Tuesday, April 4, 2017 — Quick update … nothing new added to the key collection, but I did pick up a couple of years worth of “Radio” magazine. It basically positioned itself as the West Coast competitor of QST. Comparable in content to QST of the era as well.
The library shack is continuing to be a good one, though during a couple of rainstorms, I had some wild swings of SWR while I was checking into a net. I have added a hand mic to the rig, but have yet to make a phone QSO. I’ve had some an issue come up with my IC-756PRO …. the meter backlights are surface mount LEDs are intermittent … they blink erratically and then just quit … I don’t think its the LEDs, but a component that controls the voltage. I’ve looked at the schematic, but I’m not about to tackle surface mounted anything. I’ve contacted someone about repairs, but its one of those things that’s more annoying than anything.
I’m also having an occasion shut-down of the rig when I key the transmitter. I’m wondering if it isn’t an RF issue, given the fact I’m using a balanced line feedline. I’m not getting any signs of RF in the shack, so I’m not sure. I kind of think it may be heat related … after I checked in to the 9 p.m. CW net, I immediately wanted to check the DC connector on the back of the rig and I found the rig and antenna tuner hot to the touch … A manual and other stuff blocked the airflow around the rig I think. The rig is on a shelf with a back, and its pretty tight quarters. I was surprised at how much heat the gear was generating. Not much airflow.
SO FAR SO GOOD. The MFJ-969 roller inductor tuner has operated without a hitch. The settings are easy to replicate when I change bands, and that’s about as good as it gets. I haven’t considered tearing the roller inductor apart to clean its parts as it doesn’t appear to have any pressing issues in the install here in the library. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
But if it becomes an issue, I’m ready. I recently acquired a Heathkit SA-2040 antenna tuner that’s still boxed up. I know what it is and how to use it, but I’ve decided to leave it boxed until time comes when I need it. Its probably a piece of gear I won’t likely sell, seems like they’re appreciating in price the older they get. I’ll have it when I need it, lol.
73 es CUL de KY4Z SK … dit dit ….