dpricha@apg-1 (David Prichard AMSTE-ADA 5279) (05/21/85)
Some comments on your 6 meter questions: Range. Measurements of path loss using FM showed that 6m has 10-20 dB less path loss for distances up to 15 km in hilly, not mountainous, terrain. If either xmtr or rcvr is in a "hole" 6m has 15-30 dB less path loss. This equates to an increased range when using 6m (or a reduced power requirement). Range increase varied, but it was on the order of 5-8 km. TVI. TVI was minimized by the vertical polarization and the low (25 w) power output of the mobiles. Even when stationary, no complaints of TVI were received. (Chan 2 was 40 miles away, Chan 3 was 70) Also, no QRM was noted when operating in the parking lot of a Fire/Emerg/Civil Defense Hqs which used frequencies in the VHF-low, VHF-high, and UHF bands. A 2m repeater was also located on their towers. Rigs. The Yaesu FT625RD multi-mode rig was used. It is no longer in production, but it was very large for mobile use. Other 6m rigs noted in used eqpt lists: FT620, under $300, FT627RA FM, under $200. ICOM also has 6m rigs. Frequencies. 52.525 is the National FM Simplex frequency. 52.49 and 52.51 are also designated for FM simplex. (See ARRL Repeater Directory) 73, Dave, N3AFM