[BC] Re: Long Wave

[WFIFeng@aol.com]

In a message dated 02/13/2006 01:05:48 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
stodd at kkms.com writes:

> Might be fun to put something like that on a part 15 LW beacon.

Part 15 LW is virtually useless for anything beyond what they call QRSS CW. 
(Super-slow speed Morse Code.) It's done with software at both ends, and takes 
several minutes to send each letter. Just to send a short sentence takes 
hours. Ultra-QRP (ultra-low power) enthusiasts also make use of this software mode 
to get signals across the world using, literally, microwatts of transmitter 
power on the shortwave bands.

LW Part 15 limits you to 50' of wire, and 1 watt. You *might* get 1/4 mile 
voice range if you have a *really* good receiver in a *very* electrically quiet 
locale.

A friend and I attempted to use CW on that band (160-190Khz) and the effort 
was futile. We were exactly 1/3 mile apart, and couldn't even detect the 
faintest hint of one another's signals. We each had 20 to 30db over S9 of solid AC 
"razz" and static on our receivers. City living has its disadvantages. (Imagine 
what BPL would do!?)

Willie...
N1NKM