All,
I'm about to test several Part 15 AM broadcast systems using the Schlockwood SW300 as the field strength measurement instrument. Currently I have a Procaster mounted on an old antenna ground mount point with ample radials and ground rod. It works pretty well here so this will be my constant as I compare it with the Rangemaster. I also have several units that are certainly meant for indoor use so need some guidance on how to arrange this test regimen. These include two Talking House units (one allegedly new, one used), that Radio Realty Transmitter mentioned on this forum over the weekend, and some smallish Talking House item.
Thoughts welcome as I put together a test plan for each style of transmitter.
John
Yes, to be accurate each test has to be done all things being equal. The distance and same spot for the measurement and the transmitters set up the exact same way and antenna's the same position. But the ones with a wire I don't know how you can get a valid comparison. Try to get those powered the same way you did the others and hold the wire up the same way with something. Maybe connect with a small lead from the chassis of the Talking House to your ground rod to get some similar set up. If you don't somehow get the indoor ones connected to your ground mount also the first two will blow those others away.
.... These include two Talking House units (one allegedly new, one used), that Radio Realty Transmitter mentioned on this forum over the weekend, ..
Ah, I wondering who bought it. It was described as having a problem but I'm sure you'll figure it out. I've never known anyone that used one, this should be interesting.
Currently I have a Procaster mounted on an old antenna ground mount point with ample radials and ground rod. .
I would use that same mount point for every transmitter, run the test and then switch to the next transmitter. Same with the ones intended for indoor use
Yes, to be accurate each test has to be done all things being equal. The distance and same spot for the measurement and the transmitters set up the exact same way and antenna's the same position.
Will do.
But the ones with a wire I don't know how you can get a valid comparison. Try to get those powered the same way you did the others and hold the wire up the same way with something. Maybe connect with a small lead from the chassis of the Talking House to your ground rod to get some similar set up. If you don't somehow get the indoor ones connected to your ground mount also the first two will blow those others away.
I'll probably divide up the tests into two groups: outside self contained units with their own antenna, and internal devices inside the house with their wire. I'll test the Talking House in both groups as I now have the Range Extender to try.
@jsh4 Also real curious about that Radio Realty Transmitter you recently bought. Wonder if it works, how it sounds and if you are able to put it to any use.
I second that, did you do the tests and any results?
All,
... I also have several units that are certainly meant for indoor use so need some guidance on how to arrange this test regimen. These include two Talking House units (one allegedly new, one used), that Radio Realty Transmitter mentioned on this forum over the weekend, and some smallish Talking House item.
You could always put them in outdoor enclosers. ISS was selling outdoor Talking House units for awhile that consisted simply of a regular Talking House inside a weather proof cont0uainer with a whip attached -remember those about 10-15 years ago? You could do the same with any transmitter.
Was trying to find a picture of what they were selling, finally found one on the Archive https://web.archive.org/web/20170109152334/www.iamradio.net/iamradiotransmitter.php
Optional Accessory
i.AM.radio Outdoor Transmitter
Model # IAM-OUTDOORTRANSMITTER
Includes 75' connectorized cable to supply power & audio connection to outdoor transmission.
The transmitter was $250 without the encloser, but the whole package was $544 (reduced from $599) which included:
One iAM radio Outdoor Transmitter * Hand-held external microphone * 75' Connectorized Cable * Transmitter Power Supply * Outdoor 8' Antenna
@richpowers Still playing with the SW300 with some focus on a local AM 20kW that clearly needs some help. I'm working with them on the problem and will focus on the aforementioned tests sometime this summer.