Kennisgewing: 145.550 Mhz RF Link afgeskakel vir die duur van die PEARS VHF / UHF Kompetisie (9 - 11 Januarie 2026, Vrydag 18h00 SAST tot Sondag 14h00 SAST)

Kennisgewing:

Die naweek vind die PEARS VHF / UHF Kompetisie plaas.  Die kompetisie maak gebruik van die 145.500 tot 145.575 Mhz FM vir die duur van die kompetisie.  Ten einde inbreuk / steurnis te voorkom het die ZS Hub Netwerk Admin besluit om die 145.550 Mhz RF Link wat aan die ZS1I Hub gekoppel is te ontkoppel.  Die RF link sal weer aangeskakel word om 14h05 SAST op Sondag 11 Januarie 2026.

Beste wense vanaf die ZS Link Network Administrateurs aan almal wat aan die kompetisie gaan deelneem.  Mag julle sommer baie kontakte maak en natuurlik die kompetisie van harte geniet.

Notification:

The PEARS VHF / UHF Competition will take place this weekend. The competition will be using the 145.500 to 145.575 Mhz FM portion of the band for the duration of the competition. In order to prevent interference, the ZS Hub Network Admin has decided to disconnect the 145.550 Mhz RF Link connected to the ZS1I Hub. The RF link will be reconnected at 14h05 SAST on Sunday 11 January 2026.

Best wishes from the ZS Link Network Adminisrators to all those who will be participating in the competition. May you make many contacts and of course enjoy the competition to the fullest.

"Down Memory Lane" = PEARS VHF/ UHF Kompetisie Januarie 2005 Gizmo Amateur Radio Forum ZS1GZ Deelname

 

Die groot dag (22 Januarie 2005) het aangebreek. Dit is vroegoggend en die son het nog nie sy kop uitgelig oor die Suid Kaapse Kus nie. Ek maak vinnig ’n koppie “boeretroos” en kyk na die weerberig op die Internet. Dinge sal vinnig hierna moet gebeur want die tyd staan nie stil nie en daar is nog heelwat take wat gedoen moet word. Nadat al die huishoudelike takies afgehandel is, is dit tyd om koers te kies na die St Blaize Uitkykpunt waar die Gizmo Amateur Radio Forum beoog om deel te neem aan die beste “VHF/ UHF” Kompetisie in Suid Afrika.

My motor is reeds die vorige aand gepak en nadat ek die nodige verversings in my koelsak gepak het, kies ek koers na die bedieningsgebied. Die spoed is maar stadig aangesien die “rooi Ferrari” maar swaar gelaai is met al die goeters wat so ’n kompetisie benodig. Sowat 1km vanaf my huis is dit tyd om te roep op 145.525 Mhz Simplex om te hoor waar die ander manne is.

Eerste op frekwensie is Francois ZS1Q wat reeds in Mosselbaai is en sterk oppad is na die bedieningsgebied. Danie ZR2GE en Johan ZR1EJ is kort op Francois se hakke met die “shack” (Dit is nou ‘n volledig toegeruste karavaan). Tien minute later maak almal hulle opwagting by die St Blaize Uitkykpunt (bedieningsgebied) in Mosselbaai.

Die son breek deur die wolke en is dit na my mening ‘n perfekte dag vir deelname aan die kompetisie. As u die gebied ken sal u weet dat die wind jou hier uit jou geloof uit kan waai. Almal bewonder vir ‘n oomblik die asemrowende uitsig. (sien foto).

Die atmosfeer is “electric” en is dit duidelik dat die manne gereed is vir aksie. Alhoewel die bedieningsgebied seker een van die beste “UHF/VHF” gebiede is in die Mosselbaai area, speel toestande en propogasie ‘n groot rol. Ek het maar so stil stil in die agtergrond gehoop dat ons darm ‘n paar kontakte sal bewerkstellig aangesien plaaslike belangstelling maar aan die yl kant is.

Daar word naastiglik afgepak en eerste op die lys is die antennas en maste wat in die lug moet kom. Elke operateur is ‘n spesifieke band aangewys en word daar naastiglik gewerk om alles gereed te kry en op die lug te kom. Tyd speel ‘n groot rol en moet dinge vinnig gebeur. Eerste gereed vir aksie is Francois ZS1Q wat die HF stasie verskaf het. Ja, ons het ‘n volledige HF Stasie ook op die lug gehad. Dit was duidelik dat Francois nie baie gelukkig was met ons oprigting prosedures nie, en het hy dit dan ook baie duidelik gemaak. Hy het darm kom hand bysit en was dit nie lank nie of alle antennas was in die lug.

Die “shack” het hierna aan die beurt gekom en is die eerste kontak presies om 7.38 met OK Van ZR2VAN gemaak. Van se stasie was in Port Elizabeth. Wat hierna volg was pure adrenalien en outomatisme, want sien die “pad” na die Baai was oop en terwyl dit die geval was, moet mens soveel kontakte as moontlik maak. O! ja asof die manne geweet het dat die toestand goed was, maak Keith ZS1YC sy opwagting. Hy laat ook nie op hom wag nie en neem stelling agter die mikrofoon in. Keith werk die stasie behoorlik aan die brand en word daar spottenderwys verwys dat sy ervaring deur die jare tot sy voordeel strek. Kontakte word ook bewerkstelling op 6m met Barry ZR2DX en Al ZS2U. Die volgende uur of twee vlieg behoorlik verby. Wel die opening duur nie vir lank nie en dit raak weer stil op meeste van die bande. Nou was dit tyd vir ontbyt.

Na ‘n deeglike tradisionele ontbyt van spek, eiers en sterk swart koffie is die manne gereed om weer die mikrofone op te neem. Tussen deur word daar kort kort kontak gemaak. Die “stil” tyd is gebruik om toetse uit te voer op verskeie bande met verskeie antennas. Danie ZR2GE se 2M 2BCX antenna (Sien artikel in die uitgawe) wat die vorige aand inderhaas voltooi is, word nader getrek en soos ons dit in die geweste noem “GE -SWR”. Vir die wat nie verstaan nie , die SWR word gest el en nagegaan.

Ek hou van die uitdrukking dat die antenna “GE -SWR” word. Klink of daar ‘n operasie van die een of ander aard ui tgevoer word op die antenna. Danie ZR2GE en Johan ZR1EJ onderneem die takie. Heelwat word in die periode geleer omtrent die antenna en sy werking.

Intussen maak Johan ZR3J en Donald ZR1RT hulle opwagting. Die manne was behoorlik gewapen met toetsinstrumente en digititale kamera. Weereens word daar lekker koffie gemaak en so tussen deur die koffie en kuier deur word die SWR van die 70 cm Antennas nagegaan deur Johan ZR3J met sy MFJ Analiseerder en gepaardgaande toerusting. Die manne okkupeer ‘n tafel en daar word ferm gedebateer
oor die effektiwiteit van die onderskeie antennas. Donald lê natuurlik al die bewyse vas op sy digitale selfoon kamera. U wil weet wat was die uitslag. Korrek die antennas was aanvaarbaar vir amateur radio gebruik in aggenome dat die antennas tuisgebou was.

Francois ZS1Q het na sy koffie drinkery voor die HF mikrofoon ingeskuif en vir ons ‘n “lesing” gegee oor hoe effektief die Icom 706 saam met die G5RV antenna en ‘n tuisgeboude instemmer funksioneer. Hierna is daar gepoog om kontak te bewerkstellig met die Wes-Kaap, maar sonder enige sukses.

Francois ZS1Q het hier die leiding geneem en het sover gegaan om per telefoon vir Ettienne ZR1— in Worcester te kontak. Ettienne het ‘ n tydelike baken opgestel, maar was alles pure verniet.

Toestande het ‘n algehele laagtepunt bereik en het die weer drasties verander, want sien ‘n frontale stelsel was sterk oppad na Mosselbaai.

Gekuier was daar gewis wanneer daar nie veel aktiwiteite was op die onderskeie bande nie. Daar is gesels gelag, geskerts en sommer net gekuier en ja u is reg… amateur radio…..was die onderwerp. As ek vir u hier alles moet meedeel sal ek sekerlik ‘n boek kan skryf. Die horlosie het so stadig begin aanskuif na middagete se kant toe en het Johan ZR1EJ so ongemerk ‘n vuurtjie opgemaak. Kort voor lank
was die kole gereed en het die skaaptjoppies en bees fillette geknetter op die rooster. Die manne het behoorlik weggelê en gesmul. Na middagete maak Michael ZS2GMT en Don ZS1ADJ hulle opwagting.

Daar word weer van vooraf gekuier. Michael en Don gesels oor die ou dae toe ‘n stasie opgerig is tydens die 1988 -Dias Fees. Herinneringe is talryk en word daar ook met eerbied verwys na die wat reeds stil-sleutel geraak het.

Tussen die geselsery deur maak lede van die publiek ook hulle opwagting. Vrae wissel van wat maak ons hier. Die geleentheid word aangegryp om amateur radio bekend te stel. ‘n Kort oorsig word gegee en is dit opmerklik dat die besoekers uit Gauteng wel op een of ander staduim gehoor het van amateur radio.

Of ’n saadjie gesaai is sal ons maar moet sien. Die son is besig om so stadig water te trek terwyl die wolke onrusbarend verbysnel met die wind wat skielik omgeswaai het en al hoe sterker waai. ’n Storm was in aantog en is daar be sluit om teen 16H00 die stasie “af te breek” maar nie voordat nog ’n lid van die publiek die stasie besoek het
nie. Na kennisname stel ek vas dat die besoeker die vader is van Bernie van der Walt ZS4TX. Daar word lekker gesels maar kort voor lank was dit tyd om te groet. Met alles ingepak en weggepak, was elkeen oppad na sy onderskeie woning.

Wat ‘n genotvolle dag was dit nie. Elkeen teenwoordig het die hoop uitgespreek dat daar in die toekoms meer sulke dae gereël sal word en dat die Forum voort sal gaan met die oprigting van veldstasies.

Was dit die moeite werd. Wat se vraag is dit?……….Dit was meer as die moeite werd gewees!!!!

Die plaaslike koerant (Mossel Bay Advertiser) het op 4 Februarie 2005 ’n berig met ‘n foto geplaas oor die Gizmo Amateur Radio Forum se bedrywighede op die dag. My dank aan die Advertiser in die verband. Diegene wat nie die artikel gesien het nie, kan die redakteur kontak vir ‘n afskrif.

Laastens maar nie die minste nie. Baie hartlik dank aan elke radio amateur wat die geleentheid moontlik gemaak het. Ek gaan nie elkeen by die naam noem nie, julle weet wie julle is. Met sulke radio amateurs en vriende kan ‘n mens ’n pad loop. Dit was en is vir my ‘n voorreg om die dag met elkeen van julle te gedeel het.

Sonder julle bydrae sou die dag nie moontlik gewees het nie. Hartlike dank ook aan PEARS vir die reël van die kompetisie. Of ons sleg of goed gevaar het in die kompetisie is irrelevant. Amateur Radio het as wenner uit die stryd getree.

HOE LYK DIT MET 2006? FORUM-LEDE: KOM ONS DOEN DIT NOG BETER EN GAAN VOLUIT OM DIE KOMPETISIE TE WEN!!!

JA, U IS REG - DIT IS ‘N UITDAGING AAN PLAASLIKE KLUBS EN PLAASLIKE RADIO AMATEURS. KYK OF JULLE DIE GIZMO FORUM KAN KLOP IN DIE 2006 KOMPETISIE.
SIEN EN HOOR JULLE IN 2006.

Einde.

Fotos (Klik om te vergroot.)

 Foto Bo: Antennas word opgerig met die rooi “Ferrari” in die voorgrond.

Foto: Antennas in die lug gereed vir aksie. Min het ons geweet dat daar werklik aksie sou
wees.

Foto: Keith ZS1YC (Nou SK) wys die manne hoe dit gedoen moet word terwyl Francois ZS1Q
al die koffie uitdrink.

Foto : Francois ZS1Q, Donald ZR1RT en Johan ZR3J besig met 70 cm toetse.

Foto : Danie ZR2GE besig om die karavaan se gas-toevoer na te gaan terwyl Johan ZR1EJ die stasie bedryf. Francois ZS1Q kyk staande toe.

Foto: Keith ZS1YC, Johan ZR3J, Francois ZS1Q en Donald ZR1RT

Foto: Agter aansig van die stasie (Gesien vanaf die weste kant)

Foto: Van die manne geniet middag ete.  Links na regs -  Danie ZR2GE, Johan ZR1EJ en Francois ZS1Q.

Foto: Volle vooraansig van die ZS1GZ Gizmo Amateur Radio Forum Kompetisie stasie opgerig te St Blaize, Uitkykpunt, Mosselbaai 22 Januarie. 2005

Suid Kaap Netwerk Groep Aktiwiteite: Hervatting van die 06h00 Dagbreek Span Net op die 12 Januarie 2026

Foto:  Sonsopkoms Stilbaai  (Klik op foto om te vergroot.)

KENNISGEWING:  Die Dagbreek Span Net wat weeksdae  om 06h00 in die oggende op die Aasvoelkop Herhaler en ZS-Link Hub plaasvind, hervat weer op 12 January 2026.  Die net-kontroleerder en storie verteller is uitgerus en gereed om die net te hervat.  

LET WEL:  Die Ontbytsake Span Net, Sonsak Span Net en Aand Span Net gaan is steeds aktief op weeksdae onderskeidelik 06h30, 16h45 en 18h30 SAST op die Aasvoelkop en Stilbaai Herhalers.   Meer besonderhede is HIER beskikbaar.

Sluit gerus aan by die ZS Link Netwerk Groep se aktiwiteite hier vroeg in 2026.

Photo: Sunrise Stilbaai (Click on photo to enlarge.)

NOTICE: The Dagbreek Span Net that takes place on weekdays at 06h00 in the mornings on the Aasvoelkop Repeater and ZS-Link Hub will resume on 12 January 2026. The net controller and storyteller are ready to resume the net.

PLEASE NOTE: The Ontbytsake Span Net, Sonsak Span Net and Aand Span Net will still be active on weekdays at 06h30, 16h45 and 18h30 SAST respectively on the Aasvoelkop and Stilbaai Repeaters. More details are available HERE.

Feel free to join the ZS Link Network Group's activities here early in 2026.

Rulhof ZS4RM - AllStar Portable / Mobile Node Project

Awhile ago Rulhof ZS4RM informed me that he is busy building an AllStar Portable / Mobile Node which he will be using whenever the need arises.

Now what on earth is a Portable / Mobile AllStar Node?

A

DIY mobile AllStar node is a custom-built, portable device that uses a low-power computer, a radio interface, and amateur radio equipment to connect to the global AllStarLink network via the internet  (often a mobile hotspot). This setup allows amateur radio operators to communicate with thousands of other nodes and repeaters worldwide using their handheld or mobile radios, essentially acting as a personal gateway or "hotspot". 

The "DIY" aspect means the operator assembles the components themselves, which is a common and cost-effective approach within the ham radio community, as opposed to buying a pre-built commercial unit. 

 

Key Components:

 

A typical DIY mobile AllStar node requires the following main components: 

• A Computing Device: A small, low-power computer, most commonly a Raspberry Pi (Pi 3 or Pi 4 are popular choices). It runs a Linux-based operating system with the AllStarLink software, often a pre-configured image like HamVoIP.
• A Radio/Audio Interface: A small circuit board or device that connects the computer's USB port (via a C-Media CM108/CM119 sound IC) to the radio's audio input/output and Push-to-Talk (PTT) lines. Pre-made interfaces like the DMK URIx or Masters Communications DRA boards are available, or advanced users can build their own from scratch.
• A Node Radio: A simple, often inexpensive, UHF or VHF radio (e.g., a Baofeng UV-5R or similar) dedicated to the node. This radio receives signals from your personal handheld radio and transmits audio back from the network.
• Power Source: For a mobile setup, a portable battery bank or a buck converter for a vehicle's power system is used.
• Internet Connection: The node needs internet access, which can be provided by Wi-Fi or by tethering to a mobile phone hotspot.

Functionality:

 

The setup works by:

1. Receiving an FM signal from your handheld radio on a specific frequency.
2. Converting the audio to digital data via the sound interface and the Raspberry Pi.
3. Transmitting that digital data over the internet to other AllStar nodes.
4. Receiving internet audio from other nodes.
5. Converting the digital audio back to an FM signal for transmission to your handheld radio.

This allows for seamless communication over vast distances, bridging the gap between local RF (Radio Frequency) coverage and the global internet network. 

 

Building Your Own:

 

To build a DIY node, you would typically follow these general steps:

1. Register for an AllStar node number on the AllStarLink website.
2. Gather the necessary hardware components.
3. Install the AllStar software (like HamVoIP) onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card.
4. Wire the radio to the interface board (if necessary).
5. Configure the software settings, including audio levels and network parameters, often using a program like PuTTY for remote access.
6. Test the node using the "Parrot mode" feature.

There are many online guides and YouTube tutorials available to walk users through the process.

 

Information regarding the ZS4RM AllStar Portable / Mobile Node:

 

Call Sign:  ZS4RM

Frequency:  433.4125 Mhz

CTCSS:  100 Hz

Node Number:  647031

Location:  Bloemfontein

Site:  Bayswater

Affiliation:  Hammies Free State (ZS4ZU)

 

The "inauguration"   of the node took place during the recent holiday season when Rulhof visited  Shelly Beach in Kwazulu Natal.  He use the node regularly while mobile and even portable when he visited the beach.  The node is functioning well and is definitely a great asset when going mobile or portable.  Congratulations on constructing a useful and effective node, Rulhof.  It is clear from the videos that you enjoy the node to the full.

Images:  Click on images for larger view.

 

Videos:

Belangrike Kennisgewing: Verandering van die aanvangstyd - ZS Link Netwerk se Sonsak Span Net - Maandag tot Sondag / Important Notice: Change of starting time - ZS Link Network's "Sonsak" Team Net - Monday to Sunday

Geliewe kennis te neem dat die Sonsak Span Net se aanvangstyd verander het vanaf 16h30 na 16h45 SAST -  Maandag tot Sondag.  Die besluit is geneem om doelmatigheids redes.

Volle Besonderhede: Nuwe aanvangstyd 16:45 SAST - "Sonsak Span" Net - Daagliks om 16:45 SAST insluitend Saterdag en Sondag op die 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Herhaler. Radioamateurs kan konnekteer via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar of TG65511 op DMR en die 145.550 Mhz 88.5 hz toon ZS1I Simplex HUB Link.

Sluit gerus aan by die Net en geniet die samekoms van radio amateurs op die lug!!

Please note that the "Sonsak" Team Net's starting time has changed from 16h30 to 16h45 SAST - Monday to Sunday. The decision has been made for efficiency reasons.

Full Details: New starting time 16:45 SAST - "Sonsak" Team Net - Daily at 16:45 SAST including Saturday and Sunday on the 145.625 Mhz 88.5 hz Aasvoelkop Repeater. Radio amateurs can connect via ZS1SB-L Echolink, ZS1I-R Echolink, 49355 AllStar or TG65511 on DMR and the 145.550 Mhz 88.5 hz tone ZS1I Simplex HUB Link.

Feel free to join the Net and enjoy the gathering of radio amateurs on the air!!

49:1 Balun construction by Jacobus ZS1JDJ, Mossel Bay

Jacobus ZS1JDJ is busy building a End Fed Half Wave Dipole antenna for his newly acquired HF Radio.  He is still new to the hobby but his interest in building and constructing projects is really contagious and encouraging.  He undertook this project during the holiday season when he had the time.  No he was not on holiday and still had to work except over the Christmas and New Years day period.

Now on this web-site there is a few articles relating to end-fed antennas and the Internet also has an abundance of information on how to build these antennas.  So I will not be describing how this antenna and balun was build.  The images provides the full picture of the build.  I will however point out a few pointers to other new builders.

• Plan the outlay of your balun with regard to the project box.  A smaller scaled box is preferred. 
  
• Use the correct toroid.  Be aware of the power output you will be using.
• Use a good quality housing for the balun (UV resistant essential)
  
• Use only stainless steel hardware.  Living by the coast makes it a necessity.
• Ensure you use the correct gauge of insulate copper wire
• Keep all wiring as short as possible
• Take your time in winding the toroid and insure you count the turns correctly.

Building the Balun and Antenna:

Here are two sites you can visit that might be of assistance to you if you want to construct this antenna.

Manual impedance transformer for 250 watts End Fed Antenna’s

Build an End-Fed Half-Wave Antenna From a Kit

The 49:1 Balun diagram:

 

Constructing the balun is straight forward and there are many videos available on how to wind the toroid.  Just one word about the 100 pF capacitor.  Is it really necessary? If you have a 100 pf 2 kV available then you can install it.  If you run high power you will need at least a 15 kV capacitor. For 20, 30 and 40 meters you do not need a capacitor.  However for 17 meters you will need a capacitor to flatten and lowering the SWR curve through to 10 meters.

Herewith the images of the ZS1JDJ build:

 

 

 

Jacobus ZS1JDJ recently visited me and he brought the Balun that he constructed with for further testing.  We decided to measure the "SWR and Impedance" of the 49:1  Balun with a NanoVNA.  Although this is not the correct way to do it, it gives some indication that the Balun is working.  Let's call the measurement a fault finding mission. To test the balun before adding the wire and counter poise we used a 2K7 resistor on the ground of the coax connector and antenna connection.  We obtained the readings as depicted by the Nano VNA image above.

Note:  The measurement was done before Jacobus ZS1JDJ shortened the "long connecting wires" and adding of the capacitors.  See image with red and yellow circles and others

Finally:  Congratulations to Jacobus ZS1JDJ in constructing his first Balun ever.  Well done!!  The only task left is to install the antenna wire and final tuning of the antenna which will be undertaken soon.

The End of 2025 and the Start of 2026 in Amateur Radio (Ham Radio)

Greetings

We trust that everyone had a great holiday season thus far.  Now,  we as administrators want to get rid of 2025 today and start 2026 on a very high note.  The holiday season is still with us but that does not mean that amateur radio has to wait until all the other activities starts in 2026.

The following paragraph is surely the most important in this topic. Before we start the "ranting session" we would like to thank each and every radio amateur who used or were involved in the ZS-Link Network in 2025.  It is radio amateurs like yourself that makes the ZS-Link Network Group a success by being active on the air and also by connecting to the ZS-Link Network. However this network will not be a success if it is not active or regularly being used.  A big thank you to Johann ZS1AAC who runs all the Amateur Radio Nets every day of the week and no, Johann is not retired.  He still runs his own business and are involved in many other activities.  Thanks, Johann.

The ZS-Link Network is alive and well thanks to radio amateurs who use the network and keep on adding nodes and repeaters to the existing network. There are many other roll players that ensure that the network is operational and being extended to other areas of the country and even overseas.

We would like to thank all those radio amateurs that keep the network maintained and running even during difficult times.  Your unselfish participation in maintaining nodes, repeaters, links etc. is highly appreciated.  Remember you do it for Amateur Radio, the best hobby in the world!!

2025 was a very successful year for the ZS-Link Network Group and its membership increased dramatically.  What is especially important is the fact that so many candidates wrote the RAE in the Southern Cape and became radio amateurs.  Many getting involved in the ZS-Link Network Group and the activities we impose.

It is now time to "rant" after all the praising and thanks giving!!  No don't despair keep on reading.  2026 is upon us and instead of having new year resolutions for amateur radio that does not always work out, we want to encourage all active and non active radio amateurs to get involved in amateur radio. DO NOT leave amateur radio for when you retire one day or when you have more free time.  In many instances this never materializes.  NOW 2026 is the time to enjoy amateur radio.  Later might be to late.  Let's start now to  keep amateur radio alive and prosperous.  Some of the administrators recently overheard conversations where radio amateurs complain on the air that there is very little activity on the air and even off the air in parts of South Africa.  Well stop complaining and make it happen.  Join the ZS Link Network Group. This is where all the action is!

We as the ZS-Link Network Group has a winning recipe available HERE which you are welcome to implement and follow.  This recipe has worked wonders for the ZS-Link Network Group and we are convinced that it will work for many others out there.  Give it a try in 2026!!

Finally:  The ZS-Link Network Group Administrators would like to convey the following to all radio amateurs:

• A  rewarding and very successful 2026.
• Many radio amateurs are miles away in terms of the physical distance, but our hearts are close to each other and will always be. 
• Life is short. So, try to make the most of it in the coming year and the time ahead.
• We have always been grateful to God for blessing this wonderful group of people involved in the ZS-Link Network Group.  
  
• May 2026 reward you with peace, safety, happiness, good health, and everything your heart desires in amateur radio.
• You, your family, and friends make it all worthwhile.
  

Happy New Year! May 2026 bring renewed passion, more joyful memories, sense of purpose and endless possibilities to your Amateur Radio en-devours.

 

The ZS Link Network Administrators

Southern Cape:  South Africa 

Website:   ZS Link Network Blog

End.

Hallo

Ons vertrou dat almal tot dusver 'n wonderlike vakansie seisoen gehad het. As administrateurs wil ons vandag van 2025 ontslae raak en 2026 op 'n baie hoë noot begin. Die vakansie seisoen is steeds met ons, maar dit beteken nie dat amateur radio moet wag totdat al die ander aktiwiteite vir 2026 begin nie.

Die volgende paragraaf is sekerlik die belangrikste in hierdie artikel. Voordat ons met die "kla-sessie" begin, wil ons elke radio amateur bedank wat die ZS-Link Netwerk in 2025 gebruik het of daarby betrokke was. Dit is radio amateurs soos julle wat die ZS-Link Netwerk 'n sukses maak deur aktief op die lug te wees en ook aan die ZS-Link Netwerk te koppel. Hierdie netwerk sal egter nie 'n sukses wees as dit nie aktief is of gereeld gebruik word nie. 'n Groot dankie aan Johann ZS1AAC wat al die amateur radio nette elke dag van die week hanteer en nee, Johann is nie afgetree nie. Hy bedryf steeds sy eie besigheid en is betrokke by baie ander aktiwiteite. Dankie, Johann.

Die ZS-Link Netwerk is lewendig en gesond danksy radio amateurs wat die netwerk gebruik en aanhou om nodusse en herhalers by die bestaande netwerk te voeg. Daar is baie ander rolspelers wat verseker dat die netwerk operasioneel is en uitgebrei word na ander dele van die land en selfs oorsee.

Ons wil graag al die radio amateurs bedank wat die netwerk in stand hou en aan die gang hou, selfs tydens moeilike omstandighede. Julle onselfsugtige deelname aan die instand houding van nodusse, herhalers, skakels, ens. word hoog op prys gestel. Onthou julle doen dit vir amateur radio, die beste stokperdjie ter wêreld!!

2025 was 'n baie suksesvolle jaar vir die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep gewees en die ledetal dramaties toegeneem. Wat veral belangrik is, is die feit dat soveel kandidate die RAE in die Suid-Kaap geskryf het en radio amateurs geword het. Baie het betrokke geraak by die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep en die aktiwiteite wat daar gestel word.

Dit is nou tyd vir die "kla sessie" na al die lofprysing en danksegging!! Moenie bekommerd wees nie, lees verder. 2026 is op hande en in plaas daarvan om nuwejaars voornemens vir amateur radio te hê wat nie altyd werk nie, wil ons alle aktiewe en nie-aktiewe radioamateurs aanmoedig om by amateur radio bedrywighede betrokke te raak. MOENIE amateurradio los vir wanneer jy eendag aftree of wanneer jy meer vrye tyd het nie. In baie gevalle realiseer dit nooit nie. NOU (2026) is die tyd om amateur radio te geniet. Later is dalk te laat. Kom ons begin nou om amateur radio lewendig en aktief te hou. Sommige van die administrateurs het onlangs na gesprekke geluister waar radio amateurs aangedui het dat daar baie min aktiwiteit op die lug en selfs van die lug af in dele van Suid-Afrika is. Wel, hou op kla en laat dit gebeur. Sluit aan by die ZS Link Network Groep. Dit is waar al die aksie is!

Ons as die ZS-Link Network Groep het 'n wenresep HIER beskikbaar wat jy welkom is om te implementeer en na te volg. Hierdie resep het wondere verrig vir die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep en ons is oortuig dat dit vir baie ander daar buite sal en kan werk. Probeer dit gerus in 2026!!

Laastens: Die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep Administrateurs wil graag die volgende aan alle radio amateurs oordra:

• 'n Belonende en baie suksesvolle 2026 word jou toegewens.
• Baie radio amateurs is kilometers ver weg wat fisiese afstand betref, maar ons harte is na aan mekaar en sal altyd wees.
• Die lewe is kort. Probeer dus om die meeste daarvan te maak in die komende jaar en die tyd wat voorlê.
• Ons was nog altyd dankbaar teenoor God dat Hy hierdie wonderlike groep mense wat betrokke is by die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep geseën het.
• Mag 2026 jou beloon met vrede, veiligheid, geluk, goeie gesondheid en alles wat jou hart in amateur radio begeer.
• Jy, jou familie en vriende maak dit alles die moeite werd.

Gelukkige Nuwe Jaar! Mag 2026 hernude passie, meer vreugdevolle herinneringe, 'n sinvolle doel en eindelose moontlikhede vir jou amateur radio ondernemings bring.

 

Die ZS Link Netwerk Administrateurs

Suid-Kaap: Suid-Afrika

Webtuiste :  ZS Link Network Blog

Einde.

Why do ants nest in electrical- and electronic equipment?

During the "Sonsakspan Net" on the 30 December 2025 @ 16h30 the above question was asked by one of the participants as he experience an invasion in an electrical box.  AI provided the following information:

Ants nest in electrical boxes because they offer perfect shelter: warmth, darkness, and protection from predators and weather, especially in outdoor boxes where they get a dry spot during rain. Some ants, like invasive fire ants and crazy ants, are even attracted to the electromagnetic fields (EMF), micro-vibrations, and potential starch in old wiring, creating a feedback loop where dead ants release pheromones that attract more ants, leading to serious electrical issues and potential fire hazards.

Why Ants Are Attracted

• Warmth: Electrical components generate heat, providing a cozy nesting site, especially in winter.

• Shelter & Darkness: Boxes offer a secure, undisturbed, dark space, away from the elements and predators.

• Moisture: They can find moisture in soil or condensation within the box.

• Food (Sometimes): Some older insulation contains starch that ants might eat.

• Electromagnetic Fields (EMF): Certain species, such as Tawny Crazy Ants and Fire Ants, are attracted to the oscillating magnetic fields (60 Hz in North America) and electromagnetic signals emitted by live wires.

• Pheromone Feedback Loops: When an ant enters a switch and is electrocuted, it releases "alarm pheromones". These chemicals signal a threat, causing hundreds of other ants to swarm the source to "attack" it, eventually clogging the mechanism with dead bodies. 

Risks & Problems They Cause

• Short Circuits & Failures: Ants build nests with soil, which can bridge connections, causing shorts, tripped breakers, or power outages.

• Corrosion: Moisture from their nests, combined with soil, corrodes wires and components, leading to equipment failure.

• Pheromone Trails: When ants die from electrocution, they release alarm pheromones that attract even more ants, worsening the infestation.

• Fire Hazard: Overheating wires from nesting material or short circuits can create a significant fire risk.

What to Do

• Clean & Seal: Thoroughly clean out nests, use caulk to seal entry points around boxes, and remove food sources.

• Use Baits: Place ant baits near but not in the boxes to eliminate the colony at its source.

• Call a Pro: For serious infestations, especially with invasive species, contact a pest control professional.

Recipe to remove ants in a household: (NOT ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT!!)

Using borax and sugar creates an effective, slow-acting ant bait because sugar attracts ants, while the borax (boric acid) kills them once ingested, allowing worker ants to carry it back to the colony to eliminate the queen and larvae. A common ratio is 3 parts sugar to 1 part borax, mixed into a paste with a little water or syrup, placed in shallow dishes (like bottle caps) near ant trails, but always keep it away from kids and pets. 

Images sourced from the Internet.  (Click on images for larger view.)

Building Low Budget Antennas - DIY 1/2 Wave 6 Meter Flower Pot Antenna (50 Mhz)

I finally decided to build the 6m ‘Flowerpot’ coaxial vertical antenna to monitor the 6m WSPR beacon as well as  other 6 meter frequencies. The flower pot antenna is easy to construct with minimal parts, costs and setup.  Once again there is a abundance of information on the Internet regarding this antenna.  I will therefor not go into full detail on how I constructed my version of this antenna.

Here is a few links to visit if you interested in building this antenna:

1.  Flower Pot Antenna Calculator   

2.  Half-Wave Flower Pot Antenna - VK2ZOI

3.  Flowerpot Antenna for 6 meters - VKIDL

4.  Video:  Build an EASY 6 Meter (50 MHz) Vertical Antenna (Using just RG-58!) 

5.  VK4PK_My_6m_Flowerpot_Antenna-v1.0.pdf 

6.  VK4PK - My 6 Meter Flowerpot Antenna

The dimensions for the antenna was calculated using the free Flowerpot Antenna measurements of Hayden VK7HH available HERE.  I set my frequency to 50.1 MHz.  The resulting calculation is shown in the image below but differs from the measurements of  VK7HH.  

I used the measurements as provided by Hayden VK5HH.

With all the information now on paper, I was ready to move onto the next phase and that was to gather all the materials I was going to need.

Materials that I used:

1 x 3.5m x 25mm PVC Pipe. This pipe must be as thick as possible.  However I am going to make changes to the PVC pipe as it is to thin and wobbly. 

1 x 150mm x 50mm PVC pipe to wind the coil on

2 x 50mm PVC End Caps to fit the end of the 50mm x 150mm PVC pipe.

1 x 300mm x 25 mm wooden broom stick or dowel.

1 x PL259 Connector (Optional)

2 x Stainless Steel TV - U Clamps

1 x 5150mm RG58 CU Mil-Spec Coax Cable (50 Ohm)

2 x 300mm x 4.6 Hellermann Cable Ties

1 x 1385 mm x 3mm insulated electrical wire.

Odds and Sods:

Hot Glue Sticks

Self Amalgamating Tape

Solder

Solder Paste

Marine Silicone Sealant

Heat Shrink Tubing

 

Tools:

 

Metal Punch

Drill

Various Drill Bits 3mm - 25mm

Hack Saw 

Hot Glue Gun

Soldering Iron

 

Test Equipment:

 

SWR Meter

Antenna Analyzer (If you have one but not compulsory)

Amateur Radio Transceiver

Coax Patch Leads

Mast (Non conductive)

Coax feed line cable  5 m  RG58CU 50 ohm

Power Supply for Radio 

Antenna Dimensions:

My final dimensions is listed below:

Working Frequency:  50.1 Mhz

Upper Radiator : 1376 mm

Lower Radiator:  1346 mm

Coil:  14 Turns

Building the antenna and the construction changes I made:

1.  Get rid of the 25mm PVC pipe in which the antenna is housed.  The PVC is flimsy and wobbly. A glass fiber rod / pole / housing will solve the issue.

2.  Look at the images of how I construct my coil and how it is fitted.

3.  I did not use a fishing line to secure the top radiator.  (See image.)

4.  To save on coax I constructed the top radiator out of 3mm insulated electrical wire.  The bottom radiator and coil consist of coax cable. Length = 1385 mm  I removed the insulation at both ends to tie the top  ( split the strands into half en make a little loop. I then used a sucker sweat plastic stick to secure the loop to the outer PVC.  See image )  and solder the bottom end to the bottom radiator element.  Seal with heat shrink tubing and marine silicone and then with self amalgamating tape.

5.  The 300mm x 25 mm wooden broom stick or dowel was placed inside the PVC pipe at the bottom of the antenna to provide rigidness to clamp the antenna to a mast.

6.  The coil consisted of 15 turns of coax (40mm former).  This must still be rectified.  I used a 50mm former and therefor the coil turns should have been 14 turns.  The coax feeds trough both the 50 mm coil and the 25mm PVC pipe.  (See images)

7.  The 25mm PVC pipe protrudes through the two 50mm end caps.  I drilled a 25mm hole through each of the end caps.

8.  I used 6mm and 8mm Heat Shrink Tubing after soldering the insulated 3mm copper wire to the bottom radiator and then sealed further with self amalgamating tape and silicone.

Changes that I still want to make before the antenna is installed:

1.  Replace the flimsy and wobbly 25mm PVC with something more rigid.

2.  Play around with the top radiator.  Instead of using insulated wire rather use a stainless steel whip or an ex army clip together antenna. Another option would be to use a rugged "tape measure" tactical antenna. 

3.  The aim here is to build the antenna as cheap as possible Adding onE of the radiators as mentioned in 2 will increase the cost dramatically.  However it is for you to decide how much you want to spend on the antenna.

Preliminary Test Results:

 

 

 

I really did not go into a full out testing and use of this antenna at this stage.  The only testing I have been doing is with the Nano VNA.  See images above for the test results.

The next step will be to install the antenna and then test it practically.  I will provide more feedback and details in future article how the antenna performs.   Stay tuned!!

Images:  (Click on images for larger view.)