[Lowfer] 630 Meter Groundwave

[JD]

Many thanks to John L. for the impromptu groundwave test of XIQ this 
afternoon before his scheduled QRP test.  From 4:02 PM CDT to 5 PM, the 
D-layer between us was well illuminated, making a very good test.  The SNRr 
ratings of -14 to -18 are in the ballpark of the last signals received 
before he signed off after sunrise this morning, and probably varied over 
that range due to increasing lightning static in the late afternoon.  The 
signal was good and steady on Argo and the WSPR waterfall.

My screenshot at http://lwca.org/mbarchiv/pix/gndwave0520.jpg was taken 
during a span of four transmissions from XXM as well.  The latter is such a 
strong signal (typically S7 both day and night) that the receiver AGC 
modulated the QRM source at the top side of the XIQ signal.

As for later results, the QRP test had not shown up here in SE Kansas during 
the first half hour after sunset, but I'm on my way down there again to see 
what the situation looks like now.  Not sure how far it is from EM12 to 
EM27kc, but for one watt I'd say that's mighty good, consistent coverage.

John