From this point, if you're really in a hurry, you can just start driving in the general direction of the signal. Most hunters, though, will take a few moments using their compass to read the direction in which their antenna is pointing at the strongest signal, and then plot that direction on the map. If you do the same from several places that are reasonably well separated, the lines you've plotted should generally converge near the location of the hidden transmitter. The most reliable readings will be those taken from high locations out in the clear. The least reliable, those taken from down low and surrounded by mountains, buildings or other structures that can cause the signal to be reflected and seemingly come from a different direction. While I won't cover it here, to make the most accurate plots you'll need to learn a little about using your compass, as well as the difference between "Magnetic Bearings" and "True Bearings". The book I referred to earlier in the General Overview section, which many refer to as the Foxhunters bible, has all you'll need to know. You can also check out books on basic navigation or "finding your way". As I recall, even the Boy Scout Handbook can be helpful here.
As you get closer to the Fox, the signal will start to get stronger. When it gets so strong that the signal strength meter reads full scale, you can no longer tell which way the signal is really the strongest as you turn your antenna -- it's full scale all the time! Now's the time to start using the Attenuator. Switch in enough attenuation so that the signal no longer reaches full scale no matter which way you swing the antenna. The closer you get, the stronger the signal will be, and the more attenuation you'll have to switch in line to keep the signal within the range of your 'S' meter. If you don't have an attenuator, or if the signal is still too strong even with your attenuator at its maximum setting, try tuning off frequency by 5 or maybe even 10 kHz. That should reduce the signal's strength enough for you to be able to use your 'S' meter again. (Tuning off frequency will also cause the fox's audio sound distorted, but that's not nearly as important as being able to see the differences in its strength as you swing your antenna).
Of course, as is the case in any phase of your radio direction finding efforts, signals from the transmitter may be reflected off nearby objects, hills, and so on, and this will confuse the issue of which is the real direction. Hunting amidst serious reflections adds to the challenge. You'll learn how to recognize this, and how to deal with it, mostly through experience.
Oh yes, another thing...the Fox you're hunting may not be transmitting continuously. It may be on for only 10 or 15 seconds every minute, or maybe on for one minute and then off for three. Especially when you're closing in on the transmitter, it's easy to drive too far during the "off periods". By the time the Fox begins the next transmission you may be a long way past the road you should have taken, so slow down (or even stop somewhere safely) in between transmissions when you're getting close.
Be sure you know the rules of the hunt before you start out. You may not be interested in the competitive aspects of the hunt as you start out, and that's probably wise. In the beginning, concentrate on getting used to your equipment and getting the basic techniques down pat. But it is worth knowing a little about how the order of finish of a hunt is usually determined.
Some
mobile hunts are scored on the basis of time; those finding the hidden
transmitter soonest place highest. Other hunts are scored on the basis
of mileage; those finding the Fox after covering the least mileage along
the way will score best, even if they arrive after their more speedy brethren.
Some use a combination of the two scoring methods. Consider the type of
hunt scoring in planning your strategy. If it's a mileage type hunt, you
may want to try to stay as close as possible to the initial antenna bearing
you plotted on your map, as you choose the roads to drive on toward the
Fox. Staying as close to that "straight line" as possible will minimize
your mileage. With those hunts scored on minimum elapsed time, some hunters
just "follow their nose", driving toward the general direction of
the signal as much as local roads permit. In any case, whether you
are into the competition or just getting your feet wet in Foxhunting, a
good local map will prove a definite asset.
One final note...Be
Careful! There's a lot to do while you're trying to track
down the Fox. Don't get distracted from your real primary on-the-road mission:
Getting there safely! At least in the beginning, share the load.
Take along a partner or two so that the driver can concentrate on just
that -- Driving.
Hudson Valley Direction Finding Association
Copyright 1998, 1999,
2003 John Hirth W2KI
All Rights Reserved