General Discussion Highlights:

• Noise Hunting with Direction Finding: Chuck (NA3CW) described tracking down an S9 noise issue on 75 meters, suspected to be caused by a faulty lightning arrester on a utility pole. He used a handheld with a directional AM antenna tuned to 136 MHz to pinpoint the source.
• Antenna Adventures and Propagation Notes:
  • John (KC3WWC) activated a new state game land for POTA with good shade and low noise.
  • He also experimented with two APRS-capable radios and noted six-meter openings into Florida and later Wisconsin, all on a simple backyard wire.
  • Mike (W3MFB) reported a strong 17m opening, working Switzerland and hearing Spain and Ireland, while noting 10 meters was surprisingly quiet.
• Travel and Light Operating: Chuck visited the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon and Corning Glass Museum, with light HF activity later in the week. Tim (W3QP) operated mobile HF from Assateague Island, including a memorable QSO with NASA's special event station for the Apollo 11 anniversary.
• Recruiting for Ham Radio: Ron (WA3VE) shared a story about connecting with his vet’s son, who’s interested in STEM and communications. He plans to organize future demos and station visits.

Technical Question Segment:

• Power Line Mystery – Voltage Rise Under Load:
  Jim (AF3Z) posed a curious question: why does his line voltage increase when heavy appliances like a sump pump or microwave kick on?
• Answer (provided by Bruce KS4CK, Ron WA3VE, and Chuck NA3CW):
  • The likely cause is a bad or loose neutral connection in the home's electrical service.
  • When neutral fails, loads become unbalanced between the two legs of 240V split-phase service, causing voltage to drop on one leg and rise on the other.
  • This could be in the meter pan, panel bus bar, service entrance, or even the transformer shared with a neighbor. Immediate attention by a utility or licensed electrician is recommended.

Important PSA:

• Threat to 70cm Band – FCC Docket 25-201:
  • A commercial satellite company, AST SpaceMobile, has petitioned the FCC to use part of the 70cm band (430–440 MHz) for satellite operations.
  • Stations expressed concern this may interfere with amateur satellite operations, digital links, and repeater inputs.
  • Ron encouraged everyone to file comments before the deadline using pre-written language and a direct FCC link provided via club email. Docket number is 25-201.

Miscellaneous Notes:

• Call for Hosts: The Thursday Night Roundtable needs a volunteer host this week, as Jack (K3YVQ) is unavailable.
• Light Net Turnout: The great weather may have kept many operators out of the shack, leading to a shorter-than-usual session.