ON February 22 members of the Hereford Amateur Radio Society (HARS) visited local technology company ETL Systems Ltd whose modern facilities are situated adjacent to the BT Madley Satellite Station.

ETL Systems specialises in the design and manufacture of electronic equipment for global satellite communications. The company's headquarters are based in Madley, Herefordshire, but it also has a research and development centre in North London and a sales office in the USA.

Although it is not necessarily a technology that you have come across, many of ETL's market leading products are used by a global network of customers including broadcasters where they are responsible for delivering live TV content such as news and sports direct to your home. Other sectors that ETL operate in include satellite operators, government and marine.

Amateur Radio Society members have a deep interest in all matters concerning communications and it was with great enthusiasm that the invitation from Dr Esen Bayar, was accepted.

During the two-hour tour of the modern facilities, members were able to see a variety of high frequency and microwave equipment in production, followed by a presentation by Dr Bayar (who is seated in the photograph).

The Hereford Amateur Radio Society take seriously, the regular training of youngsters and people of all ages, gender and ability, to understand, appreciate and operate radio equipment. This so often leads to employment at all levels within companies such as our local ETL Systems.

The HARS members in attendance were: Derek G3WAG (chairman). Duncan M0OTG (Hon Sec), Stuart G4VMF, Adrian G8IVO, Wendy 2E0WKQ, Norman M0SXF, Richard G4FAD, Nigel G4XTF, Grant G4ILI, Glyn G4AIJ, Dave G4OYX, Mike G3LZM, Bob G3IXZ, Derek G6TVC, Ray G0IMV.

For information of the Hereford Amateur Radio Society visit herefordradioclub.uk or call Mike on 01432 272987 for information.