Signal Reporting Instructions
Signal Reporting
We are very keen to receive signal reports on the new repeaters so that, over time, we can build up a map of actual working coverage and black spots. We need your help to do this. We have chosen to adopt the Q Report method of signal reporting as it is easy to understand for all levels of operators and provides the best indication of the repeaters real coverage. There are many signal reporting protocols available but most are quite complicated and require calibrated receiver parameters.
Signal reports are relative but should indicate to other users likely coverage only.
When reporting signals to the Group only report on the Repeater Output.
Providing a Signal Report
When to Report?
Any report that defines the normal operating coverage of the repeaters is useful! Be sure to use the input form accurately and let us know if you were operating a Mobile, Base station or hand portable at the time you wish to report on.
Do please report black spots that are within expected coverage!
Assessing the Signal
Please only report on the repeaters own transmission (not the signal it is relaying), the best time to assess the repeaters signal is during the Morse Ident or between overs.
How to Use the GRG Reporting Utility.
We have made a utility to help you make signal reports and see the reports that other people have submitted.
The utility is based on the ubiquitous Google Maps API which is very familiar to Internet users. Your Internet Browser must support Google Maps (All modern browsers do) and must have JavaScript enabled. When you first open the webpage you will see a map showing Scotland. Various symbols have been overlaid on the map; these are shape and colour coded. Each repeater has a shape (circle, triangle) and the colours represent a Q report (stronger colours represent stronger signals).
Viewing Reports
Hovering your mouse pointer over any report symbol will display information about the report in a small overlay window.
Use the controls on the map to Zoom and Pan. Your mouse wheel will zoom. Click and hold to drag the map (Tip, look at the mouse pointer; a hand indicates you can drag).
At wide Zooms, symbols will form clusters at locations where many reports have been submitted. Zoom in to see a more local perspective. Zoom out to see trends and DX reports.
Adding a Report
Use the Zoom and Pan controls so you can see the location where you want to add a report. Click the map over the precise location, a red tear drop marker will appear. Click (and hold) over the marker and then drag to fine tune the position of the marker. When you have the marker at the right location simply click the marker.
A window will appear with a small form (the map may move, this is normal). Fill in the form then press Save report ...
Once the server accepts the report the screen will update and the report can then be viewed.
Audio Reports?
Audio Reports should not be submitted. The repeaters audio characteristics have been tailored by the Keeper to comply with regulations. If you hear hum or other audio problems on the repeaters output (not the input signal) then please raise a fault report. If you know the inputting stations ‘radio voice’ please be aware it may sound different when repeated due to audio tailoring and deviation limits.
Black Spots / Holes in Coverage
Please DO report local black spots, especially on major routes through the region.
The screenshot shows 5 sequential reports showing how GB3NG weakens as you travel north towards Ellon, then drops out near the river and then increases again north of the Village.
This report shows other users that a black spot exists and how far it is likely to extend. Bounded reports like this are most welcome.
