I did a quick activation of Cyrn-y-Brain NW-043 on Sunday. A very simple setup… handheld and a J-Pole made from twin feeder up a fishing rod. I was going to concentrate on 2m FM but I had the option of 70cms FM and also 2m/70cms D-Star. In addition I took my 23cms handheld and remembered to take a battery for it this time. (c.f. Lambrigg Fell and Gerald’s Goating activation!)
I decided to run my Icom IC80AD handheld on low power so the battery would last and I thought I was running 1W. As it was the output was set to 1/2W. I still was able to work 22 stations around the NW of England. Now from previous VHF contesting experience, I know that Cyrn-y-Brain is a good location but I was very pleased with how well such a low power worked especially considering the simple antenna and the fact there’s a 5m of RG-174 to add to the loss.
To round off the day nicely, I was able to have my first contact with Simon M1AVV who was just across the way on Foel Fenli NW-051. Even better we did our summit to summit on 23cms FM. This was Simon’s 1st S2S on 23cms. OK, it was no real DX but still put a smile on my face. I think I might invest in a 4m handheld for when I get down this way again so I can join in the action there.
A very enjoyable activation, thanks to all the chasers who called. The Ponderosa was mad busy still at 4pm and there appeared to be an original Jaguar SS 100 in the car park. They have such a silly price tag these days I was really surprised to see one being on the roads.
Andy, M0FMF
(/P in IO83)