June 16th 2025 #256 - Coax and Microphone Projects | W3GMS Workbench

W3GMS Monday Night Workbench Net

#Tech #Lifestyle #Hobbies #Dylan K3DZM #W3GMS #Ham Radio #Amateur Radio #Workbench

33:58

On June 25th 2025, in collaboration with Open Folk, we presented our first ever live interview event in Los Angeles. As Open Folk put it: "In These Lines is a live event where three artists each bring one song — not just to perform, but to explore. They sit down with Sofia Loporcaro, host of Before The Chorus, to talk about where the song came from, what it meant to write it, and what it still holds. Then they play it. Just the song, and the truth behind it." Find Open Folk on Instagram: @openfolkla Find Gaby on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0K9pSmFx0kWESA9jqx8aCW?si=Wz4RUP88Qlm_RKs7QTLvWQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gaby-moreno/472697737 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaby_moreno/ Find Lily on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p0ksmwMDQlAM24TWKu4Ua?si=Bmdg-uIUTHu-zRUc_dqL3g On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/lily-kershaw/526884610 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilykershaw/ Find James on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3u50TPoLvMBXNT1KrLa3iT?si=OoLoq7ZTRZyUiytQcz0FsQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-spaite/905076868 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesspaite/ Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sign up for our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.beforethechorus.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beforethechoruspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@soundslikesofia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About the podcast: Welcome to Before the Chorus , where we go beyond the sounds of our favourite songs to hear the stories of the artists who wrote them. Before a song is released, a record is produced, or a chorus is written, the musicians that write them think. A lot. They live. A lot. And they feel. A LOT. Hosted by award-winning interviewer Sofia Loporcaro, Before the Chorus explores the genuine human experiences behind the music. Sofia’s deep knowledge of music and personal journey with mental health help her connect with artists on a meaningful level. This is a space where fans connect with artists, and listeners from all walks of life feel seen through the stories that shape the music we love. About the host: Sofia Loporcaro is an award-winning interviewer and radio host who’s spent over 8 years helping musicians share their stories. She’s hosted shows for Amazing Radio, and Transmission Roundhouse. Now on Before the Chorus, she’s had the chance to host guests like Glass Animals, Feist, Madison Cunningham, Mick Jenkins, & Ru Paul's Drag Race winner Shea Couleé. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 1:28:03

MP3•Episode home

Host: Greg (W3DIB)
Theme: Field Day Prep, Coax Projects, and Microphone Cable Woes

🔧 Technical Questions

Q1: Straightening Coiled Mic Cables (N3RBN)
Paul asked if there’s a reliable way to straighten the coiled section of an RJ-style microphone cable to reterminate it. Responses included:

Chuck (NA3CW) and others suggested buying a cheap knockoff mic just for the cable, then rewiring.
Scott (W3KZG) seconded the idea—some knockoffs fit well and don’t even require soldering.

Q2: Remote Relay vs. Direct Coax Run (KC3SQI)
Wayne asked if it’s better to run a home-run coax for a 2m antenna or share a remote relay rated only for 6m.

Ron (WA3VEE) and Jim (KC3RFG) strongly recommended running dedicated coax to minimize signal loss and prevent mismatches.
John (WA3KFT) shared his experience running 14 coax lines with high-quality switches, warning about specs and reliability.
Consensus: fewer interconnections, always better.

📡 Roundtable Highlights

Field Day Fever:
Many ops are prepping hard—testing coax, installing connectors, tuning antennas. Chuck (NA3CW) and Joe (W3GMS) led a coax connector demo that was widely praised.
APRS Success:
John (KC3WWC) had a blast during APRS Thursday—received 174 messages from across the globe in 12 hours!
First 6m Contacts!
Jim (KC3RFG) made his first contacts on 6 meters thanks to some recent solar activity—repaired his mag-mount antenna with a solder rework.
Project Progress:
- Keith (KB3ILS) dove deep into bandpass filter design, winding toroids and using a NanoVNA and oscilloscope.
- Scott (W3KZG) is renovating a trailer to double as a field day camper and ATV hauler.
- Wayne (KC3SQI) poured concrete for his new tilt-over mast.
- Ron (WA3VEE) helped tune the 40m dipole for Field Day, now resonant at 7.150 MHz.
- Jon (WA3KFT) shared a robust setup with 14 coax switches and specialty tools from DX Engineering.

💬 Community Notes

Health Check-Ins:
The net closed with updates and well-wishes for an operator dealing with a medical emergency—several ops shared hospital updates and encouraging words.
Father’s Day Recaps:
Several shared heartfelt stories of family time—steak dinners, grandkid babysitting, and “gifts” like temporary pet duty.

8 episodes

June 16th 2025 #256 - Coax and Microphone Projects | W3GMS Workbench

W3GMS Monday Night Workbench Net

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Host: Greg (W3DIB)
Theme: Field Day Prep, Coax Projects, and Microphone Cable Woes

🔧 Technical Questions

Q1: Straightening Coiled Mic Cables (N3RBN)
Paul asked if there’s a reliable way to straighten the coiled section of an RJ-style microphone cable to reterminate it. Responses included:

Chuck (NA3CW) and others suggested buying a cheap knockoff mic just for the cable, then rewiring.
Scott (W3KZG) seconded the idea—some knockoffs fit well and don’t even require soldering.

Q2: Remote Relay vs. Direct Coax Run (KC3SQI)
Wayne asked if it’s better to run a home-run coax for a 2m antenna or share a remote relay rated only for 6m.

Ron (WA3VEE) and Jim (KC3RFG) strongly recommended running dedicated coax to minimize signal loss and prevent mismatches.
John (WA3KFT) shared his experience running 14 coax lines with high-quality switches, warning about specs and reliability.
Consensus: fewer interconnections, always better.

📡 Roundtable Highlights

Field Day Fever:
Many ops are prepping hard—testing coax, installing connectors, tuning antennas. Chuck (NA3CW) and Joe (W3GMS) led a coax connector demo that was widely praised.
APRS Success:
John (KC3WWC) had a blast during APRS Thursday—received 174 messages from across the globe in 12 hours!
First 6m Contacts!
Jim (KC3RFG) made his first contacts on 6 meters thanks to some recent solar activity—repaired his mag-mount antenna with a solder rework.
Project Progress:
- Keith (KB3ILS) dove deep into bandpass filter design, winding toroids and using a NanoVNA and oscilloscope.
- Scott (W3KZG) is renovating a trailer to double as a field day camper and ATV hauler.
- Wayne (KC3SQI) poured concrete for his new tilt-over mast.
- Ron (WA3VEE) helped tune the 40m dipole for Field Day, now resonant at 7.150 MHz.
- Jon (WA3KFT) shared a robust setup with 14 coax switches and specialty tools from DX Engineering.

💬 Community Notes

Health Check-Ins:
The net closed with updates and well-wishes for an operator dealing with a medical emergency—several ops shared hospital updates and encouraging words.
Father’s Day Recaps:
Several shared heartfelt stories of family time—steak dinners, grandkid babysitting, and “gifts” like temporary pet duty.

8 episodes

#Tech #Lifestyle #Hobbies #Dylan K3DZM #W3GMS #Ham Radio #Amateur Radio #Workbench

All episodes

1
July 21st 2025 #261 - Noise Hunting with Direction Finding | W3GMS Workbench 57:36

5 days ago57:36

57:36

General Discussion Highlights: Noise Hunting with Direction Finding: Chuck (NA3CW) described tracking down an S9 noise issue on 75 meters, suspected to be caused by a faulty lightning arrester on a utility pole. He used a handheld with a directional AM antenna tuned to 136 MHz to pinpoint the source. Antenna Adventures and Propagation Notes: John (KC3WWC) activated a new state game land for POTA with good shade and low noise. He also experimented with two APRS-capable radios and noted six-meter openings into Florida and later Wisconsin, all on a simple backyard wire. Mike (W3MFB) reported a strong 17m opening, working Switzerland and hearing Spain and Ireland, while noting 10 meters was surprisingly quiet. Travel and Light Operating: Chuck visited the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon and Corning Glass Museum, with light HF activity later in the week. Tim (W3QP) operated mobile HF from Assateague Island, including a memorable QSO with NASA's special event station for the Apollo 11 anniversary. Recruiting for Ham Radio: Ron (WA3VE) shared a story about connecting with his vet’s son, who’s interested in STEM and communications. He plans to organize future demos and station visits. Technical Question Segment: Power Line Mystery – Voltage Rise Under Load: Jim (AF3Z) posed a curious question: why does his line voltage increase when heavy appliances like a sump pump or microwave kick on? Answer (provided by Bruce KS4CK, Ron WA3VE, and Chuck NA3CW): The likely cause is a bad or loose neutral connection in the home's electrical service. When neutral fails, loads become unbalanced between the two legs of 240V split-phase service, causing voltage to drop on one leg and rise on the other. This could be in the meter pan, panel bus bar, service entrance, or even the transformer shared with a neighbor. Immediate attention by a utility or licensed electrician is recommended. Important PSA: Threat to 70cm Band – FCC Docket 25-201: A commercial satellite company, AST SpaceMobile, has petitioned the FCC to use part of the 70cm band (430–440 MHz) for satellite operations. Stations expressed concern this may interfere with amateur satellite operations, digital links, and repeater inputs. Ron encouraged everyone to file comments before the deadline using pre-written language and a direct FCC link provided via club email. Docket number is 25-201 . Miscellaneous Notes: Call for Hosts: The Thursday Night Roundtable needs a volunteer host this week, as Jack (K3YVQ) is unavailable. Light Net Turnout: The great weather may have kept many operators out of the shack, leading to a shorter-than-usual session.…

1
July 14 2025 #260 - Generator Inrush, Field Day Logging | W3GMS Workbench 1:15:26

12 days ago1:15:26

1:15:26

Host: KC3NZT 🔧 General Discussion Highlights Field Day Aftermath & Logging Success WA3VEE and several others (including KC3OOK, W3KZG) recapped an intense six-hour post-field day session at WA3LVR’s home. Final logs were reconciled and submitted to ARRL. Participation reached a record: 34 operators , 31 visitors , 8 youth , and 100 contacts logged on K3DTS. Generator Inrush Lessons A lively, deeply technical discussion centered around an electric woodchipper rated at 5 HP, 230V, and requiring a 30–40A breaker, yet showing a startup current of 142 amps . Multiple ops shared field experience and technical insights, including: Why household breakers can tolerate short-duration surges Differences between American thermal-magnetic vs. European magnetic breakers Importance of proper wire gauge for protection (per NEC) Tips for generator use, including the infamous “bump start” technique Rotator Mounting & Wind Load Wayne (KC3SQI) asked about mounting a thrust bearing on unistrut and rigid conduit to support a 25–30 lb antenna. Advice emphasized: Maintaining solid alignment between rotator and bearing Using heavier-duty rotators (like Yaesu G-800 over G-450) Considering wind load and moment arm, even for a compact hex beam ❓Technical Questions CR – Circuit Breaker for 230V Equipment Concerned about a chipper with 5HP motor and required starting amps of 142A Got feedback on magnetic vs. thermal-magnetic breakers, wire safety limits, and starting behavior on generators KC3SQI – Mounting Thrust Bearings on Mast Query about using unistrut off a 1.5" rigid conduit mast Recommended: strong, rigid bracketing with precise alignment and considering future rotator strain…

1
July 7th 2025 #259 - Slot antennas, lightning protection, and ham travel ops | W3GMS Workbench 1:30:17

19 days ago1:30:17

1:30:17

Host: Wayne, KC3SQI Topic Focus: Slot antennas, lightning protection, and ham travel ops Location: W3GMS 146.985 MHz Repeater – Parkesburg, PA (PL 100.0 Hz TX / 94.8 Hz RX) 🧵 General Highlights Warm welcome to new and returning stations like Phil (KA1PXZ) and visitors from Vermont and Massachusetts. Field Day leftovers: Many ops are still packing up, sorting gear, and requesting photos for compilation. 13 Colonies Contest: Several participants shared their clean sweeps, and a few worked the bonus stations. Slot Antennas 101: A spontaneous deep dive sparked curiosity, explanations, and offers of hands-on help. Lightning safety practices discussed, including the limits of grounding switches and the effectiveness of storing coax ends in glass jars. Antenna modeling and compatibility in EasyNEC touched on stacking, vertical and beam interactions. Traveling with ham gear: Helpful tips for scanning, repeater book use, RT Systems programming, and managing expectations on repeater activity when away from home. ❓ Workbench Questions 🛠️ What is a Slot Antenna? Bill (KC3OOK) asked for a plain-language explanation. Contributions from Ron (WA3VEE), Chuck (NA3CW), Harvey (3NZT), and others clarified that: Slot antennas radiate perpendicularly to the slot. Used frequently in radar and stealth installations. Designs can be compact, mobile, and stealthy. John Portune (W6NBC) is a go-to source with QST designs and build guides. ⚡ Lightning Protection & Coax Handling Several operators offered insights: Disconnecting antennas outside is best. Grounded coax switches help with static but won't prevent damage from a direct strike. Putting coax ends in a mason jar might contain sparking—but not useful for a direct hit and may be dangerous. BlitzBugs, polyphasers, and physical disconnection are the gold standard. 📡 Modeling an X-300 Vertical on Top of a Hex Beam Wayne (KC3SQI) asked about modeling in EasyNEC and whether stacking the X-300 above a hex beam would interfere. John (WA3KFT) noted he’s had directional beams and verticals near each other without noticeable interaction. 🚗 Ham Radio While Traveling Chris (KD3EMS) asked how others handle ham radio on the road. Suggestions included: Use of RepeaterBook mobile app. RT Systems or CHIRP for programming based on trip routes. PL tone scan to identify unknown repeaters in real time. Accept that most repeaters are quiet, but local nets can be an inroad to friendly chatter. 🎤 Notable Mentions Phil (KA1PXZ) heading to Sussex and maybe activating some POTA sites in Shenandoah NP. Ron (WA3VEE) completed another 13 Colonies clean sweep and invited members to share Field Day photos. Chuck (NA3CW) refurbished a classic tuner with new paint and bearings. Harvey (3NZT) offered Bill a custom-built slot antenna to experiment with. Chris (KD3EMS) excitedly shared success hitting the ISS and SO-50 satellites—impressed at how approachable satellite ops can be.…

1
June 30 2025 #258 - Field Day Wrap-Up, Antenna Experiments, and Rotor Advice | W3GMS Workbench 1:22:07

27 days ago1:22:07

1:22:07

Host: Ron WA3VEE In this Field Day follow-up edition of the 985 Workbench Net, operators reflect on a successful weekend packed with radio fun, new experiences, and even a few Scrapple-fueled mornings. We welcome several voices fresh from the field, including newcomers sharing their first HF contacts and long-timers offering encouragement and war stories. Topics included: Why the GOTA station uses a different callsign Using light-duty rotors for a hex beam setup Comparing end-fed half-wave vs. random wire performance The usefulness (or not) of computer screens and waterfall displays in HF operation This episode includes thoughtful questions from newer hams, practical advice on antenna installation, and shared learnings from the unpredictable world of Field Day propagation. Plus, we hear reflections on gear choices, coax losses, remote tuning, and the ever-enticing temptation of buying another rig (instead of studying for General!). Whether you're brand new or a seasoned op, this net is full of valuable perspective and good radio camaraderie. Highlights: Field Day 2025 recap and community thanks GOTA vs. primary callsign discussion TV rotors and thrust bearings for light beams NFED Half-Wave tuning challenges and transformer losses Screens and spectrum scopes — helpful tools or distractions? Recorded On: June 30, 2025 Repeater: W3GMS 146.985 MHz, Parkesburg, PA…

1
June 23 2025 #257 - Field Day Prep and Amp Issues | W3GMS Workbench 1:37:24

5 weeks ago1:37:24

1:37:24

Host: Chuck – NA3CW 🔧 General Discussion Highlights Field Day Prep and Aftermath Ron (WA3VEE) finalized logistics and hardware prep, including satellite gear on a resurrected ThinkPad. Multiple operators discussed storm damage, downed trees, and power outages affecting setup. KC3SQI shared tower work and parts sourcing from “Homeless Depot.” KC3OOK and W3JAM swapped diagnostics on Diamond 510 antenna performance, discovering a likely detuning or water ingress. Storm Stories WA3KFT experienced a 3-day blackout and sewage backup, relying on a generator intended for Field Day. W1RC wrapped up his final week of work, looking forward to future ham time. Radio Activity W3JAM is recovering from illness but active on Simplex and roundtable nets. KD3AIS visited Harvey’s home to observe an impressive battery backup setup. WA2JTS checked in for the first time and brought questions about a vintage AL-80 amp. Power Infrastructure Insights Tim (KD3AIS) raised a great HF noise question about power pole transformers. A deep dive followed into pole pigs, high voltage primaries, distribution layouts, and how/where noise originates (e.g., cracked insulators, lightning arrestors, arcing hardware). WA3KFT, WA3VEE, KC3SQI, and NA3CW all contributed with technical and field experience. ❓ Technical Questions Addressed Running Amplifiers Without ALC Feedback From W3JAM : Using a Ten-Tec Centurion amp without an ALC return. Answers: Scope use is critical to avoid splatter, especially for AM operation. ALC loops react too late to prevent overdrive. Consensus: Monitor drive level carefully; a scope is the best safeguard. Proximity to Transformers and HF Noise From KD3AIS : Is it better to live near or far from a transformer? Summary: Transformers rarely generate noise themselves; cracked insulators, lightning arrestors, and aging hardware cause the bulk of HF noise. Being close to a transformer may actually be better due to lower impedance and fewer neighbors injecting noise. AL-80 Amp Showing Idle Plate Current From WA2JTS : Plate meter jumps to ~50 mA on power-up, even when idle. Advice: Could be leaky relays or gas in the tube after years of inactivity. Recommendation: operate it to burn off potential gas buildup and allow the getter to work. 📍 Location Note Field Day Location: Lines Self Storage near the intersection of Route 100 & Route 401, next to the Jeep shop. Drive up the hill and follow signage to the hidden wooded operating site.…

1
June 16th 2025 #256 - Coax and Microphone Projects | W3GMS Workbench 1:28:03

6 weeks ago1:28:03

1:28:03

Host: Greg (W3DIB) Theme: Field Day Prep, Coax Projects, and Microphone Cable Woes 🔧 Technical Questions Q1: Straightening Coiled Mic Cables (N3RBN) Paul asked if there’s a reliable way to straighten the coiled section of an RJ-style microphone cable to reterminate it. Responses included: Chuck (NA3CW) and others suggested buying a cheap knockoff mic just for the cable , then rewiring. Scott (W3KZG) seconded the idea—some knockoffs fit well and don’t even require soldering. Q2: Remote Relay vs. Direct Coax Run (KC3SQI) Wayne asked if it’s better to run a home-run coax for a 2m antenna or share a remote relay rated only for 6m. Ron (WA3VEE) and Jim (KC3RFG) strongly recommended running dedicated coax to minimize signal loss and prevent mismatches. John (WA3KFT) shared his experience running 14 coax lines with high-quality switches, warning about specs and reliability. Consensus: fewer interconnections, always better . 📡 Roundtable Highlights Field Day Fever: Many ops are prepping hard—testing coax, installing connectors, tuning antennas. Chuck (NA3CW) and Joe (W3GMS) led a coax connector demo that was widely praised. APRS Success: John (KC3WWC) had a blast during APRS Thursday—received 174 messages from across the globe in 12 hours! First 6m Contacts! Jim (KC3RFG) made his first contacts on 6 meters thanks to some recent solar activity—repaired his mag-mount antenna with a solder rework. Project Progress: Keith (KB3ILS) dove deep into bandpass filter design, winding toroids and using a NanoVNA and oscilloscope. Scott (W3KZG) is renovating a trailer to double as a field day camper and ATV hauler. Wayne (KC3SQI) poured concrete for his new tilt-over mast. Ron (WA3VEE) helped tune the 40m dipole for Field Day, now resonant at 7.150 MHz. Jon (WA3KFT) shared a robust setup with 14 coax switches and specialty tools from DX Engineering. 💬 Community Notes Health Check-Ins: The net closed with updates and well-wishes for an operator dealing with a medical emergency—several ops shared hospital updates and encouraging words. Father’s Day Recaps: Several shared heartfelt stories of family time—steak dinners, grandkid babysitting, and “gifts” like temporary pet duty.…

1
June 9th 2025 #255 - Allstar, Field Day, 6m Portable Power | W3GMS Workbench 1:39:30

7 weeks ago1:39:30

1:39:30

Net Control: Jim, AF3Z 📻 General Discussion Highlights AllStar Node Successes & Issues: W1RC and others shared recent work bringing AllStar nodes online. W3MFB and KC3WWC noted difficulty connecting from mobile setups or behind hotspots. Reminder to ensure EchoLink/AllStar registration through the repeater website. Field Day Preparation: WA3VE discussed upcoming ARRL Field Day with a theme of "Amateur Radio Works When Nothing Else Does." A press release and invite to the public are in the works. Shack Improvements & RF Noise Troubleshooting: KC3RFG resolved a 40m mic interference issue by removing excess mic extension and improving grounding. KC3OOK finalized tower installations with rotator prep remaining. HF and 6-Meter Activity: KC3TYX shared results from a recent 6m digital opening, making contacts as far as Nebraska and Florida. Several ops mentioned upcoming 6m nets and antennas. Workbench Projects: KC3WWC tested a small Alpha loop antenna with good deployment portability. Others discussed rack depths for vintage gear setups, ranging from 18 to 30 inches. ❓ Technical Questions Simplex Net Reception Challenges (W3MFB): Many reported limited station reception during the Saturday 146.580 MHz Simplex Net due to terrain and propagation. KC3OOK and others shared strategies such as beam antennas, relays, and listening persistence. Rack and Shelf Depths (KC3OOK): Participants noted 18"–20" depth is common; WA3VE recommended 24" shelves for stability. WA3KFT and W3GMS emphasized back access and cable clearance. AllStar Node Connection Failing on Hotspot (KC3WWC): Confirmed he was on the permission list; likely a network-specific issue. W3GMS advised verifying hotspot behavior, especially node ID suffixes like -1/-2. Portable 6m Power Levels (N3QNC): Responses ranged from 70W–100W SSB typical, with emphasis on antenna height. WA3KFT listed active 6m nets: Sun 9 PM – 50.550 USB Mon 7:30 PM – 50.150 USB (Packrats) Wed 9 PM – 50.400 AM (Pottstown) Fri 8 PM – 50.160 (Delaware Valley Friends) Shuttle/NASA HF Audio Monitoring (W3MFB): Some recalled Fort Meade rebroadcasting NASA comms on HF SSB during shuttle days. W3GMS owns a rare NASA-used audio processor module gifted by a former contractor. 🌐 Newcomers KD3EMS (Chris): First-time check-in from Whitehorse, PA using an HT with good signal. Welcome aboard! 🐛 Bonus Banter A spirited late-night discussion broke out over an “earwig invasion” of years past, prompting jokes about launching an "Earwig Net" and naming sports teams after the critters. “The Arcelton Earwigs take the field!”…

1
June 2nd 2025 #254 - Shortwave and Getting Started on 10M | W3GMS Workbench 1:29:47

8 weeks ago1:29:47