Note: Field Day 2010 Information is here.
Field Day Event Rules and Information#
From the American Radio Relay League
:
ARRL Field Day is the most popular on-the-air operating event in amateur radio. On the fourth full weekend in June, tens of thousands of amateur radio operators gather for a public demonstration of our service. Field Day is part educational event, part operating event, part public relations event – and ALL about FUN!
Amateur radio is about knowledge and growth. It is a hobby and service that truly offers “something for everyone.” Amateur Radio embraces both the old and new. While CW may no longer be a testing element, it is still a strong and favorite operating mode for many. Tens of thousands of operators are embracing digital technologies, from RTTY to newer digital modes like PSK31 and Olivia. Phone operation, probably the largest segment of the hobby, also has new frontiers to be explored with digitized voice, VOIP, and IRLP. And this is why Field Day – the largest annual on-the-air operating event – is so exciting. It gives all – the old timer and the newcomer, the brass-pounder and the computer assisted operator – the chance to share and teach the broad range of modes and technologies we find in our hobby.
Field Day is truly the time in which we bring amateur radio to Main Street USA. By setting up in parking lots, malls, Emergency Operations Centers, parks and even at home, amateur operators learn skills that will allow them to better serve their communities. Setting up in these public venues gives added public relations value – their friends and neighbors can see and experience the fun and public service capability that their “ham radio” neighbors bring to the community.
Field day will be held this year on June 27-28, 2009
ARRL's Field Day 2009 package is located here.
Joint OARC/BARC Field Day#
Burlington Amateur Radio Club and Oakville Amateur Radio Club are joining forces this year for ARRL Field Day. There are a lot of details to be worked out between now (20090201) and Field Day, but here is the outline so far.
Site Selection#
Update: 20090218. Mike has confirmed we have permission to use the Appleby and #2 Sideroad site!
We have details and pictures of the site here.
Radio Operations#
We intend to operate a 3A station (i.e. Club station, 3 transmitters), plus a GOTA station (HF station for new licensees and licensees that haven't been active for over a year) and a VHF/UHF station. The intention for HF is to have a phone station, a CW station, and a digital (probably PSK31) station. Depending on the amount of people willing to commit to operating, the station category could change closer to the event.
Also, Robin Haighton, VE3FRH is onboard to help us make a satellite contact for 100 bonus points.
Social and Other Activities#
- Lunch after setup (probably at the clubs' expense, but you'll have to actually work on the setup)
- Educational activity
- Having a scheduled, formal educational activity is good for 100 bonus points. We're not sure yet what the activity will be (suggestions please!), but we're thinking maybe a kit build, or introduction to digital modes, or something like that.
- The Oakville Cadets are hosting a Barbecue on Saturday. Bring the family (and get them on the air - youth participation makes for bonus points!). The cadets will be accepting donations towards the cost of the barbecue and their training operations.
Volunteers Needed#
See the personnel list here.
Volunteers are still needed, especially operators. We'll be adding a signup page soon; in the meantime if you'd like to volunteer, email trasukg -at- trasuk.com.
Come on out and Get Involved!#
Field Day is a great social and operating event, and a great way to introduce the public to Amateur Radio. Whether you want to operate, learn, help setup and teardown, or just come for the barbecue, please come on out and get involved.
If you'd like to volunteer email Greg, VA3TSK.
Plans and Procedures#
PlansAndProcedures cover safety, security and operating procedures on-site.Organizers Pages#
Various working documents for the organizers are at Organizers .