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08635 The experts haveevaluated the AR5000 and haveconcluded that there is nothingin its classon today's marketthat comesclose. The AR5000has the competitive edge with widerfrequency coverage, advanced circuitdesign, computer control ofall functions, front end design,IF filtering,dynamic range, low powerconsumption andmore. WIDER FREQUENCY COVERAGE KEY FEATURES SPECTRAL DISPLAYREADY RS232 C remote viacomputer. DUAL ANTENNAINPUTS AGC fast, med, slow. OFF. COMPUTER CONTROL 1000 memory channels (100chX 10 banks) MULTIPLE VFO's 2100 Pass Frequencies lin additionto memory) Specifications are guaranteedover the full range of SCAN CONTROL 10kHz to 2600 N1Hz. SUPERIOR SENSITIVITY Built in preamp andattenuator local/RS232. TWO TUNINGCONTROLS 20 search banks: 20 pairs ofstart/stop frequencies Triple conversion 1st IF 622, VOICE CONTROLLEDSQUELCH 2nd 10.7MHz,3rd 455kHz Metal cabinet: more ruggedand reduced RFI
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AOR, LTD. 2-6-4Mind', Taito-Ku,Tokyo. 111 Japan (c) 1995 AOR, LTD. * Cellular blocked; licensed under US. Pat. 4.270.217 Unblocked OK to FCCapproved users. CIRCLE Am& EEB U. S. # 1 RADIO OUTLET mow OUR 25th YEAR!!!
Experience the DAVIS Weather WizardIII BEARCAT BCT-7 4 BEARCAT BCT-10 miracle of seeing It's that time of year again BearTracker with alert. Programmed by state. punch AOR AR5000 In the dark when everyone needs a NOTHING LIKE IT IN IT's CLASS Now low cost night visnm aather stationThe ltlA3s pre-programmed. by state. in sour state and hear police scopes are as ailablefrom \THER CB + 50 ch. you can Is, alert with meter. 10kHz - 2600MHz* sia that offer quality opn, 7 \RD III Superior Sensitivity bright images and corn!, program. ant portable size at a Ides Cascade I.F. filtering fraction of the he 6 Filter B.W. +1 Opt. cost other k i waist scopes. 95 Memory 1000 + 2100 pass NV200 s MI need 'LX:111 Scan/Search 258 & 45 ch/sec. Special $1 69 RS232C of all functions u. 80915EEB$288SALE $1 54.95 SALE $169 Built-in decoder DTMF SONY ICFSW7600G AOR AR7030 AOR AR8000 Option CTCSS and Voice Inversion SANGEN New Our NEW-UNBELIEVABALEI Scan .1 - 2 Ant. ports, Opt. to 8 ports Leading. I 900MHz*, All Biggest ATS9139 edge EW mode with SSB. Price class $2000 Seller! Receiver 100kHz- 1000 memory. All Rated 4 30MHz. stars by 10x100ch., SWL. 411 RS232. Synchronous detection. SSB. 88 IBS Passport in April MT. Opt. Software 108MHz 0 - 32MHz. All mode, Key input. 22 memory ,NEW, Synchro, Bullet proof front LIST $799 channels. Opt AC not LIST $349.95 end. wide dynamic range. included! FREE Radio stand look out Drake and JRC SALE $588 CALL NOW $179 for Intro Price SALE $11 aq l'TOELECTRIC SCOUT
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Curers ALI. SW bands, plus local \\l An all time favorite! VRANNI/Scoutpackage deal.. and FM stations with 40 memories. AM/FM/SWLRadio Our discount price $11139 AR2.7W1cuutpatkaee clock :mid .lams in a compact package .1-30MHz & 88-108MHz FREE Radio stand with purchase Covers Our discount psi, 45 memories ,SALE $379.95. Wage Includes Scout SALE $1 7 9.(3, AM/FM/SSB/CW stainer with modifications SANGEAN ATS818 cable system checkout Dual time display/ JIM Pream 1 yr warranty .1-30MHz. 88-108MHz. LOWE HF150 Alarm, digital clock. AM, CW. SSIJ. FM. SAVE Ferrite AM and whip 11:=3) over S1(10. Rugged HF, Full covernec Liss better FREE excellent audio. Dynal, FM antennas. SW/ than scanner front WATsON Radio Syn- FM & external. 4 D 1 end, hear those weak stations ,.! stand with chro cell not incl. 120VAC purchase and clear. pit rx AM. adaptor incl.list between ant.1r it I LIST much $239.95 ssanner. I I $239.95 '151 !,5,,01, I 900MHi connector. more. NE NEI k ()SLY $149.95p 00 $49.95 317.1 -s19.95 SALE $149.95 Our Jan PC ad prise W801 $649.95 PACKAGE DEAL W881$29.95 MIS $149.95 W889$19.95 Drake R8A SALE $5 1 9 unaiog lime to UpGrade 1995 Passport $19.95 Buyer's Guide GESUPERADIOII EEB Radio Stand $9.95 4 Stan IBS). over 12 Puts the (Se are in the process of putting together our new 1997 improvements over R8. fun back in Reel antenna ANT60 $13.95 full line catalog, you should receise yours by mid - AM/FM October if sou are on our mailing list..., CAL1/FAX/ DX'ing. Regular EEB cost $193.80 WRITE us. and we'll put you on the list I areer THIS WEEK ONLY$153.80 Tina. 4 AEI stages. Every one needs ICC0INA 128500 Now Just $106 .reat sounding radio. SAVE $40 Ikift5944M.Ian I IT's NEW...IT's FANTASTIC Midland 79-290 SALE $59 100kHz - 2000MHz' Sound Feeder HFROKEE Improved Audio World's 1st COBRA h SEE OUR SSB/AM ies 4 Filter B.W. Mobile wi HH-70 vet the most CB AD Memory 900 + 100 pass Deucheabk ALL Controls practical control pane in Mic, Secure way to con- THIS RS232 and CI -V Control Rugged Metal (2) HF Antenna ports (1) VHF/UHF Install. No unit nect your ISSUE !!! Cabinet 7 Channel WX/Alert visible. 40th., 3.?portable CD. cassette or Auto Freq. control Inst. Ch. 9 Mic 4Watts Out. radio to your car's exist- Audio Peak Filter Mounts Model 79-2% The Hottest Selling ing FM radio speakersystem. L1ST.S399.95 CB on the Market! Pass Band Tuning SALE 5249, LIST $169.95 SALE $29.95 Price Class $2000 SALE $97 SONY SW1005 SONY ICF2010 Scancat Shirt pocket sized. 1CF2010 32 mem . Gold . Big performance. 50 ch. COBRA 2010GTL direct Software TheUltimate AM/SSB access mem.. system incl. active Complete antenna, AC adaptor. base with weather Alertl keypad. 40 ch....! SWR/Mode scan and control of all func ions Headset, Case, more. supported by the radio list $499.95 & Signal meter I3.8VDC manual or120VAC Digital freq. tuning, clock. AM. FM. SW through the standard manufacturer's interface. indicator.1,1$659.95 Airband. ( h1.1p1 I -30/88- 108/116-136MHz Supports many radios... CALL for full details. CALL FOR QUOTE SALE $349.95 SALE377 SALE $344 SALE $94.95 323 Miii St. Orders: 800 368 3270 Prices subject to change Vienna, VA. INFO/Metro: 703 938 3350 Prices do not include freight 22180 BBS: 703 938 3781 Returns subject up to 200o restock fee FAX: 703 - 938 6911 Internet:[email protected] FREE 1996 Catalog, 3rd Class, U.S. POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS NOVEMBER 1996 VOLUME 15, NUMBER 3
ON THE COVER: A Houston, Texas police CPgaILAR officer, Wendell Chance, uses a computer "CAD" !!anno,.u rsok,"Niciv..s system in his car. This computer system replaces voice radio. Houston, TX Police Dept. Photo by Larry Mulvehill, WB2ZP1.
FEATURES Finding Broadcasting's True Roots 8 page 36 Alice Brannigan explains where today's pioneer stations really began! By Alice Brannigan
Class D CB: The Service That Technology Forgot 12 Unchanged for years, it's time to transform CB before we see a revival of the "channel wars." Here's one possibility. By Bill Pasternak, WANTF
ram aggikliga,-Mill Milli 14611.1.4.%.1111.14,11111b Radio News 16 An exclusive product review of the new Optoelectronics Xplorer.By Ed Griffin Product Spotlight 60 Find out what PerCon Corporation's new CD-ROM Databasescan do for you! 11111r111.110 By W. W. Smith
E COLUMNS
page 44 Radio Resources (You Should Know) 20 The Pirate's Den 28 Antennas & Things 30 Scanning The Globe (Scanning VHF/UHF) 32 The Radio Connection 36 World Band Tuning Tips 40 Product Parade 42 The Listening Post 44 Clandestine Communiqué 50 Broadcast DXing 52 CB Scene 64 Communications Confidential 68 The Ham Column 74 The Loose Connection 76 DEPARTMENTS Tuning In (Editorial) 4 Pop'Comm P.O. (Mailbag) 6 How I Got Started 24 Reader Survey page 64 27 Readers' Market (Communications Shop) 77
2 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE QUALITY COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT SINCE 1942 AMATEUR RADIO EQUIPMENT0 COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVERS KENWOODYAESU ICOMJRC YAESTTKENWOOD JRC DRAICE giSTAN DA Pr LOWE 0 ALINCO ICOM Universal has been selling the finest in new and used amateur radio equipment Universal Radio carries an excellent selection of new and since 1942 and is an authorized sales and service center for all major lines. used communications receivers. JRC NRD-535D shown. RTTY AND FAX DECODERS COMMERCIAL RECEIVERS Universal M -8000v7 Decoder Designed primarily for the military miii II .M .11 ...... or commer- IIII IN MI_ "." II cialuser, The Watkins -Johnson HF-1000 is tl-e ultimate receiver! ?.-* it) the M-8000 IN IN Advanced D.S.P. technology, 58 bandwidths, 1 Hz display. can be used Under $4000. Please contact us to re:eive a spec. sheet. by the hobbyist who requires maximum intercept capability. The color VGA output includes a spectral display and simulated tuning scope. Modes include: CW, PORTABLE RECEIVERS Baudot, FAX, SITOR, ARO-M2 & M4, ARO-E/E3, AR06-90, ARO-S, SWED- ARQ, FEC-A, FEC-S, POL-ARQ, GMDSS, ASCII, Packet, Pactor, Piccolo, VFT, GRUFIDIG ACARS, POCSAG and GOLAY. Monitor & printer optional. #0087 $1399.00 (+S11) Universal M-400 Reader The self-contained Universal M-400 0 SONY reader decodes: Baudot, SITOR A & B, ICOM FEC-A, ASCII, SWED-ARO. Weather FAX ( to the printer port), ACARS aviation SANGC-AN teletype, plus GOLAY and POCSAG Universal offers over 40 portable receivers from $20 to over (512/1200/2400) digital pager modes. $500. Our free catalog fully describes & prices all models. Even off -the -air decoding of DTMF, CTCSS and DCS. Big two-line, 20 cha 'ac - COMMUNICATIONS BOOKS sq ter LCD and parallel printer port. The M-400 runs from 12 VDC or with the supplied Passport To Worldband Radio 1997 By L. Magne v AC adapter. No computer or monitor is required. #0400 $399.95 (+$7) Graphic presentation of all shortwave broadcast stations. Universal ACT -1 ACARS Decoder Equipment reviews, too. Sale to 11/30/9E $19:95 $14.90(+52) World Radio TV Handbook Combine your scanner and PC with the Univer- All shortwave broadcast stations organized by country with sal ACT -1 to monitor ACARS, the commercial schedules, addresses, power, etc. $24.95 (+$2) aviation teletype mode. Easy hookup to your Worldwide Aeronautical Frequency Dir. By R. Evans serial port. The ACT -1 includes features not The definitive guide to commercial and military, HF and VHF - found on other units. You can select which fields UHF aeronautical communications incl iding ACARS. Huge will be displayed to the screen or printer. Search Second Ed. 260 p.Sale to 11 30 96 S1rr95 $17.90 (+$2) on user -defined strings. View, search and print previously logged intercepts. S.W. Receivers Past & Present 2^dEd. By F. Osterman Includes a free copy of Understanding ACARS. #0032 $99.95 (4$6) Your guide to over 500 receivers, 1945- late with new & used values, photos, specifications and feat ires.$19.95 (+$2) Guide to Utility Stations By J. Klingen fuss HUGE FREE CATALOG Simply the best guide to non -broadcast stations. 14,500 The new 1996 Universal Summer Catalog #96-07 frequencies CW, SSB, AM, RTTY and FAX.$39.95(+$2) covers everything for the shortwave, amateur Discover DXing! By J. Zondlo and scanner enthusiasts.With prices, photos An introduction to DXing AM, FM and -V. $4.95(+$2) and informative descriptions.This 100 page Understanding ACARS By E. Flynn catalog is FREE by bookrate, or for $2 by First Learn how to decode the ACARS format. $9.95(+$2) Class mail.Rising postage costs prevent us Be sure to include $2 per ti le for shipping. `rom sending this catalog out automatically so request your copy today! SPECIALS Grundig YB-400 LW/MW/SW/FM Digital Receiver Rated "Best performance for price/siza category in Pass- Universal Radio, Inc. port. Features: full coverage, keypad, wide/narrow selec- 6830 Americana Pkwy. tivity, clocks, SSB and 40 memories. $199.95 (+$6) Reynoldsburg, Ohio Factory -Reconditioned Grundig vB-400 Best Value! 43068-4113 U.S.A. Like -new, same acts. and 1 year warranty. $149.95 (+$6) VISIT UNIVERSAL RADIO ON THE INTERNET lr 800 431-3939 Orders & Prices http://www.universal-radio.com Tr 614 866-4267 Information Visa Prices and specs. are subject to change. -0614 866-2339 FAX Line MasterCard Returns subject to a 15% restocking fee. [email protected] Discover Used equipment list available on request. BY HAROLD ORT, N2RLL, SSB 596 POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS Tuning In EDITORIAL STAFF Harold Ort, N2RLL, SSB-596,Editor AN EDITORIAL (Internet e-mail: PopularCom aol.com) Tom Kneitel, K2AES/KNY2AB,Senior Editor Nancy Barry, SSB-931,Associate Editor (Internet e-mail. NancyPCmagdaol.com) To Scan... .. or Not to Scan Richard S. Moseson, NW2L,Online Coordinator CONTRIBUTING EDITORS This month, we're giving one of our a cordless or cellular phone.isn't one of Peter J. Bertini, KIZJH,Restoration/Electronic, readers, Robert Leef, a chance to them. Call me old-fashioned, stubborn or Joe Carr, K4IPV,Antennas sound off. If you feel strongly BillCole,Computer -aided Radio even paranoid, but you won't be calling Gerry L. Dexter,Shortwave Broadcast about a radio issue, drop us a line or sendme on the airwaves. Strange isn't it, that Donald E. Dickerson, N9CUE,Satellites an e-mail and we'll give you a shot at be- with all the two-way radios I've been Jock Elliott, SSB-734,Citizens Band ing featured in the guest editorial position. using for all these years, that I wouldn't Bob Evans,ACARS Bob is the founder of the Radio Com-have another couple of "radios" to com- Chuck Gysi, N2DUP,Scanning munications Monitoring Association and Kirk Kleinschmidt,NTOZ,Amateur Radio municate from the backyard or out on the Tim Kridel,AM/FM Broadcasts Crest (CA) REACT. He is also the authorinterstate? Besides, I can use the exercise Ted Lisle, KD4EXK,Handi-Chat of many radio related articles. His topicwalking 15 feet to the phone; we've got Capt. William Mauldin, WG4R,Radio Resources is, "Are CB Radios 180 degrees Offfour of them, so wherever we are-even John McColman,Computer -aided Radio Course?" Here's his opinion: in the backyard, it never rings more than Pat Murphy,Pirate Radio "I have a feeling like the ship is sail- four or five times before it's answered. Bill Price, N3AVY,Humor/Communications Don Schimmel,Utility Communications ing in the wrong direction. What do you It's a sure bet, though, that most of our W.W. Smith,Product Reviews think? CB radios have a switch that you hard -worked and talkative lawmakers in Edward Teach,Alternative Radio can use to immediately change to Chan- Washington and all of the state capitols J.T. Ward,Scanning nel 9 for emergencies. Sounds like a great have more cordless and cellular phones Gordon West, WB6NOA,Emergency idea. The implication of someone always than all 7,000 RadioShack stores com- ready to help, a sense of safety and con- BUSINESS STAFF bined! No, I haven't asked any profes- Richard A. Ross, K2MGA,Publisher venience. But what happens in many- sional survey -taker about this, it's just a Donald R. Allen, N9ALK,Advertising Mgr. or most-areas of the country? Nothing.gut feeling I've got. It makes sense to me Emily Kreutz,Sales Assistant No answer. Monitoring organizationsthat those folks who are doing the wheel- John Dorr, K lARGeneral Manager such as REACT depend on volunteers, ing and dealing on the cellular phones Frank V. Fuzia,Controller and this can be unpredictable. The Chan- Simon Schatzmann,Circulation Director have the most to lose when ordinary folks Catherine Ross,Circulation Manager nel 9 switch is frequently useless. like you and me overhear their conversa- Melissa Nitschke,Operations Manager Why not instead, build into every CBtions on our scanners. Jean Sawchuk,Data Processing radio a priority scan feature that makes Same is true about the many-and Denise Pyne,Customer Service the radio switch to Channel 9 whenbelieve me there are plenty-of places there's a call? Now everybody in range is PRODUCTION STAFF where the cops consider you an enemy of Elizabeth Ryan,Art Director listening, no matter what channel they the state if you listen to their comms on Barbara McGowan,Associate Art Director were on. your scanner. They don't really expect Edmond Pesonen,Electronic Comp. Mgr. It CAN and has been done. In the past, privacy. They know that the small per- Dorothy Kehrwieder,Production Manager SBE Linear Systems, Inc. used to have a centage of criminals who are dealing the Emily Kreutz,Assistant Production Manager CB that was similar in idea. The technol- Pat Le Blanc,Phototypographer drugs, or are involved in car theft rings Hal Keith,Technical Illustrator ogy is available. Hello Cobra, Uniden, and other assorted scams could care less Larry Mulvehill, WB2ZPI,Photographer Maxon and RadioShack-are you outabout you, your life or possessions, and A publication of there? Let's get on the right course." won't blink at an anti -scanner law like the CO Communications, Inc. Bob LeefECPA or the latest version of legislation 76 North Broadway that makes it illegal to tune in cordless Hicksville. NY 11801-2953 USA phones. These are laws designed with you Guaranteed Privacy? Offices. 76 North Broadway. Hicksville, NY 11801. Telephon, and me in mind; the average Joe or Sue (516) 681-2922. FAX (516) 681-2926. Popular Cornrnunicat.on. (1SSN-073-3315) is published monthly by CQ Communications, Inc When was the last time you walked who, for whatever reason, listens to all Second class postage paid at Hicksville, NY and additional offices through the mall talking to a friend orkinds of communications, and yes, may- Subscription prices (payable in U.S. dollars): Domestic-one yaw $22.95. two years $41.00, three years $60.00. Canada/Mexicc- leaned over the fence gossiping with yourbe to cordless and cellular conversations. one year $32.95. two years $61.00. three years $96.00. Foreign- I'm not going to get into the controversy one year $34.95. two years $65.00. three years $96.00. Foreign Air neighbor? There you were, blabbing the Mail-one year $82.95. two years $161.00. three years $240.00. time away, not concerned about whoabout why folks listen to these comms, or U.S. Government Agencies: Subscriptions to Popular Commun- ications are available to agencies of the United States government. could hear you or, for that matter if youany other comms for that matter. Some including military services. only on a cash with order basis. Requests folks like to wear button-down collars, for quotations. bids, contracts, etcwill be refused and will not be could listen to others around you. So returned or processed what's the difference between this sce-some don't. Entire contents copyright C 1996 by CQ Communications. Inc Popular Communications assumes no responsibility for unsoliciie nario and using your cordless or cellular The problem I have is with laws that manuscripts. photographs. or drawings Allow six weeks for change phone? There is none. have no business on the books in the first of address or delivery of first issue Printed in the United States of America. Of all the technological marvels I own, (Continued on page 79) Postmaster. Please send change of address to Popular Communi- cations. 76 North Broadway. Hicksville. NY 11801.
4 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE acounter,arecdticier, No -Line NMEA-0183 GPS Interface, -Connect displays your GPS to the switches b Xplorer for Mappirg Xlligt611 CTCSS, DCS, D applications. Strength, or Nume Deviation. The New Xplorer Test Receiver. Ideal for any two-way communications testing or monitoring. The Xplorer is a value packed performer integrating the functions of a CTCSS,DCS,and DTMFDecoder, Frequency Recorder, Nearfield Receiver and more into one hand-held unit. No more I guessing when programming a frequency for monitoring -the Xplorer captures nearfield Built-in Speaker. All _fir- frequencies off the air from 30MHz - 2GHz quencies received are demodulated forinstant in less than I second. The New Xplorer; pro- monitoring. viding the power of handheld portability with state of the art functionality and performance. ...ond the lack insitrurrnnt you will ever NLID. Easy touch control pad. F I & F2 ( Features & Specifications) keys control all Xplorer func- Frequency Lock Out, Manual Skip, and Auto or Manual Hold tions. Hold, Skip, Store Intemal Speaker, Audio Earphone/Headphone Jack and Lockout all enabled Built-in PC Interface, PC Connection Cable and Download Software included through the keypad. Relative ten segment Signal Strength Bargraph Optimum Maximized Sensitivity for increased nearfield distance reception Tape Control Output with Tape Recorder Pause control relay and DTMF Encoder for audio data recording High speed FM Communications Nearfield Receiver, sweeps 30MHz - 2GHz in less than 1 second wo line LCD displays Frequency and either CTCSS, DCS, DTMF, Deviation or Signal Strength EA -0183 GPS Interface provides tagging data with location for mapping applications quency Recording Memory Register logs 500 frequencies with Time, Date, Number of Hits and ude/Longitude. (Latitude & Longitude coordinates are only displayed in memory when used with GPS) Time Clock/Calendar with lithium battery back-up t -in Rapid Charge NiCad Batteries with 5 hour discharge time and Power Supply included merical Deviation Display with 1-10kHz and 10-100kHz ranges lescoping Whip full range Antenna included croRrDIRECT ORDER LINE 800.327.5912 owrwrioftsms Airmsmo%Nik snowmen®
e Ft Lauderdale, FL 33334 Tel: 954-771-2050 Fax: 954-771-2052 D. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation CheekOut Our ontact Optoelectronics.for mapping software availability. Web Site: om 52 ON READER SERVICE CARD op PopsCommP.O. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Each month we select representative read- Just Like Dad? Dear Trevor: er letters for our Pop'Comm P.O. column. Agreed. From now on you'll be seeing We reserve the right to condense lengthy Dear Editor: more reader's letters and opinions, along letters for space reasons and to edit to con- with shack photos and QSLs-that is pro- form to style. All letters submitted must be I have been messing with all kinds of signed and show a return mailing address radio stuff for about 34 years. Now myvided we can convince folks to send more or valid e-mail address. Upon request, we little girl is 5 years old and she has begunof them in! will withhold a sender's name if the letter playing with radios and computers. I is used in Pop'Comm P.O. Address letters enjoy playing with all of what I have, but Bad Apples Leave to: Harold Ort, N2RLL, SSB-596, Editor, just to see her wanting to know about the Bitter Taste Popular Communications,76 N. Broad- radios makes me feel great. Who knows, 111111111.11111M= way, Hicksville, NY 11801-2909, or send maybe she will be like her daddy? Dear Editor: e-mail via the Internet to
6 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Special Pre -Holiday Savings Lentini Comm., Inc. Sale at Participating Dealers Newington CT 800 666 0908 CS -201 COAXIAL SWITCH Allen Electronics Professionally engineered cavity Minonk, IL 309 432 2075 construction from the originator Tucker Electronics of the cavity type coaxial switch. Garland, TX Lifetime Warranty!!! 800 527 4642 DAIWA R >3 L Electronics Specifications Hamilton, OH Frequency Range (up to): 600 MHz 800 221 7735 Power Rating: 2.5 kW PEP Universal Radio Inc. I kW CW Reynoldsburg, OH VSWR: below 0.12 800 431 3939 Insertion Loss: less than 0.2 dB Professional Wireless Isolation: 60 dB 600 MHz S0239 Orlando, FL Connector: 407 240 2880 Ouput Ports: 2 K COMM Inc. San Antonio, TX Profe%%ionally Engineered High -Isolation Cavity Conctrurtion 800 344 3144 Brownsville Sales Co. Special priceof$119.95 $10OFF LIST!!! Stanley, WI 715 644 2112 CN-101PWR/SWR Meter Ham Radio Outlet All 12 Locations Daiwa's best selling cross See ad this publication needle meter. Coverage Electronic Equipment Bank Vienna, VA from 1.8-150MHz, 800 368 3270 perfect for your amateur Mike's Electronics base station,use all the Ft. Lauderdale, FL 305 491 7110 way thru the 2M band. Ham Station Evansville, IN Specifications 800 729 4373 Type: Cross Needle Grove Enterprises Frequency Range: 1.8 - 150MHz Brasstown, NC Power Range: 15/150/1.5kW Connector Type: UHF 800 438 8155 \lin. SWR Detect: <4W DAIWA Ray's Amateur Electronics High Point, NC OFF LIST!!! 800.845.5338 Special price of$69.95 $50 Amateur Electronic Supply All Locations Jun's Electronics Participating Dealers Culver City, CA 800.882.1343 Electronic Distributors Radio City FOR MORE SPECIALS...325 Mill Street Mounds View 800.426.2891 BE SURE TO LOOK IN UPVienna, VA. 22180 BAMCOM Communications COMING ISSUES OF: 703 938 8105 Chalmette, LA FAX 703 938 4525 800.238.8696 Michigan Radio POPULAR Exclusive North Er South Warren, MI COMMON' CATIONS American Distributors 800.878.4266 Burghardt Amateur /A.Virrnalitcew Watertown, SD lUalatiMaD 800.927.4261 Metrosoft Corporation New York, NY Order Early! 212.545.9757 Offer good thru 11/15/96
CIRCLE 130 ON READER SERVICE CARD Finding Broadcasting'sTrue Roots We Learn Where Today's Pioneer StationsReally Began! BY ALICE BRANNIGAN
n the September issue, we wrote about how most modern-day AM stations 1claiming to have continued operating Existing Stations with 1922 Airdates since radio's early era have experienced call letter, frequency, ownership, and (Includes stations on in 1921 and before) even location changes since commencing operation in 1922. Some have changed so Present ('all City Airdate Original Call many times, we noted, that we wondered Letters Letters if those stations were fully justified in claiming a direct lineage from the 1922 WAPI Birmingham, AL Apr. 1922 WSY Birmingham station they claim as their original ances- KOY Phoenix, AZ 9/6/22 KFCB Phoenix tor. On the other hand, we mentioned that KTAR Phoeniz, AZ 6/21/22 KFAD Phoenix it is standard broadcast industry practice KVTO Berkeley, CA 6/11/22 KRE Berkeley to do this, and harm is neither intended KMJ Fresno, CA 3/23/22 KMJ Fresno nor done by the practice, although it can KKHJ Los Angeles, CA 4/13/22 KHJ Los Angeles make things confusing for both histori- KFI Los Angeles, CA 4/16/22 KFI Los Angeles ans and archivists. KWKW Los Angeles, CA 4/23/22 KJS Los Angeles To the rescue, our good friend, Jan D. KDIA Oakland, CA 3/10/22 KLS Oakland Lowry, of Broadcast Pro -file. BP -F is a KNEW Oakland, CA 5/3/22 KLX Oakland professional broadcast station research KFBK Sacramento, CA 9/2/22 KFBK Sacramento service. Jan saw our September issue and KPOP San Diego, CA 7/14/22 KFBC San Diego shared with us his state -by -state listing of KCBS San Francisco, CA 12/9/21 KQW San Jose all existing AM broadcasters claiming a KNBR San Francisco, CA 4/17/22 KPO San Francisco KWG lineage to 1922 (or earlier), showing the Stockton, CA 12/7/21 KWG Stockton KLZ claimed starting date plus the station's Denver, CO 3/10/22 KLZ Denver WDRC Hartford, CT claimed original 1922 call letters and 12/10/22 WPAJ New Haven WDEL Wilmington, DE 7/22/22 WHAV location. Of course, there may well have Wilmington WDAE Tampa, FL 5/17/22 WDAE been numerous other call letters in use Tampa WSB Atlanta, GA 3/15/22 WSB Atlanta between 1922 and the present, but that is WMAZ Macon, GA 10/30/22 WMAZ Macon not within the scope of this information. KGU Honolulu, HI 5/11/22 KGU Honolulu We think this is a chart that radio his- KIDO Boise, ID July 1922 KFAU Boise tory buff will find useful and worth keep- WCAZ Carthage, IL 5/17/22 WCAZ Quincy ing for future reference. Therefore, this WGN Chicago, IL 5/19/22 WDAP Chicago month's column is devoted to presenting WEJM Chicago, IL 5/22/22 WAAF Chicago this invaluable data for our readers. WMAQ Chicago, IL 4/12/22 WGU Chicago Thanks to Jan for sending it along! WDZ Decatur, IL 4/4/22 WDZ Tuscola Broadcast Pro -File can prepare highly WILL Urbana, IL Apr. 1922 WRM Urbana detailed histories of any American AM, WTRC Elhart, IN Jul. 1922 WJAK Stockdale, OH FM, or TV broadcast station, past or pre- WSBT South Bend, IN 7/3/22 WGAZ South Bend sent. Rates are quite reasonable, and the WBAA W. Lafayette, IN 4/5/22 WBAA W. Lafayette service is heavily used by broadcast sta- W01 Ames, IA 4/28/22 W01 Ames tions, themselves. A complete catalog of WMT Cedar Rapids. IA 7/30/22 WJAM Cedar Rapids BP -F services is $1. Broadcast Pro -File KDMI Cedar Rapids, IA 7/29/22 WKAA Cedar Rapids has a new address: 28243 Royal Road, WSUI Iowa City, IA 6/26/22 WHAA Iowa City Castaic, CA 91384-3028. KFH Wichita, KS 5/26/22 WEAH Wichita Please pass along any old radio and WLAP Lexington, KY 9/15/22 WLAP Louisville wireless station listings and skeds, pic- WHAS Louisville, KY 7/18/22 WHAS Louisville WJBO ture postcards, photos, QSL cards and let- Baton Rouge, LA Apr. 1922 WAAB New Orleans ters (even good copies), news clippings, WWL New Orleans, LA 3/31/22 WWL New Orleans and personal memories to me here at KEEL Shreveport, LA June 1922 WGAQ Shreveport WCAO Baltimore, MD 5/8/22 WCAO Pop'Comm, 76North Broadway, Baltimore WJFK Baltimore, MD 6/8/22 WEAR Baltimore Hicksville, NY 11801. See you on the WBZ Boston, MA road to Radioville! 9/15/21 WBZ Springfield
8 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Present Call City Airdate Original Call City Letters Letters UNLOCK WJR Detroit, MI 5/4/22 WCX Detroit WWJ Detroit, MI 10/13/21 WBL Detroit WKAR E. Lansing, MI 8/18/22 WKAR E. Lansing WFDF Flint, MI 5/25/22 WEAA Flint FULL KUOM Minneapolis, MN 1/13/22 WLB Minneapolis WCCO Minneapolis, MN 9/1/22 WLAG Minneapolis KMBZ Kansas City, MO 4/5/22 WPE Kansas City 800 WDAF Kansas City, MO 6/22/22 WDAF Kansas City WHB Kansas City, MO 4/15/22 WHB Kansas City KSD St. Louis, MO 3/14/22 KSD St. Louis WEW St. Louis, MO 3/23/22 WEW St. Louis MHz WRTH St. Louis, MO 2/9/22 WEB St. Louis KEIN Great Falls, MT 10/31/22 KFBB Havre WJAG Norfolk, NE 7/26/22 WJAG Norfolk KCRO Omaha, NE 2/14/22 WAAW Omaha WLNH Laconia, NH 8/22/22 WKAV Laconia KKOB Albuquerque, NM 4/5/22 KOB State College WBEN Buffalo, NY Sept. 1922 WMAK Lockport WGR Buffalo, NY 5/22/22 WGR Buffalo WHCU Ithaca, NY May 1922 WEAI Ithaca WABC New York, NY 10/1/21 WJZ Newark, NJ WADO New York, NY Feb. 1922 WAAM Newark, NJ WEVD New York, NY 3/18/22 WHN Ridgewood, NJ WFAN New York, NY 8/16/22 WDAM New York, NY WOR New York, NY 2/22/22 WOR Newark, NJ WHAM Rochester, NY 7/11/22 WHAM Rochester WGY Schenectady, NY 2/4/22 WGY Schenectady 200 WDCW Syracuse, NY Aug. 1922 WLAH Syracuse 205 WHAZ Troy, NY 9/11/22 WHAZ Troy 29 220 Charlotte WBT Charlotte, NC 4/10/22 WBT 34 700 WDAY Fargo, ND 5/22/22 WDAY Fargo 760 WLW Cincinnati, OH 3/22/22 WLW Cincinnati 37 WHK Cleveland, OH 3/5/22 WHK Cleveland 39 855 WBNS Columbus, OH May 1922 WCAH Columbus 43 860 WMAN Columbus WCOL Columbus, OH 9/24/22 46 890 WOSU Columbus, OH 6/3/22 WEAO Columbus 2500 WTVN Columbus, OH 4/29/22 WBAV Columbus 51 WNAD Norman 3000 WWLS Moore, OK 9/26/22 2004 8500 WKY Oklahoma City, OK 3/16/22 WKY Oklahoma City 2005 KOLL Tulsa, OK Dec. 1922 KFGD Chickasha 9000 KOAC Corvallis, OR 12M22 KFDJ Corvallis 2006 Hood River KBBT Portland, OR Apr. 1922 KQP 2022 ICOM KOTK Portland, OR 3/25/22 KGW Portland 2026 Grove City R1 WSAJ Grove City, PA 11/29/22 WSAJ 2027 WLPA Lancaster, PA June 1922 WGAL Lancaster R100 KYW Philadelphia, PA 11/11/21 KYW Chicago, IL 2030 R7100 WGMP Philadelphia, PA 5/10/22 WCAU Philadelphia 2032 Ocean City, NJ WDAS Philadelphia, PA Aug. 1922 WIAD 2036 AOR WFIL Philadelphia, PA 3/17/22 WFI Philadelphia WHAT Philadelphia, PA Nov. 1922 WNAT Philadelphia 2040 8000 WIP Philadelphia, PA 3/17/22 WIP Philadelphia KDKA Pittsburgh, PA 11/2/20 8XK Wilkensburg Starting at only S4o.00 KQV Pittsburgh, PA 1/19/22 KQV Pittsburgh Thousand Satisfied Customers WJAS Pittsburgh, PA 12/2/22 WJAS Pittsburgh WTAE Pittsburgh, PA 5/4/22 WCAE Pittsburgh Call for Details WRAW Reading, PA Sept. 1922 WRAW Reading WBAX Wiles -Barre, PA 5/15/22 WBAX Wilkes-Barre 508-281-8892 WHJJ Providence, RI 9/6/22 WJAR Providence WLKW Providence, RI 6/6/22 WEAN Providence WNAX Yankton, SD 11/9/22 WNAX Yankton CELLULAR SECURITY GROUP WIVK Knoxville, TN 11/3/22 WNAV Knoxville Street Gloucester, MA 01930
THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 9 Synchronous AM Present Call City Airdate Original Call City Holiday Special ! Letters Letters
Interface kit (a S99.00 value) for your existing KGNC Amarillo, TX 12/26/22 WQAC Amarillo receiver is free through December with WTAW College Sta.. TX 9/7/22 purchase of an SE -3 NIk Ill Deluxe sync WTAW College Sta. detector / amplifier.5495.60 plus shipping. KICK Dallas, TX 8/4/21 KVP Dallas Greatly improve reception with the time -proven KLIF Dallas, TX 6/26/22 WFAA Dallas High -Fidelity SE -3 MK III product detector Eliminates WBAP Ft. Worth, TX 5/2/22 WBAP Ft. Worth selective -fade distortion and garbling through phase locked KTRH synchronous detection Can receive one sideband at a time Houston, TX 3/22/22 WCM Austin to minimize interference and double fidelity KTSA San Antonio, TX 5/9/22 WCAR San Antonio All radios adaptable to SE -3 external detector / amplifier WOAI San Antonio, TX 9/25/22 WOAI San Antonio Presently used with AOR 7030, Collins R -390A Drake WACO Waco, TX 7/22/22 R -7(A) Icom R-70 / 71 & R9000, JRC 515 525 & 535 WJAD Waco Kenwood R-5000 Racal 6790 GM. and W -J HF-1000 KCNR Salt Lake City, UT 8/28/22 KDYL Salt Lake City SE -3 Deluxe at $495 00 Standard model is $449 00 KSL Salt Lake City, UT 4/21/22 KZN Salt Lake City WVMT !Corn R-9000: 6, 4, and 3 kHz AM filter set Burlington, VT 5/13/22 WCAX Burlington KRKO Everett, WA 8/25/22 Racal & JRC filters 16 8 6 3 5, 2 10 4 0 25 KHz KFBL Everett KGY Olympia, WA 4/15/22 KGY JRC NRD-535 & SE -3 Mk IIID package $2049 00 Lacey, WA Includes NRD-535 two additional custom filters for a total KWSU Pullman, WA 12/17/22 KFAE Pullman of four filters, and our external SE -3 Deluxe detector KJR Seattle, WA 3/14/22 KJR Seattle KKDZ Seattle, WA 5/14/22 KTW Seattle Test Receivers KMPS Seattle, WA May 1922 KDZE Seattle KAQQ Spokane, WA Mar. 1922 KHQ Sherwood still has a few high -end receivers used to test Spokane our reception -enhancing SE -3 synchronous detector We KSBN Spokane, WA Sept. 1922 KFIO Spokane are offering these radios, with an SE -3 as a package to KXLY Spokane, WA 10/16/22 KFDC Spokane discrimating listenersAll radios have been adapted to the KKMO Tacoma, WA SE -3 external detector/amplifierPresently available Apr. 1922 KMO Tacoma JRC-525 Kenwood R-5000, & Racal 6790 GM KIT Yakima, WA 10/3/22 KFEC Portland, OR Packages start at $1195 00 WLBL Auburndale, WI Dec. 1922 WPAH Waupaca, WI WHA Madison, WI 1/13/22 Sherwood Engineering, Inc. WHA Madison 1 268 South Ogden Street WISN Milwaukee, WI 7/22/22 WIAO Milwaukee Denver. CO 802 I 0 WTMJ Milwaukee, WI May 1922 WCAY Milwaukee (303) 722-2257. FAX (303) 744-8876
i lit( 11 ON 121AD1 ,112VIC1 CARD
Radio Get/ing Packet radio Started in packet This Started Getting is in Ham will helpde-mstity computer VIDEO ham an excellent Radio your rdio. video This video started using step-bystep select CQ's in Get are and equipmentexperts tor you. Included contacts bads show to radio. packet how on the networks use, howand antennas, to on makingboards, themprtance to use instructions bulletin LIBRARY of soldering. repeater of grounding packet 519.95 stations. using VAC.. I°icOrder and the Ham Radio Horizons: The Video andsatellites.Order No. No.VHF! basics Discover all aspects of ham radio ranging from what it takes ..... $19.95 to get started to how to get your ham license. Ideal for pub- Contesting lic events or as an opening to your club's licensing courses! Getting Started in orexperi- This is Started Gettfng Wcontesting oull Order No. VHOR $19.95 the ideal in VHF new is foryou\ demonstrationsintroduction For the this video contest- learn to VHF. veteran, tips from about of thelatest enced operating including MasterCard, Visa, American Express satellites repeater radios.See i and Also. get advice competitors,owncontest and Discover are accepted. operatingas well usage, successfuland Ca's modes.as themore packet, ing s most exotic VOW.KlEA, 1(1 AR. Please mail your orders to: VHF Ken John OW \ICON .....S19.95 Order columnist, Order No. CO Communications, Inc,. No. VVHF....$19.95 76 North Broadway, Started in Getting Getting Hicksville, NY 11801-9962 :Top DXers Started Satellites In OXing Amateur set up ham share operators k Fax: 516-681-2926 theirexperience veteran and Learn how LOCate operators with stations. Matchtrac /I you're satellite ease. contacts For Faster Service Call with andmake new to DXeing, satellites satellites this video current 09.95 is access wo Order No. VSAT ..... ( 516) 681-2922 Order around the No. VOX.....$19.95 Please add $4 shipping & handling. FREE shipping & handling for orders $50 and over. NY State Residents add applicable sales tax.
10 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE 1111111111r OUT OF Nit 1HIN AIRA\DI\To THE THICK OF THINGS.
1001111111%/E110111N1%11/110111°188*IN10111.311'
The )rake R8A World Band Communications Receiver. Turn it on, tune it in. aid as easy as that, you're hearing world events as they happen... unceisored and complete. And with the R8A's astounding clarity, it's alms-. as if you're there. In fact, no other communications receiver puts you closer to the action in even the most distant parts of the world.
THE DRAKE R8A If you're a hobbyist, you'll marvel at the R8A's simplicity of operation. If you're an expert, you'll admire the high-powered features. The Drake R8A offers superior performance in a complete package that includes built-in filters and other unique features that have made Drake the foremost name in world band communications. The R8A from Drake...you've got to hear it to believe it. DRAKE, FOR A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE.
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CIRCLE 114 ON READER SERVICE CARD Class D CB: The Service That Technology Forgot
Unchanged for Years, it's Time to Transform CB. . .
I Bill Pasternak, WA6ITF
ver the years, the various radio services administered under FCC 0rule have advanced in technolo- gy in an orderly manner. Private Land Mobile began as a wideband FM service, advanced to narrowband (±5 kHz devia- tion) FM and now appears headed toward even more spectrum -saving technology. The air radio service, on which all of us depend every time we set foot in a jetlin- er is still primarily AM, but there are plans in the works to go digital in the not - so -distant future. Even ham radio-the service that started it all with its ultra - wide band spark transmissions at the beginning of the century, has followed the trend toward narrow -band, spectrum -sav- ing technology. Spark gave way to crys- tal -controlled continuous wave (CW). When voice came along, it was fairly wideband full carrier AM but it went to a newer technology when single sideband came along. Even cellular telephones, around for less than a decade, are getting Ed :s Air SSB himself but will many other CBers be as anxious to jump on an all- ready to go from narrowband FM to all SSB bandwagon? digital transmission technology. On the surface, it appears as if every radio ser- vice continues to advance in its technol- you do plug in an external speaker, itscompatible CB sets often eschew the vir- ogy, except one, 11 meter Class D CB. usually one of those 4" plastic clad "com- tues of these radios by telling the perspec- From its inception to the moment that munications speakers" that may sound no tive buyer that he can "triple the number I write this, 11 meter CB has been pro-better than the one built into the radio! Ifof channels" available to operate because mulgating the use of the oldest radiotele- you are adventurous and hook up a largehe has 40 lower sideband, 40 upper side - phone technology ever to grace the air- speaker to your CB you soon realize thatband and 40 AM channels. Even with this waves of mother Earth, fullcarrier, the distortion is horrid because the audioadvertising come-on that more than double sideband AM. I will grant you that output system inside the CB is insuffi-stretches the truth a bit (actually its an to me, no communications mediumcient to properly drive it. either/or situation, you either have up to seems to sound better than a strong, fully But full carrier AM is age old technol- 80 SSB channels or 40 AM channels. But 100% modulated AM signal emanatingogy. It is also the root cause of much ofyou don't have both at thesame time as from a receiver with good audio response the congestion found on 11 meters as any- the purveyors of these radios would have into a high quality 10" or 12" loudspeak-one who listens with even the best com- the buyer believe). SSB sales lag AM er. The kind of loudspeakers that were munications receiver quickly finds out. sales by miles. But why? attached to radio sets that bore names like If you look at the rules governing II There are two reasons why this is true. Hallicrafters, National and Hammerlund. meter CB operation, you will note thatThe first is tradition. CB started AM; But most of you reading this article are full carrier, double sideband AM is not there are a lot of AM radios in use, so why content to listen to partially modulatedthe only mode permitted. The rules alsochange? Also there is the higher cost of signals coming out of 2" to 3" speakers, say that SSB is available to users of thepurchasing a compatible SSB/AM CB poorly baffled, inside of a tiny radio. If11 meter spectrum. Ads for SSB/AM-set. While it almost assuredly costs less
12 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE rte.. YOUR ENTURET
1411,10i
,lt
. AN VS -- IOPI . :0.-- Al.-, ...... ALPHA `1"- . - 1. 1 -
Announcing the ALPHA DELTA Model VRC Variable Response Console. Finally, an advanced audio processing speaker system that offers studio level audio quality for music, voice, and CW/data for the communications enthusiast. The Model VRC enhances the reception capabilities of ANY receiver, transceiver or scanner- even the expensive ones using DSP! Our exclusive ducted port bass reflex speaker system offers state-of-the-art performance at an extemely reasonable price. Custom Designed for the Model VRC.
Low distortion, low harmonic push-pull audio amplifier.Outperforms the typical single -ended types
Adjustable 12 dB bass boost/cut circuitry enhances both voice and music. LED reads out in dB
Adjustable sharp cut-off "Sampled Data Switched Capacitor Audio Filter" can be set for optimum interference reduction for any mode and any band condition. AM, FM, SSB, CW or data. LED light bar readout shows cut-off frequency and is calibrated in kHz
Peaking circuitry (20 dB) allows CW/data signals to "pop" out of the background
Continuously adjustable 40 dB deep notch circuitry effectively takes out interfering heterodynes
At your Alpha Delta dealer. For direct U.S. orders add $7.00 shipping and handling. Exports quoted. Alpha Delta Model VRC Variable Response Console S 243.95 ea Alpha Delta Model VRC-2 Ducted Port Bass Reflex Speaker -same as above but no amplifier/filer (a pair of these are great for your stereo or PC!) $ 99.95 ea
ALPJADELTaCI:ONS, INC. AA P.O. Box 620, Manchester, KY 40962 606-598-2029 FAX 606-598-4413 "...it appears as if every radio service continues to advance in its technology-except one..." to manufacture an SSB/AM set (fewer costly iron core transformers needed when you do not employ high level AM modulation), the cost to the end purchas- er is held higher, making SSB a "step up" from AM. Why change? Because 11 meter CB is growing again. Its gaining favor with the U.S. populace in a way not seen since the "Gasoline Price Wars" of the mid '70s. Nobody knows for sure why people are again turning on and tuning in, but if you listen as I do you will hear new "old" voic- es as well as new "new" voices coming to 11 meters every day. Some are people who want to see if "their sets still work after two decades in the closet" while many others are people who cannot afford This neat mobile CB-a Cobra 29LTI) It Classit --is aline rig, but AM -only. Cobra theluxury of acellular telephone. and others have SSB rigs, but they all have the AM mode too. Whatever the reason, 11 meters is again starting to burst at the seams with activi- I have heard CB operators say that any around for a long time. As such, people ty, and something needs to be done before change has to be to the world of digital.will want to use them until they are no we see a revival of the "channel wars" that Some want to petition the FCC to permit longer serviceable or there is nobody else serve nobody. some sort of digital voice transmission left on 11 meter AM to talk with. This lat- system for 11 meter use. These people ter statement is the key. have forgotten-or may not even know- I believe that the industry that supports GNAL that to the FCC, Class D CB is the "for-CB has got to stop looking at short range SE EERING S gotten service." They do not license itsprofit and view the big picture of the fu- High Performance CB Antennas operators anymore. They probably do not ture. With it now possible to build an en- SUPERHAWK Goldenrod monitor it any longer. They won't even tire CB set on a single IC there is no rea- 45 Spyder A+ handle consumer RFI complaints relatedson to continue to manufacture and sell to it and the only enforcement of the rules AIL Broadband Hi new AM only sets-except to keep the powered MOBILE comes to those selling power amplifiersprice of SSB high. If the manufacturing or other illegally modified gear. To put it community were to decide that from Jan- THUNDER 8 bluntly, nothing ranks lower on the FCC's uary 1, 1998 only SSB/AM-compatible WHITE LIGHTNING list of concerns than 11 meters and I doubt The Four Element Hi Gain CB sets were to be manufactured and sold, Antenna Bi-Directional that the agency would consider the intro- and placed orders with their suppliers for OMNI duction of any new technology for CB. only these type of sets, as is the case with Electronically The answer to the spectrum crowdingall other consumer electronic items- Steerable problem has to come from within the II prices would come tumbling down. meter community and the industry that Easing the congestion on 11 meters And, also, supports it. That answer is the voluntary over time is possible, but it will take a NEW QUAD shift to SSB-only communications. concerted effort from the political lead- LIGHTNING 6 LIGHTNING 8 No, I am not suggesting that everyone ers in I1 meter CB and cooperation from THE most immediately throw away their still verythe manufacturing and retail community POWERFUL useful AM sets. I monitor 11 meters usingto make it happen. No, you will not CB base in the a rather vintage set built by DeWald for"triple" the number of channels available, world today! the long defunct Lafayette Radio-one of but you will at least double the number as the last units they made and a hybrid unit - ALL SE PATENTED rotary beams are true quads and AM disappears and the more spectrum OUTPERFORM their counte parts (quad/yagl types). at that! As I am a listener and writer rather efficient SSB mode-which permits two SE's patented SFS matching system makes SE than an active participant, this, along with QUADS the most technologically advanced antennas conversationsper channel-and be- in the world today. a Sangean ATS-803 (Realistic DX -440) comes the "mode of choice." If your dealer doesn't have SIGNAL ENGINEERING, write or call for lull specs. DEALER inquiries invited. are more than acceptable fare. MasterCard. VISA. AMEX. Discover Any changeover to SSB-only opera- Editor's note: What's your opinion on tion must be gradual and downward com- Bill's ideas? In future issues ofPop' - SIGNAL ENGINEERING patible. That is to say that AM sets-evenCommwe'll be presenting other views on 155 San Lazaro Ave. Sunnyvale. CA 94086 (408) 733-1580 older ones like my Lafayette-will be CB radio. Stay tuned!
14 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Ultra Compact Dual Band HandheldFT -50R One tough little dual bander! Features Frequency Coverage "You notice how loud this HT's audio is?" Wide Band Receive RX: 76-200 MHz. 300-540 "Yeah, it's Mil Spec tough Ike a commercial HT." MHz. 590-999 MHz' TX: 144-148 MHz. 430-450 MHz AM Aircraft Receive MIL -STD 810 Rating
Digital Coded Squelch (DCS)
112 Memory Channels
12'1 DC Direct Input
High Speed Scanning Alphanumeric Display CTCSS Encode (Decode w/FTT-12) Au -o Range Transpond "Easy to operate small, great price!" SystemTM (ARTS"") Dual Watch "Yaesu did it again!"
Direct FM Wirti High Audio Output 3 0, na 'mg Lco, ADMS-1C Windows"' Programmable
Four Battery Savers: Automatic Power -Off (APO) Receive Battery Saver (RBS) Selectable Power Output (SPO) Trar smit Battery Saver (TBS) Time Out Timer (TOT)
2.5 Ind 5 Watt Versions Available
Optional Digital Voice Recording System (DVRS)
Full line of accessories
For the foremost in top - Battery Voltage displays current performing, durable, dual band hand- operating battery voltage. Vigital helds there is one choice. The FT -50R. Coded Squelch (DCS) silently monitors Manufactured to rigid commercial bLsy channels. AutoRange Transpond grade standards, the FT -50R is the only System's' (ARTS''") uses DCS to allow amateur dual band HT to achieve a two radios to track one another. And, MIL -STD 810 rating. Water-resistant the FT -50R is ADMS-1C Windows's' construction uses weather-proof gas- PC programming compatible, too. To kets to seal major internal components round out the FT -50R, it has four against the corrosive action of dust battery savers, and st_per loud audio- and moisture. And, the rugged FT -50R remarkable in an HT this size. withstands shock and vibration, so A reliable companion where ever throw it in with your gear! - you go, the FT -50R is Onetoughlittle Dynamic and exclusive feat -tires set dual bander with all the features you the FT -50R apart, too. Wide Band want! Receive includes 76-200 MHz (VHF), 300-540 (UHF), and 590-999 MHz*. Dual Watch checks sub -band activity while receiving on another frequency, FT -10/40R then when a signalisdetected, shifts Ultra Compact Handhelds operation tothat frequency. Digital For the latest Yaesu news; 'attest inducts, visit VHF or UHF Similar to FT -50R us on the Internet! http::/www.yarsu.com including MIL -SID 810, and other exclusive features. ©1996 Yaesu USA, 17210 Edwards Road, Cerritos, CA 90703 (310) 404-2700 Specifications subiecl to change without notice. Specifications guaranteed only witfun amateur bands Some accessories anclor options are - standard in cedain areas. Check with your local Yaesu dealer lor specific details blocked
are aoperatewita sing eutton, an ---- are easy toperform single handed. The *.** ANYONE IMPLYING ILLEGAL USE WILL BE DENIED SALE, WE SELL OUR *** PRODUCTS TO QUALIFIED BENCH TECHNICIANS, OR FCC LICENSED top -mounted knob is used to set the vol- AMATEUR RADIO OPERATORS AND CABLE REPAIR TECHNICIANS ONLY!! 11111C and squelch settings. as well as CIRCLE 91 ON READER SERVICE CARD THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 17 Radio News
range, but signals outside the range will measureit against anything other thanmy ". . . the Xplorer seems to continue to be received. I used the Xplorer frequency counter, and in that case the do what it was designed to for many hours straight prior to the low- Xplorer clearly has a greater range and do very well. . ." battery indication displaying when the nearly as quick lock on. internal battery fell to 5.6 volts. The unit The ability to decode the CTCSS and choose configuration options. To perform cut off very quickly afterwards. A rapid DCS tones, as well as found DTMF tones some actions you are required to push itcharge was started and it completed in 70adds a lot, and in my usage thus far it works down before turning it. Some settings inv- minutes after which the battery voltage quickly, and very well. The Xplorer is able olve pressing a button down while turn-displayed was 7.96. In the past week Ito automatically log all, or every unique ing the knob, but the LCD display is usedhave accidentally powered on the Xplorerfrequency found into memory. Memories to indicate the option and the selected set- a couple of times. Time may show that a can also be saved manually. A manual save ting. Reviewing the stored memories is a push and hold, or perhaps a beep whenwill also capture the CTCSS, DCS, and similar process involving button pushing,cutting the unit on might prevent a low DTMF info, but a drawback to the autosave and knob turning while looking at thebattery at an inopportune time. I used the mode is that while this information is dis- LCD display. The top panel has a red Xplorer's Sweep mode to search for radio played, it is not captured into memory. A Charge LED that illuminates when fastsignals while at home, at work, and dri-VFO mode is provided and you can tune charging, and a yellow LOCK LED that ving in the car. There were times when I the Xplorer to a given frequency, and adjust lights when a signal has been locked onto. expected to hear many signals and didn'tthe squelch for monitoring. The Xplorer The audio jack is located beside the Tape hearanything.I had considered naming also tunes to the saved frequency when remote jack, and there's also a DC powerthis review "Fishing for signals with thereviewing memories, and lockouts. and 8 pin Data jack on the top panel. A Xplorer," because I found both require My answer to the question, "How well standard BNC is provided along with apatience and the proper location. Thesedoes it work?" is that the Xplorer seems telescoping whip antenna for getting RFfactors are critical to success or failure. to do what it was designed to do very well, into the Xplorer. The lack of signals may be due to an incor- once the lockouts have been set, and as- I used many of my whip and rubberrect assumption on my part of what the suming you are in a location that can pro- duck antennas with the Xplorer, andavailable RF is, or how well the Xplorervide the near field signals the Xplorer is found that choosing an antenna tuned for should work. designed to harvest. It is important that the desired band does help peak perfor- Having never used a device like theyou be in relative proximity to the trans- mance in the corresponding frequencyXplorer before, it's difficult for me to mitters in order to hear them, with the dis- tance from low -powered HT's limited to within a stone's throw. Pier allest "... I just tell them that it's FREE SHIPPIG!111 MeterH SSB a radio James Bond would SOLARCON be proud to use!" highQuality(B oom,, ,` Handheld
Hall Wave csv,r1 , . ommdirectr,rial For Free The answer to the question "Was it 10 II meter anteimu II ion _Package s,Q I DII Gam 2000 watt. worth the wait?" depends upon whether UPTall Free the person asking it is the type that has owned frequency counters, attends lots of $59" ok 1136.5778 events, works around radio devices, and 4:;?Linn4t....1,.11,1e R.C. Distributing monitors while mobile. If that describes ISA you, you will probably find the Xplorer Phone: 800-998-8070 PO Box 552 969 S Bascom Ave San lose, Ca 95128 South Bend 11146624 to be a really neat, very productive tool to add to your monitoring equipment. If CIRCLE 81 ON READER SERVICE CARD CIRCLE 107 ON READER SERVICE CARD on the other hand you are a shut-in, or stay at home type of person, you probably Rave Review Pop Comm won't be able to fully appreciate what this April '96 Professional baby can do. The question I have been asked the most in the last week while LIKE R WITTLERHIp" using the Xplorer in public around folks Heavy duty commercial "recorderBUIlT_ not familiar with the monitoring hobby NOT improvised from consumer models has been "Whatisthat ? I just tell them 12, 14, and 16 hour models also available that it's a radio James Bond would be BUILT-IN voice activation (add $30) proud to use! Applications information included For more information on the Xplorer Dimensions: 11.5 x 7.0 x 2.75" that retails for $899, visit Opto's web site
CODY OKCall residents add laxSorry.no mad cardsFlee catalog USA only.other countries15 includes UPS to 48 State at
THE SANGEAN ATS-909
AM/FM Stereo/SW
PLL Dual Conversion Receiver
306 Memories
28 SW Pages Preprogrammed at Factory
42 World City Times Preprogrammed
Full RDS Reception
5 Tuning Methods
Auto Tuning Methods
Auto SW Search
ATS Automatically Presets Memories
Manual Editing
USB/LSB Single Side Band Select
RF Gain Control
3 Individual Timers
Adjustable Sleep Timer
Dual Time System
Selectable Tune Steps
Priority Key
Wide/Narrow Filter
SANGEAN Battery Indicator ATS-909 Signal Strength Meter Mono/Stereo Switch
En 307PLL 1 LCD Display Light is'ml Auto Daylight Savings Time Button
Lock Switch
Reset Switch
Audio Record Output 011 rr am 1.1 9KHZ/10KHZ Switch
1.0;j Cassette Record Jack
Tone Control
Includes AC Adapter
Includes ANT -60 Antenna 11=1AM Includes Carrying Case
8'." x 5.0" x SMD AVAILABLE AT THE (04-04 ANOICA. FOLLOWING DEALERS: C.CRANE
'REM LIONT (800) 522 -TUNE (8863) [email protected] ACE COMMUNICATIONS (800) 445-7717 [email protected] AFFORDABLE PORTABLES For location nearest you call: (714) 580-3548 Mail orders welcome AMATEUR ELECTRONIC SUPPLY SHORTWAVE HEADQUARTERS (800) 558-0411 AMERICAN FREEDOM Box 430, Johnstown, CO 80534 For credit card, call (800) 205-0845 CANADIAN DISTRIBUTOR SANGEAN ATS-818CS TEXPRO SALES CANADA (905) 332-5944 FAX (905) 332-5946 PLL SYNTHESIZED WORLD BAN) RECEIVER WITH COMMUNICATION ELECTRONICS, INC. PROGRAMMABLE CASSETTE RECORDER Ann Arbor, MI 48106 All SW Bands from 120m PlayRecord LED Indicator (800) USA -SCAN OR (313) 996-8888 to 11m ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT BANK Progiammable Recorder BFO for SSB/CW Reception Vienna, VA 22180 (800) 368-3270 45 Memory Presets Nustable Sleep Timer Radio/Buzzer Clock Alarm Auto -Stop Cassette Feature GROVE ENTERPRISES Brasstown, NC Continous AM coverage Dual Conversion Receiver (800) 438-8155 FAX (704) 837-9200 from 150-29999KHz plus FM 87.5-108MNz 5 Turing Methods HAM RADIO OUTLET 12 Store Buying Power (800) 854-6046/(800) 444-0047 SANGEAN 815-818: Identi d to 815-8'8(5 withxd cassette recorder LENTINI COMMUNICATIONS, INC 21 Garfield Street, Newington, CT 08111 W I,TH (800) 666-0x8 Tech 666-6227 F3561(080880)667(80) SANGEAN LIFESTYLE FASCINATION, INC. WINING Lakewood, NJ 08701 A M E R I C A, I N C. (800) 669-0987 2651 Troy Avenue, S. El Monte, CA 91733 Tel. (818) 579-1600 Fax: (818) 579-6806 UNIVERSAL RADIO, INC. Siortwave "Hotline" Toll -Free 1-888-SANGEAN Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 800) 431-3939
CIRCLE 104 ON READER SERVICE CARD BY CAPT. WILLIAM MAULDIN, WG4H Radio Resources
INTERESTING THOUGHTS AND IDEAS FOR ENJOYING THE HOBBY Broadcasting on the Web!
One of the most interesting things on the World Wide Web these days is radio broadcasting! If you have not made the discovery, you should tune in on the web and listen to your favorite music format or even a local talk show. They are all there. Broadcasting on the Internet is now something that is totally new. And, with the discovery that there is a broad, world- wide listening audience out there, radio stations are jumping on the web faster
". . . youshould tune in on the Web and listen to your
favorite music format. . ."
than you can tune them in. My first dis- covery came when I was listening to a ra- dio station and heard the DJ play a song as requested by a "Web listener." I want- ed to know more about this, and it took very little checking to discover that there the net. You can find the radio stations Windows 95 is required if you are using really were radio stations broadcasting on listed at the Web address mentioned a MS DOS -type computer along with the the World Wide Web. above by format. Rock, country, easy lis- modems that I mentioned above. Also, tening, adult contemporary, jazz, classi-when downloading RealAudio, remem- What You Need cal, religious, sports, and talk radio are all ber to pick the version of the program that there for the single click of your mouse. matches the speed of your modem. There To listen to "Web radio", you need to You also need an audio program to lis- are different versions for 14.4 and 28.8 know a few things. The first thing isten. There are two formats that are used.speed modems. where to go. That part was easy. The Web RealAudio and StreamWorks are the two Initially, when I turned into my first site that I use more than any other isformats listed. The RealAudio softwareWeb radio station, I expected normal
20 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE NRD-535D
"Best Communications Receiver" World Radio TV Handbook 1992
"Unsurpassed DX Performance" Passport to World Band Radio 1992
Setting the industry standard once again Phase -lock ECSS system for selectable-sideband AM reception. for shortwave receivers, the NRD-535D Maximum IF bandwidth flexibility! The Variable is the most advanced HF communica- Bandwidth Control (BWC) adjusts the wide and intermediate IF filter bandwidths from 5.5 to 2.0 kHz tions receiver ever designed for the and 20 to 0.5 kHz-continuously. serious DXer and shortwave listener. Its Stock =fixed -width IF filters include a 5.5 kHz (wide), unparalleled performance in all modes a 2.0 kHz (intermediate), and a 1.0 kHz (narrow). Optio-tal JRC filters include 2.4 kHz, 300 Hz, and makes it the ultimate receiver for 500 I -z crystal type. diversified monitoring applications. All mode 100 kHz- 30 MHz coverace. Tuning accuracy to 1 Hz, using JRC's adycnced Direct Digital Designed for DXers by DXers! The Synthesis (DDS) PLL system and a higt-precision NRD-535D (shown above with optional magnetic rotary encoder. The tunings so smooth you NVA-319 speaker) strikes the perfect will swear it's analog! An optional high -stability crystal oscillc tor kit is also available for ±0.5 ppm stability. balance between form and function with A superior front-end variable double tuning circuit is its professional -grade design and critically contiruously controlled by the CPU tc vary with the receive frequency automatically. The result: acclaimed ergonomics. The NRD-535D Outstanding 106 dB Dynamic Raige and +20 dBm is the recipient of the prestigious World Third -Order Intercept Point. Radio TV Handbook Industry Award for Memory capacity of 200 channe s, each storing frequency, mode, filter, AGC and ATT settings. Scan "Best Communications Receiver." and sweep functions built in. All memory channels are tunable, making "MEM to VFO" switching unnecessary. A stale -of -the -art RS -232C computer interface is built JRC,gapait Radio Co., lid. into every NRD-535D receiver. Fully modular design, featuring plug-in circuit boards .apan Radio Company, Ltd., 'slew York Branch Office - 430 Park Avenue (2nd Flocr). New York, NY 10022 USA Tel: (212)355-1180 / Fax: (212) 31? 5227 and high -quality surface -mount components. No other Japan Rado Company,Ltd. - Akosaka Twin Tower (Main), 17-22, AkasciKa 2- manufacturer can offer such professional -quality design :ho-ne Minato-ku, Tokyo 107. JAPAN Tel: (03)3584-e836/Fa.K: (03) 358.-8878 and construction at so affordable a price. WORLDS SMALLEST and listen to Virgin FM Radio 105.8 MHz . ..radio stations are TRANSMITTERS in London! XWB1000E-Z kit $46.95 This service is just starting to break, jumping on the Web faster MICRO FM TRANSMITTER and you can bet your modem that it will than you can tune them in" Voice transmitter kit T ransmits 8810 108MHz Range up to 1/2 mile In - improve immensely in the months and dudes mic and battery. Uses surface mount components years ahead. Radio stations are signing up FM 98.3, Belo, Horizonte, Brazil- XT1.1000E-Z kit INIEJES for Web broadcasting at a fantastic rate. (Top 40) CRYSTAL CONTROLLED TRANSMITTER Here is just a sample of some of the radio Bandit FM, 105.5, Stockholm, Sweden Voice transmitter kit. Range up to 1/2 stations you will find at the
Q XBO500 $149.95 KUSF FM, 90.3, San Francisco, CA soma, Italy-(Talk & Rock format) i' BUG DETECTOR (Assomblod) Professional quality. Covers 1 MHz to WRLT FM, 100.1, Nashville, TN 2GHz. Uses new microwave integrated KKDA FM, 104.5, Dallas, TX When you visit the
Phone (414) 241-8144 2FM, Dublin. Ireland-(Top 40) exciting listening! CIRCLE 78 ON READER SERVICE CARD 22 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Scanners/CB/Weather Stations
Ca COMMUNICATIONS Bearcat Scanners) Monitor police, fire, weather, marine, medical, aircraft ELECTRONICS INC. and other transmissions with your Bearcat scanner. Bearcat 9000XLT-Z base/mobile $357.95 NewProductsAvailableBearcat® 9000XLT-Z Radio Scanner Bearcat 3000XLT-Z handheld $333.95 Bearcat 890XLT-Z base/weather alert $222.95 Now, purchase your police radio scanners, digital Mfg. suggested list price 5769.95/Special $357.95 voice loggers, CB/GMRS radios, VHF transceivers, 500 Channels 20 banks Alpha numeric displayBearcat 860XLT-Z 100 channel base $141.95 weather forecasting equipment and more directlyTurbo Scan VFO Control 10 Priority channels Bearcat 76OXLT-Z base/mobile $182.95 from Communications Electronics Inc. Your freeAuto Store Auto Recording Reception counter Bearcat 560X1A-Z base/mobile $72.95 Frequency step resolution 5, 12.5 & 25 KHz. fax -on -demand catalog is instantly available by Bearcat 220XLT-Z handheld/SPECIAL $199.95 Size: 10-1/2" Wide x 7-1/2" Deep x 3-3/8" High calling 313-663-8888 from your fax machine. Frequency Coverage: Bearcat 178XLT-Z base with weather alert$119.95 25.000-549.995 MHz., 760.000-823.995 MHz., Sportcat 150-Z handheld with 800 MHz$151.95 Weather Stations 849.0125-868.995 MHz., 894.0125-1,300.000 MHz. Bearcat 148XLT-Z base with weather alert .$83.95 The Bearcat 9000XLT is superb for Intercepting communications transmissions with features like TurboSearchmto search VHF channels Bearcat 120XLT-Z handheld $119.95 at 300 steps per second. This base and mobile scanner is also ideal for Bearcat 80XLT-Z handheld with 800 MHz $134.95 intelligence professionals because it has a selectable aitenuator to help eliminate annoying intermodulatlon from adjacent frequencies in Bearcat BCT7-Z information mobile $152.95 highly populated areas and selectable AM, Wide FM and Narrow FM Bearcat BCTIO-Z information mobile $139.95 modes that allow you to change the default receiving mode of the BC9000XLT. Other features include Auto Store - Automatically stores all active frequencies within the specified bank(s). Auto Recording Digital voice logger) - This feature lets you record channel activity from the scanner onto a tape recorder. Hi -Cut filter to help eliminate unwanted static noise. Now, anyone can record and archive their telephone calls and You can even get an optional CTCSS Tone Board (Continuous Tone scanner radio traffic with our affordable Eventide brand digital Control Squelch System) which allows the squelch to be broken during communications loggers. Model VR204DAT4 give you powerful scanning only when a correct CTCSS tone is received. For maximum performance with a single DDS -2 DAT drive that records more than scanning enjoyment, order the following optional accessories: PS001 Cigarette lighter power cord for temporary operation from your 500 channel hours of storage on four channels. For monitoring vehicle's cigarette lighter $14.95; PS002 DC power cordenables trunking systems, the Eventide VR240 Mark 111 digital logger gives permanent operation from your vehicle's fuse box $14.95; MR001 you over two months of unattended recordings on up to 24 Mobile mounting bracket 514.95; BC005 CTCSS Tone Board $54 95; channels when ordered with dual 8 mm. high density CT tape EX7 1 1 External speaker with mounting bracket & 10 feet of cable with drives.All systems include 60 channel hours (250 & 500 hours plug attached $19.95. The BC9000XLT comes with AC adapter, tele- optional) of instant recall. Ideal for quickly replaying fast breaking scopic antenna, owner's manual and one year limited Uniden warranty. The Weather Monitor Jf (7445/) comes complete with an- radio action. FCC approved telephone Interface is builtin and emometer with 40feet (12.2 m) of cable, external tempera. beeps are selectable on a channel -by -channel basis. Other options lure sensor with 25 feel (7.6 m) of cable, Junction box with VHF Transceiver include GPS time sync. Order your tape logger from CEI today. 8feet (2.4 m) of cable, ACpower adapter, detailed instruc. 50204DAT4 4 charnel single DAT drive, 500+ channel hours . $7,39595 RELM® WIIS1 50-Z Transceiver/SPECIAL V5240DAT8 8 channel. single DAT drive. 500* channel hours . $12,295.95 lion booklet and one year limited factory warranty. Mfg. suggested list price 5481.67/Special S289.95 V1240DAT16 16 channel, single DAT drive, 5004 channel hours .114,490.95 V1240DAT24 24 channel, single DAT drive, 5004 channel hours 316,685.95 Now you can be your own weather reporter with the Davis Law enforcement and fire departments depend on the KELM WilS150 VI12408MM8 8 channel. single 8 mm. drive, 875 channel hours 515,595.95 Weather Monitor 11. Our top -of the -line weather station combines transceiver for direct two-way communications with their police or fire VR2408MM16 16 channel single 8 mm drive, 875. channel hours $17,790.95 the most advanced weather monitoring technologies available into department, civil defense agency or ham radio repeater. The WHS150 is V12408MM24 24 channel single 8 mm drive, 875+ channel hours 319,985.95 one Incredible package. Glance at the display, and see wind our most popular programmable frequency agile five watt, 16 channel Option -add B more record channels to a 31240 8 or 16 channel 12,095.95 direction and wind speed on the compass rose. Check the baromet- handheld transceiver that has built-in CTCSS, which may be programmed Option -add 2nd DAT drive to V1240DAT Mark It system .12,995.95 for any 39 standard EtA tones. Frequency range 148.000 to 174.000 MHz. Option -add 2nd 8 nun drtve to a VR240 Mark 111 8 nun. system 35,699.95 ric trend arrow to see If the pressure is rising or falling. Push a Will also work 144.000-148.000 with slightly reduced performance. The button, and read indoor and outdoor temperature, wind chill, Option-ECW40, 'melte chronometer GPS for external time syin 31,895.95 full function, DTMF compatible keypad also allows for DTMF Encode/ Option -DM desktop enclosure for one VR240 Mark III system .1449.95 humidity and barometric pressure. Using the Weatherlink with Decode and programmable ANI. Weighing only 15.5 oz., it features dealer Supplies -120 Meter DDS'- data grade DAT tape (box of 10) .... 1374.91 Weather Talker option and your computer, you can issue your own programmable synthesized frequencies either simplex or half duplex In Supplies -160 Meter Data Grade 8 non Cr tape (box of 10) .3374.95 spoken weather reports. Call 313-994-9000 for a demonstration. both 5.0 and 6.25 KHz. increments. Other features include scan list, Tape logging products are specud order, call 3/3-996 8888 to order Our system can even call you. Our package deal includes the new priority channel, selectable scan delay, selectable 5 watt/1 watt power ultra high resolution 1/100 inch or 0.2 mm rain collector part levels, liquid crystal display, time-out timer and much more. When you order the WI1S150 from CEI, you'll get a complete package deal including *7852, and the external temperature/humidity sensor, pan *7859. antenna, battery, belt clip and user operating instructions. Other accesso- (Buy with confidence) The package deal is order *Data for $479.95 plus S16.00 shipping. ries are available. A leather carrying case with swivel belt looppart If you have a personal computer, when you order the optional *LCWHS is $49.95; rapid charge battery charger, part .BCWHS is S69.95; It's easy to order from us. Mail orders to: Communica- Weatherlink computer software for S134.95, you'll have a powerful speaker/microphone, part eSSIV/HS is $54.95; extra ni-cad battery pack. tions Electronics Inc., P.O. Box 1045, Ann Arbor, Michigan computerized weather station at an incredible price. For the IBM PC part .11P007 is S59.95. The radio technician maintaining your radio 48106 USA. Add $16.00 per weather station or radio product or equivalent order pan #7862-1.. Apple Mac Plus or higher system must order programming instructions part 4P1150 for $18.00 to activate this radio. FCC license required for United States operation. for UPS ground shipping, handling and insurance to the including PowerBook, order part number 7866-Z. continental USA unless otherwise stated. Add $11.00 ship- NEW? Davis Weather Talker 7861.2 Call 313-9949000 for demo $334.95 ping for all accessories and publications. Add $11.00 shipping NEW? Davis Solar Radiation shield 7714-Z, protects temp. sensor .... $54.95 ( CB/Ham Radios ) Davis Weather Monitor II 7440-Z $334.95 per antenna. For Canada, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, Davis Weather Wizard III 7425-Z $149.95 Have fun talking with your friends using CB & amateur P.O. Box or APO/FPO delivery, shipping charges are two Davis Perception II Indoor standalone weather monitor 7400-Z $124.95 times continental US rates. Michigan residents add state sales Davis Remote Display Unit 78152 $84.95 radios from Communications Electronics. As you travel NEW/ Davis Rain Collector Heater 7720-2, excellent for winter me $99.95 across the United States or Canada, you can receive tax. No COD's. Satisfaction guaranteed or return item in NEW! Davis aluminum Rain Collector Shelf 7704-Z automatic emergency broadcasts about severe weather unused condition in original packaging within 61 days for Davis Rain Collector II DOI" 7852-2 $59.95 refund, less shipping charges. 10% surcharge for net 10 Davis Rain Collector 11 0.2 mm 7852MIT1UGZ $59.95 and travel conditions with your Cobra 2010GTLWX and Davis Rain Gauge Stand-alone 0.01' 7520-2 $7995 29LTDWX CB radio. Order your radios from CEI today. billing to qualified accounts. All sales are subject to availabil- External Temperature/Humidity Sensor 7859-Z $99.95 Cobra 2010GTLWX-Z SSB base with weather alert} .$359.95 ity, acceptance and verification. Prices, terms and specifica- Davis Weatherlink Software for IBM PC -Version 3.0 7862-Z $134.95 Uniden Washington -Z SSB Base 0$25.00 shipping) tions are subject to change without notice. We welcome your Davis Weatherlink Software for Apple -Version 3.0 7866-2 $199.95 $134.95 Discover, Visa, American Express or MasterCard. Call anytime Davis 4 -Conductor 40' (12.2 m) extension cable 711764 $17.95 Cobra 148FGTL-Z CB with frequency counter $199.95 Davis &Conductor 40' (12.2 m) extension cable 7878-7 $21.95 Cobra 29LTDWX-Z CB with weather alert S114.95 1 -800 -USA -SCAN or 800-872-7226 to order toll -free. Call 313- Davis 8 -Conductor 25' (7.6 m) Junction box cable 78801 $14.95 Cobra HH4O-Z CB 40 channel handheld transceiver ..$79.95 996-8888 if outside Canada or the USA. FAX anytime, dial Davis 8 -Conductor 50' (15.2 m) junction box cable 7881 2 $24.95 Maxon GMRS210+3-Z GMRS transceiver/SPEC1AL S166.95 Davis 8 -Conductor 100' (30.5 m) Junction box cable 7882-Z $44.95 313-663-8888. Dealer and international inquiries invited. Ranger RCI2950-Z 25 watt 10 meter transceiver $219.95 Order from Communications Electronics Inc. today. NEW? Davis Electrostatic & RF1 Protected Junction Box 77402 $39.95 Uniden GRANTXL-Z SSB CB Mobile $139.95 iliaitladale effective Ire 4. 1996AD .060196 Cepyrighle 1996 Gwnkunm ilertrona-srrc NEW! Davis Optically coupled Weatherlink Isolator Kit 7764-Z Uniden PR0538W-Z CB & Weather NEW! Davis Grounding Kit, helps protect your station- 7780-2 $19.95 $59.95 Davis Modem Adaptor 25 -Pin for communications port 7870-7 $9.95 For credit card orders call Davis Car/Boat/RV Lighter Power Cord 78732 $9.95 2400 baud modem for Weatherlink MENTZ $29.95 NEWt Davis aluminum Sensor Mounting Arm . 7702-Z 1 -800 -USA -SCAN Davis Anemometer Mast Mount 78901 $15.95$54.95 Weatherlink language disks: Framaise. Deutsche, Itabank Espanola 7863-Z $24.95 Barometer, Indoor Hygrometer & Thermometer, Clock/Calendar 1A8811-1 .589.95 Communications Electronics Inc. IndoorOutdoor Thermometer/Barometer & Hygrometer by OSI 1.4213-2379.95 Emergency Operations Center Thermometer with transparent calender & clock display by OSI TC188.I 319.95 Thermometer with AM/FM clock radio by Oregon Sclenufte CR3887 339.95 PO Box 1045, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106-1045 USA Indoor/Outdoor Thermometer mob Jumbo Display by OSI )18110/X4 324.95 For information call 3139%.8888 or FAX 313-663-8888 CIRCLE 28 ON READER SERVICE CARD VIREO SYNC GENERATOR HowI GotStarted
Restores Horizontal and Vertical Sync Lines from Distorted Carl Lawler Shares His Experience Analogue Video Formats with Shortwave For Free Information Package on (ompleted Units and Pricing Call Toll Free 1-800-236-5778 Popular Communications invites R.C. Distributing PO Box 55Z South Bend. IN 46624 readers to submit in about 150 words how they got started in the LIR( LE 82 ON READER SERVICE CARD communications hobby. Entries should be typewritten, or otherwise easily read- able. If possible, your photo should he YokS! included. (No Polaroids, please.) citULA Nom IS aVI 1010 Each month we will select one entry and publish it here. You only have to sub- BG22OXIT AR2700 R I mit your entry once; we'll keep it on file. BC8OXLT AR8000 ZIA All submissions become the property of BCT7 AR5000 R7100 Popular Communications, and none can AR 3000A be acknowledged or returned. Entries Bearcat JAW(C c) m will be selected for use taking into con- (On modify most scanners $40 - $80 sideration if the story they relate is espe- ciallyinteresting,unusualor even Enterprises humorous. We reserve the right to edit all material for length and grammar, and to 540-720-7490 improve style. Box 3300 Stafford VA. 22555-3300 The person whose entry is selected will receive a one-year gift subscription (or CIRCLE 106 \ READER SERVICI. ARE) antenna, I could hear stations like RSA, "I've read Pop'Comm since HOB and Radio Netherlands. I also did a short stint with a pair of the very first issue. ." youAIN'T 100mW walkie-talkies; they were good for about 150 feet-that's with fresh bat- HEARD one-year subscription extension) to Pop- teries. It wasn't long before I took an ular Communications. Address all en- interest in public service radio. My first NOTHIN'.. tries to: How I Got Started, Popular Com- receiver was a 9 V powered handheld, munications, YET 76North Broadway, which was tunable from about 144 to 174 Hicksville, NY 11801-2909, or e-mail to MHz. It didn't really matter anyway, Since 1967. CRB Research
2. Please tell us about your work: 11 ' I'm retired Circle no. 35 ` Homemaker Circle no. 36 40110. Full-time student Circle no. 37 . magib Professional, upper management Circle no. 38 oom es Professional, middle management Circle no. 39 Professional, some experience Circle no. 40 Professional, entry level Circle no. 41 High-tech professional Circle no. 42 1-800478-3BM Sales or retail Circle no. 43 CM671N* Medical/dental Circle no. 44 CIRCLE 70 ON READER SERVICE CARD Government employee Circle no. 45 Public safety Circle no. 46 WE HAVE IT ALL! 3. Please tell us about your computer usage: Surveillance I own a personal computer Circle no. 47 Infinity Itansmitters I'm planning on buying one Circle no. 48 FM Wireless Transmitter Kits I have NO plans to buy or use a computer Circle no. 49 Vehicle Tracking Systems In addition to a PC, I also own a laptop Circle no. 50 Bug Detectors I use a computer in conjunction with the radio hobby Circle no. 51 Caller I.D. Wired Mikes 4. If you actively use a computer in conjunction with the radio hobby, Telephone Register with Printer please indicate which activities your computer helps you do: Long -play Recorders Controlling radio(s) Circle no. 52 Shotgun Mikes Controlling antenna(s) Circle no. 53 Telephone Recording Adapters Logging Circle no. 54 Alcohol Testers Ham radio (packet, satellite, EME tracking) Circle no. 55 Telephone Scramblers Hidden Video Cameras 5. During a typical week, I devote the following time to the radio hobby: Telephone Tap Detectors Every day/night, more than five hours Circle no. 56 Drug Testers Every day/night, two -five hours Circle no. 57 MUCH, MUCH, MUCH MORE. Circle no. 58 Every day/night, about two hours Our 27th Year! Every day/night, less than two hours Circle no. 59 Circle no. 60 Small catalog FREE. Mostly every evening, a couple of hours Larger cat.3log send $5. Less than a couple of hours a week Circle no. 61 Mail 0 -der only. An hour or so, three to five days a week Circle no. 62 Visa, MasterCard and C.O.D. accepted. An hour or so, two days a week Circle no. 63 Inquire for dealers' prices. Circle no. 64 An hour or so, once a week A.M.C. SALES, INC. 193 Vaquero Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 Thanks again for your participation. Next month we'll have another chance for Mon. -Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mtn. Time and, a chance for you to help us you to win a free subscription toPop'Comm 800-926-2488 understand YOU even better. (303) 499-5405 Fax (303) 494-4924
THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 27 BY EDWARD TEACH The Pirate's Den FOCUS ON FREE RADIO BROADCASTING
It's Not Just Weird, It's Beyond Weird
The pirate radio action continues apace. Let's get right to it. Weird Al Radio was picked up by Jeffrey Cf, Ryan in Pennsylvania on 6955 USB at "KAb110 rEE 5PrECit HMS 0255 to 0300 "broadcasting from Weird Volume 2 - [me I3Making the manures Free For an j Al's home somewhere in the U.S. and playing Weird Al bits. No address heard. Support the ACE Free Hope Experience was another of What now FCC? Ryan's logs, heard on 6955 USB from Pirate Pages 0340 to 0401 and announcing the Blue Straddled by budget cuts that have There are only two publications Ridge Summit address. Kenny Love in demoralized and reduced staff, the that take Pirate Radio listening se- South Carolina caught this one in a QSO FCC is starting to focus on the bigger PIRATE riouslyThe ACE and the Pirate picture and begin to develop policies RA/DIO Pages Radio Free Speech sup- with Mr. Spook of KAOS at 0231 asking and plans for the new Telecornmuru- ports both and encourage's listen- cations bill that Congress passed ear- - about "Joe Momma." He also told KAOS i ers who want the most up to date lier this yearThe plan to close nu- information available to subscribe he was coming on the cable system. merous field offices is still underway lel 1.) and send in loggings. Here are the Love picked up KAOS on 6955 USB and it seems irreversibleThe plan addresses for both at 0204 and on another occasion at 0233. will be to have an FCC Field repre- '11174114 sentative in what used to be the Field t we Another catch was Radio Doomsday Offices territory that will be "on call The ACE Newsletter on 6955 at 0130 with Pink Floyd. from the Laurel Monitoring office by P 0 Box 11201 way of a 500 number. that the public Shawnee Mission, KS 66207 Dick Pearce in Vermont heard Let's will call, when they have interfertmce 1 -year for $20 00 Kill JTA Radio on 6955 USB at 0032 problems What remains to be deter- Winterfest and again at 2307 with the same program. mined is who will be in the field and a The Pirate Pages how they will prioritize calls to the P.O. Box 109 Jerry Coatsworth in Ontario had Radio toll free number Since June of 1995. Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17214 the FCC has been spending more time Pirate Success Zebulon from Holland for a couple of 1 -year for $14.00 going after people who tie up the minutes at 2348 with mention of a guer- Maritime emergency channel rilla pill and a post office box in Holland. 156 800 and the aircraft emergency The 1996 Winterfest gather- "Protection of Free CRST was another Coatsworth log, on 121.5 and 243 0 and spending almost ing in Kulpsville, PA was Speech should never be no tune chasing low power pirate great. Seen in attendance entrusted to the gover- 6955 at 0354 with poor signals. Only broadcasters who interfere with no were; Bill 0. Rights, Mr. nment, only the people Psycho Chicken was heard. one Operators should be cautious. are the true protectors" as the Commission may try to make Blue Sky, Phil Musik, Dick Coatsworth had Radio Double Vision Bill 0. Rights - 1992 a last minute plea for funding by do - Pistek, Pancho Villa, Voice on 6955 USB at 1714 with concert music mg big media busts of frequent pi- - of Juliet, Iloward Lyon of Radio Free Sneech- Staff by Foreigner and off at 1715 with no ID. rates. to justify an increase an their budget 1996 is shaping up to be a Voice of Oz, George Station Manager -Bill 0. Rights Ryan found Up Your Radio on 6955 at major pirate listening year with the Zeller,Andy Yoder and lots Editorial Director -Earl Pitts 1700 to 1722 including a mention of the only bust reported so thr. being an of Pirate radio listeners and Tech Editor -Bob the Blade FM pirate in New York City. who ACE members attended and News Editor -Farley 0. Fjnork Blue Ridge address. Coatsworth had it (as received a "Cease and Desist- order Chief Engineer-Sparky Nutz "Up Your Radio Shortwave") on 6955 at from Judas MansbachPirate listen- had a ball. The 1997 Radio Free Speech 1210 to 1225. The announcer gave his ers. "Are you ready to Rumbler` Winterfest - March 13-16 P.O. Box 452 -Wellsville, NY 14895 name as "Woody B. Serious." (Pirate Another from Ryan was Radio Free UMW Free Speech on 6955 at 1825 to 1901. They didn't give Shortwave an address but did make clear that the sta tion name was simply "Radio Free." In addition to a QSL, reporters to Radio Free Speech get a copy of the station's newsletter. Pearce caught Outlaw Radio on 6955 at 0135 with what Dick describes as "adult entertainment for sure." ID as"a special RFS bumper sticker" program. fromtheRadio Free Speech One "This is Outlaw Radio and I'm naked." They aired some kind of pen parody andChopper," commercial skits and Earl Then a bit on Bill and Hillary and othertalked about NASWA carrying piratePitts with a beer commentary. Coasts - items, fake commercial for adult prod- news. Signed off with the traditional Starworth found them at 1951 with a conver- ucts. Off with air raid siren. Spangled Banner. Ryan had them at 1913 sation with Elvis. Radio Free Speech was anotherto 1955 giving both the Wellsville and Dick heard North Jersey Coast Radio Pearce logging, on 6955.1 at 2105 with Blue Ridge Summit addresses, "Elvison 6954.7 at 2355, mentioning they were
28 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE re% iev 1101 some of Donox ans higgei is Orson N, ells Radio testing.' and a Wells - Radio on 6955 USB at 0353 to 0304 with hits" and that they were broadcasting narrated story referring to a man driving "Girls Wanna Have Fun" by Weird Al. from their "clandestine location next to around in a 1940 Buick and being harassed Also "Tequila." Reception reports are to Criterion Candy on the boardwalk at by a hitchhiker. be left in a (online?) news group. Asbury Park." The announcer asked lis- DickPearceheardRadioFree WARR Radio was noted by Jerry on teners to call in with their views on nude Salvation on 6955.1 USB with gospel - 6955 at 0130 to 0143 close featuring rock beaches and sunbathing. type songs, then a sermon asking the music and an announcer trying to sound Coatsworth had Cell Phone Radio on question "what are our children doing on like a pirate. 13901 at 1914 with conversations be- the Internet?" followed by the song Radio Two was another Coatsworth tween a male and female, with the woman "Hallelujah" and close. log, on 6955 USB at 0114 to 0134 close sounding agitated. UATWR was picked up by Pearce on with a program of Canadian music. Jerry also had The Fox on 6956 at 2118 6955 USB at 0025 with ID, address, WPN was heard by Jerry on 6955 USB to 2248 with music "Loves Me Like a "Legend of a Mind" by the Moody Blues at 0134 mentioning Box 605. Rock" and mentions of Bucky Beaver, repeated for an hour. Pearce had a tentative Radio Marabu Lady Diode and Howard Lyon. Montana Audio Relay Service was on 6954.76 at 2340 with a mention of the He found Up Against the Wall Radio another heard by Pearce, on 6955 USB at Wuppertal address, a "rappish" tune and on 6955 USB at 2113 to 2149 sign off and 0032 with a couple of Spike Jones tunes, the song "Celebration." featuring an EBS segment and a Rush other comedy bits, urged people to move KOX Radio was heard by Dick on Limbaugh bit. out of the city to Montana. Some unusu-6955 USB at 0022 but very weak. Also Cat in the Hat Radio was anotheral Montana town names were read. what may have been this one was noted Coatsworth pick up, heard on 6956 USB Another logging was made at 2307. on another occasion at 2234 with a choo- at 0053 to 0127 with a pirate song and a Radio One was heard by Pearce on choo train song, trumpet number and sev- Dr. Zeuss story. 6955 at 2207 with oldies by the Beach eral instrumentals. Ryan caught K-9 Radio on 6955 at Boys, Herman's Hermits, Neil Sedaka, That'll do it for this time, gang. I real- 1901 to 1913 with a very poor signal and the Association and a few others. Also a ly appreciate your log reports! Keep 'em no address announced. talk about Phil Spectre and a mention that coming. Let's get together again next Orson Wells Radio was logged by"Radio One is just for fun." month! (Congrats to Dick Pearce on get-
Coatsworth on 6956.7, opening with "This Coatsworth had Alternative Pirate ting his ham ticket!)
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THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 29 BY JOE CARR, K4IPV AntennasatThings SIMPLE ANTENNAS AND ACCESSORIES FOR SIGNAL IMPROVEMENT
The Low -Band "Tee-Tenna"
Thelower end of the high frequen- While the vertical section is found 3750 kHz 72' 59' cy shortwave band is a big prob- from: 1850 kHz 146' 120' lem for most shortwave listeners 1000 kHz 270' 221' because of the antennas required on those (270) (V) Bfeet bands. On 160 meters (ham), 75/80 me- FmHz Note that the Tee-Tenna is a continu- ters (ham), the tropical bands and even 41 ous loop. This means that the coaxial ca- meters, lengths can get huge. For exam- ble is connected with the shield to one ple, a half wavelength dipole is about 65 Where: A and B are the lengths in feet, conductor of the "B" section and the cen- feet long on 40 meters, 98.5 feet long on F MHz is the frequency in megahertz, and ter conductor to the other conductor of 4.75 MHz, 126 feet long on 75/80 meters, V is the velocity factor of the twin -lead the "B" section. The two conductors of and 253 feet on 160 meters. transmission line (typically 0.82 for tele- the "B" section are connected to a cut at vision antenna style twin -lead). the middle of one conductor of the "A" "The 30 -some -odd element section. The two conductors of the "A" antenna was small enough Examples of the antenna lengths aresection are connected together at each for one man to lift, but shown below: end of the antenna. If you connect a DC ohmmeter to the feedpoint of this anten- when the wind hit it, the FREQUENCY A B antenna became a hang na you should show a short-circuit. 7200 kHz 37.5' 30.75' This antenna doesn't work too well if glider" 4750 kHz 56.85' 46.6' the ground is poor. In this respect it shows 5500 kHz 49.1' 40.25' its relationship to the Marconi random 6500 kHz 41.5' 34' length wire antenna. A "good ground" is Real estate isn't getting any cheaper, so buying a 40 -acre or larger spread is probably not in the cards for most of us (including me), so that solution to the low frequency antenna problem is a non-start- er (unless I win the Virginia lottery).
There is a Solution!
One solution to the problem is the Tee - antenna shown in Figure 1. This anten- na uses two lengths of 300 ohm twin -lead to make a horizontal section ("A") and a vertical section ("B"). Note that this an- tenna looks superficially like a folded di- pole, but it's shorter by about half than the folded dipole, and the conductors are continuous; rather than having the feed - line drive the antenna in a balanced man- ner this antenna is unbalanced. Thus, this antenna is somewhat more related to the Marconi style, rather than the Hertzian style (of which, dipoles are examples).
The horizontal section length (in feet) is found from:
270 Afeet FMHz The Low -Band "Tee-Tenna"
30 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE na wires can go where they would not oth-enough for one man to lift, but when the "Real estate isn't getting erwise go). wind hit it, the antenna became a hang any cheaper, so buying a 3. Work using the "buddy system." Ifglider. A broken leg, broken arm and a 40 -acre or larger spread is there is an emergency, then the "buddy"cracked pelvis was the reward for that probably not in the cards can summon an ambulance or help you particular bit of stupidity. directly. The buddy also means less strain for most of us..." on your back. Even relatively light- Connections weight antennas have a huge sail area, and become one heckuva lot "heavier" in I can be reached via snail mail at P.O. even light winds. I recall one guy install-Box 1099, Falls Church, VA, 22041, or absolutely essential to bring out the best ing a television antenna on the roof of avia e-mail at
Safety...Again
Pardon me for harping on safety again, but I am a bit of a "bug" on the subject. The reason I bring it up still again is that some people never seem to get the word. And failing to get the word in this case can do you severe damage, including killing you. I was triggered into this dis- cussion last week when a question arrived in my e -mailbox (see below for address). World's Most Powerful CB Sighhhh! The questioner asked if he could safely toss an insulated wire over and Amateur Mobile Antenna the power line to get it to an "ideal" instal- Lockheed Corp. Test Shows Guaranteed To Transmit and Receive lation location. My answer is simple ... Wagon 1000- CB Antenna Has Farther Than Any Other Mobile in a single word: HELLNO! That prac- 58% More Gain Than The CB Antenna or Your Money Back** tice can and WILL kill you, so please K40 Antenna (on channel 40). New Design don't ever even think of doing it. The Intestsconducted byLockheed Corporation,one of The Wilson 1000 higher gain performance is a result of new the world's largest Aerospace Companies, at their Rye Canyon design developments that bring you the most powerful CB base problem is that the insulation of both Laboratory and Antenna Test Range, the Wilson 1000 was found loaded antenna available. wires can cut into each other, and cause a to have 58% more power gain than the K40 Electronics Com- Why Wilson MOO Performs Better pany, K40 CB Antenna. This means that the Wilson 1000 gives Many CB antennas lose more than 50% of the power put into fatal current to flow down the antenna you 58% more gain on both transmit and receive. Now you can them. The power is wasted as heat loss in the plastic inside the wire. If you are lucky, then you will only instantly increase your operating range by using a Wilson 1000. coil form and not radiated as radio waves. be severely burned and shocked. The We have designed a new coil form which suspends Lockheed - California Company thecoil in air and still retains the rigidity needed for usual end of such an operation is the death A Cayman ci Lockheed Corporation support.This new design eliminates 95% of the of the person who touches the antenna 13.9arek Calamnis 91520 dielectric losses. We feel that this new design is so unique that we have filed a patent application on it. wire. In one sad case in the 1960s, a father Company Inc In addition, we use 10 Ga. silver plated wire to 3 Sues Wry Una SAO was killed by the electricity on the anten- Chan Vary Ccermarce Cent reduce resistive losses to a minimum. Marxism, hrymela 99015 In order to handle higher power for amateur use, na wire, and his son was killed trying to Go0410 C0411.1.649 Been Tsang d Coln. s Band Antennas we used the more efficient direct coupling method of Ref R. Canyon Antenna Lab Fit 9670529 save his dad. matching, rather than the lossy capacitor coupling. We ha. completed Maths gain measurements of your With this method the Wilson 1000 will handle 3000 modal 1000 antenna Lamp the 6-40 antenna as the Some rules to remember are: reason. The lea eve conducted .th tha antennae watts of power. mounted on a 16' ground plane Mtn a sepwabon of 1. NEVER toss an antenna wire over a presser than 303' between the m0* and teal *awn. The Best You Can Buy The /traumas here tuned by the standard VSWR M911100 The So far you have read about why the Wilson 1000 power line. NEVER! results 01 the MI an. W.W.I Wow performs better, but it is also one of the most rugged 2. Don't erect the antenna where it can FREOUENCY (14/42) RELATIVE GAIN (dB) RELATIVE POWER GAIN (44) antennas you can buy. It is made from high impact 26 966 1 30 35 thermoplasticswithultravioletprotection.The come in contact with a power line if it falls as 27 015 1 30 threaded body mount and coil threads are stainless 27 026 I 45 40 down (don't forget, wind -whipped anten- 27 115 I 60 as steel: the whip is tapered 17-7 ph. stainless steel. All 27 185 1 50 of these reasons are why it is the best CB antenna on as 27 215 1 60 the market today, and we guarantee to you that it will 27 266 1 75 50 27 315 1 95 57 outperform any CB antenna (K40, Formula I, you "The questioner asked if he VMS 2.00 56 name it) or your money back! V AM 200 58 'Inductively base loaded antennas could safely toss an Individual test results may vary upon actual use. .Call for details. insulated wire over the power line to get it to an GALL T()DAY Roof Top Mount 4995 Little N it 2995 TOLL FREE: 1-800-541-6116 Trunk Lip Mount 69' Wilson 2000 Trucker.5995 wiffOni 'ideal' installation location" FOR IOUR NEAREST DEALER Magnetic Mount 79" Wilson 5000 Trucker.7995 ANTENNA INC. 500 Magnetic Mount 3995 Call About Fiberglass!!! 1181 GRIER DR., STE . A Wilson 1000 LAS VEGAS, NV 89119 DEALLIlf, 1...tclustle dealer area, gill open Wilson 5000 Baseload - CALL!
TI II: MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 31 BY J.T. WARD Scanning The Globe
MONITORING THE 30 TO 900 MHz "ACTION" BANDS Scanning Becomes Extinct
WASHINGTON, D.C.-The Federal of the United States. Scanner owners Communications Commission an- "...the government hasn't have no such guarantee. And secondly, nounced today that effective July 1, 1997, banned scanners, yet" gun owners have a well -organized, well - the possession, manufacture, sale or im- financed lobby to fight for them in the portation of radio receiving equipment halls of Congress. Scanner listeners don't capable of receiving any radio transmis- that matter. We do it because it's fun and have that, either. sion used by any national, state or local because it's interesting. And there's noth- Much of the money supporting the law enforcement agency; any cordless ing wrong with that. I repeat, there's noth- firearms lobbyists comes from firearms telephone transmission or cellular tele- ing wrong with that, and we shouldn't manufacturers. The companies are smart phone transmission; or radio transmis-need any other reason to justify our hob-enough to realize that if guns are out- sions on any frequency licensed to busi- by. The airwaves are (theoretically, any-lawed they're out of business. ness, commercial or non-profit enter-way) public property, and we should be Gun owners also have the National prise will be illegal under federal law able to listen to any transmission within Rifle Association on their side. While the range of our receivers. NRA sometimes reacts to proposals of Don' t panic. The news release isn't Scanner listening is no different thanreasonable gun regulation with a major real, and the government hasn't many other hobbies. Few folks have a le-jerk of its knee, the organization has done banned scanners, yet. But I'm be-gitimate need to own a rifle, shotgun oran excellent job of fighting the more on- ginning to think that such a scenario isn't handgun. But hundreds of thousands oferous proposals over the years. too farfetched, given the sentiments ofAmericans enjoy hunting and target Scanner listeners, on the other hand, some folks I've run into lately. shooting. Now, private gun ownership ishave relatively few champions. Certain- The most recent incident occurred a controversial, just as is scanner listening.ly, Bob Grove, Tom Kneitel and a hand- few weeks ago while I was talking to aBoth can be enjoyable hobbies, and bothful of others have tried to explode the good friend that I hadn't seen for sever-have the potential for abuse. There are myths about scanner listeners spread by al years. We were bringing each other uptwo big differences, however. First, the cellular providers and certain communi- to date on our lives, and I mentioned thatright to keep and bear arms is (arguably, cations equipment manufacturers. But I write this column each month. Myto be sure) guaranteed by the Constitution their efforts, valiant as they are, have been friend reacted as though I'd said I deal heroin or launder money. "My God, I can't believe they (mean- ing the government) let you give advice on how to listen to the cops and to tele- phone calls. Isn't that illegal?" he asked. When I tried to explain that monitor- ing cordless and cellular phone calls is illegal, but that listening to the police and other government agencies is OK, my friend was incredulous. "I thought they outlawed those scan- ners years ago. I can't see why anybody should be allowed to listen to the police, or to anyone else, really," he said. I tried to convince him that the public has a right to monitor the actions of our public officials, including the police. And I cited some examples where scanner lis- teners had aided the police, but he re- mained unconvinced. I can't say that I was surprised. Even in my own ears the words rang hollow. Let's face it folks. There is no pressing need for most of us to listen to the police, or to any other two-way radio user, for
32 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS/ November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE (201111. sr
Dikl
If this satellite deal won't getyou off the couch, checkyourpulse.
Been thinking about satellite TV? Come to RadioShack. Now for as little as a dollar a day, you can own an RCA° -brand DSS system with programming. Up to 200 channels on USSB° and DIRECTV®. Or subscribe to PRIMESTAR®, with equipment and program- ming, also for as little as a buck a day. You can have up to 95 channels withno equipment tobuy.Ifaccessto tons of movies, pay -per -view, music and sports with digital picture and sound gets your heart racing, come onin. RadioShack. For a store near you, call 1 -800 -THE SHACKS"'. You've got questions. RCA -brand system and programming sold separately. PRIMESTAR system and programming included in monthly payments. Price and equipment may vary. Installation cost not included Some restrictions apply. Broadcast networks are only available to customers in those limited areas not served by local affiliates Blackout and other restrictions may apply. We've got answers: "I tried to convince him that the public has a right to monitor the actions of our public officials..." limited due to the lack of support from the Now, I'm usually the last one to ask for industry and the radio hobby community. more regulations or fees. But I believe that When the FCC first proposed blocking self -regulation is better than imposed reg- the cellular frequency range from scan-ulations, and perhaps by taking the lead ners the American Radio Relay League, now we can protect ourselves from future Uniden, Tandy and others were conspic- government intrusion. What do you think? uous in their silence. The law passed with little opposition. Reader Mail
Time for Action Ryan J. McCarthy is looking for a scan- ner antenna which covers 25 to 1300 MHz I believe that it's time for scanner lis- and he's considering the MON-58 from teners, shortwave listeners and receiverAntenna Specialists. "What have you manufacturers to unite under a common heard about this antenna, and how well banner. If the powers -that -be at the ARRL does it hold up to the weather," Ryan have any vision, they will see that there asks? "We've gotten a couple of harsh is a tremendous pool of untapped revenue winters here on Long Island in the pastThe Antenna Specialist's MON-58 base out here. If the ARRL created a new levelthree years." scanner might be Ryan McCarthy's an- of amateur radio operator certification for Ryan also said he's going to need about swer to his antenna needs. This wideband Communications Monitors-perhaps50 feet of coax for his installation, andantenna is ideal for 800 MHz reception. with a voluntary written competencythat he's considering Belden 9913. "I'm (Courtesy Antenna Specialists) test-they could potentially bring thou-no doubt going to need something which sands of new, enthusiastic members into is low loss in the higher (frequency the organization. ranges) since my local police departmentPTD.NET> and put the words "JOIN The competency test would not bewill be moving up to the 800MHz band 2006" in the subject line. Once you have required, of course, to own a scanner or soon," he said. joined, you can send e-mail to the address shortwave receiver. But it could become and it is broadcast to all the others on the a point of pride among scanner and short- Ryan, while I have no experience with e-mail list and vice versa. It's a great way wave fans. this antenna in particular, Antenna Spe-to network with others who share your By becoming members of the ARRL,cialists seems to have a good reputation interests," he said. these scanner and shortwave listenersfor marketing quality products. You are Perry is the author of "Probe" scanner would contribute to the financial strength wise to be considering a high -quality,control software, developed exclusively of the organization while at the same timelow -loss coax cable such as the Beldenfor Optoelectronics' OptoScan 456 and being exposed to the pleasures of amateurfor your installation. Unfortunately, too 535computer -to -scannerinterfaces. radio through the ARRL's publications,many radio hobbyists spend thousands of Probe features include faster scanning and through contact with other ARRLdollars on receivers, then scrimp on coaxspeed, superior CTCSS/DCS tone con- members. I'm convinced that many ofand end up wondering why their suppos- trol, exceptional bank management, a true these new members would eventuallyedly great new radio is deaf. dBASE engine, PerCon FCC data com- qualify for more advanced ham ratings. patibility and a complete frequency and So, what would we get for our dues in Perry Joseph in the "Show Me State" status display. joining the ARRL? How about an effec- sent along this information about a Web The latest feature, released with Ver- tive lobbying effort the next time the gov- Site and e-mail list server of interest tosion 2.0, is called "SmartScanTM" which ernment moves to restrict our access to the fans of the Realistic/Radio Shack PRO - allows you to automatically follow fast airwaves? Perhaps, with enough support, 2006 scanner. "There's a Web page ded-breaking action. For example, you can we could convince regulators to increase icated to PRO -2006 enthusiasts run bydesignate the air emergency frequency the penalties for possessing a scanner dur- Steve Hancock. It covers most of the add- 121.500 MHz as a key frequency. When ing the commission of a felony, rather thanons and references to this venerable ra- it becomes active the scanner will exclu- restricting the rights of law-abiding citi- dio," Perry wrote. sively scan just related frequencies, like zens to own and listen to scanners and "The site also includes quite a few links the local tower, ground control, rescue shortwave receivers. related to the scanning radio hobby. The squad, etc. Once the action settles down Web address is: 34 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE the Probe in Pop'Comm's ComputerThanks for the letter, Bob. If anyone can Jon, no you're not wrong. I live in a Corner column! provide the New Jersey frequencies that suburb just east of Tampa. I hope the fre- you're looking for, we'll publish themquencies have been helpful. As for Matthew Phillips of Seneca, Southhere in the column. GMRS, I've never heard the topic dis- Carolina, is a reader of the Braille edi- cussed among law enforcement officers. tion of Popular Communications maga- Jon Morris of Lakeland, Florida not-Perhaps other readers can chime in here. zine. Matthew wrote to say that everyiced that I often refer to the Tampa Bay And regarding the use of commercial now and then his Radio Shack PRO -58area when writing this column. "First oftwo-way radios to monitor public safety scanner picks up strange sounds similarall, let me start off by saying that yourfrequencies, I can't imagine too many to bad static. However, it often seemsmagazine is the greatest. Unfortunately, police officers being very happy about it. like his local police dispatcher or an offi- I'm a scanner junkie, and half of my pay-But then, most cops that I've met don't cer is talking to the source of the static.check goes to buy the newest scannersmuch like scanners in the hands of the Matthew wants to know what the source that come out every year," Jon wrote. public, either. of the noise might be. "J.T., would I be wrong in assuming Boy, Matthew, diagnosing strangethat you live somewhere in the Tampa A Fond Farewell WIN sounds without hearing them is one of theBay area here in Florida? I noticed that toughest tasks readers ask of me. Without every other article or so has some of the It was ayear ago this month thatI took hearing it,or without more detailedlocal frequencies listed. Also, I know that over this column. It's now my pleasure to information, I can only make a couple of law enforcement agencies routinely mon- turn this space back over to Chuck Gysi's guesses. First, it may be a transmissionitor Channel 9 on the CB, but I'd like to able stewardship. Chuck wrote this column that's just too weak for your scanner toask some of your readers who are in pub- for 10 years, and like you, I'll look forward receive properly. There's enough strength lic safety what they think about the new to seeing what he has to say in the future. in the carrier to break the squelch, but not GMRS Emergency Radio frequency Thanks for the support you've given enough modulation to make a readable(pros, cons, etc.). "Also, taking into ac- me, and for all the kind comments in your signal. The other likely guess is that thecount the obvious opportunitiesfor letters and e-mail. I've enjoyed the inter- police are using a digital encryption sys- abuse, how do they feel about commer-action with you, the readers, immensely. tem or scrambler. You would expect offi-cial two-way radios legally modified (for Iwon't be entirelyabsent from cers on both sides of the conversation to reception only) to cover public safety fre-Pop'Comm's pages. New editor Harold be scrambled, but who knows, strangerquencies?" he asked. Ort has already asked me to do several things have happened. Finally, you might Jon monitors with a Motorola MX300 feature stories for future issues, and I'm be receiving an image of an out -of -band 48 -channel UHF radio, Bearcat 200XLT, looking forward to getting started. signal, particularly an aircraft transmis- 70XLT and 560XLT scanners, a Uniden Please send your letters to Chuck Gysi, sion. I once had a PRO -2030 that wasBeartracker scanner and a Uniden 40 -Scanning The Globe, Popular Comm- prone to aircraft images. Since aircraftchannel citizen's band radio. "Needlessunications, 76 North Broadway, Hicks- transmit in the AM mode, and the images to say, I always stay on the good side ofville, NY 11801. To contact Chuck via the always showed up on a channel set forlaw enforcement in order to carry aroundInternet, send your e-mail to him at FM, the transmission was often filled this much gear in my car," Jon said. The Fine Art of Radio Restoration There's a fine line between an everything, and you should know the antique radio, and what might be value of something before you buy it! To considered a vintage radio.In help you along the path, we will be visit- future columns we will learn how to trou- ing collectors, and reviewing guide books bleshoot, properly repair and align a vari- for radio collectors. ety of tube radios spanning from 1933 Refinishing wood or painted metal through the 1970s. cabinets is beyond the scope of this col- To get a 1970 -vintage radio into shape. umn, as is wood veneer repair. I will sneak many technicians would do only what in a few hints and kinks as we go along, simple repairs and alignment are needed however. But avoiding the pitfalls of to get the radio operational. But, fora doing a chassis the wrong way isn't. truly antiqueradio, those "simple" re- The cardinal rule of restorationis: pairs can ruin the value of your set! I treat Do nothing that alters the outward all tube radios as if they are an antique. appearance of the radio! The older set, the more this rule ap- The Cardinal Rule of plies. Most restorers agree that under the Restoration chassis is their domain, and what can't be Photo I. World War IIaircraft receiver, seen is fair game. This is a matter of de- \\, by would ! consider a 1960s commu- the BC454E. Banks of these radios were bate amongst purists. nications receiver to be an antique? Sim- remotely tuned via flexible shafts from remote ple. Tube communication receivers are locations in the aircraft to the radio operator Getting Started: rapidly becoming the hot radio collect- position. Note there is no tuning knob. This AC/DC Sets ibles of the 1990s! The same rules that model covers from three to six MHz, encom- passing the 80 meter amateur radio band. A apply to antique radio restoration will Pete's radio tip: Always fully mesh the soon apply to all tubed radios-even old similar model covered the 40 meter band at 7 MHz. Oher versions covered LF frequen- tuning capacitor before removing the CB or ham radios. cies, and one model prized by collectors cov- chassis and while it is on the workbench! After the end of WWII many military ers the American AM broadcast band. A This will help avoid damaging those del- radios were sold as surplus. Many radio small dynamotor (usually missing) mounts on icate rotor plates. amateur's first receiver or transmitter was the rear of the unit to provide high voltage Let's start honing our technical and a converted military radio. Unfortunate- DC for the six -tube set. restoration skills by starting with two ly, many of these radios are now sought radios that are both very similar and yet after by military radio collectors. Those worlds apart. One set we are going to extra panel holes and modifications added Next, a scan of the chassis is made. Istackle is the little Emerson bakelite set to make these surplus sets "air -worthy" by there rust? Has anything been changed toshown in the photo. These little sets are hams many years ago can detract fromalter the original appearance of the chas- quite common, you should be able to find their worth as collectibles. sis? Or, (gasp!) has some butcher re- a similar one for under $10 at a tag sale. A radio collector looks at several things moved or replaced the factory wet elec- This one is in good shape, the bakelite is when evaluating the condition of a set. trolytic cans with more modern ones? shiny and not pitted and no cracks are vis- Most serious collectors have long passed What an old radio (communications ible. Perhaps you remember a similar ra- the "collect -anything -old" phase, andreceiver, antique, CB or ham radio) isdio tuned to Arthur Godfrey's radio show have learned to be extremely selective,worth, and what is worth collecting is ain mom's kitchen when you were grow- picking only the finest specimen of a set subject for future columns. At lot of it de- ing up back in the 1950s? (Pete, Arthur for their collections. (This usually hap- pends on your tastes and the size of your Godfrey was my Mom's radio hero back pens to married collectors after gettinghome! An extensive collection, boxedthen. On a quiet Saturday morning I can console No. 3 and the duck knickknackand stored away offers little enjoyment. still hear his theme song. Those were the stage, well illustrated in our photo). ForSo, if the bug bites, let me warn you todays! Ed.) a wood cased set, a good hard look at the start slowly-just because something is Then there's the S-38 a classic short- condition of the veneers and finish are in old doesn't mean it has any great value! wave receiver, the original six -tube Halli- order. Is the speaker grill cloth free ofAnd, before you end up with a garage fullcrafters S-38! Hallicrafters must have stains or tears, and is it original? (Big of junk; take time to learn the field and made a zillion of these little sets, they too score points here!) Are all of the knobsfind out exactly where your interests inare quite common and usually sell on there and original? old radios will peak! You can't collecttoday's market for about $30 to $75. 36 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Photo 3. With a little more work, the transformer is modified to fit beneath the chassis, allowing the original Atwater Kent transformer Photo 2. A restoration nightmare! Missing electrolytic can capaci- cover to be used. This maintains the original appearance of the chas- tors, and a bad power transformer! This photo shows an acceptable sis. This chassis is from an Atwater Kent model 84 cathedral radio, means of mounting a replacement power transformer. very similar to the Atwater Kent model 80 cathedral shown in our pre- miere column. Unfortunately, the S-38 never hadpolarity of DC to flow through the recti-a chassis live with the full AC line volt- much of a reputation as being a "per-fier tube. The rectifier tube's purpose in age potential! In some sets, plastic bush- former." It wasn't particularly stable, sen-these sets was to rectify AC line voltage ings were used on the chassis, allowing sitive or selective, and the small dial madeto supply the DC potential for the tubesthe metal screws used to hold the radio reading the frequency at best a guess.to operate; and when used on a DC line in the case to be insulated from the chas- Later models of the S-38 had only fiveto only allow the proper polarity of DC to sis. A cardboard back cover kept prying tubes, and eventually Hallicrafters began flow to the tube circuits when the line cord fingers from reaching the chassis. The producing models of the S-38 using aplug was in the proper orientation. photo shows the bottom of the Emerson slide rule dial. Some of these sets employed a "hotset, a real safety horror show! One side chassis." One side of the AC line cordof the AC line is connected to the off/on Power Line Safety was tied directly to the metal chassis! switch, the other side of the switch con- 111111e. mm111111111111111 These sets relied on the plastic knobs nects directly to the metal receiver chas- Nov, I have to cover some safety stuffused for the tuning and volume controls sis. Even worse, the metal mounting that may seem boring and rather mun-to protect the operator from receiving ascrews which hold the chassis in the cab- dane. But, nevertheless this is an impor- shock! Remember that one side of the AC inet are not insulated. tant topic and must be covered! line is grounded. When you plugged in Servicing these radios can be a hazard- These two radios are common in thatone of these radios you had a 50-50 ous endeavor! Savvy service techs always they are AC/DC radios. They operate di-chance of having a "hot chassis"-that is used an "isolation transformer." The iso- rect from the power line, and do not use a transformer. The high voltage DC need- ed for the tube plate and screen supplies 11111.111 11.21 (Economic) New. ready to run WINDOWS is developed directly from the power line. ShOCRadlipManagerprogram It Includes all radio drivers and an actual short- wave database with more then 37'000 records (Broadcast The tube filaments are strung in series 5. Ea Y... iltste.e LAN U. 21. and Utility) Database -Scanning, Station Identification. Muhl - trio aiii i-y_,:j.1,,n p 30 vA Ei 0 c comEm pie search filters, Channel control, Timermode ,,,,, yt_ (similar to those old-style Christmas tree Also available Aid /CPC SAHA/I VU alialiiii WO (WI 29") t6e$ lights) and run directly from the power lesl '..,Em -curaIIIPAL I OR lel NLI I-Tro WI RM4 2S Standard RM4 2P Professional i\i' line voltage. If one tube filament fails w.'- ""' - r:" ch '7 RadioManagermostradiosandsupports decoders fursikraurprmi ss. NI r EVr-i Inms5,--,r----u.r.:..,r--70-IA, lialv,alson Our databases are edited from professionals and contain all (opens) all the other tubes will go out. ,-..'0, the Infos you need to set your equipment The problem with these sets is that they We are also selling High -End Receivers Decoders and An- A tennas Dealer inquiries are welcome! can become (or always were!) a serious F . nv shock hazard! Being AC/DC sets, the line ip. non ail von. .* shot, R Hanggi THE WORLDWIDE STANDARD FOR 10211 0) PACE E1411/PUSSIII c 4 P-,..) 24%.91 Weiherhof 10 RECEIVER AND DECODER CONTROL cord plug could be reversed in the sock- 102V XI ITGYM( '6, PT( P T KS .:1(4., r...PP::( i 0 I.P(IP.. 10203 CO.ICPC &NEPA Sul .pflep(A P T , P.6, ( it !ACTOR 010/35. CH -8604 Volketswil et to permit operation on DC power lines. 1028100.00411 ems' PIT;' ICI 0. . .P1 PALIOR 02/1%/95 Switzerland ,M0300 oTh 93 ' n P.'" ar 4" ... Phone ++41 - (0)89 - 421 50 37 PITYIlk, O. 1=700 CPC :TAPED .F, !PP,' "9'5. FAx ++41 - (0)1 If the radio lit, but didn't play, you had to Me 00 MOD PA% ( PITY 0 2159 F FS MLR 1141,93. -9971556 . . . 44444' . . qa 50 IAFA POW PT TY IT 1 0 IT reverse the line cord to permit the proper I OOP Z21091. , CompuServe 100526,1752 IT-- - " --t---. WW1. http://ouiworld.compuseive.com/homepagesishoc/ CIRCLE 86 ON READER SERVICE CARD THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 37 0 1 0 Photo 4. Emerson six -tube bakelite radio, probably dating from thePhoto 5. The Hallicrafters S-38 general coverage receiver covered from early 1940s. The model number is missing. This radio illustrates athe AM broadcast band through 30 MHz in four tuning ranges. This typical AC/DC radio from that era. early model featured a BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) for CW recep- tion, and ANL (AntiNoise Limiting) for improved AM reception. Photo 6. Underside of the Emerson radio chassis. The metal chassis Photo 7. Underside view of the S-38 receiver with the bottom cover is directly tied to one side of the AC line, and the metal mounting screws removed. This chassis is also tied to one side of the AC line. The metal holding the chassis in the bakelite cabinet were also "hot" with AC cabinet is isolated from the "hot" chassis via insulating material. But, voltage! the failure of a paper capacitor could make the entire cab- inet "hot" with AC voltage. lation transformer took the 117 Vac linecapacitor. The idea was for the capacitorof the AC line, and is isolated from the voltage and produced an output of 117to "block" AC line voltage currents, ormetal receiver cabinet by insulators. volts, but this voltage was isolated fromreduce them to an extremely low level, Instead of the old failure -prone and leaky the AC line ground. Thus, while danger-while RF (or radio energy) was effec-wax paper capacitor used to bypass the ous voltages existed within the confines tively shunted to the metal chassis by the AC line to the chassis, the receiver now of the chassis, the service man was safecapacitor. This eliminated the need for uses a special capacitor rated for AC line from receiving a shock even if he wasspecial insulating hardware. The follyservice. The original cord has been standing on a damp floor and touching the was that your safety relied solely on the replaced with one that has a polarized chassis!It also allowed him to use integrity of an inexpensive and failure -plug to prevent having a "hot" chassis. grounded test equipment on the radio. prone wax paper capacitor. We will cover these subjects in depth Another "trick" used in some AC/DC The Hallicrafter's receiver uses a float- in next month's column! Till then, head chassis was a floating ground. Alling ground; its metal case isolation from for the attic or garage sale and drop me a ground returns were tied to common tie -the AC line is by a wax capacitor. The line at The Radio Connection, Popular lug point, including one side of the ACphoto shows the underside of the S-38 Communications, 76 North Broadway, line. This floating ground point was cou-chassis, after restoration. The chassisHicksville, NY 11801. Your photos are pled to the metal chassis via a fixed holding the components is tied to one side always welcome! 38 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS/ November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Tap into secret Shortwave Signals Turn mysterious signals into exciting text messages with this new MFJ MultiReaderTM Copy RTTY weather stations from Antarctica, improves copy on CW and other modes. Mali, Congo and many others. Listen to military Easy to use, tune and read RTTY passing traffic from Panama, Cyprus, Peru, Capetown, London and others. Listen to hams, diplo- It'seasy to use -- just push a button to select matic, research, commercial and maritime RTTY. modes and features from a menu. 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Mon -Fri. tenna. 9 volt battery or 110 VAC with Includes antennas for long, medium 1824BB has BNC/UHF FAX: (601) 323-6551; Add s/h MFJ-1312B, $12.95. 31/al 94x4 in. and shortwave, utility, marine and plug; MFJ-1824BM has Internet: http://wnn.mljenterprise,com VHF/UHF services. Motorola plug. MFJ ... making quality affordable Prices and specifications subject to change OMFJ Enterprites, CIRCLE 120 ON READER SERVICE CARD Pop'Comm's World Band Tuning Tips November 1996 This listing is designed to help you hear more shortwave broadcasting stations. The list includes a variety of stations includ- ing international broadcasters beaming programs to North America, others to other parts of the world, as well as local and regional shortwave stations. Many of the transmissions listed here are not in English. Your ability to receive these stations will depend on time of day, time of year, your geographic location, highly variable propagation conditions and the receiving equipment used. AA, FF, SS, GG, etc. are abbreviations for languages (Arabic, French, Spanish, German).Times given are in UTC, which is five hours ahead of EST, i..e. 0000 UT equals 7 pm EST, 6 pm CST, 4 pm PST. UTC Freq.Station/Country Notes UTC Freq.Station/Country Notes 00005850 WVHA, Maine 02009475 R. Cairo, Egypt 00005895 Croatian Radio 02009735 R. Nacional Paraguay SS 00005995 Voice of America 020011710RAE, Argentina 00006020 R. Netherlands via Bonaire 0200v17770UAE Radio, Abu Dhabi sign on 00006155 R. Japan via BBC EE/JJ 023013605Golos Rossii, Russia RR 00009700 R. Bulgaria 02459870 R. Budapest, Hungary 000013750All India Radio 02509605 Vatican Radio 000015345RAE, Argentina SS 03003210 R. Exterior de Espana via Costa RicaSS 00276055 VOIRI, Iran sign on 03004920 R. Quito, Ecuador SS 00304980 Ecosdel Torbes, Venezuela SS 03004940 R.Amazonas, Venezuela SS 00305960 R. Canada Int'l 03004970 R. Rumbos, Venezuela SS 00305965 R. Havana Cuba SS 03005981 Union Radio/AWR, Guatemala 00306065 R. Sweden 03006725 R. Satelite, Peru SS 00309022 VOIRI, Iran 03007110 R. Ethiopia Amharic 00309540 Radio Exterior Espana 03007115 R. Sweden 003011905R. Thailand 03007325 BBC 00456040 DeutscheWelle, Germany SS 03009690 China Radio Intl via Spain 01004805 R. Amazonas, Brazil PP 030011885Radio Japan 01004835 R. Tezulutlan, Guatemala Quechua 03005077vCaracol, Colombia SS 01004845 R. Cultura, Brazil PP 03304930 R. Internacional, Honduras SS 01006135 Swiss Radio Int'l 03304945 R. Illimani, Bolivia SS 01006235 R. Quisqueya Int'', Dominican Rep SS 03307200 Yakutsk Radio, Russia RR 01007260 V of Vietnam, via Russia 03307390 Vof Broad Masses, Eritrea 010017605CPBS, China CC 04003330 Christian Voice, Zambia 01304702 R. Eco, Bolivia SS 04004905 Ecosdel Orinoco, Colombia SS 01454885 R. Clube do Para, Brazil PP 04004915 R. Cora, Peru SS 01455035 R. Aparecida, Brazil PP 04005955 ChannelAfrica, S. Africa 01457160 R. Tirana, Albania 04005975 BBC via Antigua 01457290 R. Sweden 04007240 V of Russia 01457355 Vatican Radio 04009445 Voice of Turkey 02004610 Rep. of Iraq Radio 04209585 Qatar Broadcasting Service sign on 02004755 Radio Educacao Rural, Brazil PP 04303356 R. Botswana 02004815 Radio Guatapuri, Colombia SS 04304770 R. Nigeria, Kaduna sign on 02004830 R. Tachira, Venezuela SS 04305975 RAI, Italy 02004955 R. Nacional, Colombia SS 04309520 Channel Africa, S. Africa 02005077 Carocal, Colombia SS 04415965 R. Oranje, South Africa sign on 02005920 R. France Int'l 04577185 Channel Africa PP, sign on 02005930 R. Prague, Czech Rep. 05004815 Radio Burkina, Burkina Faso FF 02006095 R. Portugal 05004990 Radio Nigeria, Lagos 40 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE UTCFreq.Station/Country Notes UTC Freq.Station/Country Notes 05004996 R. Andina, Peru SS 123011735R. Finland Int'l 05005010 R. Garoua, Cameroon FF 123017630Africa No. One, Gabon 05006185 R. Educacion, Mexico SS/EE 124515130R. Republik Indonesia II 05006250 R. Malabo, Equatorial Guinea SS 1300 9590 R. Norway NN 05007105 R.Bosnia-Hercegovina 130011815Polish Radio 05007465 V of Israel 130011850R. Thailand NN 05007480 R. Bulgaria 130011995FEBC, Philippines 05009590 ChannelAfrica, S. Africa 130017745R. Romania Intl 050011900Channel Africa, S. Africa 1320 21520RAI, Italy sign on; Sun 06004870 ORTB, Benin FF 133011650R. Sweden 06006010 R. America, Peru SS 133015060BSKSA, Saudi Arabia M 06006165 Swiss Radio Int'l 133015395UAE Radio, Dubai 06009425 Voice of Greece 1400 9355 Monitor Radio - KHBI, No. Marianas 06009820 R. Havana Cuba 140011720R. Norway NN 06305047 RTT, Togo FF 140011895R. Japan via Fr. Guiana 06305985 R. Vlandaaren, Belgium 140012077Kol Israel 06306015 R. Austria Intl via Canada 143015325R. Canada Int'l 06309510 R. Romania Int'l 1500 6000 City Sounds, Singapore CC/EE 07004783 Radio TV Malienne, Mali FF 150011580KTWR, Guam 07006070 CFRX relay CFRB, Canada 163017870R. Exterior Espana via Costa Rica SS 07005020vLa Voix du Sahel, Niger 11 1630 21700R. Japan .1.1 07156165 Swiss Radio Int'l 1700 21455HCJB,Ecuador 07307180 R. Denmark via Norway 173011970R. Jordan M 073011615HCJB,Ecuador 180011990R. Kuwait 08003925 R. Tampa, Japan 11 180015185R. Africa, Eq. Guinea 08006100 R. NewZealand Int'l 180015265Radiobras, Brazil 08007285 RTVM, Mali 180015495R. Kuwait 08009525 Vof Indonesia 1900 8000 V of Sudan (clandestine) 09003290 V. of Guyana EE 193019374Voice of America 09007115 Trans World Radio, Monaco 200012085Radio Damascus, Syria 09009700R. New Zealand Int'l 200015150R. Canada Int'l 09004914vR. Cora, Peru SS 21005925 R. Canada Int'l 10004890 NBC, Papua New Guinea Pidgin 2100 6185 R. Yugoslavia 10005030 Adventist World Radio, Costa Rica SS 2100 9550 R. Havana Cuba 100021605UAE Radio, Dubai . 2100 9910 All India Radio 10303300 Radio Cultural, Guatemala s SS 210013715R. Havana Cuba 103013645Radio Finland 213015415R. Jamahirya, Libya M 10304779VR. Oriental, Ecuador SS 214511760R. Havana Cuba 11003365 R. Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea Pidgin 2200 9388 Kol Israel Hebrew 11003380 Radio Chortis, Guatemala vem. 2200 9570 R. Portugal PP 11006175 Faro del Caribe, Costa Rica SS 2200 9770 UAE Radio, Abu Dhabi 11009580 R. Australia 2200 9830 R. HavanaCuba SS 1 10011800SLBC, Sri Lanka local 220011880R. Exteriorde Espana SS 11(X)15470R. Pakistan 220011945R. Canada Intl 11306120 R. Japan via Canada 220011965R. Record, Brazil PP 11309650 R. Korea, S. Korea via Canada 220013740R. Canada Intl 114516330R. Rossi, Russia RR 2230 6090 Radio Nigeria, Kaduna Hausa 12003325 R. Bougainville, Papua New GuineaPidgin 2230 6135 R. Aparecida, Brazil PP 12007330 R. Atlantika, Russia RR 2230 7505 CPBS, China CC 12009510 R. Australia 2230 9505 R. Havana Cuba 120012005HCJB, Ecuador I 2230 9605 UAE Radio,Abu Dhabi 120013635Swiss Radio Int'l II I 2230 9635 R. Portugal Int'l 120013790R. Bulgaria 2230 9645 R. Bandeirantes, Brazil PP 120013800Radio Norway 2246 9900 R. Cairo, Egypt M, sign off 120015260VOIRI, Iran 2300 5954 R. Casino, Costa Rica SS/EE 120015400R. Finland Int'l Finnish I 2300 9770 UAE Radio, Abu Dhabi 12159670 R. VeritasAsia, Philippines 230011915R. Gaucha, Brazil PP 12159680 RRI, Jakarta, Indonesia II 2330 7125 Voice of Russia 121515295R. Tashkent, Uzbek 2330 7215 RTVI, IvoryCoast FF 12309370 KSDA, Guam CC 2355 9925 R. Vlaanderen Intl, Belgium GG 12309575 R. Mediterane, Morocco FF THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 41 Product Parade REVIEW OF NEW, INTERESTING AND USEFUL PRODUCTS er sound and enhanced fidelity. TheLEDs). The mic cable is detachable to Echomax 2000 is constructed of heavy allow the user to switch the mic from one gauge steel, utilizing separate switches radio to another, and a master gain con- for the PTT and lock buttons. trol on the back of the mic allows the user Features include a totally new CB to adjust modulation levels. sound feature called "Slapback"-one Current drain using a 9 volt battery is echo repeat instead of numerous ones.about 8mA. The company reports that The echo delay is variable from microconstant use of the headphones increas- seconds to about one second long. Thees current drain. (The optional wall adap- new Echomax 2000 mic also featurester should be used instead of the 9 volt new ETS tones, or "roger beep" tones,battery in this case). which are generated digitally, eliminat- The U.S.A.-made mic carries a one- ing the often -heard piercing sound. The year limited warranty on parts and labor Echomax 2000 features two different and is available from Astatic dealers. You unique ETS tones, which can also becan get more information by calling CB turned off via a switch on the front panel.dealers, or Astatic at 216-593-1 III. Their The Echomax 2000 Other features include a headphone address is Astatic, 341 Harbor Street, P.O. Microphone jack with its own volume control to allow Box 120, Conneaut, OH 44030. Astatic the user to plug in headphones and hearis recognized as a world leader in CB Astatic has announced the release of thethe amount of echo to get the sound ad-microphones by providing a large variety Echomax 2000 microphone. The newjusted perfectly. It can also be used to runof handheld and base station mics. mic, designed for citizens band operators, powered speakers. Also included on the Astatic has been making the D104 series is a true "digital" design, providing clear- mic is an analog VU meter (instead ofmic for over 60 years. DEDICATED TO THE SCANNING AND.SHORTINAVENENTIHUSSAST IVERNORE THAN JUST SOFTWARE! *wow NEW! PYGIY: PRO H 0 KACODE -.3 .4/ ers o n A The ONLY Commercially Available Computer Control "The Standard Against Which All Future Decoders Will Be Compared" Program for the Universal M-7000 & M-8000. Many radio amateurs and SWLs are puzzled! Just what are all those strange signals you can hear but not identify on the Short Wave Bands, A few of them AEA's PK-232 and the MF.1-1278 such as CW, RM.. Packet and Amtor you'll know - but what about the many . JUST GOT BETTER! other signals? There are some well known CW/RTTY Decoders but then there is CODE -3 Its up to you to make the choice, but it will be easy once you see CODE -3 CODE -3 has an aimi=1 STANDARD COPYCAT FEATURES mum exclusive auto -classification module that tells YOU what you're listening to AND auto- 32K incoming text butter Runs on any 640K PC Compatible matically sets you up to start decoding. No other decoder can do this on ALL the Pull down menus 50 page pnnted manual modes listed below - and most more expensive decoders have no means of identi- Mouse support (but nor required) New improved online help fying ANY received signals! Why spend more money for other decoders with FEWER 20, programmable macros Note Std COPYCAT Does Not Support Radio Interfacefeatures, CODE -3 works on any IBM-compatible computer with MS-DOS with at least 640kb of RAM, and a CGA monitor CODE -3 includes software. a complete audio to Simulated Speed 1.108.1r0.110.1. nodule almli) NEW COPYCAT -PRO FEATURES 41111digital FSK converter with built-in 115V ac power supply and a RS -232 cable. ready to use Control @QIN your TNC and radio Supports ALL SCANCAT frequency file simultaneously! Send commands to formats, or create your own! CODE -3 is the most sophisticated decoder available for ANY amount of money, and the best news of all. is that itis available from a United States dealer TNC and at same time, send frequency NEW. easier, 'Plain English- MACRO 26 Modes Included In package Inducts and mode to radio, language for control of all radio and EXTRA OPTIONS MOIS8 * ASCII * TDM342/ARO-M2/4 Option 3 Piccolo .. $85 00 NEW! Multiple pop-up windows for HELP, TNC functions. RTTY/Baudot/Murray a AR06-90/98 FEC-A FEC100A/FEC101 Option 4 Coquelet . $85 00 frequency files, and text editor. Instantly go RADIO SUPPORT for most AOR. JRC, &tor CCIR 625/476-4 SI-ARO/ARO-S FEC-S FEC1000 Simplex Option 5 4 special between any of three windows with single KENWOOD, ICON, YAESU. plus LOWE'sARO - Navtex * SWED-ARO-ARO-SWE Sports info 300 baud ASCII ARO & FEC systems keystrokes HF-150 and Watkins Johnson's HF-1000 AX25 Packet * ARO-EJAR01000 Duplex Hellscreiber-SyncbAsynch * TORG-10/11, Facsimile all RPM (up to 16 ARO-N-AR01000 Duplex Sitor RAW Normal &tor ROU-FEC/ RUM-FEC. gray shades at 1024 x 768 Vanant but without Synch HC-ARO (ICRC) and Discover our revolutionary COMPUTER CONTROL PROGRAM for the M-7000 andpixels * ARO-E3-CCIR519 Variant AR06-70 HNG-FEC $115.00 M-8000. Let COPYCAT free you FOREVER from remembenng all those buttons Autospec - Mk's I and II POL-ARO 100 Baud Baudot F788N Option 8 DUP-ARO Anrac and keys. COPYCAT does it all! Simple "PULL -DOWN" menus control all functions. Duplex ARO Pactor * SYNOP decoder $85.00 Twinplex TDM242/ARO-M2/4-242 WEFAX * No more looking through complicated manuals or searching for buttons. ALL com- mands are in plain English. 'PLUS* COPYCAT has a fully editable text buffer, with All modes in typical baud rates with possibility of changing to any Cut & paste. Save/lOad/edit/pnnt files, PROGRAMMABLE macros and much more. desired value of speed and shift MST ARRIVED! COPYCAT supports ALL the above units within ONE program. Simply select your All options are available from the main menu, saving or loading to and CODE 3 - GOLD VHF -SW DECODER units from COPYCAT's EASY -TO -USE menu and GO! from hard/floppy dnve in bit form, means no loss of unknown signals! $425.00.SMI$595.00-s AN STANDARD CODE -3 PACKAGE $595.00 COPYCAT -PRO $79.95, COPYCAT (std) S59.95 INCLUDES:1. OSCILLOSCOPE *2. ASCII STORAGE includes includes upgrades to COPYCAT -PRO $24.95 S/H 55.00 ($7.50 Foreign) 6. AUTO CLASSIFY *7. PACTOR * POCSAG & ALL (It you don t have the specially wired cable for the M-7000/8000 ALL FOUR EXTRA OPTIONS - $199.95 ACARS Plus NOW AVAILABLE - CODE -30 DSP-Based Decoder with be sure to order our serial adapter vT $24 95) OPTIONS all above options. SCALL (318)687-2555 * Options LIMITED TIME OFFER 31C INTERNET WEB ADDRESS - http://www.scancat.comWEB E-MAIL - [email protected] (S 8 H $10 US, VS Foreign) Ordet dyed of COMPUTER AIDED TECHNOLOGIES P.O. Box 18285 Shreveport,LA71138 FREE DEMO contact Vont ON tayonte dealer Orders Only (318) 636-1234 FAX (318) 686-0449 (24 hrs) Live Tech Support (318) 687-2555 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.Central M -F) 88s 4 www Nitetime BBS (SCANCAT File Area) (318) 631-3082 (7 p.m. - 6 a m Central) 42 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE The second model is the CBS -1000, anfessionals. All nine updated volumes AM/SSB base station. This new CB trans- have been compiled into one power fea- ceiver includes the following standard ture -loaded disk that contains virtually all features: AM/USB/LSB operation, 10 -of the same detailed information that channel weatherband receiver, five pre-Police Call Plus users are accustomed set memory locations, dual watch, auto - to-with added exclusive features, ac- channel scan and memory scan, coursecording to Gene. and fine clarifier controls, LCD display The news release states, "Police Call with frequency readout, modulation/Plus on CD-ROM is simple enough for a SWR meter, mic gain, RF gain, and SWRbeginner to use, yet packs enough infor- calibration and much more. The CBS - mation for the most demanding profes- 1000 retails for $499.95. sional." The user can select any num- Both of these products will be avail-ber-or all-of the following criteria for New CB Radios Introduced able in November at CB dealers, two-way searching records: state, license name, by Cherokee radio dealers and various electronic deal-licensee city, transmitter city, service WEI ers around the country. For more infor- code, frequency, callsign, and type of sys- Cherokee Electronics is proud tointro- mation,contact Wireless Marketing tem. It isn't even necessary for the user to duce two new additions to its revolution-Corporation, 3701 Algonquin Road,have the exact licensee name, complete ary line of CB radios. The first model isSuite 750, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008; city name or full callsign if any of those the world's first handheld AM/single or call them at 1-800-259-0959. are used as criteria for a search. Retrieved sideband radio, Model AH-100. information may be sorted in any order Measuring 6 1/2" x 2 1/2", it sets a new selected by the user. standard for portable single sideband util- Police Call Plus Now Police Call Plus CD-ROM requires ity and performance. With a suggested Available on CD-ROM Windows 3.1 or Windows 95 and only 8 retail price of $349.95 it includes the fol- MB of RAM. The list price is $29.99. The lowing features: AM/USB/LSB opera- Police Call Plus publisher Gene Hughes Police Call Plus CD-ROM is sold by elec- tion, LCD display with channel and fre-has announced the availability of the tronics retailers and mail order firms. It is quency readout, slide -on battery pack,long-awaited CD-ROM version of theNOT sold by RadioShack company - clarifier control, dual watch, channelpopular frequency reference guide for owned stores. For more information via e- scan, mic gain/RF gain and more. scanner users and communications pro- mail, contact DEDICATED TO THE SCANNING ANIIIIMMESHUSiAtiisWERE MORE THAN JUST SOFTWARE! INTRODUCING..itelpilliCATII1114D for Windows Since 1989, Theecognized Leader inonuto er Control Once you use SCANCAT w th YOUR radio, you'll NEVER use your radio attain WITHOUT SCANCAT1 SCANCAT supports almost ALL computer controlled radios by: AOR, DRAKE, KENWOOD. ICOM. YAESU and JRC (NRD) Plus PRO -2005/6/35/42 (with 0S456/535), Lowe HF-150, and Watkins-Johnson . SCANCAT'S BASIC FEATURES PLUS LINK up to 15 Disk files. Search by CTCSS 6 DCS tones with 0S456.535 Search between any 2 frequencies. Unattended Logging of frequencies to or DC440 (lcom only). Search by ANY increment files while scanning. Scan VHF & HF Icom's Simultaneously INCLUDES several large shortwave a Create Disk files Scan Disk Files Print to ANY printer or Disk files VHF/UHF databases Import from most text formats to a Spectrum Analysis to Screen OR Printer MULTIPLE search filters for Diskfile Scanning working SCANCAT file Supports PerCon 8 Mr. Scanner CD Roms, eotrourut. COSIMIERCIAL MATURES SUCH AS, Demographic search for frequency co-ordination and 2 -way Usage Analysis Exclusive 'MACRO' control by frequency of Dwell. Hang. Resume. Detailed logging to ASCII type files with DATE. TIME. Sig Str, Air Time Sig Treshhold and even 6 separate programmable, audible alarms UNLIMITED file sizes with our exclusive SCANCAT filing method. Command line options for TIMED ON OFF (Unattended) logging:searches. =ANGST IS MOT COPY PIWYTICTWO -UM ON AS MANY 001/11177111 Al YOU IMO ISOASICAT (DON) oral net an verfaiwny ANY 1140IC essapatar, lYNJf ells,10020.TPALMIT'OPI EXCLUSIVE WINDOWS FEATURES All the features you EXPECT from a true Windows application such as: NO MORE CONVERSION! DIRECT scanning of most DBASE. FOXPRO. ACCESS. BTRIEVE files Exclusive 'SLIDE RULE tuner. Click or 'skate your mouse over our Slide -Tuner to change frequen- WITHOUT "importing". Our Exclusive 'AUTO -PLAN" even sets the mode and increment on the fly! cies effortlessly! OR use our graphical tuning knob UNIQUE database management system with moveable columns. Even SPLIT columns into doubles or INTERACTIVELY have database. MAPS or Scanning functions on screen simultaneously. triples for easy viewing of ALL important data on one screen. MAPS - Load virtually ANY map or GRAPHIC image in -BMP" format (several included with Scancat). VERSATILE "Functional" spectrum analysis. NOT lust a 'pretty face" Spectrum is held in memory for Program 'hot spots' with your favorite frequencies. Up to 1000 frequencies per map. Click on Hotspot long term accumulation Simply "mouse over" to read frequency of spectrum location. 'CLICK" to im- to immediately tune your receiver. mediately tune your receiver. You can even accumulate a spectrum from scanning DISKFILES of A Ccmplete Modem/Terminal with support for most current modems Full X-Y-Zmodem download random frequencies! upload support up to 28.800. SCANCAT GOLD FOR DOS $94.95 + s & SCANCAT GOLD FOR WINDOWS $99.95 + S & fr UPGRADE from any version $29.95 + S & 5*0SWASEIGN CAT -WHISKER "UM-VERSA-T.11.E" 1144TE,RFACE TEED Of YOU! HANDHELD SCAN Bt ALWAYS FALLING OVER Supports ICOM. AR8000/2700. YAESU and SCOUT -40. 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Our new CAT -WHISKER lets you lay Unlike "single radio adapters can be used with ANY radio your handheld scanner on its back and still keep the antenna vertical! supported. simply change the adapter then 'Plug and Play " Swivels to ANY angle Expandable in future with a simple add on adapter CAT -WHISKER Al (5 to 23 Inches).$19.Swivels5 Easily adjusts to any length AND frequency No external power required Draws power from compute' Fits ANY scanner with a BNC antenna connector CAT -WHISKER 52 (6 to 36 Inehos).$24.95 "Reachon Tune' scout with NO modifications to r.i Fits on BACK or TOP mount scanner antenna inputs (plus 5250 S 8 H) CAT -232C "UNIVERSATILE INTERFACE" $99 95.&& h DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED INTERNET WEB ADDRESS - http://wvAv.scancat.com WEB E-MAIL - [email protected] Order direc or contact OrdY yourfavortitedealer COMPUTER AIDED TECHNOLOGIES P.O. Box 18285 Shreveport, LA 71138 Orders Only (318) 636-1234 FAX (318) 686-0449 (24 hrs) Live Tech Support (318) 687-2555 (9 a.m. 1 p.m.Central M -F) FREE DEMO ON 88S 6 WWW Nitetime BBS (SCANCAT File Area) (318) 631-3082 (7 p.m. - 6 a.m. Central) CANCAT THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 43 BY GERRY L. DEXTER The Listening Post WHAT'S HAPPENING: INTERNATIONAL SHORTWAVE BROADCASTING BANDS Channel Africa Loss is Averted All together now: one, two, three- and a big sigh of relief. The poten- tial loss of Channel Africa has been averted. What is surely Africa's best broadcaster will become a part of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), which will pick up the station's budget-a figure which came to $7.5 mil- lion a year when the station operated as a part of the South African Foreign Min- istry. SABC is also looking into the pos- sibility of expanding Channel Africa's coverage to include targets outside of the Africancontinent,something which Channel Africa did up until a few years ago (including a service to North Amer- ica). Channel Africa's current audience is estimated to be around 15 million people. ANTARCTICA-The Argentine sta- tion Radio National Arcangel San Gabri- el has been reactivated on 15476. The sta- tion uses the call LRA36 and plays a LeSea Broadcasting's radio station WHRI recently celebrated its 10th year on shortwave variety of music, including light classi- with this commemorative QSL card. cal, and runs until sign off around 1950. In its past operations the station didn'tactive the last time that country went kW shortwave transmitters and 48 direc- close down until around 2330, which through a similar crisis. tional antenna systems. Some frequen- made it considerably easier to log- DENMARK-One of Denmark'scies apparently in use by this new facili- although hearing it was still often a bat- commercial broadcasters, Radio ABC,ty include 6165, 7130 and 7295. tle. At present, Africa Number One ontried to get a license to operate a short- VOIRI has told some DXers that two 15475 kicks up a lot of interference until wave station but was turned down by the reports are required in order to receive a it signs off at 1900. LRA36 doesn't signDanish government (not even the gov-QSL. The station has also changed it's on until 1800, so the schedule window isernment operates a shortwave directlyaddress; it's now P.O. Box 19395-6767, less than two hours. The station is locat-from the country!). Failing that, RadioTehran, Iran. ed at the Argentine Esperanza Base. Re-ABC has gone on the air via a 120 kW ception reports may be sent to C.P. 9411, transmitter in Russia, at a site in the Kal- Antartida Argentina. iningrad region. The broadcasts are on Deutsche Welle News LIBERIA-We don't know if this is Sundays from 0800 to 1200 on 7570, and a case of history repeating itself or not, are in English and Danish. Reception re- A quick update to an earlier item about but a "new" station has come out of the ports may be sent to ABC Denmark, P.O. Deutsche Welle dropping shortwave turmoil in Liberia. The Liberian Commu- Box 174, DK-8400 Randers, Denmark. transmissions for European audiences. That's not entirely true. The cessation ap- nications Network is operating Radio KUWAIT-Radio Kuwait is relaying plies only to foreign languages. DW's Liberia on 5100 and 6100. The schedule a local FM station in Kuwait City. "Super shortwave broadcasts is announced as 0500 to 1800 on 6100Station 99.7" has been noted on Radio in German to Europe will continue. and 1800 to 0200 on 5100 (it apparently Kuwait around 1800 (or 1830) running to runs a bit later than 0200 on the week- 2100 after which Radio Kuwait goes into ends). The transmitter is at Totota in theArabic. This may not be daily, however. Learning From Cuba? central part of the country, about 70 miles It might be possible to get a QSL from from the capital, Monrovia. Reception this directly from the FM station itself. Maybe the big -budget international reports can be sent to Mr. Isaac P. Davis, IRAN-The Voice of the Islamic Re-broadcasters could learn a thing or two Liberian Communications Network, P.O. public of Iran (VOIRI) has inauguratedfrom Radio Havana Cuba. Despite an Box 1103, Monrovia, Liberia. A "Liber- its new transmitting site at Sirjan, in Ker-economy that's all but dead in the water, ian Communications Network" wasman Province. The site features ten 500 Radio Havana Cuba keeps rolling along, 44 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE SAO TOME-The fourth transmitter is now operative at the VOA's Sao Tome relay and is scheduled on 5970 from 0430 25th AWN to 0700, 11765 from 1630 to 1830 and 12080 from 1830 to 2130. Anniversary Firs. URUGUAY-Check variable 9650 Qtil, for a new station from Uruguay. Emisora "Am Ciudad de Montevideo has been active around 1500 to 1600 and again around 2200-2300. This is apparently still in the testing phase. The tests may occur at any time between 1100 and 0300. We don't tes. es. know when the owners plan to begin a cam mill Ilk regular broadcasting schedule. A second ,AWANW/111 all r transmitter will eventually go into oper- ation on 15230. The power of this station is only 1.5 kW, using home -built equip- z_wawa/AIM ment, so you'll probably have to really 4 dig for this one. VOICE OF MEDITERRANEAN- The Voice of the Mediterranean, which Adventist World Radio marked a quarter century of operation with this stylish QSL which incorporates the AWR three trumpets logo. had to leave shortwave when Deutsche Welle discontinued its Malta relay, has returned to the air via transmitters in Rus- though they very often have to find ways station is a project of the Burundi Council sia, though it's not 100 percent sure this to "make do." They've recently put a of Catholic Churches. will be a permanent arrangement. Check rhombic antenna into use for the 100 kW BAHRAIN-It appears that Radio 9765 and 12060 between 1900 and 2100 transmitter beaming to Europe on 13715. Bahrain is not currently active on eitherfor broadcastsinEnglish, German, This antenna formerly served as a radio-of its shortwave frequencies (6010 or French and Arabic. telephone link with Europe before satel- 9746). This one has escaped the clutches MEXICO-Radio Mexico Interna- lite transmissions came along. Somehow, of your editor over the years, so here's one tional is having technical problems on its the station has also been able to add audio - person hoping Bahrain's disappearance is 5985 and 9705 frequencies, so if you processing equipment. only a temporary thing. don't find them or have especially poor PORTUGAL-Radio Portugal has reception, that may be the reason. BURUNDI-The Voice of Peace is the re -timed it's English language broadcast name of a new station planned for to North America. It's moved from 0230 Your Loggings, Please! Burundi, but it's not yet known if this will to 0330, Monday through Friday on 6095 be medium wave, FM or shortwave. The and 9570. Your loggings and other informational input are always very much needed and very welcome! Please list your logs by country, double space between them, and include your last name and state abbrevi- ation after each. We also welcome any spare QSL cards, station photos, pictures of you and your listening post, news of stationQSL requirements,address changes, and general shortwave station news. We invite you to contribute as often as you can. This Month's Logs All times are UTC, which is five hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, i.e. 0000 UTC equals 7 p.m. EST, 6 p.m. CST, 5 MM. is p.m. MST, 4 p.m. PST. The broadcast lan- 18 tcsesannters et 8 saes =p7Adkciltp,1 \1011(116(11() guage is assumed to be in English unless 1 70.!000 watts of power coverage map J2 aeronas noted otherwise by an abbreviation such broaimstongMore than hairs per weer. as SS, PP, FF, RR, GG (Spanish, Portu- nary 30 studos produco-o programs plug arm to Rosser 8 Ukrainian meteors! networks -900. stations more ern 40 languages broadcast currertly guese, French, Russian, German, etc.) covey g over 70% of the worlds population 56he to in added by the year 20CD ARGENTINA-RAE, 15345at 1908 with Adventist World Radio's world coverage is shown in this attractive folder card. news. (Pedraza, OH) THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 45 EDCO...Always bringing you the latest products A New Range of Low -Cost WSM-270 WSM-1900 Antennas Amateur Scanner Scanning Aerials: To improve your reception... Antenna Antenna Watson Scanning Aerials Dual -Bander Et Micro Dedicated VHF/UHF have been designed to bring Mag-mount. Scanning Aeriel you the very best reception possible. Highquality Gain: 144-430MHz (2M 1/4 High Performance engineering and ergonomic wave - 70cms 3/4 wave throughout the range design ensure that Watson 50S2 Impedance Greatly Improves Signal Scanning Aerials are the 20" long Reception natural replacement for those Power: 65W max. Covers Airband - Marine, seeking to extend their VSWR: <1.5:1 Ham, Emergency, Cellular receiver's range. All models Weight: 1.2Ibs. Whip length: 1.3" cover 25MHz-1900MHz and Connector: BNC Connector: BNC Plug are fitted with BNC Cable length: 9' Cable Length: 9' connectors. W RON LOWE HF250 Introducing the SF100 The Lowe HF250 is set to become the new world standard for SOUND FEEDERTM mid -priced receivers.Building on the worldwide success of Lowe's HF225 and HF150 models, the new HF250 combines MOBILE AUDIO Lowe's traditional high standards for performance and quality of construction together with the advanced facilities and control CONNECTOR features required by today's discerning listener. The SOUND FEEDER Model SF100 Mobile Audio Connector is the MONITORING ACARS with the new mostpracticaland LOWE "AIRMASTER" convenient way to The monitoring of air band connect your portable communications is a hobby that compact disc player or has become more and more cassette player to your popular over the last 10 years. car's existing FM radio In common with the rest of the speaker system.By communications field, there are simply plugging the far reaching changes in process SOUND FEEDER into in this area to cater to the re- your cigarette lighter, connecting the audio input wire to your quirements of air traffic control portable player, and setting it to the desired station, you can in the next century. ACARS is a begin to enjoy the amplified STEREO sound of your portable very specialized data mode, and music source without the bother of dangerous (and only decoders that have been often illegal) headphones. 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Convenient multiple DC outputs, and morel Exclusive North & South AmericanIis Tr u o CIRCLE 13: ON READER SERVICE CARD DATONG ENEVADA ELECTRONICS JIMPROFESSIONAL SERIES LIMITED Have you read your AUSTRALIA-Radio Australia, 5995 at 1996 Scanner Master 1305 with Asian news, 9660 at 1315 in CC Abbreviations Used in Listening Post and 9860 at 1130 in EE. (Northrup, MO) AA Arabic radio catalog 11880 at 0625 with "Feedback" and Internet BC Broadcasting addresses, promo and news. (Pedraza, OH) CC Chinese BRAZIL-Radio Brazil Central, Goiania, EE English FF French 4985 at 0705 in PP with announcements and GG German music. (Pedraza, OH) ID Identification Radio Cultura, Sao Paulo, heard on 6170 in IS Interval Signal PP at 0610 broadcasting news and music. JJ Japanese mx Music (Pedraza, OH) NA North America Radiobras, 15265 at 1800 with EE ID, PP nx News announcements and frequency schedule. OM Male (Pedraza, OH) pgm Program PP Portuguese Radio Nacional do Amazonia, 11780 in PP RR Russian Ask about the all new at 2123 with announcements and sports news. rx Religion/ious MONITOR AMERICA (Pedraza, OH) SA South America/n CANADA-CBC/Radio CanadaInt' 1, SS Spanish 1100 -page 3rd Edition UTC Coordinated Universal Time (ex -GMT) 9640 at 1300 with ID, CBC news in EE, then Frequency varies the only all -in -one national FF music. 9650 in FF at 1250. (Northrup, MO) scanning directory. Now w/ With CHILE-RadioEsperanza,Temuco, wx Weather with more system detail YL Female than ever before! 6090 in SS at 0830 with announcements and SS music. (Pedraza, OH) // Parallel Frequencies Also ask about our trunking tone COSTA RICA-Adventist World Radio, eliminators. Listen to trunked radio 9725 at 1245 with a doubting Thomas story, systems without the beeps, burps ID. (Northrup, MO) 0804 with time signal announcement under and buzzsaws! Radio For Peace International, 6205, 0300 WWV. (Pedraza, OH) with a variety of programs to 0500 tune out. HONG KONG-BBC,15280with (Finley, NY) "English by Radio" at 0258; IS and BBC Scanner Master Englishlanguagelesson COLOMBIA-Ecos del Orinoco, programming. P.O. Box 428 (Jeffery, NY) Newton Highlands, MA 02161 Vichada, presumed, 4890 at 0320 in SS with typical music, time check, commercial for IRAN-Voice of the Islamic Republic of E -Mail: [email protected] Iran, 15084 at 1830 with news in Farsi. (Pe- Vichada Tourism, pops. (Pedraza, OH) FAX: 508-655-2350 Radiodifusora Nacional de Colombia,draza, OH) IRELAND-Radio Telefis Eirann, Dub- CIRCLE 84 ON READER SERVICE CARD 4955 at 0435 in SS with Caribbean music spe- cial, national anthem and sign off at 0445. (Pedraza, OH) CUBA-Radio Havana Cuba, 9550 at 1300 with news in SS. (Northrup, MO) CZECH REPUBLIC-Radio Prague, 7345 at 0300 with news read by Pauline Newman, Czech political news, press review, economic report. (Pedraza, OH) DOMINICAN REPUBLIC- Radio Pueblo, via Radio Cristo!, 5012.2 at 0150 in 4I% Wilbur J. Cohen SS with dance music, IDs, mention of Santo FederalBuilding Domingo,otherannouncements.Poor. Metrosofthasthe Thanks to Ed Rausch. (Paszkiewicz, WI) (.Miceof America scanners and ENGLAND-BBC heard on 9515 at 1305 accessories you want. with news, ID; 9740 and again at 12440 with ..-- AOR & Bearcat "Sports Roundup" and ID; 1310 with news. Scanning Radios (Northrup, MO) To Order EQUATORIAL GUINEA-Radio Africa, 15186 at 1918 with ID, frequency list- Phone: 800.791.8941 ings, addresses, including Liberia and Algeria. Fax: 212.545.9594 (Pedraza, OH) AR8000/AR2700/AR3000a/AR5000 FINLAND-Radio Finland, 9670 at 1300 BC3000XLT/BC9000XLT/BCT1 0 in Finnish, with ID. (Northrup, MO) 11900 at Grundig/Sony Multiband Shortwave Radios 1200 in Finnish with news, and ID in EE. WinRadio Communications (Pedraza, OH) Receiver for your PC FRANCE-Radio France Intl, 12015 at /f,), Plus, a wide selection of Radio 0147 in SS with DX program to 0155, off at Communications Computer Software 0157. (Pedraza, OH) (Maybe via French '11 AOR & Opto accessories in stock! Guiana, editor) Catalog and order online at http://www.metrosft.com/ GREECE-Voice of Greece, 9375 at 1900 E -Mail Address metrosttigtpanix.com in presumed Greek. Mainly music. Also 9935 Mafrosoll Corp. at 2150 in EE and presumed Greek with news, This sign points the way to the Voice of talk and music. (Ziegner, MA) America's front door in Washington, DC 167 Madison Ave. Em HAWAII-WWVH time station, 5000 at New York, NY 10016 (Thanks: Sue Wilden. IN) 48 CIRCLE 77 ON READER SERVICE CARD lin, via WWCR on 12160 at 2000 news of Ireland and sports results. (Provencher, ME) Mid -West Radio Co., Mayo, Ireland, 7325 The Best (via BBC) with special broadcast at 0000 replying to phoned in greetings from listen- ers. (Provencher, ME) ust ITALY-RAI, 11800 at 0030 with Italian The Eavesdroppers. now includes our new Zap Trappe'," Electronic Gas Tube sports news, feature, music, news, frequencies, Lightning Arrestors. Receive -only design shunts damaging tran3ient :o ground at chimes, ID in English, news. (Pedraza, OH) JAPAN-Radio Japan, 5960 via Canada at only 1/7th the voltage bJildup of the available 200 watt transmit -typo, arrestors, 0101 with IS, announcements and news. providing maximum sold state receiver protection. (Wilden, IN) And on 9535 at 1305 in JJ with Protect your investment - combine an excellent shortwave receiv ng antenna news; and 9750 at 1305 in 11. (Northrup, MO) with the best receiver protection money can buy. 11705 via Canada relay at 1430 with discus- sion on pagers. (Wallesen, IL) Radio Tanpa, 9595 at 1230 in JJ. (North- rup, MO) KAZAKSTAN-Kazak Radio, 9660 at Completely assembled and ready to use Model T includes 100' tainlead feedline 2300-0000 in KK with occasional Arabic talk, Only 42' overall length Model C induces weatr erproofed world news, comment, music. (Ziegner, MA) 8 trap circuits permit reception on all center connector fcr yoL r coax & coax KUWAIT-Radio Kuwait, 11990 at 2000 shortwave bands, 11-90 meters. sealant with feature on religion and the Holy Koran. All connections solderec and enclosed in Either model $79.95 (Pedraza, OH) 2030 on making Kuwaiti and ultrasonically -welded, hermetically -sealed UPS for lower 48 states $5.00 COD add $4.75, I_ add 7°o sales tax Turkish coffees. (Wallesen, IL) trap covers Includes 50' of 450 lb. test nylon -ope Foreign shipp ng quoted NETHERLANDS-Radio Netherlands, heard on 9700 at 0733 with news. (Pedraza, "The best...built like an antenna should be. "-Larry Magne in World Radio TV HIndbook OH) "Our best seller."-EEB in tieir recent ads and catalogs NIGERIA-Radio Nigeria, Kaduna, 4770 Now in use in 45 countries."-Gilfer Shortwave in 1983 at 0540 with music, announcements, ID, news at 0600 and close at 0607. (Pedraza, OH) OMAN-BBC relay with South Asia pro- Antenna Supermarket gram stream, 15310 at 0259 with IS, ID, news. P.O.Box 563 Palati le, IL 60078 Tel (847) 359-7092 Fax (847)359-8161 (Jeffery, NY) PARAGUAY-Radio Nacional, heard on At your dealer or direct Visa & Mastercard accepted 9735 at 0210 in SS with soccer game, many commercials, including one for Budweiser. (Pedraza, OH) PERU-Radio Cora, on 4915 in SS at 0159 WYFR) heard on 9590 with "Mailback ments, ID. Needs tuning in SSB to reduce the with pops, ID, frequencies. (Pedraza, OH) Time." (Pedraza, OH) Also on 17750 via QRM from CHU. (Paszkiewicz, WI) PORTUGAL -6095 at 0214 with sports WYFR at 2236 with story on bungee jump- Radio Zambia-ZNBC. 4910 at 0422 in news, weather, "Challenge for the '90s." ing. (Wilden, IN) unidentified language with a talk, music, ID, (Pedraza, OH) Ending English segment at TANZANIA-Radio Tanzania, heard on talk by a woman. (Jeffery. NY) 0358, ex -0230. (Paszkiewicz, WI) 5050 at 0330 with sign on with bell IS, then ROMANIA-Radio Romania Int' 1, 5990 ID, frequency and national anthem. What Have You Heard? at 2133 in unidentified language with what (Paszkiewicz, WI) sounded like news, followed by an ID. TURKMENISTAN-Turkmen Radio, I hat s the lot, sorry tosay. It w,,l1 anoth- (Jeffery, NY) 9510 at 0400 with tones, feature 7295 variable at 0200 to 0257 in probable er thin month for reports, which gener- on Romanian politics, "World of Culture." Turkmen. News and music. (Ziegner, MA) ates this gentle reminder that this column (Pedraza, OH) UNITED ARAB EMIRATES-UAE is not a magical thing. It does not appear RUSSIA-Voice of Russia, 7125 at 0000 Radio, Dubai, 13675 at 1630 with Arabicout of nowhere. It requires reader input in with news. (Pedraza, OH) 7240 at 0102. singing. (Wallesen, IL) 0337 with news. Also order to give you a good look at what's 11945 at 0330 with news. (Pedraza, OH) (Wilden, IN) being heard and what you can go after to SEYCHELLES-FEBA, 11695 at 0347 UZBEKISTAN-Radio Tashkent, 7143 add to your own logbook. Why not make in presumed Arabic with IS, announcements, at 0200-0300 with Uzbek greeting followed instrumental version of a Diana Ross song, by news, probably in Uzbek. Not heard daily. an early New Year's resolution to con- Arabic music. (Paszkiewicz, WI) (Ziegner, MA) tribute often! BBC relay with alternative African pro- VATICAN-Vatican Radio, 7305 at 0315 Anyway, a roaring salute to the follow- gram stream on 17885 at 1342 with an African in SS with religious news and talk. The ing good folks who came through for all music program. Lost by 1355. (Jeffery, NY) announcer was Fernando Molina. Also on of us this month: Sheryl Paszkiewicz, SINGAPORE-BBC relay with Asia/ 9605 at 0250 with a feature on human rights Manitowoc, WI; Elmer Wallesen, La Pacific program stream on 15360 at 0233 with abuses in Guatemala. (Pedraza, OH) Grange Park, IL; Edouard Provencher, "Thirty Minute Drama." (Jeffery, NY) VENEZUELA-Observatorio Naval time Biddeford, ME; Sue Wilden, Columbus, SOUTH AFRICA-Channel Africa, station, 5000 at 0805 with SS time announce- IN; Mark Northrup, Gladstone, MO; ments, weak under WWV. (Pedraza, OH) 11725 at 0505 with "Dateline Africa" and Tricia Ziegner, Westford, MA; Miguel A. news. (Pedraza, OH) VIETNAM-Voice ofVietnamvia SPAIN-Radio Exterior Espana on 9630 Armavir, Russia, 7250 at 0210 with news, ID. Pedraza, Jr., Springfield, OH; David E. in SS at 1310 with "International Chronicle." (Pedraza, OH) Finley, New York, NY and David Jeffery, (Northrup, MO) ZAMBIA-Christian Voice. 3330 at 0410 Niagara Falls, NY. Thanks to each of you! TAIWAN-Voice of Free China ia to 0430 with Christian vocals. EE announce- Until next month, good listening! THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 49 BY GERRY L. DEXTER Clandestine Communique_v TUNING IN TO ANTI GOVERNMENT RADIO Looking For Radio Democrat International? Join the Crowd! Timenow, everyone, for Chapter The Nigerian government is very upset taken for "New Star" in English. Three in our story of Radio Demo- over the broadcasts, and is doing what it Following a musical break, the trans- crat International, the roving Ni-can to attempt to get them to stop. The lated broadcast went on to say "We are gerian clandestine we've discussed in ourgovernment has threatened to try thesending telegrams from the following previous episodes. Forget 7195, they say. operators for treason if they are caught. units to the following units." Most of the That's the frequency to which they wereThe station declines to reveal the location recipients were indicated as being locat- reported moving in our last episode. Now of the transmitter "for political and secu-ed in Japan. Messages were prefaced by, they have settled (permanently, they said)rity reasons." as an example, "We are sending a tele- on 6205. But still later in our story they CHINA-Another fascinating clan-gram from unit 123 to unit 456 in Japan, showed up on 7195 again. And, at anoth-destine we've mentioned a couple ofplease prepare to receive. The telegram er time, had 6205 and 7195 in use at thetimes recently is the "New Star Broad-contains 10 words." The woman an- same time. The other frequency they hadcasting Station" which most clandestinenouncer would then read 10 groups of used initially, 15120, has apparently been enthusiasts believe to be coming fromfour numbers each. In his article, Pore abandoned, at least for the moment. ThemainlandChina.Pop'Comm's Donspeculates that the broadcasts are at- bottom line: If you are trying to hear thisSchimmel forwards information from an tempts at making China believe that Tai- one hour broadcast, you should probablyarticle in the Enigma newsletter by Jerod wan is communicating with its agents on check allthreefrequencies just in case.Pore. Pore called upon a friend to trans- the Chinese mainland. The sign on time varies from 2057 tolate one of the broadcasts and discovered COLOMBIA-Colombian clandes- 2102. It also seems that they are nowthe station identifies as "This is Channel tine Radio Pavia Libre, the station oper- using an alternate ID: Radio Kudirat,Four Broadcasting Station in Taipei, Re- ated by the ELN guerrillas, is active again Nigeria-The Voice of Democracy. This public of China, on 8300 kHz." Theafter an absence of quite some time. It has station is certainly one of the most fasci- broadcast starts with music, followed by been heard on 6300 running until 2230; nating clandestines we've had in quite"We are ready to begin transmission."6450 until closing at 2234 and 6250 from some time. One listener heard them with The confusion about the station's name 2200 to 2230. Some of the programs are a live call -in show using the number (617)is said to be due to the language of the"Noticiero Pavia Libre" and "Rompien- 364-7352. Much of the programming isbroadcast (Mandarin) in which bothdo las Cadenas." Operations don't seem in English and the signal strength is often "broadcasting" and"station"soundto take place on a daily basis, however. It quite good, at least in the Midwest and much like they do in English Fur-has been years since this station began Eastern parts of North America. thermore, "Channel Four" could be mis-broadcasts and clandestine hunters still Radio Democrat International Nigeria QSL - Verification of Reception This is to confirm that Ct-61Z Date: ti Q Ili (a Time: j L -S-24° MTA, Frequency:I y / Power: kW Transmitter location: SIGNATURE:11 T. kg OFFICIAL SEAL: Clandestine expert George Zeller got this QSL from Radio Democrat International, which objects to the current Nigeriangovernment. 50 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / Nouember 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE haven't the slightest clue as to an address on behalf of rebel elements. This "black"over World Harvest Radio's KWHR, for this station or its backers. clandestine continues to operate on vari- Hawaii, at 1400 to 1430 on 9930 SRI LANKA-The Trans World Ra-able 6355 from 0030 to 0130, 0530 to dio transmitter facility at Puttalam, Sri 0630 and 1030 to 1230. Help Us Out Lanka, is actually owned by the govern- Alpha 66 broadcasts its anti -Castro ment and is being used to broadcast a ser- programmingover WHRI Monday That covers the news for this time. vice in Tamil produced by the Elaamthrough Friday from 0700 to 0800 on Please remember that your informational People's Democratic Party which takes 7315. Also at 2200 to 2300 on 9495. input is always welcome. Your loggings of the side of the government in the ongo- La Voz de Fundacion, produced by theclandestine radio stations, news of the ing civil war. The Tamil broadcast is fromCuban -American National Foundation,activities of Rich stations, QSL news, 1315 to 1430 on 6035 using 12.5 kW. airs from 0000 to 0200 on 7315 Mondayaddresses, information on the groups and IRAQ-The Voice of the Movementthrough Saturday. governments which back these stations and of the Mojahedin of Iranian Baluchestan The Voice of Democracy (anti -Viet- broadcasts is always welcome. Thanks for operates only intermittently; and wasnamese government) airs in Vietnamese your help and your interest. heard most recently from 0600 to 0745 and 1300 to 1430 in Arabic and Baluchi on 11875. The broadcasts are believed to JG 3 + 3 STAR originate in Iraq and are hostile to the 1,111 Iranian government. An Iraqi -based clandestine which was active and damaged during the Gulf War may be back on the air by now. Voice of the Masses will, according to Iraqi offi- cials, broadcast 18 hours per day on both medium and shortwaves. The station, said an Iraqi government statement, will "seek to embody the creative and ingenious 01114E. FIELD thinking of the leader of the revolution, the builder of Iraq and the model of Arabism and humanity, leader President <<*locs Saddam Husayn" (Hussein). TIBET-There's been an interesting 441 development in the case of the Voice of Tibet, the anti -Beijing broadcast which is carried over the facilities of the Far East Broadcasting Association (FEBA) in the JO Seychelles from 1145 to 1200. China is apparently jamming the broadcast by relaying one of Beijing's FM stations, GUNN\ usually beginning as early as 1145 on FEBA's 15445 frequency. FEBA later 'finto n o() moved to 15480 and, as this is written, apparently Beijing hadn't followed. The JG-4 Beijing station being used as a jammer is CONVENTIONAL believed to be something called "Easy FM," which plays western pops. Other Clandestine News The Voice of the Iraqi Communist Workers Party is operating from 0300 to = 0500 in Arabic and Kurdish, 1530 to 1630 in Kurdish and 1630 to 1730 in Arabic on 4000. It's believed that this station may Route 1 Box 32C, Old Hwy 82. be a replacement for the Voice of the Iraqi Ethelsville, Alabama 35461 People, which seems to have gone silent. (205) 658-2229 fax (205) 658-2259 Voice of the People of Kurdistan airs a program in Arabic at 1600, repeated at Hours: 9am - 5pm (CST) Tuesday - Friday 0300 on 4100. It's also been noted in Eu- rope, in Kurdish at 1930 on 6300 variable. Other Models & Sizes Available in 10 or 11 Meters Also at 1635. Call or send $2 for Complete Catalog and Pr cing of Antenna Thabye Radio is a pro -government sta- tion in Myamar, pretending to broadcast DEALER INQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Nouember 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 51 BY TIM KRIDEL Broadcast Ining DX, NEWS AND VIEWS OF AM AND FM BROADCASTING Expanded AM Band on Hold. . .Again The FCC's second allotment plan for the expanded AM band is on hold COVERAGE MAP following petitions for reconsider- ation by eight stations that had their slots AM I in the new spectrum taken away under the revised plan. The petitions, which must be Radio 60, serving Fairfield County resolved before the plan can become final BRIDGEPORT TOTAL SURVEY AREA TOTAL SIGNAL AREA and construction permits can be issued, BRIDGEPORT METRO SURVEY AREA ISNADEDI question the Commission's expanded - band policies, in particular the Byzantine process used to de- termine which radio stations could migrate to the 10 new chan- nels between 1605 and I705 kHz. The second band plan was released in March after the FCC scrapped its origi- nal October 1994 list because of flaws and omissions in the database used to deter- mine which stations could migrate. The revised plan contained allocations for 87 stations, up from 79 in 1994. But that TOTAL SIGNAL AREA change wasn't simply the addition of INV-OATAY eight stations. Forty-two stations that had previously been denied allotments were WiCC Rada 2 Lafayette Squire BoxIgeperl CT 086046000 (203) 366-6000 added, while 33 stations that had been WICC sent a coy of their coverage map to Pop'Comm reader Donald Pipa after he reported hear- granted allocations under the 1994 plan ing them from his western Long Island QTH. A decade ago. they called themselves "Service Six." were not part of the 1996 list. And as with the 1994 plan, the 1996 list is drawing fire both for the small number of stationser they're simply isolated, individual million by 1998. "Basically we were bar- assigned slots in the band and how the quibbles, or examples of serious flaws in gaining in many cases for the survivors," Commission chose them from a pool of the Commission's expanded -band poli- said one union official of the impending 688 applicants. cies. The plan can't move forward until layoffs, which are expected to cut the full- Among the 33 dropped under the re- the petitions are resolved, but if in the time CBC staff to well below 8,000. vised plan were Arvada, Colorado's KQXI process they point to larger problems, the Estimates of just how many jobs will and Buffalo, New York's WNED. In its Commission could be forced to scrap the be lost vary, but it could be as many as petition, KQXI cited what it says is an error revised plan and formulate a new, third 3,000. Some losses will be outright lay- in the FCC database listing the stations' list of allocations. For the time being, DX- offs, while others will come through early nighttime power at 166 watts when it's ers will have to be content with the two retirements and unfilled vacancies. The actually 10 kW. Such a discrepancy could stations that have already begun using the unions representing producers, on -air tal- be a major factor, since the FCC's goal in band; Elizabeth, New Jersey's WJDM on ent, clerical and support workers agreed expanding the AM band was to reduce 1660 kHz, and Vallejo, California's to no pay raises between 1993 and Sep- interference in the crowded band by grant- KXBT, on 1630 kHz. tember 1998, while technical staff will get ing allocations to those stations whose only a two percent raise over two years. migrationitcalculated would most Hard Times In return, CBC has agreed to hire some improve overall conditions. WNED's peti- freelancers as full-time staff, and agreed tion requested an explanation for why its An 11th hour agreement between the to restrictions on buying programming improvement factor-used to rank the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and from the private sector. potential impact each station move would its employee unions has stayed off a The federal budget cuts have fueled the have-was signifi- cantly downgraded in strike, but not the cuts that may eventu- debate over what Canada's public broad- the 1996 plan, a change which apparently ally number in the thousands. The deal castingserviceshouldbe.Asan cost the station the allocationithad came as both sides acknowledged the Edmonton Journal editorial, sent in by received under the 1994 plan. reality of the cuts in the budget for pub- Trevor Fletcher of Edmonton, asked, "In- What the challenges bode for the via- licly -owned broadcasters-$227 million stead of trying to be all things to all peo- bility of the 1996 plan depends on wheth- this fiscal year and another nearly $200 ple, instead of dumbing down their pro - 52 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Applied for Permits to Construct New quality - et - C \ noun FM Stations - An inherent and essential feature or element exhibiting a degree of excellence and superiority. ALSelma 91.1 MHz 250 watts syn. see Mouser Electronics AZPage 91.7 MHz 500 watts CAKerman 95.1 MHz FL Murdock 98.9 MHz IL Atlanta 96.3 MHz IN Kentland 102.7 MHz MEMachias 101.1 MHz Call for your MOKirksville 90.7 MHz 25 kW FREE 332 MSStonewall 106.9 MHz NMAlamogordo 91.7 MHz 100 watts page catalog OHWillard 96.9 MHz ORLakeview 95.3 MHz TODAY! ;1'. 7'Vs..' " PABrookville 103.3 MHz -ert366-1 PR Mayaguez 88.3 MHz 2 kW 67,092 Products nom TNClarksville 88.3 MHz VADanville 91.1 MHz 126Manufacturers VAFranklin 91.7 MHz AllOrders Ship Same Day VI Fredericksted 98.5 MHz VTMontpelier 103.3 MHz (WGBY-FM booster) WICornell 99.9 MHz Passive Components Semiconductors WYJackson 93.3 MHz WYLaramie 96.7 MHz Electromechanical Connectors/Cable Surface Mount and Through Hole Granted Permits to Construct New FM Stations 800-992-9943 MOUSER° FAX: 817-483-0931 ELECTRONICS http://www.mouser.com AKKetchikan 99.9 MHz Low power sates@ mouser.com CARancho Mirage 99.5 MHz 690 watts 938 rthh4ain St., Mansfield, TX 76063 IA Sageville 106.1 MHz 4.4 kW IL Taylorville 94.1 MHz 6 kW CIRCLE 79 ON READER SERVICE CARD KSPlainville 96.7 MHz 5 kW LAJackson 104.5 MHz 6 kW Get A Newmage MEIslesboro 105.5 MHz 25 kW MNAppleton 88.5 MHz 100 kW MNBuhl 92.5 MHz 19 kW PC HF Fax Plus $129 MSYazoo City 93.1 MHz 4.1 kW PC HF Fax Plus is a simple, yet MTHamilton 91.9 MHz 850 watts comprehensive HF system that receives Fax. RTTY. CW. and NYOgdensburg 98.7 MHz 3 kW AMTOR on an IBM PC or OHSt. Marys 103.1 MHz 6 kW compatibleIt includes an FSK demodulator, advanced signal PAMcConnelsburg 103.7 MHz 133 watts processing software, tutorial PA New Berlin 88.1 MHz 550 watts audio cassette, and complete reference manualJust plug PRCeiba 99.9 MHz 3 kW (WIOA booster) the demodulator into a serial TNMcMinnville 91.3 MHz 1 kW port. install the software and TXBells 92.9 MHz 5 kW gel text and vivid images on your PC TX 99.9 MHz 6 kW Hallettsville PC SSTV $149.95 TXMadisonville 100.5 MHz 6 kW VAFarmville 92.9 MHz 6 kW PC Slow Scan Television is a VI 10 kW complete system for sending Charlotte Amalie93.1 MHz and receiving full color amateur WYBuffalo 92.9 MHz360 watts (KLGT booster) SSTV. The package includes WYPinedale 101.1 MHz 210 watts an SSTV FSK modern SSTV software. image capture utilities and reference manual All popular formats are Canceled supported including Robot, Scottie, Martin and AVT. The system requires a 286, 386 or KYOU Wendover, NV 102.3 MHz faster PC with VGA or super VGA display Seeking FM Frequency Changes Have It All For Only 5199.95 For a limited lime we are offering both software packages with a single FSK modem for Jnder $200 This combination offer will let you send and receive the popular HF (new) Bells, TX 92.9 MHz Seeks 91.1 MHz image and text transmission modes KCPI Albert Lea, MN 94.9 MHz Call or write for our free catalog. Visa and Mastercard welcomed. KLUHPoplar Bluff, MO 90.5 MHz Seeks 91.7, 25 kW Software Systems Consulting WAEZElizabethtown, TN 99.3 MHz 615S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, CA 92672 WVYCYork, PA 88.1 MHz Tel.(714) 498-5784 Fax. (714) 498-0568 CIRCLE 87 ON READER SERVICE CARD THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 53 IC OMTMICmR7ing Seeking AM Facility Modifications sweep! 800 ChannelsiMinute KABN Long Island, AK 840 kHz Seeks to change power DELTACOMM 1-7100 communication manager and your MS-DOS computer gives KCMN Colorado Springs, CO 1530 kHz Seeks to change power you a custom interface integrated with optimized software that will not lust control KSLM Salem, OR 1190 kHz Seeks to change power but will maximize the potential of your R7100.Here are a few (there are many more) examples of the advanced features DELTACOMM 1-7100 has to offer. KQXI Arvada, CO 1550 kHz Seeks to change night DELTACOMM" 1-7100 CYBERSCAN power feature for monitoring systems employing duster or frequency hopping techniques. WGTX DeFuniak Spgs., FL1280 kHz Seeks to change power, freq., city Individually programmable database volume levels (by channel) while scanning. WNVR Vernon Hills, IL 1030 kHz Seeks to add night svc. Spectrumlogfunctionwillsweep a frequency spectrum, generate a histogram and log frequency/activity to screen and/or disk in real time. Changed AM Facilities Dual squelch detect electronics integrated with DELTACOMM 1-7100 software guarantees optimum speed and performance during a frequency search or database scan. KFWB Los Angeles, CA 980 kHz Increased to 50 kW Programmable signal strength threshold limits with full 8 -bit accuracy allow selective monitoring and logging. Only stations having signal strength less than or greater than or within upperlower WWIS Black River Fls., WI 1260 kHz Reduced power user defined signal strength window !hits will be monitored and/or logged. Continously updating activity information window displays the last 19 active channels. Channel activity status is displayed in real time with activity log function.To determine system loading when first 5 channels are simultaneously busy, 'All Trunks Busy' message is logged to disk. Changed FM Frequencies Receiver characterization with DELTACOMM" 1-7100 birdie log function automatically logs any receiver birdies prior to a frequency search operation.Birdie channels are then locked out KMGX Rio Dell, CA 107.3 MHz iuso ed to 107.5 MHz during a frequency search operation, thus eliminating false channel logging. WKBISt. Marys, PA 93.9 MHz moved to new freq. Custom interface allows selective program control of relay contact. Possible uses indude activating an operator alert, switching antennas via coax relay or turning on a tape recorder WQAQ Hamden. CT 88.3 MHz moved to 98.1 MHz when user defined frequendes are found to be active. DELTACOMM' 1-7100 communication manager comes complete with Delta Research custom (Cl-') communication interface, UL listed power supply, manual and receiver interface cable for Pending AM Call letter Changes $349.00 f $8 00 (U.S.) or 825.00 (foreign) S8H. Contact us for additional information on DELTACOMM" communication managers for ICOM"R7000, R71A, R72 and IC735. Performance proportional to video card, type of computer and receiver squelch detection method. New Old KJAZ KORV Oroville, CA AMERICAN WQUN W X CT Hamden, CT EXPRESS Box 13677Delta Wauwatosa, WI Research 53213 FAX/Phone (414) 353-4567 CIRCLE 71 ON READER SERVICE CARD Changed AM Call Letters YOU AIN'T New Was KJFF KJCF Festus, MO 1-1EARIN KKTK WACO Waco, TX KMXA KYBG Aurora, CO KZKL KNOS Albuquerque, NM WECR WJTP Newland, NC WGWM WMAK London, KY WILP WXPX W. Hazleton, PA WILT WPMR Mt. Pocono, PA WKQV WARD Pittston, PA WNMX WIST Charlotte, NC cOmodificatit, WOBS WCRJ Jacksonville, FL SECKti) WQTM WRTM Pine Hills, FL WRCV WGRD Grand Rapids, MI WRLZ WHBS Eatonville, FL WRTM WVIX Vicksburg, MS _ WSPT WSPO Since 1967, CRB Research has been the world's le ading pub- Stevens Point, WI lisher and suplier of unique hobby and professional books and WTAU WKGA Zion, IL information including: WVAX WWJY Lincoln, IL Scanner Frequency Guides Covert Operations WXRE WOJY Hampton, VA Shortwave Frequency Guides Undercover Comm. Military/Federal Comm. Survival Comm. Surveillance Electronic Espionage Broadcast Station Registries & Other Related Topics! Pending FM Call Letter Changes New titlesare constantly being added toour exciting catalog. If it's interesting and unusual, we've got it. You'll see. New Old Ask for our latest FREE catalog. KCWM-FM KRBH Hondo, TX KRKR KRGO Roy, UT KRUF KWKH-FM Shreveport, LA WEEK -FM WIVR Eureka, IL P.O. Box 56, Commack, NY 11725 WJCO WUNX Harwichport, MA Phone: (516) 543-9169 WWKJ WUNZ Falmouth. MA FAX: (516) 543-7486 CIRCLE 11 ON READER SERVICE CARD 54 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE : or eliminate French -language local TV FIFICri 0ii'", "fir ligo -01114#1, ..:.n 2.,' ..!...L. N... .1.,.....ein.' - ' news. The CBC is facing hard choices in .0 United States of America an era when calls for greater fiscal respon- Army Broadcasting Service sibility and accountability at the federal tiO level are redefining what government Verification Certificate can-and cannot-do. l').This ii to astir/ Rom iteres 331"/ 3.1 I.23.733 r26/112 312111 I swollen.. MN 27322 222 2.2=i C2111p2 iciwr...-a....4a. [124.ivr.d,=lam2/=Ma 32It 212721=1 2221 02 223. AN2 12.1 1 Aler 114 A22ft. If 1... )31), To t himmlnlog 2 3322321/16IOW mmlior Paw Clopm ION 12113121 TI Radio Entrepreneur amends T..i.m3y 323 2.122 L21 Tagelor 7111,3 122 12 Pal 2.10 ils =NAN on CFI 161. WA et Wel 22 117222 82 /1112L12 Murdered Paranoia r WIS Jr ww21212.1 minim pa322 12 .322 d i w w sr sr WI Do 221.2 3 2112.12d313 3212 20133212 if) 0221 Rows 3411.2237....r I.MN 511:t . 1212 11eb San 21:341.111 022 11. 1123 in MP MCI II m..171=13.1 1231.3 121 2133 CD12221 Michael Taylor's dream was to start a 2:742/11 OAT ,vim 2.2213 110 IMP 0 0 11114 'Map 322. fIrr13 CATO dillos 211131613 kormolart Odin 211 radio station that would serve minority Alftra1232tla116 QAT= FM 32 ....1IAA .7.27211..71minD10- 22 2121.7 322 .3374173 NMI, 11.21 maring ITC Mb III 2/2122 communities in South -Central Los An- 31222 1212r 177 mass i MO 22 IV mord omocToro112 32 mg.., b.*. MY 2114.1 33212 nemlo mil Ts III MI II 122211 2223 111212. Me.2x2732.2x2732111113E?tabu , NMI MO 1/2 113r ml3 ..2 2 MN0 geles. In the end, that dream became a Ork 2221 MO 14112111 Ow+ WIN ..ak p.....be 04 nightmare, with Taylor shot to death exe- cution -style in a vacant lot. 1 4atOliaii(e"S46' Thq 4TNOMAMAIL311121 The community activist and former 223.14=2.3 IYectsr, Ansi IlmasIlle !robs kt talk -show host had spent his last three 9 Attiatok-AVAtirwcti.IZWirespAllipg* ;',. ilfr 1 s.V0 months organizing the launch of L.A. Liberation Radio, a micropower station The U.S. Army's experimental expanded -band broadcasts last February caught a lot of DXers that he hoped would unite area minority by surprise. Perhaps just as surprising were their elaborate QSLs-a welcome change of pace groups. "I want to use the alternative air- from the bare -bones acknowledgements that many stations send out today. (Courtesy Ron waves as a tool to bring out not only my Reyno, VE3RYN, Mississauga, Ontario) ideas, but other people's ideas from my community and other communities," gramming, should CBC radio and tele-tural programming no other broadcasterTaylor, 45, said during his show on vision stop competing with commercialprovides?" Concentrating its evermoreKPFK-FM. "I want to talk about what stations, and air more symphony con-limited resources on that niche, the Jour- they face and hopefully come up with certs, more serious dramas, more docu- nal argued, may require the CBC to aban- solutions to make things better." mentaries, more of the high -quality cul- don coverage of local news in urban areas Taylor had hoped to accomplish that regifitye Introducing the World's First and Smallest Hand Held AM/SSB CB Radio, and the World'sCHEROKEE Th7 Most Advanced AM/SSB Base Station!!! A Cherokee, the new technology leader in CB radio, brings you state-of-the-art performance and design in these two new revolutionary radio's. Model CBS -1000: AM/SSB Base Station Model AH-100: AM/SSB Hand Held Radio For More Information on these radios and where you can purchase them, call us at 1-800-259-0959, or visit us on the web at http://www.wirelessmarketing.com Cherokee is a registered trademark of the Wireless Marketing Corporation, Rolling Meadows, Illinois, 60008 CIRCLE 92 ON READER SERVICE CARD New FM Call Letters Issued KZEZ KSGI-FM St. George, UT WAMO-FM WXDX Beaver Falls, PA KAQE Martinsville, LA WBBE WKQS Gifford, FL KAQF Clovis, NM WBHK WLBI Warrior. AL KBNU Uvalde, TX WBYY WRDX Somersworth, NH KTRQ Quincy, WA WCEL WCFE-FM Plattsburg, NY KTSN Elko, NV WCTA-FM WRPC San German, PR KUFN Hamilton, MT WDGF WOTB Middletown, RI WAAE New Bern, NC WDRE WIBF-FM Jenkintown, PA WAIL Olivebridge, NY WECR-FM WECR Newland, NC V WAOD Alberta, VA WFBY WKKW-FM Clarksburg, WV WAQC Brunswick, GA WGAY WEBR Washington, DC WBFM Sheboygan Falls, WI WJCY WLPJ New Pt. Richey, FL WBGM New Berlin, PA WJJJ WNRQ Pittsburgh, PA WFOW Chatom, AL WJZI WQFM Milwaukee, WI WKHC Dahlonega, GA WKCH WISQ Whitewater, WI WMKR Taylorville, AL WKQV-FM WKQV Olyphant, PA WMOC Lumber City, GA WLIR-FM WDRE-FM Garden City, NY WVTW Charlottesville, VA WLRI WLRI-FM Westhampton, NY WNDT WFJZ Alachua, FL WNKS WEDJ Charlotte, NC WNMX-FM WNMX Waxhaw, NC Changed FM Call Letters WNYQ WSRQ Queensbury, NY WOGR-FM WNDN-FM Salisbury, NC New Was WOLI WXWX Easley, SC KAZY KKWM Winfield, KS WOLT WSPO Greer, SC KBGO KEYV Las Vegas, NV WOSN WAAE Indian River Spgs., FL KBXB KSTG Sikeston, MO WOXF WAEF Bedford, NH KFIE KZFT Merced, CA WRLZ WHBS Eatonville, FL KKBY KJUN-FM Eatonvile, WA WRQR WROR Wilmington, NC KKLD KDTK Prescott Valley, AZ WSFQ WJMR Peshtigo, WI KKUL KFGE Lincoln, NE WSJW WQLL Louisville, KY KLCV KFBN Lincoln, NE WSPT-FM WSPT Stevens Point, WI KLLC KRQR San Francisco, CA WSWJ WEGE Crossville, TN KLPR KSCV Kearney, NV WWFH WQBQ Freeland, PA KMXA-FM KMXA Minot, ND WXLJ WXVE Spangler, PA KMXB KJMZ Henderson, NV WXLM WXLN-FM Eminence, KY KPHS KPLN-FM Plains, TX WXLN-FM WEHR Shepherdsville, KY KPLN KMKX San Diego, CA WXPS WWGT Verginnes, VT KQMX KCLI Clinton, OK WZCH WABT Dundee, IL KROG KYJC-FM Grants Pass, OR WZCO WWJY Crown Point, IN KRTO KMQA-FM W. Covina, CA WZSH WBFL Bellows Falls, VT KSYY KBZX Falbrook, CA project by setting up a micropower radiomitter-or else. Taylor said he'd received him if someone was going to kill him, and station-an unlicensed, home-brew set-threats that "things are going to get he said it was possible." up that broadcasts on an open frequencyrough," according to one friend. The fol- His legacy may live on, thanks to of its own choosing. The stations, which lowing night, Taylor was visited by three friends, who say they plan to see the pro- typically run less than 100 watts and cov-men, who persuaded him to leave with ject through in spite of fears they have for er a few square miles, are often the resultthem. An hour later, gunshots were re-their own lives. "We are definitely still of a grassroots effort to serve a commu-ported in the area where Taylor's bodymoving ahead," said Mzee Shambulia, nity or group of people that organizers be- was later found, hands bound and shot Taylor's partner in L.A. Liberation Radio. lieve are being shortchanged by larger, repeatedly. The three currently await trial "There is no doubt about that," he told LA mainstream media. on charges of kidnapping and murder. Weekly, "More so now." But in Taylor's case, that effort turned Taylor'sdetermination may have deadly, apparently because of a disputeblinded him, say his friends. "I think Throwing Curves over the transmitter that was to be usedMichael was so concerned about the wel- 1111111111i. - for L.A. Liberation Radio. According tofare of other people that he overlooked What constitutes a radio station and how one of his technical partners, Taylor with-his own security," one friend told the Losoperating in the public interest can affect drew his support in April after a falling- Angeles Times in an article sent in by L. that definition are at the heart of a dispute out with others in the group over how the Mark Lussky, of Los Angeles. But anoth-over a Fort Lee, New Jersey translator. project was evolving. The station's finan- er who talked to Taylor on the last day he Jukebox Radio provides oldies music and ciers, who wanted to continue, demand- was seen alive said that Taylor was awarelocal news to Bergen County, the largest ed that Taylor hand over the $1,200 trans- of how serious the situation was. "I asked county in the U.S. without its own FM sta- 58 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE tion. But a funny thing happens on the way to the market. Jukebox originates at stu- dios in Dumont in northeast New Jersey and sends its programming via cable to WJUX-FM, some 60 miles northin Monticello, New York. WJUX's signal is thenpickedup andrebroadcast by W232AL, a translator 50 miles to the south in Pomona, New York, near the NY/NJ border. Finally, W232AL's signal is picked up and rebroadcast by another translator, W267AQ, 20 miles south in Fort Lee, a short hop across the Hudson River from Manhattan. So what's wrong with this ar- rangement? It depends on who you ask. Jukebox's owner, Jerry Turro, had long sought to give Bergen County a voice in the FM band. But since the county is next door to the New York metro area, usable Winchester, Virginia's WINC-AM may be a small station, but it can hold its own against giants open FM channels haven't been available like WSM-a teenage Patsy Cline sang at the station in the early days of her career. (Courtesy Sue Wilden, Columbus, Indiana) since the 1950s. Turro first tried to per- suade the FCC to change its rules prohib- News in Brief WSCR-AM to WMAQ-AM and make iting programming from originating at WSCR an all -business outlet. translators, which aren't stand-alone Electronic newspapers and computer broadcast operations, but essentially a Fresh from revamping New York City's WKTU, Evergreen Media is turning their software could be available via your TV transmitter and antenna that rebroadcast set as early as next year, thanks to an FCC a signal picked up off -air in order to allowattention to a couple of their Chicago sta- tions. WLUP-FM will add rock music at ruling allowing TV stations to piggyback the station where the programming orig- digital data on their broadcast signals. inates to expand its coverage. When his the expanse of talk programming, accord- ing to reports in the Chicago Tribune, sentAlthough field tests are still being con- efforts failed, Turro devised a system of ducted and potential applications for the sending Jukebox to WJUX, owned by ain by Elmer Wallensen of La Grange Park, dataservicesarecontinually being friend of his, and then relaying it to the Illinois. Sister station WMVP has dropped its low -rated sports talk programming in dreamt up by a handful of developers, the Bergen County market via the two trans- industry and the FCC are optimistic. lators, both of which he owns. It's a mean- favor of simulcasting WLUP, including the dering way to deliver programming, butWindy City's top jock, morning man it works. Jonathan Brandmeier. Evergreen recently Thanks! What has Jukebox's competitors upset bought WPNT-FM for $68 million, giving is that W267AQ, in spite of its 34.5 watt the company six FM and two AM stations What's happening on your local radio power, can cover the lucrative Manhattan in the market. Evergreen says it plans todial? Your news clippings, shack photos, market, thanks to its location. That has sell WEJM-FM in order to get back underbumper stickers and QSLs are always raised questions about whether Turro's the FCC's ownership cap. Meanwhile, welcome. Thanks to those who have writ- real aim is to cash in on ad revenue from rumor has it that Westinghouse will move ten and sent in material for our column! businesses who can't afford to advertise itssuccessfulall -sportsformat from Until next month, 73s. on New York City stations. Even more upsetting, though, is what they perceive as Turro's blatant violation of the FCC's rules. WVNJ-FM, in the Bergen County town of Oakland, filed a complaint with the FCC charging that Jukebox Radio is The ***** "making a mockery of the Commission's Original Select-A-Tenna rulesprohibiting programming from AM RADIO ANTENNA WORKS WITH THE originatingattranslators.Jukebox BUILT-IN ANTENNA IN YOUR RADIO method of bouncing its signal off a radio NO WIRES TO CONNECT PLUS station and two translators to reach its in- NO BATTERIES SHIPPIN tended market is, according to WVNJ, the tail wagging the dog." The Commission HIGH -0 SUPER GAIN AND SELECTIVITY agreed with that assessment and ordered PROVEN WORLD-WIDE FOR OVER 22 YRS Turro to stop sending Jukebox program- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED ming to WJUX or quit rebroadcasting THIS ONE REALLY WORKS! INTENSITRONICS CORP. TOLL -FREE WJUX on his two translators. Turro has 1-800-382-4155 DEPT. 0 60 days to make his decision, but he may P.O.BOX 562 FAX HALES CORNERS, WISC. 53130 1-317-883-7555 seek to challenge the ruling and rewrite MADE IN USA the program -origination rule. CIRCLE 74 ON READER SERVICE CART ) THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 59 BY W.W. SMITH Product Spotlight POP'COMM REVIEWS PRODUCTS OF INTEREST Product Spotlight: PerCon CD-ROM Databases 16 MB of memory and a 540 MB hard Prices: Spectrum $29.95 + $7.50 S&H (2 Day service) Spectrum Canada drive. I am currently using the Windows $49.95 +$7.50 S&H. All funds are in for Workgroups 3.11 operating system U.S. dollars with Microsoft's 32 bit extensions. The Ham_db $19.95 + $7.50 S&H (2 Day Service CD-ROM I have installed is a common Geo db $69.95 + $7.50 S&H (2 Day Service ) Available from:PerCon Corporation double speed unit. Given the current range 4906 Maple Springs/Ellery Rd. of systems available today, this runs about in the middle of the pack between the base Bemus Point, NY 14712 system recommended by PerCon and the Phone (716) 386-6015 or fax (716) 386-6013 high end systems that can be purchased E-mail: 60 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Station Code, Radio Service Code, Com-city and state to get a good idea of all thedinary distances. If you can catch a CW pany Name, Transmitter City, County, signals that my scanner could sniff as I sat ID or callsign, so much the better as this State, Latitude & Longitude and numberat my campsite. It was a simple matter totoo isa searchable field under the of units for vehicle, marine, aircraft, isolate the useful information and print out Spectrum system. Another feature that portable and pager use. Each record con- a few lists for each leg of my trip. This was got surprising use was close examination tains these 15 fields of information. The much less cumbersome than carrying sev- of the latitude and longitude fields. I have database includes records for police, hos- eral large frequency books along on the a close friend who is a dedicated Disney pitals, fire, EMS, state and local govern- trip. The custom made listings gave meWorld scannist. However, many of the ments, businesses, airlines, theme parks, hours of relaxation during my vacation. radio transmitters used within the Disney commercial broadcasters and many other Many other uses come to mind. I useoperation are licensed under company services. The system supports query, one scanning receiver that is outfittednames that don't always identify their multi -browse screens, printed reports and with search and store functions. This isrelationship to the Disney organization. export to a UFDBF File. a very useful, but often confusing fea- It was and easy matter to bring up Florida The PerCon disks couldn't have arrived ture. Just because you can identify a fre- and examine areas based upon refer- at my shack at a more opportune time. My quency as being active does not mean ences to location. family was about to embark on a two-week you can identify the user. The Spectrum Many operations such as the "Reedy long camping trip that would take us toCD-ROM brought new lifeto my Creek Improvement District" were found. five campsites in three different states. I search/store activities. It was a simpleThe Disney operation can try to disguise had a very good idea of the major public matter to conduct frequency searches ofitself, but a dedicated scannist armed with service frequencies for along the routethe dozen or so "unknowns" that mostthe Spectrum CD-ROM can find "The from previous travel. However, I wantedsearches would discover. It was fairly Mouse" wherever it hides. On a more lo- to dig deeper and check out all the local easy to make educated guesses from the cal level, I've used this feature to figure signals that I could find in each of the loca- resulting reports. This is also a useful out who belonged to a couple of antennas tions that I would call home along the way. tool when propagation oddities bring inI've spotted on my way to a from work. While the kids are off to the pool and the unusual signals to normally well-known The point is that 15 fields of data that wife is reading her latest trashy novel, Ifrequencies. When signals begin to skip, can be directly searched six different like to relax and listen in on the world that the Spectrum CD-ROM can help the user ways can allow a sufficiently inquisitive the scanner opens to me. It was a simplequickly figure out who might be travel-scannist to discover just about anything matter to conduct a series of searches by ing into his or her scanner from extraor- there is to hear as well as a great deal about LENTIN Toll Free COMMUNI17i S -800.666-0908 MAXON SM-2000 Series GMRS 210+3 Svnthezied Scanning Mobiles UHF 8 VHF Versions Available 10 UHF Channels. 25 Watts Worldwide desktop communications receiver CTCSS 4 Channels Covers 50kHz - 30MHz AM/SSB/CW (FM optional) 2Watts Output CTCSS/DCS (5 watts at 12VDC) For Business or GMRS Use 50 memory channels 40 Watt. 16 Channel Model $369.95$289.95 Built in selectable filters t S179.95 UPS Handheld Units Available Call For Info. UPS inc. 2.4, 4, 6kHz UNIDEN Call for all Uniden/Bearcat OR AR8000 WRTH"Best Communications BC9000XLT BC3000XLT Call for pricing Receiver" IWO$359.95 Many, many more features INN $379.95 delivered OPTOscout 40 delivered YAIESTiOrdrosoR GRUNDIGn SANGEAN ATS909 Ultra Compact Dual Band Handheld Shortwave AdvancedAdYvaachcte Comp Compact New From Sangean AM/FM/SSB AM/FM/SSB Shortwave Receive:76-200MHz, 300-540MHz 0 Shortwave 306 Memories 590-999MHz cellular blocked Top Performance In A 28 SW Pages Transmit: 144-148MHz Portable Shortwave Preprogrammed Receiver Full RDS 430-450MHz Yacht Box 305 Satellit 700 ALSO IN STOCK, Reception AM Aircraft Receive CALL FOR PRICING Loaded With Features CALL FOR DISCOUNT PRICES ON CALL FOR PRICING! Digital Coded Squelch DRAKE AND SONY High Speed Scanning CB RADIOS mn_x6coli may CTCSS Encode (Decode/w/FTT-12) MAXON MCB-45W S89.95 112 Memory Channels Full line of Cobra. Uniden. Maxon in stock; set -`10 .- Much, Much More! antennas power mikes. etc. ez; CALL FOR PRICING. I109.95 HOURS: M -F 10am - 6pm Conn Sales Infr. & Teh Hel60 p 21 Garfield St.Newington, CT 06111 SAT 10am-4pm c D 's OK - SAME DAY SHIPPING UPS Ground 48 states CIRCLE 75 ON READER SERVICE CARD THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 61 each signal that arrives at his or her shack. The Regional Series service). While this product lineis If your hobby is listening to your re- beyond the scope of most hobbyists, I pre- ceivers, you don't want to spend most of Incidentally, if your needs go beyond sent it as a "state of the art" alternative. your time thumbing through books. The that of most hobbyists, you may want to If you live or do business in the "Great Spectrum CD-ROM speeds up the re-consider another PerCon product, TheWhite North" you will appreciate the search aspect of the hobby to allow theRegional Series. This is a set of CD- Spectrum/Canada CD-ROM. Similar in user more time to enjoy listening and, ROMs that covers the US (all FCC licens- information and scope to the United more importantly, understand exactlyes-all frequencies). Each has over 72States version of Spectrum, Spectrum/ what is being heard. fields of data. It is the most comprehen-Canada gives the user access to over Some advanced scanning systems such sive dataset available, with the most pow- 500,000 records. as the AOR 8000 and scanning receiverserful search -engine available. Program SPECTRUM/Canada has licenses for that are outfitted with the Optoelectronics runs under Windows/Windows 95/NT.all of Canada excluding military and fed- 0S456 or 0S535 boards, can make directThis is an advanced hobbyist and com-eral government. The CD-ROM is only use of the Spectrum's files. This saves amercial level product. Each Region is available for the DOS (3.1 or higher) and lot of wear and tear on your fingers when $129.95 + $7.50 S&H (two-day service). Windows (3.1 or higher) formats. Hard- it comes to loading in hundreds of fre- Additional Regions can be purchased forware needs are the same as those for the quencies. Advanced monitoring devices $99.95 +$2 S&H (two-day service)United States version of Spectrum. Each such as the Optoelectronics Scout andRegional Series Set of six Regionalrecord in the Spectrum/ Canada database Xplorer can also make direct use ofCDROMs-Full U.S. coverage for all includes fields for Frequency, Callsign, Spectrum data files. frequencies. $550 + $10 S&H (two-day Company Name and ID, Transmitter Lo- cation, Latitude & Longitude, SIC Code, and Engineering Data. The program al- lows for searches by Location, SIC Code, Callsign, Company Name and Frequency PopComm P.O. or Frequency Range. The data can be dis- played of screen, printed or exported to a (from page 6) UFDBF file. The look and feel of the product is almost identical to the United States version of the Spectrum CD-ROM. I did not have occasion to travel to Canada be said that I was surprised to find much You're right, Roger, the majority of during my evaluation of this product, but of the same profanity, threats and gen- people in BOTH amateur radio and CB I do get North of the border often enough eral stupidity in amateur radio thatradio are caring and fair-minded, but, to justify a need for such a product. caused me to give up on CB. The main like any other hobby, what hurts us most difference I could detect was in the level is that "one bad apple." Like driving; Hams, Too! of equipment sophistication and snob-good operators aren't that hard to find, bishness. Anyone doubting this shouldbut when you encounter a bad one, look The folks at PerCon haven't forgotten spend some time monitoring 80 meters, out, because you'll remember it a long, the amateur radio enthusiast in their drive specifically between 3875 and 4000 long time. for data availability. Their Ham_db and kHz, SSB. If hams do not do a better job I've always maintained-and long Open Repeaters CD-ROM are tools de- of self -policing, then they should notbefore the Technician Class became signed for use by hams. This CD-ROM complain if their hobby is referred to as reality-that our hobby is supposed to really combines two resources into one. dead or terminally ill. be about challenges, having fun and First is a comprehensive database of Unit- Radio will always be my hobby,expanding our horizons. I remember ed States amateur radio operators. Each regardless of the few who seek to abuse reading many radio club publications record includes fields for Callsign, Pre- it. I seriously doubt that you will print after which I'd put the newsletter down vious Callsign (important in this new this, since the majority of your staff areand getting the nagging gut feeling that world of "Vanity Callsigns"), Name, Ad- hams, but I hope you will accept mythe same people who were trying to dress, Date of Birth, Latitude & Lon- criticism in the spirit which it is given. have fun, were the same folks who were gitude, Current and previous operating Roger, KAFA-5801 putting people into convenient castes, class and a whole series of fields I never Hohenwald, TNeither because they were "only radio lis- knew the FCC kept (I have an FCC file teners, and not real DXers" or because number and so do you if you're a ham). Dear Roger: they were "just CBers" who either There are also fields for Club, Military, CB and amateur radio operators areloathed AM operation and weren't into Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service no different than doctors, lawyers or SSB. It's those same folks who insist on (RACES) and Alien licenses. general contractors; they're peopleinflicting rude, negative comments on Searches can be conducted by Call - from all walks of life with different val- other operators, regardless of service, sign, Previous Callsign, Name, City, ues and viewpoints. That, of course, is who are doing irreparable damage to the County, Zip code or Latitude and Lon- what makes our radio hobby-ourhobby; damage you won't see today or gitude. The database also includes over world, so interesting. It sure would betomorrow, but in the months and years 10,000 records for the various "open" boring if everyone had the same phi- to come when we ask, "Where have all repeaters that can be found across the losophy, wouldn't it? the radio hobbyists gone?" country. This also came in handy on my recent camping trip. I was able to identi- 62 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE fy friendly ham radio diversion wherev- er I went. System requirements for the DRAKE SONYJRC9resslerLOWE IBM compatible and Macintosh comput- ers are the same as those for the Spectrum CD-ROM for the United States listed at =ma IiLJ""ILFER the beginning of this article. S H O R TWAVE A Word About Latitude http://www.gilfer.com/ and Longitude Gilfer Shortwave 52 Park Avenue Park Ridge, NJ 07656 Orders: 800-GILFER-1 E-mail: [email protected] You have probably noticed that the en- New Jersey &Technical: 201 -391 -7887 Fax201-391-7433 tire PerCon series of CD-ROMs makes a point of including latitude and longitude GRUI1DIGAOR devaem4 icomJrs fields in their respective databases. This is for good reason. One of PerCon's new- est products is Geo_db. Geo_db is a Street Level Geographic Database System for use with all PerCon Databases. Transmitter locationsinRegional, Spectrum, and UFDBF files can be dis- played in Geo_db. Geo_db also supports address data which is Geocoded, along with latitude/longitude/description files. Icons for each data element can be clicked and data for each location can be dis- played. The system is a full U.S. geo- graphic system utilizing the latest U.S. When Department of Commerce TIGER map data. Users can zoom in to street level data seconds and zoom out to the State/County data lev- el. Geo_db is completely configurable. count, Data layers, such as roads and streets, can be displayed at various zoom levels. REACT, needs you... Colors, fills, and labels can also be con- trolled by the user. Geo_db is a core prod- ...to summonhelp for an injured motorists, an elderly woman trapped in a fire, uct that will be used as the Visual Display a trucker stranded in a blizzard, a drowning child! for many current and future products. The first is Visual Wave Links by PerCon, a As a REACT volunteer CB radio monitor you may be the only communications Computer Control Scanner program with life -line for someone in serious trouble. You relay messages from those a Geographics Display. PerCon will also desperate for help to police or other emergency services. support Visual Geographic displays for the Optoelectronics Xplorer, Agrelo DFjr Your REACT Team will also use CB and other radio services to provide safety and the AEA IDR-96. Geo_db/Xplorer communications for events like parades, marathons and even balloon races. will allow the display of frequency and The fellowship with other REACT members at Team meetings and annual location data. The user can click data - conventions is an added bonus. points and the display will show coverage circles. This data can then be compared to Volunteer. Join Today! known sites for visualidentification. Geo_db/DFjr will support GPS and bear- ing data for geographic display. Adda New, Exciting Geo_db/IDR-96 will display GPS data and geographic location on the visual dis- Challenge to Your Life. play. The price for Geo_db is $69.95. Help Save Lives Typical add-on packages will cost an ad- ditional $30 (they will require Geo_db). and Property! As you can see, PerCon is committed to assisting the radio hobbyist in the emerging area of computer assisted scan- REACT International, Inc. ning as well a whole new approach to geo- Tel (316) 263-2100 graphic supported scanning. These prod- FAX (316) 263-2118 ucts represent the beginning of the next P.O. Box 998, Wichita, KS 67201 great wave in radio listening. Hang on, it's going to be quite a ride. CIRCLE 83 ON READER SERVICE CARD THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 63 BY JOCK ELLIOTT, SSB-734 CB Scene 27 MHz COMMUNICATIONS ACTIVITIES Install This Antenna Anywhere! The best CB radio in the world isn't antenna. For example, truck mirror arms. cludes everything you need in one pack- worth two cents without an anten- luggage racks, motorcycle frames, boat age: one of Firestik's famous bare -hands na. No kidding-the antenna is the side rails, and motor home and van sides tunable Fiberglass antennas, a shock -ab- key ingredient in the "radio system." Dr. all present a bit of a challenge, and some sorbing spring, a stainless steel "univer- Rigormortis, who at one time published of these are tougher than others. sal mount" that looks like it could prob- the Eleven Meter Times and Journal (it's Of course, these antenna mounting ably solve most mounting problems, and now defunct), once said, "If I had $1,000 problems have been solved in the past, 17 feet of coax cable. There's even a free to spend on a CB set-up, I'd spend $990 but very often it requires finding a mount microphone hanger included with the kit. of it on the antenna." from one company, a spring someplace Most mobile CB antennas require The good Doctor may have been over- else, the antenna itself from another man- some sort of significant reflective ground stating the case just a trifle, but his point ufacturer... well, you get the picture. -like the metal roof of a car-to work is well taken: It doesn't matter how fancy Well, there's good news-if you've properly. The Firestik No Ground Plane your CB transceiver is, if you don't have been dying to equip your boat or bike or antenna does just what the name says, it an antenna, you're not going to do any whatever with a CB, the good people at works independent of any ground. While CBing. But if you look around, you'll see Firestik Antenna Company have come up this antenna was designed with fiberglass a number of places-particularly for mo- with a neat solution. The Firestik 40- recreational vehicles in mind, it will also bile CBing-where it's tough to install an Channel No Ground Plane Antenna in- work in any application that lacks a Trevor Fletcher sent in these spectacular cards from Sean McNulty in Northern Ireland. SEAN McNULTY PRESIDENT OF DAYGLO OSL CLUB 13 SYEN1TE PLACE ROSTREVOR Cc DOWN BT34 3EP NIREI AND \stet 1 . , \. \ % . .100,1' AP:41111%. 1 W q il " '' .. ail I 1 .: ' I, P, . N...... - su R' - JI \ ., n HARDW,CA ROAD 14ANGLETON NOW ,.. ...'...!;. ."*-- \SUSSEX Dv ass ENGLAND. U14 . 16. CURRIE CARD COLLECTORS CLUB Unit No: 22 64 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 II .\1( )\IFORING ground, such as boats, bicycles, motor- cycles, ATV's, and go carts. I haven't tried it, but it looks to me like this would make a dandy back-up antenna in case bad weather takes down your base anten- na, and it would probably work pretty well clamped to the railing or window sill of an apartment. (Of course, a full-size base antenna is always preferable, if you can put one up.) The new Firestik kit is available in two. three and four -foot models, and the list price ranges from $33 to $38 depending upon the model. The antenna itself i guaranteed for five years, and all the other bits and pieces are guaranteed for a year. For information about where you can buy one of these kits, or for a copy of Firestik's excellent catalog, write to Firestik, 2614 E. Adams St., Phoenix, Arizona, 85034- 1409, or call 602-273-7151. Tell 'em you read about it inPop'Comm. Sommer Introduces DC to Donald Aspinall's shack is extremely well equipped for emergency monitoring. Daylight Antenna out various parts of the country as theytainous terrain, for example-where ra- are needed. (A terrific, and fascinating dar cannot see all that needs to be seen. Sommer Antenna has come up with an source of information, particularly when That's where SKYWARN comes in. idea that definitely deserves some further dangerous weather threatens, is a Weath- It's the national organization of volunteer attention: an disconical antenna that re- er Radio that receives the broadcasts from weather spotters run by the National quires no ground area and covers all thethe National Weather Service. If youWeather Service. SKYWARN's goal is to HF ham bands, CB, 6 and 2 meters for don't have one, I recommend purchasing spot dangerous weather, such as torna- transmitting and receiving, plus receiving does, damaging winds. hail, flash and from 400 kHz to UHF! This antenna, one immediately). Even though there have been tremen- flash flooding, and report them to NWS called the DCL280, is 23 feet high, 13 feet dous advances over the years in spotting so that warnings can be issued. in diameter, and will mount on a pole six dangerous weather-weather radar, Dop- As a CB radio operator, you can be part to 20 feet off the ground. pler radar, and so forth-human weatherof SKYWARN too. I've been a member Constructed of wire and aluminum, the spotters are still needed. That's becauseof SKYWARN for several years, and I DCL280 needs only a mast and no guy there are things that radar simply cannotfind it exciting and rewarding. To receive wires for support. Vertically polarized at detect, and there are situations-in moun-certification as a SKYWARN spotter, you CB frequencies, it requires no ground ra- dials, handles up to 5 kilowatts transmit power, and needs no tuning above 13 MHz. Sommer claims it can be erected in CB MODIFICATIONS a backyard or on a flat roof by just one SECRETS BOOK. $25.00 206 page book of mods including frequency person. For the CBer who's also into ham- expansion. roger beep clarifier and more. ming, SWLing, or scanning, this could be RIVIS A27 $54.00 an all -in -one antenna farm. 26 db gain receive booster for The only drawback is the price: a 10/11 meter and CB radios. whopping $490, not including freight. For detailed information, contact Som- mer Antennas, P.O. Box 710, Geneva, Florida, 32732 or call 407-349-9114: e- RMS MB -30 $55.00 mail: THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS ,()) The Sommer Antenna DCL280 provides incredible coverage inone antenna, but at a hefty price. must attend a SKYWARN training ses- He goes on to say that he endorses thetime I tried to find out what type of help sion and periodically attend additionalidea of the Citizens Radio Corps. Thethe distant breaker needed, splatter from training sessions to keep your certifica-CRC is an idea I proposed a few monthsChannel 13 wiped out the signal. I went tion. Most of the SKYWARN training Iago. It's mission would be to monitor theto Channel 13 and asked, politely, if they have attended lasted two to three hoursemergency frequencies listed above (ascould back it down for a while because and included some fascinating videotapeswell as 146.52 MHz, a ham simplex fre-they were some folks on the road who of severe weather. quency), and to identify and seek to rem- needed help. The fellow from Channel 13 To find out more about SKYWARN,edy sources of interference to those fre- then told me to go do something that was contact your local office of the National quencies only (I don't propose to try to anatomically impossible! Weather Service; or call NWS headquar-clean up all of CB or any other radio ser- Of course, I was annoyed, but I also re- ters at 301-713-0090 and ask how you canvice). Aspinall then goes on to ask, "Why alized that, once you've told someone that become involved in SKYWARN. don't we all go to REACT and become their splatter is interfering with emergen- The make-up of SKYWARN may vary one big organization?" cy communications, any further splatter in different parts of the country. For ex- The short answer, Donald, is that whilefrom them amounts to intentional inter- ample, where I live in upstate New York, many REACT teams do a good job of ference. I think we should have the means it was a hams -only organization until I got monitoring and responding to emergency to put a stop to it. Clearly, it is a low pri- involved. Now, both hams and CBers par- frequencies -and I am very impressedority for the FCC. The CRC idea is one ticipate. Other places, CBers predomi- by the dedication of many individuals like approach. If anyone has other sugges- nate. So don't he shy: all are welcome. you-no one in REACT, to my knowl-tions, I'd be glad to hear them. Thanks for edge, has proposed seeking to act as aux-the letter, Donald! From the Mailbag iliary to the FCC in protecting those emer- MM. ASSUMES gencyfrequenciesandeliminating A Word of Thanks Donald Aspinall wrote from Virginia interference to them. I think it is needed. NNW NNW to say that he is the only REACT mem- The FCC is downsizing, cuttingits It's that time of year when we give ber between Richmond, and Newportenforcement activities, and recently the thanks for the many blessings in our lives. News. He spends upwards of 200 hoursmarine VHF frequencieswere de -One of mine is the people who read this per month monitoring emergency re-licensed. It's going to get tougher to getcolumn, including the many who write sponse frequencies including CB Chan-emergency communications through. and send QSL cards, letters, and shack nel 9, aircraft emergency frequencies, the The idea for the CRC stems from a per- photos. I read every piece of mail, and I marine emergency VHF frequency, and sonal incident: I was monitoring Channel am deeply grateful. Please, keep them the GMRS emergency frequency. 9 one day and a call came through. Every coming to me here at Pop'Comm. 66 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE titteeilliStiiiiiitveLinks 6\\TWO Visual\IV a Geodband '11)i f.).11JJ:.:i s,11_1 Street level mapping for the entire US on 1 CDROM. Import data from all Windows based PerCon databases. All map features (streets, colors, labels, water, fills and more) can be configured and saved. Geo db includes all levels of roads, water bodies,cities, towns, railroads, utilities and more. GP S ready. Display points in real-time from a compatible NMEA GPS receiver. Displays GPS logs. Geocode address data files. View PerCon Ham db files to locate other hams. _1J i WaveLinks is a stand alone scar ner control package for the Optoelectronics 0S456 & 535. Visual WaveLinks is an enhanced 1,ersion, utilizing Geo db's map capability, changing the direction of computer controlled scanning. Plot scanner hits in real-time us 11C1 Visual '17.7Will, ijil5fWT-"IQ412Pi..4 'O'ffiCetlla Pk 41.0 k) 1B PI MOO WaveLinks. n 0. =PM PEMPU POW In . ... Pt 41110 &MVP. ,1010,1111 IMP116 IMIP ,MIM 1 /IP .4PIM NM ,ttp ISOM em Orel I ka mkt nu I ...km... .s...1 WaveLinks Visual * Please add $7.50 for Shipping & Handling. WaveLinks NY residents please add 7°° sales tax. 4906 Maple Springs/Ellery Road PerCon Bemus Point, NY 14712 CORPORATION (716) 386-6015 PerCon also has FCC Tower. Professional FAX (716) 386-6013 level products. FAA and USGS data. http://www.perconcorp.com BY DONSCHMMEL Communications Confidentia YOUR GUIDE TO SHORTWAVE "UTILITY- STATIONS Celebrity Cruisin' and Military News Carnival Corporation plans to bring over 16,000 berths into the market during the next two years with the construction of MN Imagination, MN Inspiration and Carnival Destiny. Celebrity Cruises will increase that line's capacity from 3,800 to 9,000 berths. The first of a planned three -vessel expan- sion is the MN Century. The largest cruise ship in the world will be P 4 O's new MN Sun Princess. These cruise ships will present new QSL possibilities. The Military Sealift Command con- New Carnival Corporation cruise ship "Imagination". trols about 92 ships in the Ready Reserve Fleet and about 128 ships in the MSC Fleet. There are 20 new ships under con-less to handle maritime communications. nicator because the address for the shore- tract/construction. The Civilian Mariner"Lykes Line vessels, as well as those un- to -ship message is always the same." force numbers about 5,132 persons. der charter to Lykes, are now using Glob- In another release, "Globe Wireless Coast Guard activities during 1995al Radio Network public coast stations,announced an agreement with Western included numerous SAR effortsin operated by Globe Wireless, for their shipUnion International, an affiliate of MCI response to 30,000 incidents. More thanto shore needs." "Using the Global Radio International, Inc., which if approved by 4,000 lives were saved and assistanceNetwork, ships listen to any one of thethe FCC, Globe Wireless will acquire the given to an additional 100,000 people. Globe Wireless stations, one or more oflicenses currently held by WUI for ship- Value of property saved was $2.4 billion. which can be heard anywhere in the worldto -shore communications from WCC, Drugs seized by the Coast Guard had an at any time of the day. Connecting withChatham, Massachusetts and KPH, San estimated street value of $2.8 billion. any one of these channels will allow a Francisco. WUI will discontinue its mar- The Navy and Marine Corps aircraft ship to receive all messages anywhere initime services operations." and ships were also involved in counter - the world, at one price. The system also This past June a change in command drug operations with support to the Joint makes it easy for the shore -side commu- took place at the Coast Guard center in Interagency Task Force and Drug En- forcement Agency. This support includ- ed participation in 58 counter -drug mis- sions during 1995. In a major drug bust, the USS Salt Lake City (SSN-716) tracked a fishing vessel from Buenaventura, Co- CEK lombia for approximately 800 miles until she was intercepted by a Navy surface BEACON KHZ warship with a Coast Guard law enforce- verify your ment detachment on board. Thirteen tons This will Reception of our beacon of cocaine were seized. Another bust took Date: ALL...el. S, 145% LoKe,-, place when a U.S. submarine followed a Freq.: ii.2a x #42. Verified by: drug smuggler from South America across the Atlantic. The ship and its ille- Time: oqi.t, urc. Ale rna.iaVe.r- gal cargo were seized and its crew arrest- Elevation.iri1 Title: ed as soon as it put into a European port. Power: ZS wa.±1,5 1. s The above items were excerpted from - 2 9 57 LOCatiOn:NDLIZ* ...upJ4L T Date: the May 1996 issue of PROCEEDINGS, r. monthly magazine of the United States Antenna Type: m Naval Institute. 0 P Re A press release from Globe Wireless CrP+e. Ne hrobitsle. indicates the Lykes Brothers Steamship Company, Inc. has chosen Globe Wire - Allen Renner, PA shares his PFC with raders. 68 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE Martinsburg, West Virginia. Capt. Wil-TF33-PW-102 turbofans. liam R. Ashforth replaced Capt. James B. The breakdown of the above designa- Willis who had been the center's com-tors is as follows: ACCS Airborne Com- mander since 1993. The center housesmand and Control Squadron; AF-Airlift various computer systems including theFlight; OSS Operational Support Squad- Automated Mutual Assistance Vesselron; RS-Reconnaissance Squadron. KC Rescue (AMVER) system which tracks 135Q's were intended as tankers to sup- merchant ships for possible assistance inport Lockheed A-12 and SR -71 (Black- SAR efforts. bird) operations. The 135Q version was based on KC-135A's which were modi- Reader Reports fied to include additional communica- tions and rendezvous equipment and some Rick Baker, OH reports that WUN now fuel tanks were segregated for highflash- has 1,000 members in 28 countries. point JP -7 fuel. The KC-135Q's are pos- Allen Renner, PA advises he has re- sibly used in support of "Black" projects. ceived 214 returned verification card re- quests. "Verifiers for the most part have UTE Loggings Antenna for NDB CEK, Crete, Nebraska been very cooperative" Allen said. SSB/CW/RTTY/SITOR/etc. which operates on a frequency of 420 kHz. Robert Hall, South Africa reported he All Times in UTC Photo was supplied by the verifier. had observed a considerable amount of traffic this past spring due to the fighting 201: Beacon YKX, Kirkland Lake, Ont., 290: Beacon EKQ, Monticello, KY heard at in Bangui in the Central African Repub- Canada at 0917, 23m. (AH) 0235. (WP) lic. There were some 1500 French sol- 212: Beacon TS, Timl.lins, Ont., Canada at 303: Beacon P, u/i at 0550. 3 P's, dash. Sent at 5 wpm. (AH) Poss Point Petre LS, Ont., diers in Bangui and they were involved0847, 692m. (AH) Canada: (Ed.) with peacekeeping operations. These sig- 223: Beacon YYW, Armstrong, Ont., Canada at 0853, 1041m. (AH) 305: Beacon YQ, Churchill, Man., Canada at nals were all logged on 16262 kHz using 230: Beacon YBM, St. Bruno de Gigures, PQ, 07J5, 1540m. (AH) ARQ-E3 at 192/390 baud/shift. Canada at 0854, 294m. (AH) 332: Beacon QT, Thunder Bay, Ont., Canada 1305 hrs RFTJD FF Libreville w/ 257: Beacon SQT, Melbourne, FL at 0620, at 0920, 1000m. (AH) 5Lgps to RFFUAJ Villacoublay (Paris) 1070m. (AH) 369: Beacon ZDX, St. Johns, Antigua, BWI 1309 hrs RFTJD FF Libreville w/186 265: Beacon SXD, Springfield, VT at 0640, at 0805, 1776m. (AH) 5Lgps to RFFUAJ, RFFXI (FF Bangui), 136m. (AH) 388: Beacon PV, Turks 4 Caicos, BWI at RFI9XIA (Bangui), RFGW (MOD 272: Beacon OLD, Old Town, ME at 0657, 0818, 1366m; Beacon NXX, Willow Grove, Paris), RFTPA. 274m; Beacon PFH, Hudson, NY at 0644, PA at 0827, 222m. (AH) 1323 hrs PARIS w/A1945 Paris w/ 134m; Beacon W, St.Scholasique, PQ,398: Beacon G, Windsor, Ont., Canada at 0659, 606m. (AH) "CdeV" on HAI circuit Canada at 0905, 315m. (AH) 1325 RFTJDFFLibrevillew/ "FM(GROUPTAM Libreville" to "RFFA/GuerreCENTOPSParis" 5Lgps 1335 RFTJD FF Libreville w/5Lgps to RFFUAJ Villacoublay (Paris) All the above are on the Libreville/ Paris circuit. French Forces in Bangui (RFFXI) normally transmit on 15860.2 kHz in the ARQ-E mode at 72/388 baud/ shift but, strangely enough, no traffic was heard on this frequency during their recent troubles. I received several questions regarding KC -135 aircraft so I turned to my copy of World Military Aviationfor the answers. The KC-135E's based at Offutt AFB, Nebraska are in the 55th Wing, 2 ACCS. This unit along with the 1st ACCS, 24th RS, 38th and 343d RS, 55th OSS and 11th AF are all in the 55th Wing which is under the control of the Defense Airborne Reconnaissance Office (DARO). Ac- cording to the 28 -February 1994 aircraft census, there were 159 such aircraft in the USAF including the AFRES and ANG. The KC -135E is a modified ver- The huildin f; with the antenna on the roof is the Egyptian Embassy in Athens, Greece. Photo sion of the KC -135A re-engined with was taken by Louis Wheeler, CA. THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 69 XX lang.. talk about politics. Rhode Island fish permit, take fish back to CT if RI refuses them. (BP) 2182: PBK, Netherlands CG at 2309 in USB announcing navigational warnings. (AB) 2334.5: Link II coordination net at 0500 in USB w/TANGO, INDIA, IP, others, some w/British accents relaying track ID's in Link - II coordination. Prob related to U.S./British Combined Joint Task Force Exercise 96/Exer- cise Purple Star 96. (RB) 2423.5: SAB, Goteborg, Sweden at 2220 in SITOR-A, 100 baud, clg EAXK. (AB) 2740.7: DLVD, Customs Launch MN 'OM Kniepsand at 1532 in SITOR-A, 100 baud wkg German CG Cuxhaven. (AB) 2899: Gander Radio, NF, Canada (NAT,B- MWARA) at 0613 in USB wkg American 136 w/selcal ck, FK-BE (DC -9 N428AA) and passes conditions for area 55N/40W at FL310 (moderate turbulance reported). (RB) The circular antenna aria) is a FLR-9 which was used by the 6922nd Lie( Ironic Security 3273: GSP Dusseldorf at 2130 in ARQ-E 96 Squadron at Clark Field, Phillipines. The other antennas are suspected of being the receiving baud w/msg to MOI Nordrhe in -We st falen antennas for KWL90, U.S. Embassy, Manila. Photo was taken in 1990 by Tom Sevart, KS. (PHVNW). (AB) 4134: PAVX, HRMS Abraham Crijnssen (F- 816), Royal Netherlands Navy 'Kortenaer' - 400: Beacon PTD, Pottsdam, NY at 0833, 521: Beacon TVX, Greencast e, IN at 0707, class frigate, at 0508 in USB wkg NMN, 284m. (AH) 672m. (AH) USCG CAMSLANT ChesQpeake, re RTTY 402: Beacon C, Camaguey,Cuba at 0938, 523: Beacon JJH, Johnstown, NY at 0844, tfc coord. (RB) 1442m. (AH) 185m. (AH) 4154.5: DRDR, German Navy attack sub U- 407: Beacon OX, Ocean City, MD at 0837,530: Beacon F9, Chatham, NB, Canada at 24 (S-173) at 0055 in USB clg/wkg DHJ59, 301m. (AH) 0711, 476m. (AH) Wilhelmshaven Naval, Germany, w/QSL for 410: Beacon BA, Columbus, IN at 1006, 1802.85: Pulses heard at 2341. Swedish Navy tfc sent. (RB) 778m. (AH) Hyper -FixstationsHorvik,Sisrishamn, 4310: WNU, Slidell, LA in CW heard at 0420 424: Beacon RVJ, Reidsville, GA at 0715,Utlangan. (AB) w/wx. (TS) 888m. (AH) 1944: DGPS stn?, MSG, 100 baud heard at 4372: GIANT KILLER, USN FACSFAC 515: Beacon OS, Columbus, OH at 0852, 2143. (AB) Virginia Capes at 2108 in USB clg 1XD, 1XD 630m. (AH) 2020: Fishermen chatter in AM at 1530, some clg GK, no joy either. 1XD clg "any stn this net". (RB) 4880: Mossad bcsf to ULX heard at 2100 in USB. (AB) QSL-Verification Card-QSL 5302.4: OLX, MOI Prague, Czech Republic. at -0256 in CW wN marker. (PSJ 5472: Jammer at 1915. Hops to 5460 kHz and ca1FIRMINGYOUR REPORT: hack. Same as 4660/4672 kHz. (AB) Da Time (UTC) Frequency Mode ,1 5530: Nancy Adam Susan nbrs bcst at 2000 ( in USB. (AB) co alL 4koso cat -4l 5598: Shanwick, IRE (NAT -A MWARA) Power Antenna Location heard at 0553 in USB wkg Delta 22 w/0551 be.se,vio,iSA posrep at FL350; At 0554 wkg Air Europe 725 v 70 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS /November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE C. CRANE DRAN Pow- -mai COMPANY COMMUNICATION EXCITEMENT AUGSBURG (F-213) lidShortwave *Scanners THIS WILL VERIFY RECEPTIONOF: Antennas The Sangean ATS 909 FGS AUGSBURG (F-213), DRAN "THE WILD 13" Sangean Grundig *Drake Uniden aN:_6779.0 KHZ USB AT Q246 Z DATE: 23 SEPT 1994 The most powerful loop antennas for shortwave/MW and much more! TRANSMITTER/POWER:/I 00 O (Ai 558 -10TH ST. FORTUNA CA 95540 Free Catalog FAX 707-725-9060 ANTENNA: 4 14-1. 800 -522 -(TUNE) 8863 c, *LOCATION: So p-1- deP ( 112( I (IN 1tE A1)112 -i I( VI( I VERIFYING OFFICIAL AND STAMP: FREE SAMPLE *IF CLASSIFIED. MARK N/A COPY! Rick Baker, OH shares his PFC with readers. This yeti is from a German warship. ANTIgUE RADIO CLASSIFIED Antique Radio's Largest -Circulation (WPB -1337) to the search area w/ETA of Navy Line Maintenance re 'Papa Uniform' Monthly Magazine 1300 local, 1504 also passes info obtained fm (Participating Unit) in the Alligator (Link -II Articles - Classifieds - Ads for Parts & Services Also: Early TV, Ham Equip., Books, vsl in area of the observed radio xmsn, u// net). (RB) Telegraph, 40's & 50's Radios & more... SAR. Heard at 1621, NOM, USCG AirSta 6786: Cut # stn (5F grps) in CW heard at 0801 Free 20 -word ad each month. Don't miss out, Miami,FL wkg CG 2139(HU-25A w/callup 13761. New frequency and time for 1.1,411 -Year: 536.95 (553.95 by 1st Class) Ai_ 'Guardian') w/maintenance items and request this stn. (TS) 6 -Month Trial - 518.95. Foreign - Write. for chow from galley upon arrival. (RB) 7363.5: NAV, HQ Navy -Marine Corps A.R.C., P.O. Box 802-T11, Carlisle, MA 01741 6263: SGLU, MN Winter Wave, heard at MARS, Cheltenham, MD at 2238 in CW Phone: (508) 371-0512; Fax: (508) 371-7129 Web: www.antiqueradio.com 0518 in SITOR-A w/AMVER/PR bound wN's, DE NAV QRL on U.S. Armed Forces Rotterdam. (RB) Day 1996. (RB) 6354.9: UULN, Sovship Matvej Muranov at 7535: NTIC, USS Ticonderoga (CG -47), tech 1910 in RTTY 50/170 w/Odessa. (RH) control, at 1458 req ck in the green. PCU 6637: Houston, Universal Radio, Houston, Gonzales (DDG-66) at 1520 w/tests of sever- Scanner Buffs Call Toll -Free TX (NA-OC-LDOC) at 0733 in USB wkg al xmtrs. At 1618, USS Pelican (MHC-53) clg We've Got TheGoods!(888)426-1688 We have a great selection of full -coverage N33GG (Falcon bizjet) at FL410 w/selcal ck SESEF for several mins, no joy, callsign scanners including AOR. Radio Shack, Trident DH -GM. (RB) unknown. At 1628, USS Robin (MHC-54) and Vupiteru We also carry scanner interfaces 6719.4: HABITAT heard at 0523 in USB wkg wkg SESEF W/test count, very weak here, for the ultimate scanning experience! Opto - High Speed FM Communications XPlorer Nearfield Receiver sweeps range of 30MHz to 2GHz in less than one second - Two line character LCD display - NMEA-0183 GPS Interface SPECTRUM ANALYZER CH 1 - CI -V comliant Serial Interface. and more, CH 1 dB Durham Radio Sales & Service, Inc -19.13 350 Wentworth St E. Oshawa, Ont LIH7R7 Ph (905)436-2100 Fax 436-3231 Web durhamradio cae-mail intandurhamracho ca -24.13 -29.13 -34.13 Message Tracker,. Paging System Monitor -39.13 POCSAG - 512. 1200. & 2400 baud GOLAY - 600 baud Auto Baud Rate Detection -11.13 Allows option to monitor all messages on channel Rune in DOS and Windows 13 1 or higher) Minimum System Requirements -49.13 33 MHz 386 for Windows 20 MHz for DOS -RS -232 16550 Serial Port Run Up to 4 Message Tracksrunitson singe computer -54.13 Each unit purchased separately K & L Technology -59.13 P.O. Box 460838 0 6000 1200014w Garland, Tx 75046-0838 PhonelF no' 214-414-7198 E-mail' KL7support@aol corn This signal on 9460 kHz, USSB was identified as VFT-F16c. Analysis by Kevin Tubbs, VT'. THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November I 'Pr() POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 71 clg Cape Rdo, no joy, app in support of launch of STS- 77. (RB) VERIFICATION OF RECEPTION 11175: Andrears AFB in USB heard at 1930 w/20 char EAM. This same EAM hrd few mins earlier on 311 MHz being xmtd by 'REGISTER' who then cld 'SHOCKER LIFTER 91 Control' (McConnell AFB, Wichita, KS) to acknowledge tfc. (TS) Date Time (UTC)' Frequency Mode 11214: DARKSTAR MIKE, E-3 AWACS, at 1614 in USB wkg Trenton Military wlpp 17 Su 94 Z14 -IS 11 in tAsti5 RAYMOND 24. (RB) 11217: DHM91, Munster, Germany heard at Aircraft Type Approx. Xmsn Location Aircrft Registr # 0021 USB. Radiotelephone service. Quite weak. (PS) C -17q 35.).//07'30'1...) TZ3 2_91 11253: MVU, RAF Volmet, W. Drayton heard at 2240 in USB w/ID, "This is Royal Aircraft Home Base Air Force Volmet", first hrd since this latest Ronald R. Ladnier freq chg. (RB) CH AR.LEs-rox.) AFB Lt Col, USAF 11426: IMB, Rome Meteo, Italy at 2350 in Commander RTTY, 50bd. RY's and ID. (PS) 12254: 6MPW, Haenam 502 at 2217 in USB Signature Official Stamp clg/wkg WOM for R/T tfc to S. Korea. (RB) 12300.5: YUSS in AM heard at 0100 w/334 4 1-0 count. After 10 tones, sent 216 grp 3/2F msg. (TS) Here is a PFC from Steve McDonald, BC, Canada. Steve said "LIFTER 91 was one of the first C -17A Globemasters to be put into service. They were replacements for the aging C-141 fleet. 12480.5: 9HWA4, MN Grigoroussa at 1510 in SITOR-A w/unberthing report for Missis- Most of he C -17's from Charleston can be heard using the callsign 'MOOSE... XX." sippi River w/28216.06 MT cargo, proceed- ing Veracruz, login 72050 GRIG. (RB) callsign unknown. At 1635, NDWQ, USS 8532: LZW42, Varna, Bulgaria at 0300 in CW 12561.5: UVKG, Ukrainian super fishing Detroit (AOE-4) "Fast Combat Support", clg w/tfc list. (RB) trawler/freezer RTMS Stratosfera heard at SESEF repeatedly for rdo ck, app could not 8558.4: KFS, Palo Alto, CA at 0339 in CW 1725 in 50/170 RTTY w/admin TS's to hear SESEF answering. Primary mode is w/CQ mkr. (WL) Sevestapol for ETA Las Palmas fm Master, USB. (RB) 8573.3: CLA21, Havana. Cuba at 0358 in CW KM Tsarivnik. (RB) 7957.4: 'TSSOK' u/i at 0305 in CW w/5L w/ CW mkr. (WL) 12564.5: UCBD, Russian long range/endur- grps, off w/tDETSSPK'. (PS) 8682: NMC, CAMSPAC Point Reyes, CA at ance large freezer/factory trawler BMRT 8190: OTH radar at 0632. (TS) 0347 w/surface analysis FAX chart,in Kronshtadt, heard at 1846 in 50/170 RTTY 8207: C6LW2, M/S Regal Empress, Royal 120/576, fair, at 0412 w/500MB 12 hr fore- (MRM/ KRH) crew TG's using hull#/lD MB - Caribbean Cruise Lines, 23,000 DWT cruise - cast chart, now vy good. (RB) 0356. (RB) ship,at2346 in USB clg/wkg WOM, 8903: Kinshasa, COG (AFR-4 MWARA) 12611.5: KEJ, Globe Wireless, Kahalelani, Pennsuco, FL for r/T tfc. (RB) heard at 0134 in USB wkg u/i flt 053 w/0133 HI, heard at 0420 in SITOR-B wlstn info, tfc 8383.5: 9MCF5, MN Budi Huda at 1324 in posrep. (RB) list. (RB) SITOR-A w/svc tlx adv MN Toscana C6HV3 8906: YUSS in AM at 0607 w/SF grps. (TS) 12691.4: FUX, French Navy Le Port at 1215 is now MN Budi Huda, 9MCF5 effective 8921.8: Egyptian Emb, unk loc, at 0029 in in RTTY 75/838.1st time hrd in RTTY-used since 5-10-96, selcal still 61698 and login SITOR-A w/ATU-80 TFC, selcalls. (RB) to be CW only! (RH) abbrev is still TOSCA. (RB) 8983: CG 1500, USCG HC -130, at 1525 in 12745.8: JJC, Tokyo, Japan at 1225 in FAX 8514: WLO, Movile, AL at 0300 in CW w/CQ USB wkg NMF, CommSta Boston w/report 60/576 w/JJ newspaper. (RH) DE mkr. (WL) to be relayed to International Ice Patrol, 12856.3: 6WW, French Navy Dakar, Senegal 8525: WNU33, Slidell, LA at 0333 in CW Groton, CT. (RB) at 0522 in RTTY 75/850 w/Lazy Dog test tape W/CQ DE mkr. (WL) 9009.1: U/i at 0157 in USB w 'secure voice in FF 4 EE. (WL) comms. (PS) 12876: VAI, Vancouver. BC, Ganada. CG stn 9018: RFQP, Djibouti heard at 0302 in ARQ- at 0502 in CW w/CQ mkr,wx and Naviga- Abbreviations Used For Intercepts E3 100 baud. French Navy wrControle De tional wrngs at 0230 0630 and 1830. (WL) AM Amplitude Modulation mode Voie". (PS) 12912.6: FFL6, St. Lys, France, marine stn in BC Broadcast 9032.1: KA6, unknown loc. Heard 0453 in CW at 0452 w/CQ mkr. (WL) CW Morse Code mode USB. This stn clg unknown for rdo ck in SSIG 12932.9: UPZ, Vladivostok at 1237 in RTTY EE English LE. (PS) GG German 96/835 w/crypto tfc (not Cyrillic). (RH) ID Identification/led/location 9034: Many USAF 4 RAF a/c's w/radar tfc 4 12966: OTH radar at 0117. (TS) LSB Lower Sideband mode coordination comms. Joint U.S./British exer- 13273: Honolulu (CEP -1/2 MWARA) heard OM Male operator cise. Hrd 0400 in USB. (PS) at 0152 in USB wkg u/i flt 411 w/ack of pos- PP Portuguese 10150.5: AAAOUSA ekg AAR9AQ in 300 SS Spanish rep/selcal from 11Z82, adv secondary is 10048 tic Traffic baud packet at 0541. (TS) kHz; at 0153 selcal'ing/wkg Northwest 1 USB Upper Sideband mode 10313.9: SNN299, MFA Warsaw, Poland w/company release msg; at 0159 wkg Delta w/ With heard at 1722 in POL-ARQ 100/250, unable 51 w/selcal ck, had problems reading rigs on wx Weather report/forecast to decode. (RH) YL Female operator 13329 kHz. (RB) 4F 4 -figure coded groups (i.e. 5739) 10493.3: RFTJF, French Forces Port Bouet at 13450: Thumping pulse sig here at 0415. Sig 5F 5 -figure coded groups 1715 in ARQ-E3, 48/417, idling. (RH) had wide bandwidth from 13420-13480 kHz. 5L 5 -letter coded groups (i.e. IGRXJ) 10780: NLTT, USS John Hancock (DD -981), Sig also found on 11810-11880 and 11950- a Spruance-class destroyer. at 1637 in USB 12000 kHz. (TS) 72 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE 14384.5: CIW803, Canadian CFARS opr, Gander, NF, Canada at 1748 in USB clg Radio Station VNG CIW809 on "Bravo" re having another stn LLandilo, NSW QSY to "Juliette" (14452.5 kHz). This is Ca- nadian Forces Affiliated Radio System. (RB) 14383.5: NNNOCZO, Navy MARS stn on board USS Stephen W.Groves (FFG-29) in Name: H 6/7) -3A -Al USB at 0200 w/pp to NNNOEIZ. (TS) 14438.4: FJY2, Port au Francais, Kerguelen Island at 1032 in ARQ-E3 96/395 wr'FM Your VNG reception report DISAMS TO CALVA'.' CC RFGW, w/OZONE report. (RH) 14470: NNNOCHS, Navy shipboard MARS dated at 2000 - 203c. UTC stn in USB at 0147 w/pp. (TS) 30/6/9- 14487: AAH, Army MARS, Ft. Lewis, WA at 1805 in USB wkg K9EUI (?) for QSO on on '8'633 MHz Armed Forces Day 1996. (RB) 14699.2: YIX70, INA Baghdad, Iraq at 1610 i n RTTY 50/406. Haven't hrd this one for long is confirmed with thanks. note. (RH) 15682: Lincolnshire Poacher nbr stn in AM at 1600. Msg ID 04899, 5F grps in EE. (AB) 15862.1: SAM, MFA Stockholm, Sweden at 1055in SWED ARQ 100/390 w/tfcin Swedish for Tehran Emb. (RH) 15961.7: RFLI, French Forces, Fort de France a at 1904 in ARQ-E3 192/425 idling. (RB) for National Standards Commission 16096: U/i at 2101 in RTTY 75/1300. This stn 4 a weaker one sending 5-8 sec. bursts of encrypted tfc. (PS) Hiroshi Saito, Japan received this QSL from the Australian standard frequency and time 16135: KUM70, Honolulu, HI Meteo stn at signal service station. 0320 in FAX 120/576 w/meteo chart. (WL) 16226.3: Russian MFA bcst to YBU, loc un- Nigeria. At 1548 with EmbaCuba Nigeria eco- Rhode Island; RH-Robert Hall, Repub- known. Hrd at 1401 in RTTY 75/850 w/RY's, nomics nx. (RB) lic of South Africa; WL-Wes Linscott, no msg. (TS) Maine; BP-Bill Perrelli, Connecticut; 16262.2: RFTJD, Libreville, Gabon in ARQ- Contributors for this month were:WP-Walt Petersen, Florida; PS-Paul E3 192/390. FM GROUPTAM LIBREVILLE AB-Ary Boender, Netherlands; RB- Scalzo,Quebec,Canada; TS-Tom TO RFFAB/GUERRE CENTOPS PARIS. 5L Sevart, Kansas. grps. (RH) Rick Baker, Ohio; AH-Al Hemmalin, 16277: JWT, Norwegian Navy Stavanger at 1357 in SITOR-A 100bd w/news. (AB) Quaid Microwave TV S stems 16308.2: OLZ87, u/i Czech stn at 1140 in WIRELESS CABLE ITFS MAIDS Get online ATV - INTERNATIONAL - S -BAND RTTY 100/390 w/tfc in Czech FM PRAGUE Amplifiers Antennas Books Components Filters Systems Video Products TO TUNIS. 1st time hrd. (RH) on GEnie RF Frequency 1990 - 2700 MHz Cable Ready - VHF - UHF Outputs 16683.5: SYOV, MN Oinoussian Strength at SASE For 'FREE' Catalog or Send 51 1628 at 1628 in CW clg/wkg SYHP, MN PHILLIPSTECH ELECTRONICS Oinoussian Sky. (RB) PO Box 8533 Scottsdale, AZ 85252 To join GEnie. use your computer & modem to CHALLENGER SYSTEM 16748.1: UTSW, Sovship RTMKS Dapitan call 1-800-638-8369. At the U#= prompt, type 13-ChannM 5208. GainORDER LINE 800-880-MMDS Complete Grid $265 Orlikova at 0845 in RTTY 50/170 w/fleet JOINGENIE And for a special introductory offer. Foie Year Warranty FAX LINE 602-947-7799 reports to K'grad. (RB) At the key/offer code prompt, type MEG528 FREE SHIPPING Visa WC Amx Disc COD's Oty Pricin 16797: UFXI, TR Novorossiyskiy Rabochin CIRCLE 73 ON READER SERVICE CARD CIRCLE 80 ON READER SERVICE CARD at 1954 in 50/170 RTTY admin TG's from Master KM Aliev. (RB) 16802.5: YLGD, TR Ronyu Sala at 1845 in RTTY 50/170 w/RY's to UIW, and w/admin FREE PRODUCT GUIDE Hand -Held Scanners! msgs to Riga RTF (REFTRANDFLOT, Re- frigerated Transport Fleet, Klaipeda) from NOTHING BUT FIRESTIle! Metroffiest is your source for: Master Master KM Makov. (RB) Hand Held Scanners 16929.8: 9MR, Malay Nav Rdo Johore Bahru THE ONLY Ca ANTENNAS THAT w/5L grps in RTTY 50/853 at 1234. (RH) Premium Battery Packs 17074: LGX, Rogaland, Norway at 1400 in DON'T INHALE! Drop -In Chargers CW w/tfc list. (AB3 I USE YOUR MIDDLE CLASS TAX 17442: 5YE, Nairobi, Kenya in RTTY 100/ Specialtyfintennas 850 w/coded wx at 1950. After wx, went into I CUT TO BUY ONE TODAY! RY test tape. (TS) NO FIVE DAY WAITING PERIOD! Books and More 18966.7: RFHJ, French Naval Papeete at 0250 1110 IV le in ARQ-E3, idles for hours. (WL) CALL OR WRITE: FIRESTIK PRODUCTS, OCATALOG.R CALL FOR AE FRNDEE (708) 354-2125 20450.3: CLP1, MFA, Havana, Cubaheard at 2614 F ADAMS, PHOENIX, AZ 85034 1 MetroWest Inc 822 N. Spring LaGrange Park, IL 60526 1 1538 in RTTY 50/225 w/MinRex traffic to TEL 602-273-7151 1 ORDERS ONLY(800) 657-1475 'IRCLE 95 ON I it R SERVICE CARD CIRCLE 94 ON READER SERVICE CARD THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 73 BY KIRK KLEINSCHM DT NTOZ The Ham Column GETTING STARTED AS A RADIO AMATEUR Will Somebody Please Talk to Me? pins and needles? Fluttery stomach? your boxer shorts or standing on your That tic in your left eyelid bother- head. The world is at arm's length. ing you? Palms sweaty? You must Through ham radio, people who might be about to make your first repeater con- be fearful of close, personal communica- tact! Relax, it's easy. tions still get to communicate. Breaking You've probably just unpacked a shiny the shyness barrier is what's necessary to new 2 -meter FM rig and you're dying to make those first repeater contacts. When use it. First things first. You punch up the you announced that you were listening, local repeater frequency and listen. more than a dozen other ops probably Nothing. No QSOs in progress, noheard you. They heard you, but they weather reports, no machine -spoken IDs probably didn't know you. They were all are heard. This is the moment you'vewaiting for someone else-and they been waiting for. You key the mic and, in knew there were others listening on fre- a confident voice, announce, "This isquency-to be the first person to break NTOZ listening!" the ice. If everyone waits, unfortunately The repeater works its magic. Some- nobody responds! body has to be reaching for their micro- This scenario is repeated (punintend- phone, right? They'll respond any second ed) on machines across the country many now, won't they? The seconds stretch on. times a day. The problem isn't you, or that You repeat your call, perhaps sounding a you're a new ham. It's that you're a bit less confident. Still nothing. stranger. An unknown quantity. Making Just when you're about to give up and the transition from stranger to friend NVill hit the big switch, the repeater comes to ensure many repeater QSOs. life! "WQOXYZ this is WV0ABC. You around, Bill?" Clearing the First Hurdle Anger flares and pushes aside your for- mer feelings of isolation. You realize that If you keep announcing that "you're at least one of those guys was probably listening," someone will eventually re- on frequency and listening when you ply, but it might take a while. An easier made your calls. Why didn't they answerapproach is to become part of an existing you? Is it because you're a newbie? Dorepeater conversation. Monitor the re - they hate you already? They don't even know you! As you'll discover, therein lies the problem. The Paradox: Most Hams are Shy! Ham radio is all about communicat- ing-with one great contradiction: Most hams are painfully shy! Want proof? Go to any hamfest and watch how clusters of ham buddies talk up a storm with other hams they know. Otherwise, most hams walk around in relative silence. Some are even difficult to engage in conversation! A friend of mine thinks it has to do with the nature of amateur radio itself. I tend to agree. You see, when you're on the air talking up a storm to some other ham in Oregon, you're "invisible" (SSTV and ATV modes excepted). You don't have If you say, "This is NTOZ, overhead in the Goodyear blimp, listening," you're bound to get eye contact. You could be reclining in a reply. 74 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE peater and listen tor Opportunities to join We Have Scanners with 800MHz in, even if you're just asking a question. ICOM 89000, R8500, RI, R100 "KX0ABC from WVOXYZ. I'm def- Yupiteru MVT-7100, MVT-8000 initely gonna order that Weber Street - AOR AR -2700, AR -8000, AR -5000, AR -3000A, Scout hookup's Lethal carburetor for my Toyota. I think WinRadio for PC-500Khz-1300Mhz continuous coverage it's the best way to get the extra horse- AR -8000 Wide Range Receiver power for pulling my camper." "I don't 5(X)KHz- 1900MHz cox crage AM/NFM/WFM/USB/LSB/CW know, Hector, I think you should start 1000 Memory Channels (50 x 20) Computer Interface with an exhaust header and a set of cams Ferrite Rod Antenna for below 2WD Selectable Step Size CO 0 CS 0 tweaked for towing power." Here's your CDea0 .0 golden opportunity to jump in a make ATLANTIC HAM RADIO Ltd. Of 0 CO 0 (416) 636-3636 368 Wilson Ave CD 0 g. friends. If you don't know anything about CO CV Co CO (416) 631-0747fax Downsview, ON souping up 4 x 4s, just ask a question! If Ottp://www.interlog.com/-ahr Canada M3H 1S91 you do, pop in and contribute your two cents worth. 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At this point, you're no longer a Load it up with all your ham "stuffThis useful and rugged back- pack will be your greatest asset when carrying around your ham stranger, at least to these guys and those accessories. Embroidered design. 2 front pockets. who are lurking on frequency. Make Order No.: 96N (Navy), 96G (Green), 96B (Black) $25.00 type and These popular mugs were designed with you'll gradually wear down the opposi- you in mind. Add one to the ham shack or get a set for the house. These sturdy white tion. In time, your call sign will be famil- porcelain mugs hold 11 oz. iar to everyone who regularly uses the Available with leather coasters too! machine, and when you say, "NTOZ lis- Get one or a set of 4, tening," you'll get replies. After all, these 1111111111 CO Mug Order No. 98 S7.00 I Pop Comm Mug Order No. 99 57.00 in IIVI/ AVI people now know you! I.11.011S1 Single Coaster Order No. 93 $2.00 Set of 4 Order No. 93S S7.00 HEAVYWEIGHT! A Few Repeater Tips This oversized glass stein holds a whopping 1 3 oz. With CO's logo etched into the heavyweigt t Another way to get to know repeater - glass. this collectable will look great forever, dwelling hams is to attend a few local ham Order No. 91 513.00 club meetings. Make friends there and you've made a friends on the repeater! Through that local club, volunteer for var- If ordering by fax: please include your name and address: credit card number and the ious public service activities. Helping out name. size color and item code of the products you want ordering by mall: please include the same inforrmation as if ordenng by fax and mall o at public service events is rewarding in CO Communications. Inc.. 76 N. Broadway. Hicksville, NV 111101 Payment Methods: We accept personal checks and money orders (U.S. funds only). ways beyond the accumulation of ham We also accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. radio friends. Ca Shipping and handling charges are se follows: $2.00 5/h for orders under 520.00, T Shin Sizes come in L. for orders of 620.00 to MOO add $4.00. Free shipping on orders of over $50.00. XL and XXL (add $2.00 Try asking for a signal report instead of Sides Tax: NY State residents add applicable sales tax. for XXLI just announcing to the world that you're listening. When there's a reason to reply, your chances improve. 41111 Do something or go somewhere unusu- la lasMoir ore al. If you say, "This is NTOZ, overhead 0 in the Goodyear blimp, listening," you're bound to get a reply. ',my war rid if I diln Keep your photos, letters and column .s4 WOJUSTRR suggestions coming to me at ARRL, De- IT partment PCN, 225 Main St, Newington, o 0 CT 06111. See you next month-or on the repeater, perhaps? THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 75 BY BILL PRICE. N3AVY The Loose Connection RADIO COMMUNICATIONS HUMOR Red Sky at Night We were thirteen; fourteen, may- pre-recorded "clear weather" forecastunnoticed, let alone sneak up on us. We be. It doesn't matter. We spent over a wireless microphone to a skepti- laughed a lot the night we got a bottle of that part of our lives walkingcal father's radio. At the time of ourhomemade wine, and three of us could the fence between kid and teenager. It was "broadcast," which I remember to be aget falling -down -giggling drunk on a a relief when we leaned toward the kidThursday evening, it was threatening toquart of beer because we didn't know it side because we didn't have to act likerain and the sky had gone dark. Ourwas supposed to take more. The worst James Dean just because someone was recording featured a morning drive -timesecret we had to keep was when the bear watching. In our teenage mode the under- D.J. giving the Wednesday morning fore-came into our campsite and ate every- stood rule was "BS and brag;" treadcast as, " ... sunny and mild all day, highsthing except us. After we all agreed that social water or drown. in the low eighties and cool, clear sleep-none of us had been scared, the story was Personal communication consisted of ing weather tonight.. ." then admonish- about to make us local heroes. We had to party -line telephones and counting theing his listeners that if they haven't al-squash it though, when we realized that rings to see if you should answer theready left for work, they'd better get it would have meant the end of our sum- phone. Back then, 100mW walkie-talkies going or they'd be late. The old manmer -long camping; because mothers just operated on channel 14, were made of stared at us but never said a word. don't understand about bears being very metal, and a pair cost about three weeks The giggling didn't help at all. He letpicky eaters. pay running amusement park rides. us move our sleeping bags into the base- One night we hung three twenty -year - Our own "Freedom of Information ment, and about midnight, when the rainold Navy hammocks between two tall Act" was passed when three of us got AMwas over, we quietly moved outside and pines after being admonished that they'd "wireless broadcasters" for those rarebuilt a fire with some nice dry "scrap" rip right out from under us if they had pin- times when we were home. Even with our lumber from the basement. We often wentholes in them. We checked. They were thousand -foot magnet -wire antennas, for days without seeing our own parents, fine. The lowest was some 10 feet off the which encroached invisibly into many and timing was critical as we each calledground. We'd sleep better up there, hon- neighbor's yards, it took luck and careful home for clearance to sleep out again theest. We'll be fine. It's not too high. Stop tuning to keep us above the noise -floor. next night or two. We assured our parents worrying, mom. We were too young to stay out all night, that we were welcome in the host's yard, We had to squirm like snakes to get into but we never got tired; we never wantedand no-we hadn't taken a bath, but weour sleeping bags, and I'm sure I wasn't to quit clowning around. Our answer was were swimming just this afternoon. Yesthe only one who thought they were just backyard camping. We called it sleeping --we brushed our teeth, and were fine- a little too high. We had wiggled in to try out. It took only one night outdoors toeating well-yes-plenty of vegetables. the hammocks early in the evening when appreciate the freedom to stay up all nightWe learned to break camp efficiently, the top one ripped, dumping its scream- by a campfire, suspending many of soci- stuffing everything we owned into ouring contents onto me. My hammock ety's rules, and being just quiet enoughsleeping bags and lashing them to ourripped without hesitation and dropped us that an occasional "Go to sleep, dammit"bikes. Our migration was planned so that flailing onto the last of our threesome, let the host -parents think they had uswe actually slept at our own home about whose bed was no stronger. We must have under control. every third night. looked like enormous caterpillars as we It quickly became our goal to sleep out I later learned that our parents called fell, still in our sleeping bags. There were every night, and to that end we researchedeach other most every evening; they wereno injuries except that we were winded, every weather forecasting axiom andsure that we were up to something, andand that was just from laughing so hard. wives' tale and twisted them into muta- they were, by God, going to find out what We slept on the ground that night, as we tions which would always play to our ad-it was. What it "was," was being on our always did. vantage. Red sky at night, sailors delight. own; no parents. Staying up all night; There were no bugs then; no discom- Red sky at morning, pay it no warning. talking dirty. Eating junk food long be-fort. No cold, no rain, no hot, no damp. According to us, the only time rain was a fore it had a name; smoking cigarettes andThe ground was always smooth under our threat was when it was actually falling, staging bean -suppers that far surpassed sleeping bags and the smoke from the and even that could often be discountedthe campfire scene in Blazing Saddles. campfire never blew in our faces. We al- due to some handy rule of thumb we'd Even with all the clowning we couldways woke up well rested, ready to con- distorted beyond recognition. detect the stealthiest parent 50 yardstinue the fun as if we'd merely blinked. One evening we pooled every drop ofaway. The father hadn't been invented I hope my old age is kind to the cells our communication skills and played awho could even get out of his own doorthat store these memories. 76 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE FM MICRO BROADCASTING:Transmit many miles. PLL mono/stereo. 88-108 MHz. Kit or as- sembled. 1-100 W.R.F. amps. Call (604) 642-2859. R. Scott Communications. Readers Marke RESTRICTEDTop SecretHackerlnforma- tion.Cellu lar/Cable/Survei I lance/Satel I iteN ideoCi pher/Bwks/Videos-Software. Make $100/ hour! Catalog -$3.TELECODE,P.O. Box 6426 -PC, Yuma. AZ 85366-6426. Advertising Rates: Non-commercial ads are 30 cents per word, including abbrevia- TUNEIn On Telephone Calls! New 3rd Edition, by tions and addresses; minimum charge $6.00 per issue. Ads from firms offering commer- Tom Kneitel. Latest freqs., info., and effective scanner cial products or services are $1.00 per word; minimum charge $20.00 per issue. Boldface accessories for serious recreational eavesdropping on cellular, 46 and 900 MHz cordless, air/ ground phones, words are $1.20 each (specify which words). Leading key words set in all caps at no digital pagers and more. The original, official, contro- additional charge. All ads must be prepaid in full at time of insertion; a 5% discount is versial 160 -page source book, now updated! Only offered for prepaid 6 time insertions. All ads must be typewritten double spaced. $16.95, plus $5 s/h ($6 to Canada). NY State residents Approval: All ad copy is subject to Publisher's approval and may be modified to elim- add $1.81 tax. Order from your favorite dealer or CRB Research Books, Inc., P.O. Box 56, Commack. NY inate references to equipment and practices which are either illegal or otherwise not 11725. MC/ VISA accepted. Phone orders: (5161543- within the spirit or coverage scope of the magazine. 9169. Closing Date: The 10th day in the third month preceding date of publication. Because NEW BLACK BOX ANTENNAS! High perfor- the advertisers and equipment contained in Readers' Market have not been investigat- mance tunable rectangular loops covering the entire ed, the Publisher of Popular Communications cannot vouch for the merchandise list- Longwave through extended AM or Shortwave band. ed therein. Direct all correspondence and ad copy to: PC Readers' Market, 76 N. 1-800-99RADIO. Broadway. Hicksville, NY 11801. CABLE DESCRAMBLER! Build for $12 with seven RadioShack parts. Instructions $8. F.A.S.T.. Box 369-U10, Pt. Salerno. FL 34992-0369. COMMODORE 64 HAM PROGRAMS -8disk RADIO MONITORS NEWSLETTER OF sides -over 200 Ham programs -$16.95.32e stamp MARYLAND FOR THE SERIOUS SHORT- ATTN. RADIO ENTHUSIASTS!Audiocassettes. gets unusual software catalog of Utilities. Games and WAVE AND SCANNER LISTENERS. PO BOX crossword puzzles, and more -all dealing with British disks. Home -Spun Software. Box 1064 -PC, 394, Hampstead, MD 21704. For a one year sub- radio. Send SASE to: Pineapple Paradise Radio Co.. Estero, FL 33928. scription: $15.00. Samplecopy:one dollar. P.O. Box 370692. El Paso. TX 79937-0692. AM RADIO CLUB.For bulletin sample and mem- NEWAWARDS PROGRAM!For SWL's. DX'ers, THE GE SUPERADIO IIIwith up to four modifi- bership info write International Radio Club of Scanner Buffs! Self-addressed stamped envelope cations is choice for many DX'ers. Low as $85. MC. America. Box 1831. Penis, CA 92572. brings details! ISWAC. Box 66. Hanover, MI 49241. VISA. 800-944-0630. EEB-DISCOUNTCBSCANNERSSWLHAM .11::. b ...... iire.....-'WORLD'S MO POWERFUL OS> < CD/HAM MO E ANTENNA IThe Ultimate Remote Mount CB CHERCPKEET"1 All the conti..k.iic... the me. Great tar "rests show the Heavy duty new The World's Most Advanced, small ears or discreet installation. Full WILSON 1155) is oil design eliminates 40 channel Portable CB Radio coverage/power. 58% better than the 95% of hiss found Cobra HH-70 List. $169.95 competition both ill in older designs. 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FAX: 703.938.6911 net/-eeb/eeb.html THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 77 CANADIANS Low Discount prices on Uniden. MILITARY MONITORING GUIDE. New book Top Secret CONSUMERTRONICS. 200+ high- Cobra, Ranger, Galaxy, Astatic, Wilson. K40 and covers all phases of Military Monitoring. Military tech survivalism books, manuals, software, hard- more. Monthly specials, Canada -wide mail order. Frequencies all services: U.S. Military Bases. Mil- ware, services. Catalog $5. 2011 Crescent. Alamo- DX Communications. Box 487. Martensville, Sask. itary Black Projects. Major Air Force Installations. gordo, NM 88310. http://users.aol.com./ wizguru/ SOK-2T0 Canada. Ph: (306) 934-3796. Monitoring Equipment and Systems. Navy/Coast hi-tech.html. Guard, and more. $19.95. plus $4 Priority Mail. UNI- SCANNER MODIFICATION HANDBOOK VERSAL ELECTRONICS. 4555 Groves Road, #I2. SATELLITE RADIO BOOK AND GUIDE. New VOL.1 by Bill Cheek. The famous original 160 -page Columbus, OH 43232. (614) 866-4605. book covers all Audio Services. SCPC, Subcarriers, books. Performance improvement modifications. FM Squared. Facsimile. Press Services. Weather Simple step-by-step instructions, many photos. Pri- VHF AERO SCANNER GUIDE: Kneitel's Air -Scan. Services. Simplehow -to -receiveinstructions. marily PRO -2004 & PRO -2005, some for PRO -34. sixth edition. Great new edition of the new comprehen- $16.95, plus $3 Priority Mail. UNIVERSAL ELEC- BC-200/205XLT, BC-705XLT, BC -705 XLT. Re- sive and popular USA/Canada VHF aero band directo- TRONICS, 4555 Groves Road. #12. Columbus. OH store blocked -out bands, speed up scanning rate, dis- ry ever published: Civilian, Military, Private Airports, 43232, or call (614) 866-4605. able "beep." increase number of channels, improve Heliports & Seaplane Bases. Control Towers, ARTCC, squelch action, add an S -meter. interface with short- Weather, Approach/Departure, FSS, Ground Control. TOMCAT'S BIG CB HANDBOOK. by Tom Knei- wave receivers, etc. Make the PRO -2004 & 2005 into ATIS, Unicorns, National & Air National Guard freqs.. tel. 221 large pages. fully illustrated. Complete guide a 6,400 channel scanner: put 3,200 channels into the etc. Many listings for airport security, fire/rescue, air- to worldwide AM, SSB, Freehand, 27 MHz opera- PRO -34! Plus, cellular frequency charts, antenna info line ground services & more beyond the aero band. One tions. Everything they never told you (legal & other- & mods. inside info on frequency management. op- "must have" guide to tens of thousands of aero related wise) from world's leading CB authority. Only erating hints, emergency power supplies, scanners & monitor frequencies! Only $18.95, plus $5 s/h ($6 to $15.95 plus $5.00 s/h (Canada $6.00) from CRB the law, lots more! Only $18.95. plus $5.00 s/h Canada) from CRB Research, P.O. Box 56, Commack, Research Books, Inc.. PO Box 56. Commack. NY (Canada $6). Residents of NY State add $2.36 tax. NY 11725. VISA/MC accepted. Phone orders: (516) 11725. (NYS residents add $1.78 sales tax). Visa/MC Big 220 page VOL. 2 with more mods for PRO -2004/ 543-9169. (NYS res. add $2.04 tax.) orders call: (516) 543-9169. 5/6, PRO -34, PRO -2022. BC-760/950XL, BC200/ WORLD'S MOST UNUSUAL Communications 205XL. also available. $18.95 plus $5.00 s/h (Canada JUST PUBLISHED. Bill Cheek's The Ultimate Books! A large selection of outstanding titles cover- $6). NY State residents include $2.36 tax. NEW! The Scanner (Cheek 3) doesn't just build on his two earli- ing scanners. "confidential" frequency registries, Ultimate Scanner, VOL. 3. Giant 240 -page edition. er bestsellers. His new, indispensable bench manual bugging. wire tapping. electronic surveillance, coven Many more mods! Picks up where the first two books goes further and faster, detailing scanner modification communications, computers. espionage, monitoring. ended. $29.95 plus $5 s/h (Canada $6). residents of technology including memory enhance- ments, up to and more! New titles being added constantly! Ask for NYS add $2.97 tax. Order from CRB Research 25.600 channels, cellular restoration. simple ways our big FREE catalog. CRB Research. BOX 56 -PC. Books, Inc., PO Box 56, Commack, NY 11725. automate arduous scanning tasks, signal discrimina- Commack. NY 11725. Visa/MC welcome. Tel: (516) 543-9169. tion, computer interfaces. optimum antennas. autolog- ging "hits," power options. SCA decoders, autore- RCI-2950/2970 MODIFICATION MANUAL. CW Lite is the easiest Morse Code training method jecting, hacking, and tons more. With a wealth of Power and modulation increase. Clarifier, receiver. in the world, bar none! And it is the fastest, too. Just step-by-step procedures, photos, charts, diagrams. and noise blanker modifications, operating hints. and closed your eyes and relax. This powerful hypnosis schematics. Cheek shows us how to dramatically more. Pans included. $20 ppd U.S. money order. $25 cassette tape does the rest. Subliminals speed you improve scanner performance. 250 pages. large for- COD (MO residents add $1.15 tax). Scott, P.O. Box along! Only $15.95 ppdin US Order today! mat, $29.95 (plus $4 s/h: CA add 7.75% tax). Index 510408. St. Louis. MO 6315141408. (314) 846-0252. Alternative Arts, 4601 Rosemare Rd.. Parkersburg. Publishing Group. Inc., 3368 Governor Drive. Suite WV 26101. (304) 422-2767. MC/ VISA, COD. Mail 273P. San Diego, CA 92122: order line. (800) 546- CW? NO PROBLEM. You can increase your speed. orders include signature. Office hours after 4:30 6707. no matter how many times you've failed before. Eastern. Results guarateed when you follow the instructions. CB RADIO HACKER'S GUIDE! Big 151 page Alternative An' s CW Mental -Block Buster program RADIO SHACK SCANNERS - Lowest prices all book: pictorials, diagrams, text. Complete guide to helps you explode mental blocks that hold you back. catalog items. 1000 -channel PRO -2042, reg. $499, peaking, tweaking, & modifying 200+ CB radios for Based on 40 years of research. the CW Mental -Block our price, $449. New shortwave receiver DX -394, enhanced performance & more features. Which Buster uses guided meditation, dynamic visualiza- reg. $399.. our price $359. Call! No tax. Call 1-800- screws to turn, which wires to cut. AM & SSB radios: tions, and powerful affirmations to blast through 848-3004. Orders only. COTRONICS INC., 2250 Cobra, Courier, GE. Midland, Radio Shack Realistic. mental blocks. You can do code! That means new SE Federal Hwy.. Stuart. FL 34994. SBE, Sears, Uniden/President. Get the most from bands, more contacts. more fun! (This is not a CW your CB radio & operations. Only $19.95. plus $5.00 practice tape.) The CW Mental -Block Buster audio LAST CHANCE: We have a very limited supply of shipping ($6.00 to Canada). NY State residents add the modifiable cellular Bearcat scanners left, BC- cassette and practice booklet are only $29.95 ppd. in $2.12 tax. Order from CRB Research Books, Inc.. PO the US. (Quantity discounts available for classes.) 200XLT. BC-2500XLT, BC-890XLT. etc. Once these Box 56, Commack, NY 11725. Visa/MC OK. Tel: Alternative Arts. 4601 Rosemare Rd.. Parkersburg. are gone, they are gone forever. Call for close-out (516) 543-9169. prices -we ship COD, and free U.P.S. shipping to 48 WV 26101. (304) 422-2767. MC/ VISA. COD. Mail states. Galaxy. Box 1202, Akron, OH 44309, (216) 376- CB RADIOS, antennas, meters, amateur radios. orders include signature. Office hours after 4:30 2402. 8:30-4:30 EST. Our I 1th year! mobile and base, and other exciting equipment. Send Eastern. $1 for postage. 10013 NE Hazel Dell Avenue. Suite "FORBIDDEN SECRETS OF THE LEGION OF 513, Vancouver, WA 98685. MORSE CODE Got You Down? Why let a mental DOOM HACKERS!" Big 224 -page handbook. The blockstand between you and upgrading? Use infamous LOD's condemned programs and amazing CB MODIFICATION SECRETS, big new 200 -page Alternative Art's CW Mental -Block Buster to blast techniques, from the LOD's now shut down in BBS. guide by Kevin Ross, author of "CB Radio Hacker's through those barriers. Just follow the instructions Hacking, phreaking. and more! Hard to locate infor- Guide." More great easy -to-do Am/SSB CB equipment for 30 days -Results Guaranteed! Based on 40 years mation, now in this Limited edition. For reference and upgrades and enhancements applicable to Cobra. of research, the CW Mental -Block Buster uses guid- informational purposes only. $20.95, plus $5 s/h Realistic, Uniden, President. etc. Freq. expansion, ed meditation, dynamic visualizations, and powerful (Canada $6). NYS add $2.21 tax. VISA/MC okay. CRB VFO, clarifier unlock, VOX. Roger Beep. anti -theft affirmations to blast through mental blocks. You can Research Books Inc.. Commack, NY 11725. Phone device, receive signal preamp, much more. Only do code! That means new bands, more contacts, more orders: (516) 543-9169. $21.95, plus $5 s/h ($6 to Canada) from CRB Research fun! (This is not a CW practice tape.) The CW Mental - Books, P.O. Box 56, Commack, NY 11725. NYS res- Block Buster audio cassette and practice booklet are MILITARY RADIOS: Easily made battery adapters idents add $2.22 tax. VISA/MC orders call: (516) 543- only $25.95 ppd. in the US. Alternative Arts. 4601 for military radios & other electronics. Get POWER 9169. Rosemare Rd.. Parkersburg, WV 26101. (304) 422- UP! Big new 96 -page manual of instructions, diagrams. 2767. MCNISA, COD. Mail orders include signature. Use readily available commercial batteries in PRC-6, - FM DIRECTORY: The 1997 FM Radio Directory Office hours after 4:30 Eastern. 8, -9, -10, -25, -28, -47, -74, -77, TRC-77, AN/PRC-9, is here! ALL commercial FM stations in the U.S. AN/PRT-4, RT-77, URC-68, more: also mine detectors, including boosters. Listed by call, frequency, and HAM RADIO PROGRAMS (plus 100s of other night scopes, radiacs, field telephones, etc. Only $14.95. community. Great for DXers and travelers! Send applications). Low as $1.00 per disk. Send $2.00 for plus $5 s/h ($6 Canada). NYS residents add $1.53 tax. SASE to Jeff Ryan, Box 1089. Morrisville. PA catalog and sample disk to: TRI-MI SOFTWARE CRB Research Books, Box 56 -PC, Commack, NY 19067; or e-mail 78 / POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / November 1996 THE MONITORING MAGAZINE GREAT READING for the winter SWL season- PRESIDENTS GEORGE AND JAMES CBs. New wonderful; (and inexpensive!) back issues of in box with complete service manuals. Info., Gary, AdvertisersIndex "Popular Communications"-the first 8 1/2 years P.O. Box 1311, Monrovia, CA 91017-1311. (over 100 issues), all excellent in binders-$199 takes all! Ted Osborn, Box 71. Ithaca, NY 14851: ICOM R7I-A. Very good condition, $400. Call A.M.C. Sales, Inc 27 Terry (313) 278-2354. AOR, LTD Coy II (607) 273-5323. Ace Communications Coy III ATTENTION: Cable box owners. Now is the time WOW! UNDERSTANDING & REPAIRING CB RADIOS by Lou Franklin. Giant 380 -page tech- Advanced Specialties, Inc 65 to order your bullet and I.D. Stopper. Send $23 to R.R. Enterprise, P.O. Box 3532, Easton. PA 18043. nical handbook begins teaching where our famous Alpha Delta Communications, Inc. 13 "SCREWDRIVER EXPERTS" GUIDE ends. Antenna Supermarket 49 THE SCANNER CLUB. The nationwide, bi- Over 350 illustrations. Detailed troubleshooting Antique Radio Classified 71 monthly, all -scanner news -magazine. Packed with and circuit descriptions for 23- and 40 -Ch., crys- Atlantic Ham Radio 75 64+ pages of frequencies, codes and CTCSS tones. tal and PLL, solid-state and tube, AM, FM, SSB, C. Crane Company 71 Formerly Northeast Scanning News. One year mem- and multimode export models. Includes transis- tor basics, test equipment, synthesizers, receivers, CRB Research 24,54 bership is $24.95. Please make checks or money orders payable to LES MATTSON and send to The transmitters, power supplies, T/R switching, CQ Merchandise 75 Scanner Club, P.O. Box 62A, Gibbstown, NJ 08027. accessory circuits, antennas, interference, parts CQ Videos 10 sources, huge index. Only $33.50 (M.O., check, Cellular Security Group 9 PIRATE RADIO, TIS or emergency AM/MW/ LW VISA/MC) toU.S. & Canada. Moneyback antennas. CB 10/40 or 80m verticals. HF discone. Communications Electronics, Inc 23 Guarantee. Free catalog of unique books, plans, Send S.A.S.E. to HELIXING, 1302 McCameron. Computer Aided Technologies 42,43 and modification kits with order. The best since Lockport. IL 60441. 1976! CBC INTERNATIONAL INC., BOX 27 Davis Instruments 31500PC, Phoenix, AZ 85046. Delta Research 54 SECRET CABLE DESCRAMBLER! ANYONE CAN BUILD IN SEVEN EASY STEPS WITH Drake, R.L. Company CB MODIFICATIONS! 10M, frequencies, slid- RADIO SHACK PARTS COSTING UNDER $12! ers, FM, amplifiers, books, plans, kits, high-per- Durham Radio Sales & Service, Inc 71 PLANS, $5. 1-800-818-9103. formance accessories. The best since 1976. Find 7,46,47 EDCO outwhy! Catalog $3. CBC INTERNATIONAL, Electronic Equipment Bank 1,77 WORLD'S SMALLEST I1 -meter handheld. R.C. Distributing Co. 1-800-236-5778. INC., Box 31500A, Phoenix, AZ 85046. Firestik Antenna Company 73 GEnie Radio & Elec. RoundTable 73 DSS BIBLE. New book includes: software, sche- CABLE TV DESCRAMBLER! ANYONE CAN matics, resources, chip programmer plans, card pro- BUILD IN SEVEN EASY STEPS WITH RADIO Gilfer Shortwave 63 SHACK PARTS. PLANS/KITS FROM $5.00 Intensitronics Corp. 59 gramming procedures, reviews and more! $49.95. VISA/MC TELECODE, 1-520-726-2833. PLUS FREE BONUS. 1-800-818-9103. Japan Radio Co., Ltd. FM MICRO BROADCASTING: Transmit many Jo Gunn Enterprises 5 I CB AND 10 METER equipment and more! Please send three loose stamps to: E.D.S., P.O. Box 343, miles. PLL mono/stereo. 88-108 MHz. Kit or assem- K & L Technology 71 bled. 1-100W R.F. amps. Call (250) 642-2859. R. Howell, NJ 07731. Lentini Communications, Inc 61 Scott Communications. MACO Mfg. Div./Majestic Comm 17 39 COMMUNICATION RECEIVERS PRICED TO MFJ Enterprises, Inc SELL. JRC NRD-525 NO MODIFICATIONS, Metrosoft Corporation 48 LIKE NEW, COMPLETE, $700; AOR AR 3000 MetroWest 73 Tuning I RECEIVER, COMPLETE, NEW CONDITION, Microcraft Corporation 22 $375; SONY ICF SW -55125, COMPLETE, LIKE MoTron Electronics 35 (from page 41 NEW, $175; $1000 FOR ALL THREE. CALL Mouser Electronics 53 place. They can't be enforced. These PAUL 617-581-7247. Optoelectronics, Inc 5,80,Cov IV paper tigers need to be removed. Will DSS BIBLE. New book includes: software, schemat- PerCon Corporation 67 they? Probably not, because the well- ics, resources, chip programmer plans, card pro- Phillips -Tech Electronics 73 gramming procedures, reviews & more! $49.95. heeled proponents of such ludicrous VISA/MC TELECODE 1-520-726-2833. Quement Communications 18 anti-scanner/privacy laws have smoke - 18,24 R.C. Distributing screened the buying public into a false AOR AR3000A, 100 kHz -2036 MHz continuous REACT International, Inc 63 coverage scanning receiver (no cellular blocking), RadioShack 33 sense of privacy. After all, it's a federal like new, $990. (510) 537-0185. offense to listen to cellular conversa- Sangean America, Inc 19 DECODER, Universal M7000V2. with 12 inch Scanner Master 48 tions, so who in their right mind would Koyo monitor cables, manuals. Like new, both $425: Scrambling News 22 violate a federal law? was over $1500. Icom R I unblocked. $285. Call Don Sherwood Engineering, Inc. 10 What about the users of the cellular and 415-898-0301. shoc 37 cordless phones? Shouldn't they bear the WOW! UNDERSTANDING & REPAIRING CB Signal Engineering, Inc. 14 responsibility of what they say and what RADIOS by Lou Franklin. Giant 380 -page tech- Software Systems Consulting 53 leaves their antenna? How do we as scan- nical handbook begins teaching where our famous TAH Enterprises 24 ner users become accountable for guar- "SCREWDRIVER EXPERTS" GUIDE ends. Tucker Electronics 29 Over 350 illustrations. Detailed troubleshooting anteeing anyone's privacy? The last time and circuit descriptions for 23- and 40 -Ch., crys- Universal Radio, Inc 3 I checked, the airwaves were in the pub- tal and P1.1., solid-state and tube, AM, FM, SSB, Viking International 18 lic domain. That leaves me concerned and multimode export models. Includes transis- Visual Communications, Inc. 17 about something that goes beyond Uncle tor basics, test equipment, synthesizers, receivers, Wilson Antenna, Inc 31 Sam telling me I can't listen to a specif- transmitters, power supplies, T/R switching, Wireless Marketing Corp 57 accessory circuits, antennas, interference, parts ic segment of frequencies. What if we sources, huge index. Only $33.50 (M.O., check, Xandi Electronics, Inc. 22 awaken one day to find that, attached as VISA/MCI to U.S. & Canada. Money back guar- YaesuU.S.A. 15 a rider to some odd piece of legislation, antee. Free catalog of unique hooks, plans, and Reach this dynamic audience with your we can no longer legally listen to NBC, modification kits with order. The best since 1976! CBC INTERNATIONAL, INC., BOX 31500PC, advertising message, contact Don Allen, CBS, ABC or CNN? I can't help wonder N9A LK at 217-344-8653, FAX 217-344- Phoenix, AZ 85046. where we're headed 8656, or e mail: [email protected] THE MONITORING MAGAZINE November 1996 /POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS / 79 er dioNlan ,fis5011 %lac-wooitides for __JiJiP Need anOpt ScanningYou in HighSpeed For theUltimate ,may ..1651.2Llrl-SJ MiaLlXiLLAIJ k-LI -PER CON Visual WaveLinks Turn your Radio Shack 2005/2006 or 2035/2042 Nt.eutti.did ...... ,...I.. scanner into something more MB Ma MY 11. 11011.. .... than a box with a display. 'ow 0.".."...... -em wrar .... nom4.. woe ... The OptoScan 456/535 will - .- -..... Scanner not included transform your scanner into a _ ,__ powerful computer controlled 4.-...0 _--A-1 .i.-71x scanning machine. With an applicable scanning softwareprogram your Scanner Wear 0S456/0S535 becomes capable of displaying a wealth of information like, frequency, scanning speed, signal strength, frequency log, spectrum analysis and much more. In addition, the 0S4561535 will decode & display all CTCSS tones, DCS codes, and DTMF characters associated for each frequency. Creating frequency logs is easy. While scanning, single frequenciescan be downloaded into logs you create by name. While away, the computer actsas an automatic logging system keeping track of all activity the scanner locks on to. All frequency logs can be later reviewed with the number of hitsper fre- quency and time of transmission. ScanCat Gold To make your scanning experience more enjoyable you can down- load DBF files from the optional Spectrum CD Rom database. The 0S456/0S535 will display all database information for eachfrequency it locks on to like, company name, city, state, callsign and latitude/longitude. With an 199. OptoScan installed you can also scan specific Limited banks such as Business, Emergency, Fire, Vole Police, and many more. Call now to take full OnlY advantage of your scanners capabilities. FACTORY DIRECT ORDER LINE: 800 3275912 /% /"/ //mAtem1w/MAA NN/min VA./SJINN %..if NI V/ WI 5821NE 14th Avenue Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334 Visa MasterCard COD Prices and Specifications are subject to change MADE without notice or obligation IN Tel:954.771.2050 Fax:954.771.2052 USA Internet: http://www.optoelectronics.com Software support by Scanner Wear for Windows (shown), Scan Star (not shown), ScanCat Gold (shown), Probe(not shown), and Wave for Mac (shown). CIRCLE 151 ON READER SERVICE CARD ACECommunications http://www.acecomms.com/[email protected] 111411111i. CIRCLE 15 IN READER SERV 9 Call me, wrile me, /ex me, or see me on the Web! Let%make a deal on some greatelectronics! Intp://www.acecommy.com/Siymns ICESCANSO aol.comFa.i:3 17 N49 8794.Faxback 317 849 Inc, 5(111 Tee/is: 3/7 543 977/ 1% inner 8683 10707 E.106th.Si Filers. REACTION TUNE REACTION -4 Connect the SCOUT withyour AOR AR2700* a The Scout, with its revolutionary Reaction Tune feature, can tune the AOR Model AR2700 to the frequency it captures in less than one second. No more scanning through an entire band of frequencies, hoping to find that one elusive unknown signal. The Scout will lock onto and capture into memory all nearfield frequencies, up to 400, while simultaneously tuning the AR2700 to the recorded frequency. Take it along to a sporting event, amusement park, shopping mall, or downtown, and start building your own frequency database. See below for list of other compatible Scout Reaction Tune receivers. iiiAutomatically tunes the AR2700 to the frequency captured Iii1Takesguess work out of scanning for active frequencies di Records andsaves up to 400 frequencies in memory di Records up to 255 hitson each frequency in memory g Interfaceto a PC for frequency download using the optional Optolinx PC Interface Distinctive beepsindicate frequency hits, pager style vibrator for discreetrecording kutomatic EL backlight for night operation 616segment RF signal strength bargraph I Frequenciesare automatically saved when unit is turned off SpechinFCCDEdates3CD 10MHz - 1.4GHz Frequency Range gil Also Reaction Tunes: AOR AR8000 ICOM R7000, R7100, and R9000. Radio Shack Pro 2005/2006 (0S456 installed) and Radio ShackPro 2035/2042 (0S535 installed) *Modification to AR2700 required for Reaction tune. Instructions included in DE332 Antenna Scout nuaL CC30 CarryCase oirdei AOR AR2700scanner not sold by Optoelectronics now ! CTORY DIRECT ORDER LINE 800.327.5912 orirevirrms rmaiwormaiikia 11111011P II II VIIII.1.1111604.11 1\%01 1111%.u. 5821 NE 14th Avenue Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334 Visa Mastercard C.O.D. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation TEL(954).771.2050FAX(954).771.2052F mail [email protected] Internet: www.optoelectronics.corn CIRCLE 150 ON READER SERVICE CARI