[HCRA] FoxII Location & more

[Jim W]

I'm
sorry that I didn't think of it but George brought up a good point in
that I should disclose the location of the FoxII.  From the
parking lot, through to an opening,and then taking the right trail at
the fork brought you down 1/3 of the way south toward east side of the
water.  There were some long tree trunks (small diameter) guiding
the way of the trail, and at the last one, stepping over the tree and
walking toward the water.



This was a good location, but not by design.  The FoxII was
located almost at ground level between the split of two trees.  It
was 25' from the water, a fallen log to the left rear, and a gully 25' to the left
(as you are looking west at the water).  It was camoflaged by twigs and leaves.



What was happening is that the signal was being reflected by the larger
of the two trees across the water which was definately not by
design.  Reflection from other trees kept giving false
readings.  Some hunters commented that the strongest signal was
from the west side of the water.  Every available known tool,
including keen eyesight, was required to find this one.



Where do we go from here?  There are currently about  ten
hunters.  I think that for a winter project(s), we should consider
a directional antenna, and/or a simple attenuator.  (Mostly
because I do not have any tricks left up my sleeve other than
tightening your squelch!). Since there are plenty of simple designs for
an attenuator, I'll leave that up to you and I will start looking for a
nicely designed 2m antenna.  If you think of something else, let
me know.



One additional comment about equipment.  Many of the official fox
hunts do not allow the use of doppler even though I don't think that we
(HCRA) will ever be large enough to sponsor a hunt and therefore would
ever have an issue.  Just thought I would mention that before you
spend the money.  ----But they are way cool!----



By the way, I am not a birdwatcher but suggested binoculars for this
trip.  I have heard from George that he has spoken to his spouse
(a watcher) about this location so I guess it is  good if you are
into watching birds.  There is also a location by the town
recycling center (SW).  Thanks George.



Jim  k1jaw










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