Biography

I was a Radio Officer (R/O) at Portishead Radio (GKA) for approx. 18 Months during 1980/81.

I was a sea-going R/O on oil tankers and bulk carriers for approx. 6 Years after leaving GKA.

I got my full amateur radio license in 1989.

But family and work commitments meant that I only got on the air in August 2020.

I now try to get on the air daily but I ONLY work HF and ONLY CW.

Worked DXCCs:

Equipment

My station comprises of:

Radio: Yaesu FT450D
Power is set to 90W
Antenna is an End Fed Halfwave long wire with choke for the 80m band

I use old school S.G. Brown headphones (these are high impedance and need a matching transformer) because I find they fit well and give me an optimum CW output.

Keys:
I always have a Samson ETC-??? Squeeze Keyer plugged into my selector box. I first bought an ETM-3C whilst I was at GKA and then took it to sea with me and during my QRT years, I would sporadically have a practice with it. My original ETM-3C is still going strong, but I have subsequently completed the set. I am currently using an ETM-8C.
I also have a Vibroplex double paddle and a Bencher BY-1 (also double paddle) plugged into my selector box and they key separate electronic keyers.
I also always have a handkey plugged in and this is a Junkers key, which has a wonderful action.

For software, I use Ham Radio Deluxe as it is the best software I have found and their support is second to none. It links via CAT cable to my radio and fully supports my QSL needs - I do not do QSL cards.

I also have a portable setup:
Xiegu G90 TX/RX which will output up to 20W and has a great built-in keyer
I have another set of S.G. Brown headphones
Power source is from a LiFEPO4 battery
I use either a Kent double paddle or ETM-SQ key
Antenna is a Diamond BB7V vertical