[Laser] VUCC Attempt

[Les Rayburn]

While I have a keen interest in this topic, and enjoy reading about the 
efforts of those who are pushing the "state of art" in optical 
communications, my personal goals are more mundane.

Our immediate goals are the following:

1.) Create a working demonstration of laser light communications. Working 
distance would be a few hundred meters, perfect for demonstrations at our 
local club.

2.) Attempting to earn the ARRL VUCC Award by visiting a "convergence" of 
four grid squares, and then working a fifth, more distant grid to complete 
the feat. This would require successful two-way communication over a 
distance of approximately 60 miles.

Complicating the issue is that my technical skills are limited. I'm 
basically a glorified appliance operator, and homebrewing circuits is not my 
area of expertise. So, if you'll pardon the newbie questions:

1.) Has anyone achieved success at these distances by modifying the Ramsey 
Light Beam Communicator kit? Adding optics, improving the receiver, etc? 
Would this be a reasonable platform for modification? I've found very little 
on the web about anyone hacking these unit.

2.) Would using software like WSJT help extend the distance using simple 
transceivers such as the Ramsey Kit?

3.) Any chance that others on the list have some of their "first steps" gear 
laying around that they'd consider selling? For example, so one who moved 
from laser gear to LED equipment?

Any and all help and suggestions are appreciated.

73,

Les Rayburn, N1LF
EM63nf
121 Mayfair Park
Maylene, AL 35114