The AM Forum

With the new band privleges for 75M upon us December 15th, (30 days from today) what a great time to have an "AM Extra Drive"!

If you're not yet an Extra, consider posting your intentions to study - and then later inform us of your success taking the test!  Nothing like a challenge and the comradery to get you inspired.

First one to take the Extra test and pass gets the official, "AM Slap-On-The-Back Award"!

Click on this QRZ.com link and start practicing the questions every day. In a week, you will be able to pass the real test. Guaranteed!

http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl

Good luck and see you below 3700 on AM December 15th!

73,
Tom, K1JJ

I like the looks of this one better..... more "realistic"......
http://www.aa9pw.com/radio/

Maybe just because it's all one page, less waiting...........


But, in any case..... no excuses..... if you even try , you should have no problems......

C'Ya there!

I've had the intent for 6 months now, but family illness and holidays may keep me from making the 30 day deadline.

Perhaps I need a kick in the ass more than the incentive of a slap on the back.

Tom, did the R+O finally get published in the Federal Register?

The R&O was published today.

The Extra Q&A I find on the web includiing the QRZ tests are the 2002 pool which are no longer the latest.  The new Extra question pool started in June of this year, 2006.
 
I don't know how different the latest pool is compared to the 2002 pool.  Does anyone else know?

Questions will have to change after December 15th to reflect the Part 97 rule changes such as HF phone sub-band edges and other schtuff.

Thanks, guys.
I'll start grinding the crystals now.

Not quite.....

The Tecnician pool changed this year....and the new General pool was rreleased, but  not Extra....

From the ARRL    ....

"Technician class (Element 2) Pool is effective July 1, 2006 is valid until June 30, 2010.

General class (Element 3) will be released December 1, 2006 and will become effective July 1, 2007.
·The current General Pool will now be valid until June 30, 2007.

The Extra class (Element 4) will be released December 1, 2007 and will become effective July 1, 2008.
·The current Extra Pool will now be valid until June 30, 2008.

Wonder if that means someone studying for Extra between Dec and June will have to answer questions about Extra class subbands according to the old (present) plan even after it has been changed.  I think the examiners have some leeway on exactly how the questions are put into a test, so hopefully there wouldn't be, for example, a question of the 75m phone segment with two of the choices as 3750-3775 and 3600-3700.

From some of the bozos I have heard before and after they passed their extra, I don't think anyone who frequents this forum should have any problem passing.

Dump the question pool and study or just take a gamble and wing it.  After 2 tries I nailed the Advanced.  I'll go for the 30 day challenge (schedule permitting).  Is there a waiting period between test sessions, like 30 days?

I think there's only 3 or 4 questions in the entire pool that would be affected (maybe more, but I'm not going to go through it all to see..)

So the VECs would either be asked to withdraw the questions, or allow the "old answer".

You might also find a current copy of the license manual useful unless or course A) you know everything there is to know about all topics or B) you plan on memorizing several hundred questions and answers.  The musty old study guide that you picked up at a hamfest in 1973 will not likely be of much help for this exam.
Some of these questions do require a calculator.

http://www.arrl.org/catalog/?item=8659

Where to take the test ?  Search here by State / Zip Code  http://www.arrl.org/exam.html

e.g. there are at least 8 scheduled exams between now and Christmas within 20 miles of zip code 18977.   ;)


 

"Click on this QRZ.com link and start practicing the questions every day. In a week, you will be able to pass the real test. Guaranteed!

http://www.qrz.com/p/testing.pl "

After taking the online test, (forgetting how to do polar- rect conversions on my calculator), I doubt few people on this board will have any problems passing the test. I'd guess that taking it online a few times will save the cost of a manual....

But,  if I upgrade, my question is still,  " how will they know Im a REAL ham...  "

klc

Folks, I'm living proof it can be done within one week! A person I know who is a member of the ARRgghhL examination squad goaded me into upgrading. I did the tests on QRZ.com to see where I stood and where exactly my weaknesses were. At the very least, you can learn the test which is more R&R than theory. I think if one bust's their ass for a week or two, they could cruise the exams without a hitch. We've been bitching for sometime about the lack of phone space so here we can cut ourselves a little niche out of 75M and let the Marconi-crap-net fend for itself and leave them playing with themselves.

When questions no longer reflect reality they get dropped.  The list of dropped questions appear on the ARRL site along with each question pool.

Pools page: http://www.arrl.org/arrlvec/pools.html
Extra QUESTIONS: http://www.arrl.org/arrlvec/2002_Extra_Pool3.txt
Extra Questions WITHDRAWN: http://www.arrl.org/arrlvec/withdrawn.html#extra

Well, as soon as I heard about the new band plan I bought the book. I became a 5 wpm General back in June, figure if they make it this easy for me, I'm a fool not to do it asap... Just that life/work got super busy lately! But darnit, I'll try and meet the challenge!

-Jason kf6pqt

Your on!
 Tnx for the idea
Sad in a way, I took the exam on QRZ and it was so much less then my 1969 Advaced. Guess I am becoming an Old Buzzaed

If someone passed the 13wpm General years back will they have to go backwards and do the 5wpm for Extra?

Hmmm...under the new rules do I have to forget my 35 wpm speed to qualify for the new extra? YUCK YUCK! ;D

Only kidding guys....lets see some new EXTRAS!! We are planning a 3685 opening nite just for fun...and no it doesn't mean we will be using the P.O.T. system (peaa on tree) to mark a territory..HA! A.M. all freqs all the time below 3700...no one can lay claim....all we need is a new pile of useless nets using the P.O.T. system arrrgh!!

STUDY STUDY STUDY!!

See Ya Down the BAND soon

Brent(Tina) W1IA

    Okay Guys...I really hate to give up my "real" Advanced and trade it for an Extra-lite ticket. But I suppose they can still see I used to have a "real" ticket. Ok...I'm gonna do it... See you on 3624.36 plate modulated A3.

This is excellent! So glad to hear the enthusiasm.

It would be kinda cool if someday the average ham would think to himself, " Yep, most of the AMers hold Extra Class licenses - ya gotta give 'em credit".

Whether we feel the Extra test is hard or not, it's still the highest ham "rank" or achievement (or carrot) put out by the FCC, with full privies attached.

As Brentina said, the area below 3700 is totally unstaked-out territory right now.  There will be a small window of time when the majority of 75M nets and ssb operators do not have the licenses to go down there. If we prepare and get as many AM Extras licensed as possible in this 30 day period, we will have a big head start in presence there. AM operation will become an accepted part of the band by default.

Make it a goal to encourage at least ONE other AM buddy to upgrade to Extra. Give it some thought right now.  If he doesn't frequent this BB, call him on the phone with reasons to upgrade now, then send him an email with the link to the Extra class questions... ;)

73,
T

Be "careful",--if you call it "extra lite",--you could be labled as "discriminatory" and
be labled an "OF", in these politically correct times.

                                          73, K1MVP

P.S., --my question might be, who is too say many SSB`ers will not "upgrade"
        to "extra" and also go down below 3700?--and the net result will be?
     
                                           

A good point Rene...

I think simply by habit the majority will stay where they were before.... above 3800. It takes an effort to retune the antenna and get their whole gang to move 200kc down the band. In addition, there will always be a few hold-outs of every group who refuse to upgrade and this will keep the group where they were. Also, if some groups do move down the band, the upper frequencies will thin out and the remaining groups will be encouraged to stay where they are.

There's no reason not to operate anywhere we please, so we might as well do it down there too. If it's anything like what happened when they increased the Extra band to 3750 years ago, it will be under-utilized. And probably more so because of the apparent lower activity on the bands these days.... not to mention the 60%! increase in phone band space on 75M. 

I predict below 3700 on AM  will be like 160M above 1900, possibly even better... QRM-free operation for some time to come.  Time will tell.

73,
T

LURD said:
Fine, knock yourself out. Like I was taught in the military: "Anything is legal, as long as you don't get caught." By your own admission you labeled yourself a freebander. Not to be paranoid, but you don't know who frequents this board and looks in on occasion. I only hope you have deep pockets for a lawyer. A piece of advice, don't take any legal words of wisdom from Belgrade Lakes.

and Mikey he appears to be one of us............and we have his ear when he hangs with us.........and he gets the job done!

Do you really think slopbucket groups like the ones on 3875, 3878, 3892, ad nauseum, will move anywhere?  They bought those frequencies years ago and they're now paid in full. To QSY would be a sign of unMANliness.  Besides,  how do you get the SWR down on that ol' dipole antenny anyhow?

Don,--I hope you are right, as I DO enjoy an AM "qrm free" QSO, but as Tom said
"time will tell".
I still think 160 will continue to be the "better" band for some time to come,--
which reminds me,--I better get back to the homebrew 160mtr 813 linear.

                                                73, K1MVP   
 

A lot of you old farts should already be Extra Class.....if not, then shame on you! What have you been doing with your time? Ham radio doesnt need you if you arent interested in it......That General ticket should have a one year time limit.....then your out!!

Ill see my fellow Extras on the new freqs with my homebrew sg rig. Hope you guys can hear me. What freq should we grab squatters rights on? I always wanted my own freq. This will be fun.

I did it last summer and one month is a very reasonable time to prepare. I got the Extra book and I had an old one from 1989. That tells you I was thinking about upgrading a long time ago but put it off. I feel horrible about not taking the 20 WPM.

The online tests were a real help. At first I was missing many questions. Towards the end of three weeks I was easily passing the online tests. I found that studying on alternate days helped.

Set a deadline. I found a VE session in a town 35 miles away and knew nobody in that club. I had two weeks to go. They all gave me the eye when I showed up. I missed two questions.

Do not forget your license and ID!

The online Vanity program allowed me to shorten my call from WB2UID to WU2D - an improvement for CW but still preserving the horrific nature of my call. That Vanity system worked great.

Mike

THE ARRL IS "CONSIDERING" A PETETION TO CHANGE THE R&O BEFORE IS GOES INTO EFFECT

"Still to be resolved are three controversial aspects of the Proceeding:

Expansion of the 75 meter phone band all the way down to 3600 kHz (thus reducing the privileges of General, Advanced and Amateur Extra class licensees, who had RTTY/data privileges in the 80 meter band, and CW privileges of General and Advanced class licensees)

The elimination of J2D emissions, data sent by modulating an SSB transmitter, of more than 500 Hz bandwidth. This will make PACTOR III at full capability illegal. Other digital modes effectively rendered illegal below 30 MHz include Olivia and MT63 (when operated at bandwidths greater than 500 Hz), 1200-baud packet, Q15X25 and Clover 2000.

The elimination of access to the automatic control RTTY/data subband at 3620-3635 kHz.

The ARRL Board is discussing the possibility of a petition to reconsider several items in the R&O."



MY OPINION??    START SENDING COMMENT TO ARRL NOW, BEFORE ANY FURTHER ACTION IS TAKEN!!

Screw the ARRL. they should know by now to be careful what they wish for dealing with the FCC. i took my Extra theory twice back in 1996, without studying. aced it the second time. the 20WPM took three tries: first try a corrupt VE failed me because "she could not read my handwriting" on the copy. she died a few years after that (complications from being hit by a city bus and flying 50 feet). God answers prayers. second time i was still hammered from a night of heavy partying- Ok, my fault. third time's a charm though, and i got it. see you all on 3685 for opening night...maybe our Euro AM friends can join us there too! the paperwork to apply for unemployment, welfare and food satmps is harder in this state than the current Extra test. time to get busy you guys!

From the ARRL homepage today:

"Deadline extended to accept members' input on "omnibus" Report and Order (Nov 15, 2006) -- The ARRL has extended the deadline to receive members' input concerning the FCC's "omnibus" Report and Order (R&O) in WT Docket 04-140 (FCC 06-149), released October 10, and published in the Federal Register November 15. The R&O will take effect Friday, December, 15. The ARRL will accept members' comments until, Wednesday, November 22, one week after Federal Register publication. The ARRL is specifically seeking member guidance on how the changes the R&O mandates will affect current operating activities on 80, 40 and 15 meters (see the current ARRL band plans and an ARRL FAQ that includes a chart showing the band changes.) Submit comments by e-mail. All e-mails will be read and considered, but individual responses are not possible. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation!"

[ ;D

Tom(JJ):
What you quoted is just fluff. You missed the guts of what (KLR) quoted. The real meat is "The ARRL is specifically seeking member guidance on how the changes the R&O mandates will affect current operating activities on 80, 40 and 15 meters (see the current ARRL band plans and an ARRL FAQ that includes a chart showing the band changes.)"

With the "No Zone" new General and Advanced sections coming into play, especially on 80, there may be some changes to their band plan guide. Likewise, there may be some additional "CW/digital/data/RTTY/emergency" gathering spots/areas that were not part of their original guide. Some amateurs need direction, "where is this window?" where is that group?", "where do the nuts hang out?", etc., etc. This ARRL request is not diddling with the regulations.

You may be correct and I deleted my post as a result.  I believe this line is what looked dubious: "The ARRL Board is discussing the possibility of a petition to reconsider several items in the R&O". Someone else said it was just a rumor...

However, your approach here leaves much to be desired. I can see why there is much friction generated when you start defending the ARRL, Pete.

73,
T

To paraphrase KF1Z from a previous thread:

Hmmmm Pete, it seems that the (be)League(d) doesn't seem too receptive about the new privileges. Nothing like the ARRgghhL biting the hand that feeds US!

Actually, all General, Advanced, and Extra Class licensed amateurs should be unhappy with the first paragraph issues ARRL states:
"Expansion of the 75 meter phone band all the way down to 3600 kHz (thus reducing the privileges of General, Advanced and Amateur Extra class licensees, who had RTTY/data privileges in the 80 meter band, and CW privileges of General and Advanced class licensees) "

For now, the second and third paragraph issues, should not be challenged.

It will be interesting to see, during the next major HF CW only contest, where the "overflow" of CW contesters (from the CW only section), especially on 80 meters, are going to take up space.

Tom:
I just responded to your response to KLR's quote. You are correct that the ARRL is discussing the possibility of a petition to reconsider several items in the R&O but that's not what you were quoting. Our "problem" here is that we have several different discussions going on in the same thread. (I shudder to say that; if you recall our last time)

Here is what Tom, KLR quoted from the ARRL site:
From the ARRL homepage today:

"Deadline extended to accept members' input on "omnibus" Report and Order (Nov 15, 2006) -- The ARRL has extended the deadline to receive members' input concerning the FCC's "omnibus" Report and Order (R&O) in WT Docket 04-140 (FCC 06-149), released October 10, and published in the Federal Register November 15. The R&O will take effect Friday, December, 15. The ARRL will accept members' comments until, Wednesday, November 22, one week after Federal Register publication. The ARRL is specifically seeking member guidance on how the changes the R&O mandates will affect current operating activities on 80, 40 and 15 meters (see the current ARRL band plans and an ARRL FAQ that includes a chart showing the band changes.) Submit comments by e-mail. All e-mails will be read and considered, but individual responses are not possible. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation!"

You didn't have to delete your message. We just apply it to their(ARRL) other proposed activity:
"The ARRL Board is discussing the possibility of a petition to reconsider several items in the R&O."

Understood, Pete -

I guess when I saw PG's post (that either got deleted or was in another thread) about the league's supposed resistance to the new regs, I saw red.  I feel these new regs are the best thing that ever happened to the 75M band and I must be getting possessive about keeping them around.

I usually regret getting involved with political ARRL bashing, discussing, cussing and the fall-out afterwards....  ;)  My general rule is to stick with technical stuff and helping people here on the BB. It's too easy to get wound up sometimes...

73,

T

ARRL is pissy about this one because the filthy rich cheapskate yachters just lost their email service.  Now they'll have to go pay for sailmail or something similar.  These yachters are not HAMS.  They're licensees who got thier licences solely to be able to freeload on our bands to avoid subscribing to the commercial services where their traffic should be. 

Why does ARRL care about these people?  They buy expensive gear including Pactor III modems and that increases advertising revenue for QSTreet.  Not to mention ARRL is very interested in Pactor III modems, though as far as I know the link to the money hasn't been found.

Down with Pactor III and Winlink.

In RM-11306, as part of the bandwidth proposal, the 500 Hz max was specified for RTTY and data(slow speed data) and possibly some highly compressed image and voice digital stuff.

Also, as part of the bandwidth proposal, 3.5 KHz was specified for SSB, digital telephony, image, high speed data, and multimedia. I believe  in the ITU band plan, they only specified 2.8 Khz for the image, high speed data, and multimedia stuff. Pactor III is far more robust and runs 3 to 5 times faster than Pactor II at 2.4 Khz. There are probably other features that also make it more attractive than Pactor I and II. I guess the notion of taking highly compressed image and/or voice data down a very narrow tube was not their idea of 21st century progress.

If they can live with "slower" service, and it's still "free", what have they lost other than time. You're on a boat, floating around.


Whether it's Pactor II or III, I believe from what I've read, the modems are the same. The only thing that changes is the software. I don't recall ever seeing any ads in QST for SCS (the creators of Pactor) but maybe I missed them. Can you point any out? QST did do a Product Review of SCS Pactor II controller in Jan. 1997 and another SCS controller in April 2000.

And, ah yes, the preverbal money trail; shades of another reflector. If they do advertise, there's your money trail. It's called advertising revenue.

But, we all know, the ARRL is evil, but not as evil, as Evil-Lyn.

Quite the change in the push for more narrow bandwidth emissions on HF => spark to CW, AM to SSB, wide-shift RTTY to narrow-shift RTTY, etc.

My greatest concern is that the new rules restrict a disproportionate amount of spectrum to Extra class only.  I say this even though I have been licensed as Extra class since 1963.

The existing 3750-3775 kHz Extra class voice subband is already sparcely occupied, and I suspect that expanding this segment fourfold will result in the 3600-3700 kHz segment becoming even more underutilised as an Extra class voice subband than this sectrum is to-day as part of the cw/digital subband.

After the new rules go into effect, I suggest carefully monitoring the level of activity throughout the 75-80 m. band for one or two years, and after that period, if a substantial number of U.S. licensees have not upgraded to Extra class, and the Extra class segments remain sparcely populated, that the FCC should be petitioned to greatly reduce, or eliminate altogether, the band segments restricted to Extra class only.

The AM community can do its part by making sure this segment of the band is occupied with AM from day one.

Nov 21 at 700PM I'm going for the Extra.  Discovered there's an exam session not to far from here.

Pactor III modems are somewhere around $600. +
they'll do PIII and PII.....

A PI / PII modem will not do PIII.

Most ham software out there will not even DECODE Pactor III (some will do PI / PII)!!


Between WinLink and PIII, what are there, maybe 1000 stations on the air?

Don,
As far as a substantial number not upgrading to Extra,--that MIGHT have been true
back 30 years ago or more,--but with the "new" Dick Bash method of "studying"
and only 5wpm cw,--I could see where MANY would just "cram es jam" to get
the "extra lite" to get the added spectrum,--IMO.
Heck,--the "30 day challenge" is more like a "3 day challenge" with the published
answers.

As I recall,--there was an article in QST a while back about a weekend ham radio
class that was able to "license" over 100 people in one setting,(Dick Bash style)
and the ARRL thought it was "GREAT".
.
                                            73, K1MVP

Why is it that no matter what a  particular thread is discussing the ARRL shows up in the thread. Then we are all privileged with the typical PG hate post and the it just goes on and on.

Phil everyone knows you hate the ARRL with such a passion that you are rude in here, Pete everyone here knows you support the ARRL so much it makes some sick.  How many times do we have to hear this same old garbage boys ?   Move on - - - It is getting old

This thread is about taking the extra class ticket, It is a positive and forward moving thread.  It offers something to the community in a positive light and in the end many will gain from this. I do not see why this thread had to go off topic bringing the ARRL into play except to disrupt or incite.

The real question is - How many of the people in here that say they are taking the extra will be down low on the 15th??

Tom JJ and myself did our calculations on the arrays and found that we are ready for down low with the existing ant systems so we are all set here.

Hope to see ya there

G

This one's my fault, I'm sure.......

I posted the blurb about the arrl's possible petition to change the new rules.....
Thought as many people possible should be aware that the plans to move down to 3600+ could be thwarted.

SORRY! :-[


At any rate..... whether or not things change, it'll be great to see herds of new Extra Class (double meaning) hams on the bands soon!

See that? even the thought of new territory has been incentive enough for some to upgrade!!

Let's see, so far I'm not a real ham because: I didn't pop out of my mother's womb in 1954 waving an extra class ticket, I didn't pass the extra class exam when it was 20 wpm, and even if had had passed the exam in the short time that I have been a ham it would only be an "extra lite" not a "real" extra ticket due to the "dumbing down" of the testing. Now this. I became seriously interested in ham radio after installing a marine band HF radio on my boat.  After meeting a number of other boaters who are licensed hams, some of whom used Winlink for e-mail, I could easily see the utility of having a ham ticket. I've talked with friends throughout the Caribbean Basin and across the Atlantic  from my home station while they made passages, providing them with some small bit of comfort knowing someone was out there and giving myself with a little vicarious thrill. God forbid someone actually use the ham bands for communicating. I suppose it's a far better use of the alloted bit of spectrum performing endless audio checks and recounting our medical issues.

I've found ham radio absolutely fascinating and the vast majority of the operators welcoming and helpful, particularly on AM, but the divisive nonsense like the above post very discouraging. With attitudes like this  is it any wonder that the hobby/service isn't drawing many new members?

Well, the consolation in all this is the sudden realization than I'm filthy rich, I wasn't aware that I was even moderately rich.

Don, today's Extra exam is easier than the General I took in '66.

And that was in front of a steely-eyed FCC examiner, at the same time taking the bus and train downtown and cramming myself into an uncomfortable grade-school desk in the Chicago Federal Courthouse on one of the few appointed days every month.

All we had to work from was the ARRL license manual. None of today's study aids existed.

And remember- There used to be a time-in-grade requirement before you could even apply to be an Extra? And the 20 WPM code test?

I don't think the requirement to be an Extra today is unfair or a burden at all.

Chris/ZDY where you said --

When we are on our yacht, we listen to Pactor III all the time and in stereo !!!

Wow....  Anbody else ever bump into this gang of cheapskates?  Once we clear the band of cheapskate yachters, renegade RV captains, people licensed less than 32 years and the various folks involved in plots to increase QST revenue, there ought to be room for all extra class or not. 

As far as the Extra class license, its relatively attainable and I'd recommend studying for it as its pretty interesting stuff. 

Best,  Ed

Way to go, Bob.

Yes, making an appointment like that is the best way to keep the motivation up.  Did you find a universal link that lists the exam skeds all around the country, or do you need to locate a local VE through a club, etc?

BTW, in response to Gary's post about antennas operating down below 3700... we were discussing how our antennas will perform down there. It's an interesting thing that any Yagi or parasitic antenna using a reflector that works in one direction above 3800 will now beam in the opposite direction when below 3700!  I've found thru modeling that my normal NE quad used for Europe will now be beaming SW towards K4KYV in TN.  The reflector becomes a director when the freq goes below its resonant point.  As long as the swr is reasonable, it will work FB....

So bottom line - if you do DX in the DX window NE, tune the reflector as tight as possible towards 3800 (and still maintain a pattern) and it will become a director when you drop below 3700 for working SW AM.

Probably a better method is the driven array that Gary uses. It is broad-banded enough to cover 3650 and still switch directions exactly as it did above 3800. This antenna can be put up at 50' (minimum) and still work FB. If you have a single dipole now and can add a second dipole 60' apart, then welcome to the world of 75M hearing with a front to back, unidirectional patterns and forward gain. 

For more details:
http://amfone.net/ECSound/K1JJ21.htm

73,
T

and all you poor slobs running open wire line only need to walk over to the tuner and turn the knob to go lower in the band.
I wonder if it is time to build a wire log antenna to cover the whole band. 4 elements should do it. but you will be stuck in one direction.

Tom Vu. Say you had a pair of two wire dipoles and one wire was longer than the other. Then force feed both antennas to get directional gain. This way the antenna would work at both ends of the band. Does dat work for low swar

I'm sure your intentions were good. The more we know, the better prepared will can be. But it's highly unlikely anything will be thwarted in the next 30 days. It took the FCC several years to publish the current R&O. Do you think the ARRL or anyone else is going to get the FCC to publish anything else (good or bad wrt to the current R&O) in 1/48th the amount of time? I say no.

    As I understand it, It's a done deal...Am I wrong?
    Oh Boy!! 3600-3700 kc AM LAND! Rejoice and give thanks to the FCC.

Yes, that would work FB for one direction, Frank. It would work with good gain and swr on both ends of the band depending on how long the ref was and how short the dir was to broadband it. The broader, the less gain and f-b, of course.

For directional switching, the phased dipoles as mentioned in my previous post are the choice. Going from 3650 to 3890 is nothing in terms of phase error using coax. It will work FB unidirectional in this range of freqs.

However, with a parasitic array like mine, you will run into "crossover" frequency problems. This is where the ant doesn't know which way to beam, so it is bi-directional and the swr soars..

Bottom line is if you care only for one direction, then your 2el ref/dir driven array idea is simpler and a good way to go. For cloud burner local, and uni directional switching, go with the coax driven array.

If the array can be put up at 1/2 wavelength high, I prefer the simplicity of a parasitic quad or Yagi.

73,

T

If I recall correctly, there is a window for petitions for reconsideration during the 30-day period after it is published in the Federal register.  At the normal pace for federal agencies, it would take months for them to act on it.  Remember it took almost a year for the petitions for reconsideration for the power limit issue to be resolved, and that was one where the FCC had already made up its mind before the original NPRM was issued.

But it wouldn't hurt to check the FCC website periodically to see if any petitions have been filed.  Others than the ARRL might want to get in on the action.

Tom,
I went to the ARRL's website and clicked on Exams link and looked up the VE exam sessions for our area.  Turned out that Paul K1PL is sponsoring a VE session in Portland on the 21st in the evening.  My sched is clear and I'm going for the last step in the radio license journey. 

I tested myself a few times on QRZ and passed each time so I think I will be coming home with an Extra. Why I didn't do this sooner, who knows.  Oh well. 

I'm motivated to get it.  Thanks for the kick in the pants.

hey,
       good luck to all atempting to get their extra, great idea tom!  Got mine
in the mid 70's. the code was a bitch for me, but struggled and got it. just
renewed, good until 2016, if I'm still alive

deano

After being a career Advanced for about 36 years, I took and passed the Extra-lite upgrade Element 4 written exam this evening.  I believe I got a 96 % on it.  You need a 74 % (37 correct) to pass.

Without prior study, I took the 16 numbered tests on the QRZ.com site this past weekend.  My results ranged from 80 - 94 %.  Today I studied from the ARRL Extra Q&A book, then re-took the one QRZ test that I had the lowest score on.

It's been 36 years since I took an Amateur license exam.  This is my first (and last I presume) under the VE program and the open Q&A pool.  My impression of the questions and answers is that many are worded trickier than the old study-the-material-and-take-the-test-not-knowing-the-exact-questions-and-answers, due to the published pool.

While studying, I believe I disagree with the answers for ~ 3 of the technical questions.  I will probably write to the ARRL on those questions, after spotting them.

So my advice is to those who are thinking of studying the Extra theory/rules material only and taking the VE test the old manly way, take the 16 QRZ Extra question pool tests, because it matters not what you think is correct, but what is the ARRL's correct answer.
 
See youse on 36xx kHz. AM. December 15/16.

Congratulations Tom.
But I am doomed.

because it matters not what you think is correct, but what is the ARRL's correct answer.

That's it, I'm selling out.

Ya dont have to take the ARRL exam to upGrade  --- there's that Iy5 or 5why eye  or ahatever offering tests.. diff  vol examiners; same QueSTion pool...

http://www.w5yi.org/  ..............   bunch other listed with the fee cee      klc

Way to go, Tom!!!  You've just promoted yourself to all the privies available.

You get the Official JJ AM "Slap on the Back AWARD"   ;D ;D ;D

Yes, like many of these type tests, if ya read too far into them, some answers are really wrong. The smarter you are, the less benefit to read into them I guess.

I'm not sure what percentage of AMers will be Extras by Dec 15th and be joining us below 3700, but glad you'll be one of them, OM.  I'm hoping there will be a large crowd by then.

At the moment I have only three more projects on the bench to complete this month - and all are your KLR designs - the two 833A  cathode audio drivers and the 6M matching networks. You da man!!

73,
T

Congrats Tom....WOW! before you know it all the gang will have extras.
Now if we can just convince VJB to give up this romance with his advanced and join the us in the V.I.P. lounge below 3700 Kilocycles ;)....Cawm on Paul....."...use the force Luke....come to the Dark-Side" or join the Pasta Boilers FOREVER!!


Brent

Pasta Boilers?
This pasta boiler has been an extra for over 30 years boy!
bait eater

You know what's really weird..?

I almost never exercise the band privileges of Extra. I think I've only operated in the Extra portion of the 75M fone band five times...CW only once or twice..Kinda lonely down there..No one I know...Maybe that will change now.

The only reason I had to wait a month between my General and Extra was the testing sessions were a month apart- but, to be sure, until then, that Extra book was with me everywhere: dinner table, toilet, at work at lunch- and I did it!

Me too!

I used aa9pw.com for both my examination and CW practice. Characters were learned with the Koch
method and compatable software. After one month of study (CW recordings, carrying flashcards for
using free moments for study, taking the A.R.R.L. Extra study book tothe can...), I got my Extra.

I'm not sorry for getting the 5WPM Extra. I fix my own equipment, design my own antennas. I'm willing to fight anybody who calls me a No-Code Extra. Put them up!

Dave Goncalves
W1EUJ

Everyone,

Thanks for the congratulations on the Extra.

Here's a practice study question you won't find in the current pool:

E4E11D7  What is the amateur station activity known as fox hunting?

A.   Assisting government agents with tracking transmitter collars worn by foxes.
B.   Bachelor AM’ers trolling bars for women.
C.   All of the above.
D.   None of the above.

Congrats Tom, maybe we can do some late morning/early afternoon 75M tests in the new area! I think I only used my extra privileges once and that was on SSB(gasp!).

They should have had Tim write the AMers Extra test...

1. What is a Crapstal?
2. How many amps x volts = Full Scrote?
3. How does the average transmitter Swing the Munkey?

..

All who pass get a pickled egg plant sangwich at gfz radio. If you get an A then you get to try some of my Dad's stash only 4 weeks old.

Good Deal Tom!

Fox hunting is what you do when the bands are broken if you need pba.

Tonight is the night.  At 700PM I will be sitting down doing a multiple guess test.  The odds are favorable for passing. I can only hope that I don't get nervous, lose my normal train of thought and over-analyze the test questions.   Will let you know how I do when I get back tonight.

Macaroni Net? :P

>>Fox hunting is what you do when the bands are broken if you need pba

hehehe, love it. congrats tom. Extra lite, Extra heavy, who cares. It means you
cared to take whatever the highest ham ticket at your space-time is. Anyone have
a pointer to a HTML or text document on the new band plan? the PDF I tried
to load croaked my computer..

propagation, anyone have any thoughts about how different it would be
down there? I don't, as I read earlier, think it will be like 160. However its
a considerable % away from what we are used to..

                     a PDF file            http://www.arrl.org/announce/regulatory/wt04-140/Hambands3_color.pdf

                    a FCC  lnk              http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-06-149A1.doc

I need to study. Missed by one question. 

A couple of those test questions need to have their relevancy addressed.

No big deal, Bob.   Is there a waiting period or can you take it again before Dec 15th?

In 1965 I failed the Conditional test by just one question too. It was a heartbreaker. But I studied for a month and then went to Boston (with Ed/W1RFI) and aced the General. It was the best thing that coulda happened cuz I learned it well the second time.

BTW, I hope some don't under estimate the Extra test. As you know it does require study. I tried the first three questions the other day and got them all wrong. Stuff about current packet regs, satellite guidelines and stuff like that will throw anyone who's not studied it.

Good luck next time!

T

Hi Tom,
I agree. No big deal.  Just proves I need to brush up.

I don't believe there is a waiting period any longer. Not sure if there ever was one, at least while I've had a license.  I passed my General on the second try. The CW test got me on the first attempt. It was two weeks between test sessions for the second attempt. The two weeks between tests was never questioned.  That was back in the late 80's however.

There are a couple of scheduled test sessions around CT that are before the 15th.  One is Newington at ARRL HQ.  I'll probably hit that one since it's the closest and familiar territory.

I didn't have difficulty with the math problems or tech stuff related to HF but like you I got tripped up on the packet and satellite stuff.  One regulatory question that threw me was a question regarding a foreigner or alien wanting to be licensed in the US.  Not sure what relevancy that has to do with a US citizen holding, upgrading or getting a license but maybe I'm missing something.

I under estimated the Extra test and got a little cocky myself after having passed a couple of the practice tests on QRZ.  Glad the test was close by and not 60 or more miles away. I would have been mad at myself.  The good thing is I have a better flavor for the testing now.  It's been about 20 years since I took the Advanced test. I just bought the book and I'll be ready for the next session.

Thanks for the encouragement.
Bob

Made it within the 30 day challenge.  Went up to Newington and passed the Extra today. 

Congratulations Bob.  CU on 36xx kHz. AM.

My advice to everyone upgrading to Extra -

Take all 16 of the practice tests on QRZ.com.  Select them in order by number, not randomly.  Keep a list of your score on each test.  They each take about 20 - 30 minutes to do depending on interruptions, etc. so we're talking about 5 - 8 hours of homework, but well worth it.  Re-take the tests with the lowest scores again after all 16 are done and you have identified and studied the weak subject areas. 

When you are at the ACTUAL test session you may experience some differences that may tend to dumb you down a hair - anxieties, horizontal papers vs. the vertical monitor you studied at, a CW element testee playing the CW tape at loud volume, etc.  It's good to be well prepared.

Tom, Thanks for the congrats

I did exactly what Tom KLR suggested with one twist.  Rather than retake the ones I failed on I just redid all the tests.  I missed 5 questions on the exam which was about where I was at the end of practicing with the practice tests.  Prior to that I was border line pass/fail. It works.  Most of it relies on memory.  The vast majority of the questions are all very similar if not the same but just worded differently and most of the answers to those questions are identical between practice exams.  If I can do it with my very short attention span anyone else should be able to ace it.  Definitely take your time and reread the Q's and multi choice answers.

Good going Bob!

In the end it's almost always a blessing in disguise when you retake the test. Now you know it cold.

See ya in the Extra band!

73,
T

Thanks T/JJ!!!
I'll be yellowy+ pissweak with the FT102 on the 15th.  See you guys there.

Good Deal Bob hope to work you.

Thanks Frank,
Me too.  I'm looking forward to it with you  and everyone else.