KP2/K9MA ARRL 10 Meter Contest Operation

Dec. 10-11, 2011

St. John, US Virgin Islands

QSL Direct Only

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First licensed in 1966, I couldn't afford commercial gear, and only a CW transmitter was practical to build. I built a couple, and have been hooked on CW ever since. In college, I got into contesting at the club station, W9YT, which then was a competitive station. There I met K6NA, K9LBQ, W9XT, and others.

I choose to live in the city, close to job, etc. Fortunately, my small city lot has just enough room for a 21 meter tower. I don't win any contests, but I have a lot of fun. And my commute to work takes 10 minutes by bicycle.

I earn a living designing electronics, mostly analog, at the University of Wisconsin.

Some of my other interests include bicycle touring, many other outdoor activities, and playing the oboe.

Equipment:

K3, FT-1000D, AL-82, SB-220, homebrew automatic antenna switching system.

Antennas:

TH-7 at 21 M, A3 Fixed SE at 15 M, 40 M rotatable dipole at 23 M, tower shunt fed on 80 and 160, a couple wire antennas. RX loops for 80 and 160.

K9MA Tower

K9MA 80/160 Receiving Loop (One of Two)

K9MA Operating Position

K9MA Antenna Control Panel