South Anglia Repeater Group

NEW SARG WEBSITE - LIVE

2009-05-21T09:36:00.002+01:00

Visit our new website at:

http://www.sargroup.co.uk/

Don't forget to leave a message (with your callsign) in the sites log book.

We hope you enjoy it.

New SARG Website

2009-05-06T07:38:00.003+01:00

Work is underway to get the new and improved SARG website up and running within the next month, so keep an eye on the blog for the offical launch of the new site.

AGM Minutes

2009-05-06T07:33:00.004+01:00

The minutes from this years SARG AGM are now ready for download at:

http://www.yaesu.org.uk/resources/Minutes+from+the+2009+SARG+AGM.pdf

Outstanding attendance at SARG AGM

2009-04-22T07:24:00.005+01:00

The committee of SARG would like to thank everyone who took the time and effort to attend the AGM held on the 21st April 2009. With 43 radio amateurs and shortwave listeners attending it certainly goes to show that amateur radio is alive and well in East Anglia.

For those who were unable to attend full details of the meeting will be posted on this site shortly.

Just a few of those who attended (further pictures to follow)

SARG AGM Tuesday 21st April - Final reminder

2009-04-21T07:18:00.003+01:00

REMINDER

The SARG AGM takes place tonight at 19:30 at:

St John Ambulance (Suffolk) Headquarters
Priory House
Duckamere
Bramford
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP8 4AJ

Directions and a map can be found at: http://www.yaesu.org.uk/resources/SJA_Bramford+col.pdf

We look forward to seeing you all there.

Antenna work GB3EA

2009-04-10T08:43:00.002+01:00

On Thursday the 17th April from 09:00 hrs, work will be taking place to the antenna system of GB3EA. To ensure the safety of the riggers and facilitate numerous tests it may be necessary to switch off GB3EZ while this takes place. The purpose of the work it to investigate the antenna & feeder issues on GB3EA and hopefully resolve them.

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

SARG AGM Update

2009-03-26T07:16:00.002Z

As part of the AGM we plan to have the following presentations:

Amateur TV & amateur radio - Jason Flynn & Chris Irish
Western technical update - Jake G1yFF
Internet linking & SARG repeaters - Keith G7DNT
10 metre repeater update - Bob M0MUD

Talk in will be on GB3po, listen for the callsign GB2SJA operating on the evening.

We look forward to seeing you all on the 21st April.

SARG AGM - Tuesday 21st April 2009 - 19:30hrs

2009-02-27T09:32:00.003Z

The Annual General Meeting of the South Anglia Repeater Group will take place on Tuesday 21st April, commencing at 19:30. This year will see a change of venue for the AGM to:

St John Ambulance (Suffolk) Headquarters
Priory House
Duckamere
Bramford
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP8 4AJ

Directions and a map can be found at: http://www.yaesu.org.uk/resources/SJA_Bramford+col.pdf

Remember this is your group and everyone is welcome. Pat (G8VZZ) will be on site with his receipt book for those wishing to donate towards the continued projects within the group.

The committee look forward to seeing everyone on the evening of the 21st.

On site tests of GB3EF

2009-02-25T07:21:00.003Z

Following reports of noisy audio from weak stations using GB3EF the technical team visited the repeater site and ran a few tests. The noise appears to be generated from the larger broadcast mast adjacent to the repeater mast. When the team switched both notches in line the noise did appear to reduce, however the overall effect of this was at least 3dB of loss to the RX leg. The team are now investigating the use of a good, high quality low pass filter to go between the Aerial and the combiner.

There also appears to be a fair bit of noise around 70MHz which is also where the repeaters RX's image is (51.22 + 21.4 (the IF) = 72.64). The team is also looking at ways to resolve this issue.

New GB3EF on the air

2009-02-24T18:23:00.006Z

On Sunday 22nd February Jake (G1YFF) installed the new GB3EF 50MHz repeater on site.

First reports appeared satisfactory with the only comments relating to the length of time between the pip tones. This has been rectified this evening by some on site tweaking.

The repeater Logic is of a similar build to that employed on GB3EZ and GB3EA and for this reason is being named the "E"Series logic. The logic is based around the 'PICAXE' pic micro controller with custom software (http://www.rev-ed.co.uk/picaxe/)

Users of the repeater should note that it is essential to wait for at least one of the four pip tones before replying to other users if they wish to prevent timing out the repeater. Failure to wait for the tone will prevent the time out timer resetting.

The current time out period is set at around 4 minutes. If a user should time out the repeater will send 4 pips, mute the talk through audio then send its CW identifier. The repeater will then sit in a loop until the user drops carrier, once this has happened it will send another identifier and be ready for re access.

If a Beacon is heard with PL/CTCSS it means the logic has been reset / the mains has turned on to the repeater.

Don't worry it's not broken, this is how you retune the cavities of a 50MHz amateur repeater!

So thanks to Jake for more of his hard work, please enjoy the repeater and feel free to report back on its coverage in your area.

GB3EF Update

2009-01-31T09:47:00.002Z

Work continues on the upgraded transmitter/receiver for GB3EF. The new PA has been remounted on a bigger Heat Sink and soak tested to ensure it is fit for long periods of use, and all is looking good. Obviously with the discovery of 'challenges' for the team with GB3EA all efforts are being made to resolve those problems before continuing with the GB3EF upgrade project.

GB3EZ logic patch

2009-01-31T09:40:00.002Z

Some users may have noted that unlike all other SARG repeaters GB3EZ transmits its beacon / CW ident with 110.9Hz CTCSS applied. Work is currently underway to fix this in the form of a software patch. Updates of this work will be posted on this site when it has been completed.

GB3EA - Status report

2009-01-31T09:23:00.003Z

Following reports from users that GB3EA appeared to have a reduced performance, an on site survey has been conducted.

Tests of the transmitter and antenna feeder have found 1.6 Watts reflected power and 5 Watts forward power, which produce a SWR of 3.6 :1 ! Obviously this is not good and the site owner has been notified and together with the SARG technical team are making arrangements to investigate on site. It is hoped that there may be a short term solution to improve the performance slightly until the fault is fixed. Update on this will follow if this is possible.

During this time feel free to access all of the other repeaters in the area including GB3EZ on 70cms, the coverage of which is comparable with GB3EA.

GB3EF - More news

2009-01-11T17:51:00.004Z

Jake (G1YFF) has sent the latest picture of the radio which will replace the existing set at Mendlesham. The new GB3EF unit is based on a Tait T300, carefully modified onto 6 metres.

The main Rx & Tx radios have been on bench test and apart from a few extra tweaks appear to be holding up well. In the words of Jake "The PA needs a little bit more tweaking to make it MUD proof" (for those who do not know Bob M0MUD is head of PA testing!).

Initial tests show that the receiver should be around 8 times more sensitive that the current GB3EF. Once live the new transmitters output power will be kept at the same level while evaluations of coverage take place. There will always be the option to increase or decrease the power should it be necessary.

The next major part of the build is to construct and test the logic then join this with the radio. The logic will be built on a similar design to that of GB3EZ with one or two subtle upgrades.

GB3EF - Upgrade

2008-12-17T08:08:00.002Z

With GB3EA coming up to its first birthday and GB3EZ live the team are starting the upgrading of the regions 50MHz repeater (GB3EF).

The new transmitter is currently on bench test while tuning work continues. The transmitter is currently running at 16watts with more wook needed to fine tune the output. The low pass filters are recieving a lot of attention to get them working just as they should.

The new reciever is all but complete with just the logic and CTCSS boards to be built and added.

Keep watching the blog for details of GB3EF's upgrade.

Light change at Wickhambrook

2008-10-31T15:15:00.002Z

Some users may be aware that GB3EA has been suffering from night-time interference. After investigation it is believed to originate from the aircraft anti-collision lights situated in close proximity to the antennas. The site owners have now replaced the light array and we hope that this will resolve the issue. We are looking for reports from anyone who notes night-time noise on GB3EA or GB3EZ.

Fingers crossed the change has cured this.

SARG On the road - G1YFF Talk

2008-10-26T21:04:00.004Z

Jake G1YFF (Project lead for GB3EA & GB3EZ) will be giving a talk to the Bury St Edmunds Amateur Radio Club on the 19th November 2008, 19:30 for 20:00. Jake will highlight the project which culminated in the regions newest 2 metre and 70 cm repeaters going on the air. Everyone is welcome (members and like minded amateurs) at the usual club venue:

Culford School,
Culford,
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk IP28 6TX

http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x=583268&y=270359&z=3&sv=583268

We look forward to putting a face to the callsign on the 19th.

Thank you - Donations to SARG

2008-10-18T14:05:00.003+01:00

Following the kind donation from the Cambridge Repeater Group we would like to thank G7SMW & G6OHM for their donations.

It cannot be emphasised enough that without the generosity of the repeater users we really would not be able to keep them up and running. While we are not flush with cash it would only take a minor incident on site to the hardware to result in a repeater coming off the air.

Cambridge Repeater Group - Donation

2008-10-17T07:46:00.005+01:00

South Anglia Repeater Group would like to thank the members of the Cambridge Repeater Group for their most generous donation towards the upkeep of the groups repeater projects.

Speaking shortly after the donation Keith Gaunt G7CIY (secretary for the SARG) commented "We hope that the addition of the 70cms repeater (GB3EZ) along with the 2 metre repeater (GB3EA) has proved beneficial to uses in the Cambridge area." he continued "We are of course extremely grateful to the support given by the Cambridge group and look forward to ongoing support in the coming years."

Anyone who wishes to donate to SARG can do so by sending their donation to Pat G8VZZ (Details on QRZ.com).

GB3EZ - ON THE AIR!

2008-09-27T19:35:00.003+01:00

The hard work has finally paid off with East Anglia's latest 70cm repeater going live today. At around 13:00 GMT GB3EZ burst into life with its CW ident being heard across Suffolk, Norfolk Cambridgeshire and Essex. Initial reports suggest a very wide coverage, similar to its big brother GB3EA. Not only did the technical team manage a smooth switch on, they also tracked down an intermittent fault on GB3EA which users had previously reported. It is hoped that the problem will be simply rectified and will stop the repeater suddenly dropping out or appearing to switch off. Thanks to Dave G8XOR & Alan G8CJL for sniffing out the problem.

As with the launch of GB3EA we ask users to log their signal reports on this site so we can see how the repeater is functioning and the coverage across the UK.

Thanks again to everyone involved with this project. Jake G1YFF who is slowly getting his shack back after having all the gear on his test bench. Dave G8XOR who somehow manages to fit his day job with BT around our repeater needs. BT for the loan of their lovely mast and electricity! Alan G8CJX & Keith G7CIY for ensuring that the paperwork is in order and pushing those people in power who need a push every now and then. Everyone who took time to send in letters supporting the repeater which we passed to the RSGB & Ofcom. And finally all of you who have and continue to dig into your pockets and give some cash (although Pat G8VZZ will take cheques) enabling us to purchase the gear in the first place.

We hope you make good use of the repeaters and keep our hobby alive.

GB3EZ - filters, amps and meters

2008-09-06T09:27:00.007+01:00

With the continued work to ensure that GB3EZ go on the air without a hitch we are able to show you a few more pictures taken by Jake (G1YFF) of the gear on his test bench.

The first picture for those who don't immediatley recognise it shows the preamp.

The second picture shows the filters which allow the preamp to function.The final picture shows the technical results during test. Apparently it is slighly more sensative than most repeaters however we will wait and see how this works when connected to the antennas on the mast.

Keep checking this blog for updates and a date for GB3EZ to go live.

GB3EZ Latest Pictures

2008-08-26T09:13:00.005+01:00

GB3EZ radio

GB3EZ Logic

New UPS for GB3EA & GB3EZ

2008-08-25T09:20:00.002+01:00

We have kindly been donated what can only be described as 'The mother of all UPS" for use on site at Wickhambrook. This will enable both repeaters to stay on the air should power be lost. If you have no idea what a UPS is then here is what Wikipedia has to say about them:

"An uninterruptible power supply (UPS), also known as a continuous power supply (CPS) or a battery backup is a device which maintains a continuous supply of electric power to connected equipment by supplying power from a separate source when utility power is not available. It differs from an auxiliary power supply or standby generator, which does not provide instant protection from a momentary power interruption, however could be used to provide uninterupted power to equipment for 1 - 20 minutes until a generator can be turned on. Integrated systems that have UPS and standby generator components are often referred to as emergency power systems."

The team are looking to put the new UPS on site at the same time as GB3EZ goes live.

GB3EZ final tests

2008-08-25T09:06:00.005+01:00

It has been a few weeks since we updated the blog and we didn't want you to think that we had forgotten the projects in hand. Despite a heavy workload Jake (G1YFF) has been finding spare minute in the week to get GB3EZ 'tweaked'. Currently the repeater is in the final intensive stages of testing to enure a smooth and stable launch of Suffolks latest 70cm box. Tests are due to take around a month where upon a date will be set to fire the repeater up on the air.

Phew, it's hot!

2008-07-30T22:38:00.003+01:00

While work continues to get GB3EZ up and on the air the PSU running GB3EA and ultimately GB3EZ has started to feel the heat. While it is strange to see the sun in the UK it would appear that the recent change in weather has caused the PSU to become slightly unstable. For this reason a new PSU has been acquired and will be fitted as soon as possible. Until this time can we ask all users to be patient as the good weather isn't due to last very long!

NoV issued for GB3EZ

2008-06-26T07:24:00.003+01:00

On the 25th June 2008 Ofcom issued the Notice of Variation (NoV) for East Anglia's newest 70cm repeater GB3EZ. This is the culmination of over a years work to get this repeater on the air. We would like to thank everyone who has helped in making this possible.

The next stage will be to switch the repeater on and go live. We will keep you up to date with a switch on date as soon as our technical team can find a suitable time to visit the site and turn the switch.

SARG Supporters at ESWR

2008-06-22T17:40:00.003+01:00

During the East Suffolk Wireless Revival held at Trinity Park (The Suffolk Show Ground) on the 15th June 2008 the following donated to SARG's continued efforts to provide repeater coverage across the region. We would like to thank them for their kind donations:
G7SDC
G4FDF
G0OZS
G0JVT

As always without everyones support none of this would be possible.

Pat G8VZZ - SARG Treasurer

GB3EZ - Almost there!

2008-06-11T10:45:00.002+01:00

** LATEST NEWS ** Approval from the primary user of 70cm's (The MOD) has been granted and we are now awaiting the issue of the NoV from OFCOM.

To keep an eye on developments check out the RSGB ETCC progress page at the link below.

http://www.ukrepeater.net/vetting.html

Thanks again to everyone who took time to support this venture.

GB3EA & GB3EZ - New picture gallery

2008-06-01T18:16:00.006+01:00

With so many users now on the repeater we felt that it was only fair that you had the opportunity to see what it actually looks like. We have added a new picture galley for you, Simply click on the slide show on the right hand side of this blog to see the pictures in full.

Enjoy.

EA Update

2008-05-29T21:10:00.004+01:00

It seems that the TX problem has been resolved at last.

There have been a number of reports of the Repeater dropping out,
We think this may have been due to the mains failing on site. The site owner has seen alarms for other kit on site showing the mains had been unreliable.
Currently we're investigating fitting a back up system.
Thanks to all those who let me know the box was on and off then on then off.......

Cheers Jake G1YFF

GB3EZ

2008-05-24T00:23:00.002+01:00

Ofcom Have confirmed that the Site Clearance form has arrived with them this morning. SARG would like to thank all those that have helped get the application this far.

EA TX UPDATE

2008-05-24T00:08:00.003+01:00

Dave, Alan and Jake have been on site again tonight and believe they've now resolved the Transmitter Power Problem, the next few days will tell......

So reports via the blog please

GB3EA - Off the air

2008-05-22T16:34:00.002+01:00

After resetting the power levels of GB3EA it has suddenly decided to stop working.

The technical team will be visiting site on Friday 23rd May to check the transmitter and receiver with a view to get it back up and running before the weekend. We believe that it may be due to a transmitter tuning issue so may be simple to resolve.

Once again stick with us and it will be up on the air again soon.

Don't forget we still have GB3PO, GB3IH & GB3EF to use.

Progress for GB3EZ

2008-05-20T22:19:00.001+01:00

EZ has been passed to OFCOM

http://www.ukrepeater.net/vetting.html

GB3EA - Return to full power

2008-05-20T22:03:00.012+01:00

GB3EA Has been returned to Hi Power :)

We've been on site again this evening continuing investigation's in to the on site noise problem, as a result of these tests we have been able to restore EA to FULL POWER :)
We have also been informed that one of the aircraft warning lights has been removed from service as it was faulty, this has reduced the "night time" effect considerably. There is still some reduction in receiver performance over night, we're still working with the site owner to resolve this issue.

Once again thanks for your patience during this work.

Cheers Jake (G1YFF) & Phil (G8MLA)

GB3EA - NOT AN ACT OF CENSORSHIP

2008-05-20T18:36:00.003+01:00

The group would just like to dispel any rumors which may be circulating regarding the drop in performance of GB3EA.

It has been suggested that the drop in signal across the region is due to a deliberate reduction in power to limit the access only to those within the West Suffolk area. This is NOT the case. Power has been reduced by the technical team while investigations take place into several on site interference issues. The reduction in power was the only action to be taken other than turning the repeater off totally.

While investigations continue we ask everyone to be patient and normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.

New SARG Website - Your thoughts

2008-05-20T18:25:00.002+01:00

Following the SARG AGM we are now looking to have a dedicated SARG Website. Our thanks must go to Catherine M1CVF who for several years set up, ran and updated the original SARG website in her own time and hosted the site at her own expense.

The Blog which your are reading was set up as a stop gap to see where we should go next and as a result of comments made at the AGM it was decided that a home should be found for SARG related news, views and developments other than on this blog. As a result we are now seeking comments from our users to see what content they would like to see on the new site.

Please send suggestions (clean preferably) to g0fea"@"yaesu.org.uk (remember to remove the "" before sending).

Thanks

SARG Supporters - Thanks

2008-05-19T21:48:00.002+01:00

Thanks to the following users who have also donated toward the South Anglia Repeter Group:

G0TMX
G3LPT
G4UWW
G6PDE

Without the continued support of all our repeater users we would certainly have poorer coverage across the region.

If you wish to donate to the work of SARG please send your donation to Pat G8VZZ (details on QRZ.com).

GB3EA On Reduced Power :(

2008-05-11T22:01:00.001+01:00

There is an problem with on site noise, in an attempt to get round this the power has been turned down as this reduces the effect but obviously, reduces the coverage available, it was that or turn the box off altogether!

The SARG Technical team hopes to restore normal service ASAP. So please bear with us whilst we work to fix these problems.

Jake G1YFF

GB3EA - Coverage survey

2008-05-05T10:10:00.004+01:00

To say that the coverage of GB3EA is good is a slight understatement. We have had reports from Kent, London, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex ohh and Suffolk. While the initial use on the first few days was very high it looks to be slowly calming down with frequent periods of inactivity.

For those who have not filed a signal report please do as we are intending to stop the survey on the 10th May and collate the data. Your report can be posted at:
http://www.createsurvey.com/c/67563-2gLPkR/

GB3EZ - Update

2008-05-05T10:05:00.002+01:00

We have been asked if the proposal for a 70cm repeater at Wickhambrook (GB3EZ) is still going ahead. The latest news is that our application is still waiting approval with the RSGB ETCC and until such time that this is passed we are unable to move the project further. We are in a position to get the repeater on the air within a very short time span, once approval is granted and the NOV issued by Ofcom, given that the antenna are fitted and the Tx/Rx is already on frequency. Please bear with us , however any delay is beyond our control.

AGM Minutes

2008-05-05T10:00:00.003+01:00

The minutes from the 2008 SARG AGM are avalible for download by clicking the link below:

http://www.yaesu.org.uk/resources/Minutes+from+the+2008+SARG+AGM.pdf

If you have coments or questions please feel free to email them to g0fea"@"yaesu.org.uk (remove "" prior to sending).

Thank you for your support

2008-05-05T09:31:00.002+01:00

We would like to publicly thank those who donated money towards the continuing SARG projects. While several individuals have donated through the year we were pleased to receive £320 from those at the AGM. Those individuals and groups are:

2E0BCM
2EOTYL
G0FEA
G0MGN
G4YQC
G7CIY
G7DNT
G7DWN
G7OOW
G7OPO
G8BLS
G8CJL
G8VZZ
M0JAJ
M0MJH
M0MUD
M0NUZ
M0SUF
M1DGY
M1NIZ
M3BDL
M3KGJ
M3PUY
M3SMY
M3ULW
Scouts
RAYNET

Without your continued support we most certainly would have a poorer repeater coverage.

Caption contest - Why did I ever post this?

2008-04-30T17:33:00.005+01:00

Oh my goodness, Some of you are too smart for your own good. Early entry's include:

"Mark M1NIz congratulates Bob MØMUD on his record breaking non-stop dx-athon on GB3PO" - Anon

"Bob shows everyone how good roller skating can be for your figure and displays his new slimmer look" - Anon

"Michael Schumacher makes an impromptu appearance at the SARG AGM to discuss D Star repeater access on 70cms" - Anon

"Another radio ham dies of old age after he gets cornered by MØMUD after mentioning he too liked Ferrari's. Alas fellow hams arrive too late but M1NIZ offers a Big Mac anyway" - Name supplied

"Oldest ham turns up at SARG AGM despite stating he had no BODY to go with!" - Oh why do I bother!!!

Come on guys some better ones please.

Caption contest

2008-04-30T08:02:00.007+01:00

Suggestions via email to gØfea"@"yaesu.org.uk (remove " " prior to sending).

Winning entry's will be picked at random (if they make me chuckle) and posted on this site for all to see. Don't forget to leave your callsign etc so we know who you are!

SARG AGM - Post event report

2008-04-30T07:30:00.005+01:00

Once again the amateurs of South Angia came out in force to attend the South Anglia Repeater Group AGM at Woodbridge.

A friendly atmosphere made for a lively meeting with various topics being discussed. Bob MØMUD found himself being designated project lead for a feasibility study into the setting up of a 10 metre repeater, so any information anyone has on other 29MHz repeaters please contact Bob.

Keith G7DNT has agreed to joint the repeater team and look to link his very successful 2 metre Internet gateway / IRLP link with the 70cm repeater GB3IH.

Pat G8VZZ as always was on hand to help those with spare cash donate to the repeater group. If you could not make the meeting but use the repeaters please help us keep them on the air by sending any amount to Pat, whose details can be found on this blog or on QRZ.com

Thanks to everyone who took the time and effort to attend and we look forward to seeing even more amateurs and shortwave listeners next year when the AGM will be held in Bramford (just off the A14 near Ipswich).

Full minutes will be avalible for download soon.

GB3EF upgrade update

2008-04-30T07:26:00.002+01:00

The next stage in upgrading the 6 metre repeater at Mendlesham is in progress. Crystals have been ordered for the new Tait T300. Once they arrive tweaking will begin to get the Tx/Rx spot on. It is hoped that this may resolve issues of poor performance we are currently experiencing with the two Kenwood sets on site. Fingers crossed.

Night time noise on GB3EA

2008-04-30T07:23:00.002+01:00

Thanks to everyone who has sent in a signal report for the new repeater and also noting that there appears to be noise on the repeater at night. The effect of the noise is to reduce the range of the repeater, a situation which is noted by the technical guys and being investigated. Please be patient as we continue to investigate this and try to resolve the issue.

Keep the reports coming

2008-04-27T16:43:00.003+01:00

Please keep sending your reports via :
http://www.createsurvey.com/c/67563-2gLPkR/

The latest stats for the reports raised in 24 hours are as follows:

Please leave a signal report for GB3EA
Signal 9+ = 19 (51.35%)
Signal 9 = 1 (2.70%)
Signal 8 = 1 (2.70%)
Signal 7 = 3 (8.11%)
Signal 6 = 2 (5.41%)
Signal 5 = 1 (2.70%)
Signal 4 = 2 (5.41%)
Signal 3 = 1 (2.70%)
Signal 2 = 3 (8.11%)
Signal 1 = 3 (8.11%)
Sorry I cannot hear the repeater. = 0 (0.00%)

This website has received over 70 hits today. Please pass the information onto your friends.

SIGNAL REPORTS WANTED - GB3EA

2008-04-27T08:42:00.005+01:00

Thanks to all those users who have already left a signal report for GB3EA via the link:
http://www.createsurvey.com/c/67563-2gLPkR/

Signal 2 in Mendlesham, Suffolk
Signal 9+ in Witham, Essex
Signal 1 on a handheld in Debenham, Suffolk
Signal 9+ in Royston, Hertfordshire
Signal 4 from 2EØBFT in Lowestoft
Signal 9+ in Bury St Edmunds
Signal 9+ from G7DIU in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire
Signal 9+ from gØTMX in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
Signal 6 in Framlingham, Suffolk
Signal 9 in N / W Ipswich, Suffolk
Signal 1 in Halesworth, Suffolk
Signal 7 from GØTVJ in Bishop's Stortford, Essex
Signal 9+in Sutton, Cambridgeshire
Signal 7 in Diss, Norfolk from a mobile station

Please keep logging your reports and please add your location, your station (mobile, portable or base) and power. Only by obtaining real reports can we see the coverage of the repeater and spot any areas of concern.

GB3EA - LIVE

2008-04-26T10:03:00.004+01:00

IT'S HERE !
East Anglia has a new 2 metre repeater at Wickhambrook GB3EA ( if you hadn't already guessed!)

The culmination of several months of hard work and over a year of planning has payed off with the switching on of the repeater. Initial tests all suggest that the repeater will serve a huge void in 2 metre coverage across the West of Suffolk and provide amateurs with coverage across the surrounding counties of Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Norfolk although coverage into Wales is not being ruled out!

Our thanks to everyone who sent emails and letters of support which we were able to compile as part of the request process.

We also need to thank those smart guys who have slaved away to get the hardware up and running.

Dave G8XOR (Chair of the South Anglia Repeater Group) who somehow managed to juggle his full time job with a well know telecom company to press-gang the riggers onto site in the snow to put the antennas up.

Jake G1YFF who is slowly getting his shack back now the filters and transmitter have left his work bench. The hours of tweaking and getting the gear just right have paid off. Someone else who has managed to dodge his day job to enable us all to have a shinny new repeater.

Alan G8CJL (Repeater keeper for all SARG repeaters) for finding hardware and sorting the logic out.

Keith G1CIY for his tireless struggle with paperwork to get all the documents right for the RSGB ETCC & OFCOM.

Without the continued support of BT and their hardware in the shape of two 300 foot masts, both at Wickhambrook (GB3EA & GB3EZ) and Mendlesham (GB3EF) we would need to find another home for these great repeaters.

Most of all we need to thank everyone who has dug deep into their pockets to find a few quid to support our group. The final cost of this project is not yet in but we know that antennas alone have cost around £500. Please remember that without your support none of this would be possible so if you use the repeater and are able to help please do. Any donation will be kindly received by Pat G8VZZ (treasurer for SARG) whos details can be found on QRZ.com or if you would prefer he will be more than happy to take your cash at the AGM on the 29th April.

Please take a moment to give us your signal report via the site survey on this page or a more indepth report at: http://www.createsurvey.com/c/67563-2gLPkR/

SARG AGM - Tuesday 29th April

2008-04-23T07:27:00.002+01:00

Please do not forget that the SARG AGM will be taking place on Tuesday 29th April at19:15 for a 19:30 start. The venue is once again the Red Cross Centre, Theatre Street in Woodbridge (next door to the Fire Station).

For a map of where the AGM is taking place click the link below:
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/streetmap.dll?G2M?X=626900&Y=249195&A=Y&Z=1

Hope to see you all there.

And Finaly

2008-04-08T22:57:00.007+01:00

Hi All, not much to add but this Pic puts it all in to perspective 86M to the aerials.

The Boss says NO I can't have one of these in the back garden :(

Making the 1st call was very scary, 2years down the line £500's worth of aerials later, I hate to think about the Rigging costs(and that's just the tea they drank) Seriously Many Thanks Lads we're really grateful for your hard work today.
It wouldn't have been the time to find out that the predictions for the site were wrong ... as the tests showed they not far off:).

The Next task is to join the Radio to the filters we hope to do this in the next few weeks, then its just a case of getting it all to site.
Cheers and many thanks to all those who have helped get us this far.

Jake G1YFF /A

GB3EA coverage tests (part 1)

2008-04-08T21:52:00.006+01:00

With the antennas on the mast it was time to perform a quick coverage test to see if they worked.

A dual band set was connected to the feeders and Rx/Tx tests took place with some good results:

Contacts were made to Holt, Norfolk with good readable on 50W and a readable with slight background noise on 5W. A similar report was received from 2 miles North of Bedford to a mobile station. Reports of good readable from stations in Royston, Hertfordshire on both VHF and UHF using just 5W output. Peter G8BLS portable in Ipswich was just detectable on the input frequency on site and Bob MØMUD was noisy whilst mobile in his tractor on a field somewhere in Suffolk! Bob did report back that the UHF signal at time appeared better than the VHF signal but lets put that down to the plough fixed to the back (of the tractor not the mast!)

A mobile station at the M2 Services in Kent had some slight smooth noise while a base Station in Faversham (near sittingbourne), Kent with 25W was noisy. Finally good readable on a portable in John G6EUO’s garden in Lakenheath, Suffolk with 5W each way.

In summary THEY WORK and everyone is anxious for the next phase, the arrival of the radio hardware.

GB3EA - Antennas are up

2008-04-08T21:34:00.006+01:00

Despite wind, rain, freezing temperatures and snow (yes it snowed) the riggers risked life and limb to get the new antennas onto the mast. Dave (G8XOR) showed no fear donning hard hat and safety harness to boldly go where no rigger would go in such awful weather.

Once on the mast the new 2 metre antenna for GB3EA was affixed to the tower followed by the 70cm antenna for GB3EZ (this repeaters application is still being considered by the RSGB ETCC).

Just take a look at the view from the VHF antenna side.

The view from the UHF antenna side isn't so bad either.

So with antennas connected and the sun breaking through the rain clouds it was back to base for tea and medals for the rigger team. Great work guys, EA & EZ one step closer.

Antenna filtering - The technical bits!

2008-04-03T23:29:00.003+01:00

We are pleased to offer the technical spec for the new filtering system for GB3EA:

The antenna combining system is made up of 2 squied band-pass filters in each leg of the filter system. Each is joined and connected to the antenna via the Sinclair ferrite isolator and a Polyphaser surge protection unit. There is about 3.5dB loss in each 1/2 of the filter system. It is expected that with this sytem will have an output power of 10 watts ERP, in accordance with the operating licence.

Should you wish to have a more in depth look at the design or even build one yourself visit :
http://home.casema.nl/nvrecording/repeater/duplexfilter/English/duplexfilter.htm

Pictures - work in progress

2008-04-03T22:53:00.014+01:00

Jake has today marked a milestone, he has managed to wade through the miles of cables, hundreds of connectors and other assorted bits and bobs to take some pictures of the new GB3EA repeater.

This picture shows the ferrite isolator which sits at the junction of the two filters. I must say it looks like a silver box with some connectors attached but I am informed by the tech guys that this is a vital piece of kit and without it we would be in a bit of a mess. Shows you how much I know!

Here is the whole system under bench test with the large filters clearly taking up most of the floor space. This is why I don't make repeaters, the wife would do her nut with the usual comment of "More radio gear"!!

The Motorola base unit in the picture is not the one being used for GB3EA, instead a Philips (Pye for you old romantics out there) F494 will be put on frequency to do the job.

Now for the real techno-wizards below is a plot of the RX leg of the filter taken on a Marconi 2390 Spectrum Analyzer/Tracking Generator. And if you have no idea what one of these is then it's the white box sitting on the floor in the picture above.

So in short, things are happening and on schedule for a launch date soon.

Keith - GØFEA

* NEW * guest book

2008-04-02T18:17:00.002+01:00

Please feel free to post a comment in the station log book at the foot of this page.

Best wishes
SARG

GB3EF - New transmitter

2008-04-02T18:03:00.003+01:00

For those who were not aware new commercial standard PMR radio units were recently purchased to replace the existing Kenwood sets currently used on GB3EF. Due to their robust design and manurfacture it is expected that theses new units will offer greater stability when installed. The units are currently being tweeked to get them ready for the new crystals to be purchased and then allined on frquency ready for instillation. However it does not end there as a new logic may be installed at the same time. All being well the power output may also be increased to offer a greater range than is currently being achieved.

GB3EA - on track

2008-04-02T17:54:00.002+01:00

After chatting to Jake via GB3EF this afternoon I am pleased to report that the new filters for GB3EA are currently under bench test and appear to be doing a great job. The Ipswich team are continuing to make fair progress with their side of the new repeater.

The antenna are on site awaiting the spider climbing skills of the riggers. Given the poor weather of recent days all I can say is rather them than me! I don't like walking to the car some mornings yet alone climb a 300 foot transmitter mast.

All being well the box is looking good to be up and on the air by mid May, but as we have said before please don't hold us to that as we cannot account for unseen circumstances.

Keep up the good work team

Keith - GØFEA

Update for SARG Secretary

2008-03-25T10:28:00.002Z

Thanks Keith - G0FEA for setting this up.

Things are moving ahead with GB3EA - Jake reports " I have a combiner connected to a base stn on 145.6875 .0875 sq opens at around -118 dBm (to aerial port of combiner) with the TX keyed running about 15 W in to the combiner 7 W showing to the aerial port."

Regards
Keith - G7CIY
SARG Secretary
25th March

GB3EA - What next?

2008-03-22T09:16:00.003Z

GB3EA, a working party is currently building the filters and cabinet. Further tests are being performed by Alan, Dave and Jake on and around the site of the new repeater. The new antenna systems should soon be heading for the site ready for a site closedown and fitting by the riggers (thank goodness we have friends in high places- excuse the pun!). Subject to all the pieces slotting together it is possible that GB3EA may be on the air by late April, early May. Please be patient as we are calling in a lot of favours to get this right.

SARG

GB3EF - Noise update

2008-03-22T09:11:00.006Z

On a recent visit to the site it was noted that the isolation between the TX port and the RX port on the diplexer was only 40DB. This is some what less than that previously measured at Martlesham which was in the region of 80dB.

Tentatively arrangements have been made to visit site again to check the tuning of the cavities. This may the cause of the repeater staying open for long periods of time. The output power at the output port of the diplexer is approx 8W, which may be increased now that we have a reasonable aerial system. Details of this will be published after further tests.

SARG

GB3EA - Green light from Ofcom

2008-02-06T09:00:00.006Z

Today ofcom issued the Notice of Variation (NoV) for the allocation of Anglia's latest 2 metre repeater GB3EA at Wickhambrook, Suffolk. Thanks to everyone who sent letters of support for this venture. However we still need support for the 70cm repeater GB3EZ which is still being vetted by the RSGB ETCC

SARG

SARG AGM - 29/04/2008 (19:15hrs)

2008-02-01T20:59:00.000Z

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL USERS OF THE SOUTH ANGLIAN REPEATERS

Please make a note in your diaries for the South Anglia Repeater Group AGM. Once again, we will be holding it at the Red Cross Centre, Theatre Street in Woodbridge (next door to the Fire Station).

Time and Date: Tuesday 29th April 19:15 for a 19:30 start.

Please do try and attend. We will be giving you news of all the latest developments and news on the repeaters covered by the SARG. Also, please feel free to forward this invite to anyone else who you feel might be interested.

Agenda
1) Welcome and Introductions (inc domestic arrangements)
2) Apologies for absence
3) Minutes from the last AGM
4) Matters arising from those minutes
5) Chairman’s Report
6) Treasurers Report (including any Repeater Group Subs)
7) Auditors Statement
8) Nominations and Election of Officers
Chairman
Secretary
Treasurer
Auditor
9) Discussion on previously notified items
10) Any other business
11) Date of Next Meeting

If you would like any particular subject discussed or added to the agenda, please can you let me know prior to the meeting so that I can include it for discussion on item 9.

Look forward to seeing you there.
SARG

GB3EF - Noise problems

2008-02-01T16:45:00.003Z

On a recent site visit it was noted that there was a considerable amount of interference from the broadcast station 'Kiss FM' who transmit on 106.4MHz FM. As the station is broadcasting from the main Mendlesham transmitter mast and has an output of 20kW!, is it any surprise we have interference. Dave will be examining the filtering and putting additional filters in line to try and eliminate this issue when his day job with BT stops getting in the way of our hobby.

Failing that a pin through their coax may be an alternative!!!

Keith - GØFEA

GB3EA - A step closer

2008-01-04T20:50:00.001Z

Just let you Know we have this evening received confirmation form the ETCC that they have recommended that our application be approved, the matter is now with Ofcom for Licensing.

Cheers and Many thanks to you for your help in supporting our project!

Jake - G1YFF
GB3EA/EZ team

GB3EA - Phase 3

2008-01-04T16:37:00.000Z

The application for GB3EA has now been received by Ofcom and we await their decision.

SARG

GB3EA - Phase 2

2008-01-03T16:35:00.000Z

The application for GB3EA has now been passed by the RSGB Reginal Proposal Manager for approval by Ofcom.

SARG

We need your money.

2008-01-01T00:00:00.003Z

We are very fortunate to have a number of first class amateur repeaters in this region and it is no small task to keep them on the air. We are also privileged to have a number of 'clever' people who know how to get the best from our repeaters. Their tireless efforts and time are often forgotten, as without them we would be working each other on simplex.

If you feel generous and would like to contribute to the running and maintenance of the repeaters, you can do this by sending your donation to the address below marking clearly SARG on the envelope. Even small donations will be gratefully appreciated:

Mr Pat Marks - G8VZZ
Flat 3, 47 Thoroughfare,
Woodbridge,
Suffolk,
IP12 1AH

Cheques should be made payable to "South Anglia Repeater Group"

Thank you for your support.

We need your help

2007-11-11T17:38:00.001Z

Fellow Radio Amateur,

The South Anglia Repeater Group is currently involved in a project to install two new repeaters at Wickhambrook (GB3EA for 2m and GB3EZ for 70cms) – to cover the area along the A14 corridor near Rougham towards Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket.

In order to support the application for these repeaters, we would like your support. This can be in the form of an email (obviously the easiest option) or you could write to me direct. Obviously, the target audience will be anyone who drives around that area and anyone who would make potential use of the new repeaters.

Please, please do take the time to respond as we really need documented support to go along with the application.

Also, please forward this on to anyone else who I may have missed of my distribution lists. A response sooner rather than later would be ideal!

Many thanks in anticipation.

Keith Gaunt – G7CIY
Secretary – South Anglia Repeater Group

GB3EA & GB3EZ - Applications in

2007-10-29T16:32:00.001Z

The applications for GB3EA, a 2 metre repeater and GB3EZ a 70cm repeater, both at Wickhambrook are currently with the RSGB ETCC Regional Manager, along with our supporting documents.

Updates as we get them.

SARG

Thank you - 2005/06

2006-03-01T00:00:00.001Z

Another big thank you to all of you who have supported your repeaters in 2005/06:
G7CIY
M3FIA
G7OOW
G0FEA
G1YRF
M0MUD
G7DWN
M3FDQ
G0JVT
G0SBH
G7DNT
M3SMY
G7OPO
G0OZS
M0JAJ
2E0BCM
G8XOR
G4HUP
2E1HBF
M1NIZ
M3JFA
2E0MIG
M0MJH
G0MGN
G8VZZ
G8BLS
G6PDE
G8CJL
M3TYL

£245 was donated in total at the 2006 AGM

Thank you - 2004/05

2005-03-01T00:00:00.000Z

A big thank you to those who have supported their repeaters in 2004:
G7CIY
G8VZZ
G3XOK
G8XOR
M3TYL
G7DNT
G1YRF
G0YAP
G7OPO
G6SYW
G7DWN
M3FCS
G0CJX
G7OOW
M1SRH
G0OZS
G1HSL
G0JVT
G0MGN
2E1HKC
G8CJL