January 12 2026

Описание: This episode of the 985 Workbench comes from the W3GMS 146.985 MHz repeater and delivers a deep, practical discussion centered on Winter Field Day preparation, cold-weather operating challenges, and real-world station experience.


After net announcements and repeater operating notes, stations check in from across Pennsylvania, New England, and the West Coast, sharing recent ham radio activity including antenna installs, transmitter builds, straight-key CW operation, digital mode awards, AllStar and EchoLink use, and ongoing Field Day site work.


The primary technical discussion explores how cold weather affects amateur radio equipment, with contributors covering:

• Battery chemistry behavior in low temperatures, including Li-ion and LiFePO₄ limitations
• Charging risks below freezing and the role of battery management systems
• LCD display failures and sluggish operation in cold environments
• Generator reliability, laptop boot issues, and operator ergonomics
• Mechanical stress on coax, connectors, solder joints, and antennas

A secondary Q&A segment focuses on indoor 10-meter antenna solutions for operators living under HOA restrictions or without attic access. Suggested approaches include shortened dipoles, window-mounted antennas, balcony deployments, magnetic loops, modified mobile whips, and low-power digital operation strategies.


The episode reflects the Workbench’s hands-on, experience-driven format, blending mentoring, technical insight, and community collaboration.


Format: Directed technical roundtable and Q&A
Net: Monday Night Workbench on W3GMS 146.985 MHz
Recorded: January 12, 2026
Host: Ron, WA3VEE