24 GHz is the first of the Millimetre Wave bands and is one of the many areas where amateurs innovate. The short wavelengths lend themselves to portable equipment and high antenna gains to achieve remarkable operating ranges. The 24GHz band is the first Primary band above 144 MHz and is available to all UK Intermediate and Full Licensees. In the UK narrowband operation is centred on 24048 MHz within the UK Amateur Primary segment.
The UKuG 24GHz loan systems enable you to get a taster of narrowband DX on 24 GHz.
System-1 | Pictures |
The system consists of a DB6NT 144MHz to 24GHz transverter, an early DB6NT LO and a DB6NT amplifier. A waveguide switch reverses the amplifier around between transmit and receive. The dish and feed are believed to be from ex-BT 18GHz equipment. Around 1W input is needed at 144MHz for full output of around 10mW at 24GHz and the unit is accurate to within a few kHz after a relatively short warm up period.
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Views of the 24 GHz loan system |
System-2 | Pictures |
The transverter is built around the MKU 24 G3, 144 MHz to 24 GHz Kuhne transverter. It is lightweight and intended for tripod mounting along with a suitable antenna. As well as the transverter itself the "kit" includes a GPS clock antenna, an I0JXX horn feed for an offset parabolic dish and a suitable 60cm offset dish. Around 2.5W maximum drive is needed at 144 MHz for 2W output at 24GHz. A 2m IF of 144.100 MHz corresponds to 24048.100 MHz.
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Views of the 24 GHz loan system |
Videos
Video clips of Loan System-1 in use in Oct-2017, courtesy of Barry Lewis G4SJH:-
Longer (30 Secs)
Video of 24GHz Loan System-2, courtesy of Barry Lewis G4SJH:-
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4-Aug-2022