Net Control: Jim, AF3Z
📻 General Discussion Highlights

• AllStar Node Successes & Issues:
  W1RC and others shared recent work bringing AllStar nodes online. W3MFB and KC3WWC noted difficulty connecting from mobile setups or behind hotspots. Reminder to ensure EchoLink/AllStar registration through the repeater website.
• Field Day Preparation:
  WA3VE discussed upcoming ARRL Field Day with a theme of "Amateur Radio Works When Nothing Else Does." A press release and invite to the public are in the works.
• Shack Improvements & RF Noise Troubleshooting:
  KC3RFG resolved a 40m mic interference issue by removing excess mic extension and improving grounding. KC3OOK finalized tower installations with rotator prep remaining.
• HF and 6-Meter Activity:
  KC3TYX shared results from a recent 6m digital opening, making contacts as far as Nebraska and Florida. Several ops mentioned upcoming 6m nets and antennas.
• Workbench Projects:
  KC3WWC tested a small Alpha loop antenna with good deployment portability. Others discussed rack depths for vintage gear setups, ranging from 18 to 30 inches.

❓ Technical Questions

1. Simplex Net Reception Challenges (W3MFB):
   Many reported limited station reception during the Saturday 146.580 MHz Simplex Net due to terrain and propagation. KC3OOK and others shared strategies such as beam antennas, relays, and listening persistence.
2. Rack and Shelf Depths (KC3OOK):
   Participants noted 18"–20" depth is common; WA3VE recommended 24" shelves for stability. WA3KFT and W3GMS emphasized back access and cable clearance.
3. AllStar Node Connection Failing on Hotspot (KC3WWC):
   Confirmed he was on the permission list; likely a network-specific issue. W3GMS advised verifying hotspot behavior, especially node ID suffixes like -1/-2.
4. Portable 6m Power Levels (N3QNC):
   Responses ranged from 70W–100W SSB typical, with emphasis on antenna height. WA3KFT listed active 6m nets:
   • Sun 9 PM – 50.550 USB
   • Mon 7:30 PM – 50.150 USB (Packrats)
   • Wed 9 PM – 50.400 AM (Pottstown)
   • Fri 8 PM – 50.160 (Delaware Valley Friends)
5. Shuttle/NASA HF Audio Monitoring (W3MFB):
   Some recalled Fort Meade rebroadcasting NASA comms on HF SSB during shuttle days. W3GMS owns a rare NASA-used audio processor module gifted by a former contractor.

🌐 Newcomers

• KD3EMS (Chris): First-time check-in from Whitehorse, PA using an HT with good signal. Welcome aboard!

🐛 Bonus Banter

• A spirited late-night discussion broke out over an “earwig invasion” of years past, prompting jokes about launching an "Earwig Net" and naming sports teams after the critters. “The Arcelton Earwigs take the field!”