Picnic Blanket POTA: The TR-45L and two 28' wires...simple QRP fun in beautiful weather!

[@ThomasK4SWL]

qrper.com/2023/05/picnic-blanket-pota-on-a-beautiful-spring-day-at-south-mountains-state-park/ Click the link above to read full details about this activation, including all equipment links, at QRPer.com.

[@Aimsport-video]

That QSY earned you 100 extra niceness points.

[@Ira06002]

Agree on all the comments. Ever since I started watching your “activation videos” I got myself the IC 705, LDG 100z, and MFJ 1984(LP) and love QRPing. Never thought I’d enjoy my outdoor activities with amateur radio. Thank You & 73! Steve (K1KTF)

[@ThomasK4SWL]

So glad to hear that, Steven!

[@mssippijim]

That is a great looking little radio, would love to have one. James Williams

[@kq9l115]

Always a pleasure to watch your videos! Hope to work you soon, take care and have fun.

[@dorvinion]

Thank you for sharing these Still learning how to copy so its encouraging to listen and catch the letters I know. Goal for now is to learn to copy at least 12wpm to serve as evidence that an HF radio won't just be an expensive paperweight.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

You've got this, David!

[@ke4asc]

Thanks for doing the videos. I always enjoy them.

[@bob-N4REE]

Thanks for yet another fine POTA video. Beautiful day you had! One of the things I noticed about the TR-45L is how well it delivers weak signals. Several of those QSOs barely moved the S-meter. Fine rig, and very nice that you kept it visible throughout the video. Thanks! 73 N4REE

[@ke4est]

Thanks for sharing another great adventure!

[@VE3IPS]

Luv the TR45L RetroQrp

[@johnmartin1974]

Just noticed your Elvis sideburns. Cool. Great video.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I prolly needed to shave that day. :)

[@ve2zdx]

Nice weather! #envy … kidding now days are getting warm here too! Listening to your video while working! My mind is really not at work today, it’s at the park with my wife and daughter doing some DX 😊😊 73!

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I know those days, too! :) My mind is the field, with family, and fitting in some radio time.

[@DXJungle]

Thanks for another great video! 🤝

[@TridentMissileTech]

Love your videos featuring the TR45L better than any others. When I replay a video, that’s what I look for.

[@BubbaWarbucks]

You have much better luck dealing with coiled wire and rope than I do. It seems that no matter how carefully I pack them, they inevitably end up tangled into a rats nest. Always enjoy your videos Thomas. 73, de N4QM

[@Relayer1974]

That's my kind of antenna setup!

[@JosephAnthonyJosefius]

I've been trying to get my XYL out to do a "picnic" with a blanket and "radio" for awhile now (weather permitting). Good show. 72/73 de AI5DD note: I used to go on picnics with my family back when I was a kid in Germany quite often. I miss those days.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

We're big on family picnics, actually. Our car always has everything at the ready, save the actual food and picnic bag (we never store anything even smelling of food in the car due to bears). We picnic several times a month, at least.

[@n4jaw]

Please forgive me but I had to laugh not at you, but with you about the perils of stiff legs from sitting on the ground too long. Lately I've had people ask me if I'm okay when getting up. I yell, "No, please call a crane company" 🤣

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Ha ha🤣! Seriously, Jim, I'had my leg fall asleep during SOTA activations, tried to stand up and fell right back down because I couldn't feel my leg!

[@N2AKJ]

If everything goes well me and my friend are going to operate w1aw on the 15th

[@keithford2112]

Just ordered a TR-45L as my first radio due to K4SWL's reviews. Still learning CW but headed toward some QRP POTA fun. I see people using paddles with this radio. Does the keyer support Iambic modes? Haven't seen how to switch between A & B. Not even sure if this is a valid question, but... 😛

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I don't *think* you can switch between iambic modes. The TR-45L isn't with me at present to double check, but I don't think so. The TR-45L is a wonderful radio--I think you'll enjoy it!

[@DetestedNine28]

where did you buy the keyer that you used for your activation? interested in ordering one to use for one of my CW activations or huntings -KC1RKX

[@ThomasK4SWL]

The key is the VK3IL pressure paddle. You have to buy the board and components then solder them together. It's a fantastic key and pretty cheap! vk3il.net/projects/pressure-paddle/

[@DetestedNine28]

@@ThomasK4SWL interesting there's none that's already assembled? i'm just no good with soldering nor safe with them close to me

[@ThomasK4SWL]

@@DetestedNine28 Yeah, it's more of a project rather than a product. That said, I'm sure there's someone out there who might be selling these or who would sell you theirs. You'd need to post a "WTB" (Want To Buy) classifieds listing.

[@Brian-WR1W]

I have no idea how you heard me... i know what Im listening for here and still cant hear it. Thanks for the contact KC1NYZ