Station
The station is set up to compete in the multi-single category of radio contests that last between 24-48 hours.
Due to the fact that there are two transmitters operating simultaneously, in close proximity to each other, interference can be a big problem and so the band-pass filter arrangement has to be set up to minimise this: Each radio has a bandpass filter set up which automatically tracks the operating frequency of the radio, controlled by a Top-Ten Devices band decoder.
It is also the band decoders’ task, in conjunction with the Top-Ten Devices A/B and 6-way switching, to select the correct antenna.
Radios and amplifiers used
The G6PZ ICOM UK Contest Group is so-called due to the nature of ICOM’s sponsorship of the station. They have kindly sponsored two IC-7700 radios for use by the Group and these accompany the existing IC-7800 to create a 100% ICOM-based station. Each operating position is accompanied by an ACOM 2000 fully auto-tune amplifier.
Computers and logging software
All shack PCs are all running Windows XP and the Group have been happily using the Win-Test logging software since early 2005; it is ideally suited for multi-operator events. The operator at each operating position can easily see the operating frequency of any other radio on the network.
Towers and antennas
There are presently three towers at the G6PZ QTH:
Tower 1: 4/4 SteppIR stack (providing 20m - 6m)
This tower houses two 4-element SteppIR antennas, stacked with an Array Solutions StackMatch. The top antenna is fully rotatable and the lower is rotatable between NA and JA.
Tower 2: 4el MonstIR (providing coverage on 40m - 6m)
The 4-element MonstIR covers 40m with good forward gain and front-to-back ratio. This antenna is used by the multiplier station primarily on the higher bands, but is the Group’s main run station antenna for 40m.
Tower 3: 7el Cushcraft X7 (providing coverage on 20m - 10m and 40m with add on)
Used as a standby antenna, the X7 is situated on a trailer tower.
In addition to the above, the Group has a full-size quad loop (vertically polarised) for 160 and 80m and also have a DX Engineering receive 4-square optimised for 80m.