My Wife, N6PMC, Irene got her tech license and needed help to set up her shack so I started learning about a hobby I never was interested in. At which point I realised I was now interested.
I took my first test May 5, 2013 and jumped in with both feet. I took both tech and general the same day and passed (Irene wouldn't be outdone, she took her general and passed) as of 11/2/13 I have now passed my extra exam. A little update, Irene has now passed her Extra Class Exam also!! More good new, my Dad is now a Ham, passed his General. KK6MEZ!
I now have WAS, WAZ, DXCC (as of today 218 confirmed with at least 100 on 20m-10m) and am closing in on 5 band WAS. I am going to have to start concentrating on the long bands (slow going) for 5 band DXCC.
Irene and I are both Volunteer Examiners.
I am currently using an IC-756 pro, ALS 600 amp for 10m - 160m, an Alinco DR-635 for 2m -70cm. I put up a Carolina Windom 160 dipole and a 6 band hexbeam from K4KIO at 50'.
The Hexbeam has now been replaced with a Force 12 XR6 6-20m Yagi. So far I am happy (it's been up since mid September).
I have also started in Digital modes, I am using a Signalink, Dm780 and JT 65- HF. I just found a new program (for me) for JT65, WSJTX and I think it's easier to configure and also does JT9. Mobile I have just upgraded to an ICOM 7000 with a Little Tarheel HP and expect to use an IC-7200 in my Motor home.
A recent trip to Emma Wood State Beach in Ventura, Ca. I had never thought of making my hexbeam portable but it only took 45 min to setup.
I also maintain a 2m repeater, 147.765, -offset, pl- 123
Life is too short for QRP!
Current weather at my QTH.
http://www.wunderground.com/weatherstation/WXDailyHistory.asp?ID=KCAPINEM3
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Here are some of the QSL cards that I've received
