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Chenz
27th May 2008, 11:38 AM
I have a HF radio which is a Scout L/R by Tracker Communications. (HF 100watt SSB). It has the following frequencies
fitted 2770, 3764, 4883 and 6956 KHz and a auto-tune antenna to suit.

I thought these were Flying Doctor Frequencies but checked and the're not, so no idea what they are. I therefore need to get crystals to that are VKS737 frequencies, at least 5455 and 8022. The other VKS frequencies
are 11612,14977 and 3995.

I have been told that it is probably easier to get a new multi-tap aerial
for the new frequencies rather than getting the auto-tune rewound for
the VKS frequencies.

Is it also worth trying to also get a long-line aerial for use while camped
to get better reception?

The main RFDS frequencies are 5410,4010,4055,4980,and 5110, with various other frequencies for night use etc,other bases.

Can anyone tell me where I can either get the crystals so I can fit them myself or someone in the Sydney region who can do it for me.

Thanks

AndyRevill
27th May 2008, 12:23 PM
Maybe try these people Andrews Communications (http://www.andrewscom.com.au/)

I carry a long-line antenna as an emergency backup when we're away and it works pretty well - have used it several times just to check.

cheers, Andy

p38arover
27th May 2008, 01:18 PM
30+ years ago I used buy crystals from the USA. I wonder if that company is still around. If so, it would be even easier today.

I'll see if I can find them.

I also used to buy off Bright Star Crystals in Vic. http://www.hotfrog.com.au/Companies/Bright-Star-Crystals (http://www.hotfrog.com.au/Companies/Bright-Star-Crystals)

or are they here? http://www.dlook.com.au/business/263174/Bright-Star-Crystals-Pty-Ltd
(http://www.hotfrog.com.au/Companies/Bright-Star-Crystals)

p38arover
27th May 2008, 02:11 PM
It just clicked into place in my brain. Jan Crystals - and it was more like 40 years ago. :(

See Exploring and expanding the capabilities of quartz crystals (http://www.jancrystals.com/)

Lotz-A-Landies
27th May 2008, 02:24 PM
I have a HF radio which is a Scout L/R by Tracker Communications. (HF 100watt SSB ). It has the following frequencies
fitted 2770, 3764, 4883 and 6956 KHz and a auto-tune antenna to suit. ...

...I have been told that it is probably easier to get a new multi-tap aerial
for the new frequencies rather than getting the auto-tune rewound for
the VKS frequencies. ...
Chenz

I am a little confused. You say that you have an auto-tune antenna but want it modified to suit different frequencies?

Most auto-tune antennae automatically tune to the frequency selected in the set (if they are within the range of the antenna). What you seem to be describing is an antenna with selectable tuned frequencies not dissimilar to a multi-tap antenna, where the tuner box replaces the wander lead and taps.

If that is what you have then a new multi-tap may be the cheapest option.

Try Lencom Lencom Antennas - HF Antenna Tuners (http://www.lencom.com.au/index.php?page=hf-antenna-tuners) or the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Amateur Radio Club http://www.qsl.net/vk3frc/ who make a range of whips.

Diana

Chenz
27th May 2008, 05:06 PM
Thanks for the info guys. I got put onto a firm in Melbourne called HY-Q International Hy-Q International Australia - Frequency Control Products To The World (http://www.hy-q.com.au/) who can supply the crystals for the VKS 737 frequencies for around $30 each with postage.

Thanks for the info on the whip aerial from Mornington I have asked for a quote.

If anyone has a second hand whip to suit VKS 737 frequencies I am interested in buying one.

p38arover
27th May 2008, 05:15 PM
I forgot about Hy-Q. I used to buy off them, too.

AndyRevill
27th May 2008, 05:24 PM
Don't have any experience with multi-tap antennas but it might be worth trying Terlin Outbacker - they sell over the web Outbacker : Old Fashioned Service in secure online shopping (http://www.outbacker.biz/)

or you could try a wanted ad on the VKS web site?

cheers, Andy

jik22
27th May 2008, 05:55 PM
Don't have any experience with multi-tap antennas but it might be worth trying Terlin Outbacker - they sell over the web Outbacker : Old Fashioned Service in secure online shopping (http://www.outbacker.biz/)


These guys were recommended by the guy running the amateur course I just did, and have a good rep locally it seems. It's on my list of things to get. :)