[Lowfer] 185khz Beacon Kit - 30m QRSS

[Tom Clifton]

http://www.imagenisp.ca/jsm/Lowfer.html

I am getting close to writing an article for publication on a 1 watt part 15 beacon based on a design by Lyle Koehler (KØLR) and would like to get an idea of the interest level for kitting.  The crystal controlled beacon, while specifically destined for 185khz would be very easy to use at 135khz or 10140 in the 30 meter ham band with a change in the lowpass filter and crystal.  I am also hoping to find an established QRP club that would hadle the kitting or distribution of PC boards.

The recent ITU meeting OK'd amateur use at 135khz and it is now up to the FCC to OK it. The ARRl was all for this some time ago, so it is just a waiting game.

Any way...  What I have in mind is a TX that will do just about whatever you want.  CW with a key or paddle. QRSS on/OFF keying coonstant carrier or a "snake". THe question I have is if useres would prefer a fixed PIC beacon keyer, or something like a PICAXE that you can program in basic.  I have room on the  PC board for a 555 timer that can do simple on/off and snakes as well as  room for an 8 pin PIC type chip.

All this does depend on getting Lyle to say it is OK to use his design (with due credit)- if anybody has a  current email address, I'd apreciate it as well as feedback on desired features.