2025
Content / Activities / Resources
Below is a sneak preview of upcoming meetings and events for 2025
General Membership Meetings are held on the
First Wednesday of every month @ 1900 Hours
Pfeiffer Community Center
301 Blue Bell Road (Main Street and Blue Bell Road)
Williamstown, NJ 08094
GPS Heading : 39.682622°, -74.993315°
Simulcast Live Via ZOOM
Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808, Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
New ZOOM Guidelines For General Membership Meetings
To enhance the experience for everyone attending the General Meeting, whether in person or via Zoom, the Board of Directors has established some guidelines for Zoom participants. These guidelines are designed to ensure that everyone can focus on the meeting while also allowing Zoom participants to interact before the meeting starts.
Here are the guidelines:
Please adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable meeting experience for everyone. Following these protocols will help us maintain an inclusive and focused environment for both in-person and remote attendees. Thank you for your cooperation!
Here are the guidelines:
- Before the Meeting :
- Zoom participants are welcome to keep their cameras and microphones on to chat among themselves before the meeting begins. During this time, the Zoom audio will not be broadcast to the general audience, and local audio will not be connected to the Zoom meeting.
- During the Meeting :
- Just before the Pledge of Allegiance, a reminder will be posted for Zoom participants to mute their microphones and turn off their cameras. This ensures that all Zoom participants will see the meeting camera instead of another Zoom participant's camera. Participants in the room never see the cameras of the Zoom participants.
- Zoom participants can use the "raise your hand" button to ask questions or make comments at appropriate times during the meeting. The Zoom operator will notify the moderator, who will recognize the comment or question at the right time.
- After the Business Meeting :
- The Zoom audio will be muted immediately after the business meeting concludes to prevent any disruptions to the in-person audience from the PA speakers.
Please adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable meeting experience for everyone. Following these protocols will help us maintain an inclusive and focused environment for both in-person and remote attendees. Thank you for your cooperation!
Wednesday, January 08, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program : Reverse Beacon Network
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Reverse Beacon Network
By Steve McGarry, WS2C CW Skimmer, developed by Alex, VE3NEA, debuted in early 2008 as a DXing tool to monitor pileups efficiently. The software soon sparked controversy among contesters over its use, particularly after telnet capability was added, allowing spots to feed directly into contest logging software. The debate compared its use to DX clusters and whether it constituted "assistance." Around the same time, the Reverse Beacon Network (RBN) concept emerged from discussions between Felipe, PY1NB and another ham radio enthusiast, building |
on the DXWatch.com framework to display skimmer spots. As the RBN developed, it faced similar debates about its impact on contesting rules, ultimately being categorized alongside traditional DX clusters for assisted and multi-op contest entries. The RBN continued expanding, enhancing its capabilities with tools like the Signal Analysis Tool introduced in 2010.
In this month’s presentation, Club member Steve McGarry, WS2C, will focus on the RBN and its use :
This is a bare metal project with a Linux OS. The software transforms the hardware to many devices including but not limited to an SDR transceiver or SDR receiver. Steve will emphasize how the casual operators pursuing DX, laidback contester, and everyday operators can benefit from RBNs and how to deploy this tool at their stations to advance operating goals.
This presentation is not a weighty lecture. The aim is to inform, entertain, and spark interest in the RBN tool and SDRs. The value of this project is that it dovetails with an array of Amateur Radio interests from computers, operating, SDRs, and receive antennas. It presents some unique challenges, for example, the receiver node must exist side by side with a high-power station operation.
Come join us at our monthly membership meeting at 7 PM at the Pfeiffer Community Center for this interesting presentation. See you there!
In this month’s presentation, Club member Steve McGarry, WS2C, will focus on the RBN and its use :
- Review the reverse beacon concept
- Examine the reverse beacon network RBN blueprint
- Consider components required to assemble a working software defined receiver (SDR) node package for Telnet transmission to the CW reverse beacon network servers
- Deploy RBN spots in station operations through variety of applications including web application DX cluster nodes and common station logging software
This is a bare metal project with a Linux OS. The software transforms the hardware to many devices including but not limited to an SDR transceiver or SDR receiver. Steve will emphasize how the casual operators pursuing DX, laidback contester, and everyday operators can benefit from RBNs and how to deploy this tool at their stations to advance operating goals.
This presentation is not a weighty lecture. The aim is to inform, entertain, and spark interest in the RBN tool and SDRs. The value of this project is that it dovetails with an array of Amateur Radio interests from computers, operating, SDRs, and receive antennas. It presents some unique challenges, for example, the receiver node must exist side by side with a high-power station operation.
Come join us at our monthly membership meeting at 7 PM at the Pfeiffer Community Center for this interesting presentation. See you there!
January 11, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Happy 10th Anniversary!
John Zaruba Jr, K2ZA : Learning Morse Code
Strategies For The Beginner
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, February 05, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Angela Metzger, KE2DRJ : Woodruff School's STEM Club
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Woodruff School’s STEM Club by Angela Metzger, KE2DRJ The Woodruff School’s STEM Club began with a goal to engage students in ways that traditional after-school programs might not. Initially proposed and approved for a 10-week period, the Club sought to gauge student interest in science, technology, and engineering. The response was overwhelmingly positive, as students demonstrated a keen desire to expand their knowledge beyond the classroom. |
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The STEM Club’s early focus was on Amateur Radio, specifically through the launching and tracking of high-altitude balloons. Collaborating with GCARC members Jon Pearce, WB2MNF, Mike Resnick, N2WOQ, and Mike Thompson, KG4JYA, the students learned about balloon science, transmitter functionality, and the role of Amateur Radio. They developed practical skills such as soldering, monitoring wind patterns, building payloads, measuring antennas, and problem-solving.
The program's initial phase concluded with two balloon launches - one solar powered and the other battery powered. Each launch yielded different results, providing valuable lessons in both success and failure.
Inspired by these experiences, several students addressed the school board, advocating for the continuation of the STEM Club. Their presentation led to a unanimous approval, allowing the program to extend through the rest of the year. The Club has since enabled students to explore new concepts and sparked an interest in obtaining Amateur Radio licenses.
This month, Angela will present an overview of the STEM Club’s journey and achievements. Students and parents are expected to attend and show their support. Join us for an insightful discussion about this innovative program and its impact on the students. This should be good! See you there.
The program's initial phase concluded with two balloon launches - one solar powered and the other battery powered. Each launch yielded different results, providing valuable lessons in both success and failure.
Inspired by these experiences, several students addressed the school board, advocating for the continuation of the STEM Club. Their presentation led to a unanimous approval, allowing the program to extend through the rest of the year. The Club has since enabled students to explore new concepts and sparked an interest in obtaining Amateur Radio licenses.
This month, Angela will present an overview of the STEM Club’s journey and achievements. Students and parents are expected to attend and show their support. Join us for an insightful discussion about this innovative program and its impact on the students. This should be good! See you there.
February 08, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic : Overview of DMR Operation
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, March 05, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Steve Anderson, W1EMI : ARRL's RFI Program
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ARRL’s RFI Program
By Steve Anderson, W1EMI This month, we are excited to welcome Steve Anderson, W1EMI, an RFI engineer at ARRL in Connecticut. Steve plays a crucial role in helping amateur radio operators tackle RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) issues. His responsibilities include working with local RFI teams, conducting tests on devices with significant RFI potential, serving as the ARRL EMC committee and FCC liaison, and participating in noise surveys. |
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Our program will kick off by understanding the scope of RFI through relevant statistics, establishing a clear baseline to identify common causes. These insights will highlight the primary sources of RFI and where they are likely to occur.
Steve will also shed light on Federal Laws designed to manage RFI, ARRL-supported resolution options, and the FCC's role in the process.
Most importantly, Steve will guide us on identifying and resolving RFI issues. When resolutions prove challenging, the ARRL can assist in testing problematic consumer devices and exploring potential solutions. In those cases where local efforts fall short, the ARRL will intervene with responsible entities and escalate the issues to the FCC if necessary.
This should be very interesting and informative! See you there.
Steve will also shed light on Federal Laws designed to manage RFI, ARRL-supported resolution options, and the FCC's role in the process.
Most importantly, Steve will guide us on identifying and resolving RFI issues. When resolutions prove challenging, the ARRL can assist in testing problematic consumer devices and exploring potential solutions. In those cases where local efforts fall short, the ARRL will intervene with responsible entities and escalate the issues to the FCC if necessary.
This should be very interesting and informative! See you there.
March 08, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic : DMR Hands-On Workshop
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Deadline To Renew Your Club Membership
Dues Is Monday, March 31, 2025
Dues Is Monday, March 31, 2025
Wednesday, April 02, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Anthony Luscre, K8ZT (www.k8zt.com) :
Beginner's Guide To VHF
In this month’s program, Anthony Luscre, K8ZT, will delve into the VHF and UHF Bands, which span 30 to 300 MHz and 300 to 3,000 MHz, respectively - all accessible to Technician Licensees. The session will focus more specifically on 6M, 2M, 1.25M and 70 cm, 33 cm, 23 cm bands.
VHF/UHF amateur radios are available in different types, including FM-only radios and multimode radios. FM radios enable users to make simplex contacts, use analog repeaters for extended communication distances, establish satellite links, send messages via Winlink, and engage in APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System). Multimode radios expand these capabilities by including SSB (Single Sideband), CW (Continuous Wave) communication, and digital modes.
A VHF/UHF station can take various forms - mobile, base, portable, or handheld. These stations require essential components such as a radio, an antenna, a coaxial feedline, and a power source. Depending on the application, antennas can range from simple verticals to complex steerable beams.
For effective use of VHF/UHF radios, operators should understand repeater access, optimize their radios for their use, and address common troubleshooting issues. Practice using simplex operation is encouraged; there are several frequencies available for this purpose. Many VHF/UHF radios come with additional features for enhanced functionality. Digital FM radios require specific configurations depending on the communications format and a matching repeater. It is interesting to also know that many repeaters can even be accessed via your computer. Operating analog FM repeaters involves programming the radio with the appropriate frequency, offset, and tone. There are numerous software applications to help simplify this setup process.
Finally, mentors and training opportunities are invaluable for new operators, providing guidance and hands-on experience from the ham radio community. Participation in activities and exercises not only sharpens skills but also prepares operators for emergency communication scenarios.
This session isn’t just about learning, it’s about unlocking the full potential of VHF and UHF Bands and discovering how far your amateur radio passion can take you.
Don’t miss it!
VHF/UHF amateur radios are available in different types, including FM-only radios and multimode radios. FM radios enable users to make simplex contacts, use analog repeaters for extended communication distances, establish satellite links, send messages via Winlink, and engage in APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System). Multimode radios expand these capabilities by including SSB (Single Sideband), CW (Continuous Wave) communication, and digital modes.
A VHF/UHF station can take various forms - mobile, base, portable, or handheld. These stations require essential components such as a radio, an antenna, a coaxial feedline, and a power source. Depending on the application, antennas can range from simple verticals to complex steerable beams.
For effective use of VHF/UHF radios, operators should understand repeater access, optimize their radios for their use, and address common troubleshooting issues. Practice using simplex operation is encouraged; there are several frequencies available for this purpose. Many VHF/UHF radios come with additional features for enhanced functionality. Digital FM radios require specific configurations depending on the communications format and a matching repeater. It is interesting to also know that many repeaters can even be accessed via your computer. Operating analog FM repeaters involves programming the radio with the appropriate frequency, offset, and tone. There are numerous software applications to help simplify this setup process.
Finally, mentors and training opportunities are invaluable for new operators, providing guidance and hands-on experience from the ham radio community. Participation in activities and exercises not only sharpens skills but also prepares operators for emergency communication scenarios.
This session isn’t just about learning, it’s about unlocking the full potential of VHF and UHF Bands and discovering how far your amateur radio passion can take you.
Don’t miss it!
April 05, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Chris Prioli AD2CS : From Breadboard To Circuit Board
Designing Printed Circuit Boards For Ham Projects
Designing Printed Circuit Boards For Ham Projects
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, May 07, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
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This month’s presentation by Alan Wolke, W2AEW, will begin with an in-depth exploration of vector network analyzers (VNAs), outlining their fundamental block diagram architecture and core functionalities. You will gain insight into the various applications of VNAs and understand why they are critical in modern measurement systems. The discussion will then introduce S-Parameters - detailing their significance in characterizing the reflective and transmissive properties of high-frequency networks.
Building upon this technical foundation, Alan will transition to a focused overview of the NanoVNA. A brief historical perspective will illustrate the evolution of the NanoVNA and the innovations that have fueled its development. Given the diverse range of NanoVNA variants currently available, the presentation will concentrate on the essential features common to most of the devices.
Continuing, Alan will delve into critical practical aspects such as the calibration process - explaining both the necessity for calibration and providing step-by-step guidance on how to perform it. Detailed coverage will also be given to typical use cases, including a guided tour through the device's menu system to facilitate efficient measurement setup and operation.
This comprehensive overview is designed to equip you with both the theoretical background and practical skills necessary to effectively utilize VNAs and NanoVNAs in advanced measurement and testing scenarios.
This should be a highly informative program. Don’t miss it.
First Session : May 10, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Second Session : May 17, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
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Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, June 04, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
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In this month’s program Rich Gopstein, KD2CQ, will delve into the world of 3D printing and explore its powerful potential within the ham radio community. We will discover how 3D printing stands apart from traditional manufacturing by offering flexibility, customization, and rapid prototyping capabilities. In addition, we will learn why adopting this innovative technology can be a game changer - not just for fabricating unique components, but also for enhancing your ham radio projects.
Throughout the session, Rich will :
Throughout the session, Rich will :
- Clarify The Fundamentals : Understand what 3D printing is and how its process contrasts with traditional manufacturing methods.
- Reveal The Advantages : Examine the compelling reasons to integrate 3D printing into our hobby or professional pursuits.
- Connect With Ham Radio : Explore specific applications of 3D printing that cater directly to the needs and creativity of ham radio.
- Offer Practical Guidance : Share best practices, tips, and techniques to help you achieve higher quality prints and more effective designs.
To cap off the presentation, Rich will demonstrate a 3D printer in action, and you will see firsthand the exciting opportunities that this technology brings to the world of ham radio.
This session is designed to inspire and equip you with both the knowledge and practical skills to merge technology with tradition, empowering you to innovate in the ham radio space. Don’t miss it!
Rich Gopstein, KD2CQ, has been licensed since 1981 and is currently an Amateur Extra. His background is corporate IT, though he's mostly retired. He currently volunteers for ARDC (Amateur Radio Digital Communications) as well as the AMSAT satellite engineering team. He has owned a 3D printer for over 10 years, though he still has plenty to learn.
This session is designed to inspire and equip you with both the knowledge and practical skills to merge technology with tradition, empowering you to innovate in the ham radio space. Don’t miss it!
Rich Gopstein, KD2CQ, has been licensed since 1981 and is currently an Amateur Extra. His background is corporate IT, though he's mostly retired. He currently volunteers for ARDC (Amateur Radio Digital Communications) as well as the AMSAT satellite engineering team. He has owned a 3D printer for over 10 years, though he still has plenty to learn.
June 07, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Jim Wright N2GXJ : Intro To Field Day For Newbies
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
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ARRL Field Day
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Wednesday, July 02, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
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2025 Field Day Review
July 12, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
July 19, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Chris Prioli AD2CS : Building Tape Measure Yagi Antennas
and 4 MHz Offset Attenuators
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, August 06, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Frank Donovan W3LPL :
Short & Long Term Variability of HF Propagation
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Short and Long Term Variability of HF Propagation By Frank Donovan W3LPL HF radio propagation begins with the Sun’s powerful and ever-changing magnetic field. While many of us are familiar with sunspots and the solar cycle, this month’s Zoom presentation by Frank Donovan W3LPL, offers a deeper exploration into the solar dynamics that drive both short-term disruptions and long-term variability in HF communications. |
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Key topics include :
- · Solar cycle variability over the past 60 years
- · Current status of Solar Cycle 25 and its trajectory toward the next solar minimum
- · Ultraviolet radiation from the Sun’s corona and its role in ionizing Earth’s ionosphere
- · Propagation of the solar magnetic field throughout the solar system via the solar wind
- · Sudden HF degradation caused by solar flares
- · Impact of coronal mass ejections on HF communication
- · HF disruptions caused by coronal holes during the years following solar maximum
- · Minor geomagnetic storms driven by coronal hole high speed stream activity
- · Strong-to-severe geomagnetic storms triggered by coronal mass ejections
Our program concludes with a forward-looking analysis of HF band propagation characteristics through the remainder of Solar Cycle 25, projecting trends as solar activity gradually declines toward the anticipated solar minimum around 2030.
This should be a fact rich, energy dense program providing us with an opportunity to reaffirm and expand our knowledge of HF propagation as we head into the solar minimum.
See you there.
This should be a fact rich, energy dense program providing us with an opportunity to reaffirm and expand our knowledge of HF propagation as we head into the solar minimum.
See you there.
2025 Hamfest Preview
2025 Hamfest Volunteer Sign-Ups
August 09, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Jon Pearce WB2MNF & Chris Prioli AD2CS :
Programming The TIDRadio TD-H3 HT
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, September 03, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Roland Anders K3RA : Logging Software
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Keeping a reliable and organized log of your on-the-air contacts is more than just good practice - it’s essential for awards, contests, QSL confirmations, and personal record-keeping. Whether you're a casual operator or a serious DX chaser, logging software can streamline your operations and enhance your ham radio experience.
Join us at this month’s General Membership Meeting for an informative session led by Rol Anders K3RA, who will guide us through the wide array of logging programs |
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available today. With so many options in the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Rol will help you cut through the clutter and identify the software that best fits your operating style and needs.
He will cover :
Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, this session will provide valuable insights and practical recommendations. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how logging software can make your ham radio operating more efficient, organized, and fun.
He will cover :
- What is a Ham Radio Log?
- Basic advantages of computer logging
- Computer and station hardware considerations
- What to consider when choosing a logger?
- Some popular general logger choices with demo
- Screen shots of some popular loggers
- Contest loggers versus general purpose loggers - do I need both
- The most popular contest loggers
Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, this session will provide valuable insights and practical recommendations. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how logging software can make your ham radio operating more efficient, organized, and fun.
2025 Hamfest Preview
2025 Hamfest Volunteer Sign-Ups
Sunday, September 07, 2025
7th Annual ARRL Southern New Jersey Section Convention
47th Annual GCARC Hamfest
Presented By The Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club
September 13, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Jon Pearce WB2MNF : Setup of the 915 MHz Meshtastic Radios
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, October 01, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Spencer Webb W2SW : The Lowly Coaxial Cable
Amateur Radio operators often devote significant attention to Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) - but how much of that concern is truly warranted? At this month’s program, Spencer Webb W2SW will return and take a practical and physics-based look at transmission lines and their role in RF system performance.
He will explore the fundamentals of how transmission lines carry energy to and from antennas, and address common questions such as :
Hopefully, you will gain a deeper understanding of key concepts including loss, matching, characteristic impedance, and the ACTUAL real-world implications of SWR. We'll also examine the use of autotuners and how they’ve influenced both amateur and professional HF communication practices.
Whether you're optimizing your station or simply curious about what’s happening between your rig and your antenna, this session will offer clarity, context, and practical takeaways. Don’t miss it!
He will explore the fundamentals of how transmission lines carry energy to and from antennas, and address common questions such as :
- Does coaxial cable actually leak RF?
- How does transmission line loss affect system efficiency - and how can it be minimized?
- Is premium coax worth the investment, or are there cases where budget options outperform?
- What are the trade-offs between open line, coaxial cable, and waveguide?
Hopefully, you will gain a deeper understanding of key concepts including loss, matching, characteristic impedance, and the ACTUAL real-world implications of SWR. We'll also examine the use of autotuners and how they’ve influenced both amateur and professional HF communication practices.
Whether you're optimizing your station or simply curious about what’s happening between your rig and your antenna, this session will offer clarity, context, and practical takeaways. Don’t miss it!
2025 Hamfest Review
Submission of nominees for the 2026 Club Officer Elections
October 04, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
John Zaruba Jr K2ZA : Introduction To APRS
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
CPR & First Aid Training Class
2 Sessions Available For Club Members
October 05, 2025 : 0900 - 1200 Hours
October 05, 2025 : 1300 - 1600 Hours
W2MMD Clubhouse
Click This Link To Register For This Training Class
Virtual Traffic Handling Training ZOOM Class
Tuesday, October 07, 2025 : 2000 - 2100 Hours
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 : 2000 - 2100 Hours
To Register, Please Contact SNJ SM Ron Fish KX1W : [email protected]
Wednesday, November 05, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
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Meeting Program :
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This month, Dennis Dura K2DCD, will discuss the VOIP Hurricane Net creation and how it aids in the flow of critical information during times of disaster.
Saving Lives Through Technology and Teamwork
SKYWARN’s core mission remains steadfast : To help protect lives and property through the vigilant identification and field evaluation of threatening weather and hazardous conditions. By facilitating the timely collection and dissemination of critical weather reports, we help the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Hurricane Center (NHC) act swiftly and effectively.
Unified Communications for Severe Weather Response
We’re proud to announce a major advancement in our operational capabilities. The EchoLink Conference Server and IRLP Reflector have been successfully merged to form a unified VoIP Hurricane Net - providing a single, streamlined point of contact for field reports and coordination between NWS, NHC, and SKYWARN volunteers.
This integration eliminates duplication of effort and maximizes the utility of our resources. It’s a leap forward in efficiency and accessibility for all involved.
Saving Lives Through Technology and Teamwork
SKYWARN’s core mission remains steadfast : To help protect lives and property through the vigilant identification and field evaluation of threatening weather and hazardous conditions. By facilitating the timely collection and dissemination of critical weather reports, we help the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Hurricane Center (NHC) act swiftly and effectively.
Unified Communications for Severe Weather Response
We’re proud to announce a major advancement in our operational capabilities. The EchoLink Conference Server and IRLP Reflector have been successfully merged to form a unified VoIP Hurricane Net - providing a single, streamlined point of contact for field reports and coordination between NWS, NHC, and SKYWARN volunteers.
This integration eliminates duplication of effort and maximizes the utility of our resources. It’s a leap forward in efficiency and accessibility for all involved.
Expanding Connectivity with VoIP Technologies
In addition to EchoLink and IRLP, the net can now accommodate other VoIP platforms such as :
These technologies can be brought online as needed, with future plans to fully integrate them into our system for even broader reach and resilience.
A Legacy of Collaboration
This initiative builds on the groundwork laid between 2002 - 2003, when EchoLink and IRLP hosted separate weather nets. In 2004, Kevin Anderson KD5WX, WX-TALK Net Manager, and Danny Musten KD4RAA, IRLP Raleigh Reflector Net Manager, joined forces to create the combined net we rely on today. Their vision and dedication - alongside countless volunteers - have made this program possible.
Website Features and Public Access
Our website serves as a vital hub for :
Whether you're a Net Controller or a concerned citizen, this platform ensures you have the tools to stay informed and contribute meaningfully.
Full Activation During Tropical Threats
Whenever tropical weather threatens the U.S. mainland or coastal regions - primarily in the Atlantic, but also in the Eastern and Central Pacific - the VoIP WX-NET will be fully operational. Your participation and vigilance are crucial.
Come and join us at this month’s General Membership Meeting.
In addition to EchoLink and IRLP, the net can now accommodate other VoIP platforms such as :
- AllStar
- DMR
- D-STAR
- Fusion
- Hamshack Hotline
These technologies can be brought online as needed, with future plans to fully integrate them into our system for even broader reach and resilience.
A Legacy of Collaboration
This initiative builds on the groundwork laid between 2002 - 2003, when EchoLink and IRLP hosted separate weather nets. In 2004, Kevin Anderson KD5WX, WX-TALK Net Manager, and Danny Musten KD4RAA, IRLP Raleigh Reflector Net Manager, joined forces to create the combined net we rely on today. Their vision and dedication - alongside countless volunteers - have made this program possible.
Website Features and Public Access
Our website serves as a vital hub for :
- Reviewing the latest tropical bulletins and satellite imagery
- Learning VoIP Hurricane Net procedures
- Tracking net activations for landfalling hurricanes
- Submitting weather observations that meet NHC/NWS reporting criteria
Whether you're a Net Controller or a concerned citizen, this platform ensures you have the tools to stay informed and contribute meaningfully.
Full Activation During Tropical Threats
Whenever tropical weather threatens the U.S. mainland or coastal regions - primarily in the Atlantic, but also in the Eastern and Central Pacific - the VoIP WX-NET will be fully operational. Your participation and vigilance are crucial.
Come and join us at this month’s General Membership Meeting.
Final submission of nominees for the 2026
Club Officer Elections
November 08, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
John Zaruba Jr K2ZA :
DigiPi : The Ultimate Hot-Spot For All Amateur Radio Data Modes
John Zaruba Jr K2ZA returns on November 8th for a Tech Saturday presentation on the DigiPi suite of programs for Raspberry Pi computers - perfect for digital modes, APRS gateways, and packet setups. He’ll guide us through installation and configuration, with practical tips for all skill levels. We’re compiling a list of affordable Pi hardware for pre-purchase; watch your email for details if you’d like to set up your own rig. This session promises to spark some creative tinkering.
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
Wednesday, December 03, 2025 @ 1900 Hours
General Membership Meeting
ZOOM Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808; Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
Meeting Program :
Joe Jesson W2JEJ : Browser-Based Signal Monitoring
Election of 2026 Club Officers
December 06, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Chris Prioli AD2CS : The 40 Meter Field Day Bandpass Filter - Deep Dive
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation