QRM

1970sDocument1978QRM Vol 8

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AMATEUR

&
= QR
RADIO
Bulletin issued by the North, North West and
Southern Branches of the Wireless Institute
of Australia, Tasmanian Division.

Registered for Posting P.O. BOX 275
as a Publication. LAUNCESTON
(C‘ategory B TAS. - 7250

OCTOBER 1978 Qg’
PRICE 4Cc
VOL. 8 NC, 7 <2

MEETINGS
s

Northern Branch - 34 Hourke St. 13/10/
-3

8 - 7.4:) pnmg

Northwest Branch - Lakins Hall, Ulverstone - 10/10/78 - 8.00 p.m.
Southern 3Branch - SZS Rooms, Melville St. 4/10/78 - 8.0C p.m.

CONTENTS

Page

QRM Comment Mounting of Yagi Antennae 13/14
Horthern Notes Broadcast Roster, and More 15/16
\N

"The Listening Post" 4 Northwest Notes 17/18
Northern Zguipment Store 5 Helpful Hints 19

VHF Notes 6 Accommodation for TARC 2C

DX Notes 7/8 Simple C# Filter 21

"The Boys #ireless Book" 8 Meodifying Kenwocod Equipment
for Novice Use (Reprint) 22
Southern Notes 9/10
"Wale" Poley Clark VK7CK
an
A\ State News 23

ATV - Simple as ABC - Part III 11/12
Page 2 QR M OCctober 1978

QRM COMMENT

with the advent of WARC 1979 the rush is on again to hold on to our frequen-
cies = and quite right too! However, our adversaries are at it again also = the
usual comment being that we are not using the frequencies for experimental
purposes.

I, like lots of others, use commercial equipment as well as building various
bits and pieces = and I know of very few amateurs who don't own cne or two bits of
"home brew" gear. The amount of "home brew" gear usually relates to time avail=-
able, capacity to get it going, and finance. Nevertheless, the sum total of
"gear" built by amateurs must be considerablel

One area which can be improved is in "the capacity to get it going” and we
can do this via clubroom projects. Coming up shortly is an 80 meter transceiver
by Winston VK7EM = why not get your group together and make a go of this. Feorple
with marginal knowledge will participate more in group projects because there is
little chance of being embarrassed in this situation. Give it some thought, and
if you have any good ideas pass them along to GRM.

IRATE' a., angry = is the dictionary definition of irate. It was passed
along to me this month that some people were irate because one page of last
month's issue was occasionally blank. For those who missed out, we have printed
it again - for those who were irate, the next packing date is 2nd of Cctober; if
you care to give us a little assistance, perhaps we can improve! Seriously,
make a note of 2ND OCTORBRER at the clubrooms, Launceston - we would like more than
the usual 4 or 5 in attendance - Thank you.

TARC 1978 To date, 19 September, only one person from the North/North-
west area has registered - Come on people, get those registration forms in - NOW,

Either our typists in love or I must improve my handwriting, but several
errors crept in last month, e.g. "Under the stars" at the GTH of 7CCC.

A1l the pages in this issue have been typed on the same machine; we hope
this will make it easier on the G&()g

Graham Johnston, VK7GD is handling the aucticn at the Hamfest - Start
saving all those goodies to take along.

LR I S S

Articles are once again needed for 4RM - we will redraw circuit diagrams, and
rewrite if necessary. Please help us to get a bank of items - thank you.

* OH K N OE X A ¥

The wine and Cheese tasting night was a tremendous success - ample supply of food
and an excellent choice of wines. 4ll this, coupled with music for dancing hel
to make the night really go. 4 pleasant break was provided by some female (?)
visitors from the "Gold Coast CB Radar Club" in the shape of VK7KK, ZBY, HE, ZRF
and Ed Hewen's brother-in-law. The prize went to Reg VK7KK. The next time you
Brian, 7ZBY ask him when the viewing in Bourke St. takes place!

PRE CONVENTION ISSUE
—

Cctober 1578 g RM Fage 3%

Te all the ladies who provided the "goodies" and the effort in the
presentation, many thanks frem all of us who attended.

x % % d A K X %

NCRTHERN NCTES by Maurice, VK7JU

The monthly meeting for Friday, 8th September was neld at the Clubrooms,
Bourke St. on a fine clear night for a change! The attendarce of 18 members
was very pocr and Joe, VK7JG expressed concern in this regard., It was noted
that quite a number of members were out of town due to a variety of causes.

The Chairman called for a full attendance at the next meeting - Friday,
13th Cctober, when members will be addressed by Col Wright, VKTLZ, the subject
"Working the Rare DX Station". Col is expected to review the DX situation
around the world in the process, and as Col has been active since 1932, he
certainly is an expert on the subject. 8Sc¢, roll up and hear Col unfold his
views.,
The Treasurer reported a bank balance of 31263.84 as at 29/8/78,

Sub-Committee Reports: Joe, VK7JG revcrted that the recent display
staged at the Albert Hall 26/27th Lugust in conjunction with Riverside JC's
was one of the most successful to date. Thanks to 2all members who combined
tc erect antennas and displays and man the exhibit during the period.

Stores Report: Ian, VX7IC reported a gcod clearance of call hooks.
There are now new stocks of aluminium tubing aveilable at the store, so place
your order and collect gocds from the QTH of VK7JG by arrangement,

Channel SAs Members were reminded again to write or contact their
local members and state the iadic Amateurs case in regard to this proposal
as outlined in articles in the Bulletin, GRY¥, and AR publications. The next
executive meeting will be at the clubrooms, Friday 6th October. At the cone-
clusion of general business, two FB films were shown, namely Telecom 2000 and
Ultrasonic Zxamination of the Brain in Children. Thanks again to Reg, VKT7KX
for this selection.

%* X K % X K A B

FCR SALE VK7JC -~ Disposal of surplus Ham Shack equipment - some items
new in cartons, others as new.

1202 2 metre Transceiver $175.00 ) Together §180
4el 2 metre Yagi with Gamma Match 10,00 ) &
KR400 Antenna Rotator 120,00
Soldering Irons:
Large scope with transformer
COOOODODDOO
—
@R =\ oo
ODOOQDOOOQO

Adcola 20w iron
weller soldering gun 1
-

Scope cordless ircen 1
Soldervac sclder sucker
Shorted turns tester
Coral high velocity 100 chm Sterec Fhones

J. CLIVER, VK7JC, 2 Luxmore Place, Launceston, 7250. TFhone 443%14 or business
315744.
¥ ow ok K m N R m
4 SR M Cctober 1978

u
"THE LISTENING POST" by Earwig

Have you ever listened to some of the DX that comes through on the medium
waves? You, like me, will be surprised at what does come through in the wee
smzll hours of the morning. Take Pyongyang in North Korea; logged at 1430 hours
GMT on 635 k/cs with its Japanese language programme. This is the same programme
as transmitted on 6540/3015 k/cs and its report; 43%323. HNext to it in frequency
loggzed was a transmitter of the Chinese People's Broadcasting System on 64C k/cs
at 14%6 z. 1t was carrying the First Network and is believed to be located in
Beijink (Peking) with a transmitter power of approximately 150 kw.

Cn approx. 710-715 k/cs, HLKA in Seoul, South Korea was heard at 1440z with
a programme in Korean. The WRTE states that this government broadcasting station
uses a transmitter power of 500 kw! Cf course, it, I assume, would be mainly
used for propaganda to the North Koreans as well as to the sizeable Korean minority
within Japan.

At 1445z, a station was heard with what seemed to be a Japanese-French
language lessor on 770 k/cs. It was very strong; Sinpo 42444 and according to
WRTE is Radio JOUB in Akita, Japan. This station carries the NHK 2nd Network
which is mainly educational and its transmitted power is also 500 kw!

The begst times to listen for MW DX is after the local stations here in
hustralia have signed off at 140Cz when the channels are clear. However, after
November 4th, Daylight Saving comes into effect and stations in Queensland and
W.h, will be still operational even though stations in the other states have
gigned off, This will make loggings difficult for the channels will still be
filled with locals.

The BBC in London has a very up to date, informative programme for DXers in
the World Service called the World Radioc Club. It is aired at 1330z and 2315z and
I found the bext frequency to hear it is 15070, It contains news with what is
happening in the world of international broadcasting, as well as providing up to
45"’.)‘(70-‘4

date propagation news, and I mean up to date up to 24 hours prior to the programme
eing broadcast. The same holds true with DX news. Just 36 hours prior to the
yroadcast, was recorded Bangui, in the Central African Empire (see Sept. SRM),
gzed at the BBC's Monitoring Station at Caversham Park on 4999.5 k/cs at 1800z,
However, it was said that since then its frequency is varying up to 5020.
Incidentally, this weekly programme is aired on Wednesday in the %World Service,
so if you want to keep up to date with what is happening in DX, this programme is
recommended.

Also logged this month were:- JCS Chosi, Japan with commercial ship to
shore traffic on c/w: 8650 k/cs 54345 1030z.
VRN Hong Kong operated by Royal Navy with
Marker Signal 1030z 8620 k/cs 54434.
Also VPS Hong Kong operated by Cable and
Wireless 8580 443%3, Note: at 1320 both combined for weather B/C.
WCC Cape Cod operated by RCA Communications.
Heard on all maritime bands. 13033 k/cs heard at 1145z with long TFC List. Has
been operational since 1914.

Amateur Station S5HE3BP, Dar es Salaam. Cne
of only 4 stations in Tanzania. Heard working VK7 on 14305 at 130Cz. Was jumped
by every Ham at conclusion of his sked. Was s/7.

“ell, that is all for this month. Please send your reports via P.C. Box 275,
Launceston, Tas, 7250, by the 10th of the month,
73 DE "Earwig"
# R W W F R W
[_—; [—T: [—-1 [—_; [_

Uctober 1978 S RM

NORTHERN BRANCE EQUIPMENT STORE - RECENT ADDITICXS

Voltage regulators LM34C0TP -5 $1.90
LM340T -12 1.90
LM317T 4.40
(va 78CB (13,.8v 24) 5.50
(data available

« + A - Wiestlakes Novice-commercial print £4.50
\

Electros - all 25 volt
!

0047' 19 4-7, 10’ 22 uf 6c each
A

100 uf 10c each
470 uf 20¢ each
I

3300 uf 50 volt $1.10 each
\

Trimmers 2-22 pf 2
. I

- £ .
?:?2 p? p: ﬁ A1l 35c each
12-75 pf (New stock soor) )
|\ |

BC318/108 25¢
2N3563% 28¢
BNC male and female 31.55 each
PL 258 coax joiners .00
R

22k carbon trimmers 3c each or 10 for 25c
0.082 uf 250v 2¢c each or 10 for 25¢
18C pf 2c each or 10 for 15¢
C.15 pf 250v 5 3c each
s

Thermistors 39 @ 150°C 2c each
120 @ -20°C 2c each
T
TA

0.001 uf 12kv 30¢c each
729 slugs 11c each
Available soon = coax RG58/CU real quality Alminium tubing = 10mm CD 4 metre
e

lengthe $1.80. Idezl for VEF beams.

A1l above items may be obtained from the clubrooms equipment store 19.30 to
FR

20.30 hours Tuesday and Thursday evenings except for the tubing, which is
available from the GTH of VK7JG by arrangement.
T

WK
W RR

"DC_ YCU REALLY CARE IF YCUR CLUB STAYS IN EXISTENCE?™
T

If this club had tc maintain balance sheets on the efforts of members
as a whole, we would be declared bankrupt!! It really is an alarming and
sorry state of affairs - the last attendance of 18 members indicates this.
Some only come along occasicnally for the specific opurpose of whingeing -
some shy clear of being involved in any work areas - others don't even bother
ErET

tc come along at all, What would you do,if at the end of our official year
if we said the club was closing through lack of interest” Well, that seems
to be the way it's heading. & club is not a club without member participation.

(Cont, P 6)
W

Page 6 QRAM October 1978

If we as an executive for the club are doing things incorrectly - tell us!
se need a greater turnup at the meetings to keep the motivation moving. Tlease
ccme along ~ bring the wife and kids - At the next meeting on 13th Cctober we
want to see the room full, and please, we would like at least a dozen (12) on
packing nights to get this magazine out to mail. We need painters to get the
store room painted - volunteers, please. In short - if you, as a member of the
radio fraternity, cannot get off your bottom once a month to support the group,
then you don't deserve to be an amateur. P.S. Whilst you are in a nasty mood
at reading what you don't consider should apply to you, don't forget to post
your complaint about Channel 54 - and your application for the Southern Hamfest!
VK7CCC.

* H K R R ¥ X ¥

WANTED TC BORROW < Practicel Wireless - April, May, June. 3ob, VK7ZRF.

FOR SALE - Audio line equipment, suitable for wrecking, plugs, meters, trans-
formers etc, Programme audio amps - 14 inch picture monitors.
Contact Frank VK7ZFR or Bob, VKTZRF,

* K K O K K ¥ W

Remember that there will be an Auction at the Eamfest down South - Graham,
VKT7GD, the equipment store officer, is handling it, and hopes all North and
Northwest members will take gear along toc sell.

HOE KR
KR¥ ¥

VHF NOTES by Joe, VKT7JG

Cnce again we have very little to report on 6 metre activity in VK7. My
6 metre rig runs on 52,050 whenever we are in the workshop and to date haven't
heard a thing in 5 months. Just a few notes of interest from A.R.A. New
Caledonia - FKBAB will be active this year and shouldn't be too hard to work as
he is closer than YJBKVM and Ken was worked on many occasions last year.

Mellish Reef = JA1KSO from 25th September to 9th October. WA6JRA has
heard TV CHf from Wagga during May, the calling area for SSB is 50.100~5C.125,
50 keep an ear to the bottom end of the band., With the state of the art being
superior to what it was in 1968, these “rare" contacts we hope will be quite
common happenings during the next DX season.

Two metres has been much the same, although on Friday 22nd afternoon
VK3RGL was usable for several hours. Kevin, VK7ZAH also worked a couple of
VK3s on Saturday morning - That's all till next month.

T2es Joe

* K K K R K K K
Cctober 1978 Page 7

=
£
»,
-
DX NCTES by Col, VXTLZ

As expected, conditions have improved considerably since last month's notes
were written, although it's generally recognised that the lower frequency bands
detericrate with the rise in sun-spot activity.

7 m/hz is still worth a check, tuning over the band cccasionally between
0600z and 0700z produced several European countries on C,S., also DM2DTO,
G130QR, CN6WL, GW3AX, GWA4BVN, DA1UM plus W's and JA's on SSB with signals running
between S6 and S9.

14 m/hz has also produced some excellent DX, the most notable feature being
the return of South American stations. PY, ZP, CX, HC, EX, YV and 8R stations
are now being logged again but most important was the receiving of the VP8's =
VPBHZ an o0ld friend of several VK7's was QSC'ed at 1000z for 45 minutes with S8
signals on 20th September and VP8G has also been heard, Africans have been
copied occasionally but next month should give us better signals in this area -
Asian, Eurcpean and Central Americans are also there for the taking.

21 m/hz - This band has continued on the upward trend; African stations
are now heard almost daily from 0500z, sometimes barely audible, but at other
times with excellent signals. Chris Walker A2CDw appeared on the ANZA net on
Sunday 17th September with 44 signals and has promised to be on this net on
Sundays in the future (tune around 21,200 m/hz at 0500z). Cthers QSC'ed were
3B8DU, 3B9ZZ, 3D6BP, 9J2GJ, also 2E and ZS's. Another unusual station heard
was JV7FD on Bear Island. ZHuropeans are appearing almost daily from 0600z,
whilst JA and W signals are rarely non-esixtent. HL, UA, UL and VS6 has been
worked from here during our afternoons and evenings.

Last month we mentioned that 28 m/hz, although open, had produced nothing
exciting; since then stations in Africa and Europe have been QS0'ed between
0430z and 0700z, Asia and North Americans have appeared from 0001z to 0700z,
the pick of the lot being STSRK in the Autonomous State of the Sudan - More
time will need to be spent on this band in the future.

Uctober is the month most IX'ers have been waiting for with the following
contests to be worked:

VK/ZL Oceania - Phone Cctober 7th and Sth
VK/ZL Oceania - CW October 14th and 15th
RSGB 7 m/hz Contest - Phone October 21st and 22nd
CQ WW DX Contest - Phone October 28th and 29th

Several DXpeditions have been planned for the CQ W+ Contest and activity
is expected from Chatham island, San Felix, Guernsey Galapagos and possibly
Revilla Gigedo. It has also been mentioned that the U.S.S.R2., not to be outdone,
is planning an expedition to Franz Joseph Land and this could eventuate in the
Cctober-November periocd.

VP8HZ advised that he had QSC'ed VPB8QK on the South Crkneys a few days
before cur QSO and that VPBPL at the same QTH is too busy to get on the air at
present,

The Chatham Island gang are gocing all out to help the novices after the
Cq W+ contest is over. They will look for them approximately 10 k/hz inside
their band edges on all novice bands 28 m/hz to 3.5 m/hz, the call sign will be
either ZL3H1/C or ZL3CQ, @SL to ZL14D1. Listen from 27th Cctober to 7th
Kovember.

(Cont., T 8)
\
Page 8 QR M Cctober 1978

@SL information:

EP2BZ ?,C. Box 917, Teheran DP2IA4 vie 'W4YE
EP2LI via WA4DYF EP2MS via W8CXS
ZP2NC via I2YDX EP2SI via JHIKHK
EP2TW wvia GI3HXV FPSAM via X1FV
JWTFD wvia LASNM STSRK via DLTPT
VP2KT wvia WB2TSL 3B9ZZ via W2GEK
8HIX via VE3IXE

WBEMID/BR Box 893, Georgetown, Guyana
FHBCJ P.C. Box 50, DZOUADZ 97600 Mayotte, Indian Ccean

¥O X X ¥ ¥ X £

EXCERPTS FROM "THE BOYS WIRELESS BCOK" through Winston, VK7EM

"Has your best crystal suddenly ceased to give satisfactory results?
If so, you have probably allowed the surface to become covered with a thin coating
of dust or grease. The thinnest covering of dust is sufficient to prevent the
received currents from flowing through a crystal. It is a good plan to keep a
camel hair brush by you and to dust the crystal periodicelly".

On using an aerial tuning unit before the receiver, "The object of a tuner
is to prepare the receiving aerial to vibrate at the same frecuency as that of
the incoming waves. Every aerial tends to vibrate at a certazin frequency, and
when that frequency is the same as the frequency of the incoming waves, the
latter waste none of their energy in setting up vibrations in it.

On the search for the best loudsveaker; "There is an increasing demand for
'loud speakers' for use with wireless instruments. Although many of these give
quite good results, it still remains a2 fact that the ideal loud speaker has not
vet been invented. This suggests an easy and useful avenue of research for the
amateur. The quality of wood used, and the actual shape of the trumpet part,
seem to be two of the most important factors".

"Pictures by Wireless".
*Television', or the transfer cf actual pictures or scenes to a distant
point, has long been the dream of the telegraphic engineer, and a certain
degree of success has already been attained over conducting wires, The wire-
less expert is not far behind in this matter, and, in addition to loading the
ether with song and music, the time may not be far distant when we shall have
'pictures' similarly carried from place to place by wireless waves."

"2L0O opens up at 5 p.m. each evening and at 5.30 the "Childrens Hour"
cormences tc be focllowed by an excellent programme for grown-ups. This includes
selections from the wireless orchestra, and if you have a sufficiently sensitive
receiver the music will be so loud that you can fill a large room with it."

The programme at each station varies considerably from any of the prog-
rammes at the other stations. Moreover, it is not necessary to have a separate
receiver to pick up the different programmes. The same receiving instrument
will enable you to listen in to any of the broadcasting stations - providing it
is sensitive enough.

(Cont. P 9)
e
October 1978 9 R M Page G

"If the signals you are receiving are very loud, you can employ an
instrument known as a loudspeaker for the purpose of rendering them audible to
S

fifty or a hundred people. Even if signals are not loud enough to permit this,
by adding extra head telephones you can entertain at least three or four
friends."

* K OH X R R *

These, I thought, were "priceless" statements and may be interesting to
YN

other readers. Some of the diagrams in this book are also "classics".

73 Winston, VK7EV

* R X K R x * R
o O

SOUTHERN BRANCH NCTES

There were 40 people present at the last meeting held on September 6th.
The meeting was re—organised to allow Tom Barnes from Icon Industries to give
a lecture on making Scothcal labels ..... to prove that people listened, Joe
78J, and others, made up call sign labels. Many thanks, Tom for a good
lecture.

The formal side of the meeting got under way at 2045. A report from the
o

reveater committee advised that no damage had occurred to Hepeater 2 aerials
from ice this year.

The 6 metre beacon is almost finished - new fregquency to bve 52,375 MEZ =
and a report on its development is bteing compiled by Alan Ruthven.
o

A new list of brocadcast officers was drawn up and the cuestion of a 40
metre AM broadcast in the south was raised. What do YOU think 77777

For various reasons a ¥.I.A. stand was not set up at the N.C.R.A.
Convention at Wrest Point - a private amateur display that was there wes very
popular and got good T.V. coverage.

Greg TFT gave a report on T.A,R.C., 78 = have you sent your registration
form in yet? There was one in last month's QRM and another in this months.

Mike TMC tendered nis resignation from his Southern Branch executive
position - thanks for your past efforts, Mike.
| A O o O

¥or those of you with large towers, Peter 7ZPA read an item from "The
Age" wnhich stated that the all clear has been granted in Victoria for towers
of unlimited height - TAZ take note!

At the end of the meeting an auction was held of items from Winston
TWH's shack - just about all present going home with a GOOD? buy.

Next meeting 4th Uctober ~ see you there.

indrew VKTZAJ

LR R e
Page 10 @R M October 1978

Are you, like me, always getting GRF when you're trying to do something?
Don't worry = there are lots of activities to keep the wife and kids entertained
at the Convention, especially while the auction is on. There are visits to
Salamanca Market, Tudor Village, Shot Tower, the Botanical Gardens and a Crafts
shop; make-up and manicure demonstrations (psst - bring your own nailpolish),
china and bark painting, and cake decorating, as well as some expert advice from
a physiotherapist.

And, for the kids, there are children's films, and a fancy dress ball (with
prizes), and after they collapse with exhaustion they can retire to the creche.

If you can't get away with all you want at the auction with those distrac-
tions, you had better register elsewhere!

*O R R 4 ¥

o
EQUIPMENT AUCTION AT CCNVENTION

From 4.00 p.m. on the Saturday there will be an equipment auction at the
Convention,.

Items for auction should be usable or working or gecod surplus items.

Graham Johnson 7GD is organising the auction, telephone at work - 306460,
nome = 726412 = get in touch if you have anything for it.

He will collect items before the auction if possible and he will alsoc be
travelling through to Devonport for the Divisional Ccuncil meeting on Cctober
21st; listen out for him on the repeater.

#* x H * X # ¥ =

"POLEY" CLARK - VK7CK - SEPTEMBER 15, 1978

Radio Amateurs and also many other folk around Tasmania and across the
world will be saddened to hear of the sudden passing of cne of Amateur radio's
gentlemen of the air. Namely, Leopold ¥. Clark, VK7CK or "Poley" as he was
known by all the radio fraternity.

To our knowledge, Poley was licensed upwards of 45 years and first came on
the air from his QTH of Upper Natone, a small farming community on the N.Ww.
coast of Tasmania.

It was at this location that Pcley constructed and operated his own Hydro-
electric power station by using water from a creek on his property to drive a
small water turbine coupled to an A.S.E.A. alterrnator. This power supply was
in use for many years to drive his various TPTG "Mgs" and other set-ups which
powered nis long wires and EZnd Fed Zepps. This power supply was in use long
before reticulated power was available from the State's Grid system.

It is believed Foley worked into Northern Eurcpe cn 80 MX in the early
"zood old days of radio”., In recent years Foley could be heard almost daily
working the "G's" and many others at his home at Legana on the West bank of the
Tamar River.

(Cont. P 11)
October 1978 G R M Page 11

To FPoley's wife, Etta and te a2ll members of nis family, we extend our
deepest sympathy in their loss.

LRB

ATV: SIMPLE AS ABC PART IIT

This month we have a few more circuits. W¥e will start with what is com=
monly referred to as the head amp., This amplifier has to provide enough gain to
bring the low output of the vidicon tube (a few millivolts) up tc a satisfactory
working level (about .7 vclt) where further prcocessing can be carried out. The
other important requisites are low noise and some form of frequency compensation
to counteract the output capacity the tube target and connection lead. To
reduce this capacity it is recommended thet the target connection be a small
hrass spring section bearing against the target ring and connected tc the amp-
lifier via a very short lead. Also, to keep the input capacity of the amplifier
low, it is important to use the specified transistor in the first stage as this
is a plastic case type with low interelectrode capacity.

HEAD AMP

To TARGET
CONTROL

BC 549 LN3638 2N3638
BC 269

The circuit used in this case was written up by Frank, VK7ZFR in August '74
GRM. This amplifier was originally built cn rectangular circuit board with a
semi=-circular cutout for the vidicen and was intended to be mounted on the front
of the yoke assembly, but this prevented adequate movement for focussing so the
board was finally mounted on the baseplate beneath the yoke. I believe the best
method of construction would be on matrix board with short direct wiring con-
nections., This would also reduce stray capacity somewhat. Further excellent
head amps appeared in "AR" recently.
(Cont., F 12)
Page 12 QR M Cctober 1978

4 very important consideration, particularly with this amplifier, is separate
earthing and supply lines back to the power socket. The shield portions of the
deflection yoke assembly must also be earthed similarly., If interference and noise
are a problem with the amplifier, one might have to resort to a metal case for same.

The other circuit for this month is the processing amplifier, This unit
accepts the amplified signal from the target and inserts at given D.C. levels mixed
blanking and mixed sync. pulses. This design is based on a type described some ti
ago in "C,q. TV", The sync. and blanking signals are derived from T.T.L. levels
via transistor buffers. This circuit is built on matrix board alsc. The main -
advantage of using separate processing is to enable test signals and other video
sources to be switched in or out with minimal interruvtions to line as the sync.
and blanking is always present.

The controls are set up to give the ratios approximated below.

<+Sv

DIODES
ING 45

AMP MIX. BL. MIX.SYNC
U

A —— J00%
,// \ .

SET UP \\_ 32§ ZG
‘ _ BLANKING L—J‘j- %

SYNC R o

Teo be continued.

T3's Bob, VK7ZRF

* K X % ¥ H X *
LJ .r.:r

Cctober 1978 e RM Page 13

MOUNTINS OF YAGI AERIALS

While glancing through some old copies of "Break IN" magazine of N.Z.A.R.T.
looking as we all know for something else, Max, UK7MX, foand: this interesting
article.

We acknowlege this article oy Ross ZLZTFA, in Dec 197% issue.
L‘J

50 you've made your super x-over=x (or wnat have you) VHF or UHF Yagi
aerial and with greét expectations you shin up your favorite mast or tower,
spanner in back paocket, safety belt around your middle/ All is set for the
l

XYL to pull the rope and take the new aerial aloft.
r.[.

STIP !'t Are you aware that incorrect mounting may negate your hours of
hardlabour manufacturing the beastie 7

If your aerial is to be horizontally mounted on a vertical pipe or mast
of slim dimension, then generally no loss of performance will occur.
I—'u]-_u I—u

Howvever, if your aerial is to be mounted vertically, some loss of
performance can be expected if the aerial is mounted with the supporting
mast between the aerial elements. The following data attributed to Belling
and Lee (Australia) Pty. Ltd. shows the effect of various mountiniy positions.

3 - Element Yagi tuned to 159.5 MHz, vertically poularised, mounted
on a 2" o.d. support mast.
[—Ln

FIG. POSITION CAIN BANDWIDTH RESONANT Y5O WLR.
(db) (MHz) FREQUENCY . DESIGN
(MHZz) FREQ.

A At masthead of vertical
mast behind the 7 4.5 159.5 1.05
reflector

At masthead of vertical
mast between driven
(w2

(o)}
o
o

O
.
4
3

element and reflector

~ Below masthead on
vertical mast betuwen 6425 2.5 160.8 1.19
driven element and
reflector

At masthead of vertical
mast between driven 5.5 4.5 160.6 1.48
element and director

Below masthead on ver's
calmast betwzzn d-oiven 4 - 160.8 173
elemant and director
Page 14 QR M Cctober 1978

SS, — §e ey
. T o S LT . T 5
| § ! \
| .
{ - - !
{ -
|
| i |

i - - . -

A 2 < . =

6 - Elemant Yagi Tuned toc 161.8 MHz, vertically polarised, mounted on
a 2" o.d. support mast

FIG. POSITION GAIN BANDWIDTH H-ooWANT W.o.U.R3
(MHz) FREQ.

A At masthead of vertical
mast behind the 10 3.5 1617.8 711
reflector

At masthead of vertical
_ - mast between 1st and 2nd 9 2475 163.6 1.38
R directors

C Below mastheaz on vertical
- mast between 1st and 2nd & 1.9 165.1 2.2
diectors
i~

143 ; .‘,., Tt e —na
October 1978 M Page 15

‘o
=
SPECIAL
e
"AX7” PREFIX

From 14C0 GMT November 3rd, until 140C GMT November 5th, all amateurs within
VK7 have been granied the privilege of using the AX7 prefix.

The occasion is to commemorzte the 175th Anniversary cf the landing at 3isdon
Cove in 1803 by Lt. John Bowen R.N., to estzblish the first settlement.

AXTW1 will be operating from the Convention site during this period angd a
special 5.S.L. card to commemorate the Anniversary will be printed through the
Division, and will be made available to all amateurs for their own use.

Crders for the <.S.L. card can be made through your 3ranch or Division Secretary
after the Convention when you know how many you will need.

This is a special occasion for all VK7 amateurs so make good use of the prefix -
H.?”, operators will make many a DX station grateful for the new prefix - and
you will surely work some new countries as well.

#* % K * ¥ A X

VK7 NEWS BRCADCAST RCSTER: CCTOBER TC MARCH

Co=Ordinators

North-vest VK7TT Telephone Work 302221 Home 252073
North VKTZEY " v 318288 " 441466
South VK7GD " " 306460 " 726412

RE - Broadcast Freguencies

North-West Repeater 3
North Repeater &, 7130 XHz a.m,
South Repeater 2, 52.525 FMHz, 435MHz FM, 144 MHz, 28.56 MHz a.m,

RE - Broadcast Stations

North-wWest VK7s s IT, MX, ZIE
North VK7s 2BY, »*F, HE, JV, ZWX
South VXK7s FS, 2JG, 2AJ, BJ, EK, GD, NiD, NDT, ©NJC

North-West T. Tongs VKJIT 252073, K. Hancock VKT7KH 312164,
M. Ives VKTMK 278946, <. Yedford VK7SF 31394%
North 3. Yeoman VK7ZBY 441466, J. Gelston VKT7JG 443882,
G. Reardon VKTZGG 446636, R, Harwood VKTRH 442324,
R. Emmett VKTKK 312090, H. Eewens VKTEE 391863

South J. Brown VK7BJ 281328, T. Allen VKTAL 439192,
Y., Boon VKTAW 285807, . dall VKTPHE 3546146

(Cont. P 16)
Page 16 QRM Cctober 1978

ROSTER

Originating Station Rep € to 80 Meters . .
Date and Branch Northern Branch Cnly R

Cet 1 VKTTT Nw VK7Z3Y
8 VKTKK N VKTKK
15 VKTAW S "
22 VKTKH N n
29 VK7Z2BY N VK7NJD
Nov 5 VKTFH S "
1 VKTMX Nw "
19 VKT7ZGG N VKTGW
26 VKTAL S "
Dec 3 VK7SF N "
10 VK7RH N "
17 VK7BJ S 1
24 VKTTT NW "
31 VK7JG N VK7NJD
Jan 7 VETAW S "
14 VKTKH NW s
1 VK7HE N e
28 VKT7PH 8 n
Feb 4 VKTMX Nv e
11 VKTXK K VETKK
18 VK7BJ S i
25 VKTSF N "
Mar 4 VKTZBY N VXTNJD
11 VK7AL S "
18 VKTTT NW "
25 VKT72GG N VKTGW

VK7 NEWS BRCADCAST ROSTER NCTES

Following comments and inquiries from broadcast officers the following info
mation is supplied as a guide to the presentation of the official Sunday morning
news broadcast from VKTWI/P,

1. The Sunday morning news broadcast is authorized by the Divisional Council
to allow the exchange of news related to Amateur Kadio, and as such no personal
advertising is allowed. Equipment handled by branch stores is not classed as
advertising, and therefore can be mentioned. The price, however, cannot,

2e Fer the benefit of all originating stations the broadcast is to start at
0930 hours local each Sunday morning, but, contrary to popular belief, is allowed
to exceed thirty minutes if required.

3e All stations origination on 80 mevers, or 80 meter relay stations are
requested to come up on the broadcast frequencies at 0915 hours local to allow
relay stations to align their equipment and check for system operation. The
official freguency for VKTWI/P on 80 meters is 3570 KHz + QRM,

(Cont. P 17)
October 1578 QRN Page 17

4. If, in the opinion of the broadecast officer any letters or personal comments
are of a controversial nature, they s should be passed on to the Divisional Council
vefore being included in any broadcas

. Criginating and relay stations of VKJWI/F are to keep a loz sheet of the
4 \n

Sunday morning news broadcast. These log sheets, which are available from the
Divisional Council, should be forwarded to the Divisional Secretary at the close
of each broadcast roster periocd.

* W ¥ N K K R ox

Are you like me - got a power supply that eats diodes like chips? Got six
projects to support and can't afford the components? ¥ell, here's your answer -
CCME TC THE CCNVENTICN AND WIN ALL THE PRIZES. But please keep it quiet or
everyone will find out,

NCRTH wEST BRANCH NOTES by Jim, VKTNCW

The usual monthly meeting was held at kin's Hall, Ulverstone on Septembe3
l'!: t—!
H Q?

+h e was & good attendance -~ around 32,
12th, and despite bad weather conditions,

Because of the absence of the Chairman, Brian VK7ZBL, his place was ably
filled by Max VK7MX who is no stranger t this post. Secretary Kirby, VK7KC was
o H

also absent and his place vas capably filled by Joan, XYL of Peter, VKTZFP,

Apologies were received from VK7ZEL,VK7KC, Graham VK7ZAQ, Ted Wicks and
3i11 Shelton.

Minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

Visitors: Aspiring Novice Geoff Walpole and Peter VK7PF were welcomed.

Correspondence Inwards: A letter from AMP Insurance Co. re Personel
Accident Insurance regarding possible injuries sustained by members during work
on towers, etc. The cost was quoted at 325 per annum to be financed by way of
a small levy included in Annual Sub., A letter was read from the Southern Branch
regarding T.A.R.C. 1978, advising that the venue approved was Tasmanian College
of AdvancedEducation atMt., Nelscn. The Southern Branch is putting on a top
rate show, we understand, A letter from P & T Dept. was read advising that
Novice Exams will beheld in Launceston late November this year and also on the
North West Coast - the place still to be announced.

Correspondence Outwards: No outward correspondence.

Treasurer's Report: Ivan VK]
T’
./NCL reported on Branch funds. Report was
-

carried.

Activities: Stephen reported on the "RD" contest., It went off very well.
VK7wWI Portable made approx. 250 contects and reports of many high scores were
noted, All contestants were thanked for their efforts. Members are advised
that at the conclusion of next month's meeting, a film on N.A.,S5.4A., Veather
Satellites will be screened by Jir 'NC
\
(Cont. P18)
{og
i

i
Page 18 QR M October 1978
{
{1
{i
|{
J.C,T.A, Terry VKITT informed the meeting that 24 scouts, broken up into
groups will occupy the Sheffield Drill Hall, Terry requested the help of members
to attend to help keep the station on the air for as long as possible.

General Business:

Applications for New Membership: Graham Pickford, Ulverstone, VK7ZGP
Dick Van Beek, Ulverstone.
Both applications unanimcusly accepted,

At the conclusion of business a most interesting talk on "Oscar" was given
by Feter, VK7PF. Peter nct only related details of the initial conception of
"Cscar" 1 through 8 and illustrated the method of 'tracking', but finished the
discussion by casually saying "Cscar" 8 will be in range now - We will let you
listen to traffic. Then, switching on his FRE-7 which was hanging on the end of
a very temporary antenna, we neard VK22X calling "CQ". This was answered by
VK4ZIL, 3 or 4 "Overs" were copied at quite good signal strength. Peter was
thanked by a most appreciative audience.

Joan, XYL of peter, VK7ZF? advised members that persons requiring parts at
very reasonable prices, plus quick service, may obtain them from:-
International Electronics Unlimited,
Village Square,
Box 449, P.O.,
Carmel Valley, CaA, G3924, UJ.S.A.
Personal chegues will be accepted.

New Froducts: Kenwood, next montn, will have their answer to Yazesu's FT=T.
The TS-120S5 will have digital reacdout. If it is bvetter than the FT-7 it will be
a good cne.

Topical Notes: Vodern Yagl intennae must be made of poor gquality materials
It is understood that an Amazeur, during transmission, not only burnt his Balun
out, but burnt the Traps as welll

To conclude, how is this for a scoop, by yours truly. Did you have the
pleasure of watching the suverb series of the TV play "Roots" which has just
concluded on commercial TV? Local amateur, Pat, VK73W (ex-WA2RVX) has a father
who is still in the U.S. Coast Guard as a radio operator (he is a 55 wpm CW man).
The author of the story, Rocts, was also in the 7.S. Coast Guard and was a friend
of Pat's father. Small World !!! ‘

DX: Ncvices should swing their beams/quads lone path to Eurcpe from around
0400Z, The band is usually wide open. The writer now has 86 countries mostly
on 15m towards DXCC. The 10-X DX award is issued by the "lLong Island Amateur
Radio Society” and is a good one to try for. We are proudly displaying their
first Award issued to any VK Amateur - on our shack wall,

This wraps our notes up for this month. Good DX. VY 73,
Jim VKTNCV

L I R

FOR SALE: Drake "SSR1" Communications Rx, Excellent condition,
10 months o0ld. Will accept $250,0C onc.
Contact Neil Findley, Phone Bus. Hrs. (004) 25 2444.

E R T S I I
October 1978 QR M Page 19

HELPFUL EINTS

i fast, efficient method of circuit board etching is described here., This simple
apparatus has been used by the author for several months with complete success.,

The first consideration is to go to the tip and find an old sealed unit compres=
sor. +ith a bit of luck you will find one that operates first time, as I did.
It may need addition of a small amount
of mineral oil in the intzke pipe,
though. Identify the output line and
hook this to the bubble pipe via a
length of thin wall tubing.

The bubble pipe was made from some old
biro cases joined with conduit cement,
the end blocked and the horizontal
section drilled with about ten very
small holes {(No. 60). In use the pipe
can be held in place with a plastic
clip (peg) and positioned so the
bubbles rise under the board.

The compressor is ideal as it pumps at
ETCHING TRRY
about 2 1b/sq 3
in. pressure, which gives “EALED UNIT
a good etch in 3 to 5 minutes. CoMPRESSOR

Drilling Aluminium Something very worthwhile when drilling or working alum-
inium is to place a few drops of alcohol, methylated spirits, on the surface.
The drill will cut a much cleaner hole with little or no burr even on " plate.

#* % K ¥ ¥ * ¥ ¥

Can't get to the Convention? ARE YCOU SURE?! There is a special rate and
a free dinner on Sunday Sth., Don't throw that registration form away or you'll
be wasting $10.,00. That's the value of a dinner like this, I'd get the
registration form filled in and posted back right now.

* ¥ K X # ¥ X ¥

CHRISTMAS BARBECUE

This is to be held at the Kings lieadows High School on December 9th and
is scheduled for a 3 p.m. start. The event will be a family barbecue and
children's Christmas Party combined - with Santa Clause = and organized games
and sports. More details in future issues of GRM.

(Next meeting of the Ladies Committee at the nome of Judy Henricks on
December 2nd, starting at 2,30 p.m,)

* X % R F X F ¥

REGISTRATION FORM GONE ?7
Page 20 < R M Cctober 1978

TOR SALE KZNWCCD TS 82C 10-160F. 3SB/CwW
erfect Condition - $6835,00
PECNE: Doug VK7Zi 002-441165

* ¥ K K ¥ A % >

FOR SALZ =~ YAESU EQUIPMENT

FV1C1B=VFC 5110 ) A11 101Z Accessories - 411 reasonatle
FP101 Loudspeaker £30 ) offers considered.
FT7 3485 ) VK7N2B - 3 Edmund, Road, Trevallyn,
YT150 Dummy Load/#attmeter go9s 31 7914,

* O* ¥ K X A ¥ *

“a2eling thirsty? Hungry? Haven't eaten for a week? wWell, you'd better
come to the TARC dinner Saturday 4th November., Get that registration form back
now! Starting time for the first course - .30 p.m,

* R O ¥ o ¥ ¥ #

ACCCMMCDATION FCR T.A.R.C.

There are limited number ¢f caravans available for overnight usage over
November 3rd - 5th, from several caravan parks in and around Hobart.

The closest to the Convention site is the:

SANDY BAY CARAVAN PARK THONE: 251264

RATE: 312.00/Two Persons = $1.50 each additional person.

The next one is about 10-20 minutes away, depending on traffic:

ELWICK CARAVAN PARK FHACNE: 727115
RATE: 310,00/Two Persons = Uc each additional person.

Cthers may be found in the yellow pages of the phone book,

The Carevan Parks contactec all suggested that the reservations be made
early because of the long weekend in the North,

* # % ¥ ox * * K

PRE CONVENTION |ISSUE
Cctober 1578 QR M Page 21

REGISTRATION FORM GONE ?7
k
i

Remember "What's 'is name"? -~ Saw him at the last Hamfest - Hope He's
there this year - 3Better give him a ring., WMake sure he's going. Better make
ik

sure he gets his registration done in time - CLOSING DATE 21ST OCTCBER,

¥ ¥ O* * K K A ®
s

SIMPLE C.W. FILTER
&

L =
'Y

rimdne
SPERKER o == PHONES oR
e NYN——o |——
TRANS, S don. SPEAKER
[

The above filter can be readily switched into the sveaker line from that other
h

receiver in the shack, that does not have a filter in it, %o help sort out
those C.". signals.

It is approximately 28 mh and is wound on a 50mm piece of ferrite aerial rod
8mm diameter, with 900 turns of 24 B & S enamelled wire, C is a 2.5 MFD 10W
electrolytic. The response peak can be varied by using different values of C,
Ik

As it is, the circuit peaks at 600 HZ with the 3 db points being at approx-
imately 500 and 700 HZ respectively for a 20C HZ bandwidth.

The response can be further tailored oy doubling tne value of L and using C
of 1 MFD., The frequency is again approximately 600 HZ and the 3 db points now
are at 550 = 650 HZ for a 10C HZ bandwidth, The audio output will have dropped
significantly in this case and it may be necessary to use an amplifier to bring
the audio back up to a comfortable level.

Mike VKTMC
| v

* R K K Rk F K
Page 22 QR M Cctober 1978

ST
MODIFYING ~iNWCCD EQUIPKEN™T “OUR NOVICE USE ~ Joe VK704

ienwood Tecnnical Bulletin 7/78(1=RE TSE20-5208-820% necuction in power for NOVICE
ABE -

Remove wire Irom 8007 -erminal on powsr transformer and connect to 400v
terminal,

Jisconnect the thin wire coanecting Ine scereens of tne Tinal S1002 valves,

.onnect a piece of wire between the "nused™ valve and the SC switch on the
sack panel (this now biases this partisular valve off),

MKilow e CIRCT

TUNE e 4+ ooV S e
- &
SlTTH -nov ilew o'FF

Y
T v LoO
e TT
o

e i ol — - 120
T

The apeve is the Kenwood Tecanical Bulietis, nowever . have found on twe sets the
! nave cnecked that the mains transiormer .s not tapped at 400v. The transformer
1z marked 0=400-800 and the output is vceltage doubled, If you measure the AC
s itage across these windings the G-iCl i1s about 3I75VAC ana the C-8QC is 40C AC,

1. obtain a lower ET wcliage, e.g. <00v I mocified the power supply to & £ wave
czetifier. To do this 1ift diode D1 in the rectifier unit above ground. The
“-ard has a link, cut this with a pair of side cutters and place a short circuit
c.zoss C21, this places the "0" end of the transformer winding at sartih potential
You now have a 400v DC HT supply.

Ize P + T Department don't approve of two valves in a novice rig so if you remove
cne you have to make up for the missing grid capacitance and filament. 1o do thisz
Jirst connect a 2«20 pf variable capacitor across the "missing valve" socket to
rzund and replace the filament with a 5.6 ocnm 10 watt resistor. Fit nis inte
z.. octal plug pins 2 and 7, the exnsust fan nelps keep 1t zool.

".: =ransmititer will now operate at novice ralings, however tne grid tune will nc
rocide with maximum recelve sensitivity until the variavle capacitor is
. usted. Switch on calibration anc adjust preselect for max “S" meter reading;
ov depress PTT on tune pos:iticn and adjust variable capsc:ter for maximum drive.
«.c2 this capacitor is adjusted it will nov nave to be touched again sc 't remain
s «ame on all bands. Now switch to 58B position and adjust the PA standing
coorent te 30nA.

T 3
~ ¥
G ~
v m w - e .
"
Cctober 1978 Q.R.M. Page 23

STATE NEWS REG EMMETT VK7KK
T

Channel 5A

It seems individual members have been active in contacting politicians
and informing them of our fears concerning the expansion of the number
of 52 stations.

A suggestion has been made that we should bold some organised activity
in the Wynyard area in order to obtain some evidence of interference
problems. Any takers?

New Members
Welcome to:

Ken Sutherland, VK7JT Deloraine
Graeme Pickford, VK72ZGP Ulverstone
L

Dick van Beek, grade B Ulverstone

AX Prefix Use

In order to promote this years T.A.R.C. an approach was made to allow
use of the AX7 prefix during the time of the Convention. This has been
granted for the period 1400 hr. GMT on November 3 to 1400 hr. GMT on
November 5. The use of this prefix Is in commermoration of the 175th
Anniversary of the landing at Risdon Cove by Lieutenant Bowen in 1803.
A special OSL card will be produced and members requiring these should
notify the Division (P.O. Box 1010, Launceston) buv the end of November.

Council Notes
L

The August meeting discussed the following matters:
(1) NCRA Convention exhibit
(2) Insurance cover
(3) TVT 6 film segment re radio for handicapped.
(4) Search and Rescue Symposium Report.

It was decided to purchase a video tape of the Z.R.R.L. films for
publicity purposes. The Divisions publicity exhibit at the N.C.R.A.
Convention had to be cancelled however it was noted that Brian VK7RR
attended on our behalf. A publicity article was forwarded to the N.C.R.A.
and published by them.

Division financial balance $418.

Novice Examination

Note that the examination in Hobart will be 21 November. Those
requesting to sit in Launceston and on the North West Coast will be advised
of the time, date and place after the closing date of applications.

Insurance
et
eA

—— As mentioned last month Council is investigating the possibility of
a personal accident policy for members but seeks comments from members.
Cost would be 51 per member. It covers all members but obviously is more
use to those actively working for members and attending meetings.

Comments are still sought from members.