We went back to the same spot described in the blog post below after lunch on May 1. We prepped our 3rd PVC "T" and aligned the elements much better plumb and square. There's still more work to do in that regard but we are coming along well. We also now hold the antenna in the proper polarity alignment. Our Online HAM Elmer, Don Butler (N4UJW & The Ham Universe website) got quite a chuckle out of improper aiming of the antenna during Test #2. He's right, that antenna works a heck of a lot better when it's held correctly! Don today put online an article about using the protractor to align drill holesin a piece of PVC pipe. You can click here to check it out.
We transmitted an "antenna check" message to the Jump Off Peak repeater. The first response was too garbled to decipher. The second response was so clear it was as if the operator was standing beside us carrying on a FTF conversation. We are 99% certain his call sign is K6ROV. However, in looking at QRZ, the person with that call sign is registered in Metro Los Angeles at a Hawthorne, California address. How in the world we could reach California from an obscure Idaho repeater is beyond me.
Sadly, I forgot to ask his whereabouts and equipment. From now on, I'm using a checklist each time I conduct one of these tests. I'm also going to bring a digital voice recorder to capture the transmissions so I can study them later in more detail. K6ROV said I was coming through very clear and complimented me on the antenna project. Well, live and learn! We will keep at this project until we not only have a workable antenna but also some proficient on-air procedures with which to conduct ourselves.
Below is a screen shot of a Google Map we made showing the signal test site in relationship to the city's most visible landmark--the water tower. You can click here for the actual zoomable Google Map.
73, jp
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