


Why Do They Call It Wireless? Behind the Radios in Multi-Radio ContestStations By Contest Station Builders Worldwide Collected and Edited by Pete Smith, N4ZR
The approach • Identify the challenges in the design and construction of complex contest stations (other than antennas). • Collect and present solutions from station builders worldwide. Thanks, VE1JF
Caveats • Successful contest stations come in all varieties, from fully-engineered to “growed like topsy.” • There is no single “right way” • Presentation based on input from station builders – not comprehensive
Challenge – Basic design decisions • “Architecture” choices • Degree of automation. • Location of physical antenna switching/phasing. • Layout of operating position and cable runs
Solutions • Full automatic/remote RF switching • Hybrid approach • Manual 2X6 6X2 switching • Other manual approaches • Mechanical switch w/interlock • Patch panel • Cables on the floor
Footnote – What is 2X6 6X2 switching? Courtesy Top Ten Devices
Full automation/remote RF switching • SO2R switching and antenna selection done remotely, but controlled from the operating position. Maximum computer integration. Cable for data, not RF. • Backup manual systems or spares are essential.
But lots of hardware required to support the up-front simplicity K4JA
Remote antenna selection KC1XX
Hybrid approach • Most stations have been evolving for years. • Can’t always do everything at once.
A Scottish solution GM4AFF
Ultimate simplicity? W5KFT
And simpler yet K1KI
Challenge – Cable entry • How to get feedlines and control cables into the shack area
On a larger scale …. KC1XX
Challenge – Lightning protection • Some measures essential • Protect vs disconnect
Control cables, too K4OJ
Inside the box N3RR
A closer look N1LO
Challenge – cable support, protection and management • Keep them out from underfoot • Protect against accidental damage • Retain flexibility for easy change, maintenance
Suspend from ceiling joists K9NS/K9HMB
Bundle by band, type (RF, control, etc.) K9NS/K9HMB
Use a cable tray WX0B
Other options (no pictures) • Contractors’ snap-open wire hangers • “Panduit” extruded plastic cable trays and associated fixtures – separate cables by function • Bicycle hangers, vinyl dipped huge screw hooks, etc.
Challenge – Access to cabling • Free-standing operating table with access from rear • Cable closet • Console on wheels
Access from rear GM4AFF
Cable closet K4JA
Another more spacious approach K9NS/K9HMB
Console on wheels VK5GN
Cable marking techniques • Labelmakers – Dymo, P-Touch, Casio, etc. with clear heat-shrink or tape • Colored tape – use resistor color code • MS Word/Magic Tape • Paint pen w/ silver ink
Cable bundling techniques • Color-coded Velcro ties • Tie-wraps – reusable or disposable • THHN wire twisted • Spiral wrap tubing (Alpha or Panduit) • Split-loom tubing (SPC or Panduit)
Other cabling hints • Use pigtails with terminal strips to ease the task of changing radio-specific connectors HC8N
And more… • Use unique connectors to reduce risk of mistakes when recabling • Use multiple conductor cables where possible • Careful attention to grounding can reduce inter-station interference