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AO-51 Mode LU SSTV
by Dave Aitch 11 Oct '08

11 Oct '08

Only heard my own SSTV downlink during the last pass, mid Atlantic, from here at IO80SM. I had to revert to manual tuning for the uplink as the tuning/tracking program I use was way out on the uplink. I will give it another go during some of the PM passes later today. 73, Dave. G1OCN. AMSAT UK 5766 Portland. Dorset.

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Re: VC-H1 for SSTV reception
by Gordon JC Pearce MM3YEQ 11 Oct '08

11 Oct '08

Allen Vinegar wrote: > The program opens up. A little box pops up saying communication > inactive. It's meant to work with windows 95 or 98. > The programming commands are beyond me. If you acquire a VC-H1 and > figure out how to do it, please let me know. > > Al > Hmm. I'd be trying to run it under Wine, since I don't have any Windows machines and I don't know anyone who does. Looking at the spec in the manual, it doesn't really seem to mention much about downloading pictures from the device. If I get hold of one, I might give Kenwood a poke and see if they have any more comprehensive information. Gordon

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AO-51 SSTV
by Gerry 11 Oct '08

11 Oct '08

Received the following on the 2:45 pass here in EN19 country, using JVComm32: CQ SSTV from AI 7W in Grid CN84 Robot 36 11.10.2008 02:49 UTC Unable to Tx, eavesdropping only, maximum elevation 7 deg. Looking forward to rest of week-end Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian Hams, also to my US friends a happy Columbus Day 73 VE4GTB / KD7MDB Amsat #29196

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Question on receiving AO-51 SSTV and SatPC32
by Michael Tondee 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Unforrtunately I have no capability for 1.2 Ghz transmit so I won't be sending any images to AO-51 but I would like to "eavesdrop". Since I have no frequency pair programmed into SatPC32 for a 1.2Ghz/70cm combination I can just use any pair that happens to have the right downlink frequency right? I think this is a correct assumption but I want to be sure. If I need to add an entry to my frequency parameters I will. Tnx and 73, Michael, W4HIJ

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download failed on satpc32
by ryan woods 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

satpc32 will not let me update my keps any more every time i try to i get download failed. im trying to get the ...nasa.all and i have tried the others what should i do. 73 kd8atf fm09

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SSTV etc from the ISS
by G0MRF＠aol.com 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

If, like me, you're out at work for the ISS passes, then it's still possible to record the SSTV and other modes as the space station passes over. Leaving your radio on the ISS 2m downlink with an audio cable connected to a PC which is running VoxRecorder will automatically record wav files when the squelch opens. Just listen or view whatever you missed while you were hard at work at your convenience. 73 David G0MRF In a message dated 10/10/2008 08:00:37 GMT Standard Time, GW1FKY(a)aol.com writes: Hi all, Thanks to Bob for all of the information in helping keeping amateur radio alive especially with respect to the our interest in satellites. But just a note to remind any readers that the frequency that Bob refers to for the APRS, is of course for the operations in the USA. - Bobs web pages which he refers to "Do" of course highlight this. Thank you again Bob for all of your time and effort in putting out so much interesting and useful information on this aspect of our hobby. Good Luck to all in following the Richard Garriott mateur radio projects. Ken Eaton GW1FKY Amsat - UK Amast NA

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VC-H1 for SSTV reception
by Allen Vinegar 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

I would like to try receiving SSTV pictures using a VC-H1 and TH-D7AG combo with a handheld Arrow antenna.The VC-H1 stores up to ten pictures. Does anyone know of a program that will work with Windows XP that will allow the downloading of the stored pictures to a computer? The software that Kenwood originally provided does not seem to work under Windows XP. Thank you for any help! 73 Al W8KHP

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Office Closed
by Martha 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

The Office will be closed on Monday, October 13th in observance of Columbus Day. -- 73- Martha

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Re: SSTV etc from the ISS
by G0MRF＠aol.com 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Hi Simon / Miles. You have both mentioned MMSSTV and not VoxRecorder. Will MMSSTV also save Audio QSOs?? David 'MRF In a message dated 10/10/2008 13:26:44 GMT Standard Time, ka1rrw(a)yahoo.com writes: A vox recorder will work, however a running SSTV problem will work much better. Just make sure you save the images to disk. Most if not all SSTV programs have an Auto Receive move and will save to disk. **************

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A little help please...
by Joseph Seibert 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

I'm going to be demonstrating satellite operations to a group of six High School students this afternoon. They're all working on their Tech Class licenses and I'm trying to get them interested in satellite operations. We even have the local newspaper's reporter lined up to watch, so their will be some good public relations. We'll be on the 2300 UTC AO-51 pass and would be appreciative if anyone who could contact us. We're pretty far west so it'd be great if stations on the west coast or our Canadian neighbors would give us a try. The call sign will be our club call, AL7YK and grid is AP90ds. We'll be using our club's arrow antenna with a IC 91AD HT. Well also be on AO-7 on most of Sunday's passes who anyone who'd like to work our grid. Thanks. Joe Seibert- AL1F Bethel, Alaska

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AO-16 this weekend?
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Hey everyone, How about some AO-16 contacts this weekend? I’ve mentioned in posts to the BB this week that I would like to apply for a separate Satellite Communications Achievement Award from AMSAT using only confirmed contacts on AO-16 in this unique and, most likely, “one off” operating mode of V-FM up and U-DSB down. It’s a real hoot to work, as some of you know – and there’s no guarantee we’ll have AO-16 much longer. That’s been reported in the just-arrived (July-August) issue of “The AMSAT Journal” by Drew, KO4MA. The first report on AO-16’s rebirth appeared in the March-April issue of the Journal. As I write this, I’m one state/Canadian province/DX country away from the 20 necessary to apply for the award, but I’d like to work as many as possible before AO-16 goes silent again – and maybe forever. Here’s the list worked by N3TL so far in AO-16’s “bent pipe” mode: Venezuela Ontario California Florida Indiana Iowa Kentucky Louisiana Massachusetts Michigan Mississippi New York North Carolina Ohio Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Thanks to Clare, VE3NPC, who read an earlier post in which I referred to my interest in trying for my own little AO-16 award. He made a pass later than day and we had a great contact. Thanks again for that, Clare! I’m thrilled to have made contacts with the stations that made the very fist voice contact on AO-16 back in January (as reported in the earlier Journal article mentioned above) – N8MH and KO4MA. That’s pretty cool! So, if you live somewhere not listed above and have the time and gear to make a pass of AO-16 that includes north Georgia in the footprint, I’ll be listening for you! As for the necessary gear, I’m routinely using a “poor man’s full duplex” station – transmitting from my Yaesu VX-7R HT into an eFactor omni antenna mounted on a photo tripod and receiving on a Yaesu FT-817ND connected to my Elk log periodic. On passes to my east, I'll use my "base" transmitter, a Yaesu FT-857D into the eFactor omni, with the RF out on the 857D routinely set to 5 watts. I’m manually tuning for Doppler on the receive side, and hand-holding the Elk to track the receive side manually. It’s a little challenging, but a lot of fun! FYI – the frequency pair is 145.920/FM up (the same as AO-51’s “normal” 2 meter uplink) and 437.026/DSB (+/- Doppler) down. Listen in upper sideband, and start looking for AO-16 at about 437.036 at AOS, tuning down from there. No matter where you live, you really ought to work some passes of AO-16 if you can. There’s a historical significance to this current mode and the story behind it that’s pretty special, I think, and worthy of our interest and attention. 73 to all, Tim – N3TL AMSAT Member No. 36820 Athens, Ga. – EM84ha

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How low can you go?
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Hey Everyone, This weekend, AO-51’s operations team is giving all of us who work the FM satellites a chance to answer the question in my post's title to our own satistaction. Here, I’m reaching for a fresh set of Duracells! I’ll be running QRO on them this weekend, though – pumping all 300 milliwatts out of my VX-7R HT into the new Elk log periodic antenna I’ve been running through the ringer for a week – with really good results. I challenge all of you who will be working the “QRP pair” on AO-51 this weekend to see how low you can go with the RF out and work the satellite. As many of you know, the Satellite Communications Achievement Award (No. 473) that just got posted to the AMSAT Web site for N3TL was earned solely on the basis of confirmed contacts I made while running 50 mW rf out of the VX-7R – on the same set of 2 AA Duracells. I’ll use the other alkaline-battery power setting this weekend, which is 300 mW. One of the elements of this very low power work I find most exciting is trying to “reach out” as far as I can. For me, it’s not the distance from N3TL in EM84 to the other station I’m working on fractions of a watt that is important. Rather, it’s the range from my location to the satellite at the moment of contact. That tells an interesting story, I think. Example – During my Duracell Experiment, I worked Jim, KC9ELU, on AO-51 when the satellite was at 8.6 degrees elevation to my west. I use Orbitron to keep track of upcoming passes, and its simulation mode lets me go back, after a pass, and check stats from contacts. When Jim and I worked, my 50 mW traveled 2,482.003 km (1,542.245 miles) to the satellite. Do the math – that’s 49,640.06 km (30,844.9 miles) per watt. I don’t expect to get close to those numbers at all on 300 mW this weekend, but I’m anxious to find out. I will post my farthest to-the-satellite distance that resulted in a two-way contact early next week. I hope others will do the same, including rf out and distance to the satellite during the contact. Not only is this fun (for me, at least), but it also provides a great test for our respective stations, letting us know “how low we can go” in, say, a true emergency and still complete effective communications. FYI – I always err on the side of caution when posting numbers like those above. That is, I always use the highest elevation/shortest range to my location. Even a few seconds during a contact has the satellites moving ever closer or ever farther from us, depending on which part of the passes our contacts occur. I use the highest angle/shortest range because I know it was no higher or no closer to me during the contact. I hope to try some SSTV reception, but probably on the higher angle passes here because I have no experience at all with SSTV. On the lower angle passes, however, I hope to work many of you on the QRP pair while I’m wearing out another set of Duracells – and in between passes of AO-16 (more about that in another post). 73 to all, Tim – N3TL AMSAT Member No. 36820 Athens, Ga. – EM84ha

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2M1EUB/P QRV SCOTLAND 11.10.08
by paul robinson 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Hi group ill be qrv all birds from scotland ,from 11.oct.08 till 25.oct yes abt 2weeks! check out qrz.com under 2M1EUB listing for more info.should be qrv from north east and north west scotland!! de paul 2E1EUB

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Re: Contribution
by Clive Wallis 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Rob Redmon wrote - > I realize that accurate positioning is detrimental. I've been retrieving >TLEs for two weeks now and in that window, VO-52 has had 2 updates with >a 10 day cadence. Is ~10 days the usual tracking priority for such >satellites? Are there already "good enough" techniques for filling the >orbital element gaps? Are there more sophisticated public domain orbit >propagation algorithms just waiting to be tried out? The dawn of a new >solar cycle (24) is upon us. How does will already employed prediction >techniques stand up to the next solar max? The tracking algorithms for satellites have been developed over the years and AFAIK they are adequate, certainly for amateur use. The orbital elements contain a drag factor (orbital decay) which compensates the tracking for the gradual orbital decay. IMHO updating elements every 10 days is adequate for most satellites. If you use manual tracking the time interval between updates can be increased. I tracked OSCAR-11 (UO-11) manually for many years, and usually, only needed to change the Keplers about four times a year, when the predicted time error exceeded more than a minute or so. Satellites in very low orbits have a greater rate of decay, and it helps to update the Keps frequently, especially those nearing the end of their orbital life. The manned space stations have a high rate of orbital decay. Their orbital height is corrected by firing their thrusters, so frequent updating of Keps is needed. Regarding solar max, this will increase the decay rate, but in most cases this will be corrected by the increased drag factor in the Keps. > As part of my graduate curriculum, I am enrolled in an astrodynmics > course. The course >requires a course project. Three possible projects - Firstly, when satellites decay and burn-up in the earth's atmosphere, there is always an interest in predicting when this will happen, say a month before. In the past we have had several so called 'Chicken Little' competitions for the best prediction. I did a lot of work on this 20 years ago, but never finished the project. It was based on a statistical analysis of how the drag factor varied with height, the exosphere and solar flux. As a project you could reasearch any work on this topic, or try to produce a procedure for predicting satellite decay. Secondly, you could investigate tracking errors caused by changes of solar flux. The effect of these errors, and how often Keps should be updated. Lastly, there are at least two, possibly more different algorithms for tracking calculations. You could explore the differences, between them for amateur satellite aplications. If you are interested, I may be able to help. Please e-mail me direct g3cwv at amsat.org ( replace the ' at ' by @). HTH -- 73 Clive G3CWV Hitchin, North Hertfordshire, UK.

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RS-30 CW telemetry decode - official
by andy thomas 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Following CW telemetry table for RS-30 received from Moscow this morning. I will try to type it below in text form as a proper table. Name Decoding Assignement of parameters Limits RS30 Callsign UBS U=N * 0.087 Volts On board voltage N=115...175 IBS I=N * 0.02 Amperes On board current N=10...155 USUN U=N * 0.12 Volts Charge voltage from sun battery N=0...150 ISUN I=N * 0.01 Amperes Charge current from sun battery N=0...250 ITXA I=N * 0.01 Amperes DC Current of the 435 MHz Tx A N=0...200 ITXB I=N * 0.01 Amperes DC Current of the 435 MHz Tx B N=0...200 TTXA T=No decoding Temperature of the 435 MHz Tx A N=0...255 TTXB T=No decoding Temperature of the 435 MHz Tx B N=0...255 TNAP T=No decoding Temperature of the navigation unit N=0...255 TAB T=No decoding Temperature on board battery N=0...255 MSEP Table of operationa modes of the power supply N=0...255 MCON Table of operational modes of the controller N=0...255 SMA Table of operational modes of channel A N=0...255 SMB Table of operational modes of channel B N=0...255 MRXA Table of operational modes of Rx A N=0...255 MRXB Table of operational modes of Rx B N=0...255 RS30 Callsign Please note the document refers to a Tx frequency of 435.353 MHz. 73 de andy, G0SFJ

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Re: Richard Garriott Update Oct 9, 2008
by GW1FKY＠aol.com 10 Oct '08

10 Oct '08

Hi all, Thanks to Bob for all of the information in helping keeping amateur radio alive especially with respect to the our interest in satellites. But just a note to remind any readers that the frequency that Bob refers to for the APRS, is of course for the operations in the USA. - Bobs web pages which he refers to "Do" of course highlight this. Thank you again Bob for all of your time and effort in putting out so much interesting and useful information on this aspect of our hobby. Good Luck to all in following the Richard Garriott mateur radio projects. Ken Eaton GW1FKY Amsat - UK Amast NA **************

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Richard Garriott Update Oct 9, 2008
by Frank H. Bauer 09 Oct '08

09 Oct '08

All, The ARISS team has a lot of exciting activities planned for the next few weeks, including the flight of Soyuz 17S to space station with Richard Garriott, W5KWQ and Mike Fincke, KE5AIT on-board. The following represents some new information and capabilities that we are rolling out to the community to prepare for Richard's and Mike's flight. Please go to www.ariss.org, www.amsat.org, www.arrl.org and www.issfanclub.com for real-time information updates. 73, Frank Bauer, KA3HDO AMSAT-NA V.P. for Human Spaceflight Programs ARISS International Chairman The ARISS SSTV team announces the new ARISS SSTV Web Gallery and Blog. A website has been established to enable amateur radio operators to share their pictures received from the International Space Station's SSTV system. People wishing to view photos captured from the ISS or upload their own captured pictures can go to http://www.amsat.com/ARISS_SSTV/. There is also a blog in which the ARISS SSTV Team will post announcements and additional information about the project. The blog can be viewed at http://www.ariss-sstv.blogspot.com/. To prepare for the upcoming SSTV operations, you are welcome to "try out" the new Web Gallery by posting past SSTV images (on-orbit and terrestrial). These will be deleted prior to the ARISS SSTV events that are planned for this weekend and during ISS Expedition 17 and Richard Garriott's flight (see below). ISS SSTV Operations Planned for October 12 The ARISS team received word from ARISS Russia delegate Sergey Samburov, RV3DR, that the current ISS crew expect to transmit SSTV on October 12 from 18:00-21:00 UTC. This is your opportunity to test out your SSTV reception capability and to post images on the ARISS SSTV Gallery. The planned downlink for this operation will be 145.80 MHz with Robot 36 as the expected SSTV mode of operation. AO-51 Special SSTV Mode Thanks to Drew, KO4MA, AMSAT-NA VP for Operations, this weekend AO-51 will operate in a special mode in anticipation of Richard Garriott's visit to the ISS. Richard's launch is currently scheduled for October 12th, with docking at the ISS on the 14th. Richard plans on being very active from the ISS ham station, including extensive operation with Slow Scan Television (SSTV). In preparation for this event, AO-51 will be configured with dual repeaters for the weekend of October 11th and 12th. The primary repeater on AO-51 will be configured with an uplink on 1268.700 FM and downlink of 435.300 FM, and will be designated for this period as an SSTV repeater. Users are encouraged to exchange SSTV images in ROBOT 36 mode, as an opportunity for others to practice receiving SSTV images from space before the ISS activity. Please keep the images transmitted to space-related themes, and to the ROBOT 36 mode. Polite and courteous operation among those sharing the uplink is crucial to the success of this mode. Concurrently, there will be a QRP voice repeater running on 145.880 FM uplink and 435.150 FM downlink. Users are asked to use 10 watts or less, and omnidirectional or handheld antennas only. Good luck receiving SSTV images this weekend, and from the ISS during Richard Garriott's flight. Richard Garriott Operations As stated previously, Richard plans to perform several school contacts and downlink SSTV images during his flight. He also plans to contact the general ham community in his free time and perform random scout contacts during Jamboree on the Air. SSTV downlinks are planned on 145.80. SSTV uplinks are not currently planned. The standard general contact frequencies will be used to support the Jamboree on the Air and general QSO passes. So that you are not calling CQ for naught, Richard's school contacts, thanks to Will Marchant, KC6ROL, Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, and Sergey Samburov, RV3DR, are tentatively scheduled as follows: Challenger Learning Center Combined Contact #1, telebridge via W6SRJ; on Thu 2008-10-16 16:39 UTC Howard B. Owens Science Center's Challenger Center (Lanham, MD) Challenger Learning Center of Columbia (Columbia, SC) Verizon Challenger Learning Center at MOSI (Tampa, FL) Brownsburg Challenger Learning Center (Brownsburg, IN) Budbrooke Primary School, Warwick, England, direct via GB4OBS Fri 2008-10-17 11:05 UTC Challenger Learning Center Combined Contact #2, telebridge via W6SRJ; on Fri 2008-10-17 15:30 UTC Indianapolis Challenger Learning Center (Indianapolis, IN) Challenger Learning Center at Paducah (Paducah, KY) Challenger Learning Center St. Louis (St. Louis, MO) Austin Liberal Arts and Sciences Academy, Austin, TX, direct via K5LBJ Sun 2008-10-19 13:14 UTC Pinehurst School, Ashland, Oregon, telebridge via W6SRJ Mon 2008-10-20 15:13 UTC National Planetarium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, direct via 9M2RPN Tues 2008-10-21 08:30 UTC

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help with satpc32
by RFI-EMI-GUY 09 Oct '08

09 Oct '08

I don't use SATPC, but will take a shot. Googling: Ole "error" 8004503a reveals a lot of text to speech problems with windows. 1) Does Satpc use speech? If so maybe you have a missing speech driver. 2) Since the error is in German, do you have languages set up correctly in the OS? perhaps that is problem. Message: 8 Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 06:55:20 -0500 From: "Nick Pugh" <quadpugh(a)bellsouth.net> Subject: [amsat-bb] help with satpc32 To: <amsat-bb(a)amsat.org> Message-ID: <000c01c92a05$e81170f0$b83452d0$@net> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Hi AMSATers I had a hard drive failure . I am using XP. I went to the AMSAT and down loaded SATPC32 demo. After instillation and a reboot I get "Ole Fehler 8004503a. -- Joe Leikhim K4SAT "The RFI-EMI-GUY"© "Treason doth never prosper: what's the reason? For if it prosper, none dare call it treason." "Follow The Money" ;-P

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AO-51 L/U
by Mineo Wakita 09 Oct '08

09 Oct '08

AO-51 is working now as L/U mode. But we can not digipeat via PACB-1. Well, can you access PBBS using WiSP via PECHO-11? Fm PACB-1 To TIME-1 <UI pid=F0 [DAMA] [EAX25] Len=64 >[09:24:56] PHT: uptime is 012/05:30:18. Time is Tue Sep 16 09:25:58 2008 Fm PECHO-11 To PBLIST <UI pid=F0 [DAMA] [EAX25] Len=11 >[09:24:56] PB: Empty. Fm PACB-1 To TLMS-1 <UI pid=F0 [DAMA] [EAX25] Len=35 >[09:24:57] C0:0D C1:44 C2:76 C3:2F C4:04 C5:01 Fm PACB-1 To TLMD-1 <UI pid=F0 [DAMA] [EAX25] Len=74 >[09:24:57] WOD:2 ATP:0 BMW:1 BMS:0 CTS:1 CTN:120 CTL:109 CTE:Sat Sep 20 23:22:21 2008 Fm PACB-1 To LSTAT <UI pid=F0 [DAMA] [EAX25] Len=46 >[09:24:57] I P:0x13A8 o:0 l:27314 f:27325, d:1 st:6 e:0d JE9PEL, Mineo Wakita

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Delfi-C3 / DO-64 Status update October 9th 08:00 UTC
by Wouter Jan Ubbels 09 Oct '08

09 Oct '08

Hi all, Delfi-C3 / DO-64 has now been in orbit for 164 days, and we regularly command the satellite back to BPSK telemetry mode during passes over our groundstation, after which the satellite reboots in linear transponder mode after the next eclipse. Since the satellite does not transmit any telemetry when in transponder mode, switching to BPSK telemetry mode allows us to monitor housekeeping values and hence assess satellite health. Since we would like to gather longer datasets of housekeeping telemetry, we will switch the satellite permanently to BPSK telemetry mode during the coming days, i.e. the satellite will boot in this mode after every eclipse. Our first opportunity is at approx. 10:00 UTC on Oct. 9th (today), switching may take a couple of passes due to the command sequence which is required to set this mode. We will switch the satellite to "basic mode" in which an AX.25 frame containing housekeeping telemetry is transmitted approx once every 4-5 secs, the rest of the transmission is filled with idle flags. Downlink frequency for this mode will be 145.930MHz, modulation is 1200bit/s BPSK. Telemetry can be captured using the RASCAL software and forwarded to our central servers just like during the first three months of science mission, this would be greatly appreciated by the team. At this moment, we do not know how long the satellite will be in this mode, but it will at least be a couple of weeks. We'll keep you informed on both our mission operations page at http://www.delfic3.nl/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=93&Itemid=1… and via the AMSAT-BB. Best 73 on behalf of the Delfi-C3 /DO-64 team, Wouter Jan Ubbels PE4WJ

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Re: Programming language recommendation?
by Clive Wallis 09 Oct '08

09 Oct '08

Alan WA4SCA wrote - Hi, >I am tempted to say that I am looking for the current generation BASIC, but >I am want something a bit beyond that, though of course the ability to print >"Hello World" with less than 10 lines of code is a plus. ;) And it needs >to be something I can get into using a free or low cost compiler. I am not >much interested in spending a few hundred dollars. I can strongly recommend BBC BASIC for Windows. For many years I have been using this software for all new applications. The language is very powerful, with a very wide range of built-in functions, including access to MS Windows routines such as the API, DDE and COM/OLE. Assembler code is also supported. It is possible to write programs with a simple command line, type of user interface or with a Windows style graphical interface. Programs can be run in interpreted mode or compiled as stand-alone programs. The program contains an excellent help feature, covering the instruction set. This includes short code segments, which may be copied & pasted into your code. There is also a useful library of demonstration programs showing a wide range of possible applications, and a beginner's tutorial. In addition to the built-in help feature, there is a useful on-line WIKI http://bb4w.wikispaces.com . Further support is provided on-line by an active Yahoo discussion group http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/bb4w . The groups website also contains many program files & tutorials submitted by members. The author, Richard G4BAU, provides an unprecedented level of support for his software, directly by e-mail or via the BB4W Yahoo discussion group. A recent example of this level of support was the response to a request about interfacing to the DDE interface of SAT_EXPLORER. Richard very kindly wrote the code segment for me, and even tested it with the tracking program. BBC BASIC for Windows is available from Richard's website www.rtrussell.co.uk. The program costs 30 GBP, but a free trial version can be downloaded. This has all the features of the full program, except the compiler, and it is limited to short programs. Please note that I have no commercial interest in this software, other than being a very satisfied user. Recently I have been using the PICAXE range of micro controllers. They are available as 8, 18,28 & 40 pin devices. IMHO these wouldn't be suitable for Alan's requirement. The BASIC language (free download from PICAXE website) is very restricted in features, and for many tasks offers little more than assembler code. AFAIK it doesn't include floating point routines. However, it does include 'easy to use' routines for communicating with a wide range of peripherals, such as I/O ports, serial ports, single wire buses and the I2C bus. You don't need a special programmer for the PICAXE, as only three resistors are needed to connect to a serial port. However, a useful experiments board is available from the distributers, which includes these resistors, and various simple I/O devices. In the past I've used microcontrollers such as the popular 16F8, and found them to be very critical on hardware and lead length for programming. I've never had any problems with the PICAXE. Adding a PIXAXE to a PC running BBC BASIC for Windows produces a very powerful and versatile combination. -- 73 Clive G3CWV Hitchin, North Hertfordshire, UK.

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Re: Richard Garriott aboard ISS
by Will Marchant 09 Oct '08

09 Oct '08

Frank is going to post more comprehensive information very soon, Al. Garriott has an *extremely* busy schedule while he is on orbit. He wants to do general QSOs, as time permits. The plan is for SSTV to be downlink only. He may use his W5KWQ callsign for some activities, such as SSTV, and the other ISS callsigns will be used for the school events. 73, Will KC6ROL > Oct 12 is approaching. What exactly is the game plan? Is he going to > be communicating only with hams at schools or will we be able to make > individual contacts with him? Will SSTV transmissions be only one > way, from ISS to Earth or will there be 2-way SSTV communications. > What call sign will he use while aboard the ISS? > > Thanks for any clarification. > > 73 Al W8KHP

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AMSAT Awards
by Bruce 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

I am catching up with awards that were delayed due to hurricane Ike. If you don't see your name in this list, drop me an email as I might have lost an email or two. We would like to welcome the following to the satellite community. They have made their first satellite contact and are now members of the AMSAT Satellite Communicators Club. Cherouvim Christos, SW1EIX Joseph Seibert, AL1F David Worboys, KG4ZLB The following have earned the AMSAT Satellite Communications Achievement Award. Robert Netzband, NA2H #467 Allen Vinegar, W8KHP #468 Marc Sullivan, WA2S #469 Peter Carr, WW3O #470 Eddie Lawrence, KF4ZMT #471 David Gendle, K4DLG #472 Tim Lilley, N3TL #473 Dwight Fletcher, N1RCN #474 The following have earned the AMSAT South Africa Satellite Communications Achievement Award. Robert Netzband, NA2H #US123 Allen Vinegar, W8KHP #US124 Luc Leblanc, VE2DWE #US125 Marc Sullivan, WA2S #US126 The following have earned the AMSAT W4AMI Satellite Communications Achievement Award. Doug Papay, KD8CAO #52 To see all the awards visit http://www.amsat.org or http://www.amsatnet.com Bruce Paige, KK5DO AMSAT Director Contests and Awards ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 @97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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SSTV on AO-51 this weekend
by Andrew Glasbrenner 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

This weekend AO-51 will operate in a special mode in anticipation of Richard Garriott's visit to the ISS. Richard's launch is currently scheduled for October 12th, with docking at the ISS on the 14th. Richard plans on being very active from the ISS ham station, including extensive operation with Slow Scan Television (SSTV). In preparation for this event, AO-51 will be configured with dual repeaters for the weekend of October 11th and 12th. The primary repeater on AO-51 will be configured with an uplink on 1268.700 FM and downlink of 435.300 FM, and will be designated for this period as an SSTV repeater. Users are encouraged to exchange SSTV images in ROBOT 36 mode, as an opportunity for others to practice receiving SSTV images from space before the ISS activity. Please keep the images transmitted to space-related themes, and to the ROBOT 36 mode. Polite and courteous operation among those sharing the uplink is crucial to the success of this mode. Concurrently, there will be a QRP voice repeater running on 145.880 FM uplink and 435.150 FM downlink. Users are asked to use 10 watts or less, and omnidirectional or handheld antennas only. Good luck receiving SSTV images this weekend, and from the ISS during Richard Garriott's flight. 73, Drew KO4MA AMSAT-NA VP Operations

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Schedule
by Martha 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

I will be out of th office tomorrow. -- 73- Martha

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Richard Garriott aboard ISS
by Allen Vinegar 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

Oct 12 is approaching. What exactly is the game plan? Is he going to be communicating only with hams at schools or will we be able to make individual contacts with him? Will SSTV transmissions be only one way, from ISS to Earth or will there be 2-way SSTV communications. What call sign will he use while aboard the ISS? Thanks for any clarification. 73 Al W8KHP

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AO-51 L/U SSB mode
by Luc Leblanc 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

Hi Something happen at 2300Z (1900EST) suddenly the audio level jump louder by a factor of 4 i have to reduce my volume level and i found my TX audio was also much too loud... Now AO-51 look like AO-16 audio and QSO are manageable. I succeed to have one with Clare VE2NPC and i also copy a lot of station but at the same floor level strength i used to have before my adjustment (see below). Only Clare VE3NPC signal seems to get over this curious bottom floor level?? To be clearer all the station coming out the satellite are equal in strength? Only Clare was louder as a kind of AGC treshold seems to be set too high making a kind of squelching effect? I just made some adjustment here at the end of the afternoon in a hurry and from an uplink signal very marginal it became near Q5!!! i'm not too sure what i done and if it is what i done who boost my uplink but i will have to make some test again as said something happen also on the satellite at the same time? More to come...and i was able to hear my downlink at LOS + 3'!!! "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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Contribution
by Rob Redmon 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

Hello, I work and attend graduate school in Boulder, Colorado. My personal and professional interests include radio propagation, ionosphere dynamics and magnetosphere, ionosphere coupling. I am very new to these topics and still smell turnips. I am keenly interested in VHF beacons (e.g. VO-52), initially as a hobby. I've even borrowed an ICOM that I have yet to figure out. As part of my graduate curriculum, I am enrolled in an astrodynmics course. The course requires a course project. Until now, I have been dreaming up project ideas in nearly a vacuum. My day job is as a civil servant (ionosonde data manager) and through that role, I've become accustomed to asking scientific and engineering communities, "what is needed?". Thus, I would like to query this wonderful community similarly. What is needed? I'll proffer a starting line of questioning to get the ball rolling. Given my interest in VO-52 and other VHF beacon LEO satellites, I realize that accurate positioning is detrimental. I've been retrieving TLEs for two weeks now and in that window, VO-52 has had 2 updates with a 10 day cadence. Is ~10 days the usual tracking priority for such satellites? Are there already "good enough" techniques for filling the orbital element gaps? Are there more sophisticated public domain orbit propagation algorithms just waiting to be tried out? The dawn of a new solar cycle (24) is upon us. How does will already employed prediction techniques stand up to the next solar max? I'm happy to communicate off-line so as not to congest the mailing list traffic. Equally, I'd welcome the opportunity rub elbows with any locals. I have much to learn. Regards, Rob p.s. I wrote a small program (Ruby) to grab TLE's from AMSAT <http://www.amsat.org/amsat/ftp/keps/current/nasa.all> to slowly build my own archive. I could share if interested. -- Rob Redmon - Physicist - Ionosphere NOAA/NGDC 325 Broadway E/GC2 Boulder, Colorado 80305 Tel: (303) 497-4331 Fax: (303) 497-6513 Rob.Redmon(a)noaa.gov "Engineering is the art of making what you want from things you can get."

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Skeds for WAS
by John Papay 08 Oct '08

08 Oct '08

I am looking for anyone in Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska and Delaware that could sked with me on AO51, AO-16, VO52 or FO29. Thanks. Email: k8yse(a)amsat.org John K8YSE EN91 North Royalton, OH

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AMSAT Field Day 2008 Results (3rd time is the charm)
by Bruce 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

Dang...had to enter this manually into my email client. Sorry about that. 73...bruce Forgot all about this due to the hurricane. Here are the results from field day this year. Any ties in score are listed in alphabetical order. Certificates will be given out at the AMSAT Symposium later this month. 1 W5MSQ 43 2A EMERG 2 W9LDX 34 3A EMERG 3 W0MA 23 4A EMERG 4 W9LJ 22 2A EMERG 5 W8DXA 21 2A EMERG 6 N5JO 20 1AB EMERG 7 W8TNO 19 3A EMERG 8 W2MMD 18 8A EMERG 9 W5IU 17 3A EMERG 10 K4HEX 15 2A EMERG 11 VE7RAR 11 1D EMERG 12 W6ASL 11 1D COMM 13 KF4XB 4 1D COMM 14 W6NWG 4 5F EMERG 15 WD9EWK 3 1B EMERG 16 KH6E 2 2A EMERG 17 W7DU 2 4A EMERG Some statistics from past field days. 2005 2006 2007 2008 Satellites 8 7 5 8 QSO's 120 258 207 220 Stations 11 21 13 17 -- Bruce Paige, KK5DO AMSAT Director Contests and Awards ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 @97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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AMSAT 2008 Field Day Results (reformatted)
by Bruce 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

Forgot all about this due to the hurricane. Here are the results from field day this year. Any ties in score are listed in alphabetical order. Certificates will be given out at the AMSAT Symposium later this month. 1 W5MSQ 43 2A Emerg 2 W9LDX 34 3A Emerg 3 W0MA 23 4A Emerg 4 W9LJ 22 2A Emerg 5 W8DXA 21 2A Emerg 6 N5JO 20 1AB Emerg 7 W8TNO 19 3A Emerg 8 W2MMD 18 8A Emerg 9 W5IU 17 3A Emerg 10 K4HEX 15 2A Emerg 11 VE7RAR 11 2A Emerg 12 W6ASL 11 1D Comm 13 KF4XB 4 1D Comm 14 W6NWG 4 5F Emerg 15 WD9EWK 3 1B Emerg 16 KH6E 2 2A Emerg 17 W7DU 2 4A Emerg Some statistics from past field days. 2005 2006 2007 2008 Satellites 8 7 5 8 QSO's 120 258 207 220 Stations 11 21 13 17 73...bruce -- Bruce Paige, KK5DO AMSAT Director Contests and Awards ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 @97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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AMSAT 2008 Field Day Results
by Bruce 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

I had forgotten all about this due to the hurricane. Anyhow.... Here are the results in order of how they placed. Any ties in scores were listed alphabetically. Certificates will be given out at the AMSAT Symposium Banquet later this month. 1 W5MSQ 43 2A Emerg 2 W9LDX 34 3A Emerg 3 W0MA 23 4A Emerg 4 W9LJ 22 2A Emerg 5 W8DXA 21 2A Emerg 6 N5JO 20 1AB Emerg 7 W8TNO 19 3A Emerg 8 W2MMD 18 8A Emerg 9 W5IU 17 3A Emerg 10 K4HEX 15 2A Emerg 11 VE7RAR 11 2A Emerg 12 W6ASL 11 1D Comm 13 KF4XB 4 1D Comm 14 W6NWG 4 5F Emerg 15 WD9EWK 3 1B Emerg 16 KH6E 2 2A Emerg 17 W7DU 2 4A Emerg Here is a quick list of statistics. 2005 2006 2007 2008 Satellites 8 7 5 8 QSO's 120 258 207 220 Stations 11 21 13 17 73...bruce -- Bruce Paige, KK5DO AMSAT Director Contests and Awards ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 @97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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ARRL VUCC
by Jim Danehy 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

I was disappointed by N3TL's email posting on the AMSAT BB today concerning ARRL's VUCC program as it applies to satellite operating. I have been an ARRL member for 55 years. I have VUCC on both 6 meters and 2 meters. I also am on the ARRL DXCC Honor Roll and I have the ARRL #1 Honor Roll plaque for having worked all the DXCC countries. I have been around for awhile. I remember very well the Gus Browning , W4BPD QSLs from places that he never operated from or had permission to operate from. I also remember problems that the league had with Don Miller, W9WNV for the same reason in their DXCC program. I recently got back on the satellites (was on in 1974 through 1976). In about 6 weeks I have worked over 130 Grid Squares. My goal is a VUCC on the satellites. Some of those have been Grid Expeditions. Not so certain now that I want to continue to expand my efforts and money (SASE and outgoing postage) only to have the league question the legitimacy of those operations. Does the ARRL question the "Rovers" that take part in the ARRL VHF contests ? I am unaware of any of those operations from rare grids being challenged or disallowed. Someone please correct me if I am in error on that opinion. I had been planning to do some grid expeditions myself. There should be some communication and understanding by the league that is missing at this time. It is a shame that there is inconsistency and selective application of documentation and confirmation standards of where you were operating from. Disappointed but not surprised by the ARRL's AD HOC rule enforcement. Jim W9VNE EM79tb Cincinnati, Ohio

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ARRL, AMSAT, and Publicity
by Clint Bradford 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

On Oct 7, 2008, at 12:00 PM, amsat-bb-request(a)AMSAT.Org wrote: > Your comment that the League is not interested in satellite > operations is, > in my opinion, also proper. Sorry if I am repeating myself, but WE are responsible for educating the ARRL and the media when it comes to amateur satellites. We should NOT expect ANY non-AMSAT entity to know anything about this aspect of the hobby. It is up to us who are involved in our "specialties" to convey - intelligently and using proper, approved methods - that information to appropriate sources. Most of our news comes from "media alerts" nowadays. Knowing HOW to contact and WHOM to contact with media alerts is OUR responsibility. Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

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NOVA
by David H. Jordan 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

Does anyone know if something has happened to NLSA?. I,ve emailed them about a problem with my NOVA soltware, but got no response. Tried to call, but answering message sounds like I'm calling a residence. Dave, AA4KN Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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(no subject)
by quadpugh＠bellsouth.net 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

Hi group A middle school teacher ask me how ham radio helps teach science and geography. I hope some on the list would share a power point presentation with us?? thanks nick

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Re: Programming language recommendation?
by Greg D. 07 Oct '08

07 Oct '08

Hi Bruce, Wow, I had no idea these existed. The price certainly makes them very attractive, and it looks like some of the larger varieties have better I/O capabilities too (SPI, I2C), though I suspect some of the newer Stamps probably do too. I haven't poked around their site in a while. My Az/El rotor controller uses the 24-pin Basic Stamp-II, which at ~$50 (still!) was easily the most expensive component in the whole project. But, it works well, and I had a lot of fun working with it. That was my second Stamp project (the first was a simple phone patch controller). See http://home.wavecable.com/~ko6th, near the top of the page. Links to a brief description of the rotor controller design and an old copy of the source code are there in the upper left box. I'm a software engineer and project manager by profession, but it's all with embedded code - internals of operating systems, I/O drivers, protocol stacks, and stuff like that. I missed the GUI revolution (or more precisely, pre-dated it!), so my struggle right now is that I really want to write a nice mouse-driven front-end for my Yaesu 736R satellite rig to usably handle Doppler shift on the SSB/CW satellites, but I haven't figured out how to do it yet. I have the FM birds fully automated, but the CLI-based program I wrote for tracking frequency is horrible when you don't know before hand what frequency you'll be on. I have a book on "C++ GUI programming with QT3" for Linux, but haven't been able to make much progress yet.... Next project, after finishing my GPS module add-on for my Kenwood TH-D7... Greg KO6TH ---------------------------------------- > Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 15:49:16 -0300 > From: ve9qrp(a)gmail.com > To: ko6th_greg(a)hotmail.com > Subject: Re: [amsat-bb] Re: Programming language recommendation? > CC: gordonjcp(a)gjcp.net; amsat-bb(a)amsat.org > > On Sun, Oct 5, 2008 at 11:43 PM, Greg D. wrote: >> >> Hi Bruce, >> >> How does the Picaxe compare to the BASIC Stamp line from Parallax? I've built several Stamp projects, and they were very easy to deal with. >> >> Greg KO6TH >> > > I believe they are quite similar in concept, but when I looked into > these devices, the picaxe chips were much cheaper than the basic stamp > ones. For instance, SparkFun has the 14-pin version for $4. > http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/categories.php?c=124 > It could be that since then Parallax have improved their low-end offerings. > > As one path for becoming familiar with this field, these chips have > the advantage (over atmel and PIC) that much of the communication code > being supported by built-in commands. SPI, I2C, serial, etc. can be > explored with relative certainty that you're not going to mess things > up. Of course, now that I know how things ought to work, I'm more > confident to work with the atmel line. I suppose the disadvantage is > that you learn a one-off programming language. > > I have found that the picaxe line are excellent for working with > children, as well. They were, after all, designed for the educational > market in the first place. > > A full comparison of these devices should probably also include the > Arduino boards, which provide a standard platform, and might be best > for those who do not want to get into soldering and breadboarding. > > Lest anyone think this has nothing to do with satellite work, let me > add two points: first, I have prototyped some code for the picaxe 28X1 > that changes the values of digital pots in response to GS232 codes, in > the manner of AA2TX's iRotor project. > > Second, I would love to see a really simple programmable device put > into orbit aboard a cubesat so that Middle School kids could write > programs here on earth, then submit them to the command station to be > uploaded to the bird. It would be a simple matter of specifying the > input signals for the device, say a couple of temperature sensors and > a light sensor, duplicating those materials in kits on earth, then > letting the kids write code that would produce telemetry or what have > you. Since the picaxe project is simply PIC code, using it would be a > matter of finding a space-hardened PIC of the proper kind and loading > it with the company's interpreter. One could dedicate one part of the > telemetry stream to the output of these students' programs. > > 73, Bruce > VE9QRP > >> ---------------------------------------- >>> Date: Sun, 5 Oct 2008 23:07:38 -0300 >>> From: ve9qrp(a)gmail.com >>> To: gordonjcp(a)gjcp.net >>> CC: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org >>> Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Programming language recommendation? >>> >>> I appreciate Gordon's expert opinion below. If you'd like something >>> that is very, very simple to work with in order to explore the world >>> of PIC programming, you should also consider the picaxe line of >>> products. These comprise PIC chips with a basic interpreter on >>> board. The wiring for the programmer is very simple, and the toolchain >>> is easy because it removes the compiling stage. >>> >>> While I'm trying to move on to the atmel line, using this inexpensive >>> programmer: >>> http://www.ladyada.net/make/usbtinyisp/index.html >>> >>> I still find the picaxe chips dead handy for all sorts of little >>> jobs because so much is built into them. >>> >>> As for computer programming, I would encourage someone returning to >>> this practice to consider adding one of the cross-platform scripting >>> languages to his or her arsenal. Ruby and Python are both good >>> choices. >>> >>> >>> 73, Bruce >>> VE9QRP >>> >>> >>> >>> On Sun, Oct 5, 2008 at 7:18 AM, Gordon JC Pearce MM3YEQ >>> wrote: >>>> JW wrote: >>>>> Along the same line: anyone on here doing PIC programming or know of a >>>>> list for beginners? From CW keyers to Antenna control units and >>>>> everything in between it looks like it would be fun to program some >>>>> gadgets for around the shack... >>>> >>>> Without lighting up a PIC/AVR flamewar, I've pretty much entirely moved >>>> from PIC to AVR. The hardware is generally two to four times faster for >>>> the same clock rate (gets more done per cycle) and is easier to program >>>> - you can make up an AVR programmer for the parallel port that's >>>> basically three resistors! >>>> >>>> Furthermore, the toolchain is much better for AVR - Microchip are only >>>> interested in pushing their frankly dreadful Windows-only MPLAB >>>> software, while Atmel actively contribute to avr-gcc, a cross-platform >>>> toolchain based on the industry standard gcc. The whole AVR community >>>> seems a lot better than the PIC one, and I say that as a long-standing >>>> user of PIC microcontrollers. >>>> >>>> In short, PIC is great, but the community isn't as strong and the tools >>>> are rubbish. On the other hand, Microchip are always more than happy to >>>> sample parts and their customer support is *excellent*. >>>> >>>> AVR is technically superior in pretty much every way, with an excellent >>>> community. Unfortunately Atmel's tech support are a dour bunch who are >>>> often hard to get good information out of, and not great at sending samples. >>>> >>>> I haven't tried the ARM-based AVRs or the MIPS-based PICs yet, though. >>>> Those might be something to tempt me back to Microchip, if MIPS is as >>>> good as I remember it ;-) >>>> >>>> Gordon >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >>>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >>>> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >>>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >>> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >>> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >> >> _________________________________________________________________ >> See how Windows Mobile brings your life together—at home, work, or on the go. >> http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093182mrt/direct/01/ _________________________________________________________________ Stay up to date on your PC, the Web, and your mobile phone with Windows Live. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093185mrt/direct/01/ _________________________________________________________________ Want to do more with Windows Live? Learn “10 hidden secrets” from Jamie. http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com-Blog-cns!5…

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internet back
by Bruce 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

I got home from work tonight and cable tv and internet have finally been restored. Woohoo, finally. I have a few awards to post and take care of. 73...bruce -- Bruce Paige, KK5DO AMSAT Director Contests and Awards ARRL Awards Manager (WAS, 5BWAS, VUCC), VE Houston AMSAT Net - Wed 0100z on SkyScanner Satellite Radio Network on Galaxy-25 @97° West, Transponder 23 (12115 Vert), Symbol Rate: 22425, APID: 1794 (DVB Free To Air) Also streaming MP3 at http://www.amsatnet.com Podcast at http://www.amsatnet.com/podcast.xml or iTunes Latest satellite news on the ARRL Audio News http://www.arrl.org

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big rock
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Meteor scatter anyone? http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/space/10/06/asteroid.fireball/index.html?eref=… -- 73 Bob W7LRD AMSAT member 28498 Seattle

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vucc
by Jim Danehy 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

I am a long time supporter of the ARRL. They needed, in my opinion, to give a lot of notice to the changes to the standards being applied in the VUCC program. Folks are taking time and spending money to put on rare grids and it goes down the drain if they find out the rules changed. That is called detrimental reliance. Please give a lot of NOTICE to changes. Folks act on the rules that they have become accustomed to over long periods of time. Yes, any operator needs to check the rules before they act. Changes need PUBLICITY too. That did not occur here with the VUCC changes in this instance. END OF MY STORY 73 Jim W9VNE EM79tb

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Re: Programming language recommendation?
by RFI-EMI-GUY 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

I am working on a couple of projects lately. Working with discrete parts was starting to get tedious so I decided to use a small micro controller so that my parts count and wiring would be minimal. If you are interested in working with small Microchip processors, this is an easy and cheap way to start.go to the software page and download the FREE PICAXE® Programming Editor Software (free download). I bought a programmer board kit and qty 5 08M chips (Microchip 12F683) for $38 shipped from a US distributor. http://www.rev-ed.co.uk/picaxe/ You can begin programming and simulating even without the chips on hand. Using the flow chart tool, I have created code for a model rocket beacon and with help of my son a repeater controller accepting 4 COR inputs. Multiplexing the COR inputs was stumping me until my son intervened. Both of these projects simulate well with the above software. Soon I will download to chips and try out on breadboard. -- Joe Leikhim K4SAT "The RFI-EMI-GUY"© "Treason doth never prosper: what's the reason? For if it prosper, none dare call it treason." "Follow The Money" ;-P

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FS - Surplus to requirements.
by Dave Aitch 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

For sale - UK ONLY. VHF/UHF multi-element beam on one boom £ 50:00 PALSTAR PS-50 A beast of a PSU £115:00 OSCAR VHF Polarphaser £ 50:00 73, Dave. G1OCN. AMSAT UK 5766

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re; kansas city tracker tuner
by Scott Smith 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Hi, i forgot to mention... i will be using InstantTrack, i hear this unit works well with InstantTrack. 73 de VE6ITV Scott

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K/CityTracker Tuner
by Scott Smith 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Hi, could some kind individual please show me an example of an autoexec.bat with the Kansas City Tracker Tuner installed. Tnx in advance. 73 de VE6ITV Scott

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Clarification - AO-16 "award"
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Hey folks, I've already received some emails about my comments re: an award for AO-16 that I hope to earn. Please let me clarify. There is NO "official" AO-16 Award that I'm aware of, from AMSAT or any other body. I simply hope to apply for a separate and dsitinct AMSAT Satellite Achievement Award using ONLY contacts I made on AO-16 in its "bent pipe" mode. Bruce, KK5DO, has already told me there won't be any kind of special endorsement on the award if I'm able to earn it, and I'll pay the standard fees as posted on the AMSAT Web site. My interest in this is purely personal, and in large part inspired by a combination a belief in the historical significance of things that happen along the way - and my own sentimental nature. In time, I believe we will come to see the historical significance of AO-16 coming back to life and providing extra, unique and unexpected operating opportunities. That's the historical significance. The sentimentalist in me picks up on that - the ol' bird deserves to be remembered, and the only way I can think of to do that is by trying to get enough contacts to pick up a separate AMSAT Satellite Achievement Award for AO-16 contacts. My sincere apologies for the confusion I seem to have created. There is no "official" award - but maybe some of you will think the idea of remembering these seemingly last days of AO-16 in some special way is a good one. My special way will be to apply for the AMSAT award if I can get the remaining contacts I need. 73 to all, Tim - N3TL AMSAT Member No. 36820 Athens, Ga. - EM84ha

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Re: Programming language recommendation?
by David Goncalves 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Forgot to add this - Flowcode uses macros to turn your flowcharts (built in a GUI very much like a schematic design tool) into C. The C is then compiled to the HEX, which you then program using your preffered tool. I've just used it to build a SMART battery charger and calibrator, where I needed to do alot of I2C communications. Finished the first versions in two days. > Flowcode for PICs is the best! You can write code for them using > simple flowcharts. > > David Goncalves > W1EUJ

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VUCC update
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Hey everyone, I've just received word from the fellow who reviewed my VUCC application - the ARRL Awards Desk HAS accepted the cards/claimed grids in question, which is very good news, indeed. Moving forward, however, all of us who plan a griDXpedition to activate some fairly quiet grid squares and intend to work passes from boundaries should plan to get additional backup while on site - just to be safe. Check out the current VUCC rules if you haven't already done so. 73 to all, Tim - N3TL AMSAT Member No. 36820 Athens, Ga. - EM84ha

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VUCC proof
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Hey folks, Has anyone seen, anywhere, an official notice from ARRL about updated VUCC rules being posted on the League's Web site? If so, please let me know when and where that notice was posted. Sometime last month, ARRL posted a new PDF of the VUCC rules, superceding those that had been available in PDF form with a 5/08 date at the bottom. This new PDF has 9/08 at the bottom. In this new version, Rule 4 (e) reads: "(e) Stations who claim to operate from more than one grid locator simultaneously (i.e., from the boundary between two grid locators or from the intersection of four grid locators) must be physically present in all locators to give multiple locator credit with a single contact. These stations should be prepared to validate their claim. For a mobile station, this means parking the vehicle exactly on the line or corner. For a portable station, this means that the total area occupied by the station's physical setup, including operating position(s), power source(s), and antenna(s), must occupy some portion of each of the two/four grid squares simultaneously. Operators of boundary/corner stations should be prepared to provide evidence of meeting the simultaneous occupation test if called upon to do so. Two photographs -- one showing the placement of the GPS receiver in the station setup, and a close-up legibly showing the GPS reading – are typically needed as evidence of compliance. Video footage showing an overview of the operating site and then, uncut and in real time, zooming in on the GPS display coordinates is even better." For comparison, here is that same rule, 4 (e), as published in the PDF I downloaded from the ARRL Web site on August 2: "(e) Stations who claim to operate from more than one grid locator simultaneously (such as from the intersection of 4 grid locators) must be physically present in more than one locator to give multiple locator credit with a single contact. This requires the operator to know precisely where the intersection lines are located and placing the station exactly on the boundary to meet this test. To achieve this precision work requires either current markers permanently in place, or the precision work of a professional surveyor. Operators of such stations should be prepared to provide some evidence of meeting this test if called upon to do so. Multiple QSL cards are not required. GPS readings are acceptable." I have been notified (by a certified checker) that I have been denied some claimed grids from confirmed grid-border contacts that occurred before this new rule was posted, even though the operator involved provided photographic evidence to meet the "GPS readings are acceptable" language. That was the rule in effect at the time of these contacts, and nobody involved could have predicted that a second photograph might be required as evidence of specific location. I'm disappointed by all this, but it didn't cost me Satellite VUCC - thank goodness. That being said, I thought it appropriate to alert others who might be planning what I call "griDXpeditions" to keep the new rules regarding verification of precise location in mind. On September 15th, I worked a pass of AO-51 from the EN38/EN28 border while on a business trip. Not aware this rule change was about to be posted, and based on the PDF I downloaded on August 2nd, I shot a photo showing my GPS unit with coordinates out to 5 decimal points to prove I was precisely on the grid border. I quickly and easily could have taken the additional photo(s) showing the GPS sitting with my handheld satellite station in the rental car. At that time, however, I had no idea such a photo would be required. I followed the letter of the rules as I knew them. I'm disappointed that the stations I worked on that pass - the only one I was able to work from the grid border - could be denied the ability to claim those grids from their contacts with me because of this. My apologies to them if this proves to be the case. If any of you saw a notice that updated VUCC rules had been posted, please contact me. I would like to know the precise date they first appeared on the ARRL Web site. Thanks, and 73 to all, Tim - N3TL AMSAT Member No. 36820 Athens, Ga. - EM84ha

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Why choose one language over another - was :Re: Programming language recommendation?
by Eric Fort 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Much of this choice would seem to be based upon what you want to accomplish. My 3 top choices would be PERL which is well supported by CPAN, Python, and C using the gnu compiler collection (gcc). It seems that everyone has a favorite and each has it's merits. Why one language would be chosen over another is a topic probably best answered by others on the listso I'll open that up. Why choose one language over another to code a given task? What makes a language better for one task and not so good for another? Eric AF6EP On Sat, Oct 4, 2008 at 2:55 PM, Alan P. Biddle <APBIDDLE(a)united.net> wrote: > We have a lot of folks here who do programming at a variety of levels. > After a 20+ year hiatus, I am looking to get back into doing a bit of > programming. The intent is not to get into it at a professional level, but > to be able to rip off quick and dirty small programs. Data acquisition, > taking the output of a program and merge and reformat it for specific > purposes, which of course I can do in some cases with Excel, are a couple > of > things which come to mind. It will need the ability to interact with > external hardware. However, the primary purpose is as a brain stretcher > for > someone who once thought F*RTR*N was a real language. > > I am tempted to say that I am looking for the current generation BASIC, but > I am want something a bit beyond that, though of course the ability to > print > "Hello World" with less than 10 lines of code is a plus. ;) And it needs > to be something I can get into using a free or low cost compiler. I am not > much interested in spending a few hundred dollars. > > People have recommended Python, older versions of Delphi, early version of > C, etc, as what I should do. Well, maybe. So if anyone has a good > recommendation, please contact me OFF LIST. And did I say, it needs to be > cheap?! > > > > Alan > WA4SCA > > ----------------------------------- > > What's the opposite of Diversity? > University! > > Catherine McMillan > > > > _______________________________________________ > Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. > Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! > Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb >

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Re: Mode S advice
by Michael Heim 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Actually, I just looked at the new operating schedule that was just posted. This turns out to be fantastic for me. I have a couple weeks to get things set up, and several days of testing before its switched to V/s while its in L/s. During the testing mode, while its in L/s (I cant transmit mode L yet), I just might put both antennas and converters up and switch between them and make comparisons using several passes, lets say I'm able to catch all of the available passes for 2 days, I can use one unit one day, record my results, use the other antenna the next day, record the results and compare. By the time I can get on and operate, I should have made my choice. Might even try out the DSS dish with the little helix feed on it as Art also suggested. When I do test with that, one of the biggest things I'll be watching for is beamwidth. I am going to venture a guess however that the helix will win out. It sort of makes sense, especially if one does not know the linear polarity the satellite is running, and what sense the signal is coming in to a fixed point while its moving. One thing of note... I am using a linear antenna for V/u, vhf with horizontal elements, vertical 70 cm elements, and I'm quite happy with the arrangement. Therefore, I'll try the linear antenna on 2401 vertical Michael Heim ARS KD0AR ----- Original Message ---- From: Luc Leblanc <lucleblanc6(a)videotron.ca> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Sunday, October 5, 2008 11:16:36 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: Mode S advice On 5 Oct 2008 at 18:27, Michael Heim wrote: I noticed, while listening in using either antenna, a noticeable amount of deep fades on the bird. I'm not sure if it was caused by reflections nearby, or uplink fades on 1269 mhz. Hi Michael If your fades are on the S band downlink it is you downlink antenna who probably gives you the fades. I tested a standard BBQ grill screen meshed and i also got theses huges fades. When i switched to a linear 42 stacked elements (A WIFI antenna) theses fades disappear completely. as AO-51 S band antenna is linear i guess a linear antenna is the best choice? "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: Mode S advice
by Michael Heim 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

I want to thank everyone for the advice. Everyone recommends a CP antenna. That's what I'm going to put up. I built one using a wood support that appears to work. One fellow suggests a 60 cm dish. I do have a couple here, one is being used on 10 GHz. The other I may do something with as a portable antenna. I would put the dish up on the mast, but at present, I do not have an elevation rotator, and everything is tilted up about 20-30 degrees. I figure the 12 turn helix by itself would have a wider beamwidth , and yet brings in a pretty darn good signal When the bird gets turned on to V/s, I'lll try to be there too. Michael Heim ARS KD0AR ----- Original Message ---- From: Michael Heim <kd0ar(a)sbcglobal.net> To: AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org Sent: Saturday, October 4, 2008 7:08:27 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Mode S advice Last month I was experimenting with mode S receive antennas, and I think I posted some questions on here as to what you guys who are on mode S use. Although I have operated microwave, I have never done so via the satellites. I have 2 options and both appear to work about equally. one involves a linear yagi, the other a helix, RHCP. The last time the bird was in mode S analog, it used mode L for the uplink. I noticed, while listening in using either antenna, a noticeable amount of deep fades on the bird. I'm not sure if it was caused by reflections nearby, or uplink fades on 1269 mhz. Both of these antennas were mounted on a camera tripod about 4 feet off the ground, and there was some metal within about 25 feet or so, which is unavoidable. The antennas will be placed about 15 feet above the ground, and the metal in the vicinity will be below the antenna. So, your advice... should I go with a 16 dbi linear yagi, commercially made for the MMTS band, or the RHCP homebrew 12 turn helix? I am having trouble getting much longer than 12 turns, winding the helix evenly. Is there really an advantage in using either? I guess I'm looking for whatever will do the best as far as fading goes. I am impressed, as the signals were quite strong while using only 2 foot long antennas. By the way, I am building a 1269 TX converter from scratch. I happened upon a brick oscillator that I recrystalled for the proper LO for a 144 IF. The mode S IF is 123 mhz, so there should be no IF leakage problems. Michael Heim Chief Engineer, Forever Broadcasting New Castle PA WKST WJST WWGY 814-671-0666 Chapter Chair, SBE-122 ARS KD0AR _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Re: AO-51
by Michael Heim 06 Oct '08

06 Oct '08

Well, I accidentally transmitted on 435 into an unswitched 70 cm receive preamp... That would qualify I'm sure, as one of the better ones. Fortunately I realized what I did and ordered 10 replacement transistors, knowing that I'd prolly do it again. Michael Heim ARS KD0AR ----- Original Message ---- From: Luc Leblanc <lucleblanc6(a)videotron.ca> To: amsat-bb(a)amsat.org Sent: Sunday, October 5, 2008 11:17:42 AM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: AO-51 On 5 Oct 2008 at 9:55, David - KG4ZLB/MØZLB wrote: > Thanks to all who replied both here and off-list, the embarrassing > results of the station investigation reveal a major operator error! :-[ > > > > David > KG4ZLB > The worse one can be your coax not plug in :) but we never know could be you have a better one? That one of you who is faultless may throw the first stone say the tall guy with a beard! "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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Coaxial helix
by Luc Leblanc 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

I was given an old Helix from a SK estate. It was used in the AO-10 AO-13 era. The helix is made of an RG8-U the inner conductor is connected to an SO-259 and about 1/4 turn from the connector a copper metal plate is soldered to the braid. The round metal reflector is standard but about 10 extension radials are bolted around the plate making the reflector about 30 inches in diameter +- With this kind of reflector it seems to be a VHF helix??? a very odd one!!! If this peculiar design seems to remember something for someone i will appreciate your inputs as i will try to rebuild it as she is in a very poor state. P.S. If this antenna was really existing as it was could be an experimental one by this SK it will make's another alternative to the standard design but as it was made for a back mounting the counter poised should be about 5 pounds!!! quite heavy. "-" Luc Leblanc VE2DWE Skype VE2DWE www.qsl.net/ve2dwe WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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Re: SSB SP-7000 rejection
by WILLIAMS MICHAEL 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Tim, I have a SP-7000 and get some desense, but I think this is the reason. As I key on CW, the noise floor increases depending on the position of the antennas. My antennas are only eight feet above ground. I notice the desense level changes as I rotate. If the antennas are a zero elevation, I get reflections back into the 435 MHz helix antenna from nearby objects. If I point the antennas above the ground clutter, I have no desensing. This is a great preamp. I would try it without the duplexer first. By boom is about 6 ft. I hope this helped. Mike (K9QHO) AMSAT 33589 At 05:37 AM 10/4/2008, Tim Tapio wrote: >Hello all, > >I'm planning a new antenna system and planning on using an SSB preamp on the >430 downlink side. The 7000 uses helical bandfiltering. >My antenna separation will be on an 8' fiberglas boom. Will desense be an >issues? Should I plan on using a bandpass filter such as a duplexer? > >Thanks and 73 de Tim, K4SHF

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Mode S advice (Michael Heim)
by WILLIAMS MICHAEL 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

I have built helix antennas from the sites of G6LVB and N4WYK all with PVC. Here are some good websites for 2.4GHz helix antennas. 1. http://webpages.charter.net/n4wyk Click on satellite website, then click on "2401MHz Helix" above the picture of the antenna. 2. http://ve2zaz.net/ Select 2.4 GHz helix. 3. www.g6lvb.com/ Select quadruple helix for AO-40. 4. www.qsl.net/ve3cvg/antennas/2400/ 5. http://members.aol.com/k5oe A site for good reading and links. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type, dish, yagi, or a helix antenna. If I can be of any help, please email me. 73, Mike K9QHO (AMSAT 33589)

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One for the boffins, solved. Thank you.
by Dave Aitch 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Thanks to all who responded. It seems that SatPC32, Orbitron and NOVA will do what I need. 73, Dave. AMSAT UK 5766

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One for the boffins...
by Dave Aitch 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

In an effort to plan ahead for some far off satellite operation, I am trying to find software that will show mutual visibility between to known locators, a week or so plus, in advance. Is there such a beast available for us mortals ? Thanks in advance. Dave. G1OCN. AMSAT UK 5766.

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Some more details of XW-1
by Michael Chen, BD5RV 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Hi, guys, Here are some details about upcoming Chinese XW-1: Orbit: Sun Synchronous Orbit Altitude: 499km Inclination: 98 degrees Period: 94 minutes Weight: 35kg Size: 550mm * 350mm Temperature: -20 to +45C Power: Li ion battery: 16Ah Long-term maximum power: 8W Short-term maximum power: 18W Payload: Amateur radio payload: 5.2kg Youngster's experiment payload: 1.6kg CMOS camera: 0.2kg About amateur radio payload: Beacon: 435Mhz, CW 20dBm Linear transponder: RX: 145Mhz, TX: 435Mhz, 40KHz, 30dBm FM Transponder: RX: 145Mhz, TX: 435Mhz, 16KHz, 30dBm Digital store and forward transponder: RX: 145Mhz, TX: 435Mhz, 16KHz, 30dBm 145Mhz RX Antenna: 2dBi, 135 degree, LHCP, unpacked by remote control after entering the orbit. 435Mhz TX antenna: 2dBi, 135 degree, RHCP, unpacked by remote control after entering the orbit. Michael, BD5RV/4

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Re: Computer hardware
by Eric H Christensen 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Gene, Welcome to the club. I got lucky on my last purchase. Dell may or may not show serial ports on their computers but you can call and ask as they may have models that they will put them on. All the government computers I've used in recent years still came with both serial and parallel ports. You can always use the USB-to-serial dongles. I haven't had many problems with them. In fact, the only problem I can remember having with them was an RFI problem from a nearby HF radio when it was transmitting data. My Kenwood TS-790 is controlled by a USB device that plugs directly into the radio. Hope that helps. 73, Eric W4OTN >I am looking for a newer laptop but when I read the ads, I notice that serial >and parallel ports are not listed. Are they not in use and if so, what is >used instead to control the radios and rotators? > >Gene > >_______________________________________________ >Sent via AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. >Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! >Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb

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First Chinese Amateur Radio Satellite to be launched in June 2009
by Michael Chen, BD5RV 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Guys, I just came back from a ham vention and met Alan, BA1DU there. The 1st Chinese amateur satellite is now going smoothly. This satellite was formerly named CAS-1 and is now XW-1. It takes a beacon and three cross band transponders: FM, linear, and digital. The satellite is planned to be launched in June 2009 by a CZ-2C rocket in Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in North China. Michael, BD5RV/4

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SSTV on ISS.
by Louis McFadin 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

There are three methods the crew can use to send down SSTV from ISS. 1. The crew can use the SpaceCam software on the PC that is onboard. This software uses a VOX interface that keys up the D700 when it hears the SSTV audio. 2. The crew can use the MMSSTV software that is on the PC that is onboard. This software will also use the VOX interface in the same way that the Spacecam software does. 3. The crew can use the VC-H1 that Richard Garriott is bringing up with him when he goes up on October 12. You can look up the VC-H1 specifications on the Kenwood web site. We are looking forward to Richard's flight and expect him to use the SSTV equipment quite a bit while onboard ISS. Lou McFadin W5DID ARISS US Hardware manager

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GO-32 Status
by Jim Denneny 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Has GO-32 been off the air? I haven't heard it in over a week. Jim K7EG

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Oscar Antennas
by Howard Kowall 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Hello to All I am looking for a single dual Oscar antenna similar to the Gulf Alpha Model No.2M 70CM Sat. But now I see that Gulf Alpha has stopped producing this antenna. I need an antenna with a fairly small foot print,I see that M2 makes something similar. Who are the other manufactures that make a similar antenna,preferably in North America due to shipping Thanks Vey Much to All who Respond Howard VE4ISP

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Mode S advice
by Michael Heim 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Last month I was experimenting with mode S receive antennas, and I think I posted some questions on here as to what you guys who are on mode S use. Although I have operated microwave, I have never done so via the satellites. I have 2 options and both appear to work about equally. one involves a linear yagi, the other a helix, RHCP. The last time the bird was in mode S analog, it used mode L for the uplink. I noticed, while listening in using either antenna, a noticeable amount of deep fades on the bird. I'm not sure if it was caused by reflections nearby, or uplink fades on 1269 mhz. Both of these antennas were mounted on a camera tripod about 4 feet off the ground, and there was some metal within about 25 feet or so, which is unavoidable. The antennas will be placed about 15 feet above the ground, and the metal in the vicinity will be below the antenna. So, your advice... should I go with a 16 dbi linear yagi, commercially made for the MMTS band, or the RHCP homebrew 12 turn helix? I am having trouble getting much longer than 12 turns, winding the helix evenly. Is there really an advantage in using either? I guess I'm looking for whatever will do the best as far as fading goes. I am impressed, as the signals were quite strong while using only 2 foot long antennas. By the way, I am building a 1269 TX converter from scratch. I happened upon a brick oscillator that I recrystalled for the proper LO for a 144 IF. The mode S IF is 123 mhz, so there should be no IF leakage problems. Michael Heim Chief Engineer, Forever Broadcasting New Castle PA WKST WJST WWGY 814-671-0666 Chapter Chair, SBE-122 ARS KD0AR

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Re: NOVA Software
by Clint Bradford 05 Oct '08

05 Oct '08

Please try a uninstall and re-install! Clint Bradford, K6LCS 909-241-7666

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ISS SSTV Hardware
by Simon (HB9DRV) 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

Does anyone know what hardware will be used to send the SSTV / Robot 36 images? Specifically does it send the VIS code at the beginning of the transmission? Simon Brown, HB9DRV www.ham-radio-deluxe.com

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ARISS
by ny1bravo＠peoplepc.com 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

Hi. In February, 2005, the Pen Bay Amateur Radio Club of Rockland, Maine sponsored a successful ISS contact with the students of the Rockland High School. We would like to sponsor another ISS contact with the students of the George's Valley high School of Thomaston, Maine. However the person who provided the primary ham equipment for the contact is no longer available. Can you give me a name of someone in the Mid-coast Maine area that has the appropriate equipment that might be available to help us make this contact? Reply at smithny1b(a)peopepc.com as my computer or provider sometimes gives the wrong address. Thanks, Norm Smith, NY1B

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Wanted: Icom IC-910H
by Stuart Underwood 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

Greetings, I am looking for an IC-910H 2/440 in clean shape. I want it to work ssb/sats... If you have one for sale please email me with condition and price. Thanks in advance. Stuart W8STU

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Nova Software
by enriquezma＠cox.net 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

I have been using NOVA for about a year. Love it. But now I am having problems. I run NOVA on Vista. The program opens but automatically goes to the bottom icon bar and does not open. I tried double-clicking on the icon. I tried right-clicking. Nothing. I sent email to NOVA Tech Support; never heard from them. I uninstalled NOVA and re-installed it but, alas, no go. Does anyone have a clue what might be the solution? Miguel KD7RPP

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FS: 8640B/opt 323 , 435a Pwr meter w/heads, boonton micowatt meter w/heads
by Chris Hackworth 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&ite… http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&ite… http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&ite… -- Chris N8PHU ET1(SW) USN (Ret) Chief transmitter Heavy SES-Americom

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Another cross-satellite opportunity
by n3tl＠bellsouth.net 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

Hey everyone, There's a pass of AO-16 that starts around 22:17 UTC here (EM84) and runs through about 22:28 UTC. The maximum elevation for me is 16.3 degrees at azimuth 266.9 degrees, so it's fairly low and to my almost-due west. At about 22:22 UTC, AO-51 will be rising from my southeast, reaching a maximum elevation of 9.5 degrees here at azimuth 62.6 degrees, to my east-northeast. The pass lasts until about 22:31 UTC here. I believe there's a decent chance that I will reach AO-51 with my uplink to AO-16 because I'll be using the same gear I did when WB9L and I made a QSO cross-band, cross-mode and cross-satellite. The eFactor omni antenna I transmit through seems to do very well. I'll be transmitting 5 watts RF out from a Yaesu VX-7R HT. If you hear N3TL on AO-51 during that pass, give a call. If I answer, I will have copied you on sideband through AO-16 - cross-band, cross-mode and cross-satellite. 73, Tim - N3TL AMSAT Member No. 36820 Athens, Ga - EM84ha

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AO-51 L/U APRS
by Mineo Wakita 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

Now, it is under operation normally AO-51 L/U APRS using UISS_SatGate via PACB-1. http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/81003a51.jpg http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/81004uis.jpg Thank you. --------------------------------------------- Name: Mineo Wakita / JE9PEL, JAMSAT member Mail: ei7m-wkt(a)asahi-net.or.jp URL : http://www.ne.jp/asahi/hamradio/je9pel/ QTH : Yokohama Japan, GL:pm95tj Date: Oct 4, 2008 ---------------------------------------------

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FO-29 VE2DWE
by i8cvs 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

I All, Got a nice SSB QSO via FO-29 this night october 4 on skedule with Luc VE2DWE during orbit 59911 from 01:50 to 01:56 UTC when the bird was at the apogee about MA 128 The contact like a conversation with Luc in FN36KA with me in JN70ES lasted about 6 minutes and the distance covered is 6742.8 km Signal reports were 5/6 to 5/7 and my maximum elevation was about 2.5 degrees only. Discussing about a stuck relay with Luc was not a problem at all because both signals were not affected by QSB and no one word was losted. If someone in USA or Canada is interested to contact my grid square via FO-29 on CW or SSB please let me know off line. 73" de i8CVS Domenico

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Re: FO-29 K3SZH and KLM Relay
by John Kopala 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

Luc, The relay is available from Newark electronics, but since they seem to be the only supplier, they price it up there just under an ounce of gold. I recently bought 3 to rebuild my antennas and one for a friend of mine. The first one was $30. After I bought the first one, they raised the price to $45 for the next 2. Just checked, it's still available, $52.93 for one, plus and applicable tax and shipping. It's the exact replacement. Unsolder the old one, drop in the new one, and solder the pins. While you are at it, probably a good idea to recoat the board with fiberglass resin before you replace the relay. It's pricy, but it's a lot simpler and faster than trying to jerry-rig something with else. http://www.newark.com/67F5643/switches-relays/product.us0?sku=guardian-elec… Newark Part Number 67F5643 Mfgr Part No: 1365PC-2C-12D 12 volt relay Hmmm... Their catalog page, 1509, shows $46.28. John N7JK > Message: 16 > Date: Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:52:26 -0400 > From: Luc Leblanc <lucleblanc6(a)videotron.ca> > Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: FO-29 k3SZH > To: amsat-bb(a)AMSAT.Org > Message-ID: <48E6077A.3469.7437F4(a)lucleblanc6.videotron.ca> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII > > > On a different subject i have the same VHF antenna here "KLM 2M-14C" and > the polarisation relay became open did you ever have to replace it > on your antenna? Seems to be not an easy task!. And finding a suitable > relay even more difficult. > > Luc Leblanc VE2DWE > Skype VE2DWE > www.qsl.net/ve2dwe > WAC BASIC CW PHONE SATELLITE

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Re: Computer hardware
by Anthony Monteiro 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

At 05:56 PM 10/3/2008, JD wrote: >There was a similar thread on TAPR_APRS group and many good >suggestions were made. >I had a similar need and bought a TOSHIBA TECRA A9-9019X (WIN XP PRO) >about 6 weeks >ago. I have noticed they are rapidly disappearing so others must >like it too. I >believe it has been out of production for about 8-9 months. Dear Friends, In the same vein, I can recommend the Dell D600 (WinXP Pro) which comes with a serial and a parallel port as well as the usual WiFi, USB, Ethernet etc.. These were extremely popular business laptops so they are still widely available. 73, Tony AA2TX

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Corrected Weekly Satellite Report 276
by James French 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

I have sent out a corrected version of this weeks WSR 276 as I have been told and found out that I did NOT cut and paste correctly this week. James W8ISS

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Computer hardware
by WB2LLP 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

I am looking for a newer laptop but when I read the ads, I notice that serial and parallel ports are not listed. Are they not in use and if so, what is used instead to control the radios and rotators? Gene

5 4

AO7 PE1BVQ
by k3szh＠netzero.net 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

Hans Congratulations from across the pond on your 1000 plus qsos, and thanks for the many we shared. 73 Joe Amsat 3788 ____________________________________________________________ Click for online loan, fast & no lender fee, approval today http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2241/fc/Ioyw6i4tyufqlFWEFZLSpTYAyr62…

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Re: Computer hardware
by Floyd Rodgers 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

There is another way... Look for PCMIA serial cards for laptops. Most laptops still have them and it is possible to get more than 2 real serial ports doing this method.

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San Diego Presentation 10/25/08
by Clint Bradford 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

I will be giving my "How to Work Amateur Satellites with your HT" presentation at the October 25, 2008 PAPA D-Star luncheon in San Diego. ALL are welcome! You can download the handout I use at the presentation at... http://www.k6lcs.com Call me at 909-241-7666 or email at clint(a)clintbradford.com for more information. Please RSVP so we book the right room! Saturday, October 25, 2008 11am - 1:30pm Filippi’s Pizza Grotto 5353 Kearny Villa Road San Diego CA 92123 Clint Bradford, K6LCS / KAF3359 909-241-7666

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PE1BVQ- 1000 AO-7 log.
by TERRY BROMLEY 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

Hi Hans, congratulations on reaching 1000 in the log. I'm very pleased to have been a part of it. Look forward to many more. 73 Terry G1WPR.

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Re: First Chinese Amateur Radio Satellite to be launched in June 2009
by Michael Chen, BD5RV 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

-------------------------------------------------- From: "Tim Tapio" <tim(a)timtapio.com> Sent: Friday, October 03, 2008 5:35 PM To: "'Michael Chen, BD5RV'" <bd5rv(a)jsdxc.net> Subject: RE: [amsat-bb] Re: First Chinese Amateur Radio Satellite to belaunchedinJune2009 > Was thinking, is that a sun synchronous orbit? > > Thanks and 73 de Tim, K4SHF > That's correct Michael, BD5RV/4

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FO-29 k3SZH
by i8cvs 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

Hi Joe, K3SZH I am very happy for the succesful short QSO with you this night on FO-29 orbit 59884 ! At the beginning of the opening window for you at 01:59 UTC I was hearing your carrier going up and down searching for your return signal. Only at the end of my window I was receiving your voice very clear saying to me "very strong signal 5/6 " but my elevation was only about 0.5 degrees around 02:01 UTC after that I was continuing to receive you even if my elevation was negative down to about -1 degree My horizon is free of obstructions in that azimuth over the Mediterranean see. I was using 250 watt into a KLM 2M-14C a 7+7 elements crossed yagi in LHCP that was the best polarization for the uplink for me at that time. I was receiving you with a 10 turn homebrewed helix RHCP and a homebrewed low noise 70 cm cavity preamplifier with NF= 0.45 dB and G= 20 dB antenna mounted. The distance from your FN10OG and my JN70ES is 7332.5 km Hi...Hi ! ! Do you now what is the maximum DX distance ever covered via FO-29 ? The apogee of FO-29 is 1322.1 km so that the maximum foot print for DX contacts between EU and USA is around MA = 128 when actually the latitude of the satellite subpoint fall at about 61 degrees North during the southbound orbits but unfortunately during night hours at an unsocial time for us in EU 73" de i8CVS Domenico

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2M1EUB/P QRV SCOTLAND 11.OCT.08
by paul robinson 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

Hi group ill be qrv all birds from scotland ,from 11.oct.08 till 21.oct yes abt 2weeks! check out qrz.com under 2M1EUB listing for more info.should be qrv from north east and north west scotland!! de paul 2E1EUB

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TONIGHT'S FLORIDA AMSAT NET
by David J 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

This is for all those who check in through the G4ZPZ (previously N4HHA) repeater (443.1 MHz) in the Orlando and Central Florida area along with echolink. The G4ZPZ repeater is temporarily down. It should be back soon, but tonight, please tune in to the KE4TTE repeater on 442.1 MHz. Ted has graceously provided this link tonight. See everyone on the net, Dave, AA4KN

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Re: First Chinese Amateur Radio Satellite to be launchedinJune 2009
by Michael Chen, BD5RV 03 Oct '08

03 Oct '08

> > That's really good news, very nice to see another country sending up > satellites. It this going to be a LEO ? > Yes, it's a SSO satellite. Michael, BD5RV/4

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What do you do with satellites?
by Eric Christensen 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

I had a question a couple of days ago from someone that thought all you could do over the satellites was talk. I explained to him that there were other things you could do but I'm sure I left out some things. That got me thinking, though. I wonder how many people just aren't familiar enough with satellites to know there are other things you can do with them than just pick up a microphone and talk. I've already started writing an article on what you can do with satellites but I'd love to hear from all the users out there as to how you operate over the birds. Please respond directly to me at w4otn(a)amsat.org. 73, Eric Christensen, W4OTN AMSAT Area Coordinator - Southeastern Virginia USA AMSAT Member 35360 http://www.ericsatcom.net GPG Key Fingerprint: 4395 EF8D DDFF E681 26CB 7165 2F95 7CC9 D749 08ED

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pre amps
by Jerry 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

Hi: I have a couple extra pre amps that I going to sell. I have a Mirage pre amp mast mounted Model KP-2 440 100 watt transmit. I also have a Landwehr 2 meter pre amp mast mount Over 100 watt transmit through. If anyone is contact off the list e-mail w0sat(a)msn.com amsat 31167

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AO-10, AO-13 890 GROUP
by books47925＠mypacks.net 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

Hello Satellite Ops, While reading KD1K's posting, I was thinking about the old 890 group on AO-10 and AO-13. I would like to hear from any of the guys, that might read the bulletin board. Please send a direct e-mail. I sure do miss those round table discussions, and all the interesting comments about numerous topics. Although I was mostly interested in working DX, it was always nice to hear voices from around the World. Best Wishes & 73, Steve KB8VAO

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Cut off date is October 8th
by Martha 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

People - Unless I can convince the hotel in Atlanta to extend the deadline, the room block for the 2008 AMSAT Space Symposium will be gone on October 8th. PLEASE make your reservations as soon as possible. The phone number is 404-231-1234. For information on the Speakers, go to the AMSAT website ( www.amsat.org). -- 73- Martha

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Re: DO-64
by G0MRF＠aol.com 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

In a message dated 02/10/2008 17:33:43 GMT Standard Time, k9qho6762(a)sbcglobal.net writes: Go figure. I could hear my down link pretty good on the 13 degree pass but nothing on the 50+ degree pass that followed. Still trying to figure DO-64 out. Mike (K9QHO) Hi Mike. How about the AGC is being supressed by Pave Paws radar when it's within range of the miltary stations?? -45dBm at the antenna would put amateur signals down by 40dB David

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DO-64
by WILLIAMS MICHAEL 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

Go figure. I could hear my down link pretty good on the 13 degree pass but nothing on the 50+ degree pass that followed. Still trying to figure DO-64 out. Mike (K9QHO)

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Re: [fieldops] What do you do with satellites?
by Eric H Christensen 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

Dick, I'm looking for something a little more than just HEO v. LEO. I'm looking for modes of operation. While I'm excited about our next HEO opportunities I'm not going to write a story discussing the benefits of either type of orbit as this means little to a new operator (the target of my story) and does nothing but stir up flame wars within the community (which doesn't do anyone any good). So far, people have discussed the telemetry and the physics of satellite theory, the educational aspects, and portable operations. I'd love to hear from someone on the use of PACSAT birds, APRS, and maybe some keyboard-to-keyboard digital modes (PSK31 anyone?). 73, Eric W4OTN >Eric: > >This is where the "beauty" of HEO satellites are seriously missed. Unlike >LEO satellite exchanges, HEO satellites promote true, long discussions with >hams in other countries creates genuine cultural exchanges - much more than >"just talking". I can cite chapter and verse of such past QSOs. > >'73, >Dick Jansson, KD1K >kd1k(a)amsat.org >kd1k(a)arrl.net > > >-----Original Message----- >From: fieldops-bounces(a)amsat.org [mailto:[email protected]] On >Behalf Of Eric Christensen >Sent: Thursday, 02 October, 2008 01:04 >To: AMSAT FieldOps; AMSAT-BB(a)amsat.org >Subject: [fieldops] What do you do with satellites? > >I had a question a couple of days ago from someone that thought all you >could do over the satellites was talk. I explained to him that there >were other things you could do but I'm sure I left out some things. > >That got me thinking, though. I wonder how many people just aren't >familiar enough with satellites to know there are other things you can >do with them than just pick up a microphone and talk. > >I've already started writing an article on what you can do with >satellites but I'd love to hear from all the users out there as to how >you operate over the birds. > >Please respond directly to me at w4otn(a)amsat.org. > >73, >Eric Christensen, W4OTN >AMSAT Area Coordinator - Southeastern Virginia USA >AMSAT Member 35360 >http://www.ericsatcom.net >GPG Key Fingerprint: 4395 EF8D DDFF E681 26CB 7165 2F95 7CC9 D749 08ED >_______________________________________________ >Fieldops mailing list courtesy of AMSAT-NA >Fieldops(a)amsat.org >http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/fieldops > >

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DO-64
by WILLIAMS MICHAEL 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

I got a decent down link signal return from DO-64 on the first morning pass at 13 degrees elevation. Considering my antennas are at only eight feet with ground clutter (trees and buildings), the signal seemed about the same strength just after launch. As usual, the first half of the pass was the best signal strength wise. Waiting on the next pass at 52 degrees. Mike (K9QHO) AMSAT 33589

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helix feed available
by w7lrd＠comcast.net 02 Oct '08

02 Oct '08

I still have a surplus helix feed available for off center dishes. For 2.4Ghz. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=110293499903&ssPage… -- 73 Bob W7LRD AMSAT member 28498 Seattle

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FO-29 I8CVS
by k3szh＠netzero.com 01 Oct '08

01 Oct '08

Domenico great signal 5/6 in my haste i did not even have the preamp on. The sad part was it was just you and i, nothing heard after our short qso . 73 Joe Amsat 3788 ____________________________________________________________ Click here to learn more about nursing jobs. http://thirdpartyoffers.netzero.net/TGL2241/fc/Ioyw6i4uAJ9z0uqsexGks66r308i…

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Antennas for sale
by J Ramirez 01 Oct '08

01 Oct '08

I have the following antennas available, great for satellite work... M2 antennas: M2 EB-144 with Radial Kit M2 EB-432 with Radial Kit Olde Antenna Labs Circular Polarized 70cm antenna (see: http://www.hamtv.com/oal.html) The antennas have never been used outside and have only been used indoors for a 2 month period. Make REASONABLE offers off-list to my e-mail address. Thanks, Jeremy KB9QIC

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Advertising Shuttle Retransmission Faclities on APRS
by Robert Bruninga 01 Oct '08

01 Oct '08

To Shuttle rebroadcasters: Many people do not monitor your Shuttle Retransmission frequencey all the time, and so, may not remember that the Shuttle is in orbit. Therefore, a TNC should be connected to the Retransmitter that activates an APRS beacon on the local APRS channel whenever it is keyed. This APRS beacon will alert all mobiles on the front panel of their APRS radios in range that the retransmission is in progress. We need to get this info out to all volunteer rebroadcasters... This web page shows how to use just an old TNC and no special software to format the beacon so that it shows all the relevant information right there on the front panel of the mobile APRS radios: http://www.aprs.org/On-Air-beacons.html This technique also applies to all re-broadcasters of the Newsline, RAIN report, ARRL Audio file, and any other general info nets that need to be heard by all radio amateurs. APRS is your universal real-time ham radio information channel. If you have info to share, beacon it on APRS live. Monitor APRS and see what is happening in your area. Bob, WB4APR

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Some AO-51 TLM observations
by Bent, OZ6BL 01 Oct '08

01 Oct '08

Hi The attached picture is a screenshot of some recent TLM data taken off www.amsat.dk/oz7sat/tlm/ The battery voltage curve is the one that I find interesting. It appears to contain two superimposed sine curves. Can anyone interpret this? The period time is approx 3 minutes. Is this consistent with the rotation of AO-51? Best 73, Bent/OZ6BL

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RE FO29
by malcolm Hall 01 Oct '08

01 Oct '08

More like the old days Joe (K3SZH) ...plenty of activity, Greenland got in the way of a QSO with K8YSE.....keep it up folks G7NFO O to be young again!!

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