MINUTES OF THE NAPIER AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
Meeting on Wednesday 3 July 2013 at the Clubrooms 123 Latham Street

Chair: Laurie ZL2TC, the meeting started at 7:30 pm.
Apologies: ZL2GAZ, ZL2DC, ZL2LF.
Present: Mike ZL2VM, Lee ZL2AL, Dave ZL2DW, Rob ZL2US, Stan ZL2ST, Jan ZL2CZE, Dave ZL2MQ, Mike ZL2MY and Karl ZL1TJ.

Minutes previous meeting, confirmed correct: ZL2AL, ZL2VM.
Arising: To be discussed during general business.

Correspondence:
In: A request from the Hamilton Branch, via NZART, to send a submission supporting adequate aerial heights allowance in the proposed Hamilton City Council District Plan proposal.
Acknowledgement of our submission to the Napier City Council to the Draft Annual Plan 2013/2014 regarding antenna heights by Laurie.
Out: A submission to The Hamilton City Council as detailed above.

Finance: No significant financial transactions reported.

General business:
Lee reported having bought an additional aerial mast for the club via Trade me, he does not seek reimbursement for the cost of both the mast and transport and so made another donation to the club.

Laurie presented a completed prototype of the club project dual band VHF / UHF base station aerial. Mounted inside a 2m fibreglass rod the aerial exhibits SWR less than 2:1 on both bands and can handle up to 100Watts. To be offered in kit set form at a cost in the region of $50.

Stan referred to the Memorial Contest, both phone and CW coming up this weekend.

Rob suggested the Napier ARC organise the annual end of year combined branches dinner this year.
Agreed to by Laurie, Dave 2MQ offered to check if the Maraenui Golf Club might be suitable.
Suggested date: Friday 29th of November.
Laurie reminded us that Stan ZL2ST first joined the Napier ARC on 12 June 1955, 58 years ago.

The meeting closed at 8pm and was followed by a QSL card of special interest session.
Lee presented a brief talk on the history of the QSL confirmation needs arising from the establishment around 1936 of the DX Century Club and similar schemes whereby radio hams could prove their prowess in world wide radio communications.

Presently the original 100 countries target stands at 340. To obtain a DXCC Honour Roll accreditation a total of 331 countries must be confirmed. In NZ only 4 or 5 have achieved this and of these two were present at the meeting namely Lee himself with a total score of 336/340 and Stan with a score of 339/340, with only North Korea missing! Cards of special interest were presented by Dave 2DW: early Plessey and combined Branches Millennium Cards,

Stan 2ST: Sine wave George, Bouvet Island, 2m Wellington to Christchurch, Dave 2MQ: EME moonbounce contacts,

Laurie 2TC: Mexico City on 6m, SSB 2m contact with ZL2TOT with a homebrew converter putting out 50 milliwatts and Lee himself with a few of his most treasured cards out of a collection packed in 8 shoe boxes, some 2000 cards, the most treasured one being form North Korea.

Dave ZL2MQ showed his rare EME cards and gave an outline of the difficulties work EME contacts.

Lee finished with a short explanation of the ARRL ‘Logbook of the World system. Lee’s total log entry of 47000 QSO’s has been matched 11000 times there. The system holds some 500 million QSO’s at present.

Karl ZL1TJ.

MINUTES OF THE NAPIER AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
Meeting on Wednesday 5 June 2013 at the Clubrooms 123 Latham Street

Chair: Laurie ZL2TC, the meeting started at 7:30 pm.

Apologies: ZL2GAZ, ZL2DC, ZL2LF.

Present: Mike ZL2VM, Lee ZL2AL, Dave ZL2DW, Rob ZL2US, Stan ZL2ST, Terrig ZL2TJX, Mr. Revell Troy and Karl ZL1TJ.

Minutes previous meeting, confirmed correct: ZL2AL, ZL2VM.

Arising: To be discussed during general business.

Correspondence:
Out: A submission to the Napier City Council to the Draft Annual Plan 2013/2014 regarding antenna heights by Laurie, and an application for funding for new AREC equipment through the Napier City Council Community Services Grants Scheme.

Finance: No significant financial transactions reported.

General business:
Laurie, Mike and Dave reported on attending the business section of the NZART annual conference held at Masterton over the previous weekend. The motion to alter the method of counting votes at conference was lost. The votes were actually counted on this occasion which turned out to be a slow process. Laurie noted the resignation from Council of ZL2TB and ZL2AMJ.

The Annual General Meeting ran smoothly and the atmosphere was friendly and co-operative.
Membership and subscriptions were briefly referred too, the $99 ceiling likely to be maintained.

Mike and Dave reported on the recent Trans Tasman 80m Contest. Details can be found in the report written by Dave and Lee on the club’s website. Mike mentioned preparations underway for the July 21 and 22 Trans Tasman 160m phone and 80m cw and digital contest.
Stan reported on participating in the previous week-ends CQ WW WPX cw contest by the ZL2M group, this time consisting of ZL2AL, ZL2MY and ZL2ST.

Stan thanked Laurie for single-handedly removing a substantial fresh batch of graffiti from the clubroom’s exterior walls. While at it Laurie did wash all exterior paintwork in preparation for a much needed re-paint.

Rob reported on providing communications for the Hawke’s Bay Car Club Rally the previous weekend. Comms went fine but one or two near collisions were reported.

The meeting closed at 8pm followed by a short technical lecture by Laurie, explaining the workings of the finalised design for the Club Project dual band VHF / UHF whip antenna. The design, which will be published once the construction project starts, is for a relatively robust, simple and cheap antenna with proven performance. The antenna will be enclosed in a 2m tall fibreglass rod.

During the remainder of the evening those present were pleasantly entertained by auctioneers Laurie and Rob who managed to sell a fair amount of the donated gizmo’s and parts on display.

The undersigned went home with an (ancient) rotator, swr meter and a Dick Smith frequency counter, all for the princely sum of fifteen dollars.

Karl ZL1TJ.

MINUTES OF THE NAPIER AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
Meeting on Wednesday 1 May 2013 at the Clubrooms 123 Latham Street

Chair: Laurie ZL2TC, the meeting started at 7:30 pm.

Apologies: ZL2US, ZL2DW.

Present: Mike ZL2VM, Mike ZL2MY, Lee ZL2AL, Dave ZL2MQ, Jan ZL2CZE, Mr. Revell Troy and Karl ZL1TJ.

Minutes previous meeting, confirmed correct: ZL2TC, ZL2MY.

Arising: Lee brought the 250 Watt resistors and other parts for the prototype dummy load project.
Mike ZL2MY : Is the Napier City Council’s District Plan being revised?
Mike ZL2VM: a revision is being contemplated.
Lee: Should we be doing a joint submission with Branch 13?
Karl: The current NCC District plan is online, requirements for aerials can be found in: http://www.napier.govt.nz/index.php?pid=715&info=36&dcs=m&dec=Y&ord=Y
Download part two chapter five, look up item 5.26, Aerials,lines and support structures (and trees).

Correspondence:
In: From NZART, the 2013 branch circular, requesting a Branch info update, a set of NZART’s annual accounts, Branch 25 voting statistics, advertising the availability of a Promotional Banner (at $ 199.00), reminder of Annual Conference Awards and requesting nominations for these and finally a reminder that subscriptions may be paid at a monthly rate of ten dollars.

Finance: No significant financial transactions reported.

General business:
Laurie presented the one Conference Remit to be voted on, the proposal by Branch 20, Manawatu, that clause 6.4 of the NZART Constitution by amended by adding sub-clause c. This sub clause states that all voting on remits at general meetings is done by an actual count of votes.
Members entitled to vote present were ZL2TC, ZL2MY, ZL2VM and ZL1TJ. All voted in favour. Branch 25 voting membership according to NZART stands presently at 25.

Lee presented parts and conceptual drawings for the NARC Kilowatt dummy load project.
A discussion followed primarily between Lee and Dave (2MQ) regarding adequate heat dissipation and other similar practical considerations such as metal box versus plastic, forced cooling, Dave mentioned that the circuit board may actually be able to be bought from Chinese manufacturers at relatively low cost. Other cost savings may be made as the final product is developed The unit may be offered as a kit or fully built which may be a more attractive proposition for potential buyers. Both Lee and Dave to build prototypes with materials available to them and conduct various tests and will report back at the June or July meeting.

Mike reminded those present of the Trans Tasman ZL-VK 80 m phone contest to take place on 11 and 12 May. Location NARC Clubrooms. The contest starts at 8 pm, door open at 6 pm. All welcome to have a go……

Lee reported getting his JT65 equipment up and running, making a very loud and clear contact with Peter ZL2LF.

The meeting closed at 8:30 pm followed by the programmed video presentation.

Karl, ZL1TJ.

2006 Raoul Island DX pedition ZL8R

Lee ZL2AL’s presentation of the James Brooks Video of the 2006 Raoul Island DXpedition was the more interesting as Lee in his introduction explained he had been there, done that (1996) and could comment from personal experience. Refer to the item in Lee’s own web site for a detailed account and pictures: http://www.zl2al.com/blog/zl8ri/

The very volcanic Island which is New Zealand’s most northerly piece of real estate and 1 of 5 ARRL DXCC Entities  is a most fascinating place with a checkered history details of which may be found in Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raoul_Island

Another well made video report of a very pleasant Dxpedition run by a bunch of laid back hams using mainly simple dipoles for aerials and having a great time.

Karl ZL1TJ

Meeting on Wednesday 3 April 2013 at the Clubrooms 123 Latham Street

Chair: Laurie ZL2TC, the meeting started at 7:30 pm.

Apologies: ZL2DC, ZL2LF.

Present: Stan ZL2ST, Dave ZL2DW, Mike ZL2MY, Rob ZL2US, Lee ZL2AL, Shane ZL2PG, Dave ZL2MQ, Jan ZL2CZE, Gary ZL2GAZ, Mr. Revell Troy and Karl ZL1TJ.

Minutes previous meeting, confirmed correct: ZL2TC, ZL2ST.

Arising: Nothing significant.

Correspondence:
In: a request from NZART to send a submission to the Ministry for the Environment in response to the discussion paper on Resource Management Reform.
Also a request to make a submission to the Marlborough District Council in support of the NZART submission on proposed plan changes 26 and 61.
An email from Dave ZL2DW regarding SK procedures under way for Des Stephens ZL2HB and Colin McCormick ZL2CDK.
Out: A submission to the MFE on the RMF discussion paper as outlined above. CC to NZART.

Finance: No significant financial transactions reported.

General business:

Dave ZL2DW briefly explained the circumstances of Silent key ZL2CDK. He also mentioned that Des Stephens ZL2HB is off the air being permanently incapacitated.

Laurie ZL2TC and Rob ZL2US presented Lee ZL2AL with a certificate issued by the Old Timers Club commemorating Lee’s 60 years of licensed Amateur Radio operation. The actual operating years may actually be somewhat longer but that must be off the record. A brief report to be published in the next Break Out magazine is appended to these minutes.

Laurie ZL2TC reported briefly on the Branch 13 organised trip to the Southward Car and Technology Museum in Paraparaumu, also visiting the Waikanae Radio Museum.
In spite of mixed feelings about the local caterer fun was had by all nine participants.

Karl ZL1TJ reported on the likely cost of installing a dedicated generator connection and change over switch to the clubroom’s switchboard. Material cost about $180. To be further considered.

The meeting closed at 8:00 pm followed by the programmed equipment review session.

Programme – Equipment Review and Talks

Dave ZL2DW:
Presented the Autek Research WM-1 RF power output meter. An active device requiring 12 volt for operation, it has a remote sensing ‘head’ and can be switched to measure either PEP (peak envelope power) or average power output from a transmitter. The device is accurate and recommended.

Lee ZL2AL:
Somewhat out of alignment with the task at hand Lee came nevertheless up with an interesting idea for the next club project. Having found, on E-Bay; 50 Ohm resistors that can handle, with the help of a heatsink 250 Watts. Lee proposes to build a one Kilowatt dummy load cum Watt meter using four of these and an off the shelf $7 digital voltmeter. A 250 Watt version is an option also.
A quick calculation showed that the cost would not be great and a show of hands proved the popularity of the idea. The club could possibly even make a small profit from the project.
Dave ZL2MQ offered some assistance with the execution if needed. Lee to do a prototype.

Laurie ZL2TC:
If you are contemplating buying a new rig, check out www.eham.net/reviews If the rig you like has nine good reports and one bad one it’s probably OK. Lee suggested though that the bad report may well be the only honest one. Laurie presented his Yaesu FT 897 which could be called a Shack in a box as it incorporates all HF bands, 6m, 2m, 70cm, FM broadcast, and general coverage from 1 to 60 MHz. As with so many multi purpose things there is a trade off and Laurie considers dedicated HF rigs are doing a better job.

However, the FT 897 (and it’s smaller equivalent FT 857) are good on the higher frequencies. The rig has all the bells and whistles of a modern radio, memories to store all settings and frequencies, digital signal processing etc. Laurie has minor gripes with the am tuning system but is reasonably happy overall with the rig and would buy another one.
Mike ZL2MY had some trouble with ceramic filters failing in his FT897 while Lee sold his after six months as he found the menu system not user friendly.

Karl ZL1TJ – Secretary

Meeting on Wednesday 6 March 2013 at the Clubrooms 123 Latham Street

Chair: Laurie ZL2TC, the meeting started at 7:30 pm.

Apologies: ZL2DC.

Present: Stan ZL2ST, Dave ZL2DW, Mike ZL2MY, Rob ZL2US, Lee ZL2AL, Mike ZL2VM, Mr. Revell Troy and Karl ZL1TJ.

Minutes previous meeting, confirmed correct: ZL2AL, ZL2US.

Arising: ZL2TC: correction: two band aerial donated by AREC section, not Apex Comms.
ZL2AL: reported on discussion with the local cultural club regarding the use of our building, financial considerations made the proposal not viable.

Correspondence: A letter from Artanz regarding the forthcoming NZART election for president.
Notice of the Wanganui junk sale to take place May the 4th.

Finance: Receipts: Lee ZL2AL disposed of surplus furniture and equipment bringing in $ 230, also presented the account for the hosting of the Club’s website for three years amounting to $ 204. Payment moved ZL2TC seconded ZL1TJ , passed unanimously. Stan ZL2ST reported on account status, suggesting the possibility of using AREC funds to cover expenses. A change of power supplier is to be actioned, possibly resulting in an annual saving of $360.

General business:
Stan ZL2ST reported on the recent Jock White Field Day contest. Details to be found on the Club’s website. The results are close but at this stage Napier Branch is ahead. Activity was similar to last years, a few VK stations were contacted, there was a call from the contest manager and others that country wide, operating techniques need improving.

Laurie ZL2TC reported hearing positive comments regarding the Club’s website at the Paengaroa junk sale. There is also evidence that Break-Out is being distributed well beyond the local clubs. Dave ZL2DW suggested that only local subscription paying members should receive a copy. Lee ZL2AL responded that general practice is to freely distribute such information, referring to the excellent K9YA and TCDXA (Twin City DX Association) newsletters. Dave also reported that he personally forwards Breakout to approximately 20 other recipients, all out of town radio clubs.
 

Mike ZL2VM mentioned the upcoming 80 meter Trans Tasman contest on May the 11th. Also referred to recent AREC equipment check, one station complete, one in boxes.

Rob ZL2US mentioned the planned trip to the Southward Car and Technology Museum, also including the local privately owned Radio Museum on 24 March. Last day to book March 17th.

Mike ZL2MY: Expressed concern about the Hamilton Council’s proposed ban on radio towers. Response from Laurie ZL2TC that at this stage the plan is a draft version only and that both the Hamilton’s Branch and the NZART’s local authority liason officer are ‘on the job’ to ensure that the current conditions are carried through to the new scheme. A discussion on the topic followed, various members relating personal experiences with local councils.

The meeting closed at 8:30 pm followed by the programmed Show and Tell session

Show and Tell:
Dave ZL2DW, pictures and diagrams of recently completed aerial system comprising of 9 meter two part tilt over mast (thanks to Morris ZL2AAA for the welding job), a 70 cm colinear and a part homebrew Skeleton slot 2 m Yagi. Two meter QRP simplex into Fielding and other remote places are the outcome so must be working well.

Mike ZL2MY, base plate and central column for a 5 band Hexagonal (Hex) Beam. Solid construction, some parts with the help of Holger ZL3IO, The difficult part was to instal the connecting wires inside the supporting tube. The antenna is nearing completion.

Mike ZL2VM, an article in Silicon Chip Magazine triggered an interest in magnetic loop audio systems. About to order the circuit board for a home brew receiver Mike discovered a kitset at Jaycar and built that instead. The system is used in halls and churches etc. and can be coupled to fire alarm systems to alert (hard of hearing) users of an alarm condition.

Lee ZL2AL, discovered the availability of a device called the Logitalker, made by the makers of the Logikeyer. It is a voice recording device specifically made for ham radio and is ideal for contesting. Advantages over earlier similar devices are adjustable output levels, a delay repeat function for CQ calling and adaptability through jumper settings to all current radio brands. Cost about US$150.

Laurie ZL2TC, due to poor 6 meter conditions finally forced into the High Frequency bands decided to try and convert a surplus channel 1 TV antenna into a 10 m antenna. The elements being a bit on the short side to be augmented with center mounted loading coils.
Ongoing experimentation is to decide wether to feed the radiator through tappings on the coil or by way of a small coupling coil wound around the loading coil. The latter was constructed and initial tests are promising. A very compact two element 10 meter yagi with slightly reduced gain but good back to front ratio will be the outcome when completed.

Karl ZL1TJ