephotograph, Fig. 1, showsthe home-made 6m diametersolid dish at the QTH ofSM4DHN used for the 10GHzexperiment.

The dish is also used onother s.h.f. bands for e.m.e.tests, as is the multi-Yagisystem that can be seen inthe background. The otherphotograph, Fig. 2, showsthe 4.8m diameter front -feddish at the QTH of WA7CJOwhich has been used towork 12 stations via themoon on the 10GHz band.

Active On 10GHzJonathon Eastment GW4LX0(1081) is also active on the10GHz band either from hishome QTH, or from nearbyhill -tops. On January 2 heheard stations on144.175MHz, the microwavetalk -back frequency. He thendecided to go out portablefrom The Wenallt (1081),South Glamorgan.

The 10GHz equipmentused by GW4LX0 is quitecompact. It runs 100mWfrom a home-made narrow -band (s.s.b. or c.w.)transverter into a smallhorn antenna only 250mmlong.

Once on the hilltop,Jonathan listened on144.175MHz and heardG3FYX in Bristol calling for10GHz contacts. Contactwas quickly established on10.368GHz at 5-9 both waysusing the horn inside thecar!

Immediately followingthe contact, another stationwas heard callingGW4LX0/P. On turning thehand-held horn (still insidethe car through some 60°the station was identified asGOBPU (J002) in Ipswich.

Although the distancebetween the two stationswas over 300km, a 5 -minutes.s.b. contact was made withsignals peaking 5-9 plus (stillinside the car!


After signing off with theSuffolk station, Jonathontuned down the band (yes,this is on 10GHz) and heardG3JVL (1090) on HaylingIsland calling CU. Contactwas quickly established withsignals again well over theS-9 level.

Moving back to the144MHz calling frequency,another 10GHz contact wasset up with G3JMY (1081) inBristol, again with verystrong signals. Contactswere also tried with G4JNT(1090) and G3LQR (J002) butalthough signals were heard,the tropo conditions weredisappearing and two-waycontacts couldn't beestablished on this occasion.

I'm reliably informed thatcontacts are made on 10GHzregularly every night of theweek between fixed stationsaround the UK. Jonathonmentions that whenconditions are right,contacts are quite easy tomake on the 10GHz band.

Jonathan reports makinga contact with G3JVL insidethe house by simply pointingthe horn antenna throughthe double -glazed patiowindow. Why don't you jointhem? I know I will as I'vejust bought a 10GHztransverter kit fromG3WDG/G4KGC and expectto be active from home laterin the year.

Packet FromBosnia

In the April issue of PW, Imentioned that G4DYA hadreceived packet radio on70MHz from Bosnia -Hercegovina. It wassuggested that Sp -Epropagation was the cause,and I asked if anyone elsehad spotted DX callsignsappearing on 70MHz.

In answer to my query,Simon Falconer G7GUO haswritten in, as he's alsomonitored 4N7VVW viapacket. He suggests that it'sfeasible that the station isnode hopping all the wayfrom Bosnia.

Simon explains thatwhen you go via a node, thecallsign is given a subsidiarystation identification (s.s.i.d.)of 15, for example 4N7WW-15. And every time it goesthrough another node, it'sreduced by 1.

So, after going through15 nodes, the s.s.i.d. wouldhave been reduced to 0 andonly 4N7VVW would bedisplayed. Simon alsooffered the explanation that4N7VVW regularly appearson the UK DX Clusternetwork, being linked viaGB7DXM from the Europeancluster system.

Following Simon'sadvice, I logged into mylocal cluster GB7DXC andsent the command SH/ST4N7WW (which gives detailsof a connected station).And hey presto!, it showedthat 4N7VVW was indeedlinked into the UK clusternetwork.

Looking in my PacketCluster User's Guide (detailsfrom John Clayton G4PDQ,Chairman of the UK PacketCluster Working Group) Inote that the s.s.i.d. isstripped off automaticallyonce a station is connectedinto the cluster. So I'm afraidBosnia -Hercegovina doesn'thave a 70MHz allocationafter all.

The terminal nodecontrollers (t.n.c.) don't havethe facility to enter in areciprocal callsign, and it'susual to input the suffix only.For example, a Brazilianstation operating in the UKwith the callsignG0/ZY1XWV, could appearon packet radio locally asZY1XWV! So be warned. Youcan't always believe whatyou read!

Beacon History

Now for a bit of beaconhistory on GB3VHF, locatedat Wrotham, Kent (J001). It'sprovided by Brian BowerG3COJ. Brian who has beenactive on the h.f. and v.h.f.bands for some considerabletime, worked for the BBCbefore his retirement.

Over 20 years ago theBBC needed f.m. radio linkson frequencies around46MHz, 90MHz and 141MHz.When the in-housedevelopment wascompleted, instead ofscrapping the prototype141MHz transmitter, it wasconverted to the 144MHzband and used at GB3VHF inplace of the original Pyetransmitter.

The GB3VHF transmitterhad been switched offfollowing a change offrequency from 144.150MHzto 144.500MHz. The newtransmitter, running 10Wwas activated in 1974, andlater that year a 40Wamplifier was added.

The beacon hascontinued in service eversince. But in the late 1970s itwas moved to a newfrequency of 144.925MHz.

In 1981 the BBC erecteda new mast at Wrotham,and the opportunity wastaken to renew the GB3VHFantenna system and install iton the new mast. Thetransmitter was rack -mounted and themicroprocessor -controlledkeyer (designed by G4BAU)

Fig. 2: The lOGHz e.m.e. antenna used byWA7CJO (see text).

was re -programmed.The keyer gives both c.w.

and RTTY identification. OnRTTY it provides details thelocation of the mast to thenearest second of latitudeand longitude.

When the old mast wasdemolished, the originalantenna, in operation since1961, was recovered. It'snow in the radio museum atRSGB Headquarters.

In Autumn 1992,difficulties arose becausethe beacon was de-sensitising the co -sited430MHz repeater GB3NK. Asa consequence, GB3VHFwas closed down.

The problem appeared tobe low-level spuriousoscillation in the amplifierstage. Eventually theproblem was resolved, andthe amplifier and beaconwere returned to service inFebruary 1993.

Solar Activity

During the first two weeks ofFebruary the active side ofthe sun was facing our way,and there was a largeincrease in solar activity.There were M -type flaresrecorded on virtually everyday with one of the biggest,an M9.6/2B, being recordedon February 6.

The sun was also veryactive on February 10 with 4M -type flares, and onFebruary 12 a major flarealert was issued.

Ionospheric disturbancesoccurred daily, and onFebruary 17 an M5.8 flareoccurred, and a severemagnetic storm started at0300UTC which affectednorthern latitudes. Later thatday, from around 1700UTC, aradio aurora effected thelower v.h.f. bands.

The solar flux levelspeaked at 188 units onFebruary 9, sinking to 116units on February 20. Duringthe latter part of February'stratwarm' alerts wereissued.

The 'stratwarm' alert

indicates a warming of thestratosphere. Some peoplebelieve that this can effectthe h.f. bands and possiblyfrequencies as high as50MHz, by producing oraiding extended skipdistances. Whether this istrue or not remains to beproved.

From March 1-16, manyM -type flares wererecorded. Most of thesecaused minor magneticstorms and consequentauroral activity.

Sudden ionosphericdisturbances (s.i.d.)occurred every day. But inspite of all the flare activity,the solar flux levels declineddipping to only 122 units byMarch 16.

Although the quieterside of the sun rotated intoview from March 16, therewere still a number of smallM -type flares in thefollowing days. Radio wavesweep emissions from 10-300MHz were recorded onboth March 20 and 21,lasting for about an hour orso. The geomagnetic fieldwas quite active during thisperiod and another auroralopening was detected onMarch 21.

Deadlines

As usual please send yourletters to reach me by thedeadlines at the end of themonth at the very latest. Inormally write up thecolumn around this time.Don't forget that I can alsoreceive messages viapacket radio at my mailboxGB7TCM or at my DX clusterGB7DXC.

If you have any goodquality photographs (or QSLcards, certificates, etc,) thatyou'd like to share withothers, please send them tome and if you want themback, I'll return them.

E N D


PAUL ESSERY GW3KFE

Together we've establishedover the past few issues thatDX on h.f. will operate 'split'frequency working. So,you've found where they'retransmitting and wherethey're listening. But, doesyour DX hunter nowconcentrate totally on wherethe DX is listening? Theanswer is NO!

You can be sure that ifyour DX station decides tochange band or go HT,they'll announce that fact.But 30 minutes later, there'llstill be misguided souls whohaven't noticed their choiceDX is now working onanother band.

However, even if you missthe announcement there arealways indications to help.For example, the rumpus onthe DX station's previousfrequency reducesnoticeably.

Low Power

While low -power operatorsin general don't bother tochase DX, those who doseem to get on well. The guywith such a set-up needs tobe like the cartoon characterYogi Bear -"Smarter thanyour average bear"!

It's been many yearssince I last heard from DaveGM4ELV in Glasgow. Davehas 206 countries confirmedwith 210 worked - a verygood return, and all withQRP! It also gives him WAZand WAS.

Dave has just come backto the fold after being QRTsince December 1990, andhe's now gearing up for battleagain. Making a good start,he worked KC4AAA at theSouth Pole and if mymemory's right, GM4ELValways used wire antennas.

Outstanding Cards

Anyone waiting for QSL cardsfrom the late Father Moran9N1MM, will be pleased toknow that outstanding UKcards have been collectedfrom USA. They're now in theUK, and are being passed onto the RSGB's QSL Bureau atthe time of writing.

I'm afraid that the YXOAIcards continue to mystify and

Paul Essery GW3KFE takes a look a chasing DX the difficult(hut enjoyable) way - by using QRP, before looking at themonth on the h.f: bands.

anger people by theirabsence. Some folk seem tohave theirs, others report noresponse. So, what is goingon?

The P5RS7 cards shouldbe out soon. They werepromised to be ready in timefor the Dayton HamVention inlate April.

Passing Of GW3UP

Bert Mills GW3LIP, diedsuddenly on the morning ofFebruary 28. By noon, thenews had passed all roundthe county.

Bert's funeral on March 4at Rhayader, was attended byamateurs from every club inPowys, Hereford and SouthWales. He was a man whohelped dozens of people gettheir licence or assisted withtheir problems. He'll be muchmissed.

Radio Conditions

Unfortunately, radioconditions have been veryspotty of late. Although asalways, it's a bad day whenyou can't scare up somethinginteresting.

Nigel Alford took theopen -wire feeder out of hisG5RV and now has coaxialcable all the way. This hasknocked the noise down byabout 70%.

For Don G3NOF in Yeovil,beams are the thing. He has a14/21/28MHz tribander plusanother for the WARC bands(18/24MHz) at the top of histower.

On 14MHz G3NOF raisedXU5DX, while on 18MHzP29CW. Don used 21MHz towork FY5FW and the prize on24MHz was SORASD. He usesa Kenwood 950SD and his oldDrake linear amplifier.

Gerald Bramwell inSwinton (GreaterManchester) uses a coupleof metres of wire. But thatdoesn't stop him hearingmost of what is about onsideband, n.b.f.m., c.w. orRTTY.

For example on 14MHzGerald found that all thecontinents were represented,while 1.8MHz was found fullof Ws, including WOLYI, ons.s.b.

Simple transceivers can prove very successfulon the h.f. bands. For example, many operators,including regular 'HF Bands' QRP reporter EricMasters GOKRT, use the well -established LakeElectronics DTR7 transceiver on 7MHz.

Spratly Island

At the time of writing in lateMarch, the rumours are thatthe Spratly Island operationwill be on about the time PWhits the newsagents. Let'shope 9MOS doesn't sufferthe fate of the last attempt.Amateur radio can dowithout deaths.

The Reports

I start the reports withAdrian Rees who listens to3.5MHz on two two -elementbeams! One is aligned at080° true, and the other is at280°, thanks to trees,neighbours' houses and soon.

For 1.8MHz, Adrian has afull half -wave with one endraised to 25m with the otherend at 15m. He uses an AR88and a FR -50B recently fittedwith a new set of valves.Among the loggings I'mpleased to see, on 1.8MHz, acontact with a Novice inAberdeen.

In Hereford LucianoMarquardt found S79FIB on28MHz and SORASD on14MHz for a couple of newcountries. Incidentally, theaddress for cards to thelatter is: Arseli EchegurenBardeci EA2JG, Las Vegas69, 01479 Luyando, Alava,Spain.

Now, it's time to hearfrom Ted Trowel! G2HKU onthe Isle of Sheppey. Ted hasan HF6 vertical antenna anda G5RV. For QRP he uses anIcom 1C -721S and an Omni Vfor the other contacts.

Ted's flea -power into theHF6 resulted in A71CW on18MHz. He then workedPZIDYT, A7ICW 9HIEL and

FY5YE on 21MHz, plus KP4TQon 28MHz, all on c.w.

Using the Omni in thesame mode at about 70W,Ted raised ZAs on 7MHz,4X/OK1FGC on 10MHz, withVK9LM(Lord Howe), S21ZHon 14MHz. His 21MHzworking resulted in VKOHA,VP5P, and on 28MHz TI4CF.

For once, G2HKU triedsideband. He workedON7BW on 1.8MHz, 9K2YAand 7XZ2AB on 14MHz,YC6JKV and 9K2YA again on21MHz, plus FR5GG (ReunionIs) and S79FIB on 28MHz.No beam antennas at JohnG3BDO's, but neverthelesshe found a brace of DiegoGarcia stations in VQ9KCand VQ9CE on 21MHz. Healso worked SORASD andVP5/KCOZC on 28MHz plusXX9TFN, (the QSL arrived inten days!). John found hisfirst Iraqi station, Y110MR,for years, and managed afirst -ever QM with V31PCfrom Belize.

Finally, Geoff Crowley(Hafnarfjordur, Iceland)mentions the DX nets helistens to. These include theBrazil Net on 14.24MHzbetween 0900 and 1000, theButterfly Net on 14.222MHzaround 2215, and the 247Net, on 14.247MHz at 2300.Times are UTC, frequencies±the QRM. Incidentally, JY1(Jordan) was logged on theButterfly Net one night.

That's the lot for thismonth. Keep writing,sending in photographs andletting me know what you'redoing on h.f. Cheerio fornow, 73 DE Paul GW3KFE.

ENDPractical Wireless, June 1993 53

R OGER COOK E G3LDI

Fig. 2: Tom NY2S,in London,testing thewormhole linkback to his BBSin New York.Photo BobG4XDD.

There has been somediscussion on the networkregarding the use of'wormholes', such as the'Lonny link', for passingamateur traffic. Purely apersonal view, but I feel thatif some commercialorganisation feels generousenough to allow amateurtraffic via their satellite link,then we should feelpriviledged and grateful forthe facility. No doubt though,this thought will create,some energetic discussionon the subject.

There exists a similaralthough slower transferfacility on a regular h.f. linkwhich at least enables us tokeep up-to-date with thelatest Keplerian elementsets, DX and propagationnews etc.

Lonny Link

Details of the Lonny link, theLondon - New Yorkwormhole, comes courtesyof Bob G4XDD/NV3Y who issysop of GB7XDD. Recentlythere was a meeting inLondon of some of thesysops associated with theLonny link. Derek GB7HSN,Frank WA2NDV, and TomNY2S discussed present andfuture plans, whilst BobG4XDD, kept order and tookthe photographs.

The prime mover of thisLonny link wormhole is FrankWA2NDV, who's even namedhis dog Lonny. The motleycrew are shown in Fig. 1!

The New York end of theLonny link is located 66 floorsup in a building onRockerfeller Plaza in

This month Roger J. Cooke G3LDI, praises a wormhole beforebringing you news of a bulletin board in Wrexham.

Fig. 1: Three wormhole operators, left -to -rightFrank WA2NDV, Derek of GB7HSN and TomNY2S. Photo Bob G4XDD/NV3Y.downtown New York City.The entry point is a 9600Bdpacket data link, providedcourtesy of the NBC-TVEmployees Amateur RadioClub.

The Lonny node inCentral London gives BBSssuch as GB7HSN andGB7XDD forwardingcapability direct into the USBBS network, as well asenabling local users toaccess US nodes and joinonline conferences acrossthe Atlantic. Until recently,the routing was a lot morecomplex than this.

Over a meal of giantburgers, waffles and coffee(what else?) inKnightsbridge, FrankWA2NDV and Tom NY2S,explained that further linkshad joined the network. Anode listing at NYHUB nowshows such exotica as:OXNARD:KA6LAZ-2,PALMAR:W6NWG-1,LANODE:K6VE-10,BGBEAR:AA6TN-1 andMALIBU:N6FDR-2.

Tom NY2S, is shown inFig. 2 testing the link fromLondon using a small 386SXbased laptop PC at GB7XDD.The response was incrediblyfast, quicker in fact than Tom

was used to from his officeback home!

Back-to-backconnections of TNCs fromthe operating shack at NBC-TV to the antenna site on thesixty-sixth floor. Activity onthe wormhole and nodes canbe checked from there,although the TNCconfiguration prevents widermonitoring.

on 144.650 and 432.675MHz.This new station should

provide a much needed userservice in an area betweenGB7s CRG, SAM and PMB.Mail forwarding is toGB7PMB on 70.4875MHz.

Ian also says that a largequantity of Graphics ImageFormat (GIF) files areavailable on the board. Thistype of picture file isviewable on a variety ofdifferent computers. Filesavailable on the BBS, arelunar and star images takenby a ST4 CCD camera.

The availability of thesefiles is due to a chancemeeting with Mr. PeterWilliams of the WhittingtonAstronomical Society. He is asysop of Starbase 4, atelephone BBS, that hasreguarly updated files.

Fig. 3: Frank WA2NDV joins in checking theLonny link wormhole out. Photo Bob G4XDD.

Further afield, links intoVK3 and Internet arepossible, bringing fastworldwide packet links evencloser and more accessible.Another check of the linkwhilst in London, by Tom andFrank is pictured in Fig. 3.Anybody who has made useof the Lonny link, will, I feelsure, sing its praises for thefast return of mail from theUSA.

Wrexham BBS

News just in from IanGM1MVL, who reports thatGB7WXM the Wrexham areaBBS is now on-line. Thesysop for the bulletin boardis Malcolm GW8HBP. Ian, asthe board's remote sysop,says the board is operating

This chance meeting hasled to a good relationshipwith the AstronomicalSociety. If anybody isinterested in these latestfiles, please send an IBM PC1.44Mb formatted disk withthe usual mailer and returnpostage to: Ian, GW1MVL, 28Maes y Gornel, Rhos,Wrexham, Clwyd, LL14 2LP.

Well, that's about all I

have room for, keep thenews coming please,especially from the usergroups, I could do with morenews from you! 73 and happypacketing de Roger, G3LDIGB7LDI, Tel: (0508170278.

END54 Practical Wireless, June 1993

PAT GOWEN G 3 I 0 R

This month Pat GowenG3/OR brings news of moreDX on the satellites,encourages Novice licenseesto participate and the latest`moon bounce' happenings.

Welcome to the world ofamateur radio in orbit! AndreON1AIG has told me of lotsof first time satellite DXCCopportunities on OSCAR -13.Some very exotic countriesare now on, or are comingsoon, including VK9 LordHowe Island, FK8 NewCaledonia, KH5 Palmyra,KH5K Kingman Reef, XF4Revilla and Gigedo Islands.

There's also 1S SpratleyIsland, YK Syria, 5T5Mauretania, HS0 Thailand,KP1 Navassa Island, PYOFFernando de Noronha, A6United Arab Emirates, 8P6Barbados, JY5 Jordan, and5Z Kenya. The full ESDXbulletin details are freelyavailable on the packet radionetwork from Andre asON1AIG @ON7RC.BT.BEL.EU

Novice Satellite

The new Novice 432 to440.0MHz allocation includesthe satellite sub -band 435.0 -438.0Mhz. So, 2E stations arenow able to access any 'B'or 'S' mode amateur radiosatellites (such as OSCARs10, 13 or 21 }that use 435MHzuplinks.

Data on the frequencies,modes, gear, antennas,methods and means isavailable. Just send astamped A4 sized s.a.e. tothe new PWoffices(address on the contentspage) asking for the freecopy of the satelliteinformation sheet. I'd alsolike your information too, andlook forwards to seeingreports of DX worked bysatellite, particularly by anynovices.

Power Limitation

The 3W Novice licencepower limitation certainlyimposes an obstacle. But itcan be overcome by usingenough antenna gain toboost the limited outputpower to some 150W e.i.r.p.

The effect 150W gainedis more than enough toaccess OSCAR -21, and evenOSCAR -10 or 13 when theynot overloaded by highpower users, and when thesatellite antenna is pointing

at earth. The antenna systemcan be a 20+ elementcrossed Yagi, a pair of 2 x10s or an 18 -turn right handcircularly polarised (RHCP)helix to give the 17dBiforward gain needed. Youcan then work the world andthe prized stations previouslisted!

Big Antenna

There's a big antenna shownin Fig. 1, with Doug MallettG3HUL standing with RaySoifer W2RS on the right isG3HUL's 8 x 21 element432MHz e.m.e. array. Youcan estimate its size bycomparing it with theonlookers.

If you build somethinglike this you will easily workthe satellites with less than500mW of uplink power. Andyou'll hear OSCAR -13's 'JL'mode downlink sounding likea broadcast station!

MoonbounceStory

I'm now going to tell you ashort moon -bounce story!The story begins during theEME Contest week -end,when I aimed my 10 -elementcrossed 144MHz Yagi at themoon, listening on my IC -251E.

Nine fully readable DXstations were heard within15 minutes! Whilst a few ofthe nearer Europeans mayhave been via 'tropo', thosefrom W5UN and KB8RQcould only have been viamoon -bounce.

Ray Soifer W2RS, whowas visiting me at the timecalculated that with just100W we could have workedthem. Despite the limitationsat our end, the superiorantenna gain at the otherend of the path would havepermitted contact.

In fact, Ray has alreadyachieved simple e.m.e. Usingbetween 50 and 100W to asingle long Yagi, he hasworked some 30 stations via144MHz e.m.e.!

Good Signal

One good signal I heardmoon beaming, was that of

Fig. 1: Doug Mallett G3HUL and Ray SoiferW2RS surveying the G3HUL 8 x 21 elemente.m.e. Yagi array.

John G3IMV. When I turnedthe antenna toward MiltonKeynes where G3IMV lives,he came up to RST599. So, Iknew that his signal wasarriving by 'short path'!

Having calculated thee.m.e. Doppler shift, Ibeamed back to the risingfull moon to see if I couldhear his echoes. I did, but atreduced greatly reducedDoppler shift.

Furthermore John's echowas not coming back thenormal 3 seconds after histropo signal. It arrived just330mS later!

This return time indicateda slower moving targetsituated some 50 000km outin the general direction ofthe moon. As I am unawareof any possible reflectingsource other than perhapsthe ion -combiningmagnetotail, I mentioned thisunusual finding on the14.345MHz InternationalEME Net.

It turned out that quite alot of the e.m.e. operatorshad noticed the effect I'dheard on John's echo. Theyhad usually dismissed it as'aurora' even when little orno such propagation existedat the time.

The returned signalsaren't always in the moon'sdirection. Their tonal qualityis quite different, soundingfar more like aircraft flutterthan the characteristic multi -Doppler auroral 'hiss'. In anycase, it's impossible to getauroral returns from 50 000kmout in space, which is whatthe echo delays indication.

Strange Effect

The strange effect appearsto be a possible new methodof communication that couldbe exploited by keen radioamateurs. To this end, Nico

Janssen PAODLO isenquiring into the effect.Nico is calculating themagnetotail off -set point.He's also getting some ofthose interested Dutche.m.e. users with fasttransmit/receive change-over to point their arrays totry for returns.

The effect seems torequire a low angleelevation near -to -full moon,a low magnetic flux and ahigh solar Flux. Thesefindings appear to fit themagnetotail theory with a'dark zone' in the lunardirection bounded by highlyionised Solar material sidescone pointing. Theoreticallythese conditions couldproduce the discoveredresults.

If any of you v.h.f./u.h.f.enthusiasts know of anysuch findings, please letPAODLO know. He is QTHR or@ PIBZAA on packet.Provide as much informationas possible on the returncharacteristics, duration,delay, lunar phase, azimuthand elevation, etc.

Well, that's the lot thismonth from the world ofamateur radio in orbit. Seeyou next time.

ENDApril 'Satellite Scene': Aphoto -credit wasinadventently left off thephotograph showing "TheFrench ARSENE satelliteunder test" in the April issueof PW. The photograph wassupplied courtesy ofAerospatiale, and webelatedly acknowledge andthank the company for thephotograph.


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ANDY EMMERSON G8PTH

In my bi-monthly look at theAN scene, I've got a veryinteresting letter from HardyHB9RRH in Niederzuwill,Switzerland.

Hardy says "I am activeon AN with 70cm a.m. and23cm f.m. I made an entry inlast September's IARURegion 1 AN contest with asmall 70cm transmitterworking with 1.2 Watts only.

"The portable transmitterweighs just 300gm, withoutbatteries, and wasdeveloped and built by myfriend HB9CSU, Dr Hans KarlSturm. Hans Karl has justcompleted a fine repeater,the HB9FW, situated 790metres above sea level. It isabout 3km from my 0.TH,which is at JN47NK.

"Repeater input is 23cmf.m. on 1274MHz, output on70cm a.m. with 60W sync.power on 432.350MHzpicture, 437.850MHz sound.The antennas for 23cm and70cm are slotted tubes,arranged as a four -antennasystem on each band, allhome-made. The pre -amp is20dB.

"The relay covers theregion of easternSwitzerland as far as Ulm inGermany. It is intended tomake a link -up with therepeater DBOGY, situatednear Friedrichshafen onLake Constance.

"We are awaitingpermission from the postoffices of Germany andSwitzerland. Apart from therepeater, I am quite oftenQRV from the top of somemountains.

"German amateurs haverelayed my transmissions onseveral occasions as far asMunich as I have beenactive from a mountain some1500 metres above sea level,sending pictures of hang-gliders starting from snow-covered slopes. It was a realthrill to us all.

"Two years ago I wenttogether with my son to theZugspitze, which at nearly3000 metres is the highestmountain in Germany (nearGarmisch-Partenkirchen).Hans Karl was able toreceive my 70cmtransmission in colour. Thesignals of my little 1.2 Watt

This month Andy Emmerson G8PTH appears on screen withATV news from Switzerland and home news from the Severnsidegroups work on their proposed I OGHz ATV repeater, ending upwith an interesting letter from Ireland.

transmitter covered thedistance of about 180km withflying colours". Thank youfor your fascinating letterHardy!Next, I've got some repeaternews, and G8EMX is puttingout a lively bulletin. It givesdetails of progress with thenew Birmingham repeater.

The Midland AmateurRadio Society (MARS), havegiven their willingagreement for the Nrepeater group to mount arepeater on top of their clubheadquarters for coveragetrials. The site is about half amile north-west of ColmoreCircus. Trials are to goahead, and in fact theyshould have started by now.

SevernsideGroup

Shaun O'Sullivan G8VPGfrom the Severnside Groupreports that: "Work on ourproposed 10GHz amateurtelevision repeatercontinues to progress. Amajor milestone was passedon November 29th last, whenthe first site trials werecarried out.

"Ted G3JMY, Ivor G1IXFand Viv G1 IXE assembled onthe proposed site and set upa transmitter operating on10.15GHz, which is theexpected output frequency.The aerial was the slottedwaveguide the repeater willuse. It was a typical coldNovember afternoon, butthankfully the rain that wehad been having rather a lotof at that time had stopped.

"A number of people with10GHz receiving equipmentwere eagerly awaiting, tosee if the signals werewatchable. For receiveeveryone was usingconverted satellite N I.n.b.sin conjunction with dishantennas of varying sizes.

"The reports receivedwere very encouraging. Weshould obtain good coverageof the Bristol area. RoyG3FYX in Winterbourne sentin a P5, commenting thatmore deviation wasrequired. This was acomment everybody madeand a suitable adjustment

Photograph of the Nottingham repeater GB3NVtransmissions, as seen by Dave Clarke G7KAOin Dartford, Kent just after Christmas.

will be made to thetransmitter in due course.

"Phil G1HIA at home inHorfield reported a P4. JohnG3RFL at home inPortishead saw between aPO to P3 with fading, which Ithink surprised even him.Ken G4BVK at home inHanham utilised his mainsteerable 1.2-m diametersatellite dish, but still couldnot seen anything (laterinvestigations showed oneof the stages in his I.n.b. wasnot working).

"The results from theday's work will enable us toproduce the necessary areacoverage map and completethe licence applicationforms. However, we mustfirst get formal permission touse the site. It is a super sitewhich is the reason why weare keeping it a little underour hats!"

Thanks Shaun for aninteresting insight inpreparing the ground for anew repeater!

Czech Mate

One of our Czech readers,Miroslav Mate, is setting upa video studio. He wouldvery much like to acquireany semi-professionalequipment readers may havespare, and donations will bemuch appreciated.

Cameras, video taperecorders, tape, etc. wouldall be welcome. Transportcould be arranged, so if youcan donate anything, pleaseget in touch. Miroslav alsoneeds the manual or circuitfor a Connexions TCR

8520/CM 8720 satellitereceiver. Contact me, AndyEmmerson G8PTH on (0604)844130.

Dublin Letter

From Templeogue (nearDublin) comes another letterfrom Dave Hooper EI2HR."Pleased to meet you, Boband Paul at last autumn'sMalahide rally. The itemsbought from Bob are nowdelivering pictures over theDublin area and I have nowhad contacts with nineANers, the nearest 11 milesand the furthest 14 miles.

"A surveillance camerabought at Malahide providesan alternative signal sourceto my camcorder. I havemade a frame for it, withlights and a ball bearingrunner so that the camerawill cover approximately 6inx 8in down to postcard sizefor captions, etc.

"The card holder ishinged so that it can foldaway underneath the frameleaving the camera seeing along shot of the shack. Mybiggest problem is notenough hands. I must get ridof the push -to -talk and hand-held mike.

" Maybe a headset boommike like EI7CL uses. Or atie -pin mike. What do othersuse?".

Well, what do you use?Write and tell me, becausethat's all I've got room forthis time. Cheerio for now.

E N D


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PETER SHOR E

I must confess to you, aboutmy biggest mistake in shortwave radio listening. Ithappened years ago, soonafter I first started to listen tointernational radio stations,when I heard Radio Kuwaitand sent in a receptionreport.

It was not particularlydifficult as Radio Kuwaitused very high powertransmitters, but I enjoyedthe programmes. They weretransmitted simultaneouslyon short wave and in f.m. onv.h.f. in the city, mainly forWestern expatriate workers.

Radio Kuwait respondedto my reception reportpromptly, and sent a QSLcard which I kept for sometime. At the start of the GulfWar, I searched high and lowfor that early QSL card, andcould not find it anywhere!

What a trophy it wouldhave been, had I discoveredits hiding place and no doubtfeatured it in a PWarticle atthe time! Never throwanything away, because younever know when it mightcome in useful! Think whatcould happen to the value ofQSL cards and other materialfrom the old Radio Moscowof the Soviet Union.

Another 'collectable'stacked away in a bookcaseat my home is a guide to EastBerlin. It was produced infull colour by the EastGerman government, andsent to me during the 1970sby Radio Berlin International.

Since the Berlin Wallcame down I've had theopportunity to visit EastBerlin. The sights aresomewhat less inspiring thanthose portrayed in the book!

Stations around theworld have often sent outhuge amounts of goodies tolisteners. Particularlygenerous in the past havebeen Radio Beijing, RadioPrague (whose teaspoons Istill use in tea caddies) andthe Voice of America.

The glossy colourmagazines published by theChinese authorities oftenproved an interesting read,although they had nothing todo with radio. But that's oneof the pleasures of shortwave listening, it's an

Fig. 1: The Astra satellite coverage footprint.

introduction to the world.Today, more and more

stations have felt thebudgetary squeeze. Lessprolific are the freebieswinging their way fromstations both from the Eastand the West. But there arestill souvenirs to be had.

It's worthwhile sending inreception reports to stationsand collecting QSL cardsfrom time to time. They areoften colourful and attractiveand sometimes specialseries are issued to markimportant occasions.

How to report to stationsis a bit of a science in itself.The umbrella organisationfor clubs in Europe theEuropean DX Council,publishes a Reporting Guidewhich offers advice and avocabulary of important DXlanguages including French,Spanish, German andspecimen reports. It costs£2, including postage, fromThe EDXC, PO Box 4,St Ives, Huntingdon,Cambridgeshire PE17 4FE.

Latest Schedule

The latest schedule fromAustralia has arrived toconfuse listeners in Europe,as there's a typographicalmistake amongst the list offrequencies recommendedfor this part of the world.

However, I have sorted itall out, and can tell you thatthe suggested channels(times UTC, frequencies inMHz) for Radio Australia inEnglish are:

0700-0900 on 21.595

0730-0830 on 15.240900-1300 on 21.7251430-1800 on 9.56 and 13.7551800-2030 on 5.88 and 7.26

You might also like to trybetween 0730 and 0900 on25.75MHz ,which issuggested for the MiddleEast and North Africa andcould be audible in Europe.

The World Service of theChristian Science Monitoralters its frequencies on 4May for the period to 30August. English is heard inEurope:

0600-0800 on 9.84 and 9.870800-1000 on 11.7051400-1600 on 15.665

1800-2000 on 17.51 and 15.6652000-2200 on 15.665 and 17.512200-2400 on 15.665

Broadcasts from the stationto Asia in English are:

0000-0200 on 17.5550400-0600 on 17.780600-0800 on 17.78 and 17.5550800-1000 on 17.5551000-1200 on 13.625 and 17.5551200-1400 on 13.6251400-1600 on 9.53 and 13.6251600-1800 on 11.58 and 13.6252000-2200 on 9.4552200-2400 on 13.625 and 15.405

Transmitter exchangesbetween BBC World Serviceand NHK Radio Japanincreased at the beginning ofApril when the BBC acquiredtime on a new transmitter atthe Tokyo-Yamata site of theNHK to beam into China andother parts of Asia.

The BBC can be heard ina variety of languages from:

0900-1300 on 11.765 andfrom 2100 to 0030 on15.37MHz. Radio Japan is

using the BBC's station inSingapore

from 0100 to 0300 on 11.86from 0500 to 1000 on 11.74 andfrom 2100 to 2200 on 6.035MHz.

Channel Africa's Englishschedule is currently:

0200-0300 on 9.730300-0400 on 9.73 and 3.9950400-0500 on 9.695 and 3.9950500-0600 on 11.7450600-0700 on 17.71

1000-1100 on 17.805

1100-1200 on 9.73

1600-1800 on 17.71 and 5.96

Finally, BBC WorldService and three of thedomestic BBC stations,Radios 1, 4 and 5, are nowfully operational on the Astrasatellite. If you have satellitereception equipment, pointyour antenna at Astra 1B at19.2° East and tune thereceiver to Transponder 23which carries UK Goldtelevision. World Service ison the audio subcarrier at7.38 MHz, Radio 1 at 7.74,Radio 4 at 7.56 and Radio 5 at7.92 MHz.

The map, Fig. 1, showsthe approximate footprint ofAstra and suggestedantenna sizes for sparkly -free (TV) reception of theservices on the satellite. So,until next month, goodlistening, and don't forgetthat all the latest broadcastnews is available eachweek in Radioline on 0891654676, updated everyweekend!

ENDPractical Wireless, June 1993 59

ARC ADEThe PW Shopping ArcadeWelcome to the Practical Wireless 'Arcade'. In this section of the magazine, you'll be able to find all thoseimportant services 'under one roof' - just like the shopping arcades you see in the High Street.

Let you eyes 'stroll through' the Arcade every month and you'll find all departments open for businessincluding: The Book Service, PCB Service, Binders and details of other PW Services. Make a regular habit of'visiting' the Arcade, because in future, you'll have the chance of seeing special book offers and otherbargains. And don't forget, this Arcade is open wherever you're reading PW.

Services

Queries:Practical Wireless,PW Publishing Ltd., Arrowsmith Court,Station Approach,Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8PW.

We will always try to help readers having difficulties with PracticalWireless projects, but please note the following simple rules:1: We cannot deal with technical queries over the telephone.2: We cannot give advice on modifications either to our designs,to commercial radio , TV or electronic equipment.3: All letters asking for advice must be accompanied by astamped self-addressed envelope (or envelope plus IRCs foroverseas readers).4: Make sure you describe the problem adequately, with as muchdetail as you can possibly supply.5: Only one problem per letter please.

Back Numbers

Limited stocks of many issued of PW for past years are availableat £2.00 each including post and packing. If the issue you want isnot available, we can photocopy a specific article at a cost of 85pper article or part of article.Over the years, PW has reviewed many items of radio relatedequipment. A list of all the available reviews and their cost can beobtained from the Editorial Offices ar Arrowsmith Court, StationApproach, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8PW for a stamped self-addressed envelope.

Binders

PWcan provide a choice of binders for readers' use. Plain bluebinders are available, each holding 12 issues of any A4 formatmagazine. Alternatively, blue binders embossed with the PW logoin silver can be supplied. The price for either type of binder is£5.50 each (£1 p&p for one, £2 for two or more).Send all orders to PW Publishing Ltd., FREEPOST, ArrowsmithCourt, Station Approach, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8PW.

Constructional Projects

Components for PW projects are usually readily available fromcomponent suppliers. For unusual or specialised components, asource or sources will be quoted.Each constructional project is given a rating to guide readers as tothe complexity.Beginner:A project that can be tackled by a beginner who is ableto identify components and handle a soldering iron.Intermediate: A fair degree of experience of building radio orelectronic projects is assumed, but only basic test equipment willbe needed to complete any tests and adjustments.Advanced: A project likely to appeal to the experiencedconstructor. Access to workshop facilities and test equipment willoften be required. Definitely not for the beginner to attemptwithout assistance.

Mail Order

All items from PW are available Mail Order, either by post orusing the 24hr Mail Order Hotline (0202) 659930. Payment shouldbe by cheque, postal order, money order or credit card(Mastercard and Visa only). All payments must be in sterling andoverseas orders must be drawn on a London Clearing Bank.

PW PCB Service

Orders and remittances should be sent to:Badger Boards, Blackberry Lane, Four Oaks, SuttonColdfield B74 4JF. Tel: 021-353 9326, marking yourenvelope PW PCB Service. Cheques should be crossed and madepayable to Badger Boards. When ordering please state theaarticle title as well as the board number. Please print your nameand address clearly in block capitals and do not enclose any othercorrespondence with your order.

We have talked to Badger Boards about the club and groupdiscount on orders, and they are happy to continue this service.Club secretaries and group leaders should contact Badger Boardsdirect for the new discount rates.Please allow 28 days for delivery.

Board Article (Project) Title Issue Price

WR314 UHF Pre -Amplifier Dec 92 £3.45WR313 10MHz Transmitter Nov 92 £4.65WR312 Receive/Mixer (Getting Started) Nov 92 £4.15WR311 Oscillator BFO (Getting Started) Sept 92 £2.60WR310 1.2GHz Pre -scaler Aug 92 £3.75WR309 Volt Reg/Divide by 100 Aug 92 £3.15WR308 TTL 1MHz Oscillator (Getting Started) July 92 £2.20WR307 Crystal Checker (Getting Started) June 92 £4.25SET WR303/304/305/306 Apr 92 £19.30

Inductance BridgeWR302 GDO (Getting Started) Apr 92 £4.75WR301 Challenger Receiver Feb 92 £4.75WR300a OSCAMP Oscillator Mar 92 £4.75WR300 OSCAMP Amplifier Feb 92 £5.20WR299 Multivibrator (Getting Started) Jan 92 0/SWR297/298 Additional Beaver boards 0/SSET WR295/296 PW Beaver Oct 91 £12.00SET WF1292/293/294 Chatterbox Aug 91 £14.00

SET WR290/291 Robin Freq. Counter Aug 91 0/SSET WR292/293/294 Chatterbox Aug 91 £14.00WR289 Meon-4 (Control) Jul 91 £4.67WR288 Morse Master Jun 91 £4.89WR286 Meon-4 (RF PA) Jun 91 £5.54WR287 Morse (Speedbrush) May 91 £4.85WR255 Meon-4 May 91 £6.76WR285 Scope Probe PSU Apr 91 £4.87WR284 Scope Probe Apr 91 £5.75WR283 Sudden Receiver Mar 91 £4.54WR282 Repeater Toneburst Feb 91 £5.10WR281 High Voltage PSU Jan 91 £4.70SET WR263/264 +WR276-80 Jul 90 £21.96

Marland Transmitter Sep 90WR272 NiCad Recycler Jun 90 £7.06WR275 Low Voltage Alarm Jun 90 £6.49WR273 Valve PSU May 90 £7.00WR274 RX Attenuator May 90 £5.84WR271 Product Detector Apr 90 £5.05WR270 Badger Cub Apr 90 £5.04WR269 Glynme Feb 90 £6.83WR268 Irwell (RF PA) Feb 90 £6.12WR264 Irwell (Relay) Feb 90 f5.10WR263 Irwell (VFO) Jan 90 £6.12WR267 PW 49'er Jan 90 £6.12WR266 Tuned Active Antenna Jan 90 £5.71

WR265 Tuned Active Antenna (PSU) Jan 90 £5.71

WR199 Meon 50MHz Transverter Oct 85 £6.83WR161 Marchwood 12V 30A PSU Jul 83 £4.28

Please use the order form on page 65for all items in the PW arcade.


BARGAIN BASEMENT

Write your advertisement inBLOCK CAPITALS - up to amaximum of 30 words plus 12words for your address- and sendit together with your payment of£2.35 (cheques payable to PWPublishing Ltd.), or subscriberdespatch label and corner fleshto: Donna Vincent, PW PublishingLtd., Bargain BasementArrowsmith Court StationApproach, Brosdetone, DorsetBH18 BPW.Subscribers must include thedespatch label bearing theiraddress and subscription numberto qualify for their free advert.Adverts published on a first -come,first -served basis, all queries toDonna Vincent on (0202) 659910.Advertisements from traders, orfor equipment that is illegal topossess, use or which cannot belicensed in the UK, will not beaccepted.No responsibility will betaken forerrors.

For Sale

Amateur Radio & Ham RadioToday both from No 1 to '8, alsoPractical Wireless 1947-1970,offers. CapCo SpC 3000 1kW, stillin box, £150. Bill. Tel: 041-649 4345.

BBC B disk drive, monitor, 2i/fsocket, GX-2 SSTV FAX TX/RXsystem, TX -3 and RX-4 software,v.g.c. with manuals, £180. RogerG3SNT. Tel: 091-384 8543.

Bremi linear BRL 200 10W in100W out. Suitable for 21 &28MHz Manual, f55. G4ZQAQTHR. Tel: (0305) 820025.

CR100 Marconi general coveragereceiver, good condition, £70.Marconi VTVM, £12. KnightVTVM, £10. Various valved radiosall in working order £10-f15. Tel:Manchester 061-962 7577.

Datong ANF, £45. FL3, £80. ICSFax -I, £175. Trio 9R59DS plusspeaker, £65. Scopex 4S6, £60.CTE 1600 144MHz, £70. All goodorder, must collect, Lancashire.Tel: 070-621 8290 evenings only.

Drake TR7 transceiver with SPS7power supply, s.s.b. and c.w.filters fitted, receive d.c.-30MHz,£565. Geoff G4ECF. Tel: (0483)

570033.

Pr

Eddystone models ECIO, f75.730/4, 770R, 770U/2, £95 each.Cash plus post, all in v.g.c. I stillneed an 870/A. Peter Lepino,Surrey. Tel: (03741128170 or Fax:(0372) 454381.

FT-747GX with f.m., £575. UnidenPR0620 home base, £110. JesanKT2002 mobile, £50. Datongspeech processor, £60. Altai basepower mic, £30. Mostly new. Tom,Kettering. Tel: (0536) 522007.

IC251E 144MHz multi -mode, £200.TS780 144/432MHz multi -mode,£500. Tempo 144A 1kW p.e.p.,£500. Tokyo 160W/p.a. 144MHz,£100. Daiwa 30A p.s.u., £90.144/1296 TVTR/m 2W o/pt, £800.Genuine reason for sale, all o.n.o.,all v.g.c. G4HGI, St Helens,Merseyside. Tel: (0744) 895139.

Icom IC -R7100 (with shop fittedh.f. section) 0-2000MHz, no gaps,like new, £850 o.n.o. Kenwood RZ-1 scanner 500kHz-950MHz, likenew, £265 o.n.o. Would exchangeboth for Kenwood TS-690/TS-790w.hy. Barry G70FR (can travel).Tel: Bradford (02741880895.

Jaybeam TB1-Mklll h.f. tri-bander 14, 21, 28MHz, s/s fittings,length 25ft. If space a problem 18,21, 28MHz can be simply adapted,then approx 22ft overall.Absolutely mint, unused, boxed,instructions, list price £140, salefor £100. No offers please. G2FZU,QTHR. Tel: (0636) 813847.

Junk Box Sale, components,modules by Denco (coils,transformers). Electroniques(coils, transformers, front end andi.f. modules). Eddystone (receiverfront ends, mother boards, 898dials). Full data s.a.e. lists. MrWoodward, 19 Jacomb Road,Lower Broadheath, WorcesterWR2 6QW.

Kenpro KT -22 144MHz hand-held,brand new, £85. Fairmate HP200Escanner 0.5-1300MHz, mintboxed, £145. Sony Pro -80 newboxed, £135. G6NTQ, Dudley. Tel:(0384) 211744.

Kenwood TH-77E dual -bandhandle, speaker/mic, voxheadset, extra batteries withchargers, worth £650, asking£375. Yaesu FT -7 mobile TX/RX,£325 o.n.o. Yaesu FT -101B,

overhauled, clean, low-life p.a.s, £275. Derek G4ABS,Stratford-upon-Avon. Tel: (0789)297158.

Kenwood TH77E dual bandhandle 144/433MHz. Boxed withNiCad battery and charger, Manymemories and functions, £280.Tim G7KGM, Swindon. Tel: (0793)855007.

Kenwood TS-850SB auto a.t.u.500Hz c.w. filter mic as new,£1200. PS -52, £150. Ten-TecCorsair 2, £700. TS -520 250Hz c.w.filter, £300. Cushcraft A4, £180.FC-102. lkW h.f. a.t.u., £180. Tel:Falkirk (0324) 32594.

Lattice Mast heavy duty tilt -over,overall length 48ft retracts to 20ft,winch etc, can be seen standing,£325 o.n.o. Michael GORDD,Peterlee, Co. Down. Tel: 091-5183609.

National Panasonic model D1128radio digital frequency display,wide/narrow bandwidthf.m./m.w./1.wJs.w. 3.2-30MHztuning meter, good condition,£145 o.n.o. plus postage. Tel: Kent(0322) 667641 after 7pm.

Panasonic RF-B65131.w./m.w./s.w.with s.s.b., boxed in goodcondition. Genuine reason forsale, £95. Tel: Ealing 081-998 4336.

RA17 Mkll RX, £150. RA137A I.fadapter, £65. h.f. a.t.u., £40. LPF,£10. 400W load, £10. Sat TV RXsNEC3022, £65. Echostar Sr -1000(70MHz i.f.) , £75 (tuneable). Otherequipment available. Tel: 081-5198189 evenings.

Sagan( half -wave 14MHz Zepp,end fed PL259 in plastic wallet,list price £79.95 as new, £55, idealh.f. holiday. Dave 081-444 5923.

SW receivers (various) 3.5-14MHz. t.r.f. and Howes kitsready -built some need tuning, 15sets, £35 each or £450 the lot noPPS head phone operative, idealfor beginner. Tel: (09241469537.

Ten Tec Delta II, new, unused,selling due to abandoned mobileprogram, cost £1495, offersplease. Tel: (0229) 89635 anytime.

Tennamast 40ft telescopic andtilt mast with Yaesu G-400 H/D

rotator and Mosley TA33 JNR 3-ele Tri-bander 3 years oldcurrently erected, £450 o.n.o. Tel:(07491880320.

Valve experiments? Manytransformers available, mostlynew, s.a.e. Early Erskine DBscope, bridges, Cintel for and'C'. Interesting old valve amp.Valve voltmeters, 430MHz poweroscillator. All collectors pieces.G3JIX, Staple Farmhouse, Staple,Canterbury, Kent CT3 1JX. Tel:10304) 812723.

Various hi-fi separates, tunersetc, reasonable offers. Willexchange for h.f. TX/RX tuner. Tel:091-5678 282.

Wraase SC -1 SSTV FAXtransceiver with keyboard, £190.Terry G3TRB, Worcs. Tel: (0905)775206.

Yaesu FL -2100Z linear amplifierin mint condition, £425. RevexW510 s.w.r. power meter 1-30MHz, 200W-5kW, £50 o.n.o. Tel:Liskeard (0579) 21107.

Yaesu FT -101Z looks andperforms as new ex -silent key.Ted G4TLY, Malmesbury,Wiltshire. Tel: 10666) 822935.

Yaesu FT -230R, £120. SX600

s.w.r. power meter, £98. MaplinXG94C signal generator100kHz-150MHz, £55. Maplin13.8V 7A p.s.u., £28. Shackclearout s.a.e. for list. 70MHzground plane new, £28.G8FRA, 9 Ilfracombe Grove,Green Lane, Coventry CV3 6DX.Tel/Fax: (0203) 415 815.

Yaesu FT -690 g.w.o. but casescratched hence only £175.Would part exchange towards h.f.TX/RX. Sextet modem, V21 toV32BI 5, £80. Epson RX8OFTprinter, £80 or exchange for 144 or430MHz f.m. TX/RX. Mike. Tel:10753) 540520.

Yaesu FT -707 h.f. s.s.b.transceiver, Yaesu FC-707antenna tuner, Yaesu FP -707power supply, £475 willing tohaggle, will not split. Tel: Dorset(0202) 690182.

Yaesu FT-902DM, £550. FT -101E,

£275. FT -101 EX, £275. FRG -7700,

£295. Icom IC -210, £150. TR2200G,

£95. YC601, £100. FT -227R, £195.

2kW linear, £850. 1.2kW, £475.1kW, £450. 600W, £250. Allpristine condition. Richard,Nr Taunton. Tel: (0396) 86215anytime.

WantedControl box for number 19 set,p.n.p transistors r.f and i.f. typesparticularly AF212/15 types.Manual or copy for Storno 500transceiver. Any number ofbattery packs. G3PS2. Tel: (0837)53021.

HRO-MX or HRO-ST with all 9coils (50kHz-30MHz) i.f. notworking, must be repairable andcomplete, p.s.u./speaker notessential. Also scrap HRO forspares, write first, will 'phoneback. E. Owen, 28 Charfield Road,Reigate, Surrey RH2 7JZ.

M019 set control box , D/F partsfor R1155, also Jones plugssockets for same. Manual andbatteries for Storno 550 handset.Any PNP r.f./i.f. transistors. KenG3PSZ. Tel: (0837153021.

Practical Wireless Vol. 2, No 45July 291933. Must be in excellentcondition (mint), with cover.Contact PW Editorial offices. Tel:10202) 659910.

Pye pocket phone transmittersPF1T type any condition workingor not any channel. Tel: 10242)516075 after 6pm.

SEM or KW Zmatch or KW 107 orKW109. Cash waiting. Richard.Tel: (0398) 6215 anytime.

Sony CRF320 portable radio, alsoRadford hi-fi units MA15, MA25,K25, FMT4, FMT5. Tel: (0738)23348.

SP230 speaker and VFO 230, cashwaiting. Malcolm GOSMF,Durham. 091-373 1271.

Trio R -599S receiver with/withoutT -599S transmitter, Trio HO -2clock wanted. Other similarequipment considered. For Sale:Yaesu FT -200 plus p.s.u., mic,handbook, boxed, excellent, £185o.n.o. plus carriage. Tel: Somerset(0963124319.

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HOW TO ORDER. PLEASE USE THE ORDER FORM ON PAGE 65.POST AND PACKING; add £1.00 for one book, £2.00 for two or more books, orders over £40 post and packing free, (overseasreaders add £1.75 for one book, £3.50 for two or more for surface mail postage) and send a postal order, cheque or internationalmoney with your order to PW Publishing Ltd, FREEPOST, Arrowsmith Court, Broadstone, Dorset BH18 8PW. Please make yourcheques payable to PW Publishing Ltd. Payment by Access, Mastercard, Eurocard or Visa also accepted on telephone orders toPoole (0202) 659930. Books are normally despatched by return of post but please allow 28 days for delivery. Prices correct at timeof going to press. Please note: all payments must be made in Sterling.

LISTENING GUIDES

AIR BAND RADIO HANDBOOK (4thEdition)David J. SmithExtensively revised & updated(October 1992). Air band radiolistening enables you to listen -in onthe conversations between aircraftand those on the ground who controlthem, and is an increasingly popularand fascinating hobby. A new chapteron military air bend has been added.The author, an air traffic controller,explains more about this listeninghobby. 190 pages. E7.99

AIR TRAFFIC RADIO Raft EditionCompiled by Ken DaviesCompletely revised (early 1992) tomake this a comprehensive guide toUK airband communications.Frequencies and abbreviations usedin UK air traffic control. Where tolisten for tower, ground and radarcontrol in civilian and other airports.Includes a section on off -shore oilrelated use. 72 pages. 84.513

VHF/UHF SCANNING FREQUENCYGUIDE (THE)

from 26MHz to 12GHz with no gapsand who uses what. Completelyrevised and enlarged (February 1993),there are chapters on equipmentrequirements as well as antennas, theaeronautical bands, as well as thelegal aspect of listening using ascanner. 156 pages. E9.95

DIAL SEARCH 1992/94George WilcoxThe listener's check list and guide toEuropean radio broadcasting. Coversrn.w.,1.w., v.h.f. & s.w., including twospecial fold -out maps. Also includes afull list of British stations, a select listof European station, broadcasts inEnglish and 'Making the Most of YourPortable'. 46 pages. E4.25

FERRELL'S CONFIDENTIALFREQUENCY LIST 8th editionCompiled by Geoff HalligeyCompletely revised, much larger &spirally bound for easy use. Nowcovers 1.6-28MHz in great depth, allmodes and all 'utility' services, withnew reverse frequency listingshowing every known frequencyagainst each callsign. Who's usingwhat frequency and mode, what's thatcallsign? These are some of theanswers this book will help you find.544 pages. 817.95

FUGHT ROUTINGS 1992Compiled by T.T. & S.J. WilliamsThis guide was produced with thesole aim of assisting airband listenersto quickly find details of a flight, oncethey have identified an aircraft'scallsign. Identifies the flights ofairlines, schedule, charter, cargo andmail, to and from the UK and Eire andoverflights between Europe andAmerica. 122 pages. OR

GUIDE TO FACSIMILE STATIONS12th EditionJoerg KlingenfussThis manual is the basic referencebook for everyone interested in FAX.Frequency, callsign, station name, ITUcountry/geographical symbol,technical parameters of the emissionare all listed. All frequencies havebeen measured to the nearest 100Hz.Included are 300 sample charts andtheir interpretation.416 pages E18.00

GUIDE TO UTIUTY STATIONS 11thEditionJoerg KlingenfussThis book covers the complete shortwave range from 3 to 30MHz togetherwith the adjacent frequency bandsfrom 0 to 150kHz and from 1.6 to3MHz. It includes details on all typesof utility stations including FAX endRTTY. There are 19549 entries in thefrequency list and 3590 in thealphabetical callsign list plus pressservices and meteorological stations.Included are RTTY & FAX press andmeteo schedules. There are 11800changes since the 10th edition.534 pages. E24.00

HF OCEANIC AIRBANDCOMMUNICATIONS 4th EditionBill LeverHF aircraft channels by frequency andband, main ground radio stations,European R/T networks and NorthAtlantic control frequencies.31 pages. E3.95

INTERNATIONAL RADIO STATIONSGUIDE BP255Peter ShoreAs in 'Broadcast Roundup', hiscolumn in PW, Peter Shore has laidthis book out in world areas, providingthe listener with a reference workdesigned to guide around the ever-more complex radio bands. There aresections covering English languagetransmissions, programmes for DXersand s.w.l.s. Along with sections onEuropean medium wave and UK f.m.stations. 266 pages. E515

INTERNATIONAL VHF FM GUIDE(THE)7th Edition.Julian Baldwin G3UHK & KrisPartridge G8AUUThis book gives concise details ofrepeaters & beacons world-wide pluscoverage maps & further informationon UK repeaters. 70 pages. E2.85

MARINE UK RADIO FREQUENCYGUIDEBill LaverA complete guide (reprinted January1993) to the UK s.w. and vtit marineradio networks. Useful information,frequency listings and the WorldMarine Coastal Phone Stations.62 pages. E4.95

NEWNES SHORT WAVE USTENINGHAND BOOKJoe Pritchard G1UQWA technical guide for all short wavelisteners. Covers construction anduse of sets for the s.w.l. who wants toexplore the bands up to 30MHz. Alsocovers the technical side of the hobbyfrom simple electrical principles allthe way to simple receivers 276pages. £15.95

POCKET GUIDE TO RTTY AND FAXSTATIONS (THE)Bill LaverA handy reference book listing RTTYand FAX stations, together withmodes and other essentialinformation. The listing is inascending frequency order, from 1.6to 26.8MHz. 57 pages. £3.96

RADIO USTENERS GUIDE 1993Clive WoodyearThis is the third edition of this radiolistener's guide. Simple -to -use mapsand charts show the frequencies forradio stations in the UK. Organised sothat the various station types arelisted separately, the maps are usefulfor the travelling listener. Articles

included in the guide discuss v.h.faerials, RDS, the Radio Authority anddevelopments from Blaupunkt.56 pages. fin

SHORT WAVE INTERNATIONALFREQUENCY HANDBOOKFormerly the Confidential FrequencyList and re -published in April 93, thisbook covers 500kHz-30MHz. Itcontains duplex and channel lists,callsigns, times and modes, broadcastlisting and times.192 pages. E9.95

SOUNDS EASY The complete guide toBritain's radio stationsCompiled by Ken DaviesA guide to the numerous local radiostations throughout the UK. If you do alot of travelling this book is invaluable.Remised by areas, it makes findingyour kind of sounds easy.52 pages. E2.95

VHF/LIHF AIRBAND FREQUENCYGUIDE 4th EditionA complete guide to civil & militaryairband frequencies including how toreceive the signals, the frequenciesand services. VOLMET, receiverrequirements, aerials and much moreabout the interesting subject ofairband radio are included.123 pages. f6.95

WORLD RADIO TV HANDBOOK 1993Country -by -country listing of 1.w., m.w.& s.w. broadcast and TV stations.Receiver test reports, Englishlanguage broadcasts. The s.w.l.s'bible'. £15.95.

ANTENNAS (AERIALS)

AERIAL PROJECTS BP105Practical designs including active,loop and ferrite antennas plusaccessory units. 96 pages. (2.50

ANTENNA EXPERIMENTER'S GUIDE(THE)Peter Dodd G3LDOAlthough written for radio amateurs,this book will be of interest to anyonewho enjoys experimenting withantennas. You only need a very basicknowledge of radio & electronics toget the most from this book. Chaptersinclude details on measuringresonance, impedance, field strengthand performance, mats andmaterials and experimental antennas.200 pages. 88.90

ANTENNA IMPEDANCEMATCHINGWilfred N. CaronProper impedance matching of anantenna to a transmission line is ofconcern to antenna engineers and toevery radio amateur. A properlymatched antenna as the terminationfor a line minimises feed -line losses.Power can be fed to such a linewithout the need for a matchingnetwork at the line input. There is nomystique involved in designing eventhe most complex multi -elementnetworks for broadband coverage.195 pages. £11.95

ARRL ANTENNA BOOK (THE)16th EditionA station is only as effective as itsantenna system. This book coverspropagation, practical constructionaldetails of almost every type ofantenna, test equipment and formulasand programs for beam headingcalculations. 789 pages. E14.50

ARRL ANTENNA COMPENDIUM (THE)Volume OneFascinating and hitherto unpublishedmaterial. Among the topics discussedare quads and loops, log periodicarrays, beam and multi -bandantennas, verticals and reduced sizeantennas. 175 pages. £9.50

ARRL ANTENNA COMPENDIUM (THE)Volume TwoBecause antennas area topic ofgreat interest among radio amateurs,ARRL HQ continues to receive manymore papers on the subject than canpossibly be published in OST. Thosepapers are collected in this volume.208 pages. £9.50

BEAM ANTENNA HANDBOOKW. I . Orr W6SAI & S. D. Cowan W2LXDesign, construction, adjustment andinstallation of h.f. beam antennas. Theinformation this book contains hasbeen complied from the data obtainedin experiments conducted by theauthors, and from informationprovided by scientists and engineersworking on commercial and militaryantenna ranges. 268 pages. £7.50

G-QRP CLUB ANTENNA HANDBOOK(THE)Compiled and edited by P. LinsleyG3PDL & T. NicholsonICA.9WRI/GWOLNQ.This book is a collection of antennaand related circuits taken from Spratthe GAIRP Club's journal. Althoughmost of the circuits are aimed at thelow -power fraternity, many of theinteresting projects are also useful forgeneral use. Not intended as a textbook, but offers practical and provencircuits. 155 pages. MOO

HF ANTENNA COLLECTION(11SGB)Edited by Erwin David GCBThis book contains a collection ofuseful, and interesting h.f. antennaarticles, first published in the RSGB'sRadio Communication magazine,between 1968 and 1989, along withother useful information on ancillarytopics such as feeders, tuners,baluns, testing and mechanics for theantenna builder. 233 pages. £9.50.

INTRODUCTION TO ANTENNATHEORY IAN) BP198H. C. WrightThis book deals with the basicconcepts relevant to receiving andtransmitting antennas, with emphasison the mechanics and minimal use ofmathematics. Lots of diagrams helpwith the understanding of thesubjects dealt with. Chapters includeinformation on efficiency, impedance,parasitic elements and a variety ofdifferent antennas. 86 pages. E2.95

NOVICE ANTENNA NOTEBOOKDoug DeMew W1FBAnother book from the pen of W1FB,this time offering "new ideas forbeginning hams-. All the drawings arelarge and clear and each chapterends with a glossary of terms. It iswritten in plain language and youdon't need to be a mathematician tobuild and erect the support structuresthat are presented in this book.124 pages. LESS

PRACTICAL ANTENNA HANDBOOKJoseph J. CarrAs the name suggests, this bookoffers a practical guide at everythingto do with antennas, from h.f. tomicrowaves. It also has sections onpropagation, transmission lines,

antenna fundamentals and a helpfulintroduction to radio broadcastingand communication. The book neatlybalances a practical approach withthe minimum of mathematics, gooddiagrams and a lively text 437 pages.E19.95

SIMPLE, LOW-COST WIREANTENNAS FOR RADIO AMATEURSW. I. Orr W6SAI &S. D. Cowan W2LXEfficient antennas for Top Band to 2m,including 'invisible' antennas fordifficult station locations. Clearexplanations of resonance, radiationresistance, impedance, s.w.r.,balanced and unbalanced antennasare also included.188 pages. £7.50

W1FB'S ANTENNA NOTEBOOKDoug DeMawThis book provides lots of designs, insimple and easy to read terms, forsimple wire and tubing antennas. Alldrawings are large and clear makingconstruction much easier. There is nohigh-level mathematics in this book,just simple equations only whennecessary to calculate the length ofan antenna element or its matchingsection. 123 pages. E6.95

WIRES & WAVESCollected Antenna Articles from PW1980-1984Antenna and propagation theory,including NBS Yagi design data.Practical designs for antennas frommedium waves to microwaves, plusaccessories such as a.t.u.s, s.w.r. andpower meters and a noise bridge.Dealing with TVI is also covered.160 pages. 83.00

YAGI ANTENNA DESIGNDr James. L Lawson W2PVThis book is a polished and expandedversion of a series of articles firstpublished in Ham Radio following onfrom a series of lectures by the author,who was well-known as the expert onYagi design. Chapters include simpleYagi antennas, loop antennas, effectof ground, stacking and practicalantenna design. 210 pages. £10.95

25 SIMPLE AMATEUR BANDAERIALS BP125E. M. NollHow to build 25 simple andinexpensive amateur band aerials,from a simple dipole through beamand triangle designs to a mini -rhombic. Dimensions for specific spotfrequencies including the WARCbands are also given.63 pages. f1.95

25 SIMPLE INDOOR AND WINDOWAERIALS BP136E. M. NollDesigns for people who live in flats orhave no gardens, etc., givingsurprisingly good results consideringtheir limited dimensions. Informationis also given on short wave bands,aerial directivity, time zones anddimensions. 50 pages. £1.75

25 SIMPLE SHORT WAVEBROADCAST BAND AERIALS BP132E. M. NollDesigns for 25 different short wavebroadcast band aerials, from a simpledipole through helical designs to amulti -band umbrella. Information isalso given on short wave bands,aerial directivity, time zones anddimension tables that will help spot anaerial on a particular frequency.63 pages. E1.95


ERVICE25 SIMPLE TROPICAL AND MWBAND AERIALS BP145E. M. NollSimple and inexpensive aerials for thebroadcast bands from medium waveto 49m. Information is also given onband details, directivity, time zonesand dimensions. 54 pages. E1.75

MORSE

INTRODUCING MORSECollected Articles from PW 1982-1985Ways of learning the Morse Code,followed by constructional details of avariety of keys including Iambic,Triambic and an Electronic Bug with a528 -bit memory as well as a practiceoscillator and Morse tutor.48 pages. E1.25

SECRET OF LEARNING MORSE CODE(THE)Mark FrancisUpdates for the Novice Licence.Designed to make you proficient inMorse code in the shortest possibletime, this book points out many of thepitfalls that beset the student.84 pages. E4.95

SATELLITES

NEWNES GUIDE TO SATEWTE TVDerek StephensonThis book, the 2nd edition, is a hardbound volume, printed on high qualitypaper. The author is a satellite repairand installation engineer and the bookcovers all information needed by the .installation engineer, the hobbyist andthe service engineer to understandthe theoretical and practical aspectsof satellite reception with dishinstallation and how to trouble -shootwhen picture quality is not up toanticipated reception. Mathematicshas been kept to a minimum.284 pages. E17.95

SATELLITE BOOK (THE) - A completeguide to satellite TV theory andpracticeJohn BreedsThis book deals almost exclusivelywith television broadcast satellitesand is a comprehensive collection ofchapters on topics, each written by aexpert in that field. It appears to beaimed at the professional satellitesystem installer, for whom it isinvaluable, but it will be appreciatedby a much wider audience - anyoneinterested in satellite technology.280 pages. £30.00

SATELLITE EXPERIMENTER'SHANDBOOK (THE) 2nd EditionMartin Davidoff K2UBCThe book is divided into four mainsections - History, Getting Started,Technical Topics and Appendices. Itprovides information on spacecraftbuilt by, and for, radio amateurs. Inaddition, it discusses weather, TV -broadcast and other satellites ofinterest to amateurs. 313 pages £14.50

SATELLITE TELEVISION A layman'sguidePeter PearsonPictures from space, that's whatsatellite television is all about.Orbiting satellites, 35000km high,receive TV signals from stations onthe earth and re -transmit them backagain. This book explains all you needto know to set up your own satelliteTV terminal at home, dish andaccessories, cable and tuner.73 pages. E1.00

SATELLITE TELEVISIONINSTALLATION GUIDE 2nd EdJohn BreedsA practical guide to satellitetelevision. Detailed guide -lines oninstalling and aligning dishes based onpractical experience. 56 pages E13.00

WEATHER SATELLITE HANDBOOK4th editionDr Ralph E. Taggart WB8DQTThis book explains all about weathersatellites, how they work and how youcan receive and decode their signalsto provide the fascinating pictures ofthe world's weather. Plenty of circuitdiagrams and satellite predictingprograms. 192 pages. E14.50

AMATEUR RADIO

ALL ABOUT VHF AMATEUR RADIOW I. Orr W6SAIWritten in non -technical language,this book provides informationcovering important aspects of v.h.f.radio and tells you where you can findadditional data. If you have a scanner,you'll find a lot of interesting signals inthe huge span of frequenciescovered, 100-300MHz & 50, 420, 902 &1250MHz bands. 163 pages. E9.50.

AMATEUR RADIO CALL BOOK (RSGB)1993 EditionOver 60000 callsigns are listedincluding El stations. Nowincorporates a 122 -page section ofuseful information for amateur radioenthusiasts and a new novice callsignsection. 444 pages. E9.50

ARRL HANDBOOK FOR RADIOAMATEURS (THE) 1993This is the 70th edition of thishandbook and contains the bestinformation from previous issues.New for this edition is someinformation on feedback -loop designfor power supplies, a new gel -cellcharger project, updates on antennasystems and new coverage of baluns,propagation programs are comparedand colour SSTV and telephone FAXmachines are also covered. Finallythere's a new section on 'for theworkbench' with new projects for thereader to build.1214 pages. E18.95

ARRL OPERATING MANUAL (THE)Another very useful ARRL book.Although written for the Americanamateur, this book will also be of useand interest to the UK amateur. Topicscovered range from short wavelistening through operating awards torepeaters, operating and satellites.684 pages . E1295

ARRL SATELLITE ANTHOLOGY (THE)The best from the Amateur SatelliteNews column and articles out of 31issues of OST have been gatheredtogether in this book. The latestinformation on OSCARs 9 through 13as well as the RS satellites isincluded. Operation on Phase 3satellites (OSCAR 10 and 13) iscovered in detail.97 pages. E5.95

ARRL UHF/MICROWAVEEXPERIMENTER'S MANUAL (THE)Various AuthorsA truly excellent manual for the keenmicrowave enthusiast and for thebudding 'microwave. Withcontributions from over 20 specialistauthors. Chapters coveringtechniques, theory, projects, methodsand mathematics.446 pages. E14.50

COMPLETE DX'ER (THE) CDBob LocherThis book covers equipment andoperating techniques for the DXchaser, from beginner to advanced.Every significant aspect of DXing iscovered, from learning how to reallylisten, how to snatch the rare onesout of the pile-ups and how to securethat elusive QSL card.204 pages. E7.95

HINTS AND KINKS FOR THE RADIOAMATEUREdited by Charles L Hutchinson andDavid NewkirkA collection of practical ideasgleaned from the pages of C1STmagazine. Plenty of projects to build,hints and tips on interference, c.w.and operating and snippets ofinformation from amateurs who'vetried and tested the idea.129 pages. E4.95

HOW TO PASS THE RADIOAMATEURS' EXAMINATION (RSGB)Clive Smith G4FZH and GeorgeBenbow G3HBThe background to multiple choiceexams and how to study for them withsample RAE paper for practice plusmaths revision and how to study forthe exam. The majority of this book isgiven to sample examination papersso that candidates can familiarisethemselves with the examination andassess their ability. 88 pages. E6.70.

INTRODUCTION TO AMATEURCOMMUNICATIONS SATELLITES (AN)BP290. A. PickardThis book describes several currentlyavailable systems, their connection toan appropriate computer and howthey can be operated with suitablesoftware. The results of decodingsignals containing such informationas telemetry data and weatherpictures are demonstrated.702 pages. E3.95

INTRODUCTION TO AMATEUR RADIO(AN) BP257I. D. PooleThis book gives the newcomer acomprehensive and easy tounderstand guide through amateurradio. Topics include operatingprocedures, jargon, propagation andsetting up a station.150 pages. E3.50

INTRODUCTION TO RADIO WAVEPROPAGATION (AN) BP293J.G. LeeHow does the sun and sunspots effectthe propagation of the radio waveswhich are the basis of our hobby?They affect the ionosphere, butdiffering frequencies are treateddifferently. Find out how to use chartsto predict frequencies that will be themost profitable. What effect will noisehave on the signal? Find out with thisbook.116 pages. OM

INTRODUCTION TO VHF/UHF FORRADIO AMATEURS (AN) BP2t1I.D. PooleAn excellent book to go with the newNovice or full callsign. Nine chaptersand an appendix deal with all aspectsand frequencies from 50 to 1300MHz.Topics include propagation,descriptions of the bands, antennas,receivers, transmitters and a specialchapter on scanners.102pages. £3.50

PASSPORT TO AMATEUR RADIOReprinted from PW1981-1902The famous series by GW3JGA, usedby thousands of successful RAEcandidates in their studies. Plus otheruseful articles for RAE studentsincluding emission codes,explanations of diodes, s.s.b. anddecibels.87 pages. E1.50

PRACTICAL GUIDE TO PACKETOPERATION IN THE UKMike Mansfield G6AWDIntroduces the concept of packetradio to the beginner. Problem areasare discussed and suggestions madefor solutions to minimise them. Dealswith the technical aspects of packettaking the reader through setting upand provides a comprehensive guideto essential reference material.205 pages. E11.95

ORP CLASSICSEdited by Bob SchetgenOperating QRP is fun. The equipmentis generally simple and easy to build,but often performs like moresophisticated commercial equipmentSome QRP Field Day stations operatea full 27 hours on a car battery - it'sthe perfect equipment for emergencycommunication when the power fails.Extracts from OST and the ARRLHandbook. 274 pages 19.95

RADIO AMATEUR CALLBOOKINTERNATIONAL LISTINGS 1993 71stEditionThe only publication listing licensedradio amateurs throughout the world.Also includes OXCC Countries list,standard time chart, beacon lists andmuch more.Over 1400 pages. E19.50

RADIO AMATEUR CALLBOOK NORTHAMERICAN LISTINGS 1993 71stEditionListings of US amateurs (includingHawaii) Also contains standard timechart, census of amateur licences ofthe world, world-wide QSL bureau,etc. Over 7400 pages. E19.50

RADIO AMATEUR'S QUESTIONS &ANSWER REFERENCE MANUAL(THE)4th Edition.R. E. G. Petri G8CCJThis book has been compiledespecially for students of the City and

Guilds of London Institute RAE. hisstructured with carefully selectedmultiple choice questions, to progresswith any recognised course ofinstruction, although is is not intendedas a text book.280 pages. E7.95

RAE MANUAL (THE) RSGBG.LBenbow G3HBThe latest edition of the standard aidto studying for the Radio Amateurs' Examination.Updated to cover the latest revisionsto the syllabus. Takes the candidatestep-by-step through the course.127 pages. E6.70

RAE REVISION NOTESGeorge Benbow G3HBIf you're studying for the RadioAmateur's Examination, this bookcould be useful. It's a summary of thesalient points of the Radio Amateurs'Examination Manual, the standardtextbook for the exam. It's A5 size andtherefore can be carried with youwherever you go. Easy -to -read, it'sdivided into 13 chapters with topicslike receivers, power supplies,measurements, operating procedures,licence conditions and a summary ofthe formulae all dealt with.92 pages. E4.00

VHF/UHF DX BOOK (THE )Edited Ian White G3SEKAn all round source of inspiration forthe v.h.fJu.h.f. enthusiast. Written byacknowledged experts this bookcovers just about everything you needto know about the technicalities ofv.h.f./u.h.f. operating.270 pages. E18.00

W1FB's DESIGN NOTEBOOKDoug DeMAW W1FBThis book is aimed at the non-technical amateur who wants to buildsimple projects and obtain a basicunderstanding of amateur electronics.Your workshop does not need to beequipped like an engineering lab to besuccessful as an experimenter. Don'tlet a lack of test equipment keep youfrom enjoying the thrills ofexperimentation.195 pages E8.50

WIER'S HELP FOR NEW HAMSDoug DeMew W1FBThis book covers everything fromgetting acquainted with newequipment to constructing antennas,station layout, interference andoperating problems to on -the -airconduct and procedures.155 pages E6.95

W1FB's QRP NOTEBOOK2nd EditionDoug De Maw W1FBThe new improved and updated 2ndedition of this book, covers theintroduction to QRP, constructionmethods, receivers and transmittersfor ORP. This workshop -notebookstyle publication, which is packedwith new designs for the keen QRPoperator, also covers techniques,accessories and has a small technicalreference section.175 pages. E7.95

YOUR GATEWAY TO PACKET RADIOStan Horzepa WA1LOUWhat is packet radio good for andwhat uses does it have for the'average' amateur? What areprotocols? where, why, when? Lots ofthe most asked questions areanswered in this useful book. Itincluded details of networking andspace communications using packet278 pages. E11.95

THEORY

ARRL ELECTRONICS DATA BOOK(THE)Doug DeMew WIFEBack by popular demand, completelyrevised and expanded, this is a handyreference book for the r.f. designer,technician, amateur andexperimenter. Topics includecomponents and materials, inductorsand transformers, networks & filters,digital basics and antennas andtransmission lines. 260 pages. 01.95

AUDIO (Elements of electronics -book 6) BPI 11F. A. WilsonThis book studies sound and hearing,and examines the operation ofmicrophones, loudspeakers,amplifiers, oscillators, and both diskand magnetic recording. Intended togive the reader a good understandingof the subject without getting involvedin the more complicated theory andmathematics.308 pages. £3.95

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO MODERNELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (A)BP285. R.A. PenfoldThis book covers a wide range ofmodern components. The basicfunctions of the components aredescribed, but this is not a book onelectronic theory and does notassume the reader has an in-depthknowledge of electronics. hisconcerned with practical aspectssuch as colour codes, decipheringcode numbers and the suitability.166 pages. £3.95

EVERYDAY ELECTRONICS DATABOOKMike Tooley BAThis book is an invaluable source ofinformation of everyday relevance inthe world of electronics. It containsnot only sections which deal with theessential theory of electronic circuits,but it also deals with a wide range ofpractical electronic applications.250 pages. 01.95

FILTER HANDBOOK A practicaldesign guideStefan NiewiadomskiA practical book, describing thedesign process as applied to filters ofall types. Includes practical examplesand BASIC programs. Topics includepassive and active filters, workedexamples of filter design, switchedcapacitor and switched resistor filtersand includes a comprehensivecatalogue of pre -calculated tables.195 pages. E30.00

FROM ATOMS TO AMPERES BP254FAWilsonExplains in simple terms the absolutefundamentals behind electricity andelectronics. Topics include the use ofSI units, gravity, magnetism, light, theelectron, conduction in solids andelectrical generators. 244 pages. £3.50

NEWNES RF HANDBOOKIan HickmanThis book provides an easy -to -readintroduction to modern r.f. circuitdesign. It's aimed at those learning todesign r.f. circuitry and users of r.f.equipment such as signal generatorsand sweepers, spectrum and networkanalysers.320 pages. E16.95

PRACTICAL ELECTRONICSCALCULATIONS AND FORMULAEBP53. F. A. WilsonThis has been written as a workshopmanual for the electronics enthusiast.There is a strong practical bias andhigher mathematics have beenavoided where possible.249 pages. £3.95

REFLECTIONS Transmission Lines &AntennasM.Walter Maxwell W2011This will help dispel the half-truthsand outright myths that many peoplebelieve are true about transmissionlines, standing waves, antennamatching, reflected power andantenna tuners. 323 pages. E14.50

SOLID STATE DESIGN FOR THE RADIOAMATEURLes Hayward W7Z131 and DougDeMaw W1FBBack in print by popular demand! Arevised and corrected edition of thisuseful reference book covering allaspects of solid-state design. Topicsinclude transmitter design, poweramplifiers and matching networks,receiver design, test equipment andportable gear. 256 pagesE10.95

TRANSMISSION LINETRANSFORMERSJerry Sevick W2FMIThis is the second edition of this book,which covers a most intriguing andconfusing area of the hobby. It shouldenable anyone with a modicum of skill


BOOK Sto make a balun, etc. Topics includeanalysis, characterisation,transformer parameters, baluns,muftimatch transformers and simpletest equipment 270 pages. £13.50

RADIO

AIR & METED CODE MANUAL12th EditionJoerg KlingenfussDetailed descriptions of the WorldMeteorological Organisation GlobalTelecommunication System operatingFAX and RTTY meteo stations, and itsmessage format with decodingexamples. Also detailed description ofthe Aeronautical FixedTelecommunication Network amongstothers. 358 pages 88.00

HIGH POWER WIRELESS EQUIPMENTArticles from Practical Electricity1910-11Edited by Henry Welter YoungA reprint of interesting practicalarticles from the very early days ofradio, when materials and methodsdescribed are from another era.Subjects covered ranges from aerialsthrough detectors to things like Teslaand his wireless age. 99 pages. E7.70

MARINE SSB OPERATIONJ. Michael GaleHow do you stay in touch when yousail off over the horizon and into theblue? What you need is a singlesideband radio, a marine s.s.b. Thisbook explains how the system works,how to choose and install your setand how to get the best out of it.There is also a chapter on amateurradio with the emphasis on theincreasingly important maritimemobile nets. 96 pages E9.95

MARINE VHF OPERATIONMichael GaleA vitt radiotelephone is essentialequipment for any sea -going boat butwhat can you do with it? Who can youcall, and how do you make contact?Which channel do you use, and why?What is the procedure for callinganother boat, calling the familythrough the telephone system, ormaking a distress call? This book willtell you. 47 pages E6.50.

PASSPORT TO WORLD BAND RADIO1993This book gives you the information toexplore and enjoy the world ofbroadcast band listening. It includesfeatures on different internationalradio stations, receiver reviews andadvice as well as the hours andlanguage of broadcast stations byfrequency. The 'blue pages' provide achannel -to -channel guide to worldband schedules. 416 pages. 84.50.

RADIOTELETYPE CODE MANUAL 12thEditionJoerg KlingenfussThis book gives detailed descriptionsof the characteristics of telegraphtransmission on short waves, with allcommercial modulation typesincluding voice frequency telegraphyand comprehensive information on allRTTY systems and c.w. alphabets.96 pages. E11.00

SCANNERS (Third Edition)Peter Rouse GU1DKDA guide for users of scanningreceivers, covering hardware,antennas, accessories, frequencyallocations and operating procedures.245 pages. 0/P

SCANNERS 2Peter Rouse GUIDKDThe companion to Scanners, thisprovides even more information onthe use of the v.h.f, and u.h.f.communications band and gives

constructional details for accessoriesto improve the performance ofscanning equipment. 261 pages.80.95

SHORT WAVE COMMUNICATIONSPeter Rouse GU1DKDCovers a very wide area and soprovides en ideal introduction to thehobby of radio communications.International frequency listings foraviation, marine, military, spacelaunches, search and rescue, etc.Chapters on basic radio propagation,how to work your radio and what thecontrols do, antennas and band plans.187 pages. 8.95

SHORT WAVE RADIO LISTENERS'HANDBOOKArthur MillerIn easy -to -read, non -technicallanguage, the author guides thereader through the mysteries ofamateur, broadcast and CBtransmissions. Topics coverequipment needed, identification ofstations heard & the peculiarities ofthe various bands.207 pages. E7.99

WORLDWIDE HE RADIO HANDBOOKMarlyn R. CookeThis book lists high frequencies usedby aircraft and aeronautical groundstations. Divided into sections,Military, Civil, etc. The book should beeasy to use. 124 pages. E6.95

WRTH EQUIPMENT BUYERS GUIDE1993 EditionWillem Bos & Jonathan MarksA complete and objective buyer'sguide to the curent short wavereceiver market. For the novice andthe experienced listener, this guideexplains how to make sense of thespecifications and select the rightradio for your listening needs.270 pages. E15.95

1934 OFFICIAL SHORT WAVE RADIOMANUALEdited by Hugo GemsbackA fascinating reprint from a bygoneage with a directory of all the 1934s.w. receivers, servicing information,constructional projects, circuits andideas on building vintage radio setswith modern parts.260 pages. 81.60

BEGINNERS

BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO RADIO 9thEditionGordon J. KingThe book takes you in logical stepsfrom the theory of electricity andmagnetism to the sound you hearfrom the loudspeaker. Radio signals,transmitters, receivers, antennas,components, valves &semiconductors, CB & amateur radioare all dean with .266 pages. 84.95

ELECTRONICS SIMPUFIED - CRYSTALSET CONSTRUCTION BP92F. A. WilsonEspecially written for those who wishto take part in basic radio building. Allthe sets in the book are old designsupdated with modern components. Itis designed for all ages upwards fromthe day when one can readintelligently and handle simple tools.72 pages. £1.75

INTERFERENCE

INTERFERENCE HANDBOOK (USA)William R. Nelson WA6FQGHow to locate & cure r.f.i. for radioamateurs, CBers, TV & stereoowners. Types of interferencecovered are spark discharge,

electrostatic, power line many 'cures'are suggested.250 pages. E9.50

DATA REFERENCE

NEWNES AUDIO & HI -Fl ENGINEER'SPOCKET BOOKVivian CapelThis is a concise collection ofpractical and relevant data for anyoneworking on sound systems. The topicscovered include microphones,gramophones, CDs to name a few.190 pages. Hardback E10.95

NEWNES COMPUTER ENGINEER'SPOCKET BOOKThis is an invaluable compendium offacts, figures, circuits and data and isindispensable to the designer,student, service engineer and allthose interested in computer andmicroprocessor systems.255 pages. Hardback 8095

NEWNES ELECTRONICS POCKETBOOK 5th EditionPresenting all aspects of electronicsin a readable and largely non -mathematical form for both theenthusiast and the professionalengineer. 315 pages. Hardback E10.95

NEWNES RADIO AND ELECTRONICSENGINEER'S POCKET BOOK18th EditionKeith BrindleyUseful data covering math,abbreviations, codes, symbols,frequency bands/allocations, UKbroadcasting stations, semi-conductors, components, etc.325 pages hardback 80.95

POWER SELECTOR GUIDE BP235J. C. J. Van de VenThis guide has the information on allkinds of power devices in usefulcategories (other than the usual alphanumeric sort) such as voltage andpower properties making selection ofreplacements easier. 160 pages. E4.95

FAULT FINDING

GETTING THE MOST FROM YOURMULTIMETER BP239R. A. PenfoldThis book is primarily aimed atbeginners. It covers both analogueand digital multi -meters and theirrespective limitations. All kinds oftesting is explained too. No previous

knowledge is required or assumed.102 pages. E2.95

HOW TO USE OSCILLOSCOPES &OTHER TEST EQUIPMENT BP267RA. PenfoldHints and ideas on how to use the testequipment you have, to check out, orfault find on electronic circuits. Manydiagrams of typical waveforms andcircuits, including descriptions ofwhat waveform to expect withparticular fauns, or distortion in audioamplifiers. 104 pages. E3.50

MORE ADVANCED TEST EQUIPMENTCONSTRUCTION BP249R.A. PenfoldA follow on from Test EquipmentConstruction (BP248)this book looksat digital methods of measuringresistance, voltage, currentcapacitance and frequency. Alsocovered is testing semi -conductors,along with test gear for general radiorelated topics.102 pages. 850

MORE ADVANCED USES OF THEMULTIMETER BP265RA PenfoldThis book is primarily intended as afollow-up to BP239, Getting the most

from your Multi -meter. By using thetechniques described in this book youcan test and analyse the performanceof a range of components with just amufti -meter (plus a very fewinexpensive components in somecases). The simple add-ons describedextend the capabilities of a multi -meter to make it even more useful.96 pages. £2,95.

OSCILLOSCOPES, HOW TO USETHEM, HOW THEY WORK3rd Editionlen HickmanThis book describes oscilloscopesranging from basic to advancedmodels and the accessories to gowith them. Oscilloscopes areessential tools for checking circuitoperation and diagnosing faults, andan enormous range of models isavailable.248 pages E15.95

TELEVISION

AN COMPENDIUM (THE)Mike Wooding G6101.1This book is for those interested inamateur television, particularly thehome construction aspect There isn'ta 70cm section as the author felt thiswas covered in other books. Otherfields such as 3cm TV, are covered indepth. A must for the practical ANenthusiast.104 pages. £3.00

GUIDE TO WORLD-WIDE TELEVISIONTEST CARDSEdition 3Keith Hamer & Garry SmithCompletely revised and expanded,this is a very handy and usefulreference book for the DXTVenthusiast. Over 200 photographs ofTest Cards, logos, etc., world wide.60 pages. E4.95

CONSTRUCTION

SHORT WAVE SUPERHET RECEIVERCONSTRUCTION BP276RA. PenfoldA general purpose receiver to build,from antenna to audio, described inunderstandable English.80 pages. E2.95

COIL DESIGN AND CONTRUCTIONMANUAL BP160B.B. BabaniCovering audio to r.f. frequencies, thisbook has designs for almosteverything. Sections cover suchtopics as mains and audio outputtransformers, chokes and r.f. coils.What is the required turns ratio? Thisbook will show you how to find out.Text and tables.106 pages. E2.50

HOW TO DESIGN AND MANE YOUROWN PCBs BPI21R. A. PenfoldThe purpose of this book is tofamiliarise the reader with bothsimple and more sophisticatedmethods of producing p.c.b.s. Theemphasis of the book is very much onthe practical aspects of p.c.b. designand construction.66 pages. £2.50

MORE ADVANCED POWER SUPPLYPROJECTS BP192R. A. PenfoldThe practical and theoretical aspectsof the circuits are covered in somedetail. Topics include switched modepower supplies, precision regulators,dual tracking regulators andcomputer controlled power supplies,etc. 92 pages. E2.95

POWER SUPPLY PROJECTS BP76R. A. PenfoldThis book gives a number of powersupply designs including simpleunstabilised types, fixed voltageregulated types and variable voltagestabilised designs.89 pages. £2.50

RADIO/TECH MODIFICATIONSNUMBER 3This book is intended as a referenceguide for the experienced radiotechnician. Produced for the USmarket it contains modificationinstructions for a wide variety ofscanners, CB rigs and amateurequipment including Alinco, Icom,Kenwood, Yaesu and other makes.160 pages. E9.95

TEST EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTIONBP248. RAPenfoldDescribes, in detail, how to constructsome simple and inexpensive, butextremely useful, pieces of testequipment. Stripboard layouts areprovided for all designs, together withwiring diagrams where appropriate,plus notes on their construction anduse. 104 pages. £2.95

50 (FIT) FIELD EFFECT TRANSISTORPROJECTS BP39F.G.Rayer50 circuits for the s.w.I., radioamateur, experimenter or audioenthusiast using f.e.t.s. Projectsinclude r.f. amplifiers and converters,test equipment and receiver aids,tuners, receivers, mixers and tonecontrols.104 pages. E2.95

COMPUTING

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERCOMMUNICATIONS (AN) BP177R. A. PenfoldDetails of various types of modem andtheir applications, plus how tointerconnect computers, modems andthe telephone system. Alsonetworking systems and RTTY.72 pages. E2.95

NEWNES AMATEUR RADIOCOMPUTING HAND BOOKJoe Pritchard GI UQWShows how radio amateurs andlisteners can 'listen' to signals byreading text on a computer screen.This book also covers the applicationof computers to radio 'housekeeping'such as log -keeping, QSL cards,satellite predictions and antennadesign as well as showing how tocontrol a radio with a computer.363 pages. £15.95

MAPS

NORTH MANTIC ROUTE CHARTThis is a five -colour chart designedfor the use of ATC in monitoringtransatlantic flights. Supplied folded.740 x 520mm. E6.50

RADIO AMATEUR'S MAP OF NORTHAMERICA (USA)Shows radio amateur prefixboundaries, continental boundariesand zone boundaries.760 x 636mm. E3.50

RADIO AMATEUR'S PREFIX MAP OFTHE WORLD (USA)Showing prefixes and countries, pluslistings by order of country and ofprefix.1014 x 71Imm. 8.50

ORDER FO64 Practical Wireless, June 1993

SUBSCLUB

Be sure of your copy of Practical Wireless every monthand qualify for the Subscribers' Club as well. Specialoffers and discounts are normally available to allmembers, including those abroad.

THE SECRET

OF LEARNING

MORSE CODE

gY

MARK FRANCIS

O MORSE CODE

A "!.°'!0ilVt(YrALOE/413'4'CiENYI.Y-

Want to learn Morse? Keen to try QRP on thekey? If you learn Morse you can join another oneof the many aspects of our hobby. Some mayregard c.w. working as old-fashioned, but byusing this mode you can often work the worldwith the minimum of equipment. Like the famousbeer advert, c.w. can often reach the parts whereother modes can't!

So, as PW has a Morse theme this month, we'vegot an appropriate Subscribers' Club Special offerin the form of a book entitled The Secret OfLearning Morse Code by Mark Francis GOGBY.

The book is fully reviewed elsewhere in PW thismonth and is on offer at £4.95 plus p&p.However, members of the Subscribers' Club canget the book for a special price, just £3.95 plus50p p&p UK (£1 p&p overseas surface mail).Don't miss the offer, get all keyed up and join thefun on c.w.!

R

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DISCLAIMERSome of the products offered for sale inadvertisements in this magazine may havebeen obtained from abroad or fromunauthorised sources. Practical Wirelessadvises readers contemplating mail orderto enquire whether the products aresuitable for use in the UK and have fullafter -sales back-up available.The publishers of Practical Wireless wish topoint out that it is the responsibility ofreaders to ascertain the legality orotherwise of items offered for sale byadvertisers in this magazine.

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DIY Inexpensive radio projects. Easy to make, SAE,RYLANDS, 39 ParksIde Avenue, Southampton S01 9AF.

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ULTIMATE MORSE TUTOR for PC's and ATARI £30.00.Interface cable supplied. Free demo, PLEASE statecomputer type and disk size.BOSCAD Ltd, 16 Aytoun Grove, Baldridgeburn,Dunfermline, FIFE KY12 9TA. Tel: 0383 729584, evenings.

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Wanted

UP TO £500 offered for pre-war televisions and wirelesssets. (0484) 843265.

WANTED FOR CASH Valve communication receiversand domestic valve radios (working or not). Items ofGovernment surplus wireless equipment and obsoletetest equipment. Pre -1965 wireless and audio componentsand accessories. Pre -1975 wireless and TV books andmagazines. Also, most valves wanted for cash. Must beunused and boxed. CBS, 157 Dickson Road, Blackpool,FY1 2EU. Tel: (0253) 751858 or 102531 302979.

WANTED GRUNDIG SATELIJT 2100 RADIO Must be invery good to perfect condition. Tel: Pete on (07421 665698.

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TRANSCEIVER P.R.C. 316HF AM CW 4 Watts. Outputwith speaker mic and manual £135.00 Pye BootmounWestminsters 30 Watts 4m AM with harness £15.500 meggers crank handle type, tested, £45. AVO minorsmultimeters, tested, £25. All prices include p&p, sendSAE for list C.P. Surplus 56a Worcester Street,Wolverhampton WV2 4LL Phone 0902 20315.

B.F.O. KITS Resolves single side -band on almost anyradio, £16.49. H. CORRIGAN, 7 York Street, Ayr KA8 8AR.

Educational

COURSE FOR CITY AND GUILDS Radio AmateursExamination. Pass this important examination and obtainyour licence, with an RRC Home Study Course. For detailsof this and other courses (GCSE, career and professionalexaminations, etcl write or phone - THE RAPID RESULTSCOLLEGE, DEPT JX110, Tuition House, London SW194DS. Tel: 081-947 7272 (9am-5pm) or use our 24hrRecordacall service 081-946 1102 quoting JX110.

HEATHKIT EDUCATIONAL PRODUCTS/UK DIS-TRIBUTOR Spares and Service Centre. Cedar Electronics.12 Isbourne Way, Broadway Road, Winchcombe,Cheltenham. Glos. GL54 SNS. Tel: (02421 602402.

R.A.E. Pay -as -you -learn correspondence. £3 per lessonincludes tuition. Ken Green, C.Eng., M.I.E.E. Chylean,Tintagel, Cornwall. 10840) 212262.

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(Mon -Fri 9.30-5.30, Sat 9.30-4.30)

CORNWALL 241tr, 7days a week

SKYWAVERADIO AMATEUR AND MARINECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES

ICOM, YAESU, NAVICO,JAYBEAM, etc.

Slades Road, St. Austell,Cornwall PL25 4HG

Tel: 0726 70220Voice Bank: 0426 961909

SCOTLAND

JAYCEEELECTRONICS

20 Woodside Way, Glenrothes, FifeLTDKY7 50F

Tel: 0592 756962 (Day or Night)Fax No. (0592) 610451

Ooer Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-4

RENWOOD, YAM & ICOM APPROVED DEALER:

A good stock of new and secondhandequipment always in stock

TYNE + WEAR

SUPERTECHCommunications Specialists

YUPITERU SONY.PAMAAOR

Official Nevada and Kernow stockists

Full range of CBs,Scanners + Accessories

Mail Order -Branches throughout the North East

32 RUSSELL Way

GATESHEAD METRO CENTRE NEll 9YZ

TEL: (091) 4932316

Open: Monday -Friday 10am - 8pmThursday 10am - 9pmSaturday 9am - 7pm

IRELAND

MADOCDIEMIMZUMCDEM

All your requirements under one root

RECEIVERS - TRANSCEIVERS - ACCESSORIES

Open Monday -Saturday 9am-5.30pm

Midleton Enterprise Park, Midleton,County Cork 021/632725 613241

Contact Lynnon the

AdvertisingHotline

(0202) 659920

KENT

KANGA PRODUCTSFor QIIP kits

A variety of kits for RECEIVERS,TRANSMITTERS & TEST GEAR.

Send an As SAE for a free copyof our catalogue

Seaview House. Crete Road East. Folkestone. GT187FG

Tel/Fax 0303841106 0900.1900 Only

DEVON

Reg. Ward & Co. Ltd.The South -West's largest amateur radiostockist. Approved dealer for Kenwood,

Yaesu and Icom

1 Western Parade,West Street, Axminster,

Devon, EX13 5NYTel: 0297 34918

(Closed 1.00-2.00 and all day Monday)

YORKSHIRE YAESUICOM

Kenwood

Alan HookerRadio Communications42, Netherhall Road, Doncaster

Tel: 0302 325690

Open Mon -Sat 10-5pmClosed Thursdays

WEST SUSSEX REiLoRDER El

BREDHURSTELECTRONICS LTD.

High SI., Handcross, West SussexTel: (0444) 400786Fax: (0444) 400604

Situated at the Southern end of M23.Easy access to M25 and

South LondonYAEBU

Open Mon -Fri 9am-5pm 9iCOMSat 9.30am-4 30pm.

Access RADIO SHACKALL OF THE EQUIPMENT WE SELL HAS BEEN IMPORTED BY

THE FACTORY AUTHORISED DISTRIBUTORS WITH FULLWARRANTY BACK-UP AND PARTS SERVICE.

KENWOOD TS -850SThe latest transceiver from this famous stable

Lowe HF-225Kenwood R-2000

High performance compact receiver10 Memories

£425.00£595.00

TS -850S SUPERB SPECIFICATIONSKenwood VC -10 VHF converter for R-2000 £161.00 Creating a new era in Amateur Radio!Kenwood R-5000 Top of their range receiver £875.00 Call us for the latest details and stock position, also forKenwood VC -20Yaesu FRG8800

VHF converter for R-5000Fine performing all mode set

£167.00£640.00

any other model from

Yaesu FRV-8800 VHF converter for above £100.00 KENWOOD ICOM YAESUIcom IC-R71EIcom IC-R72EIcom IC -R9000

The old favouriteIcom's latest, small & excellentThe set with everything

£855.00£645.00

£3995.00

Scanners by AOR, Fairmate, Jupiter, Icom, Realistic,Bearcat to name but a few.

JRC-535 The latest from Japan Radio Company £1095.00 Competitive service and prices.Drake RR -3 Second-hand high specification set £1595.00

RADIO SHACK 188 BROADHURST GARDENS,LONDON NW6 3AY

(Just around the corner from West Hampstead Station on the Jubilee Line)Giro Account No. 588 7151 Fax: 071-328 5066 Telephone: 071-624 7174

We will be pleased toquote you for anythingyou require in thecommunications orcomputer field. Inorder to avoid a greatdeal of time wastingon both our parts, wenow deal with callersby appointment. Weare pleased to hearfrom you and see you,and we aim to giveyou the attention youdeserve, so pleasecall us first73s Terry EdwardsG3STS

'Access


IC -229EEase -of -use and hi -tech features in a compact

body make the ICOM IC -229E an easily installed VHFFM mobile (IC -449E UHF version also available).Features include: one -touch function access,illuminated switches for night use, programmableremote control, programmed scan, memory scanand skip, priority watch, 20 memory channels, and ahost of other user-friendly functions.

IC -3230H

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The ICOM IC -728 is a compacttand lightweighttransceiver ideal for mobile and portable use byboth veteran's and novice's alike. Features include:30kHz to 30MHz general coverage, simpleoperation, 105dB dynamic range, DDS system,passband tuning, AF speech processor, splittable,dual VFO's, 26 memory channels, band stackingand CW semi break-in.

The compact and easily -installed IC -3230H givesAmateurs complete mobile dual -band operatingcapability. The large function display providessimultaneous readouts of both main and suboperations. Telephone -style QSO is possible usingboth bands. Extended receiver coverage (notguaranteed) includes; 118.000-135.995MHz (AM), .

136.000-174.000MHz (FM) & 420.000-480.000 MHz (FM).

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IC -2410E

OUP MAIL

MICROPHONE

The compact IC -2410 is typical of ICOM's superdual -band range, with such features as; simultaneousreceive on both bands or the same band. IC -2410Ecan also be remote controlled via the mic or anothertransceiver. Easy to operate volume control andsquelch switches plus a full 25 watts output powermake the IC -2410E the transceiver to maximise your

ikoperating power 'in the field'.

N.B. Photographs are not to scale.

P67500

The new IC -1201E is a dedicated 23cm FMtransceiver featuring automatic frequency control(AFC) and manual RIT of VXO. Other functionsinclude: 38 sub -audible tones for repeateroperation, pocket -beep and tone squelch (withUT -40), 20 memory channels and one call channel,programmed and memory scan, scan -skip, priority -watch and much much more.

DUN INC EO NUNSCEIREA 1C-2401

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P-111.000

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ICOM manufacture a full range of base -stations, mobiles and handheldtransceivers and receivers to cover all popular Ham frequencies and beyond

No matter what your requirement ICOM have the radio for you.For more information and the location of your local Icom dealer contact:

Icom (UK) Ltd. Sea Street Herne Bay Kent CT6 8LDTelephone: 0227 741741 (24hr). Fax: 0227 741742

SERIOUS SOUNDSERIOUS SAVINGHIGH QUALITY PROFESSIONAL 100WPOWER AMPLIFIER KIT - SAVE £30

* Ideal for Instrument Amplification * Stage Foldback * Small Venue P.A. * Studio Monitor Amplifier

his superb amplifier kit brings together five of the best andmost popular 'Audio Building Blocks', to produce an amplifier ofunrivalled sound quality at the price. The Power Output Stage is anexcellent 150W MOSFET design which is currently Maplin's BestSelling Audio Kit. It is complemented by the excellent performanceof the SSM2016 Differential Preamplifier which has also featured inMaplin's 'Top 20' kits. The superb audio stages are supported by aHigh Quality Power Supply Unit, sophisticated Monitoring Circuitryand a Thermal Protection System. Housed in a rugged 19in. rackmounting case, this outstanding amplifier is designed for longevity,purity of sound reproduction and ease of integration with otherprofessional equipment.The kit contains everything you need to build this superb amplifierand is supplied complete with comprehensive constructionalinformation.

For a friendly welcome and the best of service, visit your local Maphn store BIRMINGHAM; Sun priNew Road. Erdington. BRIGHTON; 65 London Road. BRISTOL; 302 Gloucester Road. CARDIFF;29-31 City Road. CHATHAM; 2 Luton Road. COVENTRY; 12 Bishop Street. EDINBURGH; 126 DalryRoad. GLASGOW; 264-266 Great Western Road. ILFORD; 302-304 Green Lane. LEEDS; CarpetWorld Building, 3 Regent Street. LEICESTER; Office World Building, Burton Street. LONDON;146-148 Burnt Oak Broadway. Edgware. 107-113 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill. 120-122 King Street,Hammersmith. MANCHESTER; 8 Oxford Road. NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE; Unit 4. Allison Court.The Metro Centre, Gateshead. NOTTINGHAM; 86-88 Lower Parliament Street. PORTSMOUTH;98-100 Kingston Road. READING; 129-131 Oxford Road. SHEFFIELD; 413 Langsett Road.Hillsborough. SOUTHAMPTON; 46-48 Bevois Valley Road. SOUTHEND-ON-SEA; 282-284 LondonRoad, Westclifr Plus a NEW STORE opening soon in MIDDLESBROUGH. Phone 0702 552911 forfurther details. Subject to availability. Price subject to change. Price inclusive of VAT indicates acarriage charge of £5.50.

1992/3 Catalogue Price £159.95NOW ONLY g

£129.95Order Code LT11M

Features:* Standard 19in. 2U Rack Mounting Case* 100W RMS Power Output* Balanced Line Input* Loudspeaker Protection* Switch -on Mute* Thermal Protection

Typical Specification:Rated Load Impedance: 4 to 80.Maximum Power Output:

402 105W RMS13.0 90W RMS

THD (a 75W (1 kHz): 0.02%Frequency Response: 10Hz to 40kHz, -1dB

MaiELECTRONICS

CREDIT CARD HOTLINE0702 554161Mail Order to: P.O. Box 3, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 8LR

Documents

practica JUNE 1993 £1 - WorldRadioHistory.Com · practica JUNE 1993 £1.90 FREE INSIDE THIS BUMPER ISSUE 72 -Page Nevada Communications Catalogue MORSE SPECIAL ISSUE Constructional