It's Field Day 2006! We're at the Spark's Ranch near Brookshire Texas, otherwise known as the Far West Secret BLT Lab. In additon to a great Field Day, courtesy of Ron AG5RS, we're here to test the BLT-22 video system and the RC Chase Plane. Ron has everything set up to test in his well-equiped (although somewhat vintage) lab. The test gear works, and that's what counts.
Here's a close-up of the BLT-22 video gear under test. Can you identify the antenna, camera, controller and 1.2 GHz FM ATV eBay transmitter?
It's obvious that the camera, and other component work, as seen on TV!
We can even examine the video signal to ensure that sync levels are correct.
Ron and Mack W5EET get into a serious discussion about test patterns, light levels during flight vs. in the lab, and the fact that the air conditioning is much better in the lab than it is out in the field with the Longhorns.
Andy W5ACM provided the perfect test pattern for the video qualifications. Don't you agree?
How about some flight tests of the RC Chase Plane? Payload Master Charles W5BAA has the plane. Payload Master Tony N5RPQ is ready to pilot the craft. Video Wizard Tom K5SAF is ready to receive and record, while Ken N5EBD and Michael W2CVZ are prepared to observe and debate.
The RC Chase Plane is READY for flight!
Pilot Tony and designer/builder Charles are preparing for Lift Off!
"Signals are wall-to-wall and tree-top tall!"
The moment of truth has come. The prop is turning, the ATV gear is on, and it looks like an easy take off is in store.
We're UP! Charles has the controls for the first part of the flight, and all is looking good. Most of the crew is back with Tom watching the video. We occasionally take a look into the sky to get an idea of where the plane must be to get such great video.
Here's a nice look at the RC Chase Plane in flight taken by Pete KD5ELH.
Ken, Tom and Andy try to watch the video and the plane simultaneously - not easy.
Simple, yet effective. This is the 1.2 GHz FM ATV receiver from "gnupic" in The Netherlands via eBay - Great gear and reasonable prices.
The View From The Top. We had some issues with sync and video captures, but that's Ron's "barn" and a number of cars belonging to Field-Day participants. The large, out-of-focus item in the lower, right-hand side of the picture is the propeller. To get the best video, the engine is shut off. Can you pick out the 3-element Yagi?
Michael, Charles and Tony retrieve the plane. It's in perfect condition, and ready for some fine tuning prior to the flight of BLT-22 on September 9th.
Tony's Ready.
Charles is ready. Let's Do Launch!
Our Final Construction Meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2006, at the Secret BLT Lab (310 Lombardy) in Sugar Land - 8 PM till 10 PM.
Launch is scheduled for 10 AM on September 9, 2006 from the Wharton Regional Airport. Be There!!!