Author Archives: AREGNews

VK5RSB 6 metre repeater update

Posted on by

The 6 metre repeater, VK5RSB 6 (53.750 MHz) at Summertown, has now been serviced, the RF transmit power amplifier has been repaired, the receiver checked for specifications and the repeater has now been re-installed (23/12/2014) at its site with a replacement temporary 5/8w antenna and is now back on air for general use.

The high power PA is back on line with the system now putting 40 watts into the antenna, as a against the previous 15 watts from the PA driver.

VK5RSB 6m_2

Many thanks must go to Adrian VK5ZBR and Rod VK5UDX for their efforts and work to get the VK5RSB 6 metre repeater back on line.

73, Ben VK5BB

VK5RWN, DSTAR in Adelaide update

Posted on by

d-star-logo-350The AREG manages the VK5RWN D-STAR repeater system here in Adelaide.

Until recently, the yearly running costs of the VK5RWN D-STAR system was shared between the WIA and the AREG, with the WIA paying for the licence, power and the internet, while AREG picked up the bills for the telephone connection needed for the internet connection.

The WIA, who was sponsoring a large number of D-STAR systems around Australia, has made the decision to divest itself of the D-STAR costs by transferring the licence and full yearly running costs to the respective D-STAR sponsoring clubs and/or group. This means that the AREG is now financially responsible for the entire operating and maintenance costs associated with keeping the VK5RWN local D-STAR repeater system on air.

AREG have reviewed all aspects of maintaining the site and VK5RWN installation and are committed to keeping the system running. To assist with this, the AREG are currently implementing a number of cost saving initiatives to reduce the ongoing expenditure.

As was recently posted, the AREG are in the process of installing a high capacity WiFi link into the site providing alternative internet connectivity without the need for the fixed telephone line and ADSL.   As part of the cut over process, it is expected the VK5RWN connectivity to the world wide D-STAR network will be interrupted a number of times over the coming weeks.  We ask that regular users of the D-STAR system to be patient and understanding while these upgrades are in progress.

As changes to VK5RWN occur, more information will be provided by both the Local VK5 Broadcast medium and the AREG website.

73, Ben VK5BB

VK5RSB 6 metre repeater update

Posted on by

The 6 metre repeater, VK5RSB 6 at Summertown, has now been serviced, the RF transmit power amplifier has been repaired, the receiver checked for specifications and the repeater is ready for re-installation back at its site. This is all subject to a replacement antenna and the service crew availability.

A temporary antenna has been re-built and will be installed as soon as is practicable. The mechanics of the construction of this antenna will be a limitation for long term use in the harsh environment at the top of the 30 metre tower, so it will need to be replaced as soon as a suitable alternative is made available.

AREG has requested for quotes from the “big three” antenna manufacturers and only one has responded with a firm quotation for a heavy duty antenna cut for 53.750 MHz, which is now being reviewed for consideration and possible purchase.

As the loss of the antenna was unexpected, AREG would appreciate any financial assistance to help pay for the replacement antenna. So, if you are able to make a donation, any amount will be much appreciated. You may use the “Donate” button to the left of this blog to donate, or alternatively contact one of the AREG Committee members for assistance.

If you are able to donate, please add “VK5RSB 6” and your call sign so that the donation may be identified specifically in support of the 6m antenna replacement.

73, Ben VK5BB

AREG June 2014 General Meeting

Posted on by

The next General Meeting is this Friday, 20 June, at the Reedbeds Community Hall, 7:30 pm.

Well what with recent events with the club heavily involved with providing the River Murray Canoe Marathon Event (RPM) with safety and tracking communications support over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, and many members racing around the country side chasing SOTA and Parks Awards activations, it has been a very busy couple of months.

So, come along one and all, the meeting will be offering a debrief of the RPM with the opportunities for all who participated in the event to regale us with anecdotes of their experiences, hopefully feedback from the RPM management and organising team, plus the opportunities to review AREG’s performance and provision of communications support for the event.

Also the evening will be covering general club business, preparation for the AGM, which should be in either July or August, and the general “rag chewing” over coffee, tea and cake.

Don’t miss this evening, it should be a very busy and interesting evening for all.

7:30 pm, Friday 20 June, at the Reedbeds, see you all there!

73, Ben VK5BB

 

 

 

VK5RWN Port C (2 metres) frequency changes

Posted on by

Hi all D-STAR Users,

Just to advise, VK5RWN Port C (2 metres) has had its frequencies changed as of Monday 23 September 2013.

The new Repeater frequencies are,

Repeater Tx 147.0375 MHz
Repeater Rx 147.6375 MHz, (+ 600kHz shift)

therefore you need to change your portable and mobiles to reflect,

Mbl/Port Tx 147.6375 MHz
Mbl/Port Rx 147.0375 MHz
Set Rptr1 VK5RWN C
Set Rptr2 VK5RWN G

The frequency change has been brought about due to adjacent channel interference from the VK5RLH 2m repeater at Lochiel causing problems for some users mobiles and portables. These frequency changes are temporary whilst we evaluate the impact of the changes. If it works out OK, then AREG will apply for permanent changes and fix the frequencies.

Please let any other users know of the changes.

Advice will be promulgated via the National and Local Broadcast News and Notes, the AREG Web pages, www.areg.org.au, the D-STAR VK5 web pages.

Feedback will be appreciated.

73, Ben VK5BB
VK5RWN D-STAR Administrator

IRLP Node 6214 is off air.

Posted on by

The AREG sponsored IRLP node 6214 here in Adelaide, VK5, has been taken off air pending service to the VK5RAD 70cm repeater and an upgrade to the IRLP node equipment.

The node is expected to be off air for a number of weeks, possibly through to August. Work on both systems is very dependent on the availability of the few volunteers and access to the site.

AREG apologises for any inconvenience to the amateur radio community.

73, Ben VK5BB, node 6214 Administrator

AREG General Meeting 17 May

Posted on by

Hi,

The next AREG general meeting is this Friday 17 May 2013.

The invitation for the evening is extended to all persons who may be interested in amateur radio, AREG’s activities and see an amateur radio club in action, however the evening will be primarily focused around AREG’s activities, past, present and for the future.

So come along and visit at an AREG meeting, find out what AREG is up to and participate in an evening with other amateur radio operators.

Coffee, tea, cake will be on for supper along with general rag chewing.

73, Ben VK5BB

23 cm analogue FM voice repeater

Posted on by

Saturday 2nd of March, a group of AREG members installed the 23 cm analogue FM voice repeater at the VK5RSB site, Summertown.

The repeater transmit frequency is 1273.500 MHz with a positive 20 MHz shift for receive. Transmit power into the the coax to the collinear antenna is 10 watts carrier. The repeater should provide good coverage across the major areas of the Adelaide plains.

You need to program your radio for 1273.500 MHz receive with a positive 20 MHz offset, giving your transmit at 1293.500 MHz. No CTCSS is required.

The repeater is fully operational, so check it out.

Thanks go all those who helped with the installation, Colin VK5ACE, who built the repeater, Ben VK5BB and Paul VK5BX, who did the rigging, Mark VK5QI and Andy VK5AKH, ground crew.