Hi again

Just had a look at that position on the chart, (NW Sheffied) and can't find anything that would interfere with R/T e.g. HIRTA, other than terrain shielding. If you were further NW there is the TV transmitter (Emily Moor??), which I guess could interfere with R/T, similar to the suggestion that the Winter Hill complex could cause problems as mentioned earlier, (never experienced this personally though).

Squadgy,
There are quite a few variables I'm sure you'll agree. From what I have learnt on this thread, its probably down to the radio.
Problem is, I can't get flying much at the moment due to impending ATPL exams.:{
Thanks again:ok:
POL

Spiney Norman
Enjoying it very much thanks, especially now the warmer weather has arrived!
I look forward to seeing more familiar faces in the future too.
Check your PMs.

I know very recently there've been a few RT coverage problems in the TNT - DAYNE bit of airspace too, and with MACC transmissions in the EGNX area.

Also - cossack - nice to see you around :ok: Glad you're ok mate!

Bandboxed
 

Manch VCR type chappies, a follow up question for you....

Several times lately, at night, I have heard a disembodied voice with something along the lines of "Blah Blah 1 2 1 decimal 7" which gets the response "read you five" from the controller and then "read you five" from the disembodied voice.

The disembodied voice gradually meanders around all the bandboxed frequencies (121.7, 121.85, 119.625) usually several times.

I assume it is some sort of testing of bandboxing and/or standby kit. It's probably always happened, but I have only just noticed. I can never work out the first few words which doesn't help!

What's it all about?

Cheers,

Nick

It's the TELS engineers checking the stand-by handsets on the ACC sectors :)

What you're hearing is "Standby handset check frequency 12805" and then the other engineer (we'll call him TELS bloke #2) reading back with a clarity / signal report (hence the "read you fives") which is then duly acknowledged and reciprocated by TELS bloke #1 :)

Something I've noticed with R/T reception at LBA and MAN. At LBA
the transmissions received from the tower (all frequencies and the Denville) have a very 'traditional' radio sound, as if the controller were speaking into an old carbon microphone via a telephone line. Still loud and clear however. At MAN on the other hand, you could almost believe the controller was standing next to you and speaking directly into your ear. Sharp, punchy audio and no background hum (tends to appear on the LBA APP frequency - 123.75).

I guess this has something to do with the voice switch systems used at these airports. LBA uses technology which I'd venture is around 20-25 years old whereas I believe NATS airports, including MAN, have relatively new Schmidt consoles. Also, at the risk of sounding like an anorak, LBA headset microphones are electromagnetic. Perhaps MAN microphones are electret-condenser types.

Any LBA, MAN tels engineers or Copperchase engineers care to comment ?

:)

P.S. Apparently, the voice switch at LBA is due to be replaced by
Copperchase in the next few months. Interesting to see what effect this will have on the audio quality.