VK4VCC as at 20 Aug 2011

Whats happened since my last post:

• Picked up the Icom IC-706MKIIG from my brothers place
• Cleaned up shack
• Setup old laptop and N3FJP and N1MM logging software in shack
• Reconnected shack to SteppIR BigIR (coax and controller cable)
• Sold the tower
• Sold the Array Solutions Powermaster
• Sale pending on Yaesu FT-950 and Heil Pro-Set Plus headsets
• Sent IC-706MKIIG off as trade-in on a Kenwood TS-480HX (box no longer required)
• Commenced artwork on new QSL cards in GlobalQSL

My biggest problem is laying down radials. I went out today with shovel to start digging but the ground is so hard it would take me a decade of Sundays to finish. Need to come up with a simple solution (suggestions anyone). I wish I could lay my hands on one of these - EZ-Trench Wire/Cable Installer

Needed - Empty Icom IC-706MKIIG Box

I have been searching everywhere for my Icom IC-706MKIIG box and for the life of me, can't find it anywhere. It's not like me to throw away a transceiver box. Inside is the box the hand mic came in and also the user manual.

If anyone has, or knows where I can get one, I would be greatly appreciated. I am more than happy to pay for the box, manual and postage.

I have emailed Icom Australia and will wait for a reply.

Edit: No luck from Icom Australia. At least they replied promptly.

Change of Heart

Ok, a change of heart, I don't think I can give up everything so this is what I have decided to do.

What do I have left in the way of HF? I've sold the tower, FT-950, Array Solutions Powermaster and the 2 Heil headsets. Whats left is the SteppIR BigIR MKIII with 80m loading coil, 3 power supplies and an ICOM IC-706MKIIG (plus Heil Traveler headset).

The SteppIR BigIR will remain as my sole antenna and covers everything from 80m to 6m. What I need to do is lay down and bury a whole heap of radials. I have cleaned everything up and connected the coax and controller cable.

With regards to the 706MKIIG, I am going to trade it in for a Kenwood TS-480HX. That's if I get a descent price for the 706. (Still need to find the box). I obviously have enough power supplies to run at full power.

I'll probably also pick myself up a Heil Proset headset later down the track.