18 December 2013

RaDAR-America Contest November 2013 - Results

So,

here is the result for the RaDAR-America November 2013 Contest: The following logs were submitted:

Marcus NX5MK

No, I will never list my points since I believe that I cannot be considered objective, given that I am also the contest manager (...and no - I would not have won). I had fun nonetheless! Report on RaDAR deployment is posted on my blog.


Pete N0OY

He was so kind to send his log, but requested not to enter him in contest due to rules violations (he had just misread a few details in light of him having learnt about the contest just shortly before it took place), but I have to say that his log was very strong and a sure contender for the first place during the next contest! Here is his contest write up:

Friday night I put a battery pack on charge to make sure it was full. I use 12 volt NiMh battery packs and this is one reason I have not fully embraced using military gear because of the 24 volt requirement; it is easier to charge off of a my solar panel at 12 volts.
After topping off the battery and a quick power check of the Codan 2110 (25 watts) it was put into my large LC-1 Alice pack and frame. I keep it ready with the antenna mounted, cw keyer, handset, extra wire, a couple of tools, paper, and pencils stored in the various pouches. If I go out camping the pack is large enough to hold my tent, sleeping bag, food, water, stove, and any thing else I feel I can't live without and want to pack. It always sits by the door waiting for me to go play radio.

For my main antenna I use a 16 foot Jackite pole with a single wire that can wrap around for extra length and it re-winds into a fishing reel for easy storage when collapsed. I can set the pole to any height from 4 to 16 feet depending on bands used and the terrain I'm in. An odd length of wire wound on a chalk line reel is used for a varying length counterpoise when fixed and when in motion I use a Teflon drag wire . The fiberglass pole is mounted via compression clamps to the alice frame. The Codan has 2 antenna inputs, one for 50 ohms and no tuner and a single wire or whip antenna stud with an internal tuner that can handle just about anything I hook to it. I rarely use screw on whip antennas but instead prefer to use the 16 foot vertical.

I started out with a hike to a open field on my farm where I set up at my first location.  Off with the backpack, raise the antenna, and throw out the counterpoise wire. I have all the hf pak frequencies programmed in the radio and can scroll through them quickly with a front panel button and in this case I chose to start on 14.3425 and with a quick hit on the ptt and the tuner has the vertical matched in a couple of seconds. Total set up time is usually under 2 minutes.  First contact was with KK4DKT/p at 1415z pm usb, in fact I never did use the keyer today.

By 1440z I had worked 5 stations and then it was off to another pasture just over the required 1 km distance. Again off with the pack and raise the antenna to start the process over again and be on the air at 1515z, same frequency.  I bumped into a couple of friends on 20 meters and got to explain what I was doing roaming around in a pasture but they were good for 2 of 5 QSOs. Then I'm headed to another location that required climbing over fences and through tall grass to get to a road. 

(Even with the antenna collapsed to 4 feet I can still listen while walking to get a feel for band conditions and hear some stations that are on. If the area is easy to navigate and no obstructions, I'll leave the antenna up and if by chance make a contact while walking). 

From this road to another pasture with really tall grass for my 3rd operating location. Same drill, off with the pack......and this is where lack of simple preparation showed up. In my haste I had not read and understood the rules thoroughly before the contest, I read 'all amateur frequencies' and stopped there, that is what created an oops moment, duly noted in the log...... 20 meters was crowded and I wasn't having any luck finding a spot to call CQ so I tuned around on 17 meters, it was crowded too, so I checked 15 meters by calling a few CQs on the Hfpak frequency, no contacts and no signals heard. BUT 12 meters was open so I found a clear frequency, called CQ, and made 5 QSOs including Spain in about 30 minutes. Sitting and planning my next move I get a cell phone call from a neighbor who was having mechanical trouble and could possibly use my help. So I'm thinking about how this is the end of the outing and I'm going to help him if need be. In order to take a note I move the log sheet on my clip board and then I see the WARC bands not to be used note... I didn't read that earlier.........no excuse, my bad, all the QSOs do not count.... Later I learned about the camera rule too.........this has been a learning experience in reading the rules completely.

I decided to stay put and wait and see if my neighbor calls back for help.   So  back  to 14.3425 and try to make some contacts while wiping egg off my face and just enjoy the the last hour of the contest, the wx was great to be outside.  In retrospect I'm glad I did, I bumped into a milpak friend who was mobile and I got caught up with his travels and then Marcus showed up on frequency which allowed us to make a /pm to /pm qso, I always wanted to do that! 

In summation, I really enjoyed the outing / contest. I met people who enjoy the back packing / portable operation concept as much as I do. Caught up with some old friends on the bands. Enjoyed just rag chewing and not having to move on the next contact to make numbers. My equipment, after years of refining is playing well. I came up with more antenna ideas to try. Can't wait to do it again.....  So use my log as a check log and not as an entry and accept a BIG thanks for putting this outing / contest on.

73, Pete   NØOY /pm

BTW my neighbor did not need my help after all........


Next up is: Steve KF5RYI 

...with 48 points and he gave us a great write up on the RaDAR Google+ community, thank you Steve!


And now we come to the final entry and winner of the contest!



 (drum roll please...)


...and the winner is:

Greg N4KGL: 245 points!


Fantastic Greg! Your write up of the contest was also one of a kind and your continued rallying of RaDAR-America has made it grow in this first year beyond anything I had hoped for. RaDAR has become a vibrant community and I look forward to 2014.

It's high time now that I come up with an appropriate Certificate Design! Any help with it would be truly welcomed...!


Once more, congratulations Greg! But I and the others will give you more of a challenge next time around ;)

31 October 2013

News

For breaking news and reports on the RaDAR Program and RaDAR-America Contest, please visit the RaDAR Google+ group, thank you.

73 de Marcus NX5MK

https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/109283065808971118728?cfem=1

FAQ: photo for every QSO or just a photo for every new QTH?

Question: "A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every log entry." Does this mean a photo for every QSO or just a photo for every new QTH?

Answer:
When RaDAR only requires a 1km walk / jog before deployment, a photo is required of the deployment area. These could be used to promote RaDAR and share in the excitement of each deployment.

When RaDAR movements to new destinations are required, it is requested to have one photo for each deployment / new QTH to document actual change in location.

73 Marcus NX5MK for the RaDAR-America Contest

08 October 2013

RaDAR November 2013 Contest Announcement and Rules


 

1. Aim

The RaDAR-America contest is an event aimed at promoting the use of Rapidly Deployable Amateur Radio stations throughout North and South America. This contest is for all licensed radio amateurs. A choice is made prior to the contest to participate in one of the defined categories. The points system is so structured as to encourage portable operation, especially moveable stations.
The rule structure is very close to that formulated by the founder of the contest idea: Eddie ZS6BNE
This contest will take place at the same time in South Africa (the Nation from which the idea originated), as it will here in the Americas. Please note that the most significant difference between the South African RaDAR rules and the RaDAR-America rules are in the suggested frequencies, which have been adapted and changed to comply with the IARU Region 2 band plans. If you choose to operate on the suggested South African RaDAR frequencies, please note that some are in the EXTRA band section for US operators and others are entirely outside of the IARU 2 band plan.


2. Date and Time

First Saturday of April and first Saturday of November starting at 14:00 UTC and ending at 18:00 UTC (4 hours).


3. Bands and Modes

All amateur bands, besides the WARC bands, are allowed including cross band contacts via amateur radio satellites.

All Amateur Radio operating rules within the country of operation are to be respected and followed at all times.

QSOs via terrestrial repeaters will NOT be allowed. You must make all of your contacts on Simplex only.

Modes – CW, SSB, AM, FM or any digital mode.


4. Suggested HF and VHF voice calling frequencies

The frequencies posted by HFPack http://hfpack.com/air/
are suggested as HF activity frequencies if not already in use. Please note that HFPack operates USB on all bands to achieve complete compatibility with a wide variety of commercial and Military portable HF radio systems that amateurs are using.

Suggested VHF frequency: 144.300. Frequencies that have a potential conflict with repeater inputs (low end of 146 Simplex) are to be avoided.

Contesters are requested to operate by The Amateur's Code
http://www.qcwa.org/amateur-code.htm
and with the request to keep in mind that HFpack has established methods for courteous operation on the suggested frequencies
http://hfpack.com/air/#methods
[Please note that HFPack does not sanction contests and that this contest is not organised by a Founder or Moderator of the group.]

Contesters are also requested to respect all International Distress frequencies:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_distress_frequency
http://www.iaru-r2.org/documents/explorer/files/Plan%20de%20bandas%20%7C%20Band-plan/R2%20LF-MF-HF%20Bandplan%202010.pdf
as well as 146.520 MHz - the National Simplex Calling Frequency. Fixed stations are however encouraged to monitor these frequencies, so that they may be able to assist HAMs in distress. 

Contacts made within +/- 5kHz of the IARU Region 2 HF Distress Frequencies will not be counted for a valid QSO.


Please additionally respect the NCDXF/IARU beacons operating on 14.100, 18.110, 21.150, 24.930 and 28.200 MHz.


5. Recommended digital modes frequencies

CW: HFPack frequencies.
Other: all legal digital frequencies at established activity centers for the respective mode.


6. Exchange

Call sign, Name, Report (RST), QTH and USNG grid locator (at least 6 digits). Note the grid locator can change as RaDAR operators are allowed to move to the next destination at any time.

Maidenhead grid LOC information may be submitted instead of USNG locator. The grid locator of 6 digits is acceptable but should preferably be accurate to 10 digits.

If the grid locator is not known, then some other information that could describe the location, e.g. Mabula Lodge, 40 km west of Warmbaths. Note that several SmartPhone HAM log apps support this feature (e.g. HamLog for the iPhone).


7. Scoring

1 point per QSO.
1 QSO per mode, per band / satellite, per call sign. You may work another call sign several times, but only once per mode and only once per band throughout the entire contest period (you may work several call signs per band and per mode).


8. Categories and multipliers

The following multipliers are applicable to determine the final score.

Category multiplier:

x 1 – RaDAR Fixed station (At home or in another building). These stations may NOT call QSO, allowed to monitor and reply to QSOs only.

x 2 – RaDAR Field station (Portable away from home). These stations are to log themselves as /p ("portable"). At least one photo or video of the station MUST accompany the log.

x 3 – Moving RaDAR station, Car / Motorcycle / Bicycle / Maritime – Minimum 3 miles (approx. 5 km) per 5 QSOs. These stations are to log themselves as /m ("mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every log entry.

x 4 – Moving RaDAR station, on foot – Minimum 0.6 miles (approx. 1 km) per 5 QSOs. These stations are to log themselves as /pm ("pedestrian mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every log entry.

Note: 

1) Moving RaDAR stations can move at any time but are required to move to the next destination after five contacts have been made. The move needs to cover the required distance before further contacts are allowed to be made.
2) Moving stations may also operate while in motion, but need to have covered the required distance for every 5 QSOs. Note: safety and all (traffic) laws take precedence at all times.


Power multiplier:

The power multiplier that applies is determined by the highest power output of any of the transmitters used during the contest.

5 watts or less the power multiplier is 6.
6 to 50 Watts, the power multiplier is 4.
51 watts or greater, the power multiplier is 2.


9. Bonus points (All categories)

5 Points (Equivalent to five QSOs) for a minimum of one satellite or any digital mode QSO involving a computer. (For clarity: Thereafter 1 point per Satellite / Digital modes QSO)


10. Notes: 

1) A photo or video of a "Field" or "Moving" station MUST accompany every log entry.
2) Images or videos may be posted on the contesters preferred website, preferred website service or else; links must however be listed within the log file. Photos may alternatively be copy/ pasted in to the log.
3) All logs and submitted photos will be published at http://RaDAR-America.blogspot.com under the following copyright:
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/deed.en_US
with all Copyrights to the contents otherwise remaining with the submitting Amateur Radio Operator.
4) Published logs and photos are to serve as a learning resource.


11. Log Sheets

QSOs are to be entered in the log sheets found at the following link:
http://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/20878991/RaDARContestLog2013.doc
and be submitted within 14 days of the contest.

Completed log sheets are to be filled out directly within WORD and emailed to:
radaramericacontest (AT) gmail.com
as a WORD or PDF file.

Printed Log sheets may also be scanned or photographed and emailed.

The winner will receive a feature Blog entry and certificate.


Please do share all your operating tips and comments on the log sheets.

73 de Marcus NX5MK
RaDAR-America Contest Manager

09 September 2013

...the difference between RaDAR and SOTA.

The summit is the operations destination of the SOTA operator. The journey to the summit (including, and back) is the operations focus of the RaDAR operator. For every five QSO's, the RaDAR operator is required to move (on the move QSO's are allowed as long as the five QSO rule is valid).

https://plus.google.com/communities/109283065808971118728

Monthly RaDAR Challenge Honor Role - August 2013


And the winner of the Monthly RaDAR Challenge is...

Greg N4KGL

who is hereby recognized as the outstanding Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio Operator for August 2013 with 25 points on one day.

Runner up is Eddie ZS6BNE with 19 points.



All time Honor Roll:

August 2013: Greg N4KGL
June 2013: Greg N4KGL
May 2013: Greg N4KGL

See all the action at:
https://plus.google.com/communities/109283065808971118728

29 July 2013

Monthly RaDAR Challenge Honor Roll - June 2013

And the winner of the June 2013 Monthly RaDAR Challenge is...

Greg N4KGL

who is hereby recognized as the outstanding Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio Operator for June 2013.



All time Honor Roll:

June 2013: Greg N4KGL
May 2013: Greg N4KGL

Monthly RaDAR Challenge Honor Roll - May 2013

And the winner of the May 2013 Monthly RaDAR Challenge is...

Greg N4KGL

who is hereby recognized as the outstanding Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio Operator for May 2013.










April 2013 RaDAR Contest Winner

The winner of the 1st ever RaDAR-America contest, which took place April 6th, 2013, is hereby announced:

It is Greg N4KGL.

Congratulations to him for demonstrating outstanding Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio Operations!

Images from N4KGL's activation.

Revision of the Monthly RaDAR Challenge rules (with immediate effect)


The goal of the monthly RaDAR challenge is to encourage development of equipment and operating skills for Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio. This is good preparation for RaDAR contests or emergency scenarios. RaDAR contests typically have time constraints that increase the challenge. Impromptu or scenic outdoor locations are encouraged.

The Challenge score is the sum of contact points during a day local time. Contacts must be made at locations that don't have permanent facilities for amateur radio. Power must be independent of commercial mains. One or more locations can be used in a day. Locations must be 1 km apart for foot travel and 5 km apart for vehicle travel. If you traveled at least 1km to a location on foot a QSO is worth two contact points. Otherwise a QSO is worth 1 contact point. Note, contacts made while in transit count at the next location.
Report locations with grid square, number of QSOs, and contact points at that location. A photo for each location is encouraged.

A daily bonus is 10 points for using a sat for at least one contact, 7 points for a using digital mode for at least one contact, 5 points for a net check in, 3 points for using CW for at least one contact and 5 points for using QRP for at least one QSO (5 watts or less CW and digital and 10 watts for SSB). The bonuses are summed for the day.

A daily score can be turned in at any time. The top ten daily scores will be recognized each month. The best score per person will be used.
Separate recognition is given to the RaDAR operator with the most days of having operated a RaDAR station each month, irrespective of the number of contacts made.

QSOs can be HF/VHF/UHF via simplex except for sat QSOs.

73 from the RaDAR Team.

19 July 2013

RaDAR – disaster relief communication?

See article in EngineerIT regarding RaDAR.

In this monthly feature, Hans van de Groenendaal ZS6AKV, executive chairman of the South African Amateur Radio Development Trust (SAARDT), looks at various technologies and activities that drive amateur radio. SAARDT is dedicated to the development of amateur radio in South Africa with a special interest in the youth. The organisation is funded by donations and supports the South African Radio League and SA AMSAT.
...

14 May 2013

Thoughts on the definition of /PM for RaDAR

I have been a member of HFPack for several years as my major interest lies in pedestrian mobile operations with a backpack/ manpack radio.

During one of my hunts for information on the internet on pedestrian mobile operations, I came across the RaDAR concept as outlined by Eddie ZS6BNE.

What is surprisingly hard to find is a definition on what /PM operations really are. For some it seems to be limited to operating ones (HF) transceiver while actually walking, for others it seems to include any operation where the radio gear is transported repeatedly by foot to a different QTH within short time periods, or in other words: one may take the backpack/ manpack off for a rest, erect an antenna with whatever means, an operate.
One could argue that the latter in essence constitutes /P portable operation, but does /P operation (as during Field Day) not imply that I transport my gear by vehicle to a location, setting up a semi-temporary antenna and operate usually high power, possibly with the aid of a generator?
And what is with all /M mobile operators? Are they "only" portable operators when they are not in motion with their vehicles?

Given these thoughts, it might be worth a closer look at the definition of how someone defines for themselves what /PM is.

In the context of the RaDAR contest and the RaDAR program, a /PM portable mobile operator is any Amateur Radio operator who transports his radio gear by foot with frequent changes of his QTH.

This, depending on the climate and current weather conditions, can be a physical as well as mental challenge and also draws upon all of the operators technical knowledge and experience.

The SOTA program certainly brings this to an extreme and respect is certainly due for all those who operate from the highest mountains. For those who either live in a non-mountainous region, or who do not feel the desire to climb mountains and instead prefer to operate in the valleys, there is the RaDAR-Program.
For those who operate from valleys, there is certainly the added challenge of getting their signals across the mountains!

So, are you up to the RaDAR-Challenge?!







03 May 2013

Revised RaDAR-America Program Rules


The RaDAR Program Bonus Point Rules are hereby revised and simplified with immediate effect.


1. Aim

The RaDAR Program is aimed at promoting the use of Rapidly Deployable Amateur Radio stations and is for all licensed radio amateurs. The points system is so structured as to encourage portable operation, especially pedestrian mobile stations, be it for fun or in preparation for EmComm. 
CW operation, Net participation and ragchewing is rewarded.
The use of Maidenhead and especially USNG/MGRS locators is encouraged through it's point structure as to facilitate Search and Rescue operations (SAR).
Please also see the following links for more information on USNG:
For more insights, tips, and configuration information for some of the mobile apps currently available, follow this link.
Please also consider Mission Manager - FREE Software for SAR for your next ARES and non-ARES Public Service deployments.
The RaDAR rule structure is close to that formulated by the founder of the RaDAR contest idea: Eddie ZS6BNE 

2. Date and Time 

Every calendar month from the first day of the month at 00:00 UTC until the last day of the month at 23:59 UTC.

3. Bands and Modes

All amateur bands 6m and lower, as well as any satellite bands, are eligible for entry.

Modes – Any.

4. Conduct

All operators are to follow the Radio Amateur's Code:
as well as all legal requirements.

5. Exchange

Call sign, type of operation ( /portable /mobile /maritime mobile /pedestrian mobile" etc., as applicable, as defined below under "#8 Categories"), Name, Report (RST), QTH using USNG/ MGRS or Maidenhead grid locator (at least 6 digits).
Note that the grid locator can change as RaDAR operators are allowed to move to the next destination at any time.
Note that several SmartPhone apps support these advanced grid locator features (e.g. HamLog or Theodolite for the iPhone).


6. Scoring

Total score per month is the sum of all daily scores.

Daily score calculated as follows:

Per call sign: 1 QSO point per contact per every 5 minutes of contact (i.e., if your QSO is over 5 and up to 10 minutes = 2 QSO points, over 10 minutes and up to 15 minutes = 3 QSO points, etc.. Rag chews are encouraged!).

Per participation in a EmComm Net or round table discussion Net: 1 QSO point for every 5 minutes (i.e., if you participate in your Net over 5 and up to 10 minutes = 2 QSO points, over 10 minutes and up to 15 minutes = 3 QSO points, etc.. Net participation is encouraged!).

Note:

1) Moving RaDAR stations can move at any time but are required to move to the next destination after five QSO points have been made. The move needs to cover the required distance before further QSO points may be documented.

2) Moving stations may also operate while in motion, but need to have covered the required distance for every 5 QSO points.

Note: safety and all (traffic) laws take precedence at all times. All operators operate at their own risk at all times.


7. Bonus points  (Are added to QSO points before applying category and power multipliers)


1 Bonus point for every digital (including CW) QSO.
1 Bonus point per QSO documented with Maidenhead locator for your own position. 
1 Bonus point per QSO documented with Maidenhead locator for your contact's position. 
2 Bonus Points per QSO documented with USNG locator for your own position.
2 Bonus Points per QSO documented with USNG locator for your contact's position.
RaDAR operators may look up the locators themselves, no need for the contact to relay it. 
1 Bonus point per QSO if QTH is documented on an online APRS map. Screen photo of RaDAR operator's location on an online APRS map may substitute for a photo or video for mobile or portable RaDAR stations, as proof of QTH change.


8. Categories multipliers

Per day:

x 1 - Stations situated within a building may ONLY log points if their QSO was with a field or moving RaDAR station

x 1 – "Portable" RaDAR Field station (any place exterior to a building in which people live, locations as balconies and patios count as portable operation sites). These stations log themselves as /p ("portable"). At least one photo or video of the station MUST accompany the day's log entry (APRS beacon may not substitute photo in this category!).

x 2 – "Mobile" Moving RaDAR station, Car / Motorcycle / Bicycle / Maritime – Minimum 3 miles (approx. 5 km) per 5 QSO points. These stations log themselves as /m ("mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every QTH (to document relocation by required distance, see below for substitution with APRS beacon). 

x 4 – Moving RaDAR station, on foot – Minimum 0.6 miles (approx. 1 km) per 5 QSO points. These stations are to log themselves as /pm ("pedestrian mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST document every QTH change (see Bonus points for substitution with APRS beacon).


9. Power multiplier:

The power multiplier that applies is determined by the highest power output of any of the transmitters used per day.

5 watts or less, the power multiplier is 6.

6 to 50 Watts, the power multiplier is 4.

51 watts or greater, the power multiplier is 2.

100 watts or greater, the power multiplier is 1.



10. Entry details:

A) Log entries, images, videos, total daily and monthly QSO points should be posted on the operator's preferred website, preferred website service or else; link to this with Calculated Monthly Points is then to be sent to radaramericacontest AT gmail.com by the 3rd of each following month.

B) The monthly winner will be entered in the program's roll of honor.


11. Sample calculation of RaDAR Program Points:

QSO + QSO time/duration points + Digital Bonus + Maidenhead Bonus (your QTH) + Maidenhead Bonus (contact's QTH) + USNG Bonus (your QTH) + USNG Bonus (contact's QTH) + APRS Bonus = total contact points per QSO made.



Add up all QSO contact points made per day.

Total contact points per day x Category Multiplier x Power Multiplier = Total RaDAR Points per Day.

Add up all "RaDAR Points per Day" obtained during a month and submit.

26 April 2013

...now also on Google+

Look for the Google+ community Rapidly Deployable Amateur Radio (RaDAR). The community is for sharing RaDAR ideas and photos but access is not required to participate in the challenge.

18 April 2013

The RaDAR Challenge

1. Aim

The RaDAR Program is aimed at promoting the use of Rapidly Deployable Amateur Radio stations and is for all licensed radio amateurs. The points system is so structured as to encourage portable operation, especially pedestrian mobile stations. 
The rule structure is very close to that formulated by the founder of the RaDAR contest idea: Eddie ZS6BNE 


2. Date and Time

Every calendar month from the first day of the month at 00:00 UTC until the last day of the month at 23:59 UTC.


3. Bands and Modes

All amateur bands 6m and lower, as well as any satellite bands, are eligible for entry.

Modes – Any.


4. Conduct

All operators are to follow the Radio Amateur's Code:
as well as all legal requirements.


5. Exchange

Call sign, type of operation ( /portable /mobile /maritime mobile /pedestrian mobile" etc., as applicable), Name, Report (RST), QTH using USNG/ MGRS or Maidenhead grid locator (at least 6 digits).
Note that the grid locator can change as RaDAR operators are allowed to move to the next destination at any time.
Note that several SmartPhone apps support these advanced grid locator features (e.g. HamLog or Theodolite for the iPhone).


6. Scoring

Total score per month is the sum of all daily scores.

Daily score calculated as follows:

Per call sign: 1 QSO point per mode, per band / satellite, per every 5 minutes (i.e., if your QSO is over 5 and up to 10 minutes = 2 QSO points, over 10 minutes and up to 15 minutes = 3 QSO points, etc.. Rag chews are encouraged!).

Per participation in a EmComm Net or round table discussion Net: 1 QSO point per mode, per band / satellite, per every 5 minutes (i.e., if your Net is over 5 and up to 10 minutes long = 2 QSO points, over 10 minutes and up to 15 minutes = 3 QSO points, etc.. Net participation is encouraged!).

Note:

1) Moving RaDAR stations can move at any time but are required to move to the next destination after five QSO points have been made. The move needs to cover the required distance before further QSO points may be documented.

2) Moving stations may also operate while in motion, but need to have covered the required distance for every 5 QSO points.

Note: safety and all (traffic) laws take precedence at all times. All operators operate at their own risk at all times.


7. Bonus points  (Are added to QSO points before applying power multiplier)


5 Points (Equivalent to five QSOs) for a minimum of one satellite or any digital mode QSO. (For clarity: Thereafter 1 point per Satellite / Digital modes QSO)

Screen photo of your APRS location on an online APRS map, may substitute a photo or video for mobile or portable RaDAR stations, as proof of QTH change (add 5 extra points per day for using APRS).

If you:
- document your Maidenhead Locator: 5 extra points per day
- document your USNG locator: 10 extra points per day
- receive the Maidenhead Locator of your QSO: 1 extra point per QSO
- receive the USNG locator of your QSO: 2 extra points per QSO


8. Categories and multipliers

Per day:

x 1 - Stations situated within a building may ONLY log points if their QSO was with a field or moving RaDAR station

x 1 – "Portable" RaDAR Field station (any place exterior to a building in which people live, locations as balconies and patios count as portable operation sites). These stations log themselves as /p ("portable"). At least one photo or video of the station MUST accompany the day's log entry (APRS beacon may not substitute photo in this category!).

x 2 – "Mobile" Moving RaDAR station, Car / Motorcycle / Bicycle / Maritime – Minimum 3 miles (approx. 5 km) per 5 QSO points. These stations log themselves as /m ("mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every QTH (to document relocation by required distance, see below for substitution with APRS beacon). 

x 4 – Moving RaDAR station, on foot – Minimum 0.6 miles (approx. 1 km) per 5 QSO points. These stations are to log themselves as /pm ("pedestrian mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST document every QTH change (see Bonus points for substitution with APRS beacon).


9. Power multiplier:

The power multiplier that applies is determined by the highest power output of any of the transmitters used per day.

5 watts or less, the power multiplier is 6.

6 to 50 Watts, the power multiplier is 4.

51 watts or greater, the power multiplier is 2.

100 watts or greater, the power multiplier is 1.



10. Entry details

A) Log entries, images, videos, total daily and monthly QSO points should be posted on the operator's preferred website, preferred website service or else; link to this with Calculated Monthly Points is then to be sent to radaramericacontest AT gmail.com by the 3rd of each following month.

B) The monthly winner will be entered in the program's roll of honor.

07 April 2013

April 2013 RaDAR-Contest Log Submission by N4KGL

Contest Log sheets are attached.

Images are here.



During the RaDAR contest, something real funny happened to my FT-817 and it affected my operations somewhat.


Eddie Leighton ZS6BNE

During the RaDAR contest, something real funny happened to my FT-817 and it affected my operations somewhat.

There was a funny icon on the screen much like the figure of a runner. Tuning was uncomfortable and although my SSB step settings are 1 kHz the rig tuned in 2 kHz steps ......

Just checked the manual and it indicates that the FST button was activated on the MH-31 abj which is simply, the microphone.

I recalled the mic slipped the ground at one stage and the FST button must have been activated then!

I learnt something today!


https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151381650142759&set=vb.580492758&type=2&theater

N4KGL QRP: RaDAR Results April 6 2013 N4KGL/PM

N4KGL QRP: RaDAR Results April 6 2013 N4KGL/PM: I had the most fun I can remember in Ham Radio. RaDAR America is a new contest that originated in South Africa. Marcus KD0JDM brought it to...

05 April 2013

N4KGL QRP: Plans for RaDAR America and QRP ARCI Spring QSO Pa...

N4KGL QRP: Plans for RaDAR America and QRP ARCI Spring QSO Pa...: The RaDAR-America Contest is Saturday April 6th. I plan to operate at St. Andrews State Park on Panama City Beach. The hours for RaDAR are ...

Have a look at Greg's post on how he will operate /PM Pedestrian Mobile.

73 de Marcus KD0JKM

The Adventures of VE3CLQ: RaDAR-America Contest

The Adventures of VE3CLQ: RaDAR-America Contest

Thank you to Bill for the great summary on the contest and link to how to operate QRP portable!

Hope to meet you down the log!

vy 73 de Marcus KD0JKM

19 March 2013

FAQ & FYI

Q: Satellite operations.
A: I've had kind feedback from the ARRL which pointed out the following:
I am not a member or spokesman for AMSAT. However, I do know that for ARRL Field Day, we have a rule in place to limit operators to one QSO during the entire event on the FM satellite. There are no limits on analog satellites.
Since there is only one FM satellite left still functioning, and that is the easiest way to get on satellite, I think you will find some resistance to folks operating a contest during the 15 minute (maximum length) satellite pass. The FM satellite is crowded, especially on the weekends. It was a little better when there were three FM satellites orbiting, but now there is only one and it’s usually pretty busy. ... The FM satellite’s ID is SO-50.
Thus, maybe all satellite operators would like to keep this in mind and act accordingly.

Q: ...how far must a mobile/moving station move...
A: Please see details to that for the individual entry classes in the rules. I am hoping that a "Gentlemen's agreement" will prevail during the contest and that the individual contesters will police themselves. The required photo per Log entry should at least get the contesters moving, even if they should be off by a few yards. It's about the spirit of the contest to repeatedly redeploy.

FYI: There'll be some Canadian stations participating!

Q: Operating mobile from bicycle... is mobile operating?
A: I agree. Bicycle mobile would be logged as /M for now. I admit that I had not thought about bicycle mobile until now - I am thus considering creating a /BM category for future dates as - relatively speaking - it's far harder to traverse the required distance by bicycle between each QTH, than it is by car (which is also logged as /M).

Q: photo of each QSO or of each QTH?
A: The intention of the photo for the QSO is to demonstrate that one did change QTH after each 5 contacts, so a photo (-series) of the radio & antenna setup at each QTH is plenty. Will clarify this in the rules for future dates.

Q: If run out of stations participating [in the contest], can I count other stations I work?
A: Yes, please do! Each QSO counts, no matter with whom it is.
Q: ...if so, what info do I need from them for the log?
A: Call sign, Name, Report (RST), QTH and grid locator. If they don't know their Maidenhead LOC, get it from QRZ.com or other database after the contest, or alternatively: record some other information that could describe the location, e.g. Mabula Lodge, 40 km west of Warmbaths.

Q: ...if I am /PM can I double back to a previous location?
A: Yes. Most importantly: STAY SAFE AT ALL TIMES. If that means going back and forth between QTH locations, then that's the way it has to be. Though if you can go and explore nature some more by walking on to somewhere else - then please do.

73 de Marcus KD0JKM

17 March 2013

RaDAR-America Contest Countdown & another /P contest to look out for

It's 20 days and counting to the RaDAR-America Contest and I am beginning to get my /PM gear in order. Is yours ready?!

This week I learned about a brand new contest: the Scorch Your Butt Off QRP contest. You might like to put it into your calendar for July 20, 2013!

73 de Marcus KD0JKM

27 January 2013

RaDAR 2013 Contest Announcement and Rules


1. Aim

The RaDAR-America contest is an event aimed at promoting the use of Rapidly Deployable Amateur Radio stations throughout North and South America. This contest is for all licensed radio amateurs. A choice is made prior to the contest to participate in one of the defined categories. The points system is so structured as to encourage portable operation, especially moveable stations. 
The rule structure is very close to that formulated by the founder of the contest idea: Eddie ZS6BNE
This contest will take place at the same time in South Africa (the Nation from which the idea originated), as it will here in the Americas.

2. Date and Time

First Saturday of April and first Saturday of November starting at 14:00 UTC and ending at 18:00 UTC  (4 hours).

3. Bands and Modes

All amateur bands, besides the WARC bands, are allowed including cross band contacts via amateur radio satellites.

All Amateur Radio operating rules within the country of operation are to be respected and followed at all times.

QSOs via terrestrial repeaters will NOT be allowed. You must make all of your contacts on Simplex only.

Modes – CW, SSB, AM, FM or any digital mode.


4. Suggested HF and VHF voice calling frequencies

The frequencies posted by HFPack http://hfpack.com/air/
are suggested as HF activity frequencies if not already in use. Please note to operate USB on all bands to achieve complete compatibility with a wide variety of commercial and Military portable HF radio systems that amateurs are using.

Suggested VHF frequency: 144.300. Always Transmit Tone PL=151.4 (Mil radios transmit Tone Squelch=150Hz).
Frequencies that have a potential conflict with repeater inputs (low end of 146 Simplex) and the National Calling Frequency have been omitted.

Contesters are requested to operate by The Amateur's Code
and with the request to keep in mind that HFpack has established methods for courteous operation on the suggested frequencies
[Please note that HFPack does not sanction contests and that this contest is not organised by a Founder or Moderator of the group.]

Contesters are also requested to respect all International Distress frequencies:
http://www.iaru-r2.org/documents/explorer/files/Plan%20de%20bandas%20%7C%20Band-plan/R2%20LF-MF-HF%20Bandplan%202010.pdf
as well as 146.520 MHz - the National Simplex Calling Frequency. Fixed stations are however encouraged to monitor these frequencies, so that they may be able to assist HAMs in distress.

Please additionally respect the PSK window of 14070-14073 kHz and the NCDXF/IARU beacons operating on 14.100, 18.110, 21.150, 24.930 and 28.200 MHz.


5. Recommended digital modes frequencies

CW: HFPack frequencies.
Other: all legal digital frequencies at established activity centers for the respective mode.


6. Exchange

Call: "CQ RaDAR <your call sign> /portable /mobile /maritime mobile /pedestrian mobile" (as applicable).

Call sign, Name, Report (RST), QTH and USNG grid locator (at least 6 digits). Note the grid locator can change as RaDAR operators are allowed to move to the next destination  at any time.

Maidenhead grid LOC information may be submitted instead of USNG locator. The grid locator of 6 digits is acceptable but should preferably be accurate to 10 digits.

If the grid locator is not known, then some other information that could describe the location, e.g. Mabula Lodge, 40 km west of Warmbaths. Note that several SmartPhone HAM log apps support this feature (e.g. HamLog for the iPhone).

7. Scoring

1 point per QSO.
1 QSO per mode, per band / satellite, per call sign. You may work another call sign several times, but only once per mode and only once per band throughout the entire contest period (you may work several call signs per band and per mode).

8. Categories and multipliers

The following multipliers are applicable to determine the final score.

Category multiplier:

x 1 – RaDAR Fixed station (At home or in another building). These stations may NOT call QSO, allowed to monitor and reply to QSOs only.

x 2 – RaDAR Field station (Portable away from home). These stations are to call QSO & log themselves as /p ("portable"). At least one photo or video of the station MUST accompany the log.

x 3 – Moving RaDAR station, Car / Motorcycle / Bicycle / Maritime – Minimum 3 miles (approx. 5 km) per 5 QSOs. These stations are to call QSO & log themselves as /m ("mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every log entry.

x 4 – Moving RaDAR station, on foot – Minimum 0.6 miles (approx. 1 km) per 5 QSOs. These stations are to call QSO and log themselves as /pm ("pedestrian mobile"). A photo or video of the station MUST accompany every log entry.

Note: 

1) Moving RaDAR stations can move at any time but are required to move to the  next destination after five contacts have been made. The move needs to cover the required distance before further contacts are allowed to be made. 
2) Moving stations may also operate while in motion, but need to have covered the required distance for every 5 QSOs. Note: safety and all (traffic) laws take precedence at all times.


Power multiplier:

The power multiplier that applies is determined by the highest power output of any of the transmitters used during the contest.

5 watts or less the power multiplier is 6.

6 to 50 Watts, the power multiplier is 4.

51 watts or greater, the power multiplier is 2.


9. Bonus points  (All categories)

5 Points (Equivalent to five QSOs) for a minimum of one satellite or any digital mode QSO involving a computer. (For clarity: Thereafter 1 point per Satellite / Digital modes QSO)

Each NVIS QSO made in the 40 - 160m bands with a distance between operators of up to 400 miles (approx. 650km), receives 1 bonus point (circle or BOLD PRINT qualifying station worked in Log Sheet).


10. Notes: 

1) A photo or video of a "Field" or "Moving" station MUST accompany every log entry.
2) Images or videos may be posted on the contesters preferred website, preferred website service or else; links must however be listed within the log file. Photos may alternatively be copy/ pasted in to the log.
3) All logs and submitted photos will be published at http://RaDAR-America.blogspot.com  under the following copyright:
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)
with all Copyrights to the contents otherwise remaining with the submitting Amateur Radio Operator.
4) Published logs and photos are to serve as a learning resource.


11. Log Sheets

QSOs are to be entered in the log sheets found at the following link: 
and be submitted within 14 days of the contest.

Completed log sheets are to be filled out either directly within WORD and emailed to:
radaramericacontest (AT) gmail.com
as a WORD or PDF file. 

Printed Log sheets may also be scanned or photographed and emailed.

ADIF files (for Home QTH stations without photos) may also be submitted.

If any operator prefers NOT to have his/her log posted on the RaDAR-America Blog, then please inform accordingly by writing this next to your signature on the last log page or within your email.

The winner will receive a feature Blog entry and a certificate by mail.


Please do share all your operating tips and comments on the log sheets - so that the contest logs may serve as a learning tool. 

vy 73 de Marcus KD0JKM
RaDAR-America Contest manager


Revisions:
< Rules updated Feb. 4th, 2013 >
< Rules updated Feb. 15th, 2013 > 
< Rules updated Mar. 03, 2013 (suggested VHF frequency) >
< Rules updated Mar. 07, 2013 (VHF squelch info) >
< The rules are now finalised, no further edits prior to this contest in April 2013 >
< March 21, 2013: Amendment: USNG grid locator information is preferred from US HAMs >

21 January 2013

Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio - RaDAR-America

Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio, often referred to by its acronym RaDAR, is a concept for operating an amateur radio station anywhere, anytime and even in adverse environmental conditions. This concept supports the amateur radio service’s emergency communications mandate.



For more information on the idea, please follow the link to website of the founder of the idea: Eddie ZS6BNE: http://zs6bne.wordpress.com/2012/09/13/rapid-deployment-amateur-radio/

This concept is hereby ported by KD0JKM to the Americas. Details on the Amateur Radio Contest will be posted momentarily.




Creative Commons License
RaDAR-America Contest by KD0JKM is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
Based on a work at http://zs6bne.wordpress.com/category/radar/.