KBTV , KMPV and CYUL Feed setup pics

[T210 Driver]

This is a new feed I'm starting up.  From here, I can hear a busy ATC radio site (Turin NY).  Going to need additional receivers to get all the channels online...  volunteers??

[KSYR-pjr]

Very nice setup  (picture is sideways, FYI). 

Where is this particular location in relation to the Saranac Lake/Adirondack Regional airport?  How about the Lake Placid airport?   Do you have a shot at either of those uncontrolled airports?

[T210 Driver]

Yeah, I know the pic is 90 degs off.  Sorry about that.. just turn your head 


The new proposed site is on a mountain right near SLK.    Not sure if we can pick up LKP since it sits in a "bowl".

Working on one more in Turin NY ...later this summer when I can get a hold of some receivers.

[KSYR-pjr]

How much are the receivers you are using?  They look industrial, putting to shame my handheld and desktop models I have for the KSYR feed.

If all it took to add a SLK or LKP (my preference - assuming reception) feed were for you to add receivers, I might be able to donate to the cause.  

[T210 Driver]

I am using modified BC350s for all my uplinks.   A bit of work was done to the receiver to favor the aviation band.

Oh, I am not lookng for any $$ for the SLK/LKP project.. just receivers such as the BC350s


Paul

[KSYR-pjr]

Oh, I am not lookng for any $$ for the SLK/LKP project.. just receivers such as the BC350s

Ha... is there a difference for someone who doesn't have a pool of BC350s laying around?     I would have to convert cash to a receiver if I wanted to donate. 

[Squawk 7700]

I am using modified BC350s for all my uplinks.   A bit of work was done to the receiver to favor the aviation band.

Hi Paul,

Exactly how did you modify the BC350s to favor the aviation band? I also run a BC350 for the KOAK feed and I was curious what "mods' you've done? Bandpass Filter?

Ken

[T210 Driver]

Yep.. bandpass IF filter mod in the radio and then outside the radio, a FM trap, then a 7 inch cavity filter.   

When ATC is not talking, its like sitting on the moon.... quiet and no garbage nailng the receiver.

[Squawk 7700]

Wow looks like you got everything covered!

Do you have instructions/pictures of the mods? Interested in the IF filter mod. Did you build the FM trap and cavity filter too?

[T210 Driver]

No, no pics sorry.   Its really a process of lining up the IF filters.  Sometimes add a few PF of capacitance sometime removing while looking at the AM detector and sourcing the receiver with a swept signal.

I'm thinking of offering a service doing this since every new BC 350 I bought was poorly aligned.    As far as the process, the alignment does the following and think of it this way:   Its like looking through the end of 4 paper towel tubes... lining up the 4 tubes for the maximum  view. 

Technically is called modulation acceptance alignment. As I said, the new BC 350s are poorly aligned. 

FM traps:  Commercially bought @ $85.... and they work miracles to clean up receiver overload

Cavities:  Commercially made   Sinclair SRL 120-7-S7 ( I think)


Paul

[Squawk 7700]

Great analogy on the paper tubes Paul! I like that one! 

Thanks for the info. I agree that filters are very useful in reducing front end overload in RF congested areas. I think of it as looking at a faint star next to the sun. Block out the sun and your view of the faint star will be better. Or, using your hand to block out an offending street light to see the stars better.

Yeah, you can offer your service and make some extra cash on the side.

Ken