Dear CRARC members and visitors,

The committee has decided to try earlier starts for Tech Nights and General Meetings so that people can get home earlier and not be on the road heading home late at night.  Doors will open at 6:30pm for a start shortly thereafter.  We understand that this may impact some people's Dinner plans and we are looking at arranging for some Pizzas to be delivered to the Scout Hall for those who may feel somewhat peckish.  We ask for $5 / head contribution to the cost of this fine dining. 

Tech nights will now start at 1830h on the third Wednesday of each month at the Red Hill scout hall.

At this month's Tech night on 21 May Graeme VK1IO will be providing some Cavity Filters, RF Isolators and some Tuning training.  We will provide a Nano VNA and also a Spectrum Analyser/Tracking Generator.  If you a have NanoVNA and want to try using your own equipment please feel free.  We will once again have some Allstar and Remote Transceiver software that may be of interest to Members who are restricted in using equipment at their QTH.  Graham VK1GVC will provide instruction in the use of the programming software for the Tait TM8200s.

As with most Technights, there is an open invitation for Members to raise any subject that they would like to discuss.

General meetings will now start at 1830h on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Red Hill scout hall.

At this month's General Meeting on 28 May the topic will be a presentation by Bob VK1ED on Linux:

With Windows 10 end-of-life approaching in 2025, now is an opportune time to consider Linux as a desktop alternative to avoid obsolescence and subscription costs.  This presentation will offer recommendations and strategies for exploring Linux, particularly for ham radio "shacks."  We'll cover choosing a distribution, finding and installing software, implementing back-up systems, and the current state of Linux, focusing on practical advice rather than installation instructions.  The aim is to encourage the re-use of spare PCs/laptops (or very low cost business/govt discards) for shack or portable amateur radio activities while members evaluate their Windows 10/11 options and whether it is the right direction.

More details here: https://www.crarc.org.au/event/monthly-general-meeting-37/

As per usual arrangements Coffee, Tea and Biscuits will be provided.

NB this message has been sent to several mailing lists for maximum coverage; apologies for any duplicate copies received.

Graham
VK1GVC
on behalf of the CRARC committee