c/dull_mens_club · by redlemace@lemmy.world · 39d

Heard SAQ for the first time over the air

The transmitter in Grimeton -over a 100 years old now- transmitted today. They start it up many times a year, but it only transmits like twice a year and then only for a few minutes.

I've been there a number of times when they started it up, even once participated, but now I've finally tested the receiver-kit i assembled.

237 points · 25 comments · view on lemmy.world

25 Comments

svdasein@lemmy.world · 52 pts · 39d (8 replies)

You sure that qualifies as "dull"? Does that mean they actually fired up and operated this gigantic thing? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grimeton_Radio_Station

redlemace@lemmy.world · 31 pts · 39d

No and Yes.

It's the only one remaining of the 20 that where build, and it's also fully functioning. They start it up multiple times a year (30 or so) just to keep it in a working condition. It runs usually like half an hour to avoid excessive wear. The actual transmissions (they transmit for 5 min.) happens only twice a year. The next transmission is most likely on Christmas, they stream the whole event -with explanations- live on YouTube too.

HeartyOfGlass@piefed.social · 7 pts · 39d (3 replies)

Wow that's neat!

redlemace@lemmy.world · 9 pts · 39d (2 replies)

That's quite an understatement. The things Alexander came up with to make it work at the time are truly amazing (still are today)

HeartyOfGlass@piefed.social · 1 pts · 39d (1 reply)

That's quite an understatement

It's really neat!

It's honestly incredible stuff. I'd love to make myself one of those receivers & enjoy the yearly test.

redlemace@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 38d

I paid sek 565:- (roughly Eur 51 / $59) for the kit on the photo (excl batt.) but shipment might cost you more, but you can ask them ;)

grue@lemmy.world · 6 pts · 39d (2 replies)

A lot of the stuff posted here is too interesting, IMO.

atomicbocks@sh.itjust.works · 11 pts · 39d

I think it’s more about the things other people would find dull. That we find those kinds of things interesting is why we are here to begin with.

redlemace@lemmy.world · 10 pts · 39d

Agreed! But I think that's on us then. Apparently dullness is a very enjoyable lifestyle.

I would not wanna trade with those who thought "So? You heard a few crackling beeps from a 100+ year old machine, did you not get the message? We have whatsapp and spotify now"

chellomere@lemmy.world · 12 pts · 39d (1 reply)

Here's from the 100 year anniversary, it's a fascinating watch: https://www.youtube.com/live/JJb_RdKX4qc

redlemace@lemmy.world · 3 pts · 39d

And imagine they had to run it without hearing protection for being able to hear problems in the machine asap.

half_built_pyramids@lemmy.world · 11 pts · 39d

Nice

hereiamagain@sh.itjust.works · 7 pts · 39d

Thanks for this! I'm a ham, and I can't believe I've never heard of this before. I'm going to try to hear the next transmission!

Curious_Canid@piefed.ca · 6 pts · 39d

Nice rig!

I live near WPR in Wisconsin. The equipment and changed and moved around, but it began broadcasting in 1922 and is still a major station.

HeyJoe@lemmy.world · 5 pts · 39d

I knew nothing about any of this, but I love it. Super cool especially the youtube video.

not@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 5 pts · 39d (2 replies)

Can you share the circuit diagram for the receiver?

redlemace@lemmy.world · 9 pts · 39d (1 reply)

Sure can! (it's not mine though) it's here They even sell the kit to assemble yourself. That's how I did it, Easier and cheaper than collecting the part from everywhere (God, I miss having a store in town selling electronics parts and even could make your PCB)

not@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 3 pts · 39d

Thanks!

olof@lemmy.ml · 4 pts · 39d (1 reply)

Häftigt!

redlemace@lemmy.world · 3 pts · 39d

jo men abslolut ! Kan rekommendera att åka dit och upplever sändare start.

prenatal_confusion@feddit.org · 2 pts · 39d