09/07/2007 | K6XN I operated this contest from CM99 at an elevation of 5000 feet in the Sierras from the top of a mountain in a wilderness area using batteries and solar power. I made 27 QSOs on three bands in 7 grid squares. This was a really slow contest this year for me mainly due to lack of participants, no propagation and only one rover heard although there may have been several rovers too weak for me to copy from the Sierras that were on. It was not an uncommon occurrence to have 30 minutes or more between any new contact or even hearing anybody on any of the calling frequencies on 223.5 MHz, 430.1 MHz or 1296.1 MHz. On the positive side I had lots of fun any way and I was able to test out my 1296 MHz equipment and antenna that I used for the first time in this contest. It was good to hear the usual deserving west coast UHF die hards in this contest (thank you!) with their good signals and inspirational enthusiasm for vhf/uhf weak signal work. I especially appreciate the help on 1296 MHz during this contest weekend with on the air advice and with successful and persistent efforts of several 1296 MHz people as they knew I was a 1296 MHz rookie. I am learning something with every contest and I have a lot to learn. Next year however I am going to run more power and have better antennas and feed lines!!! Although I am pleased with how my 10 watts did on 1296 MHz with my new 23 element yagi and LMR600 feed line I intend to QRO next year and also add mast pre-amps! The additions of 220 MHz SSB to my 223.5 FM and the addition of 1296 MHz SSB/CW capabilities this year were a good decision but I clearly need to continue to improve my equipment, feed lines, antennas and operating abilities. Another positive: I was able to operate this entire contest again using solar power and batteries. See you all in the pileups next year! 73, Ted, K6XN -- K6XN