Host: KC3NZT
🔧 General Discussion Highlights
- Field Day Aftermath & Logging Success
WA3VEE and several others (including KC3OOK, W3KZG) recapped an intense six-hour post-field day session at WA3LVR’s home. Final logs were reconciled and submitted to ARRL. Participation reached a record: 34 operators, 31 visitors, 8 youth, and 100 contacts logged on K3DTS. - Generator Inrush Lessons
A lively, deeply technical discussion centered around an electric woodchipper rated at 5 HP, 230V, and requiring a 30–40A breaker, yet showing a startup current of 142 amps. Multiple ops shared field experience and technical insights, including:- Why household breakers can tolerate short-duration surges
- Differences between American thermal-magnetic vs. European magnetic breakers
- Importance of proper wire gauge for protection (per NEC)
- Tips for generator use, including the infamous “bump start” technique
- Rotator Mounting & Wind Load
Wayne (KC3SQI) asked about mounting a thrust bearing on unistrut and rigid conduit to support a 25–30 lb antenna. Advice emphasized:- Maintaining solid alignment between rotator and bearing
- Using heavier-duty rotators (like Yaesu G-800 over G-450)
- Considering wind load and moment arm, even for a compact hex beam
âť“Technical Questions
- CR – Circuit Breaker for 230V Equipment
- Concerned about a chipper with 5HP motor and required starting amps of 142A
- Got feedback on magnetic vs. thermal-magnetic breakers, wire safety limits, and starting behavior on generators
- KC3SQI – Mounting Thrust Bearings on Mast
- Query about using unistrut off a 1.5" rigid conduit mast
- Recommended: strong, rigid bracketing with precise alignment and considering future rotator strain
What is W3GMS Monday Night Workbench Net?
Every Monday Evening at 8pm Eastern Time, the W3GMS/R Crew get together on the repeater at 146.985Mhz and discuss technical questions and sometimes do lessons related to Ham Radio for newer Operators to learn from experienced Elmers. The Workbench was set up to be a safe place for any technical questions to get asked and good answers to be given.