Any Ham Radio Club Is Welcome To Set Up Special Event

WELCOME: Railfans come in all sizes!  Railfan friendly train watching locations available!

Amateur Radio
Amateur radio operators may communicate locally on 146.555 MHz FM-Simplex. Any “ham” radio club is welcome to set up a special event from here, however you’ll need your own electrical power, get here early and this is in a valley with hills on the East and West.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
1. Must I “moon bounce”, or can I just watch? No, You can watch and/or take photos.
2. Does It get hot here in July? Yes, mid-day it is usually about 95°F (35°C) and humid.
3. Should I bring food & drink? If you wish. Mugs Away Saloon will be serving cold beer and other beverages. The street vendors may be prohibited this year by a new city ordinance.
4. Is there room to park my car, motorcycle or motor home? By 9am car parking is usually over a mile away along the road’s shoulder. After 5pm, some of the crowd & cars disperse.
5. Are pets O.K. to bring? Yes, you can bring your dog, cat, snake, parrot, or iguana. Don’t forget water for them.
6. Can radio & TV stations photo this event and conduct interviews? Yes. See paragraph above.
7. Can I decorate my butt? Yes, that’s O.K.
8. What happens in the saloon? There are bands inside the Mugs Away Saloon from Noon till closing, which is early Sunday morning.
9. Is Amtrak associated with this? NO, neither Amtrak nor Metrolink have anything to do with this “show” except operate the trains.
10. Can the physically handicapped get around this area? Yes, a wheel-chair should work just fine. There are no stairs to climb. Close-in car parking spots are gone by 7am.
11. Is it convenient to come by car? NO, no, it is NOT convenient to bring a motor vehicle. Vehicular congestion is intense and there is very little parking. Coming here by Metrolink Train and the ¾ walk is an excellent alternative.

LOCATION:  Along the chain link fence adjacent the train tracks, across the road from: 27324 Camino Capistrano, #102; Laguna Niguel, (Orange County) California 92677

Date & Time:  Everyone who attends helps make it a safe, law-abiding, fun & successful day. It occurs the second Saturday in July each year. Visit the club’s  website to get driving directions and more setup details …

The Last In Europe To Have Digital Voice Modes

All other countries in Europe have D-Star (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio). That is, with the exception of France. Digital voice modes such as APCO25, MOTOTRBO, TETRA and D-STAR with Internet access are prohibited in France at this current time.

According to the DR@F website: But if you loan frequency to ARCEP for professional use, you can access to Internet and use all Digital Voice technologies. ARCEP should treat all Radiocommunications Services in a equal manner.

Although D-Star hasn’t quite perforated every neighborhood in the United States, it is showing surprising growth in some areas. Chances are that you at least know of a D-Star repeater within a hundred miles from you, although you will not be able to hear it without a digital radio.

Believe it or not, D-Star is getting quite popular in some areas. Some hotspots boast a 90% digital audience and a 10% analog audience. Again, click on the link above and you’ll be surprised at the growth.

There is a question of legality with D-Star. Encryption being used is illegal in most countries. Most countries have ignored this part of the digital realm. That one exception is in the country of France. As of April 2010, D-Star is illegal in France, because of the ability to create a connection to the internet with it. Also, because the codec is proprietory.

It is due to the propietary nature of the AMBE codec that hinders Amateur Radio operators from cutting edge modifications. An open source for the code might resolve the matter. Some hams have worked around this technical obstruction.

To further complicate the issue, the term D-Star is a registered trademark of Icom. Icom pretty much has monopolized this side of the market. Proprietary voice compression technology is owned by Digital Voice Systems, Inc. (DVSI). Vocoder Chips are products that use this patented technology.

If you’re into the techie homebrew thing, you might want to visit the page by Satoshi Yasuda, 7M3TJZ.

To catch the buzz about the situation in France click here on the DR@F website.

Urgent: Project 25 Certified, But Still Not Working

May 27, 2010 - “Today the House Committee on Science and Technology’s Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation held a hearing to review the status of interoperability for public safety communications systems that enable first responders from multiple agencies and jurisdictions to communicate. Specifically, the hearing discussed the status of the technical standards for public safety land mobile radio (LMR) systems.”

“We’ve learned an important lesson from September 11th, Hurricane Katrina, and other disasters: interoperable communication is critical to effective emergency response. When time is of the essence and lives are at stake, a clear flow of information is essential. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for police officers and firefighters from a single region, or even a single city, to be using incompatible communication systems. This lack of interoperability has contributed to the deaths of first responders and hindered the ability to rescue people in harm’s way,” stated Subcommittee Chairman David Wu (D-OR).

The reason that the communication system is inoperable is because that in 1989, Project 25, or APCO 25 was implemented, and  since then multiple problems have resulted from this. New digital radio became available, and federal, state, and local agencies were more than ready to adopt the new system. The transition from analog to digital has not been a smooth one.

Why adopt the new digital system? The main reason was to upgrade from outdated analog to modern digital radio standards. Initially, the rational thinking was that the more modern digital modes were supposed to perform much better than analog radio because the digital packets could tranfer more data than analog could. Analog systems use CTCSS, or tones, to break the squelch, and then talk.

But, there were many problems during the implementation of the Apco 25 system. One major problem was the cost; especially at a time in history when federal and state budgets were in the red. Another problem – overall functionality.

“The most important question for the first responders who rely on this equipment is “does it work?” In addition to being mission-critical technology, these systems represent major expenditures for government agencies across the country. Particularly at a time of uncertain and dwindling budgets, cost-effective procurement enabled by an open-architecture is essential,” added Wu.

Project 25

In theory, all P25 equipment is interoperable. In reality, interoperable communications isn’t possible without effective coordination. While new digital technology has the potential for better transmission capability, many P25 features present interoperability challenges. And primarily, too much bureaucracy will not allow for desperately needed standardization of new technologies available.

Basically what this means is this –  after 9/11,  after Katrina, and forwarding on to the next responder red alert, America’s first responders still do not have a standard, reliable, compatible communications system available for deployment. Standards needed to ensure interoperability in public safety communications equipment remain unattainable, especially when Congress is in charge of the project : )

Analog versus Digital

Analog equipment is less complex than digital equipment. Example:

Advantage:  In high-quality equipment, better ability to communicate in cases where a received signal is weak or noisy.
Disadvantage:  Only one conversation at a time can occur on each channel.

Digital communication modes are available.  Example:

Advantage:  More simultaneous talking paths are possible and information such as unit ID, status buttons, or text messages can be embedded into a single digital radio channel.
Disadvantage:  Radios must be designed to the same, compatible standard, radios can become obsolete quickly, cost more to purchase, and are more complicated.

EchoLink Has Gone Wi-Fi

EchoLink on iPhone or iPod Touch? Believe it!

If you are a validated EchoLink user you can use this edition of the program. It is available at the App Store, free of  charge of course.

If you are not already validated, you can download and install the Windows version on a PC first, then follow the validation procedure as outlined on EchoLink.

Editions of EchoLink for other mobile platforms, such as Android, are also a possibility in the future. Please note that Windows PC applications such as EchoLink cannot be installed on a Windows Mobile device.

I just received a call from N4LF (Lex). Lex’s station is situated on Sanibel Island. Sanibel Island, the seashell capital of the world, is an island located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, just offshore of Fort Myers. His iPhone was doing him a fine job. Give him a call and try it!

Programming Memory Channels

Programming frequencies into the ICOM V8000 isn’t that bad at all. Seriously. But, after a few months or years, one tends to forget the exact procedure. Then it’s time to scramble for the owner’s manual. Okay, can’t find the manual…

USING FRONT OF RADIO

1. Setting a frequency
In VFO mode, set the desired operating frequency with repeater, tone and tuning steps, etc. In case you forgot how to hit VFO mode, it’s the second or middle button on the left column, the V/MHz Scan button.

2. Setting The Tone
Still in VFO mode. Okay before you select a channel, you may need to set the tone if the repeater requires a tone. To set the tone, press set on the bottom left corner of the front. Turn the VFO dial until you find the tone your looking for. Then you will push the tone button on the top left of the front. Make sure you have the right setting; it should look like a musical note. If everything appears to be okay, you are ready to program the frequency.

3. Selecting a memory channel
Momentarily push [MW (S.MW)], then rotate the tuning dial to select the desired memory channel. (This MW button is the bottom button on the right.)
* “M” indicator and memory channel number blink

4. Writing a memory channel
Push and hold [MW (S.MW)] for 1 second to program.
* 3 beeps sound
* Memory channel number automatically increases when continuing to push [MW (S.MW)] after programming.

1. In VFO mode, set the desired operating frequency, including offset direction, tone settings, etc.

2. Push [FUNC] then [CLR A(MW)].

3. Push up/down button to select the desired memory channel.

4. Push [FUNC] then push [CLR A(MW)] for 1 second to program.
* 3 beeps sound
* Memory channel number automatically increases when continuing to push [CLR A(MW)] after programming.

If you use EchoLink, you will need to configure the port forwarding on your provider, in order to get it to work correctly.

First you need to know the address to your router management interface.

For example: If you have a SpeedStream router, type speedstream in your address bar, and it should go right to it. The username and password are both admin.

Step One:

Go to Setup, and then click on Port Forwarding.

Step Two:

Go to the bottom of the page to Add / Edit Entry. This is where you will add the ports.

Step Three:

Under Select protocol, click on UDP and then on the first box on the right enter 5198. Select if you want it to go to your router or select your IP address. Then click Apply.

Step Four:

You are going to do the same thing as Step Three, except this time the number will be 5199. So, click on UDP, and on the first box enter 5199. Then select router or IP address and click on Apply.

Step Five:

Still pretty much the same. Except, this port requires you to allow TCP. So, click on TCP, and on the first box enter 57972. Then select router or IP address and click on Apply.

Step Six:

Last one. Click on UDP, and on the first box enter 57972. Select router or IP address and click on Apply.

To sum up things:
Allow UDP for ports 5198 and 5199.
Allow TCP and UDP for port 57972.

You may have to go back and add TCP ports for 5198 and 5199 if problems still occur.

And feel free to leave a comment below if you are unsure about something in this process. I will try to help.

Who Uses UTC?

Countries that use UTC as their standard time: Iceland, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, and Senegal. The United Kingdom and the Republic Of Ireland use UTC in the winter, but not summer because they use a daylight saving period (summer time).

What is UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) and where is it used? This is a 24-hour time scale used in many places around the world for civil time. Time zones around the world are used and compared to positive or negative offsets from UTC. UTC has been broadcasted since 1972. (UTC Explained)

The central location where UTC, also called GMT (Greenwich Mean Time), is near Greenwich, England. Greenwich is also the world’s starting point on a map (using longitude), what we call the prime meridian. This is  0 degrees longitude.

The military uses 25 world time zones and Zulu is expressed, which is exactly the same thing as UTC. And of course, Zulu time begins in Greenwich, England as well. Here are the Military and Civilian Time Designations.

Who uses UTC? Here’s a small list: Military, governments, GPS systems, radio stations (NIST), NOAA weather, amateur radio operators, air traffic control, the internet Network Time Protocol (NTP), hospitals, mariners, ISS (International Space Station), maps, and many civilians.

Digital Communication Via D-Star

D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) is digital technology designed for amateur radio use. The system was researched by the Japan Amateur Radio League, and now has become the standard.

ICOM America is the only manufacturer that has incorporated D Star technology in their radios. Kenwood has rebranded ICOM equipment.

D-Star will allow D-Star users to transfer voice and data on 2 meter (VHF), 70 cm (UHF), and 23 cm (1.2 GHz) bands.

1.  Digital Voice (DV) allows you to talk on 2m, 70 cm, and 23 cm. Analog audio modulation is converted into a digital system, which will allow a user to transmit into a D-Star Repeater, or using simplex. Here is a D-Star demo offered by WD6FZA. He compares analog against a digital transmission.

2.  Digital Voice (DV) also will allow an operator to send text messages simultaneously while using voice in the same mode. Here is a demo using D-CHAT, designed by NJ6N.

3.  Digital Voice (DV) will allow a user to send to send current information to another radio, with the use of a GPS receiver.

4.  Digital Data (DD) will allow an operator to actually browse the internet and get access to email. This gives you wireless internet access. A repeater can be used, but is not necessary. But you will need the ICOM ID-1 transceiver.

5.  Digital Data (DD) gives you IP camera. You can send photos or weather charts.

More Info
More D-Star  information can be found here.

Programming Repeaters In The Radio Shack HTX-202

The Radio Shack HTX-202 2 Meter Hand Held HT is rock solid. Just ask any ham that owns one and you will get the same response — this brick is a workhorse! Here are some reviews of the HTX-202.

No it’s not fancy, it’s not small, it’s not real pretty (although it’s not ugly either), but it is reliable. The audio is spectacular for an HT. But programming this radio can be painful. I have 12 repeaters programmed in my radio. Here is how I did it…

HTX-202 HANDY REFERENCE GUIDE

1.  Find a frequency by punching the D key (right bottom). Use the C key for repeaters once they are programmed. Keep in mind which number or in what order that you want to store repeater frequencies.
2.  Press the * key to go backward, and the # key to go forward.
3.  Press F + M-WR to save the settings once you have found the right frequency that you are looking for.
4.  For the Offset of the repeater. Press F + +/- .
5.  For the PL Tone. Press F + M-SET. Then press *(SC key bottom left).
6.  Save settings with F + M-WR. Remember, you may have to save your settings after each procedure.

The F key is the one the left side of the HT; it’s just above the PT key. If these instructions are not clear, or perhaps you would like to know more about the HTX-202, here is the online manual (PDF).

Track The ISS And Other Satellites

Real time satellite tracking on the web. Track the ISS and watch it pass by in the sky near your location. It is clearly visible with the naked eye. Catch it!

Whether you’re an amateur radio operator, an astronomy enthusiast, or an electronic guru, tracking satellites isn’t so bad at all if given the right tools to succeed.

One of the best ways to track and successfully locate the ISS is to get on the Human Space Flight (HSF) page, and get all the details for your city. The information from this website is extremely accurate and will have you viewing the ISS quickly, providing that the weather conditions are suitable.

In the meantime, the Space Station will be dodging space debris.

If you’re wanting to track other satellites and need realtime satellite tracking information, a visit to the N2YO.com site will be an adventure worth exploring. Over 15,000 satellites can be tracked, along with other objects that make for an interesting occasion.

NASA has another absorbing page with tracking applications galore.

If you’re a ham radio operator, you’ll be having a QSO with the ISS in no time. You will be expecting a postcard from space.