This session of the 985 Workbench was hosted by Greg, W3DIB, from Kennett Square. The meeting began with check-ins from both digital (EchoLink/AllStar) and RF stations. Greg reminded participants about repeater etiquette, including leaving pauses for digital users, waiting a moment after PTT, and managing the repeater’s three-minute timer.

Notable announcements included a reminder to register for digital access through the W3GMS website and an update on repeater intermod interference. Ron, WA3VEE, reported on Joe W3GMS’s health, noting he was recovering well in the hospital.

Technical Questions and Answers:

1. AM Control Carrier vs. Plate Modulation –
   Bill, KC3OK, asked about differences between control carrier modulation and plate modulation.
   • John, WA3KFT, explained control carrier modulates the screen rather than the plate, making it cheaper but prone to screen burnout if overdriven.
   • Chuck, NA3CW, expanded on the topic with examples from high-power broadcast transmitters and dynamic carrier control systems, illustrating how varying carrier power can improve efficiency and save costs.
   • Jim, AF3Z, noted control carrier setups are less prone to overdriving and distortion.
2. Mobile Noise with Baofeng & Mag-Mount Antenna –
   Simon, KD3BPI, described crackling noise on both transmit and receive when his Baofeng HT was used with a mag-mount antenna at speed.
   • Chuck, NA3CW, suggested static buildup as the likely culprit, recommending grounding the antenna or radio to the vehicle chassis.
   • Wayne, KC3SQI, and Ron, WA3VEE, advised using a cigarette lighter power adapter to provide a proper ground path.
   • Other stations noted that moving the mag-mount or using better connections could improve performance.
3. Emergency Traffic Procedures on Nets –
   Mike, W3MFB, asked why emergency breaks are not formally called for during the net.
   • Ron, WA3VEE, and Jim, AF3Z, explained that in ham radio, emergencies are signaled by “break break” between transmissions, and all stations yield immediately. Formal emergency prompts are generally unnecessary but pauses during transmissions allow emergencies to break in.

Other Highlights:

• Randy, K7RAN, joined from Salt Lake City via AllStar, testing DV Switch.
• Multiple operators shared updates about antenna work, tower projects, and repairs.
• Chuck shared a tip on using peppermint oil to deter ants from equipment enclosures.
• Simon successfully improved his mobile signal during the net using a cookie sheet as a temporary ground plane.

Technical Takeaways:

• Control carrier modulation is efficient but can stress tube screens if driven too hard.
• Mobile HT setups with mag-mount antennas benefit from proper grounding to avoid static buildup.
• Emergency traffic on amateur nets is handled with “break break,” not with scripted prompts.

73 and Closing:
Greg closed the net by thanking all participants, encouraging continued use of the 985 repeater, and inviting everyone to Thursday’s 985 Roundtable hosted by Jim, AF3Z.