Broadcast - 30 August 2026
You may remember that in April last year Colin VK7ZCF, demonstrated his fully self-contained canvas backpack system, which he had designed and constructed for his transceivers so he could go portable.
Colin is at it again, but this time a slightly different tack, everything and more is to be included in a medium sized “Pelican” style of case made by Tactix. And it’s not just for safe transportation, once the case lid is lifted it will be ready to function as a portable station on 2 m and 70 cm within seconds. A little bit longer for the HF bands if you have to deployed an HF antenna.
The fully waterproof Tactix case currently securely accommodates the following:
ICOM IC-7000 all mode transceiver with its accompanying 3D printed adjustable angle cradle, to tilt the transceiver for optimum viewing when in operation.
ATU100 antenna matcher that was built from a kit, also mounted on the transceivers 3D printed bracket.
3D printed 12 Volt power distribution enclosure.
A NUC, which is a small form factor or size computer, complete with keyboard and mouse.
The NUC is secured by a rather stylish 3D printed frame.
Windows is installed along with various amateur radio software packages. Including Slow Scan Tele-Vision which was being demonstrated on the night.
A repurposed and internally gutted Apple iPad is mounted on the inside of the lid, providing a very clear display for the computer.
Plenty of room for rolled up antennas, cables and adaptors.
All powered by a 12 Volt 18 AH Lithium deep cycle battery that is external to the case, at the moment.
Colin is still in the “finding the best position for everything” phase, but it is well advanced as a work in progress.
Eric VK7ZPE brought in a brand new, just arrived in the post, End Fed antenna 1:64 balun.
Externally it is about the size of a packet of cigarettes and appears to be a very solidly constructed plastic unit. Having interlocking lid mouldings it should also be quite weatherproof.
It has three substantially reinforced holes on the top edge; this should make it easy to hang or be attached onto a support line.
The End-Fed antenna wire is attached onto one side of the enclosure, with the SO239 co-axial cable feeder socket mounted on the bottom. Maximum power rating on SSB and CW is under 100 Watts with FT8, FM, and FSK under 60 Watts.
From the sticker on the back, it is made by “bh7jyr” - interestingly written in lower case, according to QRZ, “looks like a callsign from China”. This is probably why there is so many variations available from some of their local stores.
Being an avid POTA aficionado, I wouldn’t be surprised if Eric is able to give us a full run down on its operational suitability by next tech night. Thanks Eric.
Check out the pictures including the very neat 3D printable rig mounting accessory on the previous week’s SSTV archives and on the NTARC Web site under “Blogs” for this broadcast. NTARC Blogs
UPCOMING EVENTS
CW course - Every Wednesday night, on 3.580 MHz from 7 to 7.30 pm. Your CW Coach for the evening is Nic, VK7WW.
On Air Test and Technical gathering - Wednesday nights, on 3.567 MHz from 7.30 pm.
Club Room Technical night - The next session will be Wednesday the 2nd September and will commence at the usual time of 6.30 pm at the Club Room Archer Street, Rocherlea.
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.
