[Laser] Getting Started

[Art]

Welcome Jim and Brian.

Whatever you decide to do, the most important thing is to GET 
SOMETHING ON THE AIR! Any transmitter is ok, even LED's, which are 
quite suitable if you spend a few extra dollars to get one of the 
high power types.

For any kind of bounce, you do need a little extra power. It's not so 
much that you actually need the power to communicate, but that the 
extra power helps make it easier to find the other guys signal when 
pointing your receiver skyward.

For serious non line of sight (without clouds or apparent reflecting 
surface), it's hard to beat a green laser and a photomultiplier tube. 
But, both can be pricey and have their issues, making them more 
suitable for use by experienced OT's.

For narrowband cloudbounce, I suggest a modified PGP type receiver as 
described by Yves, F1AVY. He has done some very nice work and it's 
available here in the archives of the group. The receiver is 
everything when it comes to lightwave communications. Scrimp on your 
transmitter if you must, but don't compromise on the receiver-not 
even a little bit.

There are numerous high powered lasers available on ebay, when/if you 
outgrow the qrp operation, it's easy to increase power. There's never 
been a better time to buy QRO lasers.

Lastly, if using any laser power over 5 milliwatts, do be safe. You 
only have one pair of eyes-nuff said.

Regards,

Art