January 5 2026 #285 - Intermodulation Causes | W3GMS Workbench

This episode features the Monday Night Workbench net on the W3GMS 146.985 MHz repeater, a technical roundtable focused on practical amateur radio knowledge, experimentation, and learning. The discussion opens with net operations, repeater usage notes, intermod considerations, and digital access via EchoLink and AllStar. Operators then share recent on-air activity, station projects, antenna builds, Winter Field Day preparation, VE testing results, and ongoing bench work ranging from vintage transmitters to modern Raspberry Pi–based AllStar nodes. Technical Q&A topics include: • Build-it-yourself 2-meter antenna designs suitable for tree-mounted and portable use • Causes and behavior of intermod interference on RF and digital repeater links • How EchoLink and AllStar integrate with repeater infrastructure • The history, purpose, and technical implications of the MARS modification on amateur transceivers The episode blends hands-on engineering insight with real-world operating experience, historical context, and mentoring culture. It’s a snapshot of how amateur radio knowledge is shared live, unscripted, and collaboratively. Format: Directed technical roundtable and Q&A Net: Monday Night Workbench on W3GMS 146.985 MHz Recorded: January 5, 2026 Host: Greg, W3DIB