{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"W3GMS Monday Night Workbench Net","title":"July 28th 2025 #262 - Big Guns on Six Meters, Portable Power Solutions, and Backyard Visitors | W3GMS Workbench","html":"<iframe width=\"100%\" height=\"180\" frameborder=\"no\" scrolling=\"no\" seamless src=\"https://share.transistor.fm/e/7609fd6d\"></iframe>","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":5339,"description":"General Discussion HighlightsPropagation and Contacts:John (KC3WWC) applied for a vanity call and did some POTA.Leon (AA3LH) shared insights from operating in Colorado, noting poor gray line conditions in July.Travis (N3ILS) activated parks in British Columbia during travel.Jim (KC3RFG) worked Venezuela on 10m, which remains open with good conditions.Tim (W3QP) completed two SOTA summits in Virginia.Multiple stations confirmed strong 10m openings.Equipment and Projects:Ron (WA3VEE) is transferring gear to a newer Sienna van.Bill (KC3OOK) finished a lab table base in his shop.Wayne (KC3SQI) is moving antennas to a new mast.Dave (KI6OM) linked his 220 repeater to a network and received new Pennsylvania 250th anniversary call sign plates.Discussion on grounding systems and temporary power fixes following Jim’s (AF3Z) experience with a failed neutral line.Other Notes:Pileated woodpeckers, wildlife encounters, and personal anecdotes added a friendly touch to the evening.Several stations reported summer yard work and heat-related operating limitations.Technical Questions & Answers1. Battery Size for Xiegu G90 (W3MFB)Question: What size LiFePO₄ battery is optimal for portable use with the G90, which draws ~6A on transmit?Key Points:Ron (WA3VEE): 15Ah suggested; size depends on transmit time and discharge specs.Jim (KC3RFG): Uses a 10Ah Dakota Lithium successfully for all-day use; G90 tolerates lower voltages.Tim (W3QP): At least 6Ah to meet current demands; 10–15Ah ideal. Spreadsheets exist to calculate exact needs.Consensus: A 10–15Ah LiFePO₄ is a good balance of portability and runtime.2. Mounting Antenna Switch Box (KC3SQI)Question: Should a plastic weather-protected switch box be ground-mounted or placed on the mast?Advice:Ron (WA3VEE): Mount on the mast for protection from lawn crews and ease of maintenance.CR (W8CRW): Uses a raised Pelican-type case behind protective barriers.Chuck (NA3CW): Suggests painting the box for UV protection and using protective conduit...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/UgK4a4uzmicZkQsn4AvqG7GkVQ9MhSfO26lZaRB8dLA/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9lYWEz/NjQ4Zjg4NzE2NjM5/MzY3OTMyOTlmN2Rm/NGM1Ny5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}