For SO2R contesting, I plan to use the left-side radio for running (better receiver) and the right-side radio for multiplier hunting and filling in QSOs during the slow runs. DISCLAIMER: This is all hypothetical since I have to train my brain to perform this function! J
The shelves are modular STEN shelving from IKEA. They are cheap, sturdy, and just the right size for my application.
To
the left of the computer is the main transceiver, and Icom IC-775DSP, used for
running. This photo shows the Yaesu G-1000DXA rotator controller, but my
Top-Ten Devices DX Doubler SO2R controller will replace it in the future (see
diagram above).
At the bottom of the rack is the remote control head for the Acom 2000A
amplifier. Above the transceiver is a MFJ-434 voice keyer and the
controller for the WX0B Six-Pak antenna switch.
This
photo is a closer view of the notches I had to cut into the shelf supports to
fit the IC-775DSP transceiver. These shelves are big, but the transceiver
is even bigger!
On
the right is the Icom IC-736 transceiver used for searching for multipliers and
for working 6 meters. Above that is the TIC Ring rotator controller,
MFJ-9040 QRP transceiver and Icom IC-2000H 2m FM transceiver. I plan to
move the Yaesu G-1000DXA controller to the right side of this middle
shelf. On top are an I.C.E. 419 multi-band bandpass filter and the Top Ten
Devices band decoder for the IC-736.
To
the far right is a shelf rack for miscellaneous accessories. My Acom 2000A
amplifier is on top. My modified MFJ TNC for packet is on the bottom and a
Peet Brothers Ultimeter 2000 weather station controller is in the middle.
STEN
is a modular shelving line sold by Swedish furniture retailer IKEA. Their
Philadelphia-area store is a little over one hour from my home. The main
components of the station shelves are simply the shelves themselves, and the
support posts. Normally, STEN shelves use higher posts, but the extension
posts, for extending posts higher, are just the right height for my station.
A
finished shelving unit is shown on the left. There is adequate space on
the lower shelf to house an HF transceiver and accessories go on the upper
shelves. It turns out that my Icom IC-775DSP is just a bit too wide to fit
properly, so I had to cut shallow notches in the support posts for this
particular unit.
Qty | Description | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
4 |
19 5/8" W x 20 1/8"D Shelf | $5.00 | $20.00 |
2 | 23 1/4" Extension Post (2-pack) | $2.00 | $4.00 |
1 | 28 1/2" OBSERVATÖR cross brace | $4.00 | $4.00 |
$28.00 |
This
view of the STEN shelves shows the sturdy construction and the open spaces for
air circulation.
This
is a rear view showing the steel cross brace and my mess of wire.