[NLRS] NLRS UHF Contest Multi-Op

[N0HJZ at aol.com]

Hi All -

I've been sitting back reading some of the threads about the UHF Contest, 
Rovers, Multi-Ops and activity.  It looks like this year could be better than 
last year for activity.  People are talking about trips, schedules, etc. already 
and I'm predicting a better crop of organized rovers for this years UHF 
Contest.

In 1992 (I think), K0PJ, WA2HFI and myself set up a Field Day style set-up on 
Buck Hill for teh UHF Contest.  We had nothing special for equipment.  We had 
100w on 222 & 432 MHz and single yagis at 10-15 feet.  We had 10 watts on 902 
and 1296 and a couple watts on 2304.  The microwave bands had small loopers.  
Our advantage was that we had short feedlines, great height and we caught an 
opening.  We worked into Virginia and Alabama on 1296 and out 800 miles on 
2304.  What a thrill!

With all the rovers, the good op's in the area and the large quantity of 
equipment, why can't we pull together a great multi-op?!  With all the grids that 
could be available from the rovers and all the Q's from the stations areound 
our area, there is no reason why we couldn't do the following:

1) Have a lot of fun!
2) Show inexperienced op's how to pull together a multi-op
3) Give op's a chance to operate a band they may not have
4) End up in the Top 5 Multi-Op's in the country!

I will lend my experience to help pull together a multi-op.  

Here is what we need:

1) Location - We need a spot that has room for several stations and antenna 
supports.  We should have a clear view in most directions.  If anyone knows the 
people at Buck Hill, that would be great!  Any other large hills in our area?

2) Equipment - I have my 736 with 222 & 432.  I have 100 watt bricks for 222 
& 432 and a good 432 yagi.  My feeling is that we should have a 222 Mhz 
station, a 432 station, a 902/1296 station and a microwave station.  We don't need 
huge power and antennas if we can find a good location.  We'll also need 
feedlines, antennas and antenna supports (10 -20 foot masts, etc.).  Anyone got a 
generator to use?  I may be able to get one that would feed one of the stations. 
 We can talk about other gear as this rolls forward (power supplies, tents, 
food, etc.).

3) Operators - We'll need people to operate during the contest.  I'd like a 
main crew to support the bands during the contest.  It will be very busy 
keeping up with all the rover schedules.  CW skills are a plus for this contest as 
signals can get weak.  I'd also like to invite others to come out and see the 
operation, operate, ask questions, have fun, etc.  Operate from home and work 
some new grids, then come check out the multi-op.  We'll also need support 
before teh contest to help publicize the event and help get FM activity going.

OK, who knows of a site?  Who would be up for a multi-op?  Send me a note and 
let's see if there is any interest/excitement.

73  Rich N0HJZ