Store and Forward episode 8 — Pacificon 2024

Store and Forward

The DLARC both at Pacificon featured the words FREE ONLINE HAM RADIO LIBRARY

Digital Library of Amateur Radio & Communications (a project of the Internet Archive): https://archive.org/details/dlarc

Zero Retries Newsletter: https://www.zeroretries.org

The video version of this episode is at: https://youtu.be/Mbv0f7GKUdo

Kay and Steve discussed their experiences at Pacificon 2024, a ham radio conference held in San Ramon, California on Oct 18-20 2024. https://www.pacificon.org/ Steve shared their impressions of the event, including the unique agricultural landscape they encountered on their drive there and the interesting sessions they attended. Steve was particularly impressed by a session about Weak Signal Propagation Reporter (WSPR), which allows for global communication on low power through digital signal processing. Steve shared his excitement about the new developments in the MMDVM project, including the introduction of a data mode and a transcoding system.

Kay shared their experience at the event, where they had a booth promoting the Digital Library of Amateur Radio Communications (DLARC). Kay gave two talks, one about their experiences as a curator of DLARC and another to the Young Ladies Radio League. Kay enjoyed a group dinner and the ham shack tent outside. Kay, who hadn’t used HF in 30 years, was amazed by modern SDR technology that allows for real-time monitoring of the entire band, making it easier to find interesting signals. Steve agreed, noting that this technology has significantly changed the hobby. They also discussed the appeal of FT8, a digital mode that allows for quick communication, but Kay expressed preference for more human interaction. Steve highlighted the versatility of the hobby, mentioning the use of digital technology for email messaging and remote stations.

Kay shared their experience of attending the Internet Archive’s Homecoming/Open House Week, where they met with other employees in person. Kay shared that the Internet Archive was down for two weeks due to a hack and security issues, but is now back in read-only mode and expected to return to normal soon. They also discussed the annual celebration and talks at the Internet Archive’s open house, which Kay described as a “church for people who love libraries.” https://blog.archive.org/2024/10/29/supporters-stand-strong-with-internet-archive-at-annual-celebration/
Finally, Kay talked about interviewing Nick Kennedy WA5BDU about his Atari computer keyer software. https://youtu.be/SoGkbA5tsRk