Red Oaks Radio: Winter Field Day 2025

Overview

Red Oaks Radio is excited to participate in Winter Field Day 2025! Our setup will feature two fully operational stations to ensure continuous activity and maximize our ability to make contacts. This effort combines effective station configuration, skilled operators, and comfortable accommodations for participants.

Dates and details for Winter Field Day at their site: winterfieldday.com

[this page is subject to change. And will change. Last edit: 17-Dec]

...and some excellent hints and tips are in Ward Silver's article here (PDF)

Station Configurations

1. SSB Station (Voice Communication):

• Primary Mode: Single Sideband (SSB)
• Primary Band: 20 meters (daytime); 40 meters (early Sunday morning)
• Equipment: Yaesu FT-891
• Antenna: Ground-mounted vertical
• Power: LiFePO4 battery
• Primary Operator: Ken

2. CW Station (Morse Code Communication):

• Primary Mode: CW
• Bands: Frequency-agile across multiple bands
• Antenna: Ground-mounted horizontal polarization for band agility and interference mitigation
• Power: Independent setup with dedicated feedlines and power. LiFePO4 battery and generator / charger access
• Primary Operator: Dave

Both stations are independently powered and cabled but will be positioned close enough for operators to communicate and coordinate as needed.

3. Antennas:

Logistics and Infrastructure

1. Trailers:

• Dave will have his travel trailer on-site, providing:
  • Overnight accommodations
  • Shelter for bad weather
  • A base for food, water, and creature comforts
• A utility trailer will house:
  • Spare hardware and tools
  • Radios and test equipment
  • Repair kits (soldering, crimping, etc.)

2. Antenna Placement:

SSB station's vertical antenna and CW station's horizontal antenna will be strategically spaced to minimize RF interference.

3. Guest Operators:

Guest operators are welcome and are encouraged to schedule operating times in advance to ensure smooth transitions.

Key Personnel

• Ken: SSB station primary operator.
• Dave: CW station primary operator and on-site coordinator, spending the night on-site to oversee operations and address any issues.

Community and Participation

Red Oaks Radio invites club members and guests to join us in making Winter Field Day 2025 a memorable and successful event. Whether you’re an experienced operator or a newcomer looking to learn, this is an excellent opportunity to engage in the hobby and contribute to our success.