Broadcast - 21 June 2026
Back in early May, Stuart VK7ES brought along a brand‑new Vici VC480+ milliohm meter, a compact unit about the size, looks and feel of a modern multimeter. In fact, this piece of test gear is very easy to mistake for a multimeter. Except for the fact it only measures resistance, and uses four‑terminal sensing, and operates on principles similar to a classic Wheatstone Bridge.
In contrast, last Wednesday Technical Night, Idris VK7ZIR arrived with a much older example of the same measurement concept - a B.G. Instruments MechTest WB-100, built in Greystanes, New South Wales, late last century. Unlike Stuart’s modern unit, this one couldn’t be mistaken for a multimeter. Its size and control layout were more reminiscent of an AVO valve tester, giving it a distinctly “mature” test‑bench feel.
Despite its age, Idris’s WB-100 was in remarkably “as-new” condition, and it quickly became the centre of attention. Comparing the two instruments - one modern, one vintage - offered a fascinating comparison of how test equipment design has evolved while still serving the same fundamental purpose.
A big thank you to Idris for intervening and saving it from the jaws of the “Rubbish Skip”, which allowed us to view such a pristine example. Both units were superb representatives of their respective eras and made for an engaging and educational show-and-tell session.
Mid-year Club get-together and meal - The venue has been booked, locking in the date and time. It is to be held on the 15th of July, which is a Wednesday night, with the venue being the Iron Horse Bar and Grill located at 468 Westbury Rd, Prospect Vale, Launceston. Those who wish to attend please register the number of places required by e-mailing the Secretary or filling in the registration sheet at the club rooms.
Menu is a-la-carte. We will be arriving at 6pm for a 6:30 meal. A link to the Iron Horse location and menu information is available in the text version of this broadcast: Iron Horse Bar & Grill Menu
Just for information, the main access to the restaurant is via a wheel-chair and walking friendly gentle ramp.
As usual pictures will be available on the NTARC Web site under “Blogs” for this broadcast. NTARC Blogs
UPCOMING EVENTS
On Air Test and Technical Net session - Every Wednesday night, Test-Net and CW course on 3.580 MHz from 7 pm, then a Technical Net on 3.567 MHz from 7.30 pm till 8.30 pm. Your host for the evening is Nic, VK7WW.
Club Room Technical night - The next session will be Wednesday the 24th June and will commence at the usual time of 6.30 pm at the Club Room Archer Street, Rocherlea.
Mid-year Club get-together - Wednesday 15th July at Iron Horse Bar and Grill. 6pm for a 6:30 meal.
Coffee Morning - Held every Friday in the NTARC Club rooms. Time is from 10 am to noon.
Finally - If you have any items of news please email them to the Secretary at the following address news@ntarc.net all items to be received no later than 5 pm on the Friday prior to the Broadcast.
That’s all folks,
73, Stefan VK7ZSB.
