>SFR tried the "low power FM transmitter" again yesterday, and it failed to
>work again.
Actually, the low power FM transmitter was repackaged, tested, and it works
fine. There was an issue in the morning in trying to find a clear frequency
-- the GGF site is noisy in RF terms.
A clear frequency has been found 93.7 MHz, and was range tested. From the
RV, signal could be received (barely) at the end of the second grid, past
the catering truck, and out by the porta-potties. That's three different
directions. A directional antenna may improve things further. Reception was
tested by asking drivers to tune in their car radios. Thanks to those of you
that helped, BTW.
Once this was resolved, another problem was discovered with the AC generator
in the RV -- it kept cutting out. Although the FM transmitter will continue
to operate (battery powered), the microphone/PA will not. With this problem,
there seemed to be some reluctance to announce the autox.
So, there are a couple of items that have to be addressed with the "low
power FM transmitter".
First, it is battery powered, so this has to be watched. There is an LED
indicator on it; if it goes dark, replace the batteries -- they lasted all
day, BTW. Remeber to turn power off when not in use.
Second, the antenna needs to be placed on the roof of the RV, and then taken
down at the end of the day. I made a antenna frame with a "grounded plane"
that can be placed up there relatively easily. There is sufficient cable to
go from the roof of the RV, through the vent, and to the transmitter.
Third, we need to start announcing.
Next time out, I'll label the box and bring out written instructions for
setup and tuning. There should be no need to retune at GGF. 93.7 MHz.
Regards,
Rob Weinstock
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