W3GMS Thursday Night Roundtable

This week’s roundtable opened with Bill KC3OOK in Oxford welcoming participants and inviting newcomers to join the conversation. Several operators introduced themselves, and early audio checks noted some intermod interference during check-ins.

The group highlighted key repeater details: the roundtable runs every Thursday at 8 p.m. on the W3GMS Parkesburg repeater (146.985 MHz, PL 100 Hz / 94.8 Hz receive). Operators were reminded to visit w3gmsrepeater.com for updates and resources.

There was also mention of the Monday Night Workbench Net at 8 p.m., hosted this week by KC3SQI Wayne, which focuses on technical questions and station setup discussions. The atmosphere of the evening stayed relaxed and conversational, with stations sharing brief personal updates and acknowledging the value of having a strong community on the repeater.

Technical Questions & Answers

Technical exchanges focused on operating practices and station setup.

• Check-in Order – The group clarified digital vs. RF check-ins, with priority given to short-time digital stations via Echolink and AllStar before moving to RF operators.
• New Radio Setup – One participant sought feedback on properly configuring a newly acquired transceiver, referencing prior guidance from experienced operators.
• Engineering Experience – An operator shared insights from a career in the radio and television industry, adding depth to the technical discussion.
• Practical Guidance – Advice was offered on running suitable power levels, using digital linking options, and making sure radios are tested before being put fully into service.

This week’s Thursday Night Roundtable on the 146.985 MHz W3GMS repeater, hosted by Jim (AF3Z), centered on the evening’s question:

Operators from across the area and via digital modes shared their favorite ways to decompress—from playing radio and working on projects, to boating, sailing, long drives, and simply taking a nap. Many also discussed how amateur radio itself can be a relaxing escape, whether chatting on the air, tinkering with antennas, or enjoying hamfest camaraderie.

A special highlight was the return of Joe (W3GMS) after recovering from a serious tick-borne illness. Joe recounted his hospital experience, the importance of prompt medical attention, and offered some practical tick prevention advice for outdoor events. This sparked further conversation about health awareness, outdoor safety, and the realities of changing tick patterns in the region.

The evening also touched on personality types, with several ops discussing Myers-Briggs and other assessments, and how understanding communication styles can improve teamwork—both in and out of amateur radio.

Updates included:

• Kimberton Hamfest plans and meet-ups.
• Incoming Berry Flex coax shipment for upcoming club projects.
• Ongoing antenna and shack upgrades among members.
• Discussion of band openings on 10 and 15 meters and the mystery of low activity despite good conditions.

General Discussion Highlights

• Topic of the Night: Members shared stories about their first transceivers and whether they would recommend them to new hams.
  • Many started with Heathkit, Kenwood, Yeasu, or Baofeng rigs.
  • Several recommended avoiding low-power HTs as a first radio, suggesting 50W+ mobile rigs for better repeater access.
  • Used equipment was widely endorsed as a cost-effective way to get started.
• Notable Mentions:
  • Jeff (W3JAM) described his 1977 Heathkit SB-101 and building the HP-23 power supply.
  • Ron (WA3VEE) shared about his first Tempo crystal-controlled 2m rig and advised new hams to start with a 50W mobile.
  • John (WA3KFT) discussed early six-meter setups and recommended the IC-7100 for modern hams.
  • Chuck (NA3CW) praised the FT-710 for its accuracy and usability during Field Day.
  • Multiple members noted the value of used radios and the importance of having an active local support group.
• Newcomers Welcomed:
  • Bill (W1CLK), Sean (KC3ZLI), Paxton (KD3APR), and Bruce (KS4CK) introduced themselves and were welcomed to the 985 community.
  • Several members shared tips on local repeater etiquette, upcoming breakfasts, and fox hunts.

Technical Questions & Insights

• Station Grounding: Wayne (KC3SQI) is compiling a simplified version of a 73-page NEC-compliant grounding document for the repeater website.
• FT-710 Praise: Multiple operators highlighted the Yaesu FT-710 for its performance, easy interface, and excellent calibration.
• HF Recommendations: Members frequently suggested the FTDX10, FT-710, and IC-7300 as top picks for modern HF rigs.
• VHF/UHF Advice: Consensus was that new hams should avoid relying solely on HTs unless they have an external antenna and good repeater coverage.

Closing Notes

• Members expressed appreciation for the roundtable’s welcoming atmosphere and technical knowledge sharing.
• The session wrapped with reminders about the third Friday breakfast at Brass Eagle and upcoming club activities.
• Host Phil (KC3CIB) closed out the net with thanks to Joe (W3GMS) for use of the repeater and best wishes for his recovery.

This week’s roundtable, hosted by Mike (W3MFB) from Thorndale, revolved around the question: “Have you ever built your own antenna? For what band, and how did it go?” The discussion brought out a wide range of experiences, from simple coat hanger antennas to complex wire beams and mobile builds. Many participants shared stories of learning, experimenting, and even improvising with unconventional materials.

Discussion Highlights

• Mike (W3MFB) – Hosted the session, shared stories of building six-meter dipoles, quarter-wave ground planes for 220 MHz and GMRS, and experimenting with copper pipe antennas. Emphasized learning from every attempt.
• W1RC (Mike, Salem, MA) – Built many HF antennas, including a 130 ft end-fed long wire, and questioned why people buy antennas when wire works so well.
• KV3ZUV (Adam) – Prefers buying antennas but built a 70 cm coat hanger antenna and experimented with BuddyPole modular setups and random wire configurations.
• W3KZG (Scott) – Built multiple 2m mobile antennas and a large property-spanning dipole.
• KG3X (Barry) – Checked in briefly as an in-and-out station.
• W8CRW (CR) – Built antennas for 2m, 1.2 GHz, and aircraft bands; enjoyed building small aviation band antennas for plane tracking.
• WA3VEE (Ron) – Shared memories of teaching students to build antennas, including cubical quads and dipoles. Encouraged experimenting and emphasized performance analysis.
• WA3KFT (John) – Extensive list of homebuilt antennas: multiple dipoles, fan dipoles, quads, coaxial collinears, and a six-meter beam from salvaged TV antenna parts.
• NA3CW (Chuck) – Built many antennas, including loops, broadband receiving loops, moxon rectangles, and foxhunting Yagis. Stressed that antennas are easy to build and encouraged experimentation.
• KC3OOK (Bill) – Focused on wire antennas with tuners; shared stories about running wires through urban setups and using random wires effectively.
• AF3Z (Jim) – Recounted building various small and experimental antennas, including mag loops and temporary designs. Advocated for simplicity and learning by doing.
• W3GMS (Joe) – Reflected on the importance of trying even if antennas aren’t perfect. Discussed losses introduced by coils and tuners and shared stories of building repeater antennas and wire beams.
• Other participants – Shared unique improvisations, like using electric fences, salted rope, and even train tracks as antennas. Several discussed temporary vs. permanent antenna design considerations.

Additional Notes

• Condolences: The group acknowledged the passing of N3RBN Paul’s brother. Details of the service were shared, and contributions to flowers were encouraged.
• FCC Filing Reminder: Joe urged all to submit comments to retain the 430–440 MHz amateur allocation.
• Amateur Radio Advocacy: Mike closed with a PSA encouraging newcomers to pursue their licenses and join the 985 “family.”

Technical Themes & Takeaways

• Experimentation Works: Even crude setups (coat hangers, cookie sheets, electric fences) can make contacts.
• Efficiency vs. Practicality: Open-wire line with a good tuner offers excellent performance, but many hams make do with whatever is possible.
• Temporary Antennas: These are easy to experiment with—perfect for learning and portable operations.
• Stealth Antennas: Several members shared clever hidden or disguised antennas for HOA and urban environments.

Host: Ron – WA3VEE
Topic: "Cars – Why do you drive what you do?"
Focus: Participants shared stories behind their current vehicles, what features they appreciate, what they wish they had, and their plans for future transportation.

🚗 General Discussion Highlights

• Vehicle Choice Drivers: Reliability, cost, towing capacity, family needs, and even space for dogs were frequent themes.
• Electric & Hybrid Transition: Many participants are considering or already own EVs/hybrids, citing lower maintenance, smooth driving, and home charging. However, most still keep gas vehicles for towing, long trips, or backup.
• Long-Term Ownership: Several hams keep vehicles for 10+ years, doing much of the maintenance themselves.
• Unexpected Use Cases: One member chose a vehicle based on his dog’s needs. Another had to repair suspension bushings that couldn’t be replaced separately.
• Brand Loyalty: Toyota and Honda topped the list for reliability and long life. Subaru received praise for snow handling. American cars, particularly Ford and Chevy, were more polarizing.
• DIY & Maintenance: Swapping engines, repairing electric cells, and managing antique vehicle tags were proudly discussed.

🔧 Technical Mentions

• HF setups in work vans and mobile rigs were highlighted.
• Several EV users mentioned difficulty integrating ham radios into modern vehicles due to dealership pushback or RF noise.
• Maintenance wins included 500k-mile Priuses, rebuilt transmissions, and custom battery work on hybrids.

📝 Notable Quotes

• “I just need a vehicle. I don’t need the big companies to tell me what I want.” – Dylan (K3DZM)
• “My Toyota Sienna looks like a porcupine with all the antennas on it.” – Ron (WA3VEE)
• “I want to build my own EV someday... but I don’t trust myself just yet.” – Dylan
• “My CR-V was on its last legs—literally—when I traded it in.” – W3JAM

🚙 Participants & Highlights

• Adam (KB3ZUV): Drives a Mustang Mach-E, loves the Tesla charger compatibility, but wishes ham integration was easier.
• W3JAM: Uses a diesel F-250 for towing horse trailers, plus a CR-V and Lexus GX470.
• Dylan (K3DZM): Has a Ford Ranger and a hybrid Maverick work truck, wants to build or buy a barebones EV.
• Jim (KC3RFG): 2010 Ford E250 with dual-band and HF setups; CR-V family car.
• Jeff (N3RBG): First-time check-in; bought a Ram 1500 for the V8 before they disappear.
• Leon & Gene (AA3LH & KC3HQZ): Ford E350 van with a bed for road trips, looking toward buying a bus.
• Mike (W1RC): Daily driver is a 2007 Prius; also owns a beloved 2001 Miata.
• Charlie (N3CRE): Chevy Bolt and Toyota Venza; happy with home charging setup.
• John (WA3KFT): Still driving a 2008 CR-V with just 90k miles.
• Bill (KC3OOK): Tundra owner, researched for comfort and specs. Might downsize to a Tacoma.
• Chuck (NA3CW): 2016 Chevy Malibu, enjoys road trips and self-serviceable repairs.
• Harvey (WHCRW): Drives an EV and a 2007 Tacoma with 256k miles. Had to replace the frame once under recall.
• Scott (KC3YWN): From Centerport, drives an Audi A5 for long work trips, wants semi-autonomous features.
• KC3SQI: 2018 RAV4 and a 1993 F-150 used mainly for utility.
• Jim (AF3Z): Two RAV4s, uses one for compost hauling with a tarp.
• Mike (W3MFB): Subaru Impreza hatchback praised for snow handling and reliability.
• Scott (W3KZG): Owns multiple antiques and fix-and-flips, including a 2013 F-150 and several $1,500 or free vehicles.

🗓️ Roundtable Summary – July 10, 2025

Host: Chuck, NA3CW
Repeater: W3GMS – 146.985 MHz (PL 100 Hz, Tone Squelch 94.8 Hz)
Topic: “What is your favorite season and why? And what are your favorite summertime activities?”

🌤 General Discussion Highlights:

• Favorite Seasons:
  The overwhelming favorites were spring and fall due to mild temperatures, reduced humidity, and comfortable outdoor conditions. Only a few expressed fondness for summer or winter.
• Common Themes:
  • Disdain for hot, humid summers.
  • Enjoyment of seasonal transitions, especially when related to hobbies like radio, gardening, or travel.
  • Strong nostalgia for activities tied to youth or family traditions.
• Activities Mentioned:
  • 🚲 Biking, hiking, trail walking
  • 📡 Antenna projects and tower work
  • 🎣 Fishing, especially during striper runs
  • 🪵 Woodworking and shop time
  • 🐎 Horse riding and animal care
  • 🥫 Canning seasonal harvests
  • 🎸 Playing instruments (guitar, CW key)
  • 🧹 Cleaning and organizing shack/parts
  • 🏕️ Camping and QRP operating
  • 📻 Field Day, VHF contests, Hamfests

🔧 Technical & Personal Updates:

• Ron (WA3VEE):
  Shared photos from Field Day and offered biking invitations to fellow hams. Planning woodshop projects for fall and hoping to expand into 160m.
• Joe (W3GMS):
  Winter fan and deep into organizing radio parts inventory with 150+ bins. Ongoing mentoring with Luke and working on tower progress.
• Luke (KC3SCY):
  Focused on CW proficiency and helping build riser assemblies with Joe.
• John (WA3KFT):
  Over 50 years licensed, still active in VHF contests and hamfests. Prefers paper QSL cards and analog methods.
• Wayne (KC3SQI):
  Enjoying fishing and antenna experimentation. Battling HVAC interference on 10 meters.
• Jim (AF3Z):
  Enjoys hiking, sailing, and especially ragchewing in CW. Talked about shedding clutter, Goodwill runs, and field day reflections.
• Mike (W3MFB):
  Loves autumn for harvest season, cooking, and cooler air. Reminisced about eBay sales of fine china and appreciating life’s small joys.
• CR (W8CRW):
  Highlighted the comfort of spring and fall. Prefers working outside without needing AC or heat.
• Scott (W3KZG):
  Enjoys garage work, woodworking, and plane spotting with his dog on the deck.
• Jeff (W3JAM):
  Discussed trails, biking, and English-style horseback riding. Torn between spring and fall due to mid-Atlantic heat.
• Adam (KB3ZUV):
  Reflected on past summer enjoyment but now prefers cooler months for radio and horse activities.

📝 Closing Notes:

• Hamfests & Cleanouts:
  Several members are gearing up for local hamfests and shared their ongoing struggles with radio clutter.
• Repeater Etiquette Reminder:
  Use max power during intermod, pause before speaking, and stay under the 3-minute timer.
• Round 2 Summary:
  Most operators elaborated further on the seasonal reflections, with added anecdotes about home improvement, life changes, and evolving ham habits.

In this Independence Day edition of the W3GMS Roundtable, Chuck (NA3CW) unexpectedly steps in to host after a brief mix-up in scheduling. The group reflects on last weekend’s Field Day activities, sharing stories of great contacts, family involvement, high visitor turnout, and some humorous anecdotes—including using antenna ladder line to repair an exhaust pipe.

Participants discuss operating conditions, equipment setups, CW adventures, and the importance of community in amateur radio. With shoutouts to youth operators, GoTA station helpers, and the behind-the-scenes coordinators, it’s a heartfelt and insightful look into a successful Field Day and what’s ahead for the group.

General Highlights:

• Host: Chuck, NA3CW (stepped in last minute)
• Topic: Recap and stories from 2025 ARRL Field Day
• GoTA Station: Major success, especially with youth operators
• Attendance: Over 30 visitors signed in
• Weather: Hot but not unbearable; minor storms avoided
• Bonus Points: Est. 1400+ contacts, bonus youth QSOs confirmed
• Equipment: Mix of vintage and modern rigs; long-run generator appreciated
• Funny Moments: Ladder line used to hold up an exhaust pipe
• HF Events: Many members are also working the 13 Colonies event

Technical Questions Covered:

• Handling band noise on 40m
• Strategies for coax management and logging
• Generator power and fuel management during extended outages
• Using tone squelch to mitigate intermod and interference
• HF antennas and Yagis vs omnidirectional during contests

🧵 General Discussion Highlights

• Host W3MFB opened with a reminder about AllStar/EchoLink check-ins, repeater etiquette, and local power issues. He ran the session off battery power due to flickering mains.
• N4MRW participates in a few VHF nets in Raleigh, NC when work allows. HF is currently unavailable at his QTH.
• W3JAM reminisced about past traffic nets on 75m and local VHF nets. He’s planning to rebuild his ham shack, with interest in rejoining nets once equipment is set up.
• K3DZM (Dylan) expressed dislike for overly formal nets. Enjoys the relaxed tone of 985 nets and prefers spontaneous QSOs, contests, and digital modes.
• W1RC echoed Dylan’s sentiment, preferring one-on-one QSOs. Mentioned past participation in 75m AM nets and local Massachusetts nets.
• WA3VEE mentioned multiple nets:
  • Bruce Kelley Memorial Net (75m)
  • eCars & SouthCars (HF)
  • Red Rose Welfare Net (VHF)
  • CARES (Christiana ARES/RACES)
  • First State ARC Net
  • Various six-meter nets (currently off-air due to equipment issues)
• WHCRW participates in:
  • Salem NJ HF/VHF/UHF nets
  • Saturday Simplex Net
  • Red Rose nightly net
• NA3CW runs the AWA PM AM Net (Sundays). Strong preference for AM operation and old gear.
• W3GMS (Joe) reflected on CW traffic handling in the 1960s via EASN. Continues to run the W3AOA Memorial Net and the AM-focused AWA net. Described “fishing” for QSOs as his favorite style.
• AF3Z noted involvement in CW traffic nets during the 1980s. Now active in informal CW ragchew nets like the Lion and Cub nets.
• KC3YSM mostly active on 985. Mentioned C-CAR Net participation and Red Rose listening.
• KC3OOK, KD3EMS, N3CRE joined later, with brief mentions of net activity or apologies for not making the upcoming breakfast/field day.
• Barry KD3X checked in via text. Active on 6m sideband, eCars, and the 17m propagation net.

🔧 Field Day and Event Prep Notes

• Multiple stations were actively preparing for a Field Day site visit the next morning following the net.
• Chuck (NA3CW) brought up his DIY coax fixture.
• Joe (W3GMS) handled logistics like meters, dummy loads, door prizes, and Field Day site coordination.
• Ron (WA3VEE) mentioned site gear status and previous loaned items still at the location.

📅 Reminders

• Monday Workbench Net is still on as usual at 8 PM on 146.985 MHz.
• Stay hydrated and prepare for hot weather over the weekend.
• Check the Field Day agenda if attending, and come to the breakfast meetup if you're local.

Host: Jim (AF3Z)
Topic: Operating Style – Chair, Snacks, and Listening Habits
Theme: “What’s your ham shack comfort setup?”

🗣️ General Highlights

• Jim (AF3Z) kicked off the net with a fun “lifestyle” prompt:
  1. What kind of chair do you sit in while operating?
  2. Do you keep food or drink in the shack?
  3. Do you mostly listen or get on the air and make contacts?
• The roundtable was well-attended, with a mix of RF and digital check-ins. Most participants leaned toward listening more than transmitting, with a few dedicated QSO chasers and net participants.
• Chairs ranged wildly from Herman Miller Aerons and antique rocking chairs to folding chairs, wooden stools, and even no chairs at all.
• Snacks and drinks: Most hams were cautious about eating near gear. Water and coffee were popular, with some enjoying chips, candy, or even beer (safely distanced from the radios).
• Multiple ops shared insights into their shack setups, with some working out of basements, shared office spaces, or even vehicles.

🔧 Technical Mentions

• Ron (WA3VE) and Greg (W3DIB) discussed running AllStar mobile with great success and low latency, encouraging others to explore similar setups.
• Field Day Prep was a recurring theme. Several ops mentioned gearing up for the weekend with coax workshops, antenna setup, and mentoring new operators.
• Joe (W3GMS) shared updates on the tower project and upcoming improvements to eliminate intermod by introducing a secondary site with alternate PL tone (94.8 Hz).

🛠️ Technical Tidbits and Side Projects

• Joe (W3GMS) is reworking Studio B with a legal-limit sideband/CW station featuring the TS-590 and Mercury LUX 1500W amp.
• Luke (KC3SCY) is building a wooden riser for his ham desk and even crafting his own bow and chair using only hand tools.
• Greg (W3DIB) brought up a cool side experiment using Mumble for low-latency peer audio and experimenting with Talk Connect.

🎙️ Community Vibe

• Everyone shared friendly banter about their "shack lifestyle" — from kids raiding the snack supply to keeping cats and musical instruments in the shack.
• Chris (KD3EMS), a newer ham, shared how radio serves as his stress-relief hobby amid running a medical training business.

W3GMS Thursday Night Roundtable Recap – June 5, 2025

This week's roundtable, hosted by Phil (KC3CIB), centered on a practical and universally relevant topic: two-meter antennas. Participants were invited to share what antennas they currently use, whether they’d recommend them to others, and any personal preferences or insights.

Antenna Talk Highlights:

• The Diamond X300A and X510 were clear favorites, praised for their durability, performance, and gain.
• Simpler options like quarter-wave ground planes and Comet GP3s got nods for ease of setup and solid results.
• For those just getting started, suggestions ranged from mag-mounts on cookie sheets to DIY antennas using SO-239 connectors and brazing rod.
• Joe (W3GMS) gave a thorough rundown of high-performance options including the X700 and also mentioned using small beams for specific repeater coverage.
• There was also discussion on low-profile or mobile antennas mounted creatively (like rain gutters) for minimal coverage needs.

Technical Sidebar:

• Chuck (NA3CW) and others discussed how antenna choice should match operating goals—whether repeater work, simplex, or portable ops.
• Beam antennas were recommended for more directional needs and better performance on simplex.

Second Round – EchoLink & Field Day:

• Leon (AA3LH) checked in via EchoLink, and his signal sparked a small side discussion about clipping issues with digital modes.
• Joe (W3GMS) offered field day updates, including operator spreadsheet deadlines and positive weather predictions.
• Chuck shared progress on tower setup and experimentation with a Yaesu FT-710 ahead of Field Day “GOTA” coaching duties.

Late Check-ins & Wrap-up:

• Several more stations joined late, sharing their antenna setups and general thoughts.
• The conversation naturally drifted into a laid-back post-net chat between a few ops, including photography topics, camera menus, and the evolution from film to digital.