Either way, this year will (mostly) be a TOC-operation, working from the command post here at FOB Cedar. It would be a great time not only to make some contacts on the air but also to get some training in other critical areas, like information handoffs (if working as a group) and plotting points of contacts on a map to measure your propagation.
For myself and the crew, we will be testing:
- The MiniPro SC Data Interface: Half the size of a SignalLink and more simple in setup, this may be the go-to interface for the Yaesu and Icom rigs out there. SurvivalTechNord has tested this successfully in his youtube videos for both a computer interface for Android’s port of the FLDigi program. We’ll see how it goes- and get back to you.
- The Wolphilink Data Interface: Another soundcard for the 817/857, but the smallest of the bunch, by far. I haven’t had much luck running it on Android, so hopefully I’ll have time to get the kinks worked out. It is a very promising option for ultralight data interfacing for the 817.
- The EARCHI End-Fed: The workhorse is still at it. No complaints so far, and it’ll get another activation under it’s belt.
If for nothing else, test your kit this weekend- a lot of folks will be on the air, the event is growing, and networking just to know your signal package works is definitely worth the time. Listening matters too.
I’ll hear you on the air.