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Are dissimilar connectors making power interconnections difficult? Then, surf the Web to an elegant solution for connector compatibility.

Kim, KB1GTR, and Steve, KB1DIG, Merrill took advantage of the lull before the holidays to do some experimenting and Amateur Radio-related Web publishing. Their experiments involved Powerpoles, a unique connector for power interconnections. Their Web publishing reflects the findings of their experiments. It was "almost like taking project notes," Steve wrote, "We hope this information on Powerpoles is useful and everyone enjoys it. This is just our way of giving back to the hobby."

The Anderson Powerpole Ideas Web site provides hands-on information about a different kind of power connector.

You will find the findings of Kim's and Steve's Powerpole experiments at their Anderson Powerpole Ideas Web site, which describes the connectors in detail and provides tips on assembling and using the connectors.

For higher power rigs, high-amperage dc power supplies and bus wiring, the Anderson Powerpole is the emerging national ARES/RACES standard. The links on this page include Web sites of some of the ARES groups using these connectors. Be sure to visit those sites for additional useful information regarding Powerpoles.

Also check out these links at the bottom of the Powerpole Ideas page for additional Amateur Radio emergency communications ideas: The Box:Portable Emergency Communications Station Ideas and Go Kit: Daily Emergency Communications Gear Ideas. In fact, poke all around this Web site and you will find lots of amazing and interesting ham radio stuff, some of which we featured back in the February 21 installment of this column.

Until next time, keep on Surfin'

Editor's note: Stan Horzepa, WA1LOU, is not a Powerpole, but he is a Pole, an American Pole, to be exact. All of his grandparents were born in Poland, so you can contact Stash or Stan by sending e-mail to wa1lou@arrl.net.

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