[Elecraft] 5 MHz Report

[Dave Sergeant]

I forward the message below which Steve GW4ALG sent me.  It looks as 
if the new 5MHz band allocation in the UK has started with a 
vengence!  Any idea when the expected date for the option kit for the 
K2 is??

73s Dave G3YMC
K2 #2498

On 5 Aug 2002 at 21:25, Steve Rawlings wrote:

> Hi All,
> 
> This evening, I've been listening to some of the first amateur radio
> stations operating under the new 5 MHz 'Notice of Variation'.  
> 
> The first of the NoVs were issued on the 2nd August; and many were
> received in the post this morning.  So, today (Monday) was, for most
> applicants, their first opportunity to operate under the new
> experimental arrangements.
> 
> The first station that I heard was G4PDJ at 18:40 UTC, running 10
> watts from Newbury (RST 599).  G4PDJ was called by Tim, G4VXE running
> 60 watts from Windsor (also 599).  Amongst the S7 QRN, I later heard
> more S9 signals from Devon, and Yorkshire.
> 
> Details of the 5 MHz experiment, and how to apply for the necessary
> NoV, can be found on the RSGB web site at:
> http://www.rsgb.org/licensing/fivemegs/fivemegs.htm
> 
> Prior to listening on 5 MHz, it was with some trepidation that I
> removed the bottom cover from my IC756 to modify it for TX operation
> on 5 MHz. >From the modification details downloaded from the internet,
> I understood that I needed to remove three diodes to implement the
> change.  Simple - eh?  However, it wasn't until I had removed the case
> (and a CPU module), that I realised that the diodes to be removed were
> surface mount types! That feeling of trepidation had become one of
> anxiety.  I nearly put the covers straight back on - there and then! 
> 
> I eventually plucked up enough courage to put the smallest bit that I
> could find into my old Weller soldering iron, and started work.  I'm
> pleased to say that my very first surface mount job was completed
> successfully.  (The IC756 will do nicely until a 5 MHz modification
> for my K2 becomes available.)  In any event, I now have a rather nice
> wide-range signal generator covering 1.6 to 30 MHz!  A very nice
> addition to my limited range of test gear.
> 
> I submitted an NoV application this morning - but I'm not sure how
> long it will take to process.  More later . . . 
> 
> Regards to all,
> Steve GW4ALG

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