MARC Newsletter - McKinney Amateur Radio Club

On Your MARC
The Newsletter of the McKinney Amateur Radio Club Inc.
Volume 39 #03
W5MRC
Visit our Web page @ http://www.mckinneyarc.org
Next Meeting: March 11th
Pete Loveall ­AE5PL will be our
presenter. Pete, the author of
javAPRSSrvr and D­PRS, will
explain the uses for Automatic
Position Reporting System (APRS).
If you are curious about APRS and
want to know how it works, then
you won't want to miss this meeting.
March 2014
President’s Message
from the Target Building
Have you noticed? There’s a lot going on in the McKinney Amateur Radio
Club. And yet there’s room for other types of activities. At the last Club
Board meeting, we discussed ideas for getting some of our members
involved in public service events – specifically events like parades, City of
McKinney public events and the Richardson Wild Ride. This is an area that
we have not specifically emphasized in the last couple of years but should
be of interest to many of you. Participation in these events is important for
several reasons: 1) It fulfills our commitment to public service. 2) It
provides a valuable safety net for public service events. 3) It provides the
public good exposure to amateur radio and the MARC. The next big event is
the Richardson Wild Ride coming up May 17. It’s an exciting, high­energy
event. It is a great opportunity to work with some of the best in ham radio
while providing a real service to Ride participants. And – it’s a lot of fun,
too.
We continue to talk about youth support and amateur radio. Several of our
members put feet to that commitment on Saturday, February 15, at the
Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair. See more about that
elsewhere in the newsletter.
It was a great privilege to see the club elect four of our own to lifetime
member status at the February meeting. See that article elsewhere in the
newsletter also.
On the educational front, our “Intro to Radio” classes were well­attended by
a widely diverse group of hams and hams­to­be. One attendee has since
received her Technician License and plans to take the general exam next
month. Our “AC Circuits” class was likewise well­attended with some very
encouraging feedback from participants. “Intro to HF Radio” classes are
planned for February 24 and March 22. “Electronics 101 – Solid State
Devices” is on tap for March 8. Again, see articles elsewhere in the
newsletter for details.
What’s the bottom line? If you’ve not been involved in our activities, we
need your participation. Not only are our events an opportunity to give back,
they’re an opportunity to learn and have fun with fellow operators.
See you at the next event!
Bob, K5CRX
MARC Mentoring Program
Are you looking for someone to answer
Amateur Radio related questions or assist
you with getting to that next license class?
Contact
the MARC Mentor Program
Coordinator to be matched up with a
volunteer Mentor who will work with you.
Send an Email to [email protected]
for more information, to start getting
answers, or if YOU would like to become a
Mentor!
The McKinney Amateur Radio Club has received four donations in memory
and tribute to Gil Ohlen, W5TGP SK, one of MARC long time members.
They come from San Angelo and Fort Worth, Texas; Albuquerque, New
Mexico and St. Cloud, Minnesota. Gil helped in the formation and
nurturing of the group, along with many others. So, Gil has been working
for years to promote the enjoyment of amateur radio, actively and more
recently behind the scenes. The amount of $230 has been graciously
received.
MEETING PLACE
MARC holds its regular business meetings
on the second Tuesday of each
month at 7pm. Meetings are located at:
Spring Creek Barbeque
1993 North Central Expressway
McKinney, TX
Exit US­75 at US­380(University
Drive), travel west making a a right into
the Target complex.
Once in the complex, Spring Creek can
be found to your right directly across
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Donations received in memory of Gil Ohlen W5TGP
Page 1
MARC Officers and Staff
2014 MARC OFFICERS
President: .............................. Bob DeVance, K5CRX
[email protected]
Vice President: ...................... Gary Redden, K5GRY
[email protected]
Secretary: .............................. Ron Carlson, KF5SAQ
[email protected]
Treasurer: .............................. Bill Vining, N5YZ
[email protected]
Newsletter Editor:.................. Phillip Littlefield, KB5YIA
[email protected]
Director­at­Large: ................. David Piekarski, K5EEN
[email protected]
Repeater Trustee: .................. Mike Baker, W8CM
[email protected]
Communications Director:.....Mike Baker, W8CM
[email protected]
Supporting Roles
Distribution and Submission Information
MARC is an IRS 501c(3) nonprofit organization; On Your MARC
the official MARC newsletter, is published monthly by the
McKinney Amateur Radio Club, Inc.. The full electronic version is
Emailed to subscribing members and to selected non­member
individuals,organizations and participants in the Newsletter
Exchange Program. A digest version is sent as first class mail to
members who request postal delivery. The Full version is archived
on the MARC website and is available to all. Those who wish to
continue receiving the digest version may access the full version
once has been archived.
ALL current members including those who are part of family
memberships may receive the Emailed version. To switch versions
send an Email to [email protected] and include the
following information: Member Name, Call Sign, Email address and
version desired.
Non­copyrighted articles contained herein may be reproduced by
other organizations, provided they are accredited to On Your
MARC. The original source should be contacted for use permission
when noted “Taken From” or if a Copyright is present.
ARRL Awards Manager: ........................ Mike Baker, W8CM
Club FCC License Trustee: .................... Brian Belcher, WA5M
Readers wishing to submit an item for publication should send it to:
Librarian....................................................Ron Carlson, KF5SAQ
[email protected]
[email protected]
Mentor Coordinator:................................ Claude Canterbury, KE6EJG
or
[email protected]
Editor, On Your MARC
Net Manager: .......................................... Cecil Candelario, NQ3C
P.O. Box 267
Public Information Officer: .................... Lynda Tuma, KF5JUO
McKinney, TX 75069
[email protected]
Submissions may be sent at any time. The Editor reserves the right
QSL Manager: ........................................ Claude Canterbury, KE6EJG to determine suitability for inclusion in the newsletter.
Repeater Control Operators:.................... Brian Belcher, WA5M
Gene Murski, K5ZX
Dave Piekarski, K5EEN
Mike Baker, W8CM
(Every entry in the table of contents are links to the article)
VE Team Leader:..................................... Stephen Reinen, N8BP
THE FEATURES:
ve­[email protected]
Webmaster: ............................................. Michael Griegio, N5GNU
Donations received in memory of Gil Ohlen..................1
[email protected]
The Call Out...................................................................5
In this issue
Club Shirts: Members wanting to purchase club shirts, jackets, etc
should contact B&B Embroidery 817­471­4488 or visit
www.hamthreads.com
Meeting Presentations: If you or someone you know would
like to present a topic at one of our meetings, or if you have
questions about a past presentation, please contact our presenta­
tion coordinator at [email protected]
Join Us!: The club is open to all, especially those who want to
be or are involved in Amateur Radio. Please contact the club
secretary at [email protected] or by post at the above address
for more information or access an application on our web­site
http://mckinneyarc.org/ and you can also find us on Facebook.
NOTICE
The next MARC Board
meeting will be held
March 15th @ 08:00am
at
Mobile Mounting Solutions
406 Interchange St., Suite A
McKinney, TX 75071
Visitors are welcome!
MARC Elects Four to Lifetime Membership.................6
Next Plan and Learn – Intro to HF Radio.......................7
Electronics 101 – Solid State Device..............................7
Classes Provide Answers to New Operators...................7
MARC Represents Ham Radio at DRSEF......................8
It Was Those Ears Again.................................................8
What’s the Wind Load on That.......................................9
Digital Modes (continued): PSK31................................10
THE REGULARS:
Board Meeting Minutes……………………. 4
From the Editor…………………………….. 6
General Meeting Minutes………………….. 3
Local Repeaters and Digipeaters…………... 12
MARC Net Schedule………………………. 12
Meet the Members............................6
President's Message………………………... 1
VE License Testing Locations……………... 12
CREDITS & KUDOS
“The fine print about where we stole it from” The editor expresses appreciation
to such sources as the ARRL Letter, QST, and CQ and their associated websites.
Unless so noted, the information is in the public domain and not unique to any
source
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Page 2
Minutes of the
General
Meeting
Bob DeVance, K5CRX called the
meeting to order and led the
membership in the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Introductions went
around the room. In attendance
were 33 members and 1 guest. No
call sign changes. Ten (10) new
members
were
voted
into
membership: Brian Boyle N5VEY,
Ollie Casteel KF5QKE, Gene
Chenette N5YJ, Tracy Dehart
KE7VDI, Candi Dehart KF7TSJ,
Patty Marking KG5AEL, Chris
Moore KG5AEN, Jenna Page
KG5AHT, John Urban WA9UOD,
Jim Van Meter, no call.
Bob,
K5CRX introduced them to the
membership. All were unanimously
voted into membership.
Officers Report:
Secretary Report – Ron, KF5SAQ
reported 10 new applications for
membership and 3 renewals.
Motion by Ron, KF5SAQ to accept
minutes as printed in newsletter.
Second by Clark AE5WD. Passed.
It was noted that three monetary
donations were received, in memory
of Gil Ohlen W5TGP SK, from his
relatives, noting how much he loved
Ham Radio and the Club.
The Club received a 2­year renewal
of its “Special Service Club” status
as of Jan 29, 2014; the certificate
was shown to the membership.
Treasurer Report – Bill, N5YZ
reported a starting ledger balance of
$10,301.98, January revenue of
$1,272.27, expenses of $530.00 with
an ending balance of $11,044.25.
Motion by Kathy KF5ZKX, to
accept the treasurer report. Second
by Clark AE5WD. Passed.
Newsletter – Phillip, KB5YIA
asked for members to send in
articles, notes or background on
projects, useful tips, etc., to the
newsletter Editor.
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Reports:
VE Team – The standard report
was not available, but a person who
was there reported that 8 or 9 tested
with 7 receiving license awards.
Badges – Rusty, AE5AE had badges
for new members available at the
meeting.
Net Manger – Cecil NQ3C reported
that two new Net Controllers have
been added: Andy W5KZJ, and
Linda KF5JUO.
Congratulations
and welcome aboard.
Library – Ron, K5FSAQ noted that
a public domain copy of General
Radio’s “A Handbook of Coaxial
Microwave Measurements” in PDF
format has been added to the online
download section of the Club’s
Library. When published, General
Radio Corp. considered 145MHz to
be near the low end of microwave
measurements and theory, so the
book with its excellent illustrations
and explanations applies for those
on 2 meter VHF, 70 cm UHF and
higher bands. Links are shown on
the MARC Yahoo Group files
section.
Announcements:
Gil Ohlen W5TGP, SK ­ Gary,
K5GRY read a memorial written by
Scott N7NET about Gil Ohlen
W5TGP, SK. A moving tribute.
Useful Websites for Hams ­ Bill
KF5ZAX announced that from the
“Useful Websites for Hams” class
recently held by Michael KE5TJL,
he has the file with web addresses
and links available.
Bring a
flashdrive to the next meeting or
contact him directly.
Email ­ Phillip KB5YIA, Club
Newsletter Editor, advised that for
more consistent email delivery of
the Club Newsletter and other
announcements, members update
their club profile with a commercial
email address rather than ARRL.Net
for the time being.
NOTE: Please notify the Secretary
when updating call sign, email
address,
contact
info,
[email protected]
etc.
Future Play & Learn Day – “Ham
Radio 101 – Intro to HF Part 1 ­
Fundamentals HF Radio" class will
be held on Monday, February 24,
2014, at 7pm at McKinney Fire
Station #7.
Future Electronics 101 – “Solid
State Devices” class will be on
Saturday, March 8, 2014 at
McKinney Fire Station #5, on
Virginia Parkway, McKinney. Note
the change of location for this date.
Next BOD Meeting is March 15,
2014 at Mobile Mounts in
McKinney.
Any member is
welcome and invited to attend,
consult the MARC website for
details.
MARC Information Net every
Sunday night at 8:00pm on the
MARC repeater. Last Sunday’s Net
had good participation with 25
check­ins, lasting 1hr 19 min.
Ladies Net is held on the Sherman
repeater on Thursday nights at
8:00pm.
Collin County ARES conducts a
monthly training net at 9:00pm on
the Plano repeater (1st Sunday), and
on the MARC repeater
(3rd
Sunday).
Local repeater frequencies can be
found on the MARC website at
www.mckinneyarc.org
2014 Membership Renewals were
due by January 1, 2014, members
who have not renewed have been
dropped from the active Roster.
50/50 Winner – Linda KF5JUO,
who donated her portion to the
Club, total to Club thus $43.00.
OLD BUSINESS: No Old Business
NEW BUSINESS:
Lifetime Members ­ Bob K5CRX,
Club
President,
presented
nominations
for
Lifetime
Membership of four individuals who
Continued on pg. 4
Page 3
Continued from pg. 3
have made significant contributions
to the Club, its management, and
the repeater system the Club uses.
They meet the qualifications set
forth in the Club Constitution and a
background of their contributions
was presented.
Nominees, in
alphabetical order, are: Michael
Baker, W8CM, Brian Belcher,
WA5M, Gene Murski, K5ZX, and
David Piekarski, K5EEN. Motion
to elect these individuals to Lifetime
membership made by Gary K5GRY.
Second by Clark AE5WD. Motion
passed by unanimous vote of
members in attendance.
Field Day 2014 – Andy W5KZJ
reported that several sites are under
consideration in McKinney and
Fairview. Field Day is scheduled
for the 4th full weekend in June.
Bill KF5ZAX has joined the
committee and if others have an
interest to join in the fun of
Minutes of the
Board
Meeting
Directors in Attendance: Bob
DeVance­K5CRX, Mike Baker­
W8CM, Gary Redden­K5GRY, Bill
Vining­ N5YZ, Dave Piekarski­
K5EEN and Ron Carlson­KF5SAQ.
Introductions
visitors.
were
made,
no
Old Business:
The January, 2014, Board meeting
minutes were accepted as issued.
Motion by Gary Redden­K5GRY,
Second by Bill Vining N5YZ.
Motion carried.
CSU Leveler, Generator Repair –
The generator needs further tuning
and the CSU leveling jack requires
repair.
Repairs to proceed, no
updates at this meeting.
Science Fair – Bill Vining, N5YZ,
discussed the logistics of MARC’s
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
planning this event contact Andy by
email to [email protected]
or any Board member.
Dallas Regional Science &
Engineering Fair (DRSEF) – Bill,
N5YZ advised that the event is
February 15, and reviewed the
background of this opportunity for
MARC. The plan is for MARC to
sponsor two special awards in the
DSREF for middle / high school
level to students that display an
interest in radio or amateur radio.
The special awards would include a
plaque, a book on amateur radio, a
voucher for an Amateur Radio exam
session through the VE group, and
attendance at the SMU awards
banquet for the two students and
teachers.
As a sponsoring
participant MARC will be listed in
the DRSEF brochure.
The
estimated cost to the Club would be
$250.
Motion to approve this
expense made by Michael N5GNU.
judging at the Science Fair on Feb
15, 2014 8:30am at Fair Park.
MARC will provide three (3) judges
for the fair and the award(s) will be
given to two students who display
an interest in radio or radio
communications.
Awards will
consist of a recognition plaque
(example shown by Bill), voucher
for a VE Team FCC license exam, a
book related to ham radio, and the
Awards Banquet fee for the winning
students and their teachers. Judges
who have volunteered for the event
are Bill Vining N5YZ, Bob
DeVance K5CRX, and Ron Carlson
KF5SAQ,
additional
judges
volunteers are needed and will be
solicited at the February General
Meeting. A side benefit from this
activity is that the club now has the
Club Logo in vector file format,
with thanks to Bill. Bill Vining,
N5YZ, is our coordinator / contact
person for the event.
ARRL Special Service Club –
ARRL issued a two year certificate
on January 29, 2014, renewing
MARC’s designation as a Special
Service Club (SSC). The certificate
was shown to the Board and will be
Second by Clark AE5WD. Motion
passed by membership vote.
More volunteer judges are needed
for the event, qualifications are
MARC membership and being FCC
licensed. Contact Bill, N5YZ with
questions.
PROGRAM:
The program was “Mingle with the
Members”. The membership had
several discussion groups with
many topics addressed by the Club
“Elmers” and Experts.
Motion to adjourn by Bill N5YZ.
Motion 2nd by Ron KF5SAQ.
This concluded the
membership meeting.
General
presented
Meeting.
General
at
the
next
Electronics 101 – “DC Circuits”
had a headcount of 26 attendees.
“AC Circuits” had a headcount of
28 attendees. Well attended with
good feedback comments from
participants.
Play and Learn – “Intro to Radio
– Part 2” ­ An introduction focused
on popular 2 meter HTs, basic radio
terminology and operation. This
was held on January 27, 7pm at
McKinney Fire Station #7. For on­
the­air training the group conducted
an “in­house” NET for licensed
attendees
and
3
unlicensed
interested participants.
Well
attended and filled the meeting
room.
Lemons Youth Fund – Feedback
received on the program outline and
to be discussed in a future meeting.
Expenses for the Science Fair
awards are to come from this fund.
The Board will continue to discuss
the Fund proposal at the March
Continued on pg. 5
Page 4
Continued from pg. 4
Board Meeting in preparation for
presentation at a General Meeting.
New Business:
Expense Approval – Flowers were
provided for Gil Ohlen’s funeral on
Feb 1, 2014 (Lifetime Member of
MARC, W5TGP, SK). Cost was
$147.00. Motion for approval by
Mike Baker, W8CM , second by
Gary Redden, K5GRY.
Motion
carried.
Future Electronics 101 – “Solid
State Devices” class will be on
Saturday, March 8, 2014 at
McKinney Fire Station #5, on
Virginia Parkway, McKinney. Note
the change of location for this date.
Future Play and Learn – “Ham
Radio 101 – Intro to HF Part 1 ­
Fundamentals HF Radio" class will
be held on Monday, February 24,
2014, at 7pm at McKinney Fire
Station #7.
Wild Ride Public Event – Use of
the CSU was requested by Doug
Kilgore,
KD5OUG,
for
the
Richardson sponsored Wild Ride on
May 17, 2014. Motion to approve
by Mike Baler, W8CM, second by
Ron Carlson, KF5SAQ. Motion
carried.
Field Day Public Event – Andy
Barnes, W5KZJ,
added
Bill
Trammell, KF5ZAX, to the Field
Day Committee.
Repeater Control Operators – The
Control Operator instructions have
been updated and the operator
assignments re­evaluated. Control
Operators are Mike Baker W8CM,
Dave
Piekarski­K5EEN,
Gene
Murski K5ZX, and Brian Belcher
WA5M. Mike Baker W8CM is
trying to get the issued copy of the
Operator Handbook back from the
Ohlen’s.
Public Service Suggestions – Bob
DeVance asked for suggested events
for enhancing Club public service.
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Suggestions include the McKinney
Christmas Parade, Dickens of a
Christmas, and Parade of Home on
Chestnut Square.
Gary Redden
K5GRY will find the contact at the
City of McKinney for further
discussion.
MARC Constitution, By­Laws,
MERA SOU – In preparation for
discussion of repeater proposals,
Bob DeVance, K5CRX, distributed
copies of the MARC Constitution,
By­Laws and the MERA Statement
of Understanding to the Board
members.
Member Memorial – A memorial
net “call­out” for Gil Ohlen,
W5TGP SK, is planned as part of
the Sunday Information Net on the
MARC repeater at 146.740, Feb. 9,
8pm. It will be recorded.
Facebook Account – Gary Redden,
K5GRY, needs access to this
account otherwise it will be
eliminated. Gary will address this.
Lifetime Members – Gary Redden,
K5GRY, described the longtime
contributions with the repeaters and
Club financial management by
several members of MARC and the
qualifications required for Lifetime
memberships.
Nominees in
recognition
of
their
service,
alphabetical order, are Michael
Baker, W8CM, Brian Belcher,
WA5M, Gene Murski, K5ZX, and
David Piekarski, K5EEN. This
recommendation will be presented
at the next General Meeting.
Motion was made by Gary Redden,
K5GRY, second by Ron Carlson,
KF5SAQ. Motion carried.
A motion to adjourn was made by
Gary Redden­K5GRY, second by
Ron Carlson, KF5SAQ. Motion
carried.
The Call Out
We at McKinney Amateur Radio Club in McKinney, Texas lost one of our
own last week. Though he was 92 years young, he was an active club
member up to the day he passed. In recognition of this fine fellow, the club
held a “Call Out” in his behalf.
Sunday night the two­meter Information Net began at 2000 hours in the
usual manner, asking for check ins. About three or four minutes past the
hour the club secretary broke in, announcing he had a piece of priority
traffic to pass. Of course, everyone immediately went to listening mode.
The secretary issued the deceased members call sign, waiting and then
issued it again. After waiting a second time he called upon another member
to call for him in Morse. He did, first at about ten words per minute, then
again at near five. After a brief pause he added the suffix “SK”. The net was
opened to receive comments from those who knew this fine fellow.
In all, there were a dozen comments, each a tribute to this friend we’d lost.
However, one stood out from the others and I’ll paraphrase it to the best of
my ability.
‘He was my best friend. I first met him in Chicago in 1948. He used the GI
Bill to earn a degree in electrical engineering and later retired from Collins
Radio. In recent years he and I had lunch together at least twice each week.
Our last meeting occurred on the day he passed. Twenty minutes after our
parting I received a call that he was gone.
I will miss him.’
The Call Out consumed our allotted net time and it was closed after the last
comment.
72 de Scott/n7net/qrp FISTS 8879 SKCC 1964
Page 5
MARC Elects Four to Lifetime Membership
At the February, 2014, monthly club meeting, MARC members voted
unanimously to elect Mike Baker, W8CM, Brian Belcher, WA5M, Gene
Murski, K5ZX, and David Piekarski, K5EEN, to lifetime membership. This
club bylaws state, “ Life membership can be bestowed upon any FULL
MEMBER of the Club that has faithfully served the Club for a period of not
less than ten years. The membership must be approved by a majority of the
eligible voting members at a regular Club meeting. This is a full voting
membership. “
At the February Board meeting, vice­president, Gary Redden, K5GRY,
reviewed the longtime contributions with repeaters, club equipment, and
club financial management by these members and the qualifications required
for lifetime memberships. The Board voted unanimously to present a motion
to the membership approving lifetime membership for these deserving club
members.
Congratulations to Mike, Gene, Brian, and Dave. Extend a warm hand shake
to each of them next time you meet them.
From the
Editor
To all who have submitted articles
in the past I wish to offer you a truly
heart felt thank you. I couldn't do
this without your support. Please
keep the assistance coming. For
those of you who haven't sent
anything in to date, we all look
forward to reading what you have to
share with us in the next issue.
Phillip ­ KB5YIA
Bob, K5CRX
Meet the
Members
I grew up in Lone Grove, Oklahoma. I was one of five children, raised on a
40 acre farm. By my 7th birthday I became one of nine, when four cousins
joined our family. Life was full of fun, but also incredibly full of
responsibility. In fact, one of the reasons I left home for college was to
escape my never­ending obligation to milk the family cow.
Arriving in Collin County in 1972 was a great life­change. Texas has been
good to my family with opportunities galore. I was blessed to be a stay­at­
home mother for the first 22 years. I raised four children, and now have five
grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
In 1990 I began a career as a real estate agent. But I like to do things in a big
way, so I’ve also grown to become a real­estate investor and landlord. I am
currently active with Coldwell Banker RES and I really enjoy working with
people. I believe we are called to our professions, and to that end, I see
myself as a Real Estate Missionary. It is so rewarding for me when I can use
my real estate experience to help people in so many very important ways.
When it comes to hobbies, I never sit still. It takes a lot to entertain me, so I
suppose that means I’m high maintenance! In addition to the radio, I enjoy
butterfly gardening, handwriting analysis, piano, photography, quilting, and working on my Spanish.
I volunteer in several other community organizations, including the Collin County Sheriff’s Academy and the
American Red Cross. (After the September apartment fire here in McKinney, I helped to man a Red Cross shelter.)
Through my church, I volunteer in the bus ministry to help senior citizens, and I play the piano for services at senior
living facilities. I’m also helping in the English as a Second Language ministry with our very own Tessa De Vance
KF5FED.
On Valentine’s Day in 2011, my oldest grandson (also a Dallas Police Officer) and I passed the test to receive our
Tech Licenses. Since then I’ve enjoyed lots of firsts: first radio, first contact, first field day, first Texas QSO Party,
etc. And I’m enjoying it all. I’m very pleased to be a part of MARC, and so grateful for the support and friendship
of all of you. And I can’t wait to see what 2014 brings.
73, KF5JUO
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Page 6
Next Plan and Learn – Intro to HF Radio
Close on the heels of our first pair of Intro to VHF/UHF classes, Intro to HF Radio – Parts I and II is in view. These
classes will, like the first pair, assume nothing and will provide the basic building blocks for HF communications.
The first class will introduce HF radio and preview the club’s Go­Kit radios. The second class will review HF terms
and principles and culminate in setting up antennas for use with the club’s Go­Kit radios followed by getting on the
air via HF! Everything you need will be provided including handouts for future reference.
Both classes will be held at McKinney Fire Station # 7, 861 Independence Parkway, McKinney 75069. Part I is
scheduled for Monday night February 24 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Part II is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, from
9:00am to noon which provides daylight for setting up antennas safely.
These classes will be a great learning experience and a lot of fun. The ultimate objective is to get on the air on HF.
Each person attending will have the opportunity to do this – license class is not an issue as control operators will be
available to help everyone get on the air.
Come on out next Monday and enjoy a lively session with fellow hams and hams­to­be!
Bob, K5CRX
[email protected]
Electronics 101 – Solid State Device ­ Hands On
The McKinney Amateur Radio Club is sponsoring a series of free monthly electronics classes for those interested in
gaining both knowledge of basic electronics and practical application of that knowledge. The next class will be held
Saturday, March 8, 2014, at 9:00am to noon at the McKinney Fire Station # 5 Classroom, 6600 Virginia Pkwy.,
McKinney, TX 75071. Please note this one­time change in location.
This class, led by Bob DeVance, K5CRX, will cover a variety of solid state devices with emphasis on diodes and
transistors. To facilitate the “hands on” aspect, participants will identify and test solid state components and
subsequently bread board simple circuits using those components and observe their functions on the oscilloscope to
demonstrate how they work. Appropriate handouts will also be provided to enhance the “take away” and for future
reference.
To reserve your slot in this class, please e­mail Bob at [email protected]. The classroom will
accommodate about 25 people. If this number is exceeded, a waiting list will be generated for a subsequent class.
“Intro to Radio” Classes Provide Answers to New Operators
When the “Intro to VHF/UHF Radio” class was first considered, it was set up to be one two­hour class. Near the
mid­point of the first class, participants expressed a strong desire to take more time on fundamentals and terms in
the first class and return for a second class to put the finishing touches on it. And that’s what happened. The first
class was held January 6 and the second on January 27.
For the first class, the basics of radio, while assuming nothing, were presented to an eager class of experienced
hams, new hams, and aspiring hams. The goal was to clear up the use of terms and jargon, discuss operating
principles, and provide advice on using repeaters. Experienced members provided real life examples of operation
while some of the newer members asked exceptionally good questions. All this ensured a lively discussion of ham
radio.
For the second class, participants received a review of the previous class information and launched into a discussion
of radios and repeaters. The last half of the class time was spent with a local in­house net. Each person who wanted
to do so served as the net control station, took checkins, and asked questions. All attendees were able to check in to
the net, some under the supervision of licensed operators. The experience was well­received as it built confidence in
using the radio. Several of the attendees have since checked into the MARC information net on Sunday night for
their first time.
This was a great first time class for MARC members and visitors. Following a poll of attendees, a second pair of
classes will be offered on “Intro to HF Radio”. These classes will, like the first pair, assume nothing and will
provide the basic building blocks for HF communications. The first class, scheduled for February 24, will introduce
HF radio and preview the club’s Go­Kit radios. The second class, scheduled for Saturday, March 22, will review HF
terms and principles and culminate in setting up antennas for use with the club’s Go­Kit radios followed by getting
on the air via HF!
Bob, K5CRX
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Page 7
MARC Represents Ham Radio at Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair
February 15, 2014 – Five MARC members arrived at Dallas Fair Park at 8:30 AM to judge and subsequently select
two science fair participants with awards for their projects related to radio or electronics. These members were met
by Mike, W8CM, who was already on site as a fair competition judging captain – something he has done for some
six years now. The other club members were Clark, AE5WD, Bill, N5YZ, Ron, KF5SAQ, John, WA9UOD and
Bob, K5CRX. Their task was to select an award recipient in each of the Junior and Senior divisions.
After a lot of walking and viewing science fair projects, the team settled on Ibrahim Ali in the Junior Division and
Elisabeth Ashmore in the Senior Division. Ibrahim’s project involved exploration of high capacity, long term
discharge capacitor technology. Elisabeth’s project involved exploration and experimentation with the Raspberry Pi
and RF ID to assist the disabled or those needing home mobility assistance in negotiating their quarters more safely.
Both of these young people were effective communicators with great knowledge of their projects. Each will receive
an engraved plaque and a voucher good for an amateur radio exam administered by the MARC VE team.
Additionally, Ibrahim will receive a ham radio related book.
All the award judges had an inspirational time viewing so many good projects and meeting many bright young
people. All have said they will return next year and encourage other MARC members to consider this event as a
very effective outreach for the club and amateur radio.
Bob, K5CRX
Computer Science
Engineering: Electrical and Mechanical
Honorable mention: Elisabeth Ashmore, Plano
Honorable mention: Ibrahim Ali, Iqa Quranic
East Senior High (PISD)
Academy (private school)
It Was Those Ears Again
Barb and I retired in April 1999, closed up our house in Oregon, and headed south on a questionable Suzuki
motorcycle. Every morning something different was wrong with it, and it was nearly lunch time before I got it
running again. Eleven days later we checked into Coyote Howls, a primitive campground at Why, Arizona, thirty
miles north of Mexico. The word primitive is defined as generating our own electricity and fetching our water from
a garden hose.
After moving into an affordable fifth­wheel travel trailer, I established a very basic QRP radio station – a MFJ­9420
CW/SSB transceiver and a pruned, 20m dipole. Operating some 1700 miles from my previous QTH presented a
different set of stations for my operating pleasure. My first contact with my nine­watt rig was the Handicapper Net
in Oklahoma. Cal, the NCS, came back to me, asking my name and location. The name was easy. But Why was a
small, wind swept scar on the desert floor. Who, beyond a twenty mile radius would ever have heard of this place,
so to limit the confusion I told him I was operating from the Sonoran Desert floor about halfway between Yuma and
Tucson. I was nearly speechless when he responded with:
“How close is that to Why?”
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Continued on pg. 9
Page 8
Continued from pg 8
We chatted for a bit and then he asked if I knew Ely Berlin. “Ely has passed away,” I said, “but the post office issued
me his old mail box and I'm still getting Ely's mail.” He laughed then explained that during the Vietnam War he'd
flown an C­121 AWAX and Ely was his flight engineer.
After signing off Barb and cranked the Suzuki and rode to the Ajo library where I searched QRZ for the call I'd
heard, KI5CW. Strange as it seemed, Cal had said that his QTH was Eufaula, Oklahoma, but the QRZ indicated he
was in Oklahoma City and his name was Al rather than Cal. Oh well, maybe I heard it wrong. I sent a QSL card to
his OKC address.
Instead of a QSL in return there came a hot letter from a fellow who drove a ready­mix truck. He was spitting nails
and determined to learn who was using his call. So it was back to the library for me. I was certain of the KI5 and I'd
obviously heard the suffix incorrectly. So I type KI5BW, KI5DW, KI5EW, KI5GW, and then I hit pay dirt when I
typed in KI5TW. There he was: Calvin Stout, Eufaula.
I sent QSL to Eufaula, and an apology to AL explaining that no one had been using his call. It was those ears again.
Note: Cal joined Ely in the Silent Key ranks some five years back.
by Scott Laughlin/n7net
What’s the Wind Load on That … ???
I have always wanted to have enough property and money (not necessarily in that order) to have a good
sized tower for my antenna farm.
Nothing fancy nor huge, just a reasonable, say 35 to 70 foot tower, preferably four footed, self supporting
type. Of course, the grounding of the tower would probably cost a few shekels if done properly. A few ground
rods here and there just won’t hack it. Also, the wind load on all the antennas I want to mount on my tower would
be a nightmare to consider, but hey, that’s what makes Ham Radio fun ­ ­ the sense of “Holey Moley, I didn’t think
that would happen” ….. sort of the old time adage of “load for max smoke”….. but I digress…..
I was thinking of a conversation regarding towers and propagation and antennas and ERP which I overheard
on the repeater – I don’t recall which repeater, and that is not important. The more I thought about it the more I
recalled an incident back in 1960 that was educational to me.
I had my Ham ticket all of 3 years and was living in Biloxi, Mississippi at the time. We (wife and baby)
had a small apartment on the ground floor of a two story apartment house. The structure was made of wood. There
was no way I could have a “good” antenna without getting evicted or at the very least having some neighbor
complain. So, one weekend, while everyone was out at the beach (the apartment was two blocks from the beach), I
got the maintenance ladder and stood it against the wall and climbed up to the overhanging rafters. There I
hammered in a loop of wire to support an egg insulator and from the insulator I dropped a carefully measured length
of 18 gauge hookup wire. Carefully measured because I did not want to, nor would I probably have another
chance, to do this again. I had cut the wire to be resonant for the 20 meter band and act as a vertical.
I then hurriedly put away the ladder exactly where I had found it in the maintenance shed. Next I drove a
copper 4 foot rod into the ground and connected the braid of my coax to it. I then soldered the coax center lead to
the dangling antenna end which was held more or less stationary by another egg insulator.
All excited, I fired up my dummy load (a 100 watt light bulb) for max brilliance from my DX­60. I then
transferred the transmitter over to the outside antenna I had just put up and waited. After making sure I had
everything hooked up and “safe”, I tuned up the VFO and keyed out a CW. Nothing…… so I waited, rechecked,
and after a few minutes, I sent out another CW……. Again, nothing !!! How can this be possible, I thought, after
all my thought and effort into this project. Well, hope blooms eternal, so I tried once more….. and as they say, the
third time is the charm. My first contact was with a Canadian station and he gave me a 579. I was elated! My
homebrew, ‘hang it out the window’ skyhook worked. After that first contact I made many more and had no
problem working several states and countries with very low power and my hookup wire antenna.
I said all that to say this ­ ­ While I still long for the “antenna farm” and enough aluminum in the air to
make a can factory envious, I realize it is not all that necessary. One can have fun with and probably get more
personal satisfaction, from a “home brew” effort. I have enjoyed many, many contacts since those hookup wire
days, yet that experience remains in my memory and is still one of the more enjoyable happenings in my Ham
career. I hear stories about HOA’s, stealth antennas, CCR’s, and other complaints and incidents with authorities. I
also hear of Hams who have managed to operate right under the noses of those same restrictions, and some have
done quite well in their operation.
So do not get discouraged if there are seemingly insurmountable restrictions on your operation. Who
knows, maybe a hookup wire adventure is in your future, and you too will have a pleasant memory of operating in a
“stealth” mode.
I hope so and wish you luck.
73,
NQ3C
…­.­
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Page 9
Digital Modes (continued): PSK­31
To continue on Digi­Modes we will begin with probably the most popular of the many modes you can
operate in the digital world of amateur radio. PSK­31 was developed by Peter Martinez G3PLX and introduced to
the wider amateur radio community in 1998. Some of you may have heard of this mode before ,some my operate it
daily, and some of you may have never heard of this mode. So what is it? Phase Shift Keying 31 baud is what it
means. So what the heck does that mean? In a very basic explanation it is done thru software the technical stuff that
im not going to get into.... after the the software it sends it thru the sound­card then to the transceiver to broadcast
the signal over the air in a form of tones and bits the receiving computer can decode. The sound­card interfaces
needed I discussed a few different products in the last newsletter. For psk31 we typically use Upper Side Band on all
bands. Using Psk31 software like HRD DM780 or FLDigi a tone is sent over the air that sounds like a continuous
warble sound along with a slight whistle. The software shifts the phase of the audio tone between two states giving it
the name phase shift keying forming the character codes. To decode the whistling warble this signal is fed thru the
signalink or other sound­card and the software decodes it into text.
What is a very good plus about this mode is when the bands are noisy or propagation isn't so great you can
get on psk and make a few contacts. It works very well in unfavorable conditions. Also on low power you can work
the world on 10 watts. I have personally had an awesome QSO with a station in France back on December 3 on
15watts of power and it was 100% copy on both ends. That was a very exciting moment for me and had a great qso.
So speaking of a QSO... How is one performed on PSK31? I'm going to show you and hopefully this will
help you get your first contact in your log.
PSE K
cq cq de n2jcs n2jcs
(­­­­­­ Here I am calling CQ
cq cq de n2jcs n2jcs
PSE K
N2JCS de KC9VID 1C9VIV pse kn
(­­­­­ A station is returning my call
17:35:05z> Main
KC9VID?? de n2jcs n2jcs pse kn
(­­­ I asked if call was correct?
N2JCS deKC9VIV KC9VIV psekn
(­­­­ he then corrects me on his callsign
17:35:35z> Main
KC9VIV de n2jcs
hi Adam,
report : 599 599 imd ­16dB s/n 2ØdB
(­­­ I give him a signal report,name
name : gary gary
Qth, locator info and ask how
qth celina texas celina texas
he copies my transmission
loc em13oh em13oh
how copy? btu Adam, KC9VIV de n2jcs pse kn
N2JCS de c²9VIV
(­­­ Now here im thinking he bumped his tranceivers
Hi Gar
tuning knob. Because his signal shifts up freq
report 599 59L
as you can see in the waterfall below.
good c here in Wausau WI rie e
the yellow M is where I am decoding.
Frequencies where you can find PSK­31:
80meters­3.580
40meters­7.035
20meters­14.070
15meters­21.070
10meters­ 28.120
6meters­ 50.250
17:37:20z> Main
KC9VIV de n2jcs
KC9VIV de n2jcs
N2Jr S de KC9VIV
Hi Gary!eport599 599
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
(­­­ here I called for him two times
Continued on pg. 11
Page 10
Continued from pg 10
good cpy he5 in Wausau WI Wausau WI
(–­­ He has returned to frequency
wiconsin
and gives me my signal report
hows the weather?
tetu tpe?
17:38:37z> Main
weather here is 6Ø degrees beautiful temp
(­­­ I respond to his wx ?
KC9VIV de n2jcs
question and give hime my station info
Adam, my station
radio : yaesu 857d, 5Øwatts, signalink usb
software : HRD + DM78Ø v5.22.Ø.Ø2 Release
antenna : 5 band hex beam 2Ø,17,15,12,6 meters and 4Øm dipole
operator : licenced 2Ø12
my qsl is ok via eqsl.cc or via lotw.
btu KC9VIV de n2jcs kn
N2JCS de KC9DIV s
(­­­ Now I can barely make out his responce
lucky! 6ØCnlrees...
but did get enough to understand what
l ation here eE a FS­89Ø at 2
was sent. Propagation was fading.
soseeN2JCS de KC9DIV s
lucky! 6ØCnlrees...
l ation here eE a FS­89Ø at 2ØW, tig ftronico sigoelin
sDIV s
lucky! 6ØCnlrees...
l ation here eE a FS­89Ø at 2ØW, tig ftronico sigoelinp
Da78Ø
an­is a 2km vertical by ldg; the TTv18 with giouod radials
you cao qsl me at com
17:40:48z> Main
KC9VIV de n2jcs 73 my friend and thanks for PSK31 QSO 184 on 2Øm.
(–­ 73 to him
KC9VIV de n2jcs sk
n2jcs de kc9viv tnx fer qso gary!
(–­ he also returns a 73 and there a
73 de kceov!
short qso on psk­31
So that is an example of a short qso and contact to add into the logbook. The band was very noisy
that day and I could barely here much audio thru the speakers but I was able to make a short contact with KC9VIV
in Wisconsin. There are other ways to have a qso where you can just type back and forth whatever your
conversation may be. When getting started most of the software you will be using will have preset text you can send
by the press of a button on the program. These are called ­Macros.
In Dm780 the Macros buttons look like this (above) on my screen because that is how I programmed them
to be. Starting on the second line down you'll see CQ DX x 2 which means when I press that button the text
automatically is put in the transmit window and I am then ready to send. The purpose is to save a little time on
typing some of the repetitive text you tend to send in most qso's.
In Fldigi the Macros are circled in the above picture along the top line of the waterfall which are also
programmable to your own preference of personalized text.
In closing I hope this short article will help answer what PSK­31 is and also how a short qso is performed.
There are many articles and lots of information on line about Psk you can find answers to questions you may run
into along the way while getting started and on the air the first time. As always there are many members of the club
on the repeater including myself that regularly operate psk and will be willing to help if you need it.
73's and I hope to see you on the waterfall.
This is N2JCS­ Gary Dudley
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Page 11
MARC operates an open
repeater on 146.740 MHz
Regular/frequent users of the repeater are
encouraged to join the club and be an active
part of the local Ham community, as well as
helping to support the repeaters continued
operation.
MARC NET Schedule
The MARC information net is held every
Sunday at 8:PM CT, on 146.740 MHz
immediately followed by a Swap Net.
Collin County ARES holds a training net
on the third Sunday of each month at 9:00
PM CT on 146.740 MHz.
The MARC CW NET can be found on
7.122 MHz Saturdays at 8:30AM CT.
The MARC CW Practice/Training Net
can be found on 7.122 MHz Mondays at
8:00PM CT.
DO YOU YAHOO?
MARC maintains a Yahoo Chat group
for club communication for MARC
members between the monthly meetings.
If you are not already a member of
the MARC Yahoo group, Join by either
sign up directly on the website if you
already have a Yahoo ID
groups.yahoo.com/group/McKinneyARC/
Or if you do not have a Yahoo ID,
please send an email to McKinneyARC­
[email protected], and the
webmaster will get you signed up after
validating MARC membership.
The McKinney Amateur Radio Club
Yahoo Group is a benefit of member ship
in the club.
The purposes of the MARC email reflector
are:
1) Facilitate the timely distribution of
MARC information and news to club
members.
2) Allow for the sharing of amateur radio
related topics among club members.
3) Provide a forum for the discussion of
amateur related information among
club members.
4) Act as a marketplace for the buying and
selling of amateur radio and computer
equipment and services.
Club members should utilize good judgment
with regard to topics or content that are
posted on the MARC reflector.
To that end It is recommended that political
and religious topics or content be avoided
unless directly related to amateur radio. In
addition, personal attacks in any form will
not be tolerated.
McKinney Amateur Radio Club
By The Way…
Community Reference Materials
LOCAL REPEATERS
See http:/mckinneyarc.org for more repeaters
Commerce (W5AMC)
444.525 PL 103.5
Carrollton (N5MJQ)
145.210 PL 110.9
Carrollton (N5MJQ)
442.650 PL none
Carrollton (K5MET)
444.075 PL 110.9
Collinsville (N5IUF)
147.220 PL 100.0
Dallas ARC (W5FC)
146.880 PL 110.9
Denton (W5NGU)
146.920 PL 110.9
444.050 PL 110.9
Fannin Cty (K5FRC)
145.470 PL none
145.130 PL none
443.750 PL none
Garland (K5QHD)
146.660 PL 110.9
442.700 PL 110.9
Grayson Cty (K5GCC)
147.000 PL 100.0
147.280 PL 107.2
444.750 PL 100.0
Greenville (K5GVL)
146.780 PL 114.8
147.160 PL 100.0
Hopkins CoARC (K5SST) 146.680 PL 151.4
Hopkins CoARC (K5SST) 444.825 PL 151.4
Melissa (W5MRA)
443.200 PL 100.0
NTXRA
145.350 PL 100.0
NTXRA IRLP
442.575 PL 127.3
Plano [Alcatel] (W5VV)
442.800 PL 110.9
Plano (WD5ERD)
147.180 PL 107.2
Plano (K5PRK)
444.250 PL 79.7
Richardson (K5RWK)
147.120 PL none
Rockwell (W5ROK)
441.875 PL 131.8
Rockwall (KK5PP)
441.525 PL 141.3
Rosston (WD5U)
145.490 PL 85.4
Van Alstyne (W5VAL)
443.800 PL 103.5
Digital Modes
APRS
National Freq
144.39 Simplex
National Alt Freq
144.34 Simplex
Winlink
SW Collin Co
145.03 K5BAD­10
SW Collin Co
145.03 W5RAE­10
NE Collin Co
145.05 N0RQ­10
NE Collin Co
145.07 AE5IT­10
NW Collin Co
145.07 KD5CTQ­10
SE Collin Co
145.09 N5BYL­10
SE Collin Co
145.09 KI5FU­10
SE Collin Co
145.09 K5PRK­10
SE Collin Co
145.09 K5EEN­10
K5PRK (Plano)* D­Star
Voice
441.575 (+5)
Voice
1295.00 (­20)
Data
1255.00
*D­Star access is available through the
WWW.K5PRK.Net website.
W5NGU (Denton) D­Star
Voice
147.450 (­1)
Voice
442.925 (+5)
Voice
1293.400 (­20)
Data
1253.600
K5TIT (Dallas) D­Star
Voice
147.360 (+0.6)
Voice
442.000 (+5)
Voice
1293.000 (­20)
Data
1253.000
VE SESSIONS
ARRL EXAMS $15
McKinney testing is held at the Heard
Museum, 1 Nature Place, in McKinney,
on the first Sunday of each month except
holiday weekends. Starting time is
2:30pm and end no later than 4:45pm.
as they close at 5:00. For more informa­
tion
check
our
website
at
www.mckinneyarc.org/ve or contact Stephen
Reinen­N8BP at 214­937­9982 or by
email at VE­[email protected].
Richardson testing is held on the third
Thursday of each month at St. Barnabas
Church, located at 1220 West Beltline
Rd. Sessions start at 7 PM. Walk­Ins are
ok. For more information, contact Bill
Owens, AD5EW @ 972.380.2859 or
[email protected]
Sherman testing is held on the first
Thursday
of
each
EVEN­numbered
month (Feb, Apr, Jun, etc) at the
Grayson County College, Center for
Workplace Learning Seminar Room C, 6101
Grayson Drive, Denison TX 75020 @ 7pm.
For more information contact: Moe
Knight—NT7C [email protected] or at
903­564­7115
Call
first!
Garland testing is held on the fourth
Thursday of each month and begins at
1930 hrs sharp. Location is : Freeman
Heights Baptist Church, 1120 Garland
Ave., Garland, TX 75040. Bill Reynolds,
K8DNE, at 972­302­9992 for details or
[email protected].
Plano testing is on the third Monday of
each month, 6pm­7pm. Testing sessions
are located at Grace Presbyterian
Church, 4300 West Park BLVD. If you
have
questions
send
e­mail
to
[email protected].
Carrollton testing sessions are sponsored
by the Metrocrest ARC. Testing is
held at the Carrollton Public Library,
4420 Josey Lane, 75010. Please contact
Allan Batteiger at 972­672­0278
Other testing session can be located
online at: www.dfwlist.org
REMEMBER THAT YOU CAN
HELP OTHERS IN AN
EMERGENCY.
TO PARTICIPATE IN THE COLLIN
COUNTY AMATEUR
RADIO EMERGENCY SERVICE
PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEB­SITE:
HTTP://WWW.COLLINARES.NET
“MARC” conducts a sidewalk sale on
the last Saturday of each month at the
Collin College McKinney campus under
the shade trees, near the school
K5SST (Hopkins CO) D­star
Voice
147.060 (+) building, in the south­west parking lot.
Voice
444.275 (+) The location is 1/4 mile west of Hwy 75
on Hwy 380. The sale begins about
Simplex K5FRC Easy Pal
9AM and lasts for an hour or two. All are
Sending Pictures
446.125 (S) welcome to attend.
Page 12