N7CZ/p

Portable Operations Page

This page is intended to track and share my experience in building a modest portable VHF/UHF van. The intention of this portable station is to put rare Montana Grid Squares on the air. This station will be capable of operating on HF, 6M, 2M, & 70cm. Modes will be CW, FSK441, JT44, and SSB, with a focus on the WJST modes of FSK441 and JT44. The design idea is for support of long duration operations. Sleeping accomadations and a porable potty are already complete. The van is also capable of pulling our little 12' camp trailer for extended operations like the June VHF Contest.

This effort has been inspired by the "Pioneering" efforts of Andy Flowers K0SM

Portable station to-do list (not in a particular order)

• Finish antenna repairs
  • Repair 3 directors on the 4218XL
  • Replace the boom support with truss cable on the 4218XL
  • Replace 'U' clamps on the A50-5S
• Procure acceptable support structure
• Build rack to support antennas etc
• Install deep cycle battery and charging system
• Instll propane heater
• New tires
• Build operating position (between bed and dirver's seat)
• New windshield
• Window covers

As you can see, I have a lot of work to do on the portable station. I hope to have the "main" things done for spring operations.