HCCFCA

Forgot to add: I have the base station up and running with a KG1000. If the weather breaks a bit, this week I'm removing the temp antenna mast (PVC) and installing a permanent metal mast/ grounding. So I'm ready for San Marcos ?

Thanks Frank, I will definitely keep an eye out when she's up and running. Let us know. San Marcos would certainly be possible.

WOW! This is exactly the step-by-step process I was hoping existed. This is awesome. I hope other folks reading this will be able to use it as well. Thanks Michael! Michael WRHS965 KE8PLM Ok, got it. Thanks for taking the time to clarify. bob

Ok, got it. Thanks for taking the time to clarify. bob

Thanks for the response Michael. Very helpful. There are currently no repeaters in my area on channels 575, 600, and 675. But there are 2 repeaters on 725. If I understand correctly, I can re-purpose one of those channels to pick up the second 725? I can re-name one of those 3 channels, but is it possible to change the frequency to 725 with the appropriate tone? I see RT Systems has the KG1000 software & cable. What's a bit intimidating is the installation on my MAC. I'll investigate further. Thanks!

Reviving this KG1000 thread... I did a search but couldn't find a thread on this. I have several repeaters operating on the same channel but in different locations. Is it possible to program multiple repeaters operating on the same channel using only the radio/mic keypad? Is there a step-by-step for this? If software is needed, I would need something that works on a MAC. Does that animal exist?

I would think you would be able to hit at least one of the SA area repeaters, the guys have quite a network there. I'm using a Comet 712EFC base antenna tuned for GMRS and it seems to be great. The closest repeater to me is Austin 725 at about 20 miles. Can't hit that one but I can skip over that one to the repeater NW of Austin at 40+miles.

Wish I was a little further south to hit your Alamo City net. In Bastrop. But I can hit the Flintrock rptr in Lakeway, 42 miles west - through or overtop of the Austin city buildings. ...bob

I think the only way to manually make a hole would be to use an iron pipe as suggested earlier as the copper rod would bend way before i got it a foot in the ground, that's how much stone is present. I think either rent something to drill a hole or pay an electrician to install one. I'll have to do more research but I suppose it's not appropriate to run copper wire direct to the house ground in lieu of a ground pole near the antenna. Thanks for the responses and suggestions. Everything else about the base installation went smoothly except this... Thanks for the mike holt link BTW.

Thanks for the quick reply! I think my first action will be to stop at the local rental shop and see what they have - I hadn't thought of that option. The thought of trying to hammer a pipe - even with a BFH -in this ground was a non-starter. That got me thinking that local electricians must have the correct tools. Fairly new to the forum but have read many topics and have learned a lot. Thanks to the owners/moderators!

This is a timely topic as I just set up a base station and needed a lesson on grounding. All the above is VERY helpful. I have a very basic question: How do you knock an 8 ft grounding rod into the earth? I live in an area with clay soil and many many rocks and that seems an impossible task.