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°
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!
Simulcast Live Via ZOOM
Meeting ID : 914 7364 1808, Passcode : 843147
Join ZOOM Meeting Link :
https://zoom.us/j/91473641808?pwd=8jXYV0eKk2BO2d9YUXu2ejPrpVRHeM.1
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!
Forum Topic : 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
Forum Topic : 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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May 10, 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
Meeting Program :
Richard Gopstein, KD2CQ : 3D Printing In The Ham Shack
June 07, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic : 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
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 05, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic : Building Tape Measure Yagi Antennas
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 :
2025 Hamfest Preview
2025 Hamfest Volunteer Sign-Ups
August 09, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic :
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 :
2025 Hamfest Preview
2025 Hamfest Volunteer Sign-Ups
September 06, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic :
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
Sunday, September 07, 2025
7th Annual ARRL Southern New Jersey Section Convention
47th Annual GCARC Hamfest
Presented By The Gloucester County Amateur Radio Club
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 :
2025 Hamfest Review
Submission of nominees for the 2026 Club Officer Elections
October 04, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic :
Q & A Session About All Things Ham Radio and Socializing
The HF Station Will Be Available For Local Operation
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
Meeting Program :
Final submission of nominees for the 2026
Club Officer Elections
November 08, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic :
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 :
Election of 2026 Club Officers
December 06, 2025 @ 0900 Hours
Tech Saturday Forum
W2MMD Clubhouse
Forum Topic :
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