[600MRG] Propagation Predictions: 630m & 160m traction

[James Hollander]

Ken, Rudy, all,
     Some receiving operators might be able to re-use a 160m antenna on 630m with a coupling circuit simultaneously feeding two receivers and two WSPR computers.  This would apply especially to receive-only stations and to hams with 160m transmitters but no Part 5.  A shared antenna might deliver less than top receiving performance on 630m, but that's ok. The propagation information analysis would probably involve comparisons of 630m and 160m WSPR SNRs to each other, and comparisons of 630m and 160m WSPR SNR variations to each other, and comparisons to propagation software predictions.  Encouraging 160m hams to receive both 160m and 630m WSPR would net you more WSPR SNR information and build interest in 630m among the 160m community.
     Some Part 5 operators with their 630m transmitter--who are also a licensed ham with a 160m transmitter--could experiment technologically by trying to transmit alternately at 630m and 160m onto one transmitting antenna too. They could transmit WSPR at 630m and 160m in separate time slots.  And use still other time slots for receiving WSPR simultaneously at 630m and 160m.  Antenna couplers and T/R switching devices could be extended and improved for two-band use of one antenna.  
    Such antenna re-use experimentation can help advance the case for a 630m ham band. It can show how 160m operators can upgrade more conveniently to add 630m if 630m were made a ham band.  Of course, some operators are in a position to actually set up two antenna systems, one optimal for 630m and one optimal for 160m, and they could do so instead.
    You would get some good experimental traction in three ways: 
1) Propagation comparison of 630m and 160m WSPR SNR information, and improved use of propagation software.
2) Technology experimentation on couplers and T/R circuits for antenna re-use on 630m and 160m. 
3) Help advance the case for a 630m ham band. More convenience means more operators would use 630m--without having to put up another antenna.
 
73,  Jim H  W5EST