Homebrew 1- 500 Mhz Frequency Counter Project - Curtis ZS6CMO

A while ago a few images of a Homebrew Frequency Counter were placed on the Amateur Radio 101 Telegram Group by Curtis ZS6CMO.  I asked Curtis to provide more information on the build and he obliged. Before I publish more info on the build I decided to provide the basics of a frequency counter:

What is an RF frequency counter: basics

In essence a frequency counter is an electronics test instrument that operates by counting the number of times a signal passes a give voltage point - trigger point - in a given time.

Some frequency counters will have trigger points that can be set, but most automatically set the trigger - often around the zero crossing point.

To illustrate the operation, if the time for which the frequency counter is set to count is a second, i.e. a gate time of a second, and the waveform crosses the trigger point a hundred times, there will be a hundred repetitions of the waveform in a second, i.e. its frequency is 100 Hertz.

If the same waveform was used, but the gate time is reduced to a tenth of a second, then only ten repetitions would be seen. The circuitry can easily accommodate this and the circuit can deduce that in a tenth of a second ten repetitions are seen, then the waveform has a frequency of 100 Hz.

There is a balance between getting an accurate count and the length of time of the gate. With a tenth of a second gate time and a 100Hz signal, only ten crossings will be counted, whereas with a gate time of a second 100 crossings will be counted. Dependent upon where the gate time falls with respect to the incoming signal, it can be seen that the longer gate time will be more accurate.

The issue with the longer gate time is that the update rate is not as fast, but in many situations this may not be an issue.

The length of the gate time is critical. Normally the signal for the gate is taken from a crystal controlled oscillator of some form to ensure an accurate time. Often TCXOs (temperature controlled crystal oscillators), or OCXOs (oven controlled crystal oscillators) are used to ensure the best accuracy.

Another issue with these frequency counters can be that noise on the signal will cause false counts to be registered. Often careful design of the input circuitry can help ensure that these false counts only rarely occur.

RF frequency counter applications

RF frequency counters are used in very many applications where the frequencies of radio frequency or even audio frequency signals are to be measured. Some applications may include:

1.  Measuring the frequency of a transmitter carrier.

2.  Measuring the frequency of an oscillator in a circuit.

3.  Measure the frequency of a signal on a line

4.  Any application where the frequency of a steady repetitive signal needs to be measured.

To be able to measure the frequency of an RF signal using a frequency counter there are a few prerequisites.

1.  Frequency must be steady, i.e. not varying.

2.  The signal should not have modulation applied as this will prevent proper counting.

3.  Signal must have sufficient amplitude – typically signals over about half a volt are suitable.

4.  Signals should not be so large that they overload the input - check the manufacturer’s specification if in doubt.

Types of frequency counters

Although frequency counters may appear to be very straightforward, there are several different types. Each one is applicable to its own situation and capable of providing very good service.

Bench frequency counter: The bench frequency counter is the most commonly used format for this type of electronics test equipment.

PXI frequency counter : Along with many other items of test equipment, it is possible to obtain frequency counters in a PXI format. The PXI system provides a rack system for test and control systems. Test instruments in the form of a PXI card, and int his case a PXI frequency counter or timer can be slotted into the PXI rack. In this way a PXI frequency counter could be part of a sophisticated overall test system.

Handheld frequency counter: Frequency counter technology does not need to be large and several handheld frequency counters are available.

Frequency counter in a digital multimeter: Some digital multimeters incorporate a frequency counter function. When included in a DMM, normally it will be relatively basic. Typically no coaxial RF connection is available and this will mean that the test probes will need to be used and this may result in stray pick up and false count triggers which will make the reading less accurate. Additionally there will not be an accurate time base within the DMM, and this will also mean that results are not particularly accurate. That said, they will be more than adequate for many readings, especially when fault finding, or generally wanting to look at general readings of frequency.

Panel meter: Frequency counters and timers are available in panel mount modules. These can be incorporated into larger items of equipment where they can be used for counting frequency or time intervals. These frequency counter timers can be obtained relatively cheaply.

Whatever the actual format of the PXI frequency counter, the same basic techniques are used, and the frequency counter timer will operate in basically the same way.

RF frequency counters are a widely used piece of electronics test instrumentation. They are used for many RF measurements. Although Spectrum analyzers are also able to make frequency measurements, and todays analyzers can take very accurate readings, RF frequency counters are relatively cheap and provide measurements that are equally accurate or more accurate. They are widely used as bench test equipment.

Counter timers are also widely used test instruments, used for measuring intervals, and they can be used for very accurate measurements.

The above was just a short explanation on how a Frequency Counter works.  

Herewith more information about the 1 - 500 Mhz Frequency Counter Project build by Curtis ZS1CMO.

1 - 500 Mhz Frequency Counter Project build by Curtis ZS1CMO  (PDF)

LCD FREQUENCY COUNTER WITH EEPROM FUNCTION - Osmo OH6CJ

 

Images (Click on images for larger view.)

 

Down Memory Lane - ZS9X De Brug, Bloemfontein - April 2008

I spend some time in the "City of Roses" (Bloemfontein) with it's friendly people during April 2008.   I will give an overview divided into several topics on the activities that myself and Nico ZS4N  "indulged" in and believe me there was like before never one single dull moment.   Amateur Radio once again proved to be the winner!!

Well let's get on with the business.  

VISIT TO ZS9X - THE BLOEMFONTEIN DEFENSE FORCE AMATEUR RADIO CLUB, DE BRUG APRIL 2008

Photo:  Optibeam rotatable covering 40 to 10m        

Now who is ZS9X and what is their aim?

The callsign ZS9X has been allocated to the Bloemfontein Defense Force Amateur Radio Club. The club is located on a hill about 20 km west of the city of Bloemfontein overlooking the De Brug military training area. The club was originally an HF Telecommunication Station in use by the South African National Defense Force (SANDF), but with developments in technology, has given way to modern technology such as satellite telecommunications etc.

ZS9X has three aims namely :

1. Participation in DX competitions (all modes) as a single or as a multi operator operation.

2. Development of amateur radio amongst the youth.

3. A station that can be utilized by visiting national and international radio amateurs. The facility has its own accommodation facilities.

The station has an impressive antenna system comprising:

Three Log Periodics covering 3 - 30 Mhz fixed in North West, North and North Easterly directions for use mainly on 80m and 40m. Each Log P has 30 elements and occupies about an acre of ground.
One Optibeam OB17/4 up at a height of 20m (approx 66ft), rotatable, covering 40 through to 10m.
Two Optibeams OB16/3 up at a height of 15 (approx 50ft), fixed east and west
One 5 element 10m monobander up at a height of 30m (approx 100ft) fixed north.
One HF Discone antenna mounted on a 40m mast covering 1,5 - 30Mhz which will be used mainly on 160m.

A variety of dipole, vertical and other wire antennas are also planned as projects.

The equipment consists of an Icom IC781 and an Icom IC7800 transceivers with valve type amplifiers.

Myself an Nico ZS4N visited ZS9X with Colonel John Smith (ZS4S) (Now SK), the commander of the Regional Signal Unit in the Free State Province.  Many thanks to John ZS4S who made all the effort to show us around the facilities of ZS9X. Having spend some time at "DE BRUG" in 1980, brought back many memories.  

Myself and Nico also were afforded the opportunity to do some VHF/UHF experiments from ZS9X.  As  ZS9X is situation on a hill outside of Bloemfontein, this gave us the ideal take-off on VHF/UHF.  Several repeaters were activated from this site.  These include:  Ladybrand 145.775Mhz, Welkom 145.750Mhz,  Aliwal North 145.750Mhz, Klerksdorp 145.775Mhz and obviously all the local repeaters in Bloemfontein.  Test were also conducted on VHF/UHF simplex towards Upington, Kimberley, Postmasburg, Kathu and Loathla.  We also listened on several beacon frequencies but only the ZS4AFV 2 meter beacon was heard.   Many thanks to Stefan ZS3S who supplied the following antennas for the experiments:  70 cm  Diamond A430S10R (10 element ) beam  and the 2M Diamond A144S10 (10 element) beam.  

We left the ZS9X site just before 12 noon and returned to the QTH of Nico ZS4N.   

What a great station and environment to operate the ZS9X DX Contest Station and also having the opportunity to return to De Brug, 28 years later where a lot of sweat was left behind in the 1980's.

Truly a great trip "Down memory lane!"

PHOTO ALBUM OF ZS9X:    (Click on images for larger view.)                              

Above:  HF Discone antenna mounted on a 40m mast  covering 1,5 - 30Mhz which will be used mainly on 160m. 

 
Above:  Optibeam up at a height of 15 (approx 50ft), fixed west.

            
 Above: Log Periodics covering 3 - 30 Mhz fixed use mainly on   80m  and 40m. Each Log P has 30 elements and occupies about an acre of ground.

 Above :  Variety of dipoles (to the right)                 

Above:  One of the massive 900Mhz dishes. ( Not operational)    

Above:  Front view of the dish and other antennas in the background.

Above:  "LNB"  of one of the dishes     

                                  
Above:  Operating desk at ZS9X.  (Radio's locked away for obvious reasons.)  

Above:  VHF/UHF tests being conducted.  The 10 element 2 Meter Yagi donated for tests by ZS3S.  

Above:  ICOM IC7800

Above:  ICOM IC781

New RF Repeaters, AllStar Hub and Link Networks connected to the GRHub Network, Mossel Bay

Photo:  Wikus ZS1WLM, Saldanha, West Coast

It is with great appreciation that I can announce that the following RF Repeaters, AllStar Hub and Simplex Link Networks has now been added to the GRHub Network in Mossel Bay.  This also means that these stations are from time to time linked to the ZS-Link Network throughout South Africa.

Here is a list of stations and the areas in which they are available:

West Coast, Western Cape South Africa

599680  ZS1WLM AllStar Hub, Saldanha

609690  ZS1WLM-L AllStar Link 145.550 Mhz, Saldanha

The above stations cover a large area along the West Coast of South Africa and the system is maintained by Wikus ZS1WLM.  

George, Western Cape South Africa

743564  ZS1COR-R Echolink, George

600741  ZS1ERZ-L  AllStar Link 145.525 Mhz, George

The above stations cover a large area along the Garden Route of South Africa and the system is maintained by Corne ZS1COR

Kimberley, Northern Cape South Africa

130990  ZS3AG-R Echolink, Kimberley

855907  ZS3JDL-R Echolink, Kimberley

The above stations cover a large area in the Kimberley area of South Africa and the systems are maintained by Andre ZS3AG and Johnny ZS3JDL.

Bloemfontein, Free State South Africa

160807  ZS4RM-L  Echolink 145.500 Mhz, Bloemfontein

The above station cover a large area in the Bloemfontein area of  South Africa and the system is being maintained by Rulhof ZS4RM

Still Bay, Western Cape South Africa

172769  ZS1DRP-L Echolink linked to the 145.625 Mhz Repeater in Still Bay

The above station cover a large area in the Still Bay area of South Africa and the system is being maintained by Dolf ZS1DRP-L

Albertinia, Western Cape South Africa

123760  ZS1SB-L  Echolink linked to the Aasvoelkop Repeater  145.750 Mhx 88.5 hz, Albertinia

The above station cover a large area in the Southern Cape and Garden Route area of South Africa and the systems are being maintained by Johann ZS1AAC and Henry ZS1SB.

George, Western Cape South Africa

60077 ZS1HEB AllStar Node, George (Node currently not linked to a radio but available via the Internet at times.)

The above station is available via the Internet and the system is being maintained by Eben ZS1HEB

I will be posting images and videos of all the RF Repeaters, Links, Hubs etc in a future posting. 

Finally:  I would once again like to invite clubs and radio amateurs to use and keep on using the ZS-LINK and GRHub Network if they so wish. The network is not a private, club only or special allocated network.  It is open for general use by any radio amateur.  Transmit, experiment, test etc. - let radio amateurs know you are active and on the network.  Start or join a QSO and make new friends.
Thank you to those who support, use and maintain the Networks on a regular basis.  

Highly appreciated!!

Huldeblyk - John Fletcher ZS1ZR, George.

Foto: John ZS1ZR saam met van  sy mede amateur vriende. (middel aan hoof van tafel)

John Fletcher ZS1ZR se liefde vir die Tuinroete en spesifiek George het oor baie jare gestrek.  Sy loopbaan as radio tegnikus by die Suid Afrikaanse Polisie het op George begin en het hy en Stan Jones ZS1T saam diens verrig in George.  Latere jare is John opgekommandeer vir groter diens in Gauteng en as ek reg kan onthou het hy die rang van Brigadier beklee ten tye van sy aftrede in die SA Polisie.  Hy het egter sy liefde behou vir die George area en het hy en sy gade na aftrede weer terug verhuis na George toe.  John het 'n groot liefde gehad vir die tuinroete area, vir golf speel (agter wit ballejies aanloop soos hy dit gestel het), vir visvang vanaf die rotse en natuurlik vir amateur radio.

John die mens wat ek geleer ken het was nederig, 'n ware heer en natuurlik 'n humorsin wat by baie amateur radio byeenkomste 'n sterk inslag gevind het onder sy mede radio amateurs.  John het ook 'n oophand gehad wanneer dit kom by amateur radio toerusting. Voordat hy na 'n aftree oord verhuis het, het hy van sy oortollige amateur radio toerusting tydens amateur radio byeenkomste wegegee, ja geskenk aan ander radio amateurs.  Ek hoef nie veel meer oor John die mens te se nie want bostaande is 'n goeie aanduiding van John die "Gentleman".

Hiernaas volg 'n paar uitreksels van bydraes wat John gelewer het tydens amateur radio byeenkomste in die Tuinroete:

25 Januarie 2020 - John ZS1ZR,  George:

• Spark Plug herwin uit die See.
• Philips Tweede Wereld Oorlog Flitslig.
• Rubber Patroon.  (Oor die rubber patroon mag ek nie die storie hier vertel nie.  Die manne het dit baie geniet en behoorlik aan John se lippe gehang.)
  
   
   
   

Fotos:  Klik op fotos om te vergroot

 

 Foto hierbo:  John ZS1ZR (Heel links voor)

19 Oktober 2019 - John ZS1ZR,  George:

Soos altyd het John die manne sommer weer lekker laat skaterlag met ‘n staaltjie uit die verlede. Hy het ons vertel van hoe hy destyds bevordering ontvang het in die SA Polisie vanaf ‘n trapfiets na die gebruik van ‘n motorvoertuig. Saam met die bevordering om ‘n motorvoertuig te bestuur het nuwe probleme ook opgeduik. Die voertuig is later toegerus met ‘n mobiele radio wat die dinge so ietwat moeiliker gemaak het. Een daarvan was dat jy heeltyd beskikbaar moet wees want daar is nou ‘n radio waarmee kontak gehou is. Hy het verduidelik dat hulle 300 km tydens ‘n skof moes afle en hoe daar toe te werk gegaan is om dit vinnig te bewerkstellig. Die manne het sommer lekker gelag oor die metode. Hy het ook vertel hoe hulle te werk gegaan het om die twee rigting radio te laat klik of dit sein verloor. Weereens het die manne lekker gelag oor die vindingryke metodes wat net ‘n jong man kon uitdink om ‘n ouer man te flous. John het ook vertel hoe daar destyds toestemming van sy werkgewer verkry moes word om te kon trou. Glo dit as jy wil, n mede werknemer is vanaf Pretoria gestuur om ‘n onderhoud met sy toekomstige vrou te voer en dan ‘n verslag op te stel voordat toestemming verleen is. Vandag klink dit maar baie snaaks maar dit is hoe dit van melewe was. Ernstige sake!!

Die manne geniet duidelik John se vertellinge en almal luister baie aandagtig waarna die manne ook met gereelde tussenposes uitbars van die lag. Net die regte medisyne vir die gees en natuurlik wat ons vandag so brood nodig het. Ek kan nie in diepte ingaan op John se vertellinge nie en daarom moet julle die Koffie Drink geleenthede bywoon om dit te beleef en te ervaar.

 17 Augustus 2019 - John  ZS1ZR,  George:   

Tydens ons tussen deur gesprekke het radio aktiwiteite na vore gekom.  John het verduidelik dat hy nou letterlik en figuurlik werklik radio aktief is.  John is een van ons deelnemers wat met elke geleentheid ons laat skaterlag tydens die Koffie Drink geleenthede.  Wel die keer was weereens die geval en het hy ons vertel van sy werks ervaringe in die 60’er jare op George, Wilderness en omgewing.  Hy het aangedui dat hy daardie jare baie vertroud was met die werking van ‘n trapfiets en dat dit deel gevorm het van sy werks verpligtinge.  Dit was vir hom regtig niks snaaks om Wilderness en omgewing vanaf George vir werk te besoek met die trapfiets nie.  Hy was jonk en boonop sommer lekker fiks gewees.  Hy het ons vertel van hoe klein George was daardie jare en dat daar nog geboue van daardie era vandag bestaan.  Hy het almal laat skaterlag met al die kwinkslae wat hy vertel het.  Ek gaan dit nie hier vermeld nie en die wat nie daar by die koffie drink was nie het nou ongelukkig uitgemis op die fyner vertelling van sy wedervaringe van vroeer jare op George en omgewing.  John, dankie jy het behoorlik die manne se lagspiere oefening gegee en ook hulle ‘n terugblik gegee van melewe se dae op George.  Dankie dat jy ook jou weg oopgesien het om die koffie drink geleentheid by te woon. 

 

22 Junie 2019  -  John ZS1ZR, George: 

John was verantwoordelik dat die manne se lagspiere oefening gekry het. Dankie daarvoor John dit het die manne sommer lekker laat lag en ons kort van meer lag – VHF Radio in die Suid Kaap.  

So kan ek vele meer staaltjies vertel van die groot bydrae wat John ZS1ZR gelewer het tov Amateur Radio in die Suid Kaap en Tuinroete area.

Ons gaan jou werklik baie mis.  Jou sleutel mag stil geraak het maar die herinneringe sal ons altyd by bly. 

Rus in Vrede, John Fletcher ZS1ZR.

John Fletcher, ZS1ZR van George SK / Stil Sleutel

Dit is met leedwese dat ek moet aankondig dat die sleutel van John Fletcher, ZS1ZR van George stil geword het.  John is oorlede op Sondag 7 Januarie 2024. Ons betuig ons innige meegevoel met sy vrou Marita, familie en vriende.   Huldeblyk sal later gepubliseer word.

New!! Homebrew Southern Cape Experimental Repeater Project (Part 1)

The Southern Cape Experimental Repeater Project is the construction and experimentation with a low cost, low power, but a feature rich duplex Linux based amateur radio repeater using a single board Raspberry Pi Computer and other easily available parts and equipment.  I hear you say now what makes this such a big deal, as there are enough repeaters in the Southern Cape and   South Africa.  Why another repeater?  Let me explain.

Some time ago I discussed this project on the Amateur Radio 101 Telegram Group.  The idea behind building another repeater in this area stems from the fact that many radio amateurs do not have access to experimental repeaters, repeater sites, technical know how etc. etc.  With all the local repeaters in this area not one is currently available to conduct tests and to experiment with as one of these repeaters are very busy, one belong to a club and one belongs to the Western Cape Repeater network and is mainly used for emergency communications.  I have no problem with any of these repeaters and how they are used.  I would however like to have an experimental repeater in the Southern Cape that is available to all radio amateurs to use, tinker and experiment with.  This is how this project came to the foreground and it was decided to build such a repeater from scratch.  More on the build to follow.

Some might ask what is there to experiment with using a repeater?  Well I can think of many aspects and I will mention only a few here:

1. Raspberry Pi and other Repeater hardware Controller experiments

2. Raspberry Pi and other Repeater software Controller experiments

3. Linking a Repeater to a VOIP Network via 5.8 Ghz Network system

4. Experimenting with Nodes, Hubs, Reflectors, Echolink, AllStar, DMR, IRLP etc.

5. Propagation studies. To many to mention here.

6. Testing different Coaxial cables and connectors, including length and termination.

7. Testing a variety of antennas (including wire, dipoles, ect.) and the height above ground of the antennas.

8. Experimenting with RF Power levels i.r.o the transmitter (TX). How low can one go?

 

Can you think of more aspects/ideas?  Please forward your ideas to the Southern Cape Repeater Project Group and why not at the same time join in on the fun.  Join the  Southern Cape Experimental Repeater Project Telegram Group by sending me an email request.

List of equipment currently on hand:

1.   2 x Motorola GM360 (70cm's)

2.   1 x Webb  RX and TX Filter

3.   1 x X50 Diamond Antenna

4.   1 x Raspberry Pi with AllStar installed

5.   Connecting cables, Connectors and Coax fly leads

6.   1 x 30 Amp Power Supply

7.   1 x 19" Aluminum Rack 

8.  1  x 100aH  12v Battery

9.  1  x 100 Amp Solar Panel with controller.

10.  1 x Auto Fan Controller

11.  1 x Huawei LTE Router

12.  Odds and Sods

13.  Mast to mount the antenna

Enough for now.  Updates to follow as the project progress.

Historical Circuit Diagram - Circa 1950's

I have a very special original historical circuit diagram dating back to the 1950's.  Now what is so special about this diagram.  This circuit diagram has the following characteristics:

• This diagram is the original diagram that was included  with the product purchased from Italy.
• This diagram was hand drawn.  ( A real work of art!)
• The ink used was not normal ball-point type ink.  It might have been drawn with a type of fountain pen or an even earlier dipped ink pen.
• This circuit diagram was not drawn on ordinary paper.  The type of paper has the characteristics of a material based paper that was used to draw patents on in the 1950's.
• Durability and quality was clearly part and parcel of the product that was sold by the manufacturing company.
• The condition of the drawing is still fairly good which is quite remarkable for a piece of  "paper" dating back to the 1950's.  If normal paper was used this diagram would have been the worst for wear as this specific diagram was used many times since the purchase date.

To try and preserve this historical circuit diagram I have decided to laminate it as the diagram was folded in two places and from old age it started to tear in one area.  The tearing was a blessing in disguise as this revealed the structure of the paper to be material based.  The lamination clearly was the answer to prevent further deterioration of this historical diagram.

What diagram is being drawn on this material based paper?

The circuit diagram is related to a VFO exciter unit N 4/102/K product manufactured by Geloso in Italy in the 1950's.

Image (Click on image for larger view)

Herewith more information on the history of the Geloso company.

The Geloso Story  (PDF)

The Geloso  Signal Shifter  (PDF)

The Geloso VFO it  (PDF)

Images  (Click on images for larger view.

 

What is the Hub, more specifically the ZS1I GRHub?

Image:  (Click on image for larger view.)

From time to time it is necessary to remind or inform radio amateurs about the operational procedures of ZS1I GRHUB Network.  A Digital VoIP Mutimode Interlink System.  The GRHub is a  Amateur Radio Digital Voice over IP Multimode Interlinked System.  It was created in the spirit of amateur radio experimentation by supporting and interlinking amateur radio VoIP modes for interoperability: AllStar Link, EchoLink, DMR, D-STAR etc.

It is become necessary to again explain the main usage of the ZS1I Garden Route Hub Network.  I am not going to go into detail here but would like to mention the most important system usage rule above any other rules or guidelines.

A hub is a common connection point, also known as a network hub, which is used by amateur radio stations to connect to linked networks for RX and TX purposes. It works as a central connection for all amateur radio systems that are connected to the hub. The hub has numerous stations that are connected. If a station connects to the hub, it is able to see all other stations connected to the network.  A network hub has no routing tables or intelligence,  which is used to send information and broadcast all network data across each and every connection.  This is in short on how a Hub functions.

Of the utmost importance is the fact that stations can connect to the ZS1I GRHub. Therefor the name Hub.  It is not the task of the GRHub Network administrator to connect repeaters/links etc. to the GRHub Network.  

Please do NOT connect/link stations to any linked Network if you have no authorization from the owners of repeaters or networks to do so. 

Remember there is a connection log available that reflects who connect what to the GRHub Network.  Any unauthorized connections will result in the station making such a connection, to be banned from the Network.

As far as automated broadcasts are concerned from the GRHub Network I would like to make it very clear that only evening (19h30) weekly bulletins  and the weekly Sunday afternoon, ZS1I Ramblings podcast is automated in the sense that bulletins “are fetched” and then transmitted under supervision of ZS1I.  The only other automated connection is the weekly morning Legend’s Net from Pretoria.  This is also being supervised by ZS1I.

Finally:  Please, do not “mess”  around on any of the linked networks.  You can use the GRHub Network free of any cost and unnecessary curtailing rules and regulations. Stations/repeaters/links are most welcome to connect to the GRHub Network.  However we must remember that we as radio amateurs must abide to good amateur radio operating practices as well as the amateur radio code of conduct.    Lets “play the game” and enjoy the linked networks.

Bad Echolink / AllStar / DMR audio on the increase on the ZS-Link- and GRHub Network!! (Part 1)

I have noticed an increase in bad -  and variable audio levels in the past few weeks on the ZS-Link- and GRHub Network. 

In this day and age this is really not a good amateur radio practice if you take into account that there are several "tools" available to users of networks, repeaters, links etc. to "check" your audio quality and audio level. 

I have heard on several occasions that radio amateurs ask for audio reports via the network links.  I do not have a problem in asking for an audio report but is this really the correct en best way to test your audio output from your radio, node, hub etc.?  The answer is quite easy:  No this is not the correct and good practice way to determine your stations audio quality and levels.  You are not just asking the person for an audio report but also for 30 other stations that are linked to the network.  I would really be embarrassed that so many radio amateurs must listen to my bad audio.  Yes, audio blunders can happen from time to time but this is understandable.  Moral of the story is do not test your audio directly on the Network by asking for an audio report unless you are using a VHF/UHF radio via a repeater / link or in a situation where there is no other way to do it.

I have said it many times we are not here to "police"  or criticize a station but there are far better alternatives to test your station's audio.

In short the reason: 

One must remember that there are many variables that plays a roll in audio quality when using a large network as the ZS-Link Network.  Taking into consideration that VHF/UHF Repeaters, DMR Networks, Echolink-, AllStar- and other Nodes and Links etc. all has their own audio levels and that this vary with the different type of repeaters, radios and nodes that is utilized within the network.  Enough explanation!  I would like to ask stations to set their audio- and quality levels by using the network and other facilities that are available to each user of the ZS-Link and GRHub Network.  More on "How to .... " later in this topic.

We must use the facilities/utilities available to Network users to test our audio levels and quality.  It is really not pleasant to listen to variable audio levels as well as bad / terrible / over-driven / over-modulated / faint / soft / scratchy  audio on a large network such as the ZS-Link Network.  Secondly I believe it is not in good amateur radio spirit to use the Network with bad audio- and quality levels.  Would you like to listen to my bad audio week in and week out?

Back to "How to manage my audio levels using Echolink".

Image:  Route to Echolink Test Server  (Click on image for larger view)

I found this short and well explained article by "Handiham" that will definitely be of use to any Echolink user.

This article can by downloaded by clicking  HERE   (PDF Format)

Further reading:

Good quality audio for your Echolink / AllStar Node?

Invitation:

If you struggle to rectify bad audio quality, I am sure that there are many radio amateurs out there including myself that will assist you to fix audio issues.  This is an open invitation to ask for assistance in this regard.

Finally:  

This posting should not be seen as moaning or groaning about bad audio quality.  We must abide to good amateur radio operating practices as well as the amateur radio code of conduct.  Furthermore the majority of radio amateurs prefer to listen to good audio quality on VHF/UHF/VOIP.  There is absolutely no justification for bad audio on linked radio systems or networks in this day and age.

PS/ In  Part 2 I will be looking at:  "How to manage audio levels using AllStar"

Gesegdes van Radio Amateurs op die Lug

I created this post to remember some of those radio amateurs that went SK and those who are still with us today. I hope I have enough time to reminisced and to give recognition to those who played an important and not so important "roll" in amateur radio and also in the lives of many other radio amateurs. 

Gesegdes van Radio Amateurs  /  Sayings of Radio Amateurs

• TOTSIENS AAN AL DIE BRIEF LESERS  - Jannie ZS6BVM (Brief lesers is radio amateurs wat luister en nie saam praat nie.)
• JY GOOI ’N VARKOOR -  Willem ZS1ON (SK) (Jy luister maar praat nie saam nie.)
• MY KORT TERMYN GEHEUE IS IN FLARDE - Mossie ZS4XJ (SK) (Jy vergeet maklik.)
• DIE SKOENMAKER SE KINDERS LOOP KAALVOET  - Stan ZS1T (Hy sal ander persone se elektroniese goed regmaak maar syne is in ‘n swak toestand.)
• CW BOOGIE - Stan ZS1T ( Musiekstuk wat deur OK Stan en mederadio amateurs geskryf en gespeel is.)
• POEF TO YOU -  Willem ZS1ON (SK) (Jy moet gaan doppies blaas.)
• DAN KNOR DIT MAAR - Phillip ZS1CON (SK) (Wanneer dit maar swaar gaan)
• HY “SPY” - Joe ZS1AAB (SK) (Luister maar praat nie saam nie.)
• HULLE IS DIE MAAGWERK SPAN - Willlem ZS1ON (SK) (Hulle gesels nie oor amateur radio– of tegniese aangeleenthede nie.)
• DIE VYAND IS OP ONS - Johan ZS2PN (SK) (Die tyd het ons ingehaal.)
• AS JY SUKKEL OM IETS TE LAAT WERK, DAN WERK JY VERKEERD - Phillip ZS1CON (SK) (Selfverduidelikend)
• EK HET VANDAG ‘N OFFERHANDETJIE GEBRING - Johan ZS2PN (SK) ( Vleisie op die kole gebraai.)
• DIE OU BOME WORD SO EEN VIR EEN UITGEKAP - Stan ZS1T (Radio amateurs gaan dood.)
• STIL SLEUTEL RAAK - Outeur onbekend (Radio amateurs gaan dood.)
• KLIM TUSSEN DIE LAPPE IN -  Willem ZS1ON (SK) (Gaan slaap.)
• SPRING IN DIE DIP-TANK IN -  Chris ZS4CL (SK) ( Ek gaan gou stort/bad.)
• MOENIE IN JOU BROEK SWR NIE - Nico ZS4N (Moet nie kwaad raak nie.)
• EK HET WEL TWEE ORE MAAR KAN NET EEN PLEK LUISTER - Joe ZS1AAB (SK) (Selfverduidelikend)
• DIE HARDESKYF IS NIE MEER LEKKER NIE - Koos ZS1KWV  (Die brein
  wil nie meer so lekker dink nie. Koos lyk my my hardeskyf is besig om te groet.)
• ALL GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO ARE WILLING TO WAIT - Ruth Boatwright ZS2QK SK 
• AMATEUR RADIO IS NOT A HOBBY, IT IS AN OBSESSION!! - Pieter ZL1PDT
• AMATEUR RADIO IS 'N BESIGHEID.  AS JY NIE ADVERTEER NIE VERKRY JY NIKS NIE! - Thys ZS1TBP (maw Bedryf die bande as 'n besigheid. As jy nie roep nie gaan jy nie kontak maak nie.)
• YOU MADE MY DAY -- Oom Piet ZS4 PB (SK) - Die Kalahari Cowboy or Push Button
• DRIVE CLEVER - Mossie ZS4XJ (X-Ray JULiETTT)
• JULLE MOET MOOI LOOP, SAGGIES TRAP EN WYD KYK - Thys ZS1TBP (Wees versigtig wanneer jy rondbeweeg.)
• GROETE ONDER DIE DAK. - Christie ZS4CGR (Groete aan al jou huismense.)
• SO IS DIE LEWE - Jou oe vol trane en jou neus vol snot - Roelf  ZS6ARR
• DIE BAAS SE ORE HET SLYTASIE OP - Hoor nie lekker nie.  - Thys ZS1TBP
  
  ENKEL WOORDE:
  
  WITHUIS - Hospitaal
  WITJAS - Geneesheer
  GROOT DEURE - Kerk
  ONDER DIE LIGTE KOM -  X-Strale neem
  SWAAIDEURE - Kroeg
  RIP - Good friends like you happen once in a lifetime.
  ZS6BBB - 'Brigitte Bardot's Boyfriend', Peter Avidon (SK)
  EMG - Early Morning Gang

 

 As enige radio amateur wat die artikel gelees het, soortgelyke gesegdes ken of kan onthou, deel dit graag met jou mede radio amateurs. Stuur asb die gesegdes aan Johan ZS1I deur die skakel HIER te klik.  Ek sal graag die lys wil byhou en opdateer sodat dit nie vir die nageslag verlore sal gaan nie.

 

Let's build a Radio-less Allstar Node! - By Curtis ZS6CMO

This project started with the above photo and a discussion between ZS6CMO and ZS1I on the Amateur Radio 101 Telegram group.  Needless to say that the above pile of components turned out to be a radio- less Allstar node that was constructed by Curtis ZS6CMO.

For more details on the project visit:  How to build your own radio-less Allstar node

But why would one build a radio-less Allstar node?

Radio-less nodes are ideal for use cases where WiFi or wired Ethernet are available but the additional range provided by an HT or mobile radio is not needed, such as for a desk or table at your home QTH / office / shack, for vehicles or caravans where you have a WiFi hot spot, and for 2nd offices, hotels, etc. Radio-less nodes are the simplest, easiest and most cost-effective way to get on AllStar with your own node, and are more portable than even the smallest radio-based node and radio needed to access it.

For a node that's sitting a few meters away on a desk it makes more sense to use a radio-less node than to have multiple radios on transmitting 100's of mW of RF.

Radio-less nodes are more energy efficient, using generally less than a few Watts, vs. a node with radios plus other radio(s) to access it is easily 3 times the energy consumption. This efficiency means that a radio-less node can be left on and connected to your favorite repeater/hub 24x7 with no noticeable effect on your electricity account and no need to recharge batteries, unless load-shedding intervenes or when leaving radios powered on.

Radio-less nodes also support Full-Duplex by default. This is a powerful feature and makes a properly designed radio-less node much nicer to use than any half-duplex node.

A Radio-less Node is a very useful node as described above and a must have if you use VOIP. 

Photos and images  (Click on images for larger view.)