The node has the callsign VE3BLZ-1 and the alias of SARC. It is on 145.010 MHz simplex. There do not appear to be any other nodes within operating range at present, but it can still be used by local stations to connect to each other, and should be useful for ARES purposes. We are still working on getting a DX packet cluster working which will be accessible from the node, and we will announce when this is set up. We could probably add GPS facilities as well, but that will require me to do some more reading...
The node uses a 10 W Motorola radio, MFJ TNC node controller running X1-J4, and the antenna is a 3dB gain omnidirectional vertically polarized array at 260' fed through LMR400 cable. So the coverage should be pretty good, although we hope to increase the radio power at some point. The node broadcasts its presence using packet and morse every 10 minutes. There is no battery backup at present, but this could be added at a later date, particularly if ARES use becomes important.
To use the node you need a VHF FM radio, a TNC and a computer (or dumb terminal) and an antenna! Instructions on how to connect will be found in the TNC manual, but we would be happy to help anybody needing assistance. You can connect to 'SARC' or 'VE3BLZ-1', and then onto other stations. There are a number of options available when you are connected and these are listed by typing 'H' for help.
This has very much been a club project and I would particularly like to thank: Bill, VE3BEK for the radio, the antenna and the TNC; Steve VE3CWJ for producing the node software and for a power supply; Doug VE3DNS for a power supply; the club members for allowing the purchase of the coaxial cable; and of course Marcel Ethier for letting us put this equipment on his commercial tower.
Please contact me if you need any more information. I look forward to working you over packet.
Roger VE3ZI
