[WIham] Three Net Options Tonight -- 2 meter SSB

[Todd Sprinkmann]

    Many hams nowadays have 2m (plus 6m and 70cm) all-mode 
capability with their HF + VHF rigs.   But it is a challenge to know 
where and when to find this activity.  That's what I specialize in, 
promoting more activity on "weak-signal" VHF, and telling Joe Q. 
Ham where and when this activity is.  

     Tonight, many of you will be able to hear WB9LYH near WI 
Rapids on 144.240, starting at 7pm.  Even if you have compromise 
antennas.  Some may hear KA0KYZ near Rochester, MN on 
144.230, starting at 9pm now.   

     The hams who make contacts of 150, 200, even 400 miles on 
2m SSB, use horizontally-polarized yagis up 30-40' or higher (shoot 
for at least 7 elements or more, on 10' or longer booms) along with 
low-loss feedline and at least 50-100w output power.  Horizontal 
loop antennas will get you in the game, with reduced range. 

    **If you or your club needs an antenna project for show and tell, 
visit this link:   http://www.wa5vjb.com/yagi-pdf/cheapyagi.pdf  
These yagis do work.  I know of guys who have built them and 
gotten out well (from operating points with good horizons).**  
    

     If you enjoy a DX challenge, then be aware of a 3rd net option 
tonight from southern Ohio.   K8TQK will be on 144.250, starting 
at 7:30pm central.   He won't look toward WI until probably 7:50-
8:20pm.   K8TQK has an amazing signal on VHF, and I work him 
regularly (with flat band conditions) on a 390 mile path from my 
Sheboygan county QTH.   We both have long yagis up 70' or so.  

     Also know that we encourage all VHF'ers to create their own
activity.  You should hear activity not only on the net freqs. but 
perhaps on 144.220, 144.210 or the 144.200 call frequency.   
We've worked hard the past 3 years to make Wednesday night 
an active one on 2m SSB/CW.   Get on board and enjoy the fun.  

     All are welcome, please help spread the word.  
     
     Remember the WI QSO Party is this Sunday -- 
http://www.warac.org/wqp/wqp.htm

     73,
     Todd   KC9BQA    EN63ao      40 N of Milwaukee
     www.kc9bqa.com   For Frequent VHF/UHF Activity
     www.wivuch.com    WI VHF/UHF County Hunters Award