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Caribbean Contesting with Team Vertical: K2KW Tells Us How

Discussion in 'Amateur Radio News' started by W1DED, Aug 29, 2024.

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  1. W1DED

    W1DED Platinum Subscriber Platinum Subscriber QRZ Page


    Kenny Silverman, K2KW, is a veteran ham radio operator known for his work with Team Vertical, a group that made significant contributions to contest DXpeditions by using vertical antennas placed at the water’s edge to enhance low-angle signal propagation. Kenny’s passion for travel and operating from remote locations often led him to plan trips around contest schedules. His dedication to experimenting with antenna strategies resulted in the formation of Team Vertical, which set records with its innovative approach. In this discussion, Kenny delves into the planning process for the 2023 DXpedition to Anegada in the British Virgin Islands for the ARRL 10 Meter Contest. He offers practical advice on selecting locations, the importance of antenna placement, and the value of thorough research. Kenny also challenges the conventional preference for horizontal antennas, demonstrating how verticals can excel in specific conditions, particularly when low takeoff angles are critical for long-distance contacts. Whether you’re an experienced operator or new to the hobby, Kenny’s insights provide valuable considerations for your own DXpedition efforts. Subscribe to our channel, share your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more discussions with leading operators in the ham radio community.
    W1DED_118_K2KW_Thumb06.jpg
     
    K0UO, KG4IGC, AE6Z and 4 others like this.
  2. W1YW

    W1YW Ham Member QRZ Page

    There is certainly a 'best position' for verticals emerging from the water onto the beach. The grazing enhancement can be several dB at low elevation angles. There are many here who have experienced it--perhaps they can weigh in...
     
    W1DED and AK5B like this.
  3. WA7RAR

    WA7RAR Ham Member QRZ Page

    Thanks Kevin and Kenny for a fantastic interview. This information was very relatable to me after making several trips to Barbados. I too am a fan of the vertical antenna while traveling...and Kenny has sparked my interest in taking this a step further with a simple Phased Array for use while in the Caribbean. Now it's time for some deeper research into these. 73 de Chris WA7RAR
     
    AE6Z and W1DED like this.
  4. M6IJU

    M6IJU Premium Subscriber QRZ Page

    Another lovely 2024 Caribbean video from Eric GM5RDX:

     
    N5HME likes this.
  5. WZ1P

    WZ1P Ham Member QRZ Page

    Thanks for the video and posting. Our team of eight guy's have visited and operated from most of the Caribbean islands using light portable equipment. Our DX weapon of choice is a vertical antenna. We have had many pileups on a vertical running about 10 watts from the beaches and mountain tops. It brings back a lot of memories.

    73, Dan WZ1P
    Lakeland Florida.
     
  6. WU4I

    WU4I XML Subscriber QRZ Page

    Many years ago before I became a Ham, I experimented with Citizen's Band. I did make a lot of local contacts. But living in South Florida I did experience the ability to use AM frequencies off of the water using CB. My furthest DX was Texas during the daytime using a mobile from my truck.
    73's
    Bill
    WU4I
     
  7. WU4I

    WU4I XML Subscriber QRZ Page

    By the way, I enjoyed your video! Glad to see that you had a Pile up first thing. I can see that you had a "Trip of a Lifetime"
    73's
    Bill
    WU4I
     
  8. W5JON

    W5JON Premium Subscriber QRZ Page

    Correct, I put a 33' vertical, using the metal roof as the ground, 300 feet from the Caribbean Sea and have worked 307 countries all on SSB. V47JA
     
    K0UO likes this.

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