1. I've had one attempt so far at setting up the UV-5R, but it really can't be done efficiently without the software, a program called CHIRP. This software appears to be updated on a daily basis, so I will have to download the current version at the time I intend to programme the rig. By the looks of it, I have to take an image of the (default?) setup (Radio --> Download From Radio), then edit the data, which looks like it is displayed in a spreadsheet format. What could possibly go wrong?
2. I am famous for doing one thing when I'm supposed to be doing another. Instead of working on programming the UV-5R, I decided to set up memories on the FT-60. It's not that difficult to do:
- You select the frequency you want by direct entry on the keypad or by using the tuning dial.
- Once the frequency is displayed, you press the F/W key (bottom right-hand corner of the keypad) and hold until a row of dots appears on the display, and a number flashes in the top left of the display.
- This is the next available memory channel, and you can change this to the one you want by using the tuning dial. Press and hold F/W again, and MEM-IN will be displayed.
- The leftmost dot flashes, so now turn the dial to display the desired character of the name.
- Use the Up arrow key to advance to the next title character to be entered.
- Pressing F/W for the final time stores the title.
- If you want to check that it has been stored, press the V/M key (bottom left-hand corner) to go from VFO to Memory, and use the tuning dial to scroll through the memory channels until you reach the one you seek.
- You can also scan by pressing and holding either the Up or Down arrow keys. Guess which key makes it scan up or down.
- Repeat until
funnyall your desired frequencies have been stored.
Next time, I may mention repeaters. May.
3. I have a new HF/50MHz rig. I have switched it on three times since I brought it home two weeks ago.
4. If I'm still here, I'll be going to the RSGB (Centenary) Convention in October. I have decided to go by train via London. How I'm going to get from Milton Keynes Central to Horwood House I don't know. How I'm going to get back to London for 5pm on the Sunday is anyone's guess.
Tune in next week/month/year (delete as applicable) for the next exciting episode. With photos.
p.s. I hate this layout. Bear with me.