1967 12 00 73 Magazine - Data Net

Magazine Overview

This is the December 1967 issue of "73 Amateur Radio" magazine, identified by volume number 73 and priced at 60¢. The cover features a festive Christmas theme with a cartoon illustration of children and adults excited about presents, alongside the prominent title "AMATEUR RADIO".

Articles and Features

Construction Techniques with Computer Cards

The issue includes a technical article discussing the use of hybrid computer cards for constructing amateur radio equipment. The photograph accompanying the article shows a sample oscillator card from a hybrid computer card transmitter currently under construction by KIEUJ. The author explains that the techniques presented are introductory and aim to show how computer cards can serve as a base for building various types of gear. It's noted that some components, like transistors, heat sinks, and resistors, are mounted on the reverse side of the card. Future articles are planned to detail how to mount tubes on computer cards and describe a 10-meter walkie-talkie using these construction techniques.

Golden Bear QSL Party

This section announces the Golden Bear QSL Party, scheduled from 0500 GMT on December 3rd through 0200 GMT on December 4th, 1967. Participants checking into the Golden Bear Amateur Radio Net during this period are eligible to receive a certificate. To qualify, operators must provide the Net Control Station with their correct call sign, name, and mailing address. Check-ins are accepted on the net frequency of 3975 kHz, using LSB, AM, or CW modes, with or without traffic. QSL cards from stations receiving the confirmation certificate will be welcomed and archived by the Net Historian.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana QSO Party

The Baton Rouge Amateur Radio Club is hosting a QSO Party from December 3rd through December 9th to celebrate Baton Rouge's 150th anniversary. The club will award a special Sesquicentennial Certificate to any amateur radio operator who makes contact with a Baton Rouge Club member during this week. All modes and frequencies are permitted. To claim the certificate, participants must send a large, stamped, self-addressed envelope to the Baton Rouge Amateur Radio Club, P. O. Box 53194, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70805. It is specified that only contacts with Club members are eligible.

Data Net: A UFO Interest Net

This article introduces "Data-Net," a net established for amateur radio operators with a serious interest in Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The net aims to provide a platform for communication among those interested in the subject, with the expectation that increased participation will enhance its effectiveness. Data-Net convened approximately ten months prior to this publication. It currently has over 50 regular contributors. The net meets weekly on Thursdays at 0300 GMT (8 PM Wednesday PDT) on 14.315 MHz, using either USB or CW. Other frequencies are monitored at selected times. The Net Control is WB6RPL, and interested individuals are directed to write Michael M. Jaffe at 624 Farley St., Mountain View, California 94040 for operating information. Data-Net operates on a voluntary contribution basis, with funds primarily used for mailing costs. A monthly report detailing operating activities, UFO news, and member contributions is published and mailed to net members. The article is attributed to William H. Hunkins, WA4FKM.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong focus on community engagement within the amateur radio hobby, evident through the QSL parties and QSO events that encourage interaction and award recognition. There is also a clear acknowledgment and catering to niche interests within the amateur radio community, such as the dedicated Data-Net for UFO enthusiasts. The magazine also continues its commitment to providing practical technical information, as seen in the article on construction techniques using computer cards, suggesting an editorial stance that values both community building and technical advancement in amateur radio.