START: Significant RF performance degradation [VHF]

[rats-repeater-announce]

The 146.88 repeater is again experiencing significant RF performance degradation and receiver de-sense during TX operation.  To partially alleviate this noise and restore some local function, the repeater's transmitter power has again been reduced from 50 to 5 watts.

The FM broadcast filter installation has worked beautifully for the past week, with clear signals from as far as 75 miles away.  Additional filtering will likely be needed for permanent resolution.  A cavity duplexer tune-up is also still pending.  While RX noise is elevated, stations may need considerable additional power to reach the repeater.

WIRES-X services remain restricted to VIRGINIA (68927) only at this time.  TX power will be increased as conditions gradually improve.

Impacts:

 * W4RAT 146.88 repeater

Start:  2:00p (Estimated)