Rusk County Hams get connecting

Jerry Ritchie gave a very interesting talk on various RF Connectors and their impedance characteristics. Surprisingly the very common PL-259 connector is not even rated for impedance, but is used extensively in the Amateur Radio Service.

The BNC and N connectors can be purchased for use in 50 Ohm feed line circuits. Fortunately the PL-259 can provide acceptable service in the HF
bands but is reaching its upper limits in the 2 meter band and can really degrade an antenna system in the 70 CM band.

MEETING CANCELLED - NET INSTEAD

The RCARC's monthly meeting in January was cancelled due to freezing precipitation in the area. The next regularly scheduled meeting is scheduled for February 27th, 7pm.

Satellites main topic at September meeting

Clayton Coleman, W5PFG, spoke to club members during the September; Rusk County Amateur Radio Club’s meeting. Clayton shared his passion for “Working the Birds”, or amateur satellites, and informed members that there are currently five "LEO" (Low Earth Orbit) satellites available to amateurs. Even amateurs with modest equipment and a Technician Class license or above can use them.

Clayton brought some of his equipment, a VHF mobile radio and a couple of hand held antennas as examples of the normal equipment he uses to make contacts with other amateur operators through the satellites.