[SVHFSList] Bands are dead? Try WSJT/JT6M

[Les Rayburn]

I have to second Tip's comments. I'm a complete newcomer to V/U weak signal work, having only started in this part of the hobby in December. After nearly 40 years of HF work, mostly on 160 Meters...I'm having a ball on the new frontier above 50mhz. And a big part of my excitement has come via meteor scatter and JT6M work. 

Like many amateurs, I live in a deed restricted neighborhood, with a Nazi-Like HOA. Outdoor antennas, including flagpoles, TV antennas, etc. are all strictly forbidden. My operations have been limited to small "rover" style Yagi's mounted inside my attic. Despite those handicaps and limited power (nothing over 100 watts here), WSJT software has allowed me to consistently work stations out to 1,200 miles. 

Think it's hard or complicated? You couldn't be more wrong. If you're set up to run PSK-31, you can run WSJT. Got small antennas, loops, or low power? OK, you won't work EME, but you can work a ton of stations on meteor scatter and JT6M. All you need is a soundcard interface and the free software. 

The only thing missing is more weak signal operators. CW and SSB are great. I make contacts using both nearly everyday on 6 & 2. But neither of them compare to the performance of WSJT. So if you don't have this tool in your box, I really suggest giving it a test drive. Lots of new grid squares, and no more "dead bands". 

BTW, point your beams towards EM63. I need your grid! 

73,

Les Rayburn, N1LF
EM63nf


Les Rayburn, director
High Noon Film
100 Centerview Drive Suite 111
Birmingham, AL 35216-3748 
205.824.8930
205.824.8960 fax
205.253.4867 cell