Grampian Repeater Group

GB3NG

GB3NG is back on air and is operating normally.  The fault, which led to a total outage last week,  was found in a wiring loom during a site visit by Chas GM8LMA.  

Low Signal Levels

Signals to and from GB3NG are lower than normal (by 10 - 20db) this is due to the cavity filters being replaced with an older set.   The original filters have been removed from site and have been modified to fit the new cabinets. 

GB3GN

GB3GN continues to operate despite a logic failure.  The failure would appear to be in the audio routing from the tone generator.  A further site visit will be needed to remove the offending logic and replace it with a spare.   Hopefully, we will be able to partially replace GN the next time we gain access to the site.  If you do happen on the missing pips then please send them back to us!

Rebuild Progress

Upgrades are currently being built for both GB3GN and GB3NG and work is progressing well.   Over 50 Man Hours have been spent at the GN site to install gantries, feeders and prepare cabinets not to mention many other smaller jobs.   A similiar amount of time is required at Mormond Hill to route power and feeders.  The 19 inch cabinets are very nearly finished and will soon be ready to accept the wiring looms, radios, power supplies and batteries.

Battery trays have been fabricated and custom brackets (for Tait chassis and cavity filters) are in work.  The batteries will provide reserve power of about 120Ah (5 - 6 hours).   Two commercial grade battery chargers and powers supplies are being converted and repaired.  Work should start this week on the power distribution module and mains failure sensing, parts are on order.

Many thanks are due to Chas GM8LMA and CMAC Electronic Systems for the donation of the hardware for the new repeaters.   Donations include the 19inch cabinets, gantries, power supplies, batteries, feeders and much more.   If we had to buy these items we would of had a bill of approximately £2000 and this does not take account of time donated!