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| As there's a busy debate going
on in the letters pages this month - Rob Mannion G3XFD takes the opportunity
to seek out new projects and articles from Practical Wireless readers.
So, if you've got an idea for an article - talk to the editorial staff! |
Article Ideas
Keen PW reader and equally keen letter writer Ray Howes G4OWY has done
himself and other readers, a great favour by voicing his opinion on the
subject areas covered by the magazine. With one well timed letter Ray
has brought in what we always need in PW - feedback! Thanks Ray, and to
anyone else who has the courage of their convictions enough to write,
start and keep a debate rolling!
The present debate's main topic, is of course what type of projects we
should have in PW. So, I've taken this opportunity and intend to strike
while the iron is hot - and write earlier than I'd planned to encourage
readers to send in their article ideas for future PWs.
My published requests early in 2005 for more articles - particularly practical
projects - certainly got readers busy. The result was a good supply of
articles for use in 2006. In fact, several authors came up with more than
one idea - Stephan Niewadomski is one excellent example. As a result of
Steph's writing I'm hoping he'll become a much more regular contributor
to PW.
However, you too could perhaps write an article for PW! Not sure if you
can? You'll only find out if you contact us here in Dismal Dorset (it's
dull and raining as I type this!). And following my appeal last year I
sent out a large number of PW Author's Guides. I then had flurries of
letters and questions from new authors and readers with ideas. It wasn't
a problem and we're here to help you - and if you're not confident - we
can provide full support.
What's Needed
What do we need? In answering I do so simply: it's your ideas! We need
basic constructional projects, larger ideas for h.f. and v.h.f. Articles
and projects featuring simple/and more advanced test equipment, servicing
experiences and workshop practice are always welcome.
Also very much needed - the subject is always very popular - are antenna
related articles and projects. As I've said before- everyone is looking
forward to the matchbox-sized one unit h.f. to u.h.f. and microwave pocket
antenna that can work the world with milliwatts! (and cost pence to make).
Yes, we're all looking for the golden pot at the end of the rainbow! But
even if your project only goes part way towards creating the radio equivalent
of the Alchemist's dream - let me know as readers will want to build it!
Readers often tell me they're not keen on the results of their own drawing
capabilities. In return I tell them not to worry! The drawing of the ProAM
mobile antenna in use with a car roof rack idea (Radio Basics pages 42
to 44) are a good example. My original drawing was poor indeed - and although
I got the perspective correct - it was very amateurish. But the results
as re-drawn professionally by Tex Swann G1TEX and proves my point- it's
excellent despite the raw material!
So, whatever ideas you have - contact PW as soon as possible. We work
as a team with our authors and strive to present your articles in the
best way possible. Articles on antennas, mobile operating, antenna. radio
accessories, digital projects suitable for home-brewing (more of the same
as Ed Chicken G3BIK's project published this month) are all needed. We
also need features on the hobby in general - along with the (very occasional)
holiday articles. With a balance of projects, features and regular articles
everyone here can help to produce your PW - to your satisfaction.
The forward planning (basic skeleton of the future magazines) is done
usually in late summer and early autumn. There's a good chance that your
practical project will appear the next year if it's sent in before mid-year,
for publication.
Don't forget you can telephone me at the office, E-mail or come and chat
at club visits and the major shows I attend. But above all - don't forget
we produce PW for you - and your opinions and input help all the time.
Ray Howes G4OWY has done his bit - now you can help too!
Rob, G3XFD
If you have an idea for an article or project
in Practical Wireless, then you can use this form to contact Rob
(please do not use this message box to send
articles for publication)
Neither PW
Publishing or the Southgate Amateur Radio Club
will ever sell or pass-on your email address to any third-party |
• In
this month's Practical Wireless
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