NEW Latest releases from AMPRO, GEAR Tecsun, JNC, Icom and more July 2022 £5.49 www.radioenthusiast.co.uk TESTING 1-2-3 A trio of reviews, including the Xiegu GNR 1, Degen DAB119X and Bonito Boni-Whip aerial Goonhilly at 60 A history of the famous Cornish satellite station Language Barriers Issues that face Europe’s minority language radio HISTORY The BBC at 100 AVIATION Airshow Dates Years - A Look at 1980-89 and All the Airband News How the corporation dealt with a fast A full list of UK dates, plus news of changing broadcasting landscape NATO activity over Eastern Europe Rallies & Events Europe’s SW Stations Plan your summer days out inside Explore Germany, Denmark, Finland, Holland Displayuntil28thJuly2022
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Index Favourites Reviews Features News Profiles Contents ISSN 1748-8117 Cover Story July 2022 Vol. 17 No 7 12 The Degen DAB Multi-function Radio On sale: 30 June 2022 In the first of two special reviews this month, your Next issue on sale: 28 July 2022 editor looks at the new Tecsun Degen DAB119X FM / DAB / DAB+ / MW / SW Radio – a versatile and RadioUser stylish all-rounder with remarkable sound. Warners Group Publications plc 12 28 Radio and Minority The Maltings, West Street Languages (Part II) Bourne, Lincs PE10 9PH 7 News and Products www.warnersgroup.co.uk In Part Two of his introduction to radio, online Tel: 01778 391000 The Xiegu GNR1 filter; Tecsun Degen DAB119x Radio; broadcasting and podcasting through the medium JETVISION AIR!SQUITTER; Icom IP110H radio and IC- of minority languages, Richard Nosworthy travels to Editor PW2 amplifier; AMPRO Aerials; JNC Radio SV4401A Brittany, Cornwall, Scotland, and Wales. VNR, and so much more. See also pp. 27, 37, 45, 49, Georg Wiessala and at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 31 Rallies and Events [emailprotected] 14 Book Review As the summer radio show season is well underway, Designer we offer a guide to the very best in domestic and David Harris evaluates an electrifying new book on international hobby radio conventions, conferences, Mike Edwards the former pirate radio broadcaster Laser 558; this special interest gatherings and rallies. [emailprotected] title covers the station’s history, achievements and many unique characteristics. 34 Maritime Matters | Review Advertisem*nt Manager 15 Bookstore | Archive CDs Robert Connolly reviews the latest Bonito Boni-Whip Kristina Green aerial, sees NAVTEX from Ukraine and takes a wider [emailprotected] We have a well-stocked and busy bookstore online; it look at some recommended antennas for the mari- Tel: 01778 392096 contains a great variety of titles on the past, present time radio listening hobby. and future of radio, the emergence of new technolo- Production Manager gies, and technical subjects. 38 Digital Radio Nicola Glossop 16 The Xiegu GNR1 Digital Noise Kevin Ryan hears about DRM tests by the BBC, reports [emailprotected] Cancelling Unit and Audio Filter on UK frequency management and small-scale DAB broadcasting, reflects on some key digital govern- Production Assistant The editor has been test-driving the Xiegu GNR1 ment blueprints and outlines DAB DXing. Denoiser and Digital Audio Filter, from the point of Charlotte Bamford view of a short wave broadcasting enthusiast, utility 42 International Radio & New Media [emailprotected] monitor and occasional DXer. Chrissy Brand shows how a fast-changing radio scene Marketing Manager 20 Airband News influences stations’ fund-raising strategies and takes a look at how the world of classical music celebrates Katherine Brown David Smith tracks new NATO activity in Eastern this year’s BBC Centenary. [emailprotected] Europe, reports on electronic warfare matters and the workings of a new ‘virtual’ tower and summarises Marketing Executive communications at RNAS Culdrose. Luke Hider [emailprotected] Publisher Rob McDonnell [emailprotected] Technical Help We regret that replies to technical queries cannot be given over the telephone. Any technical queries by e-mail are very unlikely to receive immediate attention either. So, if you require help with problems relating to topics covered by RU, then please write to the Editorial Offices, we will do our best to help. Book and back issue orders Send your completed form to: RadioUser Subscriptions Dept Warners Group Publications plc The Maltings, West Street Bourne, Lincs PE10 9PH ZINE & BROCHURE PRMAGAINTER This publication is printed by Warners Midlands PLC WARNERS Telephone: 01778 391000 Midlands PLC SUBSCRIBE TO RADIO USER 22 Airshows 2022 (Part III) NEW Latest releases from AMPRO, For the latest offer call Furthermore, David Smith unveils the next section of GEAR Tecsun, JNC, Icom and more our seasonal RadioUser Guide to shows and events 01778 395161 under an aeronautical, airband-listening and histori- July 2022 £5.49 www.radioenthusiast.co.uk cal theme. See page six for details. TESTING 1-2-3 A trio of reviews, including the Xiegu GNR 1, Degen DAB119X and Bonito Boni-Whip aerial Goonhilly at 60 A history of the famous Cornish satellite station Language Barriers Save up to 27%. Issues that face Europe’s minority language radio HISTORY The BBC at 100 AVIATION Airshow Dates Years - A Look at 1980-89 and All the Airband News How the corporation dealt with a fast A full list of UK dates, plus news of changing broadcasting landscape NATO activity over Eastern Europe Rallies & Events Europe’s SW Stations Plan your summer days out inside Explore Germany, Denmark, Finland, Holland Displayuntil28thJuly2022 001 July Front.indd 1 20/06/2022 07:01 Read on any device, anywhere, anytime at http://bit.ly/raus-mysub22 Keep up to date on Facebook 24 HF Aeronautical Comms 34 www.facebook.com/radioenthusiasts Staying with the Airbands, Mark Allen looks at space Follow us on Twitter weather and makes the case for the continued value @REnthusiasts of contemporary HF radio technology in the fields of aviation communications and ATC. Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 4 RadioUser July 2022
Editorial Welcome Air-waves and Reviews Georg Wiessala [emailprotected] 28 Hello and a warm welcome the magazine, Richard Noseworthy shares to the July edition of with us the second part of his article on 46 Emerging Issues in Radio RadioUser. ‘Warm’ in more radio broadcasting in minority languages, ways than one really: as turning to Scotland, Wales, Cornwall and In her second column this month, Chrissy Brand con- the temperatures are on the rise and Brittany. cludes her mini-series on the future of radio and casts more of us are outdoors or on holiday a speculative glance at the possible radio landscape – airports, trains and petrol prices Among our other regular columns, in 20 years’ time. permitting – I hope that this issue will Chrissy Brand concludes her look into the be your month-long companion, both crystal ball of radio’s future, in terms of 49 European Private in the UK and further afield. tech, content and funding, and Kevin Ryan Short Wave Stations | News explains DAB DXing and small-scale DAB. You could be forgiven to feel that Stig Hartvig Nielsen unveils the latest instalment of there is a little bit of an aeronautical In their journey through the BBC’s his ongoing survey of Private Short Wave Stations flavour running through RU this month, Centenary history, Keith Hamer and across Europe; these can offer a refreshingly alterna- and you would be right. We are nearly Garry Smith have reached the 1980s, the tive form of radio enjoyment. at the height of the 2022 Airshow decade when the editor was born (he Season, and the next part of our wishes)! Continuing his look at key UK 50 Aerials Now guide is included; have fun, take your radio astronomy sites, Tim Kirby describes scanners and be safe. Moreover, see the Goonhilly Downs Satellite Receiving Keith Rawlings appraises current software updates, what our Airband News columnist has Station, while Scott Caldwell profiles two provides an overview of the basic and double ex- to say about electronic warfare and key Short Wave associations, alongside his tended ‘Zepp’ aerial and shares news about the new NATO activity over Eastern Europe. observations and logs. Wellbrook ALA1530LN and FLX1530LN Loops. Last but not least, Mark Allen takes Finally, we have plenty of news stories 53 TV and Radio, Past and Present you into the fascinating world of HF this time around, a very enjoyable book aeronautical and commercial ATC review, and our regular frequency listings Keith Hamer and Garry Smith remember the history of communications, which are, he finds, and listening recommendations. the BBC throughout the 1980s, take a look at the new more relevant than ever. incarnation of BBC-3 and reprise their biography of I hope that you will enjoy this issue; early television pioneer J. L. Baird. In our other features this month, I please do not forget to visit our bookstore have had a busy month in the shack, and subscription offers pages. 56 Signals from Space and I have had the opportunity to evaluate two great new products: Georg Wiessala Tim Kirby outlines the surprising history, and signifi- the Xiegu GNR1 combined digital cant achievements, of the Goonhilly Downs Satellite noise cancelling unit/ audio filter, as Editor, Radio User Magazine Receiving Station in Cornwall and shows you how to well as the brand-new Tecsun Degen www.radioenthusiast.co.uk access and use its online on-site receiver. DAB119x multi-function radio. 60 Long, Medium, and Short Waves Plus, in our third test in this issue, Robert Connolly reviews the Bonito Scott Caldwell profiles the Short Waves for Freedom Boni-Whip aerial from Germany. campaign and the International Short Wave League (ISWL) and anticipates the forthcoming Etón Élite There are also previews of two very Satellit portable world band receiver. exciting forthcoming products, both of which we will evaluate here very soon: the new Etón Élite Satellit portable and the latest loop aerial from the Wellbrook stable. Turn to our Long, Medium and Short and Aerials Now sections for the first glimpse of these. In another welcome return visit to Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store July 2022 RadioUser 5
BEAT THE PRICE RISE Regrettably, to offset the increases in costs of energy, raw materials and postage charges the cover price of RadioUser has increased to £5.49; but you don’t have to pay that! We’ve frozen our subscription prices meaning you can save even more than before when subscribing to RadioUser! SAVE Emerging Issues in Radio Emerging Issues in Radio 27%UPTO ing rather proud of being its temporary own- er. However, airport security is rarely much This DSP Noice Cancelling fun, and rather than have to put the Tecsun In-Line Module Worth £159 through the scanner along with my laptop and bag of liquids, I bade it au revoir at the check-in desk. I had taken far larger radios away with me in the past. I remember my first foreign holi- day being a family fortnight in Austria when I insisted my parents allow me to pack a 1970’s Fidelity Rad 27. No one was going to stop me this time, either. Chrissy Brand The Tecsun Appearance button and there it is, you ‘zap’ between a middle-aged Angolan singer, had a fresh [emailprotected] the two bands. It is also simple to scroll urgency with all the musicians involved on Whilst very much being a state-of-the-art through each of the short wave bands by the track Os Tais, being heard in equally fine December 2021 £4.99 www.radioenthusiast.co.uk My initial impression of the H-501x Deluxe contemporary radio, the Tecsun H-501x pressing the + or – keys. You can store voice. As well as music, jingles, news and Tecsun H-501x was that it Shortwave Radio does also have a reassuring ‘retro’ feel station frequencies in the memory to your features all sounded crisp and clear on FM. was a larger receiver than about it. I showed it to product design- heart’s content. There are 3150 presets you I even enjoyed listening to advertisem*nts, TECSUN H-501x I had realised, and a slight Chrissy Brand puts the highly-anticipated Tecsun er Tim Sutton-Brand, who was impressed can use, and which are separated over 25 for once. panic set in as to how I H-501x receiver through its paces during a trip to with the radio’s functionality and design; he memory pages. This enables the storage of We test this highly anticipated receiver might take it abroad with me. It is a large Portugal, appreciating both the technical performance also commented that it had a boxy, classic- 100 FM stations, 100 on medium wave, 100 Short wave was, of course, dependent on to see how practical it is on your travels portable and I am used to packing small ra- and the unique design philosophy of this new radio. 1980s design vibe, appearance-wise. on long wave (not that there are more than propagation. Tuning to 13740kHz at 1845 dios on my trips. However, that feeling very 40 or so long wave stations), 250 on short UTC one evening, I enjoyed a Radio France Latest Products quickly subsided. This Tecsun is similar in ly in terms of its robustness, the generously when compared to the pouches that come The two speakers, the layout of buttons wave, 100 on SSB, and 100 on synchronous International broadcast, in French. An all 5 size to many gadgets that people take on sized display read-out, and because of the with smaller, cheaper portable radios. and dials and the shape all reminded me a detection. SINPO helped the song Tala n’dile, by Ariel Pages of new gear from holidays. Larger than a tablet, for instance, benefit of having space to accommodate little of some of the 1990s Grundig Satellit Sheney featuring DJ Arafat, sound great. the major manufacturers but far smaller than a laptop. two good speakers. The receiver fitted very neatly into the receivers, and maybe even some of the first The tone can be beautiful, although is small suitcase I took away with me, well- short wave receivers that I used, back in the slightly dependent on the station heard. This BBC World Service, from the Woofferton The radio’s exact dimensions are 277 x Maybe it is just me, but the tan-coloured, protected by rolled up clothes and a beach 1980s. I must emphasise, however, that l is where the two speakers, bass and treble transmitter back in the UK, on 13660kHz at 164 x 44 mm. This makes the H-501x of leatherette carry case is reminiscent of a towel. The case itself would give protection consider this to be a positive thing. controls are welcome and enhance the 1800 UTC sounded excellent, and just up a size that could be transported in a back- men’s grooming set or women’s vanity case enough on its own though. listening experience. the dial, American evangelism was coming pack easily enough. It is also a very good from yesteryear. It has a reassuring look The five control knobs consist of a trio of in loud and clear from World Christian size for a radio that could sit in the shack, of quality and a touch of luxury, especially I did rather want to carry the radio around volume, bass and treble on the left front and The speakers produce a very good timbre, Broadcasting from the Madagascar the office, sitting room or your kitchen. in Manchester Airport with me, as I was feel- side of the receiver. A fine-tuning dial and a and I found there to be no distortion, even transmitter, on 13670kHz. Meanwhile, the larger regular tuning dial sit on the right-hand when turned to full volume. I turned the medium wave was dominated each night by Big is Beautiful side. I always wonder if this standard design volume up to the maximum while listening many powerful Spanish stations. implementation ever causes problems for to Beatriz Rosario on the local FM station, The quality of sound, the tone and the loud- left-handed users? Radio Portimão (106.5MHz). The singer, As you would expect of any quality radio, ness all ensure that the radio can be placed who takes the Portuguese musical genre there is a gentle fade away of the signal in any room in the house and be heard The dials give the user an incredibly tactile of Fado to a new, alternative level, sounded when you push the red on/off button. clearly and pleasantly, without distortion. experience and are made to a high stand- as if she could have been on the apartment This bids a gentle adieu to the singers or ard. I simply wanted to turn them with my balcony with me. The rap music of Carlão, presenters you have been engaged with and It is a case of ‘big is beautiful’ – certain- thumbs all the time – such is their ease of is always preferable to an abrupt cut-off. use, enticing you to explore just a little fur- ther, gliding along whichever band you hap- pen to be on. This is surely a DXer’s delight! The rubberised surface on the side of the two tuning dials enable you to quickly spin along the bands, whilst the more robust, metal, ribbed dials, accessed from the front of the receiver, emphasise that you are in control and are driving this set. Of course, you can enter any frequency by using the keypad, too. The LCD display is of a substantial size, large enough to see from a distance and, when close-up, does not require my middle- aged eyes to use reading glasses (which I have to resort to on many radios). The Listening Experience The long wave band is found more easily than on some radios, as it is clearly marked: Just press the medium wave/long wave Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 14 RadioUser December 2021 December 2021 RadioUser 15 Editor’s Shack Getting to grips with the ATS-20 SI4732 receiver HISTORY Farewell to DIGITAL We Review a Popular Museum the Telstar DIRA M 6i The Collingwood Hertitage New hybrid radio from Germany Collection and how its loss is a sad day for radio history with a range of recording options and networking funtionalities Display until 30th December 2021 2021 Aerial Review ● Coastal Radio Stations ● Moonraker Vertical Antenna ● 9/11 Radio Comms Take out a digital subscription today https://pktmags.com/ru-subs-2022 ITnh-LisinDeSMP Nodouiclee WCaonrcthel£li1n5g9 PREFER HmvTeialsoevipnthetohhtnth.etTepl i nosme:sfi/a/anrgbedaiotzop.lieuynnr/eMrlapuo nto-dessasutytebtods2uFd2rbiidosraercy cr8citaapmtltoli–o0y6n1pom7uo7fraf8ndedr3oSso9arpt5ule1reda6aac1yshse9 aaHPImSoTpOuRtWTYloase–rFetaMEeershuet5owstCwheeiupplslmrShtaoicRmgthUiaclaydlaiiNntToNtisihcNeoipenweaHyTtweoatduDehsrIt-rcGeetNIrcsTT5aeAeuveivleLsvewn0lstrWaawDred1wDARa.RIreRxaBvRAdEi-eidaMo1waitedLo16narii9t’tseodhsSXu:thPsaricioakdsuotc.ctso.Uuk ser July 2022iCTsohalelseCactdoilodlinanyagDnwfoedorcoherdmaodwHbioeeitrrhst2iiltFs0oato2sgors1eryt£h4e.9la9test news andwNpiertwohdahuyrcbtrridevraiedwiosf,rvomisiAGGTeeStrt-im2ntP0hgaaeStgnomIe4gs7ar3joiop2frsnrmewecawitenhiguvteefWhaarecrhtfuraortem’rss new in the world of radio NewNsew Media and Internet Radio● ● Follow us on Faceboo●k @radioenthusiasts and Twitter @REnthusiasts007 News.indd 11Decweisoimftfcnohmbpoeri“nelhTncsaairnrsFehosknaI2iusicimeBNgtfss0spiietuRoeae2iKahpsaasut1IwreoIiNnagisvtRlrolodeyesaGotRKri.peehnftkn-CAornratagY•pgiohAcsouhslT•Odtmaebo•apueLhpiE•cUmaiGuR•gslooerDxTpoe•cenRaeFaktpteu#YsD•kevrtrdUMee-SrvfaneaaB:liiFAoBGotlisiionWrDie-ioTnshgsrMRjsBcpllTlvAuteiluaidehAhaan:eh-Dobeeoh+sc:serE2etngllBderlw8lteglS/taaprtevL3yshdyKaF+0o7tGenrnseePo0Iothep2tmM1so.rgoCa:easLenl050ourapt0atuewokC-opsr--udcShdIar7y12lniagTviDeorlglini.titgbtyocei60sgFaoeeOoPfhdgtnsaprce8e1ieMhlrspwnerl-aacapcekl.xle0MoetalWdainrngkieoaKorpct0vfotesiyagHdetotpu/ht1ewOikefthidosnuMunoacaz0aHmtnhReaiwialhc;tnin7toolW;oazmeMKgiuteoRds4Fnotsidd-el/DriaosMaGWnuatltWokSodeTaianeltsu-asnwiWvonSobecnt(EeteeaieAeIedocopadoSoE/nliClmesiMdmntecBsntKckeuS:cdiblwoi)atnunstiee:hccefftewr5iriDpiA.aorLetcictteon22httbvAnwCrloaasdlmheha50useaeocBDdtt6lp.bm2ceaG-lgriocbthut1yii-oaoae1ekolnnhp1ahbpeswos2l6Qb(nGgnpsufndr1eot1GhA4oiceii2tseeetocicrupsacsfiRl9ph.sfTes.nhaman9idesrae0seectatrartcXo,rieoaeSdetrhclkoaehhaxtlrnairBdaThaehtdmiwinMlrihev)HeIikrGnte-gCtcroitdw/dsnnedt’owphueaectesteisatyaieKrzwraausoBpdsbnaarEedsvciaarwttCltnose;dleosihibph(inhorososroCnwcetrnil8mdavf•SSilariaabtitlewmhwkeoa•eto:migvchmgdtettprUaD0i.•c/icrOnWnncawleolgpPoheeswinTm/l.usiuieleentm40ioi•mtbpavloksaadotsaUstamsre/oescoidathnmehonsLceni.etn,Useelrcebo:nlqodht0nssxurn0wldvuR(sLebrsed•/ptoorihawreyeuversufi/eerS3knlcetauhisa0ympsessysaLeoCsiaLlwie•vnextuyBeicneurdaRxnbi.ineB.(p.gnni,cc•iuo-iiipils0tnnitixoiar5rrrFccrloc3rscdbsoEclaetmRpwrtaensitjaei’taoBh.stfetwrnsk(eglspeRsefmP1imMlkeionk.etayksiT:lnirthl,eSdlaIToad,owbaaem5aiuanlrous,.oceanNNeD..aa9aiasscvo.oasosiinccndcpwy1minntIonkln.mhliugnTl&u2bndtmnsoeehnetntdial7Cenesosnpfahopadosihlwss“ig9aogtfcetgkrhh0ent,ireddoAl)raSTvdbepmCti-5aMjsslgeotctaeo:a.amhiewb-aneiot9tisan/ieoMegtsil0anpeoaclvtf1ghWntwosctohhs-evBrtp-saweb,lsslatao)ci2laoAe.sufhradlpatuhdhpe,kmvosoeuat9ohi/ahj:weedepin0ceiei.ooubokcaanQucaFertrdoorwbre31en)Datrdaoi:of2(tlerbneAhdhcynewaias0m-neioe/unbcdLhsprot.dtri(.FDarox0ilutudsisto4”/Cripd|naiieexiypd3guonsss0skhgehnedpobnnwehisovrrtoeagNeti7nDeChilnM-p9ictsclr,gbbiaeov.rjedieida6oearfb-dseepeiisse(adrofcnaon.g/ots5netaOsikaytalasnhwe6leadral9o.cosdsgfbi4hosrdhepbslbglutrcortwndskdiweonhmhureinysivomtcasnvag1isortnounnVhuitasnu.rdeem,aeerewtroDoaii(e/-mtv,iahiSuaxrdoai2dsotyaoiwntantom.)gohi&tdndppBemec)bgeprtnniesmstC.uSontsdsul2ueipe.onppr,ruetfoPmhtrvohcgaxdouemate,eoefaecHhweikalr-ldatsekplFeRiaeQcBr0-uC)teanpnrnaBeaoloe.ueroivewey,sreh1satdfkSmtenfii.dlttii.cosonSendtmarplatira0enhsaCnreisFa.genrgduensysfentilsstarti0toeeQdEotcswbruoooctdi(lyguoterrdtlostaeiht2clti.g/gecdsnlkateaiwii,oh.oyo25Cergaahtmaceeolgdeekahg”utgnurrsmmBrnmratsodewi4idntaixwcisrt.ywfhnr.lV.biceassnsaNssstmicfinnrsiLFahNcihkhdtdnt5pee:BhnrfnNhfhvlhootsCrage3sbhihety/mal;t0)/ieeieifli|ahalthasieuckdT2tleoeemaaoirgtateda-enC.Ttcabmc:sdpamiraotsrytnseanwbrir0ehcahntnasaslrehsxx0a.aTrloswronsThiLmheecrstlproe,eilmrdtwctddeideodLde0eSesoi.opuitt9ieo1fmd1toaaiernh&heeiocaoE’,sdtncvsrfoele1nsNoceiuosmrswzaaols:ennaoyupsun9iòoaEstmttheneefhCnigob2setasopto0eglqryhsgdtitCfBssurtnorrudhdiidsu.nnaar;tnocagur0spoiaoPd6Bdgkelm0it,JuinahBo,rnacndEtppvM(BeeearonhcrsstthulmdaotioM)dsrmpceisohSB0gae.anuietCtmt)detehrcnmhobfnayueseelatepeesfh.(iaos6itdrRdlaMmeodsrdrCaamtsohobotti,iiaoFlondpihmemhRorxeoviiilsepiueancletnibuttIpuaIkwsntylenonnnecAtneaviistroaMsihitmRearagarldoibtclilgthrlelesodsikisgtaooe,pamrdnsovsladsaemoeduuaemscapmbseTroersihdiaaecibetcr.essuWssinnrwonlofnyotcnjntvrySdeommamosiputahferOfdDfi3asicab1triehattvspasagsen)vteolAeauoeva:sogioia,phimletsvcioterA)h.swsismnec8onrofooalCse3onmnandAor.efllcncrrurssuero..oodeco*konaiargpÖtdteoo0nodTdruUpbdfnb.kloreiodaswdosasaafipraidwoedAtonrtaffebsajbr(Vnae0eiltnChesnllsttSaehmkrrbolighnIeawmdnwrrfQSyieee3dhtdpwrpudnoIdnnbstodSendocoenieRahTUinutwmstategaaecDuruanO0oew,draah.ctrifmyothAsVTfslrtiarBsatueonsnahclRisspeTesehlicgnb’iCrwiei.steeaaUhi,ries1ichdevJuueersomiauacaomchdugodjoskwpaIb2Caawdcrtfe,neteuceF3eaadRalsadNaisnc,LAitotnrhsehrteilrdatiytd0nArrI)ihaltspctoa,awaiiagre,tonlpmso.eoyaCCte.mrTeLia-ro.alahNbiAibh&rra2dttcEttnitartrdrnnlrraStunosorremsIirhehrctoornihIoaEttocerhhuatehea2saasvtflohliiegpianaadToStnQaeod|eiehdiunedrnntoaabheo:vh(toatdlscm,hsse.antbrIionr@sagiwcyrSeuEaTatAeasattgeTtzs’CTntftw,ss-iosyiMweot.fnsdpeWimeeltvsaoprMaoiuthdbwiioLtesnscamEI,yaeeohlnhcQptamnu2rcjetrrxe.cRserimirsao.rlncleooudstErsAa,enadllNlbielikesutaeiooiesat0cirroFtReeild:olrlraAenlatC.pltr|uhhfColieslele/:liIialetrade8itnyiina2frIetauneccier/sanatvto/RsesspgbgsreoiromeoNnr/htretrdxiOadwfma2dldleonutnsiwatd.ntogsowsi.reeialrwtosuamd[smpewdindsswseG.:itammeaioMt…sHg.oi2insgdainarma.wnoirtRaoPan.yCihofolvntyowveeuai’yh:t,]uliitCnCgomsrsTceamteunnen2Saenwn.,apwmoihdtemwe’TasurteaisdsoinwrspuhrOdNicdarlstara.lprunCeatlugthAs(lmliatimeccettkhiarNebloet(wnii.thicFteNlrhsdcteaosniePeioibncwaodhid/l1Chicetcywtpayerwaew-0seioecisnodseoTaTlnilrngHa.0eicri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aSTOP PRESS! PAPER? CITIES AND MEMORY LORENZO SPOLETI ON UNSPLASH 6 11/11/2021 11:40
What’s new in the world of radio News Radio Currents Have you got something new to tell our readers about? If so, then drop a line to [emailprotected] STOP PRESS! Martin Lynch & Sons Jetvision AIR!SQUITTER ADS-B, MLAT, FLARM Receiver The AIR1SQUITTER ADS-B | MLAT | FLARM receiver comes as a bundle included. In the commercial version of the AIR!SQUITTER (activation with a combined ADS-B/GPS antenna, 10m antenna cable and mounting by key), the data are available on the external interfaces as JSON, kits. No monthly or yearly subscription is required. Binary, Port 30003 and ASTERIX and with highly accurate GPS time The AIR!SQUITTER is an integrated device, with all the features for stamps. The connection to the Jetvision Flight Tracking Network can problem-free ADS-B and MLAT reception. OLED display with the most be disconnected. Please contact the ML&S support line (see below) important operating parameters. MLAT (Multilateration) is provided for more information. At the time of writing, the package includes the within the Jetvision Flight Tracking Network. Feeders for FlightRadar24, following: FlightAware, OpenSky Network, Planeplotter, and ADSB Exchange. Connection is over WIFI or LAN. Supports simultaneously multiple • Air!Squitter ADS-B / MLAT Receiver users via desktop, tablet or smartphone. • Antenna 1090 MHz with internal GPS There is an extensive map display on the web browser, with filter • Antenna mounting kits (1 pc) options, status, range and performance diagrams. With the integrated • Antenna cable 10m (N male to SMA male) (1 pc) combined ADS-B/GPS antenna only one antenna cable is required. • Power Supply The AIR!SQUITTER is accessible on the Mac OS, Windows, Android, and • LAN cable 5m. Lynx platforms. In the basic version, the Air! Squitter is permanently connected to the Jetvision Flight Tracking Network. Registration is www.hamradio.co.uk [emailprotected] For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 7
News What’s new in the world of radio IP110H STOP PRESS! Compact Licence Free IP/ WLAN Business Radio • Compact handset with built-in antenna and battery. The Icom IP110H is a compact two-way radio/handset that •The simultaneous TalkListen Feature. operates using your Wi-Fi network. The IP110H can be used as part • Wireless operation is possible with optional VS-3 Bluetooth headset. of a wider WLAN radio system allowing you to use your local LAN • All, Group,Talk group, Individual andTelephone Calls. to implement a communications system that can scale even in (Telephone Calling requires optional VE-PG4) the largest buildings. Unlike traditional PMR radios, because the •The vibration alert function informs of incoming calls and short IP110H uses existing WLAN instead of radio frequencies it does messages. not require a licence or licence application. Therefore once set • Motion/stationary detection, Man-down and lone worker functions. up, anyone can use the radio. With the IP1000C system controller • Audio Recording /playback function. and several WLAN access points (including Icom’sAP-95M), you • Over-the-Air Configurable. can create a system with several access points covering an area •The Built-in Li-Ion battery pack can be charged through you wish to cover. TheIP100FS dispatch softwareallows you to the USBType-C Charging port. keep track of each IP110H radio from a central location showing • 1000 mW loud audio from the internal speaker. you each IP110H and which LAN access point it is closest to. It • WPA2, WPA Enterprise security. is also possible to communicate with a dispersed site using an • Waterproof and dust-tight durable design (IP67/IP54 & MIL-STD-810G). Internet VPN and link with conventional radios and IP phones • Licence-free IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac standards are used. using the optionalVE-PG4 RoIP gateway. The IP110H provides aSimultaneous TalkListen functionthat allows full-duplex communication (like a telephone conversation) that will enable you to speak with more than one person at a time. Bluetooth capability allows wireless connectivity between a headset and the radio/ handset for greater flexibility for the user. Highly compact, the IP110H is built to IP67 / IP54 waterproof and dustproof standards so it can be used outdoors or around water. The compact size (57 (W) × 96.9 (H) × 25.1(D) mm) with a built-in antenna fits neatly in your pocket. It is also very lightweight weighing only 146 g. Importantly the IP110H can be used for more than 20 hours on a full charge (Tx1: Rx 1: Stand-by 8 duty radio). The IP110H has many great features that can provide many H&S benefits to your team. Should you work in a noisy working environment, the vibrate alert function will notify the user of an incoming call to make it heard. In terms of safety features, there is a “Recording/playback” function for instant review of communications if needed. The Lone-Worker and Man-Down functions are useful for communicating in emergencies, setting off an alarm on the radio should the radio be inactive for a pre- set period notifying others of potential issues. At the time of publication, the main features of the ICOM IP110H were advertised as shown in the panel opposite. The IP110H is suitable for many industry sectors, including tunnel construction, mining, factories, warehouses, shopping centres, hotels, and restaurant management, to name just a few. For more information about this product, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2p8mbmy5 Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions 8 RadioUser July 2022
What’s new in the world of radio News O ED REVNIEPWAGE 12 IC-PW2 1kW linear Nevada amplifier for the HF and 50MHz bands Tecsun Degen DAB119x On August 31, 2019, Icom announced the IC-PW2 1kW Linear Amplifier at its booth at the Ham Fair 2019. It has a full-power/ full-duty specification that uses LDMOS for the final output and Nevada now has the new Tecsun DEGEN 1kW output, even for long-term transmission. The device is equipped with an antenna selector DAB119x portable radio in stock. This that can connect two exciters and six antennas. It is said to be effective in contests and radio covers both DAB+, FM stereo (with multiband operation. The price and release date are currently undecided. RDS display), Medium Wave, Shortwave Final price and availability TBA . https://icomuk.co.uk and Bluetooth 4.0 capability. The radio will automatically tune and store stations into memory and has an alarm clock, date/time display and a built-in charging function. The radio’s short wave coverage ranges from 2300 to 26100kHz with an extra-large LCD to aid tuning and an external antenna input for DX reception. Bluetooth 4.0 enables linking to other Bluetooth-enabled devices for streaming music or other material through the radio. The radio can be charged from the included mains charger or through the USB socket on the radio. The radio will sell for £139.95. (Source: Nevada Radio) https://www.nevadaradio.co.uk STOP PRESS! Moonraker AMPRO Mobile Antennas The Moonraker AMPRO mobile antenna range is well established small magnet mount. There is no need to drill holes or make special thought the UK and the world offering low cost, high-quality single hard mounts on your car to get on HF. Put on a simple magnet mount band HF mobile solutions. Moonraker has now added cut down or boot lip mount and you are ready to go HF mobile! In stock at versions of the 20/40/80m models. These new HF Mini Mobile Whip Moonraker from just £19.95. Just search ‘AMPRO’ on: Antennas are designed to let you mount an HF antenna with just a www.moonrakeronline.com For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 9
News What’s new in the world of radio Martin Lynch & Sons STOP PRESS! JNC Radio SV4401A Handheld VNA The SV4401A is a handheld Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) with a frequency range of 50kHz - 4.4GHz. It can be used for S11 and S21 measurements. The S21 dynamic range of SV4401A is 75 dB, while the S11 dynamic range is 50 dB. SV4401A is suitable for antenna testing of MF/HF/VHF/UHF bands, such as shortwave antennas, ISM band antennas, Wi-Fi antennas, Bluetooth antennas, GPS antennas, and so on. It can be used to measure filters, amplifiers, attenuators, cables, power dividers, couplers, duplexers and other RF components. SV4401A supports a variety of display formats: Log Mag, Linear Mag, Phase, Smith R+jX, Smith R+L/C, VSWR, Polar, Group delay, Resistance, Reactance, and so on. In addition, SV4401A supports the TDR Function, which is useful for cable length measurement. The SV4401A is designed with a metal case, which is durable and can effectively shield electromagnetic interference. The dimension of SV4401A is 190mmx130mmx30mm, and a back bracket is designed for desktop use. The RF interface of SV4401A is an N-type female connector and comes with a pair of N-to-SMA adapters, which can be used to connect DUTs with SMA interfaces. With the optimally designed signal processing system, the scan speed of SV4401A is 400 points/s, which enables a quasi-real-time measurement, and the maximum scanning points is up to 1001. The screen of SV4401A is a 7-inch high-brightness IPS capacitive touch screen, which allows users to see the screen content outdoors. SV4401A adopts a full touchscreen design, with 4 physical buttons, users can quickly set frequency range, scale, turn on/off traces, add/delete markers, screenshots, and so on. The operation is quite convenient and smooth. The device has two built-in 3350mAh 18650 lithium batteries with a battery life of up to 4 hours www.hamradio.co.uk Global Radio Guide (Summer 2022) Teak Publishing is pleased to announce the release of Whether you monitor medium- and short wave radio broadcasts, amateur radio operators or aeronautical, Gayle Van Horn’s (W4GVH) 18th Edition of her Amazon maritime, government and military communications in bestselling Global Radio Guide (Summer 2022). As the HF radio spectrum, this book has the information you one of the only remaining publications available with need to help you to hear it all. international broadcast frequencies and schedules, Teak Publishing’s Global Radio Guide ‘brings the world the Global Radio Guide (GRG) puts everything a radio to you.’ You can find this edition of the Global Radio enthusiast needs to navigate the action right in their Guide, along with all of our titles currently available for hands. purchase, on the Teak Publishing website. This newest edition carries on the tradition of those The 18th edition of the Global Radio Guide e-Book (electronic book only, no print edition) is also available before it with an in-depth, 24-hour station/frequency worldwide from Amazon and their various international guide with schedules for selected AM band, long wave, websites for US$8.99. and short wave radio stations. This unique resource is www.teakpublishing.com the only radio publication that lists by-hour schedules https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZK1HWFY that include all language services, frequencies, and world target areas for over 500 stations worldwide. Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions 10 RadioUser July 2022
What’s new in the world of radio News ONevada ED REVNIEPWAGE Xiegu GNR1 Digital Audio16 Noise Filter INSPIRE Project Journal 2022 The Xiegu GNR1 Digital Audio Noise Filter is an The INSPIRE Project is an educational interesting article on ‘A VLF-3 Station in an RFI audio processing device integrating digital noise initiative run by NASA and includes aspects Environment: Promoting Radio Astronomy for reduction and digital filtering. It will effectively of VLF radio. The 2022 edition of The Education.’ You can order an INSPIRE VLF-3 reduce background noise, improve the Signal-to- INSPIRE Journal is jam-packed with inspiring (Kit) VLF Receiver from the e-mail address, Noise ratio (SNR) and make voice transmissions student-led STEM endeavours, VLF receiver below. We have featured this receiver in clearer and more intelligible. The GNR 1 works observations, updates on NASA’s James RadioUser before (October 2018). with HF and VHF/UHF transceivers, receivers and Webb Space Telescope, plus eclipse photos (Source: Eva Kloostra | INSPIRE Project) other radio devices suffering from low Signal-to- and information in anticipation of the 2024 https://theinspireproject.org Noise Ratio (SNR). The Xiegu GNR1 connects to Total Solar Eclipse. There is also a very [emailprotected] an (external) passive speaker and provides 3W of audio output power. It offers an independent adjustment of input and output audio levels, selection of high or low input impedance, two audio outputs (3.5mm stereo and RCA), headphone output, and automatic switching of headphone or speaker output. https://www.nevadaradio.co.uk Rfinder B1+ Deluxe Package The Rfinder B1+ Deluxe Package includes a free extra battery, cup holder mount for your car, screen protector, DMRoIP and APRS-IS integration. DMRoIP allows connecting to DMR networks via 4G or Wi-Fi - in case a local repeater or hotspot isn’t within reach. This means that you will always have access to DMR networks [...]. (Source: RFinder.shop) https://tinyurl.com/3v8sbk9n 9TH – 11TH SEPTEMBER 2022 67TH WEINHEIM focus of interest is topics from the field of micro- Guglielmo Marconi’s factory, which opened in VHF CONFERENCE: Submit a Paper Now: The controllers, computer applications in amateur 1912 in Chelmsford, Essex (see next month’s RU traditional Weinheim VHF Conference has been radio, SDR, HamNet and digital processes. - Ed). This year marks 100 years since the world’s organized by committed radio amateurs on a In a call for papers to be presented at the first regular broadcasts for entertainment began non-profit basis, and voluntarily, since 1956. convention, the organizers ask for interested from the Marconi laboratories at nearby Writtle. It sees itself in its tradition as a meeting place hams to send the title and approximately 300- The Chelmsford factory closed in 2008 and the for everyone interested in radio technology and word abstract by July 19th at the latest. The site is now a housing estate. Guglielmo Marconi electronics. upcoming 67th VHF Conference Weinheim will Amateurs from all over Europe present their take place from the 9th to the 11th of September (1874 – 1937) was an Italian wireless pioneer experiences at this forum, provide information 2022. who helped bring radio to the world. about innovative developments and share their (SOURCE: BBC | ICQ Amateur / Ham Radio He came to Chelmsford in 1898, at first know-how. The organizers would like to put Podcast | Colin Butler | https://www.icqpodcast. developing machines to send messages together a varied program of lectures again com/news). via Morse code for ship and transatlantic this year and call on you to contribute with a https://tinyurl.com/2httjbt9 communication. presentation. After World War One, Marconi’s engineers The lectures are not limited to VHF topics, A MARCONI EXHIBITION IN CHELMSFORD: started looking at broadcasting voices and but cover everything that is of interest to the An exhibition celebrating one of the forefathers entertainment technology-loving amateur. Lecture topics from of ‘radio’ and the world’s first purpose-built (SOURCES: BBC | ICQ Amateur / all areas of amateur radio are welcome - from radio factory opens next month. Anglia Ruskin Ham Radio Podcast | Colin Butler long-wave to gigahertz applications. A growing University (ARU) will showcase items from https://www.icqpodcast.com/news). https://tinyurl.com/4e7b88w9 For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 11
In the Editor’s Shack Georg Wiessala The Degen DAB119X [emailprotected] FM, DAB, DAB+, MW and SW Radio When this little parcel arrived from Nevada The Tecsun Degen DAB119X is a bedside-alarm-style Radio, I was keen to multi-band radio offering a host of features for radio open it straight away, enthusiasts in a very stylish package. attracted by the stylish looks of this unit. Occasionally, I still think of the German a Line-In socket for external sound and insert the little white plug into the term first, and I did so here: the word sources (MP3 Player, PC) as well as a internal socket; it is straightforward. Alleskönner came to my mind – a ‘multi- Bluetooth facility for streaming your talent’, or ‘all-rounder’ – and so it proved favourites from your smartphone or A first DAB Auto-Scan unearthed a to be. ‘Degen’ is the name for this brand- another device. total of 106 DAB/ DAB+ stations here line; the manufacturer of this radio is in Northwest Lancashire – many more Tecsun. Before you do anything, you must than my ageing (but treasured) PURE connect the rechargeable battery; Evoke 3. A great start. The Tecsun Degen DAB119X offers open the flap at the bottom of the radio everything modern radio can throw at The DAB119X has a Dynamic Range you. It covers DAB and DAB+ (Channels 5A to 13F), FM (with RDS), Medium- and Short Wave (120m to 11m). There is no Long Wave coverage, and this is not an Internet Radio. However, the Degen DAB119X offers Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 12 RadioUser July 2022
In the Editor’s Shack Compression (DRC) functionality, where mented with a few different aerials, such loudspeaker (Bluetooth & Line-In) how- stations transmit such data (not all of as a Cross Country Wireless (CCW) loop ever, the Degen DAB119X cuts the mus- them do). This will render ‘quiet’ passag- amplifier with my own loop, the Reuter tard (‘Degen’ means ‘sword’ in German). es of music louder and soften the louder RLA3A indoor magnetic crossed loop, It offers great sound for its size and is er- ones. the Moonraker GA-450 portable loop; gonomically well-designed too, especial- and, last but not least, just a long wire ly with its large, easy-to-read display. What strikes you first about this with a Balun, kindly loaned to me by small radio is the sound quality, on both REC Electronics (i.e. our columnist Keith The pictures on these pages are DAB and FM; it packs quite a punch, Rawlings). meant to provide a general impression of especially with music/ speech of a the looks and functionality of the Tecsun high dynamic range, such as classical. I found the Moonraker GA-450 Degen DAB119X. There is also a sub-woofer at the back (RadioUser, April 2022: 46-48) suited my to enhance the bass sound. This device purposes best because it is lightweight, Available at Nevada for £139.95. My is very pleasant to listen to, and that directional, and a measurable improve- thanks to Nevada for the review unit. goes for anything fed in via Line-In or ment over the inbuilt telescopic aerial. https://tinyurl.com/2mjdukud Bluetooth as well. My best daytime DX catches were on the 16 m band, for example on 17490 (CRI), Next, the Auto Tuning Storage on FM: 17570 (Saudi?) and 17790 (R Vatican). I got, on average, around 30 FM stations, However, I feel certain that you have your with some of the normal duplicates, own aerials to try and connect to the where frequencies overlap (e.g. BBC R3 Tecsun Degen DAB119X. on 90.8 and 91.5MHz). Regarding power management, the The RDS detection worked flawlessly. time it takes to fully charge the radio is Next, I put on one of Harold McMillan’s around 5 hours; standby time is around Strathclyde Motets, via Bluetooth and 20 days if you opt to switch the backlight Line-In. This is an audiophile’s challenge off during standby mode (the digits re- for any sound system or speaker. Using main well visible). headphones, the Degen DAB119X pro- duced a rich, beautiful orchestral sound, If you wish to run this radio perma- even without any equaliser adjustments. nently from the PSU, it is advised that I can see myself doing this late at you take the battery out. With the bat- night now before I take my editorial tery installed, it is suggested that you re- beauty sleep. move the adaptor once the device is fully You can manually store stations, and charged. there are memory and recall functions, alarm settings and sleep timers, as de- I really liked this radio. It is not a ‘DXing scribed in the manual/ leaflet. Users may machine’, and you would not buy this to adjust the backlight to their liking, and listen mostly to Medium- or Short Wave. there is a basic equaliser function for Nevertheless, if you do and take this on bass and treble control. your travels with you, possibly with an The DAB119X has an inbuilt ferrite bar external aerial, you will not be disap- aerial for Medium Wave reception. An pointed, for sure. ‘unassisted’ band scan will latch onto a handful of the stronger MW broad- On FM, DAB/ DAB+, and as a portable casters, more if you operate outdoors. Remember the directionality of the fer- rite, it does make a huge difference. However, on MW – and even more so on SW – you should really treat your new friend to a modest external aerial, which you can easily connect via the 3.55 mm socket on the Degen DAB119X. Having said that, I did do a few SW scans with the inbuilt telescopic only and hit upon some great music stations on HF, such as Radio Habana Cuba on 15730kHz and an unidentified station on 13635kHz, with some haunting Central- Asian-sounding music. Tuning steps on SW are in 5kHz steps, and steps cannot be changed. I experi- Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 13
Book Review David Harris [emailprotected] David Harris takes an in-depth look at a new publication about the history of the former pirate radio station Laser 558 and unearths problems, ground-breaking female pioneers, and a spot of ‘Payola’ Hans Knot is a Dutch academic who spe- A Pioneering Pirate cialises in writing about Offshore radio. He produces the excellent, quarterly (and free) Laser 558: All Europe Radio 1, as well as the heavily-regulated commer- Hans Knot (2022) cial stations in the UK, were failing to meet International Radio Report: All Europe Radio – Laser 558 the needs of their listeners. ‘Needle-time’ World of Radio. 181 pp. Pbk. 2022. £22.50 restrictions meant that programmes had to https://hansknot.com (first published by SMC, Netherlands 2011) be ‘padded-out’ with talks. But the listen- Back in 2016, Paul Rusling authored and ISBN 9781900401302 ers wanted music, and Laser’s strapline was www.worldofradio.co.uk published, Radio Adventures of the MV “never more than a minute from the music”. Communicator (see my review in RadioUser, tridges which could be played in any weath- The station was also a pioneer in the use January 2017: 36). This title was followed, er. The long shifts must have been quite te- in 2017, by Laser Radio Programming dious for the DJs as they could not choose of female presenters. BBC Radio 1 recruited (RadioUser, June 2017: 54). The first which tracks to play. Their pay was around Annie Nightingale in 1970 but then waited 12 of these books is the history of the MV $30 a day, some food and accommodation. years until it employed Janice Long. By con- Communicator, which hosted 11 different trast, at times Laser had three female pre- (legal and ‘pirate’) stations from 1984 until Some presenters had free travel from the senters on for each day. 2004. The second publication is an in-depth US provided by Virgin Atlantic in return for look at the radio programming at Laser 558, free adverts. The station began to air a limited num- which, arguably, provided a template for ber of adverts but most of its income came many commercial stations today. Despite the limited coverage of the sta- from promoting certain records in return for tion, it claimed up to six million listeners payment. The station termed this practice Hans Knot’s new book takes the form across England, the Netherlands, Belgium, ‘Spotlighting’. When it was done covertly, it of a diary (or log), based on recordings he France, and other countries. The first few was known as ‘Payola’. Most of the ‘spot- made of the station. It details the precise months of broadcasting were free of com- lighted’ records mentioned do not appear to times when the station was on the air (it was mercial breaks. The idea was to build a pan have entered the UK charts. plagued with technical problems), its pre- European audience that would be attractive senters, music and adverts. The logs are ac- to global brands. In August 1985, the UK Government be- companied by an informed narrative. Hans gan a blockade of the MV Communicator was based in Groningen, in the Netherlands. The financing of Laser came from Irish using the ships Dioptric Surveyor and business interests, channelled through com- Gardline Tracker (the sister ship of the MV The story begins in 1983 when the survey panies in tax havens. The running costs were Communicator). This was the ‘beginning vessel Gardline Seeker was purchased and estimated to be £15,000 a week. The ship of the end’ for the station; with poor mo- sailed from the UK to the USA where it was was serviced illegally by small boats oper- rale, broken generators and limited sup- fitted out as a radio ship. In December 1983 ating out of Medway and Thames Estuary plies, the captain eventually gave up, and the it anchored in the Thames Estuary; and in ports. ship sailed into Harwich in November 1985, January 1984, it began broadcasting, using where it was impounded by the authorities. a very long aerial tethered to a large helium It seems strange today that a Medium balloon. Wave station broadcasting intermittently If you are interested in Offshore Radio, would have attracted such a big audience. then this book provides an entertaining and However, this experimental technology However, the wider context is that BBC Radio informative read about an era that – al- failed, as the balloon was lost in high winds. though long gone – still holds a fascination A more conventional aerial was rigged up for many radio enthusiasts. and they tried again, initially on 729kHz. But the ship broke its anchor chain in April 1984 and was off the air. It restarted in May of that year, on 558kHz. Most of the presenters on Laser were American citizens; the Marine Offences Act 1967, which shut down most offshore sta- tions, made it illegal for British people to work on an offshore station. By contrast, there was no problem in re- cruiting young American men and wom- en who had some experience in radio. Conditions on board were poor with the pre- senters working four or five-hour shifts every day. The music was pre-recorded on car- See our great book and magazine offers at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 14 RadioUser July 2022
Visit our Book Store at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk RADIO ENTHUSIAST BOOKSHOP Published by War ners Group Publications, The Maltings, West Street, Bourne, Lincs. PE10 9 PH RadioUser - Britain’s best A2co0mp2lete1PDAF ArRchivCe ofHRadIioUVserE2021Coppiyaanprrcfitorgpcoirhseermtetepnethcaiciotsnnxoattulpfieoewuooarrdguetlnreeilmarosvatdplhnrsenareruaslaretdya,bitwosadgflrtpinroieheusneorphreaagbsntrerrsaaioaseddi,ksddnidbptevoturheienheilnccoinetlotibeys.taitoiheyotAbafniogsallnRcelrrniduCar.naidertdWpDdr.aweiwhPaosenhistosUertaocincasfilcanuegaeneanlibsdrlvo2nnylte0raenoon2not,1dt . Archive CD 2021 Index ommended OUR PRICE SUBSCRIBER PRICE Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0 and above rec selling listening magazine £47.99 PLUS £23.99 PLUS P&P P&P Regular Columns: Radio Astronomy for Amateurs (Andrew Thomas) ..............................................................02/34 Radio Cardiff (Richard Nosworthy) ....................................................................................09/34 Aerials Now (Keith Rawlings) ....................................... 01/53; 02/54; 03/24; 04/60; 05/56; 06/56; Raiders, Jed Sets, Gibson Girls, and Biscuit Tins (Tony Smith) .............................................05/38 07/52; 08/54; 09/60; 10/60; 11/26; 12/34 RAJAR: Measuring Radio Audiences (David Harris) .............................................................02/12 Reception Reports & QDLs in the Age of Remote SDRs (Stig Hartvig Nielsen) ....................... 03/58; Air Shows (David Smith) ..............................................................................08/23; 09/22; 10/11; Scanning Memories (Anne Reed) .......................................................................................06/27 Airband News (David Smith) ......................................... 01/30; 02/30; 03/28; 04/38; 05/30; 06/30; The dependable ‘Angry-9’: Workhorse of the Special Forces (Tony Smith)..............................09/46 The Wonder of the Transistor (Geoffrey Evans) ...................................................................02/42 07/30; 08/20; 09/20; 10/20; 11/30; 12/42 Time Measurement and Radio (David Reynolds)..................................................................01/34 Book Review (David Harris)......................................................01/18; 03/42; 04/14; 05/14; 06/14; Ultra-Light DXing (Clint Gouveia) .......................................................................................11/38 Waves and the Virus (Part 1) (Ed.)...................................................................................... 03/44 07/14; 08/18; 09/18;10/12; 11/15; 12/18 Waves and the Virus (Part 2) (Ed.)...................................................................................... 04/56 Digital Radio (Kevin Ryan) ............................................ 01/56; 02/57; 03/49; 04/47; 05/34; 06/44; Other Contributions 07/44; 08/42; 09/43; 10/41; 11/44; 12/44 Emerging Issues in Radio (Chrissy Brand) .01/20; 02/20; 03/20; 04/53; 05/10; 06/16; 07/16; 08/14; A Dedication to Air band (Rick King) ..................................................................................03/12 Annual Listening Handbooks & Frequency Guides (David Harris)..........................................02/14 09/14; 10/34; 11/34; 12/14 Book Review Extra (Robert Connolly) .................................................................................11/14 European Private Short Wave Stations........................... 02/28; 03/23; 04/13; 05/17; 06/23; 07/12; Book Review Extra (Tim Kirby) ...........................................................................................03/27 (Stig Hartvig Nielsen) ..............................................................08/22; 09/27; 10/53; 11/43; 12/29 Competition: Bhi 5W Amplified In-Line Module....................................................................12/39 International Radio Scene | ........................................... 01/44; 02/46; 03/16; 04/50; 05/22; 06/47; Competition: Inrico T-310 ..................................................................................................10/31 New Media and Internet Radio ....................................... 07/48; 08/46; 09/24; 10/22; 11/20; 12/20 Feedback and Corrections............................................................................ 05/59; 08/12; 09/53 Maritime Matters (Robert Connolly) .............................. 01/50; 02/50; 03/60; 04/34; 05/18; 06/60; From Black Cats to Carrier Sleuths (Chris Smolinski).............................................................3/11 Going VLF with the Reuter RLA (Ed.) ..................................................................................08/28 07/60; 08/60; 09/49; 10/56; 11/60; 12/60 Inspiring Radio Reading and Radio Books (David Harris) .....................................................12/59 Publications and Resources ......................................................................... 09/12; 10/59; 11/25 PskovNDB: A Visual Tool for NDB DXers (Ed.) .....................................................................04/10 Push-to-Talk | Two-Way Radio Today (Tim Kirby) ..................................04/16; 08/57; 10/28; 12/56 Radio Officers: A Window in Time (Scott Caldwell & Robert Connolly) ..................................05/16 Radio in History (Scott Caldwell)..............................................01/48; 02/24; 03/38; 04/40; 05/46; Scanning Scene Extra: Amateur Radio (Tim Kirby) ...............................................................02/60 UK Airband Frequency Guide (UKAFG) 2021 (Ed.)................................................................02/49 07/20; 08/50; 09/40; 10/54; 11/52; 12/52 Where Radio and Space Intersect (Ed.) ..............................................................................03/52 Scanning Scene | Scanning Scene Extra (see below) (Tim Kirby) .......................................... 02/60 Signals from Space (Tim Kirby)...................................... 01/38; 03/54; 05/42; 07/56; 09/56; 11/56 Reviews/ Projects: TV and Radio – Past and Present .................................. 01/60; 02/38; 03/30; 04/28; 05/49; 06/51; (Keith Hamer & Garry Smith) ......................................... 07/41; 08/39; 09/37; 10/38; 11/48; 12/48 A Long Wave Receiver for BBC Radio 4 (Roger Thomas) ......................................................04/43 ATS-20 SI4732 Receiver (Ed.) ............................................................................................12/40 Commissioned Features: Belka DX HF Receiver (Clint Gouveia) .................................................................................06/24 bhi 5W Amplified In-Line Module (Ed.) ...............................................................................12/38 A Remarkable Feline Operator (David Smith)....................................................................... 10/26 ELAD FDM-S3 Direct Sampling Wideband Receiver (Clint Gouveia) .......................................04/20 A Year in the Life of the BBC (Tony Smith) .......................................................................... 12/24 Icom IC-M94DE (Robert Connolly) .....................................................................................09/54 Amateur Radio Distance-Learning in the UK (Steve Hartley) ................................................. 05/26 Inrico T-310 (Tim Kirby) .....................................................................................................10/28 Broadcasting and the Media in Afghanistan (Martín Butera)................................................. 11/16 Moonraker Mini1300 Antenna Analyser (Keith Rawlings) ....................................................05/56 Contemporary Brazilian Radio............................................................................................ 01/14 Moonraker X1-HF Vertical Antenna (Ed.) ............................................................................12/12 Education and Radio in Brazil (Martín Butera) ..................................................................... 05/60 RFinder B-1 Dual Band DMR 4G/LTE Transceiver (Tim Kirby) ................................................06/40 Emergency Communications at Sea (John Periam & Geoffrey Lee) ...................................... 07/36 Sandstrøm Internet Bluetooth DAB Radio (Kevin Ryan) ........................................................06/44 Fading (Part 1) (Nils Schiffhauer) ...................................................................................... 07/24 Tecsun H-501x Deluxe Short Wave Radio and Audio Player (Chrissy Brand)...........................12/14 Fading (Part 2) (Nils Schiffhauer) ...................................................................................... 08/24 Tecsun PL-330 (Chrissy Brand) .........................................................................................05/10 HMS Collingwood (Keith Rawlings) ................................................................................... 12/30 Telestar DIRA M 6i (Kevin Ryan) .........................................................................................12/44 Hobby Radio in Emergencies (Peter Hyams) ....................................................................... 03/34 Vine Antennas AS-OCF-404-HP (Keith Rawlings) ................................................................06/56 Low-Power Long-Range Radio (Daimon Tilley) .................................................................... 01/24 Medium Wave DXing (Scott Caldwell) ................................................................................ 06/20 Meteorological Radio: Resources and Techniques (Ed.)....................................................... 10/45 Noise Cancellations: A Beginners’ Guide (Graham Somerville) ............................................. 09/28 Oliver Lodge (Ed.) ............................................................................................................. 06/34 PanAm Global Radio (Mark Allen) ...................................................................................... 08/34 Portishead Radio Aeronautical Service (Larry Bennett)........................................................ 01/41 PPE: Observatório Nacional, Brasil (Martín Butera).............................................................. 10/14 Order at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store/bookshop or call 01778 395161 July 2022 RadioUser 15
In the Editor’s Shack Georg Wiessala [emailprotected] There have been several new 1 noise-cancelling products of late, aiming for both the professional The Cancellator: and amateur markets. From with- Xiegu GNR1 Digital in the latter segment, many radio amateurs Audio Noise Filter are known to use some kind of filter or noise suppressing device, to improve the clarity of This month, the editor has had the opportunity to evaluate speech and audio resolution. the new Xiegu GNR1 Denoiser and Digital Audio Filter, from the perspective of an SWL interested in mainly Broadcast I have still got the old ERA BP34 in my Listening and some Utility Monitoring. shack as a simple general audio filter. It was high time for something new. Therefore, • Adjustment of High or Low Input Unboxing and in Operation when the new Xiegu GNR1 Digital Audio Impedance Noise Filter (Figs. 1 and 2) from Nevada The unit came in a sturdy box and was well Radio arrived here in the editor’s ‘man-cave’ • Automatic selection of headphone or packed and padded. It comes with a German- I was keen to put it to use. speaker output. style plug for the 12V power adapter (Fig. 2) https://www.nevadaradio.co.uk – naturally, a UK 3-Pin capable adaptor is in- • Availability of both RCA and 3.5 mm out- cluded by the kind folks at Nevada. I have done so, not with a ham radio per- put ports (see photographs), and spective in mind, but from the point of view Or do as I do and run the device off a re- of an HF broadcast radio listener or DXer, • Independent control of Input and output chargeable Lithium-ion battery, in my case a with the occasional urge to explore the volume(s) TalentCell YB120333-USB 12V model. world of wider HF voice communications and utility (data) transmissions. You can conveniently download a pdf file There was also a high-quality stereo 3.5 copy of the manual from the Nevada Radio mm-to-3.5 mm audio cable. The Xiegu GNR1 is a ‘new kid on the Downloads pages: block’, in an increasingly crowded market https://tinyurl.com/23ztmn65 Do make sure that you use this kind of for noise reduction units. It is reassuring- lead, not cables with 3.5 mm mono connec- ly solid, is housed in a full-metal box, and At the time of writing, the main technical tors, for this device. weighs in at just under 1kg (858g). specifications of the Xiegu GNR1 were indi- cated, in the manual and online, as shown At the back, there is (right to left) the 12V The unit looks and feels ‘the business’ for in Table 1. power adapter input, a line-in 3.5 mm con- your shack. According to the documenta- nector (‘-LINE- IN’), the input-impedance tion available, one of its key selling points is that it combines audio processing technol- ogy utilizing both digital noise reduction and digital filtering. The (short) instruction leaf- let – in largely understandable ‘Chinglish’ – tantalisingly promises that this filter will, “dynamically decorate your listening enjoy- ment”. More seriously, it also foregrounds the ability of the GNR1 to seamlessly work with many receivers, transceivers and other sources; plus, it offers a built-in speaker- driver. The GNR1 has been designed to do three things, viz: • It progressively minimises background noise, • It improves the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), and, therefore, • It enhances the resolution of signals no- ticeably (‘to an identifiable degree’). Ideally, it is meant to be connected to a passive speaker providing (up to) 3W audio output power. Other features stressed in the current online (and printed) materials in- clude the following: Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 16 RadioUser July 2022
In the Editor’s Shack ALL PICTURES: GEORG WIESSALA 2 selector (‘LO’ | ‘HI’), and two inputs for RCA- fully turned down (anti-clockwise, left). Fig. 1: What’s on the Box. Fig. 2: The Xiegu type of 3.5 mm-type audio input from your I found that I only needed to crank this up GNR1 Digital Audio Noise Filter. Fig. 3: On radio (‘SP 1 | 2’). The input impedance selec- the 20m band, LZ1GU was transmitting on tion depends on the output impedance of a bit to achieve a very satisfying level of dis- 14206.85kHz, and I could understand (almost) the receiver you are connecting to this. tortion-free noise cancellation. When listen- every word from a heavily-accented speaker. ing in to HF voice broadcasts, for example, Fig. 4: Front panel of the Xiegu GNR1, with the HF Broadcasts Shannon VOLMET (5505kHz) or amateur L-CUT and H-CUT controls. Fig. 5: Enjoying a and Radio Amateurs radio (ham) transmissions (Fig. 3; LZ1GU favourite, noise-free, French LW radio broadcast on 14206,85kHz in the 20-m band), I turned on RTL (234kHz). Fig. 6: Going portable with an I connected the unit to my traditional AOR the noise cancellation knob up a bit more, to ATS25 (SI4155) radio. Fig. 7: Visualising the AR7030 HF Receiver to engage in some (day- lower the noise carpet. use of the Xiegu GNR1’s controls with SeaTTY, time and evening) DXing on Medium Wave on an RTTY transmission. Fig. 8: Download and Short Wave. I focussed on speech pro- In the long run, this causes much less lis- Friture to see how adjusting the Xiegu GNR1 grammes. tening fatigue. It also works well when the affects the signal. Fig. 9: Spirit Radio (549kHz) person you are listening to presents you is coming in strongly here in the Northwest. I then repeated this with a very old Lowe with a strong accent or some idiosyncratic HF225 HF receiver (Fig. 9). diction. Begin with L-CUT turned fully down (anti- clockwise, left) and H-CUT turned fully up First, I sought – and established – a rea- In all of these cases, I used the digital fil- (clockwise, right); then, start turning un- sonable balance of my receivers’ volume ters (L-CUT | H-CUT) to fine-tune things to til you are happy. This is a very subjective controls and the Xiegu’s input level, to raise my liking, and, more importantly, to my abil- choice, and your settings may very well dif- the volume to a comfortable point. ity to hear and understand. As the names fer from the ones I was happy with. would suggest, L-CUT manipulates the low- Then I turned to the noise-reduction con- er frequency component, while H-CUT cuts trol, to get rid of the ‘hiss, crackle and pop’. off the high-frequency part (Fig. 4). Begin with the noise-reduction control knob Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 17
In the Editor’s Shack 3 • De-noiser (Noise Cancelling): more than 4 22dB. Comfortable Results full and clear understandability. • Digital Filter: L-CUT (‘L’) control: 5Hz to For the limited amount of HF utility lis- 1280Hz | H-CUT (‘H’): 500Hz to 5615Hz. In any case, you will find that this unit invites you to experiment a bit, with the noise-reduc- tening I did do, for instance, aeronautical • Headphone Driver: max 100mW | tion, input/ output volume and high/ low fil- weather (VOLMET) transmissions, once Headphone Output Impedance: 16~64Ω. ter settings, until you find the ‘sweet spot’ for again the unit came into its own here and yourself. resolved what can sometimes be a mush • Input Impedance Range: Low: 16Ω | High: of mumbling from a synthetic voice into a 10kΩ. Once I had determined the golden mean, much clearer speech melody. A pleasure to as it were, this unit was a pleasure to use, use in fact. • Speaker Output Power: ≥3W (8Ω, and it did make an appreciable difference. THD≤0.2%) I listen to a lot of foreign-language broad- In general, I found that I left the L-CUT casts on Long and Medium Wave, for ex- knob quite a bit to the left while fine-tuning • Speaker Output Impedance: 4~16Ω. ample, RTL on 234kHz (Figs. 5 and 9), what my further listening with the H-CUT one. • Operating Voltage: DC12V:t15%. is left coming out of Belgium and Germany Once again, though, this only reflects my • Dimensions: 159 x 44 x 143 mm. on this band; and especially the enjoyable hearing preferences and individual shack Dutch weekend pirates around 1620kHz. (general noise environment) conditions. XIEGU Communication Technology Co., Ltd. In all these cases, it matters for the lis- Other Experiments Building C (3) tener to be able to understand each word, Futai Hi-Tech Park phrase or nuance. The Xiegu did not disap- For a more modest but effective setup, this No. 8 Quingfeng South Road point here, lifting many a broadcast out of can work in a mobile listening post too. Take Tangxia Town the ubiquitous audio fog and into the area of this on your journeys, with a small speaker Dongguan City Guangdong Province PRC [emailprotected] [emailprotected] www.cqxigu.com Table 1: Xiegu GNR1 Digital Audio Noise Filter: Technical Specifications (Source: Manual, p. 1). Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 18 RadioUser July 2022
In the Editor’s Shack 6 7 5 and a receiver such as the ATS-25 (SI4732) it, via your Xiegu unit and PC USB sound 8 radio or one of the Sangean and Tecsun port- card, you can appreciate even more how ables we have recently reviewed here and the L-CUT and H-CUT controls move around 9 listen in to radio amateurs, broadcasts or and cut off the relevant lower and higher fre- weather radio wherever you are, and in a man- quency portions (Fig. 8). controls a bit like ‘Bass’ and ‘Treble’. Music ner that you can tailor to your exact auditory https://friture.org/download.html from Spirit Radio in Ireland (549kHz) never requirements (Fig. 6). sounded so good here (Fig. 9). Or you can fire up Spectrum Lab and ob- If you like receiving weather facsim- serve how the unit ‘shifts’ the signals. This is where Alan Roe’s Selection of ile (WXFAX) transmissions from inter- Music Programmes on Shortwave Music on national weather services, such as GYA All this is very educational, and it made a Short Wave comes into its own. (JOMOC/ Northwood; 8040kHz) or the perceptible difference to the resolution of https://tinyurl.com/4te6br64 German Weather Service DDH7 (Deutscher my utility signals reception – but I would not Wetterdienst, DWD; 7880kHz), it is fun to go out and buy the Xiegu unit just for this. My warm thanks go to Nevada, for the connect this unit to your PC via a sound card kind loan of the review unit. The Xiegu and use it as a (kind of) ‘tuning-aid’. In Conclusion GNR1 Digital Audio Noise Filter is available from Nevada Radio now, at a retail price of You can start a decoder, such as SeaTTY Well, did I have my “listening enjoyment dy- £229.95, incl. VAT. (or Zorns-Lemma 11.42) and watch what namically decorated?” Yes, there is no doubt https://www.nevadaradio.co.uk happens to the signal if you change the that I well and truly did. The Xiegu GNR1 L-CUT and H-CUT controls, or play with the Digital Audio Noise Filter does its job very levels of volume and noise reduction: well, indeed. The idea of a ‘two-in-one’, inte- grated, noise reduction circuit and sharp digi- Begin with both L-CUT and H-CUT in tal filters works well, and the two key features roughly the ’12 o’clock Position’, then try to easily operate in concert with one another. maximise your signal peaks, as it were. I feel that, perhaps, its main niche will be Watch how increasing the noise reduction its use with older, more traditional HF receiv- impacts signal levels. ers (and transceivers), where it makes a sig- nificant difference to broadcast speech and The screenshot in Fig. 7 shows an RTTY utility signals. signal, routed via the Xiegu unit, with the low sector of the frequency peaks cut down. It is not built for music but it actually ‘rocks’ on music stations on Medium Wave/ Furthermore, if you download a package SW too if you treat the ‘L-CUT’ and ‘H-CUT’ like Friture, and run a Fax/RTTY signal into Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 19
Airband News David Smith [emailprotected] The Ukraine war continues to have a 1 severe effect on flight patterns, es- pecially for those operators banned Jamming Issues, from Russian and Belarusian air- Unknown Flights & space. The extra flight time on long haul Electronic Warfare routes has led to some airlines cancel- ling connections. For example, Finnair has David Smith witnesses more intense NATO activity stopped flights from Helsinki to Beijing, and over Eastern Europe, assesses changes in military SAS has ceased flying from Copenhagen to training airspace, outlines electronic warfare evasion, Tokyo. Frankfurt is sufficiently far south that visits a virtual tower and profiles RNAS Culdrose. there is no additional flying to reach destina- tions in India and South-East Asia. at Ramstein, Germany for onward transit to Forte call signs continue to operate at a the US and examination by intelligence agen- high level, along with much lower Romanian Warnings have been issued about several cies. It is believed that a Krasukha-4 system drones just off the Black Sea coast. potential hazards to civilian aircraft. Most se- was used against Turkish Bayraktar TB2 rious are errors of civil aircraft identification drones in Syria, interfering with their control Unusual was SVF645, a Swedish Air Force by ground military forces and airborne assets signal and causing them to crash. Gulfstream 4 patrolling the Belarus border outside the conflict zone. As shown by pre- on 4 May. A rare movement on 3 May was a vious wars, misidentification is easy in con- No doubt, the equipment was flown to the Kawasaki C-2 twin-jet transport JF421 of the fused arenas of warfare. Added to this is the US aboard a C-5 Galaxy or C-17 Globemaster Japan Air Self-Defence Force, which landed likelihood of the jamming of electronic aids of the USAF’s Air Mobility Command. Both at Rzeszow with humanitarian aid supplies. that may be involved with navigation and/or types are in continuous operation across the Also, a long way from home was a Royal aircraft identification tools. Atlantic, identified by their Reach call signs. New Zealand Air Force C-130 which made Electronic surveillance has been maintained frequent flights within mainland Europe. Thus it is easy to see the potential for ‘in- along the Ukraine and Moldova borders with Another rarity was Swash 30, a USAF Dornier nocent’ aircraft being subjected to missiles Poland and Romania. Tanker aircraft too, are C-146 Wolfhound transport into Riga, Latvia or radar-guided weapons. GPS signal ma- well in evidence, too much so on 4 May when on 15 May. nipulation by electronic warfare systems can a hose with bucket attachment was found lead to navigation or surveillance degrada- on a Polish roadside! This was under a refu- ElectronicWarfare Evasion tion. The GPS signal may be disturbed in elling track designated TSA 22 (Temporary countries adjacent to the conflict zones and Segregated Area). Global Hawk drones with Persistent Systems LLC in New York affect the operation of aircraft en-route, as is introducing the Multi-Band Tracking well as during approach and departure. GPS interference may be only temporary, pilots should be aware of this risk, and the contin- gency procedures for loss of GNSS should be included in flight planning. Between Finnish and Estonian territorial waters there is a narrow corridor of neu- tral sea, providing Russia with access to the Baltic Sea and Kaliningrad. Unidentified air- craft using these routes can conflict with oth- er traffic, rendering it important that the latter are using their transponders, have filed flight plans, and communicate with ATC. Such un- known flights over neutral waters have in- creased significantly, increasing ATC work- load, and imposing an effect on the flight profiles of civilian aircraft. UkraineWar Notes Ukraine has seized the truck-mounted command module of a Krasukha-4, one of Russia’s most advanced electronic warfare systems. The hi-tech unit was found aban- doned on the outskirts of Kyiv. The system is designed to jam low-orbit satellites, drones, and missiles, but it is also believed to be able to track NATO aircraft. It is thought to have been taken by road to the USAF base Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 20 RadioUser July 2022
Airband News Antenna. It will improve ground-based Military ATC Profiles No 15: Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose communications and tracking with friendly ICAO Code: EGDR manned and unmanned aircraft, even in the presence of electronic warfare jamming Frequencies (MHz) and in GPS-denied environments. The tracking system remains locked onto the Culdrose Approach 282.575; 134.050 aircraft and mission data continues to flow Culdrose Radar 279.700; 375.700 without disruption. The antenna can find Culdrose Director 231.775; 123.300* and follow aircraft without using a satellite- Culdrose Talkdown 336.300; 336.525; 123.300* based tracking system like GNSS or GPS. Culdrose Tower 370.650; 122.100* This capability maintains connectivity with Culdrose Ground 241.925 intelligence and surveillance aircraft, even Station Ops 5696kHz. when these systems are disrupted, denied, or spoofed. It can mount two MPU5 MANET *NATO Common Frequency available on request only. radios, each operating on a different radio frequency (RF) band. When encountering ATIS 278.900 interference, the system automatically Culdrose Information ILS/DME Runway 29 switches to the band that delivers maximum Navaids NDB CUL 370.00kHz performance. 11 (1829 x 45m) | 29 (1829 x 45m) | 06 (1045 x 45m) | 24 Runways The system comes with a single multi- (1045 x 45m). 18 (1055 x 45m) | 36 (1055 x 45m). band/multi-polarity antenna feed. There is no need to change the feed when chang- NOTES (A-Z) ing RF bands; a single feed covers L-, S-, and C-Bands. The feed also has independent hor- Arresting Systems izontal and vertically polarized inputs, ena- Runways 11 and 29 RAF Type-A. bling polarization diversity and maximizing MIMO (multiple-input, multiple-output) radio Ground Movement capacity. Dedicated Ground Frequency. All aircraft are to use hard surfaces only. Changes to the NorthWales Helicopter Landing Areas Military Training Area Left and right of all runways and all open grass areas. Helicopter landing areas are established in the vicinity of compass bases at W and E. During night flying standard glim lamps are used for helicop- Changes to the NWMTA took effect on 19th May, following the need to progressively ters operating on the field. align with the UK Airspace Modernisation Strategy and the requirements of Advanced Helicopter Operations Flexible Use of Airspace. The vertical and Helicopter circuits at 1,000ft QFE. Landing clearance is valid for the whole of the runway. lateral dimensions of the NWMTA have not changed, but the airspace has moved from Holding static published timings to being activated Culdrose NDB. by NOTAM. Local Danger Areas The term ‘NOTAM’ is derived from Notice Crossing service is available for EG D005A, D005B, D006B, and D006C. to Airmen, also known as Notice to Air Missions in its American Federal Aviation Military Aerodrome Traffic Zone Administration (FAA) definition. It is defined Circle radius 5nm, surface up to 3,000ft Above Aerodrome Level with stub aligned on Runway 29. as a notice containing information on the es- tablishment, condition or change in any aero- Military Instrument Departures nautical facility, service, procedure or hazard, Established from all six runways. the timely knowledge of which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations. Noise Abatement Procedures NOTAMs are issued by national authorities for a variety of reasons. Just a few examples Night circuits are orientated away from Helston. Use of Re-heat to be minimised. Fixed-wing run and are hazards, such as air-shows, parachute breaks not below 1,000ft QFE. jumps and glider or micro-light flying, closed runways, taxiways, unserviceable radio navi- Operational Hours gational aids; military exercises with result- Mon-Thurs 0830-1700, Fri 0830- 1400. ing airspace restrictions, and flights by VIPs, such as heads of state. Training The Aerodrome is used extensively for helicopter aircrew training. Visiting aircraft should book train- NOTAMs are communicated by the issuing agency using the fastest available means ing in advance. Acceptance may be cancelled at short notice due to traffic density. Continued on page 23 Use of Runways Runway 11/29 primary runway for fixed-wing / heavy and fast jets. Visiting Aircraft Arrivals Owing to intensive helicopter operations, visiting fixed-wing aircraft are to call Culdrose Approach at least 20nm from the airfield. Pilots are to carry out an instrument approach or a Radar-to-visual straight-in-approach. Visual Flight Rules (VFR) joins are not normally permitted. Visiting rotary-wing aircraft must avoid built-up areas, particularly Helston, Porthleven and Mullion. Warnings Due to mixed fixed/rotary wing operations, the deadside is limited to a line drawn through the red and white Precision Approach Radar building northside and parallel to Runway 11RHC/ 29 at 700ft. Rotary wing circuits are flown to the left and right of the runway in use, more than one runway may be in use at the same time. Helicopters not above 500ft QFE when operating within 2nm of the AD. All Surveillance Radar Approaches will terminate at 1nm, due to equipment limitations. Instrument Approach Procedures for this aerodrome are established outside controlled airspace. High-Intensity helicopter operations at Predannack, 5nm south. Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 21
Airshows Airshows David Smith presents Part Three of the current RadioUser Guide to UK air shows, history-days out, flypasts, displays, and special aeronautical feats and feasts. une 23rd to 26th (Thursday to Sunday) July 2nd (Saturday) July 9th & 10th (Saturday & Sunday) July 23rd (Saturday) FESTIVAL OF SPEED: Goodwood, West TEIGNMOUTH AIRSHOW:Teign- SOUTHPORT AIRSHOW: Southport DUXFORD FLYING DAY - THE AMERI- Sussex PO18 0PH. Cars & motorcycles mouth, DevonTQ14 8BB. Participants to Seafront, Southport, Merseyside PR8 CANS: Duxford, Cambs CB22 4QR. A but includes some air displays. be announced shortly. 1RY. Not a free show but always has a themed display celebrating 25 years Tel: 01243 755 055 Tel: 07464 750 735 full programme of aerial performers. since the American Air Museum at Dux- www.teignmouthairshow.co.uk www.visitsouthport.com/airshow ford opened. It also commemorates the June 24th to 26th (Friday to Sunday) history of the US Army Air Force fighter BATTLE OF BRITAIN AIRSHOW: Head- July 2nd (Saturday) July 15th to 17th (Friday to Sunday) unit once based here. corn Airfield, Nr Maidstone, KentTN27 WALLOP WINGS & WHEELS: Army ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TAT- https://tinyurl.com/h6cvtsc9 9HX. Displays by aircraft of the Battle of Flying Museum, Middle Wallop, Stock- TOO: RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire GL7 Britain era, plus ground attractions for bridge, Hampshire SO20 8FB. 4EG. Billed as the world’s biggest mili- July 23rd & 24th (Saturday & Sunday) all the family. Tel: 01264 781 086 tary airshow with around eight hours of VINTAGE AIRCRAFT CLUB FLY-IN: https://tinyurl.com/5xdkfpc8 https://tinyurl.com/2p83yf3y flying each day. Bodmin Airfield, Cornwall PL30 4BU. www.airtattoo.com Cornwall Flying Club is hosting a Fly-In June 25th (Saturday) July 2nd & 3rd (Saturday & Sunday) for the VAC (Vintage Aircraft Club). NATIONAL ARMED FORCES DAY: CAPEL MILITARY SHOW: Aldhurst July 16th (Saturday) www.bodminairfield.com/events North & South Bay Beach, Foreshore Farm, Capel, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 BATTLE PROMS: Hatfield House, Hat- Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire 5HJ. Mainly an extensive ground show, field, Hertfordshire AL9 5NQ. A two-hour July 30th (Saturday) YO11 2ES. A major event with both air & with some helicopter fly-ins. orchestral programme, plus a Red Devils BATTLE PROMS: Highclere Castle, ground displays Tel: 07926 925 547 parachute jump & a Spitfire display. Newbury RG20 9RN. Another two-hour Tel: 01723 232 323 www.capelmilitaryshow.com orchestral programme in a stately home https://tinyurl.com/4ezsmvb3 July 16th (Saturday) setting, with appearances by the Red July 2nd & 3rd (Saturday & Sunday) EVENING DRIVE-IN AIRSHOW: Old Devils Parachute DisplayTeam. plus a June 25th (Saturday) WALES AIRSHOW: Swansea Bay, Warden, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire Spitfire. ARMED FORCES DAY: Stow Maries Glamorgan SA1 9SA. A seafront display SG18 9EP. Celebrating the 90th an- Aerodrome, Flambards Chase, Hack- with supporting ground events. niversary of Old Warden aerodrome’s July 30th & 31st (Saturday & Sunday) mans Lane, Purleigh, Essex CM3 6RJ. Tel: 01792 637 300 opening. OLD BUCKENHAM AIR SHOW: Old Celebrating the armed forces with air & www.walesnationalairshow.com Tel: 01767 627 927 Buckenham, Norfolk NR17 1PU. An ex- ground displays. https://tinyurl.com/yc423aac cellent mix of warbirds & civilian aircraft, July 3rd (Sunday) classic & military vehicles, plus many June 25th (Saturday) FLY NAVY: Old Warden, Biggleswade, July 16th (Saturday) ground-based events. PLYMOUTH ARMED FORCES DAY: Bedfordshire SG18 9EP. Features a va- G-GEORGE DAY: Breighton Airfield, www.oldbuckenhamairshow.com Plymouth Hoe, Plymouth PL1 2PA. Air & riety of naval aircraft, including helicop- Breighton, Selby, East Yorkshire YO8 ground displays. ters, plus ground attractions. 6DS. Celebrating a Lancaster which flew July 30th to August 6th (Sat. to Sat.) |Tel: 01767 627 927 from here in 1942 & is now preserved SWANAGE CARNIVAL WEEK: Swa- June 25th & 26th (Saturday & Sunday) www.shuttleworth.org/product/flynavy in Australia.This is a member event for nage Bay, Dorset BH19 1LD. A week of NORTHEAST LINCOLNSHIRE ARMED The Real Aeroplane Club at Breighton, family activities, which usually includes FORCES DAY: Cleethorpes DN35 0AR. July 3rd (Sunday) but memberships can be purchased on some air displays. Ground event with some air displays. LAA STRUT & BOLKOW FLY-IN: Pop- the day. www.swanagecarnival.com https://tinyurl.com/3s7u8bjs ham Airfield, Coxford Down, Winchester www.realaero.com/bugle SO21 3BD. Mainly for Light Aircraft As- August 1st (Monday) June 25th & 26th (Saturday & Sunday) sociation members but the general pub- July 16th & 17th (Saturday & Sunday) DUXFORD FLYING DAY - ‘YOUNG AVI- WESTON AIR FESTIVAL & ARMED lic are welcome too. WINGS & WHEELS: North Coates Air- ATORS’: Duxford, Cambs CB22 4QR. A FORCES WEEKEND: Weston Bay, Wes- Tel: 01256 397 733 field, Grimsby DN36 5XU. Organised by themed show aimed at fostering chil- ton-Super-Mare, Somerset BS23 1BE. www.popham-airfield.co.uk North Coates Flying Club. dren’s interest in aviation. Air displays & ground activities along the https://tinyurl.com/5n8fnn7j https://tinyurl.com/5cv4bkxh seafront. July 9th (Saturday) www.westonairfestival.com BATTLE PROMS: Burghley House, July 18th to 22nd (Monday to Friday) August 5th to 14th (Friday to Sunday) Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 3JY. A two- FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL FALMOUTH WEEK: Falmouth Seafront July 2nd (Saturday) hour orchestral programme in a stately AIRSHOW: Farnborough Aerodrome, TR11 3DF.August. Mostly sailing & on- BATTLE PROMS: Blenheim Palace, home setting, which is expected to in- Hampshire GU14 6AZ.The first few days shore events but there would normally Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL. A clude a Red Devils parachute jump & a are for trade only, but Friday has special be some flying on Wednesday. two-hour orchestral programme in a Spitfire display. features for younger people & is open to falmouthweek.co.uk stately home setting, plus Spitfire dis- https://tinyurl.com/44dhjax8 the public. play & Red Devils ParachuteTeam. www.farnboroughairshow.com Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 22 RadioUser July 2022
Airshows August 6th (Saturday) history groups, plus air displays. August 27th (Saturday) Continued from page 21 EAST KIRKBY AIRSHOW: Lincolnshire https://tinyurl.com/3v9vzn4r WINGS & WHEELS: Henstridge Airfield, Aviation Heritage Centre, East Kirkby, Henstridge Marsh, Somerset BA8 0TA. to all addressees for whom the Lincs PE23 4DE.Three hours of flying, August 18th to 21st (Thursday to Sunday) No air displays but many classic cars & information is assessed as being plus Lancaster & Mosquito taxying. AIRBOURNE - EASTBOURNE INTER- visiting aircraft. Visitors will be able to of direct operational significance, https://tinyurl.com/3htc783r NATIONAL AIRSHOW: Eastbourne, inspect them. and who would not otherwise 01790 763207 BN21 YT. Seafront air displays through- www.wingsandwheelshenstridge.com have at least seven days prior out, including the Red Arrows on all four notification. Snow conditions are August 7th (Sunday) days. August 27th & 28th (Saturday & Sunday) notified by a special message FAMILY AIRSHOW: Old Warden, Big- www.visiteastbourne.com/airshow RHYL AIR SHOW: Rhyl, Denbighshire, called a ‘SNOWTAM’. Similarly, gleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 9EP. Fea- 01323 415415 North Wales LL19 3AF. Free seafront air- volcanic ash is notified as a turing a large number of resident & visit- show with military & civil aircraft. message known as an ‘ASHTAM’. ing aircraft. August 20th (Saturday) https://tinyurl.com/5cbcr3s6 PROMS SPECTACULAR: Stansted August 28th (Sunday) Adapting to the 01767 627927 Park, Rowlands Castle, Hampshire PO9 LITTLE GRANSDEN AIR & CAR SHOW: Digital ControlTower 6DX. Spitfire display & parachuting, fol- Fullers Hill Farm, Little Gransden, Cambs August 11th to 14th (Thursday to Sunday) lowed by live concert & fireworks. SG19 3BP. Always a popular family event It is now more than a year since BRISTOL INTERNATIONAL BALLOON www.belevents.ticketsrv.co.uk/content with several hours of display flying. London City Airport successfully FIESTA: Ashton Court Estate, Bristol www.littlegransdenairshow.co.uk transitioned to a digital tower and BS8 3TQ. Billed as Europe’s largest bal- August 20th (Saturday) began controlling flights from a looning event, a free family event with SHUTTLEWORTH FLYING PROMS: First published in 1986 as Air Band Ra- new remote-control room, based huge numbers of balloons getting air- Old Warden, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire dio Handbook, David J Smith’s AirTraf- at the Swanwick Area Control borne, as well as ‘night-glows’. SG18 9EP. An evening air display com- fic Control Handbook (pictured) is now Centre. Instead of from a physical www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk bined with classical music played by a published in its 11th edition. From its tower at the airport, controllers full symphony orchestra. original publication, the book was ac- manage operations through 16 August 13th & 14th (Saturday & Sunday) https://tinyurl.com/58keker6 knowledged as the essential reference high-definition cameras and BLACKPOOL AIRSHOW:Tower Fes- 01767 627927 for ground-based airband listeners, sensors mounted on a mast, tival Headland, Blackpool, Lancashire as well as student and private pilots capturing a 360-degree view FY1 4BJ. Free seaside airshow centred August 21st (Sunday) and those with an interest in AirTraffic of the airport. Fortuitously, the just to the left of the Northern Victorian FOLKESTONE AIR DISPLAY:The Leas, Control.This new edition has been ful- pandemic enabled the staff to pier. Folkestone. A seafront display which in- ly updated with changes in procedure, familiarise themselves with https://tinyurl.com/2zxsx5bk cludes the Red Arrows. radio frequencies and call signs, and is the radically new operation https://tinyurl.com/bdhzk3w5 illustrated in colour, making the book while traffic was relatively low. August 13th & 14th (Saturday & Sunday) an incredible source of information The gradual increase to more COMBINED OPS: Headcorn Airfield, August 24th to 27th (Wed. to Saturday) for all those interested in the subject normal traffic has proved very Nr Maidstone, KentTN27 9HX. Mainly PORT OF DARTMOUTH ROYAL RE- and all those contemplating a career in smooth. A London City Watch ground displays including static military GATTA: Dartmouth, DevonTQ6 9PS. ATC. Retired AirTraffic controller Da- Manager commented: “In some vehicles & re-enactment groups, but Mainly sailing of course but there should vid J Smith’s accessible and compre- ways, everything has been there are usually some flying displays. be some air displays. hensive text explains the intricacies of easier than we expected. Really https://tinyurl.com/yu3kakxr https://tinyurl.com/5e5p9xae air traffic control and its jargon, ena- simple stuff, like eye fatigue bling the reader to locate and interpret from watching the screens, was August 13th & 14th (Saturday & Sunday) August 25th & 26th (Thursday & Friday) what is going on in the airways over- something that we and the NATS ‘ECHOES OF HISTORY’ SHOW: White- CLACTON AIR SHOW: West Green- head.This fully revised new edition is a Human Performance team were house Farm,The Living Memorial, Ret- sward, Clacton seafront, Clacton-on- book that no one with an interest in the concerned by, as it can be a lot tendon, Essex CM38DL. Mainly classic & Sea, Essex CO15 1NW. Free airshow subject can afford not to have on his or of time spent staring at fairly military vehicles plus re-enactors.There with a good mix of aircraft. her shelves . large screens, but it just isn’t a has been flying in the past. www.clactonairshow.com/2022 https://tinyurl.com/37zz78nd problem that’s developed, and usually some flying. we’ve had no issues there. We www.echoesofhistoryshow.com August 26th (Friday) were also wondering if having a SIDMOUTH AIR DISPLAY: Sidmouth, 360-degree view compressed into August 13th to 15th (Saturday to Monday) Devon EX2 4DR. Seafront show which in- 225 degrees would be difficult WHITBY REGATTA: Whitby, North York- cludes the Red Arrows. to adapt to, but it hasn’t been a shire. Red Arrows on the 13th, BBMF https://tinyurl.com/s7hzujrf problem and makes our lives a Lancaster on the 13th & 14th. lot easier, making sure the whole www.whitbyregatta.co.uk August 27th (Saturday) airfield is always within our eye- DUXFORD FLYING EVENING: Duxford, line”. August 13th to 19th (Saturday to Friday) Cambs CB22 4QR. Featuring vintage & CROMER CARNIVAL: Cromer, Norfolk classic aircraft. The picture of the month NR27 9HP. A week of events which in- https://tinyurl.com/5n76rwfw this time (Fig. 1) is of a North cludes the Red Arrows on the 17th. American F-100 Super Sabre at www.cromercarnival.co.uk August 27th (Saturday) the Dumfries & Galloway Aviation PROMS SPECTACULAR:Three Coun- Museum. August 14th (Sunday) ties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW. A TIME FOR ESSEX: Stow Maries Aero- Classical concert, parachuting & Spitfire drome, Flambirds Chase, Hackmans display. Lane, Purleigh, Essex CM3 6RJ. Living https://tinyurl.com/msvb27xm Follow us on Facebook @radioenthusiasts and Twitter @REnthusiasts July 2022 RadioUser 23
Feature ALL PICTURES: MARK ALLEN Mark Allen | PanAm Global Radio [emailprotected] It’s 2022, and the debate still rolls on: 1 Is high-frequency (HF) radio still a me- dium suitable for critical aviation com- HF Communications munications? The author regularly in Aviation sees references, in both trade publications and during meetings, claiming that HF radio Mark Allen makes a welcome return flight to RadioUser, as a medium is ‘dead’! to introduce the basics of HF communications in aviation and highlight the continuing significance of modern HF However, nothing could be further from radio technology for aeronautical communications. the truth; and in some circles, there is even a renaissance of HF activity. HF radio is in aircraft is not particularly clear, early HF radio routinely works over thousands a mature technology, which is now being documented experiments were conducted of miles. This occurs for several reasons: improved by the utilization of modern as early as 1913, through to 1919, to First, HF signals are reflected by the engineering techniques. These can provide establish the viability of HF radio in aircraft ionosphere. a spectrum of service and reliability for military uses. The early apparatus was unavailable with any other service. heavy and used long trailing wire antennas, Second, most aviation communications which were difficult to manage. take place on the Upper Sideband (USB). For several decades, there has This mode puts nearly all of the transmitter’s been discussion among aviators and In 1916, the Marconi Company (UK) begin power into an audio signal, providing many communicators, concerning the practical designing and producing its first air-to- times the effective power of a traditional use of HF radio in air traffic control and ground radio sets. AM transmitter. utility communications for aircraft, both in- flight and on the ground. HF Fundamentals Operation and Drawbacks At least twice in my career of more than HF radio or high-frequency radio is not When it comes to HF radio, theory and 50 years in this business, HF has been very ‘high’ at all in the overall spectrum reality often don’t meet as expected. declared ‘dead’ as a medium for such map. Aviation HF communications take Because of the way HF radio works, communications. Despite this, HF remains place in a frequency band from 2 to using the Earth’s ionosphere, it is subject a viable communications medium for 30MHz. Traditional HF communications to disturbances of the ionosphere from aviation networks. are tucked into a spot just above MF influences such as sunspots and other communications, which includes radiation products generated by our Technical Developments broadcasting and commercial AM radio, Sun. HF radio signal propagation is also and below commercial business radio dependent on the multilayered ionosphere Undoubtedly, advances in technology have services, which begin just above 30MHz. to reflect signals for distant reception. affected HF aviation communications. HF Probably the single greatest attribute of HF radio has been a major beneficiary of this communications is their ability to provide Since the ionosphere is greatly influenced new technology in the past few decades. very reliable long-range transmissions by the Sun, its use as a reflection tool can be The situation is improving with the advent and reception well beyond line-of-sight. limited, on account of the vagaries of space of software-defined receivers, improved weather. HF radio propagation prediction antenna modelling, and an additional understanding of HF propagation. For example, we now have SELCAL (Selective Call) signals and CPDLC (co*ckpit Data Link Communications) technology (Fig. 1) on the flight deck. These innovations have reduced pilot workload, increased safety and helped improve the utility of HF radio for aviation. When an aircraft is over land, clearly VHF radio (and UHF radio for the military) are the way to go for air-to-ground communications. For over-the-water operations, some airlines have migrated to satellite datalinks for their requirements. Satellite communications are certainly a technically viable solution; but the cost is high, in terms of both equipment installation and usage fees. Even in 2022, nearly all major OEM aircraft manufacturers of both corporate and commercial airliners include HF radio in a standard avionics package. Whilst the exact early history of HF radio Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 24 RadioUser July 2022
Feature Fig.1: A modern HF Datalink Flightdeck Communications Console. Fig. 2: A powerful transmitting aerial. Fig. 3: An American Airlines (AA) HF Communications Network Aerial. has substantially improved, due to better computational tools, inexpensive computer hardware, and a deeper understanding of the ionosphere by those engineers who use these tools. Since the beginning of the practical use of HF radio, those that attempt to predict path projections have regarded such work as more of an art than a science. SpaceWeather Effects 2 Commercial and PrivateATC When magnetic storms and solar flares Base Station Equipment Airlines and corporate aviation rely occur, they can severely impact HF heavily on HF communications for both radio here on earth. Frequency plans are Ground station facilities must incorporate air traffic control (ATC) and operational scrambled, operations have to be changed extremely sensitive receivers with above- matters. This is especially true where based on workable available frequencies; average antenna systems for a sufficient routes take the flight into areas where and, on occasion, communications link budget with a distant, lower-powered, there is no VHF coverage and over oceanic can’t take place at all, and contingency station with a short antenna – the aircraft routes. In general, HF facilities fall into methodology has to be employed. – which is operating in a compromised two categories of ownership – either technical environment. government- or privately owned. Most Fortunately, these dramatic privately-owned facilities operate as for- consequences of living next to the Sun Fortunately, equipment quality has profit businesses. are generally rare and nearly always improved dramatically during the last predictable. Contingency plans are in three decades. With the advent of SDR There are notable examples of both place by aviation users and can be used to technology, advances in filter and receiver of these types of business models. For maintain connectivity on critical HF circuits design have gone a long way toward example, in the United States, there are for air services. levelling the playing field when it comes to ARINC (a subsidiary of Collins Aerospace) link budget analysis. and Pan Am Radio (a subsidiary of When it comes to circuit quality, things Transeastern Holding). can get dicey. Land-based radio stations As if it weren’t enough to have to deal employ large antenna systems and a lot of with sunspots, lightning noise, and a weak While these two companies have RF power. It is typical to see power levels at aircraft HF signal, the world is becoming a different business models, they are around 5,000W. This sort of infrastructure noisier place from an RF perspective. Just both common in the goal of being a ‘for- allows for high energy signals transmitted think about how many things have moved profit’ venture. to an aircraft in flight (Fig. 2). from a wired to a wireless environment in the last decade alone. While all these Moreover, NAV CANADA is a quasi- Unfortunately, the HF radio installations devices do not affect the aviation HF governmental organization in Canada, in aircraft are a big compromise in all but service directly, the overall increased RF charged with aviation communications a few situations. The first problem is the noise on the planet is the basis for many a of all types. It is a nonprofit corporation, size of the aircraft. Except for very large spirited discussion. which collects fees for its services just like military and civilian aircraft, there is simply a ‘for-profit’ model. Well known STORADIO, not enough physical room to accommodate I know this from a personal perspective: in Stockholm provides several services to full-size long wire antennas. Furthermore, I have certainly seen noise floors rising both airlines and corporate operators. They aircraft manufacturers over the past few steadily over the decades I have been are very similar to the previous business decades have moved away from classic involved in the HF radio business. While models mentioned. long-wire antennas to embedded ones, these have been offset to some degree by generally in the vertical stabilizer of the the aforementioned advances in equipment, Their transmitter site is located at aircraft. This further compromises the it is still an issue to be cognizant of. antennas’ efficiency. Additionally, RF power levels generally fall into two areas. Most corporate aircraft utilized transmitters at approximately 100W output; some larger transport and military category aircraft have amplifiers which have 400W transmit levels. In any event, regardless of the power level, when this is coupled to a compromised antenna system, even though an antenna coupler, the link analysis is not a pretty sight. For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 25
Feature Grimeton on the Swedish West Coast, 3 have now collectively woken up to the known for its occasional transmissions fact that HF provides reliable, low-cost, in the Very Low Frequency band (VLF broadcasts are made one or more times long-range strategic communications in 17.2kHz). From that location, they serve per hour 24 hours per day on different that ‘bad-day’ scenario. What the aviation much of Europe and the Eastern Atlantic published frequencies, depending on the community has known for decades has Ocean routes. There are numerous time of day. Aeronautical publications once again been realized by the military. As other examples of both privately- for pilots publish the frequencies and a consequence, military organisations have run and government-owned facilities time schedules for the stations. These begun modernizing their HF capabilities scattered about the planet. Several broadcasts are not intended to be a and personnel. Many are currently in a race major global airlines operate HF radio substitute for pilots’ weather briefings but to develop new waveforms and advanced networks on their own as an adjunct to are rather a supplemental service with the hardware to increase the reliability of HF other communications methods (Fig. 3: ability to provide near real-time surface communications to the next level. Some American Airlines Operations). conditions and forecasts for many airports. of the solutions are reasonably short-term, and others will be in development for many As a side note, most FAA Air Route Military Aeronautical years before implementation. Traffic Control Centres (ARTCC) in the HF Comms US had large log-periodic arrays and Summary some had vertical antennas as well. A lot of people look to the military to set These were used for backup interagency the pace in technological development The aeronautical industry, the military communications, not air traffic control when it comes to communications. So, and many government users will continue as many have surmised in other articles. what’s the military doing in the middle of to heavily rely on HF communications These stations were dismantled in the this HF commotion? The militaries around for many decades to come. With the late 90s and early 2000s, in favour of other the world woke up recently to discover two research and advances in technology that transmission media. things; first, they had virtually lost their are currently underway, HF will gain yet HF capability, due to negligence, funding additional utility, reliability and flexibility in The Services Provided shortfalls, shortsighted thinking, and a lack the next generation of equipment. of interest by field commanders. In most cases, the HF stations mentioned So don’t count out this highly reliable, above provide a relay for air traffic control Second, China, Russia and the US cost-effective communication service that services (ATC). This generally consists of have all carried out anti-satellite tests. has saved many lives over the years and relays from government air traffic control These tests have underscored the saves users a lot of money by improving facilities to the aircraft, and vice versa, position that reliance on satellites for the operational capability of their through the third party. In the past, many key communications capability is a huge businesses daily. governments have owned and operated strategic error. It’s directly akin to relying their own HF facilities. However, most of on a cellular telephone network in the time [Mark Allen has more than five decades of these in 2022 have been decommissioned of a natural disaster. It has been proven experience in the radio communications and left to third-party providers. An over and over again that these networks industry. He holds advanced degrees in aircraft in flight has many needs, including collapse under the traffic volumes required electronics, specifically antenna design, and flight plans, position reports, weather and due to damage to their un-hardened is also an airline transport rated pilot. He is information, and other critical operational infrastructures. currently employed as the vice president information. of engineering for a large international Therefore, militaries around the world aeronautical radio station. He has provided Additionally, there is a whole other technical services, as a subject matter requirement, collectively referred to as expert to numerous governments, civil, long-distance operational control (LDOC). military organizations and air carriers These encompass the handling of non-ATC which utilize HF radio. The author may be communications between the aircraft and reached directly at: its owner/ operator. [emailprotected] (See also: Mark Allen ‘PanAm Global Radio’; These messages consist of things like [RadioUser, August 021: 34] - Ed.). crew scheduling, fuel status, maintenance problems, passenger difficulties, medical Additional Resources issues in flight, and schedule changes. Additionally, telephone patches can be set • Smith, D. (2022) Air Traffic Control up between the aircraft in flight and their (11th ed.; Crécy Publishing) offices to facilitate other operational needs. • Listen to HF aviation communications on In most cases, based on the time of day, www.liveatc.net (HF oceanic tab) an aircraft is assigned both a primary and secondary (or ‘standby’) frequency. This • HF receivers: applies to both ATC and LDOC facilities. www.rx.linkfanel.net One additional type of station is a • Web resources: VOLMET. These stations broadcast one- www.panamradio.world way weather reports on HF radio for https://radio.arinc.net/atlantic a collective group of airports within a https://storadio.aero particular service area. Normally these Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 26 RadioUser July 2022
What’s new in the world of radio News Radio News JUBILEE FLYPAST IMAGES : A Line-Up Above the Palace: This screenshot, courtesy of our Airband News columnist David Smith shows the line-up of aircraft before the Jubilee Flypast during the Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend. The helicopters were in a bunch at the head of the flypast, being the slowest. The other images, taken in Essex,are courtesy of our Aerials Now columnist, Keith Rawlings. (SOURCES: David Smith | Keith Rawlings) BBC REVIEW: STAFF DIVERSITY AND actress Angela Griffin will host a new show called been a pleasure to have them bookend Saturday MARKET IMPACT: The DCMS has launched Radio 2 Unwinds, a Sunday night show from and Sunday evenings on Radio 2.” You can find the a BBC review into compliance with editorial 10 pm, including mixtapes in the second hour. amended schedule (starting Friday, 15th July standards, staff diversity and market impact Michelle Visage, previously with US stations 2022) on the websites, below: on other industries. It comes as the Culture including WKTU and WNEW FM in New York and (SOURCES: BBC Radio 2 | RadioToday) Secretary issues new legal direction to the BBC to Hot 92 Jamz in LA, will be presenting her show https://tinyurl.com/2p8bny7x promote opportunities for people from working- each Friday night from 7 till 9 pm. And The Good https://tinyurl.com/3yxsxbtf class backgrounds. The first Mid-Term Review Groove, with DJ Spoony, which ran as a four-part – launched at the halfway point of the BBC’s series on Radio 2 in January, will return as a ten-year Royal Charter – will assess whether weekly show every Friday night (9 -11 pm), hosted current regulations and governance could be by the former Radio 1 presenter. Helen Thomas, improved to ensure it is delivering for licence Head of Radio 2 ,said: “I’m delighted to welcome fee payers. It will look at the effectiveness Angela, DJ Spoony and Michelle to the Radio 2 of the BBC’s editorial complaints process, family and [I am] looking forward to hearing their including Ofcom’s role in holding it to account, new weekly shows on Radio 2 from July. As ever, and inspect the corporation’s market impact on listeners can hear the shows they love any day and the UK media landscape, in particular in areas any time of their choice, via BBC Sounds. Thank such as the commercial radio and local news you so much to Ana, Craig and Dr Rangan. It has sectors. Changes to the Framework Agreement, (a document which includes further detail on the BBC’s regulatory duties as outlined in the Charter) will give the corporation a legal duty to follow through on commitments to do more to reflect under-represented people and perspectives, reflecting this government’s desire to see a BBC that promotes greater diversity of opinion [...]. Read the full story at the URL, below: (Source: BBC | RadioToday) https://tinyurl.com/y6ekn6u9 ALL CHANGE AT BBC RADIO 2: BBC Radio 2: Many weekend programmes are changing timeslots (or are axed) at BBC Radio 2, as Angela Griffin, DJ Spoony and Michelle Visage get new regular shows. Craig Charles’ House Party, Ana Matronic’s Dance Devotion, and Dr Rangan Chatterjee’s shows will come to an end, and numerous other shows are moving around. Sounds of the 80s, with Gary Davies, and Sounds of the 90s, with Fearne Cotton, will both move from Friday to Saturday in the same timeslots. Tony Blackburn’s Golden Hour is moving to Sunday at 7 pm, the Rock Show with Johnnie Walker moves from Saturday night to Friday nights from 11 pm-midnight, and the regular one- hour documentaries/music genre slot will move to Friday at midnight. Former Coronation Street For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 27
Feature RICHARD NOSWORTHY Richard Nosworthy [emailprotected] As I set out in Part One of this fea- ture (RadioUser, February 2022: 10-13), minority languages are part of Europe’s - and the world’s - cultural treasures. Previously, I focused on the bigger public service broadcasters. In Part Two, I will now examine how smaller providers are taking different approaches. I can only cover a small sample of the minority language radio and audio across the continent, and I will use examples in western Europe, especially Britain and Ireland, to explain some of the wider trends and themes. Note that so far I have only looked at indigenous languages, and not the many other language communities that have been more recently established - perhaps that’s a topic for another piece! Breton Stations: 1 Working Together Minority Language Brittany, in north-West France, is a popular Radio in Europe (Pt II) holiday destination for visitors from Britain and Ireland (Fig. 1). Richard Nosworthy returns to RadioUser to offer Part Two of his exploration of radio broadcasting, However, mutual links run much deeper: online radio and podcasting in a number of minority Britons migrating to this part of the languages throughout Europe. Continent in the early Middle Ages brought their Celtic language with them. The Breton write, I’m listening to the Cornish folk tune For some, this provides a rare chance language – closely related to Cornish – (in English) - Cornwall The Land I Love, by to hear Breton - a valuable opportunity for survives to this day. Brenda Wootton. Reun Treguer, from Arvorig people who are isolated, or learners who FM, told me that the station serves both lack opportunities to speak the language However, recent decades have seen a big Breton speakers and learners. Moreover, with others. Reun says it’s much more decline in the number of speakers. Today, listeners are also drawn by the music and difficult finding contributors who can talk only around 200,000 people – around 5% the fact there are no adverts! about an issue in Breton compared to of the population – speak it. However, there is cause for optimism in the growth of Breton education and the thousands learning the language. Radio is central to the public life of Breton, with a lively broadcasting scene supported by collaboration between stations. One such station is Arvorig FM (Fig. 2). It currently broadcasts in Breton on FM and online, and also plans to serve the city of Brest via DAB+: https://tinyurl.com/3jbsrr9v The broadcaster works closely with other local Breton-language stations (two other stations in Brittany are also 100% Breton) and exchanges programmes with them. Another organisation, BHS (Brudañ ha Skignañ), provides a news service. The station depends on funding from the state plus local and regional governments. There are 3 full-time staff, but volunteers are central to its operations. Breton language music is of course on the playlist, and there’s other music too, including from other Celtic countries. As I Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 28 RadioUser July 2022
Feature ARVORIG FM. Fig. 1: A bilingual French/Breton sign in Gwened (Vannes) in Brittany. Fig. 2: Arvorig FM: the Breton-language station live from the Deus’ta Festival (a Breton language and culture festival in Brest). Fig. 3: Two Lochs Radio: Gaelic presenter Alice Mackenzie (left) was the subject of a TV feature for BBC ALBA, but she also turned the tables and interviewed BBC presenter Heather Dewar (right) for the programme Ceòl is Criomagan. Fig. 4: The Two Lochs Radio building in Gairloch. French. But thanks to bilingual schools and courses, they can now find young people able to talk about many subjects. Online Radio in Cornish 2 ALEX GRAY, TWO LOCHS RADIO Breton’s sister language of Cornish is 3 Canada. The communities of Cape Breton in an even more depleted state, but it is are bilingual in English and French, but with undergoing a revival. The 2011 Census Gaelic music in its non-Gaelic shows. a very strong Scottish Gaelic heritage and reported 464 speakers in Cornwall itself, The locally-produced programme is Ceòl many speakers of the language. The hosts but various surveys have claimed greater produce the programme for a Francophone numbers, especially for those less fluent. is Criomagain, featuring conversations community station in Chéticamp, and the As you might expect, radio provision is between the host and various guests, talking station shares it with Two Lochs Radio. much lower than for Breton. about life, events and place names in the It features chat in Gaelic and English, past in the local area. The show sometimes and music that is exclusively Gaelic (or The BBC only provides a tiny amount features guests from further afield and Highland instrumental). in the language: BBC Radio Cornwall features topics of interest, for example, the broadcasts a five-minute news programme Mòd (a festival of Scottish Gaelic song, arts Two Lochs presenter Alex Gray told in Cornish once a week, which is also and culture) or sheepdog trials. me that having programmes in Gaelic available on BBC Sounds. https://tinyurl.com/2tm9pr67 There’s also Aiseirigh nan Gàidheal, produced in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Fortunately, Radyo an Gernewegva provides weekly podcast content in the language, which is also broadcast on several community radio stations. The station shares a website with An Mis, the half-hour monthly Cornish Language TV programme - both can be found at this URL: www.anradyo.com An Radyo, by the way, means ‘The Radio’ in Cornish. Presenter Matthi ab Dewi told me that producing the shows involves recording and generating much of his own music output, as there aren’t many musicians creating material in Cornish. I had a listen to a recent broadcast and was impressed by the lively mix of music and contributors, and I love hearing the sound of Cornish being spoken regularly after centuries of decline. Let’s hope this is part of an ongoing revival. ALocal Gaelic Station in Scotland Two Lochs Radio (Figs. 3 and 4) has been featured here before, and I was keen to find out more about the bilingual station’s Gaelic language broadcasts. It transmits two Gaelic programmes each Tuesday evening, and these are repeated on Saturday mornings. It also uses plenty of For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 29
Feature is particularly important for the older 4 ALEX GRAY, TWO LOCHS RADIO. members of the community, for whom Gaelic is a living language. But Gaelic isn’t Welsh speaker that wanted to find out Overall Thoughts solely used by senior residents, and local what podcasts were available in Welsh”, schools also offer streams or subjects in says Aled Jones, who set up the project. As well as providing competition to the medium of Gaelic. Alex says, “It allows Aled adds: “The idea behind Y Pod was traditional radio services, the internet has us to reflect the heritage of the area and to create a list of the Welsh-language given a huge boost to radio in minority to be an active participant of the language podcasts. After searching the internet and languages. On the one hand, older or ecology, sustaining and helping promote social media I discovered that there were isolated minority language speakers it in everyday life. The main challenge 38 Welsh language podcasts currently continue to benefit from a familiar and is finding enough folks who combine active and being produced. I began thinking accessible medium. Some minority ability in the language with an interest in about how I could introduce the podcasts languages like Breton have a large working with the radio station and ideas for to a wider audience and make them proportion of older speakers, perhaps appropriate programming. easily discoverable.” surrounded by younger people less likely to use their mother tongue. “Ideally, we would probably broadcast The users and their experience considerably more hours in Gaelic or have been the driving force behind the For others, radio won’t replace TV or bilingually. The younger folk who come development of the service, making sure social media, let alone actual official or up through school tend to disappear off that Y Pod is fully adapted to mobile community use of the language. But it to university or college just as they are devices. Extensive user research was does provide a cheap and very accessible maturing to the point where they might carried out too. The demographic is young, way to connect with your community make good radio presenters for us, and then with 37% of users under the age of 34. or culture. And with internet radio and on into national Gaelic media, no longer in There’s also great interest in podcasts for podcasts, that’s as true for the diaspora as the local area.” Welsh learners. people in the language’s ‘heartlands’. New technologies mean radio is still exciting The Gaelic programmes have, “a very Aled has seen the Welsh language and relevant for audiences who have steady following”, he says; and he adds: podcasting scene grow since starting grown up online. “Ironically most of the feedback we receive the project, and a glance at Y Pod reveals is from distant listeners, particularly in podcasts on topics from farming to sport, It’s a great medium for attracting and Germany, Switzerland, other parts of as well as drama, science and audio from helping language learners too. Minority Europe and the US.” chapel services. “Numbers have increased languages need learners to survive and dramatically,” he says “Currently there are thrive. You might start with just enjoying Podcasting inWelsh over 160 podcasts with a number of others the music or sounds of voices, but it in development. It’s been amazing how the could lead to listening to programmes for As well as BBC stations entirely in project has pulled together podcasters and learners and eventually becoming fluent! Welsh, other providers transmit at least provided a platform for others to discover some programming in the language. podcasts through the medium of Welsh.” I think there is also symbolic value in In Aberystwyth, for example, there are radio. Radio programmes or stations in programmes in Welsh on the hospital As for the future, Aled sees potential a minority language give it status and station Radio Bronglais and community in helping other language communities remind the world that it has value and station Radio Aber. In the north, follow the example set by Y Pod: “I’m open relevance. After a century of decline or commercial station Capital Anglesey and to conversations on how the service can even oppression, radio tells everyone these Gwynedd also broadcasts in Welsh. And support other languages”, he adds. languages are still here, and their speakers the internet station Cymru FM offers a are passionate about their future. music-based service in the language. https://radiobronglais.cymru/cy https://radioaber.cymru https://tinyurl.com/7bp3d5nh https://www.cymru.fm In recent years, there’s also been a big growth in podcasting in Welsh, as an easy ‘entry point’ for those of us wanting to create ‘radio’. One of the challenges though is ‘discoverability’. While major platforms allow you to browse English language podcasts by topic, it isn’t so easy to find podcasts in minority languages. In the case of Welsh, a website called Y Pod now acts as a hub for podcasts in Cymraeg. https://ypod.cymru/index “The major podcast players find it difficult to list podcasts by language, and it was incredibly frustrating for me as a Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 30 RadioUser July 2022
Rallies Rallies & Events Due to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, the Rallies calendar remains changeable. All information published here reflects the situation up to and including 20th May 2022. Readers are advised to check with the organisers of any rally or event, before setting out for any visit. The Radio Enthusiast website will have regular rally updates, please check it regularly. To get your event on this list, e-mail full details as early as possible: [emailprotected] 24-26 June 3 July Field, Kington Langley, Wiltshire SN15 CIETY RADIO RALLY: Princethorpe Col- HAM RADIO FRIEDRICHSHAFEN: CORNISH RAC RALLY: Penair School, St 5NJ. Doors open at 9 am; free admission. lege, Princethorpe, Rugby CV23 9PY. Open Messe Friedrichshafen, Neue Messe Clement,Truro, CornwallTR1 1TN. Doors Traders welcome (CR). 10:00. Car boot sale. 1, 88046 Friedrichshafen. Exhibitors & open at 10 am. Admission is £2. (BB | CR | Brian, G6HUI STEVE G8LYB;TEL: 07956 855816 visitors from 52 countries. (FM | L |TS). DTS | Local Club Stands). [emailprotected] [emailprotected] Plus, meetings, socialising, much more. Ken Tarry G0FIC: 01209 821073 www.rugbyats.co.uk https://tinyurl.com/2p8up2rc [emailprotected] 7 August https://tinyurl.com/ycnxskle www.gx4crc.com BATC CONVENTION FOR AMATEUR TV 28 August https://tinyurl.com/mr3jwthz 2022 (CAT22) PART1: Midland Air Muse- MILTON KEYNES ARS RALLY:The Irish 9 July um, Rowley Rd, Coventry CV3 4FR. CAT22 Centre, Manor Fields, Watling Street, 25 June HOUGHTON RADIO CLUB FREE RADIO will be a meet-up, show and tell, test and Bletchley, MK2 2HX (Opposite Dobbies GI-QRP CONVENTION:Tandragee Golf RALLY:The Dubmire Royal British Legion fix-it, and Bring & Buy event, from 10 am to Garden Centre), withexcellent modern Club, 11 Markethill Road,Tandragee, Club, BritanniaTerrace, Fencehouses 4 pm. Full test facilities are available for facilities (FP | CF | D). Entrance fee £3.00. Craigavon BT62 2ER. Doors are open at 9 DH4 6LJ. Doors are open from 10 am to 3 5.6GHz/Portsdown/MiniTiouner/Ryde/ Open to the public from 9:00 am. Outdoor am; the presentations start at 10 am.The pm. Open to trade, clubs and private sell- power amplifiers/preamps. pitches and indoor tables are available. Convention is being held in association ers/exhibitors but table space is limited. https://batc.org.uk/events Brendan (G8IXK), Vice Chairman with the GQRP Club. (BA | CR | FP | D | L | LB No charge for tables. Free entry. (CF | LB [emailprotected] | RF | SIG |TS). [11 am]). Anyone wishing to book tables 7 August www.mkars.org.uk Philip MI0MSO: 078 4902 5760 please contact: KING’S LYNN ARC 32NDGREAT EAST- [emailprotected] Amanda M6LXK: 07787 155 745 ERN RADIO RALLY: Gaywood Community 28 August [emailprotected] Centre, Gayton Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk. TORBAY ANNUAL COMMUNICATIONS 26 June PE30 4EL. NGRTF638203. Open 9 am FAIR: Newton Abbot Racecourse Devon NEWBURY RADIO RALLY:The Newbury 17 July (trade from 7 am). Admission is £ 2.50. TQ12 3AF. Doors open at 10 am, with disa- Rally is now back. It will take place at New- MCMICHAEL AMATEUR RADIO RALLY Outdoor pitch £8; indoor £10 per table. (BB bled visitors gaining access at 9.30 am. bury Showground, Priors Court Road, Her- & CAR BOOT SALE:The McMichael Rally | CF | FP |TS). Indoor event (FP | BB | RSGB CF). mitage,Thatcham, Berks. RG18 9QZ (Next begins at 09:30 am, with car boot setup [emailprotected] Pete G4VTO: 01803 864528 to J13 of the M4).The is organised and run from 8:30 am.The location is Reading http://www.klarc.org.uk Mike G1TUU: 01803 557941 by the Newbury And District Amateur Ra- Rugby Club, Sonning Lane (B4446) – just [emailprotected] dio Society (NADARS) and attracts visitors off the A4 at Sonning, east of Reading, 12-14 August from all over the country. Berkshire RG4 6ST, NGR SU 753 747. £3 19TH INTERNATIONAL EME CONFER- 29 August https://www.nadars.org.uk/rally.asp per person. Car boot sale: £10 per pitch, ENCE (PRAGUE): Registrations open from HUNTINGDONSHIRE ARS (HARS) AN- http://www.nadars.org.uk no booking required. No dogs allowed, 1 January 2022. NUAL RALLY : Ernulf Academy, St Neots except for assistance dogs (CBS | FP | http://www.eme2020.cz PE19 2SH. Gates open forTraders at 7 am 1 July SIG). and the public at 9 am. Indoor and outdoor DADARS SPECIAL EVENT(13 COLO- https://mcmichaelrally.org.uk 12 August stalls are available.Talk-in on 145.550 NIES): Durham and District Amateur Radio [emailprotected] co*ckENZIE & PORT SETON ARC 27TH MHz on GX0HSR. (BB | CR | FP ) Society is privileged to be participating as [emailprotected] MINI-RALLY NIGHT: Community Centre, Malcolm M0OLG: 01480 214282. one of the bonus stations in this popular Main Hall, Port Seton. 6 pm. Admission [emailprotected] event.The NoV special callsign GB13COL 24 July is £2.Tables on a first-come-first-served www.hunts-hams.co.uk has been issued and will run from the club FINNINGLEY ARS RALLY: Car-boot style basis. station from 1st July 1300 UTC to 8th July rally. Food bar. Near J2 M180, Doncaster. www.cpsarc.com 4 September 0400 UTC.The focus of the event will be www.g0ghk.com TELFORD HAMFEST: Harper Adams Uni- the HF bands, including VHF, UHF and Sat- 14 August versity (HAU)TF10 8NB. ellite, for QSOs using SSB, CW, FM, and 31 July FLIGHT REFUELLING ARS HAMFEST: Martyn G3UKV: 01952 255416 various digital modes. WILTSHIRE RADIO RALLY, ELECTRON- Cobham Sports and Social Club Ground, http://www.telfordhamfest.org.uk www.13colonies.us ICS FAIR & CAR BOOT: Kington Langley Merley, nr Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 3DA. [emailprotected] Village Hall and Playing Field, Kington Talk in will be on S22.The gates open from 11 September Langley, Wiltshire SN15 5NJ. 9 am to 3 pm. 10 am to 6 pm; entry will be £4, which in- CAISTER LIFEBOAT RADIO RALLY: 2 July Admission free.Traders Welcome (CA | cludes car parking. No dogs are permitted Caister Lifeboat Station, Caister on Sea, LAUGHARNE RADIO RALLY: Millennium Covid-19 safe). except Guide dogs (landowner’s condi- NR30 5DJ.The entrance is via the car park Memorial Hall, SA33 4QG. Doors open Brian G6HUI tion). (L |TS | Indoor and Field Pitches). on Beach Road and admission is free for from 10-12 am. [emailprotected] Tony Baker G3PFM: 07743 475018 the public. Doors are open from 9 am to Matthew: 0739 882 5024 https://wiltshirespc.org/wp/g3vre/rally [emailprotected] 2 pm (8 am for sellers). Inside tables £10 www.frars.co.uk each, outside £5 each. Raffle, onsite cafe, 3 July 31 July gift shop, museum. BARFORD NORFOLK ARC RADIO RALLY WILTSHIRE RADIO & CAR BOOT SALE: 21 August Zane M1BFI: 07711 214790. www.norfolkamateurradio.org Kington Langley Village Hall and Playing RUGBY AMATEUR TRANSMITTING SO- [emailprotected] BABuildathon BBBring-and-BuyCBSCarBootSaleCRCatering/RefreshmentsDDisabledvisitorsFMFleaMarket FPFreeParkingLBLicensedBar LLecturesRFRaffleRSGB(RSGB)BookStallRU/PWRU/PWinattendanceSIGSpecial-InterestGroupsTITalk-In(Channel)TSTradeStallsWi-Fi(Free)Wi-Fi Follow us on Facebook @radioenthusiasts and Twitter @REnthusiasts July 2022 RadioUser 31
THE ONLINE RADIO SUPERSTORE www.moonr Shop online Check your email Collect from store TRX-1E Digital 419UPTO Handheld Scanner We have worked with Whistler to customise a UK band plan for the scanners! This ensures the radios cover UK bands in the correct steps and the correct mode. The TRX-1 will receive both amateur and commercial DMR transmissions as apart from the frequency they are fundamentally the same mode. The radio is supplied with software and users can select mode when writing memories or select auto and it will work out the mode itself! This multi-system adaptive digital trunking scanner supports Motorola P25 Phase I, X2-TDMA, Phase II and DMR. Buy the TRX-1E for just £419.95 WS1065 Desktop Radio Scanner TRX-2E Digital Buy the TRX-2E for just Desktop Scanner £479.95479UPTO The Whistler WS1065 employs cutting edge technology to bring The radios will receive both amateur and commercial DMR KEY SPECIFICATIONS a high level of performance and innovative features. 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Maritime Matters Robert Connolly Bonito Boni-Whip, [emailprotected] This month I am taking a look at P&O & NAVTEX aerials. In maritime monitoring, keen DXers require not only a Robert Connolly takes a look at suitable aerials for good receiver but also a power- Maritime Band listeners, DXers and NDB hunters, reviews ful aerial. Your reception is only as good the Bonito Boni-Whip aerial, gets Ukrainian NAVTEX and as your aerial, despite the ‘bells and whis- remembers an event from his time in ATC. tles’ your radio may have. I have been us- ing the PA0RDT mini whip aerial for a cou- ple of years now. I have been very pleased with the results, not only for MF/HF DXing but also for weak signals such as the Non- Directional Beacons (NDB), which I fre- quently listen to. Some weeks ago, I had a reception problem, and I felt it was time that I had a second aerial for my hobby. One aerial I considered a couple of years ago when my old Datong AD370 failed, was the Bonito Boni-Whip. However, at the end of the day, I opted for the PA0RDT aerial. My main concern at the time was the NDB aspect of my listening, and I knew that the genuine PA0RDT was used successfully by many listeners, but I had not seen many reports on just how good the Bonito Boni-Whip was for NDB and general HF reception. From Datong to Bonito 1 2 The Datong AD370 that I had on my mast was In Operation aerial’s designer, but I had not done so with not working as well as it should as my reserve the Boni-Whip. As an experiment, I decided aerial. Due to weather conditions, in particular The PA0RDT aerial covers from 10kHz to to add grounding to the Boni aerial system wind strength, it was going to be a couple of 30MHz, whereas the Boni-Whip covers 20kHz and see if there was any improvement. days before I could look at my PA0RDT aerial to 300MHz. In my receiving station, I can system. With that in mind, I took the plunge switch between aerials, so it is quite easy Sucking Diesel and ordered a Bonito Boni-Whip. to compare signals from both aerials on the same receiver, my SDRPlay RSPdx. This made a remarkable difference bringing it The photograph in Fig. 1 shows what on a par with the PA0RDT. I ran NDB reception you get in the box. I dropped my mast I found that for MF/HF broadcast checks over several nights by recording an and decided that this would be a good stations the aerials were fairly comparable. NDB session one night using the PA0RDT and opportunity to carry out a service of the The HF utility stations were a little weaker the next night using the Boni-Whip. These aerial system rather than lower it again using the Boni-Whip. However, when were decoded using PSKOVNDB software, later in the summer. When I carried out my it came to NDB reception there was a and the results were logged. The number of annual checks last summer, I did not have noticeable difference: Signals for local NDBs received during my sessions was very any self-amalgamating tape and had to use NDBs were much weaker compared to the similar – remarkable, as normally no two normal PVC tape. As it turned out, this was PA0RDT; you would have barely heard them nights have the same propagation conditions. the cause of the problem, as it had allowed through the proverbial wet newspaper. To quote Adrian Dunbar (Line of Duty) and dampness to penetrate the coax connector Given that local daylight signals were weak, a well-known Northern Ireland phrase, “now on my PA0RDT aerial. With the connector decent NDB DX during darkness would, we’re sucking diesel”. replaced and coax cut back a few inches to therefore, also be poor. Initially from that clean wiring the PA0RDT was ready to go aspect, it was a little disappointing. I also carried out one further again. improvement to the aerial system by However, then I had an idea. I installed running both active aerials from a 12 VDC I mounted the Boni-Whip about half a several grounding points on my PA0RDT sealed lead acid battery to eliminate any metre above the PA0RDT, at a total height aerial system, as recommended by the of eight metres and replaced the exterior length of coax that had been connected to my AD370, and which had also suffered from water ingress. The assembly was raised again (Figs. 2 and 3), and testing could begin. Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 34 RadioUser July 2022
Maritime Matters ALL PICTURES: ROBERT CONNOLLY Fig. 1: The Bonito Boni-Whip package. Fig. 2: Bonito Boni-Whip and PA0RDT assemblies. Fig. 3: A close-up of the Bonito Boni-Whip (top) and PA0RDT (bottom). Fig. 4: My VHF/UHF collinear aerial. Fig. 5: An AIS signal with the Bonito Boni-Whip. Fig. 6: An AIS signal with my collinear aerial. Fig. 7: A NAVTEX transmission from Ukraine. Fig. 8: A Liverpool Snowdrop. domestic mains power interference while 3 4 still retaining the option of the mains- powered source. to infer that the engine failure was due to In the case of the European Causeway, the company having employed a cheaper the problem was resolved in under two Next up, it was time to compare Boni- crew. A couple of friends I have in the hours with no one injured. Whip VHF reception with my Moonraker maritime industry agreed with me on this. dual-band vertical collinear (Fig. 4). The However, the ferry, with several hundred I mentioned two things: the second latter offers extended receive between 25 passengers on board, had passed an MCA was the day in 1983 when the ferry Antrim and 2,000MHz. Apart from my licensed inspection after previous deficiencies had Princess suffered an engine room fire amateur radio hobby, I also use this been rectified. shortly after departing Larne, Northern aerial for my VHF and UHF scanning. The Ireland, for the Scottish port of Stranraer Bonito sits slightly higher compared to It had informed the Coastguard of the with 161 people on board. To add to the my collinear, and I found that, for signals problem, its AIS display was changed problem, it was disabled in Force-10 in the marine VHF band, both aerials once to ‘vessel not under command’, and winds and began drifting towards rocks again produced similar results. passengers were informed. The vessel, close to Larne. It needed to be abandoned, although drifting, was not at risk of but the storm force winds rendered it The images in Figs. 5 (Boni-Whip) and grounding or hitting rocks at the time, and unsafe to use the lifeboats. 6 (Collinear) illustrate my comparison of the sea was relatively calm. Everything received AIS signal strengths. The same that needed to be done was done I was working in Air Traffic Control at applied when I checked both aerials on according to the required procedures. Belfast Aldergrove Airport at the time the VHF broadcast, air and PMR bands. and was just about to leave home for A History of Failures my afternoon shift. As I was going out In conclusion, I find that the Bonito of my house, I heard about the incident Boni-Whip aerial performs very well and It is not a rare occurrence for ships to suffer on the radio news broadcast. During the is a useful piece of kit, for the maritime engine failure; some years ago, I was on handover from the early shift, we were enthusiast, especially if you have limited a Mediterranean cruise that suffered the told that all the Wessex helicopters of space for aerials or you would like to listen same problem, the only difference was that 72 Squadron based at RAF Aldergrove to MF, HF and VHF frequencies away from it was at night and during strong winds. had been recalled from their operational your normal listening post. On that ship, an announcement was made tasks to assist in the evacuation of requesting passengers to remain in the passengers. In those days, RAF and Royal P&O in the News areas of the ship that they currently were in; Navy helicopters were used for SAR tasks, the ship’s crew were ordered to their muster unlike now when Coastguard helicopters In late April, P&O Ferries shocked the points, mainly to prevent passengers from are used. maritime and travel industries by dismissing getting injured if they were using the various 800 of their seafarers and their plan to stairways. The vessel had its engine power Passengers were to be winched from replace them with cheaper agency workers. restored in about an hour. the ship by the helicopters and flown As a result, several of their ferries failed to a headland where several Army Air an MCA inspection and were unable to put to sea until the defects were remedied. A couple of weeks later, the company was in the news again when their ferry, European Causeway, operating on the Scotland-to- Northern-Ireland route, suffered a total engine failure off the Co. Antrim coast. Belfast coastguard was alerted and three lifeboats, Larne all-weather, Red Bay all-weather and Red Bay inshore lifeboats were launched to assist if required. In addition, Belfast Coastguard deployed the Coastguard rescue helicopter from Prestwick and requested the cruise ship, Queen Victoria, on passage to Belfast, to standby for the stricken ferry. Two things regarding this incident came to my mind, first, I felt that the press reporting on the incident seemed Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 35
Maritime Matters 56 Corps helicopters had been deployed 7 the shore station would receive on that to fly possible casualties to hospitals if frequency. The shore station transmits on required. to that of the Antrim Princess when a the second listed frequency and that is the significant number of rescue helicopters frequency on which the ship receives that The RAF helicopters were joined by were involved given that now coastguard transmission. Royal Navy Sea King helicopters for rescue helicopters available is less the evacuation of the ship. During the than those used for the Antrim Princess To hear an MSI broadcast, you will afternoon, we had a flurry of rescue evacuation. need to listen to the second frequency helicopters returning to the airfield for listed, which is used by the shore station ‘rotors running re-fuel’ (i.e. re-fuelled with Corrections | Feedback | NAVTEX for transmission. You will not hear the their engines still running). MSI broadcast on the ship transmission From time to time, everyone makes mistakes, frequency. By mid-afternoon, additional rescue and I am no exception. In the May issue helicopters arrived to assist. (RadioUser, May 2022: 60-61), I sought to Last but not least, I monitor 518kHz explain duplex marine VHF channels. My NAVTEX transmissions regularly; when And later on, one of the 72 Squadron thanks go to readers Tony Stattersfield and checking my received signals recently, Wessex helicopters put out a ‘Pan’ call Richard Ware who kindly pointed out my I noticed one (on 3rd May at 0023) from after its winch cable snapped, hitting error in this explanation. Please accept my Ukraine, (NAVAREA 3 time slot C). the aircraft’s gearbox, and it returned to apologies. To clarify - a broadcast from a base as a priority. An exclusion area was shore station would be received by a ship I occasionally receive signals on declared over the incident site to prevent or hobby listener on the shore station 518 kHz from Ukraine here, and this inquisitive private pilots and the press transmit frequency. one warned that Russia is endangering from impeding the rescue operation. An commercial shipping in the Black Sea RAF Nimrod aircraft was deployed over the As an example, CH 63 is a duplex region. incident to control the rescue helicopters. channel listed for MSI broadcasts. You will see that the channel shows The screenshot in Fig. 7 shows the text By late afternoon, some 108 passengers two frequencies, 156.175MHz and received here. and 20 crew members were airlifted for 160.775MHz. The first frequency is the the ship leaving just the captain and thirty- frequency that the ship transmits, and Fig. 8 shows an image of the Liverpool two crew onboard to bring the fire under Ferry, Snowdrop in a ‘dazzle’ pattern. control and restore some power to the vessel that was subsequently assisted to Belfast for repairs. That same evening, the pilot of the Wessex helicopter that declared the ‘Pan’ visited us in the control tower and told us that the offending cable missed a vital part of the aircraft’s gearbox by less than half an inch. Had it hit that critical part’ the helicopter would have had to ditch into the sea creating another incident to deal with during the evacuation operation. He also told us the helicopter evacuation procedure of the ferry had been developed during the Falklands war during the evacuation of RFA Sir Galahad and it was the first time it had been used on a civilian passenger ship. Going back to the European Causeway incident, I wondered how such an evacuation would proceed if required had conditions been similar Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 36 RadioUser July 2022
Maritime Matters 8 Radio News A PASSION FOR RADIO : Funklust, a German latest DRM codec, xHE-ACC. The DRM signal is Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) Short Wave in mono. The audio fidelity is between that of an ABC NEWS THEME TUNE: It started as a piece station, which began broadcasting in 2003, has AM (MW) and FM signal. The data portion of the of sound-library music and through reworks, returned to the air after undergoing extensive signal has two components. The first is short remixes and generations of Australians growing improvements. Funklust is the student radio text-like messages containing information on the up hearing it, the Majestic Fanfare has wedged station of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Funklust equipment setup. itself into the Australian consciousness. Written Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany. The station (SOURCES: SWLing Post | REDTECH) in 1943 by British composer Charles Williams, the is a partnership between the university and https://tinyurl.com/5n8t7wmb Majestic Fanfare wasn’t intended to be a stand- the nearby Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated out piece, despite the fancy-sounding name. Circuits. Friedrich-Alexander-Universität AUDIOUK : AudioUK has announced the creation The name of the music was about the mood it is describes itself as “one of the largest research of a new partnership agreement template to meant to conjure, rather than a reflection of the universities in Germany,” while Fraunhofer bills make it easier for independent podcast and actual instrumentation, as Australian composer itself as, “Europe’s largest application-oriented radio producers to work on projects together. and conductor Richard Mills told Libby Gore on research organization.” The students produce The new template agreement, which will be ABC Radio Melbourne […] “It was a typical piece of the program content and schedule. Fraunhofer available exclusively to AudioUK members, was British film library music,” he said. “They had vast handles the technical side of Funklust. announced at a session on running a successful banks of LPs that had what we call library music Programming is mostly non-stop music, but it production company, held at The Podcast Show on them. It was music that could be used for any does carry a few external programs, such as in London. The comprehensive eight-page occasion, and it was classified by mood.” The ABC Radio Goethe. The station was originally on document deals with all legal aspects of working started using the Majestic Fanfare as the intro the air as BiteXpress in 2003 and switched to on a co-production, allowing audio producers to the radio news bulletins in the early 1950s, Funklust several years later. Fraunhofer recently to easily agree on comprehensive terms and replacing the shortened version of Advance updated the station’s equipment, and Funklust conditions for working together on larger Australia Fair that had been used before this. The returned to short wave in October 2021 after projects, combining creative and production same music was used before the TV news when going off-air in 2018. The original transmitter skills. It has been prepared by legal and business the ABC expanded to television broadcasting in was a 1,000 W Telefunken S2525 DRM-capable affairs experts Mint & Co, who also prepared the 1952 until it was replaced in 1985. Mr Mills was transmitter. Fraunhofer replaced it with a new 28 other standard contracts and other templates asked by the ABC to revive the old-fashioned RFmondial 250W model, which feeds the signal already available to AudioUK members, as well orchestral fanfare in 1988 for Australia’s into a vertical lambda/four-monopole antenna as providing them with free and discounted bicentennial. “I spent two days on it because I had mounted on a concrete mast at a height of 58 m advice. The template agreement is now on the to take it down from a cassette and then rewrite (just over 190 ft.). A short wave broadcast station AudioUK website for all of its 135+ members. it,” Mr Mills told Libby Gore. While the Majestic typically broadcasts an analogue signal using AudioUK Managing Director Chloe Straw said, Fanfare might not be anything special in musical amplitude modulation. “[...] This template agreement will give producers terms, it has become special to many Australians, A single transmitter would only carry a single the confidence to be able to place their full trust in who shared their stories […]. audio service, nothing more. By contrast, any partnerships they create and get on with the (SOURCE: ABC News, via Chrissy Brand) a DRM transmitter offers additional signal business of creating great content for audiences https://tinyurl.com/4kkm3btp options, including the carrying of transmission to enjoy.” (Source: Audio UK | Radio Today). information and other data. Funklust uses the https://tinyurl.com/3kd6wk43 Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 37
Digital Radio Kevin Ryan [emailprotected] The BBC broadcast DRM tests 1 during April from the short wave station at Woofferton, using BBC DRM Tests, DAB the retired BBC Hereford and DX, and Government Worcester MW transmitter on 1584kHz. Radio Blueprints My monitoring of the signal either found it in AM or pure DRM. Reports indicated Kevin Ryan reports on BBC DRM tests, has news that some tests might use a simulcast on frequency coordination and UK small-scale DAB, mode but I didn’t detect it. WINB, in discusses atmospheric conditions for DAB DXing and Red Lion Pennsylvania (USA), use a comments on recent Government plans for radio. simulcast mode allocating 5kHz for DRM and 5kHz for audio on short wave. The ran for a year in 2007/2008. The BBC in Edinburgh in 2011: transmitter was too far away to monitor gave 100 volunteers a DRM receiver to https://tinyurl.com/acnfxh4p the signal here in Reading, and the listen to the broadcasts and also had nearest KiwiSDR I could use was in Ross- its own monitoring receivers. A second The World Service also tested DRM on-Wye. Unfortunately, the modulation transmitter was equipped with DRM from the Trincomalee site in Sri Lanka mode used was 16/64 QAM, and that to test the effect of running a Single- on 1548 kHz towards India for a short requires a Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) Frequency-Network (SFN). The BBC period in March 2019. The station higher than the 12-14 dB SNR usually Research Department published a very label was ‘SLBC’, for the Sri Lanka delivered by the SDR. readable report on these tests: Broadcasting Corporation. https://tinyurl.com/23aaxcrt One afternoon, it peaked at nearly DRM News and 18dB (Fig. 1) letting me hear the audio I happened to take a holiday in nearby my Himalaya DRM 2009 that consisted of a loop of music Falmouth during the test period. Using segments and a reminder that this my Himalaya DRM 2009 receiver, There is no sign as yet of the supposed was a test transmission about every I managed to get audio from the DRM broadcasts on 954kHz from minute. I made contact with the BBC’s transmissions. My recording is still on the České Radiokomunikace that provides representative using the reception SD card. The audio was in stereo, and a broadcasters with both DAB and DTT report e-mail address also broadcast second channel carried Journaline news transmissions. KTWR added another during the transmission. It seems that text or NAVTEX reports. Unfortunately, DRM transmission to its schedule taking it was an engineering test requested the sea path down to Spain brought in the total to five. They now broadcast in by the BBC. Such tests can cover Radio Nacional de España, causing some Mandarin, Monday to Friday from 1215 to training, testing a DRM modulator or just co-channel interference. 1245 UTC on 9910kHz. This is the same checking if the transmitter is capable of frequency used for some of their Saturday running in DRM mode. The BBC had also tested DRM+ on FM broadcasts to the same region from 1100 Current Broadcasts and FormerTests The BBC World Service broadcasts daily in DRM from Woofferton at 0600-0700 on 3955kHz. The Ascension Island and Singapore relay stations can also transmit in DRM mode. Singapore has a daily transmission from 0800-0900 UTC directed to South East Asia on 17720kHz but Ascension has only been used for special transmission when a DRM or HFCC frequency coordination meeting was in Africa or South America. As far as I can recall there has never been a DRM transmission from Oman the other short wave relay station. https://tinyurl.com/3hp7v2p8 The BBC last tested DRM on MW in the UK in 2008, using the Plymouth transmitter then on 855kHz. The station ID was BBC Devon Trial, and it Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 38 RadioUser July 2022
Digital Radio ALL PICTURES: KEVIN RYAN Fig. 1: BBC Woofferton DRM tests on 1584kHz. Fig. 2: A small-scale DAB map for the UK. Fig. 3: An illustration of the small-scale DAB Channels. Fig. 4: A European ‘tropo’ forecast of 17th May 2022. to 1230 UTC. KTWR recently changed the 1100-1130 portion of this block to 12000kHz. Unfortunately, my Himalaya radio is showing signs of wear and tear on the keypad, especially on the multifunction selector knob, which now responds but intermittently especially when I want to access the manual tuning function for DAB and DRM. I’ve been testing it again, but I think it will be returned to my loft, along with the CDNSE DR211 receiver whose keypad also malfunctioned. DAB News and 2 stations. The macro-area included Reading UK Small-Scale DAB but most of the south coast seemed free areas failing to attract any interest. Round of issues. Ofcom added nine areas into The digital radio scene in the UK is pretty Three, for another 25 areas, closed for bids the macro. This means a fairly long delay quiet but there is increasing activity with at the end of April, and Ofcom published until the frequency coordination process is the small scale DAB deployment. Locally, details of the 32 applications covering 20 complete. If you live in an arc from Margate I have a new station, called River Radio or areas. Like Round Two, some areas did to Portsmouth, you may have a long wait for the (unofficial) ‘Voice of Thames Valley’, not attract any interest. This time around, your small scale DAB multiplex. as the scrolling test reads on the Berkshire Ofcom received no applications for South multiplex. I can also hear Great British Aberdeen, Dundee, East Hull, Lincoln, and AQuestion of Frequency Radio (GR8BRITISHRADIO) on the Herts, Shaftsbury. Ofcom helpfully plotted all four Coordination Beds, and Bucks multiplex. Nationally, there areas on a map (Fig. 2). is capacity available on the SDL multiplex, https://tinyurl.com/9f9tcddj The main purpose of this process is to following the closedown of three stations avoid interference. Progress in advertising under the Union Jack Radio brand. The The information for the Round 3 invitation areas of the South East is complicated services came from the JACK Radio studios to apply for a licence, Round 4 licence by countries like the Netherlands pushing in Oxford; I can hear the three local services areas and the updated map for South East ahead with the DAB deployment on very well. England can be found on a separate web channels likely to be used in the UK. Their page (Fig. 3). Ofcom decided to add Ludlow, third national multiplex launched in April The other morning I ‘hopped’ between Cleobury Mortimer, and Tenbury Wells to on Channel 9C, and a great number of DAB the three services (Jack FM, Jack 2 and the Round 4 areas, making them 28 in total. transmitters there use the lower channels Jack 3) during the breakfast show. The https://tinyurl.com/2s3jy825 (5A-9D). Europe is part of ITU Region 1, stations shared the many audio segments and in 2006 the ITU carried out a detailed and then switched to different songs. The In the original plan for the South East planning exercise for both UHF and VHF rebranded TalkRadio/ TalkTV radio, the region, Ofcom identified a sub-region (called second simulcast between Freeview TV a ‘macro-area’), where the DAB frequencies and DAB, launched at the end of April. It’s a might cause interference to continental strange mix of programmes made for radio appearing on TV (0500-1900) where there is a split-screen of the presenter and any guest’s webcam for most of the day before the output switches to TV programmes (1900-0500) the audio for which is then carried on the DAB service. https://talk.tv You might already be listening to one of a handful of new, or mostly new, multiplexes (Tynemouth and South Shields, Birmingham North, Salisbury and Cambridge) starting after the award of Round 1 licences. The pace is slow, and 23 services have yet to start. Round 2 issued another 18 awards of licences with four Enter our competitions at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/competitions July 2022 RadioUser 39
Digital Radio Band III (GE06). The GE06 Conference 3 90MHz) are more favourably propagated. allocated frequencies to each country Tropospheric ducting affects all in the region and created procedures to 4 frequencies, and signals enhanced in this modify an existing entry or add another way can travel up to 800 miles (1,300km). entry (transmitter) plus cross border sources treat inversion layer propagation Some have received ‘tropo’ beyond 1,000 coordination. The modifications are and ducting as the same phenomenon. miles (1,600km). published monthly by the ITU. The latest one GE06/191 lists Uzbekistan creating a Ofcom estimates that enhanced With tropospheric bending, stable single frequency network (SFN). propagation conditions occur around 1% signals from 500+ miles (800+ km) https://tinyurl.com/y6bksa47 of the time, usually during high-pressure away are common when the refractive weather. Ofcom’s definition of ‘coverage’ index of the atmosphere is high. Ducting Small-scale DAB will likely be is based on enhanced interference can occur on a large scale when a huge implemented on the frequency blocks propagation conditions. Actual coverage mass of cold air is overrun by warm air which become available in each area will therefore generally be significantly (temperature inversion). The boundary on a block-by-block basis. However, as more extensive than this (Fig. 4). between the two air masses may extend neighbouring countries’ frequency plans for 1,000 miles (1,600km) or more along a evolve, some small scale DAB services High pressure or anticyclonic conditions stationary weather front. might need to change frequency to can also create ‘ducts’ for signals to accommodate this. propagate through. This phenomenon is Both ducting and inversion happen in more likely over sea paths, rather than over DAB DXing: Bending, land. Even though tropospheric ducting Ducting and Inversion has been observed down to 40MHz, signal levels are weak; higher frequencies (> I am hoping to listen to DAB signals from Europe as the summer progresses. I’m happy to be corrected but I don’t think Sporadic E-layer propagation is responsible for the reception of distant DAB stations. DAB DX typically happens with a high- pressure weather system that produces an atmospheric temperature inversion at the lower layer called the troposphere. An inversion is where air sinks and warms, trapping cooler air nearer the surface. The effect of these inversion layers is to create a partially reflecting layer. In addition to the usual (direct and ground-reflected) signals, there are additional paths between the transmitter and receiver for both the direct and the ground reflected signals. Mountainousregions can form an effective barrier to tropospheric signals. A relatively flat land path between transmitter and receiver is ideal, and sea paths tend to produce superior results. Inversion layers may occur at many heights in the troposphere, and the latter varies continuously throughout its duration (Fig. 4). The maximum range of a reflected signal is around 300 km, and signals can also reflect off two inversion layers. This creates a sharp thermal contrast in the atmosphere, which can cause radio waves to be refracted more than they usually are. As a result, some signals can travel further than usual, a phenomenon known as tropospheric ducting, producing interference with transmissions in other countries. Under normal conditions, the amount of ‘bending’ is small but it still means that the signal travels beyond the horizon. Some Sign up to our FREE email newsletter at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk 40 RadioUser July 2022
Digital Radio high-pressure weather because the air is quickly. Hopefully, this will stop the sale be, reliant on mobile data streaming over still and layers can form. Low-pressure of radios that can only receive DAB. It will the coming years. systems stir up the atmosphere too be interesting to see how the BBC will https://tinyurl.com/2httjbt9 much. Over the land paths, there is little respond. Up to now, it has maintained difference between summer and winter; compatibility with the vast majority of The BroadcastingWhite Paper, the best times to catch this phenomenon DAB radios in the UK, broadcasting, for are early morning and late evening during example, two instances of BBC Radio In terms of the Broadcasting White Paper, the summer because daytime rises in 5 Extra because old receivers handle references to digital radio were scat- temperature cause air turbulence that secondary services differently. tered throughout the 42-page document breaks down layer formation. and are aligned with the thinking in the https://tinyurl.com/5n7hhzep There is no funding for the further Digital Radio and Audio Review (DRAR, https://tinyurl.com/534zkctp expansion of the DAB network; given see above). In 2021, there were 574 radio that analogue radio will be retained at stations available on DAB across the UK; Government Response least until 2030, a strong case would online streams and apps, such as BBC to the Digital Radio Review need to be made by industry for the Sounds, Global Player and Radioplayer government to consider this. However, make accessing these stations easier. The government issued two documents some support work by the Broadcast There are plans to update the regulations on the digital radio at the same time at Radio Coverage Group (BRCG) is carried that apply to commercial stations. This the end of April 2022 – its Response out to assess options for further DAB will include allowing Ofcom to be able to the Radio and Audio Review and the coverage improvements. to license some overseas radio servic- Broadcasting White Paper. es for the first time (e.g. in the Republic The Government notes the of Ireland). Government agrees with the According to the Response to the Radio recommendations on mobile networks. As main conclusion of the DRAR, to the effect and Audio Review, there may be new rules the Review concluded, there are potential that a switch-off of FM services should to make sure that in-car entertainment benefits in prioritising certain types of not occur until (at least) 2030. However, systems continue to include a radio tuner. traffic. They do not believe, however, that legislation needs updating to help encour- The rules might be extended to cover the case has yet been made for prioritising age the transition toward digital radio. The commercial vehicles with the UK likely to radio traffic on mobile networks. DRAR made a strong case for action to wait for an EU decision. protect radio and the public value it pro- According to the review, further work vides, in the face of technological change. Ofcom will probably be asked to consult needs to be done by the industry, to assess about moving all stations to DAB+ more the extent to which listeners are, and will Commemorating the military and human aspects of this famous chapter of WWII The Blitz in Colour This 132-page special collectors’ magazine – wri en by Andy Saunders, the former editor of Britain at War and also editor of The Ba le of Britain in Colour – covers all the military and human aspects of the Blitz. It doesn’t just look at London, it looks at all the UK cities a acked. It looks at the aircra used, the losses and the heroic stories. It uses hundreds of original images which have been colourised to bring them to life. Over 180 colour photographs Available to purchase from all good newsagents. Order online at militaria.ma/blitzincolour21 or call 01778 392489 July 2022 RadioUser 41
New Media and Internet Radio RADIO HAURAKI Chrissy Brand [emailprotected] Have you heard of the acro- 1 nym ‘GOAT’, often used in the fields of radio and music? It Charts, Competitions stands for the “greatest of all and Fund Raisers time” and is in common usage. I most recently saw GOAT used in a promo- Chrissy Brand explores how radio stations can self- tion for a New Zealand station, Radio promote and fundraise in an ever-changing radio Hauraki. When it first took the airwaves, landscape, and she previews a BBC Prom that celebrates in 1966, Radio Hauraki was an innova- the State Broadcaster’s Centenary. tive and law-bending station. It was the first private commercial radio station in www.hauraki.co.nz of music, or a feature of the website it- New Zealand and needed to operate il- self; affiliated merchandise, eye-grab- legally for four years, in order to break https://tinyurl.com/mrv7runy bing graphics or irresistible features in the monopoly held by the state-owned One internet radio station that is a lit- the form of games or competitions. New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation. Based in Auckland, it went on to become tle different from most is Teerex Radio Teerex Radio also offers listeners a part of the legal, mainstream rock music (Fig. 2) in Montreal, Canada. This is a music chart but, again, with a little differ- radio scene and is now part of the global French and English-speaking station ence: The Teerex Radio Hump Chart Top iHeart radio brand. that specialises in soul, R&B and jazz 50. Disappointingly, the page seemed music. You can listen online via Tune- to not have any links or options enabled Making Great Radio In, iTunes, Radionomy or through the when I last visited. Teerex Radio app. If you are wonder- www.teerexradioteerex.com In May, Radio Hauraki ran an annual ing why the station named itself after a competition called Vote for the GOAT Tyrannosaurus Rex, there may be a clue Competitions can be a fun way of (Fig. 1). Listeners had to submit their in the strapline, “the biting radio soul sta- grabbing listeners’ attention. I am al- greatest song of all time, and the votes tion”. An added feature on the website ways happy to complete surveys or en- were compiled into a Top 500 at the end is a very simple, old school, computer ter quizzes of stations that I listen to. Bit of the month. Listener music polls like game, where you have to manoeuvre by bit, this all helps with a station’s mar- these, from Classic FM in the UK to rock Dino the T-Rex to run and leap over cacti. keting and audience profile-building. As I stations around the world, usually result have often stated, interactions between in a fairly predictable outcome, with only Little, if daft, features like this can be- the studio, presenters and listeners are the occasional piece of music produc- come memorable. They can provide an as key today as they were in the early ing any surprises. incentive to return to a radio station’s days of analogue radio. website, and, as we, know, there are hun- Therefore, to maximise participation dreds of thousands of internet radio A few months ago, I completed a sur- and interest, an incentive has to be given. stations: the best ones offer something vey for the station called Podcast Radio Radio Hauraki certainly provided that unique. It might be thought-provoking but quickly forgot about it. I was sur- this year, in the shape of a trip, to see any talks and documentaries, a good range prised, then, to be contacted by the sta- band play live, anywhere, offering a com- petition where the winner would, “Build your own prize to the value of $10,000 and every vote is in to win.” The idea behind this prize was also to encourage interna- tional travel and live music in the post- Covid-19 world. Radio Hauraki’s suggestions were rath- er ordinary and included seeing Blondie in London, Simple Minds in Monte Carlo and Aerosmith in Las Vegas. I entered the competition and stated I would like to see Flaming Lips, in California. I wait to see if I will be that lucky winner! One ele- ment of programming that Radio Hauraki air, that you won’t find on many main- stream rock stations, is Let’s Talk About F, a weekday segment on financial mat- ters. It is heard on the Hauraki Big Show. See our great book and magazine offers at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 42 RadioUser July 2022
New Media and Internet Radio TEEREX RADIO Fig. 1: Radio Hauraki encourage travel and live music with Vote for the GOAT. Fig. 2: Soul and jazz with a Canadian angle on Teerex Radio. Fig. 3: The Royal Albert Hall in London, home to the BBC Proms. tion’s CEO, Gerard Edwards, informing me I 2 https://tinyurl.com/3b9mzw6t had won a pair of headphones. in on Sundays at 0730 UTC and Thursdays https://tinyurl.com/2p8n9fcy They are not any old headphones either, at 1900 UTC for Kick De Bucket. This is The International Radio Report broadcast but a pair of Beats Studio 3. These are, an obituary programme, delivered in a re- by far, the best headphones I have ever spectful yet irreverent style. Appropriate a special show from this year’s NASWA’s owned. The quality of sound for spoken musical choices are included, as the pre- Winter SWL Fest, which took place word and music is wonderful, with what I senter takes a look back at people who online in March. The coverage of the would term ‘spatial awareness’. have passed, be they notorious, well Winter SWL Fest included a broadcast known or ordinary, decent humans. via WRMI called The Shortwave Shindig. However, I am no expert on this, and https://tinyurl.com/bddjpupc David Goren assembled a lovely homage there appear to be lukewarm reviews of the https://rootznrockerz.org.uk to short wave radio, full of station Beats Studio 3 on specialist sites such as identifications and interval signals. In a The Sound Spy and Soundguys. Personally, International Radio Reports truly creative style, some of these were I am deliriously happy with them. real and others imaginary. It is as good a A reminder of a resource that is programme as you could find celebrating I was also very pleased when I entertaining, informative and reliable. radio heritage and is available to listen to found Podcast Radio operating on the Every Sunday, CKUT 90.3 broadcast again on Soundcloud. Manchester Trial DAB ensemble. The pro- The International Radio Report. Sheldon https://tinyurl.com/2p93j5zt grammes are varied and interesting; even Harvey and Gilles Letourneau host the when you are not giving the station your programme, which consists of 30 minutes Elsewhere on CKUT Radio, WEFUNK full attention, it feels as if you are being of radio news. It is worth watching the Radio is another long-running weekly show. wrapped up in a comforting audio blanket. version of the programme on YouTube, DJ Static and Professor Groove began The schedule on the Podcast Radio web- for when there are images and photos. broadcasting the show in Montreal in site was at odds with what was actually be- Otherwise, download or stream from 1996. iTunes started syndicating its radio ing broadcast on the Manchester Trial DAB CKUT, and join the Facebook group too. stream in 2001, giving WEFUNK worldwide ensemble. However, that was to my advan- exposure: “Since then, they’ve been doing tage, as I seemed to prefer the output on As an example of programme content, their thing, searching out new grooves the radio to what was scheduled. the first edition of May covered Ukraine’s to make you move, recording hundreds resistance on the radio waves, a liberal more weekly shows and building up the A Tuesday lunchtime saw me happily Russian radio station losing its appeal website. Montreal’s bumping WEFUNK lost in the enthralling tales of the Mongol against being taken off the air, Australian every Friday night [Saturday mornings Rally. This was part of a podcast which Prime Minister Scott Morrison mocking in Europe] on CKUT.” It is also available started several years ago, in 2016. Far the country’s Labour Party’s policy on 24/7 on the website. WEFUNK Radio From Home saw four travellers (two wom- re-funding Radio Australia, and details and other programmes all promote and en and two men) from Australia, the USA of upcoming Ham Radio Contests. contribute to the CKUT fundraising drives. and the UK, take an 11,000-mile road trip The International Radio Report first This McGill University campus station is to Mongolia for charity. It is a, “podcast took to CKUT, a campus radio station, an exemplar of how creative radio can made on the move, as host Scott Gurian in 1987. Today, it is still going strong, develop, thrive and compete with wealthier with a dedicated audience of radio corporate stations. ventures off the beaten path to far-flung enthusiasts. It is an essential part of my www.wefunkradio.com parts of the planet. On his journeys, he weekly listening. meets fascinating people and dives head- first into adventures along the way.” Check out programmes such as Motorhome Matt, The Bookshop Podcast, and Extraordinary Stories of Britain, among others. www.thepodcastradio.co.uk https://tinyurl.com/ywfkptas Another station I enjoy on the Manchester Trial multiplex is called Rootz ‘n’ Rockerz. It is, “Manchester’s African Caribbean DAB station for music, news and sport, with current affairs features from across the Diaspora. The station is listened to by ALL who embrace the lifestyle and cul- ture. We offer opportunities to advance mul- ti-media vocations and careers.” There is some laid-back music, along with some un- usual and ear-grabbing programmes. Tune Follow us on Facebook @radioenthusiasts and Twitter @REnthusiasts July 2022 RadioUser 43
New Media and Internet Radio Date Time (UTC) Station Programme Podcast URL/ Stream/ Frequency Daily 24/7 VOV 5 (Voice of Vietnam) Voice of Vietnam, news, culture, features https://vovworld.vn/ https://vovworld.vn Weekdays 0900 to 1000 https://world.kbs.co.kr/english KBS World Radio, South Korea News, cultural features https://tinyurl.com/35y7rbfa and WRN https://tinyurl.com/2p93c7x9 Weekdays 1400 to 1600 www.standardmedia.co.ke/spicefm Mondays Spice FM, Nairobi The Spice Drive, Entertainment, news and music Not available 94.4MHz and Radio Garden app Tuesdays 1200 to 1300 Wednesdays 0600 to 0700 Channel 292 Voice of the Report of the Week with John Jurasek https://soundcloud.com/vorw 6070 kHz and 1900 to 2000 https://youtube.com/user/TheReportOfTheWeek Mondays 2100 to 2300 Abbey 104, Dorset The Jazz Show with Sandy Letham http://abbey104.com/play-it-again 104.7 FM, online http://abbey104.com Thursdays (and other days) 0800 to 1000 Misc. Canada & US stations Deep Threes with Jay, Music beyond www.mixcloud.com/deep3s GCR Channel 2 and http://deep3s.fm Thursdays (and other times) including CJMP, Boundaries for a Digital World Thursdays WYAP, WROF Saturday Missy Lils in the Afternoon Sunday 1200 to 1500 LDC Radio (Leeds Dance Radio) The Place. Culture, arts and community https://ldcradio.co.uk/listen-again https://ldcradio.co.uk LDC Radio app and 97.8 MHz Monday in Merseyside and Cheshire 1900 to 2200 BBC Merseyside The Backtracker History Show BBC Sounds app DAB, FM, www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bcmgdg Read On Audiobook Show 1700 to 1800 Bradley Stoke Radio https://tinyurl.com/35e4pvwz www.bradleystokeradio.com 103.4 MHz 1400 to 1500 RNIB Connect Radio 1800 to 1900 https://tinyurl.com/2p9bu7jk Freeview 730 www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk/Sunday.html Table 1. Chrissy‘s Top Listening Recommendations for the Month Ahead. Vinyl and Radio 3 MATTHEW WARING ON UNSPLASH WVMO, The Voice of Monona, is based (Fig. 3). I am looking forward to Prom Willgoose Esq., Wrigglesworth and J F in Wisconsin. It was just one of 150 USA 58, This New Noise, on September 2nd, Abraham mixing video footage of historic radio stations taking part in a vinylthon in which will be part of the BBC centenary events alongside their electronica- April. They all played 24 hours of music celebrations. It features the band, Public driven compositions. from vinyl records as a fundraiser for the Service Broadcasting, whose first album Vinylthon Scholarship Fund 2022. was released in 2013. Inform, Educate Their other albums commemorated the and Entertain contained audio samples space race, which also featured in a 2019 This is another novel way to raise funds from the British Film Institute and The Prom, and the mining industry in South for public radio and, as the vinylthon National Archives. Wales. Their most recent was influenced strapline stated, to help support the next by a move to the city of Berlin. generation of broadcasters. The Vinylthon The themes of the music included Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to an expedition on Mount Everest, This New Noise is, “a joyously eclectic, pay college students’ tuition fees. Eligible colour television, road safety, fashion, album-length celebration of 100 years of students must already be involved with and Thomas Woodrooffe’s 1937 BBC Radio, backed by the BBC Symphony radio, hoping to develop a career in the radio broadcast at the Spithead Orchestra and delivered with all the wit and industry after graduation. Review. It reached number 21 on the showmanship of a band on an ongoing UK Albums Chart. mission to ‘teach the lessons of the past WVMO also recently celebrated through the music of the future’. the 89th birthday of veteran musician, Public Service Broadcasting are a www.bbc.co.uk/events/e69z3d Willie Nelson. He released his 52nd fantastic live act, with band members J www.publicservicebroadcasting.net studio album, A Beautiful Time, on his birthday, and the album was featured on WVMO’s The New Music Discovery Show. WVMO first went on the airwaves in 2015 and broadcasts in a variety of formats, including local programming and Americana music. www.vinylthon.com https://tinyurl.com/2z8jjbs2 Proms 2022 Moving on, we switch from a very North American radio scene to one that is uniquely British. The BBC Proms season is a cultural highlight of the summer in London. It is also a highlight for many who are unable to attend any of the Proms in person, but who listen and watch around the world, on BBC Television, BBC Radio 3 and other networks which relay the Proms See our great book and magazine offers at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 44 RadioUser July 2022
What’s new in the world of radio News Radio News RED ROSE RADIO: Former Rock FM presenter 1 km. At the Massachusetts site, the team did not for his Drivetime Show on GHR by nearly 20% with Rob Charles is planning on using the Red Rose have the same peak power, but the average power 1.6 million now tuning in to his show each week, Radio name for a new radio station in Central was much higher thereby delivering more energy. he says: “It’s so fantastic to be back on Drivetime. Lancashire. Rob said he wants to launch a Jaffe said these demonstrations pave the way We are all having a blast and thrilled the audience new station on the small-scale DAB multiplex for power beaming on Earth, in space, and from keeps getting bigger”. LBC has done well, licence which has just been awarded to cover space to Earth using power densities within achieving 3.5m weekly listeners – the highest the Preston area. Red Rose Radio launched in safety limits set by international standards reach in its 49-year history and Nick Ferrari at 1982 and split into Red Rose Gold and Red Rose bodies [ … ]. Read about the history of this kind of Breakfast has a record 1.4 million listeners each Rock FM in 1990, but Red Rose Gold became research in Tesla’s autobiography, My Inventions week. Times Radio increased from 502,000 to Magic/RockFM2/GHR and Red Rose Rock FM (pictured). 703,000 and talkRADIO has a new record - up changed to Rock FM. “It’s a dream come true”, (SOURCE: American Navy | Colin Butler | ICQ from 542,000 to 650,000 listeners. said Rob. ”I’ve always wanted my own station, Amateur/ Ham Radio Podcast) (SOURCES: RAJAR | BBC 6 | ontheradio | but until recently, unless you were one of the big https://tinyurl.com/2s3jy825 Radioworks Group | Industry Press). companies it wasn’t possible.” Red Rose Radio https://tinyurl.com/2s3pc9xp https://www.rajar.co.uk will be aimed at people who used to listen to Rob’s Rock FM shows in the 90s. He added: “It’s BBC RADIO 6 MUSIC CELEBRATES 20 YEARS https://tinyurl.com/bdzc2uw7 going to be a 45-plus audience, but I’m keen to ON AIR: The latest radio listening figures from have a much better music variety than what’s industry body RAJAR (Radio Joint Audience out there now. You will find a lot of stations have Research) show that BBC Radio 6 Music has about 1,000 songs that are played on a loop and achieved its highest ever audience with 2.8 what you’ve heard on the way into work in the million listeners tuning in each week. This morning, you’ll hear again on the way home.” Rob comes as the station recently celebrated its 20th intends to present the breakfast show himself birthday. BBC Radio 2 has seen a dip from 14.9 and said he’s had a lot of interest from other well- million in Q4 2021 to 14.6 million in Q1 2022, with known broadcasters and investors since Ofcom The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show down to 7.4 million, announced the news on Thursday. The station from 7.5 million the previous quarter. BBC Radio will cover the Preston, Chorley and Leyland areas, 1 has lost listeners across the day – down 6% to will be 24-hours a day, commercial, and will 7.7 million and Greg James at breakfast is down feature a mixture of music, news and chat. Rob from 4.5 million to 4.1 million listeners. Chris Charles recently registered the Trademark for Moyles on Radio X at breakfast is still ahead of Red Rose Radio and has registered the name with Chris Evans on Virgin Radio. Both Moyles and companies house. Evans saw a slight drop in numbers for Q1 2022 (SOURCE: Local News Lancashire | RadioToday) compared to Q4 2021 – Moyles from 1.2 million https://tinyurl.com/4j67rubk to 1.1 million, and Evans from just over 1 million to 964,000. Capital, KISS, Magic, Smooth and WIRELESS POWERTRANSMISSION USING Heart all saw a fall in the audience, but Heart 10 GHZ: Was Tesla right? Paul Jaffe KJ4IKI and Breakfast, with Jamie Theakston and Amanda a team at U.S. Naval Research Laboratory have Holden, is the biggest commercial radio show in succeeded in transferring 1.6kW of power over a the UK , and the biggest commercial breakfast 1 km path using 10GHz. The US Navy describes show with 3.9 million listeners. The Hits Radio it as being “the most significant power beaming Network’s reach increased by 2.4% to 5.8 million, demonstration in nearly 50 years.” The aim was to while the Greatest Hits Radio Network continues demonstrate power beaming of 1kW of electrical its growth with a 26% increase to reach 4.2 power over a distance of 1 km using 10GHz. The million. Simon Mayo has increased the audience two sites used were the U.S. Army Research Field at Blossom Point in Maryland and The Haystack Ultra-Wideband Satellite Imaging Radar (HUSIR) transmitter at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Researchers stated: “The reason for setting those targets is to push this technology farther than has been demonstrated before. You don’t want to use too high a frequency as it can start losing power to the atmosphere. 10GHz is a great choice because the component technology out there is cheap and mature. Even in heavy rainfall, loss of power is less than five per cent.” In Maryland, the team exceeded their target by 60 per cent by beaming 1.6kW across just over For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 45
Emerging Issues in Radio ROD FLORES ON UNSPLASH Chrissy Brand [emailprotected] I n a strictly ‘non-scientific’ piece of 1 research, we conducted a straw poll of 40 friends, to ascertain The Future of their current radio listening habits. Radio (Part II) Respondents were aged between 24 and 85 years old and did not describe them- In the concluding part of their two-part mini-series, selves as ‘DXers’ or ‘radio enthusiasts’. Chrissy Brand and Tim Sutton-Brand conduct a mini- Of those that listened regularly to the ra- poll and climb aboard their time machine to envisage dio, the preferred ways of listening repre- how the world of radio may look, 20 years from now. sented a broad mix. In order of popularity, these methods were: via apps (using tab- content through online and on-demand even more choice and control to the user. lets or smartphones); live through televi- services. Regardless of AM and FM’s The app is available for stations SWR1, sion (Freeview); smart speakers; on-de- future, radio station apps are an easy- SWR3, SWR4, and DASDING (“The Thing”, mand through radio station streaming; or to-use, popular, tool for mainstream Fig. 2). The podcast market will become car radio (AM, FM or DAB). listeners. For listening live or on-demand, ever more popular, although it may lose an app makes perfect sense. These its name and just be accepted as another Only a quarter owned or used a may be station- or network-specific, kind of audio programme – which is what conventional radio inside the house, with such as BBC Sounds or the Community it is, after all. Podcasting will shift from FM and DAB. Broadcasting Association of Australia’s being primarily the domain of creatives Community Radio Plus app. and the educated to a wider demographic I think it is safe to predict that by 2042, of audiences that encompass all social those that listen to linear radio in the Parallel to this, but equally in demand, classes. UK on an AM, FM or DAB receiver are are the general radio apps, like Radio going to be a minority of the population. Box and Radio Garden. These apps The podcast and radio programme This means that far too many ‘old- could evolve to unimaginable heights markets are likely to merge into one school’, traditional, radios are going of versatility and will surely become the seamless medium for future listeners. to be consigned to landfills, or at best, dominant radio listening mode of the All that might differentiate them could be relocated to museums or as displays in future in the western world. explained in three categories: First, those vintage shops (Fig .1). produced by current-day radio stations German public broadcaster SWR and other media broadcasters, such as Radio receivers will still be designed, (Südwestrundfunk) has developed four newspapers, journals and companies produced and sold, but they could fall apps that enable the listener to time-shift, beyond the field of traditional radio; The into two main camps: First, receivers with skip tracks and listen to their favourite second category might be programmes DAB, AM, FM, and internet capability. tracks, on-demand. There are also from experts and specialists, Perhaps a series of high-quality radios exciting experiments underway to bring that are well-designed and aesthetically pleasing. The communications receiver market will probably contract, as today’s DXers ‘fade away’, just like many of the signals they listen to. Second, there will still be new radios coming onto the global market, with AM, FM and short wave; many of them might be Bluetooth- enabled. An upsurge in the second-hand market for classic receivers will likely continue, for collectors and historians. It is not a ludicrous thought to wonder if 20th Century radios (and even some from this century) may become desirable amongst a generation of hipsters, in a similar way that stoked the vinyl revival that started around 2010 and the current audio- cassette mini-revival amongst some up- and-coming indie musicians. Apps and Podcasts The future for radio listeners will increasingly mean accessing audio Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 46 RadioUser July 2022
Emerging Issues in Radio JAN BOTTINGER ON UNSPLASH Fig. 1: Will radio sets eventually be consigned to ‘hipster vintage shops’ and museums? Fig. 2: Südwestrundfunk (‘Southwest Radio’) in Stuttgart is developing exciting radio apps. Fig. 3: Programme content remains paramount, whichever way audio technology evolves. Fig. 4: The ‘connected car’ must retain a radio, alongside the sat-nav. Fig. 5: Virtual Reality (VR) technology is being piloted to enhance radio listening experiences. personalities and celebrities; while the third area could remain the domain of enthusiasts, developing an audience and producing content about subjects they are passionate about. Programmes and Content 2 JINSOO CHOI ON UNSPLASH Radio and audio programme content will, 3 Connected Cars – and Listeners as ever, be key (Fig. 3). “Content is king” re- mains a clarion call throughout the market- become weekly, thanks to its Patreon con- Technologies around the ‘connected ing departments of the radio and podcast tributors. The range of radio and other me- car’ have been evolving for years, and industries. Predicting what type of pro- dia experts who bring their wisdom to the the term is now in common usage. At grammes will be on the radio in the future, show makes it a vital listen. the 2021 Digital Radio Summit, Antonio in the UK and globally, is not too difficult. Arcidiacono of the EBU succinctly spoke There will doubtless be programmes fo- Patreon is a crowdfunding initiative for about radio’s future in this area, “Radio cusing on new musical genres, alongside projects, where subscribers make a month- will continue to be successful only if we a greater variety of specialist music pro- ly payment. It is a useful tool to enable con- continue to innovate. Connected cars are grammes. tent providers to generate a salary and al- one key area, where the growing adoption lows them time to focus on their podcasts of Android Automotive is likely to create Rolling news channels will likely expand, and programmes. important economies of scale. Many of the meeting a need to combat and address the new trends in radio are linked to the ability impacts caused by climate change, such as Taking the production of a programme to to store information locally. This has an the ensuing refugee crises, wars and fam- the next step up from a hobby, and getting impact both in terms of applications (with ines. paid for it, can add to the professionalism, the growth of podcasts) and in distribution, and is necessary for those of working age. making possible the seamless combination Hopefully, there will also be plenty of I can see this providing a pathway for more of live, push, multicast, and unicast content new drama content. The 2022 International individuals in future, enabling portfolio ca- Audio Drama Festival held in Canterbury in reers while generating good-quality audio March gave us additional reasons to think and video content. that should be a realistic scenario. This new drama content could be through radio sta- tions, professional theatre productions and even amateur dramatic groups. Any regular podcast listener will be aware of the huge range of high-quality drama productions already, from science fiction to historical (Listen to Within the Wires and Tale Teller Club’s Period Drama for a taste of this). These are on the cusp of evolving from be- ing cult status to becoming mainstream. For other predictions, and previews, of the media industry, you may wish to listen to The Media Podcast. Matt Deegan gives a good overview of what is going on in the media business. Its eighth annual, special programme, in January 2022, looked at me- dia trends. Panellists offered predictions for patterns in 2022. Many of the issues dis- cussed in the podcast provided an insight into how the radio landscape will evolve over the forthcoming years. In February, it was heartening to see The Media Podcast For the latest news and product reviews, visit www.radioenthusiast.co.uk July 2022 RadioUser 47
Emerging Issues in Radio JONAS LEUPE ON UNSPLASH An Imaginary 4 WILMER MARTINEZ ON UNSPLASH Scenario: July 2042 without knowing where it’s coming from. 5 On the content side, the emergence of the It is “0550, local time.” the soothing Clubhouse app is evidence of the growth can enhance the radio experience. Users voice of the world clock told me. of social experiences, possibly leading to of radio stations, operating virtual reality Opening my eyes, I saw a portion of more mash-ups of linear broadcasts with technology, can ‘teleport’ themselves into the ultra-thin, graphene screen on collective experiences that listeners can ‘hotspots’ for live concerts and studio the bedroom wall lit up in a soft lilac select from. Object-oriented production will events. Individuals could choose to focus hue. Reassured by this mimicking be a key enabler here.” on certain aspects of a performance, for the dawn light, I replied, “Play the instance, homing in on the drummer; or latest world news bulletins. English, in A World DAB Webinar in February 2022 being able to observe the expressions of took a deep dive into a recent Edison Car participants in interviews that the radio audio. Doubledown Media, European Buyers’ Survey. It began with the premise station’s studio webcam is not focusing that, as broadcast radio is the most on. Companies such as eyeora show how Broadcasting Union and Voice of preferred source of in-car entertainment, VR has a place in applications beyond the the Free North.” Half listening to the car manufacturers must understand worlds of gaming and simulation, towards headlines, I took the tablet from its customer attitudes to broadcast radio some exciting new uses of VR (Fig. 5). charger stand. A couple of swipes on the dashboard (Fig. 4). Other points on its “morning routine” section and made were that people engage with radio the coffee maker started gurgling because of the quality and breadth of the downstairs in the kitchen. Where programming, and the connection with the would we be without the internet of community. everything? Radio is unique in that regard and, An hour later, I paused at the when compared to the offering of sliding front door to pick up my digital platforms, the medium enables a solar-powered, 7G-enabled, D:vice™. connection which cannot be achieved by Like all such gadgets, its outer other platforms. casing was made from recycled plastic and hemp. I rolled it up Retaining the radio in a car is what and slotted it in my shoulder bag, drivers want. The immediacy, emotional which was emblazoned with the contact and reliability are all factors logo of one of my favourite local weighing heavily in favour of car radio, radio programmes, Calder Valley according to the survey. Calling. Aboard the train, I swiped through the choices of radio and Virtual Reality Radio podcast programmes on offer. I streamed one from the national rail Perhaps an unexpected growth area is entertainment system, all about the that of radio and audio content being flourishing vineyards of northern accessed using Virtual Reality (VR). England. It is not as outlandish as some might think. At the 2021 Radiodays Europe Major European broadcasters Conference, Jason and Daniel from VR provided some of the content, firm eyeora explained how virtual reality including emerging, independent producers, along with historic organisations like Deutsche Welle and Radio France International. There was also exciting and topical content from a partnership that was rapidly growing in stature and popularity: the joint Swiss, Austrian, Czech, Italian, Slovakian and Slovenian broadcasting venture, better known by its acronym of SOCISS. Initiatives such as this had ensured radio retained its role in the lives of millions. Why not visit our new online bookshop at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 48 RadioUser July 2022
What’s new in the world of radio News European Private Radio News Shortwave Stations SOLDERING VIA MANGA : Soldering is Easy! June 1st 2022 here is an amazing soldering primer in comic- Only legal stations are included. Most stations use low power, but a few use several kW. Note that UTC is used here, book form, from David Goren. Very accessible not CET, nor CEST! Abbreviations used: D = Germany, DNK = Denmark, FIN = Finland, NL = Netherlands, NOR = Norway instruction for home-brewers of all ages! F.pl.: future plan, Int’l = International, Irr. = irregular, LT = Local time, 24/7 = twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week (SOURCE: SWLing Post | David Goren) Mo = Monday, Tu = Tuesday, We = Wednesday, Th = Thursday, Fr = Friday, Sa = Saturday, Su = Sunday. https://tinyurl.com/bdhdu6s3 https://tinyurl.com/cze4k382 kHz Country Name Transmitter site Schedule (UTC) BBC RADIO MANCHESTER LAUNCHES 3955 D Radio Channel 292 Rohrbach Waal Daily 0600-2000 & 2100-0500 FIRST AID CAMPAIGN:Five years after the Manchester Arena attack, BBC Radio 3975 D Shortwave Radio Winsen Daily 1700-2200 Manchester is launching a campaign to help people learn lifesaving first aid techniques. 3985 D Shortwaveservice Kall-Krekel Daily 0700-1930 (‘Radio Popexpress’ a.o.) In partnership with St John Ambulance, the initiative called Three Ways To Save a Life is 3995 D HCJB Weenermoor 24/7 inviting people to book training sessions with the charity, as the city remembers the attack 5895 NOR The Sea / Radio Northern Star Bergen Silent and its victims. It also comes after the recent public inquiry 5920 D HCJB Weenermoor 24/7 into the attack heard calls for more members of the public to learn basic first aid techniques. 5930 DNK World Music Radio Bramming 24/7 Freya Lewis was 14 when she was injured in the attack. Her life was saved in the night by a 5955 NL Sunlite Westdorpe 24/7 couple who knew first aid techniques, she said: “They managed to keep me alive, I had lots of 5970 DNK Radio208 Hvidovre 24/7. F.pl.: 0400-1800 wounds, especially my arm, and the first thing Phil did was take off his coat and gave it to Kim 5980 DNK Radio OZ-Viola Hillerød We 2100-2200 and Kim applied pressure to the wound and stopped me from bleeding out. It sounds simple 5980 FIN Scandinavian Weekend Radio Virrat 1st Sa LT of the month 21-07 & 13-16 to say but the shock they must have been in – that was an incredible thing to do, they kept me 6005 D Shortwaveservice Kall-Krekel Daily 0800-1600 alive. Even the simplest thing can help someone massively and help save a life if you just go to 6005 NL Radio Delta International Elburg F.pl. (Fr or Sa 2100-0300) one course, one lesson.” (SOURCES: BBC Radio Manchester | 6020 NL Radio Delta International Elburg Irr. (Su 0600-1500) RadioToday) https://tinyurl.com/36euddyh 6030 D Shortwaveservice Kall-Krekel Alternative to 6085 kHz 6055 DNK Radio OZ-Viola Hillerød Sa-Su 1100-1300 6070 D Radio Channel 292 Rohrbach Waal 24/7 6085 D Shortwaveservice Kall-Krekel Daily 0700-1700 (‘Radio MiAmigo Int’l’) 6115 D Radio SE-TA 2 Gera Irr. (1000-1200) 6130 NL Radio Piepzender Zwolle Irr. 6140 NL Radio Onda, Belgium Borculo, NL Irr. (weekends only) 6150 D Europa 24 Datteln Irr. (0700-1605) !? 6160 D Shortwave Radio Winsen Daily 1500-2000 6170 FIN Scandinavian Weekend Radio Virrat 1st Sa of the month 07-13 & 16-21 6185 NL Radio Piepzender Zwolle Irr. 7260 NL Rockpower Nijmegen Daily 0730-1200 7270 NL Rockpower Nijmegen Daily 1200-1600 7365 D HCJB Weenermoor Silent 7425 NL Radio Piepzender Zwolle Irr. 7445 NL Radio Piepzender Zwolle Irr. (0800-1800) 9670 D Radio Channel 292 Rohrbach Waal 24/7 11690 FIN Scandinavian Weekend Radio Virrat 1st Sa of the month 07-09 & 16-21 11720 FIN Scandinavian Weekend Radio Virrat 1st Sa LT of the month 21-07 & 09-16 15700 DNK World Music Radio Randers 24/7 15785 D BitExpress Erlangen 24/7 DRM-modulation (‘Funklust’) 25800 DNK World Music Radio Mårslet, Aarhus 24/7 This list is published by Hartvig Media ApS on each first full day of the month – based on details supplied by radio stations, the stations’ websites, monitoring observations, HFCC registrations, and some reasonable presumptions. The list is not copy- righted and may be published everywhere. Subscription by email is free of charge; write to [emailprotected]. Follow us on Facebook @radioenthusiasts and Twitter @REnthusiasts July 2022 RadioUser 49
Aerials Now Keith Rawlings A Software Bonanza [emailprotected] This month has seen several rel- & an Extended Double evant updates to the most popular aerial modelling software suites. Keith Rawlings takes a look at the very latest updates First off, AutoEZ, the Excel ap- to the most popular aerial modelling software packages, plication that can automate tasks with shares news of a new Wellbrook loop and explores the EZNEC, has been revised to Version. Basic and Double Extended Zepp aerial types. 2.0.27, dated 11th March 2022, thus super- seding the previous release from January I have used RM occasionally for VHF and 1 this year. UHF path simulation over the years and it is indeed a very useful tool. I have not used it https://ac6la.com/autoez.html for some time now, but the recent update of Next, the team at AN-SOF have been AN-SOF that allows the export of radiation patterns from AN-SOF models into RM got busy improving their simulation soft- me experimenting. I then noted that RM has ware. The latest version is now V7.1. also been updated. Improvements include a more convenient way to access Input Impedance results. RM is a powerful tool, and I can Previously, the user had to navigate to and recommend it to anyone who wishes to select the segment where the source was make RF path calculations. While I would placed, then right-click on this to bring up a not call it a beginners’ application, it is quite menu to access Input Impedance results. easy to get to grips with, and there is a great Now, once a simulation is run, the user deal of support to be found online. simply selects ‘Results’ then ‘List Input Impedances’ and a task box appears. https://www.ve2dbe.com/english1.html From here, they may select results as http://www.g3tvu.co.uk/Quick_Start.htm ‘Zin vs Frequency’, ‘Rho vs Frequency’, VSWR vs Frequency’, ‘Return Loss https://tinyurl.com/2p8bjfc3 vs Frequency’, and ‘Trans. Loss vs Frequency’. Wellgood & Wellbrook 2 Once selected, details may be plotted on Readers may remember that I constructed While on the subject, Wellbrook now an X-Y chart, exported as a .csv file or plot- an active loop based on the Wellgood offers a new version of the ALA1530 ted on a Smith Chart. Project by George Smart. The project loop. It is claimed to have an increase of originally arose to repair damage caused 6dB gain at LF and 3dB at MF, compared What is more, NEC designs over real to George’s original Wellbrook Loop. The to the ALA1530N. It has a slightly higher ground can now be imported directly into latest version of the project is V3, and some noise figure compared to the earlier AN-SOF, using the ‘GN’ command. The improvements have been made to the design but it is claimed that the increase complete real ground description can be design. in gain compensates for this providing an exported to an NEC file, and the GN com- improved Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). mand can then easily be exported to a The relevant information can be found at https://tinyurl.com/6ky44rzf Scilab .sce file to develop scripts and run this URL: bulk simulations. https://tinyurl.com/3nnb297v https://www.antennasimulator.com My own Wellgood is going strong and is Radio Mobile (RM) is a free software ap- working well with a loop that is set at 1.5m plication, which simulates propagation diameter. I have found that experimenting paths from 20MHz to 20GHz. Its origins with loop diameters of larger than 1.5m lie in 1973 after its author Roger (VE2DBE) caused overloading problems within my spent a week manually calculating cov- version of the amplifier; so I have reverted erage analysis of a single radio site and to using a solid aluminium loop of 8mm decided there must be a better way to do diameter tube with a loop diameter of things. However, it was not until 1988 that 1.5m. These dimensions seem to give me he started to develop an automated sys- optimum gain and good directivity without tem. This was to become RadioMobile, causing spurious signals. using an 8088 MS-DOS computer sys- tem running on Turbo Basic. The original The Wellgood returned exceptional re- product came with a price tag of $1000. In sults, from VLF to HF. It excelled at rejecting 1991, the program was rewritten in C and an annoying intermittent noise source that was made available to radio amateurs for swamps LF and notably the NDB part of that the price of $50. Continual development band – probably a nearby battery charger, saw the software again rewritten using the location of which I have yet to find. Visual Basic 6, and it eventually became freeware in 1997. See our great book and magazine offers at www.radioenthusiast.co.uk/store 50 RadioUser July 2022
