GB3JB  -  13th October 2026

Hi All.

Since coming back on air in May, the repeater has been operating part time, coming on at 7:30 am and then switching off at 10 pm.  .This has been very successful with respect to saving battery power and determining that the entirely new power system is working correctly and efficiently. .

We are yet to go to the site and find that the batteries are anything other than 100% fully charged …. Yea.

Unfortunately, we along with several other SWC repeaters that have to connect via the 4G network have been suffering from increasing connection issues. We perceive that this is probably due to the closure of the 2G/3G networks and the resulting migration up to the 4G network, by those who do not actually need 5G, or the increased costs, or the apparently reduced coverage in various areas.

The SWC repeaters need a constant connection to the main server, not one that is constantly being interrupted by the mechanisms or processes used within the phone networks.

Fortunately we appear to have resolved the issue, with respect to GB3JB, by moving from a standard mobile phone SIM with it’s constantly changing IP address, to a FIXED IP SIM, but as always there are implications.  In this case cost.

At this time the new SIM appears to be working perfectly, once we overcame a few issues when setting up the connection.

Now, back to powering the site.  .We are now entering that time of the year when the Sun gets low in the sky, along with the UV levels.  The time of year when it has become increasing difficult to maintain operation.

Thus, over the next couple of weeks we are aiming to get the new wind turbine installed.  All 30+ Kgs and 1.5 kW, of it.

Part 1 of the process will happen this coming weekend with respect to the supports.

Once safely and securely erected, then we will install the turbine on the top with the aid of a “Cherry Picker”.

Has anyone got access to one they can make available ?

If so, that will save us a lot of MONEY.

The latest quote is for almost £600 for the day.  Fuel costs being the primary reason cited for the steadily increasing cost involved.

I don’t think we could get away with sending an invoice to the White House ……. Hi Hi.

73, for now.

Dave G3ZXX..