06/28/2005 | K5WNH Once again, Field Day is tops in fun and challenges for amateur Radio. I continue to enjoy the challenge of low power, CW, and a battery with a modest set-up from a friends farm in Wise County, Texas (northwest of Decatur). Last year, the storms were the greatest threat...this year, North Texas struggles through a drought. It's great for hamming because the insects don't pose a threat! As expected, the propagation seemed "down" from previous years, much like the last minute forecasters predicted! 20 meters carried the load once again with 40 meters coming in a strong second...15 meters tried to rally Sunday morning but it wasn't that significant from this end. I added a tri-band beam this year leaving the vertical (10-15-20m) in the barn plus a solar panel for charging the battery...the antenna was a big improvement for the more difficult propagation! If anyone wants a challenge with lots of satisfaction, try QRP with a battery on CW! It's a hoot! Remember...Christmas comes twice a year...once in December and once in June! -- K5WNH