QSL SPECIAL ISSUE Words of wisdom to help you get that QSL - Reporting for Rewards - World Radio History
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QSL SPECIAL ISSUE
Reporting for Rewards
Words of wisdom to help you get that QSL
Regular Features
Airband, Scanning, Junior
Listeners, SSB Utility Listening,
Propagation and Broadcast
Enthusiasts
LJ LJ V 1L Lam/ _f'L Extra Wideband Scanning Power New Models With Even More Facilities! JUST RELEASED. NEW HP2000 Now with continuous coverage featuring a complete re -design and new p.c.b. layout Frequency coverage:- 500KHz - 1300MHz with no gaps * 1,000 channel memory * Receives AM -FM - Wideband FM * Search steps selectable from 5KHz to 995KHz * Keypad or rotary tune controls * Switcheable 10dB attenuator Each set is supplied with:- * Full set of high power NiCad rechargeable batteries * UK spec. charger * Three antennas - VHF, UHF, short wave telescopic * Carrying case, belt clip, shoulder strap * Dc cable for car cigar adaptor supply * Earpiece for private listening £269 NEW Nevada MS1000 Mobile/Base Scanner An exciting new scanner with all the specifications of the HP200 above plus:- * Switcheable audio squelch * Tape recorder output socket * Automatic tape recorder switching circuit switches tape recorder on when a signal is present * All metal case for improved EMC compatibility £279 Available From Authorised Dealers Throughout The UK. Nevada Communications, 189 London Road, North End, P s rtsmouth. P02 9AE Send in £2 now t)r our LATEST CATALOGUE with full details u f our complete product range (includes a £2 voucher).
VOL. 50 ISSUE 3 MARCH 1992
ON SALE FEBRUARY 27
4Gif)C
1t Antennas for Short Wave Listening
LS
Paul Essery GW3KFE
(Next Issue on sale MARCH 26)
EDITOR: Dick Ganderton, C. Eng., MIEE, G8VFH
12 Portable Mini -Shack
ART EDITOR: Steve Hunt F.G. Garra way
NEWS & FEATURES: Elaine Richards G4LFM
TECHNICAL ARTIST/PHOTOGRAPHER: Rob Mackie
15 Logkeeping and the Short Wave Listener
EDITORIAL Leighton Smart GWOLBI
Enefco House, The Quay,
Poole, Dorset BH15 1PP
TEL: (0202) 678558 16 Reporting for Rewards
FAX: (0202) 666244
Roy Spencer
CREDIT CARD ORDERS: (0202) 665524
(Out of hours service by answering machine)
21 SPECIAL OFFER
ADVERTISEMENT DEPARTMENT
Buy the 1992 Edition ofWorld Radio TV
ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER
Roger Hall G4TNT Handbook and save £3
TEL: 071-7316222
FAX: 071-384 1031
ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION (Poole)
20 To QSL or Not to QSL?
Marcia Brogan M.J. Sables VP8CEO
TEL: (0202) 676033
FAX: (0202) 666244
28 Electric Blanket Interference
© PW PUBLISHING LTD. 1992. J.E. Brown
Copyright in all drawings, photographs and articles
published in Short Wave Magazine is fully protected and
reproduction or imitation in whole or in part is expressly
forbidden. All reasonable precautions are taken by Short 3, PROSAT 2 Review
Wave Magazineto ensure thatthe advice and data given
to our readers is reliable. We cannot however guarantee Lawrence Harris
it and we cannot accept legal responsibility for it. Prices
are those current as we go to press. Short Wave
Magazine is published monthly for S45 per year by PW
Publishing Ltd., Enefco House, The Quay, Poole Dorset 40 Panasonic RF-B45 Portable Receiver Review
BH15 1PP. Second class postage paid at Middlesex, NJ.
Postmaster send address changes to C & C Mailers Mike Richards
International, 40 Foxhall, Middlesex, NJ 08846.
Cover:
53 Airband 7 Listen With Grandad
QSLing is an important
aspect of the SWL
48 Amateur Bands Round -up 63 Long Medium & Short
hobby. Our special 46 Bandscan Australia 67 Maritime Beacons
feature should help you 74 Book Service 6 News
to get better returns from 60 Decode 43 Propagation
your reporting.
50 DXTV Round -up 31 RadioLine
The cover is a montage
of QSL cards, pennants,
2 Editorial 4 Rallies
badges and other 25 First Aid 47 Satellite TV News
'goodies' sent by 4 Grassroots 54 Scanning
broadcasters and 56 Info in Orbit 2 Services
amateurs in response to
76 Index to Advertisers 45 SSB Utility Listening
reports. Here are a few
more from our files. 5 Junior Listener 55 SWM Subscribers' Club
2 Letters 77 Trading Post
...GOOD LISTENING
TIMESTEP SPECIAL OFFER WRTH 92 SPECIAL OFFER
COUPON SWM MAR 1992 COUPON SWM MAR 1992
(I
e
Dear Sir
Some years ago at a car boot sale I purchased what I was told
to be a 33 Set TX and RX separates for £7. With the help of a
,e)
fellow amateur an h.t./I.t. p.s.u. was 'lashed up' and soon Dear Sir
wafting 1W of r.f. around the UK and across into the Congratulations on a great all IF YOU HAVE ANY
'continent'. Eventually the set was assigned to the attic. round magazine, which makes
POINTS OF VIEW THAT
On reading June Stirrat's superb article, I find I am the interesting and informative
lucky owner of a 128 Set. So, inspired, it was dug out and reading. I've only bought the YOU WANT TO AIR
dusted off and again active on a limited number of plug-in last two issues and was very PLEASE WRITE TO THE
crystals, 7.022, 7.030 and 3.560MHz. Reports of the 'wine impressed!
glass' tones would be of interest to me if heard by s.w.l.s on I have recently taken up the EDITOR. IF YOUR LETTER
these frequencies. art of s.w.l. just to occupy IS USED YOU WILL
I would now like to resurrect the RX and operate the set as some time. I have only a basic
RECEIVE A £5 VOUCHER
a complete unit, and would be grateful for any assistance and receiver, Realistic 200, and
information namely, any circuits, and details of the 8W patch about 80m of wire out of the TO SPEND ON ANY SWM
lead mentioned. bedroom window. I want to SERVICE.
So, now there are two 128 Sets, one in the article and know how I go about sending
mine. Perhaps there are more awaiting resurrection hidden QSLs, etc., as most of the time
away in dark cupboards and attics. Maybe the start of the 128 I only get the callsign used. The Editor reserves the
Set Owners' Group? I've received VK, VE, PP, etc.,
Martin Ward G4ZXN right to shorten any
and want to send them my
Coventry SINPO report. As far as I can letters for publication but
see, the only way to do it is will try not to alter their
either buy the Call Book or join
the RSGB, which is too sense. Letters must be
Dear Sir expensive for me. original and not have
First of all the flattery; many facility cover frequencies to When broadcast stations
thanks for an excellent which the powers that be are heard and I look in a book
been submitted to other
magazine to which I returned a would prefer we do not listen. or your magazine for, say, magazines.The views
couple of years ago, after an A blanket ban on 'scanners' Radio Australia on 25.750, expressed in letters
absence of some tens of would render illegal some where is that on a simple thing
years! highly respectable h.f. like the 200? It has the 500kHz published in this
The topic I wish to pursue receivers, which do not even calibration tone, however, magazine are not
is that of 'scanners'. You will cover 'sensitive' frequencies. sometimes there are 3 or 4
note that I have used inverted I trust that, should the need high pitched tones even when
necessarily those of Short
commas, because in my arise, the RSGB and/or all the antenna is out, which one Wave Magazine.
dictionary (albeit a very old specialist magazines will make is it? I tried setting it up to my
one), the word scan is defined that point crystal clear to the friend's Yaesu FT-101ZD, we
as 'to examine with critical Government departments got it spot on, however, whilst
care'; thus a scanner is concerned. Surely, the present scanning through the Dear Sir
properly someone, or laws regarding listening are frequencies I was picking up I manage to keep up with most
something that 'examines with sufficient, because law- broadcast stations on the of the British news by listening
critical care'. Thus breakers, by definition, ignore amateur bands. We were both to the BBC World Service on
presumably, a microscope is a the law anyway and would on the same frequency but all short wave. But can anyone
'scanner', as is a video continue to use the offending he got was amateurs and not tell me why the reception
camera. The point I am trying type of receiver. broadcast stations, which invariably deteriorates as soon
to make is - we have once If you do manage to find seems to really spoil it for me. as the soccer results come on?
more, as in the case of space to print this letter, I will Is there anyone out there Celia Almeida
'Hoover' and 'transistor' be very interested to see who could give me a taste of Portugal
allowed a word to mean whether any other readers their experience and show me
something it is not, and this agree with me. or tell me how to do things the I don't know about this - what
could create a wrong G. Chance proper way, logs, etc. Or is is soccer, anyway? Why is it
impression in the mind of a Redruth there anyone of your readers that, when I'm listening to the
non -technical person to the who also have experience with radio in the car on a Sunday
effect that any receiver sold as Chambers 20th Century a Realistic DX200 and live in evening returning from a radio
having the facility to scan, is Dictionary gives "Scan skan, the Lincoln area? rally, the newsreader starts the
'naughty'. v.t. to analyse metrically: . T.T. Davidson sports report with the winner
Now, should the to examine critically: : to Tattershall of the Grand Prix? It always
Government decide to ban examine all parts in systematic seems to me that, no matter
'scanners', have we shot order: : an instrument I hope Mr Davidson finds this how poor reception has been,
ourselves in the foot, by not which scans. -n." My car radio issue more help than usual. If it is perfect just at this point.
making it abundantly clear can be set to scan the anyone would like to offer As I cannot turn the radio off
that it is not the facility of memories (all six of them!) or help, send all your letters care fast enough, my enjoyment of
'scanning' that makes a search up and down a band of the Editorial Office and we the highlights on televison
receiver 'naughty', but the fact fora signal, but does that will pass them all on to Mr later in the evening are spoilt
that some receivers with that make it a scanner? Ed Davidson. Ed. by knowing the result! Ed.
Dear Sir
I have just finished reading your January Short Wave also, which is a favourite of mine, and I loved your story about
Magazine, and I would like you to know, I think its the best the sailing ships.
radio magazine on the market. Please don't change your magazine in anyway, I have just
I subscribe to two short wave clubs at the moment, but now retired and bought myself a Kenwood R5000 and an AOR1000
having read your January issue, I realise I don't need to pay scanner, so you can see how much I look forward to buying my
money out on other boring articles or clubs. Short Wave Magazineevery month.
I see you are now doing articles on the marine frequencies R I Holland, Nottingham
Short Wave Magazine, March 1992 3
rr~ÚU1Ces3 Acton, Brentford & Chiswick RC: 3rd
Tuesdays, 7.30pm. March 17 - Prepa-
C Sl
Maidstone YMCA ARS: Alternate
Thursdays. YMCA Sports Centre,
Firs Lane, Winchmore Hill, London
N21. March 12 -Talk by Mike Dennison
*March 1: The Great Northern Rally, G3XDV from the RSGB, 26th - Club
ration for QRP/NFD Discussion. Paul Melrose Close, Maidstone, Kent. Feb
otherwise known as the Trafford Rally,
Truitt G4WQ0. 071-938 2561. 28 - Introduction to Computers by Debrief After the LAR&C Show. Brian
will take place at G-MEX, the Greater
Manchester Exhibition & Events Centre. G4AXD. C.L. Roberts. (0622) 670936. Shelton GOMEE. 081-360 2453.
All the usual attractions, including free Aylesbury Vale RS: Wednesdays. The
draw and Bring & Buy. Morse Tests will Village Hall, Hardwick. March 4 - AKD Mansfield ARS: 1st Thursdays, 8pm. Stockport RS: 2nd & 4th Wednesdays,
be available, licensed bar, hot & cold Products, 18th - AGM. The Polish Catholic Club, off Windmill 7.45pm. Room 14, Dialstone Centre,
meals with lots of traders. Doors open Lane, Woodhouse Road, Mansfield. Lisburne Lane, Offerton, Stockport.
at 10.30am and close at 5pm. Admission Barnsley & DARC: Mondays, 7.15pm. March 5 - Radar by Dennis GOKIU. March 11 - Jandek Kits, 25th - Surplus
is £1.50. Talk -in on S22 via GB1GMX.
Darton Hotel, Station Road, Darton, Mary GONZA. (0623) 755288. Equipment Sale. John Verity G4ECI.
March 7: The TARS annual rally will be Barnsley. March 2 - Shack Night, 9th 061-439 3831.
held at a new venue this year, the -Junk Sale, 23rd - AGM. Ernie G4LUE. Norfolk ARC: Wednesdays, 7.30pm.
Temple Park Leisure Centre in South (0226) 716339. The Norfolk Dumpling, The Livestock Stourbridge & DARS: 1st & 3rd Mon-
Shields. Jack GODZG. Tel: 091-2651718. Market, Harford, Norfolk. March 4 - days. Robin Wood's Community Cen-
Bromley & DARS: 3rd Tuesdays, Simple HF Antennas & ATUS by tre, Scotts Road, Stourbridge. March
"March 7/8: The London Amateur Radio 7.30pm. The Victory Social Club, G3XY0, 11th - Real Radio Evening, 18th 2 - On Air & Discussion Evening, 16th
Show will be held at Picketts Lock - AGM. Dennis Body GOHTJ. QTHR.
Kechill Gardens, Hayes. March 17 - - Informal & Committee meeting, 22nd
Centre, Picketts Lock Lane, Edmonton,
London N9. Free parking, On-deamnd Cycling in the Himalayas. Geoffrey - Surplus Equipment Auction/Bring &
Morse testing, Talk -in on both 2m and Milne. 081-462 2689. Buy 10am, 25th - Weather Satellites Stratford upon Avon & DARS: 7.30pm.
70cm. Bars and restaurants, free prize by Richard Gedge. Jack Simpson The Home Guard Club, Main Road,
draw each day, free lectures, etc., etc. Chelmsford ARS: 1st Tuesdays, G3NJQ. (0603) 747992. Tiddington, Stratford-upon-Avon.
Admission £2.00 (disabled & children 7.30pm. Marconi College,Arbour Lane, March 9- Open Evening, 23rd - Pacific
£1.00). Openning times are 10am to 6pm Chelmsford. March 3 - Marine Elec- North Ferriby United ARS: Fridays, crossing on operation Raleigh by
on the Saturday and 10am to Spin on the
tronics with G8ADX. Roy Martyr. 8pm. North Ferriby United Football G4AAL. A. Beasley GOCXJ. 060-882
Sunday.
Chelmsford 353221 ext 3815. Social Club, Church Road, North 495.
March 14: The Lagan Valley ARS annual Ferriby. March 6 & 27 - Club station on
Hamfest will be held at the Nurses Conwy Valley RC: 1st Thursdays, the air, 13th - Key & Keyers, members Thornbury & DARC: Wednesdays,
Recreational Hall, Lagan Valley 7.15pm. The Studio, Penrhos Road, night, 20th - Home Construction Part 1 7.30pm. United Reform Church, Chapel
Hospital, Lisburn. Colwyn Bay, Clwyd. March 5 - 24cm by G3YCC. Frank Lee. (0482) 650410. Street, Thornbury. March 4 - Grand
Amateur TV by GW3JGA. Merfyn Junk Sale, 11th - General Meeting,
*March 15: Norbreck Radio Rally will Jones GW4NNL, 72b Princes Drive, ARC of Nottingham: Thursdays, 25th - Activity Night. Tom Cromack.
again be held at the Norbreck Castle Thornbury 411096.
Hotel Exhibition Centre, Queens
Colwyn Bay, Clwyd. (0492) 530725. 7.30pm. Sherwood Community Cen-
Promenade, North Shore, Blackpool, tre, Mansfield Road, Nottingham.
Organised by the Northern Amateur Derby& DARS: Wednesdays, 7.30pm. March 5 -Forum, 12th - Packet Radio Three Counties RC: Alternate
Radio Societies Association, this is 119 Green Lane, Derby. March 4 - for Beginners by a Beginner G2SP, Wednesdays, 7.30pm. The Railway
claimed to be the largest covered single Junk Sale, 11th - Talk by G3XFD, 18th 26th - Short Wave Listening by G6ABU. Hotel, Liphook, Hants. March 11 -
day show. Free car parking, Bring & - AGM, 25th - Technical Topics. Rex Beastall. (0602) 733740. Cellular Telephones and Personal
Buy, talk -in on S22. Admission £1.50. Richard Buckby. Ambergate 852475. Communications by Ian Lamb, 25th -A
lover 65s £1, under 14s free.) Doors demonstration of Packet Radio. Dave
Poole RAS:2nd & IastFridays,7.30pm.
open 11am to 5pm. Peter Denton
G6CGF, 051-630 5790.
Grafton RS: 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, Lady Russell Coates House, rear of G4VKC.
8pm. Holy Trinity Club Hall, atthe rear Jelico Theatre, Poole College of Fur-
March 15: Wythall RC will be holding of Holy Trinity Church, Granville Road, ther Education, Constitution Hill Road, West Kent ARS: 3rd Fridays, 8pm. The
their annual rally at Wythall Park, Silver London N4. Rod GOJUZ. 081-368 8154. Poole, Dorset. March - 13 - Introduc- School Annex,Albion Road, Tunbridge
Street, Wythall. Doors open from 11am tion to Satellites by G7AZP, 27th - On Wells, Kent. March 6 - Informal Meet-
to 5pm. Hastings E&RC: 3rd Wednesdays, the Air. V. Cotton. (0202) 760231. ing, 20th - BT Communication Wide
7.45pm. West Hill Community Centre, Area Radio Paging by Bob Fairbairn.
March 29: Bournemouth Radio Society
will hold their 5th Annual Radio,
Croft Road, Hastings. Fridays, 8.30pm. RSGB City of Bristol Group: last John Taylor G3OHV. (0892) 664960.
Electronics & Computer Sale at Kinson
Ashdown Farm Community, Downey Mondays, 7pm. The Small Lecture
Community Centre, Pelhams, Millhams Close, Hastings. March 18 -AGM. Reg Theatre, Queens Building, University West of Scotland ARS: Fridays, 8pm.
Road, Kinson, Bournemouth. Doors Kemp. 7 Forewood Rise, Crowhurst. of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol. Scout Shop, 21 Elmbank Street, Glas-
open 11am, admission 50p including March 30 - Use of Bristol Contest gow. March 13 - Debate - Does Our
prize draw ticket. Light refreshments Hoddesdon RC: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, Group, any ideas? Dave Coxon Present Band Plan Scheme Work or
available. Vic G4PTC. Tel: (0202) 516593 8pm. Conservative Club (side en- GOGHM. (0275) 855123. Require Change, 27th - Radio As-
after 1800. tronomy - Decoding Signals from
trance), Rye Road, Hoddesdon. March
5 - Open Night Social with Grafton, Salisbury R&ES: Tuesdays, 8pm. Space with Dr Geoffry K. Fox. Jack
April 5: The Launceston 6th Amateur
Radio Rally will be held at Launceston Welwyn and Stevenage Clubs, 19th - Grosvenor House, Churchfield Road, Hood. (0698) 350926.
College. Doors open 10.30am. Maggie. Meetthe RSGB General Manager Mr Salisbury. David Kennedy. (0722)
Tel: (040921) 219. Philip Smith. Peter Fairhurst. (0992) 330971). Wimbledon & DARS: 2nd & last Fri-
33036. days, 7.30pm. StAndrews Church Hall,
April 12: The Cambridgeshire Repeater South Bristol ARC: Wednesdays. Herbert Road, SW19. March 13 -Gen-
Group are holding their annual rally at Horndean & DARC: 1st Thursdays, Whitchurch Folkhouse Assoc, Bridge eral Activity Evening, 27th - Surplus
the Philips Communications Systems -
Catering Centre, St Andrews Road,
7.30pm. Horndean CommunitySchool, Farm House, East Dundry Rd, Equipment Sale. Chris Frost. 081-397
Chesterton, Cambridge. Doors open at Barton Cross, Horndean. March 5 - Whitchurch. March 4 - PC Software 0427.
10.30am. Mike G6C00. Tel: (0223) Junk Sale. S.W. Swain. (0705) 472846). with GODRX, 11th - QRP Workshops,
440373. 18th - Beginners in Packet Radio with Wirral ARS: 1st & 3rd Wednesdays,
Keighley ARS: Thursdays, 8pm. The G4WRW, 25th - 28MHz FM Activity 7.45pm. Ivy Farm, Arrowe Park Road,
April 19: The Centre of England Easter Cricket Club, Ingrow, Nr Keighley. Evening. Len Baker. Whitchurch Birkenhead, Wirral. March 4- Sale of
Sunday Radio & Electronics Rally will March 5 & 19 - Natter Night, 12th - 832222. Surplus Equipment
be held at the National Motorcycle Night onthe Air, 26th -An Introduction
Museum, Bickenhill, near the NEC
junction 6 M42. Doors open 10.30am
to Satellites by G7HJT. Kathy Brad- Southgate ARC: 2nd & 4th Thursdays.
(10am for the disabled) and admission is ford. (0274) 496222. Winchmore Hill Cricket Club Pavilion,
£1 (concession for RAIBC members and
senior citizens). Over 60 traders in three Lagan Valley ARS: 2nd Wednesdays,
large halls, ample free parking, Bring &
Buy, talk -in of S22, bar and restaurant
7.30pm. Harmoney Hill Arts Centre, Club Secretaries:
Lambeg, Lisburn. Other Wednesdays, Send all details of your club's up-and-coming
facilities. Frank Martin G4UMF. Tel: 7.30pm. Club Shack, Ballynaminch
(0952) 598173.
Road, Lisburn. events to;
April 26: Bury Radio Society will be 'Grassroots',
holding Hamfeast '92 at the Castle Lincoln SWC: Wednesdays, 8pm. City Lorna Mower
Leisure Centre, Bolton Street, Bury. LH. Engineers Club, Waterside South,
Jones, Mosses Community Centre, Lincoln. March 4 - Committee Meet-
Short Wave Magazine, Enefco House,
Cecil Street, Bury. ing/Activity Night, 18th -Activity Night. The Quay, Poole, Dorset BH15 1PP
Patrick GOOSO, QTHR.
4 Short Wave Magazine, March 1992
j'íy 072/i/'Co/
Michael Groucher of Redditch has
written with details of his station
and interests. Michael is 14 years Contest Time! Digital Audio
old and has been interested in radio Broadcasting
for just over a year now. During this How would you like to win
period he's built-up a good range of yourself a copy of the 1992 This is the latest in broadcasting
receiving equipment. For I.f. and h.f Passport to World Band systems that's bound to have a
broadcast listening he uses a Radio? If your answer is yes, significant impact over the next few
Realistic DX -350 twelve -band I've made ít as easy as years. Let's start by taking a look at
receiver. To enhance the reception, possible for you. All you have some of the problems with the
particularly on short wave, he's to do is write giving me details existing broadcast systems. Jon Jones
connected a random wire to the of a tip for improved reception The most common system PO Box 59
telescopic antenna of his DX -350. that you've developed and throughout the shortwave bands is
Fishponds
Judging by his log, this seems to tried yourself. Examples of the amplitude modulation or a.m. This
have worked very well. sort of thing I'm looking for system is both easy to generate and Bristol BS16 4LH
In addition to the DX -350, could be a novel antenna decode - hence its popularity. There
Michael has Quadro 905 mini TV and system or perhaps an are, however, one or two problems
radio - I'm sure this is handy for DX ingenious speaker system - I'll with this system. The first is its
TV reception. The latest addition to leave the choice to you. When susceptibility to impulsive noise
his station is a Realistic PRO -2006 sending in your entry make such as ignition interference.
scanner for the v.h.f. and u.h.f. sure you include your name, Although there have been many
bands. For an antenna he's currently address and age. Also make ingenious techniques devised to
experimenting with a TV type active sure you send your entries to minimise this interference, there is problems comes in the form of
antenna. However, he may well find the address at the head of the no total solution. A second problem Project 147 of the European 'Eureka'
that he gets better results from a column. The closing date for is that of the distortion caused by programme. This was set up in 1987
discone. As several readers have entries is April 1, so don't the fading experienced on the short specifically to overcome the
asked for advice on antennas, I delay. wave bands. The latest solution to problems I've highlighted. The
though I'd include a design for a this problem is the use of partners in the project come from
simple discone. synchronous demodulators. When broadcasters, research institutions
you add to these problems the and public broadcasters. The
The Discone and cone out of a card covered with narrow channel spacing and countries involved include Germany,
aluminium foil. Another popular resultant narrow bandwidth, the Holland, France and the UK. From
For those who haven't already alternative would be to use fine overall loss of quality is enormous. the UK the BBC is playing a major
worked it out, the discone gets its mesh chicken wire. Both of these These limitations have resulted role. Development of the system is
name from its construction i.e. it two construction techniques are in broadcasters moving to progressing well and it's been
comprises a disk and a cone! For only really suitable for making a loft frequency modulation (f.m.) for their demonstrated in several locations
the technical you, this type mounted antenna. If you'd like to high quality services. The results world-wide. been
of antenna operates as a wide band build an external unit the best bet is have been very good, with most designed to be transmitted from
impedance matching transformer. to make the disk and cone in major stations boasting digital links both satellite and terrestrial
The idea being to match the 5052 skeleton form using aluminium rods. between the studio and transmitter. stations. It's main broadcast
impedance of the coaxial feeder to I would suggest you use 6 or 8 rods I suspect that most listeners feel potential is likely to be realised
the much higher impedance of free for both the disk and cone. This is that the v.h.f. f.m. service represents using the satellite option.
space. The performance of a the technique that's used by many a very high quality service. Despite One of the keys to success is to
discone is very similar to that of a commercial antenna this excellent performance, there have the specifications ready early,
quarter wave vertical antenna manufacturers. The antenna are a few significant limitations. The so giving the manufacturers time to
except that the discone operates described here can easily be network as designed works fine to develop suitable receivers. The
over a much wider frequency range. adjusted to work to a different lower fixed receivers with good quality latest news suggest that the
Most discones are usable over frequency limit. All you have to do is antenna systems. However, there specifications will be complete in
about an eight or ten to one range. scale the antenna from the design are a great many listeners that the next few months and receivers
This is the reason discones are so frequency of 125MHz. For example, demand a high quality service from should be on the market by 1995.
popular with scanner enthusiasts. if you wanted an 80MHz lower cars and portable receivers. This If the satellite option is to be a
If you'd like to try building your frequency just multiply all the brings interference in the form of success, it's important that
own discone I've included some dimensions by 125/80. If you do try multi -path propagation, where segments of the spectrum are made
basic details in Fig. 1. The building one of these antennas, I'd signals arrive at the receiver by available as early as possible. It's
dimensions shown give a theoretical be very pleased to hear how it more than one route. This is further hoped that this will be done at this
lower frequency of 125MHz and a performed. I'd also like to hear of compounded as you move from one year's World Administrative Radio
high frequency limit of about any constructional tips you may reception area to the next. Conference (WARC-92). At the
1000MHz. In practice you'll find that have. The answer to all these moment the service is most likely to
the antenna works quite happily be allocated spectrum at around
down to at least 100MHz. The high 2.5GHz.
frequency limit is largely dependant One of the main differences
on the materials used and the between DAB and other
quality of construction. Probably the broadcasting systems is that a
most important point is the single system carries several
connection between the cable and different programmes. The most
the antenna. If you want to use the likely format will use a 2MHz wide
antenna at 1000MHz you should block and carry six high quality
make sure you use a good quality stereo signals.
connector. The best types are BNCs There are likely to be many
or N series and you should avoid problems introducing the system,
cheap PL -259/S0-239 types. not the least of which is the
Alternatively, you could fix the cable availability of frequencies for
direct to the antenna elements. terrestrial broadcasts. The hope is
Moving onto the construction of that a temporary allocation can be
the discone, I've been deliberately found to enable the systems to be
vague in the diagram. There are introduced. Once the service has
many different techniques that can been established it could then
be used successfully. Perhaps one Fig. 1. DIY discone design. migrate to the existing bands for
of the simplest is to make the disk terrestrial broadcasting.
Short Wave Magazine, March 1992 5
IRTS Special Award
The Irish Radio Transmitters Society are celebrating their 60th
Anniversary in 1992. As part of the celebrations, they are
sponsoring a 'Diamond Jubilee Award' that will be issued to any
radio amateur that makes contact with 20 of the 26 counties in
the Republic of Ireland during 1992.
Short wave listeners can apply for the award on a heard
basis. There are no mode or band endorsements. QSLs are not
necessary, send a log extract signed by two amateurs together
with IR£3.00 or equivalent to:
The WEIC Award Manager, PO Box 462, Dublin 9.
El amateurs will be active on all bands from all 26 counties in
El from March 14-17 for St. Patrick Day celebrations. Many clubs
will be activating the rarer counties both on h.f. and v.h.f. This
event should be very helpful to stations trying for the Award.
New TVDX Club?
Mike Evans is interested in that there is also a means of
starting a TVDX Club with erecting temporary antennas The Camel Trophy
other related off -shoots like during the season.
v.h.f./u.h.f./s.h.f., satellite and He feels that members South Midlands Communications Ltd has been awarded the
ATV. He lives in Loughton, could discuss their related contract to supply communications equipment and a
which is on the Central Line hobby, show videos, communications management team for the 1992 Camel Trophy
and is near the M11/M25, so photographs, etc., and help to be held in the remote Brazilian and Guyanan forests in April.
has easy access from London each other with projects. The Camel Trophy is an annual event involving teams from all
and Essex. If enough people There is also the possibility of over the world driving Land Rover Discoverys over 1600km of
come forward, he knows of a setting up a telephone link some of the most inhospitable landscape.
venue (which has ample when DX is coming in during The communications vehicle is equipped with the Inmarsat
parking spaces) where a room the season. satellite communications systems and virtually every type of
can be hired for £15 a night Anyone interested, send an mobile communications systems. It will carry v.h.f. f.m. radio for
where there are TV/video/ s.a.s.e. to: Mike Evans, 120 inter -vehicle communications, airband v.h.f. radio to
35mm slide/film projector Loughton Way, Buckhurst communicate with support helicopters and h.f. using a 2.4m
facilities plus refreshments. Hill, Essex IG9 6AR. whip and auto -ATV for long distance communications on the
The most important feature is move, as well as hand-helds and transceivers, etc.
The SMC communications team will accompany the Camel
Trophy drivers and will also be based at Manaus, Brazil for the
start and Georgetown, Guyana for the finish.
New from Yupiteru
New Catalogues
The VT -225 is a civil and
military airband receiver, Universal Radio is pleased to announce a new expanded edition
covering 108-142MHz v.h.f. of its famous Communications Catalogue. The new catalogue 92-
and 222-391MHz u.h.f. Its 01 contains 100 pages. It covers equipment for the amateur, short
main features are: wave and scanner enthusiast. An impressive selection of
twin modes (a.m. & f.m.) antennas, headphones, books and accessories is also featured.
programmable search The catalogue is available outside North America for four
steps (100, 50, 25, 12.5 & IRCs.
10kHz) Universal Radio Inc., 1280 Aida Drive, Reynoldsburg,
scan & search facilities (20 Ohio 43068 USA.
channels/steps per second)
100 memories
priority function New Foreign Language Radio
channel memory pass Programmes
function
signal strength meter The Voice of Young Albanians broadcasts Radio Khalistan in
individual power/volume & in Exile (Zeri I Rinise Shqiptare the Punjabi language of India.
squelch controls Ne Mergim) is a radio This programme, produced by
key -lock switch programme in the native Jagjig Boparai, is designed to
key sound on/off function language of Albania heard at be received in the early evening
back -lit I.c.d. 22000TC on Fridays on hours.
3 -way power supply 15.690MHz. This foreign Also on Mondays at
For more details on the language broadcast of local 1215UTC on 15.690MHz, WWCR
Yupiteru VT -225, contact: music and news is aimed at broadcasts in many languages
Nevada Communications, listeners in Albania, broadcast with programmes produced by
189 London Road, on WWCR short wave with nationals from each country.
North End, Portsmouth, transmitters located in George McClintock.
Hants P02 9AE. Nashville. WWCR, 1300 WWCR
Tel: (0705) 662145. On Mondays at 2330UTC Avenue, Nashville, TN
on 12.160MHz, WWCR also 37218, USA
6 Short Wave Magazine, March 1992
Transmitter Lists for TV DXers.
With the changes in what was East and West Germany to a
unified Germany, there are changes to transmitter allocations.
U/ U/ Cd S,
The main network ARD-1 (West) service is transmitted over all
former DFF-1 (East) transmitters. The ARD-3 service is Radio and TV DX News
transmitted over all former DFF-2 transmitters.The ZDF
transmitters now transmitting (or about to) in the former East Czechoslovakian TV are now carrying intensive testing between
region of Germany are: colour system PAL and SECAM and it is thought that there will be
Marlow Ch. E46; Helpterberg Ch. E52; Calau Ch. E57; Leipzig an announcement to opt for the PAL standard rather than the
Ch. E42; Dresden Ch. E46; Lobauch.Ch. E56; Chemnitz Ch. E49. existing SECAM. Originally, consideration was also for adoption
All are 500kW e.r.p., assumed horizontal polarisation. of the System B/G soundvision spacing as used in Western Europe
Helpterberg and Calau are 200kW, 100kW respectively until
of 5.5MHz, though the costs are thought prohibitive and unlikely
to be pursued. At this time most TV receivers in Czechoslovakia are
September '92. dual standard colour switching so there will be few problems.
Additional ZDF outlets planned, again 500kW e.r.p. are: The French TV network 'La Cinq' filed for bankruptcy late
Saalfeld Ch. E50; Wittenberg Ch. E38; Frankfurt/Oder Ch. E50; December with losses this past year amounting to 1 billion Fr.
Robel Ch. E56; Schwerin Ch. E54; Stralsund Ch. E21. francs. The network plans to stay on -air for the immediate future
(Info via BDXC). whilst a refinancing package is being sought, though the channel
could close during the Spring if finance is not found. The Italian TV
magnate Silvio Berlusconi is thought to be considering
WRTH 1991 Awards involvement.
Cable systems in both London and Luton are carrying a British
This is the fourth year of a Panasonic RFB-45 (see originated 'coloured' channel - 'The African Caribbean Television
prestigious award scheme the review starting on page 40 Channel' - which started test programming over Christmas with
organised by the World Radio in this issue) both locally originated and bought -in programmes. It is financed
TV Handbook. In over 40 years, Nicely styled, this radio by an African consortium of Bahamas -based financiers and several
the WRTH has received many combines ease of tuning with UK based coloured community groups.
awards itself as the industry The new commercial TV network in Sweden was given the 'OK'
pleasant audio structure for
in November and the first transmitters should be on air by March
reference standard in the field the price. Now that Panasonic '92 with a population coverage of 65% reaching to 95% within 2
of international broadcasting. have adjusted their pricing years. NORDISK TELEVISION (TV4) will carry about 50% of home
They believe in recognising structure, this set become grown programming within a 40 hour weekly framework, rising to
excellence in other parts of the excellent value. 50 hours by '94 - 10 hours being news and current affairs.
international broadcasting Best Communications Independent TV now for Czechoslovakia with their new
industry. They hope these will Receiver 1991 Broadcasting Bill which allows several new groups the facility of
act as a stimulus to provide the Japan Radio Company regional broadcasting.The new franchise winners will probably
market place with even better NRD535 (see Nov 1991 SWM) gain access to established transmitters in the OK3 and TA3 system
products. (Czech and Slovak regions respectively) which currently provide
There's no doubt in the
satellite programming. Transmissions are not expected before the
At the moment, thousands minds of the WRTH test bench end of this year.
of hours of programming are team. High performance, The recently closed Telecine Romandie Swiss pay -TV channel
being broadcast from stations excellent computer is now on -air again from the transmitter high on La Dole. Its failure
round the world. It is not their connectivity and ease of use was due to poor coverage from the 1 transmitter which reached
intention to give awards to the make this set a clear winner. only 20% of the potential French speaking Swiss audience and
programme makers, or Most Innovative only 11 000 subscribers were booked. The service was based on
individual stations. To be fair Software 1991: movies only but now the new owners have spread the programme
they would have to understand Bandview 1.50i format to include sports, quiz and other popular programming for
a multitude of languages and This is a very versatile 30% with movies comprising the other 70% of content time.
Telecine can carry advertising from April and there are thoughts of
have an in depth knowledge of computer program for IBM taking a satellite channel later in '92. Meanwhile over the border at
the studio facilities available to computers and owners of the Annemasse near Geneva a French regional channel 'Huit Mont-
the producer. The WRTH is a JRC NRD525/535 or Kenwood Blanc' is establishing an officefora rival TV service into Switzerland.
reference book and they do not R-5000. Tom Kashuda has The Spanish government and national broadcaster TVE are to
feel it is right to pick out a worked very hard to make this provide finance and facilities to improve the 'Canal 7TV Bolivianna'
broadcaster as being 'best'. In program work completely in La Paz, Bolivia.
the equipment field, however, independently from the radio. Following the demise of the Irish TV3 network recently, the Irish
they do think that awards are The NRD 535 version is by far government intendsthat a Gaelic TV channel should be in operation
needed.
by Winter 1992 carrying Gaelic news and entertainment produced
the best. Tom Kashuba, 2000
by RTE and other regional TV studios. The government it seems
Best Analogue Portable Commonwealth Avenue, Suite will organise much of the funding.
Receiver 1991: 1407, Boston, MA 02135, USA. Singapore will have her first introduction to PAY -TV with three
Grundig Yacht Boy 206 Tel: +1 617 782 6660 (14- subscription channels opening later this Summer '92, these will
Full marks to Grundig for 2OUTC). comprise - a news, a movie and a sports + general entertainment/
designing a simple portable The WRTH editors are open LE channel. The Singapore Broadcasting Corporation will be
radio for those with a tight for nominations for the 1992 providing the technical facilities and programme presentation for
budget. This set combines awards, published in the 1993 the three channels.
good audio with a wide choice WRTH. A commercial radio network, the China Huayi Broadcasting
Company has now opened in Fujian Province at Fuzhou, SE China.
of short wave bands. WRTH. PO Box
The Chinese language service operates in both medium, short
Best Digital Portable 90271006 AA Amsterdam, wave and v.h.f. f.m. bands for 8 hours daily intended for Chinese
Receiver 1991: The Netherlands. nationals both within and outside of China.
Improved radio reception for listeners to Radio France
International (RFI) in East Africa, the Indian Ocean and Middle East
Faeroe Islands TV with the proposed construction of a new relay at Djibouti once
agreement has been reached with the local government, it is
Since January 1, Faeroese TV viewers have been able to watch 10 hoped to commence building Winter 1992 with on -air late 1995.
Tanzania is to introduce regional broadcasting at Medium
hours of programmes from TV2/Danmark each week. An Wave late in this decade with the establishment of four new studio
agreement between TV2/Danmark and Sjónvarp Fproya (the centres at Nachingwea, Dodoma (central -Tanzania's new capital);
Faeroese television) ensures a large supply of films, sport and at Kigoma in the West on Lake Tanganyika and at Songea in the
factual programmes from TV2. South West region.
In late summer 1991, a similar agreement was settled between Roger Bunney
Greenland Radio (KNR) and TV2/Danmark.
Short Wave Magazine, March 1992 7
When ooking for the best range of scanners
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Latest in the line of NRD receivers, the NRD-535 is a triumph for For the keen broadcast DXer, There is also an optional plug-in ECSS
JRC and represents a true step forward in features, performance and board for locking onto an incoming AM signal and then picking off either
facilities for the dedicated listening enthusiast. sideband.
The smooth tuning is the There are 200 memory
first thing you notice and JRC channels, each of which stores,
has developed a direct digital frequency, mode, bandwidth, at-
synthesiser (DDS) system tenuator and AGC settings, com-
which tunes in 1Hz steps. The prehensive frequency sweep fa-
accuracy and stability are of cilities and no less than 16 differ-
laboratory standard. There is of ent functions which can be pro-
course the front panel keypad grammed from the front panel by
for swift frequency setting. the user.
All mode reception covers For the advanced user, the
AM, USB, LSB, CW, FM, NRD-535 is fitted with a RS -232C
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Short Wave Magazine, March 1992 9Feature
MouDo MCG)
If we forget all the theory and come down to hard practice, there are five
things about an antenna that we can alter. Its length, height, direction, where
we feed it, and what sort of wire we use. In this short tutorial article Paul
Essery GW3KFE explains some of the mysteries.
Up to a half -wave long the Direction Feed Point dipole slung, say, between a
antenna will radiate or receive couple of masts, then clearly
best at right -angles to itself. If To assess direction, you need Does one centre -feed or end - the coaxial feeder hanging
we have an antenna which is a to use a Great Circle Map feed? Usually, the house is at down from the middle tends
half -wave long at 3.5MHz based on the UK. The Great one end of the plot; to drag the middle part (which
(around 39.6m) and we try to Circle projection makes a hash alternatively your shack may does most of the work of
use it on 28 MHz, we will of shapes, but for our be in the garden shed at the receiving) down towards the
observe that the favoured purposes it has the other (Yes, we know you like a ground. We can only reduce
direction has changed; it now outstanding advantages that it little relief from wives, the sag of such a coaxial -fed
seems to favour directions gives true direction and screaming kids and the telly!). dipole by over -tightening the
more towards the ends. So, if distance. With a half -wave Either way, you are stuck with halyards, or cutting off the
we put up a half -wave on which has been put up with its end -feed. The transmitting weight of the cable! Draw a
3.5MHz and use it on all bands ends at the north and south, types have different problems, Triangle of Forces and you will
we will have one wavelength the main lobes will thus be to wit a solid-state p.a. stage immediately see why.
on 7MHz, two wavelengths on east and west, plus or minus compounded with a dash of Halyards that tight are an
14MHz, and four wavelengths about 45 degrees. By and TVI for flavour. This mixture invitation for something to
on 28MHz. The preferred large this covers Europe, Asia, prefers a coaxial feed into a break and dump all back on
direction swings round N. America and S. America. 5052 antenna impedance. We, the ground. Usually that
progressively from right Australia and New Zealand as s.w.l.s, can end -feed means dropping the mast to
angles at the lowest frequency may in fact be heard over happily enough, with some reeve a new halyard as well.
to favouring the ends at the either the long or the short sort of tuning unit to turn Clearly, end -feeding has a lot
highest.(Figs 1 & 2) That, at path depending on time of whatever the wire just going for it, in practice.
least, is what the theory says! day. That leaves out Africa, happens to be into what your
However, in practice, we live but by changing bands or receiver prefers, namely 5052. Wire
in a world of non -radio wires, whatever we may be able to Indeed some s.w.l.s disdain
cables and buildings; so our fill in the gaps. Not that there the use of a.t.u.s, though I Obviously, the wire of a half -
half -wave may have its two is much activity from think that this foolish. wave dipole supporting the
major lobes pushed to one mainland Africa outside of ZS. If we consider a half -wave weight of umpteen metres of
side. We say it 'squints'. coaxial cable needs to be
Worse, we cannot say that a pretty strong. On the other
squint affecting one band will side of the coin, I have used
have a predictable effect on 28s.w.g. enamelled copper
another band. 'Suck it and see' Fig. la. Fig. 1 b. wire to make an end -fed Top
A A
is the motto, then - particularly Band half -wave which lasted
if we are antenna -farming in a well and was almost invisible.
loft. It relied on the insulation
properties of the nylon string -
Height quite good enough, but the
weight of a ceramic 'egg'
There's not a lot to say about would have had it down in
the height of an antenna, save hours, while a coaxial cable's
that the higher the better! This weight would have made sure
B
is simply because for long it broke while hoisting it. So -
range we want our antenna to wire strength to suit the
favour signals from low arrangement. I'm not too keen
angles. That's not to say that a on pvc insulated wire, but if
low antenna won't hear you've got some - use it!
signals from faraway places - However, if you must make
it usually will, but they will be joints, solder them and if
weaker and the Euro -choir they're outside, paint them as
louder. The argument that a well, lest they later create
quarter -wave and odd noise due to electrolytic
multiples thereof are 'bad' is corrosion, or worse, cause the
based on diagrams assuming Fig. 2a. Fig. 2b. apparent antenna length to
a perfect earth. Our practical change. Thin wire may be a bit
earth, perfect it ain't! lossy, but it's not as lossy as
10 Short Wave Magazine, March 1992Feature
/LigoTordo
Abbreviations
no antenna at all!
receives quite well all round
How about the half -wave a.t.u. antenna tuning unit the compass but it has
centre -fed dipole on other dB decibels become somewhat
bands? Fed with coaxial cable, m metres unpredictable. Don't forget a
no way! (You can, as a bodge, MHz megahertz little theory: the difference
use a 7MHz dipole on 21MHz, p.a. power amplifier between a dipole and an
though). Thus a dipole used as pvc poly vinyl chloride isotropic radiator which is
s.w.g. standard wire gauge infinitely small, is a mere two -
a multiband antenna is fed
with a twin feeder instead of s.w.l. short wave listener and -a -bit decibels. Practically
coaxial cable. Twin feeder, TV television then we are talking, first last
though, brings its own TVI TV interference and all the time about
ohms reducing losses. If the
problems - the stuff breaks at S2
the dipole feed point because antenna impedance is a
the wind gives it such a couple of ohms, and the earth
thrashing; and it doesn't the a.t.u. also transform to leg of the feeder before they impedance 100Q, it doesn't
survive all that long before 5052 unbalanced (coaxial) to reach the a.t.u., put the joint to take a genius to work out that
ultra -violet 'sees off' the offer the receiver. the a.t.u. antenna terminal, most of the incoming signal
insulation. So, for twin feeder, and feed the result against will appear across the earth
make some proper open -wire Lower Frequencies Yet! earth as though it were a impedance rather than the
line and/or take great care to single wire. You may find it receiver input!
be sure that a gale can't break If we have an end -fed half -
off the connections up aloft. wave for, say, 7MHz, we can Summary
(Only yesterday an s.w.l. friend make it match on 3.5MHz and A half -wave at the favoured band should be oriented for
rang me to bewail that the even Top Band (1.8MHz) with preference to North -South, so that it fires East and West.
gale had not only snapped off our a.t.u. It will tend to favour However, in practice it will 'squint' a bit depending on your
his balanced feeder at the the same directions as on surroundings; higher in frequency, the main lobes will tend to
antenna but - worse - had 7MHz, but for best results you slew round towards the ends of your wire. For lower
wrapped it around the must 'go for broke' in the way frequencies strapping the feeders produces useful and
neighbour's TV antenna! At of earthing. For a centre -fed interesting if somewhat unpredictable results. With an end -
the bottom, use a balanced with coaxial or twin feeder we fed antenna, work on the earthing side will be found useful.
a.t.u. connection, and make can go lower by joining each
Enjoy the antics of our
Listen With Grandad By Leon Balen and David Leverett newest addition to the
Short Wave Magazine
staff. 'Grandad' and his
family will be appearing
regularly from now on.
Do you relate to any of
the situations the old
chap gets into? If so
then why don't you let
the Editor know, there
must be loads of
strange and funny
experiences you could
share with our readers.
f5 SWM Gift Vouchers
for any published.
Grandma says if you don't beam yourself up for dinner within two minutes she will transmit
it direct into the rubbish receiver.
11
Short Wave Magazine, March 1992Project
Portable Mini -Shack
Itisa great advantage to have the receiver, a.t.u.and other accessories in
one unit as the interconnecting leads are short and can be permanently
made. The ingenious Mini -Shack, designed and described by F. G. Garraway,
will be of help to those whose receiver has 'no fixed abode'.
To ensure that everything fits telescopic, or even a rotatable out and countersinking the The lifting handles should
into your Mini -Shack with no ferrite rod, antenna could be holes in the sides to clear the be bolted in place, not
wasted space, a scale drawing fitted on the top of the Mini - screws. If it is thought screwed, for safety and - most
of all the components of the Shack at the rear. A drop -in, or necessary to strengthen the important - strips of wood
station should be made. This clip -on, front cover would help shelf holding the a.t.u. and should be pinned or screwed
article describes the simplest to subdue any possible audio filter, steel brackets can to the shelves around the base
version of the Mini -Shack, as domestic disapproval! The be fitted. These should be of each unit to prevent any
the design can be expanded tilting of the receiver helps to checked to ensure that they movement. No responsibility
quite simply if required. No improve viewing and make for are truly right angled before can be accepted for bent
dimensions are given, other ease of operation as well as screwing them in place. Don't receivers or bruised toes!
than the thickness of provide space beneath for forget to drill pilot holes to
materials, as the actual size of logbooks, paper, etc., while start the chipboard screws
the completed Mini -Shack will pens and pencils can be holding the brackets in place.
depend on your equipment. dropped through suitable
holes in the top shelf.
Further Ideas
Accurate and Square
Ir-
Modifications could include an MATERIALS
enclosed section for a larger Success depends on the
speaker, leaving space behind chipboard shelving being cut 17mm thick x 230mm wide Melamine covered shelving
for batteries or a p.s.u.; an accurately and squarely to 6mm ply for base and shelf stops
upward extension of the sides length. The 40mm chipboard 4 off 50 x 50mm steel brackets
at one or both ends to serve as screws through the sides must
book ends for WRTH, etc.; an 18 off 40mm chipboard screws for shelf fixing
enter the mid -thickness of the
antenna change -over switch shelves to avoid splitting. 40 off 12mm chipboard screws for base, shelf stops and
on a bracket at the rear, Ordinary wood screws will brackets
operated by a shaft and front - probably split the chipboard, 4 off stick -on rubber feet
mounted knob; a speaker/ hence the use of chipboard 2 off handles with 4BA or similar bolts, nuts and washers
phones changeover switch screws. Drill through the sides
operated from the front and a and into the shelves with a
large hook at the rear for suitable pilot drill for the
hanging the 'phones on. A screws, followed by opening All the above items are readily available at any d.i.y. outlet.
Ply wood shelf stops
6mm thick 50mm high
glued & screwed
12 chipboard screws
Front View Side View approx 25mm long
óiiiiiiii iiiiiiii iiiii:iiriiiüiiiiiii.`vi`,"cav
;;;;;;;,:;;;;:::::::::,;s;/,,. ;s;;//,:::::::::::::::::;:.;,;/// //r. .._ -
-- --
- - ------ -
--- ..-_
:...,.
e---- ---------
Antenna Tuning Unit Audio Filter
--- ..sr..= r.._..a ...fÁ,.---- 11
____.
-------=-_. =
.._,.
Sides & shelves made from
17mm white-faced chipboard
Receiver
All joints are glued & screwed
18 chipboard screws approx 40 long
yr..----7.....--_ ...._ti. .:._
-- _
_.
------ ,-ws- _-+
_____ __.
-__
-..........................
--- ..........
---- : v ------ _Á`M-_
.. .. -_ i-
Base 6mm plywood glued & screwed 4 stick -on feet
12 chipboard screws approx 25mm long
12
Short Wave Magazine, March 1992Southampton (0703) 255111 Leeds (0532) 350606 Chesterfield (0246) 453340
Birmingham 021-327 1497 Axminster (0297) 34918
'LISTEN OUT SONY
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They feature all the latest technology
our HF/VHF/UHF receivers allowing unequelled coverage of both
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When you want more from pact and easy to
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illustrated cover VHF
Yaesu. We take your listening broadcast, SW
The FRO9600, a premium sca' - seriously. broadcast, and some models cover other bands as well.
ping receiver covering 60-905MHz. The very latest model available from SONY is the
SSB, CW. AM & FM modes. 99 ICF-SW77. This receiver covers LW, MW, SW and FM
memories. 5. 10. 12.5, 25 & 100kHz stereo broadcast bands and has SSB reception on the
scanning steps. Keyboard fre- The FR08800 HF communications SW bands. A comprehensive keypad and LCD display
a quency entry. Optional convertors to receiver. A better way to listen to the give easy control over the massive array of features
extend range from 0.15-30MHz and world. Continuous coverage from available.
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Direct frequency entry
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AOR AOR AOR
SMC are pleased to be able to offer a large number of models from the very
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All the receivers are built to the highest possible
NRD535 from JRC
The new NRD535 epitomises the very best in communications receiver design.
specification yet remain very competitively priced. Often
the leaders in the field, the AOR range is proving very
This high technology product is based on the abundant technical experience
gained by JRC in the professional communications receivers field. This means professional and non
that the NRD535 is arguably one of the best receivers available to meet the professional users.
discerning listeners needs. Brief specifications are as follows. The top of the range
Frequency coverage: 0.1-30MHz; Operating modes: CW, SSB (LSB & USB). model must be the
AM. FM, FSK & R1T1'; Supply voltage: 240V A.C. or 13.8V D.C. ECSS, BWC & AR3000 which covers
RTTY units available as options. 100kHz-2036MHz without
any gaps. The mid range
JRC model is the AR2800
which is a convenient unit
NRD535 for mobile or base operation and covers 500kHz-600MHz
and 800-1300mHz. Last but not least is the AR2000
which is an extremely flexible handheld scanner covering
500kHz-1300MHz.
Why not contact us today for more details of the AOR range.
OTHER MAKES AND MODELS
DRAKE
R8E IM ` 00
The Bearcat
The compact
200XLT is the
HX850E is a basic
cream of the
scanner with a few
Bearcat handheld
memories. Ideally,
scanner range.
suitable for a
With 200 memory
novice in the
channels and
scanner market.
simple operation
AM/FM modes and
A COMPREHENSIVE
DRAKE R8E
Now available from SMC the new DRAKE R8E communications receiver. These
these are proving
very popular.
Frequency
a frequency
coverage of 60-89,
118-136,140-174
receivers utilise the very latest in technology to meet the demanding coverage 66-88.
RANGE OF requirements of today's listeners. Conveniently located front panel controls 118-174,406-512
and 406-495MHz.
RECEIVERS allow for rapid operator programming and ease of use. The R8E receiver and 806-956MHz.
covers 0.15-30MHz and with the optional VHF converter will also cover
AVAILABLE AT 35-55MHz and 108-174MHz. The large clear LCD display gives the operator
MOST BRANCHES full information about the current receiver status.
"
Free Finance on selected items, subject to status. Details available on request.
Up to £1000 instant credit, a quotation in writing is available on request, subject to status.
Yaesu Distributor Warranty, 12 months parts and labour.
Carriage charged on all items as indicated or by quotation.
.r.... Prices and availability subject to change without prior notice.
:;. -:;;-.-_, Same day despatch wherever possible.
Southampton (0703) 255111 Leeds (0532) 350606 Chesterfield (0246) 453340 BInninghran 021-327 1497 Axminster (0297) 34918
SMC HQ, School Close SMC Northern SMC Midlands SMC Birmingham Reg Ward & Co. Ltd
Chandlers Ford Ind. Est. Nowell Lane Ind. Est. 102 High Street 504 Alum Rock Road I Western Parade
Eastleigh Nowell Lane New Whittington Alum Rock West Street
Hafts S05 3BY Leeds LS9 6JE Chesterfield Birmingham B8 311( Axminster
9an-5pm Mon -Fri 9an-5.30pm Mon -Fri 9.30an-5.30pm 9am-5pm Tues-Fri Devon EX13 5NY
San -1 pm Sat 9an-1pm Sat Tues-Sat 9am Ipm Sat 9an-5 20pm rues -Sat
Short Wave Magazine, March 1992 13You can also read
