Pre-Activation Generic Checklist [US-TEST]

===== 1) Planning and documentation Activation plan: target park, date/time window, bands and modes, expected contact goals.

• Local rules and permissions: park regulations, permits, access restrictions, noise limits, temporary closures.
• Emergency and contact info: emergency plan, nearest hospital, trip/partner contact, GPS coordinates of the activation site.
• Test log: a section to record test results and any deviations from the plan.

• Primary radio power source: confirm voltage, available capacity, and regulator status.
• Backup power: spare battery or alternative power source ready and charged.
• Load check: verify system can sustain planned transmission power for the activation duration.
• Charging plan: solar or AC charging available and tested (if applicable).
• Power distribution: test power cables, Anderson/XT connectors, fuses, and polarity protection.

• Transceiver/ALL RF path: turn-on self-check, nominal current draw, and audio/RF path integrity.
• Antenna(s): verify mounting, feedpoint connections, and physical security.
• Feedline and connectors: inspect for wear, water ingress, corrosion; test continuity with a ohm-meter if available.
• SWR/match device: verify antenna tuner or ATU operation; record baseline SWR on planned bands.
• Grounding/bonding: verify proper grounding and RF safety practices.
• Coax protection: strain reliefs, weatherproofing, and grommet integrity.

• Key/Keyer or paddle: check response, touch sensitivity, and debouncing.
• Microphone/voice keys: test audio levels and sidetone.
• Logging and contest software: confirm software launches, device connections, and correct callsign/park reference.
• Digital modes equipment: ensure USB sound card/interface is recognized, drivers installed, and sample rates set correctly.

• Setup layout: outline where each piece of gear will go for quick star-up and safe operation.
• Stowage and transport: secure all items to prevent movement and damage during transport.
• Weather readiness: check shelter (if used), rain covers, and sun protection for gear.

• RF exposure assessment: quick check of safe distances for all operators, especially if high-gain antennas or high power is used.
• Ground fault protection: GFCI where applicable and proper insulation of exposed conductors.
• First aid and PPE: gloves for handling antennas, eye protection if using rotating parts, and any required PPE.
• Fire safety: fire extinguisher accessible; check batteries and power equipment for overheating risks.

• Power-on self-test: verify device self-test passes.
• Battery/load test: measure voltage under load; ensure within acceptable range.
• RF path test: perform a quick SWR check on the planned bands; confirm tuning works with the tuner.
• RX/ TX sanity: verify receive audio levels and transmit function on a known good frequency.
• Mock contact: complete a 1–2 sample QSO to validate timing, logging, and spotting workflows.

• Band plan alignment: Confirm that the modes and bands you intend to operate on are clear and permitted.
• Mode readiness: CW, SSB, FT8/FT4, etc.; verify software configurations and timers.
• Logging integrity: ensure callsign database and park reference are correct; verify backup logging method.

• Spare parts: keep spare fuses, connectors, patch cables, and a spare battery or two.
• Alternate plan: identify an alternate park or backup site in case of access issues.
• Troubleshooting guide: brief, written steps for common failures (no transmit, SWR mismatch, software crash).

• Power-down procedure: safe power-down sequence to protect gear.
• Data backup: save logs, QSOs, and any notes from the activation.
• Debrief: quick team review to capture what worked and what to improve.
• Template fields you can fill in later (example format)
• Park: [Park name and ID]
• Date/Time window: [YYYY-MM-DD, local time]
• Bands and Modes: [e.g., 20m CW/SSB, 40m FT8]
• Power: [e.g., 60 W, 100 W]
• Antenna: [type and model]
• Transceiver: [brand/model]
• Power source: [battery type/c容量, solar, AC]
• Safety officer: [name]
• Checklist completed by: [name] at [time)