A COUPLE OF TRICKS FOR FIELD OPERATION

Here are a couple of tricks I have used successfully over the years for both fixed station and portable operation.

My favorite paddle for backpacking is the very light weight and durable “BullDog Paddle.”

The problem of "What-in-the-heck-do-I-stick-it-to" was solved by mounting a small compact make-up mirror from the XYL's empty collection to the heaviest thing we carry in the pack – the small gel-cell battery. Super glue holds it to a flat side and some small rubber feet on the bottom of the battery keep it firmly in place.

To see a photograph of the BullDog paddle, visit: http://www.qsl.net/sv1edy/keypicture/136.htm

It can also serve as a signaling mirror if you are lost or injured on the trail. These mirrors can be round or oval shaped and are easily removed from their plastic holders. This set-up is very comfortable and feels just like home when a small table or park bench is available.

My other “must have” is a very simple RF output indicator for the little 2-3 watt rigs most of us use. A No. 47 bulb soldered across a BNC connector makes an excellent “dummy load” and is a good match for 50 ohms. An SWR check shows a 1:1 SWR at these power levels.

It is very reassuring to be able to check your transmitter's output on the trail or in the shack. Don't hit this with a full 5 watts or the bulb will be destroyed. From 1 to 3 or 3.5 watts are best and still give an indication with 500 Mw or less.
This size “pilot lamp” still exhibits a steady 50-ohm load at these power levels. I have tried many other bulbs and the # 47 is the only one found to exhibit a good 50 ohm load. They are available at Radio Shack if you cannot find one in the junk-box. It is certainly a tiny and lightweight reassuring accessory to have along on the trail or around the shack.

I love simple homebrew stuff for operating and camping.
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Terry Young, K4KJP, is a QRPer and outdoorsman living in Fort Walton Beach, FL.