Heard SAQ for the first time over the air
The transmitter in Grimeton -over a 100 years old now- transmitted today. They start it up many times a year, but it only transmits like twice a year and then only for a few minutes.
I've been there a number of times when they started it up, even once participated, but now I've finally tested the receiver-kit i assembled.
25 replies
You sure that qualifies as "dull"? Does that mean they actually fired up and operated this gigantic thing? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grimeton_Radio_Station
No and Yes.
It's the only one remaining of the 20 that where build, and it's also fully functioning. They start it up multiple times a year (30 or so) just to keep it in a working condition. It runs usually like half an hour to avoid excessive wear. The actual transmissions (they transmit for 5 min.) happens only twice a year. The next transmission is most likely on Christmas, they stream the whole event -with explanations- live on YouTube too.
Wow that's neat!
That's quite an understatement. The things Alexander came up with to make it work at the time are truly amazing (still are today)
It's really neat!
It's honestly incredible stuff. I'd love to make myself one of those receivers & enjoy the yearly test.
I paid sek 565:- (roughly Eur 51 / $59) for the kit on the photo (excl batt.) but shipment might cost you more, but you can ask them ;)
A lot of the stuff posted here is too interesting, IMO.
I think it’s more about the things other people would find dull. That we find those kinds of things interesting is why we are here to begin with.
Agreed! But I think that's on us then. Apparently dullness is a very enjoyable lifestyle.
I would not wanna trade with those who thought "So? You heard a few crackling beeps from a 100+ year old machine, did you not get the message? We have whatsapp and spotify now"
Here's from the 100 year anniversary, it's a fascinating watch: https://www.youtube.com/live/JJb_RdKX4qc
And imagine they had to run it without hearing protection for being able to hear problems in the machine asap.
Nice
Thanks for this! I'm a ham, and I can't believe I've never heard of this before. I'm going to try to hear the next transmission!
Nice rig!
I live near WPR in Wisconsin. The equipment and changed and moved around, but it began broadcasting in 1922 and is still a major station.
I knew nothing about any of this, but I love it. Super cool especially the youtube video.
Can you share the circuit diagram for the receiver?
Sure can! (it's not mine though) it's here They even sell the kit to assemble yourself. That's how I did it, Easier and cheaper than collecting the part from everywhere (God, I miss having a store in town selling electronics parts and even could make your PCB)
Thanks!
Häftigt!
jo men abslolut ! Kan rekommendera att åka dit och upplever sändare start.
something tells me this is not morse. Or I didn't do it right.
Swede spotted? I see the biltema battery
I Sure am, but distance isn't a thing, they listen in all over the world (map of receiver reports, multiple years combined)
Dam! That's some crazy engineering.
How this beast works is a thing of beauty. I wrote an article about it in my weekly "Foundations of Amateur Radio" podcast.
https://archive.org/details/20260404.foundations-of-amateur-radio