[Elecraft] K5P and VP8STI

[Jim Brown]

Something can be learned from their websites.  There have also been 
posts to the NCDXC reflector from K6MM, one of three members on that 
trip. Wes is correct about K5P antennas, except that they have a Battle 
Creek special for 80 and 160M.  Photos of the SteppIRs suggest an 
inadequate radial system, which would account for weak signals. Yes, 
there's water nearby, but that only helps first reflections. They're in 
my log for one Q on all bands except 6M, and at least 1 Q for CW, SSB, 
and RTTY. And I worked them QRP on 20 SSB and 160 CW. Trying to stay out 
of the way for stations needing them more than me, I stop once I get 
there. I believe that one reason for their antenna choices is that they 
were VERY limited by what they could fit onto an aircraft that could 
land on the island. Not only that, but at the last minute, three guys 
had to stay at the airport because they had to use an even smaller 
aircraft.

VP8STI is mostly Force 12 C3s for 20/15/10, similar Force 12 for 17/12. 
2-tower phased vertical array for 80 and 160. Don't remember what for 30 
and 40. Study the "plans" page on their website for detailed drawings. 
They're in my log on 15,17, 20, 30, 40, and 80, and one QSO each mode. 
Haven't heard them on 10, 12, or 160. I'm still trying for a QRP QSO.

73, Jim K9YC

On Sat,1/23/2016 7:45 AM, Wes (N7WS) wrote:
> As a fellow Tucsonan here are my observations.
>
> I believe that the K5P guys are using tunable dummy 
> load....sorry...SteppIR verticals on all bands except 160.  (If I'm 
> wrong about this, I'm sure I will be corrected.) I too believe that 
> their signals have generally been underwhelming for the path.  
> Nevertheless, I have worked them on 18 slots, including all bands 
> (except for 60 meters) on CW.  My antennas are modest (see QRZ) and 
> often non-resonant.  For 160 thru 30, an inverted vee, apex at 45', 
> ends at 6' on 160, which as everyone "knows" can't possibly work DX.  
> I use a K3S, KPA500 and KAT500.
>
> VP8 is another story. I've worked them on 20 CW, 20 SSB, 15 SSB,