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New to DX with limited resources
Hello to all,
Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
Forgot to insert signature!
"G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
Forgot to insert signature!
"G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
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"G. Doughty" wrote in message news:apdfd.79933$cJ3.7790@fed1read06... Forgot to insert signature! "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
Test
"G. Doughty" wrote in message news:apdfd.79933$cJ3.7790@fed1read06... Forgot to insert signature! "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
Telnet connections can be found at URL:
http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
Telnet connections can be found at URL:
http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much |
Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone
line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Thanks again Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07... Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be |
Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone
line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Thanks again Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07... Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be |
I have hi speed cable and I bought a router and connected my two computers
(upstairs and downstairs) via a run of lan line. Another solution is to connect to a local VHF Packet Cluster. Check with DXers in your area for a VHF packet cluster in your area. U will need a VHF radio, a TNC, and a dumb terminal or computer. Computer speed is not important for either method and any of the older desk or laptops will work fine. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:jCdfd.79937$cJ3.39267@fed1read06... Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Thanks again Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07... Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be |
I have hi speed cable and I bought a router and connected my two computers
(upstairs and downstairs) via a run of lan line. Another solution is to connect to a local VHF Packet Cluster. Check with DXers in your area for a VHF packet cluster in your area. U will need a VHF radio, a TNC, and a dumb terminal or computer. Computer speed is not important for either method and any of the older desk or laptops will work fine. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:jCdfd.79937$cJ3.39267@fed1read06... Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Thanks again Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07... Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be |
Excellent. I think I may try the vhf route. I have an extra ht so maybe
that will work. If not, I will run the cable up the stairs. Two babies in the house though. I don't get on the air that much but when I do, I like to cw dx if the propagation is right. Thanks for the suggestions. 73 Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:r1efd.76619$hj.43520@fed1read07... I have hi speed cable and I bought a router and connected my two computers (upstairs and downstairs) via a run of lan line. Another solution is to connect to a local VHF Packet Cluster. Check with DXers in your area for a VHF packet cluster in your area. U will need a VHF radio, a TNC, and a dumb terminal or computer. Computer speed is not important for either method and any of the older desk or laptops will work fine. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:jCdfd.79937$cJ3.39267@fed1read06... Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Thanks again Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07... Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be |
Excellent. I think I may try the vhf route. I have an extra ht so maybe
that will work. If not, I will run the cable up the stairs. Two babies in the house though. I don't get on the air that much but when I do, I like to cw dx if the propagation is right. Thanks for the suggestions. 73 Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:r1efd.76619$hj.43520@fed1read07... I have hi speed cable and I bought a router and connected my two computers (upstairs and downstairs) via a run of lan line. Another solution is to connect to a local VHF Packet Cluster. Check with DXers in your area for a VHF packet cluster in your area. U will need a VHF radio, a TNC, and a dumb terminal or computer. Computer speed is not important for either method and any of the older desk or laptops will work fine. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "G. Doughty" wrote in message news:jCdfd.79937$cJ3.39267@fed1read06... Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Thanks again Greg ki4bbl "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07... Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be |
"G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much It might be easiest at this point in your learning curve to simply dial up and down the band of interest and find the stations that way. You don't have to have a computer or DX spotting aids or anything else to work DX. The DX spots are from all over the country and thus the DX listed might not be audible in your area due to band conditions. Even a "local node" has listings from all over that you may or may not be able to hear. At least by dialing, you will find stations that you can hear in your location. There are several ways that you can use the DX spotting aids. 1. Connect your computer to the internet. The use a terminal program like Hyperterm (free with windows) use the connect function to connect to the system that you want. I happen to use www.dxspots.com. The first type you connect, it will ask for your call sign, location and other info. After that it will just ask for the call sign. Some of the logging programs allow you to bring up the DX spotting sites without using a separate program. 2. Instead of using a terminal program, you can connect to the DX site directly. Just bring up Internet Explorer and type in www.dxspots.com and you can see the spots that way. 3. Instead of the internet, you can use 2m packet radio in some (but not all areas). Here you need a TNC or interface to connect between radio and computer. Once you have the hardware all hooked together (2m packet radio, TNC or interface, and computer), you will need software to run it. If you go with the TNC, you can just use a simple terminal program like Hyperterm. If you go with just an interface between computer and radio, you will need software to decode the packet info. Dee D. Flint, N8UZE |
"G. Doughty" wrote in message news:lidfd.79932$cJ3.34476@fed1read06... Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much It might be easiest at this point in your learning curve to simply dial up and down the band of interest and find the stations that way. You don't have to have a computer or DX spotting aids or anything else to work DX. The DX spots are from all over the country and thus the DX listed might not be audible in your area due to band conditions. Even a "local node" has listings from all over that you may or may not be able to hear. At least by dialing, you will find stations that you can hear in your location. There are several ways that you can use the DX spotting aids. 1. Connect your computer to the internet. The use a terminal program like Hyperterm (free with windows) use the connect function to connect to the system that you want. I happen to use www.dxspots.com. The first type you connect, it will ask for your call sign, location and other info. After that it will just ask for the call sign. Some of the logging programs allow you to bring up the DX spotting sites without using a separate program. 2. Instead of using a terminal program, you can connect to the DX site directly. Just bring up Internet Explorer and type in www.dxspots.com and you can see the spots that way. 3. Instead of the internet, you can use 2m packet radio in some (but not all areas). Here you need a TNC or interface to connect between radio and computer. Once you have the hardware all hooked together (2m packet radio, TNC or interface, and computer), you will need software to run it. If you go with the TNC, you can just use a simple terminal program like Hyperterm. If you go with just an interface between computer and radio, you will need software to decode the packet info. Dee D. Flint, N8UZE |
"G. Doughty" said :
Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Telnet is a text-only connection type between a server and your remote node. Telnetting to a node is extremely easily, but there are ways of making it easier still. Get yourself a broadband router with 802.11 wireless, also known as WiFi. They're relatively cheap, they serve as a nice hardware firewall and with a WiFi card in your shack computer you can easily telnet to one or more clusters and watch the spots roll in. An added bonus is that WiFi cards don't generate the hash that most Cat 5e network cables generate (a real problem for me, especially on 20m). Once you have a connection to the 'net, I'd suggest using the VE7CC AR Cluster config software. Bring it up, connect to the cluster of your choice (there are hundreds of them -- pick one near you or even just one with a 4 in its call if you're unsure). It doesn't really matter, so long as it's a North American cluster. Use the VE7CC software to configure that cluster connection to only show you only the DX spots you want to see. For example, I'm not interested in anything above 30 MHz, 60m or 160m, so I exclude those spots. I also exclude any spots which originate outside of the 1,2, 3 & 8 call areas plus Canada west of Ontario (I'm in NYC). No sense seeing how many west coasters are picking Asia clean on 15 long after the band's dead closed in the east (my blood pressure's high enough, hi hi). Of course, you really should just rely on tuning the bands as your primary source of DX hunting, but if you're going to use spotting, telnetting in is really a nice, easy to use and powerful way to go. You can telnet in on dialup, but depending on your terminal client (the program you use to display what comes back), it may just summarily close on you once the connection is lost. Having software that keeps the spots after the connectiond dumps is a significant advantage. Don't forget, if you choose to use a computer log, most good ones have a packet/telnet cluster interface as well so you can see at a glance when a spot comes in if you need it as an all-time new country, new band or new mode. In contests I find a steady cluster connection to be a lifesaver (no more busted calls -- of course, you have to enter as "assisted"). Good Luck! 73 de Peter, W2IRT (ex-AB2NZ, VE3THX) Please reply to Double-you Two Eye Are Tee at Arrl.net |
"G. Doughty" said :
Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Telnet is a text-only connection type between a server and your remote node. Telnetting to a node is extremely easily, but there are ways of making it easier still. Get yourself a broadband router with 802.11 wireless, also known as WiFi. They're relatively cheap, they serve as a nice hardware firewall and with a WiFi card in your shack computer you can easily telnet to one or more clusters and watch the spots roll in. An added bonus is that WiFi cards don't generate the hash that most Cat 5e network cables generate (a real problem for me, especially on 20m). Once you have a connection to the 'net, I'd suggest using the VE7CC AR Cluster config software. Bring it up, connect to the cluster of your choice (there are hundreds of them -- pick one near you or even just one with a 4 in its call if you're unsure). It doesn't really matter, so long as it's a North American cluster. Use the VE7CC software to configure that cluster connection to only show you only the DX spots you want to see. For example, I'm not interested in anything above 30 MHz, 60m or 160m, so I exclude those spots. I also exclude any spots which originate outside of the 1,2, 3 & 8 call areas plus Canada west of Ontario (I'm in NYC). No sense seeing how many west coasters are picking Asia clean on 15 long after the band's dead closed in the east (my blood pressure's high enough, hi hi). Of course, you really should just rely on tuning the bands as your primary source of DX hunting, but if you're going to use spotting, telnetting in is really a nice, easy to use and powerful way to go. You can telnet in on dialup, but depending on your terminal client (the program you use to display what comes back), it may just summarily close on you once the connection is lost. Having software that keeps the spots after the connectiond dumps is a significant advantage. Don't forget, if you choose to use a computer log, most good ones have a packet/telnet cluster interface as well so you can see at a glance when a spot comes in if you need it as an all-time new country, new band or new mode. In contests I find a steady cluster connection to be a lifesaver (no more busted calls -- of course, you have to enter as "assisted"). Good Luck! 73 de Peter, W2IRT (ex-AB2NZ, VE3THX) Please reply to Double-you Two Eye Are Tee at Arrl.net |
G. Doughty wrote:
Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. I wouldn't worry about a spotting network at this point in the game. With simple antennas and low power, anything that gets spotted will probably be difficult to impossible to work. You're better off tuning around the bands and finding the DX yourself. It can be helpful to look at the spots to get a general idea of what conditions are like. http://oh2aq.kolumbus.com/dxs is a good place to start. It'll tell you what part of the world is being heard in what other part of the world on what band. If you do decide to try to access a local cluster node, you need a *2m* radio and antenna, and a packet TNC. You'll have to ask locally about what frequency is in use -- in some areas it is possible there is no accessible local node. (at which point you're best off using the Internet) ================================ A few DXing hints: - If you aren't already proficient at CW, learn it. Practice, practice, practice... Low power is better at breaking pileups on CW. - Get on for contests. A LOT of DX will be on. (and the biggest phone contest of all is this coming weekend) A lot will be on from countries that can be difficult to work at other times. And especially on Sunday, DX in some overall very rare countries will be begging for QSOs - will be easy to work. If conditions are any good at all, you ought to be able to work 30 countries or more with your station this weekend. - Be sure you have envelopes at the QSL Bureau. That's how most of your DX will QSL. -- Doug Smith W9WI Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66 http://www.w9wi.com |
G. Doughty wrote:
Hello to all, Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. I wouldn't worry about a spotting network at this point in the game. With simple antennas and low power, anything that gets spotted will probably be difficult to impossible to work. You're better off tuning around the bands and finding the DX yourself. It can be helpful to look at the spots to get a general idea of what conditions are like. http://oh2aq.kolumbus.com/dxs is a good place to start. It'll tell you what part of the world is being heard in what other part of the world on what band. If you do decide to try to access a local cluster node, you need a *2m* radio and antenna, and a packet TNC. You'll have to ask locally about what frequency is in use -- in some areas it is possible there is no accessible local node. (at which point you're best off using the Internet) ================================ A few DXing hints: - If you aren't already proficient at CW, learn it. Practice, practice, practice... Low power is better at breaking pileups on CW. - Get on for contests. A LOT of DX will be on. (and the biggest phone contest of all is this coming weekend) A lot will be on from countries that can be difficult to work at other times. And especially on Sunday, DX in some overall very rare countries will be begging for QSOs - will be easy to work. If conditions are any good at all, you ought to be able to work 30 countries or more with your station this weekend. - Be sure you have envelopes at the QSL Bureau. That's how most of your DX will QSL. -- Doug Smith W9WI Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66 http://www.w9wi.com |
Peter Dougherty wrote:
band or new mode. In contests I find a steady cluster connection to be a lifesaver (no more busted calls -- of course, you have to enter as "assisted"). Dunno, seeing some of the busted spots that show up during a contest one has to begin to wonder whether *not* having cluster constitutes "assistance"grin! -- Doug Smith W9WI Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66 http://www.w9wi.com |
Peter Dougherty wrote:
band or new mode. In contests I find a steady cluster connection to be a lifesaver (no more busted calls -- of course, you have to enter as "assisted"). Dunno, seeing some of the busted spots that show up during a contest one has to begin to wonder whether *not* having cluster constitutes "assistance"grin! -- Doug Smith W9WI Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66 http://www.w9wi.com |
On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 10:37:25 +0100, Walt Davidson
wrote: On Mon, 25 Oct 2004 16:22:47 -0400, "G. Doughty" wrote: Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much I can't believe I'm reading this. Is a connection to a packet cluster now a prerequisite for working DX? How did we manage in those far-off days before there were any packet clusters? 73 de G3NYY I agree to some extent. Whilst the use of packet cluster can aid DXing,in my experience it can sometimes be frustrating. This is because, if a spot shows up on the cluster, then EVERYONE reading the spots will be aware of it - quite often with the inevitable pile-up. This is often difficult to break with 100W and low-height wire antennas. However, it's so much more rewarding to tune the band(s) and find a rare station calling CQ and be the first one to reply. Best 73 John, G4GOY .... 197 DXCC entities in the last 3 years |
On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 10:37:25 +0100, Walt Davidson
wrote: On Mon, 25 Oct 2004 16:22:47 -0400, "G. Doughty" wrote: Looking to give DX a try. I have two attic dipoles for 20 and 40 meters. I have a ten-tec scout 555 that runs 50 watts wide open. Anyways, I am trying to find a "node" to use on my laptop but am unsure what I need. I think all I need is a 10m radio (I have an htx 10) antenna (easy enough for a dipole in the attic) and a computer. Is that true? Also, with the computer, I am aware of Telnet, but how do I access a local node? I am probably talking out of my arse, but I think it would be interesting to get it all hooked up. I use a computer logger but I think I can access the node through a phone if need be. If it sounds like I'm confused, I am. A little help will go a long way. Thanks so much I can't believe I'm reading this. Is a connection to a packet cluster now a prerequisite for working DX? How did we manage in those far-off days before there were any packet clusters? 73 de G3NYY I agree to some extent. Whilst the use of packet cluster can aid DXing,in my experience it can sometimes be frustrating. This is because, if a spot shows up on the cluster, then EVERYONE reading the spots will be aware of it - quite often with the inevitable pile-up. This is often difficult to break with 100W and low-height wire antennas. However, it's so much more rewarding to tune the band(s) and find a rare station calling CQ and be the first one to reply. Best 73 John, G4GOY .... 197 DXCC entities in the last 3 years |
Sir Walter -- we did it the old fashioned way - we earned it !
Listen listen listen tune tune tune and you will be the first to work the rare DX The first cluster spot is made by a DXer who performed the above -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "Walt Davidson" wrote in message ... On Mon, 25 Oct 2004 16:22:47 -0400, "G. Doughty" wrote: I can't believe I'm reading this. Is a connection to a packet cluster now a prerequisite for working DX? How did we manage in those far-off days before there were any packet clusters? 73 de G3NYY -- Walt Davidson Email: g3nyy @despammed.com |
Sir Walter -- we did it the old fashioned way - we earned it !
Listen listen listen tune tune tune and you will be the first to work the rare DX The first cluster spot is made by a DXer who performed the above -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be "Walt Davidson" wrote in message ... On Mon, 25 Oct 2004 16:22:47 -0400, "G. Doughty" wrote: I can't believe I'm reading this. Is a connection to a packet cluster now a prerequisite for working DX? How did we manage in those far-off days before there were any packet clusters? 73 de G3NYY -- Walt Davidson Email: g3nyy @despammed.com |
Doug Smith W9WI said :
Peter Dougherty wrote: band or new mode. In contests I find a steady cluster connection to be a lifesaver (no more busted calls -- of course, you have to enter as "assisted"). Dunno, seeing some of the busted spots that show up during a contest one has to begin to wonder whether *not* having cluster constitutes "assistance"grin! Yeah, that's true too, but on the whole between listening and seeing the spots, I've not busted one in any of the contests I've played in yet. 73 de Peter, W2IRT (ex-AB2NZ, VE3THX) Please reply to Double-you Two Eye Are Tee at Arrl.net |
Doug Smith W9WI said :
Peter Dougherty wrote: band or new mode. In contests I find a steady cluster connection to be a lifesaver (no more busted calls -- of course, you have to enter as "assisted"). Dunno, seeing some of the busted spots that show up during a contest one has to begin to wonder whether *not* having cluster constitutes "assistance"grin! Yeah, that's true too, but on the whole between listening and seeing the spots, I've not busted one in any of the contests I've played in yet. 73 de Peter, W2IRT (ex-AB2NZ, VE3THX) Please reply to Double-you Two Eye Are Tee at Arrl.net |
Thanks for the help.
ki4bbl |
Thanks for the help.
ki4bbl |
"Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07...
Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be About a decade ago, QST ran an article about a ham in Texas that had DX contacts --daily--, even during sunspot minima. Awful news, I guess. But even a General can get on 20M. |
"Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote in message news:awdfd.76614$hj.65646@fed1read07...
Telnet connections can be found at URL: http://www.cpcug.org/user/wfeidt/Misc/cluster.html 10M is pretty grim now as we are on the down slide of the solar cycle -- but some openings are still occurring as you will see when you connect to a packet cluster via telnet. -- The Anon Keyboard I doubt, therefore I might be About a decade ago, QST ran an article about a ham in Texas that had DX contacts --daily--, even during sunspot minima. Awful news, I guess. But even a General can get on 20M. |
"Walt Davidson" wrote in message
... On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 07:11:11 -0700, "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote: Sir Walter -- we did it the old fashioned way - we earned it ! Listen listen listen tune tune tune and you will be the first to work the rare DX The first cluster spot is made by a DXer who performed the above So true! ;-) 73 de G3NYY -- Walt Davidson Email: g3nyy @despammed.com "Find 'em, work 'em, spot 'em." That moves a lot of folks out of your way while you find the next one ;-) -- ... Hank http://horedson.home.att.net http://w0rli.home.att.net |
"Walt Davidson" wrote in message
... On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 07:11:11 -0700, "Keyboard In The Wilderness" wrote: Sir Walter -- we did it the old fashioned way - we earned it ! Listen listen listen tune tune tune and you will be the first to work the rare DX The first cluster spot is made by a DXer who performed the above So true! ;-) 73 de G3NYY -- Walt Davidson Email: g3nyy @despammed.com "Find 'em, work 'em, spot 'em." That moves a lot of folks out of your way while you find the next one ;-) -- ... Hank http://horedson.home.att.net http://w0rli.home.att.net |
Peter Dougherty wrote:
Yeah, that's true too, but on the whole between **listening** and seeing the spots, I've not busted one in any of the contests I've played in yet. Yeah, it's that important word **listening**grin. Too many folks don't... -- Doug Smith W9WI Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66 http://www.w9wi.com |
Peter Dougherty wrote:
Yeah, that's true too, but on the whole between **listening** and seeing the spots, I've not busted one in any of the contests I've played in yet. Yeah, it's that important word **listening**grin. Too many folks don't... -- Doug Smith W9WI Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66 http://www.w9wi.com |
Walt Davidson wrote:
On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 19:21:38 -0400, "G. Doughty" wrote: Thanks for the help. ki4bbl We never had this problem when Short Wave Listening was accepted as the universal "apprenticeship" for ham radio. As SWLs, people learned how to *listen* ... an invaluable skill for any aspiring DXer. Unfortunately, if there is any apprenticeship for ham radio nowadays, it is usually CB ... which only serves to teach people bad habits and poor operating techniques. 73 de G3NYY thanks |
Walt Davidson wrote:
On Tue, 26 Oct 2004 19:21:38 -0400, "G. Doughty" wrote: Thanks for the help. ki4bbl We never had this problem when Short Wave Listening was accepted as the universal "apprenticeship" for ham radio. As SWLs, people learned how to *listen* ... an invaluable skill for any aspiring DXer. Unfortunately, if there is any apprenticeship for ham radio nowadays, it is usually CB ... which only serves to teach people bad habits and poor operating techniques. 73 de G3NYY thanks |
In article jCdfd.79937$cJ3.39267@fed1read06, says...
Thank you, however, I do not have internet access upstairs. Only a phone line. Is there a way to access via phone or is that too much to ask? I don't have aol or anything, just broadband in one spot in the house and my shack is upstairs. Pick up a wireless broadband router, then put a wireless card in your notebook. Once the wireless network is set up properly, you should be able to take your notebook just about anywhere in the house -- unless you have a house the size of Graceland or something -- and still access the Internet. -- -- //Steve// Steve Silverwood, KB6OJS Fountain Valley, CA Email: |
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