Hancock County EMCOMM

A Handy "app"!

2011-09-13T06:32:00.001-07:00

Us "Bloggers" are a strange bunch, we like to spread the wealth. Well now a post can be made to the EMCOMM site remotely from iPhones an iPod Touch appliances such as this post. Yet again another useful tool for us communicators. 73 de W1KRP

EMCOMM Meeting!

2011-05-09T09:58:00.001-07:00

Hancock County EMCOMM meeting this coming Thursday, the 12th at 1830 hours prior to the scheduled EAWA meeting. Anyone interested in Ham radio and its role in Emergency Communications support to served agencies is urged to attend. Meetings are held at Meadow View Apartments, Phase 4 Dining Hall. Go 3/10 mile past Maine Coast Memorial Hospital on Union Street and turn right onto Tweedie Lane, building is in there about 75 yards on left. Dining Hall on the front of the building. 73

EAWA Participates In Winter Field Day

2011-01-18T10:14:00.000-08:00

SPAR Announces;
“Not only during Field Day in June, do the bands come alive with improvised signals proving the ability to respond to emergencies. Since emergencies and natural disasters don't always happen in the summer, during Winter Field Day, frigid winds, icy limbs and bitter cold replace the thunderstorms and blistering heat of summer. In 2007 SPAR established a Winter Field Day event and invited all Amateur Radio operators to participate. The event was repeated in 2008 and was considered a success, so it was then designated an annual event to be held the last full weekend each January. In 2007 - 2010 the event was enjoyed by many, but it is time to issue the invitation for the Fifth Annual SPAR Winter Field Day!”
“The 2011 Winter Field Day will be held from 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Saturday January 29, 2011 through 1700 UCT (12:00 noon EST) Sunday January 30, 2011. The object of the event is familiar to most Amateur Radio operators: set up emergency-style communications and make as many contacts as possible during the 24 hour period. The rules encourage as many contacts on as many bands and modes as possible, because during a real emergency, the most important factor is the ability to communicate, regardless of band, mode or distance.”
“The official rules can be found at the SPAR web site. The event is open to all amateurs, although we encourage everyone to join in the discussions and other activities sponsored by SPAR. Information about SPAR can be found on the SPAR Home Page. Membership is free and open to all amateurs who want to encourage technical and operating skills. You can register by going to the SPAR Forum and registering, using your amateur callsign as your user name. “

NOW: Here is Ellsworth, the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA) will be participating in it’s second annual Winter Field Day. EAWA will operate from Meadow View Apartments Phase 4 dining hall where the group along with Hancock county EMCOMM hold their monthly meetings (For those with GPS it is “25 Tweedie Lane”) The group will start operating at 1200 hours on Saturday January 29th and operate until 2000 hours Saturday evening. There will be a potluck supper at 1700 hours and those attending are urged to bring a dish to share with the group, and you might want to bring drinks for the day as well. Set up will beging earlier than 1200 hrs so you might want to stop by to lend a hand as well. This is a fun time to join in on during the cold winter months..getting us psyched up for the big June event! Hope to see you there, and if you are not a Ham but interested in what this great hobby is all about you are invited to attend and find uot! Further info email Phil, N1EP at n1ep@yahoo.com or Mark N1MEA at n1mea @myfairpoint.com

WHEN REPEATERS FAIL

2010-12-13T11:50:00.000-08:00

Reliance upon repeaters or repeater systems for emergency communications is not wise. It is not uncommon for a repeater to fail, or be knocked out by some external force (e.g.- lightning, high winds, etc.). Repeaters can also be very "political."

Since the beginning of radio, the focus by most amateurs has been to see how far they can reach out with their signals. While DXing is an enjoyable pastime, it is rarely needed for EMCOMM, DON'T RULE IT OUT COMPLETELY FOR PUBLIC SERVICE! The ability to effectively pass traffic over long distances is often important, even lifesaving!

HF signals propagate either by a) line-of-sight; b) ground-wave (follows the contours of the earth); or c) sky-wave. Line-of-sight is usually good for a few miles.
Ground-wave is usually good from about 20 to 50 miles. NVIS sky-wave takes over at about 50 miles, and depending upon the frequency selected is good out to 500 miles. Beyond that, we are in the general area of low-angle DX.

NEAR AND FAR
Very often, a 40 meter signal at mid-day, can be heard near and far, all three types of propagation at the same time! To explain propagation, whether low-angle DX or NVIS, or somewhere in-between, I often use this illustration: Just as a billiard ball can be bounced toward a particular pocket by controlling the angle that it hits the bumper of the pool table, so do radio signals "bounce" (actually refract is more descriptive) off the ionosphere. Now, envision the earth as a round pool table with the ionosphere as the circumference or boundary. This "bumper" is constantly expanding and/or contracting in concentric circles, and varies in density often depending upon the time of day, the season, recent solar activity and/or the sun-spot cycle. This phenomenon is a science unto itself and is not the subject here. Just know that for local and regional EMCOMM, NVIS HF (usually in the 40 and 75/80 meter bands) can provide reliable communications over mountain ranges and under the most extreme conditions. The big advantage is that we are not dependent upon some remote mechanical device.

NVIS MADE SIMPLE
I (and others) have experimented with simple (1/2 wave doublet, G5RV, etc.) wire HF NVIS antennas as low as actually lying on the ground to 3 feet above ground, and they work amazingly well! A lot depends upon ground (earth) conductivity and how far down below the surface the moisture content may be. However, I recommend that any antenna be at least 8 ft. above the ground to prevent someone from tripping over it.

Remember that the higher you elevate a flat (horizontal) antenna (e.g. a simple wire doublet or G5RV) above earth ground, the more the NVIS effect will be lessened. A little height will allow for better line-of-sight and ground-wave propagation. I find that 25-30 ft above the earth works fairly well both near and far. Also the higher you go, the more directional it will be. An Inverted V antenna, at any height, will be less directional, but the NVIS effect will be less than a "flat-top."

Reference: http://www.EMCOMM.org/projects/nvis.htm

OTHER "REPEATER FREE" OPTIONS
Also, to avoid reliance upon repeater(s), don't rule out VHF simplex. Don't believe the myth that VHF is strictly "line-of-sight!" I routinely communicate PTP (Point-To-Point) over 50 miles on 2 meter FM simplex using only a simple ground plane antenna 20 ft. up...and with a mountain range between my station and the other! And over 100 miles routinely using a 13 element Yagi. I also communicate 300 miles on 2 meter SSB and/or CW using a 13 element Yagi (horizontal polarized). A skilled relay operator in the right location doubles these ranges! Also, consider six meters simplex FM, SSB, CW for EMCOMM.

REGULAR NETS

There are so many variables, regular participation in nets will provide you with the experience and knowledge of what works and what doesn't!

As far as of lack of interest in serious EMCOMM by hams is concerned...I wish I had the answer! All you can do is to try to explain that skilled and disciplined operators become that way and also maintain their skills by regularly participating in regularly-scheduled properly-run (non-repeater) public service nets. If there isn't one in your area...why not start one?

Drawn from: http://www.emcomm.org/archives/EQ/2010/summer2010.htm

THE "Critter"

2010-12-13T10:25:00.000-08:00

2010-12-13T10:23:00.000-08:00

Mark N1MEA and Kris KC7UNK dig into the EMCOMM portable repeater.

EMCOMM Repeater Work

2010-12-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

Kris KC7UNK (Standing), Mark N1MEA, Andy KB1TGL and Bob AA1PI work on the Hancock County EMCOMM Portable Repeater during a recent "Sunday Session" at Meadow View in Ellsworth.

Hammin.... Down East Style

2010-09-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

Fred Lloyd, AA7BQ, QRZ founder and publisher is coming to the Ellsworth area this coming weekend. He contacted me earlier this week to see about interviewing me reference EMCOMM (He read this blog!). After discussion, we thought it would be a good article for QRZ on Ham Radio in Down East Maine in general. He thought it would be neat to meet with a group and pick our brains. So, this coming Sunday, 1300 hours at Meadow View Phase 4 where we hold most meetings, local Hams are invited to sit down over coffee and tell tall tales of the happenings of Down East Amateur Radio, regular and EMCOMM wise! Good opportunity to “git on the map”! Further info email me at res@gwi.net

Dealing with "Earl"

2010-09-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

On Friday 9/3 there will be a EMCOMM net called at 1900 hrs on the Hancock County EMCOMM Repeater, the 146.910 machine (151.4 PL tone) located here in Ellsworth in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Earl or the outskirts of said storm. Either way rain or high winds are possible and a slight NW change in track direction and we could be dealing with a more potent situation.This is also an opportune time to check out your home preparations (remember; take care of yourself, family, and home before EMCOMM comes into play!) and your radio comm. Centers (shacks). Make sure everything is charged up and supplies are checked. Be prepared, but foremost be safe!

SERVING "SERVED" AGENCIES

2010-07-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

Meeting the communications needs of "served" agencies is a challenging,
and often daunting proposition in today's complex disaster/emergency relief
arena. With the proliferation of emergency relief organizations, increasingly
sophisticated needs, all competing for that scarce resource--the volunteer- -
coupled with the emergence of other non-ARES amateur providers, it's enough to
make an ARES member's head spin. As more of the population moves to disaster-prone areas, and less government funding is available, more pressure is consequently placed on
agencies to use (and sometimes abuse) the volunteer sector for support of their
missions in disaster mitigation. Toes are sometimes stepped on and volunteer morale can be undermined. On the other hand, the League's formal relationships with served
agencies are vitally important and valuable to radio amateurs. They provide us
with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the relief of suffering among our
fellow human beings. Another substantial benefit not to be overlooked is that these relationships lend legitimacy and credibility for Amateur Radio's public service capability, and that is important when it comes time to defend our frequencies and privileges before the FCC and Congress, an ever more challenging task.
So, ARES' relationships with the emergency/disaster relief world are to be nurtured.
What to Do?
First, it is imperative that a detailed local operational plan be developed
with agency managers in the jurisdiction that set forth precisely what each
organization's expectations are during a disaster operation. ARES and agency
officials must work jointly to establish protocols for mutual trust and respect.
Make sure they know who the principle ARES official is in the jurisdiction.
All matters involving recruitment and utilization of ARES volunteers are directed
by him/her, in response to the needs assessed by the agency involved. Make
sure ARES counterparts in these agencies are aware of ARES policies,capabilities and perhaps most importantly, resource limitations. Let them know that ARES may have other obligations to fulfill with other agencies, too.
Technical issues involving message format, security of message
transmission, Disaster Welfare Inquiry policies, and others, should be reviewed
and expounded upon in the detailed local operations plans.
Source: Kentucky Amateur Radio Web Site – www.kyham.net

FCC RM 10-124 Report and Order

2010-07-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

From Bryce Rummery K1GAX Maine ARES SEC
If you have served agency employees that are hams, please pass this on to them.

FCC RM 10-124 Report and Order

FCC has adopted new rules regarding employee participation in drills.

Employees are now allowed to participate in drills. Government-sponsored drills are unlimited. Non-government sponsored drills are limited to one hour per week and two 72 hours drills per year.

A new exemption was also granted for school teachers using ham radio in the classroom, and rules for stations like W1AW were clarified.

Federal Communications Commission FCC 10-124
18
APPENDIX B
Final Rules
Part 97 of Chapter 1 of Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations is amended as follows:
The authority citation for part 97 continues to read as follows:
AUTHORITY: 48 Stat. 1066, 1082, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 154, 303. Interpret or apply 48 Stat.
1064-1068, 1081-1105, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 151-155, 301-609, unless otherwise noted.
1. Section 97.113 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(3), adding new paragraphs (a)(3)(i) and (a)(3)(ii),
redesignating paragraphs (c) and (d) as new paragraphs (a)(3)(iii) and (a)(3)(iv) respectively, and
redesignating paragraphs (e) and (f) as (c) and (d) respectively, to read as follows:
§ 97.113 Prohibited transmissions.
(a) * * *
(3) Communications in which the station licensee or control operator has a pecuniary interest, including
communications on behalf of an employer, with the following exceptions:
(i) A station licensee or control station operator may participate on behalf of an employer in an
emergency preparedness or disaster readiness test or drill, limited to the duration and scope of such test or
drill, and operational testing immediately prior to such test or drill. Tests or drills that are not
government-sponsored are limited to a total time of one hour per week; except that no more than twice in
any calendar year, they may be conducted for a period not to exceed 72 hours.
(ii) An amateur operator may notify other amateur operators of the availability for sale or trade of
apparatus normally used in an amateur station, provided that such activity is not conducted on a regular
basis.
(iii) A control operator may accept compensation as an incident of a teaching position during periods of
time when an amateur station is used by that teacher as a part of classroom instruction at an educational
institution.
(iv) The control operator of a club station may accept compensation for the periods of time when the
station is transmitting telegraphy practice or information bulletins, provided that the station transmits such
telegraphy practice and bulletins for at least 40 hours per week; schedules operations on at least six
amateur service MF and HF bands using reasonable measures to maximize coverage; where the schedule
of normal operating times and frequencies is published at least 30 days in advance of the actual
transmissions; and where the control operator does not accept any direct or indirect compensation for any
other service as a control operator.
* * * * *

BACK TO BASICS

2010-07-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

"Make Good Operating Procedures A Habit"
From the April 2005 issue of EMCOMM MONTHLY

Let's face reality, folks. When push comes to shove, and when the chips are down, the majority of emergency communications will be voice (radiotelephone). At least in the United States. 100 years ago it was all in Morse. Spark gap was the mode-of-the-day...then later CW dominated. That was all there was. If you weren't a Morse operator...you didn't communicate. 60 years ago, a reasonable guess might be that the ratio was 50% Morse and 50% AM 'phone, plus perhaps a little SSB and FM.
It makes no difference if your favorite mode is CW or digital, or that voice is the least efficient mode. The reality is that most emcomm is done by voice...and will probably remain like that for a long time. CW, digital, and other modes are more effective in many ways and still have their place, and they can (and will) be used very effectively to supplement voice communications in certain situations and for specific functions. However, the reality remains...like it or not...voice is where we are at.
We all learned to talk before we entered kindergarten. By the time we left grammar school, most of us could read and write fairly well. By the end of high school, we all (should have, at least) mastered basic verbal and written language skills. While some of us had learned the Morse language by that time, most had not, and struggled to learn it later in life. Many hams learned just enough Morse to pass an exam...and unfortunately never or rarely use it. SSB and FM prevail.
In all public service, good communication skills are essential. But, unfortunately, what we hear on the bands...is usually NOT a good example of effective communication skills. As EMCOMM operators, we must NOT allow ourselves to become mediocre (or worse) voice communicators. Sadly, many operators emulate what they hear on the air. And what they hear, from both newcomers and old timers alike, is often improper, sloppy and/or inefficient.
So how does a skilled voice radio operator...operate?

A GOOD VOICE EMCOMM OPERATOR:

1. ALWAYS makes sure that his/her transceiver is properly adjusted. Mic gain level, on the proper frequency, not using excessive power, etc.
2. ALWAYS speaks clearly and succinctly...and not too fast (or too slow).
3. Establishes two-way contact and obtains a signal report before starting a transmission. (If you want a radio check take your radio to a repair shop.)
4. Avoids talking directly into a microphone. But rather talks "across the mic".
5. Knows and uses ITU PHONETICS
6. Uses ROGER solely to indicate that a transmission has been received and is understood. (ROGER is the voice equivalent of R in Morse.)
7. Does not use ROGER for "yes", "affirmative", or "I agree with you" and does not say: "That's a big ROGER" or some other similar slang term.
8. Says AFFIRMATIVE for "yes" and does not use it in place of ROGER. (They are not the same.)
9. Says NEGATIVE for "no". "Nega-tory" (or other similar slang terms) is not in his or her vocabulary.
10. Uses SAY AGAIN when they need something repeated. "Repeat" or "please repeat" may be confused with "received."
11. Says the call sign of the station he/she is turning the contact over to, followed by their call sign, followed by OVER. (Same as K or KN in Morse.)
12. Allows a one-second pause before transmitting. (If you wait too long...someone may butt in and say something like: "it's been passed to you.")
13. Keeps their transmissions reasonably short.
14. Pays attention and practices "TLC"...("To Listen Carefully").
15. Knows where (s)he is located and knows how to effectively communicate that location to another station.
16. On 'phone says: "Say your location" or "What is your location?" Never: "What's your QTH?", "What's your 10-20", or (worse yet) "What's yer twenty?". (Note: Law enforcement uses the "10 code" and their own phonetics. Amateur, commercial, maritime, aeronautical and other operators use the ITU standard prowords.)
17. Stays in a net (and pays attention) unless checked in and checked out.
18. Does not ask another operator to "check me in" (to a net) unless he/she plans to remain in radio contact with the relaying station during a net period. Telephone, email, Internet and other landline circuit relays are not radio...and do not count. Nor does: "Check me in to the net tonight. I'm going bowling." This puts the other operator on the spot and is worthless.
19. NEVER whistles, says "hell - oh", or blows into a mic when transmitting. (Use a dummy load instead.)
20. NEVER keys down on a frequency that is in use to adjust an antenna matching unit, and NEVER fails to identify when tuning up or testing.
21. NEVER slurs his or her call sign when identifying in voice.
22. NEVER "quick keys." On 'phone, always allow a pause of 0.5 to 1.0 seconds before PTT in order to allow another station break in. Then allow another 0.5 to 1.0 seconds before speaking. (This prevents cutting off the first few letters or words of your transmission.)
23. NEVER transmits using excessive power.
24. ALWAYS identifies at the end of each communication, and at least every ten minutes during a communication. (Part 97.119)
25. ALWAYS remains courteous and respectful of others on the air. (Even if the other operator is "a world class lid".)
DUH - UH!
Here are some transmissions that have actually been heard...during public service nets:
(After "doubling" on a net control station.): "Net? Is there a net on? What time is it? What frequency am I on?"
"BREAK!" (NCS says): "Go ahead". The "breaker" then asks: "Is the club breakfast this Saturday or next?"
"Uhh, W...as in...as in...as in...Juarez!"
"Uhh, H...as in...José."

FIELD DAY REMINDER!

2010-06-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

It’s coming up to that time of year, Field Day! June 26th and 27th. This year the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA) and the Narraguagus Bay ARC will be operating from the Wyman’s C&D facilities on RT-193, across from the air strip on the blueberry barrens. Some setup will be done on Friday afternoon, but most will be done first thing Saturday morning. Talk-in will be on the 146.910- (PL 151.4) and on simplex 146.565.
For further information contact Phil Duggan, N1EP at n1ep@yahoo.com
For information on the Saturday evening potluck plans contact Brenda Duggan,N1ZPV at brenda_duggan@yahoo.com or Evie Sargent, KA1BRA at eviesargent@yahoo.com

Hancock County EMCOMM Board

2010-05-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

The Hancock County EMCOMM Board has a new member, Andrew Sankey, KB1TGL. Dick Small, W1KRP resigned from the Board a couple of months ago leaving Bob Carter AA1PI and Mark Albee N1MEA and a vacancy. Bob and Mark, at a recent EAWA meeting recommended that Andy fill the vacancy. A vote was taken by EMCOMM members and a unanimous yes vote passed. Andy has an active role in local EMA operations and should be a great addition to the EMCOMM Board. Thanks Andy!

Hancock County EMCOMM Board Members:

Bob Carter, AA1PI bobcarter@carter-systems.com
Mark Albee, N1MEA n1mea@myfairpoint.net
Andy Sankey, KB1TGL asankey@bhbt.com

FIELD DAY 2010

2010-05-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

Everyone keep the dates of June 26th and 27th open, it Field Day time again.

As stated by the ARRL:“At times, the focus of the Amateur Radio community is rightfully on how we can work with our towns and communities by providing Public Service and Emergency Communications. However, deep
down anyone who has picked up a microphone, tapped out a callsign on a brass key, or descrambled a
digital Baudot or PSK-31, understands there is fun here. That fun knows no borders. The thrill of the
chase of adding new states, countries or grid squares to our WAS / DXCC / VUCC totals underscores that
when we play “radio” (as some friends of mine used to say) we are there in large part to enjoy our hobby.”

This year the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA) will be joining forces with the Narraguagus Bay Amateur Radio Club for he annual activities at Wyman's C & D facilities at the cabins on RT 193 in Deblois, across from airstrip. Operating from Saturday afternoon at 1400 hrs to Sunday afternoon at 1400 hrs.

As always, good times, good operating, good food and great friend.

For further information reference set-up/tear-down and possible operating schedules contact EAWA President Phil Duggan, N1EP at n1ep@yahoo.com

Hope to see a good turnout!

Ham Radio Symposium

2010-03-11T10:11:00.000-08:00

Information copied from Phil Duggan~ N1EP’s Great Website : http://www.n1ep.com

Mark you calendar now for March 14, 2010. That is when the Ham Radio Symposium will be held in Ellsworth, Maine. Two major themes will be highlighted:

1. 1.Harnessing the Sun to Power Your Shack & Portable Operations
2. 2.Home Brew Projects & Kits

The Maine Solar Energy Association (MESEA) will demonstrate how solar energy and ham radio were meant for each other. Powering the typical ham shack and portable operations such as Field Day and when camping and backpacking will be exhibited. MESEA President Richard Komp writes, “Solar power is such a natural for self-sufficient ham radios [and their operators].”

Symposium organizers also want to highlight some of the fun aspects of our hobby. For many hams, taking a soldering gun in hand and building their own equipment from kits or scratch is a blast. Displays and demonstrations of several kits and home brew projects will be on hand, including QRP transceivers and other electronic marvels.

Other demos and displays will include packet radio, photographic trip to Downeast ham radio’s past, and much more.

The symposium is sponsored by the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association and will be held at the Meadow View Apartments Phase IV Dining Hall on Tweedie Lane in Ellsworth from noon to 4:00 pm. No charge for admission. Donations towards EAWA Insurance Fund gladly accepted.

A VE Session will be held in the morning starting at 9:00 AM.

Look for updates, maps and other details at Signals Down East Maine web page at http://www.n1ep.com or call Symposium Coordinator Phil Duggan, N1EP at 546-7028 or via packet radio MBX N1EP-1 on 145.010 Mhz

SYMPOSIUM ADDENDUM:

Internationally known QRP Kit Designer/Dealer Rex Harper, W1R EX will be a featured speaker at the Symposium on March 14.
Rex is well known among America’s QRP community and was a featured speaker at England’s G-QRP.COM Convention in the United Kingdom Last year. (See the 65th Anniversary Issue of CQ Magazine to read about W1REX at the convention)
W1REX maintains www.QRPme.com where he sells many QRP and other electronic project kits. Many of these will be on display and available for purchase at the symposium. Rex will lead a “hands-on” demonstration where participants will construct a project in less than 30 minutes. Transmitters and other projects can be easy and loads of fun to build. Imagine building your own transmitter inside of a pen casing! Sounds like something out of a James Bond movie, but hams can, and do build such fascinating, functioning circuits. Rex will also be donating one of his kits as a door or raffle prize at the symposium.
Rex’s presentation will be one of two main topics at the symposium, the other being a Solar Power for Ham Radio presentation given by the Maine Solar Energy Association (see bulletin below). Other topics and demos will include packet radio by AA1PI/N1MEA, photo display, and more.

Call Hancock County EMCOMM repeater 146.910 neg offset with a pl of 151.4 for talk in.

Winter Field Day!

2010-01-15T07:36:00.000-08:00

The Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA) will be participating in “Winter Field Day” sponsored by “SPAR”, Society for the Preservation of Amateur Radio on Saturday, January 30th, from 12 Noon until 8 PM. We will be operating from the Phase 4 dining room at Meadow View Apartments where the monthly EAWA meetings are held. We are in hopes to have 2 if not 3 stations operating. If you are a ham and even if not and would like to learn more about Ham radio, plan on stopping by and joining in the fun. There will be a potluck supper in the same place around 1800 hrs. If you plan on attending at that time please bring something to share. For further info email Phil N1EP at n1ep@yahoo.com, or Evie KA1BRA at eviesargent@yahoo.com or if you are on the air locally on the 147.030 (100 hz tone) repeater or the 146.910 (151.4 hz tone) repeater sign on and someone should be able to help you! The location, Meadow View Apartments is 3/10 of a mile past Maine Coast Memorial Hospital on Union Street here in Ellsworth. Turn right onto Tweedie Lane, Phase 4 on the left, dining room in center of building. 73!

Sunday Sessions!

2010-01-15T07:31:00.000-08:00

On a ‘semi-regular” schedule, local Hams are meeting on Sunday afternoons at Meadow View Apartments where the EAWA meets and are working on projects and participating in studying for upgrade, etc. We meet around 1300 hrs and go until 15-1600 hrs..depending on how much eye-strain we are suffering from as AA1PI says! Any questions contact Phil N1EP at n1ep@yahoo.com , Bob AA1PI at bobcarter@carter-systems.com or Mark N1MEA at n1mea@myfairpoint.net

It Seems to Us: Appropriate Use: Guidelines and Waivers

2009-12-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

By David Sumner, K1ZZ
ARRL Chief Executive Officer
December 01, 2009

For the final time this year, we again take up the issue of the appropriate use of Amateur Radio: the extent to which radio amateurs may (and should) provide communications on behalf of others, particularly their employers.

The Amateur Radio Service has a well-deserved reputation for taking the FCC rules seriously, so it is not surprising that the subject of "pecuniary interest" has attracted a lot of attention and discussion. The relevant rules have not changed since 1993, but recent years have seen growing interest in the use of Amateur Radio as an alternative, supplemental, or backup communications medium by commercial, non-profit and government entities. When those rules changes were adopted, that was not the expectation.
In 1993 the FCC concluded that, while it is important to avoid exploitation of the amateur service, "[t]he capabilities of modern mobile communication services have all but eliminated the incentive to use the amateur service instead of those services." The Commission found that the rules then in effect "hamper amateur operators from serving the public as well as diminish the value of the amateur service in satisfying personal communication needs." Accordingly, the rules were amended to give amateur licensees greater flexibility. The FCC declined the ARRL's request for anecdotal examples of permitted and prohibited communications, preferring to "rely on the amateur service's traditions of self-regulation and cooperation between licensees, the cornerstone of the amateur service, to determine whether specific communications should be transmitted on amateur service frequencies."
In September 1993 we editorialized that the rules changes "remove the ambiguities that have plagued public-service communications for the past two decades and have generated endless hair-splitting discussions about whether particular communications were permitted." That proved to be the case for a decade and a half until -- in the aftermath of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina -- Amateur Radio came to be viewed as a communications solution by a growing number of businesses and other organizations. On this page in April we noted that "there are limits to what an amateur can do on behalf of his or her employer" but did not go into detail since the rules seemed rather clear, as did the FCC's desire not to answer questions about exactly what is permitted and what is not.
By the time of the July 2009 meeting of the ARRL Board of Directors, the FCC had been asked enough questions by amateurs -- and had given answers that apparently were unexpected -- that quite a controversy was developing about the appropriate uses of Amateur Radio. As explained on this page in September, an ad-hoc committee was put to work to develop suggested guidelines. The committee delivered the guidelines and recommendations for further ARRL action to the ARRL Executive Committee, which made some edits and scheduled a conference call of Board members to discuss the nine-page document. By subsequent mail vote the Board adopted the guidelines and recommendations and approved the release of the document, which was put on the ARRL Web site on September 25 (see www.arrl.org/news/files/ARRL_AppropriateUseGuidelines.pdf).
The main purpose of the document, entitled Commercialization of Amateur Radio: The Rules, The Risks, The Issues, is to educate amateurs and the organizations we serve about what the FCC rules permit us to do and to assist amateurs in making reasoned decisions about the appropriateness of services we may offer to organizations in our communities. While there are only two narrow exceptions to the "no communications on behalf of an employer" rule, neither of which applies to disaster relief, the guidelines note that "paid emergency personnel who are licensed amateurs and who find themselves needing to use Amateur Radio in disaster relief operations can rely on the Commission's statements that they may do so." However, this applies only to actual disaster relief operations and not to training exercises or drills.
On the subject of what communications are appropriate for volunteers to provide on behalf of businesses and other organizations, the guidelines note that such communications by volunteers are legal as long as they are not conducted on a regular basis and otherwise comply with the rules. Organizations that envision using Amateur Radio volunteers on a regular basis should be referred instead to other radio services and communications systems. A good rule of thumb for other requests is, "Who benefits?" If the public is the principal beneficiary, then the basis and purpose of the Amateur Radio Service is being fulfilled. If the entity itself and not the general public is the principal beneficiary, then the use of other services should be encouraged.
In introducing the guidelines, ARRL First Vice President Kay Craigie, N3KN -- who chaired the ad-hoc committee -- observed that they "are not intended to be the last word on the subject, and surely will not be." Little more than three weeks later the FCC fulfilled that prophecy by issuing a Public Notice, DA 09-2259, to emphasize that the rules prohibiting communications on behalf of an employer apply to emergency preparedness and disaster drills. The Public Notice entertains waiver requests from government entities (and only government entities) conducting such drills. The requests must be in writing and must include the information listed in the article on page 59 of this issue. Use the following address: Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, FCC, 445 12th St SW, Washington, DC 20554, Attn: Scot Stone. The government entity may send a copy of its request by e-mail to Scot.Stone@fcc.gov, but we have been advised that this is not a substitute for submission of the waiver request on paper.
We understand there are petitions for rulemaking being drafted to address perceived shortcomings in the existing rules. The ARRL Board has taken no position on possible rules changes, but the subject is likely to occupy the Board's attention between now and its January 2010 meeting. As always, your own Division Director (see page 15) will be interested in your thoughts.

N1EP WEBSITE

2009-11-09T07:33:00.000-08:00

Phil Duggan, N1EP, has launched a new website. "Signals down East Maine". I have put a link to it on the left side. When you get a chance check it out, great site!

State Wide Exercise Report

2009-11-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

The folowing is a after action report I filed in review of the state wide MEMA exercise held 10/29-10/30 2009. EMCOMM would like to thank all that participated in the event making it a success.

"On Thursday, October 29th at 1100 hrs I received a call from Rick Henion, an agent of the Maine Forestry Service who was calling from the Hancock County Emergency Management Agency located in Ellsworth. Rick advised me that he was tasked with calling Hancock County EMCOMM to participate in the planned weather related exercise that was a statewide event. Scenario: weather conditions were worsening with an approaching low-pressure system, which was predicted to end up in severe icing conditions across the area. We were asked to provide supplemental communications at the EOC, which was the Hancock County EMA office. I radioed Robert Carter, AA1PI who is a Hancock County EMCOMM Board of Director and he agreed to deploy to the EMA office with equipment including VHF/UHF voice and VHF packet and APRS systems. A standby net was implemented when Bob arrived and check ins were taken. We ended up with VHF and HF relay stations in Sorrento, Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, Mariville area, Lamoine and Bucksport along with AA1PI’s station at the EMA office which also has a dedicated Motorola VHF radio programmed with ham frequencies for our use. I stood by at my work QTH monitoring traffic with a 2M HT and took traffic and held any to relay to Bob while he was setting up his equipment. Through out the day traffic was passed and attempted to be passed, by which I mean the HF link(s) were sketchy at times due to propagation issues on both 3.940 and 7.262. Bob got packet messages flowing thru nodes and relays to MEMA and Kennebec EOC. There were some minor glitches that popped up throughout the day but Bob handled them professionally all the time being the sole operator at HCEMA EOC throughout most of the day. HF relay stations had issues at times but it seemed that all traffic got passed and received by teamwork. Washington County, whom we work closely, with had issues at the Washington EOC due to proximity to public service antennas and radios along with a general poor location…down in a hole. Being so, they called upon us at times to help out which Hancock County was able to do most of the time. The original scenario called for repeaters to go down but that did not happen, but we did use simplex a number of times.

Overall, from comments by the other agencies participating, we came thru with good grades from all.

Local observations: We need an additional operator when the EOC is activated. Bob was swamped at times with technical duties along with requests from EMA to pass traffic.
Hancock County EMA needs a dedicated HF antenna which was talked about a week prior to the exercise but time restraint prohibited that task at the time. Packet radio is the tool to get hams on board with if they want to play EMCOMM., and using Outpost program is the tool to make life easier for all on board. Additional nodes and digipeters throughout the state should be considered."

2009-11-06T05:41:00.000-08:00

Congratulations go out to Gordon Gianninoto, Andrew Sankey, and Justin Willis who last night, November 5, 2009 successfully tested for their Technicians level license at a VE session held at Meadow View Apartments in Ellsworth. Two also tried the General test and came very close…without studying! The VE session was led by Bruce N1VLQ, Phil N1EP, Bob AA1PI, and Dick W1KRP were the other VEs in attendance. Security was provided by Mark N1MEA, hi hi.

HELP WANTED

2009-10-15T07:19:00.000-07:00

All hams are encouraged to become involved in EMCOMM. You are volunteers; you will not be forced to participate of made to feel obligated to do so. Being a Ham is a great way to give back to your community while having a good time doing so and showcasing our capabilities! If you are not a registered member of Hancock County EMCOMM please feel free to contact the following:

Linda Fuery ema@co.hancock.me.us
Andy Sankey KB1TGL asankey@bhbt.com
Bob Carter AA1PI bobcarter@carter-systems.com
Mark Albee N1MEA n1mea@myfairpoint.net

If you could participate and consider being a contact Ham in your area please contact us soon!

Also,if you know of fellow hams OR non-hams that might be interested in joining please fwd this info to them. EMCOMM will use non-Hams in different positions that are necessary to keep the operations going!

Thanks very much!

Senate Introduces Companion Bill to HR 2160

2009-10-15T07:05:00.000-07:00

Copied from the ARRL Website:

On Tuesday, October 6, Senator Joe Lieberman (ID-CT), along with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), introduced Senate Bill 1755, The Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Enhancement Act of 2009. Similar to HR 2160 -- also called The Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Enhancement Act of 2009 -- that was introduced this past April by Representative Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX-18), the bill, if passed, would direct the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to undertake a study on emergency communications. S 1755 points out that "There is a strong Federal interest in the effective performance of Amateur Radio Service stations, and that performance must be given -- (A) support at all levels of government; and (B) protection against unreasonable regulation and impediments to the provision of the valuable communications provided by such stations."
"We are delighted to have the sponsorship of both the Chairman and the Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and especially to have the support of Senator Lieberman from the ARRL's home state," said ARRL Chief Executive Officer David Sumner, K1ZZ. "The bill could not have a better pedigree." Lieberman is the Chairman of the committee, while Collins is the Ranking Member.
Like HR 2160, S 1755 calls on DHS to undertake a study on the uses and capabilities of Amateur Radio Service communications in emergencies and disaster relief and then to submit a report to Congress no more than 180 days after the bill becomes law. The study shall:
· Include a review of the importance of Amateur Radio emergency communications in furtherance of homeland security missions relating to disasters, severe weather and other threats to lives and property in the United States, as well as recommendations for enhancements in the voluntary deployment of Amateur Radio licensees in disaster and emergency communications and disaster relief efforts and improved integration of Amateur Radio operators in planning and furtherance of the Department of Homeland Security initiatives.
· Identify impediments to enhanced Amateur Radio Service communications, such as the effects of unreasonable or unnecessary private land use regulations on residential antenna installations; and make recommendations regarding such impediments for consideration by other federal departments, agencies and Congress.
In conducting the study, S 1755 directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to "utilize the expertise of stakeholder entities and organizations, including the Amateur Radio, emergency response and disaster communications communities."
S 1755 makes note of the fact that Section 1 of the Joint Resolution entitled Joint Resolution to Recognize the Achievements of Radio Amateurs, and To Establish Support for Such Amateurs as National Policy -- approved October 22, 1994 (Public Law 103-408) -- included a finding that stated: "Reasonable accommodation should be made for the effective operation of Amateur Radio from residences, private vehicles and public areas, and the regulation at all levels of government should facilitate and encourage amateur radio operations as a public benefit." The bill also pointed out that Section 1805(c) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 757(c)) directs the Regional Emergency Communications Coordinating Working Group of the Department of Homeland Security to coordinate their activities with ham and Amateur Radio operators among the 11 other emergency organizations, such as ambulance services, law enforcement and others.
ARRL New England Division Director Tom Frenaye, K1KI said that Amateur Radio operators in the State of Maine have "an outstanding relationship" with their Congressional representatives -- plus Governor John Baldacci is KB1NXP!" Both Connecticut and Maine are part of the League's New England Division
Frenaye said that Maine Section Manager Bill Woodhead, N1KAT, dropped off a letter at Senator Collins' office in Lewiston two weeks ago, asking for her support. "After that, we had amateurs in Maine write the Senator," he said; more than 40 Maine hams wrote Senator Collins.
The Senate bill points out many positive things that Amateur Radio operators do, including "provid[ing] on a volunteer basis, a valuable public sector service to their communities, their States, and to the Nation, especially in the area of national and international disaster communications." It mentions that amateurs provided emergency and disaster relief communications services during both natural and manmade disasters. "The Amateur Radio Service has formal agreements for the provision of volunteer emergency communications activities with the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Weather Service, the National Communications System, and the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials, as well as with disaster relief agencies, including the American National Red Cross and the Salvation Army," the bill reads.
Right now, S 1755 has been read twice in the Senate chamber and referred to that body's Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. HR 2160 -- now with 27 sponsors -- is in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Last Reminder

2009-06-26T06:35:00.000-07:00

Greetings all! Just a last minute reminder that Field Day 2009 for the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA) will be this coming weekend (Tomorrow!!) June 27 and 28. Set up begins after 0700 hrs and ops start at 1400 hrs. Come and visit and lend a hand, all are welcome. Bring a friend or neighbor and introduce them to our great hobby! Take Route 184 (on right), just past Myrick Street going East on Route 1 out of Ellsworth. Take 184 to the end (Atlantic Ocean car wash providede if you don't stop).
Hope to see you there!

Field Day Reminder

2009-06-12T05:58:00.000-07:00

Well folks, the time is quickly approaching for Field Day! June 27th and 28th at Lamoine Beach. Go East on Route 1 out of Ellsworth, just past Myrick Street on your right will be the turn for Route 184. Take Route 184 to the very end and there is Lamoine Beach where the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA) along with Hancock County EMCOMM will be holding Field Day activities. We will be meeting there around 0700 hours on Saturday the 27th to begin set up and all are invited to join in the festivities! Set up is a very important part of what Field Day is about (operating radios from remote locations testing equipment and antennas) and the more the merrier! There will be a Voice station, CW station and a GOTA (Get On The Air) Station. Actual operations begin at 1400 hrs (2PM) Saturday and continue for 24 hours until 1400 hrs Sunday. There will be operators needed for the entire span. If you would like to attend and have a specific time you could operate email Evie KA1BRA at eviesargent@yahoo.com . And of course, there will be food! So, if you are interested please come and join in the fun, just visit, operate, or eat! If you know of anyone interested in Amateur Radio please pass this information on to them. For further information contact any of the below listed Amateur Radio operators:

Galen KB1NJC gokane@peoplepc.com

Phil N1EP n1ep@yahoo.com

Evie KA1BRA eviesargent@yahoo.com

Mark N1MEA n1mea@myfairpoint.net

Dick W1KRP w1krp@arrl.net

ARRL Field Day Tips and Techniques that Everyone Can Use

2009-06-01T05:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone remember that Field Day is coming up the last weekend in June. Our group EAWA/HC EMCOMM holds Field Day at Lamoine Beach (NOT State Park). We meet around 0700, start operating at 1400 and end operating at 1400 on Sunday with tear-dow after that. On June 11th (Thursday) the EAWA monthly meeting held at Meadow View Phase 4 dining hall will include final preps for the big event. For further infor reference field day email me Dick W1KRP at w1krp@arrl.net, Phil N1EP at n1ep@yahoo.com or Mark N1EMA at n1ema@myfairpoint.net

FROM THE ARRL WEBSITE:

Many amateurs treat ARRL Field Day (June 27-28) as a contest, even though it isn't one. But if your idea of Field Day fun is to go for the highest score possible, ARRL Contest Branch Manager Sean Kutzko, KX9X, offered the following suggestions at the ARRL Field Day Forum at the 2009 Dayton Hamvention.
1) You will get many more stations in your log by calling CQ than by tuning the dial and answering CQs; however, if you're calling CQ and not getting any replies, keep calling. Most major contesters call CQ for several minutes at a time before giving up. Giving up after three or four CQs is giving up too soon.
2) Keep your CQs short and to the point: "CQ Field Day, CQ Field Day, Whiskey-One-Alfa-Whiskey, Field Day." Wait about 5 seconds between CQs -- this gives stations enough time to answer you.
3) Use standard phonetics. "Cute" phonetics don't always get through and they can confuse newer operators.
4) When working a station, you should give your exchange information only once and keep it simple. "Whiskey-One-Alfa-Whiskey, copy three Foxtrot Connecticut, QSL?" If they didn't get all of the exchange, they will ask for a repeat.
5) If you are running a pileup: Once you have pulled a call out of the pileup, give your exchange information first. Here's an example: "Whiskey-One-Alfa-Whiskey, copy 3F Connecticut, QSL?" Don't ask for the calling station's information first -- this will reduce any sense of rhythm and timing in the pileup.
6) If you get a pileup of stations and can't make out an entire call, listen for one letter and ask for it specifically: "The station with Delta only, go ahead."
7) When you get the other station's information, keep your acknowledgment simple. "QSL, thanks, QRZ Field Day from Whiskey-One-Alfa-Whiskey."
8) Find a comfortable pace for you and maintain that pace. You will tire quickly if you are screaming into the microphone or trying to work stations too quickly. This leads to inefficiency.
9) Use a headset with a boom microphone and a foot switch -- this frees up your hands to log QSOs. Writing or typing with a mike in your hand slows you down.
10) Go for as many bonus points as you possibly can. Numerous opportunities exist, from copying the Field Day message to sending traffic to using natural power for QSOs.
These tips should help maximize your score on Field Day. Remember: No matter how you choose to enjoy Field Day, maximize your fun, however you define it.

ICS PERSPECTIVES

2009-05-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

This article was taken from the April 2009 Newsletter from the http://www.emcomm.org/ website.

By Jerry Boyd, N7WR, Associate Editor and ICS Advisor

This column will continue last month’s discussion regarding how home stations might provide some EMCOMM support during major incidents. As noted in the March issue, some amateurs, for a variety of reasons, may want to help but are simply unable to respond in the field to emergencies and disasters. There are a number of important tasks that need to be performed by the EMCOMM unit, but to assign them to a field-capable volunteer might mean that an essential field position is unstaffed. Here is where the "homebound" can step in. Radio traffic in response to an emergency/disaster is important and it needs to be documented. There are multiple reasons why documentation is important. Just one of those reasons is to aid in the after-action critique/evaluation of the incident response. The home-based station may be in a good position to monitor and audio record all radio traffic involving the EMCOMM unit response to the incident. Whether done by a tape recorder or via a computer sound card, this is important data to compile and is the type which a “ham at home” can gather. Every group, including EMCOMM groups, have need for logistical support during their operational periods. Food, water, fresh batteries, fuel, notepads, sunscreen, etc….all may need to be replenished if the event is of long duration. The ham at home can be a valuable resource in determining what is needed, where it is needed, and when it is needed and then making arrangements to procure same and have it delivered. Finally, events of long duration cannot be handled by the initial crew of responding radio operators. There will be a need to relieve them with fresh operators. The home-bound station can help team leaders determine staffing needs, and recruit and schedule replacement operators as necessary. In summary, the home station has more than ample opportunities to be of service.

73 from NE Oregon de N7WR n7wr@wrrl.org

EMCOMM ANTENNA WORK

2009-05-04T10:53:00.000-07:00

Work was done on the Hancock County EMCOMM repeater antenna on 5/4/2009 by Jim N1MTN of Brown's Communications. The 'temporary' Diamond antenna was replaced with the commercial unit originally purchased for the repeater package. Thanks go out to Brown's Communications for their continued help and support!

Hancock County EMCOMM's New Structure

2009-05-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

At the last meeting of the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association (EAWA), at the suggestion of member Mark Albee N1MEA, it was voted on that Hancock County EMCOMM come under the ‘wing’ of EAWA. A three-person committee was formed to oversee the EMCOMM group, consisting of Bob Carter AA1PI, Mark Albee N1TDO and Dick Small W1KRP. It was felt that the EMCOMM group, lying dormant for some time now, would be better served by downsizing the command structure and trying to make the EMCOMM experience more enjoyable. On Sunday, May 3rd, the EMCOMM committee met for the first time to get the basics on paper in reference to the future of Hancock County EMCOMM, Bob AA1PI had an excellent presentation on what he thought was important and it was unanimous between the three that this was a great starting point.. Below is the work sheet type listing that we urge all to review for a discussion in the very near future. Any questions in reference to Hancock County EMCOMM please email any of the below listed Reps.

Mark Albee N1MEA n1mea@myfairpoint.net

Bob Carter AA1PI bobcarter@carter-systems.com

Dick Small W1KRP res@gwi.net

Who is a member of EMCOMM

Who is active

Who can do what
weather spotter
marine service Boat with radio
ATV with radio
mapping program
GPS
solar power operation
battery operation

What is your comfort area
HF Radio
code
packet
2 meter FM
2 meter sideband
digital modes HF

What mode can you bring mobile

I would like to see the packet network expand to include hospitals and shelters or portable units ready to go.

Also a workshop on sending text files to the BBS and down loading to EMCOMM control.

Also the packet controller at EMCOMM needs to have it's call sign KB1NEB installed and address mail to this call sign
the BBS system will not deliver mail to a call without a numeral in the call.

I would like to see persons that have alike interests of operating modes group together to refine their operating procedures, that way you learn from each other and when a person is missing the show goes on.

Thanks for hearing my suggestions Bob aa1pi

Houston Representative Introduces Amateur Radio Bill in Congress

2009-05-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, April 29, Representative Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX) introduced HR 2160, the Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Enhancement Act of 2009 in the US House of Representatives. This bill, if passed, would "promote and encourage the valuable public service, disaster relief, and emergency communications provided on a volunteer basis by licensees of the Federal Communications Commission in the Amateur Radio Service, by undertaking a study of the uses of Amateur Radio for emergency and disaster relief communications, by identifying unnecessary or unreasonable impediments to the deployment of Amateur Radio emergency and disaster relief communications, and by making recommendations for relief of such unreasonable restrictions so as to expand the uses of Amateur Radio communications in Homeland Security planning and response." The bill has been referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
If enacted into law, HR 2160, would instruct the Secretary of Homeland Security to undertake a study and report its findings to Congress within 180 days. The study would spell out uses and capabilities of Amateur Radio communications in emergencies and disaster relief. The study shall:
· Include recommendations for enhancements in the voluntary deployment of Amateur Radio licensees in disaster and emergency communications and disaster relief efforts.
· Include recommendations for improved integration of Amateur Radio operators in planning and in furtherance of the Department of Homeland Security initiatives.
· Identify unreasonable or unnecessary impediments to enhanced Amateur Radio communications -- such as the effects of private land use regulations on residential antenna installations -- and make recommendations regarding such impediments.
· Include an evaluation of Section 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-104, 110 Stat 56 [1996]).
· Recommend whether Section 207 should be modified to prevent unreasonable private land use restrictions that impair the ability of amateurs to conduct, or prepare to conduct, emergency communications by means of effective outdoor antennas and support structures at reasonable heights and dimensions for the purpose in residential areas.
The Secretary of Homeland Security shall utilize the expertise of the ARRL and shall seek information from private and public sectors for the study.
The bill currently has five co-sponsors: Madeleine Bordallo (Guam), Mary Jo Kilroy (D-OH), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO) and Bennie Thompson (D-MS). Representative Thompson currently serves as Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security. Representatives Jackson-Lee, Lofgren and Kilroy are members of that committee.
"We understand that Representative Jackson-Lee was very impressed with the radio amateurs she encountered on a visit to an Emergency Operations Center in Houston during Hurricane Ike last September," said ARRL Chief Executive Officer David Sumner, K1ZZ. "We are grateful to her and to the five original co-sponsors for their support of Amateur Radio and the encouragement that their bill offers."
ARRL President Joel Harrison, W5ZN, concurred: "We are excited to have Representative Sheila Jackson-Lee introduce HR 2160. It is extremely encouraging to have the support of a number of original co-sponsors -- including several members of the House Homeland Security Committee -- who recognize the importance of Amateur Radio's long history of public service."

146.910 Interference

2009-04-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

Users of the 146.910 repeater here in Ellsworth have been noticing some interference on QSOs lately. Myself W1KRP, and Mark N1MEA did some snooping a few weeks ago and discovered the signal causing the trouble was coming from a construction trailer located across from the Hiltop/Kona’s/Hillfire Grill(!). A conglomeration of antennas was attached to a wooden tripod located out back of the trailer and it could have been a number of things. At an EAWA/EMCOMM meeting a few days later HCEMA Director Ralph Pinkham said that Jim Cormier N1MTN of Brown Communications, had reported to him that they, Browns, had had complaints from commercial customers of the same troubles. They went and found that H.E. Sargent Contractors who owned the trailer, uses GPS tracking in their ground working units that guide them in very small increments for precise work. These units have 6 frequencies to choose from and Jim informed them of the interference and Sargents, after checking with main office changed to a different freq. The issue disappeared for a week or so and has now reappeared. I spoke with Jim today and their commercial customers have not complained but he advised that Sargents probably would be done shortly with their part of the work. He also advised that a visit might be in order once again to advise Sargents of FCC regulations. That is where this stands as of 04/23/2009 at 0932 hours! Any updates will be posted here as soon as they surface!

Kentucky ARES Training

2009-03-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

In the past I have suggested a number of online training sites that are available free of charge to EMCOMM personnel. FEMA of course has the ICS courses and MANY other interesting classes. Maine ARES has a course available that K1GAX controls and is a great choice also. Kentucky ARES has a great overall site with a lot of information available. Their online ARES course is a very simple course to take and complete online. (I figured I ran my mouth about it I better do it myself!) It is taken in three steps and after confirmation from their moderators you move to the next step. Two general EMCOMM related sections followed by a final NCS section. Each section has a 50-question test. After completion of the course they send you a certificate of completion in pdf format (great artwork to cover all those push pin holes on your shack walls) and an email confirmation. You are placed on their online registry so groups you might want to join up with can check easily. The presentation is very ‘friendly’ and the tests are quite simple and common-sensed based. I urge anyone interested to take this class and the many others that might interest you and ‘get smart soon’.

The link is to the right in the Links section...GOOD LUCK!

FIELD DAY 2009!

2009-03-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that the 2009 ARRL Field Day is sneaking up on us! Now is the time to think about what and how we are going to handle the event. As of this writing it looks like we will be back at Lamoine Beach, which is a great site to operate from. Keep checking this site for updates and changes if any arise!

EAWA Guest Speaker

2008-08-15T10:24:00.001-07:00

Last night, August 14th, the EAWA meeting held at Meadow View hosted a great guest speaker; Richard “Beau” Beausoleil, N1REX.

Beau is the retired Fire Chief of the Togus FD in Augusta and has extensive Communications experience which includes being a Amateur Radio Operator for a number of years. Beau shared his past experiences which all lead to the importance that Hams play in emergency situations and how we can “get out” when many other means of communications fail. Hancock County EMA officials, AKA Ralph and Linda, invited Beau to speak on Emergency Comms and how RACES comes into play. All attending were told of how RACES operates and how it can benefit by becoming registered as a RACES group. The importance of acting as a Government entity as opposed to being a private organization was discussed in detail. There is much to be gained and further local discussion I am sure will follow on this! Thanks Beau!

FIELD DAY!

2008-06-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

EAWA, Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association along with Hancock County EMCOMM (Emergency Communications) is sponsoring the Annual ARRL (Amateur radio Relay League) Field Day event being held at Lamoine Beach at the end of Route 184 in Lamoine, on Saturday and Sunday, June 28 and 29. Amateur Radio operators will be operating along with thousands of others throughout North America. The purpose of Field Day is to operate over a 24-hour time span testing their equipment and skills using emergency power and portable antenna systems. Hams will be starting at 2PM Saturday and going thru the night until 2PM Sunday. The public is invited to stop by and see what Amateur Radio is all about and how it can help in emergency situations.
For further info check the EAWA website at http://www.eawa.org/ or email Evie Sargent KA1BRA, eviesargent@yahoo.com or Dick Small W1KRP at rsw1krp@verizon.net, or call 460-0093

EMCOMM Meeting

2008-04-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

There will be a meeting of the Hancock County EMCOMM group on Thursday May 8th at 6PM prior to the monthly EAWA meeting. The meeting will be at Meadow View Apartments Phase 4 dining hall. Go to Maine Coast Hospital on Union Street and go 3/10 mile past the hospital, turn onto "Tweedie Lane" on the right and the Phase 4 building is in there 75 yards on the left. EMCOMM will be meeting to discuss some matters pertaining to upcoming EMA events and general EMCOMM business. For further info contact Dick, W1KRP at rsw1krp@verizon.net or Mark, N1TDO at n1tdo@verizon.net.

Power Supplies and Batteries for Hams

2008-03-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

Why have Battery backup? How much Power Supply or Battery for the Station? What connectors?

One of the items found in most ham shacks is a battery or a DC power supply. The reason for this is simple enough: most of our equipment is meant to be used in a mobile environment and that means a DC. power supply in the 12.5 v to 13.5 v range. Even a lot of our base equipment has the provision to be run from a DC. Supply.
How big a power supply to get has been the subject of some heated discussions on the air, so how do you pick a supply for the home? Past experience is that we tend to outgrow an existing supply. If you stay in this hobby long you keep on adding equipment that runs off DC and soon you are popping fuses. Start by looking at the equipment in the shack and adding up the currents in amps. Lets say that the Radio, Linear Amp and TNC add up to about 7 amps. The general rule of thumb is to double that number, in this case 14 amps, and then look for a supply in that range. In this case a 15 amp supply should serve you well and leave you room to change equipment around at a later date. Don't buy the biggest supply you can afford. If you have too little load on a supply, they don't regulate well. Picking a supply for mid range seems to be the
best compromise. Supplies on the surplus market have their hazards. Computer Power Supplies often use switching type regulators. These can generate harmonic interference on your radio. Supplies meant for the audio industry can break regulation when they get in a RF Field.
Since a lot of us want Battery Backup we tend to sooner or later get a battery that will run the station. For those of us who work the "Thons" (Walkathon, Bikeathon, or Runathon) or other Public Service Events the ideas of a battery for these events become very attractive. Batteries tend to become a ten ton liability after a few of these events. We tend to buy something like a Boat or RV battery to run a handi-talkie for 4 to 5 hours. You are never stationed near the car and lugging this battery all over the place gets old after an event or two How do you pick a battery that is the best comprise between weight and length of service? Batteries are rated in "AMP HOURS" meaning that 25 Amp Hour Battery can deliver 25 amps to a load continuously for 1 hour. Most radios only draw maximum current when transmitting so the specifications on the radio are broken up into Transmit and Receive current draw. A mobile radio (for example: 35 W output) draws about 10 amps when transmitting and 0.7 amps when receiving.
A 25 Amp hour battery would last 2.5 hours continuous transmit (25/10=2.5) or 35.7 hours receive only (25/0.7=35.714285) for most of these events. Unless you are the Net Control Station (NCS), this battery is much too large. When trying to size a battery for these
events, figure on a 30% transmit and 70 % receive cycle. A small battery such as a 1.2 Amp hour will power a 5 Watt handi-talkie for about 4.7 hours in receive and 18 minutes in transmit (These numbers assume a transmit current of 1.3 amps and a receive current of .250 amps.): more than ample for a public service event. Connectors for power sources vary widely from automotive lighter plugs to Banana Plugs and Jones Connectors and everything in between. The ARRL Field Service recommends the 2 pin **Molex connector. Regardless of the Battery or Power Supply you choose please have in addition to your connector, an adapter with standard RACES Connectors on your DC source. This lesson was recently learned the hard way this spring during a midwest tornado. Operators who were not in Emergency Service Organization such as RACES or ARES brought their equipment in to help. Some of this equipment could not be used without extensive modifications and there just wasn't time to tinker with it at the time.

Batteries and power supplies have become as much a part of the shack as Radio and antennas. Having the ability to help in a pinch is a great asset. Even if it's not a major emergency, being able to bring up the net when the lights go out in your neighborhood is a great comfort to you and your family.

**NOTE: Since the writing of this article the norm now is to use the Anderson Powerpole connectors in wiring for EMCOMM situations. See the link on this Blog re. the Powerpoles.

Its Coming!!

2008-03-14T06:15:00.000-07:00

Field Day is coming! This coming June, Saturday and Sunday the 28th and 29th. We (EAWA along with Hancock County EMCOMM) will be operating once again from the Lamoine Beach site where we have operated for the past few years. This is a great chance to do some operating, test our emergency capabilities and all in a fun competitive event! Last year EAWA placed first in the state of Maine in our category. We will be using the Hancock County EMCOMM Communications trailer along with Mark, N1TDO’s Comm Trailer. Make it a point to keep abreast of what will be coming up as far as planning in the next few months and pencil these two fun days in on your calendar! Keep checking this blog and the EAWA website www.eawa.org for further information. 73!

Good Net Procedure Article

2008-03-11T11:50:00.000-07:00

Below is a good article on basic net procedures! Enjoy.

From: Pat Scolla WB0EGR, EC, Harford County MD
Subject: General Repeater Operation Pointers

Here is some information I take for granted and I want to thank those who reminded me of this for pointing it out to me. This info is being passed along for everyone's benefit, and with a little practice will become second nature to everyone. Repeaters, which one may or may not know, normally have timers on their receivers. While transmitting into them one must unkey their microphone every 2 or 3 minutes for a few seconds to reset the timer. On the .775 machine, the timer resets when the courtesy beep or tone is heard after releasing your PTT. Some repeaters do not have a courtesy beep or tone, but still reset the timer as soon as you let up on the mic. During typical repeater operations (especially net-related), please wait for the beep, or longer, before transmitting after the other fellow has turned it over to you. It may normal for the repeater to keep transmitting for several seconds after the tone in order to minimize wear and tear on relays and other components in the repeater system. Please note: not all repeaters have a "hang time". Whether or not there is a hang time typically is left up to the discretion of the repeater owner/maintainer. The timer is there for a number of reasons. One is so no one operator can hog the frequency, which can takes some getting used to if one is used to working mostly simplex with long transmit sessions (repeater transmissions tend to be short back and forth transmissions). Anyone transmitting too long 'times out' the repeater, which means the repeater's transmitter simply drops out until the station transmitting into it unkeys, at which time the repeater resets. No one will hear you after the repeater has timed out, and it's generally considered embarrassing. Another function of the time out feature is to prevent inadvertent transmissions from someone mobile who might be sitting on their mike or gets their mic jammed between the seats (trust me it happens) and ties up the channel all the way to work. This can be extremely embarrassing too, especially if one is unaware it's their mic which is keyed and they have been on a cell phone or making comments about things they see on their way to work. Another, and possibly the most important feature of the repeater time out function is it forces one to break frequently to allow others access to the repeater if they need to get in to join a QSO or to report an emergency or urgent situation. During a net operation, once you have checked into the net, it is extremely important the net control station (NCS) knows the status of all the stations on the net at that instant. The NCS presumes you are present and located where you last reported you were unless you tell him differently. During a directed net, like the Tuesday night ARES nets, technically no one is supposed to leave the net for any reason until released by net control. If something comes up and you need to scoot, wait for the next break, which with repeaters will be soon, then be quick and toss in only your call as soon as the other fellow unkeys. The NCS will acknowledge your break. A competent NCS will acknowledge you instantly. During Emcomm operations, breakers have a very high priority and are dealt with instantly. At the time the NCS acknowledges you, tell him you must leave and ask to be released from the net. The NCS will then release you. Until he does so, one technically still is

logged into the net. And weekly net logs are kept, for a variety of reasons. During a net operation, the break between transmissions is the time to jump in if one needs to, and then it is done only by stating your call. Again, a competent NCS will acknowledge you instantly. Do not say 'BREAK' or especially 'BREAK EMERGENCY' unless you truly have an emergency. If you do have an emergency, do not hesitate to break, and these are the words to use on any repeater, net in session or not, *if you have an emergency*. All that said, we live in the real world and sometimes things happen, you have to go to the bathroom, your radio croaks, your battery dies or whatever. Should this happen to you and you cannot strictly follow the net procedures don't lose any sleep over it. Just let the NCS know as soon as you can you are back in case they tried to reach you. The NCS will take frequent breaks for new check-ins, and this is the time to let him know you're back. It's not necessary to break in for a routine message such as you are back on frequency. Remember, in a directed net, it is rare you would make a transmission unless you either have an emergency or are responding to an appropriate request from net control. If during a net you have relevant questions, and the timing is appropriate, do not hesitate to ask the questions. Most training nets have a roundtable session for comments from each member logged in. In a formal net when the net is activated for a specific reason other than training, be more discreet but still don't hesitate to ask the question. If it's a bad time, the NCS will let you know and will normally get back to you as soon as the situation permits. This might be in a minute or two, a couple of hours, or immediately after the net. Plenty of others don't know either, and no one is born knowing all this stuff. The question you ask may answer a question someone else was embarrassed to ask. Feel free to ask questions on this forum or directly of the volunteers involved in EmComm operations. We're hams and one of the most basic tenets of hamming is working together and sharing knowledge.

A special thanks to WA3SWS and KB3KAI for their inputs! 73's Pat WB0EGR Harford County, MD EC

March 08, 2008 Meeting

2008-03-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

A meeting was held on Saturday the 8th at Meadow View Apartments to discuss future plans for the Hancock County EMCOMM group. The major concern was as to what routes to take to obtain necessary training to fill any obligations with the Hancock County Emergency Management Agency to enable EMCOMM members get necessary ID Cards needed for events/incidents as they arise. Lynn O'Kane, KB1OTM, advised that everyone should complete IS-700, NIMS training, which is mandatory to enable groups to get further funding and training thru the US Government. The training gives those taking it an insight into what happens in an incident and what the structures are within a incident governing it. After that ICS-100 and 200 should be obtained. Incident Command System. There was also mention of basic Emergency Communications courses which are available, such as the Maine Emergency Courses offered thru Maine ARES on their website (see links) and the Kentucky ARES Communications Course (see links).
There will be a training/review session to be held on Thursday March 27th, the EMA Release is as follows:

The Emcomm group will be holding a training session on the National Incident Management System (otherwise known as NIMS or IS-700) on March 27 at 6PM at the Meadow View Phase 4 dining room in Ellsworth. Training manuals will be provided at the training. However if you would like an electronic version emailed to you please reply to this email. The files are Adobe pdf and approximately 1425 kb in total size.

If you aware of anybody that should be added to this email list or if you no longer wish to be included, please let me know.

Lynn O'Kane
Administrative Clerk
Hancock County Emergency Management Agency
(207) 667-8126

EMCOMM Meeting

2008-02-21T09:47:00.000-08:00

“On Saturday, March 8th at 1 PM there will be a meeting of Hancock County EMCOMM, a group of licensed Amateur Radio Operators who volunteer their time to supply supplemental communications to served agencies in times of need. All Amateurs (Hams) are invited to attend along with members of the general public interested in Amateur Radio and how you can be part of this public service group.”

“The meeting will be at the Meadow View Phase 4 Dining Hall located off Union Street, 3/10 of a mile past Maine Coast Memorial Hospital on right hand side, entrance to Meadow View marked.”

“For further information on this event or becoming a Ham, please contact Mark Albee, N1TDO Hancock County ARES EC at n1tdo@verizon.net or Dick Small, W1KRP, Hancock County EMCOMM at rsw1krp@verizon.net .

“Please plan on attending this meeting to see where you can help serve, while learning new techniques working alongside a great group of people!”

Back Again.......

2007-11-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

Well the blog is back, updated a tad. EMCOMM is alive in Hancock County contrary to popular belief. Lots have happened in the local ham radio community and all are in hopes more will follow. One of the top 'tid-bits' is recently, Rob, W8HAP, recently released the ARRL stats on the 2007 Field Day results. EAWA should hold its head high! First in our catagory Statewide and third overall in Maine! I just goes to show you how pre-planning, working strong with teamwork and having fun will end in results that shine.

Deb Hubbard, N1FQ, has been placed on the Maine Coast Disaster Response Team. Deb works at MCMH and they realized they had an asset there in her being a Ham. MCMH is one of many hospitals that have in house 2 meter radio stations for use in case of emergent situations. Deb also has rousted up 10-12 people who are now studying for their tech licenses and will be testing on 12/15 during a session at MCMH.

A exercise recently that 'piggy-backed' on a larger full scale exercise in Waldo County was held testing comms between MCMH and HCEMA and the hospital's disaster plan including their Decon station. A great deal of time and effort went into this exercise and was very realistic complete with "patients"!

The local ham radio community, and especially EMCOMM, is lucky to have Lynn O'Kane, KB1OTM working now in the Hancock County EMA office with Ralph and Linda. Talk about a great asset for everyone involved! Lynn got her Tech license to join her husband Galen, KB1NJC and her son Joe, KB1NJD in the Amateur Radio ranks!

So, as you can see, things have been moving along....hopefully the future will see the progress moving at a faster pace!

Take care all.

Stay Safe!!!!!

W1KRP

Safety Considerations and Weapons of Mass Destruction

2007-06-12T12:23:00.000-07:00

Ron Dodson, KA4MAP

While we like to think that we live in a region where such incidents are unlikely, it must be realized that we do have a risk for WMD events anywhere and that they have already occurred in the past. Incidents involving bomb scares and even pipe bombs, supposedly contaminated mail scares, and others have occurred in this region in recent years. Individuals and groups often perform these acts for publicity or to gain an objective known only to them. Recent events have also led us to expect the use of chemical and biological weapons as well as the use of nuclear "dirty bombs" which can contaminate areas with radioactivity and can be of a relatively small size unlike atomic bombs of yesteryear. Purchases of plastic sheeting and duct tape from department stores of late also reflect the fact that people are starting to get the message about planning for shelter-in-place options in case of chemical weapons releases. Let’s discuss a few points to help
you stay safe if you find you are in an area where a suspected event is taking place.
Let's say you are shopping or driving along and need to stop and use a pay phone.
Perhaps you see a device or segment of PVC pipe next to the phone. Do you assume it is a prank and use the phone anyway? What if you are at a building where several people suddenly become ill or collapse, what should you do? In our first example, the telephone, there is obviously something wrong. Don't bet on it being a 'dud'. Back off, keep others away and summon the authorities. Be mindful that radio waves may detonate the device.
Our second example brings to mind an incident that I personally witnessed many years ago. The workers in a store were all suddenly stricken with a violent headache and blurred vision. I responded with several others to the scene and in spite of the comments made by others, and myself that the initial entry team should wear breathing apparatus, the crew walked in with no protection and sure enough, in 5 minutes time, THEY were now victims. Turned out that a chemical was leaking in the store, which created the problem. The second crew in, who wore SCBA’s, later found it. The moral of this story is: “Without proper protection, do not enter a situation without knowing what you are walking into.”

Watch for indicators at any possible haz-mat and/or WMD locations.
· Look for physical indications and outward warning signs.
· Unusual smoke, odors, vapor clouds.
· Dead animals or vegetation.
· Mass Casualties may or may not show outward signs of trauma.
· Victims with breathing difficulties. May or may not have blistered, or reddening skin and eye irritations etc.

For the untrained: do not approach, touch or examine devices, debris or victims. Stay upwind at a reasonable distance and summon aid. If you suspect that you may be contaminated, do not leave the area and go home. If you are, this would only endanger others and your families. Alert responders that you may be contaminated and follow through with any requested procedures until cleared to go. Be mindful that many incidents are 'staged' to draw in responders for a later release of a secondary device or 'booby trap'. The true targets may well be the responders and the initial victims may be considered only as 'collateral damage' by the perpetrator(s). Secondary devices may be as bad or worse than the initial incident! People who do these types of things do not think
like the average person on the street. The whole objective may be to 'take out' as many people as possible and by drawing in several responders and the inevitable gawkers close to a location; they may indeed have worse surprises. Stay out and let those with more training do the work. Lastly, if you receive an EAS warning to "shelter-in-place" for a chemical release, would you know what to do and do you have the right materials handy to do it with? If advised to "shelter-in place", immediately turn off all sources of outside ventilation and close all windows and doors. Keep your portable radio with you. Move to a 'safe room' in your home or work place. (When planning ahead for a safe room, try to locate one with at least ten feet of floor space per person to allow for adequate air space and preferably without windows.) Seal around the doors, vents and any windows with plastic sheeting (this can be pre-measured and cut to fit and marked well beforehand) and duct tape. Stay there until the all clear is given. In all likelihood, the chemical cloud will soon pass over and dissipate. Chemical agents do not linger long in the open air. A few
hours (2-5) will likely be adequate for the winds to blow them away. After the all clear is given, open windows and doors and allow fresh air to remove any residual chemical vapors. If you are outdoors when an alert is given and you have no available shelter, try to stay upwind and move away from the affected area. Listen for and follow any other EAS instructions you receive over your portable receiver. Lastly, Consider any possible WMD site as a crime scene! Anyone who has ever watched a TV detective show or two has at least a minimal idea of the need for scene integrity and evidence preservation. If an event has occurred and you are not in the area, do not rush to the scene! As amateur radio operators involved in ARES and RACES efforts we may be asked to help with communications during the course of the event, however, never take it upon yourself to go to a possible WMD scene just to see what you can find out. This is not only foolhardy; it can be deadly! If you are requested to activate by EM or another served agency, do as they ask to the extent of your training. Do not put yourself into locations in which you are not asked, equipped and cleared to enter.
Source: Kentucky Amateur Radio Web Site – www.kyham.net

Propagation and EMCOMM

2007-06-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

An EM advanced studies training module - by D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ
EMCOMM.org

A few years ago I was involved in a Search and Rescue operation in extremely rugged country in the far NW corner of California. The primary search area consisted of two very deep and steep canyons that are separated by a 2,000 ft. ridge. Before the search was over about a dozen SAR units from as far away as 300 miles were called in to assist. There was no cell phone coverage and only one Sheriff's Department repeater was accessible. The IC (who was from an adjacent county) said the local Sheriff wanted to keep their SO frequency clear of the SAR traffic and asked that it be used (by SAR) for emergency traffic only.Around 2200 local time, one other emcomm volunteer (a trainee) and myself arrived at the SAR CP/base camp positioned in a deep canyon and we were asked immediately to establish contact with the Sheriff's Office the IC's home county. My first thought was about setting up a NVIS* antenna, and establishing an HF link either on 40 or 75 meters with one of several HF stations that had been previously alerted and were monitoring some previously designated frequencies and that could relay traffic to and from the Sheriff's Dispatch Center via telephone.
I knew there was a VHF amateur repeater located on a mountain top about 20 miles to the north...in another state! I thought, why not give it try? I switched to the repeater frequency, keyed the mic, heard the identifier, and then identified myself. Immediately, I heard a familiar voice reply...it was my wife! She was at our home station over 125 miles away, but by using out tower mounted 13 element Yagi she had solid contact with the repeater. Needless to say, the IC, who was watching, was very impressed!The search went on for about a week before finally being called off. The missing person (or his remains) were never found. Most of the searchers were non-hams, so all tactical communications were on VHF public service simplex frequencies (NASAR, CLEMARS, etc.). By stationing a radio relay team (the young trainee and myself) on the ridge that separated the two deep canyons, effective communications were maintained. Every message between the two canyons was through our relay.
A portable repeater may have worked, but there are very few (if any) used by public service agencies and there are very few "spare" public service "frequency pairs" available for portable/field operations. Plus mutual aid responders may not be able to program the radios to an "new" pair. Frequencies such as NASAR, CLEMARS, NALEMARS and other SOA (scene of action) simplex frequencies should be in all SAR transceivers.(NOTE: Typical amateur radio gear is not FCC "type accepted" transmitting on PS channels. Listen only. Hams who are active in SAR, fire, EMS, or other public service, should consider buying commercial radio gear that can be legally operated on both public safety and amateur services.)Most local amateur emcomm (and nearly all public service communications) are handled on VHF, UHF, or higher frequencies. Which are line-of-sight whether direct or via a repeater (if available).One of the great advantages that we as radio amateur have is that we have a wider range of frequencies and modes option that just about anyone! With all the new emcomm volunteers now entering the world of HF, it is advantageous to know some basic and practical aspects of HF radio propagation.40 and 80 meters are the "Workhorse Bands" for Regional Emcomm:
While most local or tactical emcomm can easily be handled on VHF or UHF frequencies, most regional traffic (50-300 or more miles) is handled on the 40 or 75-80 meter bands. (The 160 meter band and the 60 meter band should not be ruled out, but by and large the 40 and 80 meter bands are the workhorse bands most used for emcomm networks.

I am not a physicist are these comments an attempt to explain and define all the intricacies and nuances of HF radio signal propagation. There are many excellent books available that can adequately explain that area of science that is wrought with multiples and rarely understood variables. As one ham friend of mine says, "It's all Voodoo!"

The SEA and the SUNMost of us who have studied the basics of radio know that the earth is surrounded by layers of ionized particles. The ionosphere is in a constant state of flux. It is affected primarily by the sun, and it varies immensely with the time of day, the time of year, the solar cycle, geomagnetic storms, and other factors. The ocean tides on the earth are influenced by the gravitational pull of the sun and the moon and to a small degree, the other planets, and is compounded by the winds. The ionosphere (envision a canopy above the earth), is ever expanding, contracting, fluctuating in the amount of ionization level, and possibly other factors that scientists may not have even discovered.

The D layer (closest to the earth) is only a factor present during the daylight hours and is responsible for the absorbing most MW and HF radio signals. This is why MW BCB signals do not propagate (over any great distance) during daylight hours. Then there is "sporadic E", which some liken to clouds of ions which come and go with the seasons often only lasting a few minutes or hours. Radio hams who enjoy the six meter band (50-54 MHz) love it when the "E layer comes to life!" The most commonly relied upon layer for HF radio is the highest...the F layer. To further confuse the issue, the F layer divides into two levels during the daytime. F1 and F-2. One or the other will refract (bounce a signal back to earth) from a point of refraction depending upon: 1) the frequency; and 2) the angle at which a given signal hits that refraction point.Most of us knowledgeable hams who want to be able to maximize their ability to communicate by bouncing radio signals off the ionosphere, have learned by experience what works and what doesn't work. Often by much trial and error. (This is what is known as experience!) They have learned and also realize that what works today, may not work tomorrow, but it may work again the day-after-tomorrow. Even at the same time and on the same frequency! In fact...what works now, may not work five minutes from now!

Most of us have played pool or billiards. The object in those games is to bounce (or ricochet') a ball off of the opposite bumper. The more direct, or acute the angle that a ball hits the bumper, the closer it will return to it starting point. (E.g. - the side pocket near to you.) If you "glance the ball" off the bumper at an obtuse angle, it will "land" farther way from the starting point. (Hopefully, in the corner pocket.)

Radio signals behave in much the same way. Where they go, depends (in part) at what angle they are directed towards the ionosphere. NVIS (near vertical) go up, and down, land closer to the transmitting station, and may not interfere with distant stations. Low angle (aimed at the horizon) will land a long, long way away, but may not be heard by who you want to talk to.

Now, if the ionosphere was a straight edged surface like the bumper of a billiard table, it would be easier to calculate just where a signal might "bounce to" or land. (This is actually done using solid passive reflectors on mountains for micro wave communications.) But the ionosphere is curved and it consistently varies in thickness. Imagine that you are playing pool on a circular table! Imagine also the cushion is constantly changing in its softness. Now imagine that the table is constantly changing it's circumference. (Like the iris of the human eye or a camera.) That would make for a very challenging game of pool!

The ionosphere is constantly changing in all of these physical characteristics. Therefore, so does the refraction point (distance above the earth) vary for any given frequency. And...just as in billiards...the angle at which a signal "hits" that refraction point will determine how far it will "skip" or return to earth. To further complicate tings, the layer varies in thickness and intensity. If it didn't, the radio signals would be very specific as to where they land. When propagation is marginal, signal paths may actually be very selective. When band conditions are is optimal, signals on many frequencies may propagate well and be received over a wide footprint. This is often called signal scatter.

A few generalities to keep in mind:

1. 40 meters usually provides a better signal path during daylight hours for communications in the 100 to 800 mile range.2. 75-80 meters is usually better during daylight hours for communications in the 30-200 mile range.3. During daylight hours, when the MUF* is below 7 MHz, or when the 40 meter band "goes long", 75 meters may work.
4. 75-80 meters is usually better during nighttime hours. (40 meters tends to "go long" at night.)5. On 160, 80/75, and 40 meters, lower (30 ft. or less) horizontal antennas (NVIS**) are usually better for closer ranges.
6. Normally, the higher any antenna is (above ground) the lower the angle of radiation. (Good for DX...but not as good for NVIS.)
7. A vertical antenna has low angle of radiation, and probably will not get your signal "up and out" of a deep canyon or over another obstruction.

*MUF = Maximum Useable Frequency
** NVIS = Near Vertical Incident Signal http://www.emcomm.org/antenna/nvis.htm

The Right Tools

2007-05-18T10:34:00.000-07:00

by Ron Hashiro, AH6RH
Scotty, the engineer on the original Star Trek series, was always fond of saying "How many times do I have to tell you...use the right tool for the right job!" As an amateur radio operator involved in emergency communications, do you know what are some of the right tools of the trade? Let's take a look.
Mobile Radios While we like the convenience of a 3 or 5 watt walkie, nothing beats the transmitting distance and the receiver qualities of a 50 watt VHF mobile or a solid HF transceiver. A rubber ducky and a handie talkie really won't cut it for most emergencies that rely on direct simplex communications on level terrain over distances greater than about two to three miles. And a mobile radio has better intermod rejection than a handie. Living and working in Honolulu, we know what a miserable, frustrating time we get from intermod signals.
Antennas If you're insisting on using a rubber duck antenna, you're in big trouble. A rubber duck is really a rubber coated dummy load. To get better performance, you'll need something you can attach to a coax cable and get the antenna closer to a window (if you're inside a sealed air conditioned building) or outdoors to radiate your signal better while you're safe and comfortable inside.
For walkies, a collapsible quarter wave or half-wave "hot-rod" antenna is a start. You can also use a ribbon j-pole antenna. But for mobile radios, you need something that will dissipate 50 watts continuous and many of the commercial walkie antennas are designed for about 5 watts. A regular quarter wave ground plane, mobile magnetic mount antennas -- these are good, portable antennas that are small enough to be used to radiate through a window in a office building or school cafeteria being used as an evacuation shelter.
If you are using a fixed based station, do not be so quick in getting the highest gain vertical antenna you find. Gain is obtained by sacrificing the antenna's radiation pattern. Rather than choosing a 7 dB vertical that slams your signal 100 feet into the building next door, selecting a 3 dB vertical gives an omni-directional antenna with a boost in gain but still allows sufficient radiation from the side lobes to rise over mountains, condo buildings or bend around other obstructions.
A handy item is a portable three or four element beam. A 6 dB gain is worth a four times increase in transmitter power. More importantly, the four times increase in received signal is very handy for pulling out marginal signals. As an example, check out the 146-4 Back Pack from Arrow Antennas ( http://www.arrowantennas.com).
Coaxial Cables Let's face it. Without feedline, it's mighty hard to get a signal from your radio to the antenna. You would like to position the antenna near a window if you're high above the surroundings, or at least higher than the surrounding obstructions to get the signal out.
If you had a chance, hauling 50 or 100 feet of RG-8U would be an ideal medium loss HF, VHF and UHF feedline cable, but it's mighty bulky and heavy. Using RG-58U is smaller and lighter, but the losses at VHF and UHF starts to cut into your operations.
A compromise is RG-8X, which has the bulk of RG-58U but has loss characteristics close to that of RG-8U. The only "drawback" is that the reducers used with PL-259 coax connectors are the UG-176 variety (for 75 ohm RG-59U) rather than the standard 50 ohm UG-175 for RG-58U but that's a small inconvenience.
Headphones and Other Accessories Little things make a big difference. Using headphones and a boom mike will cut out the background noise in a busy, cluttered environment and will also keep your audio from blasting around an already noisy room.
To speed operations, you may want to also include a foot switch to key your radio with your foot to leave your hands free for writing messages and adjust the radio.
Something as simple as a clipboard ensures you'll have a smooth hard surface to write down messages clearly and legibly no matter where you are.
So, there you have it. A quick run through some simple things that make a big difference in responding to emergencies. Now, it's your turn to be like Scotty and say: "Use the right tool for the right job!"

The Importance of Ham

2007-02-22T07:38:00.000-08:00

Governor John E. Baldacci, KB1NXP
Thursday, February 22, 2007

In 1998, a massive ice storm hit the State of Maine. Thick sheets of ice made transportation nearly impossible. The amount of ice made traction difficult and the weight of the ice eventually became too much for power and telephone lines around the state. The University of Maine cancelled classes for more than a week and WVOM became a round-the-clock information source for people with battery-operated radios. With electricity and most forms of communication down, Governor King declared a state of emergency. During this time, Vice President Al Gore came to our state to look at the damage first hand. While he was here, he used a Ham Radio to communicate with Clarence from Dixmont. It was during that experience that I realized the importance of Ham Radio.

Rod Scribner was nice enough to help me out with my training and education for operating a ham radio. Rod would come to my office very early in the morning and would give me instructions and information. After months of training, I finally received my license in the fall of 2006…and it was a very proud day for me.

Throughout the training and in the days and months since receiving my license, I have realized the true importance of Ham Radios. The ice storm of ’98 opened my eyes to the fact that Ham Radio truly is the last form of communication when everything else goes down, but Ham Radio goes far beyond emergencies. It is a network – Ham Radio operators are all connected through the airwaves. I’ve heard from several operators who would do just about anything for anyone else. If I needed a part for my old lawn mower, I bet that if I put out a call on my Radio, someone would either have that part or let me know where I could find one. It reminds me of a “verbal Uncle Henry’s” of sorts. I have also heard a story of someone who fell down outside and couldn’t move – they put out a call over the Radio and an ambulance was dispatched almost immediately to pick him up.

Our days can all be somewhat hectic, stressful and overwhelming at times. I feel humbled to be a part of this network of almost 4,000 Ham Radio operators in Maine, 600,000 Ham Radio operators in the United States and 2 million Ham Radio operators in the world. The group of people that I have communicated with so far has been second to none and I look forward to staying in touch over the airwaves through the years. Should there ever be another emergency of ice storm proportions, I have my Ham Radio in my office next to my Homeland Security telephone. You can rest assured that Maine is in good hands.

John E. BaldacciGovernor

EMCOMM/ARES Procedures For Public Service Events

2007-02-20T12:09:00.000-08:00

Introduction
These Instructions are intended to answer questions that have arisen in the past from amateur radio operators who have volunteered their time to assist with the communications at various public events.Aside from normal net operating procedures (like the weekly emergency nets) there are some special considerations for public service events. These types of events includes; foot races, walk-a-tons, bike-a-thons and parades. Usually there is a coordinator, or "event manager" and and ask your question.Good luck and have fun.we usually have a radio operator assigned to that person. When in doubt call, through net control, the event manager

Net Operations
Always listen to net control. They are in charge and often have more information than you do.
Keep your transmissions short and to the point. There is no need for "chatter".
Think your transmission out before keying, this keeps your transmission short and avoids the "ah …'s"

Personal Professionalisum
Whether you want to or not, you are representing Hancock County EMCOMM, RACES or ARES in particular to the public who is often unfamiliar with our operations and our hobby.
Be on time, in the right location, dressed accordingly. No "holey clothes".
Have your batteries charged and radio on the correct frequency.
Have any extra gear or personal items prepared before hand. (i.e.; extra battery, hand mic for your HT, paper and pen, soda or water, snack / granola bar, etc.)
Know who net control is and, generally, who you are working with. (Who is the operator and call sign with the event manager?, etc.)
Know the basics of the event, lay out of the course, where the start/finish line is, where medical help is, where the bathrooms are, etc. As you look somewhat "official" with a radio; I guarantee, someone will ask you for help.
Urgencies or Emergencies
Medical;
Contact Net Control Immediately!
If there is a medical team at the event ask to "go direct" with your communications.
If you are qualified to administer some form of medical treatment ... call net control first! Get help rolling before you become entangled in rendering aid.
No one expects you (a medical layman) to perform any "medical procedures", you are a communicator. Communicate to net control and get medical / paramedical help there!
No one has "x-ray vision" and without the proper equipment or training it is very hard to tell a sprain / strain from a broken bone. Call for medical aid.
Any incident that you witness or are told about and you fell concerned about it (you feel an adrenaline rush); a fall, someone looking ill, insect sting (any and all), etc. should be reported! The decision is not up to you on whether to call for assistance or not! If an injury has been reported you must pass it on to medical personnel. The only people that can make the decision on whether or not to go to the hospital is; a doctor, nurse, paramedic or other health care provider or the patient themselves. Net control and/or the medical team should be contacted on ALL but the most slight injuries. It is much better to "roll an ambulance" than delay treatment in the least. Let the medical team determine "how bad it is". Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Lost Child;
This should be reported as soon as possible. Time can be an enemy.
Thankfully, more often than not these turn out to be "false alarms" or quickly salved mysteries.
In case there has been an "abduction" or injury time is essential.

Other;
Always remember; You Are A Communicator First! That is your job and your reason for being there. If you need / want to, call for assistance (back-up).
If you have a problem with the crowd, vehicle traffic, unruly people, etc. call net control for Police. If there is another kind of problem call for Fire / Rescue, medical support, the event manager or whom ever seem appropriate. You are far from "alone" out there.

"Sunday Session"

2007-02-12T05:34:00.000-08:00

There will be EMCOMM Packet Radio training session and a VE License Testing Session held on Sunday, March 18th, 2007 at Meadow View Apartments Phase 4 Dining Hall in Ellsworth where the EAWA meetings are held.(Go onto Union Street to Maine Coast Memorial Hospital, go 3/10 mile past hospital, Meadow View Entrance on right hand side, building appx 75 yards in on left, dining hall in center front of building).
The session will start at 1200 hours with the Testing Session open to all levels. VE Team leader Bruce, N1VLQ can be reached at bwor1@adelphia.net for further information.
The Packet session will start at 1330-1400 hrs. Bob, AA1PI is the contact person for further information, aa1pi@downeast.net .
For any further information contact Dick Small W1KRP at rsmall@downeast.net or 460-0093
or Everett Beal KA1BFA at ka1bfa@midmaine.com or 667-8642

How NOT to Act At a Command Post

2007-02-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

Tony Whobrey, KY4SP

As an amateur radio operator, sooner or later you will find yourself involved in an emergency operation where you have the opportunity to interact with one or more public safety agencies. This guide will help you to present yourself in the "manner expected" by most of these agencies. First and foremost when you arrive at the scene, place your vehicle in a location where as many people as possible will notice it. If there is already a public safety command post in place a good technique is to park as close to the door as possible so everyone has to squeeze by your car to get in or out. Leave the engine running, so everyone will see that you might have to leave on other important business at a moment's notice, this is an especially important point if you have a diesel powered vehicle. Be sure to lock the doors and leave all of the radios turned up really, really loud. If your vehicle has a PA or siren amplifier, use it to be sure your radios can be heard clearly - a loud feedback squeal when any portable radio is keyed within 40 yards indicates that the volume is about right. Once you have secured your vehicle, set all of your equipment up as close to the already established dispatch positions as possible. You will, of course need electric power; unplug the coffee pot and microwave oven and use these receptacles for your station. If this power source doesn't seem adequate, set up a portable generator and run extension cords in the command post door, then under the dispatcher's chair and over to your equipment. Turn your radio's volume up really loud, so you can hear it over the noise from your generator and other unimportant radios in the command post. After you are set up, take some time to tell the dispatcher how much more you know about his radio system than he does. Be sure and tell him that you talk to people thousands of miles away on your HF equipment at home, and have lots of QSL cards. Explain in minute detail how you have modified your radio for out-of-band use, the entire staff will be comforted by the fact that you can use your non-type accepted equipment on the department's licensed frequencies, should all of their carefully maintained stations simultaneously fail. Once you have done all this, expect many requests for advice, since dispatchers typically only know how to talk on 2 or more telephones and various radio channels simultaneously, and are completely in the dark when it comes to modifying radio equipment. Sometimes your assistance won't be needed in the command post itself; this affords you an opportunity to roam on foot throughout the operations area, in order to obtain a firsthand view of important events. Be sure to make your presence known to any group of 6 or more personnel that you find, they are sure to want your input in regard to a variety of operational matters. You may be asked to perform tasks that while in support of the overall operation do not involve the use of any of your radio equipment; don't be misled by such requests. Your time is far too valuable to waste on such mundane tasks, these people should have realized that they would need food and drink as the event progressed, and it is certainly not your fault that everyone present doesn't have a raincoat available. If news media are present, make sure they notice both of your portable radios, so they will understand that you are a vital part of the operation. If you are successful in this attempt, you might get on camera; if you are asked to speak, give as much information as you can, including any "inside" comments that you overheard while at the command post. Have at least one of your portables tuned to the incident commander's tactical frequency during the interview, and make sure that the reporter's microphone will pick it up clearly. Be sure to wear your call sign in at least 3 highly visible places (a large gold police-style badge is a good way to display your call) and use one of your portable radios as a handy pointer to emphasize your comments. Try to have some excuse to transmit on one or both of your portable radios while on camera. After the event is over remove your equipment as soon as possible, in order to have it immediately available for the next emergency that might arise. Don't be concerned if you have to step over or around others of ask them to delay their work while you load your equipment; they will surely understand the importance of your mission, since they have been walking around your vehicle with its radios blaring for hours.

Once you arrive home, kick back, have a well-deserved cup of coffee (wonder why that CP didn't have any?), and congratulate yourself on a job well done!

Note: This is a funny article..sad part is that this happens more than it should!

Plain Talk about Plain Language

2007-02-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

Bryce, K1GAX Maine ARES SEC

In the ICS/NIMS world, the emphasis is on the use of plain language for all message handling and communications. The use of codes are discouraged due to the probability of misunderstandings and lack of standardization. We, as ARES members have to conform to the to the plain language concept to ensure our communications are clear and fullyunderstood by everyone.It should be remembered that there are, on occasion, others listening toour communications (or perhaps even communicating with us) and that they may not understand our codes and jargon. Even within the amateur radio community, there are those that do not understand all of our codes and jargon. We, as hams, have our own "unique" set of codes and jargon. Hams have the tendency to carry over codes (the "Q" codes) used in CW toour normal day to day on the air conversations and in some cases, we have changed the meaning of the "Q" codes to reflect what we are saying invoice communications. Some examples of the changed "Q" codes are: QSL Classical meaning (in CW): "Can you acknowledge receipt?" or "I can acknowledge receipt."Common voice meaning: "Do you understand?" or "Yes" or "Roger"QTH Classical meaning (in CW): What is your position Latitude/Longitude?" or My position is Latitude/Longitude."Common voice meaning: "What is you location?" or "My location is."("What is your home QTH?" or "I'm at the home QTH")QSO Classical meaning (in CW): "Can you communicate with _____ directly or by relay?" or "I can communicate with _____ directly of by relay."Common voice meaning: A two way contact or conversationQSY Classical meaning (in CW): "Shall I change frequency to transmission on another frequency ( ___ kHz)?" or "I will change frequency of transmission to ____ kHz."Common voice meaning: Let's change frequency to ____ or I am changing frequency to ____." ("Let's QSY to '88' (meaning 146.88 repeater) or "I'm going to QSY to '88'.") (Has even been modified to a change in location("I'm going to QSY in the house.").You can see that the "Q" codes we use so frequently may not mean what they originally meant and besides, these were CW abbreviations for use on just that, CW. Many hams use the various other "Q" codes in regular conversation. At times, newer hams have no idea what they are talking about.Perhaps the "10" codes would be better used? Surely, the public service community has a standard for all "10" codes. Not true! The lower "10"codes mean about the same thing everywhere (through about 10-30), but above that they can have many different meanings. For example; 10-55 inMaine means a motor vehicle accident (usually followed with "with PI"(personal injury) or "with no PI". Believe it or not, this "10" code means something different in each of the New England states. That's not to mention the rest of the country. In Massachusetts, 10-55 means"Officer shot or stabbed", in St Lucie County it means "Car to Car", inVirginia it means "Intoxicated Driver", in Howard County it means"Officer being followed by an auto". As you can see, there's no standardization here.It is clear that codes or signals have no standardization and canactually lead to confusion or misunderstanding if used in disaster communications especially where agencies from many parts of the country or another state are responding. One other problem encountered in the use of codes and signals is that they may actually slow down the flow oftraffic. Some one from a served agency listening in to the flow of communications may stop the operator to ask what was being said. The receiving operator then has to stop and explain it. A receiving operatori n taking notes on a tactical message may have to stop and look up the meaning of a particular code or signal or even stop the transmission to ask what the sender is talking about. This only slows down communications. In writing things down, the receiving operator has totake the extra time to translate what was said before forwarding it to others at his or her served agency.As one can plainly see, codes and signals really have no place indisaster communications. The Federal government realized this and within ICS and NIMS requires communications to be in plain language that everyone can understand no matter who they are. We need to practice plain language in our ARES communications! I have heard time and again the old line that it's hard to break old habits. I don't agree with this. Our ability to adapt and change is what makes we humans different from the animals. It just takes an effort and thought on our part to change the way we do things.

73, Bryce, K1GAX

The Three P's Of Public Service

2007-01-26T07:28:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick reminder of what we consider the basic 3 P's of Public Service, which are always valid, but even more important in these times:

Preparedness
Ensuring your family is protected. You cannot help others as an Amateur Radio Operator if you have not planned for this. This requires:
Having a written Family Disaster Plan.
Maintaining a Family Disaster Supplies Kit with a minimum of three days food. This is not I probably have enough stuff in my cupboard, but food dated and stored for immediate evacuation if needed. At the very least, having such a kit prevents you from having to fight shopping lines when others panic or a snowstorm approaches, and thus makes you available for public service..
Keeping a minimum of a half a tank of fuel in all vehicles.
Knowing your county EMCOMM plans, including your county alert frequency and self-alerting assignments.
Having appropriate equipment, antenna kits and interchangeable emergency power sources.
Keeping batteries charged and generators tested.
Keeping your HT in your briefcase, purse, etc. with you during heightened alerts.

Proficiency
Knowing how government and agencies respond to disasters.
Knowing how amateur radio supplements them.
Knowing what to do and what not to do.
Maintaining skill in tactical and formal message handling.
Completing certification through the Emergency Communications courses.

Professionalism
Attitude - Helping, not hindering
Reliability - Being there when called
Flexibility - Doing what is needed to get the job done.
Thinking - Think before speaking especially concerning government/military operations or using your radio as a soapbox for political opinions.
Appearance - Representing Amateur Radio in a favorable light.

VOICE COMMUNICATIONS -- ITU PHONETICS, WHY?

2007-01-25T10:38:00.000-08:00

by D. W. Thorne, K6SOJ
The use of ITU phonetics in both tactical and formal message (record) traffic handling is essential for accurate and efficient communications. (I use them on a daily basis just to keep in practice.) It is my experience that some hams simply haven’t ever researched “the why”. Others just haven’t ever taken the time to learn them. From the earliest days of radiotelephone communications, several different “official” phonetic alphabets have been used. During WW II the British used one version, while the U.S. had another. Others forces had yet even different phonetic alphabets. In 1947 the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), adopted rules and procedures that standardized phonetics. The reason? TO SAVE LIVES. There are documented incidents where aircraft (and lives) have been lost as a result of phone traffic being misunderstood or unreadable as a result of non-standard phonetics and thereby miss-communication betweenpilots (usually by those whose primary language was not English) and ground control stations. In 1956 the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) adopted the ICAO phonetic alphabet. Today it is THE worldwide standard for military, naval, civilian aeronautical and maritime, search and rescue groups, public safety, (law enforcement being an exception); and...the A.R.R.L.
Below are a few reasons that the ITU Phonetic alphabet is used byproficient EMCOMM and NTS radiotelephone operators:1) It is the INTERNATIONAL standard. Operators for whom English is not their primary language can clearly spell out a word that is difficult to copy. Use of standard ITU phonetics is crucial under conditions of weak or poor propagation or interference. I know personally, of an incident, where EMERGENCY traffic (reporting a traffic accident), originated by an operatorwith a heavy foreign accent operator (who was visiting in the U.S.), calling for assistance on 2 meters FM was bungled, because the responding ham did not understand ITU phonetics.2) In handling RADIOGRAMS, or other traffic, a skilled operator that is familiar with ITU phonetics will automatically recognize that a phonetic is NOT part of the text of the message. If non-standard phonetics are used, it may confuse the receiving operator and delay the traffic.3) It sounds ”professional” and is efficient.ITU phonetics with the correct pronunciation:
A--Alfa “AL-FAH”
B--Bravo “BRAH-VOH”
C--Charlie “CHAR-LEE” or “SHAR-LEE”
D--Delta “DELL-TAH”
E--Echo “ECK-OH”
F--Foxtrot “FOKS-TROT”
G--Golf “GOLF”
H--Hotel “HOH-TELL”
I--India “IN-DEE-AH”
J--Juliett “JEW-LEE-ETT”
K--Kilo “KEE-LOH”
L--Lima “LEE-MAH”
M--Mike “MIKE”
N--November “NO-VEM-BER”
O--Oscar “OSS-CAH”
P--Papa “PAH-PAH”
Q--Quebec “KEH-BECK”
R--Romeo “ROW-ME-OH”
S--Sierra “SEE-AIR-RAH”
T--Tango “TANG-GO”
U--Uniform “YOU-NEE-FORM” or “OO-NEE-FORM”
V--Victor “VIK-TAH”
W--Whiskey “WISS-KEY”
X--X-ray “ECKS-RAY”
Y--Yankee “YANG-KEY”
Z--Zulu “ZOO-LOO”
Numbers pronunciation:
0 - “ZEE-RO”
1 - “WUN”
2 - “TOO”
3 - “TH-UH-REE” or “TREE”
4 - “FOW-ER”
5 - “FI-IV” or “FIFE”
6 - “SIX”7 - “SEV-EN”
8 - “ATE” or “A-IT”
9 - “NIN-ER”
DECIMAL = “DAY-SEE-MAL”

ANOMALIES and IDIOSYNCRASIES:1 - To distinguish “Z” from “C” on phone, it is common practice to say “zed” (an old British phonetic) for “Z”, especially when saying a call sign. “Zed” is shorter (one syllable vs. two for “zulu”.) However, in formal traffic, the ITU: “ZULU” is more correct and proper.2 - “ROGER” (an early phonetic) is still used for “received” (equivalent of sending “R” in Morse) - It does NOT mean “yes” or “affirmative”. It only means: “I have received your message completely.”

Stay "Tuned"

2007-01-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

Look for a EMCOMM meeting with a training session to be held soon in either February or March on a Sunday. The session will take place at Meadow View Phase 4 dining hall where the EAWA meetings are held. The morning will consist of an EMCOMM meeting and an EMCOMM Training session to be announced. After a lunch break, the afternoon will be a Packet Session refresher with emphasis on Packet's usage in EMCOMM situations.

Stay “Tuned” for further information.

As always for further Hancock County EMCOMM information contact:
Everett KA1BFA at 667-8642, ka1bfa@midmaine.com
Or
Dick W1KRP at 460-0093, rsmall@downeast.net
EMCOMM Repeater: open machine, 146.910 with a 151.4 tone

EMCOMM Repeater Reminder

2007-01-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

Just a note to let everyone know that the Hancock County EMCOMM repeater is back up and running. The repeater was down for a shot time due to equipment defects causing failure to the system. The repeater was back up and running a couple of weeks ago due to the work of Jim, N1NTM who has dedicated quite a bit of time to this project, thanks Jim! Also the machine 146.910 (151.4 tone) is an open repeater that all licensed Amateur Radio Operators are urged to use. We have had good signal reports with operators checking in from Rockport, Hermon and “Tropical” Milbridge! Please use it whenever you wish.

Lets Try Again!

2007-01-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are again! The blog we had up and running to spread information in reference to what was going on in Hancock County EMCOMM..well..vanished! Blogspot.com was in the process recently of reformatting so I will blame them, hi hi.
Anyway, this blog is as stated above for the posting of information pertaining to EMCOMM operations here in Hancock County Maine. It is recommended that you check in often to see what is going on. It will take us a while to get back up to speed, but hopefully within a few days it will be back, going full speed.
Any questions or comments don’t hesitate to contact me at rsmall@downeast.net.73~W1KRP