Shack update

Over the last year or two the shack has increased in density.  A radio has been added, I have also finished building my Rotator Controller and switched to a mini PC (reduced density). The photos below provide an indication of the current setup.

 Entering the wardrobe takes you into a very different world!

Shack in a Cupboard

I have just reorganised the radio room (cupboard), after relocating into our own flat about 800m from where we were.  The antennas are the next major challenge.  Currently the Mag-Loop is sitting on the couch behind me, but still seems to receive FT8 well!

Self-Quarantine - Day 3

Chris and I have just returned from Perth (with 22 others on the Qantas flight) and therefore we are now in self-quarantine. Day 3 of 14!

I've never worked so hard, it's amazing what you can do from home.  Tomorrow maybe a day off and we might even spend some time in the shack, we will see.

Cheers for now.

FT-8 and 10w on the Mag-Loop

I’ve not been all that active on the HF bands (nor any other bands for that matter), however I thought it was time to give it a go.  Being in a first-floor flat with only a balcony as real estate for an antenna farm, does reduce the options.  My Mag-Loop works reasonably well, but with the advent of digital modes like FT-8, all things have become possible.

In a couple of evening sessions we managed to work the following countries: -

Indonesia, West Malaysia, Switzerland, Belgium, Israel, Germany, Netherlands, Poland, European Russia, Asiatic Russia, France, Ukraine, Japan, Italy, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Sweden and a Maritime Mobile F5MYK/MM

All in all, very enjoyable and even a little addictive.

My Shack is now in a Cupboard

Since moving into our flat we have had to rationalise. The view from the balcony  however is worth it!