Peaks, parks, and prayers: CW & SSB islands in a digital sea

[wayne burdick]

Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned, and are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers, they proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.

And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.

In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on the Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails and parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.

I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all of those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.

* * *

There's one thing these hams have in common.

Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated, or some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To experience a synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.

But it isn't always easy.

While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes such as FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as those who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it on the air.

For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even possible to lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its myriad cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear away.

Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small, integrated gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy such modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or content.

To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water, clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF portable, an all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew transceiver.

When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable operating position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not infested with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle your legs and antenna from a cliff.

Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge. You could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without snags. You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.

All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.

Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts. At times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who to call.  

But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation? Or is everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on your remote island?

You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts. Feeling like a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that says:

"We hear you."

* * *

You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.

Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those who do. Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:

   https://www.sota.org.uk/

The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency, making it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the shack or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a receiver on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this easy, with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or live audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when they pop up.)

One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more time to get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.

Let's do both. At the same time.

73,
Wayne
N6KR









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[David Gilbert-2]

I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies from
the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and similar
modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2 or
maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display, but an
all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion itself
could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.

73,
Dave AB7E



On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned, and
> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers, they
> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
>
> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
>
> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on the
> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails and
> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
>
> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all of
> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
>
> * * *
>
> There's one thing these hams have in common.
>
> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated, or
> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To experience a
> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
>
> But it isn't always easy.
>
> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes such as
> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as those
> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it on
> the air.
>
> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even possible to
> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its myriad
> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear away.
>
> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small, integrated
> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy such
> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or content.
>
> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF portable, an
> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew transceiver.
>
> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable operating
> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not infested
> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle your
> legs and antenna from a cliff.
>
> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge. You
> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without snags.
> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
>
> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
>
> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts. At
> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who to
> call.
>
> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation? Or is
> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on your
> remote island?
>
> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts. Feeling like
> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that says:
>
> "We hear you."
>
> * * *
>
> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
>
> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those who do.
> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
>
>    https://www.sota.org.uk/
>
> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency, making
> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the shack
> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a receiver
> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this easy,
> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or live
> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when they pop
> up.)
>
> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more time to
> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
>
> Let's do both. At the same time.
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR
>
>
>

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[Elecraft mailing list]

Wayne

Thanks for promoting wilderness radio including SOTA and I hope you don’t mind but I copied your entire message into a post on the global SOTA Reflector (watering  hole).

https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983 <https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983>

You captured the essence and feeling of mountain top radio. I love it and never cease to get a kick out of what you describe around the moment of the first contact (which includes a mountain of anticipation as to whether there will be a first contact).

Of my almost 250 mountain top activations and 40 or 50 NPOTA activations, I had either my KX3 or KX2 and neither have ever let me down. My antennas have failed, my coax has failed and my ability to spot (I’m SSB so not RBN for me) has in a hollowing gale atop a cold mountain had be retreat and fail but never the radio.

Thanks Wayne (and your team) for all you have done for the /P brigade.

Paul
W6PNG/M0SNA
www.nomadic.blog <http://www.nomadic.blog/>

> On Jun 7, 2020, at 2:35 PM, David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies from
> the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and similar
> modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2 or
> maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
> processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
> possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display, but an
> all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion itself
> could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.
>
> 73,
> Dave AB7E
>
>
>
> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
>> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
>> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned, and
>> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers, they
>> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
>>
>> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
>> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
>>
>> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on the
>> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails and
>> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
>> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
>>
>> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all of
>> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
>>
>> * * *
>>
>> There's one thing these hams have in common.
>>
>> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated, or
>> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To experience a
>> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
>>
>> But it isn't always easy.
>>
>> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes such as
>> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as those
>> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it on
>> the air.
>>
>> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
>> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even possible to
>> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its myriad
>> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
>> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear away.
>>
>> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small, integrated
>> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy such
>> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or content.
>>
>> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
>> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
>> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
>> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF portable, an
>> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew transceiver.
>>
>> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable operating
>> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not infested
>> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
>> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle your
>> legs and antenna from a cliff.
>>
>> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge. You
>> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without snags.
>> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
>> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
>>
>> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
>>
>> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts. At
>> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who to
>> call.
>>
>> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation? Or is
>> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on your
>> remote island?
>>
>> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
>> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts. Feeling like
>> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that says:
>>
>> "We hear you."
>>
>> * * *
>>
>> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
>>
>> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those who do.
>> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
>>
>>   https://www.sota.org.uk/
>>
>> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency, making
>> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the shack
>> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a receiver
>> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this easy,
>> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or live
>> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when they pop
>> up.)
>>
>> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more time to
>> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
>>
>> Let's do both. At the same time.
>>
>> 73,
>> Wayne
>> N6KR
>>
>>
>>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]

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Post: mailto:[hidden email]

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[jack frake]

Wayne,

Nicely said.

Here in Maine we have many opportunities for mountain trekking but you can
add operating out of small boats as well. There is no better feeling than
cruising all day, entering a snug harbor and kicking back with a warm meal
and afterwards, firing up the K-2.

Jack, W1IU
KX-1, K-2

On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 6:09 PM Paul Gacek via Elecraft <
[hidden email]> wrote:

> Wayne
>
> Thanks for promoting wilderness radio including SOTA and I hope you don’t
> mind but I copied your entire message into a post on the global SOTA
> Reflector (watering  hole).
>
>
> https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983
> <
> https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983
> >
>
> You captured the essence and feeling of mountain top radio. I love it and
> never cease to get a kick out of what you describe around the moment of the
> first contact (which includes a mountain of anticipation as to whether
> there will be a first contact).
>
> Of my almost 250 mountain top activations and 40 or 50 NPOTA activations,
> I had either my KX3 or KX2 and neither have ever let me down. My antennas
> have failed, my coax has failed and my ability to spot (I’m SSB so not RBN
> for me) has in a hollowing gale atop a cold mountain had be retreat and
> fail but never the radio.
>
> Thanks Wayne (and your team) for all you have done for the /P brigade.
>
> Paul
> W6PNG/M0SNA
> www.nomadic.blog <http://www.nomadic.blog/>
>
>
> > On Jun 7, 2020, at 2:35 PM, David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >
> > I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies from
> > the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and similar
> > modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2 or
> > maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
> > processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
> > possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display, but
> an
> > all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion itself
> > could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.
> >
> > 73,
> > Dave AB7E
> >
> >
> >
> > On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >
> >> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
> >> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned, and
> >> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers,
> they
> >> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
> >>
> >> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
> >> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
> >>
> >> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on
> the
> >> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails and
> >> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
> >> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
> >>
> >> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all of
> >> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
> >>
> >> * * *
> >>
> >> There's one thing these hams have in common.
> >>
> >> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated, or
> >> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To
> experience a
> >> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
> >>
> >> But it isn't always easy.
> >>
> >> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes such
> as
> >> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as
> those
> >> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it on
> >> the air.
> >>
> >> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
> >> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even possible
> to
> >> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its
> myriad
> >> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
> >> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear
> away.
> >>
> >> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small,
> integrated
> >> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy
> such
> >> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or
> content.
> >>
> >> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
> >> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
> >> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
> >> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF portable,
> an
> >> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew
> transceiver.
> >>
> >> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable
> operating
> >> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not infested
> >> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
> >> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle
> your
> >> legs and antenna from a cliff.
> >>
> >> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge.
> You
> >> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without
> snags.
> >> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
> >> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
> >>
> >> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
> >>
> >> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts. At
> >> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who to
> >> call.
> >>
> >> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation? Or
> is
> >> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on
> your
> >> remote island?
> >>
> >> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
> >> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts. Feeling
> like
> >> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that
> says:
> >>
> >> "We hear you."
> >>
> >> * * *
> >>
> >> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
> >>
> >> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those who
> do.
> >> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
> >>
> >>   https://www.sota.org.uk/
> >>
> >> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency,
> making
> >> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the
> shack
> >> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a
> receiver
> >> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this
> easy,
> >> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or live
> >> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when they
> pop
> >> up.)
> >>
> >> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more time
> to
> >> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
> >>
> >> Let's do both. At the same time.
> >>
> >> 73,
> >> Wayne
> >> N6KR
> >>
> >>
> >>
> > ______________________________________________________________
> > Elecraft mailing list
> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> > Post: mailto:[hidden email]
> >
> > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> > Message delivered to [hidden email]
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]

______________________________________________________________
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Post: mailto:[hidden email]

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[wayne burdick]

My pleasure, Paul. Feel free to repost elsewhere.

And keep on truckin' :)

73,
Wayne
N6KR

> On Jun 7, 2020, at 3:09 PM, Paul Gacek <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> Wayne
>
> Thanks for promoting wilderness radio including SOTA and I hope you don’t mind but I copied your entire message into a post on the global SOTA Reflector (watering  hole).
>
> https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983
>
> You captured the essence and feeling of mountain top radio. I love it and never cease to get a kick out of what you describe around the moment of the first contact (which includes a mountain of anticipation as to whether there will be a first contact).
>
> Of my almost 250 mountain top activations and 40 or 50 NPOTA activations, I had either my KX3 or KX2 and neither have ever let me down. My antennas have failed, my coax has failed and my ability to spot (I’m SSB so not RBN for me) has in a hollowing gale atop a cold mountain had be retreat and fail but never the radio.
>
> Thanks Wayne (and your team) for all you have done for the /P brigade.
>
> Paul
> W6PNG/M0SNA
> www.nomadic.blog
>
>
>> On Jun 7, 2020, at 2:35 PM, David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>
>> I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies from
>> the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and similar
>> modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2 or
>> maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
>> processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
>> possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display, but an
>> all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion itself
>> could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.
>>
>> 73,
>> Dave AB7E
>>
>>
>>
>> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>
>>> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
>>> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned, and
>>> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers, they
>>> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
>>>
>>> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
>>> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
>>>
>>> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on the
>>> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails and
>>> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
>>> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
>>>
>>> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all of
>>> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
>>>
>>> * * *
>>>
>>> There's one thing these hams have in common.
>>>
>>> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated, or
>>> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To experience a
>>> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
>>>
>>> But it isn't always easy.
>>>
>>> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes such as
>>> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as those
>>> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it on
>>> the air.
>>>
>>> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
>>> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even possible to
>>> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its myriad
>>> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
>>> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear away.
>>>
>>> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small, integrated
>>> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy such
>>> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or content.
>>>
>>> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
>>> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
>>> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
>>> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF portable, an
>>> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew transceiver.
>>>
>>> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable operating
>>> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not infested
>>> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
>>> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle your
>>> legs and antenna from a cliff.
>>>
>>> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge. You
>>> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without snags.
>>> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
>>> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
>>>
>>> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
>>>
>>> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts. At
>>> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who to
>>> call.
>>>
>>> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation? Or is
>>> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on your
>>> remote island?
>>>
>>> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
>>> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts. Feeling like
>>> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that says:
>>>
>>> "We hear you."
>>>
>>> * * *
>>>
>>> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
>>>
>>> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those who do.
>>> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
>>>
>>>   https://www.sota.org.uk/
>>>
>>> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency, making
>>> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the shack
>>> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a receiver
>>> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this easy,
>>> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or live
>>> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when they pop
>>> up.)
>>>
>>> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more time to
>>> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
>>>
>>> Let's do both. At the same time.
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Wayne
>>> N6KR
>>>
>>>

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[David Gilbert-2]

Thanks to Ray and Gwen for the tip, and that indeed looks like a really
nice low cost way to go.  But I already have a KX2 and I would still need
to bring along a notebook or small laptop computer.  I could certainly
homebrew a combined unit consisting of the MDS Phasor, a Raspberry Pi, and
a 12 volt display ... total cost would probably be less than $200.  I just
think that a self-contained unit would be inherently smaller, and probably
a good seller if Elecraft ever was inclined to offer one, especially if it
provided multiple bands.

73,
Dave   AB7E


On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 6:50 PM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:

> My pleasure, Paul. Feel free to repost elsewhere.
>
> And keep on truckin' :)
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR
>
>
> > On Jun 7, 2020, at 3:09 PM, Paul Gacek <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >
> > Wayne
> >
> > Thanks for promoting wilderness radio including SOTA and I hope you
> don’t mind but I copied your entire message into a post on the global SOTA
> Reflector (watering  hole).
> >
> >
> https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983
> >
> > You captured the essence and feeling of mountain top radio. I love it
> and never cease to get a kick out of what you describe around the moment of
> the first contact (which includes a mountain of anticipation as to whether
> there will be a first contact).
> >
> > Of my almost 250 mountain top activations and 40 or 50 NPOTA
> activations, I had either my KX3 or KX2 and neither have ever let me down.
> My antennas have failed, my coax has failed and my ability to spot (I’m SSB
> so not RBN for me) has in a hollowing gale atop a cold mountain had be
> retreat and fail but never the radio.
> >
> > Thanks Wayne (and your team) for all you have done for the /P brigade.
> >
> > Paul
> > W6PNG/M0SNA
> > www.nomadic.blog
> >
> >
> >> On Jun 7, 2020, at 2:35 PM, David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >>
> >> I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies from
> >> the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and
> similar
> >> modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2 or
> >> maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
> >> processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
> >> possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display, but
> an
> >> all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion itself
> >> could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.
> >>
> >> 73,
> >> Dave AB7E
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
> >>
> >>> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
> >>> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned,
> and
> >>> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers,
> they
> >>> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
> >>>
> >>> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
> >>> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
> >>>
> >>> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on
> the
> >>> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails and
> >>> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
> >>> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
> >>>
> >>> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all of
> >>> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
> >>>
> >>> * * *
> >>>
> >>> There's one thing these hams have in common.
> >>>
> >>> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated, or
> >>> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To
> experience a
> >>> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
> >>>
> >>> But it isn't always easy.
> >>>
> >>> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes such
> as
> >>> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as
> those
> >>> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it
> on
> >>> the air.
> >>>
> >>> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
> >>> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even
> possible to
> >>> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its
> myriad
> >>> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
> >>> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear
> away.
> >>>
> >>> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small,
> integrated
> >>> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy
> such
> >>> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or
> content.
> >>>
> >>> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
> >>> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
> >>> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
> >>> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF portable,
> an
> >>> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew
> transceiver.
> >>>
> >>> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable
> operating
> >>> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not
> infested
> >>> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
> >>> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle
> your
> >>> legs and antenna from a cliff.
> >>>
> >>> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge.
> You
> >>> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without
> snags.
> >>> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
> >>> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
> >>>
> >>> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
> >>>
> >>> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts.
> At
> >>> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who to
> >>> call.
> >>>
> >>> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation?
> Or is
> >>> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on
> your
> >>> remote island?
> >>>
> >>> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
> >>> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts. Feeling
> like
> >>> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that
> says:
> >>>
> >>> "We hear you."
> >>>
> >>> * * *
> >>>
> >>> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
> >>>
> >>> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those who
> do.
> >>> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
> >>>
> >>>   https://www.sota.org.uk/
> >>>
> >>> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency,
> making
> >>> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the
> shack
> >>> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a
> receiver
> >>> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this
> easy,
> >>> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or live
> >>> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when
> they pop
> >>> up.)
> >>>
> >>> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more time
> to
> >>> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
> >>>
> >>> Let's do both. At the same time.
> >>>
> >>> 73,
> >>> Wayne
> >>> N6KR
> >>>
> >>>
>
>
>

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[Gwen Patton]

I use an older Chromebook, Dave. I removed Chrome OS and replaced it with
GalliumOS, a Linux distro for Chromebooks. You can get an older model
Chromebook for really cheap these days, and that gives you a display,
battery, keyboard, trackpad, processor, and multiple digital mode apps, all
nicely self-contained. And you can use it for other things, too. The only
thing you'll have to add is a soundcard dongle, because the incredibly
stupid audio system in most Chromebooks is too braindead to work on digital
ham apps. Even a really fancy one will cost you only around $30, and there
are far cheaper ones that will do. That's the dongle, not the Chromebook. I
paid about $120 for this one about 5 years ago. I replaced the Chromebook
with a better, faster one with more RAM, a microSD slot that doesn't stick
half an inch out of the side of the machine, and USB-C.

I've got WSJT-X and JS8Call on it already, some logging programs, and
things like Echolink. The MDS Phaser I use it with is set up for 40m FT8
and JS8, but I can switch the JS8 to any frequency I want and run other
modes if I feel like it. Perhaps some Slow-Scan images, who knows?

I've seen some very fancy Raspberry Pi builds for it, though, if you want
to go that route. You'd have to add a display, keyboard, mouse, and power.
OR you can set it up headless and run it with a tablet or even your phone
over a remote access program like VNC. But that adds even more expense
unless you already have the tablet or phone. I'd still recommend a wireless
keyboard, though. Typing on a phone or tablet can be a pain, and there's
some really nice Bluetooth keyboards out there now, even folding ones you
can stow really easily.

I really like the Phaser. It's more challenging on FT8 than a full QRO
station, of course, and it's VERY packable. It makes a fantastic field rig
for working from parks, or probably for summit operation, though I don't do
that. There's few summits you can take a wheelchair to. hi hi

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
73,
Gwen, NG3P


On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 10:33 PM David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Thanks to Ray and Gwen for the tip, and that indeed looks like a really
> nice low cost way to go.  But I already have a KX2 and I would still need
> to bring along a notebook or small laptop computer.  I could certainly
> homebrew a combined unit consisting of the MDS Phasor, a Raspberry Pi, and
> a 12 volt display ... total cost would probably be less than $200.  I just
> think that a self-contained unit would be inherently smaller, and probably
> a good seller if Elecraft ever was inclined to offer one, especially if it
> provided multiple bands.
>
> 73,
> Dave   AB7E
>
>
> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 6:50 PM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> > My pleasure, Paul. Feel free to repost elsewhere.
> >
> > And keep on truckin' :)
> >
> > 73,
> > Wayne
> > N6KR
> >
> >
> > > On Jun 7, 2020, at 3:09 PM, Paul Gacek <[hidden email]> wrote:
> > >
> > > Wayne
> > >
> > > Thanks for promoting wilderness radio including SOTA and I hope you
> > don’t mind but I copied your entire message into a post on the global
> SOTA
> > Reflector (watering  hole).
> > >
> > >
> >
> https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983
> > >
> > > You captured the essence and feeling of mountain top radio. I love it
> > and never cease to get a kick out of what you describe around the moment
> of
> > the first contact (which includes a mountain of anticipation as to
> whether
> > there will be a first contact).
> > >
> > > Of my almost 250 mountain top activations and 40 or 50 NPOTA
> > activations, I had either my KX3 or KX2 and neither have ever let me
> down.
> > My antennas have failed, my coax has failed and my ability to spot (I’m
> SSB
> > so not RBN for me) has in a hollowing gale atop a cold mountain had be
> > retreat and fail but never the radio.
> > >
> > > Thanks Wayne (and your team) for all you have done for the /P brigade.
> > >
> > > Paul
> > > W6PNG/M0SNA
> > > www.nomadic.blog
> > >
> > >
> > >> On Jun 7, 2020, at 2:35 PM, David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
> > >>
> > >> I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies
> from
> > >> the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and
> > similar
> > >> modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2
> or
> > >> maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
> > >> processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
> > >> possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display,
> but
> > an
> > >> all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion
> itself
> > >> could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.
> > >>
> > >> 73,
> > >> Dave AB7E
> > >>
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]>
> > wrote:
> > >>
> > >>> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
> > >>> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned,
> > and
> > >>> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers,
> > they
> > >>> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
> > >>>
> > >>> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
> > >>> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
> > >>>
> > >>> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on
> > the
> > >>> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails
> and
> > >>> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
> > >>> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
> > >>>
> > >>> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all
> of
> > >>> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
> > >>>
> > >>> * * *
> > >>>
> > >>> There's one thing these hams have in common.
> > >>>
> > >>> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated,
> or
> > >>> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To
> > experience a
> > >>> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
> > >>>
> > >>> But it isn't always easy.
> > >>>
> > >>> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes
> such
> > as
> > >>> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as
> > those
> > >>> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it
> > on
> > >>> the air.
> > >>>
> > >>> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
> > >>> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even
> > possible to
> > >>> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its
> > myriad
> > >>> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
> > >>> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear
> > away.
> > >>>
> > >>> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small,
> > integrated
> > >>> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy
> > such
> > >>> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or
> > content.
> > >>>
> > >>> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
> > >>> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
> > >>> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
> > >>> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF
> portable,
> > an
> > >>> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew
> > transceiver.
> > >>>
> > >>> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable
> > operating
> > >>> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not
> > infested
> > >>> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
> > >>> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle
> > your
> > >>> legs and antenna from a cliff.
> > >>>
> > >>> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge.
> > You
> > >>> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without
> > snags.
> > >>> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
> > >>> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
> > >>>
> > >>> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
> > >>>
> > >>> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts.
> > At
> > >>> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who
> to
> > >>> call.
> > >>>
> > >>> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation?
> > Or is
> > >>> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on
> > your
> > >>> remote island?
> > >>>
> > >>> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
> > >>> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts.
> Feeling
> > like
> > >>> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that
> > says:
> > >>>
> > >>> "We hear you."
> > >>>
> > >>> * * *
> > >>>
> > >>> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
> > >>>
> > >>> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those
> who
> > do.
> > >>> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
> > >>>
> > >>>   https://www.sota.org.uk/
> > >>>
> > >>> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency,
> > making
> > >>> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the
> > shack
> > >>> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a
> > receiver
> > >>> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this
> > easy,
> > >>> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or
> live
> > >>> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when
> > they pop
> > >>> up.)
> > >>>
> > >>> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more
> time
> > to
> > >>> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
> > >>>
> > >>> Let's do both. At the same time.
> > >>>
> > >>> 73,
> > >>> Wayne
> > >>> N6KR
> > >>>
> > >>>
> >
> >
> >
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to [hidden email]

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Message delivered to [hidden email]

[JP Douglas]

You can get a brand new Dell Win 10 solid drive laptop for $150 that also lets you use winlink, not much memory but if you are only using it for ham applications it works fine, that’s what I use as a dedicated ham laptop.
73 de Jose Douglas KB1TCD

Sent from my iPad

> On Jun 7, 2020, at 11:28 PM, Gwen Patton <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> I use an older Chromebook, Dave. I removed Chrome OS and replaced it with
> GalliumOS, a Linux distro for Chromebooks. You can get an older model
> Chromebook for really cheap these days, and that gives you a display,
> battery, keyboard, trackpad, processor, and multiple digital mode apps, all
> nicely self-contained. And you can use it for other things, too. The only
> thing you'll have to add is a soundcard dongle, because the incredibly
> stupid audio system in most Chromebooks is too braindead to work on digital
> ham apps. Even a really fancy one will cost you only around $30, and there
> are far cheaper ones that will do. That's the dongle, not the Chromebook. I
> paid about $120 for this one about 5 years ago. I replaced the Chromebook
> with a better, faster one with more RAM, a microSD slot that doesn't stick
> half an inch out of the side of the machine, and USB-C.
>
> I've got WSJT-X and JS8Call on it already, some logging programs, and
> things like Echolink. The MDS Phaser I use it with is set up for 40m FT8
> and JS8, but I can switch the JS8 to any frequency I want and run other
> modes if I feel like it. Perhaps some Slow-Scan images, who knows?
>
> I've seen some very fancy Raspberry Pi builds for it, though, if you want
> to go that route. You'd have to add a display, keyboard, mouse, and power.
> OR you can set it up headless and run it with a tablet or even your phone
> over a remote access program like VNC. But that adds even more expense
> unless you already have the tablet or phone. I'd still recommend a wireless
> keyboard, though. Typing on a phone or tablet can be a pain, and there's
> some really nice Bluetooth keyboards out there now, even folding ones you
> can stow really easily.
>
> I really like the Phaser. It's more challenging on FT8 than a full QRO
> station, of course, and it's VERY packable. It makes a fantastic field rig
> for working from parks, or probably for summit operation, though I don't do
> that. There's few summits you can take a wheelchair to. hi hi
>
> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
> 73,
> Gwen, NG3P
>
>
>> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 10:33 PM David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>
>> Thanks to Ray and Gwen for the tip, and that indeed looks like a really
>> nice low cost way to go.  But I already have a KX2 and I would still need
>> to bring along a notebook or small laptop computer.  I could certainly
>> homebrew a combined unit consisting of the MDS Phasor, a Raspberry Pi, and
>> a 12 volt display ... total cost would probably be less than $200.  I just
>> think that a self-contained unit would be inherently smaller, and probably
>> a good seller if Elecraft ever was inclined to offer one, especially if it
>> provided multiple bands.
>>
>> 73,
>> Dave   AB7E
>>
>>
>>> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 6:50 PM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>>
>>> My pleasure, Paul. Feel free to repost elsewhere.
>>>
>>> And keep on truckin' :)
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Wayne
>>> N6KR
>>>
>>>
>>>> On Jun 7, 2020, at 3:09 PM, Paul Gacek <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>>>
>>>> Wayne
>>>>
>>>> Thanks for promoting wilderness radio including SOTA and I hope you
>>> don’t mind but I copied your entire message into a post on the global
>> SOTA
>>> Reflector (watering  hole).
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>> https://reflector.sota.org.uk/t/wayne-burdick-elecraft-promoting-sota-cw-and-ssb/22983
>>>>
>>>> You captured the essence and feeling of mountain top radio. I love it
>>> and never cease to get a kick out of what you describe around the moment
>> of
>>> the first contact (which includes a mountain of anticipation as to
>> whether
>>> there will be a first contact).
>>>>
>>>> Of my almost 250 mountain top activations and 40 or 50 NPOTA
>>> activations, I had either my KX3 or KX2 and neither have ever let me
>> down.
>>> My antennas have failed, my coax has failed and my ability to spot (I’m
>> SSB
>>> so not RBN for me) has in a hollowing gale atop a cold mountain had be
>>> retreat and fail but never the radio.
>>>>
>>>> Thanks Wayne (and your team) for all you have done for the /P brigade.
>>>>
>>>> Paul
>>>> W6PNG/M0SNA
>>>> www.nomadic.blog
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>> On Jun 7, 2020, at 2:35 PM, David Gilbert <[hidden email]> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>> I suggested this about a year ago and got mostly dismissive replies
>> from
>>>>> the group, but I still think that a small, dedicated FT8 rig (and
>>> similar
>>>>> modes) would be an attractive offering.  Something the size of a KX2
>> or
>>>>> maybe just a little larger, with a modest display and separate
>>>>> processors/memory for the rig and the digital modes.  It's entirely
>>>>> possible to run FT8 from a Raspberry Pi and an inexpensive display,
>> but
>>> an
>>>>> all-in-one rig would be so much more practical.  The rig portion
>> itself
>>>>> could be MUCH simpler (and therefore less expensive) than a KX2.
>>>>>
>>>>> 73,
>>>>> Dave AB7E
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 11:32 AM Wayne Burdick <[hidden email]>
>>> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>> Every day, hams worldwide, young and old, summit mountains and hills
>>>>>> carrying the lightest possible load. They earn every calorie burned,
>>> and
>>>>>> are rewarded with vistas most people never see. Like all adventurers,
>>> they
>>>>>> proudly display nature's merit badges: scrapes, bruises, and stings.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> And then they go back for more. The number of peaks "bagged" by some
>>>>>> operators is staggering, as is their level of fitness and endurance.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> In addition to those formally pursuing peaks (via SOTA, or Summits on
>>> the
>>>>>> Air), there are many others who operate casually from hiking trails
>> and
>>>>>> parks. Some operate while they walk (pedestrian mobile, HT-style or
>>>>>> HFpack). Some operate bicycle-mobile.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> I'm writing this out of admiration for, and in solidarity with, all
>> of
>>>>>> those who commune equally with nature and the ionosphere.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> * * *
>>>>>>
>>>>>> There's one thing these hams have in common.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Upon arriving at their destination -- tired, sweaty, hungry, elated,
>> or
>>>>>> some combination of these -- they hope to make a few QSOs. To
>>> experience a
>>>>>> synthesis of the outdoors and the radio art.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> But it isn't always easy.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> While many hams have transitioned to computer-based digital modes
>> such
>>> as
>>>>>> FT8, others have not. This includes ultralight travelers, as well as
>>> those
>>>>>> who seek the satisfaction of home-building simple gear and putting it
>>> on
>>>>>> the air.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> For portable operators in particular, simplicity and pragmatics often
>>>>>> dictate the use of CW and SSB. It may not be desirable or even
>>> possible to
>>>>>> lug a laptop in your pack, find a place to set it up, and attach its
>>> myriad
>>>>>> cables. You might struggle to see a washed-out LCD screen in direct
>>>>>> sunlight. High winds might capture an open laptop and sweep your gear
>>> away.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Many, instead, choose traditional modes. These allow for small,
>>> integrated
>>>>>> gear that can often be hand-held. And there's the bonus of immediacy
>>> such
>>>>>> modes offer, without mediation, without constraints on duration or
>>> content.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> To put yourself in their shoes, imagine that you just trekked several
>>>>>> miles, much of it uphill. To accommodate the need for food, water,
>>>>>> clothing, and safety gear, you've brought a minimum amount of radio
>>>>>> equipment. It might be a 3-ounce CW QRP radio; an HF-VHF-UHF
>> portable,
>>> an
>>>>>> all-band/all-mode HF HT (like a KX2), or your latest home-brew
>>> transceiver.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> When you arrive at your peak, you survey the spot for a suitable
>>> operating
>>>>>> position. It might be a large, flat rock; a patch of ground not
>>> infested
>>>>>> with ants and spiders; or a shady spot with a downslope in a favored
>>>>>> direction. You might climb a tree. Shelter beneath a ridge. Or dangle
>>> your
>>>>>> legs and antenna from a cliff.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Speaking of which, deployment of antennas presents another challenge.
>>> You
>>>>>> could spin-cast or toss a wire, hoping for a good landing, without
>>> snags.
>>>>>> You might wedge the feet of a tripod into rocks, then attach a small
>>>>>> magnetic loop. Or you might use a simple telescoping whip.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> All that effort. Now it's time to turn on the radio.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Virtually every time I've gone on such an outing, I've made contacts.
>>> At
>>>>>> times I've been lucky. Maybe it's operating experience: knowing who
>> to
>>>>>> call.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> But sometimes there's no one around on CW or SSB. Is it propagation?
>>> Or is
>>>>>> everyone swimming in the digital sea, not paying attention to you, on
>>> your
>>>>>> remote island?
>>>>>>
>>>>>> You can spot yourself on RBN (reverse beacon network), or prearrange
>>>>>> skeds. But what many of us hope for is that burst of contacts.
>> Feeling
>>> like
>>>>>> a rare DX station. Feeling that slap-on-the-back-at-a-distance that
>>> says:
>>>>>>
>>>>>> "We hear you."
>>>>>>
>>>>>> * * *
>>>>>>
>>>>>> You can, of course, partake of this experience yourself.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Whether you do or not, though: Please consider listening for those
>> who
>>> do.
>>>>>> Formal activations are announced in advance. See for example:
>>>>>>
>>>>>>  https://www.sota.org.uk/
>>>>>>
>>>>>> The band segments used are very small, or even a single frequency,
>>> making
>>>>>> it easy to monitor them while you engage in other activity around the
>>> shack
>>>>>> or on the air. You can use SOTA spotting websites, or just keep a
>>> receiver
>>>>>> on one of the watering holes. (The Elecraft K3/K3S/KX2/KX3 make this
>>> easy,
>>>>>> with built-in scanning. You can set the rig up for either muted or
>> live
>>>>>> audio scans, the latter making it easier to hear weak signals when
>>> they pop
>>>>>> up.)
>>>>>>
>>>>>> One final thought. In this pandemic era, some of us have had more
>> time
>>> to
>>>>>> get on the air, and some of us have had more chance to get outside.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Let's do both. At the same time.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> 73,
>>>>>> Wayne
>>>>>> N6KR
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
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