Several SWOT members and VHF enthusiasts in Arizona and surrounding states have 1.25-meter SSB capabilities, so we decided to start a round-table net to encourage further activity and station building. With all the other nets and VHF+ activities, we decided to set aside Friday nights at 7:00 PM MST (2:00 UTC) as a good time to meet on 222.100 and have fun.
Robert, N7VD, in NE Mesa AZ is the primary Net Control Station with Doug, K7EME in Picture Rocks AZ, as alternate NCS. We use NetLogger to allow participants and other interested folks to monitor the net and send IMs if not heard.
Band conditions are unique with better terrestrial propagation and lower inherent noise levels than 2 meters and below. This provides an improved weak signal-to-noise ratio and longer consistent contacts. The QSB is slow and deep at times but allows small and modest stations to make quick long-distance contacts when the conditions are right.
There are several transverters available starting as low as $85.00 assembled, so if you want to add a new band that sorely needs more activity, get one and join us on Friday nights.