Mike
Thanks for the information on the 6 meter band. A.S., WA7FXB
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mike Duke, K5XU" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, March 22, 2013 7:28 PM
Subject: Re: 6 meter questions
> Albert asked:
>
> "Are there certain frequencies that should be monitored for
> activity?"
>
> For SSB activity, monitor 50.125 upper side band. That is the domestic
> calling frequency for SSB.
>
> The DX calling frequency is 50.110.
>
> While most SSB stations run horizontally polarized antennas, your
> vertical will work just fine when the band is open. Your signal will
> be a bit weaker for local stations who are horozontal.
>
> For FM, the national simplex frequency is 52.525, and most of the
> antennas are vertical.
>
> "Is it mor possible for the band to open up during the day or in the
> early evening?"
>
> Six meters behaves much like its former neighbor, the old analogue
> television channel 2. Basically, it has a strong tendency to open
> whenever it takes a notion too. I have seen it pop open with no
> warning at just about any time of the day or night. Usually, however,
> I would say check for activity during the late afternoon and evening.
>
> Whether you comprehend CW or not, remember to tune through the beacon
> band, which is 50.060 - 50.080. A CW signal inside that window means
> the band is open to somewhere. At that point, blast forth with a CQ on
> one of the calling frequencies, especially if you don't hear any other
> activity. You may be the signal that alerts others to the opening.
>
> "I have a groundplane up 10 feet, no room for a beam."
>
> While more height would be better for local coverage, it won't matter
> as much as you think during band openings, especially for the summer E
> skip season. That season usually begins somewhere near the end of
> April, and runs through July.
>
> For the most part, when the band is open, anyone who you can hear will
> also be able to hear you.
>
> So, go for it, and make that first 6 meter contact happen.
>
> Mike Duke, K5XU
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