Fifteen attendees from local area ham radio clubs, the Southern MD Astronomical Society, and other guests, participated in the third annual Connector Workshop, hosted at the home of Pam – KB3SWS and Jeff – KB3SPH on Sunday, 4/29/2018.
The Workshop began with a briefing by Jeff demonstrating the various connector possibilities along with the associated required tools. The mantra, “Red Right, Tongue up!,” was preached as the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) standard way to construct PowerPole assemblies in order to ensure compatibility. Hands-on displays included: Solar Power (solar panel, charge controller, storage battery, RIGrunner, and associated PowerPole connections) operation, DX Engineering “Crimp-the-Shield, Solder the Pin” Connector Kit. DX Engineering Cable Stripping Kit, radio power connection examples, preventing battery corrosion in TNCs and test equipment, and insulated crimp connector assemblies.
Highlights:
Ken – KA3POX demonstrated soldering techniques
Charles – AA3WS demonstrated how to make a PowerPole polarity tester using a red/green LED and a pair of PowerPoles
Pam – KB3SWS provided a snack smorgasbord throughout the afternoon, culminating in an evening supper
PowerPole novices got to successfully construct their first PowerPole assembly, a six foot long 12 gauge extension cable with a pair of ARES standard configured PowerPoles on each end. PowerPole veterans were quick to offer advice, demonstrate tool use, and answer questions. A good time was had by all!
73
Jeff / KB3SPH