MidSussexARS

• Re Surplus Equipment Sale 27/10/23

  Hi All

   

  A couple of things - firstly to say thank you Stella you are doing an excellent job and you look after us all so well. You have it all well planned out and really spoil us with your menu and I am sure I speak for all other members when I thank you for the time and effort you put in - thank you!

   

  Also, to let you know of a couple of items that I will bring to the surplus equipment sale/auction on Friday:

   

  1). A new completely unused and I don’t believe it has even been out of the box FTM-300DE that I purchased new as part of a 'part exchange package deal' from Moonraker in November 2021 and then changed my plans. With radio and equipment prices rocketing with inflation this will represent excellent value for money if you are thinking of moving more seriously into digital radio. 

   

  2).An SGC MAC-200 Antenna Controller / Tuner that is in excellent condition was purchased new by me and has had very little use. It was originally purchased to work with a 'Radio Works Windom 80’ and other antennas that were never actually put up - and we eventually moved locations. It was purchased new by me from W&S when they were at Hockey Essex and has never had the case off. 

   

  Prices - my thoughts at present are for reserves of £290 for the FTM-300DE and £190 for the SGC MAC-200 both prices preserving the commission for the club - but I would like to sell as neither item is in use and to put the proceeds towards another purchase and will always listen to a serious purchaser.

   

  Lastly I look forward to seeing you at the club tomorrow evening and raising a good sum for the club funds - enjoy your day keep dodging the showers and 73’s

   

  John M3UKI  

  This is my first post on Groups.io so I hope you will forgive any mistake !

• Flex Outages

  There have been some problems connecting to the WADAC Flex radio over the last couple of weeks.

  The answers to this as released by Flex have been obscure with a lot of “Expert Opinions” 

  Marcus who provides the MAC and IOS software has set up a webpage with the description of what has been happening

  https://ham-radio-apps.com/smartlink/

  Phil G4UDU

  
  

• FlexRadio September 2023 Insider

  

  Welcome to the September 2023 Flex Insider TOP STORY SmartLink Outage Resolved   We extend our sincere gratitude for your patience and understanding during the recent SmartLink outage. We understand how vital SmartLink is to your HF radio operations, and we deeply regret any inconvenience this may have caused.   We're pleased to inform you that the SmartLink service is now up and running, ensuring you have uninterrupted access to your FlexRadio devices. We continue to monitor and improve the service.   The details regarding the outage can be followed in the FlexRadio Community. https://community.flexradio.com/discussion/8028899/september-11-2023-smartlink-outage#latest   As part of our commitment to providing you with the best possible experience, we are conducting a thorough review of our tools and systems to enhance the reliability of SmartLink for the future. Thank you for being part of the FlexRadio community, and we appreciate your ongoing support and trust. PRODUCT UPDATES FLEX-6400 and FLEX-6600 Now In-Stock FLEX-6400 and FLEX-6600 radios are now shipping within 7-10 business days of order placement. FLEX-6400M and FLEX-6600M FLEX-6400M and FLEX-6600M models are anticipated to begin shipping by the end of 2023.   For those customers with M-models on backorder, yours will be the first to ship as soon as they come off the line.  Genius Line Update Power Genius, Tuner Genius SO2R version, and Antenna Genius products are all currently in stock and shipping within 3-4 days of order placement.     Tuner Genius 1x3 is currently in a backorder status and is expected to ship within 3 to 4 weeks.  For deals on bundle offerings please contact hams@...  for more information and let us help you take your station to the next level.  Maestro The Maestro continues to stay on track for production sometime in mid to late November and we expect to start shipping around the holidays.  For those customers with a Maestro on backorder, watch for an email in the coming days or so to confirm your order and complete a short survey on your interest in various accessories in preparation for the first build.   Every product built must go to an EMI lab.  An Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) lab, often referred to as an EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) lab, is a specialized facility designed for testing and evaluating electronic and electrical devices to ensure that they comply with electromagnetic interference and compatibility standards. Here, you can see a close view of the front panel and then how it is setup on a table in a chamber for testing. SOFTWARE UPDATES As you read above, issues with the SmartLink encryption keys has required us to do an urgent build of SmartSDR v2.10.1 or v3.5.9.  All SmartLink users are required to update to continue to use SmartLink.    While we always ask you to run the most current version of SmartSDR, if you have never used or never created a SmartLink account, then there is no urgent reason to upgrade.     To address a recent issue and ensure the continued smooth operation of SmartLink, we kindly request that you upgrade to SmartSDR v2.10.1 or v3.5.9. This upgrade contains important security changes that will help resolve the current server problem. Your prompt action is greatly appreciated, and we're here to assist you through the process.   We will be updating the FlexRadio community with the latest details:  https://community.flexradio.com/discussion/8028899/september-11-2023-smartlink-outage#latest   SmartSDR V2.10.1 can be found here.   SmartSDR V3.5.9 can be found here.    We thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to resolve this issue. 10th Anniversary Radiosport RS60CF headset with Electret-Condenser Mic   The FlexRadio branded Radiosport headset from Arlan Communication is a high-quality carbon fiber finish stereo headset with cloth covered deep gel ear muffs that provides 24dB of acoustic noise reduction.

• UPS

  Does anyone want a UPS - Uninterruptible Power SupplyIdeal for putting the computer on - save it crashing when you get a power cutI was given two of them - both had dud batteries - that’s no surprise !So I have installed a new pair of batteries in each of them - and I have one for me and one spare.It is rated at 600W - that means in real terms it will run a PC or radios for 20 minutes or soThey are quite nice because as well as a couple of IEC connectors there is also 2 X 13A standard socketsThe batteries cost me £35 - so that is the pricePhil G4UDU

• FlexRadio August 2023 Insider

  

  Hi Phil   Welcome to the August 2023 Flex Insider TOP STORY Huntsville Hamfest - August 19 & 20, 2023 Join FlexRadio at the Huntsville Hamfest, on August 19 and 20 at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and take advantage of Hamfest deals all week.   FlexRadio will be demonstrating its full line of transceivers, as well as our integrated Genius line of high-power amplifiers and tuners.   Demonstration units, as well as new, will be available at the show for purchase. FlexRadio is sponsoring the Hamfest Youth Lounge and offering hands-on operating experiences on Flex gear at the GOTA station again this year. You can also see our full Genius line at the GigaParts booth where we will be demonstrating ease of operation/integration with third-party exciters. In addition, Mike, VA3MW, will be presenting on the features of the Genius Line (Power Genius XL, Tuner Genius XL & Antenna Genius) integration with your OEM HF radio (Icom, Kenwood, Yaesu, Elecraft).  See him at 2pm in Room 1. For those unable to attend the Huntsville show, hamfest specials will be available online at www.flexradio.com .   Specials are valid in the U.S. only.     Check with your local dealer for any sales applicable in your area/country. PRODUCT UPDATES FLEX-6400 and FLEX-6600 Now In-Stock FLEX-6400 and FLEX-6600 radios are in stock and shipping within 3 business days of order placement.   FLEX-6400M and FLEX-6600M models are expected to begin shipping in early October 2023.   For those customers with M-models on backorder, yours will be the first to ship as soon as they come off the line.  Maestro The Maestro continues to stay on track for production sometime in November and we expect to start shipping around the fall holidays.  For those customers with a Maestro on backorder, watch for an email in the coming weeks to confirm your order and complete a short survey on your interest in various accessories in preparation for the first build.    Genius Line Update Power Genius, Tuner Genius, and Antenna Genius products are all currently in stock and shipping within 48 hours of order placement.  For deals on bundle offerings please contact hams@...  for more information and let us help you take your station to the next level. SOFTWARE UPDATES FlexRadio has announced the availability of SmartSDR v3.5.8.   For more details on what is in this release and to upgrade your radio to this latest version, please visit our community:  SmartSDR V3.5.8 As part of an urgent cleanup exercise, we are removing some older versions of SmartSDR from Maestros and M model radios.  V3.4.23 and V2.9.1 were removed on Monday, August 14.  Details OEM HF RADIO OPERATION Do you own a non-Flex HF Radio and want to use it with the Power Genius XL and/or Tuner Genius XL?   Thanks to our amazing engineering teams, we have made it a bit simpler to make this happen.  Both the TGXL and PGXL can connect directly via CAT (or CI-V) to either device today.   What if you want to connect any 2 HF radios at the same time?   This is one sample configuration for radios that have CAT over USB and an external RS232 CAT port.     If this configuration is something you have, and are interested in upgrading to a Power Genius XL and/or a Tuner Genius XL, we are here to help.    Imagine your FLEX-6400 sharing the PGXL with your other HF radio.  Add a 8x2 Antenna Genius and you have a beautiful station setup.   ACCESSORY SALE 10th Anniversary Radiosport RS60CF headset with Electret-Condenser Mic   The FlexRadio branded Radiosport headset from Arlan Communication is a high-quality carbon fiber finish stereo headset with cloth covered deep gel ear muffs that provides 24dB of acoustic noise reduction.   Normally, this awesome headset is $339 but now on sale for $269.  Save $70.   10th Anniversary Radiosport RS60CF headset with Electret-Condenser Mic $269.00 Buy Now Maestro A/B Model Accessories With the upcoming introduction of the new Maestro model, we have found that some of our accessory items from earlier versions won’t work with the new model. In particular the tilt feet.  So now is your chance to snag some of these nifty accessories at blowout discount prices: Do not pass up updating your Maestro A or B model to these very nice Tilt Feet.   When they are gone, they are gone.  The same is true for the Protective Cover.   Tilt Hinge Feet for Maestro $89.99 Buy Now Protective Cover for Maestro Control Console $39.99 Buy Now FlexRadio Branded Soft-Side Travel Case $99.99 Buy Now Shack Flags So your FlexRadio pride by hanging one of our newly introduced fabric flags on your shack wall or take it along on your field day or DXpedition excursion.   Flex Radio Banner $39.99 Buy Now TRADE-INS / TRADE-UPS Trade in your Radio or Amplifier   FlexRadio is thrilled to introduce the FlexRadio Trade-In program, designed to enhance your ham radio experience. Whether you wish to trade in your older ham radio gear or upgrade your current FlexRadio equipment, this program offers an exciting opportunity to exchange your devices for the latest and most innovative solutions from FlexRadio, including HF Radios and Amplifiers. Key Features of the FlexRadio Trade-In Program: Stay Up-to-Date:  Keep pace with the rapidly evolving world of amateur radio by trading in your outdated equipment. Upgrade to the latest and greatest offerings from FlexRadio, ensuring you have access to cutting-edge technology and enhanced performance. Seamless Trade-In Process: The FlexRadio Trade-In program provides a streamlined and user-friendly process. Our knowledgeable team will guide you through the steps, ensuring a hassle-free trade-in experience. Exclusive Benefits: By participating in the trade-in program, you'll enjoy exclusive benefits such as special offers, discounts, and personalized assistance. Discover a world of possibilities with FlexRadio's state-of-the-art solutions. To learn more about the FlexRadio Trade-In program and explore the options available to you, please visit our dedicated Trade-In program page on our website. Our team is also available to answer any questions you may have and discuss your specific requirements. Please note that the FlexRadio Trade-In program is currently available for customers located in the United States only. Upgrade your ham radio gear today and unlock the potential of the latest FlexRadio solutions. Join the FlexRadio Trade-In program and elevate your amateur radio experience to new heights. For more information, visit our Trade-In program page on our website or contact us at https://www.flexradio.com/trade-in/ 2023 Events Calendar of Events   Huntsville Hamfest Huntsville, AL August 19-20   W9DXCC Convention September 16, 2023  Chicago, IL BREAD FINANCING Introducing Hassle-Free Financing for Your Radio Equipment Needs with FlexRadio and Bread Finance Looking to upgrade your radio equipment and seeking a convenient financing solution? Look no further! FlexRadio has joined forces with Bread Finance to offer you a seamless financing experience. Now, when purchasing your desired radio, amplifier, tuner, or any other equipment from FlexRadio, you have the option to select Bread Finance during the checkout process. Easy Financing:  Say goodbye to complicated financing procedures. With Bread Finance, the process is straightforward, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Flexible Options:  Tailor the financing terms to suit your needs. Bread Finance offers flexible payment plans, allowing you to select the terms that align with your budget and preferences. Transparent and Clear:  No hidden surprises or ambiguous terms. Bread Finance ensures complete transparency, providing you with a clear understanding of the financing terms, including interest rates and repayment schedules. Unlock the Power of FlexRadio Equipment with Bread Finance.   Experience the latest advancements in radio technology without worrying about upfront costs. With FlexRadio and Bread Finance, your dreams of owning high-quality radio equipment are within reach. Simply select Bread Finance during your checkout process, and embark on your radio journey without delay. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Upgrade your radio equipment today with the convenience and flexibility of Bread Finance, available exclusively through FlexRadio. Bread Financing pre-authorizations are valid for 30 days from the date of your order.  If your product is shipping beyond the 30 day window, you may be required to resubmit your  CONTACT US If you need to reach out to us, you can find us at:   www.flexradio.com  hams@... 512-535-4713 Option 1 73 es gud dx! Flexradio.com Products  |  Software  |  Learning Center No longer want to receive these emails, click this link to unsubscribe. UnsubscribeFlexradio 4616 W. Howard Lane Suite 8-860 Austin, TX 78728

• Space weather and Radio

  Yet another radio blackout on the HF bands this week. The sun has been on steroids as it climbs relentlessly towards the solar peak, possibly later this year. As we near the solar peak the HF radio conditions will explode and for those who have not experianced a solar peak on the radio you will be in for the radio ride of your life. But for all you VHFers there is radio life now. We are nearing the peak of the Persieds meteor shower (12th Aug) and various DXpeditions are getting under way to activate rare grid squares with contacts via meteor scatter on the 2m, 4m and 6m bands. Mek, SP7VC , has been operating /MM on his voyage to Svalbard then onto Iceland activating wet and romote land grids on 4 & 6M. To follow Mek search SP7VC on Face Book.

   

  Dick-G0LFF

• FOR SALE Yaesu FT-65E Handheld

  I have for sale a Yaesu FT-65E, very good condition, not been used outside. Comes in box with all accessories, all local VHF/UHF Repeaters and Simplex VHF/UHF frequencies programmed in. Doesnt come with programming cablebut these can be bought very easily.£50.00Read the full specifications here -https://www.hamradio.co.uk/yaesu-ft-65e-vhf-uhf-2m-70cm-dual-band-fm-handheld-pd-7447

• Latest From Ofcom

  Here is the latest from Ofcom with proposed changes to the Amateur Radio Licences Terms & Conditions
  
  
  
  
  
  Phil G4UDU

• Burgess Hill Town Day 11-3pm

  Just a little reminder to everyone that this Sunday MidSussexARS will be attending and will have a display of various ways of communicating with other amateurs including showing the Flex Radio working remotely. This won’t be as big as normal due to members other commitments. 

  We’ll be there from about 0900 onwards so if anyone has a spare hour or two to come and help it would be very much appreciated.Even if you can’t spare a lot of time just just come down and say hello, the Town Day runs from 11 til 3. 

  Thank you. 

  Chris M7VJEMidSussexARS Chairman 

• GPS

  I am sure we have some outdoors walking members in the club

  I am just upgrading my Walking GPS device

  So I am selling the current one I have

  This is GARMIN GPS64S - the main advantage of this is the display - it is known as a “transreflective” device, the normal issue is take anything outdoors in full sunlight and it is impossible to see - not this one - it has a full colour transparent screen designed to let the sunlight shine through to the mirror behind, so the brighter the sunlight the brighter the screen display, plus it has backlight for use in the dark.

  In addition this unit is complete with FULL UK Ordinance Survey land ranger 1:50,000 maps - anywhere in the country you go - the map is there to use.  Plus it also has the standard mapping so can be used as a normal on the road navigation device.

  Compete with all supplied accessories - original packing and manual.

  If you wanted to purchase the full UK digital OS Maps - the current price is £199.00

  GPS including the maps - £150

  Phil G4UDU

  
  

• Club Radio Availability

  Hi all.
  
  Just a quick note to let you know that on a trial basis, and in the hope that it will encourage more people to get some use out of the club radio remotely, I've set up some scheduled timers to turn all the gear on at 1pm each weekday, and then off again at 3pm. Normal etiquette of first come (first one logged in) first served when it comes to PTT control, but at least it will give everyone a fair crack at the lunchtime net (for example) without having to ask to have it switched on.
  
  Of course, if you want it on at any other time, then just contact myself or any member of the committee, but be aware that my changes mean that everyone will have the rug pulled out from underneath them at 3pm Monday to Friday!
  
  If anyone has an issue with this or wants to propose different timings then please talk to me, but I thought it was a reasonable starting point. There are only a very limited number of timer slots (unfortunately) available on the switchgear, and there are now no more free, so I wasn't able to do the same thing for Sunday morning. C'est la vie.
  
  73's
  
  Berni M0XYF

• Welcome to the new MidSussexARS Groups.io General Chat Group

  Welcome to the updated group. No doubt a few messages will be along shortly, but in the meantime I just wanted to make sure that I was the first  :p
  
  Berni M0XYF