I have a new backpack which is the LowePro Flipside 300. I can fit the HB-1B, Eneloop batteries, key and the Alexloop inside. A nice feature of this backpack is it holds a tripod on the back. Therefore with Alexloop on the tripod I don't require trees or other supports.
To test this out I packed up and took a one mile walk to the nearest park. It all went fine but I did have to work pretty hard for some short contacts. I worked Ontario and San Francisco on 20 meters.
There is a new twist. I mounted the HB-1B to a clipboard along with the batteries and a set of Chill Pill speakers. A CD case is used to mount the HB-1B at an angle. The batteries are between the two sides of the CD case. Also I mounted a MFJ QRP SWR meter to the tripod after it was setup.. This works well for tuning the Alexloop.
This weekend I also packed up the Icom 703, my 10 AH battery, Alexloop and tripod in the Flipside 300. It all fits but it is a bit heavy.
I hope the Flight of The Bumble Bees FOBB event is on for July. I am ready!
Good news! the FOBB 2012 Rules are now available at http://arsqrp.blogspot.com/
I enjoy Rapid Deployment Amateur Radio, Field Days, QRP, satellites, and CW. I have many friends in the hobby that make it fun. I will keep you posted on what I learn about amateur radio on this blog.
