Councillors Vote in Favour of Ham Radio Mast

At a meeting of the Bury planning committee councillors voted overwhelmingly to support the retention of an amateur radio mast 

Planning agent Greg Dixon pointed out that Amateur Radio Operator, Julian Niman (G8GAJ) previous operating mast had been in place since 1987, and when the new one is extended during use, it appears transparent and blends in with TV aerials and other street furniture. 

The council's development control manager Dave Marno noted that the structure was sound and it was up to the regulator Ofcom to monitor it. 

Local news story -  
http://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/13650149.
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_but_councillors_allow_replacement_to_stay/

BBC Nano Computer's Final Design Confirmed

The BBC has revealed the final design of the Micro Bit, a pocket-sized computer set to be given to about one million UK-based children in October 2015.

The device - which features a programmable array of red LED lights - includes two buttons and a built-in motion sensor that were not included in a prototype shown off in March. Another design change means the product no longer has a slot for a thin battery, which maybe compromise is appeal for wearable device application.

An add-on power pack, fitted with AA batteries, will be needed if required to be used as a standalone product.

"We all know there's a critical and growing digital skills gap in this country and that's why it's so important that we come together and do something about it," BBC's director general Tony Hall a launch event in London.

BBC Story - http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-33409311

HamShield for Arduino (VHF/UHF transceiver)

Three US Ham Radio Operators  - Morgan Redfield (KG7OGM), Casey Halverson (KC7IBT), and Nigel Vander Houwen (K7NVH) have created a VHF/UHF HamShield for the Arduino.

The HamShield supports a wide range of VHF and UHF frequencies, covering 3 amateur bands. This includes the 2 meter (144-148 MHz), 1.25 meter (220-225 MHz), and 70 centimeter (420-450 MHz).

The group have also written a powerful library to control the HamShield, featuring voice modes, packet radio, APRS, SSTV, morse code, and more. Users can also write their own code and invent your digital mode.

Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/749835103/hamshield-for-arduino-vhf-uhf-transceiver