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An introduction to long-distance contacts on 2m and 70cm

Beginners in amateur radio normally start on the 2m or 70cm bands. As shown in the Radio Amateur's Examination, these bands normally allow only fairly local contacts (QSOs) but sometimes, under high pressure conditions, places further away may be reached. Even the lowest-powered FM transmitter, with a very simple aerial can benefit from such occasions but for enthusiasts a high-powered SSB rig with a large directional antenna is a must.

As an example of what can be done in large 'lifts', I have picked up on the FM broadcast band local radio stations from the area around Nantes in France and several national Spanish channels, broadcast from North-West Spain on a personal stereo in Southern Cornwall within the last couple years. I have also taken advantage of the conditions to talk to radio amateurs from as far away as London and Bayonne (France) via. various repeaters in Brittany. (A word of warning, though - do not use a repeater for long-distance work on a regular basis - remember that they are designed for local mobile stations.)

After some time using these bands, the beginner will notice that the conditions 'on-air' are linked to those of the weather. An understanding of the principles of these occasions is vital to somebody who wants to take full advantage of such times. The following article, taken from the July 1944 edition of the American QST magazine is one of the best, to my knowledge, for this understanding.

When reading this, it should be noted that Continental Air-Mass Inversions rarely occur over Western Europe and Localised Convection Inversions are more likely to be responsible.

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'On The Very Highs'
Conducted by E.P. Tilton, W1HDQ
Source: QST, July 1944, Pages 42-45
Copyright: ARRL 1944, Expired 1994.