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This Week in Amateur Radio News for Saturday 19 May 2018
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TWIAR via rec.radio.info Admin
May 19, 2018, 11:11:43 PM5/19/18
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TWIAR News Feed
///////////////////////////////////////////
FT8 Activity Bumping Up at Some Expense to Other Modes
Posted: 19 May 2018 03:08 PM PDT
https://ift.tt/2Isnd8V
Despite largely dismal HF conditions, there is no doubt that the recent FT8
digital protocol has made hams more enthusiastic about getting on the air.
The mode has caught on so quickly that co-developer Joe Taylor expressed
surprise last fall at the rapid uptake of FT8 for making contacts on HF
bands. Judging by Logbook of The World (LoTW) data, more than 2.3 million
FT8 contacts were uploaded in 1 month — a net gain of 1.2 million contacts
on all modes over the same month last year, ARRL Radiosport Manager Norm
Fusaro, W3IZ, said. Over the same period, activity in some of the other
modes has declined.
“Year-to-date DXCC applications are up by 11% over the same period last
year,” Fusaro said. “So far, we have processed 898 Worked All States (WAS)
applications — a 72% increase over the same period last year. Of those
applications 347 — or 39% — were FT8 endorsements. Application for VUCC are
also up by 33% over 2017.”
Fusaro said that while some feel that FT8 is “taking over the world,”
subsuming all other modes, that’s not the case. “Activity in the
traditional modes of SSB and CW has decreased only slightly, by 10%,” he
said. “The real decrease is in RTTY and PSK activity and in the other
WSJT-X modes. I believe poor propagation would have cut into SSB and CW
activity, regardless of the new mode.” Anecdotal reports support Fusaro’s
hard numbers, with wall-to-wall signals surrounding the FT8 watering holes.
///////////////////////////////////////////
ARISS Kicking Off 2018 Fundraising Effort at Hamvention
Posted: 19 May 2018 02:51 PM PDT
https://ift.tt/2Kwp6SS
The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station team (ARISS) team and
Hamvention® will be working together again this year, as ARISS kicks off
its 2018 fundraising campaign. That will include a special drawing on the
last day of Hamvention to award an ARISS Challenge Coin display, valued at
$200.
“We are happy to be able to make the ARISS Challenge Coin display a very
special part of Sunday’s prize awards,” said 2018 Hamvention Prize
Committee Chairman Bill Serra, N8NRT. The prize features two ARISS
Challenge Coins positioned side by side in a display that shows off each
side of the coin.
Noting Hamvention’s 2018 theme of “Amateur Radio…Serving the Community,”
ARISS pointed out that it “serves communities by inspiring great numbers of
youth to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
and Amateur Radio.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
Informal Amateur Radio Nets Being Maintained in Wake of Volcanic Eruptions
in Hawaii
Posted: 19 May 2018 01:58 PM PDT
https://ift.tt/2G6Iao9
Two informal informational nets remain open on the island of Hawai’i (“The
Big Island”) in the wake of recent and ongoing volcanic eruptions and
seismic activity, Pacific Section Emergency Coordinator Clement Jung,
KH7HO, reports. No formal traffic has been passed, but frequencies are
being monitored. “All normal communications, i.e., cell, land-line phones,
Internet, and public safety, are operational,” Jung told ARRL.
The Kilauea volcano on The Big Island erupted on May 3, spewing lava and
venting high levels of sulfur dioxide. An Amateur Radio net is open on
7.088 MHz (SSB), and the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)
146.720 MHz repeater (100 Hz tone) on Mauna Kea was activated after
Hawaii’s governor issued an emergency declaration. A federal disaster
declaration has been approved.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports active venting of lava and
hazardous fumes continues, with no end in sight. The Hawai’i Volcanoes
National Park closed after roads and trails were damaged. Media accounts
report that volunteers are assisting about 300 evacuees who have been
staying at emergency shelters. Some 2,000 residents have been evacuated in
all. The US Geodetic Survey has warned that new lava outbreaks could happen
“at any time,” as well as “more energetic ash emissions.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
via the ARRL: "Extra, Extra! Hear All about Hamvention!
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2wM8rbR
ARRL Audio News will post Extra Hamvention Editions Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday, May18 – 20, offering news and interviews from the Big Show in
Xenia. Subscribers to the ARRL Audio News podcast will receive these Extra
editions automatically. Anyone can hear them online.
ARRL Audio News is a summary of the week’s top news stories from the world
of Amateur Radio, along with interviews and other features. It’s posted
every Friday in weeks during which The ARRL Letter is published.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Hamvention to Use AM Information Radio Station to Communicate with Inbound
Traffic
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2IFJ54n
To avoid a repeat of the first-day traffic tangles of its 2017 debut in
Xenia, Ohio, Hamvention® 2018 will utilize a low-power Information Radio
Station on 1620 kHz AM to get out the word on traffic, parking, and event
details to visitors as they approach the city. The town is bracing to host
an influx of some 25,000 Amateur Radio operators, exhibitors, and the
curious, nearly doubling Xenia’s population while the event is under way,
May 19 – 21. Hamvention sponsor, the Dayton Amateur Radio Association
(DARA) is hoping things will go more smoothly this year.
Due to the web of two-lane roads that serves the venue — the Greene County
Fairgrounds and Expo Center — Hamvention established shuttle-bus operation
to alleviate traffic congestion. The hope is that the information station
will persuade visitors to park at the shuttle lots, and take a shuttle to
the venue.
According to the Michigan firm providing the Information Radio Station, its
signal “will blanket Xenia and 3 – 5 miles into surrounding Greene County
(see coverage map, attached), directing approaching motorists to the five
special parking facilities.” The founder of Information Station
Specialists, Bill Baker, hails from Xenia. His company also is broadcasting
and exhibiting at Hamvention (Building 6, Booth 6503) to introduce visitors
to Information Station technology, which is used nationwide.
Hamvention 2017 reported the second-largest attendance in its 67-year
history.
///////////////////////////////////////////
via the ARRL: Hamvention 2018 - Friday Roundup
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rWTSwi
Friday was damp at the Dayton Hamvention, but the rain showers did little
to deter the crowds. In fact, many seemed to even prefer overcast
conditions to the alternative: sun and heat.
Perhaps as a consequence of the rain, the indoor exhibit areas were packed.
At times the crowds revived memories of Hamvention at Hara Arena when
movement was next to impossible with human traffic jams in the aisles.
ARRL Expo saw a considerable number of visitors. All the booths were active
with the ARRL Store particularly well attended. Attendees also appreciated
the ARRL stage where talks here held on a regular basis. And despite the
popularity of ARRL’s Logbook of the World, the DXCC card checkers were kept
busy throughout the day.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Space Station Digital Amateur Television Signal Not Being Seen on the Ground
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2jOKaZk
The signal from the digital amateur television (DATV) transmitter aboard
the International Space Station (ISS) cannot be detected on the ground,
Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) has reported. The
unit indicates that it is functioning, however. So far, ARISS has been at a
loss to pin down the problem.
“A series of steps are currently being undertaken to try to diagnose the
problem,” a May 10 announcement from ARISS said. “However, if an actual
failure occurred, only a ground-based evaluation will fully diagnose the
problem. The ARISS International team is working diligently to bring [the
system] back to full operation as soon as practical.” The ISS DATV system
is known variously as “HamVideo” and “HamTV.”
ARISS said it has begun coordination with its space agency partners and
sponsors to “expeditiously troubleshoot the issue onboard and, if
necessary, troubleshoot and repair the device on the ground.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
CQ World Wide DX Contest CW Logs to be Rescored Using Original Scoring
Method
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2wxNwco
A change in scoring methodology for handling duplicate contacts in the CW
weekend of the 2017 CQ World Wide DX Contest led to an inconsistency with
the standards by which logs submitted for the SSB weekend of the same
contest were scored. After considerable discussion and debate among members
of the CQ WW Contest Committee and consultation with CQ management, it was
decided to restore the original scoring methodology and to rescore all CW
logs for the 2017 CQ WW DX. This is not expected to result in any changes
to the order of finish. Updated scores will be published online on the CQ
website and on the CQ World Wide DX Contest website. CQ will alert the
contest community notified once the rescoring has been completed. — CQ
World Wide Management
///////////////////////////////////////////
Amateur Radio Parity Act Language Inserted in National Defense
Authorization Act
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rD2cBv
ARRL has praised the work of US Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT[2]),
Vicky Hartzler (R-MO[4]), and Mike Rogers (R-AL[3]) for their successful
efforts in securing language in the FY 2019 National Defense Authorization
Act (NDAA) that asks the FCC to grant radio amateurs living in restricted
communities the right to install effective outdoor antennas. Text from the
proposed Amateur Radio Parity Act (HR 555) formed the basis for the
Courtney-Hartzler-Rogers Amendment to the NDAA.
“The bill does entitle each and every Amateur Radio operator living in a
deed restricted community to erect an effective outdoor antenna. Full stop.
That is the principal benefit of this legislation,” ARRL General Counsel
Chris Imlay, W3KD, stressed. “There are tens of thousands of ham radio
licensees who now, absent the legislation, cannot erect any outdoor antenna
at all. This enables them in the same way PRB-1 has enabled hams to address
unreasonably restrictive zoning ordinances during the past 33 years.” Imlay
points out, though, that certain conditions apply. Prior to erecting an
antenna in a deed-restricted community, an applicant for an outdoor antenna
may have to apply to the homeowners association (HOA) for prior approval of
the particular antenna system proposed by the ham. The Act would not
empower an HOA to deny approval of all outdoor antennas. But neither does
it entitle radio Amateurs residing in deed-restricted subdivisions to erect
whatever antennas they want.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Cubas "Operation Meteor" will Involve Amateur Radio
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2Im9l00
Amateur Radio will have a role in Cuba’s soon-to-be-launched “Operation
Meteor,” aimed at aiding the island nation in preparing for natural
disasters. Among the new strategies under review for implementation are
civilian first-aid training; assist and rescue missions; damage control,
and large-scale needs assessment. The nationwide initiative aims to
mitigate the impact of natural disasters, especially in rural areas, and
safeguard life on the island, Lieutenant-Colonel Wilfredo Cobas said.
Operation Meteor will also work with Cuba’s radio and television services,
the island’s communications system, and the Emergency Network of the
Amateur Radio Federation of Cuba (FRC) to fine-tune their emergency
responses. Alfredo Mesa Hormigó, CO8TVC, Information System Coordinator for
the FRC’s Santiago affiliate, suggested that Operation Meteor will
strengthen the capacity of the country and its provinces to face strong
earthquakes, hurricanes, intense drought, fires, health, and technological
disasters, and would enhance the communication system’s capabilities to
face disasters in Cuba.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma affected 12 Cuban provinces, destroyed more than
150,000 homes, left 10 people dead, and caused some $13 million in damage.
///////////////////////////////////////////
John Dorr, K1AR, Named CQ World Wide DX Contest Director
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2KsJHqX
Former CQ magazine Contesting Editor, CQ Contest Hall of Famer, and
longtime CQ World Wide DX Contest Committee member John Dorr, K1AR, has
been appointed as director of the CQ World Wide DX Contest. He succeeds
Doug Zwiebel, KR2Q, who had been CQ WW Director for the past 2 years and
has stepped down for personal reasons.
A ham since 1969, Dorr has been a member of the CQ WW Contest Committee
since the mid-1970s and was CQ magazine’s Contesting Editor from 1989 until
2011. He is also a two-time World Radiosport Team Championship (WRTC)
medalist, served as president of the Yankee Clipper Contest Club, and as
chairman of the World Wide Radio Operators’ Foundation, and, for the past
25 years, emceed the Dayton Contest Dinner. He was elected to the CQ
Contest Hall of Fame in 1997.
Dorr, who lives in New Hampshire, recently retired from a high-tech career.
The appointment is effective immediately.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Hamvention 2018: ARRL Renews Memorandum of Understanding with SATERN,
Promotes Partnerships at Forum
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2KCIePc
ARRL and The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) today
renewed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organizations
that spells out how they will work together in disaster and emergency
responses. ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, signed the MoU on behalf of
ARRL on Hamvention’s opening day in Xenia, Ohio. SATERN National Liaison
Bill Feist, WB8BZH, represented SATERN at the signing and delivered a copy
of the MoU already signed by The Salvation Army. ARRL Emergency
Preparedness Manager Mike Corey, KI1U, said ARRL and SATERN have enjoyed a
formal working relationship since 1976, and that the MoU was up for renewal.
“We spent the last year fine-tuning, updating, revising it and got the
green light last week to do the signing here at Hamvention,” Corey said.
“It’s a fitting time for The Salvation Army and SATERN, as SATERN is
celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. So it was a double celebration
for them.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
"Last Man Standing" Moving to Fox Network
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rIkUr9
There will be a season 7 of the TV show “Last Man Standing” in which Tim
Allen — a real radio amateur — plays Mike Baxter, KA0XTT. The primary
difference is that the show now will appear on the Fox Network. A year ago,
ABC axed “Last Man Standing,” which had attracted more than 8.3 million
viewers. The network did not own the show but was licensing it from 20th
Century Fox.
John Amodeo, NN6JA, has been a co-executive producer, producer, or
supervising producer of the comedy and was instrumental in Allen’s getting
his ham radio license in 2014; more than 2 dozen members of the crew were
also inspired by the show’s Amateur Radio component to get licensed.
Allen tweeted news of the Fox reboot on May 11. “Thanks to all you guys for
the support,” Allen said. “We are back.” In a statement, Allen said, “When
I heard the offer to create more episodes of ‘Last Man Standing,’ I did a
fist pump so hard I threw my back out. It’s the fans! I could not be more
grateful for the fans who wrote petitions and kept up the passion and
incredible support for the show.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
Third Public Test of FT8 DXpediton Mode Deemed a Success
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2HZZTU9
///////////////////////////////////////////
Maritime Radio Historical Societys Museum Station K6KPH is Back
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2GiYguV
Maritime Radio Historical Society (MRHS) Amateur Radio station K6KPH in is
back on the air after a brief hiatus, although still at a minimal level at
this point. K6KPH, intended as a tribute to KPH, the “wireless giant of the
Pacific,” relays the W1AW Field Day Bulletin, and W1AW Morse code practice
qualifying runs for West Coast amateurs.
“Not all the K6KPH frequencies were back on at first, as we had to change
antenna assignments to get the minimum service we have now,” said Steve
Hawes, WB6UZX, who explains that K6KPH is “sort of” back as some repair
work is pending.
Hawes said the crew of K6KPH volunteers made some temporary repairs to get
some antennas back in service, and the station now is usable on 80, 40, 20,
17, and 15 meters. He said K6KPH expects to be ready to handle the
qualifying run transmissions starting with June’s, and also will be
transmitting the Field Day bulletins.
///////////////////////////////////////////
ARRL to Show Off Ham Radio at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rL55AS
With support from member volunteers, ARRL will put Amateur Radio on display
for visitors to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018 — the giant, annual airshow
July 23 – 29 in Wisconsin, organized by the Experimental Aircraft
Association (EAA). The event attracted more than 10,000 aircraft and nearly
600,000 visitors in 2017 to enjoy aerobatics displays, informative
programs, hands-on workshops, and diverse aircraft spanning all eras of
flight.
“The cross-over between Amateur Radio operators and pilots, aviation
enthusiasts, and air show attendees has a strong correlation,” said ARRL
Central Division Director Kermit Carlson, W9XA, who is part of the
volunteer team organizing the ham radio exhibit at AirVenture. “Attendees
include many licensed and prospective Amateur Radio operators.”
ARRL’s exhibit will promote Amateur Radio to newcomers and inform all
attendees of the similarly diverse technology and innovation enjoyed by
both hams and pilots.
“Ham pilots are doing all sorts of things from the sky, including
long-distance HF communications, aircraft tracking using APRS beacons, and
search and rescue,” Carlson said. “Developing the capability to communicate
from your aircraft to a ham on the ground is also fun!”
///////////////////////////////////////////
Radio Contact Planned Between Cape Cod and Newfoundland During Marconi
Daughters Visit
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2wPR75H
During the planned visit of radio pioneer Guglielmo Marconi’s daughter,
Princess Elettra Marconi, to Cape Cod National Seashore on May 31, she has
been invited to take part in a scheduled contact between KM1CC on the Cape
and the Society of Newfoundland Radio Amateurs (SONRA) club in St John’s
Newfoundland. SONRA will use VO1AA.
“Chris Hillier, VO1IDX, will serve as the net controller, so a few SONRA
members can call in to the Princes,” KM1CC Trustee Barbara Dougan, N1NS,
told ARRL. “Someone from KM1CC will stay on the air with VO1AA, should the
Princess need to depart, then after, KM1CC can take calls from others
should anyone want to make a contact with KM1CC in grid FN51.”
It was at St John’s that Marconi received the letter S from his station in
Poldhu, Cornwall, in 1901. The plan is to use 14.224 MHz SSB on or around
1645 –1700 UTC, to accommodate schedule variations. — Thanks to KM1CC
Trustee Barbara Dougan, N1NS
///////////////////////////////////////////
National Hurricane Centers WX4NHC will be On the Air for Annual Station Test
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2KtD3kn
WX4NHC, the Amateur Radio station at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in
Miami, will be on the air for the annual station test on Saturday, May 26,
1300 until 2100 UTC. This will be the station’s 38th year of public service
at the NHC. The purpose of the annual event is to test Amateur Radio
station equipment, antennas, and computers in advance of the Atlantic
Hurricane season — June 1 through November 30.
“This event is good practice for ham radio operators worldwide as well as
for National Weather Service (NWS) staff to become familiar with the
Amateur Radio communications available during times of severe weather,”
said WX4NHC Assistant Coordinator Julio Ripoll, WD4R.
“We will be making brief contacts on many frequencies and modes, exchanging
signal reports and basic weather data exchange (sunny, rain, etc.) with any
station in any location.” WX4NHC will be on the air on HF, VHF, UHF, 2- and
30-meter APRS and WinLink; subject must contain “//WL2K”. The Hurricane
Watch Net frequency of 14.325 MHz will be primary for WX4NHC. Operation
also will take place on the VoIP Hurricane Net 2000-2100 UTC. (IRLP node
9219; EchoLink WX-TALK Conference node 7203). Florida Statewide SARNET and
local VHF and UHF repeaters will be contacted.
QSLs are available via WD4R, with an S.A.S.E.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Three CubeSats with Amateur Radio Payloads Deployed from ISS
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rA8qC0
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has announced that three
CubeSats carrying Amateur Radio payloads, including one with a V/U linear
transponder, were deployed from the International Space Station (ISS) on
May 11 at around 1030 UTC.
Irazu (Costa Rica) and 1KUNS-PF (Kenya) carry beacon/telemetry in the
70-centimeter Amateur Radio band, while UBAKUSAT (Turkey) carries an
Amateur Radio linear transponder for SSB and CW, in addition to CW and
telemetry beacons. Irazu is a 1U CubeSat developed by students at the Costa
Rica Institute of Technology, with a telemetry beacon at 436.500 MHz.
1KUNS-PF is a 3U CubeSat developed by students at the University of
Nairobi, with a telemetry beacon (9.6 kbps) at 437.300 MHz.
UBAKUSAT, a 3U CubeSat developed by students at the Istanbul Technical
University, has a CW beacon at 437.225 MHz, and a telemetry beacon at
437.325 MHz. The linear transponder downlink is 435.200 – 435.250 MHz; the
uplink is 145.940 – 145.990 MHz. — Thanks to Masa Arai, JN1GKZ, via AMSAT-UK
///////////////////////////////////////////
FT8 Activity Bumping Up at Some Expense to Other Modes
Posted: 19 May 2018 03:08 PM PDT
https://ift.tt/2Isnd8V
Despite largely dismal HF conditions, there is no doubt that the recent FT8
digital protocol has made hams more enthusiastic about getting on the air.
The mode has caught on so quickly that co-developer Joe Taylor expressed
surprise last fall at the rapid uptake of FT8 for making contacts on HF
bands. Judging by Logbook of The World (LoTW) data, more than 2.3 million
FT8 contacts were uploaded in 1 month — a net gain of 1.2 million contacts
on all modes over the same month last year, ARRL Radiosport Manager Norm
Fusaro, W3IZ, said. Over the same period, activity in some of the other
modes has declined.
“Year-to-date DXCC applications are up by 11% over the same period last
year,” Fusaro said. “So far, we have processed 898 Worked All States (WAS)
applications — a 72% increase over the same period last year. Of those
applications 347 — or 39% — were FT8 endorsements. Application for VUCC are
also up by 33% over 2017.”
Fusaro said that while some feel that FT8 is “taking over the world,”
subsuming all other modes, that’s not the case. “Activity in the
traditional modes of SSB and CW has decreased only slightly, by 10%,” he
said. “The real decrease is in RTTY and PSK activity and in the other
WSJT-X modes. I believe poor propagation would have cut into SSB and CW
activity, regardless of the new mode.” Anecdotal reports support Fusaro’s
hard numbers, with wall-to-wall signals surrounding the FT8 watering holes.
///////////////////////////////////////////
ARISS Kicking Off 2018 Fundraising Effort at Hamvention
Posted: 19 May 2018 02:51 PM PDT
https://ift.tt/2Kwp6SS
The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station team (ARISS) team and
Hamvention® will be working together again this year, as ARISS kicks off
its 2018 fundraising campaign. That will include a special drawing on the
last day of Hamvention to award an ARISS Challenge Coin display, valued at
$200.
“We are happy to be able to make the ARISS Challenge Coin display a very
special part of Sunday’s prize awards,” said 2018 Hamvention Prize
Committee Chairman Bill Serra, N8NRT. The prize features two ARISS
Challenge Coins positioned side by side in a display that shows off each
side of the coin.
Noting Hamvention’s 2018 theme of “Amateur Radio…Serving the Community,”
ARISS pointed out that it “serves communities by inspiring great numbers of
youth to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
and Amateur Radio.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
Informal Amateur Radio Nets Being Maintained in Wake of Volcanic Eruptions
in Hawaii
Posted: 19 May 2018 01:58 PM PDT
https://ift.tt/2G6Iao9
Two informal informational nets remain open on the island of Hawai’i (“The
Big Island”) in the wake of recent and ongoing volcanic eruptions and
seismic activity, Pacific Section Emergency Coordinator Clement Jung,
KH7HO, reports. No formal traffic has been passed, but frequencies are
being monitored. “All normal communications, i.e., cell, land-line phones,
Internet, and public safety, are operational,” Jung told ARRL.
The Kilauea volcano on The Big Island erupted on May 3, spewing lava and
venting high levels of sulfur dioxide. An Amateur Radio net is open on
7.088 MHz (SSB), and the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)
146.720 MHz repeater (100 Hz tone) on Mauna Kea was activated after
Hawaii’s governor issued an emergency declaration. A federal disaster
declaration has been approved.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports active venting of lava and
hazardous fumes continues, with no end in sight. The Hawai’i Volcanoes
National Park closed after roads and trails were damaged. Media accounts
report that volunteers are assisting about 300 evacuees who have been
staying at emergency shelters. Some 2,000 residents have been evacuated in
all. The US Geodetic Survey has warned that new lava outbreaks could happen
“at any time,” as well as “more energetic ash emissions.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
via the ARRL: "Extra, Extra! Hear All about Hamvention!
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2wM8rbR
ARRL Audio News will post Extra Hamvention Editions Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday, May18 – 20, offering news and interviews from the Big Show in
Xenia. Subscribers to the ARRL Audio News podcast will receive these Extra
editions automatically. Anyone can hear them online.
ARRL Audio News is a summary of the week’s top news stories from the world
of Amateur Radio, along with interviews and other features. It’s posted
every Friday in weeks during which The ARRL Letter is published.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Hamvention to Use AM Information Radio Station to Communicate with Inbound
Traffic
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2IFJ54n
To avoid a repeat of the first-day traffic tangles of its 2017 debut in
Xenia, Ohio, Hamvention® 2018 will utilize a low-power Information Radio
Station on 1620 kHz AM to get out the word on traffic, parking, and event
details to visitors as they approach the city. The town is bracing to host
an influx of some 25,000 Amateur Radio operators, exhibitors, and the
curious, nearly doubling Xenia’s population while the event is under way,
May 19 – 21. Hamvention sponsor, the Dayton Amateur Radio Association
(DARA) is hoping things will go more smoothly this year.
Due to the web of two-lane roads that serves the venue — the Greene County
Fairgrounds and Expo Center — Hamvention established shuttle-bus operation
to alleviate traffic congestion. The hope is that the information station
will persuade visitors to park at the shuttle lots, and take a shuttle to
the venue.
According to the Michigan firm providing the Information Radio Station, its
signal “will blanket Xenia and 3 – 5 miles into surrounding Greene County
(see coverage map, attached), directing approaching motorists to the five
special parking facilities.” The founder of Information Station
Specialists, Bill Baker, hails from Xenia. His company also is broadcasting
and exhibiting at Hamvention (Building 6, Booth 6503) to introduce visitors
to Information Station technology, which is used nationwide.
Hamvention 2017 reported the second-largest attendance in its 67-year
history.
///////////////////////////////////////////
via the ARRL: Hamvention 2018 - Friday Roundup
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rWTSwi
Friday was damp at the Dayton Hamvention, but the rain showers did little
to deter the crowds. In fact, many seemed to even prefer overcast
conditions to the alternative: sun and heat.
Perhaps as a consequence of the rain, the indoor exhibit areas were packed.
At times the crowds revived memories of Hamvention at Hara Arena when
movement was next to impossible with human traffic jams in the aisles.
ARRL Expo saw a considerable number of visitors. All the booths were active
with the ARRL Store particularly well attended. Attendees also appreciated
the ARRL stage where talks here held on a regular basis. And despite the
popularity of ARRL’s Logbook of the World, the DXCC card checkers were kept
busy throughout the day.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Space Station Digital Amateur Television Signal Not Being Seen on the Ground
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2jOKaZk
The signal from the digital amateur television (DATV) transmitter aboard
the International Space Station (ISS) cannot be detected on the ground,
Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) has reported. The
unit indicates that it is functioning, however. So far, ARISS has been at a
loss to pin down the problem.
“A series of steps are currently being undertaken to try to diagnose the
problem,” a May 10 announcement from ARISS said. “However, if an actual
failure occurred, only a ground-based evaluation will fully diagnose the
problem. The ARISS International team is working diligently to bring [the
system] back to full operation as soon as practical.” The ISS DATV system
is known variously as “HamVideo” and “HamTV.”
ARISS said it has begun coordination with its space agency partners and
sponsors to “expeditiously troubleshoot the issue onboard and, if
necessary, troubleshoot and repair the device on the ground.”
///////////////////////////////////////////
CQ World Wide DX Contest CW Logs to be Rescored Using Original Scoring
Method
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2wxNwco
A change in scoring methodology for handling duplicate contacts in the CW
weekend of the 2017 CQ World Wide DX Contest led to an inconsistency with
the standards by which logs submitted for the SSB weekend of the same
contest were scored. After considerable discussion and debate among members
of the CQ WW Contest Committee and consultation with CQ management, it was
decided to restore the original scoring methodology and to rescore all CW
logs for the 2017 CQ WW DX. This is not expected to result in any changes
to the order of finish. Updated scores will be published online on the CQ
website and on the CQ World Wide DX Contest website. CQ will alert the
contest community notified once the rescoring has been completed. — CQ
World Wide Management
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Amateur Radio Parity Act Language Inserted in National Defense
Authorization Act
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rD2cBv
ARRL has praised the work of US Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT[2]),
Vicky Hartzler (R-MO[4]), and Mike Rogers (R-AL[3]) for their successful
efforts in securing language in the FY 2019 National Defense Authorization
Act (NDAA) that asks the FCC to grant radio amateurs living in restricted
communities the right to install effective outdoor antennas. Text from the
proposed Amateur Radio Parity Act (HR 555) formed the basis for the
Courtney-Hartzler-Rogers Amendment to the NDAA.
“The bill does entitle each and every Amateur Radio operator living in a
deed restricted community to erect an effective outdoor antenna. Full stop.
That is the principal benefit of this legislation,” ARRL General Counsel
Chris Imlay, W3KD, stressed. “There are tens of thousands of ham radio
licensees who now, absent the legislation, cannot erect any outdoor antenna
at all. This enables them in the same way PRB-1 has enabled hams to address
unreasonably restrictive zoning ordinances during the past 33 years.” Imlay
points out, though, that certain conditions apply. Prior to erecting an
antenna in a deed-restricted community, an applicant for an outdoor antenna
may have to apply to the homeowners association (HOA) for prior approval of
the particular antenna system proposed by the ham. The Act would not
empower an HOA to deny approval of all outdoor antennas. But neither does
it entitle radio Amateurs residing in deed-restricted subdivisions to erect
whatever antennas they want.
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Cubas "Operation Meteor" will Involve Amateur Radio
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2Im9l00
Amateur Radio will have a role in Cuba’s soon-to-be-launched “Operation
Meteor,” aimed at aiding the island nation in preparing for natural
disasters. Among the new strategies under review for implementation are
civilian first-aid training; assist and rescue missions; damage control,
and large-scale needs assessment. The nationwide initiative aims to
mitigate the impact of natural disasters, especially in rural areas, and
safeguard life on the island, Lieutenant-Colonel Wilfredo Cobas said.
Operation Meteor will also work with Cuba’s radio and television services,
the island’s communications system, and the Emergency Network of the
Amateur Radio Federation of Cuba (FRC) to fine-tune their emergency
responses. Alfredo Mesa Hormigó, CO8TVC, Information System Coordinator for
the FRC’s Santiago affiliate, suggested that Operation Meteor will
strengthen the capacity of the country and its provinces to face strong
earthquakes, hurricanes, intense drought, fires, health, and technological
disasters, and would enhance the communication system’s capabilities to
face disasters in Cuba.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma affected 12 Cuban provinces, destroyed more than
150,000 homes, left 10 people dead, and caused some $13 million in damage.
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John Dorr, K1AR, Named CQ World Wide DX Contest Director
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2KsJHqX
Former CQ magazine Contesting Editor, CQ Contest Hall of Famer, and
longtime CQ World Wide DX Contest Committee member John Dorr, K1AR, has
been appointed as director of the CQ World Wide DX Contest. He succeeds
Doug Zwiebel, KR2Q, who had been CQ WW Director for the past 2 years and
has stepped down for personal reasons.
A ham since 1969, Dorr has been a member of the CQ WW Contest Committee
since the mid-1970s and was CQ magazine’s Contesting Editor from 1989 until
2011. He is also a two-time World Radiosport Team Championship (WRTC)
medalist, served as president of the Yankee Clipper Contest Club, and as
chairman of the World Wide Radio Operators’ Foundation, and, for the past
25 years, emceed the Dayton Contest Dinner. He was elected to the CQ
Contest Hall of Fame in 1997.
Dorr, who lives in New Hampshire, recently retired from a high-tech career.
The appointment is effective immediately.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Hamvention 2018: ARRL Renews Memorandum of Understanding with SATERN,
Promotes Partnerships at Forum
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2KCIePc
ARRL and The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) today
renewed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organizations
that spells out how they will work together in disaster and emergency
responses. ARRL President Rick Roderick, K5UR, signed the MoU on behalf of
ARRL on Hamvention’s opening day in Xenia, Ohio. SATERN National Liaison
Bill Feist, WB8BZH, represented SATERN at the signing and delivered a copy
of the MoU already signed by The Salvation Army. ARRL Emergency
Preparedness Manager Mike Corey, KI1U, said ARRL and SATERN have enjoyed a
formal working relationship since 1976, and that the MoU was up for renewal.
“We spent the last year fine-tuning, updating, revising it and got the
green light last week to do the signing here at Hamvention,” Corey said.
“It’s a fitting time for The Salvation Army and SATERN, as SATERN is
celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. So it was a double celebration
for them.”
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"Last Man Standing" Moving to Fox Network
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rIkUr9
There will be a season 7 of the TV show “Last Man Standing” in which Tim
Allen — a real radio amateur — plays Mike Baxter, KA0XTT. The primary
difference is that the show now will appear on the Fox Network. A year ago,
ABC axed “Last Man Standing,” which had attracted more than 8.3 million
viewers. The network did not own the show but was licensing it from 20th
Century Fox.
John Amodeo, NN6JA, has been a co-executive producer, producer, or
supervising producer of the comedy and was instrumental in Allen’s getting
his ham radio license in 2014; more than 2 dozen members of the crew were
also inspired by the show’s Amateur Radio component to get licensed.
Allen tweeted news of the Fox reboot on May 11. “Thanks to all you guys for
the support,” Allen said. “We are back.” In a statement, Allen said, “When
I heard the offer to create more episodes of ‘Last Man Standing,’ I did a
fist pump so hard I threw my back out. It’s the fans! I could not be more
grateful for the fans who wrote petitions and kept up the passion and
incredible support for the show.”
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Third Public Test of FT8 DXpediton Mode Deemed a Success
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2HZZTU9
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Maritime Radio Historical Societys Museum Station K6KPH is Back
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2GiYguV
Maritime Radio Historical Society (MRHS) Amateur Radio station K6KPH in is
back on the air after a brief hiatus, although still at a minimal level at
this point. K6KPH, intended as a tribute to KPH, the “wireless giant of the
Pacific,” relays the W1AW Field Day Bulletin, and W1AW Morse code practice
qualifying runs for West Coast amateurs.
“Not all the K6KPH frequencies were back on at first, as we had to change
antenna assignments to get the minimum service we have now,” said Steve
Hawes, WB6UZX, who explains that K6KPH is “sort of” back as some repair
work is pending.
Hawes said the crew of K6KPH volunteers made some temporary repairs to get
some antennas back in service, and the station now is usable on 80, 40, 20,
17, and 15 meters. He said K6KPH expects to be ready to handle the
qualifying run transmissions starting with June’s, and also will be
transmitting the Field Day bulletins.
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ARRL to Show Off Ham Radio at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rL55AS
With support from member volunteers, ARRL will put Amateur Radio on display
for visitors to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2018 — the giant, annual airshow
July 23 – 29 in Wisconsin, organized by the Experimental Aircraft
Association (EAA). The event attracted more than 10,000 aircraft and nearly
600,000 visitors in 2017 to enjoy aerobatics displays, informative
programs, hands-on workshops, and diverse aircraft spanning all eras of
flight.
“The cross-over between Amateur Radio operators and pilots, aviation
enthusiasts, and air show attendees has a strong correlation,” said ARRL
Central Division Director Kermit Carlson, W9XA, who is part of the
volunteer team organizing the ham radio exhibit at AirVenture. “Attendees
include many licensed and prospective Amateur Radio operators.”
ARRL’s exhibit will promote Amateur Radio to newcomers and inform all
attendees of the similarly diverse technology and innovation enjoyed by
both hams and pilots.
“Ham pilots are doing all sorts of things from the sky, including
long-distance HF communications, aircraft tracking using APRS beacons, and
search and rescue,” Carlson said. “Developing the capability to communicate
from your aircraft to a ham on the ground is also fun!”
///////////////////////////////////////////
Radio Contact Planned Between Cape Cod and Newfoundland During Marconi
Daughters Visit
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2wPR75H
During the planned visit of radio pioneer Guglielmo Marconi’s daughter,
Princess Elettra Marconi, to Cape Cod National Seashore on May 31, she has
been invited to take part in a scheduled contact between KM1CC on the Cape
and the Society of Newfoundland Radio Amateurs (SONRA) club in St John’s
Newfoundland. SONRA will use VO1AA.
“Chris Hillier, VO1IDX, will serve as the net controller, so a few SONRA
members can call in to the Princes,” KM1CC Trustee Barbara Dougan, N1NS,
told ARRL. “Someone from KM1CC will stay on the air with VO1AA, should the
Princess need to depart, then after, KM1CC can take calls from others
should anyone want to make a contact with KM1CC in grid FN51.”
It was at St John’s that Marconi received the letter S from his station in
Poldhu, Cornwall, in 1901. The plan is to use 14.224 MHz SSB on or around
1645 –1700 UTC, to accommodate schedule variations. — Thanks to KM1CC
Trustee Barbara Dougan, N1NS
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National Hurricane Centers WX4NHC will be On the Air for Annual Station Test
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2KtD3kn
WX4NHC, the Amateur Radio station at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in
Miami, will be on the air for the annual station test on Saturday, May 26,
1300 until 2100 UTC. This will be the station’s 38th year of public service
at the NHC. The purpose of the annual event is to test Amateur Radio
station equipment, antennas, and computers in advance of the Atlantic
Hurricane season — June 1 through November 30.
“This event is good practice for ham radio operators worldwide as well as
for National Weather Service (NWS) staff to become familiar with the
Amateur Radio communications available during times of severe weather,”
said WX4NHC Assistant Coordinator Julio Ripoll, WD4R.
“We will be making brief contacts on many frequencies and modes, exchanging
signal reports and basic weather data exchange (sunny, rain, etc.) with any
station in any location.” WX4NHC will be on the air on HF, VHF, UHF, 2- and
30-meter APRS and WinLink; subject must contain “//WL2K”. The Hurricane
Watch Net frequency of 14.325 MHz will be primary for WX4NHC. Operation
also will take place on the VoIP Hurricane Net 2000-2100 UTC. (IRLP node
9219; EchoLink WX-TALK Conference node 7203). Florida Statewide SARNET and
local VHF and UHF repeaters will be contacted.
QSLs are available via WD4R, with an S.A.S.E.
///////////////////////////////////////////
Three CubeSats with Amateur Radio Payloads Deployed from ISS
Posted: 19 May 2018 11:43 AM PDT
https://ift.tt/2rA8qC0
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has announced that three
CubeSats carrying Amateur Radio payloads, including one with a V/U linear
transponder, were deployed from the International Space Station (ISS) on
May 11 at around 1030 UTC.
Irazu (Costa Rica) and 1KUNS-PF (Kenya) carry beacon/telemetry in the
70-centimeter Amateur Radio band, while UBAKUSAT (Turkey) carries an
Amateur Radio linear transponder for SSB and CW, in addition to CW and
telemetry beacons. Irazu is a 1U CubeSat developed by students at the Costa
Rica Institute of Technology, with a telemetry beacon at 436.500 MHz.
1KUNS-PF is a 3U CubeSat developed by students at the University of
Nairobi, with a telemetry beacon (9.6 kbps) at 437.300 MHz.
UBAKUSAT, a 3U CubeSat developed by students at the Istanbul Technical
University, has a CW beacon at 437.225 MHz, and a telemetry beacon at
437.325 MHz. The linear transponder downlink is 435.200 – 435.250 MHz; the
uplink is 145.940 – 145.990 MHz. — Thanks to Masa Arai, JN1GKZ, via AMSAT-UK
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