[PaQSO] Mobiles

[Tom Williams]

I started operating mobile in the PQP a couple of years ago just because I
enjoyed working mobiles so much in other parties. Since PA is next door, it
was a good opportunity to start learning the ropes. I can tell you it was a
blast; so much so that I'll be back for my third PQP mobile in a row, gas
prices not withstanding.

 

This year I have upgraded my multiple hamsticks on a hitch mount to a
homebrew, center loaded manually tuned vertical on the roof of the SUV. It's
7' tall with a cap hat and a sliding collar on the loading coil. Worked out
real well while testing in the TN and TX QP's. I also added bonding of the
engine hood and tailgate to the frame. After the NYQP, where I will be
mobile as N2Y, I'm going to replace the loading coil, which is only 1.25"
diameter, with a homebrew, air wound coil that's 3" diameter and about 10"
long. Computer modeling says it will be 2% more efficient on 80m, which
means a lot for a mobile.

 

I work primarily CW, but entertained the thought of adding RTTY and/or PSK31
to the mix. Would anyone even want digital mode QSOs from any of the
counties? I remember trying calling CQ on RTTY two years ago and got no
answers after 10 minutes or so. 

 

I hope to work a bunch of you on Sunday and will even try getting on
Saturday if my son's move concludes early enough. Please look for all the
mobiles and please spot us if you do work us!

 

73,

Tom N2CU <><

 

N2CU/m in the PQP and N2Y/m in the NYQP