This web site is now the primary vehicle for up to date system news. The About | Mission page has the latest announcements. Full details can be found on this page (see below). News and announcements are frequently made on the PARC Net, Wednesdays at 7pm local time on the 147.105 repeater. The old system of using email to distribute system news and announcements is being phased out. The latest system news may be obtained at any time by sending a request via email.
Work Begins
April 5, 2012 The new power supply and amplifier have been installed. The amplifier can be remotely enabled for testing, but is not in full time operation due to the antenna situation. General checks were made on the repeater and all was found to be operating normally. The next step will be refurbishing the tower, then on to the preliminary antenna changes. Thanks to Ben, WA1PBR for his assistance today.
Antenna Work Planned
March 20, 2012 Materials are being prepared to reconfigure the existing antenna system toward a configuration which should permit a return to high power, once again equalizing repeater transmit and receive capabilities. Effectively, this will extend coverage and provide "fill" in areas of poor reception. This change, which should take place sometime in the next few weeks, is considered an interim solution. In the long term a new and larger antenna is needed to replace the one that failed prematurely. This is a very expensive undertaking. The final antenna configuration, and hence ultimate geographical coverage of the repeater, will be determined by available funds. Assistance is needed to cover the cost of this badly needed repair and upgrade. See the support page if you wish to contribute.
Power Supply Purchased
March 19, 2012 A new Astron RS-50M power supply has been purchased. It is capable of delivering 37 amps continuous and will be used to run the 110 watt solid state amplifier. The old power supply will continue to run the repeater and charge the backup battery. This new power supply configuration marks a significant step forward in load sharing and robustness of 12 volt power at the site. The main 30 amp supply, which powers the repeater and charges the backup battery, will no longer have to power the amplifier as well.
Amplifier Repaired
March 12, 2012 One of two failed 110 watt solid state amplifiers has been repaired. Both the primary and backup amplifier had been damaged by an overloaded and malfunctioning power supply.
Last update April 5, 2012