VE9CD Gerard J. 'Jerry' Arsenault Fredericton, NB Canada QCWA # 37536

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My first licence, issued in 1960, was for Basic Amateur. That was followed shortly after by a Second Class Cerficate in 1961. For 4 years I operated on Canadian Government Marine and Aeradio stations in Quebec and the North West Territories. While at the Frobisher Bay (now called Iqaluit), in Canada's North West Territories, I was promoted to electronic technician. I remained with the Canadian Government for another 8 years serving also in Saint John, New Brunswick. In a series of transmitters at Frobisher Bay, we used the 4CX10000A output tube. I converted one of them to a lamp after it burned out. Since I was no longer a government operator, In 1978 the Second Class licence was exchanged for an Advanced Amateur licence. My station consists of an ICOM IC-7000 and LDG IT-100 antenna tuner plus a home brew 30 amp power supply. My main HF antenna is a 270 foot Horizontal Loop that I have used on 80,60,40,20,17,15, 10 and 6 meters. I also use a vertical antenna on 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters. In addition I have diploles on 80, 40, 30 and 17 meters. I enjoy the operating CW, SSB, SSTV, PSK31, and lately ... JT65. Also in the shack is an ICOM IC-745 and AEA ET-1 antenna tuner. I enjoy CW and project construction. My IC-745 did not have a built in electronic keyer, so I home brewed one. I'm still practicing with the paddles. Converting from a bug has been a challenge! Over the years, I have enjoyed rag-chewing on CW and SSB with local hams, and DX from many countries around the world!!

November 08, 2017