arizona98tj wrote:It seems the biggest problem is that previous attempts have included radios where the antenna is down in the pit, below grade. It is not surprising that poor results have been obtained.
So, going with a low cost approach.....has anyone ever tried putting a full sized CB antenna (with ground radials) on 15' or 20' of mast....just like you often times see on a person's house? One of these at both ends would work wonders in improving the quality of the sent and received signal. As long you get a little bit of height with the antennas, most any radio, HF, VHF, or UHF will get the job done. We are talking well under a mile.
This was one of my original thoughts, but the pit and line radios must travel full length of pit or line for proper range commands. Dragging a cable, that is connected to antennas, thru the pits would be difficult considering the lack of room and the number of individuals required to properly man the pits.
I believe we have a solution in the works for using commercial radios. The appropriate FCSA members are currently donating to the cause, and a purchase should occur soon.
Thank you everyone for your thoughts, ideas, plans, and consideration !!!
OldmanFCSA