HF Radio new user

Hi Greendog
They are not a cheap outlay, but an investment for the long run. I purchased my Codan over 16 years ago and still running a treat. Make sure that you join the VKS737 Radio network. I purchased it for a safety barrier and the best thing about HF over Sat Phones is that you get to hear some very interesting conversations, some just the usual chit chat and some very serious and sad calls.
It does not matter how remote you are, you will always be able to get hold of one of the Base Stations somewhere in Australia.

Cheers

Stephen

Hi Greendog,

Welcome to HF, hope to hear you on the skeds sometime soon.

I am also fairly new to HF (got my first HF set this year) and all I can say is you'll never look back.

Greendog

Add your call sign to your profile so we can all see it and look out for you

Cheers

Richard

Mobile 8866

G'day Greendog,

Looks like a few of us are just starting down the HF path. I purchased a Codan 8528 recently and should be picking up a tapped antenna later this week.

I got the paperwork back for VKS737 today... so I'm now VKS-737 Mobile 2627

With a bit of luck I'll get it set up in the vehicle in the next week or so.

I'll be watching out for your next questions... I'm sure the answers will educate both of us!

Cheers, Mark

G'day Greendog, I also was connected yesterday to VKS-737 for my first time on the HF network getting ready for our lap around Lake Eyre next month. I have an old Codan X2 with a tapped ariel, seems to work well, I will be doing radio checks with Charters Towers around 8 am this morning to check it's range for tx & rx. It's nice not to hear all the rubbish that goes on on uhf radios! regards, aussiedingo VKS-737 mobile 2629

Probally the best recovery item you have ever bought. Also is a great social network. VKS 737 mobile 0244 Selcall: 0244

Agreed re HF... and VKS...
The Sked operators are a fantastic crew... I've already heard some amazing stories over the airways...
I'm Mobile 1330
Jedo

Greendog if you want to learn how to use it drop around and I show you.

My experience from HF is military and not civilian but hopefully this helps. Learn the difference between "over" and "out" and "wait". Very frustrating having a conversation with someone who doesn't know the basics. You keep cutting each other off :(

civilian HF radios are very simple to use but if you want to invest some time in antenna theory you can improve your communications alot. Most important is to have a very good earth point. Good solid stake in the ground and a good cable running from the vehicle. Simple whip antennas are find 99% of the time but knowing how to run out cables in different configurations will open the world to you in distance and clarity (inverted V's, dipoles etc).

your radio will work without it but if you are having a bad night (comm's with HF is worse at night because the ionisphere has lost it's charge from the sun) you need everything in your favour.

Anyway, just my 2cents worth.

Cheers,

you dont!!

Not all your comm scheds are on the move.

Hi Greendog
I am a new member of 2 years, Mobile 1924 sell call 1924, welcome to HF Radio
hope you enjoy, I will listen out for you in September as I will be heading for St George gathering.

Matt

Thanks every one for your replys my Call Sign is VKS-737 MOBILE 2037
SELCALL NO 2037,and i'll listern out for you all as well,cheer's GDl