MONITORING: Significant RF performance degradation [VHF]

[rats-repeater-announce]

An additional FM broadcast notch filter was installed this afternoon for a total of 120-140 dB attenuation from 88-108 MHz.

Repeater TX power was restored to 50 watts and we are monitoring closely.

Impacts:

 * W4RAT 146.88 repeater

Start:  8:00a 11/4/2025 (estimated)

Remarks:   Site visit 3:15p 11/9/2025 by KG4PEQ -- Generally low RX noise all day. No change swapping from FM notch filter A to filter B, nor when combining A+B, nor when using no filter at all.  Similar noise levels all around.  Repeater TX still de-senses the receiver slightly at full power, resolves with reduction to low power.  Found moderate pressure and gentle manipulation of the RF jumper between VHF DR-2X TX port and VHF cavity duplexer produced light crackle on transmitted signal.  Replaced jumper with brand new spare already on site.  No impacts to RX noise.  Left repeater with two FM notch filters inline, new feedline jumper on TX port, and power set to 50W.