ARRL Field Day

ARRL Two Rivers ARC Field Day is held at our traditional site at the White Oak Park Water Tower Site, located just off of Muse Lane/Carpenters Lane-White Oak PA, on the last full weekend of June.

690 Carpenter Ln, White Oak, Pennsylvania
40.34132, -79.777813

Introduction to ARRL Field Day

ARRL Field Day, organized by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), is one of the most anticipated events in the amateur radio calendar. Held annually during the fourth weekend of June, this 24-hour event combines elements of emergency preparedness, public outreach, and ham radio camaraderie. It is a unique opportunity for amateur radio operators (hams) across North America to showcase their skills, test their equipment, and foster connections within their communities.

Field Day is not just a contest but a celebration of the art and science of radio communication. It serves as a reminder of the critical role amateur radio plays in emergencies and as a platform to inspire new generations of operators.

The Purpose of ARRL Field Day

Field Day was conceived to test the operational capabilities of amateur radio stations under simulated emergency conditions. The goal is to establish as many two-way contacts as possible during the event while operating off the grid, often using portable setups powered by generators, batteries, or solar panels.

Key objectives of ARRL Field Day include:

  • Emergency Preparedness: Hams practice setting up and operating equipment in field conditions to ensure readiness in case of natural disasters or other emergencies.
  • Public Outreach: The event serves as a platform to introduce amateur radio to non-hams, encouraging interest and participation in the hobby.
  • Skill Development: Operators hone their technical and communication skills, gaining experience in handling various modes and frequencies.
  • Community Building: Clubs and individuals come together to collaborate, share knowledge, and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded enthusiasts.

How ARRL Field Day Works

Field Day operates as a 24-hour event, starting at 1800 UTC on Saturday and ending at 2059 UTC on Sunday. Participants can set up their stations up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for efficient deployment of antennas, transceivers, and other equipment.

Amateur radio operators log contacts with other stations using a variety of modes, including:

  • Voice (SSB): Communicating via spoken word.
  • CW (Morse Code): Using dots and dashes to transmit messages.
  • Digital Modes: Employing computer-assisted communication, such as FT8 or PSK31.

Operators earn points for each contact, with bonuses awarded for specific activities such as:

  • Operating on emergency power.
  • Using satellite communications.
  • Promoting the event through local media.
  • Hosting a public education session or inviting officials to the site.

Field Day participants are categorized into classes based on their operating conditions. For example:

  • Class A: Clubs or groups operating portable stations.
  • Class B: Individuals operating portable stations.
  • Class E: Home stations running on emergency power.

Field Day Setup and Equipment

A significant aspect of Field Day is its emphasis on portable and emergency setups. Participants often operate from parks, fields, or other outdoor locations, showcasing their ability to establish communication under less-than-ideal circumstances.

Essential components of a Field Day station include:

  • Transceivers: Radios capable of transmitting and receiving signals on various amateur bands.
  • Antennas: Portable or temporary antennas, such as dipoles, verticals, or Yagis, designed to optimize signal reach.
  • Power Sources: Generators, solar panels, or batteries to maintain operation without reliance on grid electricity.
  • Logging Software: Tools to record contacts efficiently and submit results to ARRL.

Field Day sites often feature creative engineering solutions, from antenna towers crafted from PVC pipes to solar-powered rigs that combine sustainability with functionality.

The Social Side of Field Day

While Field Day is a test of technical skills and preparedness, it is equally a social event. Amateur radio clubs often host cookouts, potlucks, and other gatherings during the event, fostering a sense of community. It is common to see operators mentoring newcomers, demonstrating techniques, and sharing their passion for the hobby.

Field Day also provides an opportunity for “GOTA” (Get On The Air) stations. These stations are specifically designed for non-hams or newly licensed operators to experience the thrill of making contacts under the guidance of experienced mentors. GOTA stations are a highlight for families, youth groups, and schools.

Impact of ARRL Field Day

ARRL Field Day is more than just a weekend event; it has a lasting impact on the amateur radio community and beyond. Key contributions include:

  • Encouraging Participation: Field Day inspires thousands of individuals to explore amateur radio, leading to an influx of new operators each year.
  • Strengthening Emergency Networks: The event enhances the readiness of amateur operators to assist during disasters, ensuring robust communication when conventional systems fail.
  • Raising Awareness: Through public outreach, Field Day highlights the importance of amateur radio as a hobby and a public service.

The following link is the ARRL Field Day page https://www.arrl.org/field-day/

The following is a link to the ARRL Field Day Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/arrlfd/

ARRL Field Day Two Rivers ARC W3OC