[Lowfer] WD2XSH/10 WSPR

[Dexter McIntyre W4DEX]

I must admit I wasn't very enthusiastic about trying WSPR. But now I see why 
Crazy Dave is so hyped up about the mode :)

Yesterday I downloaded the WSPR software and was testing reception of my own 
signal on a separate receiver and computer.  I had the output of a lashed up 500 
KHz transverter connected to the antenna.  The transverter power is 10 milliwatt 
which is the normal drive level for the McKay amp.

I figured I best familiarize myself with the WSPR procedures before transmitting 
any power.  While investigating the mode on http://wsprnet.org I stumbled across 
a report for WD2XSH/10.  Knowing I did not have my radio computer connected to 
the internet and not being a registered user I was puzzled why my call was 
listed.  Then I discovered my QRPP signal had been received by Dave, WD2XSH/17!

Below is a link to a picture of the crude transverter:

http://www.w4dex.com/500khz/wspr/wspr_10mw_xvtr_09jan10.jpg

A FT-817 with dead finals is the IF on 10.5 MHz.  This signal is injected into a 
SRA-3 mixer along with a 10 MHz LO signal from a surplus TCXO, the green box. 
The RF port of the mixer is connected to a 730 kHz low pass filter removed form 
some type of telcom equipment.  Output of the filter is connected to a .5 - 22 
MHz amp also removed from a telcom board.  The power supply in the top left 
provides -24 volt to the amp.  Maximum output of the amp in this arrangement is 
about +11 dBm but is set to +10 dBm to drive the amp.

Another surprise was when I turned on the monitor for the radio computer this 
morning.  I found WD2XSH/17 and /37 had been received overnight.  With no 
transverter T/R switching those signal are being received backwards through the 
.5 - 22 MHz amp!

Maybe this will convince me to try other modes by K1JT.  I've talked with Joe at 
several microwave conferences.  Each time he has tried to convince me try his 
modes on V/UHF/MW.  So maybe it's time to do that :)

Dex

BTW....WSPR appears to be a good mode for the Lowfer band and maybe even 
Medfers.  Wish I had a Lowfer antenna.