Hi all
I was out checking the gear on the SA Microwave Day.
Most things worked well but I found that I had a bad antenna cable on the 1296 gear (lossy/radiating distorting antenna performance.) Also there seemed to be no TX on 5.7 Ghz. The new 24 Ghz system managed to hear Iain VK5ZD quite well at 40 Kms away but he was unable to hear me. Probably something to do with the 100 microwatt output level!! Further testing required there and more work on the high power 24 Ghz transverter.
I am also developing a rapid deployment arrangement for rover work. All antennas are attached to the car and connected so minimal work is needed when reaching a site. Some issues were noted but not unexpected. I need to do a trial with a rotator fitted.
Here's a couple of photos.
- Antenna array mounted on the van. 24 Ghz on the tripod
- Another view
On the van roof is Met balloon and Project Horus antennas on an Az/El mount. I did double duty on the day by also tracking and uploading Horus telemetry while doing the microwave tests, following balloon progress on the van computer.
Like Iain's site I was exposed to high winds and the odd shower. No real problems as the setup is pretty weather proof. I ended up a bit dehydrated though....did not take enough cool drinks. A few things to fix before the field day but nothing too serious. I hope we get everyone in the field on the day. More and more microwave gear being built and used in SA is really encouraging and showcasing some of the more technical aspects of our hobby.
Carting all this stuff about has some drawbacks. I was pulled over by the police a couple of days ago. Apparently I was triggering the Radar Detector Detector that is part of modern speed detecting equipment. I had to do a bit of fast talking and the car was checked to see if I had any clandestine stuff. The copper did not know what to make of all the gear on board and eventually gave up, accepting my explanation about what may have triggered the detector. Having a 24 Ghz system built from an old police radar got a some attention too!!
Cheers
Tim VK5ZT
