I also use a Timewave DSP-599zx DSP on the Yaesu for reducing the really hasty background noise. Power meters and a Kenwood TM-V7FM dual-band rig round out the rest of the equipment. On the digital side of the world, I have a 150Mhz Pentium Pro computer that handles the DSPing for the 6 meter-backup, a Kenwood TS-60. I also use it for logging and a variety of other things.
I write my own logging software and have been working on it, on and off, for some time. It is written in Visual Basic 5.0, and uses a Microsoft Access database for the backend. I've interfaced it with the QRZ CD-ROM database, which makes it nice when logging new contacts. I also recently worked up a serial interface to the 847 radio. I will probably be putting it in the logging software, although because of the limited command structure, the 847 lacks some basic firmware features for supporting logging software. I wrote my logging software because I wanted a good electronic logbook, not a VHF contest logging program. (I use VHF TEST for that and really enjoy it during a rover weekend!) It does all of the things I need, such as tracking new grids, digital on-the-air recording, etc. One of these days, I'll have to put it up on the website for downloading. (If you are interested in it, drop me a note. My e-mail address is on the site.)
In my Jeep Cherokee, I have a Kenwood TM-742 that covers 6 meters, 2 meters, and 70 cm. This takes care of my FM needs when I am out 4x4ing or running around town. The Jeep also carriers a M2 6 meter SQLOOP antenna and a KB6KQ 2 meter mini-loop, along with an Icom 706 HF/6/2 all-mode radio. A 100W Mirage power amp gets the 2 meter signal up to full output, giving me 100 watts from 80 through 2 meters. I am having a lot of fun with this setup.
Antennas include (top to bottom):
144 MHz 13 el. Boomer
Mē 432-9WL 21' yagi
50 MHz 5 el. homebrew Yagi
I also have a dual-band vertical for local 2 meter and 70 cm repeater access, a 6 meter 1/2 wave Ringo vertical, and a 10 meter 1/2 wave Ringo vertical. The 432 MHz and the 144 MHz yagis both have Landwehr mast-mounted preamps, with remote keying. If you are doing weak signal work, and you have yet to get a good mast-mounted preamp, do yourself a BIG favor and buy them NOW! It makes all of the difference in the world.
To make the most of the antennas and preamps, I use hardline between the top of the tower and the entry point into my house. The 2 meter yagi is fed with a run of 7/8" Andrew. The 432 Mhz yagi is fed with a run of 1/2" Andrew. I know I should have these reversed, because of the loss factors. However, I do more 2 meter work than 432, so I get the benefit of better signals on the band I use more. The 6 meter yagi has a run of 1/4" hardline feeding it.
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