Broadcast - 20 Sept 2026
Let’s start on a positive note. Nic VK7WW, has received his Remembrance Day certificate, he gained First place in the Single Operator QRP Mixed section. Nic usually tries to operate with something suitably appropriate and circa World War II. I wouldn’t be surprised if it wasn’t his Coast-watchers AWA 3BZ Transmitter and a Marconi CR150/3 or similar, very much in the spirit of the event. Congratulations to Nic and to all VK7s that participated.
Colin VK7ZCF, has been progressing with his shack in a box concept that was mentioned last week. This is the one installed within a medium sized “Pelican” style of case made by Tactix. Based on an ICOM- 7000 with an ancillary Antenna Matching unit and also incorporating a computer and monitor for digital modes. As previously mentioned, it contains many 3D printed components, primarily to hold everything in place or to optimise operational viewing angles.
To add to the features it now has a 3D printed keyboard holder, these are springy gripper fingers and are incorporated in the case lid to secure the keyboard when not in use. Likewise the mouse has its own enclosure, reminiscent of the old school pencil cases, the ones with the sliding lid, very neat. The base board is actually a cut down, quite large, kitchen cutting board. Colin has stayed with the philosophy of no case penetrations to maintain its original IP65 certified rating, a very sensible move. The work in progress was happily demonstrating the reception and display of Slow Scan Television pictures on the very clear internal display. The display originally was a very early model Apple Ipad, before it was gutted and an external interface board was added.
The “go box” and its demonstration certainly drew plenty of interest, and it even amazed one would-be amateur and club member with its genuine “wow!” factor.
Eric VK7ZPE, had a new, still in box, “N” type coaxial cable lightning or surge suppressor that is suitable for in line or through panel mounting. It is intended to be installed between outdoor antennas and radio equipment for the attempted suppression of high-energy electrical pulses carried through the coax cable, generally from direct or nearby lightning strikes. Apart from the inline, opposite gender “N” connectors, one side face has a lug that is intended to be connected to ground to dissipate energy. The other side face incorporates a removable and replaceable gas arrester cartridge that is inserted and locked in with a screw on cap. Interestingly, in this case the gas arrester cartridge is a dual element type capsule, being used in series. The capsule was possibly originally intended for a balanced line feeder? And used in this situation to double the break over potential. Possibly taking it from 90 Volt, suitable for receivers to 180 Volt, more suited to Transceivers. It would make things easier if devices had meaningful designation, model or maker identification.
A reminder, if you are interested in aircraft telemetry, don’t forget the NTARC club rooms will be opening this Wednesday night to watch the live REAST YouTube presentation by Mogens Anderson, covering ADSB aircraft tracking and telemetry. It should answer any questions you might have regarding that short vertical antenna on the peak of the club room roof. See you this Wednesday, Doors will be open by 7.00 pm for a 7.30 pm presentation.
As usual pictures will be available 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 Special opening - ADSB live presentation, this Wednesday the 23rd September from 7.00 pm.
Club Room Technical night - The next session will be Wednesday the 30th 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.
